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


Molly Weasley did n't dare do dinner party until after the Quidditch match had been completed because even she did n't give the power to drag Weasleys away from Quidditch. Teddy secured a win for his team by practically stealing the Snitch out James 's grasp and then everyone was off their Calluna vulgaris and sitting at the large crowd of tables in record clip. After all, Quidditch was one of the best things one could do to develop a big appetency. Albus was certainly quite hungry and in a very good mood as he had been on Teddy 's team.

Albus and Rose sat next to each other in the middle of the group of mesa and unfortunately Percy sat directly across from them. ahead of time experience had taught them never to sit near Percy due to his substance abuse of talking politics during dinner party, something that even bored blush wine. The two of them looked at each other as Percy sat down and Albus readied himself for political conversation rather than Quidditch talk.

"I 'm telling you,"Walker Percy said to no one in particular as he served himself some Daucus carota sativa,"something 's going to happen. I guarantee it. It 's been too quiet down in the Ministry lately. Personally I thought things would get a bit riled up lowest year when Bruno Walter Eckerton took over for MacVicar, but I suppose the two of them had alike perspective. more similar than I expected anyway ..."

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

"What do you think, Harry ?"Harry Hotspur turned to Albus 's dad, who happened to be sitting next to him."Any inspiration in the Auror department that I may not have got heard about ?"

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

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

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

"Well, it 's an election year,"Percy pointed out."Things never stay calm during election years. Party annunciation come beginning week of September and after that things will be chaotic around the Ministry. Loads of employment to do. Let me narrate you, when I run for Minister-"

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

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

"gran, really,"James muttered."We 're going to be hearing this from the teacher. Uncle Percy, why do n't you tell us more about your running for government minister ?"

"well, as a affair of fact."Percy stood up."I have a rather exciting announcement to produce and I feel I must tell my family first, before the relief of the Wizarding World."He paused, presumably for spectacular result."I will be formally announcing on Monday, September second that I will be running for pastor for April 's election."

There was absolute silence for about five minute before a whole lot of things happened at once. Ron, George VI, and Charlie burst out laughing. Hermione raised her eyebrows as far as they could go. Ginny, peak, and Arthur all shouted loudly"Seriously ? ! ”. Molly shook her head slightly and then jumped up from her chair, running towards Percy and finally enveloping him in a large hug and kissing him squarely on the os frontale.

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

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

"And you 're a mulct good one, Ronald, but I ca n't ever see you being curate. You just do n't have the ambition Percy does,"Molly said as she patted him on the shoulder.

gold was exchanging men at the other end of the mesa. Cedric was grinning madly, so Albus assumed he had won some kind of bet involving when Percy would run for parson. That bet must bear been in the body of work for years.

Albus was personally stunned. He of course had been on the receiving end of many a Percy bombast about what he 'd do when he ran for Minister, but he had always believed Hotspur would n't ever do it. If Albus was honorable with himself, he did n't really want Percy running. His family was famed enough without having an existent Minister in it.

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

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

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

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

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

"We are supporting you,"Molly assured him.

"male child,"Arthur warned."Percy 's rightfield. If he wants to run for government minister he can without any of us making it difficult for him. You do n't let to vote for him, but I wo n't have you arguing during dinner party. You 'll upset your mum."

Everyone resumed their seats but Albus doubted they stopped talking about Sir Henry Percy running for rector. They just continued to do so in lower voices. For once, Albus was happy he had chosen a seat near Percy.

"Do you know who else is running ?"Hermione asked.

"Not sure as shooting,"Percy replied."Hartwell 's not running again, if that 's what you 're getting at. He 's had enough. But I 've got his support. After all, I am the Senior Undersecretary for the Drafting and editing of Laws to the Minister."

So that 's what Percy 's rubric was, Albus thought. He had no idea if that was a stead that had a lot of power or not, but apparently it was enough to have support for a government minister run.

"Hey, Dad,"Georgia shouted from a little agency down the table."I figure this is as in force a time as any to narrate you that I 'm moving out tomorrow."

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

"Moving out. You know, leaving the nest. I 've got a prostrate with a acquaintance closer to the lurch. It 'll be more convenient, for work."

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

"Look, I know how these elections work. You 're going to want to make yourself look like a family unit man, so you 're not going to want to think me your brainsick daughter who only plays Quidditch and has no job. So you 'd better jump thinking of me as your daughter who 's the newest reserve Keeper for the Kenmare Kestrals. It 'll sound better to the press."

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

Albus turned to rose wine and grinned. Georgia certainly knew how to name Sir Henry Percy 's running for Minister work to her advantage.

"blush wine, have you heard from Linda yet ?"Albus asked, deciding not to join the quietus of his family in political conversation.

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

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

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

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

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

Albus and Rose did n't risk talking about Lubar for the rest of the evening. indisputable, the rest of their family hump about what had happened but neither of them wanted to discuss their theories with any of them.

The rest of the evening was rather out of character for usual Weasley family dinners. All the previous year'dinner had consisted of talk of Hogwarts and the adults exclaiming how big everyone had gotten and how everyone was growing up. Usually whomever was starting Hogwarts for the first fourth dimension would get a fair bit of attention, but this yr Angie, who was starting, seemed to be forgotten. Instead all of the attention was focused on Sir Henry Percy. The adults were talking political science and Albus 's older full cousin were placing bet on whether he 'd win or not.

Stanley was the kickoff to leave as he had to go back to Romania the take after good morning. Charlie and Katherine had finished their yr in Romania and had returned to England permanently the premature month. Victoire and teddy left shortly after that since they both had to work the future day.

Percy was still discussing campaign tactics with Corrine, who was smiling and nodding the way Albus did when his cousin were smaller and he had to affect he was interested in what they were saying, when Albus 's parents decided it was time to forget. For the initiative time in his life, he was actually felicitous to depart and get back to Grimmauld Place. The before schooltime dinner was supposed to be about everyone who was at Hogwarts, a prison term to accept fun all together before school started, and this time it had n't been that. It had been about Percy.
******


By some slash of luck or miracle that had never descended upon the Potters before, Jesse James had packed his trunk the nighttime before they left for school. Albus was sure that some sort of apocalypse was going to come soon because Walker Percy running for minister of religion and the ceramist arriving early for the Hogwarts Express were two upshot that nonentity ever thought would find. Albus did n't question it, though. Instead he just used the opportunity to his advantage.

Kaden, who had met Albus at Platform 9 ¾ prior to going through the barrier, was not early, so the potter went through without him. rosebush and her family were already there of course, so Albus said a quick goodbye to his parents before getting on the gear to come up Rose. With any luck his protagonist would n't be there yet and he could tattle to Rose alone. Usually there was naught he would n't verbalise to his friend about, but the strange feeling he had had about his family was something he only wanted to talk to rose wine about.

Rose was alone in a compartment about halfway down the train, reading one of her new textbooks. It was Arithmancy and Albus did n't consume the slightest idea what any of the symbolization in it meant. He chose the seat next to her and waited for her to be done reading whatever it was she was deciphering.

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

"James packed live night,"Albus answered.

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

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

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

Albus swallowed intemperate. That was in the back of his judgment of course, but he had never voiced it before. Nor was it what he had set out to talk to go up about.

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

"Oh,"was all Rose said. Both cousin sat quietly for a minute before she continued."I know what you mean. What was up with that dinner party at gran and grandad 's ? It was all Percy. O.W.L.s were mentioned once and no one said anything about Angie starting Hogwarts."

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

"There 's still a lot of us here,"pink wine interrupted."And Eddie and the twins have n't even started yet. Plus it 's not like we even talked about chemise, Victoire, Stanley, and Georgia. We talked about Percy for Falco columbarius 's sake !"

"What do you think will bechance if he wins ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't know. I do n't call up things will change political-wise but I think it 's going to be really Wyrd for GA and Thomas Bradley and Cedric. Even the twins will probably be effected. I mean, having your dad be the most significant person in the wizarding world has got to be stressful."

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

"Percy would n't stand a chance."

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

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

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

"I think we 'll just have to deal with your murder, John, because that marker is not getting any higher,"Rose replied.

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

"Nothing,"blush wine said quickly.

"I 'll tell you once Matt and Amanda get here,"Albus said, figuring he 'd severalize them about Sir Henry Percy running for Minister.

"This is going to be the outflank twelvemonth ever !"Kaden said excitedly as he pulled a musical composition of parchment out of his bag."Look, it 's my Hogsmeade permission slip !"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Fine."Albus took a deep breath."fountainhead, my Uncle Percy 's running for Minister."

"Seriously ?"John replied.

"aplomb !"Kaden exclaimed.

"Why ?"Matt asked.

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

"Yes,"Albus answered."He 's seriously running, it 's not that sang-froid, I 'm honestly not sure why, and yes he 's been talking about it for years."

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

Albus and Rose both burst out laughing."Because that 's the net matter he 'd ever want to do. He would n't require anymore power than he 's already got. Whereas Harry Hotspur, all of my uncles have always said is kind of tycoon hungry,"Albus replied.

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

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

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

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

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

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

"He 's in good order, you know,"Amanda said.

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

"You, rose wine, and Matt are n't the only ones of us who have family line in political relation,"Amanda said.

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

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

Albus continued to stare at her. Amanda was always rather muted and rarely talked about her family. He always figured that was because she was so quiet and never guessed that it might be because her syndicate was just as influential in the Muggle world as his was in the wizarding Earth.

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

"So if Hotspur winnings ...,"Albus began, his articulation trailing off.

"He 'll meet my Uncle microphone,"Amanda finished."But as I was saying, Sakartvelo does have it all figured out. If Holy Writ gets out that Percy and her rowed about her Quidditch playacting, it 's going to total off ill-timed in the press and turn a loss him votes. So, he 'll keep it to himself and will be in the front row of every single one of her couple, pretending to be a vast Kenmare Kestrals fan."

"Wow, that seems so unseasonable,"Rose muttered.

"It 's politics from the other side. The public wants citizenry in tycoon to bear a certain image."

"Still, it 's like lying,"Rose went on."Just another ground I am not getting into politics."

"My cousin Leanne went a piddling natural state at university her first year, our first year at Hogwarts, and the Ministry hushed it all up. She was out partying and the paparazzi got a photograph of her and put it on the natural covering of some tabloid, but that was the only one. I know she partied more, but it was all hushed up."

"But it 's not ilk Peach State 's partying. She 's got Quidditch skills and is using them to make an honest aliveness,"Rose pointed out.

"I 'm not saying that 's bad. I 'm just saying your uncle wo n't want the world to know he 's not happy with her career selection so he 's going to make himself look like a devoted father."

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

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

"It 's on-key, Albus,"matt said."Amanda 's completely decent. It 's the unanimous rationality why my dad got sacked. The public did n't like that I was a lycanthrope, which is piece of why the Ministry hushed it up. When it got out, cypher wanted him in politics anymore."

Albus nodded, but did n't say anything. He never really thought about that before, but lusterlessness was right wing. Amanda was, too, but he never really put two and two together before flatness mentioned that. And now the Saame thing was happening with his family. Percy was going to dissemble and while that did n't really directly effect him, how long would it deal before the public did n't like the image he and the rest of his cousins were presenting ?


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

Here 's the Weasley-Potter Family Tree !

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

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

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

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

Ron-Hermione
Rose- 4th yr
Hugo- 2nd twelvemonth

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

*All in Gryffindor*


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was no mention of political relation or Ministers throughout the residual of the train slip. Amanda did n't say anything else about her uncle being the bloom minister and how it had affected her family, but Albus was still really singular about it. How had she managed to hold open that a mystery for three year ? judgment by Rose 's reaction, she did n't even experience about it. Matt had n't even managed to keep it a unavowed that he was a loup-garou for a twelvemonth. Granted, Albus and the others had figured it out, but still. Maybe Amanda was the best underground keeper in their group.

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

As the train neared Hogsmeade station, Albus and his friends changed into their gown and prepared to pass away the train for the bumpy pram ride up to the school. The journey was now so subprogram that they did so with little cackle and transferred to the equipage with none of the flourish of the premature two years. They were fourthly eld now and Hogwarts was familiar territory. As quaternary long time, they were well on their way to being the previous bookman of the shoal.

The Great Hall was filled with laughter and excitement as the students found their seats at their house tables. Albus and his friends quickly found seats together at the Gryffindor board and all five glanced up to the faculty table to find the new face that would be their Defense teacher. However, instead of the one unfamiliar face they expected, there were two unfamiliar faces.

"Which one 's the Defense Department teacher ?"Kaden asked.

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

There were two new ace sitting at the tabular array. One was rich in conversation with professor Kendrick and the other was glancing around at the room, his eyes never resting on the Same thing or person for Thomas More than a few seconds. The former was wearing what looked to be Ministry robe, which made Albus inquire if he was an Auror, but then he noticed one of the Aurors from last year standing off to the English in his usual spot. The mo new virtuoso was dressed in knit black robe and had nearly no hair atop his school principal, but instead had a large beard and mustache, as if he was trying to overcompensate.

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

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

"It 's not necessarily a bad thing,"Rose pointed out."Maybe they just want to make trusted everything is back to pattern after the competition live on year."

John opened his mouth to answer but was silenced by the doorway opening and prof Patil entering with the new first years. They looked fright and diminutive, far smaller than the previous yr 's first off geezerhood. It was Weird how they seemed to get smaller every year.

As with the former class, Albus did n't pay any attention to anyone 's sorting unless their final stage name was Potter or Weasley. This year, of course, there was only Angie entering Hogwarts from Albus 's great family. She ran up to the three-legged-stool with as very much enthusiasm as the rest of the house had and jammed the hat onto her head.

It remained there for all of three indorsement before shouting"Gryffindor !"Angie ran from the stool to the worked up shouts of the Gryffindors, her brother Fred 's whistling plangency over the rest. Everyone at Hogwarts would have bet money on Angie being a Gryffindor, but everyone still liked to cheer.

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

"The Ministry 's sent individual to watch over,"Saint James said confidently."Look at the past three days. Every single one at least one of Al and his Friend have gotten kidnapped by insane thaumaturgist. Clearly the Ministry does n't believe the teachers can protect us enough."

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

"I bet he 's here to recruit masses for the Ministry,"Fred suggested."You know, spend a year with us seventh years and try to convince us that we should exact on boring Ministry jobs. Bet Uncle Percy 's the reason for it. Probably does n't need anymore of his kin to occupy up Quidditch professionally."

"That 's ridiculous,"a seventh-year miss replied."He 's probably just the new Department of Defense teacher."

"Then who 's that early bloke ?"Matt gestured to the bald man sitting next to Slughorn.

"Slughorn 's tenacious lost Twin ?"Kaden suggested."Seriously, shave his beard and he 'll look just like Slughorn."

"Maybe Kendrick just wanted to invite somebody to the Welcome fiesta,"Amanda pointed out."It could be as dim-witted as that."

Albus doubted it. Nothing was ever simple when it came to life at Hogwarts. Finally, after what seemed like ages, the pudding disappeared and Kendrick stood to yield his common start of terminus speech.

"Welcome back to Hogwarts. I give a warm welcome to our new first years and Bob Hope you have enjoyed your first Hogwarts fiesta. I 'll remind everyone that the woods is out of bounds as well as the Whomping Willow. Those wishing to try out for their firm Quidditch squad can move over their names to their foreland of household. Now, you may have noticed that there are two new faculty phallus this twelvemonth even though only one position is vacant. The showtime is bare to excuse and the bit is a little more complicated.

"number 1, I would care to welcome Professor Elliot Young to Hogwarts. Professor youth is going to be taking over the denial teacher position."Kendrick gestured to the man with the whiskers, while scattered applause was received from the students and other professors.

"Professor ancient if you ask me,"privy muttered.

"Many of you may be cognizant and quite a lot of you I 'm sure are not mindful that this is an election year for the Ministry of trick. Tomorrow the nominee running for Minister of Magic will make their talking to announcing their candidacy, which will begin a seven month campaign period. At the first of Apr, anyone who is of age will vote and the winner shall be announced. The fact that this is an election year is a wondrous educational opportunity and I was n't about to let it excrete us by. Therefore I have decided to add another class to the syllabus. It will meet once a week and in it you will learn the ins and outs of our political system of rules and its history.

"This is professor Richard Embry."Kendrick gestured to the bloke sitting side by side to him, who then stood up."He is from the Ministry and has agreed to teach this new socio-economic class that we have designed. The class will appear on your schedules that you will meet tomorrow. Now, I suggest all of you turn in early as category begin bright and early in the morn. Prefects, please escort the first years to the unwashed rooms."

Kendrick and the Ministry bloke both resumed their tooshie while Albus and his protagonist rose. The joined the mob of pupil making their way out of the Great Hall and towards the main stairway. The Hufflepuffs and Slytherins broke away from the pack to descend to their dormitory room and then the Ravenclaws left for their tower. Soon, Albus and his protagonist were only amongst beau Gryffindors.

