Having spent the integral day avoiding all of his Quaker, Ron decided to skip dinner party completely. Ignoring his rumbling stomach, he changed out of his school robes and into jean and a sweatshirt before collapsing across his bed and staring angrily at the ceiling. lifetime wasn't fair… it was a concept he'd been confronted with over and over, he didn't understand why it continued to storm him. He was tired of being offered the promise of happiness only to take in it ripped away. Okay, so maybe he'd never had a hazard with Hermione… but Luna had been his, they'd been in beloved and either one or both of them had ruined it. But he'd wanted to nibble up the pieces after, she was the one who'd been so win over it was over. And this year- at one spot he'd thought Parvati was just the beguilement he'd needed, that he could grow closer with her and gain something of it… And then Jacinda Nicolau had walked into his life… It had seemed a miracle that she'd returned his sake in her, but then she left and speculative, Parvati had been taken away and was now suffering who knew what fate because he hadn't been wakeful to her and her needs as he should have been. After all, he'd agreed to get dating her before he even knew Jacey existed, Parvati should have been his first concern.

Ron slammed his fist down on the bed, tired of feeling guilty and mad and frustrated. Maybe he needed a friend right now after all, individual to babble out to and help get some of this off his dresser. Harry had claimed to need to listen… but that had been while he'd come to defend Luna's pureness. He didn't really feel like talking about any of this to the guy who was now in all probability sleeping with his first love.

He sat up at the sudden sharp knock on his door and quickly strengthened the shields around his mind, figuring Harry had somehow picked up on his idea and was now coming to hash things out. Taking a mystifying breath in readiness, he got up and went to the door ready to tell whoever it was to go away… but when he opened it, no one was there.

'' Boo ! '' Jacey's head suddenly appeared out of nowhere as she laughed heartily at his chemical reaction. Fully pulling off the invisibility cloak, she walked in good order past him into his room and turned to him with a dazzling smile. `` Are you not glad to see me ? ``

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

'' Turns out my business enterprise does not take me as far from the castle as I had thought. I was having the opportunity to come see you tonight and so I took it. '' She answered, suddenly having difficulty meeting his regard. `` Harry has told me what happened with Parvati and that you are sad. I am so lamentable about this. ``

'' It's not your break. '' Ron sighed, slightly upset to discover that Harry had sent her to see him.

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

'' I don't want to hear it. '' He quickly shook his head word and squeezed her hand. `` I've been over it and over it in my principal for the last two daytime, Parvati's parents arrived today and are staying in the castle until we find her… it's already too much right now. I don't want to know anymore unless you can enjoin me exactly where she is. ``

'' I can not. '' She said sadly.

'' Then I don't want to know. You're here, that's enough. ``

'' Is it ? '' Jacey smiled and Ron felt himself blush.

'' well, uh… I mean, um… ''

She laughed and put her finger to his lips, silencing his attempt to explicate. Then she smiled coyly, staring into his oculus before leaning in to lightly brush her lip against his. `` Perfect. '' She whispered as she leaned back with her heart closed and a soft smile playing at the quoin of her mouth.

'' Am I dreaming ? '' He asked breathlessly, ineffective to trust what was taking place.

'' ‘ I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what ambition it was.''' She whispered, quoting Shakespeare.

Feeling confident, Ron leaned in and fully captured her lips. His boldness was instantly rewarded as she returned the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck to press herself against him. And then the carpet was ripped out from under him as she pulled away, ending the best thing he'd ever begun to experience.

'' I can not stay. '' She said, looking away almost guiltily while hugging her branch around herself. `` I just wanted to tell you, to let you know that I am not forgetting you. ``

Recalling that Annapurna was still missing, Ron began to feel rather shamed himself for indulging in such brash behaviour. `` Trust me, I can't block about you either. '' He said, picking up the cloak and handing it to her.

Her handwriting lingered over his as she took it from him. `` Just recollect, if you are needing to mouth to somebody, I am not far… If you call out to me- '' She reached out and tapped her finger against his forehead before ruffling his hair. `` -I will most potential hear you and if I do, I promise I will do. ``

'' But you can't stay tonight ? '' He asked, both hoping and fearing she would tally to stay.

Jacey shook her head. `` It would not be overbold I think. '' She flung the cloak around herself so that only her head remained visible. `` Until next time, I hope you think well of me. ``

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

( BREAK )

'' I feel like the regretful protector ever. '' Lupin sighed as he led the way through the Sir Henry Wood. `` I mean I've been legally bound to secure your well-being- '' He turned to appear at Draco, `` -and Harry your parents are counting on me to help look after you, yet here we all are on a midnight stroll through the Forbidden wood to dispose of a body… I can't keep James and Lily from finding out obviously, but not a word of this gets back to Tonks, got it ? '' He asked very seriously.

Draco shared an amused grin with ceramist as both boy agreed to keep Tonks in the dark. lupin led them deep into the wood, letting the boys handle the task of floating Tristram along as the man had claimed it to be their mess to clean up, he was simply there to see that they did it right. The corpse was hidden under genus Draco's invisibility cloak as ceramicist had leant his to Jacey, but the further they went, the More difficulty they were having in maintaining the tour to go on it in the air. `` Haven't we gone far enough ? '' He asked, not wanting to have to actually express Tristan's body.

'' I suppose we have. No one should be able to see the fire from here. '' lupin replied, stopping their progress. `` Besides, there's a big Ash Tree right over there. ``

Letting the corpse drop to the ground, he went with Potter to help forgather decent forest for the task ahead of them. While they did that, Lupin began making a doughnut of stones around Tristram, instructing the boys to cover the vampire completely with the Sir Henry Joseph Wood. When they were finished, Dragon wiped the fret from his hilltop and removed his coat despite the frosty temperature.

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

'' Actually, there's something else that comes first… It's pretty gruesome so I think I'll grip this. '' lupine replied unhappily, looking as if whatever he was about to do was the last thing on earth he wanted to be a section of.

Both boys watched with a kind of twisted captivation as he bent down and moved the spliff away from Tristan's head and pulled the vampire's sassing open while ignoring the jagged pieces of wood still sticking out of his eye. Picking up one of the pieces of Ash side by side to him, Lupin turned away before solidly jamming it down Tristan's pharynx. `` We have to be sure to get the fire down inside him too. '' He said, quickly covering the head back up. `` And now we light it. ``

All three pointed their wands and stepped back as the lot of wood exploded within the stone forget me drug. This was the last phase angle of their dark human action and genus Draco was glad that Ginny had chosen to stick to Luna's lead and stay behind. He didn't even really need to be a informant to this, it was better that one of them have the piece of mind to never let to relive this moment. Tristan's pelt seemed to sizzle and almost scream as the Ash wood burned down. lupin had of line been right about how the woodwind instrument would step down the lamia's natural defenses… but they stayed until there was nothing before them but a shine pile of embers, just to be sure.

( BREAK )

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

With a aloud oink he threw his pillow away and unwillingly got out of bed. Flinging open the room access, he regarded his mother warily. `` What ? '' He demanded, too tired to like about being rude.

'' And a undecomposed morning to you too, though it's nearly lunch sentence. '' She returned. `` You really should get to bed earlier love. ``

'' I'll study on that. '' He said sarcastically as he rubbed his facial expression and yawned. In all satinpod, he never would make fallen asleep if his physical structure hadn't just given up and passed out on him sometime in the early morning hr. But since he had gone to sleep, he was nettled with her for ruining it. `` Was there something you wanted ? ``

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

'' okey, I'll be right down. '' He promised, suddenly all-inclusive awake as a waving of aflutter nausea washed over him. Closing the doorway on her, he tore open the envelope but the notation inside wasn't helpful- it was simply a asking that he come to the store as soon as possible. That wasn't like Lee at all, if there was a trouble he wasn't afraid to complain about it in good detail.

Throwing the useless note aside, he rushed to get dressed and brush his tooth, simply running his finger's breadth through his hair as he hurried down the stairs. Grabbing his coating and kissing his female parent au revoir, he left the house and climbed into the waiting ministry car. It took every ounce of self-will he had not to just apparate from the backseat to the depot, but not knowing what awaited him he knew it was better to make it with an actual Auror.

They parked outside the Leaky caldron and hurried through to Diagon bowling alley, trying to speed without being noticeable as they made their way to the store. Fred was surprised to notice it closed up, with the tone drawn and the social movement threshold locked. `` Hey, come in there with me, okay ? '' Fred asked the guard, pulling out both his verge and his keys.

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

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

'' Maybe the government agency ? '' The guard suggested tensely, heading down the hallway and opening the door. `` Hey ! He's in here ! ``

He rushed over, entering the place to find Lee spread out on the floor and hemorrhage from a lesion on his top dog. kneeling beside him, Fred was able to see that his friend was still breathing. `` He's alive. '' He assured the safety device who was busy searching the wardrobe for enemies.

'' Okay, apply pressure level to his wounding. '' The man replied, moving to the doorway. `` I'll phone call for backup. ``

'' I'm sorry, I can't let you do that. '' Elanya appeared suddenly from the hallway and before either could react, she drew her wand and cursed the man to death. `` Hello Fred. '' She turned her wand on him as he pointed his at her.

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

'' I never was very good at the Imperious curse, and he fought against it the whole prison term. '' She shook her head teacher regretfully. `` I mean I got him to spell the promissory note and hired hand it off, but he finally broke free of my influence. I certainly didn't want to defeat one of your supporter but I had to shut him up somehow. Don't worry, it's just a nasty jut on the caput. ``

'' You had no qualms about killing that ingenuous man. '' He pointed out, still not looking at the fallen guard.

She shrugged. `` Neither of us knew him, what does it matter as long as he's out of the way ? ``

'' You're a very cold individual. ``

'' Perhaps. '' She shrugged again. `` Perhaps I just need to find the right wing prescribed influence. ``

'' And perhaps you're just bat shit nutcase. '' He replied meanly, wanting to leave her in no doubt as to his opinion of her.

'' You could be right… time will recount. '' She smiled coyly. `` Don't worry, mortal will come along to clean up my mess after we leave. semen on, I'm only giving us an hour. ``

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

'' We're going to your vault in the bank and then I'm giving us a limit of one time of day to stag for all the clothes and provision we'll pauperization to disappear… and then we'll disappear. '' She laughed.

'' Today ? ! '' He asked in a terror. `` But… but you said Friday… and Willem isn't here. '' He argued, desperate for the extra two days she'd promised.

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

'' What are you talking about ? What rule did I break ? '' He asked desperately.

'' You told people about all of this… you involved Hermione Granger and so now the rules have changed. We are leaving today Fred and you will bring the secret plan correctly from now on or she will serve the penalty. ``

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

'' Everyone must slumber sometime. '' She sneered.

'' Meaning ? ``

'' I'm certain Harry and Luna informed you of the head trip to Azkaban and I'm sure they told you that they know it was Sarah working through Cho… All Sarah needs is a location and an unconscious vessel that she could realize do anything at all, from hurting soul else to taking a walk off the top of the gamy column at Hogwarts. It doesn't matter how guard Hermione Granger is, she can't stay awake forever. ``

Fred glared at her as his brainiac worked overtime trying to image a way out of this, or at best, a way to warn Hermione and perhaps deliver Luna or Harry try to serve protect her judgment while she slept. Feeling the weightiness of the compact car in his pocket, he wondered how long it would be until he could find the clip to use it.

'' I'll take your quiet as begrudging acceptance. '' Elanya said, offering him a falsely sweetly smile. `` And before you get those rack turning too fast, I won't be giving you the opportunity to admonish your piddling lady friend or your special friends about any of this. We've thought process of everything and neither Harry nor Luna will be given the chance to help. '' It was almost as if she could read his mind though he knew that wasn't the case, she was simply being thorough in explaining the hopelessness of his situation. Using extreme will, Fred was capable to observe from reaching in his pocket and grabbing the compact to realise a common sense of comfortableness. Instead he used the fact that Luna was already helping and could therefore involve Harry to calm himself.

'' Okay. '' He finally broke his silence. `` You got me, I admit it. Let's go. ``

Elanya regarded him suspiciously. `` Just like that ? I expected a little More resistance. ``

'' What more do you want ? '' He cried, throwing his blazon out in foiling. `` You win ! You've beaten all the combat out of me ! What am I supposed to do ? One wrong move on my part and it means something bad for Ron or Ginny or Hermione… so okay, I agree to the terminal figure. Let's just go already ! ``

'' Give me your wand. '' She demanded, holding out her hand. In the only small act of defiance he could manage, Fred threw it at her feet instead. She smirked with amusement as she bent to find it, putting both wands in her purse. `` There's just one more thing. '' She pulled out a foreign looking twist with oodles of lights and gauges.

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

'' Just relax and stand still. '' She ordered, waving the thing over him from his head to his feet. It suddenly started lighting up and beeping like weirdo as she moved it over his pocket. `` You have a communication device. '' She grinned.

'' No I don't. '' He lied unconvincingly, even in his own ears.

Elanya nodded. `` Put it on the desk. ``

Fred hesitated. The compact was the entirely reason he'd so readily agreed to go with her, figuring he'd be capable to use it at some item and alert the others to his predicament.

'' come on, you don't want to protrude breaking rule already, do you ? '' She taunted.

She really had won, without giving him a way to warn Hermione, Ron and Ginny, she had his complete obedience and she knew it. Reluctantly he pulled the compact from his sac and placed it on the desk. Elanya picked up the glass paperweight, leaving Fred to watch as she smashed the concordat into art object. `` That's seven years bad chance. '' He said numbly.

'' Really ? Because I feel my fate is starting to alter for the punter. '' She laughed as she brushed the small-arm to the level and stepped on them for good measuring rod. `` There was no way you were walking out of here with that anyway. I told you, we thought of everything. ``

　

　

NOTE : Uh oh… now what's Fred going to do ? stick around tuned for Sir Thomas More chapters to find out out ...
Chapter 50 : Searching for the Lost

A/N : Well, so much for my Bob Hope to own the quality out of Hogwarts by chapter 50 J So much to deal with here so go ahead, Read, recap and Enjoy !

　

Hermione had woken with an nervous feeling in the pit of her stomach. By the end of her death class the flavor had tripled and she was now sick of with concern, having been unable to strive Fred all day. `` Hey, are you okay ? '' Harry asked quietly as they walked back to their dorm together.

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

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

'' Sorry. '' She loosened her hold and felt him deform his fingers. They'd been at each other's face all day whenever they were in public, Harry had apparently decided to once more give in to her and Luna with few to no questions. Admittedly his front at her side was the alone thing to gift her solace all day and she was grateful for it.

'' Something's incorrectly. '' He pushed as they entered the uncouth room.

'' Well- '' veneration and concern overwhelmed her and she suddenly felt the pauperism to squeal everything if it would help Fred. But just as she was about to disgorge it all, she felt her pocket acquire warm and nearly collapsed in relief. `` I'll assure you about it later. '' She said quickly before rushing off to her room to be alone.

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

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

'' I don't know ! '' Lee cried out in frustration. `` I don't remember anything about today before waking up with a splitting headache. '' He pointed to where his top dog was now bandaged. `` No one was here, nothing was missing… but I found the compact on the flooring and smashed to slice. ``

'' And Fred ? '' She asked again with more urgency.

'' I contacted Molly… ''

'' You're killing me here, Lee ! tongue it out ! '' Hermione yelled.

'' She said I had sent a note earlier asking him to follow to the store and that the ministry guard was supposed to have brought him… I don't recall any of that. '' Lee seemed beyond distressed and close to tears.

'' Someone must have used a patch and wiped your memory. '' She shook her head, not knowing how to comfort him when she was so closely to panicking herself.

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

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

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

'' I don't have time to explain now, we have to move quickly. '' Her mind was racing a million miles a minute. `` Arthur and Molly can't know yet… that will only aid the girlfriend'plan. I need you to convert them that Fred went away for some kind of business trip for the store, tell them you're going with him so maybe they'll concern less. ``

'' Well, I guess I could disguise my vocalization and write a talking letter to them pretending to be Fred. '' He suggested, always aegir to get part of their dangerous adventures just like the other boys. `` He's okay, isn't he ? ``

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

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

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

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

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

( breakage )

'' I can't stand it anymore ! '' Ginny shouted, throwing her History of Magic leger across the room. `` It's just sooo very wearisome. '' She flung herself back on the bed and grabbed the pillow to hatch her grimace as she screamed her frustration into it.

'' Is this a pattern theatrical role of your prep appendage ? Because we may make to begin studying alone. '' Draco teased, ignoring her dramatics and returning to his Potions essay.

She got up and kneeling in front of him, grabbed his schoolbook and threw it over her shoulder with a sly smiling. `` We aren't alone now, so why drop our clock time studying anyway ? ``

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

knocking at the door interrupted their impromptu fun before it could really get started and Ginny pulled away in disgust. `` You see ? This is why I dislike former people… '' She groaned.

'' I surely hope you have secure reasons. '' He laughed, getting up to reply. He was utterly surprised to find Francis Drake standing there.

'' Hello, sorry to interrupt but I'm here on school business. As acting Head of Slytherin star sign I've come to request your presence in the headmaster's part. '' Sir Francis Drake smiled apologetically.

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

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

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

Drake grinned wider. `` I'm sure whatever's going on, there would be no objection to misfire Weasley coming along for support. ``

'' Very officious. '' Ginny approved teasingly.

'' Yes, I do believe after a few calendar month I've begun to get the knack of this whole job. '' Francis Drake joked back as he began to lead them to Dumbledore's office.

As they walked, Draco began to feel nervous… what could they possibly want to see him about ? Had the master somehow found out about Tristan ? Was Ilion trying to frame him for Parvati's fade ? Several thought floated around in his headspring, none of which were good. In fact, he'd never in his life been called to up there to be given skillful news. At the gargoyle, Drake gestured for them to go up first and as they climbed onto the stair Draco squeezed Ginny's hand in tense anticipation.

Dumbledore was in the process of handing a letter of the alphabet off to Fawkes as they entered the situation and he turned to them with a grim smile. `` well, none of you ever seem to be alone anymore. howdy Dragon, Ginny, why don't you both have a seat. '' He spoke informally as he tended to do when he was in private with his favored students. Draco felt almost honored to now be considered one of them. `` Roscoe, I need you to lend Professor Trelawney here as she is rather skilled at scrying. ``

'' Who are you trying to chance ? '' Dragon blurted out. He knew all about the skill of scrying… it was something Narcissa had mastered and was gallant to display. In fact, he knew she had been the one to help Lucius locate respective people including Julian Heath.

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

He could experience Ginny staring at him out of the box of her eye, but Draco couldn't make his Einstein work his mouth to form words. `` What do you stand for he's disappeared ? '' She finally asked for him.

'' Since the caviller clause was released, Lucius has been turned away from the destruction feeder and Arthur has had respective multitude watching him. Yesterday morning he managed to mistake away from them all and he hasn't been spotted since. ``

'' Well he certainly hasn't contacted me ! '' Draco said, leaping to his feet.

'' I wasn't implying that he had. '' Dumbledore calmly replied. `` I was just wondering if perhaps you knew of somewhere he would go. ``

So this was it, the moment that he knew would eventually come. He had to decide whether or not to completely bend his binding on his father in social club to help the people who had so helped him. Now he had to visualise out just how much he'd changed, what his morals are from what they were, and whether he could fully give himself over and cut all ties to the two hoi polloi who had given him life history. `` I don't know. '' He said at shoemaker's last, sinking back down into the president and flavor horribly confused.

'' I see. '' Dumbledore nodded. `` I'm aware of what I'm asking of you and how unjust it is to ask a minor to completely turn on their parents. I am sorry for it and only my and King Arthur's despair drove us to decide to add up to you ... But you by no agency have to answer and I assure you we won't think to a lesser extent of you for it. I want you to be fully aware that you have a choice here, one that shouldn't have had to be presented to you and therefore you won't be judged either way. ``

'' Won't I ? '' He asked miserably. How could they not judge him if he chose to remain mute when he could consume helped ? And how could he not be judged for completely turning on his kinsfolk ? There was no easygoing way out of this.

'' You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. '' Ginny said quietly as she reached out to supportively rub his arm.

And he didn't… not with these people. Recalling his late way of lifespan, he knew Dumbledore and the others weren't aware of the truth deepness of his beginner's evil ruthlessness. Draco had seen Lucius commit many sins without any sign of remorse, what could he be doing out there now that he'd been outcast by the death eater and left on his own ? Knowing what the man was capable of when he was in controller, Draco hated to think what he was capable of when desperate. `` OK, give me a quill and lambskin and I'll write down the localization of every safe house I know about and any former shoes he might go. ``

Dumbledore made no move to take his request, instead continuing to look on in concern. `` Are you certain ? ``

'' If he's left out there alone, who knows what he'd do or who he'd hurt to guarantee his own survival… I can't have that hanging over my header, if I don't try to stop him then I can only share the guilt of his action at law. ``

'' And with that sentiment, I would like you to know how proud I am of your bear on growth. '' The headmaster smiled with sad boost. `` But I want you to be assured that not only are you not to blame for your Padre's actions, no one would hold in it against you if you did feel the need to maintain some form of loyalty to him as your parent. ``

Draco shook his head. `` No, I've decided. '' He firmly insisted. It took a few moments to pen down everything he knew and by the time he finished Drake was back with prof Trelawney. Having no desire to witness them attempt to locate Lucius, he made his wish well to be dismissed back to his dorm apparent. Thankfully Dumbledore heartily agreed, letting him and Ginny leave the office.

'' You okay ? '' She asked, linking her arm through his and leaning her head on his shoulder as they walked.

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

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

'' Of trend he would, James and Lily are nothing like Lucius and Narcissa. ``

'' And Ted and lily-of-the-valley tree are nil like Mr. and Mrs. Dursley. '' She smiled, reminding him that he did have some phratry that was worthwhile. `` And Tonks is goose egg like Dudley. ``

'' With my portion, I would have gone to be raised by Bellatrix. '' He joked. `` I guess potter and I really are opposites ... him rather having been raised by his parents and me wishing I had been with my aunt, uncle and cousin-german. ``

'' But things happened the way they did and that has brought you to the here and now when you had to grow on your beginner completely… So, are you okay ? '' She asked again, bringing the conversation back to her original question.

'' You'd pee a dear reporter. ``

'' And you'd make a very unmanageable interview. '' She returned. `` Quit deflecting. ``

'' I don't love how I am. '' He finally answered with a heavy sigh. `` Part of me is relieved to wash my hand of Lucius and part of me feels like the pip son ever. ``

'' He's not exactly father of the year. '' Ginny squeezed his arm and kissed his berm. `` There's no real way to be a good child to a bad parent. ``

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

'' And yet he never tried to strike you, never tried to show why he was worthy of your love and respectfulness. '' She argued against his self-doubt. `` You're going to find whatever you feel, but just don't forget- you've only turned on someone who turned on you first. He tried to vote down you already, he doesn't deserve your protection. ``

'' You tried to pop me too. '' Draco pointed out, feeling the sudden irrational number need to defend his father.

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

'' Yeah, okay it was a stupid affair to say. '' He admitted, stopping in the student residence outside the common room and pulling her in for a hug. `` I'm sorry, the two things were completely different situations… I just… I don't know. ``

Ginny pulled away and smiled, reaching up to put her hands on either side of his face. `` You're just a little messed up in here right now. '' She playfully shook his head. `` It'll right itself out. ``

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

( BREAK )

'' Find anything interesting yet ? '' Luna asked as she pushed the files to the end of the bed and got to her metrical unit, stretching away the stiffness caused from sitting too long.

'' A few odd affair here and there. But I'm just now getting into the nineteenth hundred. '' Harry took off his glasses and rubbed his optic, shoving his file cabinet away as well. `` I had foolishly thought all the files from the draftsman marked ‘ Harry Potter'would be about me, but they actually go all the way back to Lyraline Elderwood… though I will admit, there's more contingent to these files than the habitue ministry records. ``

'' They probably started compiling it the minute they figured out that prophesy was about you. '' She smiled. `` It's a skillful affair, we should learn everything we can about our ancestors so we don't wind up repeating their mistakes. ``

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

'' Well, no one's rake is all pure, right ? Coven descendants or not, we are all still human. '' She grinned. And then a sudden lavation of affright flooded her, forcing her to once more sit or risk falling over from the force.

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

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

Sure enough, Hermione began to frantically knock at the door and Harry rushed over to let her in. She entered in a daze, her middle wide with fear and desperation. Not caring whether Harry was in the room, she rushed over to Luna and quickly told her everything about Lee contacting her and her concern that Elanya had forced Fred to get out early.

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

'' Not exactly. It's more like he's been blackmailed into leaving. '' Luna replied, attempting to continue calm. Knowing what Hermione wanted from her, she prepared her mind and left it to the other girl to fully fill Harry in on what's been happening.

'' So now we have to figure out where they've gone. '' He said when she was done, clearly upset to have been left in the dark about this. But Luna could see that he was fighting the itch to express his angriness, knowing Hermione still had no idea about Tristan and therefore he had no room to judge.

'' Which I was hoping Luna could help with. '' Hermione replied. They both turned to expect at her.

'' I don't know… I've been sitting here trying and I think I strained something the last few days because my judgement smell so sap. '' She watched Hermione's face fall and quickly turned to Harry. `` Maybe you could facilitate me ? ``

'' Are you sure that's a secure musical theme ? I've drained myself completely before and it doesn't feel goodness. '' He asked uncertainly, as interest as she was that she could damage herself.

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

Harry took a late breathing space and let it out. `` okay, let's do this then. ``

Luna reached out to take his hand as he and Hermione sat with her on the bed. Closing her eyes, she cleared her head of everything but Fred and attempted to force the connection. She could finger Harry with her, wrapping his consciousness protectively around hers and adding his own strength, which had completely regenerated since his scrap with Tristan.

Again it hit her unlike anything she'd ever experienced before, a blasting of images that came on so quickly they knocked her back with their violence. There was no blank way, no scenery playing out, nil of any coherency or distinction. Concentrating she slowed them down, displaying each in Order as they swirled around her.

First came an image of Hermione, growing declamatory as it zoomed toward her, focusing in on the girl's centre until they became mirrors displaying Sarah staring back at her and wearing an evilness smiling. Luna shivered in concern, watching as Sarah's font melted away and began showering down fall of flesh that turned to rain…

Fred was in the rain, quickly trying to raise a rather average tent as Elanya looked on, tapping her foot impatiently as she stood under an umbrella and waited for him to complete their tax shelter as a newsbreak of lightning tore open the sky…

An explosion of colouring flare-up before her eyes, blinding Luna and forcing her to look away. Blinking away the discomfort, she turned back and watched with fascinated awe as respective strange, colorful flowers budded and bloomed in front of her.

The pain was swift and sudden and seemed to come from deep inside her head. The next thing Luna knew, she could feel Harry shaking her as he and Hermione called out, telling her to heat up. Letting her center flutter open up, she stared up at them as they looked down at her in business organization. `` What happened ? '' She asked Harry.

'' I don't know. Something felt off and then there was pain so I stopped the vision. '' He answered nervously.

'' Are you okay ? '' Hermione asked as they helped her sit up.

'' My pass hurts. '' She answered honestly, turning to Harry. `` You saw everything I saw ? ``

'' I think so… ''

'' Well, what did you see ? '' Hermione asked anxiously, once more focussed on helping Fred now that she was assured that Luna was somewhat alright. preferably than assay to explain, Luna told Harry to replay it all for Hermione to see. She would have done it herself, but she was too tired and her head literally felt fried out. Putting a hired hand to her straits, she could feel that her temperature had risen alarmingly. `` Okay, so Fred is definitely with Elanya then. '' She seemed grimly hopeful.

'' The peak came after, maybe they give some clue to their position. '' Harry suggested, getting up to pelt a glass of water from the pitcher on his dresser. He came back and handed it to Luna though she hadn't mentioned how sunbaked her throat suddenly was. But as he went back to teem a glass for himself, she realized he knew because her ailments were affecting him… This wasn't trade good, they had to image out a way to keep themselves divided when necessary.

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

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

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

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

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

'' What's going on ? ! '' Willem's frantic articulation demanded.

Hermione gave him a brief version of current events up to describing the dead vision Luna just had. `` Well, what kind of blossom were they ? '' Lee asked when she was finished.

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

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

Luna saw Hermione shiver and knew the other young lady had probably come to the same conclusion she had. `` I'm moderately sure that's telling us how they got Fred to cooperate… '' She said quietly.

'' Yeah, they threatened to have Sarah do her stupefied astral protrusion thing to invade me and make me do who knows what. '' Hermione added bitterly.

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

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

'' If that's what it takes. '' He insisted. `` In the mean prison term we can expect up the flowers, maybe even ask prof Sprout. ``

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

Harry nodded and went to his desk to recollect the ring. `` We can call them both at the same time. '' He said excitedly.

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

'' Willem, Fred told me you two snuck into the ministry to cancel those recordings… do you call up how he got you guys in ? '' Hermione stared at Luna as she spoke, silently asking if she had any horse sense that this was a worse idea than it seemed and to stop her if she did. Luna shook her head, naught was poking at her intuition.

'' Yes. Why ? '' He demanded.

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

'' But Arthur has Mad-eye looking after all the records and data file. '' Harry reminded her.

'' Don't worry about that. All we need is a beguilement to check everyone's tending is away from the ministry. '' Lee answered mischievously.

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

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

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

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

'' You do look rather picket. '' Hermione agreed, leaning in to look at her better. `` Maybe we should go to another room, let you rest for a bit… ''

'' I'm amercement to just sit here and watch. '' Luna insisted, just as anxiously curious to bed what had happened to Fred as they were.

Harry seemed uncertain but she made it illuminate that he wouldn't be able-bodied to change her mind. `` okay, let's promise they can tell us something. '' He put on the band and closed his eyes to concentrate as Hermione reached out to fertilise her own energy into the hoop. Luna attempted to close herself off from them, not wanting her own limited store of Department of Energy to be accidentally tapped. She could feel Harry also attempting to shield off from her and she hoped his split focussing wouldn't bear upon his ability to use the ring.

( BREAK )

Fred watched the ocean waves clank against the boat as it sliced through the H2O toward the sun setting on the apparent horizon. It would induce been an amazing experience had he been there under different circumstances, but when he'd woken that morning he had no theme a boat ride into the Atlantic was in his future. He sighed and leaned on the railing, debating what chances he and his supporter would have if he just flung himself overboard.

'' You don't have to front so sad and defeated. '' Elanya remarked from beside him. She hadn't let him out of her visual sense since they'd gone to abandon his bank invoice and proceed on a frenzied shopping fling. He hadn't chosen to speak to her since they'd secured passage on this boat. `` You could just enjoy your environs. It is quite peaceful out here. '' She went on, trying to goad him into conversation.

Instead he continued to cut her and moved further along the deck, but she followed wherever he went. `` Come on Fred… I half agreed with your design. Castellumshire is no station for us, but there are lot of small uncharted islands there that will suit us just fine. ``

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

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

'' Now that you've completely cut off my communication to my friends, how can I believe that you'll keep your word of honor and not let Sarah or your spy or anyone else hurt them ? '' He asked.

'' My word isn't good enough ? '' Elanya smiled, leaning her backbone against the railing so she could face him. He had the sudden desire to hurtle forward and shove her, to make her disappear beneath the undulation and end this nightmare… of line he had no idea what kind of communicating she had set up with her friends and he couldn't take the opportunity. Surely they would get planned for him attempting to get rid of her.

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

She smiled and crossed her arms. `` Of course some of it was true. I know you're well mindful that the most convincing lies are rooted in honesty. ``

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

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

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

'' That I want cypher to do with Voldemort or his plan to turn us immortal, and that Sarah and Elise were actually interested… not in Voldemort mind you, but in the vampire bane. ``

'' We'll be dropping anchor in five minutes. '' One of the gravy boat's crew appendage came over to announce. `` As you are the only two being let off at the entrance islands, we'll row you in. Do you already cause your issue plans booked ? ``

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

'' But miss, it's mighty arduous to flag someone down if you haven't already arranged a pick up. '' The crowd member protested.

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

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

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

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

Within a half an hour, they had been rowed ashore and left all alone with the many things she had made him buy for this small excursion. `` Great, it looks like rainfall. '' Fred muttered as the iniquity clouds rolled in with the coming nighttime. Brief flash bulb of lighting tore through the sky as riffle of thunder roared overhead.

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

( BREAK )

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

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

Harry tried to think the effigy to him, but apparently his power was unable to bridge over the gap between the living and the bushed. He, Luna and Hermione attempted to delineate the precise efflorescence from Luna's vision. `` DOE any of that audio intimate ? '' He asked when they were done.

Neville appeared thoughtful. `` You might desire to double check, but they sound like Colorsplosions… they're flowers that sort of explode in color during the day when they bloom and then shrivel away at Nox. I know they're rare, I just can't recall where they're found… mostly islands I think. ``

'' That's okeh. As long as we know what they are, we can await up where to find them. '' Hermione assured him. `` You've been very helpful. ``

'' Just puddle sure you find Fred as soon as potential, okay ? '' George pleaded with them. `` I still can't believe he got himself into something like this. ``

'' He didn't have a pick. Elanya was threatening Ron and Ginny. '' Luna argued, her interpreter imperfect and strained. Harry turned to her in concern, ignoring the uncomfortableness of wearing the pack to concentre in on her. Inside her head was dingy and shadowy, as if individual had turned off the lights… though he could still see sparks in the vertebral column, letting him know she hadn't fried herself out completely.

'' Just, find a way for me to verbalize to him when you help him straighten all this out O.K. ? '' St. George insisted, clearly worried for his twin.

'' We will. '' Harry promised. They said their goodbye and the two ghostly digit of their lost friends disappeared. He went over to his desk to put the ring away, already disliking the companion clout it had on him and his energy vibrations.

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

'' I just feel a minuscule dizzy. I think I just need to eat something. '' She answered in a shock as she carefully got up. Even as Harry made his way over to help, he watched her attempt to pick out a step before her legs buckled, forcing Hermione to accomplish out and catch her. He rushed over to help get Luna back onto the bed, sitting beside her and running his practically cooler helping hand over her wake forehead.

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

'' Maybe that's a in force idea. '' She replied with a deliquium smile.

'' I'm sorry for pushing you to have those visions. '' She said quietly, clearly feeling guilty for the spot Luna was now in.

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

'' I'll be the right way back with something to eat. '' Hermione promised, hurrying out of the room to do what she could to try and make things better.

'' You going to take a leak it ? '' Harry asked gently once they were alone, smiling to obscure the large amount of vexation he felt.

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

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

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

'' Yeah, okay. Too bad they worked a slight too severe. Some intellectual nourishment and sleep will do wonderment though. ``

'' I hope so… you aren't feeling it, are you ? '' Luna asked in concern.

'' Don't worry about what I'm feeling. '' He told her, not wanting her to make out that he was in fact going through a lot of the Sami symptoms she was… to the tip where it almost felt as if he'd been the one to drain his power and overextend his energy output.

'' This isn't good… we have to find a way to be separate sometimes. '' She said through a cheap yawn.

'' Yes we do. '' He agreed. Harry knew he did dangerous things far more often than she did and that due to his desire for victory, he got hurt a lot. The finish thing he wanted was for Luna to suffer every time someone challenged him, to share his painful sensation every time he did something stupid person. There had to be a way, they just had to visualize it out.

( BREAK )

Jacey looked into the mirror carefully to ensure the potion had entirely worn away. Once assured she was herself with no trace of Tristan, she took a deep breath and picked up Harry's invisibility cloak, nervously settling it around herself. Ron had called out and asked her to occur see him just before dinner party, and she was anxious about what she would say. The guilt feelings was eating her alive, she knew she had to assure him about Parvati… and how she had not warned anyone in time to stop the girl's luck. It would not be easy, but it had to be done and Harry had agreed to let her be the one to tell Ron everything about his missing girlfriend.

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

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

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

'' Excuse me ? The Grant Wood ? ``

'' I want to go looking for Anapurna. '' Ron sighed and went to attend out his window. `` I know Dumbledore has sent a lot of people out there, all with beasts and contraption meant to find masses. But it's been three days and they still haven't found her. ``

'' And you think we will be more successful ? '' She asked gently. `` I know Dumbledore is doing everything he can, zero is working. He has sent multitude to depend, he has had people scrying, he has the beasts of the wood keeping an eye out… there is nothing more that can be done. ``

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

'' I know why their crusade to locate her have failed. '' Jacey looked away, unable to run across his regard. `` It is because all of their campaign are spent attempting to locate a human, which Anapurna no longer is. ``

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

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

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

She shook her head and began her fib, telling him everything that involved Anapurna while leaving out the contribution that gave away that they had killed Tristan. When she was done, Ron simply grunted and walked back over to the window, leaning heavily on the sill. `` So why didn't you tell anyone what you thought ? '' He asked.

'' I told you, I was not sure… '' She swallowed hard, waiting to see what would happen.

'' bettor safe than sorry ! '' He shouted, turning to present her again. `` I'm so fag out of all this silence ! appear what's happened now because of it ! ``

'' I did not desire to criminate without substantiation ! '' She argued in her defense.

'' So you had to wait until she disappeared and Luna saw her as a lamia ? ! When was there going to be enough proof… when she showed up bearing her fang in your look ? ``

'' Hey ! You knew there was something ill-timed with her, you could possess just as easily tried to figure it out instead of letting the young woman convince you it was just a cold. '' She said in anger. She already knew she shared some inculpation in this, but she would not live with it all.

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

'' It will not be easy. '' She got up and went to sit beside him, placing a hand on his knee in consolation. `` But just because she is a vampire does not imply she is the like Tristram or troy. As long as she is away from the will of her creator, there is nothing to say she will be bad. ``

'' And what if they are around ? ``

'' Then if her will to struggle them is substantial, she will be able to overcome… just like Draco and his God Almighty. ``

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

Jacey wished she could state him that Tristan was one being he no longer had to reverence, but anyone that was apart of the lamia's Death could be in danger and there were enough of her new friends already in that military position. She could not let Ron be put at hazard as well.

'' I guess the first matter we have to do is observe her… until then it's probably dependable that we continue to let her crime syndicate suppose she's only missing. '' He lamented.

'' Probably. '' She agreed, moving closer and putting her arm around his shoulder, wanting to cook him feel better.

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

'' What ? ``

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

'' No one can roll in the hay what she is thinking. '' Jacey replied uneasily as certain sentiment of his became clearer in her creative thinker. `` But I can see what you are thinking and you are blaming me… you think I distracted you from her ! '' She stood and crossed her implements of war, waiting for an explanation.

'' first gear of all, last out out of my headway ! '' He shouted. `` And secondly, just because I think that doesn't mean I blame you. I blame myself ! I let myself be distracted by you when I should have either paid attention to Parvati or been honest with her about how I really felt. ``

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

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

Without warning, she grabbed his nerve and pressed her lips to his, giving into what they both wanted. At first he was astonished, but he quickly overcame it and wrapped his subdivision tightly around her to return the kiss with an equal depth of passion. He walked forward until she felt the edge of the bed against her branch. Letting her knees collapse she fell back, pulling him along with her. It had been so long since she had experienced any kind of intimacy and even longer since she had done so with someone who craved her as much as she craved them. And oh how she wanted Ron… She had no explanation as to why he had so charm her but he had, and to now experience his back talk on her skin, the weight of him as he hovered over her, and the heat of his desire… it was everything she'd thought it would be and More. She had wanted this ever since she'd lay eyes on him and had come close to giving in last night. Her own guilt had stopped her then, as his seemed to hold back him now.

'' wait. '' Ron said in a throttle vocalisation as he pulled away. `` I'm sorry I can't do this. '' He gently rolled away from her and sat up, anxiously running his hands through his hair. `` I just can't let myself be happy while Parvati is out there. ``

She sat up and reached out to rub his back. `` I understand. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you do. '' He smiled sadly.

'' I am going to leave. It will be easier for us both I think. '' Jacey suggested, moving to go up off the bed.

'' will you delay ? '' He asked, his eyes all-embracing and promising. `` testament you just lay here and sleep next to me so I won't feel so alone ? ``

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

'' I don't care. Some time with you is substantially than none. '' He agreed, climbing under the covers and motioning her to fall in him.

He turned out the ignitor and lay back, both of them left staring at the cap as unquiet tensity descended on them. Taking the opening move, she turned to Ron and wrapped her arm around him, resting her chief on his shoulder. She smiled in the dark as he responded, placing his own blazon securely around her and pulling her close. For the initiatory time in her life history, Jacey felt safe… that there was somebody who could care for her Thomas More than they cared for themselves. It was a feeling he was bringing out in her that she was beginning to care for and as she snuggled in closer to him, she knew she would do anything to keep it.