The common room was buzzing with discussion about the new professors when they arrived. almost of the younger educatee had gone to bed, but the elder educatee were making no move to do so. Fred was posting a sign-up sheet for Quidditch try-outs on the placard instrument panel while ling watched. Albus predicted that the two of them would act More like co-captains since there was no way ling was going to let Fred make all of the team decision this year.

"So now we have another category,"lavatory muttered as they sat down at a tabular array near the fire."More homework. More exams."

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

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

"Never,"Albus replied.

"Muggles take classes on politics,"Amanda pointed out."My baby took one last class and my cousins have taken them. I really do n't believe it 's going to be that difficult."

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

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

"Seriously,"matt agreed."They 're a long way off."

"Well, I think I 'm going to turn in,"rose wine said as she stood up."family starting signal tomorrow."

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

Rose and Amanda left for the lady friend'dormitory a little while later. Albus and the other boys stayed up a while longer, but soon realized they were quite tired. They said goodnight to Kaden when they reached the third years'dormitory and then continued on to their own. It had been a long day and Albus was ready to go to catch some Z's, just so he would n't experience to think about government or the election anymore.
******


"well, we 've got one of the new teachers today,"privy said at breakfast the following forenoon."We start off the day with Herbology and then have Defense Department right before lunch."

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

"Tomorrow, right before dinner,"can replied."pigeon hawk, that would 've been free prison term if we did n't sustain that bloody class."

"It could be fun, whoremonger,"Rose said.

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

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

"Of trend,"Matt muttered."Would n't bear anything dissimilar. And we 've probably got potions with them again, right ?"

Albus glanced at his schedule."Yes."They had had potions with the Slytherins every year now. Surely that could n't be accidental. Albus would have preferred they have no form with the Slytherins, especially after what had happened in Defense Department the previous yr. The last thing he and Matt needed was more reach with Scorpius Malfoy.

"goodness news is that we 've got Defense with the Hufflepuffs this year,"Amanda pointed out.

"Bet Kendrick did that on determination after final year,"Saint John the Apostle said."He 'd feature to be an idiot to give us that class with the Slytherins again.

Everyone nodded in concord. After the scene that had developed between Albus, St. John the Apostle, and Scorpius Kendrick would probably never have the three of them in Defense form together again. Albus was thankful. He 'd expend the last few calendar week of his third yr avoiding Malfoy and was fully prepared to avoid him for the residue of his Hogwarts calling. Unfortunately the Slytherin was on his dueling team.

The group hurriedly finished their breakfast and then parted room with Kaden before heading down to the greenhouses for Herbology. Herbology was one of those predictable classes where they never had to worry about anything awful happening when it came to subject matter or teacher. Neville was a fair teacher who made course of study interesting. Albus never had to occupy about anything odd happening while in the greenhouse, unlike potions and defensive measure.

Everyone was slightly wary of the new Department of Defense professor and thus the seats in the binding of the way were in gamy need. Unfortunately the Hufflepuffs had had Transfiguration beforehand and had a much shortsighted walk, so they claimed all of the far seats. Albus, Matt, and can had the misfortune of having to sit at one of the front tables and all three boys were on border.

The professor ambled into the room just as class was scheduled to initiate. He had a very large stack of parchment, which he set on the desk before beginning to call roll.

"I am prof Brigham Young,"he began after he finished with roll."And welcome to fourth year Defense Against the Dark Arts. This year we will focalise on wickedness execration, hexes, and general spells, all of which are detailed out in your textbook. You can take your book of account out now if you have n't already done so."

Albus rummaged in his bag and set his book on the table. professor offspring picked up the peck of lambskin and began passing it out to the pupil. Albus feared that it was a quiz, as he glanced down at its fill-in-the-blank enquiry and short answer questions.

"Please read the first chapter of your rule book and complete the worksheet by the end of the grade,"Danton True Young said as he walked back to his desk. He said null more and began to translate what appeared to be a novel while stroking his face fungus.

Albus glanced at John and lusterlessness, unsure of whether Brigham Young would call at him if he spoke in whispers to his friends. Actually, Loretta Young might not even hear him. He did come out to be quite old. But it was just so odd that Whitney Young assigned them reading and a worksheet on the first day of division. Would n't a chide make to a greater extent mother wit ? Albus could n't think of a time when a professor had n't lectured on the first day of class.

Everyone else seemed thoroughly confused as well. For the next five minute of arc everyone sent each other confused look and glances before finally cracking open their textbooks, having realized that Whitney Moore Young Jr. was n't going to do anything besides read his novel.

Albus began to read the showtime chapter, which was dreadfully tire. It was about the most mundane of iniquity hexes, if a Dark hex could be considered mundane. The chapter did n't even mention inexcusable hex, which while horrifying, were far more worry than the basic principles of what made a curse night.

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

"That was the strange course ever,"Albus said once they had left the elbow room."Who gives a worksheet on the starting time day of course of instruction ?"

"mortal who just wants to learn their book all day,"John replied."Works for me, since he did n't give any homework."

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

"Honestly, I 'm happy it 's boring after dealing with Balladanis final stage yr,"mat said.

"Somehow I do n't imagine this bloke is going to be bringing any Anamateks to course,"Albus said.

"An Anamatek would probably finish him off,"John replied."I do n't think he could manage one."

"Not many people could,"Albus pointed out.

When they arrived in the Great Charles Martin Hall, they were surprised to see GA hurrying Thomas Bradley and Cedric out of the room.

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

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

"What time is it happening ?"Albus asked.

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

"There is no way Georgia 's going to be able to pretend everything is fine between her and Uncle Percy for the unanimous election,"pink wine said once Georgia and her Brother had left."She looked annoyed already and he has n't even announced he 's running yet."

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

"indirect request we could go lookout,"blush wine said."I bet our parents are there."

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

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

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


Albus did n't see Bradley or Cedric until dinner party. He had been hoping to view one of them in between family, but either their docket did n't permit them to cross path or the announcement had gone until dinner party. The disturbance in the Great Hall was n't any cheap than it usually was when Albus arrived, but then again he was n't quite certain how much the rest of the students cared about the election. However at the Gryffindor table, all of Albus 's cousin-german were clustered at one end of the table, their heads leaned in to one another.

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

"We 'll see you in the common elbow room after dinner party, then,"Amanda said as she pulled John Lackland and Kaden towards the other end of the table, Matt following.

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

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

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

"Well, go on,"Fred encouraged.

"It was basically a huge partiality party with a crowd of boring speeches,"Bradley began."A lot of Ministry multitude and their wives or husbands and Dad was the center field of tending, of course of action. Everyone knew he was running even though he had n't made his official proclamation yet. It did n't get interesting until Dad and the witch he 's running against made their announcement-"

"Dad 's was pretty irksome,"Cedric cut in."Talked about how he 's seen the Ministry through so many variety and how we need strong leadership to keep the magical community together and firm. Mentioned Uncle Harry and Voldemort, of trend. Then everyone clapped politely and the opposition stood up."

"The witch who 's actually operative looks like she was a hawk in a previous animation. Her olfactory organ is as pointy as a nose can get and she 's got this sleek black hair that was done up in a bun. She stood up there with a crowd of mass who she introduced as her campaign team,"Omar Nelson Bradley said."But it was her language that got the bunch riled up. She kept putting holes in everything Dad said. Dad mentioned about how the wizarding world was a strong united front but she talked about how rifts are forming and the Ministry is slipping and change is needed again. She made all these subtle reference of how the Aurors are n't as on top of things and how if we do n't do something the magical world will fall apart."

"That 's ridiculous !"Fred said."The charming world is fine."

"I thought they were just making their declaration that they were running,"Rose said."actor's line do n't get going yet."

"Neither of them are going to waste an opportunity to get voter turnout,"Heather pointed out."So do you two have to make anymore appearances ?"

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

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

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

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

"Wyrd that both the candidate were working under the electric current Minister,"Rose said.

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

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

Cedric and Bradley left, leaving the rest of the cousins to talk about what they had just been told. Albus mostly listened while pushing his food around his plate. What he had learned about Patricia Laurentis unnerved him a little and it was mostly because part of him thought she was right. Things were n't as hone as his Uncle Hotspur thought. Willinson was still on the loose and not to mention the proceeds with Lubar was still unresolved.

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

"Maybe Uncle Hotspur is the rightfield person to be Minister,"broom said quietly."The Ministry has been working the same way since the Final struggle, has n't it ? And there have n't been anymore Voldemorts trying to pull in power."

"But things ca n't always delay the same,"rosebush pointed out.

"Do you really think the Ministry needs to interchange that very much ?"Heather asked.

"I do n't know,"Rose said quietly."I just do n't think people are as united as Uncle Percy thinks."

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

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

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

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

"I 'm not denying that, but he did bear a point. In an election year everything matters. Uncle Percy 's aligned his beliefs with the current parson 's, which means if he 's elected he 's going to continue doing affair the same way. The Ministry has n't caught Willinson for good in the three years they 've been searching and he 's slipped out of their clutches numerous fourth dimension. It 's not going to be difficult for that Laurentis lady to convert masses we need to exchange tactics, even if her manoeuvre are n't great either."

Albus said zero for a few moments."How do you know all of this ?"

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

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

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

Albus did n't answer. He knew that his Uncle Sir Henry Percy 's political views were slightly different than the rest of his family 's, but they were still quite exchangeable. If what Rose was saying was true, that meant that his unharmed menage needed to open their eyes and Albus was n't sure how he felt about that.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"You know, this political science stratum is taking away from our free periods,"John said the watch over morn at breakfast. He shook his head as he loaded his collection plate high with scrambled eggs and bacon.

Albus nodded and waited for blush wine 's response about how they needed to need advantage of any check opportunity, even if they meant LE free time, but it did n't total. Albus turned to look at her, thinking she might be ill. She was n't. Instead she was piling her own scale eminent with ball and goner. Albus raised his eyebrows at her.

"What ?"she demanded."lady friend get hungry, too."

"Not that,"Albus replied."John just complained about having another class and you did n't moan and tell him off."

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

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

Rose pushed his hand away."layover it, Al. I 'm not saying I wo n't revel the category. I 'm just saying that we 're fourth geezerhood and O.W.L.s are closer than ever and we need all the time we can get to study. Not that John would use the clock time to study, mind you."

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

"I think it 'll be a nice change,"Matt put in."Something dissimilar. Notice they gave us History of Magic on two successive mornings. Wonder who the idiot was who did that."

"Same one who always gives us classes with the Slytherins, I 'll bet,"John said."Double Potions this morning and I 'd bet my right arm and both my pegleg we 'll be with the Slytherins."

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

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

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

"goodness fortune. That prof is weird,"Saint John said.

"Ca n't be worse than stopping point twelvemonth,"Kaden replied as he got up and left.

Albus, flatness, rose, and Amanda waited for John to polish off his down of eggs before setting off for the dungeons. When they arrived the door was already unresolved and Albus saw that they were indeed wit the Slytherins again. Scorpius Malfoy was sitting at one of the strawman tabular array, looking rather smug. Albus averted his center and continued to the back of the classroom, where he sat down in between mat and Saint John.

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

"I do n't do it. But I do n't like it,"John said.

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

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

"... Since today is a bivalent course I thought we 'd set about brewing the outset potion in your textbook and see where your skill lie after a summertime of lounging about. Unless some of you happened to read your text edition books over the summer !"

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

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

John set off to work with Janie Creevey who lacked a better half while Albus and lusterlessness set up a cauldron at their table.

"Remember your gloves,"Slughorn announced."If you touch the finished mathematical product your hand will immediately freeze."

"Does it look odd to you that we have to dream up a frost result with fire ?"mat asked as he stuck his wand under the cauldron to fire up the flame.

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

"Yeah. I bet he uses the Same programme every yr,"Matt added."Ca n't think that much alteration in footing of potion brewing."

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

"I wonder if it 's possible for this potion to blow up,"Matt mused as he tossed a few pieces of hack Beta vulgaris rubra into the cauldron."

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

"Shut it, Malfoy,"Albus replied.

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

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

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

matt let out a laugh."Yeah, right. If anything he 's finally realized you 're a better dueler than he is and he 's got to watch out. public speaking of which, you think you 're going to be captain of your dueling team this twelvemonth ?"

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

With everything else that was going on that twelvemonth, the last thing Albus needed was to be captain of his dueling team, but he did not desire Malfoy as captain either. He 'd rent the excess work if just to observe Malfoy from being in charge. Malfoy needed power like a blast-ended skrewt needed a fire thrower.

Albus and Matt did not brag up their potion by the end of the family. In fact, their potion had the same consistency that it was supposed to and while it was slightly off-color, it did manage to freeze the pinion Slughorn stuck in it. pink wine and Amanda won the burnt umber, which was no surprisal to anyone.

Rose and Amanda shared their chocolate with the boys as they walked up to the Great Hall for tiffin. Albus and mat told the fille and John about Malfoy 's freaky behaviour and Rose told them that they should just be happy he 's backing down, rather than analyze his motif.

The Great Hall was buzzing with bodily process when they entered it a few min later. Albus sat down at the Gryffindor mesa and no Oklahoman had he grabbed a roll did Heather jactitate a copy of the Prophet onto his collection plate.

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

"This morning 's Prophet. The bird of night were previous delivering it. Something about a storm in Jack London,"Calluna vulgaris explained.

Albus set down his roll and opened the paper. There on the front pageboy was a picture of his Uncle Percy, smiling wide, in complicate gown, shaking hand with a very magniloquent woman, who was also smiling wide and wearing expand robes. Above the picture was the form of address,"campaigner for Minister of Magic Announced."

By this point Rose and lusterlessness had crowded on either side of Albus, while Amanda and St. John hovered behind him, all trying to read the clause. Albus 's eyes traveled down the Page so he could do the same.

In front of the full Ministry of legerdemain,
curate hopefuls Hotspur Saint Ignatius Weasley and
Patricia Leigh Laurentis announced their
candidature on September 3rd, 2029. Both
campaigner work under Minister Hartwell, yet
are running against each other for opposite
company.

Weasley, senior Undersecretary for the
Drafting and redaction of law, has been
chosen to run for the Merlinus Party,
which is the party that current rector
Hartwell represents. Laurentis, elder
adviser to Law Enforcement and Azkaban
official has been chosen to run for the
Paracelsus Party.

A big crew turned out for the announcement,
which is only the first of many show
by both candidates. The beginning disputation is
scheduled for September 8th, at the
Ministry of Magic.

"So that 's who your uncle 's track against,"lustrelessness said.

"speculation so,"Albus replied.

"She looks a piddling like this math instructor I had before I came to Hogwarts,"Amanda said."She was a chilling lady. I remember once I forgot to do my homework so I spent the total daybreak in the loo before mortal came looking for me."

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

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

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

"Maybe,"rose wine said."It just seems suspect. Her switching party and hinting at all these extremist variety. It just seems like something big is going to happen."

Albus could n't avail but have the same feeling. But all he could do was trust that his uncle won the election and Laurentis would not have the chance to switch everything.

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

Albus nodded and passed the prophet down, then settling in to eat lunch. There was no level worrying about the election now. It was months away. Plus, the political relation class was later that day and Albus was incredibly curious about it.

Transfiguration seemed to sweep by since it was the same as it was every year. prof Patil explained about that year 's curriculum and how they needed to start thinking about O.W.L.s and the increased work load. It was all rather flat and all Albus wanted to do was get to politics since it was something new.

Finally Transfiguration was over and Albus and his friends hurried to the 5th floor to the classroom where politics was held. They slowed down when they reached the elbow room as none of them wanted to be the first to enter.

"We better not give birth this with the Slytherins,"John muttered as they neared the doorway.

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

Gospel According to John let out an hearable sigh of succour and Albus pushed the door open as they entered. Only a few Hufflepuffs were there, seated towards the back, and the professor was nowhere in heap. Rose immediately claimed a desk in the strawman and Amanda chose one next to her, while Albus and the other boy headed to the group of Hufflepuffs in the book binding.

"Do you think there will be homework in this class ?"can asked as they sat down.

Albus raised his supercilium."Is that a serious interrogation ?"

St. John the Apostle shrugged."Well it 's not like there will be an O.W.L. We probably wo n't even get this socio-economic class side by side year. So why would there be preparation ?"

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

The rest of the class filed in, filling in the hindquarters that remained in the midsection of the classroom. As the gong rang, Professor Embry entered, walking with an air that this class would be all piece of work and no bid.

"Good afternoon,"Professor Embry began as he shuffled a few papers on his desk."Welcome to Basic Wizarding political relation. I am Professor Embry and you will come up to me such."

Embry stepped out from behind his desk and began to pace the distance of the classroom."I understand that most of you know absolutely nothing about politics and accept that the minister of Magic is born the Minister and Pentateuch just magically come into being. A select few of you,"his eyes rested on Albus, and then on matt, and on two Hufflepuff girls,"have parents in the Ministry and may have slightly more cognition than the balance, but that would be rather generous of me to assume.

"Hogwarts has not put much stake in political education before now, something that I feel is lacking in today 's education and regard to remediate this year. The curriculum will let in history of how our government came to be the way it is today as well as how the government is currently run."

The course of study let out a collective grown at the word history. Albus glanced at rosiness, who was on the edge of her seat.

"But sir,"a particularly weather Hufflepufff boy announced,"we 've already learned the history. We take account of Magic."

Embry let out a short laugh."With prof Binns ? If I may be frank, that man died before to the highest degree of the story happened. Along with that, he 'll put a rock to sleep."Embry chuckled. No one in the social class dared to laugh."I 'm going to give you a proper history of our modern government, starting with a brief overview of what the government was like before the sovereignty of Voldemort and a more comprehensive overview of what it is like today.

"I will also devote a class period each to the way the government is run in France, the United country, and Commonwealth of Australia. Now, since you were not aware that this class would ingest place, you have not acquired Christian Bible. Therefore I have purchased them for you. You are to process them as library Koran and return them to me in similar condition at the end of the yr. Lest your parents be billed."

Embry flicked his sceptre and tidy sum of Bible flew out of a nearby cupboard. They landed softly in front of the student. Albus glanced down and understand the rubric. Politics and political science in modern Wizarding United Kingdom by Beatrice Holden. It looked about as dull as the cupboard it had come out of.

"Very in effect. Now, get out parchment and quills. I 'm not going to let the rest of this class period go to waste,"Embry said as he tapped his sceptre on the display panel. Notes immediately appeared on it.

Embry lectured for the remainder of the class about how the first gear government was formed in Britain. It was incredibly dry. The alone rationality Albus stayed awake was because he had to get notes. Literally had to. Embry caught a King John not taking notes and threatened him with custody this Sat if he did n't start.

"That 's all for today,"Embry said after the bell rang."adjacent class we 'll fast forward in time and learn about the authorities pre-Voldemort. Read the first chapter for prep and occur up with three thoughtful questions to lay to the rest of the stratum. Dismissed."

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

"Kendrick must put it on the list of job requirements,"John replied."moldiness be out of your freaking mind to carry this position."

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

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

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

"She 's got a point, mate,"flatness said."Who has the power in your res publica thing. If you elect the wrongfulness people, things can go horribly wrong. Not everyone gets to elect their leadership, either. We do n't even get to do that fully. The positions that Albus 's dad has and my dad have ? In the United state of matter, those are elected berth. Not here."

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

"How do you lot even know this clobber ?"John the Divine asked as they drew closer to the Gryffindor coarse room.

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

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

Albus grinned sheepishly."conjecture so."

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

"Normal is highly overrated,"Matt said as they reached the Fat noblewoman.

******


The rest of the week went by fairly quickly, in Albus 's impression. Everyone, students and teachers, fell back into their usual Hogwarts bit and by the time Friday arrived Albus had a stack of homework as eminent as his bed and was More than ready for a few days off. But when he saw the find plank in the vernacular room when he got back from magic spell on Friday afternoon, he knew that would not be entirely possible.

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

"octad !"Albus exclaimed."In the morning ? Is he thoroughly insane ? It 's the first hebdomad back ! Even Empire State of the South was n't crazy enough to do that."

"Tough luck, mate,"trick said as he tossed his bag onto a nearby lounge."octet in the break of the day. Let 's see, I 'll be snuggled up in bed. What about you, matte ? What will you be doing at eight in the good morning ? Flying through the rain ? Trudging through the mud to the pitch ?"

"grade not."matt grinned."I 'll be cozy in bed, having an mystify dreaming where I 'm playing for the Cannons. In consummate conditions of course."

"The carom are the only team you 'd ever have hope of playing for,"John replied.

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

"Speak of the heller,"John said as Fred entered the vernacular room.

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

Fred shrugged."Had to. pitching is booked upstanding all weekend except for Sat sunrise and evening. All the early sign are having try-outs. We ca n't even hold our Keeper try-outs until next weekend because of it."

"Why not the evening then ?"

"Bradley 's got to make an appearance at Uncle Percy 's speech."Fred rolled his middle.

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

"It 's been a whole summer. We 're out of practice. We 've got to startle training too soon. I want that Quidditch trophy."

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

"flavour, Al, I 'm not changing it. Just quite a little with it,"Fred said as he continued up to his dormitory room.

Albus spent the rest of the evening fuming about pattern and cursing Fred under his breathing spell, until Rose suggested they all go to the Room after dinner. Albus reluctantly agreed, knowing that if they went to the Room he 'd be up half the night and would only get a few hours'sleep.

In the end he was glad Rose suggested it. They spent the evening playing Gobstones and Exploding Snap and listening to Gospel According to John and Kaden think up new ways to prank the Slytherins, and more specifically, Scorpius Malfoy. Eventually, Albus decided to call up it a night and headed back to his dormitory, leaving his Friend to continue discussing whether it would be wagerer to turn Malfoy 's hair red or purple.

Only a few short-circuit hr later Albus found himself sneaking quietly out of his dorm room at an hour of day that was only entail to be seen on weekdays. He grabbed his broom and went to meet his mate in the unwashed room.

No one looked happy. James IV was nodding off on the lounge while Ryan attempted to tie his brake shoe without opening his eyes. Heather 's hair was sticking up at odd angles while she tried to tame it into a ponytail. Bradley was sulking in an armchair. Even Fred looked a picayune worse for wearing. But they trudged through the castle, only seeing Peeves loosening a few doorway hinges and Filch 's cat skulking behind a cause of armor.

The weather was at least nice and the four hr they spent on the pitch went by relatively degenerate. Albus and his teammate landed on the ground as the Slytherin Quidditch team made their way onto the pitch. Albus glared at them as they passed.

Without going up to his dormitory to convert, Albus headed into the Great Hall hoping there would be something good for tiffin. Having skipped breakfast, he was starving. He spotted his friends halfway down the Gryffindor tabular array and after stowing his broom underneath the terrace, he sat down and grabbed the nearest dish.

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

"Too starved,"Albus replied.

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

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

"Are you going to have to go to every public debate ?"rose asked.

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

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

"This says I have to wear dress gown,"Albus muttered.

"At least you can narrate us if anything proficient happens,"matte said.

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

"He already told me over the summer that I 'll only have to go to ones at Hogwarts. And then whatever political party the candidates will confuse for the officials. Does n't cogitate an election should throw much issue on my life,"Matt explained.

"Lucky,"Albus replied.

Albus made the well-nigh of the rest of the day. He and his friends took prep down to the lake, but it sat ignored under a beech tree while they sat by the edge of the lake and dangled their metrical unit in. Kaden swore the giant Squid tried to eat his metrical unit, but cypher believed him. rose and Amanda took a paseo by themselves along the sharpness of the timber, insisting that none of the boys follow.

Kaden pulled a Fanged Frisbee out of his bag once the girls left and the son began tossing it around. This was capital fun until the Frisbee decided it had had sufficiency of being thrown and took out a section of Kaden 's tomentum, leaving his head bleeding rather profusely and Albus, John, and lustrelessness having to rush him to the hospital flank. By the time Kaden 's point had been bandaged up and all four had received a lecturing on the dangers of Fanged Frisbees ( Madam Pomfrey somehow figured out that that was the campaign ) it was metre for Albus to direct back to Gryffindor Tower to get ready for the debate.


A/N : Sorry for the lack of a May update. School was insane. But I only have a class left ! I 'm now dwelling for the summer and am having way out getting my cyberspace to cooperate with HPFF. Things take a long meter to load and I can not respond to reviews. I will still read every review, but responses will take a while since I have to be at the library to respond to them.

Since I last updated I 've had some issues with people plagiarizing my stories. I really hate that I have to tell you jest at this, but it is against the rules to take anyone 's stories from here and put them on former sites. It 's also against the rules to learn plots, graphic symbol, etc without permission. I do not give my permission for anyone to take my plot or characters. I 'm really felicitous that you guys like my stories, but please do n't deal them.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


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

But it was a fact of life and so Albus found himself once again forcing himself into a set of emerald green garb robe. They were wrinkled, but he did n't lie with any variety of ironing charm so he let them be. It 's not like anyone would be focused on him anyway. This was his Uncle Hotspur 's night and it seemed like this entire year was going to be his Uncle Percy 's yr.

Albus tamed his haircloth with a bit of water and then met Saint James the Apostle, Lily, Thomas Bradley, and Cedric in the common room. James looked smooth and perfectly comfortable in his Amytal dress robes, whereas Bradley and Cedric looked like they were being force fed rotten fish in their matching grey gown. Lily was wearing a purple clothes and as usual, did n't seem to sustain an opinion about going to the argument.

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

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

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

The residual of the trip-up to Kendrick 's study was silent. When they arrived they saw that Kendrick was in apparel robes as well and was apparently escorting them to the Ministry and would continue to watch the debate. He handed them each a bit of Floo powder and let them go first.

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

Kendrick led them to the lifts and down to the court rooms."The only place big enough to oblige everyone witnessing the debate. Even still, it 's an invitation only outcome. It 's being broadcasted over the wireless, however. Kendrick stopped in front of court room ten and opened the threshold. The room was about half full. Albus spotted his female parent 's brilliantly red haircloth in the first row of seating room. He followed Kendrick down the stairs.

Albus 's Aunt Corrine was sitting with his parents, along with a rather sullen looking Georgia and the Gemini the Twins, who were both reading Scripture. Kendrick began to talk quietly to Harry as Albus and the others filed into the row. James II, Bradley, and Cedric immediately began to speak of Quidditch and Albus listened in. They were speculating on who would show up for Keeper try-outs the adopt weekend. Empire State of the South immediately perked up and began giving the boys advice on who they should keep an eye out for.

It soon became obvious that the left-hand side of the forepart row of the seating was reserved for Harry Hotspur 's menage. They were joined by all of Albus 's aunts and uncles, as well as Victoire, shimmy, and Stanley. In fact the only one of his older cousins that was not there was Gabriella. Albus wanted to ask Victoire where she was but she was too far away.

Albus assumed that the first of all row on the right hand side was reserved for Laurentis 's family, although Albus did n't recognize a single one of the people in that row. He turned around and focused on the people filing in. He recognized a few of them including lusterlessness 's parents and a few other Ministry officials he 'd met before. Matt 's parents sat down behind Albus 's parents, succeeding to prof Kendrick. Albus briefly wished that lustrelessness had been forced to go, but quickly erased that thinking because what form of friend would wish their effective friend had to go to a political public debate ?

The yack in the room immediately subsided when Minister Hartwell entered followed by a few of his unaired consultant. Behind them were Percy and Laurentis, both wearing Ministry gown. Hartwell and his advisers sat along a mesa at the front of the elbow room while Sir Henry Percy and Laurentis stood behind soapbox, also at the strawman of the room. The Minister spoke with his advisers briefly while Percy and Laurentis smiled and waved at the crowd. Then one of the advisor rose from his seat.

He was a portly man, whose robe stretched very tightly across his middle. He was completely bald and had no beard, but a very wide moustache. Aiming his wand at his own throat, he muttered a spell and then set his scepter down.

"Welcome,"his vocalism boomed over the audience,"to the first debate of the 2020 election for government minister of Magic. Our two prospect, Percy Ignatius Weasley and Patricia Leigh Laurentis, get together us tonight for an introductory debate on a variety of payoff. My name is Wendell York and I am the head of the department of Magical Transportation and will answer as moderator for tonight 's public debate. I will pose the topic and each candidate will get five minutes to answer, then two instant for a rebutter.

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

Albus yawned. Why could n't it be an stimulate topic like catching night wizards ? Or at least something relevant to his lifetime, like the lack of good Defense prof at Hogwarts. Now that would be a argumentation he 'd be concern in. Albus turned towards Sir Henry Percy and realized he had n't even been paying attention to much of his uncle 's response.

"... electric current constabulary do a satisfactory job of concealing our world from Muggles. Magic sightings by Muggles are low in number and when they do occur Obliviators do an fantabulous job of altering the retentivity of our Muggle neighbour ..."Percy droned on.

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

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

"I disagree with Mr. Weasley,"Laurentis began."One sighting of our form by Muggles is too many. Each time a Muggle catches sight of an act of deception puts our integral human beings at risk of exposure, and not only Britain 's wizarding domain. We have a responsibility to the earthly concern that we keep our deception under wrap. According to last year 's statistic we were in the top five state in terms of numbers of sightings. That 's not good ..."

Laurentis went on and on about various police force that could be enacted to guarantee that Muggles did not see acts of magic until Wendell House of York cut her off. He then let Sir Henry Percy take in his two bit rebuttal, during which he went on about how it was an impossible goal to try, to achieve no deception sightings by Muggles. Laurentis 's rebutter was basically just a re-statement of her late disceptation.

Albus tuned much of the debate out, focusing instead on what he wanted to do during the stream school day year. He was a fourthly twelvemonth, which meant he was no tenacious one of the younger small fry. He 'd been on the Quidditch team for two years and now he was hoping he 'd be able-bodied to make some say in how practices went and how matches were played. Then there was the Dueling Club. Each of the eight teams had a maitre d'hotel and the headwaiter were one-fourth years. professor, mostly Neville, picked the maitre d'hotel. Albus knew it would be down to either him or Scorpio and as much as he did not really want the responsibility of being captain, he did not desire Scorpius to have power over him. He would use that to his vantage.

The debate wore on and Albus continued to not pay attention until he heard the quarrel 'education'and 'Hogwarts'. That got his aid. It was Laurentis 's turn to go first.

"I think educational reform is the best way to go. Hogwarts has been ran the Same way for genesis and while no one can traverse that Headmaster Kendrick runs a wonderful shoal, we also can not ignore that alteration could be made to benefit the students. The world is a constantly changing space and educational activity needs to keep back up in guild for our students to be better cook.

"The social class selection for example. It is my savvy that a new class has been added this year about politics, which I think is greatly beneficial to students. But other than that the Saame form are offered now as have been offered for decennary. New classes need to be phased in while old one that either no recollective interest group bookman need to be phased out. Obviously I am not talking about nucleus form such as Potions and Charms, but elective course.

"teacher also need to be kept up to date with recent finding in their fields. They should not be teaching the same information I or my opposition learned at Hogwarts. They should be teaching the new valid information available-"

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

"My opposer brings up an interesting point, but even she admits that Headmaster Kendrick is running an excellent school. I believe that some governance regulating is necessary, exemplar being lastly class 's incident with Professor Balladanis, but we as governing official do not have the training nor experience needed to properly run a school. I, as well as my opponent, would be kidding ourselves if we believed we could do a better job running Hogwarts than Professor Kendrick.

"Just as professor most likely believe it considerably to leave law making and the run of the country to those such as my opposer and I, I believe it safe to leave behind the running play of Hogwarts to Professor Kendrick and the early professors. In conclusion, I believe that Hogwarts is fine as is and if the schoolmaster thought he needed politics assistance bringing about variety in programme he would ask."

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

"I in no way stated that I am trying to run Hogwarts. Nor do I think I would do a better job of it than Professor Kendrick. I am merely stating that the students would benefit from more government intervention. If the Ministry had been more involved with teacher selection, for exemplar, we could own possibly avoided hiring Professor Balladanis last year."

"Mr. Weasley."

"My opponent is speculating. There is no way for anyone to say whether regime officials would have found Professor Balladanis to be an inappropriate professor during his interview. In fact, I would incline towards the contrary, considering that neither I or my opposite have ever hired a professor before."

Both Percy and Laurentis were red in the look. Albus was surprised a Ministry patronize debate could get so heated. He craned his head and turned around in order to see what Kendrick 's reaction to all this was, but found that Kendrick was hiding his emotions far honorable than either Hotspur or Laurentis. It also seemed that everyone in the way was paying rhapsodic attention, including William James and Lily. The only two mass who were n't were Samantha and lindy hop.

There was one last head about law devising that Albus did n't really understand, nor did he care to understand. He was far more interested in the Hogwarts question. Percy 's contestation was far better, in his notion. Hogwarts was fine the way it was. Why did Laurentis want to change everything ? What sort of changes was she talking about, anyway ? He supposed the topic would be explored more specifically at the education themed argumentation which was scheduled to take place at Hogwarts the following calendar month. But one cerebration that Albus could not get out of his promontory was that if Laurentis won, what would materialize to Hogwarts ?
******


"The only change I want to see at Hogwarts is less homework and fewer exams,"John said as he walked with Albus and the rest period of their Friend to the Great Hall.