( BREAK )

After Thomas More than a workweek had passed, Hermione felt like she was at the end of her rope. After a let down conversation with professor Sprout, she'd learned that Colorsplosions were so rare they were thought to be extinct. But Luna was sure of what she'd seen and Neville had been reasonably sure of what they'd described. Hermione had spent every free moment in the subroutine library trying to determine out anything about the exotic flower but so far her search had yielded nothing. Just as she thought she was going to lose her judgement, she decided to lurch her focus… but she needed to use one of the invisibility cloaks in guild to get into the limit area of the library where she knew the information she wanted was being kept.

Harry had been her first of all stop but Jacey was still in self-control of his cloak and so Hermione had gone to Draco who had gladly handed his over with no questions. Now all she had to do was look for the rook to shut down for the nighttime. Locked away in her room, she pulled out the compact to check in with Lee for the millionth clip. `` No, we haven't found anything occupy yet ! '' He said right hand away, clearly agitated with her constant nagging.

She'd been glad to learn he and Willem had been capable to sneak into the ministry and abscond with the essential file. But that had been several days ago and she knew had she been the one in self-will of those written document, she would get been able-bodied to have gone through them quite a few times by now. `` Why not ? '' She demanded.

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

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

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

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

'' Not so good. Turns out the ministry didn't actually recognize too much about Jayalina Delamora… we can't even ascertain her parents gens. '' Lee answered in frustration. `` But he's having Arthur see what he can do about helping exposit the hunt past our ministry's information. Willem told him that he wants to try and find any family he may let and thankfully Arthur hasn't questioned his motif too much. ``

'' We have to find them. '' She insisted. `` If Jayalina really did get her parents keeping Elanya rubber, then they may be able to give Willem insight into their granddaughter. ``

'' As soon as he knows who and where, he intends to go see them. '' Lee assured her. `` In the meantime, give me a few hours of public security and I might actually make headway into all of this information… confidence me, if there was a way I could charge it all to you without anyone finding out I would. ``

'' Sorry I'm being pushy. '' She sighed and fought back the angry tears threatening to go down. `` It's just that it's been a hebdomad and none of us have heard from him… ''

'' I know, Hermione. I'm worried too. '' He said gently. `` How's Luna ? Is she able to have vision yet ? ``

'' She's been trying but every sentence she does, she gets a horrific headache… I hope I didn't break her or anything by pushing her so much terminal week. '' Hermione was actually quite occupy about Luna and feeling very guilty for letting the girl force herself that final stage time when she'd already looked so washed-out. And worse, they still hadn't been capable to calculate out the vision she'd clearly hurt herself to receive for them. `` She has said she's been having aspiration about Fred and that so far she believes he's OK. ``

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

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

'' volition do. '' He promised.

They ended their communication, leaving her with nothing to do except wait. When she finally felt it was time, the clock had already struck midnight. Carefully wrapping genus Draco's cloak around herself, Hermione crept through the green way and out into the hallway. She tried not to construct a single noise as she made her way to the program library, not wanting to alarm Filtch, his cat Mrs. Frank Norris, the ghostwriter or anyone else who may be awake and also wandering the halls. She'd never felt so nervous before, sneaking out with one of her friend was one thing but she rarely did it on her own for the sheer fact that she just wasn't as comfortable being sneaky like the others. But she had to agitate aside her discomfort… being underhand seemed to be the only way to accomplish anything these Clarence Day, it had certainly worked for Elanya, Sarah and Elise.

At lowest she came to the library doorway and she hoped Madame Pince hadn't locked them for the night. She let out a immense sigh of sculptural relief when she reached out and pulled, finding the threshold had easily opened. Moving over to the librarian's desk, Hermione grabbed the Florida key and a small lantern before rushing over to the restricted surgical incision. She unlocked the logic gate and with as picayune noise as possible, began making her way through the stacks in search of what she wanted. Stopping to grab a text on lost and uncharted islands, she quickly moved on to the metaphysical section.

The Advanced Art of Astral Projection. It was the first title to snap up her eye and she instantly grabbed the Christian Bible, figuring she could fancy out the basics of something she had little time to learn. Besides, she'd always found it easier to learn matter from a harder position than to be talked down to during the leisurely stairs. Banned routine of Astral acoustic projection. Hermione grabbed that book too, figuring a few of the fast one Sarah had mastered would be covered there.

Hearing a dissonance, she quickly extinguished the lantern and stood as still as a statue, not daring to even respire. Even though she was able to see that she was still alone, her furiously beating middle could no longer bear the paranoia that comes from breaking so many rules. Tucking all three books under her arm, she hurried to lock the logic gate and return the key before rushing back to her room. She had a lot of reading to do and she wanted to learn as fast as possible… She wanted to be able-bodied to do everything Sarah was capable of doing and while it may get taken the woman years to master her skills, Hermione was certain she could achieve a certain layer of command within days. Maybe she was being overconfident in her intelligence but she didn't care. They were always saying she was the impudent one, in Luna's vision even Elanya and Sarah had said so… Now it was time she prove it.

to a greater extent than learning how to protect her own mind from Sarah's invasion, she wanted to learn how to pull up stakes her body and travel to early places so that she could finally have a way to transmit with Fred once more. She knew it was different than apparating, but since she had picked that up so quickly and astral projection was a part of it, she had senior high hopes that she could pull it off. Now it was just a matter of how quickly she could get through and go for the material covered in those Word of God. Putting aside the one on islands until tomorrow, Hermione picked up The Advanced Art of Astral Projection and began reading, eager to set out learning the desired skill.

( shift )

'' I don't want to go. '' Harry turned and buried his head under his pillow. He and Luna had been up previous finale night going through the ministry documents as they were the only matter able to distract her from the fact that she hadn't been able to have a imagination since draining herself out live on week. Despite the fact that they'd figured out two of the three remaining coven member, he'd barely been able to keep his eyes open by the end and the last thing he wanted to do so very early the side by side morning time was get up and get prepare to go to Hogsmeade.

'' It's your last stumble there as a scholarly person. '' Luna tried as she sat up and began going through the written document they'd read last night.

'' And there's goose egg there I want. '' He emerged from under the pillows to put his head in her lap and look up at her with a roguish smiling. `` In fact everything I want is right wing here and if I have to be come alive I'd rather spend my prison term doing something I want to do. ``

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

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

'' I prefer toughened sexual love. '' Luna smiled.

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

He had just finished tying his shoes when somebody came knocking on his door. `` Harry ? '' He heard Ron call through the threshold. While they'd all just kind of decided to get along, no one had yet attempted to make things right after the things he'd said and the way he'd been acting… And Harry was of the mind that they wouldn't be able-bodied to screen out things out while Parvati was still missing. Ron had been going out of his way to avoid his friends- except for Jacey who said she was spending about nights with him, apparently just sleeping. Harry was confused as to why Ron was coming to him now.

'' Hey. '' He said, opening the door and remaining inactive until he could estimate out his acquaintance's motives.

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

'' Yes… '' He answered cautiously.

'' Well, according to what Jacey overhear troy say, the hold up place he saw her was by Hogsmeade, right ? He thought she was heading into the mountains… ? ``

Harry hesitated. He knew that Jacey hadn't overheard anything, that she'd been the one to actually get that information out of troy. But Ron still didn't know about Tristan or Jacey having to turn him. He knew what his friend was about to ask of him and he worried what could happen if he refused such a ridiculous idea. `` We can't just sneak out of the small town. '' He tried.

'' Why not ? We sneak out of and into everywhere else. '' Ron crossed his arms. `` I can't come up any peace of mind of mind until we find her Harry. I don't care if she's a vampire, I just want to bring in her back to her mob ! ``

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

'' Then at least I'll know it's her choice… and at least I'll have had a chance to talk her out of it. '' He was close down to begging. `` I just involve to at least talk to her… ''

Harry didn't know what to do… he had a feel that if he didn't agree to go aid come up Parvati then Ron would simply attempt it on his own. He supposed it would be better if they could find Annapurna before Luna's vision came true, after all, Troy would surely be looking for her and the last thing they needed was two newborn vampires out scuffling in the woods… especially if Ilion came out the superior. `` Okay. '' He agreed, having talked himself into it. At least now he had a grounds to go to Hogsmeade, though he knew Luna probably wouldn't be thrilled with the idea.

'' Really ? '' Ron seemed surprised, as if he'd expected to have to put up more of an argument.

'' Really, but we're asking Lupin to issue forth with us. '' He insisted, figuring that would pacify both Luna and his own scruple about the plan. `` And everyone else stays behind inside the hamlet walls. The stopping point thing we need is mortal else getting bitten, even by fortuity. ``

'' Do you conceive Jacey will be able to meet us out there ? '' He asked hopefully.

Harry knew she had already taken the potion and had to go into the village as Tristan. being reminded of that, he felt a sudden pang of guilt trip. With inaugural Parvati's fade then Fred's, with Luna frying herself out, with Draco dealing with his forefather, none of them had focused on releasing Jacey from the obligation of playing their bushed foe. Whether or not they found Parvati today, he knew the next thing he had to do was focus on how to nominate Tristan disappear for good.

( BREAK )

Jacey climbed into one of the waiting carriages, feeling immensely uncomfortable with having to dissemble to be someone else outside of Hogwarts. She had never been to this Hogsmeade small town, but Tristan had and he would be companion with the places and the things he had done there… she was not. Harry and Luna had tried to make full her in during breakfast, thinking her all variety of memories from their own metre spent there. It was overwhelming and as troy weight climbed in behind her, she suddenly felt very alone. A sense of foreboding washed over her when Troy turned to queen and the others who had been about to also get in their carriage. `` You guys do find another one. Tristan and I need to talk. ``

They all looked to her and she simple nodded in concord, sending them scattering to find an vacuous carriage. She and Troy sat in secretiveness until the caravan of students began moving. `` I don't appreciate being cornered like this. '' She said sternly, hoping to maintain her grip on Tristan's tone.

'' And I don't appreciate being lied to. Something is different about you. '' He accused, turning to look at her. There wasn't a drop cloth of fearfulness in his eyes and Jacey realized he was somehow on to her.

Not knowing what else to do, she quickly reached out and grabbed the boy by the throat, violently shoving him back against his seat. She brought her look close to his and allowed her teeth to turn. `` How dare you question me ? '' She demanded angrily. `` I made you, I can just as easily unmake you. ``

'' And Parvati Patil ? '' Troy choked out. Thankfully he did not try to break away from her as she knew her strength was nothing compared to Tristram's. Her public presentation seemed to sustain rattled him, making him less certain that he had figured her out.

'' What about her ? '' She asked harshly, releasing her time lag on the boy and once More subsiding comfortably in her buttocks as if nothing had happened.

'' What are your design for finding her ? Surely you are going to receive her ? '' He pressed.

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

'' No, but you are supposed to be telling me what to do, remember ? '' Troy sneered. `` So I am I going looking for Parvati on my own today ? ``

'' You do zero without me ! '' She roared.

'' And what of the plan to get Luna ? '' He went on, ignoring her fury. Jacey felt shaken, sure he didn't believe her to be Tristan because if he did, he would never receive dared act so boldly. `` The others are all waiting for your instructions, I've told them you intend to go through with it today no matter what and they're all wetting themselves in their hullabaloo to prove themselves to you. Unless you give them a particular plan, right now it's going to be a free-for-all once we get to the hamlet to see which Slytherin will get Luna for you first. '' He was so clearly setting a trap, testing her to see what she would do as Tristan.

Forcing herself to remain calm, Jacey shrugged. `` upright, let them. That will leave behind you and I free to go face for Parvati. ``

Troy raised an eyebrow. `` Really ? ``

Again she shrugged. `` I don't harbour out much Leslie Townes Hope for them, but if one does bump achiever then all the skillful. If not, then I'll simply take care of Luna myself once we've set thing right with our new small vampire. ``

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

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

( time out )

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

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

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

'' Don't vexation, we'll be there soon enough. '' Lupin sighed. He'd agreed to come avail look for Anapurna, but he wasn't pleased with the idea or the secrecy.

Yeah, I can follow them. Draco replied once they all descended into secrecy again.

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

Do not worry, he is much weaker than Tristan was. Jacey reminded her.

Harry wondered how she was managing to take herself together riding alone with Troy while knowing he suspected she wasn't who she claimed to be. For all their rice beer, the coaches couldn't get to the village soon enough. Ginny, I need you to urinate sure you and Hermione restrain out in the open, preferably near the Aurors… Lupin said Kingsley is supposed to be there today. He suggested.

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

Harry felt a fragile shiver of guilty conscience run through him and Luna at the same clock time. Neither Ginny nor Ron were yet cognizant of Fred's predicament as they hadn't wanted to alarm them until they knew exactly where their brother was being forced to stick. Plus Ron was already overwhelmed with Parvati's disappearing, both he and Hermione had worried what telling him about Fred might defecate him do.

'' Finally… We're here. '' Hermione announced from her blank space beside the window. She took Harry's hand as they exited the coach, both still wary of the fact that should Elanya's spy be watching they had to come along as a couple. She was sealed Fred was going to maintain her insignificance to him while he was away and Harry was sure that the less of a object she seemed, the better off they'd be when they were finally able to go looking for Fred.

Together, they led the way behind the skinny construction attempting to not sop up too lots attention to themselves. `` Well, are we all gear up ? '' lupin asked nervously.

'' You guys be thrifty. '' Hermione told them, having only been informed that they intended to look for Parvati. `` Ginny and I will do our best to comprehend the fact that you aren't here. ``

'' We'll try not to go out of cooking stove. If you need us, call out and we'll come right back. '' Harry squeezed her deal as she nodded in agreement.

Indicating that it was fourth dimension, Luna took genus Draco's hired man as Harry grabbed Ron and Lupin. As one they all apparated away with Harry and Luna pushing through the barriers attempting to take them back. They landed about a half a land mile outside the village paries. `` Is everyone okay ? '' Harry asked, wanting to be for certain they'd all made it through in one piece.

'' There was so a lot pressure that at one level I thought I was going to burst. '' lupine answered, shaking himself off and ensuring his talisman still hung around his neck opening. Ron and Draco agreed but Harry and Luna remained unaffected by the trip.

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

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

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

'' This ending to the total lunation, I'll catch their fragrance in no time… well hers anyway. '' He amended, clearly diffident whether even his heightened weed could detect Troy if he didn't want to be found. He'd already said as much about Annapurna a calendar week ago when Harry had asked if he thought he'd be able to chance her.

'' Who are you talking about ? '' Ron asked in aggregate mix-up, having no cue as to anything involving Tristan, Jacey or Troy… other than Troy had admitted to being the one to move around Parvati. Ignoring him, Dragon merely turned and ran off with more velocity than a normal human being was able of.

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

Allowing Lupin to extend the way just in event he was able to view the girl's scent, Harry and Luna both sent their intellect out in hunting of any signs of cognisance. Even as it began to snow, no one suggested the group turn back. They were all determined… they would not end the day without finding Parvati.

( BREAK )

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

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

'' fountainhead, I guess she's in good manus. '' Ginny remarked. `` So, to the bookshop then ? ``

'' I'll be quick, I promise. '' She insisted as they began walking together down the road. An ill-chosen silence descended over them and Hermione knew Ginny was as aware as she was that this was the get-go time the two miss had been left alone together since they'd had that fight at Harry's house during the summer. She also knew they were both mindful that they were dissimilar citizenry from who they were then… but it didn't make things any less tense between them.

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

'' Anything about alien flowers or astral project. '' She answered simply as they entered the shop and began browsing the shelves.

'' Jeez, are they giving something away in here or what ? '' Ginny grumbled as they pushed their way through the large crowd.

'' More belike this is a just a good place for them to stop and get tender before heading back out into the snow. '' She muttered while she scoured the title before her. Ginny walked off a bit, trying to help speed matter along by searching out a different aisle. Just as she was about to break up and try another aisle herself, Hermione felt her sack grow warm. Lee must give found something….

Quickly making sure Ginny wouldn't posting, Hermione ducked out of the store and around the back away from prying eyes and pinna. She didn't want to cause to excuse to any of Fred's home that he was missing and so the last person she needed overhearing her was his baby. To her dismay it began to snow harder… she felt her heart clinch as her persuasion returned to Halloween Nox, when she and Fred had shared their first kiss in the blow covered courtyard. She shook her head, ready to focus on bringing him home base. `` Lee ? '' She asked as soon as she opened the compact.

'' Yeah, I think I may deliver figured something out from these Indian file. '' He answered uncertainly.

'' What ? '' She demanded eagerly.

'' fountainhead, I think I know who they're using as a spy… and it's definitely not Simon McKinney. '' Lee hesitated, clearly uncomfortable as he furrowed his brow in her let out image of him in the mirror. `` You're not going to trust this… I'm not certainly I believe it and I'm looking at the proof in front of me. ``

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

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

( BREAK )

It didn't take long for Draco to arrest Jacey's wind despite the falling snow, she had promised to bear upon as many trees as possible to help lead him to her… Troy he was unable to detect at all. I think I'm close. He thought out, hoping she would respond.

seed quick, I think he's working up the brass to make a movement. Jacey's worry voice came back to him.

Pulling off his amulet, he shoved it in his pocket and stopped to shut down his eyes and dressed ore. Draco focused on her smell while eliminating all the others. His ears picked up something to the west and he immediately set off, measured to shit as piddling haphazardness as possible. At last he saw them walking and lift up as close as he could to define what the situation was.

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

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

Sure enough, Troy stopped and violently grabbed Jacey's arm. `` You aren't Tristan Macnair, are you ? ! '' He demanded. `` What Annapurna said on Halloween was truthful wasn't it ? Potter and Malfoy somehow managed to defeat Tristram and you must be that underhand piddling girl they've been hiding up at the rook ! '' He bared his teeth, his eye tooth growing to acute dot. While not nearly as scary as Tristan's, Troy's fangs looked just as dangerous.

Draco was moving in an instant, rushing the lamia and tackling him to the ground as Jacey pulled herself free. The two boys snarled at each former, each very very much wanting to descend out the dominant power as they began taking baseball swing at each other. Just as Draco was sure he'd hit surd enough to shatter the other's nose, Troy managed to join as well, hitting with adequate military force to knock genus Draco back. Rising to his feet with his scent dripping blood, Ilion was greeted by the sight of Jacey with her mitt up and cupping chunk of flame. `` What the hell are you ? '' He marveled.

perception Dragon getting up behind him, Troy must ingest figured his best chance was to run. They quickly took off after him, determined to keep him from telling anyone what he'd figured out about Tristan. Jacey, being quite properly human, fell behind quickly as the two boy raced through the woods as fast as their hybrid speeding allowed. While Ilium wasn't exactly able to fly, he seemed to loom over the ground as he went and was therefore able-bodied to displace a bit faster and with to a lesser extent care than Draco who had to be untrusting of the multitude of obstacles covering the forest trading floor. But never once did he let the vampire out of his sight… the James Henry Leigh Hunt was on and not only did he not know how to change state it off, he didn't want to.

( BREAK )

'' Hey, here's one on astral projection. '' Ginny grabbed the book and turned to encounter Hermione but the other girl wasn't where she'd been a second ago. Quickly scanning the computer memory, she caught sight of her just as she was ducking out the door. What is she up to ? Ginny thought to herself. She debated whether or not to observe, knowing if solo it was safer to be here in this crowded store. But Hermione knew that too, so what had drawn her to do something as unsafe as walk the streets alone ?

Curious and slightly care, she made her way towards the door before she could peach herself out of it. Besides, if she was immediate she'd be able to pick up up to Hermione in no metre. Stepping remote, she looked up and down the now abandoned streets, but the other missy was nowhere to be seen. Trying to continue equanimity and logical, she figured Hermione must let ducked into another computer storage as it had begun to snow even harder. And then she saw step leading around to the back of the bookstall. They were quickly being filled in with new Baron Snow of Leicester and pulling her hood lower over her face, she set out to abide by them, suddenly sealed they were Hermione's. But by the time she had made her way around the building she realized the other young lady had moved on. The footprints seemed to barricade and then take off again as she must possess decided to get out of the nose candy after all.

With a sigh of frustration, Ginny began to make her way back to the front. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught some movement and turning to take care, she was able to lay down out a figure in the distance walking toward the woodlet. Maybe she'd say the footprints wrong… after all the C was now practically coming down in midst, heavy sheets.

'' Hey ! Hermione ! '' She took off after the pattern, moving as fast as possible as she slipped and slid through the snow. But as she got closer she saw that she had made a misapprehension. The person ahead of her was far too tall to be her friend, and from the way they moved, she was sealed it was a man. Fear washed over her out of nowhere and she tried to turn around before he noticed her.

But it was too late, he had heard her calling. He turned, revealing himself to be Lucius Malfoy. `` You ! '' He narrowed his optic and sneered at her as he raised his wand. Hers was tucked away in her coat sac, he would see any movement she made to retrieve it. panic flooded through her. `` I know who you are, you're the little female child who bedded and bewitched my son into turning on us, on me ! ``

'' And you're the one who tried to vote out him and allowed Harland to be sent after him. '' She returned, determined not to let him see that she was afraid.

'' Two failed attempts to end his animation, but I've come to finish affair today. Where is he ? '' He demanded, taking various long stride closer to her.

Unable to stop herself she tried to back away but he lunged and grabbed her arm, waving his wand in her face. `` Where's genus Draco ? '' He asked harshly, leering at her.

'' I don't know. '' She answered honestly.

'' Well you better figure it out soon because if I can't find him, you're just as effective a catch… hell I might even be capable to buy my way back in by bringing the minister's only daughter to the Dark Lord… '' Lucius grinned.

'' I doubt it. '' She kept her vocalization even, determined to be brave. `` Nothing you do will shift who your parents are, as Draco had the bad luck to teach. ``

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

( BREAK )

'' There are foretoken that soul has come this way very recently. '' Lupin said, bringing them to a stop a he examined the ground. `` Since I can't selection up on any scent former than decaying ground, I can only assume it must be Annapurna. ``

Ron shivered at the words the man used to describe what he smelled… it reminded him that Parvati was in all actuality dead, that what she was now something entirely other than human.

'' Why wouldn't the Aurors have picked up on it ? '' Luna pondered dreamily though her regard was shrewd and focused.

'' Because they don't know what they're looking for. '' lupine answered grimly. `` There are slipway for them to find a vampire, but they believe they are searching for a student… and as we don't make love how Anapurna has taken to it, it's a great deal considerably that we find her before they do. ``

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

Lupin shrugged. `` She's a newborn that has been left to divagate on her own through nature for close to two workweek. environs can absolutely touch the way someone can come out of this. For case, had genus Draco been bitten and left on his own in the wood there's no telling whether he would suffer retained as much of his human beings as he had. The same goes for me, Parvati and any other human infected by a humanoid. ``

Determining she'd been there less than half an minute before, they quickly moved on. Ron's belly was tied in knot as they all started calling out for Anapurna hoping the girl would show up herself. `` Over there ! '' Luna pointed as her tending was suddenly drawn to a little grove of trees.

'' Anapurna ! '' Ron cried out desperately, taking a few steps in that direction.

And then he saw her. She peeked her head out first before fully stepping away from the tree she'd been hiding behind, still wearing the long attire she used as a costume for the dance. It was in tag now, her hair was hanging in maze around her berm and her skin, normally a dingy creamy caramel, was now ashy and pale. She dropped to her knee in the snowfall in front of them and hung her head. `` I'm sorry. '' She whispered. `` I never wanted this. ``

Ron took off his pelage and moved to roll it around her articulatio humeri but she held out a hand to halt him. `` Don't come near me ! '' She shouted fearfully before once Thomas More falling into despair. `` It wouldn't service anyway. I don't really find the common cold. ``

'' Anapurna ? '' lupin tentatively stepped forward, tightly gripping his amulet. Ron, Harry and Luna all stepped to the side, letting their professor attempt to manage things. `` We have to choose you back, Dumbledore, your family, Arthur and the ministry… they can all supporter you. ``

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

'' Please understand Parvati, this doesn't have to mean- '' Lupin stopped and whipped his head to the side at the like time Anapurna did, both obviously picking up on something the others couldn't.

Harry and Luna must take in caught whatever it was next because they both instantly had their wand out and had taken a few stone's throw in front of Ron as if to protect him… Though Harry had been sure to place himself at the front, keeping both Ron and Luna corralled behind him. moment later Troy burst into their little clarification, his eye quickly washing over them all as he took in the spot. `` I've been looking for you ! '' He said, zeroing in on Anapurna. `` I'll take care of you if it's the last matter I do ! '' He screamed, rushing at her flying than Ron could perceive.

Parvati was set up but before he could even reach her, Draco came out of nowhere, tackling Troy mid-strike. Ron watched in stunned revulsion along with the others as the two boys tumbled to the ground, both quickly getting back on their feet and crouching low as they circled each other, waiting for the chance to attack.

'' Whoa, look out ! '' Ron yelled, catching sight of Tristan running through the tree diagram towards them. He raised his sceptre and took aim.

'' Ron, no ! That's not Tristan ! '' Luna shouted, knocking his arm just as he released his while. Not quite understanding what she meant, he turned back in repugnance to chance out whether she had stopped him in time.





NOTE : Who's the professor spy ? What will Lucius do ? What will materialize with vampires Troy and Annapurna ? Did Ron mistakenly hit Jacey with a enchantment ? What's going on with Fred ? Find out future chapter !


Chapter 51 : A Dangerous Day in Hogsmeade

A/N : So in this chapter I name a professor as a possible spy… just to let you know, I am changing things up from how they were in the real Koran yet again by using an OC in home of an semi-established character. Let's all go with the flow on this : ) Read, recapitulation and Enjoy !



Hermione entered the gardening shed adjacent to the flower shop and sat on the floor among the blossom weed before once more eagerly pulling out the covenant. `` Lee ? ``

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

'' I heard someone coming and had to actuate. '' She explained. Just as the coke had begun to settle harder, she'd heard the unmistakable sound of footfall crunching around the bookstore to where she'd originally gone to talk to him. She'd had to fold the compact and quickly hide herself behind the woodpile before the tall figure of a man walked past her toward the grove. She hadn't bothered to question who he was or where he was going, she'd been too anxious to take up talking to Lee. Instead she'd waited until the man was a few yards from her before dashing out and around the other incline of the building toward the now defect streets. Figuring the shed was her best bet not to run into anyone else while still getting out of the nose candy, she'd rushed there and closed herself in. `` You were saying the spy might be a professor ? '' She asked incredulously.

'' Yeah, I'm pretty sure. Seems Elanya had a secret pass that the ministry actually knew all about… According to the data file, she and the professor involved had to attend disciplinary earreach years ago before she graduated but they were able to convince everyone that they were mistaken… or at least no one could prove the intimacy. '' He answered, flipping through the documents to be for sure of what he was telling her.

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

'' Maybe not in so many words, but if you go back and read it now, you might see that they alluded to it… What I have here seems to indicate that Dumbledore had wanted the professor to be banned from teaching but as they were unable to test anything beyond a question, he had to retain the guy in employment and preserve both their records clean. ``

'' So, who is it ? ``

'' Dolos Erebos. '' He grimly announced.

'' The Arithmancy professor ? Are you sure ? '' Hermione had always enjoyed his class, had been the only one in her house to attempt an OWL in the subject. She couldn't believe he would have an function with a student let alone offer to spy on and toss off one.

'' That's what it says. And from what I'm seeing of her recent change of location, I'm somewhat sure they're still in touch- there was a report of them being seen together this summer in Australia. Let's see… she had entered the country to reportedly attend a family funeral. I have no estimation why he was there obviously. You might need to look into the guy's files up at school because I'm sure as hell not breaking back into the ministry… nearly had heart bankruptcy the last time, I was so uneasy someone would trip up us. '' He shuddered as he recalled the experience.

'' I'll do that. Let me recognise if you manage to find anything else. '' She answered distractedly as her mind whirled, trying to call up everything she knew of Professor Erebos. While serious with a very no-nonsense attitude in his class, he was also very approachable and fagged fourth dimension ensuring each of his scholarly person completely understood the material, even if he did issue Admiralty mile long essays every week. He always offered a favorable smile in the hall and was willing to listen when a student had a job. Hermione had always considered Erebos to be a very estimable teacher and nix she could think of now reconciled him with the trope of a murderous spy. But then… it was right there in his gens, wasn't it ? Dolos Erebos, a epithet full moon of trickery ... at to the lowest degree according to the Ancient Greeks.

( break of serve )

Luna watched in horror as her former vision of this upshot came to biography before her middle with a few new variety now that they had attempted to interpose with the future and people were making their own decision. No one seemed to know what to do as Draco and Ilion circled each other waiting for the opportune clip to light upon. And then Jacey, still disguised as Tristan had come running up and Ron perceiving the risk had mistakenly taken aim to try and help. She shouted and tried to shove his arm in time before quickly whippng around to see whether she'd saved Jacey… she had, the other girl was still coming towards them.

'' What do you signify that's not Tristan ? '' Ron demanded. Luna realized everyone had stopped what they were doing and were tensely waiting to see what would unfold.

'' Now is not the prison term to explain. '' Harry said quickly.

'' I think it's the perfective time to explain ! '' Ilium yelled, taking a step closer to genus Draco. Harry and Ron instantly pointed their verge, almost daring the vampire to make a move.

At last remembering that these were students and he was a professor, lupine came to his pot and stepped forward. `` Everyone stop ! '' He shouted. Draco bristled at the command but Troy gave no reading that he heard.

Instead he turned to Parvati. `` come on, snatch out of it ! Do what you were made to do and help me avenge what they did to Tristan. ``

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

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

'' Maybe you should have learned how to do this better before forcing it on me ! '' She screamed. `` I'll do nothing you say ! ``

And then they were both in motion before anyone could even comprehend that they had moved. Parvati and troy clashed together, a maze of dentition and claws. `` hold back ! '' Luna shouted, knowing neither had heard her.

'' Harry ! aid me class them ! '' Lupin yelled, waving his wand. Harry stepped forward and focused, using his own index to grab hold of Troy and rip him from Anapurna's grasp as Lupin pulled her away. Harry pinned Troy to the earth, allowing Luna to drift and truss him in place.

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

Harry, Ron and Lupin rushed over to help but the girl was in a ferine state and any time anyone got too close, she'd snap at them as well. `` stoppage now ! '' Jacey shouted. Still bearing Tristram's appearing, she stepped forward and allowed the flame to burst from her hands in warning.

Unlike Tristram, Annapurna's pelt wasn't heavy and could easily be burned. Her eyes were on Jacey's hands, transfixed by the flame. At live on she seemed to come back to her Mary Jane, giving up her flack on Dragon and rolling to the side to allow him to stand. He quickly pulled his amulet from his pocket and put it on as he backed away from her, holding it firmly in his helping hand. Luna knew they were favorable that he'd managed to hang up on to himself, it had to have been hard for him to separate Parvati from the lamia she now was. It was clear she'd lost herself and attacked him simply for what he was, her natural enemy… thankfully Draco had been given more sentence to get used to his werewolf self.

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

'' It wasn't your flaw. '' lupine reasoned, though he was sure to keep his distance from her as he also clutched his amulet.

sightedness that the post was under control, Jacey released the flak she'd been holding, her hands now hanging at her sides and smoking slightly. Luna held her breathing spell along with the eternal rest of her friends as Ron approached her.

'' Jacey ? '' He asked hesitantly, clearly unsure as the mortal before him looked everything like Tristram. `` What the hell is going on ? ``

( severance )

Ginny tried to pull her arm loose, but Lucius dug his fingers in, refusing to let her turn tail so easily. `` This is your utmost chance, where's genus Draco ? '' He growled.

'' He's out in the woodwind somewhere, he's not here in the village ! '' She shouted at him before turning and screaming at the top of her lungs, hoping to alert soul to the fact that she was in trouble. But they were so far from the buildings, and the densely falling blow muffled her voice even more.

'' pudding head miss ! '' He shook her and once more pointed his wand in her face. `` Do that again and I'll cut your tongue right out. '' He threatened.

And not doubting that he would, she kept her oral fissure shut. Panic was quickly settling in as she realized her silent vociferation for help were going as unreciprocated as her actual screams. Harry, Luna and Jacey must be too far into the timber and had gone out of range… at least that's what she hoped. Not wanting to induce herself feel even worse, she refused to think that they weren't answering because something had happened to them out there.

'' So, he's out in the woods. '' Lucius stared off thoughtfully, gripping her arm even nasty. `` That's right wing, the full lunar month is only two 24-hour interval away… they probably don't want him mixing with the pupil too much. Let me guess, he's out there with Remus lupin. '' He sneered. Ginny remained silent, neither wanting to confirm nor refuse anything he thought. He had no approximation that Fred had found a way to help with those talisman so she was perfectly leave to let Lucius believe Dragon was more out of control than he was. `` Alright, we're going to sneak out of the village and go looking for them. It's better we go out into the woods anyway, less chance of being seen. '' He licked his lips, eager to birth this confrontation with his son.

She didn't fight as he pulled her along to whatever break down in the fence he'd snuck in through. Ginny very much wanted him to ask her out there and close to Harry and Luna… she had to severalize them to warn Draco. The last thing she was going to do was let Lucius stimulate the constituent of surprise.

( prisonbreak )

Having finished talking to Lee, Hermione slowly made her way back out into the small snowstorm. She instantly headed towards the bookstore, feeling shamed for leaving Ginny there alone for so long. As she walked, she began preparing her apology for the other young lady, trying to decide what to say to her and still not alarm her to the fact that her comrade was missing. It was cold and wet out, and Hermione was tidal bore to get inside and warm up despite having to lie to one of her supporter once she got there ... But just as she was approaching the door, she could have sworn she heard individual belly laugh for help. What's more, she thought it sounded like Ginny.

The snow was growing deeper, making it hard for her to maneuver her way around to the back of the edifice once more. She fell twice as she tried to run, and she shivered as her knickers where now completely soaked. Even though she hadn't heard another thigh-slapper, she was suddenly sealed that it was Ginny and she kept moving forward in fourth dimension to see two figures far ahead of her, one dragging the other into the orchard. Hermione forced herself not to predict out, waiting until they were completely in the tree diagram before going to follow, pulling out her baton as she went.

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

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

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

'' How was I supposed to be able-bodied to tell through the snow ? '' He argued.

'' I really don't have sentence for an act from Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum. '' She called over the air current. `` Why don't you two just run along ? ``

'' Where's Luna ? We need to utter to her. '' Crabbe took a few menacing stairs towards her, forcing her to raise her wand.

'' Do you see her anywhere ? I have no idea where she is. '' Hermione answered nervously. `` And I doubt you have any reason to talk to her since neither of you are supposed to be in the village. You're supposed to be under house arrest back at schooltime. ``

'' And you're supposed to be with your friends… yet here you are, claiming to be all alone. '' Goyle taunted.

'' You really expect us to believe the others aren't close by ? '' Crabbe leered.

'' I have always expected very little from either of you. And yet you still have the ability to disappoint. '' She shot back, refusing to show fear in front of these two idiot. `` And I don't need anybody's avail to be able to subscribe upkeep of you. '' To prove her percentage point, she shot a spell at their invertebrate foot, causing the snow to violently detonate up into their faces.

It was clear they would cause liked to retaliate, but their uncertainty that they could really take her on was too much. After all, they'd had geezerhood to see what she was capable of in class. `` seed on, let's go back to the village and face for Lovegood. '' Crabbe suggested. `` granger's useless to us at the moment anyway since Potter's not around. '' He added, as if they were leaving only because she wasn't worth their time.

She let them go simply because she knew Luna was nowhere near the village, though she did intend to warn both her and Harry that the Slytherins were looking for her. She tried calling out but soon realized they must have moved far out of range. Waving her scepter, she dried her clothes as best she could before turning and continuing on to the orchard, following the deep opinion Ginny and her captor had left in the snow. At lowest, with her teeth chattering and her ramification all but numb, she came to a small cluster of bushes that was hiding a newly made hole in the wall surrounding the village.

Hermione didn't know what to do. The thought of going out into the woods alone while Anapurna and Ilion were out there wasn't too appealing, not to mention she wasn't sure just how grave this mystery story man was who had taken Ginny. But looking behind her, the idea of going back to the village alone while the Slytherins were out on the hunt for Luna didn't seem like the capital architectural plan either. She had no mind where any of her protagonist were or how long it would require before she was in range to meet them… and even if she did go after them, she was already so cold, how long would it be until she actually caught pneumonia or frostbite ? But going back to the Village to warm herself would imply giving up on Ginny and would make up her feel like the worst mortal ever.

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

( BREAK )

Harry had been off with lupin trying to adjudicate what to do next when they heard Luna howler. He turned to see Draco pull her out of the way as Anapurna tore past them to attack Ilium, sinking both her claw and teeth into his neck. He and Lupin rushed over at the Lapp time Dragon did and they all grabbed an arm to pull one vampire off the former. Troy, still bound in lupine's spell, could only writhe in bother as blood spewed from his cervix ... she'd torn his throat out. Parvati was fighting them, trying to get back to her fair game but they held on tight… though Harry could clearly see they'd been too late.

As soon as Troy stopped moving, his eyes glazing over with death, Parvati went hobble and gave up her struggle to get away. `` I was so hungry… '' She said quietly, both sad and determined as the boy's parentage dripped down her chin and stained her finger's breadth. `` safe it was him than any of you. ``

Harry shook his head… Luna hadn't described any of this in her vision. Apparently Parvati was making her own alternative right along with everyone else and changing the future- hopefully for the better.

Lupin appeared dazed. I've never known of a newborn baby to wrench so quickly on their creator. He thought to Harry, trying to crap logic of what he'd just witnessed. I suppose he did desert her out here… and he was a newborn himself. He took out his hankie and handed it to Luna to collapse to Parvati so she could attempt to cleanse herself up.

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

'' Just tranquilize down. '' Harry said, his mind whirling as he attempted to make sense of the matter he'd just seen. `` Let's all think about this rationally. ``

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

'' Why would we possess to ? The last person he was seen with was Tristan. '' Draco argued.

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

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

'' You must fall back with us. '' Lupin once more assert. `` There are many who live almost completely normal life history with the vampire curse, there's no reason you can't do the same. ``

Parvati shook her head. `` I can't, and I won't let you progress to me. Tell my parents, Dumbledore and everyone else I'm stagnant ... I may as well be anyway. ``

'' What about Padma ? '' Ron asked quietly as he slowly approached the girl.

She turned to look up at him with tears in her center. `` Yes, I do want to see her one more clip before I disappear… ''

'' I can't in upright moral sense let you just run off on your own. '' lupin sighed. `` There is a space I know of where you can go… a colony that takes in new lamia and helps them adapt to a normal biography. I will not severalize your mob you are idle, but I am willing to let them continue to think you are missing until you are in a better frame of mind to decide how you would like to proceed. ``

'' Where is this place ? And how do you know about it ? '' Ron asked doubtfully.

'' I don't know where it is, for obvious reasons my kind would never be told no thing how in ascendency we are. But it is my line of work to have sex these things exist and I know exactly who to contact to necessitate her there. '' Lupin replied defensively before turning back to Anapurna. `` I can let them meet you outside Hogsmeade by morning. ``

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

Harry sighed in moderation before realizing they still had the matter of disposing of yet another consistency. `` What about him ? '' He gestured to Troy.

'' Well, I suppose we spread out and discover an Ash Tree. '' lupin said slowly. `` Any Natalie Wood could process for him, but let's get Ash just to be certain. ``

Draco was the first to spot the mathematical group of trees they needed and they quickly went to help gather enough wood to cover Troy's organic structure. Once they'd accomplished the labor, Jacey stepped up and pointed her finger, emitting a stream of fire that instantly lit their gruesome bonfire.

Harry ? Luna ? He vaguely heard Ginny's voice whisper through his mind. Turning to Luna he saw her nod to indicate she had heard it too. Reaching out to place a hand on her articulatio humeri, he was nearly knocked off his feet as their combined energy amplified Ginny's remote telephone call. HARRY ? LUNA ? Can you hear me yet ?

Ginny ? What's untimely ? Luna answered anxiously.

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

Where's Hermione ? Harry asked.

I have no idea. Ginny said quickly. She walked out of the bookstall and I haven't seen her since.

Can you get Ron and Jacey back to Hogsmeade by yourself ? Harry asked Luna.

I believe so. She replied uncertainly, not glad with the idea of splitting up their group even more.

Okay, when you get there stay near Jacey if you can and try to forfend the shoes you know the Slytherins might be. Try and find Hermione and Kingsley and stick with them. He was uneasy about Luna going back to the village without him but he couldn't exactly have her and the others stand out here in the Ellen Price Wood with a vampire who was barely in ascendancy of herself. Hey, guy wire ? We have a slight problem. He thought out to everyone but Ron, bracing himself for Dragon's reaction to the news.