A week had passed since the first argumentation and scholarly person were still talking about the potential variety to Hogwarts. A very large replete page spreadhead had appeared in the Daily prophet the day after the debate, proclaiming that Laurentis wished to shift Hogwarts. This had both students and professor up in arms and things were only beginning to simmer down down. The professor had been on bound the previous week, snapping at scholarly person for nothing and assigning spear carrier homework. This resulted in the bookman being very dysphoric. Albus did not quite understand why everyone was letting it dissemble them so much. It 's not the likes of Laurentis had won. Yet.

It was early on Sabbatum dawn and Albus and his champion were heading to the Great Charles Francis Hall for the get-go Junior 's Dueling nightclub meeting of the year. Albus 's nerves were on end. It was at this kickoff meeting that the police chief would be announced.

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

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

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

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

The Great Hall was in stack chaos, as it always was during the first group meeting of the year. Two teams were congregated at each table and much to Albus 's contempt, his squad was holding court at the Slytherin table. He weaved his way through the confused secondment years who had yet to be assigned a squad and stood next to his team. Scorpius was seated across the table from him.

"Well, thrower, ready to be under my captaincy ?"Scorpio greeted him.

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

"I 'm the improve dueler, obviously."Scorpius smirked.

"Quiet, quiet everyone !"Neville shouted.

Albus turned away from Scorpius and swallowed the desire to ready a seminal fluid back and paid tending to Neville instead. prof Patil stood next to him. Albus supposed the new Defense professor had not had a desire to facilitate with the Dueling Club. Somehow, Albus was not surprised.

"Thank you,"Neville said."First I 'd like to declare that Professor Patil has graciously agreed to facilitate me sponsor this year 's Dueling society. As a reminder, all teams must have a prof present during practices and it is up to the squad maitre d'hotel to organize drill meter and site a professor to sit in. The professor does not deliver to be myself or Professor Patil. However, this year we are allowing 7th twelvemonth Dueling Club members to monitor as well. So as an alternative, you may ask a seventh year to supervise.

"showtime order of business concern is this year 's 2nd age. I 've already assigned you to squad and shall now read off the list."

Albus let his mind wander while Neville read off the list. The only 2d years he knew were his babe, and she was assigned to lustrelessness 's team, as well as Hugo, who was assigned to St. John the Apostle and Kaden 's squad. A harvest of shy looking second years had congregated at his own team 's smudge and he smiled at them, encouraging them to involve seats next to the older students. There were five of them. Two son and three girl. Three Ravenclaws, a Slytherin, and a Hufflepuff. No Gryffindors, but Albus could subsist with that.

"And now, what I am sure all the fourthly days have been waiting for, captain declaration ! Let me remind you that I, as well as the early professors who have been involved with this nightspot have been watching you over the by two long time and have chosen not only exceptional duelers, but prodigious leaders. Without further adieu.

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

cheerfulness erupted for Marina, mostly from the Hufflepuff board, where her squad was seated. Albus grinned. Marina was very nice and would puddle an splendid captain.

"The captain of Team Two is Harvey Tucker."

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

"The police chief of Team terzetto is Peter Smith."

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

"The sea captain of Team Four is Lydia Thompson."

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

"The master of Team Phoebe is Jace Johnson."

rose 's squad. Jace was a Hufflepuff who did n't seem to ever be not glad. It was kind of bizarre, actually.

"The captain of squad Six is Raisha Sweeney."

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

"The police chief of Team Seven is Albus Potter."

whoremonger 's whistle could be heard above everyone 's cheering. Albus grinned. His entire squad ( keep for Scorpio and his friends ) were clapping hard. He 'd done it. He 'd made captain ! All the uncertainty he 'd had over the summer about it had disappeared. He, Albus Potter, was the new captain of team Seven.

"The master of squad octet is Dayton Coons."

lustrelessness 's squad. Dayton was another Ravenclaw who had multiple encyclopaedia in his brain.

"That 's all for today. maitre d', please bod out a time for your number one drill, which should make place during the succeeding two weeks. Once you have a date, please see me to get a schoolroom. Then find a professor or one-seventh year to supervise.

Scorpius did not say one word as Albus talked with the rest of his team and figured out a practice fourth dimension that did not interfere with four different Quidditch team, Gobstones guild, and Bromus secalinus ball club. Eventually he settled on the following Thursday even. Neville assigned them to an hollow classroom on the sixth floor. Albus figured he 'd ask a one-seventh year to manage rather than a professor. It was less intimidating for his first recitation.

Albus 's friends joined him at the room access to the Great Hall. Scorpius brushed past them, but did not say a word. He looked like he was ready to murder someone. Albus thought he looked far too angry over a suffer captaincy. It was just the Jnr 's Dueling lodge anyway.

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

"Not a word,"Albus replied.

"Do n't think about him,"pink wine said."What 's the compass point ? You made captain and that 's all that matters."

Albus grinned."near of the captains are somewhat seemly, too. I mean Lydia 's kind of irritating, but the ease are n't bad."

"It 's going to be a dependable year for dueling, that 's for sure,"Matt agreed.

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


A/N : So I bet you 're all confused about the name change ! well, I 've been doing some thought and a plot alteration was needed. The chapters that are already posted wo n't be affected. The alteration only affects what I have n't written yet. But the old championship was n't going to turn with the new patch, so I had to change it. I like the new one punter anyway. And do n't care, Percy will still run for Minister. Actually, the new plot focuses more on that.

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

If any of you are on the forums, you 'll cognize about the tragedy we had finis week. Liza Potter on the archives ( and lizzacc on the forum ) has died. She was a fan of my Albus series and told me once that they were the first stories she ever read on HPFF. She will be missed. I am dedicating this story to you, liza.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The next day Albus found himself on the Quidditch slant staring at all of the new Gryffindor Keeper hopefuls. There were a lot of them. Try-outs were scheduled to begin in xv minutes, yet the sales talk had been packed since before luncheon. Albus speculated that some hopefuls, including Hugo, had not even taken a break for lunch. poor people Hugo need n't receive bothered skipping his meal since even an extra half minute of practice would not have helped him.

Students from endorse through seventh yr were hoping for a patch on the squad, including Janie Creevey. Albus recognized near of them, but there were a few older educatee whom he did not. Along with the Gryffindors, there were representatives from other teams, surely there to check out Gryffindor 's new Keeper.

Albus stood on the auction pitch a few m from the crowd, with his team. Fred was holding a clipboard and Scots heather was standing following to him, gazing out at the students hoping for a spot. Saint James, Tom Bradley, and Ryan were laughing about something.

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

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

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

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

Albus stood back while Fred had the aspirer fly circle around the slant. Quite a few could not even make out to fly straight or execute good turn properly. About a quarter of them were eliminated during the first ten arcminute. Half of the remaining Gryffindors were eliminated within the get-go ten minutes of goal keeping, including Hugo. He hung his straits as he walked to the stands, broom trailing behind him. Albus felt bad for him.

The respite of the of the scholar took longer to extinguish. After about an time of day the amount of money had been narrowed down to ten and they all seemed to be exchangeable in skill.

"I think the entirely mediocre way to do this is to obviate anyone who misses a save. conclusion one standing, er, flying, gets the spot,"Fred announced.

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

"Nice to give birth another daughter,"ling said."I thought I 'd be the only one after Sakartvelo left."

"I thought your cousin-german Victor-Marie Hugo would get picked,"Ryan replied."Who knew he was the only Weasley who ca n't play Quidditch ?"

"have you seen Rose on a broom ?"Albus asked.

Janie grinned."I 've played since I was slight. So glad to have won the spot. When 's first gear practice session ?"

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

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

drill lasted a few hours and Albus was thoroughly exhausted by the time it was over. He immediately went back to his dormitory to take a exhibitioner and then set off to site his friends. dinner party would be served shortly and Albus was starved.

Albus 's supporter were in the vulture 's Den, just where he had predicted when he did n't see them in the Gryffindor common room when he had traipsed through after practice. john and Kaden were playing Bromus secalinus and Kaden was trouncing John, like usual. rose wine and Amanda were sitting on the redact discussing an essay that Cedonia had assigned the previous week. matte was not there since the entire lunar month had been the previous nighttime.

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

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

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

"She 's probably too busy making sure as shooting you do n't gas anything up,"rose replied.

"Hey, I 'm better than Al and matte are,"John muttered.

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

"Yeah, but he was asleep so gentlewoman Pomfrey did n't let us stay. Figured we 'd go after supper,"privy answered.

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

Everyone nodded in understanding and they set off towards the Great dorm. The corridors were filled with scholarly person who had spent the day out-of-doors and Albus felt very depicted object walking alongside his Friend, despite how every single one of his muscles ached from practice session.

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

"What is it ?"rose asked.

"Shush !"whoremonger whispered."It 's Scorpius and Willinson 's first cousin. What was his figure again ?"

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

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

Albus craned his head around the room access frame. Scorpius and Felix were standing succeeding to a few suits of armor, heads leaned in towards each other. There was a young woman about a top dog forgetful than Scorpius with them. She and Felix had the Lapplander color whisker, except hers was long and curly.

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

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

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

Scorpius began walking down the corridor and Felix and the girl followed. Albus and his friends watched them until they turned a box, disappearing out of sight.

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

"You 're paranoid,"rose wine said."They were just talking and they 're in the Sami sign. Maybe she had a question or something."

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

"Oh Merlin."blush wine let out an aggravate suspiration."Two weeks into the term and you 're already picking a row with him."

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

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

Albus walked in muteness the repose of the way to the Great Hall. Rose may have been right. Albus may have just been being paranoid, but deep down he had a touch sensation that Malfoy and Willinson were n't just talking about homework.
******


flatness returned from the hospital wing two days later and the calendar month wore on in its usual way. The professor were assigning more and Sir Thomas More homework and it took longer and longer to fill in.

Once October arrived hullabaloo began to brew when the first Hogsmeade weekend was announced. The visit was scheduled for the Saturday before Halloween and Kaden in fussy was very frantic. He never did manage to make it to Hogsmeade under the Invisibility Cloak the premature year.

Albus 's kickoff dueling practice had gone particularly well. Albus had been pleasantly surprised. Even Scorpio had cooperated and done what Albus had told him to do, although that may have been solely because professor Cedonia had been confront during the practice. His team was shaping up well and he had high promise for them winning many tournament. Quidditch had been going equally as well. Janie had fit seamlessly into their team.

Albus wished he could say things were going equally well for the election. Ever since the number one debate various cartridge holder and radiocommunication shows had been latching onto Percy 's statements about education and his want of willingness to change, as they had put it.

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

"Not to cite the five page spread that sensation magazine is doing about our family unit,"Cedric muttered as he gnawed on a turkey leg."That 's sure to fuel the fire."

"When is that ?"Albus asked.

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

"Is it really going to be five pageboy ?"James asked."What are they going to put in it ?"

"Dad 's life write up,"Cedric answered."Plus a few paragraphs on each of us and Mum about our lives. Just a well-chosen article about how we all love each other and Dad 's a family man. That 's what his campaign manager wants to portray him as seeing that Laurentis does n't have any kids."

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

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

"Did he say when ?"King James asked.

"Around Dec 25, I think. Adds to the well-chosen family atmosphere,"Cedric explained.

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

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

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

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

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

"speechmaking of elections, what does everyone think of that politics class ?"Albus asked.

"Professor 's very intense,"James I said in between bites."But it 's not nearly as awful as the other course of study. There 's no O.W.L. in it so it 's my current favorite."

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

Professor Embry seemed to be teaching the class in chronological rules of order and thus was currently lecturing on how the Ministry was organized prior to the fall of Voldemort. Albus thought it was a little boring but he had a feeling it would get more concern once Embry started on the fall of Voldemort.

"And that 's why the course of instruction is necessary,"Rose said."Think about it. No class like this has been taught before, so where did the flow Ministry officials learn the history of the Ministry ? Where did they learn about politics ? They learned it as they went, but did n't know much when they started. That 's a little scary. the great unwashed should be intimate how their country is run."

Albus thought about what Rose had said as he chewed on his roll. She had a good decimal point. Where had they learned it ? Had his Uncle Percy really known null about the Ministry when he started ? No, he could n't have. Percy 's own beginner had been in the Ministry as well. Still, it was weird to think about.

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


"Now she wants to change Azkaban ?"Albus asked at breakfast a few days later. The law enforcement debate had taken spot the night before and the integral front page of the Prophet was devoted to it."Is n't changing Hogwarts enough ?"

Ministry hopefuls Percy Weasley and
Patricia Laurentis debated law creation
and enforcement last nighttime at the Ministry
of trick. Like the late general public debate,
sparks flew in this one, with each candidate
speaking passionately about the subject.

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

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

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

Without a doubt, matter are only going to
rut up. The candidates seem to give birth
completely different opinions on everything
from education to constabulary. The next debate,
which will be on didactics, will take place
at Hogwarts on Saturday, November the 9th at
two in the afternoon.

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

"Probably does n't have the top executive,"rose wine answered."The minister has to sign off on well-nigh affair, unless all example and functionary disagree with him or her."

"So clearly there 's people who do n't agree with her,"matte replied.

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

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

"Me either,"rose wine agreed."Guess we 're watching the side by side debate."

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

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

Thomas Bradley sat down following to Albus and threw a copy of Wizards magazine onto the mesa."Article 's out."

"That was fast,"Albus said.

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

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

Bradley shook his head."This lady 's almost spoiled. Trust me."

Rose, Amanda, John, mat, and Kaden crowded around Albus as he flipped through the clip. The article was in the middle, with the two pages being a full coloration picture of Uncle Percy, aunty Corrine, and their kids. Percy and Corrine were sitting on their living room couch, with Georgia in between them. All three were smiling and waving. Bradley and Cedric were leaning on either English of the couch and the twins were sitting in front of it. Albus flipped the varlet and saw a very lengthy article, interspersed with diverse word picture of his fellowship and boxful about each of those five cousin-german. The article finished up on the play along page.

Upon entering the rest home of Minister of Magic
nominee Percy Weasley 's Southampton domicile
I am surprised to see that it does not look
like the home of a Ministry candidate. It is
not filled with piling and piles of newspaper publisher and
Weasley 's effort handler is nowhere to be
found. Instead, the level is cluttered with
toys belonging to the unseasoned Weasley child,
nine-year-old twins, Samantha and Lindy. A
photographic plate of fond cookies sits upon the coffee
table and Weasley 's wife, Corrine, bustles
into the room carrying a tray of tea. Percy
enters as well, followed by the five Weasley
children.

'I prefer to keep the campaign at the Ministry ,'
Percy explains after I ask where his campaign
materials are. 'The movement is workplace. It is my
job. The house is for my family .'

"Really ?"rosebush raised her eyebrows."She should 've seen his subject. That 's where all his campaign poppycock is."

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

'I could not be more proud of Georgia ,'
Walker Percy said, speech production of his eldest daughter,
who currently plays as Reserve custodian for
the Kenmare Kestrals .'I 've been to a
number of her mate and it is clear
that she could get a hanker career in
Quidditch .'

"What a burden of dung !"Albus exclaimed."Uncle Percy has never once agreed with GA 's Quidditch career."

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

"Oh he said it,"Bradley, who had taken a derriere a inadequate elbow room down the mesa, answered."Not that he really thinks it."

Albus had had enough of the main clause. His eyes glanced across the page and rested upon the small box that discussed Georgia.

Georgia Weasley, the eldest daughter
of Percy and Corrine, is 18 and
currently plays military reserve keeper for
the Kenmare Kestrals .'I love
Quidditch ,'Georgia said when the
topic was brought up. 'It 's freeing
and I look forward to playing for
Kenmare as a replete steward one day .'
Empire State of the South 's pipe dream is to bet for England.

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

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

Then there was one for Cedric.

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

The concluding box was for both Samantha and Lindy.

Samantha and Linda ( Lindy ) Weasley are
nine years old and attend a local
primary schoolhouse for Muggles. Both twins
ca n't wait to infix Hogwarts in two
years .'I 'm going to be in Gryffindor,
just like my sister and brothers ,'says
Samantha .'I do n't care what theater I 'm
in, just as long as I can play Quidditch.
Well, okay, I do n't want to be in Slytherin .'

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

"I shudder to opine what the one about our entire family will be like,"blush wine muttered.

"Nah,"John said."That one will be better because they wo n't have to make as a great deal up. Albus 's dad saved the altogether wizarding worldly concern. They 'll just play that up."

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

Amanda nodded."Yeah, they will. They know goose egg about your uncle 's family. indisputable, they know all about your dad, but really, how much do they know about Percy ? Not much. They 're going to want to believe it and why should n't they ? They have no idea Hotspur does n't approve of Georgia 's Quidditch career. It 's the same as in the Muggle world.

"It would be squeamish if people voted on nominee who shared their like views, but it honestly comes down to who presents the outdo campaign. citizenry are n't going to want someone in world power who has issues with his own family."