( BREAK )

Jacey watched as Ron walked away from the others and knew he was beyond angry… there may not even be a word unattackable enough for what he was feeling. It was a dark mixed bag of fury, betrayal, disgust, guilty conscience and outrage. He knew as everyone prepared to go forth that there was now something else he was not being told… but seeing how he was reacting, she felt Harry had made the veracious decision in not telling him that his baby was in the clutches of her boyfriend's father. For all they knew, Ron would turn his aroused broadside on Draco and blame him for what Lucius had chosen to do. And seeing how badly Draco himself had taken the news, Jacey knew it would be bad if Ron tried to part anything. `` Hey, I am sorry I did not tell you I was pretending to be Tristan. '' She said softly as she approached him.

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

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

'' You said you were leaving the castle ! '' He angrily turned on her. `` That you were doing things for the coven ! And really you were taking over the life of the vampire you helped kill ! ``

'' I said I had to go away but that I would be close by ... that was entirely true was it not ? '' She argued. `` Once I was Tristan I was not myself and therefore I was gone, but I was never far than a few hallway from you. And I did do this for the coven… Harry and Luna are coven members are they not ? Tristan wanted to turn Luna and hand her over to Voldemort- not only would that have been bad for the coven, it would have destroyed Harry, how could I not receive tried to help stop it ? ``

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

'' We wanted to stay fresh you safe… I wanted to observe you safe. This is why we did not tell you ! '' She said, knowing he did not think it a good enough reason.

'' And what's everyone not telling me now ? Why are Harry, Malfoy and lupine really staying out here ? '' He countered.

'' They already told you, they're staying to aid me. '' Parvati said quietly from behind them. They spun around to face her, both surprised by how easily she had crept up on them… Jacey more than Ron as she had not sensed the vampire to be anywhere near them. `` Sorry to interrupt, I couldn't service but overhear. ``

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

He's already dealing with sufficiency right now. Parvati thought back, her voice tense and full of venom. Jacey was quickly to agnize the other young woman did not like her at all, and it was directly as a result of the familiarity she seemed to share with Ron… A jealous vampire… She did not make love what to retrieve, though she was struck by the pathetic idea that Parvati had laid claim to him first. And seeing how he instantly softened his position, it was authorize the guilt feelings he felt over the lady friend's fate was potent, bonding him to her in an obligatory alliance.

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

Parvati shook her principal. `` No, you go help retrieve Hermione. She and Luna are going to need you to front after them… but will you do me a party favour ? volition you please converge me outside Hogwarts tonight with Padma so I can talk to her before I leave ? ``

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

Jacey felt uneasy knowing he would probably do anything Parvati asked now… that his own conflict would score it nearly impossible to deny her. And she could understand- driven by a desire to please rather than by guilt, she would do anything for Harry or Luna… and she would do anything for Ron as well. But what she could not and would not do, was allow herself to be bested by a vampire. As soon as she was done being Tristan she intended to fix affair right with Ron and impatient to earn that happen, she was prepared to start ruining the Macnair reputation the minute they returned to school.

( BREAK )

'' Be measured. '' Harry warned one last fourth dimension, reaching out to grasp Luna's hand. They were standing alone, Lupin had pulled Draco aside and they were talking quietly to each early while Ron, Jacey and Parvati conversed off in the length. Taking the opportunity, Luna wrapped her subdivision around Harry's waist and held herself close against him, already hating that they were about to be separated. He ran his hands up her rachis, taking her face in his hands and leaning down to kiss her deeply.

'' We will. '' She promised quietly as they broke apart and rested their header together. Wanting to blot out her own uncomfortableness, she offered a small grinning to try and relieve his vexation. After all she wanted him focused on himself while out looking for Lucius, not on her.

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

Annapurna stood near Ron though she didn't allow herself to get too close. `` Don't forget what you promised. '' She said quietly.

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

Luna felt bad that they hadn't told him exactly what was going on, having not wanted to appall him with the fact that Ginny could be in trouble. In fact, he'd only been told that Harry, Draco and lupin were staying behind to ensure Parvati could get her way back to the palace and she couldn't aid but feel it was a bad idea not to tell Ron. But at the same time she didn't want him to tag along and possibly get hurt in his desperation to help his sister… It was bad enough Harry and lupin would have to be keeping Dragon in check.

Luna quickly leaned up to kiss Harry again and assured that Jacey had completely turned back into Tristan, she reached out to snaffle her and Ron and whisk them back to the village before she could change her mind. They arrived outside the Shrieking Shack, the simply place she was certain there would be no educatee. certain enough the place was deserted, and even though the snow began to let up as they walked they soon saw the streets of Hogsmeade were pretty a great deal clear of people.

The number 1 thing Luna wanted to do was witness Hermione, she was worried about what had happened to her booster and she knew Harry was too. Closing her eyes, she tried to rivet in on her while Ron and Jacey stood watch. `` Well ? '' Ron asked after a few moments. `` We can't stand here all day and let people see us hanging out with ‘ Tristram ’. '' He added, clearly still acid about being kept in the dark.

'' She's in the grove and we'd better hastiness. Something's really wrong. '' She told them, coming back to herself after a shadow and lonely trip through Hermione's head.

They ran off, letting her admit the principal as she followed the lady friend's dim current of consciousness. Running through the Tree and right up to the paries, Luna frantically pushed the Vannevar Bush aside to uncover Hermione huddled into herself as she sat in a hollow. Her dentition were chattering and her lips were amobarbital sodium, her facial expression red and raw from the cold. The small blast she'd made for herself was dying out and she had clearly been prepared to let it. `` Hermione ! '' Ron rushed to pull her to her feet, wrapping his blazon around her in an attempt to offer warmth.

I couldn't make up one's mind what to do, leave or rest. Hermione looked at Luna, unable to make her mouth manikin words as she shivered. Her eyes were so heartsick, so lost and unsure.

It's okay, you aren't alone anymore. Luna assured her, stepping up to cast her arms around the miss as well. Jacey quickly broke off several branch, laying them down and lighting them in a giant blaze, her magic fervidness yet again rendering the snow inconsequent and therefore making her flames stronger than the unity Hermione had attempted to use to hold open herself warm. Luna and Ron moved her closer, wanting to help their friend thaw out.

Why is Tristram here and lighting matter on fire ? Hermione asked, her center wide-cut with veneration while her voice maintained a numb indifference.

It is me, Jacey. She answered for herself.

It's a long news report I'll secern you about later. Luna added.

Again Hermione looked to her and her alone. Please don't leave again. She begged. Her psyche was a smother of a sight, even she didn't know what she was thinking anymore other than that she was scared, cold-blooded and alone.

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

Once certain her flames were properly contained, Jacey turned to them. `` I will go gather as many Slytherins as I can and try to get them to give up their hunting for you. '' She told Luna. `` Once I have I will let you experience that it is condom to come back into the village. ``

'' Well be quick about it. '' Ron said angrily. `` Hermione needs to get indoors. ``

'' F-feet f-fr-frozen. C-can-n't w-walk. '' Hermione stammered out through her chatter teeth. Jacey took off in a Benjamin Rush with more than her business organization driving her. It was unclutter that she didn't want to be around Ron while he was displeased with her.

'' What were you doing out here anyway ? And where's Ginny ? '' Ron demanded as he fed more wood to the fire. Luna and Hermione looked away from each other, neither wanting to come up with an solution to that. But he caught on anyway, realizing they were both keeping something from him. Luna watched as a trace passed over his font and she knew he had reached his breaking head with secrecy, that this was the live on straw. He balled his hands into fists at his sides and strode up to tower menacingly over her. `` I said, where's my sister ? '' He said in a serenity yet threatening tone.

( BREAK )

The minute ceramist had told him what Ginny had said, Draco saw red. He had to walk away from the grouping to gather himself, to number to terms with the fact that today may just be the day he had to kill his father… And it would sure as snake pit come to that before he'd let Ginny get hurt. Taking various oceanic abyss breathing time, he urged the others to plan faster, wanting null more than to incur Lucius and let him cognize what a mistake it was to put anyone, especially Ginny, in the center of their transmitted feud.

He felt Lupin come up behind him and turned to face him. `` precisely remember to try and restrain yourself in controller. '' Lupin said gently as he reached out to reassuringly press Draco's shoulder joint. `` And think of, Harry and I are going to be with you… nothing is going to happen to Ginny and we won't let you or Lucius do anything either of you will regret. ``

'' Why is he here ? '' Dragon asked miserably. `` I gave Dumbledore all the ways I knew how to bump him, why haven't they caught him yet ? Why is he still free to follow here and excruciate me ? ``

He shook his point. `` I have no idea. But when we catch him, we'll hand him over to the Aurors in the village. ``

'' That's if everything goes well. Lucius isn't one to play by the rules. ``

'' Neither are you and Harry. '' He reminded him. `` There's a lot about you that your don won't be expecting genus Draco, and that's his own fault because he placed limits on you in his own thinker. I'm just glad you've managed to essay to yourself that you're more than he ever thought you could be. Don't let him goad you just because he doesn't think you're dangerous to him. ``

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

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

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

'' Of course of action I'm ready, she's already been with him too long. '' Draco took a deep breathing spell and prepared himself.

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

She nodded eagerly. `` Yes, just go so that I can be alone to get make. '' Draco knew what she meant… she was going to encounter something to eat before issue forth face to face with humans again.

ceramicist reached out and grab detainment of him and Lupin, apparating them away and to where he sensed Ginny to be. Within second they were land mile away back near the Greenwich Village, but no one was there. `` We must possess just missed them. '' Lupin pointed out the oceanic abyss footprint in the snow.

Draco sniffed the air and instantly picked up the swoon scent of the coconut application Ginny used. He raced ahead of the former two, grimly eager to once Thomas More human face his Fatherhood. Seeing them ahead in the distance he slowed and waited for Lupin. Leaving potter to cover up them, the two werewolves removed their amulet and placed them carefully in their pockets where they wouldn't make contact with their skin. Draco could still finger the outcome of it and longed to throw the matter far away from him… but he knew better. Without the Wolfsbane, the amulets were the only thing keeping them sane in these last two days before the moon and he needed that in fiat to ensure he kept his wits and didn't accidentally hurt the wrong person.

Without a countersign to each other, they allowed the wolf to waken within them, heightening their senses and setting out to do what they were meant to- hunt. Breaking off from each other they noiselessly moved over the snow in polar directions before running parallel, looking to circle their prey and leave no escape. Ginny, we're here. Draco heard potter silently call out to guarantee her as Lucius continued to drag her unwillingly along behind him.

As soon as he was assured they were all properly situated, Draco gave the signal and he and lupine leapt from behind their tree with their wands out, trapping Lucius from either incline and the front. He leapt back in surprise, clutching Ginny closer to him and spinning around to find Potter behind him brandishing his sceptre with several heavy arm circling in the air around him. Backing up against a Tree as they all three closed ranks, Lucius swung Ginny into his body and crushed his arm against her throat to hold back her from escaping while using her as a sort of human cuticle. He waved his wand at all of them threateningly though his eye were locked on Draco. `` I've been looking for you, son. '' He said as a dangerous smile spread across his face.

Draco could see Ginny shivering and knew it was more than the frigidness, she was clearly scared about what was going to occur. He wanted to keep himself together, to keep her worried about herself and not him… but facing Lucius, seeing the hatred his male parent now had for him, he couldn't closure himself. Pulling the amulet from his pocket, he angrily tossed both it and his wand in the snow and threw his weapon system out tauntingly. `` I'm right here. ``

( jailbreak )

Crabbe and Goyle were the first two Jacey found, which made common sense seeing as how they were forced to wander the streets in parliamentary law to not be seen and thus reported for breaking their house arrest. As Tristram, she ordered them to pull together as many of the others as they could and receive them meet her in the Shrieking shanty. Quickly going from building to edifice, she found the rest of the Slytherins and gave them all her orders before heading up to the deserted sign herself.

When she entered the cold parlor, she saw that most everyone was already there. A few stragglers came in after her and she was sure enough to stare obelisk at them to let them jazz she was displeased. `` Everyone pay conclusion attention because I've already had a bad day and I'd hate to hold to shit it tough by repeating myself. '' She looked around to ensure all attention was on her. `` Ilion and I ran into some problems while out looking for Anapurna Patil. Suffice to say, neither of them will be joining us and it is best that you all forget they even existed. '' A low murmur of mazed voices rang out and she knew she'd have to pass them more. `` All you need to make love about the situation is that they became unruly and I was forced to dispense with them. ``

'' None of us can regain Lovegood. '' nance said cautiously. She was clearly as eagre as the others to ask about Troy, but thankfully they weren't as perceptive as the vampire had been and her threat were enough to check them in check… for now.

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

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

'' I didn't say that. '' She snapped, startling the early girl into muteness. `` There are a lot of matter going on that none of you can even start out to cover. I suggest you stop trying and simply listen and follow ordination, l you wind up like Ilium and Parvati. '' No one dared speak and she nodded in commendation. `` That's more like it. Now, our chief objective is no longer Luna Lovegood… instead it is being left to us to project out who the mystery girlfriend is that ceramicist and Dumbledore are hiding at the palace. It seems the Dark Lord has taken a particular interestingness in her. ``

Jacey knew Harry and Luna were going to be upset that she was turning their attention on herself… but she figured this was the best way to keep everyone safe until they could leave school at last. After all, how could the Slytherins possibly find her when she was busy hiding right in forepart of them ?

( gaolbreak )

Luna was stunned into taking a stone's throw back, away from Ron. She'd never seen him so angry before. `` I don't know where Ginny is. '' She answered honestly.

'' You better not be lying to me. '' He said, stepping forward and forcing her to withdraw another step back.

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

'' So delay, they lied about why they were staying out there ? '' He roared, shouting in her face. `` What the bloody hell is going on ? ! And how does my sister fit into it ? ``

'' St-stop yell-yelling ! '' Hermione shouted out of nowhere. Having been so involved in their argument, they'd forgotten she was still there, hunched over the flack with her deal spread out over it. `` W-w-whatever's hap-happened to G-Ginny isn't Luna's f-fault and th-the others are out th-there looking f-for her, s-so you sh-sh-should be grateful. If you w-want to b-bl-blame s-someone f-for something hap-happening to Ginny, th-then bl-blame m-me. I'm th-the one w-who ab-b-bandoned her in th-the bookstore. '' She stammered out as she shivered.

Ron was nearly shaking as he attempted to control his rage. `` And why did you do that ? '' He asked through clenched teeth.

'' T-to t-talk t-to Lee. '' Hermione looked directly at him. `` Fred s-sent him up h-here w-with s-some quest-t-tions ab-about th-the quickcures and I st-st-stepped outside t-to help f-figure it out. '' She lied smoothly, her anger helping tug her into remaining calmness and credible. After all, now that Ron knew Ginny was missing, there was no reason to alarm him to the fact that Fred was as well. He'd been exposed to enough trueness today… one too many actually, if his rapidly reddening face and darkening eyes were any indication.

'' Don't talk to me, either of you. Not unless it's to let me do it Jacey has given the all absolved to go back to the village. And after, I don't want to talk to any of you at all. '' He said, turning his dorsum on them to go sit alone on a tree ambo a few railyard away. Clearly he still cared enough not to desolate them, but the glory of his choler was suffocating.

Luna carefully sat beside Hermione in the expanse Jacey had cleared away of C. P. Snow. `` Are you okay ? '' She asked the other young woman who's dentition were still chattering as puffs of air passed through her Amytal lips.

'' J-just re-really c-c-cold. '' She answered. Lee figured out who the spy is. She thought, not wanting to expend muscularity talking.

And ? Luna prompted.

It's Professor Erebos. He had an social occasion with Elise while she was here at school though no one can turn out it. Lee believes there's grounds that they've continued to stay put in contact. Hermione quickly explained.

Well, I could certainly see him more capable of killing someone than Neil Simon. Luna answered. cipher came to her saying they were incorrect and so she had no reason not to accept Lee's research as a plausibility. But Simon is working for them somehow… That she was certain of. Intuition had been poking at her since she'd agreed to dance with him at the Costume Ball, now it was downright shoving her in it's imperativeness that there was something off about that boy.

After awhile, Jacey finally called out to silently differentiate Luna that it was as secure to enter the Village as it was going to get. She helped Hermione to her feet and left it to her to tell Ron that it was time to go. Despite his continued Erinyes, he silently stomped over to help Hermione paseo. Together they guided her between them, eager to finally get her out of the cold. Glancing behind her past the wall, Luna hoped Harry was alright out in the woodwind though she was more than positive that she would know instantly if he weren't.

( BREAK )

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

'' I'm right here. '' Draco taunted his founding father, clearly trying to get him to take the bait and passing Ginny.

But Lucius was no idiot, he'd been surviving for a long fourth dimension and knew that she was the simply thing keeping Draco, Harry and lupine at bay. He wouldn't let go of what was currently keeping him safe and the others at his whim. `` Yes you are, wandering in the woods like an animal. '' He sneered at his son. `` I'd have thought ceramicist would ingest put you out of your wretchedness by now… Apparently he's no different that his foolish father and your mother's moronic full cousin, keeping around a wild beast because they're too thornless to do the right thing. ``

Ginny couldn't help the tiny shriek that escaped her as Lucius dragged her along to the side to duck away from the thick branch Harry had sent flying at him as he insulted Saint James, Sirius and Lupin. Looking up, she saw various More branches still dancing in the air around Harry as he glared down Lucius, almost daring the man with his regard to say something else derogatory about the people he loved. `` thrifty ! '' Draco shouted, upset that Ginny could have been hit as well.

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

'' It is my understanding that you allowed Harland Myers to reside secretly in your sign of the zodiac for a decennium. '' lupine said stiffly, stepping slightly between the boys and Lucius to keep anything else from happening. He appeared composure, only his eye indicated the loathing he had for the other man. `` Where was your thorn then ? Why would you have let someone so life-threatening to you and your family infiltrate your lifespan ? ``

'' Make no mistake, if I had a option in the matter, Myers would have never come near my sign. '' Lucius answered bitterly. `` As it is, he proved useful all these old age later… except none of you did what you were supposed to ! I should have figured they'd let Draco survive, after all, they kept you around all these age. Quite outlived all your Quaker, haven't you ? '' He taunted. Lupin remained silent but Ginny could see the vehemence written in every rail line of his face. Dragon and Harry were holding their breath as they stood alert, waiting… they were all waiting for their chance. Lucius went on, his own anger slowly leaving his control. `` Of course there always more to still take away- your friend's son and his friends, your blushing bride… your new make-shift son. You think I don't know that you signed your epithet to papers claiming guardianship of Draco ? ``

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

'' I care ! '' Lucius shouted violently, squeezing down his clasp on Ginny without realizing it. She reached up to deplumate at his arm and return her full flow of oxygen, but his hold was tight and all she could do was shin to extend breathing as the others closed rank further. `` Stay back ! '' Lucius warned them as he turned his wand on her. `` Two words and her life is over before any of you can barricade me. '' He turned his care back on Dragon. `` Whatever happens, you are a section of me, my flesh and castanets, my factor. And now not only have you willingly allowed another family to be responsible for you, you've completed your betrayal by telling the Minister where to come up me ! I may have tried to kill you Draco, but I expected Sir Thomas More of you. You should have come and found me yourself if you wanted revenge, but I see spending so much clip with these the great unwashed has made you frail. ``

'' No, you were properly. I am still your son and here we are face to face… but you're the one who's still hiding behind person else. Are you that scared of me now ? '' Draco yet again taunted his Father-God, wanting him to release Ginny and come after his real number target. She shivered, scared that he'll suffer and even more pock about the more probably outcome- that he'll win. Either way, after today, she knew Draco was going to be different.

( BREAK )

Ron sat diametric Luna and Hermione in front of the fire in the Three Broomsticks. Despite the revelry and loud interpreter all around them, they three remained silent each lost in their own view. Again he wished he could have been the one to read minds, that he could rip open those girls top dog and memorize all the enigma they were still keeping from him. He felt torn in a million different composition and didn't know what to finger first, which resulted in a uninterrupted shift of choler, sadness, guilt, obligation, green-eyed monster, betrayal, and confusion.

His creative thinker still couldn't fully comprehend what had happened to Parvati or what he'd seen her do to Troy. He'd never stopped blaming himself since she'd disappeared, and then finding out Jacey had been to fault as well… that she had known what was possibly improper with Parvati and hadn't said anything… it had been overwhelming. Today had sufficiently blown his mind. How could Jacey have slept beside him each night knowing that she was lying to him everyday ? And her reason for keeping him in the dark was the like bull Harry and Dumbledore had been feeding them for years- to celebrate him safety. But he didn't feel very protected.

Worse than his anger and mix-up over Jacey, it felt there would never get a time when he'd see heartsease over Annapurna's fate… how was he supposed to live his life history knowing he'd allowed hers to be destroyed. She'd seemed so hopeless out there in the wood, so resigned to an eternal life of loneliness. How could he forgive himself or Jacey for any of it ? Tristan and Ilium, the two really creditworthy were dead and the only single left to fault were the living who had allowed it to materialise. Ron dropped his head in his mitt, unsure of everything except that he was tired of thinking.

'' Hey, have you guys seen doyen and Padma ? '' Seamus asked, walking up to their silent trio and taking in their somber faces. `` Whoa, who died ? ``

'' I haven't seen them, but I think they're at Honeydukes. '' Luna answered softly, never raising her gaze from the floor.

'' I'll go with you to look for them. '' Ron offered, needing a moment away from the fille. After all, one had left his sister and let who knows what bump to her and the other was Luna, who he just couldn't make psyche or tails of anymore… he was torn, wondering if perhaps he was actually starting to detest her. After all she was the easiest to blame for everything going wrong, from her vision or lack of them to her unswayed ability to keep a hugger-mugger to her swooping in on Harry and shaking up their whole group. It didn't affair if Hermione claimed that without Luna she and Harry would get still broken up because he knew it wouldn't have happened. Fred nor anyone else could have got turned her head if she wasn't certain Harry no longer wanted her and Ron didn't deal how much they protested to the adverse. And now because Hermione was busybodied chasing Fred's approval, she'd left Ginny to an uncertain fate… He turned to see at both miss, trying to conceal some of what he was feeling about them. `` You two are planning on staying here in these accurate post, right ? ``

'' I'm certainly not going back outside until it's time to go back to school. '' Hermione muttered, sinking further into her seat to get her feet closer to the flak. She was examining her finger's breadth, which were the Sami bright pink as her cheeks, scent and brow. Ron found he was relieved to not to see any obvious star sign of frostbite… hopefully she'd warm up and at worst, come out of this with a bad cold.

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

The snow had stopped and Ron looked around, hoping to catch deal of his baby as people once more began filling the streets. But of grade she wasn't here safe in the village. She was out there in the Ellen Price Wood in some variety of untold danger and his booster had decided he didn't need to know about it. He took a few inscrutable hint to try and quiet himself, not wanting to alert anyone to the fact that Harry and Ginny weren't where they were supposed to be unless he had to. As mad as he was, Ron trusted Harry to require concern of Ginny… and push come to shove, he trusted genus Draco to as well. With Lupin completing the triad, he knew his babe's eudaemonia was in good hands- he just wished he knew what was going on.

'' There they are… '' Seamus said as they entered Honeydukes, pointing to a back wall where James Byron Dean and Padma were standing and talking very close together. Ron let out an involuntary shiver as he recalled the last time he'd been in this store. They'd avoided it the last few times they'd come to Hogsmeade for a reasonableness after all, none of them wanted to remember what had happened there last twelvemonth or anything else about that battle. Ron straightened himself up and prepared what he was going to say to convince Padma to leave the castle with him tonight without right wing out telling her about Parvati…

( BREAK )

Harry held his breath as Draco continued to tantalize his father but again Lucius refused to take the lure. All any of them needed was one chance, one moment where Ginny could bust free but it was seeming he wasn't going to return it to them. For all his severe talk of the town, it was clear Lucius was the one who was most scared as none of them were hiding behind anyone else… Draco had even thrown his wand away, though Harry wished he had held onto the amulet. After all they wanted to capture Lucius, not kill him.

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

'' testify it ! '' genus Draco shouted. `` Stop concealment behind a girl and derive try to end my life if that's what you want ! I'm not scared of you either ! ``

'' I suppose that's why you told them about the safe theater ? ! '' He yelled back. `` Imagine my surprise when the one I'm at is surrounded and I'm forced to campaign my way out ! And then every unity place I go to after is already swarming with Aurors. Your mother would never dare, but you ! You're just spineless enough to commit person else to clean up for you. So I came here to shew you what it's like to be a man and face up your demons… I came here looking for you Draco. Send your new friends away and I'll let the pastor's daughter go with them. ``

'' That's not going to materialise. '' Lupin said quickly. Neither he nor Harry was going to lead Draco alone with Lucius. `` You have no move to shit here, think about it. You can't apparate without leaving a touch and these woods are already swarming with Aurors looking for a missing student. It won't take very much for them to witness you wherever you go. No one is going to let you hurt Ginny or try to hurt your son. And no one is going to let Dragon wound you either, that's something he shouldn't have to shell out with. ``

'' As if he could hurt me. '' Lucius spat out. `` I know my son better than you ever could. I find it laughable that within a few month you seem to retrieve you can just waltz in and further parent the little snake. hold on one affair in idea, he may now be a stray dog like you, but you are not his kin. I am. ``

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

Harry watched a dreary shadow passport over Lucius's nerve. He knew that despite whatever the man felt towards his son, he believed him to be his to grapple with. `` You've foiled me your whole life, I don't know why I expected today to be any unlike. Look at how weak you've let yourself grow… William Tell me, if I ended all of their lives right now what would you do ? Would you violently avenge them or would you just sit down in the blow and cry ? '' It was absolved he was upset to determine that there were people Draco was willing to put before him. Even more, he was upset to learn that there were multitude who actually cared about what happened to Draco while he was left completely solitary and on the run.

'' That's an impossibility and there's no need to ponder the impossible. '' Harry said. His mind was growing tired with keeping the branches in the air and though he could feel Luna sending him her posture and energy, he knew something had to be done soon. okay, we need this to end. He thought out to his friends.

I couldn't agree more. genus Draco's strangled reply reached him. He was clearly having trouble holding himself in stoppage and Harry could almost see the more fundamental and instinctual thought process of the woman chaser inside him as it prepared for it's chance.

'' I've lived long enough to know that there is no such matter as the impossible. '' Lucius said aloud, ignorant of the fact they were all conversing around him.

'' So then the interrogative sentence is, how much longer you'll be living. '' Draco returned.

When I give the signal, I'll throw another branch. When he ducks, Ginny, I want you to sound off, bite whatever you have to do to get him to tease apart his handgrip if not let go completely. Harry told her.

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

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

Wait ! I want to be sure we cover all the Angle so no one gets hurt by accident. Harry insisted, trying to persist calm himself. Lupin, as soon as he moves, disarm him. And Draco… just don't pour down him, okay ?

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

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

'' The same doubtfulness could be posed to you. '' Lucius replied to Draco's spoken words. `` Whether I end you today or someone else comes for you tomorrow, you will not be around long. There are too many looking to demolish you my son. You've made far too many of the wrong kind of foe. Clearly you were upright off when it was only potter's hollow menace you had to consider with. ``

'' I'm still breathing. '' genus Draco replied coolly as an detonation of revenge swirled within him. `` clearly I'm not as bad off as you might mean. ``

Now ! Harry shouted in his brain, whipping the boastful tree limb directly at Lucius so he could see it coming. Like before the man tried to skirt out of the way, dragging Ginny with him. But this time she was cook for it. As soon as Lupin shouted `` Expelliarmus ! '' she bit down on Lucius's arm. Moving with the thanksgiving of a dancer, she swung her elbow back at the same time she kicked her leg, catching him in both the gut and kneecap and sending the man sprawling. Luckily she managed to roll out from under him and before he'd fully touched the priming, Dragon was on him and wrapping his hands tightly around his Father's throat.

'' No ! '' Harry raced forward with Lupin, both desperately pulling at Dragon's iron suitcase. zippo they were saying could reach him, he was in his own humankind now. Glancing behind him, Harry saw Ginny furiously digging in the snow and knew she was trying to find the amulet they'd all unwisely let Draco hurl away.

Pulling lupine away, Harry wrapped Draco protectively in his judgement before pulling with everything he had, sending the boy flying through the air to land gently a few yards away. Then he quickly turned to tie Lucius in place. Lupin rushed over to Dragon, pulling off his talisman and kneeling to send it over the boy's head before leaning down to quietly talk to him. Harry reached out to stop Ginny from going over. `` I don't forethought how sure we both are that he won't trauma you, this is something Lupin needs to help him with. '' Harry said gently, wrapping his weapon system around her as they both watched their Friend endeavor to convey Draco back from the edge.

'' They should have drank the Wolfsbane before coming out here. '' She shook her head angrily. `` Drake should hold had it prepare. ``

'' genus Draco wasn't supposed to take the talisman off, they didn't think they'd need it until tomorrow and we weren't exactly expecting Lucius. '' Harry answered. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' Yeah, my arm hurts a bit from being dragged around but I don't think he was very interested in hurting me, it was clearly Draco he wanted. I just let him think he was out here alone. '' She said with a small smile.

Something poked at Harry's hunch and he turned to see Lucius had rolled himself several feet to grab hold of Draco's discarded scepter and free himself of the cover placed on him. `` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Harry shouted but Lucius shielded just in fourth dimension, whipping his own spell back at Harry. He shielded, protecting both him and Ginny as she pulled her wand out and frivol away a knockout. Again Lucius shielded before pointing the sceptre at the tree next to them. Harry grabbed Ginny's hand and pulled her out of the way, shoving her to the ground and throwing himself over her before casting a shield as a shower of wood and Baron Snow of Leicester rained down from the explosion.

lupine rushed forward with his own wand out sending turn so fast Lucius could only harbor himself. Draco came up and took his father's verge from Lupin, joining in the molding as Harry and Ginny unburied themselves from the sound debris. Harry caught the glint of light from the corner of his eye and turned to see Lucius pull out and throw two minor daggers with large hurrying and accuracy from behind his shield.

Harry couldn't follow both and was only capable to intercept the one that had been flying straight at Draco's fondness, using his psyche to push it off course of study where it buried its integral distance harmlessly in a tree. The 2nd hit its target, embedding itself in Draco's leg. He fell to the side with a grunt of pain. Once again, Harry kept Ginny from rushing over, keeping her carefully behind him as he focused on Lucius who was obviously worried that he'd once more been stopped from killing his son. The man waved his wand with a boom while shouting an unfamiliar incantation.

'' Harry ! '' Ginny shrieked. He turned to see her fighting off the tree that had suddenly come to life story and reached down to grab her. He tried to help but by this clip he was now fighting off the arm himself. Lucius had bewitched the trees to help him, keeping Harry and Ginny busy while he quickly turned back to Draco.

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

'' I will not allow you to give birth my son. He is mine to let live or die. '' Lucius sneered down at lupin before waving his wand. `` Avada- ''

'' NO ! '' Dragon roared, shoving lupin away and ripping the dagger from his own leg while ripping the amulet from his cervix and hurling it far away. Fuelled by wild human being fury and calculating sensual instinct, he leapt to his feet and lunged at his forefather, driving the blade deep into the man's belly.

Everything and everyone stopped moving including the bewitched trees. Harry saw Lucius's middle produce wide with shock and something almost like pride. Dragon still had his helping hand on the handle of the obelisk as he glared his father down. `` Guess I'm capable after all. '' He said quietly.

Harry felt Ginny pearl to the ground and once more look for the amulet and he let her, figuring it was best both werewolves had them back. Besides, it kept her busy. He certainly wasn't going to try going near Draco at the consequence and he wasn't going to let her either. Lupin picked himself up off the ground and being the exclusively one in the position to reach out to Draco he did. `` Come on. '' He said gently. `` Now we can claim him to Albus. ``

'' You'll lease me nowhere ! '' Lucius burbled out. `` Now my son and I will finish up this ! '' Before anyone could block off him, he grabbed Draco's shoulder and they were gone in a flash as he apparated them both away.

'' Draco ! '' Ginny leapt to her feet and ran to the vacuous spot where they'd just been standing.

'' That was poor fish. '' Lupin muttered. `` We have to discover them before the Aurors do. And they'll be sure enough to be heading this way now that they'll have an energy trace to investigate. ``

'' Why not let them get hold Lucius and Draco ? '' Harry asked. `` They'll be able-bodied to take Lucius into hold and we'll be done with it. ``

lupin shook his promontory. `` No, they'll take Draco too. He has no control condition right now, there's no telling what he'll do if somebody unfamiliar to him tried to get along between them. They won't look at him like we do, all they'll see is a humanoid out of control… faith me, I've been arrested several times for a lot less in my younger years. ``

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

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

'' Exactly. And if they find Draco out of control so close to both Hogsmeade and the school, they'll fault me and revoke mine and Tonks guardianship… I won't be able to help him and he'll be lost in the endless red tape of bureaucratism. ``

'' So, where did they go then ? '' Harry asked. `` I mean, Lucius was hurt, he couldn't have gone far. '' He sent out his judgment and caught a faint trace of Draco.

lupine sniffed the air and pointed south toward the small town and the mountains. `` That way. I can faintly smell Lucius's blood. ``

( interruption )

And that's it, there's zip else you're leaving out ? Hermione asked.

After Ron had left with Seamus, Luna had taken it upon herself to silently enjoin Hermione everything that had been happening. After all, if Ron now knew there was no reason she couldn't… especially if they were planning to pee-pee Tristan disappear as soon as potential. She could tell apart the early girl wasn't mad, that she knew she was guilty of keeping secrets just as large involving the whole thing with Fred and Elanya. But she was hurt that they hadn't trusted her and there was zilch Luna could do to make that better.

That's it. So now Jacey just has to take the rap as Tristan for troy weight's disappearance and hopefully we can end this… until or unless person connects it to us. She answered, absently staring at the students around them, jealous of their simpler lives.

poor people Parvati… no wonder Ron feels so terrible. Hermione took another sip of her hot chocolate.

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

'' Finally starting to finger warm and I can jiggle all my fingers and toes so I think I'm O.K.. '' She answered, staring off into the flack. `` I don't know what happened to me… it was like I couldn't make a decision so I just select to do nothing at all. ``

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

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

'' I have no reason to conceive otherwise- '' She cut herself off as the thunder started in her ears.

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

Her eyesight blurred, whatever it was, it was coming fast no matter how intemperately she tried to withstand it off. I can't do this out here in battlefront of everyone. She thought out desperately. Hermione took her arm and guided her through the edifice and down a farsighted hall to the back bathrooms, settling her down on the small waiting redact before locking the door.

Luna let herself go, giving into the vision… her first since she'd fried out her mind. She was excited in a way, as this had to think she hadn't broken herself. It was the white room, a cardsharper, brighter adaptation than ever before. Harry was beside her and instantly Sarah, Elise and Elanya were there, reaching out their weapons system and beckoning them to come over. She felt a twist, a desire to go and see what they had to extend. Simon the Zealot suddenly walked by, much faithful than the others and grinning at her menacingly as he too reached out a hand to her and her alone. Harry disappeared from her side and she recoiled, once more aware of herself and the fact that she wanted nothing they had to propose. But that moment of uncertainness, she knew that was a hint as much as anything she was being shown… This intact warning was clearly for her alone and she had to pay close attention to everything.

Coming out of it, she felt lightheaded and extremely thirsty. `` Hold on, just wait here and get your bearings. '' Hermione said, looking at her in concern. `` I'll go get you some juice or something equally sweet, I think your blood sugar might have dropped… you're awfully wan. ``

Luna lay back down and gratefully let her go, trying to breathe through the uncomfortableness she was feeling. But Hermione had only been gone a few moments when a inscrutable sense of foreboding washed over her. Forcing herself to her animal foot and ignoring the giddiness, she suddenly felt the pauperism to be back in the main room with mint of multitude. Opening the door she peeked her head out and instantly felt someone else nearby. She rushed to close up the door, but someone collided against it and began trying to push their way in. `` Come on Luna ! I just want to talk to you ! ``

She recognized Simon's phonation and shoved harder against the door to keep him out. `` Go away ! '' She pleaded.

He managed to get his groundwork in the room access, ensuring she wouldn't be capable to engage him out. `` Just a wide-eyed conversation, that's it, I promise. ``

Not knowing what else to do, Luna closed her eyes and apparated herself away to the first place she thought of- the orchard. It was authorise right away that she'd made the wrong choice as her coat was still sitting on the lounge by the Nice quick fire at the III Broomsticks… but she'd wanted to get as far from Simon the Canaanite as possible and this was where she'd wound up. Shivering, she wrapped her arms around herself and began to quickly make her way back to the inn. No one was supposed to be capable to apparate around the village and luckily she'd figured out that the traces she and Harry left when they did so went unnoticed by the Aurors… But still, she couldn't just appear back at the inn, anyone could see her do it and she knew it was always in effect to hide your strengths as well as your weakness. Quickly linking psyche with Hermione, she told the girl what had happened so that she wouldn't be caught unawares by Simon. Jacey, keep an eye on Hermione. I had to parry out but I'm on my way back. She thought out, wanting as many people to have it away the spot as possible.

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

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

'' Aren't we ? '' Goyle countered. `` Tristan said she's not the main precedency, but she's still a fair game isn't she ? ``

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

Letting them figure out whether or not they were supposed to apprehend her, she slowly backed away before turning and full out running back toward the orchard. `` Hey ! Get her ! '' She heard one of them outcry, not stopping to look back and see which one or whether they were gaining on her. Panic set in and with the cramp iron in her incline, her frozen limb and her racing heart, she knew she wouldn't be capable to outrun them no matter how lightly her slight height let her fly across the snowfall. She could hear them barreling after her, it was only a matter of meter before they caught her. Seeing the wall ahead, she closed her optic and thought herself on the former slope of it. Within moments she was back outside the village and running through the woods with no melodic theme where she was or how far she'd sent herself.

Sudden intuition flooded through her and she knew she was going the faulty way. Her feet toppled out from under her as she tried to bar them and she slid forward down hill through the Tree. She raised her branch to protect her case, wildly trying to snaffle onto a outgrowth to slacken her progress. They all broke in her hands and she let out a loud scream as she felt the ground crepuscule out from beneath her as she slid right over a large cliff. Turning she made a do-or-die snatch and caught the end of a jaggy Tree source sticking out from the brass of the drop. Staring down, she felt her tummy leapt into her throat as she perceived the ground a few hundred foot below her. She screamed again, outloud and in her thinker, hoping Harry or anyone else was near.

Taking a few trench, shaky breathing place, she tried to calm herself and apparate away but the panic wouldn't let her stress. Looking up, she saw the top of the cliff only about six feet above her with a few other littler ancestor poking through the frozen soil. Fixing her hairgrip, she swung her legs up, trying to enamor onto the outgrowth she currently dangled from. After four effort she managed it, scratching herself horribly as she righted herself. Not daring to barricade now, she carefully stood and flexed her blunt fingers before reaching up for the next branch, ensuring she also found a tough foothold to help hoist herself up. It seemed to take forever but at survive she was eye-level with the ground and was surprised to see two vauntingly flush standing before her. Looking up, she felt the last of her strength leave her as she took in Lucius Malfoy's vicious grinning, his case marred with jagged scratches.

'' I know who you are. '' He said quietly, his smile widening even as he was slightly doubled over holding his hemorrhage stomach. `` Oh how funny fate can be… You're Lovegood's daughter aren't you ? You don't have to do, I know that you are. I already had his part burned down for that article but I had no idea just how a great deal a few lyric would destroy my animation. I think it's only fair now that I completely ruin his… say with the loss of his other baby. ``

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

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

( break )

As soon as they arrived wherever it was in the Mrs. Henry Wood that his Church Father had brought him, Dragon viciously pulled the dagger from Lucius's body. The man staggered back, a demented grinning across his case that couldn't mask the annoyance in his oculus. `` You think I haven't had risky. '' He spat out.

'' I think I'm about to give you worse. '' genus Draco threatened, throwing the dagger away and crouching in formulation of the flak. Now they were both completely weaponless, both wounded by the other and both on equal ground. Except they weren't and he smiled as he thought of all the ways he knew he was going to best Lucius.

'' If you think you can. '' Lucius challenged, reaching in his pocket and pulling out a third dagger… apparently they weren't both weaponless, well it didn't bother Draco as he was still certain he would number out on top. `` I was saving this one just for you son. '' He lunged forward and swung, forcing Draco to jump back.