"That 's stupid,"Kaden replied."sword lily my family 's not involved with politics."

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

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

"You still ring him Uncle Percy,"Albus said.

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

"Well, I can honestly say my house 's not in politics and I 'm very sword lily about that,"John said.

Albus could not reckon life history without having family involved with the Ministry, but suddenly he felt slightly green-eyed of John. What would it have been like to let parents who were n't famous ?


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this narrative ! You guys are all flummox. Just as another admonisher, I ca n't reply to reviews while I am home for the summertime, but I read every undivided one. If you have some form of interrogation that you need answered about my write up, please use my Ask the generator Sir Frederick Handley Page at the meeting place or send me a PM there.

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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The following week brought a violent storm so long and so vivid that Herbology and Care of Magical wight had to be canceled for the second half of the workweek. It was thoroughly inconceivable to walk outside without being doubled over by the air current and the younger bookman could not walk without being blown away. The rain was also so heavy that one would turn soaked within two minutes. The students secretly rejoiced, for the extra gratuitous period of time were helpful to all.

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

Albus decided to take the opportunity to spend the day at the library, something that John the Divine and Kaden reluctantly agreed with. matt and Amanda joined them as well, for they had plenty of homework as well. rosiness had mentioned something about tutoring a untried student and run off shortly after breakfast.

The library was absolutely packed with students, nigh likely due to the weather and not a burning desire of the Hogwarts population to read, and it took a good five moment for Albus and his friends to settle an empty table. It was a lot garish than usual and madam Pince was glaring at each table of students in turn.

Albus set his pile of books down and got to work on a Potions essay that was due the comply week. He had n't started it, of course, but he had a few mean solar day to do it. He thought he was ahead of the game anyway since he 'd normally be at Quidditch practice and not even thinking about homework.

john and Kaden, as usual, were ineffectual to get started on their preparation right away and were scolded by Madam Pince twice before finally opening their rule book. Amanda immediately set to make for on the same essay Albus was working on. lusterlessness cracked open his appeal school text but stared at the same page for five mo before Albus noticed that his eyes had glazed over. The October total moon was the following nighttime, so Albus was not surprised.

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

"So we do n't ca-ca the same mistakes,"Amanda said without looking up from her lambskin."Simple, really."

"You 're channeling blush wine now,"John stated.

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

"Would you rather do my divination prognostication ?"Kaden asked.

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

"Perfect. That 'd be something I 'd do,"Kaden said as he scrawled it down."And then I can come down with a foul common cold after being external in the pelting so long."

Albus rolled his eyes. The two of them had been insane to pick out Divination in the first billet, but at least they seemed to savour making up their fake predictions. Albus grinned to himself as John and Kaden snorted into their parchment, laughing over some absurd prediction.

An hour later Albus had finished his essay, as had Amanda. The two of them had moved on to Transfiguration reading. John and Kaden had given up on homework and were planning an elaborate prank that involved a wimp, bird feed, and the Slytherin coarse room. matte had been dozing on his Charms Book. Albus prodded him awake.

"How 's good luck charm ?"Albus asked, grinning.

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

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

John and Kaden rose to get together mat. They 'd been yelled at two More times and figured they 'd do better to plan in the Den.

"Wait,"Saint John said when he was only a few ft from the table."Is that Rose ?"He pointed to a head word of bushy red pilus at a nearby table."Who 's she with ? Is that-"He walked across the room and hid behind a ledger shelf to get a closer look.

Albus craned his heading. Rose was sitting with a small young woman. John returned a few seconds later.

"I thought so. It 's that young woman we saw with Malfoy and Willinson a few calendar week ago."

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

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

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

"Weird. Tutoring a Slytherin,"King John replied.

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

"What 's with him ?"toilet asked.

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

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

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

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

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

Albus and Amanda studied for another hour before joining their friends in the Marauder 's Den. John and Kaden were having a serious discussion on how they were going to obtain a poulet and Matt was sound asleep on the couch. Albus and Amanda settled down with a deck of Exploding piece of cake and played round after round of drinks while listening to John the Divine and Kaden.

"I still say it 'll be easier to have an elderly student transfigure something into a chicken,"Kaden said a fully twenty minute of arc later."I 'll bet one of Albus 's cousins will do it."

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

"More chance of getting caught. No one 's going to distrust if one of Al 's full cousin is practicing their August 6. But sneaking a chicken into the castling ? They 're fairly brassy with their squawking."

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

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

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

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

Rose rolled her eyes and sat down next to Amanda, picking up a few posting to unite in on the next round.

"How was tutoring ?"Saint John asked, abandoning the topic of chickens.

"Fine,"rosebush answered."Sami as always."

"How did you even get into tutoring ?"whoremaster replied.

"Why ? You want to tutor ?"blush wine smirked.

John laughed."Definitely not. Just curious."

"professor Longbottom contacted me over the summer. Fourth years and above can be in the tutoring program. The professors match you up with untried educatee and I 've been tutoring a first year for a few weeks now."

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

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

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

Rose sighed."She 's Willinson 's footling sis. Her epithet 's Elsie. She 's really gracious, actually. Quiet, does n't seem much like a Slytherin to me but her whole family 's been in Slytherin."

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

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

Everyone, except flatness, who just wanted to slumber, agreed and they headed down to the Great Hall. rosebush had been right. nada leery about Willinson 's sister tagging after him and Scorpio. Albus 's inherent aptitude had been wrong on that occasion.
******


Never in Albus 's life did he ever think there would be a prof who could top Professor Binns in terms of boring year. But Professor offspring had done the unimaginable. Twice a calendar week Albus and his supporter traipsed to Young 's schoolroom to work on a exclusive worksheet. Whitney Moore Young Jr. did nothing else, except hand out worksheets. Said worksheets did not even take an full class geological period to discharge, resulting in pupil using the remaining metre to pick up up on former homework, something that Young neglected to notice. The only expert function about the course of instruction was that Whitney Moore Young Jr. never assigned prep.

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

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

"He does n't really teach,"rose pointed out.

"But still, he 's practiced than Balladanis,"matt reasoned.

The rest of Albus 's classes were decent, although well-nigh assigned too much homework for his liking, but that was not anything new. As the end of October drew nearer, Albus became very frantic about the first Hogsmeade sojourn of the year. It would be the first time that all of Albus 's protagonist would get to go together and possibly the last, given how fussy everyone was this year.

Albus nearly did not get to go to Hogsmeade when the day finally arrived. Fred had sprung an additional Quidditch practice on that day in order to make up for the missed practices due to the storm. However, the entire team was outraged and Scots heather threatened to hex Fred if he did not rescind the recitation. Albus was very relieved as it was a nice day and perfect for Hogsmeade.

"I 've got to get a new pack of dungbombs,"Kaden said as they walked down the path from Hogwarts to Hogsmeade."Used them up years ago."

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

"Sure is. Did n't hold out too long."

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

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

Albus and matte exchanged expression. John and Kaden had finally agreed to ask one of Albus 's older cousins to transfigure them a chicken that they would then somehow sneak into the Slytherin common room. The birdseed was to scatter throughout the place in society to get at the Slytherins even more.

"You two enjoy that,"rosebush said."And do n't fall complaining to us when you get a calendar month of custody, because there 's no possible way you can pilfer into the Slytherin coarse elbow room without getting caught."

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

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

"Around Hallowe'en,"John answered.

"changeling,"rosiness muttered.

Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes was packed with student. Being the first Hogsmeade weekend, most students had a good deficiency of pranking products and needed to stock up. George was behind the buffet ringing up leverage after purchase and waved at Albus as he walked in with his Quaker. They quickly scattered, each heading towards the video display that contained what they needed.

Albus wandered towards the Skiving Snackboxes and grabbed two, figuring that he would need to get out of defense mechanism at least once and History of Magic a few clip a month. John and Kaden each had about five boxes and lustrelessness watched with a nauseate look on his expression. Since he missed at least a day or two of form a calendar month due to his lycanthropy, he never understood why anyone would build themselves ill to do so.

"Should 've gone there last,"John said as he lugged his bags to the Three Broomsticks.

"Yeah, must remember that for side by side meter,"Kaden agreed."But now, off to have a Butterbeer !"

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

The triad Broomsticks was crowded, but mat managed to grab a board in the back. rosebush set off to get them all Butterbeers. They had been there for about 15 instant before Scorpius showed up, followed by Garth Octavius, Saint Francis Xavier Goyle, Felix Willinson, and Elsie Willinson. Scorpio surveyed the room and his eyes rested upon Albus. Smirking, he sauntered over towards them.

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

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

"I 'll be there,"Scorpius replied."And I 'll be set up to carry the team on Sat since the rest of our squad could n't win a duel against a first year."

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

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

"They chose based on skill,"Albus replied, staring him in the heart."Not name. rose wine did n't make maitre d'hotel and she 's a Weasley."

"But you 're a Potter and you get everything because your dad is the Boy Who Lived,"Scorpio tiff, ignoring Albus 's comment."But I 've got news for you. Not everyone in the macrocosm likes that your entire menage runs the wizarding world and that nil gets done without one of them signing off on it. Not everyone 's going to vote for your uncle, you know."

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

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

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

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

Scorpius turned to leave behind and his protagonist followed."My family does n't run the humankind !"Albus shouted after him.

Albus resumed his rear end after Malfoy left, not even realizing that he had rose from it in the first off place."He 's just so pudding head !"Albus exclaimed."My syndicate does n't run the country."

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

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

"And Scorpius probably wishes his dad was famous for the right reason,"Amanda replied.

"Do n't see why. Having a noted dad is n't always a goodness matter,"Albus muttered.

"Just ignore him,"rose wine said."He 's just trying to get you raging with him."

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

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

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

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

"I guess."lustrelessness sighed."What do you suppose he think by your family not being in accusation of the wizarding world much longer ?"

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

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

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

"okey, I guess Embry has n't really discussed it yet but I read ahead in the book. New Ministers can appoint new head word of the departments if they want to. Most do n't because so many new people makes for a bad transition point, but it 's happened a few times. If Laurentis wins, she could put back Uncle Harry,"rosebush explained.

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

Rose nodded."Seriously."

"And my dad, too,"lustrelessness said.

"Yeah, yours, too,"rosebush replied.

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

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

"He 's a great Auror, that 's admittedly,"pink wine agreed,"but majuscule is an judgment. Hartwell thinks he 's a great Auror. Uncle Percy undoubtedly thinks he 's a with child Auror. But if Laurentis gets elected, none of that will matter. All that will matter is whether she think he 's a big Auror. And the question is, does she ?"

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

"No, he 'd just go back to being a unconstipated Auror,"Rose said."Look, you do n't necessitate to worry about it. I 'm for certain Uncle Harry knows this."

"They do n't do that in Australia. All the mind have terms like the Minister. When their terminal figure is up, the current Minister can substitute them or keep them, but they ca n't get replaced when their condition is n't up. Unless there 's a malicious gossip and they have a hearing. Like with my dad."

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

"It works both way of life. If Uncle Harry Hotspur wins he 'll get to replace who he wants and he 'll no doubt interchange Laurentis,"rosiness pointed out.

"I 'm surprise Hartwell has n't done that,"St. John said.

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

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

"It would front bad. Remember, half of political science is how you look to the public,"Amanda said."Which is why according to the Muggle Ministry, I attend a sequester boarding shoal in the United nation, just in case anyone asks why the minister of religion 's niece disappears for nearly of the year. Which they have n't. Yet."

Albus shook his head teacher."It 's so confound. I do n't know how anyone keeps data track of it."

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


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! Also big thanks to darkladyofslytherin and onestop hpfan18 because this chapter is the resolution of word wars with them. You two are awing ! HPFF now loads properly on my Internet and I am able-bodied to respond to reviews, so I 'm slowly working through them. Keep a face out for reaction !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"I say we do it on Halloween,"Kaden said adamantly while inspecting case-by-case Bertie Bott 's Every smack beans and tossing the nasty single into a pile on the floor.

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

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

The low Quidditch match of the season, Gryffindor versus Slytherin, was scheduled to take billet on Saturday, two daylight after Halloween.

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

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

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

"Clearly a preindication you 've pranked them too much,"blush wine pointed out.

Albus and the relaxation of his friend were in the piranha 's Den, attempting to make up one's mind on a day to put the poulet and wimp provender in the Slytherin common room. They 'd been arguing for a half 60 minutes and had n't agreed on anything. Albus and lusterlessness, who had been leery on whether to participate in the prank at all, had decided that they would process as look-outs while toilet and Kaden snuck into the common room.

"I think Wednesday would be a good option. Wed Night. We 've got to do it really late, though. The low gear years have Astronomy on Wednesdays, so we have to wait until they 're back in their dormitory,"John explained."dark before Halloween-"

"By the time you manage to do it after uranology, it 'll technically be Halloween,"Amanda pointed out.

"But not Halloween Nox,"John said."Pre-Halloween."

"devilry Night,"Amanda said.

"What ?"Albus asked.

Kaden threw another bean onto his mountain and started laughing."You 're right on !"

"Mischief Nox,"Amanda repeated."It 's a Muggle thing. It 's when Muggles pull trick and cause mayhem. It 's traditionally the Nox before Hallowe'en or the night before Guy Fawkes Day, so if you pull this on Midweek night or early Th morning, it 'll be on mischievousness Night."

John grinned."perfect. Wizards do n't do that, so no one will be expecting a thing."

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

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

Everyone nodded in agreement, except blush wine, who rolled her eyes.

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

"Not yet, but we have plans. Tonight I 'm going to lallygag by the Slytherin green way under the invisibleness Cloak to try their watchword. Wednesday evening we 'll ask Omar Nelson Bradley to spiritualize us a few chickens. Then, Al and Matt will stand sentry go while Kaden and I let them loose in the common room,"John explained.

"How in the name of Merlin are you going to keep on the chickens calm while you bring them to the dungeon ?"Rose asked.

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


Wednesday brought with it a huge thunderstorm which Albus saw as a rather sinister Oman for mathematical operation Slytherin Chickens as the harlequinade had been dubbed. As the day wore on Albus found himself having doubts about the whole matter. late harlequinade had been harmless and had not broken any major school day rule, but this one broke at least ten. This could get them worse than a few hold.

lav and Kaden seemed to accept no such reservations. Both of them were particularly gleeful the intact day and John even returned from Divination with a smile on his grimace, which never happened. mat seemed indifferent to the altogether thing and acted as common.

"You do realize we 'll be getting three hours of eternal sleep, circus tent, tonight,"flatness said after dinner, while they were attempting to do homework in the piranha 's Den."And that we have account of conjuration tomorrow morning."

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

"Clearly not,"Matt agreed.

Albus had a very difficult time getting any homework done while they were waiting for the time to make it. He found himself drawing awful pictures of chicken in the boundary line on his metamorphosis essay. No one else was having practically hazard either. St. John the Apostle and Kaden were playing chess and flatness was taking a nap. Rose and Amanda had holed away in the program library, neither one wanting to be associated with the boys that night."We need alibis,"she had told Albus earlier."Want to be seen by as many hoi polloi as potential so there 's no luck anyone will retrieve we were with you."

At one in the morning the male child left the Marauder 's Den and headed back to the common room, where Bradley would be waiting for them. They encountered no one on their way back and only two or three lingering students were in the rough-cut room. All of them went to bed within fifteen minutes and the son were soon alone with Bradley.

Bradley pulled three pillows out from under one of the sofa and set them on a mesa."Three chickens going to be enough ?"

John the Evangelist nodded."I do n't think we 'll be able to address any more."

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

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

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

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

Bradley muttered an incantation and flicked his scepter at each of the pillows. All three turned into chickens. One Brown University one, one white one, and one boastfully black and brown cock. The rooster opened its mouth to triumph and Bradley immediately silenced all three.

"Figured a cock would be helpful,"Thomas Bradley said."Want me to stupefy them for you ?"

"Sure,"Albus said.

"Should last about a half time of day and then you 'll have to re-stun them,"Bradley told them."I 'm going to take off. Remember, if you get caught, I did n't get the chickens for you. Ca n't afford another detention."

"Got it,"Albus assured him. Thomas Bradley took off to the dormitories and Albus turned to his booster. bathroom was holding the cock and Kaden was holding the two chickens."Back to the Den ?"

The boys spent the next two hours in the Marauder 's Den, playing Exploding crack and re-Stunning the chickens every half hour. Shortly after three in the break of day Albus re-stunned the chicken one to a greater extent clock time and then threw the Invisibility Cloak over all four of them.

It was very difficult for all four boys to walk under the invisibleness Cloak.
beingness quaternary years, they were all a lot expectant than they had been in instant year when Albus had first received the Cloak. In fact, Albus could n't even remember the finale time all four of them had gone under it at once. Albus in finical had grown quite a few column inch over the summer and was now as tall as John. The two of them had to walk with their knees bent to ensure their pes would n't show.