Ducking low and ignoring the pain in his leg, he tackled Lucius at the knees, bringing them both down into the snow. He shouted in excruciation as he felt the dagger thrust his shoulder steel, his founding father had stabbed him as they fell. Slashing out, his fingernails violently ripped across Lucius's boldness, tearing his physical body. Stumbling to his feet, Draco reached behind him and pulled out the obelisk. The human in him wanted to jam it down Lucius's throat… the brute in him had no idea what the weapon was for and wanted to have it away simply so it wouldn't be used on him again. He tossed it aside… there were no amulets here, no potions to control him. The mankind grew dimmer and he let it, already feeling the flow of blood from his combat injury slow down as he began healing himself.

He could sense the fear from the man as he climbed to his feet, vaguely he had a sense that this man was kin to him… but Draco also knew that the man had been cast out, banned from the inner circle and was therefore an enemy. A low word of advice growl escaped him as the man faced him down. `` That's it Dragon, act like the animal you now are. '' He smiled.

The wrangle meant nothing. He could barely interpret their signification any thirster, all he knew was that he had to end this threat to his pack. There was blood in the air, and it wasn't all his own. Baring his teeth, he crouched low and enjoyed the broad feeling of terror in the man's eye. Draco was about to collide with when a sudden riot tore through the air.

He perked up instantly, recognizing the vocalisation as one belonging to him, person he cared for. It was a grueling fight, but Dragon managed to get a small piece of himself back and was almost startled to see his father before him. A moment ago, he'd been unrecognizable as anything other than target. `` Well, let's go see what that's about, shall we ? '' Lucius said, becoming more positive as he realized his son was distracted.

He rushed forward but he was too deep. Lucius had apparated away. Another scream tore through the muteness, forcing genus Draco to affect. He ran faster than he ever had before, hoping whichever of the girls were in hassle he got there in metre to help. As he went he forced his mind to get control over itself but that was unacceptable. Without the amulet, it was just too come together to the full moonlight to wrick off the Friedrich August Wolf completely. So putting it to his advantage, he used his senses to lead him, at end catching Luna's perfume. Carefully making his way down the steep slope she'd clearly slid down, he arrived in prison term to see Lucius hovering over her as she struggled to hang on to the side of the drop. `` Don't. '' Draco heard her plead.

'' Why not ? I already killed your crony, and in a very similar mode might I add. '' Lucius laughed, throwing his premature evil against her phratry in her face as he lifted his foot and stomped down on her fingers.

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

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

Draco looked down into Luna's terrified face. He tried to apparate them away from this, but he couldn't find that voice of his mankind that knew how. The woman chaser was too awake and at the same time he had too much of himself in him to do anything useful. His instinct was to free up one hand and lash out at Lucius to hopefully pick apart him over, but he also knew he couldn't hold onto Luna with one hand… he couldn't justify her death for his sire's. Lucius kicked him again and he felt his foot Begin to slip. If something didn't happen soon, he and Luna were both going over… but if that happened, he sure as underworld was going to bring Lucius down with them.

( BREAK )

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

So many things didn't feel right wing to him at the minute, he was inexplicably panicked, scared and very cold. `` I think I sense them over this way. '' He answered distractedly, letting lupin demand over the Leigh Hunt now that they were closer. Before they'd left in search of Draco, they'd been sure to reclaim both amulets… he hoped they were in time for them to prove useful.

HARRY ! Luna's vox tore through his mind at the same time her shrieking echoed through the trees. He was moving in an instant, at last realizing everything he'd been feeling was because of her. He heard Lupin and Ginny calling out as they chased after him, but he ignored them. His affectionateness was in his pharynx as he heard her shriek again and then again. He was an idiot not to let paid attention to what he'd been feeling simply because he'd thought her to be safely back in the village… he should know by now that none of them were condom, ever.

He let his instinct pathfinder him as her scream once more echo around him, seeming to come from all directions… and then he heard Draco too, shouting in painful sensation. Coming to a steep slope, Harry made his way down as quickly and carefully as possible. It was well-defined a few people had come this way and he knew he was in the right place.

Through the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, he was able to see the edge of the cliff before him. Lucius was standing there, staring down with a mad grin as he yet again complain Draco in the slope as he dangled headfirst over the edge. Hearing Luna scream again, Harry nearly had a marrow attack as he realized why Dragon wasn't retaliating… Luna was dangling from his mitt. `` Lucius ! '' Harry called out, slipping and sliding the rest of the way down while attempting to brandish his wand.

'' Too tardily potter ! '' He yelled. This clock time he kicked his son's leg, loosening his hold on the tree and sending him and Luna over the slope. Draco whipped around to grab his father's mortise joint, pulling the man over with them.





banker's bill : Wow… next chapter, the results of the Hogsmeade visit and the search for Fred, look for it soon !


Chapter 52 : header With letdown

A/N : Read, follow-up and Enjoy !



Harry rushed to the border of the cliff, nearly going over the face himself in his panic. He'd sent his mind out in an attempt to capture Luna and Draco as soon as he saw they were going over… the senior Malfoy was an after thought. Peering down, he sighed in ease to see that he'd caught them all, though as he felt the drain on his Department of Energy, he was more than bequeath to let Lucius go to save the other two. But using everything he had left in him and tapping into a bit of Luna's push, he was able to swim them all up and back on strong ground, his wand instantly out and pointed at Lucius. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted with his vexation over Luna and genus Draco until the threat to them all was fully neutralized. `` It's over now. '' He said with authority.

'' It's never over potter. Let the Aurors trace me, I will survive to defend again ! '' He shouted. Draco lunged at the same time Harry form in an attempt to sustain the man there, but they were both too late. Lucius had apparated away.

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

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

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

Luna simply nodded though she was huddled into herself, with no pelage and her face, arms and script covered with small kale. Unzipping his pelage, Harry helped her to her substructure and pulled her into his torso, wrapping the crown around her small, shivering bod. He could experience the chilliness of her hide through his clothes and hoped his own organic structure heat and coat would help oneself unthaw her out. He held her tightly, trying to make himself really consider she was alive so that his spunk would stop racing so painfully. `` What the hell happened ? What are you doing out here ? '' He asked quietly as lupin and Ginny crashed their way through the trees and downhill to them. She shook her nous and merely pulled herself closer against him.

Ginny ran up to Draco, kneeling and throwing her weapons system around him as her relief at finding him awake overwhelmed her. He held her back, his eyes at last softening as he reached to adopt the talisman lupine quickly held out to him. Pulling away to slip it over his cervix gave Ginny the opportunity to take stock of him and finding her hands bloody she immediately inspected his shoulder joint. `` He stabbed you again ? '' She asked, her representative heavy with concern.

'' It was nothing, I barely feel it anymore. '' He answered glumly, rising to his feet and wrapping his just arm around her.

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

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

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

They all turned to Luna, interested to have a go at it what Harry had been desperate to witness out since he'd first heard her belly laugh. `` I had a imaginativeness. '' She said quietly before letting it all come out in a jumbal of words, her relief pushing her into full disclosure. `` Hermione, she brought me somewhere so no one else would see and when I came out of it I wasn't touch sensation well so she went to get me something… Almost as soon as she left I got a bad impression and so I made myself get up and bulge out back to the dining area but Herbert A. Simon was waiting in the student residence. The visual modality had involved him so I panicked and tried to lock him out. But he kept forcing his way in and I knew I wasn't going to be substantial enough to contain the room access so I just apparated away and wound up in the orchard… probably because it was the last place I'd been. I didn't have my pelage so I thought out what happened to Hermione and Jacey and headed back to the inn. But Crabbe and Goyle were there and I didn't have my wand so I ran and they were catching up so I saw the wall and apparated past it to get away from them. And then I was just running, I didn't know where I was and then I just knew I was going the wrong way but I tripped and fell down the hill anyway and wound up going all the way over and luckily was able to catch that root down there. I couldn't apparate anymore so I climbed up and Lucius was waiting at the top… he recognized who I was and he was so mad about the Quibbler article… '' Here she broke down, letting tears slide freely down her look. `` …he admitted it… He admitted he killed Kane. '' She buried her head in Harry's shoulder joint and allowed herself to cry. He held her tightly, not knowing what to say or do to make anything better.

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

'' That wouldn't have solved anything and as much as you might care to believe it would, it wouldn't make any of you feel any break. '' lupin said seriously.

'' We won't know until it happens. '' genus Draco shot back. `` I'm willing to take the chance to see and I bet it would make me feel a lot better to know that I nor anyone else ever has to allot with him ever again. ``

'' And that's something we can discuss later. '' Lupin answered quietly. `` Right now we have to get out of here before the Aurors come and try to blame all the disturbances in the Wood on us. ``

( BREAK )

It was a miserably mum ride back to the castle and an insufferable time spent in the master's office. Lupin had insisted they go to inform Dumbledore of Lucius's appearance in the village today if zero else and so rather than closing himself into his room as he wanted, Draco put up with a million questions while Drake poked and prodded at his articulatio humeri and leg. As soon as was possible, he escaped and hurried off back to the dorms. He didn't want to be around anyone at the present moment, he wanted to feel what he felt and not have to make alibi or explanations for it.

Locking the room access to his room, he stripped off the now ruined clothes he'd been wearing and threw them in the corner before putting on the first thing in his draftsman. Collapsing back on his bed, he thought about his life-time, his decisions, his newly found family and his Church Father. Lucius was the connecting factor ruining everything else and Draco wished more than anything that thrower had just let him fall. He'd come so closelipped to getting rid of his father by pulling him over the boundary with him and Luna… It wasn't fair that Potter's sense of decency got in the way, after all, it would have been the pure prison term to kill the man as no one would birth had to feel guilty after everything his father had done that day. As grateful as he was to stimulate his own liveliness and Luna's saved, he couldn't assist but blame Potter for whatever Lucius was going to do next.

'' Draco ! '' He heard Ginny call softly through the door. He sighed and thought about pretending he wasn't there. Even her caller was more than he could handle justly now… They hadn't spoken since she and lupin found them by the cliff and while he'd remained protectively at her side until returning to the castle, he just wasn't ready to face her and the noesis that he was the grounds she'd been in danger today.

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

'' Hey. '' She returned gently, closing the threshold and coming to sit beside him. `` So Drake cleared you, huh ? '' She asked, clearly trying to dance around the depicted object she really wanted to make for up.

'' He didn't have to do much. I'd already healed myself over mostly… it's easier to do that the closer it is to the moon. '' He explained what he didn't really understand.

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

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

'' Are you okay ? '' Ginny asked in business concern, no longer able-bodied to hold herself back. `` I mean I know that's the stunned inquiry in the creation right now, but… '' She trailed off, not needing to say anything else.

'' You know, I think I'm so far from okay that I couldn't even tell you what that word means. '' He laughed bitterly. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and got a hold of himself and his wretchedness, remembering who was with him and how thankful he was that she was able to be there. `` I'm just glad you're O.K.. '' He turned to her and softened his tone. `` Nothing else matters right now and I really don't want to talk about it… Francis Drake did clear you, didn't he ? ``

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

'' Yeah, thanks for your avail in getting me prepared by getting in the initiative strike. '' He teased back.

She reached out and caressed his cheek before grabbing his chin to pull his face down and lightly draw his mouth with hers. `` I was so worried about you out there. '' She whispered.

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

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

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

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

'' I was a lot serious off before you came in here with that position you've been sporting all day. '' She shot back, clearly upset that he was doing this here in nominal head of Draco.

'' And I'm certainly I was a lot good off before you wiped my memory board ! '' He shouted accusatorily. `` That's right, they had to tell me everything out in the Natalie Wood today. I know you helped them keep the plan about Tristan a hidden ! ``

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

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

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

'' Because nothing I've done is stupidly grievous, unlike the things you still continue to do. '' Ron returned.

'' facial expression, it's been a long and difficult day for all of us, you aren't alone in feeling hurt and angry. You want me to say I'm sorry for wiping away your memory, well I won't. It was what needed to happen at that bit. Let's face it, you weren't handling the news well to get with and this is a very delicate plot they've got going here. You running around yelling at us about it at the top of your lungs isn't very helpful ! '' Ginny tried to jostle him back out towards the door but Ron remained immobile. Draco shifted uncomfortably, suddenly overcome with gladness that he was an alone child. This sibling squabbling was something he never wanted to feature to experience let alone be witness to. He wished Ron would just entrust already.

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

'' I expect you to drive your point out of your ass every once in awhile to see what's going on with former people ! '' She shouted. `` I had to learn that the humankind doesn't revolve around me, it's fourth dimension you do the same big brother ! Didn't you hear the story up there in the agency ? Lucius tried using the killing curse on lupin while Draco and Luna nearly died ! ``

'' Oh I see, so I'm supposed to palpate bad that his Padre is a sociopath ! '' Ron yelled, pointing at Dragon. `` It's not my error his father decided to drag everyone else into their fighting ! It's not my fracture you continued your sick relationship with him and therefore made yourself a target ! And it's not my fault Luna's dad put that story in the theme in the showtime place, remember ? That was Harry's brilliant mind and if Luna almost died because of it then he's the one to blame ! You all knew the danger of exposing Lucius and you took it on ! Besides, it's Luna's flaw she was even back out there today anyway ! ``

'' Get out. '' Ginny demanded darkly.

'' Excuse me ? ``

'' I said get out ! '' She repeated. `` You're talking about us all like we mean nothing to you, like we're your enemies. Whatever's incorrectly with you, I don't want to talk to you again until you've straightened out your head. ``

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

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

'' I'll go when I'm good and set up ! '' Ron yelled. Draco could see he was quickly losing his control and rose to his foundation just in cause this got too out of hand.

'' I said get out ! I don't want you in here ! '' She pushed him again, also losing herself in her anger.

'' And I said no ! '' He finally snapped, shoving her book binding without knowing his own strength.

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

'' hitch out of this Malfoy. This is between me and my Sister and unlike your kin, we know how to prevent our contravention to ourselves. '' Ron pellet back.

He clutched his amulet, remembering his promise to Ginny from months before that he wouldn't fight with Ron again if he could avail it. The former boy was making it very unmanageable to keep that hope at the moment. `` Except this is my room and if you're going to make your little family dispute here then I get to say how far it goes and I've certainly had enough of it. ``

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

Taking a deep breath to calm himself he turned to see how Ginny was dealing with this latest development of genetic tomfoolery. `` I'm sorry. '' She said quietly as angry tears brimmed her eyes.

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

'' He really should give learned some adept coping skills by now… '' She said, resting her psyche against his shoulder. `` Maybe it's time dad forced him to go see Laurel. Either way I don't want to talk about it anymore than you want to sing about today. ``

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

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

'' No, but it might clear it well-situated to find comfort later if we fool ourselves now. ``

She smiled and leaned up to kiss his nerve, his chin, his mouth. `` Just being able to lay next to you is all the comfort I need. '' Taking his hired hand she led him back to the bed, pulling back the flat solid to wax in and gesturing for him to join her. He quickly got in, wrapping the blankets around them as they lay face to face.

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

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

He caressed her impertinence before leaning in to gently enamour her lips. Running his hand down her berm, he felt her wince though he had a sense she was trying to cover it. He pulled back and looked at her in care. `` What's wrong ? ``

She shook her head and smiled uncomfortably. `` cipher. '' She assured him, reaching out to wind her arms around him and pressing herself against him as a distraction. Draco caught her arm and sat up. She tried to pull away but he maintained a blue but firm hold as he carefully rolled up her arm, ignoring her dissent. Several dark finger-shaped contusion lined her arm from her cubitus up to her shoulder. `` Drake already put something on that, he said it'll all be gone by tomorrow. '' She said, trying to vocalize free-and-easy but betraying her nervousness. It was obvious she hadn't wanted him to know that not only had his father nearly killed him and Luna, he'd left evidence of his cruelty with her. But there they were, the fool that showed him that Lucius had been none to gentle while pulling Ginny along as his intended hostage. `` It's certainly not as bad as being stabbed. '' She added, as he remained angrily silent.

Draco took a rich breath and nodded. `` Okay. '' He climbed out of bed and turned back to her, leaning down to snog her deeply and passionately. Then he grabbed his shoes, sitting down in the desk chair to put them on before rising to snap up his coat.

'' Where are you going ? '' She asked anxiously, crawling to the edge of the bed and kneeling as she looked at him, her eyes wide and full of business. `` You aren't mad at me for not telling you… are you ? ``

His affectionateness pushed against his ire as she stared at him like that. Going back over, he wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her again. `` No, I'm not mad at you at all. '' He told her in a strangled voice as emotion overwhelmed him. He wasn't mad at her, but how could he possibly explicate that her presence was making him desire to yell in Erinyes ? That being around her at that moment made him want to tear everything apart ? That he couldn't handle the tone of fright and concern that came with loving someone as much as he loved her ? That all he wanted was to go back in meter and find a way to pressure potter to let Lucius fall ? He couldn't explain any of it, to her or himself.

'' I'm going to find lupin. I think I need to go for a run in the Ellen Price Wood. '' He said at finis, turning and walking out before she could protest. He had no design of finding the professor as Lupin was a whole other person he couldn't be around at the present moment. After all, what could he say to the man who had acted more like a sire to him out there than Lucius ever had in his stallion lifespan ? But he'd lied and told Ginny that to keep her from worrying. He really did want a run through the woods to clear his head… but he needed to do it alone and though he didn't intend for any fuss, merlin help the man or animal that chose to get in his way out there.

( BREAK )

Hermione had only enough patience to give birth Francis Drake and Madame Pomfrey check her over for hypothermia before rushing back to her room. She'd told them her only complaint was a slight vexation but she had lied and she had a spirit they knew it. They were therapist after all. They'd given her respective herbal supplements to take but she ignored it all, putting them on her desk and grabbing the invisibility cloak she still had in her possession. She felt like she was burning alive with fever, but she did her Best to put that at the back of her mind as she threw the cloak around herself and hurried back out into the hallway and toward the track record elbow room. She felt there was no sentence to wastefulness, she'd already let herself become deluge once today by the misdirection of Fred's disappearance… she couldn't let it happen again. Thankfully Ginny was hunky-dory, but next time her misunderstanding could have fatal consequences and that idea was adequate to push back her forward into solving the mystifier. This time she disregarded the student data file and went to the door leading to the staff phonograph recording, knowing they detailed the life history of every professor who had ever taught in Hogwarts. She found Erebos's selective information in no clock time and tucking the file carefully under her arm she snuck back out, ensuring she locked the door behind her.

audience vox, Hermione flattened herself against the wall and tried not to so much as breathing time as the two seventh class Hufflepuff prefects came down the hallway, talking quietly to themselves as they made their last round of the palace for the night. As soon as she was sure enough they'd passed, she allowed herself to pass off, gulping in air to her electrocution lungs while trying not to cough. Once in control she practically ran back to her elbow room, slamming and locking the door behind her. Her pharynx was sore, her oral sex was pounding and she was sweating from how hot she felt, but she ignored it all, immediately going to her bed and opening the file.

She knew what she was looking for and flipped right over to his medical records, cognisant that any fourth dimension a professor left the country they had to be examined by a healer upon their return to Hogwarts. And there it was, in Madame Pomfrey's barely legible scrawl. Did affected role leave the land ? Yes. Places the patient visited ? Sydney, Australia. Reason for trip out of the country ? Family funeral. Has patient displayed symptoms of any disease contracted in travel ? No.

A mob funeral, the Saame reason Lee said Elise had given. Either one or both of them had lied… that left many options. The first was that there had been a funeral and they both attended the same one, which had it's own long list of implications. The indorsement was that one of them had gone to the funeral and the early had lied simply so they could both be in the same topographic point at the Same clip. The tertiary of course was that there was no funeral at all and they'd both used that as their reason to go to Sydney, which begged the question- Why Sydney Australia ?

But what did any of this mean ? Nothing with these girl was elementary, so had they uncovered their spy or just another one of their many plot of ground ? Feeling dizzy and vile, Hermione forced herself to put aside the document and lay down. Tomorrow she'd try again, but her eubstance was making it clear to her now that she needed to rest. After all, she wouldn't be any help to Fred if she pushed herself while chuck and put herself out on her dying bed.

( BREAK )

Luna had been dismissed back to her room as soon as she was done giving her interlingual rendition of event regarding Lucius. It was the second fourth dimension she'd had to narrate it and Harry had to hear it and it wasn't any well-to-do for either of them to agnise yet again how close she'd cum to being another of Lucius's victims. The fact that Dragon had without hesitation backed up her claim that his Father had admitted to murdering Kane meant a lot to her as she knew he was struggling deeply with what had occurred out in the woods that day. Dumbledore had agreed to instantly relay the entropy to Arthur and assured them all that this would also go a farseeing way in helping to clear Willem's figure. After telling Drake that she was very well and that her own herb tea remedy would clear up the minor moolah she'd received, she returned to her room feeling an odd sense of sculptural relief. One secret that had been plaguing her for yr was finally being set right, Kane's death would be cleared up and her home could find a bit of closure.

Quickly changing clothes and applying a dose of the herbal ointment, Luna was left feeling alone and nervous. For more than an minute she paced her way, trying to expend her nervous energy as she waited. She wasn't quite sure what she was waiting for until at end she heard the insistent knocking on her door. She knew it was Harry, he'd been held up in Dumbledore's office much to both their frustrations. They hadn't had a moment alone together since he'd saved their sprightliness and she rushed to let him in now.

As soon as she answered he reached out to take hold of her face, desperately pressing his lips to hers as he kicked the room access closed behind him. Their hand quickly explored each other, checking for serious injury as they continued to kiss with uncontrolled passion. Luna felt grounded, rooted to the land in a way that made her feel that she belonged, that she finally had someplace she could be safe in every sensory faculty of the word. Once more cupping her aspect, he pulled away to really get a good look at her. `` I'm sorry I didn't get there sooner. '' Harry said breathlessly as his pollex traced the gelt on her cheek.

'' I'm sorry I panicked and put myself there in the first place. '' She smiled, repressing the shudder that wanted to run through her as she recalled what it had been like dangling precariously from Draco's deal as her own persist frozen and useless. She flexed her fingers now and found they were very well, except the few that were bruised and hurting from where Lucius had stomped down on them. Sensing her soreness, he took her hand and studied it while carefully hiding his emotions with a blank face. But there was no concealing from her. `` Letting him devolve wouldn't have changed the things he'd already done. '' She quietly responded to his night thoughts.

'' But it would give stopped all the things he's now out there relieve to do. '' He said with a sigh, lightly kissing her digit before going to sit on the sharpness of the bed. He hung his top dog and stared at the base. `` It should have been easier… ''

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

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

'' You can't trust anything Dragon is thinking right now. '' She answered, running her finger's breadth through his hair. `` We're all disappointed things couldn't be resolved with Lucius but I'm very glad that neither of you succeeded in killing the man. The Aurors are tracking him, that'll have to be enough… until or unless Lucius comes around again we have to sharpen on finishing this matter with Tristan and more importantly, finding Fred. ``

He sighed and nodded. `` You're right… I know you are. We have to find him before Arthur and Molly turn even more suspicious than I'm sure as shooting they already are of this byplay trip excuse Lee dreamed up. I couldn't stand to see their faces if they found out one of their surviving fry was in so practically danger… ''

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

'' Don't worry about Ron. '' Harry said, toying with the ends of her hair as he ran the strands through his digit. `` He'll calm down once we can all start acting like ourselves again… Jacey will bring him around. ``

'' Maybe. '' She wasn't so surely. He seemed just as mad at Jacey as he was at the relief of them. But she didn't want to retrieve about Ron or anything else. Without another word to each early, she and Harry climbed under the concealment, content in the sureness of each former's safety. Tomorrow would be there soon enough and they could worry about everything left hanging in the balance then. Tonight they simply held each other, regenerating their energy as they linked themselves together through their minds, not wanting to be separated even by sleep. It was a more confidant act than any other Luna had ever experienced as they opened themselves up to each early and vulnerably bared everything that had ever passed through their head teacher, hoping to not only know each other completely, but to be capable to daydream together as well. She smiled as she drifted off, knowing it would only be a affair of here and now before she saw him again.

( BREAK )

'' okay, we're out here. Now what's this surprise you just had to present me in the heart of the night ? '' Padma asked grumpily as she and Ron stood out in the Forbidden Forest a little ways past Hagrid's hut.

'' Relax. It'll be any bit now. '' He replied, wondering if maybe Parvati had lost her spunk. He shifted from foot to foot, hoping she'd come along soon… though this arranged encounter was the merely matter keeping his brain off the rather intense fight he'd gotten into with Ginny.

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

'' For me. '' Annapurna said quietly as she emerged from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. She must have stolen some clothes in Hogsmeade because she was now dressed in pants and a light T-shirt. `` I'm sorry, I just wasn't sure if I could go through with this. '' She said, her eye tearing up.

Padma's back talk was hanging opened in jar. And then without a word she flung herself forward, wrapping her arms around her baby who stood with her own arms stiffly at her sides as she stared in panic at Ron. `` No ! Don't get too close ! '' Annapurna cried, disentangling herself from her twin and taking several tone back. `` You don't understand. ``

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

'' You didn't warn her ? '' Parvati asked Ron incredulously.

'' I didn't want to evidence her anything about it. It would all be better coming from you. '' He insisted. He wanted to impart but sleep together he had to stay, that he couldn't endangerment leaving Padma alone with Parvati while she was still so out of control of herself.

'' I can't issue forth back to the shoal with you. '' She sadly told her twin. `` And you can't tell our parents that you saw me… I just wanted the prospect to tell you… ''

Ron walked off to let them feature a bit of privacy. He was for certain to keep his wand out and both little girl in his wad, but he already had his own reactions to Parvarti's predicament to deal with, he didn't want to fend there and have a bun in the oven witness to Padma's. There was no way to recount how the miss would use up the news, but judging from his removed view it wasn't good.

Choosing to ignore them only let him dwell on his own misery. He hadn't intended to fight with Ginny, but finding her in Draco's room just after being kidnapped by the guy's father was a bit more than he'd been make to manage. His concern for her had been quickly overshadowed by his anger with her. He was mad at everyone including himself… after all they wouldn't have been able-bodied to lie to him so easily if he hadn't been so willing to go along. After Jacey came to him and confessed to possibly knowing that Tristan and Troy were trying to turn Parvati, he should possess insisted to know the rest- he'd known she was still holding back. Instead he'd let his penury to palpate comforted outweigh his need for the truth. Perhaps he needed a break from everyone he knew. His smell for and about everyone were a topsy-turvy raft, he knew he needed to take Ginny's advice and straighten himself out before he could clearly see his friends again. As it was correctly now… maybe his baby had also been right about how he was beginning to sense about everyone, maybe he did regard them as the enemy and that was something he wasn't happy about. Something needed to change.

So he decided, starting tomorrow he'd completely space himself from his friends as he'd already started with his sister. He was tired of feeling hurt, and pushing away everyone was the entirely way he could see that would produce it stop.

( BREAK )

It'll be OK. Jacey heard lupine think out to her as she entered the headmaster's
office, answering an early morning summons that had arrived for Tristram. She had been sure to take enough of the Polyjuice potion, having been warned by Harry and Luna that the old sorcerer was a lot sharper than most precious to give him mention for… Though, it had made her spirit better to learn that Dumbledore had been fooled by the potion before, and with someone he knew way better than Tristan. Harry had insisted that if the man hadn't been able to say the difference between a fake and real Auror Moody three long time earlier, then it should be that much sluttish to fool him now.

'' Mr. Macnair, please come in and accept a tail end. '' Dumbledore said tensely, studying her a trivial too close for comfort.

Jacey forced herself to persist tranquillize and focused on keeping the shields up high around her judgment. She could feel Harry and Luna helping her shield, as they were encompassing awake and aware of what she was doing… she had burst in on them in a terror as soon as she had received the note, suddenly uncertain that she could pull this off. Remembering the pep talk of the town they had given her, she offered an well-to-do smiling and walked confidently across the room to sit in the chair next to the one being offered, knowing Tristan would relish in even that small bit of defiance. `` You wanted to see me sir ? '' She asked with false innocence.

'' It has just this good morning come to my attention that Troy Mason is yet again missing. It seems he didn't takings from Hogsmeade with everyone else. I was wondering if you could secern me where he is. '' Dumbledore replied steadily.

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

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

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

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

'' So what, you're automatically going to blame the vampire ? '' She was defensive, trying to center the old wizard's attention on her as she reached out to help protect lupine's nous from invasion as well, leaving Harry and Luna to protect hers. `` I'm not so sure that one rather biased witness is decent to warrant accusation to… what exactly ? What is it you think may have happened to Troy ? After all, he's disappeared all on his own before. ``

'' I have no estimation as to Mr. A. E. W. Mason's fortune. Which is why I brought you here hoping to illuminate a few thing up. When did you last see him ? ``

'' In the village. '' She shrugged.

'' Can you be more specific ? ``

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

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

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

A whack on the room access interrupted them and therapist Drake entered. She'd only met the man once as herself and she knew nothing about him other than that the others seemed to trust him. `` I've brought the true statement potion you asked for sir. '' He said, holding up a ampoule as he crossed the room.

'' You can't use that on a student. '' She said right away, trying to blot out her panic. There was no telling what the headmaster would ask if she were under the influence of that potion, and she certainly did not require to commit him the chance of letting her discovery out.

'' Really ? The Headmistress who took my property here a couple of years ago found that using several unauthorized spells and potions against students served her substantially use. And I do think Dolores Umbridge was a member of your family's rather powerful friends at one point. '' Dumbledore said, obviously testing her.

'' That was then and this is now. '' She had very piddling idea as to the soul he was referring to. She had seen blurred look-alike of an ugly cleaning woman in Harry's mind… after the horrid detentions he had served with the woman, he had lumped her in with his aunty and uncle in his memories under the intimate heading People Who Have Wronged Me… Otherwise, she knew only that Umbridge had tried and failed to read over the school. `` If you use that on me I'll report you faster than you can pack your bagful. I'm not potter, I won't suffer in silence for the peachy in force. ``

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

'' Under what grounds ? So what if I was the last one seen with Ilion. He's a big boy and he makes his own decisions. '' Jacey sneered.

'' There's also the matter of professor Lupin seeing both you and Mr. mason outside the small town point of accumulation while he was investigating a rather serious disturbance with some other pupil and an get away Death Eater. '' Dumbledore smiled and leaned forward on his desk. `` This places you in organize violation of school computer code and as a student has come up missing as a resolution of your actions, this has been elevated to a very serious number of rubber. As this is a prison term of war, the disciplinary subject in which you are tangled carries the recommendation of immediate expulsion and therefore I am allowed as schoolmaster to use any non-violent mean necessary to pander the information I require as it relates to the possible well-being of another scholar. It's all right field there in the Hogwarts Code of Conduct under the supplying for running the schooling while under distress. Wartime is certainly classified and defined as being under distress and so I am granted more liberty than I would normally be uncoerced to take advantage of. But I promise you Mr. Macnair, we can find our way through and around as many sound loopholes as you and your acquaintance have in the spare-time activity to go on you here. ``

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

She was thrifty not to search at him as he stood at Dumbledore's English, keeping her gaze truelove on the schoolmaster. `` Fine. '' She said at in conclusion, deciding to trust the healer if everyone else did. After all, the man seemed to feel more loyalty to Harry and the others than he did to any of the adults. `` Give me your stupid potion, but don't think for a arcsecond I won't be telling everyone about this. ``

'' Tell whoever you like. As I've explained we are perfectly within our rights. '' Dumbledore answered simply as he watched her roughly take the phial from Drake and swallow up it down. She felt something start to happen and hoped the healer knew what he was talking about. The aged wizard was looking at her carefully, watching for some sign of the potion beginning to function. Apparently he saw what he was waiting for and stood to deliver the test interrogative sentence given to everyone who was subjected to truth potions. `` What is your name ? ``

'' Tristram Beauford Macnair. '' Jacey was sure to do without reluctance, fighting hard to not smile as she said Beauford… after all, she doubted that Tristram would throw found the epithet funny.

'' Now try to secern me that your epithet is Albus Dumbledore. '' He instructed.

'' My epithet is… '' She pretended to fight before seeming to gift into the potion. `` Tristan Macnair. ``

Dumbledore nodded happily. `` Where is Troy Mason ? ``

Again she pretended to shin. `` He's out in the Natalie Wood where I left him. '' She said at last before indignantly rising to her feet. After all, Tristan would not turn over in easily and as a lot as she wanted this to end, she knew she had to hold it look really. She felt Harry sigh and then give his reluctant approval as he realized she was about to continue playing her part. Both he and Luna understood the need to keep Dumbledore's helping hand clean and jerk of this. They had all hoped for a more definite end today ... but they all also knew that Tristan would never roll over so easily and that alone could raise suspicion. `` And that's all I'll say as we are quickly surpassing the school's rights and infringing on mine. Anything else you'd like to ask about Troy can be asked through my agency, should you make up one's mind to pursue a legal matter on Troy's behalf. Otherwise it's clear I've been as conjunct as possible here, above and beyond what was required if I do say so myself. Now, is there anything else, sir ? '' She shot him a pleasant grin, as if they had been chatting like old friends this whole time.

'' I guess not. You may come back to your room and begin packing your things. I will be presenting my evidence to the Aurors who will then be seeking orders to take you into custody. Until they procure these orders, you are confined to your dorm and the Great Hall for meal and banned from attending any classes. As Head of the Slytherin mansion, professor Drake will be keeping a close eye on you. A warning, should you feel the demand to seek retaliation for your face predicament. '' Dumbledore answered sternly, clearly at the end of his patience.

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

'' Yes, professor Drake will see you back to your dorm. '' He gave an exhausted look at the other man who simply nodded in response and moved to carry out his task, ushering Jacey along with him.

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

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

( breakage )

Harry and Luna spent a good half an hour assuring Jacey that she'd done just fine with Dumbledore, that they wouldn't have expected much different had Tristram himself been there. After she finally seemed to loosen, Harry sent out a message to all his champion, asking them to take on in his elbow room so they could all talk over a few affair. Thomas More than anything, he wanted to suggest to them all that they put the past few calendar week behind them and attend only toward the future… And he and Luna planned to start out by telling them all of the two other coven members they'd discovered before Hogsmeade happened and tore everything apart.

Hermione was the first to answer the call as her way was the secretive and she entered looking like demise warmed over. Her nose was red, her cheeks pink and her eyes glazed over with a flimsy feverishness. She had wrapped her blanket around herself for the curt walk over and instantly went to lay down on Harry's bed as weariness overwhelmed her. `` You look well. '' He teased.

'' Shut up. '' She grumbled from beneath the raft of cover song. `` Energy Department Jacey know about Fred ? ``

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

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

'' prof Erebos… '' Harry had seen something of this in Luna's reminiscence of a conversation between her and Hermione the night before, just as he had been able to see small-arm of all of her remembering. Thinking of Quierrell, the false Moody and Snape, he could see how a professor could go so long without anyone knowing what they were really up to. `` Do you think he knows where Elanya took Fred ? And why would Elanya phone him her contact if Elise is the one who supposedly knows him so well ? ``

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

'' No, I get the sense Elise and Sarah are very much in it together… it's Elanya and Cho who are more on the outside. '' Luna replied thoughtfully. `` Maybe she was telling Fred the truth about some things… ''

'' Ginny and Draco are on their way here. '' Harry announced as a warning, silencing their discussion about Fred and his predicament with those fille. He got up to let them in, noticing the friction between them. Draco was wearing his pelage. `` Going somewhere ? ``

'' He just got back. '' Ginny answered unhappily as she went to sit with Luna and Hermione on the bed.

'' I needed to go for a run. '' Draco said simply, pulling off his coating and going to sit in the desk chairwoman away from everyone else. An all night run. Ginny added in her head, her voice carrying both hurt and concern.

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

'' I doubt he'll be joining us. '' Ginny rolled her eyes and told them of the fight they'd gotten into the Nox before, leaving out most of the particular in an attempt to part with their belief for what Ron had said and simply summing up the nitty-gritty of the argument.

'' Okay then, well I guess we'll just speak to him later. '' He replied, uncomfortable that his protagonist suddenly felt the need to forefend them all. `` Listen, yesterday was a horrible disaster of a day for everyone. But we need to do as we always do and keep going past it, right ? I know we all have our own thing to focus on… but we'll be leaving schooltime in a few weeks and we need to seriously start looking at searching for the coven as a reality. Luna and I went through some more of the documents and found two more names, X Azibo and Ajala Kapoor. ``

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

'' Ajala is a XXX year old woman who has recently moved from India to Irish Republic for her workplace, which happens to be as weapons manufacturer. Her company creates all the cock and weapons used by Aurors and with the surge of activity in and around England, they've doubled their efforts in the closest factory, which happened to be in Dublin. Oh and she's a Levithon. '' Luna recited from memory.

'' A what ? '' Dragon asked.

'' A Levithon, mortal with the office of self-transport. Basically it's like being capable to fly. '' Luna shrugged.

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

'' Okay, Ajala can fly, that's pretty cool off. And the former guy ? '' Ginny prompted, moving them along from Hermione's brief theological story lesson.

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

Sydney ? Hermione perked up.

'' Well, I suppose it's W. C. Handy to be able to see the past tense when you're a reporter. '' Ginny said aloud as she rose to her feet. `` Listen, I appreciate that you want to help us all focus on other important things, but after last night, I think I'd just rather have a few minute of arc alone. '' She added pointedly as she breezed past tense Dragon and walked out. He sighed heavily and got up, leaving without saying a word as he presumably went to fix whatever he'd done wrong.

'' I have a thought. '' Hermione said as soon as she was for sure she was alone with Harry, Luna and Jacey. `` When exactly did Elise obtain Elanya and bring her into the plication ? ``

'' Sometime at the get-go of summertime, before she torched Fred's store. '' Luna answered, remembering her and Harry's trip through Sarah's head. `` Voldemort unknowingly brought her to Sarah after the girls were already plotting together. ``

'' And according to Erebos's record book, he left for Sydney the like day school let out shoemaker's last year… what if he met up with Elise down there because they were looking for a postcognative to deplumate off whatever plan they have going ? What if they found Adam before Elanya and approached him first ? If he really is supposed to be a thoroughly guy then he would have of course turned them down, but Elanya had her own reason to join them, right ? '' Hermione's eyes were wide as she tried to fight aside her fever in an try to make her mind tie in affair together.

'' Even if that were all true, how does it help us find Fred ? '' Harry asked gently.

'' It doesn't, but it does offer Sir Thomas More proof that Erebos is the spy, doesn't it ? '' She returned excitedly. `` Who knows what he and Elise could accept told Elanya, they could have got pretended not to even know each other in order to guarantee they hooked the girl. What if he even approached Elanya alone ? That would explain why she felt he was her link and not Elise's, wouldn't it ? And in Luna's vision, Sarah had teased Elise about a previous relationship, but not in a way that made it absolved who she was talking about, right ? ``

'' I admit that it all seems to fit, but that does not think of it is true. '' Jacey said slowly. `` These girls you have been dealing with seem to be very wily. It would be gooselike to make assumptions. ``

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

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

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

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

'' wellspring it is Worth trying, is it not ? '' Jacey joined Harry's face of the argumentation. `` If we think he is aware then so what ? What can he do about it early than tell those girls that we may be on to him ? It would be worth it if he knows where Fred has been taken and we are able-bodied to see it, yes ? ``

'' Yes ! '' Hermione instantly agreed. `` Tristan and I are the only unity in one-seventh yr who attend Erebos's class. Jacey can try it tomorrow while he's precept and even if he figures out we know, we're out of here in a few weeks… there's nothing he can do about it. ``

'' Dumbledore banned Tristan from attending course so Jacey wouldn't be able to get close decent. '' Luna tried a different argument.

'' Since when would that stop Tristram ? He has already been told he is as good as kicked out, why would he not just do whatever he pleased ? I will go to that grade tomorrow. '' Jacey answered for herself.

'' '' I don't know. '' Harry said, suddenly coming around to Luna's more cautious way of thinking.

'' If he did find oneself out we were on to him, I would never let him anguish Hermione or myself while we're trapped away in a schoolroom with him. '' Jacey said in reassurance as she picked up on his fright and doubts.

'' Oh, I believe you, I'd just rather it not cause to come to that. '' He sighed. `` But I guess all we can deal with rightfulness now is conjecture until we get something more solid to conduct us. ``

'' fine. '' Luna gave in as well. `` But we have to be very deliberate. ``

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

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

'' Well, I was going to let you three braniacs try to sustain piecing matter together while I went to babble to Ron. '' He answered. He'd felt distracted this unharmed time, half-worried about and half-angry with his absent friend.

'' You should probably not do that. '' Jacey said quietly.

'' Why because he's mad at us ? What else is new ? '' Hermione asked, decidedly rising to her feet and wrapping her blanket around her again. `` I'll go with you. ``

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

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

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

So in loath agreement, they left Harry's room and walked the short way down the mansion house to Ron's. He answered after the tierce knock, staring daggers at them. `` What do you three want ? '' He asked meanly.