The walking was uneventful. The boy did not even see Peeves or any of the ghosts out for a dark meter stroll ( or float, which would probably be the more appropriate term ). lusterlessness tripped going down the stairs once and nearly dropped a crybaby, but since the corridors were empty, no one heard the sound.

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

Albus and Matt stood against the wall a little means down the corridor, giving them a view of the stairs as well as the corridor. Neither of them said a word while John and Kaden were pulling their prank because Filch 's cat had turned up and was pacing in front of them.

The next five arcminute felt like an eternity and Albus was very lighten when bathroom and Kaden exited the common elbow room and hurried back under the Cloak. John 's bag, which had contained the chicken feed, was now considerably lighter. Neither boy said a Book to Albus and Matt as they walked back to Gryffindor tower, for fear that someone would hear them.

They were walking down the second floor corridor when Albus heard footsteps behind him. He turned and saw Professor Young walking slowly towards them, staring at the cap as he went. He appeared to be in deep intellection about something but then stopped and stared right where Albus and his friends were. They were n't being tranquil enough.

All four son froze and looked at each other. Kaden grabbed all three of their sweater and pulled them through the close door, while Young happened to be looking the early way. Once inside, Albus noticed that they were in a loo. A female child 's loo. And the floor was soaked.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thankfully professor Young had left by the sentence they exited the loo. The remnant of the journey back to Gryffindor was as uneventful as the trek down to Slytherin.

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

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

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

The male child headed back to their dormitories, but Albus was not tired yet. Adrenaline was still racing through his organisation. They had n't gotten caught. Yet. Would there be any way to line the volaille back to the four of them ? Only if someone saw them, but if anyone had seen them they would take gotten them in trouble right then and there, would n't they have ? Albus pushed the thought process from his headspring. He settled into bed and thought about the reactions from the Slytherins the following morning.

Bilius 's warning signal clock woke Albus up at eight the next break of the day and he rolled over and went back to sleep. He woke up once more with twenty proceedings left until History of magic trick and had to pass over breakfast. Albus woke flatness and John up and the three of them ran through the corridors in ordination to make it to grade on time.

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

Albus sat down and Bilius turned around in his seat, grinning at Albus."You three missed breakfast. Too bad. The Slytherins are all overturn, fuming about Gallus gallus and muttering about getting retaliation. Turns out someone snuck a rooster and two crybaby into their usual room last night and feast chicken provender around. Apparently their common room was a mess and it took all of their Prefects to stun the chickens and bring them to Hagrid. Wish I knew who pulled it off."

Albus attempted to simulate electric shock and excitement."Seriously ? That 's superb. Does anyone experience who did it ?"

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

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

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

Professor Binns floated through the chalkboard and began to drone on on about some sort of goblin rebellion. Albus rested his school principal on his paw and began to doze off. Binns would n't even notice.

At lunch, following transfiguration, everyone was still talking about the wimp. The Slytherins were sullen and were glaring at all the other mansion tables. The teachers did n't seem at all upset about the whole thing, probably because the chickens had n't done that much damage. cipher that could n't be easily repaired with the flick of a wand.

"Six in the morning !"Albus overheard a Slytherin murmuring as he walked past the Gryffindor mesa."Can you imagine ? And the dayspring after we 'd been on the tar for three hours."

Albus smirked behind his forkful of stew. If the prank had messed with the Slytherins'training docket, all the in force. Albus had finally begun to slow down. It did n't seem like they were going to get in hassle after all.

As Albus walked to the keep with John, matte, Rose, and Amanda he realized that his nap in History of Magic was most definitely wearing off. He was feeling the enervation and was very well-chosen for the free menstruation after potions. But he did n't dare skip potions because he was quite rouse to pick up Malfoy talking about the chickens.

During this specific family they were finishing up an engorgement resolution that they had started on Tuesday. While Shrinking solvent was a rather simple potion that they had learned in their first year, its vis-a-vis was more difficult and required simmering for forty-eight hours before the final ingredients could be added.

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

Just as Albus was beginning to chop his celery antecedent, Malfoy appeared in forepart of the table. Albus looked up from his plant and looked Malfoy in the eye.

"thrower,"Malfoy muttered."You would n't bump to cognise which idiot Gryffindor put poulet in our common room, do you ?"

Albus snorted."Chickens, Malfoy ? I 'd get wind something about that."

"Bloody birds,"Limbert muttered as he began to pulverize the rat spleen they were supposed to put into their cauldron."Crowing at six in the bloody morning. Eating chicken feed all over the green room. Getting their feathers and other stuff everywhere ...."

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

"Was n't any of 'my lot'as you say,"Albus answered, hoping that Malfoy could n't hear his heart hammer in his chest."We ca n't get into your common room. Do n't possess the password. And even if we did, why would we require to ? It 's probably covered in snake slime."

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

Albus rose from his hot seat."That 's rude. I know plenty of Hufflepuffs that are smarter than you, Malfoy. And they 're decent people, too."

"male child, get to work now. I believe your potion is overflowing in it 's cauldron, Malfoy,"Slughorn said, gesturing to matte and Malfoy 's cauldron, which was indeed overflowing. Matt was frantically waving his wand at it, trying to get it to stop.

"Oh for merlin 's sake,"Malfoy muttered and stalked off towards his own board.

Albus breathed a sigh of rest period and continued to chop his Apium graveolens dulce root. Limbert retrieved another rat lien, as the one he had been using was now hopelessly destroyed. He did n't peach to Albus for the remainder of the stratum except for the occasional"passing the knife"or"turn down the flaming ”.

following potions Albus, Matt, and Gospel According to John immediately went upstairs to the. piranha 's Den to take on a much needed nap. Rose went to Muggle written report and Amanda went to the program library. Albus fell asleep as soon as his head teacher hit the pillow and did not wake up until John swatted him with a pillow when it was time for dinner.

The Slytherins were still complaining about the Gallus gallus during dinner and Albus and his friends giggled every fourth dimension they heard something about them. About halfway through dinner, Professor Kendrick rose from his seat. Albus turned to take care at mat, who shrugged. Kendrick rarely made dinner talking to when it was n't the starting time or end of term.

"Just a few announcements,"Kendrick said once the Great dormitory quieted down."low, I am surely you are all aware of the buffoonery that took spot in the Slytherin common room finish night. I, nor do any of the teachers, have any idea who is responsible, but if we do recover out, be aware that those responsible for will be punished. Entering another house 's common way is not tolerated and all students should take this as a admonition, in case they have been inclined to do so themselves. Slytherins, please be advised that your parole has been changed. If you are not cognizant of it, please see a Prefect.

"instant. Next weekend Hogwarts will host a few Ministry officials including the government minister of deception, the principal of Magical Law Enforcement, the Head of the Auror department, the Head of the Department for the regulation and restraint of Magical Creatures, as well as a few of the diplomatic minister 's closest advisor. In addition, both candidates for Minister will be here as well. They will arrive Friday Night and stay until Sunday morning. Saturday they will be debating education here in the Great Hall.

"All educatee will have got the chance to watch the debate by a random drawing since we can not accommodate all of you in improver to the Ministry official and phallus of the general population that will be attending. The rest will heed via receiving set in a few schoolroom. All bookman are required to listen or watch. More information about that, such as how to find out if you 've been selected to look out and what assignments you will suffer on the disputation, will be distributed by prof Whitney Moore Young Jr. in your politics class.

"I expect you all to deport yourselves and demonstrate to our Ministry that this is a place of learning. You are all representing Hogwarts, whether you are students, teachers, or staff. You will not overstretch pranks, especially not like the one that was pulled last dark. You will esteem the Ministry spokesperson. I will present you promote information next week. In the interim, start thinking up a few questions to ask our candidate in case they have time to do a question and answer session."Kendrick resumed his seat.

"Blimey, I 've never seen Kendrick act so serious,"John the Divine said quietly.

"Can you blame him ?"rose asked."Remember what Laurentis said about Hogwarts ? She all but said he was n't running the school properly. If she wins, luck are he 's out of a job. He 's got to put on a good display future hebdomad if he 's got any hope of staying here if she wins."

"That 's insane !"Albus shouted. A few first class looked over at him and he lowered his voice."I mean, Kendrick took over as Headmaster when McGonagall left and even before that he helped rebuild the place. How can she sack someone who helped rebuild Hogwarts ?"

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

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

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

"Guess we 're going to line up out future Saturday,"Amanda said."Think any of us will get to watch it ?"

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

"I hope I get to,"Amanda said."It 's really fascinating, wizard political science. In some way of life it 's completely the same as Muggle politics, only with magic involved. Really shows that we 're all people."

"Me too,"Rose agreed.

"You can stimulate my ticket if I get one,"can told her."It 's going to be harder to doze off if I 'm in the same room."

"Saame here,"Kaden said.

Rose rolled her middle."You lot done eating ? Anyone up for spending the even in the library ?"

The boy reluctantly agreed. They had neglected their homework the previous night due to the prank and had multiple designation due the following day that they had not even started on. Albus thought longingly of his bed in Gryffindor tower and then resigned himself to the fact that he 'd be in the subroutine library until curfew.


A/N : Thanks to all who have read and reviewed this ! You Guy are awful. Big thanks to all my written material friends that I Word of God war with. There are now too many to name individually, but they are awing.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The day after Hallowe'en dawned with a trigger-happy thunderstorm, one that Albus hoped would pass on before Saturday, when he would have to look Slytherin on the Quidditch pitching. Albus was feeling much better after a decent night 's sleep, although he was dreading having to go to account of Magic offset affair in the sunup again. Whose bright melodic theme was it to give them that class two sunrise in a row ?

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

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

"unconvincing !"Cedric shouted.

"What is it ?"James River asked as he snatched the alphabetic character out of Cedric 's hired man."Is he making you sit adjacent to him while he debates next workweek ?"

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

"Seriously ?"King James asked as he settled down to read the letter of the alphabet."Let 's see ... Seriously disappointed in you ... taught you better than this ... stunts like these could ache my chances for a win in April ... must learn to think about the consequences of your actions ... fifth yr is for studying for your O.W.L.s ... fourth dimension to grow up ..."

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

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

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

"Kendrick ca n't do anything without trial impression,"St. James the Apostle said.

"Yeah but our criminal record are n't exactly clean,"Cedric pointed out."Merlin, I wish I 'd thought up this prank. It was history worthy. I mean getting into the Slytherin coarse room ? I 've been dreaming about doing that since before number one year."

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

Albus hoped that his angry blushing was n't obtrusive. He could not believe that Walker Percy actually believed Cedric pulled the prank without any evidence. Cedric could n't get in worry without evidence, could he ? If he did, Albus would feel tremendous. He already felt fearsome that Percy had even had the mettle to charge Cedric for something that Albus and his friends did, something Cedric had no part of.

"We 've just got to calculate out who did it,"James decided."To discharge our names."

Cedric nodded."Wo n't be that hard. No buffoonery can be done without evidence left behind. It 's unsufferable to do in this place. We 'll look for clues around our own common elbow room because I think the Slytherins are mighty. It was a Gryffindor."

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

"Right,"Cedric agreed."unspoilt be off to class now, though.

Albus turned to John after his pal and cousin had left the table. trick and flatness had both been sitting close enough to Cedric and Epistle of James to get wind the entire conversation. Both male child were pale than usual and Albus was sure he was as well.

"Myrtle saw us,"mat whispered."We 'll be numeral one on their suspect list."

"D'you think your own brother would turn us in ?"St. John asked.

Albus laughed."Of form he would. He 's my brother."

"Good full point,"John muttered."What are we going to do ?"

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

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

"On the plus incline, we 'll be Hogwarts fable,"privy said.

"William Tell that to my parents,"Matt replied.

Albus thought about James I and Cedric 's request to figure out who pulled the chicken prank during the entirety of History of Magic. They had n't left any tincture behind except for talking to myrtle. And even that only proved that they were out of bed at four in the morning, not that they 'd left poulet in the Slytherin common way. sure as shooting, there might have been random chicken feathering in the common room that morning but the sign pixy would take in already cleaned them up. Then there was Bradley.

Bradley. Albus 's stomach dropped. Would Bradley rat out Albus in order to salve his own brother from possible trouble ? Albus liked to think not, especially since doing so would incriminate Bradley as well. But it was possible that Bradley would request Cedric to leave him out of it when he told Kendrick in restitution for the information in the first base place. Albus rubbed his forehead. It was all so confusing and there were too many possibility.

Matt and John looked equally disturbed by the possibility. Both male child were sitting completely still, staring at Professor Binns but not looking at him. Matt was absentmindedly doodling in his notebook computer. John was twirling his quill around in his hand and had splattered ink all over himself and his story of conjuring trick Book.

Albus was thankful that they had Care of Magical Creatures succeeding, despite the steadily cloudburst. They would be able to tattle. Hagrid was currently teaching them about unicorns and this finicky lesson he had an actual unicorn for them to observe and interact with. Luckily for Albus, John, and flatness, unicorns did not like boys and thus had an excuse to hang back and talk.

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

"Or if they talk to myrtle and put the clues together,"matt pointed out.

"What clues ?"John asked."We did n't pull up stakes anything behind."

"Not that you know of. But they were right when they said nothing can be done at Hogwarts without someone knowing about it. For all we know there was another ghost lurking by the Slytherin common room while we were there that we did n't observation,"lustrelessness explained."Or the fact that we were n't in the common way go night-"

"We 're rarely in the uncouth room,"lav said."Not since we found the predator 's Den."

"True. They could also talk to Bilius or Ethan and recover out that we got back at four in the dawn. Ethan woke up when we got back and asked what we were up to, think of ?"Matt said.

"That would n't tell apart them anything to a greater extent than Myrtle would,"Albus replied as he scrawled a few promissory note about how the unicorn was pawing at the ground.

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

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

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

cypher said anything for a few minutes. Each boy pretended to be absorbed in taking notes on the unicorn.

"There 's nothing we can do, then,"flatness finally said."We ca n't end them or severalize them not to enquire because that would look leery. All we can do is wait and hope they do n't figure it out."

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


The savage thunderstorm that had plagued Hogwarts the day before cleared up by Saturday first light and the conditions could not give birth been better for Quidditch. It was sunny, with svelte swarm covering and little wind instrument. The temperature was mild for Nov. atmospheric condition would not be a cistron in this Quidditch match. No, the team that won would win solely based on their science.

The Hogwarts universe, both students and professor alike, were very excited for the match. mansion Quidditch had been suspended the previous year in parliamentary law for the Quidditch and Dueling rivalry with the schools from New York and Commonwealth of Australia, although the final equal in the Quidditch outcome had been a disaster. Everyone at Hogwarts was gear up for thing to go back to rule and that included planetary house Quidditch.

pattern also included the taunting that went on between the Gryffindors and Slytherins at breakfast right field before the match. Malfoy informed Albus that he needed to learn out else he ascertain himself in the Hospital Wing for days. Albus ignored this because Malfoy was n't even on the Slytherin team and did n't possess adequate Quidditch skill to be on a children 's team. He tried his C. H. Best to ignore the taunting from the genuine Slytherin team as well, but still found his stomach was a bit too queasy to eat much more than toast.

The team gathered around Fred in the changing room shortly before the match, set up to hear his get-go squad talking to.

"I fully believe we can win this,"Fred began."Our drill have gone very smoothly and it feels like Janie has played with us for years rather than only a few weeks. Slytherin plays dirty, though, so observe yourselves. They also have two new players, a pursuer and a Beater, whereas we only have one. The new chaser is a endorse year and the new Beater is a tertiary year, so I do n't cogitate we 'll have much issue there. I 've seen them praxis and they still do n't work as a seamless squad like we do. Just go out there and play like we did two years ago and we 're sure to win."

The team stood up and followed Fred out onto the pitch. The ground was soft beneath Albus 's effort, but not too muddy, which would bring in for a ripe kick off. He stood in between Heather and William James while Fred went to shake hands with Fielding, Slytherin 's captain.

Oteski shouted his desire for a blank match and then the two skipper crunched each other 's hands. Oteski released the Bludgers and Snitch and then tossed the Quaffle into the air. Albus kicked off from the flat coat and flew towards the Quaffle, which had unfortunately been caught by Fielding.

"And they 're off !"Todd Ian Douglas Smith announced."First home compeer in two years due to the break last twelvemonth, during the competitions with the other schools. Both teams have some new faces this class. Slytherin has a new Chaser, indorse twelvemonth marshall Belby, and a new Beater, third class Devon Wright. Gryffindor has a new steward, one-quarter year Janie Creevey ...."

Albus tore his attention from Kathryn Elizabeth Smith as the fellow Gryffindor began to denote the gens of the rest of the histrion. Leaning forward on his broom, Albus soared to the other side of meat of the pitch, where Fielding was attempting to bemuse the Quaffle into one of Gryffindor 's finish posts.

"Spectacular save by Creevey !"Smith shouted."Looks like she 's going to be an excellent steward for Gryffindor. Gryffindor now in self-control. Heather Weasley in possession, passes to Albus Potter ...."

Albus caught the Quaffle, wedged it under his arm, and sped down to the early side of the pitch. He dodged two of Slytherin 's pursuer but was hit by a Bludger sent from Wright and dropped the Quaffle. It was intercepted by Peyton Haines.

Albus swore loudly and tailed Haines as he turned around and headed towards Gryffindor. Fred managed to catch the Quaffle after Haines was hit by a Bludger and tossed it back to Albus.

This time Albus made it to the Slytherin finish posts and feigned right field before sending the Quaffle soaring through the left hoop.

"grievance !"Smith announced."Albus thrower scores the first finish of the peer. Ten points to Gryffindor !"

The remainder of the match continued in the like mode, with the Quaffle continuously exchanging men, rendering it very difficult for David Smith to keep up with the comment. Gryffindor maintained a go up constant account of twenty item ahead of the Slytherins. Albus scored two Thomas More goals and assisted on five Sir Thomas More. The Slytherin Chasers looked more and more disgusted as the compeer wore on.

An minute and a half into the peer Albus saw William James abandon his stance above the ease of the musician and fly towards the land. Hunter Pucey, Slytherin 's seeker, followed.

"expression like ceramicist has seen the stool pigeon !"David Smith exclaimed.

Albus watched while flying the Quaffle to the Slytherin goal posts. Epistle of James had his arm outstretched towards a glittering object when Devonshire Frances Wright slammed her Beater 's bat towards a nearby Bludger. But the Bludger suddenly soared upward, leaving nothing in between the bat and James 's leg. Devonshire 's bat collided with James 's leg, sending him sprawling onto the terra firma. Albus stopped where he was.

The integral gang gasped, with the exclusion of the Slytherins, who were cheering. Pucey was flying around the pitch holding the struggling snitcher in his outstretched paw. Albus ignored this and flew directly to James River, who was cling to his leg on the dry land.

Albus abandoned his Calluna vulgaris once he landed and hurried towards James. He was surrounded by dame Pomfrey, professor Oteski, professor Kendrick, Professor Longbottom, the rest of the Gryffindor squad, and surprisingly, Devon.

Albus paused to reckon at the girl. She was minor, like virtually second year are, but sinewy. Her muddy blond pilus was in a messy bun and her facial expression was streaked with crying. As Albus got closer, he could hear that she was whispering"I 'm sorry"over and over again.

"Foul !"broom shouted."That 's a foul ! I want a rematch !"

"Let 's get James to the Hospital Wing and then we 'll worry about a rematch,"Neville said as Madam Pomfrey conjured a stretcher.

"Finally, someone with some gumption around here,"madam Pomfrey muttered."All of you, out of the way !"

The crowd quickly dispersed as Madam Pomfrey guided the stretcher towards the palace, followed by the amass prof. After a few minutes, professor Patil ordered the rest of the students to get back to their plebeian rooms. Albus walked back to the palace with his squad, who were heading straight to the infirmary Wing.

James was resting once they got there, his leg bandaged but no longer weaken. He no longer looked to be in infliction, but looked like he wanted to hex the total Slytherin team. Madam Pomfrey appeared in figurehead of them before they could contact Saint James 's bed.

"Ten minutes,"she said."That 's all."

"Are we getting a rematch ?"was the outset thing out of Epistle of James 's mouth."No one will tell me anything."

"They have n't said anything yet,"Fred replied."How 's the leg ?"

"Fine, now. Just a footling painful. Madam Pomfrey said I can leave tomorrow afternoon,"St. James the Apostle told them."We better get a rematch. That was a foul. I was two seconds from catching the sneaker when that new Beater went and hit me with her bat ! Who does she think she is ? Does n't she know the linguistic rule of Quidditch ? Or is that how Slytherin 's training their instrumentalist these days ?"

"She was going for a Bludger,"Albus explained."You probably could n't see it because she was behind you, but there had been a Bludger. It flew up at the terminal indorsement and she accidentally got your leg."

"How do they know that ?"Saint James asked."She might 've made that up."

"Everyone saw it,"Albus said quietly.

"It 's true,"Heather agreed."I do n't know if they 'll give us a rematch."

The room access to the Hospital annexe opened, revealing the Beater in question. She walked tentatively within and stopped when she saw the intact Gryffindor team. Madam Pomfrey greeted her and they spoke in phonation too quiet to overhear before she walked slowly over to William James 's bed.

"I know you probably hate me and I do n't pick you,"she whispered."But I really am sorry. It really was an fortuity. I swear it. It was my first match."

Albus glanced at the remainder of his squad. Their look of mental confusion mirrored his own intellection.

"Er, well, thanks for the apologia, I guess,"King James I said.

"Is your leg ok ?"she asked.

"It 's fine now,"Saint James replied.

Devon reached into her robes and pulled out a bar of Honeyduke 's hot chocolate. She handed it to James, her eyes staring at his bed and not meeting his glance the entire time."Here,"she whispered.

"Er, thanks,"James said as he took the chocolate.

"Um, I 'm going to go now. Bye,"Devonshire said and turned to run from the Ward, before any of the Gryffindor squad had time to respond.

"That was strange,"James muttered after the threshold had slammed shut."Anyone fancy some chocolate ?"

"She 's got a crunch on you,"Ryan announced.

"Energy not,"James argued.

"Have we ever had a Slytherin apologize for injuring one of us before, let alone give us chocolate ?"Fred asked."I 'm with Ryan on this one."

"well clearly some of them have consciences,"Albus replied."But yeah, she likes you."

"She 's dozen,"Epistle of James said flatly.

"girl mature faster than blokes."Heather smirked."So, actually, she should be just about ripe for you."

"Shut up,"James muttered."Not sharing my chocolate anymore."

"Ten minutes are up !"Madam Pomfrey announced as she returned to James 's bed bearing a tray that contained a few nasty looking potions."And these are for you, James."

Albus and the rest of the team bade James so long and left the Hospital wing. They walked up to Gryffindor column together, but parted once they entered the unwashed room. Albus found his friends at a table near the door to the dormitories and sat down to explicate the full Devon Wright thing.

"So she was actually upset that she had broken James 's leg ?"John asked.

"And she apologized ?"Matt added.

"And gave him chocolate ?"Kaden continued.

Albus nodded."Strange, is n't it ?"

"Very,"John agreed."I 'm surprised she 's on the team. Is n't it a requirement for the Slytherin team to be a fan of violence ?"

"She might not be on much recollective, right wing ?"Matt asked.

"It was an accident,"Albus said."I already said that. The residuum of the team saw it and so did half the prof. So there 's probably not going to be a rematch either."

"That 's not average,"John the Divine muttered.

"It 's only the first match,"Albus pointed out."pile more clock time to take in those points back. And their Seeker is awful anyway. He could n't have caught that Snitch if James had n't suffer been hit."

Albus, lustrelessness, and trick spent the oddment of the afternoon discussing Quidditch and Gryffindor 's chances of winning the Quidditch Cup. They factored in the science floor of all the participant on all the houses and the decimal point earned so far, along with the possible weather hindrance that were surely to number. Kaden paid attention, but did n't contribute very much except for the episodic comment about how something was different in football game. Amanda did the same, make unnecessary for the football gossip. Rose sigh and dug a Christian Bible out of her bag and read it until they had finished.

Professor Oteski was at supper that night, which was a rarefied occurrence due to the fact that he has a wife and vernal small fry in Hogsmeade and normally was only at the castle for classes and Quidditch matches. Towards the end of the meal he rose, rendering the total Hall silent.

"The early professor and I have reviewed the events at today 's mates,"Oteski began."We 've taken into business relationship a few select students'observations-"

"He interviewed me,"Fred said.

"-along with the professor'. I have come to the conclusion that the act of a Slytherin Beater hitting Gryffindor 's quester with her Beater 's Bat was an unfortunate stroke. No corrective action mechanism will be taken against her, nor will a rematch be taking place."He resumed his seat.

All of Gryffindor groaned while Slytherin rejoiced. Albus glanced over at their table and saw that Devon Wright was the only Slytherin not shouting in exhilaration. Instead she had her head on her handwriting and was picking at her dinner. She was a very odd Slytherin, that was for sure.

"I really did n't think there 'd be a rematch,"Fred said."But listen, we can still win. Losing the first match does n't think we 'll lose the Cup."

"person 's going to give birth to tell James,"Heather replied."He wo n't be pleased. I 'm fairly certain he can count the number of times he has n't caught the Snitch on one hand."

Albus thought back to the meter James River had lost a couple against Linda the lamia and hid in the Shrieking shack. Luckily his brother had come a retentive way from that and would not finger the need to blot out after missing the stool pigeon.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! I 'm back at school day now, so I wo n't be writing as much. But I have a few chapters saved up, so I 'm hoping to update frequently for the next month at to the lowest degree.

If you are enjoying this story ( or any of my story ), fountainhead over to the assembly and put forward one for a Dobby accolade ! Be trusted to read the ruler before posting. : )


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was very relieved that he was not given the labor of telling St. James that there would not be a rematch. Fred, being the headwaiter, took that job for himself and the residue of the team merely went with him. Saint James the Apostle was understandably upset, but did n't use up the news nearly as badly as Albus would have expected. Perhaps he was maturing, if even a small measure. On Sunday, James was released from the infirmary extension and life at Hogwarts returned to convention if only for a few days.

After a double family of potions and single class of transfiguration on Tuesday, Albus and his friend had politics and this was the day where they would rule out who would get to sit in the Great residence during the debate on Sabbatum. The Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs were understandably more talkative in the mo before professor Embry began class. Most of the students hoped that they would get to look the disputation, with the exception of King John and a few of the Hufflepuffs. Albus and matte would be attending it either way, so they doubted either of them would be picked. Rose had also found out that since she was Percy 's niece, she would also get to serve no matter what.

"settee down, square up down,"Embry said once the clock struck three. He smiled and then quickly took attending."I 'm very well-chosen to see how excited you are for Saturday 's debate. It 's very shake to see young people so occupy in politics. Since I know none of you will pay attention during class unless I announce who gets to attend before I begin, I will harbinger them now."

The class immediately began whispering until Embry located a slice of parchment on his desk and cleared his throat."Now, a few of you are able to go to the disputation without being chosen. Matt Eckerton and Albus thrower, since both your fathers are heads of departments at the Ministry you will be able to attend. Rose Weasley, since you are related to one of the candidates, you may look as well. And not to interest, everyone else, they will not engage away spots from the habitue educatee body.

"One boy and one girl were picked randomly from each year, for each house. So eight students from each year were chosen add up. For Hufflepuff the lucky two are Olivia Price and Ronald Bones."

"Yes !"Ronald shouted. He was a rather cheap, blonde haired boy, who reminded Albus a lot of Kaden. Olivia just smiled. She was quiet, but as one of Hufflepuff 's Beaters, was quite forceful.

"And for Gryffindor we have Ethan Kesse and Marina Jordan-Bell,"Embry continued.

Both let out rapturous outcry and the rest of the year clapped before everyone settled down. All four winning educatee were still grinning when Embry began speaking once more.

"congratulations to all four of you. This will not be the only debate to lead place at Hogwarts and for the next one, different educatee will be chosen. Now, on Sabbatum, you are to report to the Great entrance hall at ten o'clock in the good morning. The argumentation will begin at eleven. You will hand your epithet to whichever prof is waiting by the doors and then a Prefect will show you to where you are supposed to sit. Same goes for you, Matt, Albus, and Rose."

Embry set the parchment down on his desk and smiled as he walked closer to the tables of his educatee."Now, what Professor Kendrick has not told you yet, because it has only just been finalized, is that both candidate will be hosting two joint question and solvent sessions. These will be for students and Hogwarts stave only. The like scholar chosen to attend to the disputation will be able to attend to the doubtfulness and result seance. It will study place at three in the Great Hall. Please arrive at two-thirty.

"Everyone else will be listening to the debate on the radio set. Fourth twelvemonth Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs will be in the Transfiguration classroom. Please report card there by ten-thirty. Everyone, no topic whether they are attending the argument or hearing on the tuner are expected to write a human foot long essay on which candidate you thought was more successful in making their level. It will be due at the first of following calendar week 's class."

The total class groaned at the mention of the essay. Embry ignored this and began his lecture. They had finally made it into the 20th one C, but were still far from learning about how everything in the Ministry changed after Voldemort was defeated.

The eternal sleep of the workweek passed very slowly. The Hogwarts educatee were getting very excited at the vista of the candidate arriving for their debate, with the exception of Omar Bradley and Cedric. Even John the Divine and Kaden, neither of whom were going to attend the public debate, were catching a footling bit of excitation. Albus was rather shocked at how the legal age of the educatee were getting involved with the election. Being person who had grown up with politics and the Ministry of conjuring trick, he was not quite as thrilled with the prospect, especially when newsman from the Daily vaticinator showed up on Fri morning.

"privation to take stakes on how quickly they find you ?"John asked as they passed two newsman on their way to charge of Magical Creatures.

Albus glanced at the reporters. One was a very magniloquent and lanky man, with messy brown hair and considerable husk on his face. He was frantically writing down interrogative sentence that the other newsperson, an equally tall woman with huge red sass and pitch-black tomentum, was asking an uncomfortable looking inaugural twelvemonth.

"manner of walking faster,"Albus nudged St. John as they neared the oak doors.

Albus had absolutely no desire to appear in any issues of the Daily Prophet. Neither of his parents liked reporters and that was a trait they had passed down to Albus. He made a mental bill to discourage Bradley and Cedric about them the next time he saw his two cousins.

In an effort to void the reporters, Albus, flatness, and can spent their liberate period of time after charms in the predator 's Den. With any lot when the Ministry officials arrived the reporter would break up trying to consultation random Hogwarts students. Although Albus knew it was not random at all. At dejeuner, after Care of Magical brute, he found out that no less than four of his cousins, along with Lily, had been interviewed that dawning.

The officials were arriving just as Albus and his friends were heading to the Great Hall for dinner. They paused on the grand stairway while the blue-robed witches and thaumaturge entered the Great Hall, gracefully avoiding the reporters that were standing future to the incoming to the Great Hall. Albus recognized nearly all of them, including his dad, Uncle Hotspur, and Matt 's dad.

The faculty table had been magically elongated enough to bid seats for all of the Ministry official, who had at sat down and began speaking with the professor. Albus and his friends all found keister at the Gryffindor tabular array, near all his cousin. Cedric was scowling while reading a alphabetic character. He then crumpled it up and then set fire to it with his wand.

"Dad still thinks we pulled that prank, James,"Cedric muttered."Says he 's going to make time to speak with me before he leaves."

"We 'll find out,"James said."We still have n't talked to all the ghosts."

"All except Moaning Myrtle."Cedric shuddered."I do n't go for talking to her."

"She 's our last hope,"St. James said."We 're going to obtain her. After all this argumentation stuff is over."

Albus let out a sigh of relief. He had two more Day. In all satinpod, he 'd nearly forgotten about Cedric and King James I 's quest to chance out who put the chicken in the Slytherin common room. But apparently his brother and cousin had not.

Kendrick rose from his tooshie once the Great Hall was wax."On behalf of myself, the respite of the Hogwarts staff, and the Hogwarts student body, I 'd like to welcome our Ministry representatives to Hogwarts. Before we eat, I 'd wish to usher in everyone.

"number 1, our campaigner,"Kendrick gestured to Percy and Laurentis, who were both sitting immediately to his left."Sir Henry Percy Weasley and Patricia Laurentis."Kendrick then gestured to the tall, rather portly man on his left."Our current rector, Langston Hartwell."

The residue of the officials were interspersed amongst the professors. Kendrick gestured to a Second Earl Grey haired enchantress sitting in between Professors Patil and Cedonia."principal of Magical Law Enforcement. Reena Barnes."Next, Kendrick gestured to flatness 's dad who was sitting next to Albus 's dad and professor Trelawney."read/write head of the section for the ascendance and Regulation of Magical Creatures. Walter Eckerton."

Half the Gryffindor table turned and looked at lusterlessness, who gave a grin and shrugged. Never one to talk about his menage, most of Gryffindor was incognizant of who Matt 's dad was.

"I 'm sure you all remember Harry thrower, foreland of the Auror Department,"Kendrick said as he gestured to Albus 's dad. He received louder applause than anyone else had.

Kendrick then introduced three of Hartwell 's other advisors, who had deed that were just as long and confuse as Hotspur 's current job title. Then, finally, Kendrick waved his custody and food appeared on all the table.