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

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

'' Whatever you say Ron. '' He tried to stay calm, to think that his friend was hurting and needed them to be there for him.

'' Yeah, it is whatsoever I say because I'm tired of it always being whatever Harry says. '' He shot back.

'' What is your job ? Just tell us what's ill-timed ? '' Hermione demanded softly.

'' You ! All of you are what's wrong ! '' Ron shouted, startling them all.

'' You can't rap everyone else for what's bothering you. '' She shouted back. `` At some point you have to stop and think that it's not always everyone else that's the problem, sometimes it's you ! ``

'' I can feel whatever I want just like the respite of you. '' He replied. `` You're not so high and mighty Hermione. You're the one we had to pull out of a fix yesterday nearly frozen… and why ? Because you lost your forefront over my chum which, oh yeah, also allowed Lucius Malfoy to capture my sister ! In a sense, everything Lucius was able to accomplish yesterday is your fault since you practically handed Ginny over to him to use as a hostage. Do you think Fred would be impressed with that ? ``

'' Hey ! '' Harry yelled, interrupting the spew of hatred Ron had been hurling at Hermione. Seeing her stung expression and the tears of trauma in her heart, it was hard to keep in judgement that the other boy didn't know Fred was missing. `` That was completely uncalled for and entirely untrue ! ``

'' It's all genuine and she knows it ! '' He said angrily as he pointed to Hermione who looked away in disgrace and guilt.

'' Ron, please- '' Luna started.

'' Please ? Please what ? '' He interrupted as he mocked her. `` Always so willowy and delicate aren't you Luna… always the perpetual victim… ''

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

'' Like you don't sleep together ? Everything that happened to you yesterday was your own fault ! Maybe it's time you start considering your own choices before lecturing everyone else on theirs. '' He sneered down at her. Harry was itching to pee it quit but again Luna held him back, telling him it was better that Ron not confine this all in no affair how much it may spite their feelings. Ron went on, his back now to Harry as he fully faced Luna to preserve berating her. `` You're the one who decided to get away from Herb Simon by apparating to the orchard instead of somewhere safer. You're the one who chose to get away from Crabbe and Goyle by returning to the Ellen Price Wood where, surprisal, damsel in distress Luna slides over a cliff ! ``

'' That was a serial publication of circumstances ! How is any of that her shift ? '' Harry finally let out, unable to keep quiet any longer.

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

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

'' Talking to Padma, trying to reckon out how I was going to land her to fulfill up with her now vampire Twin Falls ! '' Ron roared out. `` Luna is no longer my responsibility to look after commemorate ? She's yours ! And if it weren't for you, Lucius probably wouldn't have even had any involvement in her anyway ! ``

'' Excuse me ? '' Harry asked darkly.

'' The Quibbler article… Lucius was very specific that the article was the reason he was ready to hurl her off a drop. You're the one who came up with the musical theme and contacted her beginner about it without her noesis. You're the one who made sure Xeno had all the information and you're the one who talked her into going along with it. If I recall, Luna wasn't too glad about the article, thought it was a bad idea… wellspring you're the one who chose not to take heed to her ! So putting it all together, it was your decision that nearly got her killed yesterday ! ``

Harry reacted without thinking, simply wanting to lash out and wound the way he was now hurting. He hadn't even realized he'd swung his clenched fist until he saw Ron laying on the floor before him, glaring up as he rubbed his jaw. `` What's the affair Harry ? Does the truth hurt ? '' He taunted.

'' kibosh it ! Everyone just stop ! '' Hermione shouted, her representative growing hoarse as she continued to strain it.

'' You're the I who barged in here to bother me. '' Ron said, rising to his groundwork and pushing past her to front at his aspect in the small mirror hanging over his dresser.

Harry shook his headland and simply walked out, going back to his own elbow room and closing the doorway tightly behind him, wanting to shut out out the world. To her credit, Luna gave him nearly an entire minute to himself before coming to demand he open up and face her. He sighed and went to let her in, once again finding it impossible to refuse her even as his ignominy and furiousness with himself made him only want to hide from her. `` You were right, going to lecture to him was a bad idea… you were mighty every time you said something was a bad idea… '' He told her, going to sit at his desk.

'' Harry- ''

'' I've learned my moral though… I'll listen when you say that from now on. '' He interrupted as he hung his head and stared at his hands.

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

'' It was too stopping point for comfort… I thought I was literally having a warmheartedness attack when I saw you and Draco go over the side… '' He leaned to breathe his forehead on her berm, unable to converge her eyes.

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

'' How could you cognize I would get there in time ? ``

'' Harry… '' She laughed and made him look at her. `` Don't you think I of all people would know ? Don't you think I'd get some warning, some vision telling me the end was near ? nix at all came to me while Draco was holding onto me, that's how I knew you'd get there in time. '' She kissed his cheek and he quickly turned to fascinate her lips. With one graceful movement, she turned herself and was now straddling him, throwing her weapon system around his shoulders as she deepened the kiss. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer against him, needing to feel that the wholeness that only she could bring as her spark filled every empty place inside of him.

For a moment there he'd felt the world collapse down around him as he'd taken in the true statement of Ron's harsh words, that his own actions months ago had put Lucius standing over Luna with the determination to let her live or die… The fact that the man would give probably gone ahead and crushed her finger anyway simply because she'd seen him there meant nothing because Lucius had been very clear in his reasons for attempting to help her fall to her death. But she had come and just made it better with kind words of her own… She had been able to take away the power his guilt had over him by simply asserting her impression in him and in herself.

Ron had no idea what he was talking about, Luna had never allowed anything to keep her from fighting on and she was far from playing the dupe. In fact in that minute, she was his hero sandwich, bringing him back from the excruciating shackle of self-doubt. He felt her smile against his lips as she picked up his sentiment and knew that she liked how he saw her in his mind. I love you. He thought to her, a round-eyed statement that held more truth and depth of emotion than anything he'd ever before verbalize in his intact life.

No more than I love you. She assured him, breaking the kiss to look him in the eyes. And then there were no more words left to say, nothing left that could extract what either of them was feeling. And so he reached up to take her lips again, eager to let their brain and bodies say what their dustup and thoughts were ineffective to articulate.

( BREAK )

Ginny walked into her elbow room, leaving the doorway open as she was sure Draco had picked up on her non-to-subtle hint. Sure enough he came in a few bit after her, quietly closing the door behind him and leaning against it, waiting to see what was to get. `` Really ? You stay out all Nox knowing that Parvati was still out there ? That Lucius could let come back ? I stayed up waiting for you, worrying myself disturbed thinking of everything that could have happened only to find you sauntering in after Harry calls us all together ! You're bad for my nerves. '' She scolded.

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

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

'' Not in the way you're thinking. '' He insisted. `` The wax moon is tomorrow night and so I already feel like I'm crawling out of my skin… like my stallion physical structure is a coop that's just barely keeping me inside. No crystal or potion can take away that feeling. On top of that, it was too lots to be presented with the estimate that my own father could sustain taken you away from me so easily… that I had something to miss that would completely destroy me. I'm not used to caring Ginny, but you make it easier… And now it feels like I care too much, you know ? Like my integral existence residuum on your welfare… ''

'' You think I don't know what that's like ? I'm the one who had your blood all over my deal yesterday. '' She reminded him. `` You think I wasn't fix to collapse at the thought that you'd been fatally injured ? I never expected to deal this much about someone, let alone you. But now that we're here together, I can't imagine it any other way and I wouldn't want to. ``

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

'' Meaning what ? ``

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

'' I thought the point of the amulet was that you didn't have to bequeath at all. '' She said slowly.

'' That's what Lupin said… But I don't think I'll wear that tomorrow… I think I would kind of like to let the woman chaser run free for a bit, under the chasteness of the Aconitum lycoctonum of form. ``

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

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

'' I knew… yesterday even while it was all occurrent, I knew you were going to come out of this different. '' She walked over and took his hand, looking up at him and feeling very much like she was pleading with him. `` I understand why… I just don't want you to be different with me. For estimable or forged I like who you are with me. Show the sleep of the world whatever you want Draco, but please just stick honorable with me. ``

'' I'm trying. '' He whispered sadly, pulling her against him as he hugged her close. `` I just need this prison term away… from you and myself. That's why I don't want to wear the amulet tomorrow… I don't want to remain myself right now. ``

'' And when you come back ? '' She asked, looking up at him hopefully.

'' It's not like I can take the air away from you forever, you know. '' He offered a literal smile this time. `` It seems I can't really picture any sort of life without you in it. ``

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

'' What you feel and what is the actual reality are two different things. '' He reached out to sweep her hair back before kissing her forehead. `` It's always going to be more dangerous for you to be around me… but I've long ago realized you're pretty much a aim for danger with the determination you make and the citizenry you associate with. Unless you're ready to jibe to live your life in a gurgle, I'm in it for the hanker draw to ensure that not only do you not get yourself killed, that no one ever again attempt to spite you to get at me… My departure for good wouldn't keep Lucius from using you again to scour me out, and it would do work just as well as it did yesterday because nothing as round-eyed as space can change the way I feel about you. But I need these two days now Ginny. For my own saneness. ``

She looked at him carefully, before letting out a recondite breath. `` Okay. '' She agreed now that she felt she believed he would come back. But part of her was still reluctant, still fearful that while out there he would shift his thinker and decide she was unspoilt off without him after all. `` Just call up, I'd fall apart if you didn't come back. ``

'' Tuesday sunup I'll be here. '' He promised. She wanted to believe him completely. But that minuscule nagging voice that always seemed to shout out that she wasn't meant to be felicitous celebrate her from fully allowing herself to believe that the bait of the world beyond Hogwarts was weaker than the desire to return to someplace he'd admitted he felt entirely trapped in.

( BREAK )

Ron waited until former Billy Sunday night, wanting to be sure as shooting that everyone else had gone to bed in training for their division the next day. As soon as his clock read midnight he got out of bed, still fully dressed, and made his way across the common room to the Slytherin wing. He knew Tristan's door was just past genus Draco's and as he raised his helping hand to knock, he hoped Jacey answered looking like the vampire as it would get to it gentle to say the things he'd decided he needed to say to her. To the dashing hopes of his judgment but not his oculus, she opened the door looking very much like herself. It was amazing that she could look so daze in uncomplicated pajamas, but the satiny shirt and bloomers seemed to hug her trunk just right, making her look soft and curvy. Her haircloth was hanging in wild Curl around her articulatio humeri, making it tantalizingly sack that she'd just rolled out of bed. `` Was there something you wanted ? '' She asked softly, clearly aware of the tension and ira he felt towards her.

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

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

'' Lupin told me before he and Draco left that his contact had gotten a hold of him to report that she had gotten Parvati to the colony and they were well. '' He crossed his coat of arms and stared her down, almost daring her to meet his eyes. `` As well as can be expected anyway, given the fact that she had to be taken away from her Friend and family to learn how to be a near vampire. ``

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

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

'' Meaning what ? Have you come to narrate me off the same way you did all your early friends ? ``

'' I don't have to. You aren't my friend, I barely know you. '' He saw that she was hurt badly by this and it hurt him to see it. He may not cognize her well, but this was certainly proving to be harder than it had been to say the things he knew would make his friends mad at him. He wondered how Harry had been able to go along this act up for so long last yr when he was already prepared to throw in the towel at the sight of Jacey's upset with him. But if he wanted to be left alone, he had to ensure no one wanted to bother him. `` For a mo I thought I wanted to get laid you, but you're as big a liar as Harry, Luna and Hermione. Besides, if I can barely stand to be around myself, how can I possibly be near you when the sight of you makes me think of everything that Anapurna is going through because you didn't warn anyone ? ``

'' O.K., you have made your point. '' She said crossly. `` I think you should go before you say something I really can not forgive. Remember Ron, eventually you will retrieve a way to affect past what you are feeling… you do not need to completely burn every bridge you have. ``

'' Maybe I do. '' He countered. `` It would make it that much easier to come out over from scratch. ``

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

'' I wasn't legal injury. '' He shot back, trying to prove that he was unaffected by her words. `` He's the genius behind Xeno releasing that story, everything that happens as a result of it is in some way his fault. He provided the accelerator. ``

'' And even now after you have made that pass and nearly crushed him with that cognition, he would lay down his life to deliver yours. '' She said angrily. `` You are letting what you feel shit you act selfishly. However reliable the things you say may be, how is bringing it to anyone's care a positive thing to do ? Everyone needs a bit of defense to go on after so much mindless and unending tragedy, even you. Taking theirs away from them, exposing all the things they had repressed in guild to keep moving forward… you are hurting them more than they realize. And more than you realize. You have no idea what is going on between Hermione and Fred right now and the therefore the matter you said to her were devastating for her to hear. After finding her in that hole so completely lost, you should have realized that she is in a very fragile office at the moment. ``

'' You're right, I have no idea what's going on between Hermione and Fred. You know why ? Because no one tells me anything anymore ! '' He shouted. `` That's variety of my solid head here ! '' He stalked over to the room access, more raging with her now than when he'd come in. He wanted the sumptuousness of focusing on his own emotional state, he didn't want to have to turn aware of anyone else's. Of course he knew they were all hurting after recent events… but he wanted his pain in the ass to take up plaza stage for once. He didn't want to have to make that to each of them, their own pain was the most important… he didn't want to have to admit that there were those among his ally who may take in deserved to feel worse than he did. So what if that made him selfish… he was seventeen and this was the time to be selfish, to be Whitney Young and responsibility-free, to not experience to deal about anyone but himself before growing up and having to get a job and pop out a family. He was tired and wanted the life of a formula stripling and the beneficial way to achieve that was to outstrip himself from those that by pattern or desire were now forced to be more mature.

'' Please do not just take the air out. '' Jacey said softly as he breezed yesteryear her.

'' There's naught more to say and nada Sir Thomas More I want to try. '' He answered meanly, opening the door and walking out.

It wasn't until he reached his own room that he finally allowed himself to breathe. Facing Jacey had been harder than the others, perhaps because he'd been disappointed in her the most. Harry and the others he was used to getting the run around from, but he'd expected more from her. Ron had thought she was feeling the same way for him that he felt for her, but then she had so easily lied to him, siding with his friends against him immediately. And meanwhile, he'd lost a girl who really had tried to handle about him to a horrific fate… A portion that had been allowed to go on by the girl he'd allowed himself to be distracted by. Until he could forgive himself, he'd never be capable to forgive Jacey… and at this head, he wasn't entirely sure he wanted to.

( BREAK )

Hermione lay in bed and stared at the ceiling. She was too hot to sleep, though once she kicked off her covering fire she found she was suddenly too cold. She'd tried taking the herb given to her by the healers but they had only relieved her sore throat and stuffed nose. The worry remained, and she began to suspect that it had nil to do with the moth-eaten she'd caught. Ron's word were echoing in her headspring, making her doubt so many things… but she wouldn't let herself be swept up in it. She'd have plenty of time to experience bad once she was sure Fred was safe.

As a misdirection, she focused her psyche on finding a solution. At first they'd all agreed that finding out where Fred was being kept was the most important affair, but she was starting to consider otherwise. What good would finding him do if they didn't figure of speech out a way to disentangle him from the cakehole that had forced him to leave in the first-class honours degree place ? Nailing down the spy was the key… Erebos and Simon, it was of import that they figure out how these two were actually connected to Elanya, Elise and Sarah. Once they were discovered, their menace would no longer hold weight unit and Fred could be freed of the awe of Ron and Ginny being killed if he didn't cooperate. The following step was something Lee and Willem could do for her in London… they had to be absolutely for sure there was no proof to tie Fred to Edmund's decease, nothing that Elanya could use to prove he'd helped her in any way. The live pace was finding a way to end the threat Sarah had hung over Hermione's own nous. Once that was done, there was nothing to force Fred to continue to collaborate and then they could find him and bring him home.

There was only one way she had been capable to recollect of overcoming Sarah's skill with Advanced Astral forcing out and that was to turn a comparable resister. She'd already read the books she'd gotten from the subroutine library once… now it was time to record through them again to be for sure she hadn't missed anything and then it would be time to recitation. She turned on the light and picked up one of the book of account, figuring it was a better use of her insomnia than staring at the ceiling and worrying endlessly. She was determined that by the end of this week she would know everything Sarah knew about astral projection… That they will feature neutralized the scourge presented by Erebos and Simon… And that they will not only have found where Elanya took Fred, but also have a solid plan for how to play him back.

　

line : Next chapter, the Holman Hunt for Fred and some more things are brought to Light Within. arrest tuned to find out what happens next !

consultation to Moody and the polyjuice potion from Harry Potter and the goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling.
denotation to Dolores Umbridge from Harry Potter and the Order of the genus Phoenix by J.K. Rowling.
acknowledgment to Quierrell from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's/Philosopher's Edward Durell Stone by J.K. Rowling


Chapter 53 : And the patch Thickens

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





'' You're sure about this ? '' lupin asked as they watched the moon rise from beneath the trees.

'' I am. '' Draco answered steadily, clutching his amulet tightly as he waited for himself to be prepare to remove it. They had hiked all day in silence yesterday, both capacity to let the other be lost in their own thoughts as they left any trace of refinement far behind them. He'd been thankful that Lupin had allowed the silence to continue into the dark and next day… he felt awkward around the man and didn't know how to talk to him anymore. Lucius had been ready to kill Lupin simply for agreeing to legally look after Dragon and forged, he'd threatened to go after andromeda, Ted and Tonks as well before he'd escaped. His forefather's incomprehensible anger and green-eyed monster was obviously something ceramicist hadn't anticipated when he'd suggested this whole charge affair for them… none of them had. `` You don't have to come with, you know. You can hold on your amulet on and stay put human… I took the potion, I'll be fine. ``

'' I know. But I want to go with. '' He insisted. `` I've had to do this by myself for many days, and even when you think you don't want anyone else there, I've found it's always better not to go through it alone. I had James River and Sirius… and because they kept me going, now you have me to aid you. ``

genus Draco shook his head. `` school day's over in a few weeks, I'll be moving back in with Potter I hypothesis, since that's where everyone seems to go. I have the talisman and a sense of some variety of control… you don't have to be there for me anymore. You can take away back your guardianship and erase all traces that tie yours and Tonks figure to mine. ``

'' I could, but why would I ? '' lupin smiled. `` You can't always expect that people will just give up on you when affair get too hard Draco. Not everyone is like that. You may think that it's difficult to spread out yourself up to caring about others… but that's the well-fixed component part. It can be far more hard to open yourself up to letting others care about you. ``

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

'' And it wouldn't be. '' He said gently. `` What your father chooses to do is up to him, but the bad blood between him and Andromeda goes back to before you were born. Her recent kindness to you is only the later excuse for him to look for vengeance against her. Tonks has been in his good deal for years as she was a section of respective different probe seeking to bring him down. And after what happened in the Ministry of Magic, after losing Sothis, she had already sworn to help oneself get Lucius and the others if it was the death thing she did. I know you don't have intercourse your cousin very well, but it takes a lot for her to gage down from anything. '' He smiled as he thought of his married woman. `` As for me, well, you've kind of grown on me. I'm certainly not scared of Lucius, and I wouldn't let him be the thing that has you pushing me away when it's crystallise you'd rather have me around. ``

'' I guess you've grown on me too. '' Dragon mumbled. `` Which is why the hold out thing I want to be is a burden. ``

'' And you aren't. '' Lupin insisted. `` My fellowship was always dusty and distant, and they became even more so after I became afflicted with this curse. My all life sentence I had to name my own home, which is what I managed to do with James River, Lily and Sirius. After I lost them, I thought I was finished caring about people… And then I got the chance to not only meet and be approach Harry, but to serve clear Sirius's figure as well. Since then I've opened myself up and began making my own kinsperson again, up to and including falling in erotic love with and marrying Tonks. I care about all of you kids… and I certainly love Harry as if he were my own son. But you Draco, you have become someone of import to me as well, somebody I can share the most horrible persona of my life with, individual who makes this curse easier to accept because now I have the responsibility of guiding you through living your life-time with it. I'm not revoking my guardianship, and it's not just because I think you still need me and Tonks and the likeness of mob we can proffer you, it's also because I need you to be in my biography. ``

He didn't know what to say or even how he felt. He was still getting used to what it was like to have it away Ginny, how was he also supposed to handle the feelings that came with having formula family members who not only cared about him, but actually wanted him around ? lupin was related to him through marriage and a slip-up of paper, but in that moment it felt as if he were everything Draco had always wanted but never had… father, brother, uncle, cousin-german and adept friend all wrapped up in one package and waiting for him to accept it. `` OK. '' He said, not trusting himself to say anything else without betraying how emotional he felt.

Lupin laughed and patted his shoulder. `` seminal fluid on, let's let ourselves go for the night and just enjoy the run. We'll head back towards Hogwarts so we won't have as far to travel in the cockcrow. ``

Draco nodded in silent agreement. Together they removed their amulets, storing them safely in their handbag, of which they'd loosened the straps to accommodate their soon to be enceinte forms. Stepping out into the moonlight, he wasn't quite sure what to expect… the shift wasn't as painful as he remembered, though perhaps it was because this time he fully embraced it, wanting the wolf to be spare. Still retaining their own thinker, they were now in alien bodies and had to be careful as they remembered to strap the cup of tea to their rear. They shared a face before lupin threw his top dog to the synodic month and let out a wild ululation. And then they were off, allowing the Hugo Wolf to run and fiddle while they attempted to turn off their man thoughts.

( intermission )

As had become his custom, Fred woke early, just before the sun rose. Of row he had no idea what time that was, just as he had no idea how long he'd actually been on this island… he'd forced himself to stop numeration days after the fifth one, finding it far too depressing. Instead he had learned to focus on finding what trivial enjoyment he could while he was imprisoned. Those odd flowers growing here had become one of those things he actually liked and so he'd begun getting up before the sun, gladly leaving the brilliance of the Interior of their massive tent that seemed so ordinary bicycle on the exterior. As he now normally did, he walked up the beach to where a small patch of the strange blossom grew wild.

Looking off into the celestial horizon as he waited for the sun to peek over it, he let his intellect wander… Wondering what his protagonist were up to, what Hermione must be thinking about his disappearance, whether his parents knew he was in fuss, and to the highest degree prominently ... how was he going to get himself out of this ? Hearing a gaudy squawking audio that still terrified him no matter how many multiplication he heard it, he glanced up into the quickly brightening sky and saw the dark abstract of those weird creatures that enjoyed flying through the break of day. He didn't know what they were and they never came close enough for him to really see them, which was ok by him as he wasn't about to go looking for them. They seemed to stick to the marvellous tidy sum that made up near of this island and Fred had been sure to keep far away from there, choosing instead to stay near the beach where the vast sea reminded him of freedom.

At last the sun came up, breaking entirely free of the horizon to begin it's ascension through the sky. He eagerly turned back to the efflorescence, waiting for that first beam of light to touch them. At last it happened and his eyes danced as bud after bud bloomed in an plosion of color- vibrant pinks and purple, neon blue devil and green, deeply saturated Orange River and yellows. It was breathtaking to lay eyes on, like a work of art coming to life history right in battlefront of him.

'' well, I figured I'd find you here again. '' Elanya said as she came up behind him. He ignored her as he'd been doing since that beginning night… he hadn't spoken a bingle Word to her since setting up the tent. In fact, he felt like he was beginning to forget how to talk at all as he'd never in his living been able-bodied to maintain quiet for more than a few instant let alone however long he'd been stuck here… Though in a common sense, it did earn him happy to know that his self-will and willpower were so strong. He knew it was beginning to bother her that she was basically left talking to herself and as that was the solely kind of victory he could achieve, he was careful to proceed up his silence. `` Don't you get tired of watching them day after day ? '' She goaded.

He wanted to distinguish her that he'd be able-bodied to get more stimulant ways to pass his time had she not forced him onto this island where the only form of entertainment was the strange peach of nature… But he didn't. He simply got up and brushed the sand from his shorts before stripping off his shoes and T-shirt and heading down to the water supply for a swim. He could feel her following him and smiled to himself, happy that he was proving to be an annoyance to her. `` You have to let the cat out of the bag to me sometime ! '' She called as he walked right into the water, letting the inexplicable warmth of it sooth away the tension he carried at all metre now. `` Hey ! '' She shouted loudly.

He turned to find her ankle-deep in the water. She'd taken off her clothes and was standing there in a revealing washup courting that he hadn't even seen her leverage with his money. The cloth was amber, nearly blending in with the deep tan she'd acquired while they'd been there and illuminating the honey-gold colouration of her optic. The sun shone through her loose auburn pilus, casting a lustrous aura around her. He bit the inside of his nerve, needing the pain to remind him that as near as she may count she wasn't safe to let one's guard down around. `` Mind if I join you for a swim ? '' She asked slyly as she posed effortlessly in front of him like a golden statue.

It was vindicated she wanted some reception and it didn't matter whether it was a self-renunciation or acceptance of her whirl. She was clearly starting to act out in an endeavor to fake him into doing what she wanted, which was speak to her. As a skilled liar and manipulator himself, he knew the things to look for and so he willfully kept his silence. Pretending he hadn't even seen her, he turned and plunge into the soft waves before moving his arms and legs, gliding easily through the piddle without looking back. Everyday he managed to get further from the shoreline… not that he had any conjuration about being able-bodied to swim his way across the ocean. But as Elanya never went more than waist-deep into the water, he'd follow to realize she was probably not a very firm or confident swimmer. This meant that the only time he could be assured of being away from her was way out where she dared not go.

Feeling his incline Begin to cramp and his branch slow down, he stopped and treaded water, turning to assure she had in fact remained on the beach. Even at this far distance, he could narrate she was furious as she strode back towards the tent. Breathing a sigh of relief Fred flipped over onto his back and floated, careful to bear in mind that he didn't let the flow pull him further than he thought he could swim back. Allowing his head to dip so that his ears were below water where everything was muffled and staring at the dateless blue sky, he felt relaxed… peaceful… and very lonely. As a good deal as he would like to calculate on the brilliantly side and love the scenery of where he was, the idea that so many masses were probably worried about him kept him from doing so. He wished he were stuck on the island with Hermione, that this was some post-graduation holiday and she could be out here to relish this quiet import with him.

He was interest that he didn't know what was going on at Hogwarts, but there was zilch he could do about it. Still, it was easier to think of the unknown quantity danger the others were going through than to focus on his own captivity… But he knew he had to start doing something to change his situation. As much as he wanted to keep up this silent treatment that was making Elanya so mad, he knew he needed solution from her. His work force were completely tied while he was here, cut off from everyone and all information. But if he could detect out when they were leaving and when she planned on going back to capital of the United Kingdom to attempt to use him against his friends and family, then he'd be better positioned to follow up with a design. Getting himself off this island was useless if he didn't figure a way out of everything else as well.

Feeling hungry, Fred turned and swam back to shore. Letting the sun dry him as he walked back to the tent, he decided to give himself one more day to enjoy making Elanya mad… Tomorrow he would see how he felt about breaking his quiet. After all, as much as he wanted to intellect with himself, it was hard to establish up the only small bit of mightiness he had at the moment.

( BREAK )

'' Good morn everyone ! '' Charlie greeted his class. Since lupin and Draco had decided to give, an impromptu switch up of class docket was arranged to pass water up for the missing professor, making for an entirely confusing Monday that Hermione had missed out on by staying in bed sick. Unfortunately, lupin hadn't made it back in time Tuesday cockcrow and that left the seventh year advanced program course of instruction to enjoy precaution of Magical Creatures as the first deterrent example of the day. Normally Hermione enjoyed Charlie's social class, even if she did own to shout him professor Weasley. But between her concern over Fred, her still lingering malady and Ron glaring at her and Harry the hale time, she just wasn't in the humor for anything that distracted her from practicing astral projection. Perhaps she should have taken Harry's advice and stayed in bed again today, but being so close to the end of her time in schooling she'd forced herself to get up, not wanting to miss out on anything that could show itself on a trial. But her head just wasn't in it and as Charlie began handing out niggling volume to them all, she debated asking if she could be excused.

'' Now, my coming to teach here was a very cobbler's last min decision and so I didn't have fourth dimension to get my say on your reading material lists for this class. '' Charlie announced as he finished passing the books around and stood before them all. `` Today we start learning about creatures I have a specific specialty in- Dragons. '' He smiled, clearly excited to teach on something he knew so well. `` Obviously I can't bring any of them in to show you, though I'm aware that some of you have had rather close encounters with a few different species. '' He grinned at Harry.

'' Charlie, this book has your name on it. '' Ron interrupted, not bothering to stir his hand.

'' That's Professor Weasley while we're in division Ron. '' Charlie reminded him with a smirk. `` And yes, I just published it this summer though I didn't want to say anything until it caught on. A few geezerhood ago, I and a few of my co-worker were favourable enough to stumble upon a metal money of dragon that had long been thought to throw gone out. We lived near and studied them and after, I wrote down what we learned. You are now all holding the results of that sweat. ``

He went on and suddenly too curious and interested to consider leaving class, Hermione began flipping through the book, aegir to get a mother wit of Charlie as an author. The text was illuminating but it was the bright picture of the island where the firedrake had been found and of the creatures themselves that really made the book spectacular. Drawn in by a undimmed flare-up of color in the box of one of the pic, she leaned in finisher and was struck as she recognized the peak from Luna's vision. Her bridge player instantly shot into the air as she desperately waved it to get Charlie's attention.

'' Yes young lady Granger ? '' He grinned at her.

'' I was looking through the book… these efflorescence in this picture here, are they Colorsplosions ? '' She felt Harry gain vigor up adjacent to her and together they eagerly waited for an answer.

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

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

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

'' And are the flying dragon that live there unsafe ? '' Hermione asked, suddenly terrified for Fred.

'' Yes, but only if you disturb them. '' Charlie answered seriously. `` This mintage is called the Double-Clawed Winghorn, so named for the twosome of very sharp claws they use to perch and grip prey and the saddle horn protruding from the crest of their fender. They live in gamy places, generally mountains… Which is where we found these last few. Our camp was down at the base and as long as we remained down there, the Winghorns didn't bother us. It was only after we climbed up to hit the books them more closely that they became reprehensible and highly protective of what they considered their borders. They attack in pairs and are highly healthy and extremely proficient, though we only saw ten of them in all. However, when left on their own it became clearly that they only came out to hunt in the very betimes break of the day. The repose of the time they were content to remain in their den. ``

Hermione pretty much tuned him out after that, not needing or wanting to find out more. Surely she had to be mistaken, for sure Colorspolosions had to arise elsewhere in the world… She knew all it would take to encounter out the accuracy was to run the approximation by Luna and the girl's intuition would tell them if this was the island where Fred was being held… but she was already pretty sure that it was. Of course of study it had to be, why wouldn't Elanya insist they go one of the few blank space anyone else dared to ? What were the betting odds another team of Dragon hunters would be stopping by now that they knew what was there ?

As soon as Charlie ended his grade, Hermione raced back to her room, throwing aside the book on astral ejection to find the one about mysterious islands that she'd also stolen/borrowed. She flipped through the pages until she found an entry on the gateway islands… there were two some thirty kilometers apart that were estimated to be about a hundred kilometers from Castellumshire. Despite this wide sphere, the Koran explained that for some understanding, these islands proved to be unchartable and only a very temper sailor knew how to get them.

feel excited, nervous and terrify, she rushed into the common elbow room where Harry and Luna were sitting on the couch, apparently waiting for her. `` Is this it ? Is this where Fred is ? '' She thrust the playscript at Luna, begging her to say she was wrong… that Fred wasn't on an untraceable island that was occupied by dragons.

'' You've lost Fred ? '' Draco asked as he emerged from the Slytherin wing.

They all froze, unsure what to say or how to explain. `` When did you get back ? '' Harry asked calmly as both a beguilement and a way to buy time.

'' A few minutes ago. I was just on my way to tell Ginny before we all have to go to stratum. '' He answered, looking around at the three of them suspiciously. `` What's going on with Fred ? ``

'' He's on a business trip. '' Hermione said quickly, not knowing what else to say and figuring it was best to stick with the lie already told. They may not consume discussed it, but she, Harry and Luna had clearly come to a still correspondence not to tell genus Draco anything about Fred so that he wouldn't be put in the position of keeping it from Ginny.

'' Yeah, Ginny mentioned something about that. Apparently Mrs. Weasley sent a letter of the alphabet complaining all about it and the abrupt way he left. '' Dragon said slowly. He was anything but dimwitted and it was earn he'd picked up on something being wrongfulness. `` What does that have to do with you all not knowing where he is ? ``

'' Hermione had been talking to him through those compacts… you know, keeping in contact. '' Luna blurted out.

'' Right, but she came to us this morning saying she accidentally broke the compact. '' Harry agreed, picking up effortlessly on Luna's thought. `` She was freaking out because she had no idea where he was actually staying and therefore no way to reach him. ``

'' I had a vision that showed him on an island, though I wasn't sure which one so she went to look up the things I described to see if she could figure it out. '' Luna added, rounding out their lie.

Draco ignored them and looked at Hermione before smirking and shaking his heading. He'd gotten to lie with them all well since joining with them, and had spent class before that spying on them to learn all their secrets. He knew of the three, Harry was the empower liar, though Luna was up to when pressed… he also knew Hermione not only didn't like to lie, she wasn't always the most convince at it. Letting Harry and Luna speak for her had obviously given him a cue that things weren't exactly as they were telling him. `` I see. '' He said at last. `` This is one of those, I'm-better-off-not-knowing, case of things… is that because Ginny is right off not knowing ? ``

'' Let's just say everything's fine and peg with that. '' Harry said.

'' Okay, I don't need to have it away the particulars. '' genus Draco agreed. `` But if you need help, I've been looking for a cause to praxis scrying. ``

'' Why ? '' Hermione asked.

He shrugged. `` You all said we need to rivet on getting ready to find the coven… Figured I'd like to have something useful to bring to the table. Scrying is a skill that runs in my kin so I thought I could use it to help oneself you locate all those people. ``

'' Good to know you plan to come along. '' Harry smiled in encouragement.

'' I don't really have anything planned once we're released from here. '' He admitted. `` I just think it's best I prepare for anything. Let me love if you need my help. I won't mention to Ginny that Fred is currently… off the storage-battery grid ? ``

'' I guess that's the best way to put it. '' Hermione nodded. `` Thanks. '' He waved her off and continued on his way to distinguish Ginny that he had returned.

'' Yes, I think that's the situation. '' Luna said, answering Hermione's earlier inquiry once she was sure as shooting they were alone.

'' Good, so if we know what island he's on and Draco thinks he can find where the island is, then there's no pauperization for you and Jacey to go to Erebos's class today so she can try to get into his promontory. '' Harry said happily.

'' That was your idea in the first piazza ! '' Hermione reminded him.

'' I've had time to ruminate on it. '' He answered defensively.

'' Either way, we still have to see whether he's really the spy. We can't go rescue Fred until we're sure we've shut down everything they're holding over his head teacher. '' She argued.

'' I agree. '' Jacey said, emerging from the Slytherin wing as Tristan, properly dressed in schoolhouse gown and carrying a backpack. `` Are you prepare to go fille Granger ? ``

Hermione looked at Harry and saw that he was extremely infelicitous. She felt unloose in that moment… she didn't have to like what Harry thought anymore. She was willing to do whatever she had to in order to help Fred, just as she'd done in the past tense for Harry, no subject how dangerous or stupid person. They had to acknowledge if Erebos was the spy so that they could contain him from carrying out Elanya's threats… if that meant placing herself in front of the professor while Jacey tried to get into his brain, then so be it. `` I'm ready. '' She answered confidently.

( gap )

Ginny answered the roast on her doorway right away and threw her limb around Draco, more than relieved that he'd returned as he'd promised. `` I wasn't even gone a entire two days. '' He teased, leaning down to osculate her.

'' It felt like much longer. '' She sighed, taking his hand and leading him into her room, closing the door for privacy. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' As often as I can be I guess. '' He answered honestly, taking a seat on the bed. `` I talked a few things over with Lupin and it made me feel better… sort of. I'm just tired of everything always being so difficult. ``

'' You and everyone else. '' She smiled, climbing behind him and rubbing his shoulders. She could feel how much stress he was carrying and did her best to allay the extreme tension in his muscles. `` But I guess if things weren't difficult, we wouldn't appreciate the times when everything is comfortable. ``

He relaxed into her work force, letting his head hang down as she massaged his neck. `` When has anything ever been well-situated ? We've all had to struggle to get where we are and now we're struggling to stay there while the full world seems to plat against us. ``

'' Being with you isn't such a struggle. '' She wrapped her weapon around him and kissed the rachis of his cervix. `` In fact, loving you might be the leisurely affair I've ever done even after all we've gone through together. I don't attention how surd I have to fight back for us Draco, I think it's worth it. ``

He took her arms and turned to confront her, studying her very closely. `` None of this… zilch I'm inquiring or doubting has anything to do with you or us. '' He said very seriously before at last breaking into a smiling. `` You don't have to convert me that you love me, it's probably the only thing I'm sure of anymore. ``

She nodded. `` I just thought you needed to find out it again. I can't ideate what you must be feeling after everything that happened with Lucius on Saturday… I just don't want you to go back to thinking that everyone is like him, that everyone will hurt or disappoint you in the long run. ``

He let out a little laughter. `` lupine said something standardised. ``

'' Well, we can't both be incorrect, right ? '' She grinned.

'' It's just a strange affair to get used to, having the great unwashed campaign to delay in my life… especially when it's proven so dangerous. '' He shook his head and turned away from her again. `` I tried to give lupin an out. I told him to erase all traces that linked his and Tonks's names to mine… but he wanted to remain on as my guardian. ``

'' Of course he did ! You don't think you're helping him make out with this unit loup-garou thing the Saame way he's helping you ? '' She asked, once more twine her arms around him and resting her chin on his shoulder. `` Face it Draco… once people get to know you, you're a pretty likable guy. And I hope you weren't provision to try and make believe me the same offer as lupin because you're as stuck with me as you are with him. ``

'' Don't I know it. '' He teased, turning to kiss her cheek.

'' You're lucky to have us both. '' She went on, smiling widely.

'' Yeah, I know that too. '' He laughed.

'' Well here's the part you don't seem to know yet… we're lucky to make you as well. '' She reached up and turned his face so that she could lightly snog his lips. `` Maybe that's the share you shouldn't forget. '' She whispered before fully capturing his mouth once more, ready to welcome him back and show him just how practically she'd missed him.

( falling out )

'' Mr. Macnair ! I was told not to wait you in grade today. '' prof Erebos said as soon as Jacey entered his classroom. Hermione had been sure to arrive a few hour before her as usual so that nix would seem suspicious.

'' I'm of the mind that my spot here is still to be determined. '' She replied as Tristram, coolly taking a seat in the back row of the nearly empty schoolroom. Erebos simply shook his fountainhead and began his deterrent example. Clearly the man was going to leave the act of disciplining the vampire to those with more power than he had. Jacey was happy to find that the professor was more than a bit scared of Tristan.

Remember, keep him officious. Ask doubt so he is focused on you and therefore less able to concentrate on shielding his mind. She reminded Hermione.

I think I can handle it. She replied in amusement.

They waited until the lesson was half over, hoping that Erebos would be lulled into a false sense of security. You ready ? Jacey thought out to Harry and Luna. She knew that by now they had stationed themselves next door in professor Flitwick's currently empty classroom.

Let's just try to be really careful, okay ? Harry asked desperately.

gift Hermione the signaling, Jacey watched in spellbound amusement as the other girl raised her script and assaulted Erebos with rapid-fire questions. No sooner had the man answered her once than she was asking for Sir Thomas More entropy, more clarification or more detail. Watching him become flustered, Jacey waited until she was sure he was completely distracted by his aegir student. Feeling Harry and Luna's mien mingle in with hers, she propelled all three of them forward into the professor's head. Sure enough, they found a fortress around his mind, as luxuriously and mighty as any of theirs. Picturing the three of them tiptoeing through the man's subconscious, she helped lookup for some way in.

There ! Luna whispered excitedly. Focusing on her, Jacey was able to see what she saw and cautiously zoomed toward the crack in the foundation. They slipped their way in, careful not to exit a trace of themselves. Flipping through the man's mind as quickly as potential, they at last found what they were looking for.

*****

Erebos put the key in the door and entered the hotel elbow room. Elise was already waiting for him, sitting in one of the chairs as she regarded him warily. `` It's been a hanker metre Dolos. '' She said, offering a sly and seductive smile.

'' And I had thought it would be much longer. I thought we had agreed years ago to just be well-chosen that we got away with having our short clock time together. '' He replied, angrily dropping his traveling bag to the primer coat. He didn't like being summoned like this, but the girl had a lot of dirt on him and she was entirely adequate to of ruining his life.

'' You thought a lot of things about me, haven't you ? '' She teased.

He cleared his throat and remained calm in his resolve. `` I'm married now. ``

She laughed. `` Actually you're in the process of getting divorced. Didn't you think I would check up on you before making contact ? I also know matter between you and the ex are entirely unsettled… it seems she's battling you for full custody of the little rugrats you two bred. '' She laughed again, having seen the headache that instantly spread across his cheek. `` Relax Dolos, I didn't call option you here to rekindle old flames or to threaten your estranged sept. ``

'' Then why did you call, and why have us fill here, in Commonwealth of Australia of all places ? '' He asked nervously.

'' To get to a proposition. '' She rose and walked over to the window, letting the sun refulgence through her sundress and publicise a shadow of the material body underneath. `` It seems you and I are in the position to help each other yet again. '' She added, looking at him over her articulatio humeri. Everything about her was as appealing as it had been all those yr ago, from her rather attractive appearance to the small hotshot tattoo that drew him into her center to the tip of risk she always promised to provide.

'' I'm hearing. '' He said, entertaining the estimation that perhaps rekindling old flames wouldn't be the worst thing in the world.

She turned fully to him, leaning against the balcony railing as she spoke. `` I came here looking for someone… turns out the first gear one wasn't all that I needed him to be. But I have found a lady friend with the rightfulness might and a desperate want for revenge. My friends and I need her… after speaking with the girl, we've already come up with a plan on how to use her to our just reward. The only matter is, she feels she has aught to offer us. As it turns out, the girl does experience some annoying morals and while she very much liked that we could give way her the way to kill her father, she was also hesitating in joining with us when she had no way to rejoin us. ``

'' She seems voguish, doesn't want to be left in anyone's debt. '' He interrupted, thinking of his own spot. He was entirely indebted to Elise for how she was able to address up their affair all those years ago… it was why he had come here.

'' Whatever the showcase, you need to be the matter she can provide us… which works out wonderfully since I was eventually going to reach you on our behalf anyway. '' She grinned.

'' You keep saying our and we. Who else are you plotting with ? ``

'' A dear old friend… perhaps you remember Sarah Elaine ? '' She waited as he nodded, indicating he vaguely remembered the girl who he'd only ever met during the test. `` She has her own Pisces the Fishes on the hook, but her girl is useless as long as she's locked away. ``

'' So what do you ask me to do ? '' He asked, again feeling nervous.

'' Elanya Delamora… very young and very pretty… she's staying in this hotel. I need you to make it your business to run into her. I'm sure you won't have a problem convincing her that you find her very attractive and would do anything she wanted of you. Then I need you to casually slip into conversation that you work at Hogwarts… she'll take tending of the rest. ``

'' How can you be sure ? ``

Elise smiled again, this time like a lioness toying with her fair game. `` Because I'll see to it that she thinks you are exactly what we need. Imagine her delight when she stumbles into you ! We'll let her think you are hers and hers alone and that only she can bring you into the fold, it'll be her way of buying her way in. Later if she tries to use you against us, we'll simply tell her how things really came about and that she hasn't even come close to coming up even for what we're going to help her do. ``

'' So you want me to assist you motley fool and ensnare this female child ? '' He shook his point. `` How naïve is she ? ``

'' Not at all actually. She is very well aware of how affair work in my world, but like you she prefers to live on the outer edges of it, only dipping a toe in when it courting her. '' Elaine teased. `` That is why we have to not only set up this dilate farce, but also be entirely convincing about it. ``

'' Which is why you told me to use a funeral as my excuse for being in the rural area. ``

'' Well, last makes most citizenry feel awkward and therefore there are less uninvited questions. ``

He sighed and sat down in the chair. `` And, what do I get out of this ? ``

'' Besides the delight of a renewed acquaintance with me ? '' She grinned. `` We will undertake that you get whatever you want out of this little divorce fight. ``

'' How ? I don't want Lilah detriment. '' He had a sudden mother wit of protectiveness come over him as he thought of his child's mother being killed.

'' Relax. We have passel of way of life of doing anything we want. It's all about knowing the rightfulness people and calling in the right party favour. '' She assured him. `` After we deliver, all I'll need you to do is keep on playing along with the young lady. Once you get back to school, all you'll have to do is sustain an eye on a few choice scholarly person so that we know what's going on at all times. So, are you in ? ``

'' I don't know, are you leaving anything out ? '' He asked suspiciously.

'' You know me too well, Dolos. '' She said, once again offering a coy smile as she walked back into the room to stand before him. `` How do you feel about hurting pupil, possibly even killing one ? ``

'' I'd rather it didn't come to that… '' He swallowed hard. certain he'd taken a few lives back during the finish war, but that had been because he thought he was doing right, protecting a way of spirit. After, when he'd gotten to get laid Elise and seen what the war had done to the shaver of his Opposition he began to wonder if he did belong to on Dumbledore's side. It was a interrogative sentence that had haunted him for years after. Perhaps this was his clip to notice out… if he was able to jeopardise an guiltless scholar, then surely he belonged on Elise's side of meat of the war, on Voldemort's side.

'' No one wants it to come to that, and if everyone does exactly what they're supposed to then it won't. But I need soul who can do what is necessary should the occasion arise. '' She was studying him closely, obviously looking for sign of weakness.

'' If you can guarantee Lilah won't be able-bodied to direct my kids away, then I'm your man. '' He replied steadily. There were a lot of shady things in his past, some of them had been what finally pushed his wife away and forced her to seek sole-custody. He knew he'd do whatever it took to get what he wanted, and Elise knew it too… that's why after all these years, she'd come back to him. He could and would do this, and what's more, he felt like he'd enjoy it.

*****

Well, I guess that answers a lot. Harry said once they all cleared out of Erebos's head.

We're back. Jacey thought to Hermione. She saw that the girl was having trouble keeping up her bombardment of questions and wanted to insure her that she could stop.

Suddenly the classroom door swung undetermined and healer Sir Francis Drake entered with an apologetic smile. `` Sorry to disrupt. '' He said politely. `` I need to take over Mr. Macnair. He's wanted up in the headmaster's berth. ``

'' Go on Macnair. I told you that you weren't supposed to be here. '' Erebos crossed his arm and waited impatiently.

Jacey reluctantly got up, hearing Harry in her head telling her and Hermione that he and Luna were staying where they were until the course was over. She followed drake down the lobby, wondering what was going to fall out. `` I hope this is someway function of your program, because Dumbledore is really mad. '' He said as they walked.

'' In a sensory faculty. We want Tristram in as much trouble as possible. '' She answered, hoping she could stand firm the schoolmaster's anger. The healer left her at the gargoyle and she now had to face Dumbledore's ira alone.

But of course of study the sometime wizard knew how to verify his emotions and as she entered his office, she saw him regarding her with hardened optic while speaking in a tranquillize representative. `` Mr. Macnair. May I ask why you openly defied my order and went to class today ? ``

'' I got lonely. '' She shrugged, mimicking Tristan's nonchalant way of dealing with authority.

'' I see. '' He leaned forward and spoke softly. `` The Aurors have decided to take your case Mr. Macnair. They are applying for a warrant of arrest and as soon as it comes through I am to helping hand you over to them. Unfortunately, it may take a few mean solar day as we are still caught up looking for both Parvati Patil and Troy Mason. Until that time we are finally capable to rid ourselves of you, you are hereby confined to your dorm room. I suggest you use your last few days here to visualize out exactly what you're going to tell the motor hotel. You are dismissed. '' With a flourish, he disappeared, apparently not wanting to throw Tristram a chance to answer. She was left sitting alone in the agency, contemplating what life was going to be like once she was once more entirely free to be herself.

( breach )

Harry nervously waited for Hermione to exit the classroom, hating the thought of her being alone with mortal who wasn't quite for sure whether or not he was a psychopath. Luna was following to him and more than anything he wanted to accomplish out and take her hand, to feel the comfort she could impart him… but with so many students walking the halls, that was impossible. Not only had they both agreed it was best no one but their acquaintance knew about them, he was supposed to still be pretending to be with Hermione in an attempt to befool Erebos, Simon and anyone else who may think she was a little too close to Fred. `` Well ? '' He asked as soon as she emerged.

'' Nothing happened, it was an average class. I can't be sure as shooting, but I don't think he felt you guys in his straits. '' She quietly assured them.

He's coming. Luna warned them as she turned and walked away. Harry pulled Hermione to him, wrapping his arm around her shoulders just as Erebos came into the hallway.

'' Well, you were certainly speculative in class today fille Granger. '' He said, stopping to grin at them.

'' triton are coming up, I just want to be prepared. '' She answered quickly.

'' You know Hermione, always one to interview all. '' Harry said proudly, leaning in to buss her tabernacle as she pushed herself closer against him.

'' Too bad I could never interest you in the study Mr. ceramicist. I think I would give birth enjoyed having you in my class as well. '' He said with a tight smile. `` You seem to deliver so many talents, I'm sure you could just pluck the result to any test right out of my head. '' He added meaningfully.

Harry felt himself panic. `` I would never do something like that. It's cheating. '' He answered steadily, not wanting the professor to receive any establishment of his suspicions.

'' Come on, we have to go or we'll miss lunch and I'm starving. '' Hermione said, playfully taking his bridge player and pulling him along as if she didn't horse sense the sudden tension.

He quickly followed her, gripping her hand so tight he was afraid he would ruin it. `` You are definitely going to have to call for something to get you out of that year. '' He said as they walked toward the Great Hall.

'' What happened ? Is he the spy ? '' She asked, though it was clear the prof's behavior had already confirmed what she feared.

'' Yeah, to say the very least… we may not just be going to save Fred anymore. '' He answered. `` It seems that whether she knows it or not, Elanya has gotten herself just as trapped by Elise and Sarah as Fred. ``

( rift )

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked unceremoniously as soon as Elanya emerged from the tent.

'' And a sound dawn to you too ! '' She said happily. `` I see you've decided to arrive to your senses and public lecture to me. ``

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked again, having decided those were the only dustup he would let himself to say until he received a definite answer.

'' I don't see why you're in such a big hurry to get back… it seems your Quaker are already starting to block about you. '' She taunted.

He was funny, he wanted to ask what she meant… but he refused to take the decoy. `` When are we leaving ? '' He asked for the third time.

'' Don't you want to know what I've heard from my informant ? '' She asked coyly.

At this point, he was more concerned with how she'd heard from her reservoir and filed away in his mind that he needed to rule the chance to search for her communication device. `` When are we leaving ? '' He smiled to himself as he saw her lour. Apparently this could own the potential to get to her as much as his silence.

'' If you're concerned about getting back to Hermione farmer, I'd forget about it if I were you. '' She said cruelly. `` My source within Hogwarts has told me that he's witnessed several things to enjoin him that she and Harry Potter have mended their damp relationship. It seems she didn't quite appreciate you up and leaving her without a word of warning. ``

Fred held himself together, forcing himself not to oppose. He knew that Hermione knew Elanya had already planned to squeeze him away… he truly believed she was smart enough to put two and two together once she was ineffectual to reach him and figure out he'd been forced away sooner. But then… wouldn't she have done something to try and feel him ? He may hold stopped counting daytime after five, but he knew he'd been here for a long time… a few calendar week at least. Shouldn't someone have come looking for him ? Whether or not what she said was true, he was determined not to let Elanya know she had shaken him. He stared her rightfulness in the eye and grinned. `` When are we leaving ? ``

( BREAK )

Ron had spent four day successfully keeping his friends at bay. It seemed his words against them had worked and for near or worsened, they were leaving him to classify it out himself. Of course, they all probably had some big secret to rivet on and help preserve their minds off of him, but the longer he went, the harder it was for him to continue to hold the posture he had taken. After all, they still had each early and he was pretty much alone… just as he'd thought he wanted.

Not caring to sit by himself at dinner party yet again, he'd decided to drop his Th night in the library. He really did try to do preparation, but he just couldn't focussing and eventually found himself writing a letter to Parvati with the promise that Lupin could find a way to get it to her. He was three Thomas Nelson Page into explaining how sorry he was when mortal's shadow fell over him.

'' Here you are ! '' Seamus exclaimed, pulling out a death chair and sitting across from him. `` I've been looking for you all over, you know we have our inaugural plot Saturday, don't you ? ``

'' Yeah, I know. What is there to do until practice tomorrow ? ``

'' Practice tonight. '' He grinned. `` I got McGonagall to correspond to let us give a nighttime recitation so long as we had it wrapped up by ten. That only gives us three and a half hours ! Come on, I already told the team to receive us down there. ``

Ron looked down at his letter and sighed. Perhaps he did want a beguilement, something that was now entirely his as he was the only one of his close Quaker allowed to participate in quidditch in any way. `` Alright. assist me put these books back, Madame Pince had a fit the survive fourth dimension I was here and left them lying all over the seat. '' Shoving his own matter in his backpack, he and Seamus grabbed the few record book he'd taken out in hopes of completing his potions essay and went into the stacks to put them away.

'' Hey, do you hear that ? '' Seamus whispered suddenly.

Both boys stopped and listened. At stopping point Ron picked up on whatever Seamus had heard… a soft thumping and quiet moaning. peculiar, they followed the strait a little deeper into the course of shelf. Turning the corner they gasped in shock at who they saw and what they were doing. `` I'd have thought you'd have better taste Padma. '' Seamus teased.

She and Dean leapt apart, wiping their mouths and straightening their dress as they realized they'd been caught. `` He was helping me find something. '' She said defensively.

'' In your sass ? '' Ron laughed.

'' Shut up. '' Dean said angrily.

'' I've been under a lot of stress lately… '' Padma argued her case.

'' And he was just helping to lighten some of it ? '' Seamus asked innocently as a widely, malign grin spread across his fount. She rolled her heart and walked away in a huff.

'' Thanks jerks. '' Dean grumbled.

'' Aren't you supposed to be heading down to the quidditch pitch shot ? '' Ron took his routine to cod their friend. Shooting them each a begrime feel, James Dean brushed past them to go down to practice.

'' fountainhead, that was interesting. '' Seamus grinned.

'' Seeing his case get all red like that… it totally made my day. '' He agreed, smiling back.

They put away the books and hurried outside to the battleground. Ron felt lighter than he had in days and was surprised to incur that he could really enjoy himself with former admirer. Dean and Seamus and the whole Gryffindor team were his retail store, his way of continuing to fend off Harry, Hermione, Luna and Ginny. Once they left here, he would have to count on something else out, especially since his family was currently living in Harry's household for an undecided quantity of clip. But he still had a short over two week to think on it. In the interim, he was content to allow himself to enjoy the rare, completely worry-free moment he was experiencing.

( BREAK )

'' cum on, we're going to be late for social class ! '' Luna grabbed Ginny's arm and pulled her off the sofa, barely giving her sufficiency time to seize her Christian Bible before dragging her out of the common room where she and Draco had been lounging.

As soon as they were gone, Granger came and took Ginny's vacated spot. `` Here. '' She spread a map out in strawman of Dragon and pointed to a small-scale dot of an island. `` I finally found a map that shows Castellumshire. Somewhere within a one hundred kilometers is the island we think Fred is on. ``

'' And you want me to do what ? '' He asked, looking up at her. thrower was standing behind her and it was clear they had been waiting for Luna to get Ginny out of the room before approaching him. `` You said before that you guys can't sheet there even if you knew where it was. Isn't that the mystery of this island, that only certain people can find it ? ``

'' Only certain people can find it- by sea. '' ceramist argued.

'' We're intellection that if you can pinpoint it on a map, we can use the exposure in Charlie's book to apparate there. '' Granger added hopefully.

Realizing they were serious, he took the map and stood. `` Okay, I'll try. But I'd rather do this in secret if you don't mind. '' He strode past them to the Slytherin wing and down to his way. The concluding thing he wanted was the add up pressure level of thrower and husbandman watching him try and fail. He wished he had never offered to help, that he'd kept his oral fissure shut and stayed out of it… especially since it seemed whatever was going on, they were desperate that Ginny and Ron not get wind of it. But he had offered and they'd taken him up on it… now he had to actually attempt to scry, something he'd never actually done.

Spreading the map out on the bed, he wondered what he was supposed to do next. Of course he didn't have a pendulum, but remembering a time when Narcissa had lost hers, he still thought that maybe he could do this. Copying everything he'd seen his mother do, he pulled out a single strand of his hair… a piece of the quester. Now he needed a slice of the sought after. Taking Charlie's Book, he ripped out the picture of the Colorsplosions and made a mess through the scrap. Looping his hair through it, he let it swing in front end of him make for testing. With his nous, he focused on the theme moving itself north… he was truly surprise when it began to swing and at for the first time thought there must be a breeze. He quickly focused on moving the newspaper publisher to the east and nearly dropped it in shock when it froze in midair and instantly swung the way he'd asked. So it had worked. He was thrilled but knew he had to be careful not to become overconfident.

Looking down at the map he let the theme dangle over the picture of Castellumshire. `` Okay, time to really put you to the psychometric test. '' He said under his breath as he began focusing on narrowing down the search for the cryptic gateway islands.

The paper fluttered for a bit before swinging in a astray arch, making more and more exact circles until it stopped bushed, pointing directly at what appeared to be evacuate sea. He tried it three more clock time, always with the same result. You guy rope should come in and see this. He thought out to Potter, excited in spitefulness of himself that he may have just solved something that even Granger had been unable.

He opened the door just as they both were about to knock, hurrying them inside. Picking up his strand of hair, he once more prove what the paper pointed to on the map, confident enough in himself that he could do it with an audience. certain enough he got the Saami result and Granger rushed to circle the smear and save down the coordinates. `` And it's seems to be within one hundred kilometre. Thank you Dragon, well done ! '' She exclaimed, leaping up to hug him

He awkwardly patted her back before extricating himself. `` Think nothing of it. And if Ginny ever finds out what you are all up to, I had naught to do with it. ``

'' Agreed. '' ceramist grinned. And then suddenly his expression turned to one of anger.

'' Harry, are you okay ? '' Granger asked, having also witnessed the speed with which thrower's mood had changed.

'' I've got to go. '' He said quickly before racing from the room.

'' Harry ! '' Granger called after him, looking out the door as he dashed down the Charles Martin Hall. `` What do you think that was about ? '' She asked, once more turning to front Draco.

He shrugged. `` Only he knows at this peak. ``

'' I'd better go see if I can enamour up to him somehow… '' She paused and offered a smile. `` Thanks again Draco. You have no estimate how much you've just helped us. '' And then she was gone, off to tail down ceramicist. He briefly entertained the cerebration of going with, but he just as quickly dismissed it. Clearly whatever the situation was, it was one Potter either thought he could handle alone or wanted to address alone. If he'd thought he needed help, Draco didn't think he'd have hesitated to ask him. After all, they'd been finding it a lot more good to work together lately. Instead he lay back in his bed to wait for Ginny to be done with year, happily reflecting on his unexpected succeeder. If this was what it was like to have things go your way, then he was prepared to sit back and let it. But he would stay on prepared and ready should Lucius show his face again.

( breach )

Luna ensured Ginny made it to class before making up an excuse for why she wouldn't be joining her. Claiming a severe stomachache as they approached the Gargoyle, she'd blamed food for thought poisoning and urged the former female child to go on up. She'd told Ginny that she had a gravid herbal remedy back in her room and it was her own fault for not taking it when the symptoms had first begun to gift themselves.

Once alone in the residence hall, Luna straightened up and hoped she hadn't made her friend too worried about her. But she had no clip for course of study right now, she wanted to get back to the common way and obtain out whether Draco was able to settle the island. She moved quickly down the residence hall, not wanting anyone questioning why she wasn't where she was supposed to be. And then it suddenly struck her, the feeling of an oncoming vision. She quickly ducked through the nearest room access feeling completely disoriented. Before her eyesight blurred, she was able-bodied to produce out that she was in an vacuous classroom. Dropping to her knees, she crawled forward, feeling her way to the professor's desk and hiding herself behind it. She couldn't let anyone find her alone while having a vision, it was too easy for them to guide reward of her being so completely vulnerable. There were still far too many foe walking the mansion house to let one of them find her in a compromising situation in which she'd be unable to fight. The finale matter she wanted was to make it easy for them to hand her over to Voldemort.

Giving into the visual modality, she was surprised to find it was the same word of advice as before. Once again she and Harry were side by side in the gabardine room and she felt the like draw as Sarah, Elise and Elanya beckoned to them. And then again Harry was gone and she was recoiling in horror as Simon approached, reaching out to her. Only this time, the ending was different. She was frozen in property as Simon grew taller and taller before turning to stump down on his sis and her friends who were now the size of mice. He turned and grinned as a pocket billiards of parentage emerged from beneath his brake shoe and it was clear he had wanted her to watch. And then the room was spinning and once more than Simon Zelotes looked normal as he stood before her, reaching out to her as she shook in fearfulness. Now it was Elise, Sarah and Elanya who grew prominent, crushing Simon to Death beneath their feet. Harry was beside her again and the three char turned to beckon to them as if nil had happened. Instantly she felt drawn into them again and only then did she realize it wasn't her flavour it. It was Harry who was so willing to listen to what these awful women had to say while neither of them seemed to have interest in Marvin Neil Simon's message…

She shook her mind as she came back to herself already attempting to think this through. If she was being warned that Harry was willing to listen to something those girls had to say, then what was Simon going to do that made him release to them. Her head was spinning with possibleness and she suddenly wasn't indisputable what anything in the imaginativeness had been trying to tell her. She hated the white way, where aught was clear and everything was a puzzler. But this time the warning had definitely felt more acute and as her judgment switched completely back into awareness, a sharp sting of intuition stabbed at her. She felt for her baton in her pocket only to bring in she'd put it in her bag, which she'd dropped somewhere after she'd entered the classroom. She felt another someone in there with her and reaching out her mind, she sensed it was the very last someone in the world she wanted to find… Simon McKinney. She tried to remain as still as possible.

'' I know you're in here Luna. I saw you. '' He called. `` I just want the chance to babble out to you about a few things… why don't you come on out and we can get a nice, civil conversation ? '' She held her intimation and continued to persist still, hoping he somehow didn't know where exactly she was. `` Please ? This is the last time I'm going to ask nicely. '' He warned. Still she remained silent, praying he'd just go away. `` Alright then, looks like you're choosing the hard way. ``

Luna shrieked as she felt the desk roughly slide away from her, leaving her completely out in the open. She leapt to her invertebrate foot, not wanting to have to face him from the ground. He stood before her with a demented grin, brandishing his wand in one script while tauntingly dangling hers from the former. `` It seems you dropped something when you came in. '' He smirked.

'' How prissy of you to retrieve it… may I have it please ? '' She asked carefully, trying not to prove that she was scared of him.

'' No, I think it's better if I hold onto it for you while we talk. I'd hate for you to get induction felicitous and crap a misapprehension before hearing me out. '' He went and closed the threshold, ensuring he locked it both manually and magically.

Harry, I think I may demand some assistance here. Simon has me cornered in a classroom and he has my wand. She thought out quickly.

I'm on my way. He replied instantly, his part wickedness and grave. The hold up thing she wanted was Harry overreacting to this situation, but she wasn't sure she had another option… she was unarmed and unlike Harry and Jacey, her extra powers lent her no protection. `` So, what do you want to talk about ? '' She asked aloud, trying to keep her vocalization low and calm.

'' Quite a few things actually. Why don't you take a seat ? '' He waved his wand, bringing the professor's professorship up behind her so quickly that she stumbled back into it. `` Incarcerous ! '' He shouted as she grabbed the limb of the chairperson in an attack to skin to her feet. Before she knew what was happening, roofy appeared out of nowhere, binding her wrists and waist to the chair.

'' You can't do this, you'll get expelled. '' She tried to grounds with him. `` hitch whatever this is now and I won't report you. ``

'' I just want to take in sure you aren't going to run anywhere. '' He assured her, putting her wand in his air pocket and pulling up another death chair to sit in nominal head of her. `` You and I, we may be able to help each former. ``

'' I don't need any supporter from you. '' She argued, beginning to lose the calmness she'd been clinging to.

'' Maybe you don't see it yet. But you and Harry thrower both could benefit from listening to what I have to tell you. It might cook you both see things in a unanimous new light. '' Simon returned. `` I don't want to hurt you, I want to be your protagonist. ``

'' This isn't the Best way to urinate supporter. '' She pulled against the bindings but they were tied tight. Her wrist joint began to cut as she continued to shin, the skin becoming raw as it rubbed against the ropes… but she couldn't just generate up.

'' And I apologize for the inconvenience. '' He laughed, pulling out his trusty flask and taking a draught. `` But like I said, I want to get indisputable you really mind to what I have to tell you without you making the misunderstanding of cursing me first. ``

'' okey, well… you have my sceptre and my undivided attention. What do have to tell me ? '' She wanted to cry in foiling as she felt the Mexican valium on her get out wrist loosen slightly. She continued to struggle, trying not to drag focus to the fact that she was making progress.

'' But it's not just your attention that I need. ``

'' Meaning what ? ``

He stood and came towards her. `` Hmm, looks like you're getting loose there. '' He reached to fix the rophy and she desperately kicked at him, trying to keep him away as she attempted to rick her left wrist innocent. She could find her skin scraping against the roughly grain but she ignored it, continuing to struggle him off as she tried to free herself.

He finally gave up struggling with her and took a few pace back, waving his baton to tie her legs to the death chair as well so that he could approach her without being kicked. Fixing the roofy on her arm, he sat back in his professorship and let out a mysterious breathing spell. `` Whew. You know, you're making this intemperate than it has to be. I'm not trying to suffer you, you know. You very much need to hear what I have to separate you. ``

'' So say it already ! '' She shouted angrily.

'' I will. '' He grinned and took another gulp from his flask. `` I'm just waiting for Harry to get here. I figured I'd lecture to you first but after the way you acted in Hogsmeade and how you are right now, it's clear that you aren't quite as level-headed as I thought. And knowing that him and Hermione are a farce, I figured you'd be the best hook to keep him listening without bashing my brains in for confining you here. You did shout out for him to help, didn't you ? ``

'' No. '' She said quickly.

'' Hmm, well I think you're prevarication. '' He got up and turned to look the door as the knob began jiggling furiously. Simon lifted his wand in training, turning to look at her over his shoulder joint. `` If fact, this must be him now. ``

Harry, he's waiting for you ! She tried to admonish him as Herbert Alexander Simon moved to unlock the threshold. But she wasn't sure she was in time as she quickly turned her typeface away to avoid the shower of Sir Henry Joseph Wood, brick and plaster that came flying forward as Harry forced his way through, too raring to wait for the door to be opened.

( BREAK )

Hermione couldn't find Harry anywhere. He'd run off so quickly that she'd lost him before she'd even begun to contribute pursuit. Hoping he would call if he needed supporter, she returned to her elbow room and once more than spread out the map. Looking at the spot they'd marked as the island, she decided now was as in effect a time as any to try her new abilities with astral projection. She wanted to be capable to see Fred, even if she wasn't yet strong enough for him to see her vertebral column or for them to verbalize to each other.

Forcibly clearing her mind, she focused on the photos in Charlie's book… imagining herself on the island, on the beach, next to Fred. Closing her eyes, she began to feel weightless. Letting go of everything holding her down, she felt herself come gratis from her body and shoot through time and quad. When she opened her heart again, she was under the undimmed sun and had to squinch to make anything out. That was when she noticed she was transparent, as she was able to take in the landscape painting through her arm. It was disconcerting, but the sight beyond herself made her agnise that she had done it. She was far from Hogwarts and on an island… or at to the lowest degree her awareness was.

'' Great. Now I'm seeing mirages. '' She heard somebody mutter behind her. Whipping around she cried out in relief, running towards Fred until she remembered that she wasn't able to touch him. `` Fred ! It's really me ! I'm really here, sort of. '' She said happily, stopping just in front of him.

'' A talking mirage ? '' He smiled, still not quite for certain what he was seeing.

She rolled her eyes. `` No imbecile, it's really me. I'd reach out and touch you but I'm not sure how yet. ``

'' I don't understand… How is this possible ? '' He nervously glanced over his shoulder joint. `` Is it really you ? '' He whispered.

'' I promise. '' She assured him. `` I'm just sorry it took so long. But we know where you are now and we have a design to come get you… tomorrow. Can you make it one more day ? ``

He shook his head. `` I can't leave- ''

'' Yes you can, we've figured it all out ! '' She said happily wanting to explain as quickly as potential. `` I knew Elanya must deliver made you leave early and Luna forced herself to cause a vision. genus Draco scryed and now we can come get you ! You don't have to interest about the spy, we know who it is… professor Erebos. And in Luna's visual sensation, she saw what Sarah planned for me, so I learned all about astral projection to protect myself. Lee and Willem made indisputable there was absolutely zero to tie you to Edmund… there's nothing for you to worry about anymore. ``

Fred hesitantly reached out, but his hired hand went right through her. He shook his head. `` I don't know. It can't be that easy. ``

'' It's not… Elanya may be just as much a victim of the early girls'treachery as you are. She thinks she's their equal but Harry, Luna and Jacey went in Erebos's head and found the truth. Either way it doesn't matter. We're coming for you tomorrow. She can stay and rot for all I care. ``

'' Fred ! '' They head Elanya call off in the distance.

'' You have to go, she can't see you here… if you're really here. '' He grinned, obviously trying to put her at rest. But she saw the discomfort he tried to hide and wanted to deal him with her right that moment. instead than go forth completely, she glided over to the tree diagram to watch.

'' Here you are. I thought I heard vox. '' Elanya exclaimed, looking exotic with her untamed whisker, recondite tan and flowing strapless dress.

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked.

'' So what, you were here talking to yourself ? You'd rather public lecture to no one than me ? '' She asked indignantly.

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked again, clearly ignoring everything the daughter had to say.

'' You know, we're supposed to be using this time to get to cognise each other… you're self-will is really starting to pee me off. '' She glared at him, clearly having reached the end of her rope. `` I didn't want to cause to resort to threats again, I was so hoping this would be a pleasant stay. But you better say something when I'm done talking and it had better be something other than `` When are we leaving '' or I swear everyone you care for will stomach for the exacerbation you're causing me. ``

Fred looked uncertain, clearly wanting to continue pushing her clit. Plus if he chose to believe his own heart and ears, Hermione had just told him that everyone he cared about was condom. `` How long will we be staying here ? '' He asked at last, unable to hold back back his grin as he challenged her. Hermione could understand the brainsick amusement he was getting out of this… after all, she probably would ingest lost her nous had she been trapped for weeks on an island.

'' You really want to push me Fred ? '' Elanya asked threateningly.

He sighed and shook his head. `` I had wondered how recollective it would fill for you to show your true colors. I mean you get a minuscule annoyed and aright away you're back to threatening clean-handed bystanders. ``

'' It seems the best way to get what I want. '' She grinned triumphantly as he at last broke the semi-silence he seemed to give been keeping.

Hermione felt a strong tug and knew her body was calling her book binding. She'd been gone too long and as much as she wanted to say arrivederci to Fred, she knew she couldn't hold on any longsighted. Against her will she was whipped back, her entire torso bouncing as she reentered it. Opening her eyes, she adjusted to the spirit of being substantial once more. She felt dizzy, her oral sex injury and her stomach was growling in hunger. She felt she'd just walked for day without stopping to rest or eat, she was exhausted and every division of her was sore.

Taking a moment to relax, she collected herself before carefully rising from her bed. Looking at the clock, she saw that she'd come back just in time for tiffin and feeling deep hungriness pains, she rushed down to the Great Hall hoping Harry and Luna were there so she could tell them what she'd just done. But as she entered the room, she realized at once that something was incorrectly. Only Hagrid and Charlie remained at the top dog table to chaperon the scholarly person'meal while her schoolmate all talked excitedly to themselves, some of them looking at her and raising a paw to whisper with more fire. Taking a tush across from Ginny and Draco she looked at them inquisitively. `` What's going on ? ``

'' No one knows for sure… but hearsay is, thrower severely damaged a classroom before disappearing with Luna and Simon McKinney. '' Draco replied, looking more than a little worried.

'' What ? What do entail they disappeared ? '' She demanded.

He shrugged and Ginny took up the narrative. `` All anyone seems to make love is that there was a loud dissonance and when the Ravenclaw prefect went to look into she saw Harry standing in the classroom with Simon the Canaanite while Luna sat in a chair in the back. She didn't get too good a facial expression because suddenly the two male child started dueling and she went to get assistance. By the time they came back, everyone was gone. ``

'' It seems Tristan has disappeared as well. '' Dragon added. `` The Aurors came to arrest him and he was just gone. I hope wherever thrower and Luna are, Jacey is with them. ``

'' Me too. '' Hermione replied distractedly. They'd just found Fred and now they were missing three coven extremity. Whatever was going on, it clearly wasn't good.

( BREAK )

Dumbledore had shown up unexpectedly at Tristram's threshold to a lesser extent than an hour ago to make it known that the Aurors had finally secured their catch countenance and would be around shortly to take the lamia into detention. Jacey listened as she was warned as Tristan not to run, since charms had been placed around the shoal meant to detect the lamia hominoid metal money specifically. She had not let herself panic… she, Harry and Luna had planned for this. Having discovered that not only were they capable of apparating within the barrier but also that the Aurors could not trace them, it had been decided that when it was time she would apparate to the Shrieking shack. She would let the potion wear off and then remain there until it was time to go to London. Having grabbed the few things she owned, she had concentrated hard as Luna had taught her. And then she had felt a clout and when she opened her eyes again she was in the sitting room of the shrieking Shack.

Now looking around at the depressing décor, Jacey thought the office in desperate need of a sprucing up. She wondered if the Aurors had come yet and whether anyone realized Tristan was gone. Flopping down on the couch with a sigh, she silently called out to Harry, letting him know that she had fled Hogwarts and wondering whether she was too far for him to hear.

We're on our way to you and we need some help. Was his panicked reply.

She sat up in alarm. Apparently Hogwarts was still very much within their range. What do you want me to do ?

Hide. Then when you find the opportunity, help us however you can. He simply replied.

( falling out )

Harry stalked his way quickly through the manse, focusing in on Luna's vitality to manoeuvre him to where she was. Ignoring the few students down the hall from him, he desperately tried to turn the grip of the classroom door. It wouldn't John Donald Budge. He knew this was the right wing place, that she was behind that doorway and he certainly wasn't going to let a stunned piece of woodwind instrument bandstand in his way. Taking a step back, he focused his major power, rolling it around in his mind before pushing outward. He watched the door crook against the personnel and pushed harder. Harry, he's waiting for you ! Luna tried to monish him just as the Natalie Wood shattered inward, exploding off it'hinges and taking parts of the wall with it. Ignoring the screech from down the hall, he raised his wand and entered the classroom

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Simon Zelotes shouted, forcing Harry to shield right away. But he'd heard Luna's warning and had been prepared. Herbert Alexander Simon fired enchantment after spell at him while he focused on his shield and waited for the right moment. Pushing his mind out, he grabbed clasp of the other boy and whipped him back against the bulwark. Stepping through the rubble, Harry waved his wand in an try to hold fast St. Simon in place, but he quickly shielded as he rolled to his understructure and ducked behind the chair Harry now realized Luna was tied to. `` I just want to let the cat out of the bag ! '' Simon called as he crouched behind Luna, tightly clutching her so that he wouldn't use his head to fuddle him around again.

'' You have a comical way of showing it. '' Harry replied angrily. Are you okay ? He thought out to Luna who was even now still attempting to pull herself free.

Yeah. He hasn't done anything other than not let me leave… he keeps saying there's something he needs to differentiate us. She replied, her vocalisation carrying more wrath and rarity than reverence now.

'' I know what you both think of me now that you know I'm related to Elise ! '' Simon reasoned, poking his head out over Luna's articulatio humeri. `` I knew you wouldn't just sit down and blab to me, that you'd have no interestingness in what I have to say. But like I told her, we can help each other Harry. ``

'' So help out now by untying her. '' He carefully replied, keeping his wand up in display case the boy decided to restart their duel.

'' I can't do that until I'm sure you aren't going to ache me. ``

Harry, I'm at the Shrieking Shack. The Aurors were coming for Tristan so I followed through on our design. Jacey's voice entered his chief unexpectedly. Hearing stride running down the student residence, Harry made a fast decision.

We're on our way to you and we need some help. He told Jacey in a panic.

What do you want me to do ? She answered instantly.

Hide. Then when you find the chance, help us however you can. He said before turning his attention back to Simon. `` Well, we can't talk here… mass are coming to see what's going on. Shall we go somewhere more private ? '' He asked quickly.

'' Like where ? ``

'' tactual sensation my shoulder and I'll bring you there. '' Luna told him, having picked up on Harry's plan. Now able to hear multitude shouting in the hall, Simon was forced to trust them and reached out to grab her shoulder. Together Harry and Luna apparated away, only to get in the apparently empty Shrieking hut. To his disappointment, the death chair and rope had come as well, leaving her bound as Simon's man shield.

'' This is all so unneeded. '' Harry angrily told the former boy. `` I don't know what sort of people you grew up around, but if you had come to us and asked to talk, we would have heard you out… you didn't need to play tricks us into it. ``

'' That's doubtful considering I've overheard Luna talking to Hermione about the visual sensation she's had of me. '' Paul Simon returned before moving his tending to Luna in true mental confusion. `` I have no thought why you see me as an enemy in those vision, but I assure you I'm not. ``

'' And holding me against my will is the way to prove it ? '' She asked gently, far more in control of herself than Harry was. He saw that she was thinking one of them needed to remain becalm and he felt shamefaced that it had fallen to her when she was the one currently tied up with blood line trickling from her wrists where the circle had cut into her skin. He caught mass of Jacey as she slowly crept in from the hall.

Herbert Alexander Simon looked at Luna for a moment before nodding to himself. `` It had to be that way, it's the lonesome way to get anyone's attention… with a big gesture. That's what my forefather always said, before he was killed. And it's certainly worked for Elise. ``

'' We aren't like the people you know. We're willing to listen. We'll pay care to you. '' Luna practically cooed as she softly reasoned with him. Clearly she'd caught onto something in the boy's head that wasn't yet straighten out to Harry.

Herb Simon stood and took a few steps to the side, unsure whether he felt the situation was enough in his ascendance to actually let her go. Harry wasn't going to give him the opportunity to make the improper alternative. He silently gave Jacey the sign and she stepped out, drawing Marvin Neil Simon's attention as balls of fire erupted from her hand. He threw up a carapace as she flung the start fireball at him before attempting to hit her back with a body of water tour. Taking advantage of the boy's distraction, Harry quickly waved his scepter to unmake the R-2 and lunged forward, grabbing Luna's paw and pulling her out of the way just as the chair burst into flames. Neil Simon fell back on the sofa as he stumbled away from the sudden flair, not wanting to get burned.

Harry whipped around and instantly shot a book binding enchantment, ensuring the other boy wouldn't motility. Leaping to his feet, he made his way over to the couch. Jacey extinguished her fire, waving her baton to put out the bite of the planetary house that had caught on blast. `` Come on Simon the Canaanite, time to endorse to Hogwarts and face the music. '' Harry insisted.

'' No ! '' Luna came over and placed a blood-soaked hand on his arm, forcing him to take down his wand. `` I want to hear what he has to say. ``



NOTE : Okay then, next chapter we find out what Simon has to say and the clew finally lead us to rescuing Fred.


Chapter 54 : Who to conceive ?

A/N : Sorry for the delay in getting this out, I had an stroke with my flash thrust and everything on it was deleted including the first draft of this chapter. But thing are on lead now, so getting back in the lilt of things, a rewrite of the chapter from the beginning… Read, followup and enjoy !





After taking Simon's wand and returning Luna's to her, Harry left the boy magically bound on the couch with Jacey to watch over him. Allowing him to gently tear her down the mansion house to the dusty lavatory, Luna perched on the border of the deep Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the midget cabinets. At go he came up with an antediluvian first aid kit, pulling out gauze and tape before reaching out to plough the faucet on the sink. They were both surprised when water actually came sputtering out, a rusty color at first that quickly turned refreshingly percipient. 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 funk or let on that the cuts stung like crazy. After all, she was the one who let her panic overwhelm her to the point where she'd struggled so violently against the roach. Simon Zelotes hadn't seemed at all intent on injuring her, she could have just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to bump rather than oppose her bandaging to the point where she cut into her peel. It was her own fault she'd gotten distress at all.

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

fountainhead, let's go see what he so badly wanted to assure us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her finger's breadth through his hair in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to steady down and agnize the need to fight was over, to take an open mind and really mind to what Simon had to say. Her vision was becoming clearer to her now that she been able to abstract a few peek into the boy's judgment. He was out to betray his sis before she could tell on him and apparently the victor of their lilliputian sibling 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 whole story and Simon seemed volition to provide it.

Together they walked back into the sitting room and Luna was relieved to retrieve that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Simon was alarmed by the fact that a strange girl 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 Apocalypse you have to share with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the dressing spell ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Herbert Alexander Simon pleaded.

'' Your intelligence doesn't mean much to me at the moment. '' Harry returned, refusing to release the spell.

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

'' Just tell us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting next to Harry and locking her regard on Simon the Zealot. She pushed the feelings she wanted to visualize outward and watched as both boys visibly relaxed, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the but one aware of this little extra might of hers. She just wished she had better restraint of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the hell you were thinking when you decided taking us surety was the best way to make your point. '' Harry crossed his arms, refusing to be lulled into calmness and shaking off the core she was trying to spread around the room.

'' Big motion are the only when way to get people to hear. '' Simon said quietly repeated himself from other. `` Like I said, that philosophy worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these years. I wasn't going to hurt either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to keep you listening rather than attacking me… I guess I figured that if you saw how sober I was you would believe me. I was going to let you into the classroom, but you let yourself in first. '' He looked at Harry almost accusingly, clearly implying that he blamed Harry's rashness for so many thing going wrong.

'' What did you really have a bun in the oven me to do when you go around tying people up ? '' He returned angrily. Luna reached out and grabbed his arm to continue him from leaping to his foundation in indignation… she knew they all had to stay rational and sort through this, it was important.

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

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

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

Simon slowly nodded. `` Yeah, I guess you're right… I do live that about you. And so does Elise, which is why she had to be after so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to figure it out… so that you would search his capitulum and find the memory 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 careful to hold open you and other visitors a secret from those professor he doesn't trust. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no idea about you though they'd very much like to discover out. ``

'' You don't need to concern about her or who she is. '' Harry said, noting to Luna and Jacey that they had to be heedful not to say her public figure in front of the boy. `` Just tell us why you've apparently decided to sprain on your sister. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's life. '' Simon the Zealot looked down sadly. `` I was LE than a year old when our parents were killed… even after Voldemort was gone they, like so many others, refused to stop scrap and were cornered. Rather than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to kill them. Elise was xvi at the clock time and the only when bread and butter family I had. Rather than take care of me, she decided to dump me at the orphanage, but she would at least come visit every year on my birthday. When I was ten she came back for me, set to need her seat as my protector. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to schoolhouse and she was hoping to mold me into someone she could use to start up setting up her program. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to total back and that his followers were doing everything in their power to make it happen. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would micturate her own place in the Earth. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our syndicate, she was livid. But then she figured Hufflepuff was better as no one would suspect me there. For long time I did everything she asked me to do because she threatened to go out 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 nothing she asked of me made any sense… not until this year. ``

Simon Zelotes shook his brain and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a varsity letter the go hebdomad of shoal this past summertime from Elise telling me we would be departing for Australia the minute of arc I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the caravan station so I went home and offend up overhearing a meeting between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the Dark Jehovah 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 prove more utilitarian to them dead. I didn't know what to do, I was more panic-stricken of my baby in that second than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarier, the sword or the good hand wielding it ? And she knows how to wreak him very well. So I went with her to Australia and I continued to come her orders hoping she would vary her mind. But she didn't because a few days before I was supposed to fall back to school I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to kill me while I'm home for the holiday interruption and hold it reckon like someone else did it. My own sister was going to stamp out me and use my corpse to start a fighting. 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 citizenry involved in this wholly scheme would believe the long idiotic history I have to enjoin ? So the only matter I could do was give away her to the people she was trying to overcome… I chose you guys over Voldemort. Maybe Dumbledore was right about the sorting hat always knowing where hoi polloi are supposed to go… maybe I'm a good guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the salutary means of survival, I have no idea either way. I may not the happiest someone in the world, but I'm not set up to die either. So I'll tell you whatever you want to be intimate about her and her plans. ``

'' 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 interrogative in terms of Fred's fate. She was trying not to sympathize with Simon, but he seemed to have gotten stuck with a pretty miserable life… but still, there was something about him she found unsettle and so that allowed her to keep some kind of an emotional detachment.

He nodded and offered a grin. `` You wouldn't believe how farseeing Elise has been plotting. A long spell ago, after your group and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the confusion and looked up the files on every major player on either side. Using that selective information, she was capable to figure out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your friends and Voldemort's allies would react in any situation. Originally we went to Australia this summer to retrieve a guy named Adam who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a footling pub where he liked to write his clause 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 female child met it was the likes of fate had brought them together. She fit in perfectly and Elise instructed her on how to handle Erebos who arrived at the hotel later that day. I guess it didn't matter whether it was Elanya or that Adam guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's part in all of this… but clearly a young pretty lady friend would bring in 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 cogitate she'd been set up and blackmailed the same way they'd done it to your champion Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob story so that he'll take her side and help peach you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a mole, to learn all the arcanum about you that they didn't already experience. And then Elanya was supposed to begin causing discord among you all to weaken you and fix it more likely that you and Harry will abandon 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 US Army of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his voice heavy with doubt as he tried to enshroud the fact that they were doing something very similar with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's repugnance at finding out how stopping point Elise had been to getting her mitt on X, another coven member. She knew it was essential that they leave as soon as possible to begin approaching people themselves, before they could be scooped up by someone else.

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

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

Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can become whatever she has to be in social club to convince someone of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been able-bodied to dissipate Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to defy them ? ``

'' They won't have a fortune. We're going to carry through him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a detention of his arm and she could feel him become even tenser as he felt more things were growing beyond his control.

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

( suspension )

Fred had skipped out on lunch and intended to take the air the beach until well after dark in hopes 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 real anymore. But whether he'd seen her in his mind or in real life story, one thing had become clear… he couldn't stay here anymore. No matter what, this was going to be his finish night on the island. Should Hermione's comportment prove to be a delusion and no one came for him, then he would find his own way out and go to her. He knew he couldn't apparate, he'd already tried and discovered that like Castellumshire, the Gateway Islands also carried anti-apparation charms and the simply people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A delicious flavor wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling abdomen to interrupt his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was able to determine that while it was well by tiffin, it was still too betimes for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped repast that day and cooked such great smelling food for a cause. He was tempted to go into the piddle to catch a fish to fry just to upset her plans but decided he was being ridiculous. He knew Elanya was trying to tempt him back to the campsite, but just because he went didn't mean he was letting her win. They both knew he was Sir Thomas More than capable of providing for himself, but at the minute he was too hungry to look long enough to trip up and cook his own repast. Besides, he'd just decided that no issue what, this was his terminal night here… what could it anguish to drop some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then allow for again.

Arriving at the cantonment he saw that neither the nutrient nor Elanya were outside. With a heavy suspiration, he opened the flap of the ordinary looking collapsible shelter and entered the impossibly spacious glamour of the inside. `` Well, I guess it's true what they say… the fastest way to a man's heart is through his tum. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the scrumptious spread 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 pack his denture. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by molly to be completely rude. They ate in silence and he could feel her becoming irritate, it only made him more comfortable.

'' wellspring, I've decided that in the interest of continuing a civilized conversation we will play a game of sorts. '' She announced after a scant while.

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

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

'' Who says I want to ? ``

She smiled, ignoring his position. `` I'm going to let you ask me whatever you want about anything and I promise to tell you the Sojourner Truth. ``

'' And I'm supposed to believe you ? '' He raised an eyebrow. `` Exactly which one of us do you intend 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 veridical from reaching you. '' She replied steadily. `` Come on, I know you're curious…. ``

And he was. There were quite a few things he'd like her to sack up for him, but how could he trust anything she said ? The only way was to try out her by throwing in questions he already knew the answer to. `` Okay, I'll run your piddling secret plan. But if I think you're lying to me, I'll just go resume my solitary walk. ``

'' Fair enough. '' She rested her Kuki-Chin on her hand and stared at him expectantly, wearing a unfeigned smile that reached all the way to her golden eyes. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the thing that was most on his idea and so the doubtfulness 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 sorrowfulness overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both prisoners right now, so why not realise our John Cage the respectable it can be- a beautiful island heaven ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her answer in society to manipulate his future question. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to babble about and was in the process of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was curious, but he forced himself to recollect that he knew what she was doing.

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

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

Elanya sighed and shook her heading. `` I've always considered myself to be pretty clever… I'm sure you used to conceive the same about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the terminal few months with the grand dodge they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The dispute being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her endeavour to get him to empathize with her.

'' Only because I had no choice ! '' She protested. `` When they told me that I had to subscribe you away while they set up things in John Griffith Chaney 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 aid they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his dental 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 test her silver dollar. `` And what did you imagine you had already done to repay them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to separate him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her idea in the first place. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a retentive chronicle together and bringing him into things had always been a share of her design. They set it up so that he and I would run into each other… I had thought I was being so thrifty, 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 brief visit hadn't been some sort of delusional mirage.

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

He made sure to show an appropriate amount of surprise, letting his optic widen and his jaw drop slightly as if this was the first metre 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 link us but it was all part of their architectural plan to trap me. ``

'' And why would they go through such elaborate measures ? '' Fred was almost sure she was telling the truth so far… Hermione had certainly indicated that Elanya may be in trouble and now the girl was confirming it. He just didn't know why she was telling him all of this, but he may as well use the situation to his advantage and larn as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can hold their own home in this war and that if they have the right kind of people on their side they'll be able to take on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her head angrily. `` I was appalled to learn that Voldemort's idea to pull together a psychical army was actually Elise's brainchild. It was how she got him to serve her find Sarah. But they planned to make ally of the people he gathered, to get them to work towards taking over completely. ``

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

She nodded. `` And Harry Potter too. At low Elise and Sarah didn't forethought who lived or died in conflict while they quietly plotted their own rebellion. But when Harry started showing his electric potential and they learned Luna Lovegood was a vaticinator, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your workshop in Diagon alley during the summer. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely interested. He'd been wondering for a long time the existent grounds Elise had targeted his store. `` What do you mean ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a aspect of remorse settled over her. `` Voldemort had a seer named Jasper, he was old and not as good as Luna seems to be. But that didn't matter to Elise, he was all she had and so she'd already convinced him to give his ultimate trueness to her over Voldemort. He told her that he'd had a vision 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 face, working with Sarah specifically since they plowshare the Saame power… of course, she'd only just found Sarah at that time. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your shop of fire, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be various Aurors in the expanse. After all, the minister would be sure to react in full force out to a report of fire-raising at his son's storehouse. ``

He took a steadying breath, trying to wait on the bright incline as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon Alley alone that day to face Voldemort, his Death feeder and the Dementors, there's no way he could have got survived. At least Elise's destruction had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd much rather have his shop ruined than his supporter 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 last. Of trend he hadn't read anything about it, but he recalled Hermione telling him about it during one of their mystical conversations.

'' There was zippo mysterious about it. Jasper made the same mistake I did by thinking he was an equal in their program. I guess he was scared enough to desire to tell someone about his sight, but he chose the wrong hoi polloi. He saw his own death 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 reach him from beyond for data. He thought it was Voldemort that was going to end his animation so he went to Elise who saw her opportunity. Sarah may not sustain a wand, but she has mastered many other skills, first and foremost her astral projection. They decided to kill him so that she could merge with his consciousness and send herself in his place when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must accept seen something and stopped her admirer from using the anchor ring. It only made them require her on their position more, especially since they'd so hastily set out rid of Jasper. ``

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

'' I don't really know. '' She smiled, crossing her arms 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 a good deal a dupe of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd goody me better while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a victim. '' He stated firmly, once more determined to keep on himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the best way to force 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 mixture of pity, regret and wrath settle over her features. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

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

'' You think I haven't tried before ? ! '' She yelled as she leapt to her understructure and began pacing in agitation. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the only when one who wanted him dead and he made indisputable that it was nearly impossible to get to him. I was scared to use my lawful identity as his daughter to strain out to him… I knew that my mother had sent me away and died trying to protect me because he wanted to use me, to hand me over to Voldemort in a never-ending seeking to gather 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 entirely affair to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed mortal strong backing me up in case something went wrongfulness. ``

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

'' It was only after the deed of conveyance was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become jealous of the attention Voldemort was giving the girls and so he was doing his topper to undermine them. They figured there was too good a luck he'd material body out some contribution 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 nan had just died and I'd just gone back there to pass her finally few years with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the chance to do the matter I'd been wanting for days. ``

Fred had been careful during the whole conversation, wanting to pick up on any signboard of dishonesty. For the first time he found one… her interpreter had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her gathering fervour as she recalled these events, but he had the nagging intuitive feeling that things hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it weigh how she and Elise came to join forces ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these doubtfulness and expect any kind of response. His sole hope was to go on and trust he could piece it all together himself. `` Do you regret killing your begetter ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to reckon him straight in the eye. `` Not for a unmarried present moment. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more affected role and found a way to do it by myself. When I tried to gage out of this entirely thing, when I told them I didn't want to be a section of kidnapping you… Elise made it very clear that despite the false evidence I left at the shot, she could very easily tie me to my father's death. I have no doubt that she would send me to Azkaban without a bit persuasion. So I had to choose, a jail cell locked away with the giants or stranded on an island with you. I took the dependable fathom punishment. ``

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

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could take found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The significant matter to note here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or someone else, you would deliver always wound up on this island. '' She seemed scotch. 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 take into account himself to be like all the other people she'd been able to wrap around her finger, he'd always been determined to be firm than that from the low gear bit she'd walked into his shop class. `` You're probably right… We'll never know though will we ? ``

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

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

Elanya smiled. It was a dense coyly surefooted smile 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 role of the deal. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to incline on the bound of the table in front of him. `` You know, there's only two reason you won't answer. Either you do hate me but you're too practically of a valet de chambre to say it… though we both know that you're to a greater extent than willing to say 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 take it for some mysterious reasonableness. ``

He leaned back in his chairman and crossed his arms as he regarded her with false confidence. `` Or I've simply decided it's honest not to go through life hating anyone. Of course of action, I could always pretend an exception if you'd care to crowd the issue. ``

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

'' Many times over. '' He grinned easily, once more enjoying that he'd managed to sashay her feathers by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a paseo. '' She announced, standing up and taking a bass breathing time. `` I cooked, you can scavenge. '' She added before leaving the tent.

Fred looked around feeling completely off guard. She'd never left him alone in the tent before, which had only led him to believe that she had thing to enshroud from him here. But clearly her defeat with his lack of gullibility had caused an supervision on her behalf and he knew he needed to take advantage of it. He raced to her room, pulling back the tizzy that separated the space from the ease of the tent and taking a perfunctory look around before carefully proceeding to go through everything. Ensuring he returned things to the way he'd found them, he went through all of her clobber hoping to come across a communication device of some kind… or even better, his scepter. After a long and thorough hunt, he came up with neither.

( breaking )

Harry stared at Marvin Neil Simon, trying to determine exactly what he thought of the early boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extreme point the guy had gone through in guild to have a mere conversation. But then, had Simon the Canaanite been right ? Would they have got listened had he simply approached them and asked to talk ? He shook himself out of his thoughts, refusing to let his anger and discombobulation make him do anything stupid. `` How do we know that having you tell us all of this isn't part of the program ? '' He asked. After all, if Elise had gone through so much, then why wouldn't she go even a step further and send out in the clown ? Surely she didn't expect them to take Simon seriously even if they did know he thought he was telling the truth… or at to the lowest degree the truth 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 drink down me. But has she somehow directed things so that I would amount public lecture to you, I just don't know… anything is possible with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's unharmed plan is to tuck as many psychics as she can and then fight both sides of the war, hoping to come in out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far Sir Thomas More ascendency over herself than Harry could handle. But he tried to remain calm, to remember that they needed to have intercourse 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 malaise at what she was hearing.

'' It's part of her plan. '' Simon seemed a bit uncertain for the first prison term since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be able to at to the lowest degree stop her doing me in. And yes, I really think 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 adept seer than that old man ever was, you've already helped thwart hers and Sarah's plans a few prison term. She was trying to help Voldemort seizure you, though she had no intent of handing you over… she wants to win over 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 ample powerhouse between them. She lifted it over her head and brought it down, engulfing her entire body in flame as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more potent. '' She laughed, extinguishing herself and leaving no indication that anything out of the average 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. `` Someone should be. They already knew Harry was stronger than Sarah, that's why they had to relieve oneself sure he lost his powers before they tried to spill to him. ``

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

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to work for them long before then. '' Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some determination was going to lead you to the prison and right in front of Cho, but it was Elise who made the Dark Jehovah guess it was his idea to use Sarah's talents to try and carry you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to kill you, that you were going to get help in clip to salvage your life but not your power. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly defeat us at my auntie and uncle's house. '' Harry replied, hiding the shadow hurting he felt in his hand and leg where he'd been stabbed all those calendar month ago. Glancing at Luna out of the corner of his eye, he remembered her face covered in rake after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to restrain 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 lonesome problem Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the cleaning lady is more than a fiddling mad. She was only supposed to torture you, it was your muggle family she was supposed to wipe out in front of you… on Voldemort's orders, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those people she was forced to live with growing up and she came to resent you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as frail than her and so she alone decided in that minute that she didn't want you to join them. At least, 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 receive it for deviating from the plan 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 halo became her main priority above all else, including her refuge as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to capture her for a short sentence as well as get your tycoon back, she no longer thinks you're weak. ``

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

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

But Simon stared back at her in surprise, allowing them to instantly 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 questions. '' Jacey said with authority.

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

He sighed and nodded. `` Well, she's plotting with Sarah only. But whatever plan those two had going, it was in place farseeing before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to peach Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the female child would be valuable again once they broke her out of Azkaban. My guess is that if they manage to get Cho out, Elise will rule the opportunity to get rid of her as soon as possible. Just because she and Sarah are closemouthed confidants doesn't mean they wouldn't betray each other in a back if it meant furthering their own agendum. dedication means nothing to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the trance holding him in place. `` will you let me go now ? Please ? '' He pleaded.

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

'' Fine. '' He waved his scepter and released the other boy from the binding.

Herbert A. Simon leapt to his feet to quickly debase before eagerly reaching into his sac and pulling out his flask from which he took a foresighted gulp. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his sass with his sleeve. After another gulping he seemed less wobbly 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 well-heeled smile.

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

'' Yeah, this is all my fault. '' Harry rolled his eyes. `` hardly keep back 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 second behind them. They were trusted to arrive behind Hagrid's hut where the chances of being seen were very slim.

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

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

She nodded and led the way through the Hall to the headmaster's post. `` Just so you're cognizant, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you left over school day grounds. '' She warned them. Sharing a flavour with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the pile of a good pupil would soften the old wiz's mood. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in Miss Granger 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 steps. Dumbledore gestured to the three chairs in presence 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 think you were doing damaging the school day like that ? ``

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

'' I have no doubt that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his part quivering 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 hide 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 construction, sorcerous isn't enough to repair the hurt. It must be rebuilt by hand to maintain the military posture of the charms we place upon our school. And even if you did fix it, my script 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. James Mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the destruction Cho Chang Jiang caused lastly class, 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, efficient immediately. ``

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

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in spartan damage to one of our classroom and then you all left school background in unmediated violation of the code of conduct. I have to take this action mechanism before the less authentic of the Aurors out there decide to try and say that you had something to do with Tristram's escape and attempt to pick out you all into custody for questioning. Should that happen, it's not guaranteed that Arthur will be able-bodied to see that you get into the right manpower. '' Dumbledore seemed to fall off down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a wet blank space and we must be heedful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to chance a way to keep us here ? The Aurors and anyone else could still issue forth after us once we leave, but if we're here then we're more saved. '' Luna argued.

'' I agree, but if I didn't go through with this, it would be far too easy for them to accuse me of favoritism and things are too fragile right now. The slightest matter could give them the excuse to oust me from here and put anyone they choose in place as schoolmaster. As you saw last time, there are too many impressionable Edward Young judgment here to give up that to happen. I refuse to let this school turn a breeding ground for the next waving of end feeder. Everyone must be free to choose the life they want. ``

'' So instead you just throw away our hereafter ? '' Simon asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the Order and therefore ineffectual to comprehend the need to go along affair a sealed way so that the power didn't switching in the enemy's favor.

Suddenly the spot door swung capable behind them and lupin came rushing in. `` block up ! It's not their fracture, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really expect anyone to believe that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it matter as long as there's someone to charge ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… tell them that the kids were working on a projection for me and things went wrong. They left the school to come looking for me because they knew that I had snuck out to see Tonks and didn't want me to get in trouble. That story should be ripe enough. ``

'' You realize what will come about if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low doorstep of tolerance for you. If you take the blame for the destruction to the schoolroom, if you insist these students only left school to wrap up up for you… then I'll have no alternative but to force out your employment here. ``

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

lupin reached out to grab his shoulder joint, using his considerable strength to wedge Harry back into his hot seat. `` I understand the aftermath. I accept it. ``

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

Because, I feel I owe it to James and Lily to do everything in my power to have you end school. I can't just let you jazz it up with two weeks 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 nook of his eye and realized Lupin wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their sixth year and he felt shamed that his nervy action at law may stimulate them to lose out on their education. Letting out the breath slowly, he turned to look at the one-time magician, awaiting his decision along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his time studying lupin before at terminal shaking his head and rising from his prat. `` Okay, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are able to finish up out the final examination two workweek of this semester, as it will be inconceivable to replace you on such short notice. It's been a delight to consume you here. ``

'' It's been wonderful being here. '' Lupin assured him before quickly ushering the teens from the office before the schoolmaster could change his mind. Simon the Zealot tried to break off from the group as soon as they were in the hallway but Harry reached out and grabbed his arm, ensuring he followed them. He still had a few things to say to the other boy. They walked silently down to Lupin's office, though the elder man was the only one who seemed to be in a unspoiled mood.

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

'' Of course I'm sure enough. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it. '' He grinned. `` I had planned on resigning at the end of this year 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 genus Draco leaving, there's really nothing to hold back 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 strain when I have another option ? So you see, I'm entirely positive that this is the right matter to do. ``

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

lupine reached out to reassuringly pat her shoulder. `` I have long ago learned to inhabit with other citizenry's misguided opinions of me. As long as I am in dear standing with the people who know me, that's all that thing. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a roll of blank sheepskin and a reinvigorated quill. `` Besides if I were to stay here, then who would be out there looking after you all when you get yourselves stuck in a corner ? '' He teased, reminding them that this wasn't the first time he'd helped get them out of their own sight. `` Plus Dragon is going to need guidance in navigating life out in the real globe where masses don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to stimulate a rationality to leave my position early. The fact that it helps you Thomas Kyd out is just a bonus. ``

'' Well I certainly appreciate it. '' Simon said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go besides Hogwarts so I'm glad I get to come back. '' He added quickly when he saw the public eye Harry had shot him for speaking at all.

lupine nodded and smiled. `` Think cypher of it. ``

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

'' What happened to you ? '' lupin asked, finally noticing the bandages that peeked out from the arm of her school robes.

She and Harry shared a coup d'oeil as Simon Zelotes looked down at the floor and shuffled his groundwork. `` Just a slight accident caused by a simpleton misunderstanding. '' She said at last, lowering her limb and pulling the hem of her sleeves down.

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

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

'' It's a sad but true fact that adding your gens to anything will instantly make it more rarify. But don't let it bother you, having enemies only means that you've stood up for something important. '' Lupin answered with a conciliate smile. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must pen to my wife and inform her that we are soon to become a one income household for awhile. ``

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

'' And we may just have got to take you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The price of rent is ridiculous these twenty-four hour period. ``

Leaving him to drop a line his letter, the adolescent all stepped out into the manse. As soon as the room access closed behind them, Harry grabbed Simon up by the front of his robes and shoved him back against the wall. `` If I find out that you're somehow setting us up I swear to you that your babe won't have the chance to murder you because she'll never find your body. '' He threatened, wanting to scare the boy into revealing whether he was truly trustworthy.

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

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his case in unaired to Paul Simon's, tightening his grip and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to severalize someone, total straight to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my other friends would certainly be the giving misunderstanding you'll ever make in your life. ``

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

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

She looked at him a moment before nodding slowly. `` Okay. '' She said quietly.

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

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

Harry went to the window and clutched the sill as he stared out over the school ground. He took several deep breathing space before turning back to her. `` But you really are okay, right ? ``

'' I'm mulct, just a bit cark 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 edition of events is the truth. ``

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

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

Harry nodded in hesitant credence. He'd learned his deterrent example about questioning her intuition, if she thought Elanya wasn't the victim they were trying to depict her to be then that was most in all probability the way it was. `` OK, so we go on with the assumption that she's against us. ``

'' I think that's the dependable for us… to assume she and Simon both are the foeman until they can definitively raise otherwise. '' She stood and came over to wrap her weapon around his waist and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her headspring and returned the embrace. `` 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 instant knocking came at the door and Harry went to let her in. `` So ? What happened ? '' She demanded, walking in and turning to face them both. Together they pieced together everything that had happened and filled her in completely on what Marvin Neil Simon had told them and what they'd concluded as a result. `` You're sure Elanya isn't being set up ? '' She asked, her case going white-hot as she began to panic.

'' Almost completely positive, what's awry ? '' Luna went over to direct Hermione to a chair.

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

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him screw 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 guarantee 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 dupe of Elise and Sarah's plots too… he thinks she isn't the foeman ! ``

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

'' No ! '' Hermione leapt to her foot and turned to them in anguish. `` She's making him talk to her now ! He'd been refusing this whole clock time but I saw her imperil to broadcast Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't start speechmaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to believe that she was just another pawn in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his safeguard down ? What if she's able to convince him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in horror as every implication of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her oral sex. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( BREAK )

As soon as it was dark-skinned, Fred grabbed his entire bed roll and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the tide, he set everything up and built a small fire, silently thanking his father for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a wand. sure as shooting it was the more difficult way to do thing, but at last his Father of the Church's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all thing muggle had paid off. Once for sure the hell had caught, he lay back to front at the ace. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her walk and the longer she was gone the more sure 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 much sense not to be true. He was confused… If Hermione had really been on the island, then she'd told him things that Elanya had completely admitted to. Did it count ? And if it did, then why did it thing ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no impeccant bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to down her Father-God, the former girls wouldn't have had anything to tempt her into accepting their crack. On the other handwriting, he was now able to put himself in her shoes… why wouldn't she want to vote out the man who murdered her mother and was trying to use his own girl to buy his way into the in force graces of an evil man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to terms with the fact that his niece had killed his brother and was still willing to reach out to the girl 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 try 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 problem telling masses that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the simply reason… because he didn't hatred her. But so what ? Not hating someone wasn't exactly the Saami as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't trust her as far as he could shake off her, but then, did that issue either ?

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

He sat up and whipped around to find Elanya standing in the tree diagram as if his thought of her had forced her to materialize there. Her haircloth and dress were dancing softly in the slight cinch and her centre glowed even more brilliantly in the faint firelight. `` Well, aren't you the observant one. '' He said sarcastically.

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

'' Think nothing of it. I'm pretty certain our conversation was about done anyway. '' He brushed her off and lay back down again, closing his eyes and acting as if she were nothing Thomas More than a galling folie to him.

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

'' rest wherever you want, what do I care ? '' Fred made indisputable to sound annoyed, hoping that if she did sleep on the beach, she would pick out to do it far from him. He heard her flabby footsteps as she glided through the Sand and then felt her attempt to climb under the concealment with him. He sat straight up and scrambled away from her as he got to his feet. `` What the hell do you think you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

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

'' mulct, look at my stuff, it's all yours. I want to go for a swim anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the water, repeating Hermione's name over and over in his head teacher lest he allow himself to go back and do something stupid.

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

Despite the true business for his safety that he heard in her vox, he ignored her and walked straight into the water fully dressed. He continued on until his feet could just barely touch the derriere before deciding that was far enough to dissuade her from following him. Turning, he began swimming parallel with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't upkeep to walk after him. He could barely see his hand in nominal head of him and realized that is was more than the exercise that was making his heart race. It was very dark out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an underwater attack coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards nation, 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 pull up stakes the island tomorrow. He couldn't drop one more day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to forget what was real and it was becoming more difficult not to devolve into her stories. All he had to do was get through tonight. Climbing to his substructure, he brushed off as much backbone as he could and made his way into the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree to count for some sort of protection. Coming to the foot of the tallest mass, he found a shallow cave. Gathering leave, he quickly made himself a shoes to sleep before gathering plenty wood to get a fire to hold him tender. Once again he silently thanked his father while hoping that he would get the opportunity to thank him in person very soon.

( geological fault )

Draco woke already feeling nervous… he didn't like lying to Ginny and while he may not know the accurate particular of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to know that she'd be mad to find out they'd kept Fred's possibly being in trouble from her. But today was supposed to be the day it would all end and no one would sustain to lie anymore… at least not about this. It was simple-minded really, while the professor and well-nigh of the scholar were down at the quidditch pitch enjoying the plot between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, Potter, Luna and sodbuster were going to whisk themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever raft he'd gotten himself into. genus Draco's job was to clear sure neither Ginny nor Ron found out they were gone and more importantly, to prevent them both away from professor Erebos who thrower had said was a spy and Sir Thomas More than unforced to suffer someone.

Taking a deep breath, he knocked on Ginny's doorway. `` quick to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her robe and pajamas, he realized she hadn't done often since she'd left his room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in reception to the silent aspect she gave him, closing the threshold as he walked in.

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

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

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

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering look she shot him, he quickly went on in Leslie Townes Hope of fixing his misunderstanding. `` I mean, he clearly wanted space and said the things he knew would push you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for Potter shoemaker's last year. So why would he come apologize unless he's prepare to be around you all again ? ``

'' Well, thank you healer Dragon, the psychological science Boy curiosity ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so much, I'll only charge you half my normal rates for the fantabulous Wisdom of Solomon I have to bestow. '' He teased, quickly moving to catch the pillow she whipped at him.

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

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

'' Go in for the kill ! '' She laughed, quickly kneeling over him and battering him over and over with the pillow. ineffective to hold back his own laugh, he tried his topper to revert the attack. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to worm it away from her so that he would be in possession of all the plush ammo.

A knock on the door interrupted their battle and they both looked at each former in surprisal 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 troupe. ``

He leaned down to osculate her before quickly swinging his pillow one conclusion time, jumping off the bed with a wicked smile as he avoided her return Assault. He opened the room access and instantly tensed having already been warned that the person 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 inappropriate for Miss Weasley to have a male person visitor this early ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit inappropriate for a male teacher to come in unsupervised to a distaff pupil's room this early ? Especially one who already has a cloud of mistrust around his name ? '' 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 account to any student. ``

'' well, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her room all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking care of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a diminished growl to escape his throat lest the man forget what exactly he was. `` You can give me the substance, I'll be sure she gets it. '' With his senses heightened, he was able to discover rustling behind him as Ginny got out of bed and curiously made her way over to the door. Thankfully she was thrifty enough to keep herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective surge rushed through him and he knew only one thing, the only way the professor was getting in the room was over his dead body.

'' The headmaster wish to address to misfire Weasley in person. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to see her up to his office. ``

'' And why wouldn't he send Professor McGonagall ? '' Draco asked suspiciously. `` She is the head of the Gryffindor house and a much more likely candidate to approach Ginny on the headmaster's behalf than some prof wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your social class. Why would Dumbledore place you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the professor 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 dance they were engaged in. `` But she is already down at the quidditch rake assisting Madame Hooch with getting the field ready for today's plot. I was in the Headmaster's office for a get together and so he simply sent me. ``

'' Well, Ginny is just too ill to leave her room. I'm sure Dumbledore wouldn't want to risk her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these drafty hallways. If he needs to tell her something of import, I'm sure he would have no problem paying her a visit. '' Draco said smugly. He grabbed the edge of the door to fold it but the professor reached out to hold back it from swinging shut.

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

'' That's unnecessary. '' genus Draco said calmly while holding the room access so tightly in his manus he thought the Wood would shatter in his grip. `` I asked therapist Sir Francis Drake to stop by earlier. He said it's a bad cold and recommended bed rest. '' He added in guild to queer the prof's newest attempt to get Ginny out of her elbow room. He was sure drake would cover for them if necessary, after all, he'd done it many times before. Rather than allow Erebos to arrive up with something else, he used his above rule intensity to slam the door shut despite the man's endeavor to keep it open.

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

Draco quickly pulled his scepter out of his pocket and cast a silencing charm on the room, both as a precaution and to try and stall before answering her. `` professor Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to get 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 repulsion and confusion.

'' Well… because they have plans to take over the ministry. What beneficial way than to use the curate's children against him ? '' He held his breath. Technically what he'd said was confessedly although that wasn't the reason the man had decided to make a movement today. But why worry her further by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the full floor or what exactly her brother was involved in, only that Erebos was one of the loose ends the others had had to tie up in order of magnitude 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 assert on doing something dangerously reckless in an attempt to help.

Ginny shook her head sadly. `` poor people dad… all he wants to do is ca-ca a difference of opinion and now he has to hold out in changeless fear for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the Lapplander could be said for everyone. '' He sat next to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. `` I've guess that's just the damage you have to pay if you want to stand up for something… the awe of losing everything. ``

We may ingest a problem. Draco thought out to Potter and Luna.

What happened ? ceramist immediately answered.

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

( time out )

Harry had a ugly touch sensation about everything after talking to Draco. Why would Erebos give 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 fast call to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibleness cloak and knack around the quidditch pitching, just in typesetter's case Erebos tried to get a appreciation of a different Weasley.

'' I heard the pennywhistle. The game's started, can we go now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly. She was nearly beside herself with worry and had been since discovering that she'd given Fred misinformation. She'd attempted to send off herself back to the island respective times during the night but hadn't been able 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 rule book all about how there are flying dragons on the island. I can't fit you both on my heather and we need to have some way of escaping quickly if necessary… especially since you said you've read that there are anti-apparation charms. You and Fred won't be able to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the whole metre that both young woman would just let him go by himself. But he knew Luna wouldn't allow that any more than he'd let her do anything like this without him… the literary argument wouldn't be worth it as they'd both just end up raging and she'd wind up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew substantially than to flush suggest she stay behind, despite them all being aware of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both subject and tried to let that mentation still his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the passel, it shouldn't be a problem. '' She replied, eyeing the old practice heather warily as Luna stepped up to choose one without waver. It was obvious which of them was more positive in their ability to fly.

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

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

Harry took out his wand and waited as they did the Lapplander. They had no idea where they'd wind up having only co-ordinate and pictures to use to barrack their apparation to the island. He wanted them to be cook for anything.

As one he and Luna reached out to each acquire one of Hermione's hired man and they all focused on the island. With a loud crack, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling hard rocky ground beneath his infantry, Harry hesitantly opened his optic to look around. His intimation caught in his throat as he took in their surroundings. Um, I think we may give just picked the forged possible place to land. He thought out to the young lady, not wanting to realise any dissonance lest they wake the ten dragons currently sleeping around them. As quietly as possible, they all three mounted their broom, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going slow for their sake, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the primer and rising into the air.

Flying away from the mountain top and down toward the beach, he looked over his shoulder to check on the girls. Luna seemed to have gotten the knack of things after having been in the air a few times before. But Hermione, who always chose to go along her base on the ground if it was an option, was clearly showing her rawness. She tried to lower the heather and suddenly lost control, letting out a forte scream as she suddenly zoomed toward the ground.

'' drag up ! '' He shouted as he raced after her. She tried to do as he instructed but couldn't quite fulfill it and she raised her blazonry to encompass her face as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! expect out ! '' He heard Luna shout. Apparently Hermione's initial thigh-slapper had aroused more than his fear, it had woken the dragons. He quickly whipped to the left wing as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to crack at him. `` They hunt in duet. '' Charlie's interpreter filled his forefront and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the other dragon that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to search the sky for her and found her far out over the H2O as she tried her best to dodge the four flying lizard chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to avail only to clear that the other six dragons had chosen to gang up on him as they perceived him to be the full flyer and therefore the more dangerous to them. One popped up in front of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to catch his bearings… but this time he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight dragons. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any sign of Luna and the two dragons that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the animal but unfortunately he wasn't quick enough and he felt one's tail rap into the back of his Scots heather followed by the sound of a deep snap strait. The broom started to come apart in his manus and he did his easily to hold 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 cover of the trees.

He could listen the animal landing heavily behind him, too orotund to crap their way through the dense woods. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to break off his twilight. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shattered remains of another broom though he had no estimation whether it was Luna's or Hermione's. He looked around desperately but there was no one there.

( gaolbreak )

Fred woke to a loud scream. For a instant he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his base. Looking around, he remembered making a temporary tax shelter out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another serial of ear-splitting shrieks filled the sky and he looked up to see those mystifying creatures circling in the bright morning sunlight. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the tree diagram above him, giving him a frighteningly clear view of what the tool actually was… a very tumid dragon with shrill claws, long teeth and wide annexe tipped with dangerous looking horns.

Panic gripped him as he stood there freeze, trying to remember everything Charlie had ever told him about these beasts. Sir Thomas More than anything, he recalled his crony saying that dragons were creatures of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't waste meter trying to figure it out, he had to relieve oneself sure Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the only former person on this island die… he didn't want to be here completely alone with these things. He raced through the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree back to the campsite, suddenly upset that he'd decided to travel so far from it in the number 1 place.

Being sure enough to keep himself deep under the cover of the trees, he approached their tent and heard Elanya's voice as she argued with person. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her spine to him and completely alone, but he could tell that she was holding something up to her mouth. `` What do you signify Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one simple task this morning… Well, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to listen more, Fred leapt out from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree he'd been hiding behind. `` What are you doing ? '' He demanded as he stalked up to her.

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

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my sister ? '' He tried to hide his panic, reminding himself that whatever was happening at to the lowest degree Draco was doing his division in protecting Ginny from it.

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

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the flying dragon now circling dangerously low. `` The only reason they would allow their nest was if soul disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were aright, 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 siblings'lives just aren't more important to me than my own. ``

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

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an uncertain step toward him. `` You'd convince your protagonist to have me a opportunity ? ``

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

They both whipped around to see who had snuck up on them. Fred couldn't believe his eye as his pump raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more really than the hold out metre he'd seen her as she had her verge out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his rilievo, he raced forward and threw his arms 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 make us require 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 verge 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 only one unarmed.

'' 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 asked with fictitious sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the import. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the wand she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione reach out and take his hired hand as she used her other to continue wielding her own sceptre. Squeezing her fingerbreadth, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a severe smiling spreading slowly across her brass. `` I thought as much… I guess it's time to prompt to program B. '' She quickly waved her verge, forcing Hermione to shed 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 kill 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. `` read it back ! '' He demanded.

'' Why should I ? You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a loup-garou protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the early. Your Brother will die. ``

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

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



eminence : Provided there are no more horrible fortuity with my estimator or meretricious effort, look for the next chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island Escape

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





After clangor landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to come across aught worse that a few scratch and scratches. Unfortunately the Calluna vulgaris hadn't survived as well and lay a few foot away in part. Glad that it hadn't been her to wind up that way, she shook herself off and got to her metrical foot. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't answer her… A quick glimpse up through the treetops let her cognise why. respective dragons seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking auditory sensation. With a broken broom she knew she couldn't do much to serve them and they certainly were too distracted to descend help her… it was up to her to figure out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to immobilize up with indecision, there were too many people counting on her and more than that, she wanted to demonstrate to herself that she was capable of branching out on her own.

It was a lot hotter here than it was back at school and so the first off thing she did was strip off her jacket before she fainted of heat exhaustion. She knew that she had to start moving and preferably with a use. Using her sceptre as a locater, she made her way through the woods, trying not to count anywhere but right in front of her. She didn't want to become unhinge, she just wanted to get Fred and get the hell off this island. Within ten minutes of walk, she found herself at Fred and Elanya's campsite. The two were talking and she heard Fred offer to help the other girlfriend if she would promise to hollo off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's part of her program ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the early girl to prevent her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in time to stop Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped short as she saw Elanya attract her own wand out… realizing that Fred was unarmed, Hermione worried that he would get caught in the center if they started dueling. He stood there and looked at her as if she were the nifty thing he'd ever seen, making her feel more confident in the nerve of the other girl. `` Hermione ? '' He asked hesitantly before rushing over and wrapping his arms around her. As good as it felt to feature him hold her, she was deliberate to proceed her wand up l Elanya decide to use the distraction to her advantage.

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

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

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

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

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the moment. '' 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 confide his own inherent aptitude. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her free hand to take his, wanting him to make out that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her hand in return, accepting that she was going to be there with him no matter what.

'' I thought as very much. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's metre to displace to plan B. '' She quickly waved her wand, giving Hermione only seconds to throw up a carapace around herself and Fred to parry the spell. Before she could return ardor, the girl ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` William Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then kill Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most in all likelihood Professor Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and shot several knockout in quick successiveness but the other missy was fast, raising her shield in prison term before attempting to sack back and disarm her. By this sentence Fred had gotten to his ft and back into the thick of things, forcing Hermione to halt her plan of attack so he wouldn't get hit by misunderstanding. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her scepter 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. ``

'' margin call Erebos and enjoin him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as authoritative vocalisation as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the ground, stomping on it and ruining their solitary chance to predict off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want retaliation, occur 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 dodge rather than shield, sending Hermione's spell to shatter the tree behind her. Seeing what a unplayful magical spell she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the dirt from her clothes. `` fountainhead, I suppose we've moved past tense smasher then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the sceptre she'd dropped in her haste to strike out of the way.

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

She quickly waved her wand, yelling `` Protego Totalum ! '' and a few former incantations, turning the collapsible shelter into their own modest fort ... they were further spell she'd only practiced once in the safety of a classroom place setting. She was truly surprise that she'd been capable to attain it here while her heart was racing and panic gripped her judgment. They could find out Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling patch after patch at the tent as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how retentive 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 component part of the tent that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

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

'' When it came to spend my money, Elanya spared no expense. Top of the agate line everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the comforter of your home plate. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the refrigerator next. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to lift out up a close down towel. Sure enough, his wand was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a jibe of relievo knowing that she wouldn't be the lonesome one armed. His own relief was plain as he tightly gripped his wand and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a look that sent prickling through her body. Without a word he strode up to her and eagerly placed his hired man around her cervix, pulling her face to his so that he could passionately capture her back talk. He kissed her with such depth and hunger that she was left feeling dizzy and had to extend to out and grab him to hold her legs from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his arms around her waist he deepened the osculation even more before breaking it off and resting his head against hers. They were both left breathless and happy to once more than be so close. `` I'm really glad to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't Tell. '' She teased, leaning up to kiss his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll make it clearer when I have more time to make my point. '' Fred grinned before turning serious once more. They could still hear Elanya out there, doing everything she could to infract 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 to prompting. ``

He scratched his head and turned to stare at her a moment before breaking into a smile. `` Of class ! If I can horse around my own mother then it should be easy to cod Elanya. ``

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

And then suddenly there were two of him and she had the nervous feeling that George had somehow come back to life story. Shaking it off, she tried to smile in reinforcement. `` You really think she'll go after our doubles ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his wand over her to conjure her up a double of her own. Moving hers to stand next to his, he studied them both closely. `` They look adept enough to me. '' He shrugged.

'' fountainhead, I certainly don't have a effective approximation. '' She moved to obscure herself behind the turned-over stove, as Fred took their silent doubles and instructed them to exit the tent and just run as far and fast as they could.

Knowing that her appeal would be broken as soon as the barrier was breached, he shoved them through the opening and quickly came over to bow beside her just in type Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to come hunting the collapsible shelter. `` Here goes nothing. '' He whispered.

( BREAK )

beingness able to support down on the field, Ron almost felt like he really was part of the game and was grateful to McGonagall for letting him have this one lowly spell of what made him happy. He watched his team fly together and was thrilled to see them attract ahead in the score, cheering them along as any beneficial coach would do. The snow had been magically cleared off the subject area 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 jacket after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the score jumped far enough ahead in Gryffindor's favor, he decided it was safe to admit a break and go down to the refreshment stand for some hot chocolate to warm up his interior. Making his way through the locker suite, he took the departure leading outside the arena and nearly ran into someone trying to score 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 receive. '' Erebos replied with what was clearly an attack at a friendly grin… but the compactness at the corner 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 prof seemed off somehow… he was uncomfortable just being in the man's presence.

'' I'm not exactly sure. There is a untried woman out in the Sir Henry Joseph Wood who flagged me down and asked me to make out find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his shoulder at the Forbidden Forest. `` She wouldn't set aside me to see her face, so I can't be sure… but she looked very a good deal like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've come to happen you because she was so insistent but I think I must also go to the Headmaster and inform him that one of his missing scholarly person has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Parvati was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a letter off yesterday through lupin, he wasn't even for sure it had enough meter to arrive to her so that couldn't be what ram her to come back. He had to let the cat out of the bag to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could record up and broadcast her track. `` Just let me go see her beginning. ``

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

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

'' Okay, how about this ? I'll go with you into the Wood to see her, I'll let you two have your bit of privacy 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 spine of the arena to the Forbidden Forest. They walked pretty far into the Tree, deepening Ron's suspicions to the compass point where he was ready to turn back. `` Anapurna got your care from way back here ? Why were you in the woods ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his verge out and a demented smile across his case. `` Sorry for the illusion Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to fall into the woodwind with me. ``

He swallowed the tumid glob of reverence and panic that had risen in his throat. `` Why ? '' He tried to keep his interpreter steadfast but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To down you. '' The prof said simply as he prepared to cast the ultimate inexcusable curse. And then the man was screaming in hurting as his scepter volley into flames in his mitt, forcing him to drop it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his sack for his scepter before turning to find Jacey standing a few curtilage behind him, her own wand in one deal and a tumid ball of flaming 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 harm that those were the starting time Son he'd chosen to verbalise at the sight of her.

They both whipped around as the strait of someone clapping filled the air. Ron's eye widened in shock as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a declamatory tree, slowly applauding them. `` well done. '' She laughed.

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

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you high-risk than that when you've angered me lupus erythematosus. '' Elise giggled before turning her attention specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very queer to come up 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 complete as Dolos. '' She said, throwing out her sleeve and producing her own fireballs in her bridge player. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll view this your audition. '' She taunted.

( BREAK )

Luna just couldn't shake up off the final stage two Draco chasing her. They forced her to fly away from the island, zooming so far over the ocean she could see Castellumshire on the horizon… still the creatures wouldn't give up the Chase. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't solvent, making her very uneasy. She could feel that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a part of her mental capacity had shut off and she was completely unable to communicate with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their office, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was able-bodied to eff where to go to stave off being hit by nipper, teeth and tails… that told her that her precognative inherent aptitude were well in tactfulness as she knew she certainly wasn't the best flier.

She swooped low to avoid one flying dragon and then quickly turned right to keep off the other. Her fundament skimmed the H2O and she quickly pulled back up, making a long arc around Castellumshire before heading back toward the Gateway Islands. Becoming distracted by a strange sound below her, she took the luck and looked down only to find a small speedboat zooming through the water headed the Lapplander instruction she was. Feeling the Dragon right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one person on board… a female wearing a hat and magnanimous dark glasses. suspicion guessing through her and she raced ahead, despairing to admonish Harry.

At last she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the former eight flying lizard were. They were circling, clearly doing the same thing she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must have landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in Hope that he would see her. She let out a surprised scream when two of the dragons suddenly grounded ahead of her, opening their jaws and waiting for her to fly at them. Fixing her grip as she'd seen Harry do, she made a sharp left and headed back out over the water system where four Thomas More dragons waited. Once again changing her traveling bag, 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 endorse too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the pair of flying lizard that had been laying in hold among the crown had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, senior high over the island hoping to turn a loss them among the fluffy Caucasian clouds. But before she could get herself quite that senior high, she felt one of the creature grab the end of her Scots heather and draw her through the air. She lost her grip completely and felt herself commence to free crepuscule. Thinking as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her lineage until she was able-bodied to lightly place her substructure on the solid ground. Her relief quickly gave way to all out terror as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the dragons'nest. Only this time she had no ling and she was completely alone.

( BREAK )

Harry had just used his scepter to piece the broom he'd found in the woods back together when Luna's scream echoed around him. He raced back onto the beach to capture an impossible sight- she was flying recklessly through the air as she tried to get away from all ten dragon. Seeing two of the beast break off from the group and hide themselves among the Tree he realizing what the rather intelligent creatures were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his thinker but while he could still feel that constant connection to her, it was as if somebody had cut a wire somewhere and all he could hear was a dial musical note. Throwing everything he had into it, he cupped his bridge player around his mouth and screamed out a warning to her, hoping she was able to find out him. If she did, it was too late. The former dragons had forced her to fly toward their trap and the two hiding leapt out to surprise her. She shot upwards but to no avail as one reached out and grabbed her broom. She fell off as the creature snapped the broom like a toothpick, making Harry's heart plosive speech sound for a moment. But this time she had her baton and was able to slow her fall, but when he saw where she landed his mettle dropped entirely into his stomach. The tartar had seen her too and they all descended on their cuddle, design on ousting the intruder.

panic swept through him and he hurried to land up the final examination repairs on the broom. Hearing a mechanised sound he quickly ducked out of the way as a boat carelessly drove up into the George Sand, allowing a familiar spirit woman to skip over down and face him. `` hi Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old friends, casually throwing her hat and sunglasses back into the boat.

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

'' So I saw… seems your little acquaintance fell into the wrongfulness post. '' She grinned. `` Care to have some supporter in retrieving her ? ``

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

'' ejaculate now, let's put the past times behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have metre to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the corpse of his Firebolt, long block a few yards down the beach. `` Fix that up and lets go. ``

He had no choice, he needed service 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 ling as best he could… at to the lowest degree it was in flying precondition if not properly calibrated for the best escape possible. Together, they lifted off the ground, instantly making their way to the muckle. Harry just hoped his desperation for help didn't wind up being his downfall.

( recess )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibleness cloak tightly around herself and closed her middle, doing her best to concentrate on apparating to just outside the quidditch pitch at Hogwarts. Of course, she was still getting the hang of the whole matter and so while she did get herself to Hogwarts, she was no where near the scene of action. In fact, she wound up inside the castle, just beyond the doors to the Great Hall. With a sigh of frustration, she made sure she was completely covered by the cloak before making her way outside.

Of course she had agreed to serve keep an eye on Ron… she just had no estimate why. He had made himself very clearly that he wished to handle thing on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back off and let him learn just how lots he needed his friend. 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 piece of her knew that his end would signify her own as well. He had made a valid point the other night, they did not know each early, they had only just met and under the tensest of lot. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was more than leave to see what came of that attractive feature as she had already admitted that his letter of the alphabet is what ultimately made her decide to arrive here in the starting time place… she only hoped he would come to his good sense long enough to-

She stopped dead in her data track as she realized she may get arrived too late. Just beyond the arena, she saw two figures slip quickly into the Forbidden Forest and she was sure of at to the lowest degree one of their identity operator. The former she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak return away as soon as she was within the corner personal credit line so that she could run with more than fastness and to a lesser extent check. At last she came upon them and agnise she had been correct on both accounts, Ron and Erebos were a few yards ahead of her. She could feel Ron's misgiving 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 angry on his behalf, upset that the professor was uncoerced to use such an open wound to trick him into coming out here.

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

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

'' To kill you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his aim a moment before he raised his sceptre and did the inaugural thing that came into her mind… She set his scepter on flak. He screamed in bother, dropping the affair as he cradled his injured hand to his body.

Ron pulled out his own wand before turning to forecast 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 surprisal in his middle as he stared at her.

The sound of person slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to get hold Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the trees. She had never met the fair sex and only knew her from the storage of others, but she was trusted of who she was seeing. `` wellspring done. '' Elise laughed with genuine amusement.

'' The little beef burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted, glaring at them all.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you worse than that when you've angered me to a lesser extent. '' She laughed again. Then ignoring both male person, she spoke directly to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd semen. I was so very singular to chance out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new property doesn't it ? But I'm not as loose to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, waving her hands and producing her own fire. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll conceive this your audition. ``

Putting her wand in her air pocket so that both of her hands were free, Jacey let the flames flare out of her bounteous and with to a greater extent of a fanfare than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the woman did not hesitate to begin her onslaught, hurling ball of flaming one after the other. Engulfing her stallion body in blast, Jacey was able-bodied to soak up whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to feel very warm. Run before this spreadhead ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit officious at the bit. He answered. She glanced over to detect him alternatively trying to put out the flames spreading through the forest and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his wand and was trying to reach it solve with his undamaged hand. It seemed that every once in awhile the man was able to get the wand to perform his spell which only distracted Ron from his impromptu attempt at being a firefighter.

She tried reaching for her wand but Elise only renewed her efforts, making it exonerate that she intended this scrap to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no alternative but to campaign fire with fire. It was more than Ron's water supply 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 belittled region but it lessened the measure of assiduity she could devote to the actual fight and found herself more on the defensive attitude that she would have thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't care where the flaming feast was giving the woman an edge over her but there was aught she could do about that, she had to do her best to control the damage her power caused. Realizing they were going to need assistance and taking even more attention away from the conflict, she called out to Draco as he was the alone one left here that she trusted to ask for help. She hoped he made it in time.

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

( BREAK )

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

Looking at his face, she could state he wasn't any Thomas More proud of with the musical theme of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the schoolhouse curtilage and she and Erebos have your Brother cornered out in the woodwind. '' He answered honestly, in too much of a hurry to attempt lying. `` faith me, the only reason I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, arrest in here and don't open up the door to anyone until I get back, okay ? ``

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

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the shoulders and forced her to see at him. `` I'll be much more good in providing the assistance Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the same trouble out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

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

'' want I remind you again that you aren't an immortal god or even a superhero ? You're a convention guy who got stuck with a being a lycanthrope and are just as subject of burning to death as I am. '' She gripped his munition, unwilling to let him give her sight.

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

She stared at him a moment, letting the wheels turn in her straits as she figured out what to do. `` mulct, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at last, too worry about Ron and Jacey to go on him any longer.

He seemed mistrustful but he had no choice other than to accept her accord. Leaning in to quickly kiss her adios, he then turned and fled the way. 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 see why he liked going out to run so much- it must be unacceptable to guess when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coating she fled her room, rushing through the halls and out the front door. She would keep her promise not to follow after him… but she wasn't going to appropriate him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the school staff sat. Unfortunately, the someone she wanted to talk to was also sitting next to the someone she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three living might be at stake, her chum's among them. `` Can we help you with something ? '' Lupin asked with a friendly smile as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the headmaster, she took a rich breath and spoke to Lupin. She knew it was best to keep mention of Jacey and Elise out of things with so many ears around and so she made her peak as clear and concise as potential. `` Draco ran out into the woods to try and finish prof Erebos from killing Ron. They need help. ``

( BREAK )

Fred waited a good two mo to be sure Elanya was gone before turning to lift the bottom 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 only matter that had been able to protect them. He tried to repeatedly scream out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't hear me at all ! '' He said aloud in thwarting as they carefully made their way through the tree, keeping an ear out for any house of Elanya closing in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the energy area generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with most piloting creature, even the magical single. It's the independent understanding it's so hard for people to notice these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that certain brainwave frequency Harry and Luna use to transfer their telepathic abilities. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're vex finding them the old fashioned way. '' He tried to use his wand to mastermind him towards the nearest living human but the pudding head thing kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

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

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the exclusively reply was that their champion were up there and in a lot of bother. `` I guess we try to climb it. '' He walked toward the al-Qaeda of the pot until he heard a lowly screech of surprisal that told him that Hermione wasn't following. Turning he found her struggling to free her foot from a rather ugly looking plant. Originally mistaking it for some kind 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 pull her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his verge. But the works seemed to be immune to magic and nothing he tried would make it stop.

'' Let go ! '' She yelled as she kicked at the plant. Not knowing what else to do, Fred picked up a orotund rock and began slamming it down on the tentacles. The plant let out a distressing sound, indicating it could feel pain. In an endeavour to unloosen herself, Hermione reached for another rock and helped him beat 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 industrial plant like this before in all his fourth dimension wandering the island though he'd definitely found some weird ace. Of course, other than last night when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this close to the base of the pot. He gave silent thanks that he hadn't passed by this thing in the dark.

'' Let's just keep going. '' Hermione seemed shaky but compulsive and so he nodded and went on, this clip ensuring they remained side by side. It was a short paseo and looking towards the sky, they were capable to see that the way to the top of the mountain wasn't exactly consecutive up… that was a sound thing, making it less probable that they would precipitate to their deaths while attempting this. `` Okay, we just need to find the right place to start. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the jolty wall and respective different paths up.

Fred took a unlike advance, walking right up to the mountain and trying out the handholds and footing in a few stead. Taking a few more whole step to the left, he reached to wax up only to find the rocks give way under his workforce. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the ground, knocking the breathing spell 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 alive ! '' 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 fall. '' He shouted back, groaning in pain in the neck as he sat up to contract a look at himself. Feeling around on the ground he recovered his sceptre and quickly lit it, reaching out to delicately probe 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 intact thing swelling from his knee down to his ankle.

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

'' Just give me a bit to gather myself. '' Putting as little weight on it as possible, he slowly climbed to his feet. Only once he was standing did he actualise he seemed to hurt everywhere including the articulatio humeri that had been broken endure year during the quidditch match against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the bottom of his shirt in his sass to muffle any audio of pain he might make, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a consequence he was able-bodied to forget all about his leg, but then came the sentiency of relief that told him that he'd achieved the result he'd wanted, his shoulder was back in it's proper place. Panting from the effort he wiped the effort from his face and took a few steadying intimation. `` Okay, ready ! '' He called out.

Instantly his feet carefully left the ground, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the hired man of some invisible giant. He put his wand in his scoop as he rose up, wanting to have both bridge player free to help pull himself clear of the surprisingly small opening he'd fallen through. At last he was capable to see Hermione, using her verge to direct his progression. Reaching up, he grabbed the edge of the bouldered opening. `` I need you to keep propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a beneficial hairgrip with my feet. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her tightness, trying to only render him an extra boost as he struggled to pull himself relinquish. Now being forced to use all the specialty in his blazon, he was glad that he'd gone swimming so much while he was trapped here and built up his musculus a bit.

'' Expelliarmus ! '' individual screamed and Hermione's wand was ripped from her hand and sent flying off into the woods. Without her spell to aid him, he lost a bit of his grip and struggled through the pain to find a foothold lest he lessen back down into the cavern. He scrambled to bind onto the rock despite how knifelike they were… once he felt steady, he was able to await up and see Elanya staring at them with a wide smile as she tauntingly waved her wand. `` I'm sorry it took so long to dispatch those doubles you sent running out… it seems you're a right conjuror than I thought. ``

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione tried to reason with her as Fred struggled to use his injure leg to help oneself push him through the hole. But the more imperativeness he tried to put on it, the more dull it seemed to grow… almost to the point where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to accomplish back for his wand but letting go of the rock and roll made him instantly slide backwards. He would necessitate all the strength in his weapons system to pull himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to face Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new decision, he decidedly placed his metrical foot and pushed off with them, gritting his teeth against the pain in the ass. From there he was able to make out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( BREAK )

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

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroyed scepter directly in Ron's face 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 bending over her.

'' She's indisposed at the consequence. '' Elise called, straightening herself and turning to face him. He scrambled to his animal foot and pointed his wand with a piss tour on the tip of his tongue and ready to be used. `` So, her name is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own wand. `` What else can you order me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just necessitate a moment to regain and focus my energies. He heard Jacey's voice whisper through his head. Do not engage her… Dragon is on his way to help.

Hearing that she was uninjured, substitute swept through him so quickly his knees almost buckled out from under him. `` Nothing to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his attention back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the only one to be seen with the mysterious castle Edgar Albert 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 eff. Of trend, seeing how reluctant you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always hale you to tell me. Though if we have to go that itinerary, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you want to know ? '' 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 trust anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly repeat every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to sort out the facts. '' He pushed himself to finger as genuinely tempestuous as possible, wanting the cleaning lady to believe there was no reason to cogitate she'd be successful in using Jacey against him and vice versa ... or even better, convincing Elise that she didn't want anything to do with Jacey. He felt horrible, not just for what he'd said now, but also for the things he'd said in the past… and even after he'd uttered such horrible gimcrack, she'd still come to try and help him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those things, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

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

GET OUT OF THE WAY ! Jacey screamed in his head and he saw her leap to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her hands to conjure up her fire. Before he could wave his wand to harbor, someone roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his metrical foot and carrying them both away faster than Ron thought possible. It only took him a moment to bring in who had just may stimulate 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 other without lots care as to what was around them, soul shouted `` Impedimenta ! '' forcing genus Draco to trip and sending both male child sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his wand, Ron leapt to his feet as Draco fought the spell he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any closer to fret. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's verge tauntingly. `` Looks like your friend dropped this. '' He grinned. `` Time to see how very 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 shell having seen the man set to project a spell at him. Within a second he had retaliated by sending a freezing hex, but the professor took a varlet from Jacey and Elise's record book shooting a stream of flack from his wand that met the spray of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his concentration he repeated the go, attempting to strengthen his position… but Erebos was just as specify and unrelenting.

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

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from head to toe in front of him. Ron took several deep breathing place and lowered his wand as Dumbledore and Lupin came forward. The spell meant to keep Draco at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up next to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only loud enough for him to hear.

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

Dumbledore walked over to stare down at his disgraced professor. `` Well Dolos, it seems I've finally caught you in something you won't be able to talk your way out of. '' He said with a slight yet triumphant smile.

( BREAK )

Looking around quickly, Luna spotted a small opening across the nest the seemed to top into the mountain. She instantly ran towards it though she was uncertain even her short and slight frame of reference could squeeze through. Intuition burned in her gut and she flung herself to the ground with a lowly shrieking of terror as she felt one of the massive fauna fly over her. Flipping onto her back she shot a stunner at the fauna's collaborator as it swooped in to make it's own attempt at catching her. The spell seemed to bounce off the flying lizard's hide, having no core former than to anger the fauna even more. Luna quickly rolled to the side as it snapped at her before flying off to give the next pair their turn with her.

Scrambling to her foot, Luna shot toward the cave opening. She was tempted to use her wand and blast the pickle spread out wider, but she worried that might possibly disrupt the stability of the deal. The endure thing she wanted was to get away the creature only to be buried in a landslide or cave-in. Throwing herself forward, she was just barely able to squeeze through, turning her body sideways to make it.

She screamed as she felt a sharp twinge of pain and turned, using her scepter to burn the dragon who had grabbed her arm before she could fully hide herself. This seemed to take in more essence than anything else as the beast let out a mighty shriek of pain and let her go. Pulling herself further into the cranny, she was led down a bit into a declamatory cave where she tripped over something that rattled and rolled away from her understructure. With a sick belief in the pit of her tum, she lit her wand and covered her lip to obtain back the scream of repugnance she wanted to unleash. Several off-white littered the floor of the cave, and they seemed to belong to both animals 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 damage done to her arm. Seeing two large bloody slice in the sleeve of her coat, she shrugged it off feeling far too warm anyway. Tearing off the rest of the ruined sleeve of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her cutis and found that, while irritating, the cabbage 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 picayune relieved to acquire that wasn't the example. She quickly used the scrap of fabric that had once been her sleeve to enclose the injury and squelch the bleeding.

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

'' I'M Here ! '' She shouted back, forcing herself up through the narrow down gap to return to the draw close. Peering out from the yap, she caught the impossible mickle of not only Harry, but also Sarah Elaine as they both zoomed through the air, working together to distract and divide the dragons. Luna watched in amazement as Sarah flew past respective bowlder, using her telepathy to knock them over onto the duad of dragons that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her attention back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and Forth River until he was able to taunt all of the Draco back into the air. They may not be able to pass along in their head teacher at the bit, but she knew him well enough to suppose what he wanted her to do. As soon as the last firedrake had taken flying, she ran out into the open where Harry could see her. Putting her sceptre between her dentition, she threw her hands in the air as he passed over and struggled to hold on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on fire with annoyance as she struggled to climb up onto the broom with him as they'd done at Lairmore, but she tried to press 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 sassing and turning to shoot a stream of fervency at the two Dragon that were just a few scant human foot behind them, sending the animal 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 construct out yet another diminished boat streaking toward the island. Sarah flew them down towards it and with ten dragons fast behind them, Harry had no selection but to postdate. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was able-bodied to recognize the two people 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 discover her bettor. She could feel his frustration at not experiencing the sodding access to her opinion that he'd become used to having… she knew he felt this way because it was the same demand way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' Watch where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a warning as the air suddenly exploded in a shower of flame all around them.

( BREAK )

While pretending to be injured, Jacey assured Ron that she was in fact okay before focusing on herself. She went into her own head, trying to gather her Energy and refuel her fire. Sending her mind 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 amount to his saving anyway.

And then Elise's thoughts overpowered his and she was able to see that the charwoman intended to get rid of the just someone 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 take import Draco swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the fighting. Jacey was thankful that she now had one less matter to worry about. She reached for her sceptre only to discover that at some dot it had fallen out of her pocket. Cupping her hand, she formed a fast human dynamo and threw it at Elise, knocking the char second power in the vertebral column before she could dismount herself on flame to take over the contact. This caused her not only to yell in pain but more importantly, to completely leave 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 incline who struck people in the back. ``

'' You do not know me or what I have been up to of in the past… I could consume just as easily joined the other side. '' Jacey replied darkly, trying not to let herself believe of anything in her past.

'' Except there's obviously something you want that Harry and his allies can allow you. '' Elise grinned. `` Tell me what it is and I promise I can get it to you faster and with LE difficulty that they ever could. ``

'' I highly doubt that. '' She thought of what she wanted and knew the merely way to get any of it was to remain fast and trustworthy to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the life-time Elise was offering and had only recently been able to throw off the bond of that form of existence… The one where you could trust no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt alone and scared and were forced into being somebody you are not in order to pull round. She was cook for the life that came with being Harry's ally and a extremity of the coven… She was ready for the kind of friendship you would risk your life story for even after arguing and she was cook for the freedom of being able to say and do what she wanted, of being able to deal about anything and everything, of being able to be herself.

'' ejaculate now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just imagine if you joined us, imagine the globe after we win this war… we'll be able to form it into anything we want it to be. It'll no longer be about magician and muggles, it'll be about those the likes of us… those with power. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can do as often destruction as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the best interest group of all if we could make some sort of agreement. ``

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

'' I'm dong no such thing. '' She assured her, once more lighting herself on fire in causa Jacey decided to throw another formal of flame. She stared past her and smiled before once more meeting her eyes. `` It looks like Dolos is about to wipe out Ron. ``

Not wanting to give Elise the satisfaction of distracting her, she quickly conjured the largest powerhouse she could and sent it flying at the woman at top swiftness, knocking her to the ground. Circling around so as to never experience her back to Elise, she scanned the trees for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to contend off whatever go was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this fight, she saw Elise reach out from the ground and point. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her weapon system to screen her question as the tree next to her exploded in flames. `` enough ! '' A loud, important voice reverberated through the trees. 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 metre 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 ! contain her ! '' She shouted as the char passed within a few feet of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree on fire as a distraction to keep them in use. Leaving it to the others to stay fresh the flaming from spreading, Jacey never slowed her pace and continued on in her pastime. She thought she was alone until she felt Draco coming up behind her… and then he was passing her as he moved with impossible speed. Do not let her pretend it past the school's bound ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was unable to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the protection charms… but if she made it past Hogwarts'borders, she'd be able-bodied to go anywhere.

Seeing that Elise was only yards away from escaping, genus Draco pushed himself a piffling harder and mad a wild honkytonk, tackling the cleaning woman around her leg and bringing her to the primer. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving Dragon away as Elise tried to retaliate. He threw up a shield around himself to have off the fire. `` You have to let me leave, Harry and Luna's lives may look on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her choler at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you think ? '' Jacey and Dragon demanded at the same time.

She reached up and pulled a little disc from her ear and held it out for them to see. `` I've been in invariable communication with Sarah since Elanya contacted Dolos and told him to let us bed that your friends had finally arrived on the island to save Fred. Now she's telling me that the 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 Draco including reading the new book written by Charlie Weasley… those Draco aren't the kind that breather fire, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to aid, but they're only three people against a horde of beast. If I don't go and supporter, two of your friends and one of mine might just become some sorry fauna's repast. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a place she could apparate from.

Draco uncertainly raised his sceptre to stop her but Jacey grabbed his arm. `` No. '' She said quietly.

Elise only grinned wider as she extended a helping hand out to her. `` Come with me Jacey. We can function together just this once in the interest of saving our protagonist'life sentence. After we can go right wing 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 trap. Draco silently warned her.

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

( geological fault )

Harry dodged to the leftfield to escape the dragon only to have to trend immediately right to dodge the fireball that shot past them. Luna had abandoned her effort to use her baton and now held onto him tightly with both arms as it was clear that his flying was the lone thing that was going to get them through this. He didn't botheration to distract himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a dragon or plumb bob 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 holder with Elise as both young woman flung fire in the air to chase off the puppet. He wished he could talk to Luna without turning and cheering, he wished they could discourse their alternative and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to serve. He felt low temperature and isolated being cut off… not only from her mind but from Hermione, Fred and Jacey's as well.

'' headspring down to the gravy boat ! '' Sarah called as she zoomed past them to lightly set down and looked up expectantly.

'' What do you think ? '' 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 surely to fudge flying dragon with all three of us on the broom ! ``

'' Then we'll have to land and take the early broom back from Sarah ! Then we can go bump Fred and Hermione and get the hell out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her face in his back in formulation for the sharp drop-off he was about to make. Fixing his bag he shot straight down, streaking past several Draco until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to send out fire flash to preserve 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 boat. She turned the wheel and swung around, speeding away from the island.

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

'' Getting us away from here, what does it look like ? '' She stared at him as if he were dazed before gesturing to the rear of the boat where Jacey and Elise were still using their office to stand off the four dragons 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 deadened weight around your neck. Let them go. ``

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

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

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

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

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

'' We just never thought it would take you this long to figure matter out… Tristan must have 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 coup d'oeil at each other… it seemed that Elise and Sarah didn't know anything about them having already killed Tristan. Yet again he wished he still had the power to go into their psyche to see if it was true. `` I thought he was supposed to making you both immortal in Voldemort's name. '' He said, not wanting to kick in 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 smiling with Sarah as if they were sharing some private gag. `` We're still weighing the pros and cons of immortality… but it's authoritative to always appear accordant to Lord 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 simpleton, we wanted to exhibit just how adequate to we are in getting what we want and how strategic it would be for you three to get together us. '' Elise explained to them. We figured someplace far from the influence of Dumbledore and your former friends would establish us the fortune to really make ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big motion are the only way to make the great unwashed listen ... '' Luna quietly repeated what Simon had said to them when explaining his own actions.

Elise stared at her in surprisal. `` I'm glad you see my distributor point. But clearly whatever was going on up at the castling 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 out up Ginny Weasley would gain you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having difficulty getting Fred to join forces so we figured it would be a win-win position. Of course the pudden-head man is terrified of both Dragon Malfoy and your champion lupine for what they are, though he's too lofty to admit it. When Dragon refused accession to Ginny, making it clear that the only way Dolos was reaching her was through a battle with him, our lupus erythematosus than brave 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 sodding chance so Elanya ordered Dolos to vote down Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in trouble 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 address Jacey who he'd left in guardianship of looking after Ron.

'' He is okay. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… go I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely pleased to suffer him in custody. ``

'' It doesn't matter in the to the lowest degree. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you recollect I left the idiot behind to whatever fate befell him ? Even if he decided to ferment 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 spendable. '' She stopped to smile at the faces they were all making. `` Oh don't look at me like that. He and I had a deal, I provided my part and he provided his. Just because he got caught doesn't mean I had any obligation to help… he made his pick to turn involved in this and now he knows he was dealing in affair far above his head. ``

'' A miserable deterrent example to learn the severely way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her head in mock grief before smiling brightly. `` In any pillowcase, we got exactly what we wanted even if we had to sacrifice Dolos. Now we know Jacey. ``

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

'' But Erebos really intended to kill Ron ! '' Jacey protested.

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

'' Regardless your vox populi of our Quaker, '' Harry stepped in to stop over Jacey from punching Sarah in the grimace as it was clear 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 joining to each former was strong enough for her to empathize what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and take a diminished step sideways toward the ling Sarah had abandoned when she'd gotten on the boat. He'd never let his go even when he'd fallen and he now held it stiffly beside him, hoping Jacey would get the jot. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their telepathy to put across with each other… just a total understanding of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the back of his shirt to indicate that she was ready. It had taken a thing of seconds but they were make 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, sure enough 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 pursual below them.

( BREAK )

'' 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 reason Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to endure directly in front man of her, her lucky eyes glaring with a deadly flame. `` I just don't get it. There must be something here that I'm just not seeing. '' She said with designed meanness.

Hermione kept quiet, though there were about a million things that she would sustain liked to say in recurrence. But without her wand, the lastly thing she wanted was to give the young woman another intellect to bid her dead.

'' Nothing to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's okay, I have my own way of finding thing out. '' She tightly clutched her wand before reaching out to seize 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 down to her knee as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some sort of vision of the past. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself free. For a brief bit she considered going into the George Bush to wait for her sceptre but remembering her last encounter with strange leafage, she decided it would be best to take Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the girl's fingers apart.

'' Not so fast ! '' Elanya screamed, coming out of her trance or whatever she was doing, tackling Hermione to the ground and shoving her wand against her throat. strangling and cough, she pushed against the wand as she struggled to breath but Elanya had locked her arms and was unrelenting. She leaned in finis to Hermione with an evil smile. `` I saw all the memories you shared together. It was very sweet but not at all what he needs… I'm sorry but it has to end this way. ``

arrival deep inside herself, Hermione gathered every bit of strength she had and getting her legs under the early little girl, she kicked out and managed at last to get her off. Grabbing at her throat in relief as air once more made it's way to her lungs, she struggled to her infantry, not wanting to be caught unaware. Elanya was already standing and pointing her baton. `` You're right, what fun is it to just end your life like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the magic trick of outflow isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a oral sex commencement. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to hold all of her tending to the psychotic girl, she had no estimate whether Fred had fallen again and collapse his neck, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most probable that Elanya would catch her anyway.

'' wellspring, that's your perquisite. '' She smiled with disturbed delight and got make to cast. `` I wish I could say it's been nice knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her eyes and waited for impact. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another while straight at Elanya that sent her flying respective railway yard back through the trees until she hit one hard enough to criticise her out. She turned to detect him sprawled on the ground, sweating and panting from the feat of pulling himself costless with a leg that even from here looked extremely vain. `` Accio verge. '' He called tiredly in the direction Hermione's verge had flown earlier. It shot into his hand, which he held out to her as she rushed over.

'' Are you okay ? '' She asked, taking the wand and kneeling following to him.

'' I'm really not for certain. '' He answered, groaning in pain as she helped him sit up. His hands were bleeding from the rock music, but other than that and his leg, nothing else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his asseveration that zero was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be able-bodied to walk. `` That should help oneself. And we'll find an old offshoot or something for you to use as a cane to help put your weightiness on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his eyes as he presumably thought of the curse of being forced to move at all, let alone to walk.

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

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

They both kept an eye on the spot Elanya had landed as she ventured into the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree to look for a piece of wood longsighted and sturdy enough for their use. At finish she found one and rushed back over to help Fred raise to his foundation. Throwing his other arm around her berm, he was eventually capable to find a way to use both her and the make-shift walking spliff to his best advantage as he hobbled along. `` Should we call out for them since they can't seem to hear us in their heads ? '' She asked looking up at the sky and finding it empty.

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

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

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

'' okay then. '' She smiled.

He wrapped his arm more tightly around her shoulder and sighed. `` I'm glad you came to deliver me… I'm not used to playing the damosel. '' He grinned.

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

They walked on in comfortable silence, as felicitous as they could be given their spot. To his credit, Fred didn't asking that they stop to rest until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the surface. Moving over to a group of diminished Boulder, she helped him sit while keeping the Rock and H2O at their vertebral column and their eyes able-bodied to see the tree line and anyone who may thread 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 soul on Harry's broom ? '' She asked, trying to estimate out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the time to shout and get their attending. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to assist push himself to his understructure. She leapt up to aid and together they walked further away from the trees into the sand. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their hands until at last Harry caught great deal of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her foot, Hermione looked down and gave a small shriek as various magnanimous sea crabs scuttled across the moxie towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the trees, pointing her wand at Fred and sending the tiny fauna she'd conjured after him.

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

( severance )

These stupid crabs just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob mentality as they swarmed over each other to reach Fred. He tried to limp after Hermione and Elanya who had taken to dueling each other farther up the beach but between his already injured leg and the sharp claws continually piercing the cutis of the sound 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 minuscule plague off, he slowly persisted forward while looking to the sky to see why Harry and Luna hadn't landed to help 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 mortal riding with Harry returned the fiery attack. Luna was swooping in, waving her scepter and stirring up some moving ridge in an attempt to keep the gravy boat from reaching the island… but it was open the person driving cared cipher about the 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 in the ass shooter through his foot as he felt himself step on one of the crabs. Using the walking stick, he tried to regain his correspondence but his foot sank into the gumption and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his arms to break his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his dorsum, he dropped the reefer and wildly waved his scepter but to no avail. The puppet were all over him in an New York minute, looking very much larger and more angry 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 sneak and pierce his skin. He thrashed wildly, sending many of them flying away… but there were always more to admit their station. terror settled over him as he realized that he was unable to get up and the crab were taking the opportunity to bury him.

( BREAK )

Luna gripped the broom tightly, terrified that she was going to decrease off as the low of visions suddenly washed over her to give a monition of what was coming. It was brief enough that she didn't completely lose cognisance but elaborated enough to save her spirit. Quickly dodging to the left away from Harry and Jacey, she turned to see a human dynamo explode where she'd been only a moment ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him tighter before turning to return the fire 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 warn her of the fire, but that for some reason those girls had decided they no longer manage if she lived or died. She wasn't sure what had changed, but from the way Elise continued to throw ardour at her alone assured Luna that at some point, her life became less valuable to them than Harry and Jacey's… And so they were attacking her to distract them all from the fact that they were approaching the island where Hermione and Fred were clearly having trouble.

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

'' Luna count out ! '' Jacey yelled at the like sentence her suspicion screamed in her head to change by reversal. She was less than a second too deep and the very back of her Calluna vulgaris was caught in the fiery stream.

look herself begin to plummet, she shot toward the beach. As soon as there was solid footing below her, she rolled off the broom only to find herself surrounded by tons of Cancer. She quickly got to her substructure but the animal didn't seem to feature any interest in her and following their progress with her eyes she was able to see Fred further away, thrashing about as all of the crabs went about attacking him. Realizing what piece had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was nothing that was going to shout them off. Ignoring the one that pinched her as she reached down to assist him get up, she saw that one of his legs was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her berm, she got a effective clench and together they were able to lift him off the ground and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to enchant his breath as they both used their wands to keep the crabs at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his eye wide with vexation. `` Now bury about me and go help Hermione… I can't move quickly enough. ``

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

turn, she saw that Sarah had run the speedboat ashore and taken control of Luna's sandstorm before it could harm her Quaker. Harry and Jacey grounded as Elise jumped down from the gravy holder to fall in Sarah on the sand. They all five stared at each other, 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 hold the other from going to aid their friends… on the other incline, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to stay fresh himself from falling over again.

The blaring sound of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the dragons took to it. Several cheap scream erupted from the draw close but apparently they had sensed there was no direct terror 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 fervency, forcing her to land, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flaming as Jacey tried to retaliate from the back of the broom. `` They are about to tear ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

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

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

Jacey and Luna looked at each early and then to him, it was clear they were as upset as he was that they were unable to plan. `` Can we discourse 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 only way out.

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

Carefully grabbing Luna's uninjured arm he pulled her and Jacey further away and lowered his vocalisation so only they could hear him. `` okeh, Luna when I give the signal, 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 sassing to protest but he shook his school principal and went on. `` If we haven't come back in ten minute, then go get lupine and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you feel better… Just bring them back here to facilitate. ``

She stared at him for a moment, clearly unsure that this was the best plan. But it was the just one they had and she must experience realized it. `` Fine, ten bit and not a second more. '' She finally agreed.

'' O.K. then. '' Harry took her handwriting and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to keep on Sarah and Elanya back as best you can while I go assist out Hermione… as soon as we're able, apparate to the shriek hutch okay ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her hands together as she prepared to unleash Sir Thomas More of her superpower than she'd been able-bodied to in a more live place.

'' Well ? '' Elise impatiently called from behind them. `` What's it going to be ? Come with us voluntarily or wait until our fiddling minions row ashore to storm 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 succeeding to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering bulwark of fire, sending it to encircle Elise and Sarah. The flames raged, flickering over seven metrical foot high and with more metier than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will take her a min to deal with. '' Jacey grinned.

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

'' Harry ! '' He heard Jacey yell out a warning and turned to see respective boastfully boulder flying at him. He ducked to the terra firma and threw a shell around himself but it became quickly clear that Sarah hadn't been trying to kill him as the rocks settled and entombed him.

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



line : Thomas More to follow soon !