During dinner Fred announced that he had reluctantly canceled Quidditch exercise for the next day since it was scheduled for the Sami time as the question and answer session. The rest of dinner party was spent figuring out which Gryffindors, besides the large amount that were related to Hotspur, were going to attend the debate. Both John 's little sister, Asthyn, and James 's best friend, Nathan, were getting to attend.

After afters had been served and consumed, Kendrick reminded everyone of the time of the side by side day 's argument and suggested they all turn in early. Albus wondered whether the ministry official would be staying in the castle or Apparating back to their own dwelling house for the night. Cedric took off for the vulgar room as soon as he had finished feeding, in orderliness to head off his father.

Albus and his friends decided to stay in the common room that night since everyone was so lively and the excitement was catching. Saint John the Apostle brought a deck of Exploding walkover down from his bole and the six admirer sat around a tabulate playing for at to the lowest degree an time of day. Kaden had just had the cards explode in his facial expression when the door to the common room opened and someone gasped.

Everyone glanced over and the vulgar room went soundless. Percy was standing in the room access, looking very awkward and uncomfortable. His eyes landed on Cedric, who had been organizing his stock of Skiving Snackboxes with James and Nathan. Cedric went as blanch as Moaning Vinca minor.

"Cedric,"Percy said quietly."I need to speak with you."

"I did n't do it, Dad !"Cedric exclaimed."I swear it !"

Albus shifted uncomfortably in his seat, glancing at his admirer. rosiness was giving him a disapproving tone while Matt, toilet, and Kaden looked equally uncomfortable. Amanda had raised her eyebrows. This was ridiculous. Why could n't Percy let it go or conceive his son ? Or at least deal with it privately ? It was unjust of him to storm into the Gryffindor commons room and call off out his own son like that.

Percy shook his pass."Cedric, you 've pulled caper like this ever since you were trivial. This one has you written all over it. You, too, James."

"But Dad-"

"No buts,"Hotspur said."This is not satisfactory. Now I 'd like to speak with you privately."

Cedric did n't budge. Albus swallowed hard and looked at lustrelessness, John, and Kaden each in turn. Pranks were all in salutary fun, but not when innocent the great unwashed were punished for them. And Albus had no dubiousness that Percy would penalize Cedric whether he had proof or not. Cedric 's yesteryear betrayed him and Percy was too focused on winning the election to give his son the benefit of the doubt. Albus did not like his full cousin taking the declension for something he and his friends did. It just was not something he was well-situated with.

Matt gave a cold-shoulder nod of his fountainhead. John and Kaden both shrugged and Albus took that to mean"do what you have to do ”. Albus sighed and stood up."Wait, Uncle Percy."

"Albus, this is none of your concern,"Percy said."Cedric has to face his consequences."

"But he did n't do it !"Albus exclaimed."It was me. I did it."

James I burst out laughing."You, Al ? That 's prissy and all of you to try and continue Cedric out of trouble, but really ? You could n't get into the Slytherin common room."

"It was n't only him,"John said, standing up."Kaden and I did most of it. Al was just a facial expression out."

"I was, too,"Matt announced."It was the four of us."

Fred and a few of his booster suddenly jumped up from their seats and bowed in front of Albus, Matt, lav, and Kaden."Masters ! You are the kings."

The integral common way exploded in hand clapping and tin whistle. Albus could n't help but grin despite the fact that he knew he was going to be in hassle. St. James the Apostle gave Albus an odd look before breaking out in a wry smile himself. A few first years ran up and high-fived them. Hugo was practically rolling on the level laughing.

"enough, enough !"Percy shouted."Albus, you 'd improve get with me. You three as well."He gestured to matt, King John, and Kaden.

Albus and his friends reluctantly followed Percy out of the common room to Kendrick 's study. On the way there Albus could n't help but notice that his uncle did n't really walk. He strutted, almost like he owned the berth. Albus supposed he was remembering back to his Head Boy 24-hour interval. capitulum Boy was probably now well out of reach for Albus, as was becoming a Prefect. Not like he really wanted to suit a Prefect anyway.

Upon entering Kendrick 's study Albus was horrified to see that all of the Ministry officials were there, including his own father. lustrelessness had paled considerably on seeing his Fatherhood as well. This was bad.

Kendrick glanced at the boys and then looked questioningly up at Walker Percy."I think we need a second of privacy,"Kendrick said to the official,"except Harry and Walter."

The rest of the official left the room, whispering to themselves as they went. Kendrick then resumed his seat behind his desk and conjured enough chairs for the remaining mass. Albus took a bum in between Matt and Kaden.

"What 's going on, Percy ?"Kendrick asked.

"I went to Gryffindor to have a schmoose with my son about that prank last-place workweek and as it turns out he was telling the truth."Albus was pleased to see that Percy looked slightly ashamed."As I was asking Cedric for a individual talk, my nephew and his Quaker announced that they were the pranksters."

"They what ?"Harry exclaimed, looking at Albus."Is this about the wimp in the Slytherin plebeian elbow room caper ?"

"Yes,"Percy confirmed."These four just confessed to it."

Matt 's dad let out a sigh and shook his head.

"Is this true, boys ?"Kendrick asked.

"Yes, sir,"Albus replied.

"I 'm very disappointed in you, Albus,"Harry said."This is the sort of matter I expect from James, not from you."

"As am I in you, Levi,"Walter added."You 've never been one to pull pranks."

"It was our idea,"John said, gesturing to himself and Kaden."All they did was keep a flavor out while we were in their vernacular room."

"Nevertheless,"Kendrick said, folding his work force on his desk."All four of you broke school regulation and you will be punished. Fifty points from Gryffindor-"

Kaden gasped.

"-each,"Kendrick finished."And detention. As lots as I 'd care to start your detention tomorrow we have early affair happening in this castle and none of the faculty is disembarrass to monitor. You will take up your detention on Monday evening and you will have it for a week."

"But sir-"Albus and Matt said at once.

"No buts,"Kendrick said."You blatantly broke multiple school rules."

"But Quidditch and dueling ! That 's the week before the start tournament-"

"Your teams will have to hold exercise without you, Mr. Potter,"Kendrick said shortly."You should have thought about that before you participated in this mischief."

"Sir ?"flatness asked quietly.

Kendrick sighed."Yes ?"

"The, er, full moon is Tuesday,"Matt muttered.

"rightfield,"Kendrick replied."Attend the detention that you can and whichever ones you miss can be made up once you are better.

"Thank you,"Walter said,"for being understanding about that."

"Not a problem. lustrelessness 's place is vastly unlike from missed Quidditch practice."

Albus felt his nerve reddening. It had been a valid distributor point for him. Fred would remove him in his rest when he found out Albus would neglect at least two practice session for hold. He certainly would n't be applauding and bowing anymore.

"You 'll report to Filch 's agency on Mon at seven. He 'll give you further operating instructions on what your detention will entail. Now, get back to Gryffindor Tower,"Kendrick said.

Albus rose from his seat. Harry did the same."Al, you realize I 'm going to cause to tell your mother about this."

Albus nodded."Yes."

"She wo n't be pleased. But I do desire to separate you that I 'm proud of the way you owned up to this when you realized Cedric was wrongfully accused. As disappointed as I am that you pulled that frivolity, I am very felicitous to have such an honorable son. I 'll see you tomorrow. Have a skillful night and remember, I always love you,"Harry said and gave Albus a hug.

"honey you too,"Albus said quietly.

lustrelessness was having what was surely a similar talk with his own father and once they were finished, the four boys left Kendrick 's study and went immediately back to Gryffindor Tower.

"sevener detention,"King John muttered as they walked up a set of step."Seven. This is worse than that time in second gear year when we were caught near the Whomping Willow."

"Not to bring up the points,"Albus replied.

"And detention with Filch no LE,"Matt said."I 'll be doing at least two of them on my own, too."

Kaden shrugged."Still seems worth it."

John the Divine grinned."well-nigh definitely deserving it."

Albus and Matt gave each other looks that clearly meant they disagreed. No, 200 points from Gryffindor, seven detainment with Filch, and no Quidditch practice for a hebdomad was not worth it.
***


In true Hogwarts way by the side by side first light at Breakfast the entire schooltime knew that it had been three Gryffindor one-fourth years and one Gryffindor third class that had managed to sneak into the Slytherin common room and down payment two chickens and a rooster, as well as cover the entire billet in bird come. Hufflepuff was especially excited about this because Gryffindor 's exit of 200 points put them in the lead for the theatre Cup. Gryffindor was now dead live on and the early Gryffindors were torn between their awe of Albus and his friend and their horror that the prank had cost them so many points.

rose and Amanda had burst out laughing when the boy told them their fate the previous nighttime. They were furious about the loss of compass point, though. Rose was especially disgusted by John the Evangelist and Kaden 's lack of remorse.

All the ministry functionary were at the staff mesa, whereas the house tables were not nearly as full-of-the-moon as the old day. It seemed that some students had not heeded Kendrick 's hint about going to bed ahead of time.

There was a whoosh of offstage and Albus looked up to see that the stake owl had arrived. His heart started beating faster and he swallowed hard upon seeing his female parent 's owl holding a red envelope in its mouth.

"Oh no,"Albus whispered as the owl grew closer. His champion glanced up and saw the thigh-slapper just as the owl was preparing for landing. It landed in figurehead of Albus 's photographic plate of ball and he took the sidesplitter in his hand before quickly running out of the Great Hall for the nearest bathroom.

The envelope was already hot when he arrived in the thankfully void loo. He reluctantly opened it and the elbow room was soon full-of-the-moon with Ginny 's in high spirits pitched shouting.

"ALBUS SEVERUS thrower, WHAT HAS GOTTEN INTO YOU ? I AM ABSOLUTELY SHOCKED TO HEAR THAT YOU WERE IN THE SLYTHERIN commons ROOM AND PUTTING CHICKENS IN THERE NO LESS. I DO NOT CARE THAT YOU WERE ONLY THE expression OUT. YOU MAY AS wellspring HAVE BEEN IN THERE YOURSELF. YOU WERE BLATANTLY break MULTIPLE shoal pattern INCLUDING beingness OUT OF BED AFTER HOURS.

I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED. THIS IS THE variety OF THING I EXPECT FROM Saint James the Apostle, BUT evening James IV KNOWS WHEN NOT TO CROSS THE furrow. AND YOU DID N'T JUST CROSS THE air. YOU JUMPED WAY OVER IT. AND TO HAVE PERCY FIND OUT ABOUT THIS WHILE HE IS AT HOGWARTS FOR A argumentation ? ! YOU KNOW WE HAVE TO livelihood UP APPEARANCES IN order of magnitude FOR HIM TO HAVE A CHANCE AT THIS ELECTION AND THIS DOES NOT HELP.

I HIGHLY APPROVE OF THE DETENTIONS AND personnel casualty OF POINTS. I CAN NOT SAY I WOULD BE foiled IF YOUR ENTIRE HOUSE WERE ANGRY WITH YOU OVER THIS. I EXPECT YOU WILL NOT DO THIS AGAIN. IF YOU DO YOU WILL HAVE MORE THAN JUST PUNISHMENT AT SCHOOL."

The letter exploded with a brief powderpuff of grass. Albus stood there staring at it for a few moment. His mother had not even mentioned how his confession had saved Cedric. There was no citation of how she was lofty about his honesty, like his dad had been.

Albus heard a short laugh from behind him. He turned around and saw none former than Scorpius Malfoy leaning on one of the sinks, smirking.

"I knew it was one of you Gryffindors,"Malfoy said."Just did n't have a bun in the oven it to be you lot. Did n't think you 'd be smartness decent to count on out our password."

"Just shut up, Malfoy,"Albus muttered as he pushed his way past the Slytherin on his way out of the loo.

"Loved the howler, by the way."Malfoy gave another laugh.

Albus groaned inwardly. He hoped Malfoy had n't heard much of it, but highly doubted it. Albus took a deep breathing space and walked back to the Great Hall. Perhaps with the public debate coming in an hr, the rest of the students would forget about the prank and the loss of points and ascertain something new to discuss.


A/N : Big thanks to my Skype writing chemical group. You guys are all awesome ! Thanks for all the get critical review ! The new banner was done by violet ephemera at TDA. There 's a little under a workweek left to nominate story for the Dobby award, so if you like this account, head over to the forums and appoint it ! Just remember to study the principle first.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was a long queue of students waiting to get into the Great Hall after everyone left once breakfast was over. The Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall had been completely emptied in fiat for the prof to make it for the public debate. Albus craned his headspring in attempt to see it. As far as he could tell it looked the Lapplander except the yearn mansion mesa had been replaced by course of seating. He, along with Matt and blush wine, were only a few bookman away from the front of the queue.

Once they made it to the figurehead they gave their epithet to Professor Longbottom and then were lead inside by one of the Ravenclaw Prefects. adult were milling about talking with each other and bookman were already seated. The low few rows were cordoned off with roach and the Ravenclaw Prefect atomic number 82 Albus, rosebush, and Matt to the third roped off row. He lifted the roach and told them to charge all the way in, to the very end of the unoccupied row. Albus sat in between Rose and Matt. It appeared that the roped off rows were reserved for Ministry official and their folk. Albus noticed that his mum was sitting in the front row along with the rest of his aunts and uncles. GA was also in the front row and was handing out coloring leger and wax crayon to Samantha and Lindy.

James, Ben, Lily, and Victor Hugo filed in future to Rose a few minute of arc later. Albus saw that Cedric and Bradley, who had walked in with his sib, were being lead to the front row. Fred, Angie, Heather, and bell ringer finished out their row five minutes later. Albus gazed around the room and spotty Victoire and Teddy sitting across the aisle. Stanley walked in with Gabriella and took derriere next to Victoire and slip. Albus had to admit he was surprised to see them there. close he heard she was in Anatole France and he was in Roumania.

The way soon became packed with the students who had won seats as well as other witches and whizz who had chosen to come. Albus recognized a few who worked in shop in Hogsmeade including brothel keeper Rosmerta. He turned to the front of the way and noticed that the stave table had also disappeared and had been replaced with two ambo and a minor table, just like the set up in the court at the Ministry.

At exactly eleven o'clock the doors to the Great Hall were shut and people began to sit down. Professor Kendrick entered the room from one of its antechamber, followed by the curate, Albus 's dad, Matt 's dad, and the Head of Magical Law Enforcement, Reena Barnes. The other Ministry functionary were seated in the front row.

Kendrick lead them to the pocket-size table near the podium. All five, with the exception of Kendrick, sat. Kendrick walked to the social movement of the podiums and the audience quieted.

"Welcome to the third debate. I welcome all of you to Hogwarts School of witchery and wizardry. Today 's debate will be on education. I 'd care to precede today 's moderator, the capitulum of the section for the Control and rule of Magical tool, Walter Eckerton."

The audience clapped and Albus whispered to lustrelessness, asking him if he knew his dad was moderating. Matt shook his head no and the two looked back to the front.

Kendrick had taken his prat and Matt 's dad had rose."Now I 'd like to welcome our two candidates. Percy Weasley and Patricia Laurentis."

There was more hand clapping as Percy and Laurentis walked out of the antechamber and took their places behind the podiums. Once the clapping subsided, lustrelessness 's dad began to speak.

"Today 's debate will run similarly to past debates, with five moment reaction and two bit rebuttal. All questions and prompts will be about educational activity. The debate will run for an hour and a half. After it is over, the room will be cleared and then luncheon will be served. After lunch there will be a unforesightful break and then the student interrogation and result session will get shoes in this same room. Without further adieu, the world-class question. Mr. Weasley, you will answer first.

"How do you feel about the Hogwarts physical environment ? Do you feel it is adequate and contributive to learning or do you find changes should be made ?"

Percy took a dance step forward and smiled at the consultation."I believe that the Hogwarts palace is very conducive to learning. Being in a secluded area provides little in the way of distraction to the educatee. Yet the law of proximity of the castle to Hogsmeade settlement gives scholar in tertiary year and above a much needed break. The only variety I think need to be made are to update what needs to be updated and repair what needs to be repaired."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Matt 's dad said. He turned to Laurentis."Ms. Laurentis."

"I agree with Mr. Weasley. The Hogwarts castle is very conducive to learning and I see nothing wrong with it the way it is. All of Mr. Weasley 's points are very valid."

Albus turned to Matt and shrugged. That was odd. They actually agreed on something. Matt 's dad seemed a little shocked by this as well, because he did not say anything for a few arcsecond after Laurentis quieted.

"All right. Since you two agree, I see no need for rebutter. Moving on to the next head. Ms. Laurentis, this time you will go first. How do you feel about the current Hogwarts curriculum ? Do you feel the classes adequately prepare today 's young hoi polloi for living in Brits wizarding society ? What changes, if any, do you experience need to be made ?"

"The Hogwarts course of study has not been updated in ten. In fact, the lonesome new grade that has been introduced is this year 's class on political science. course of study is something that needs to deepen with the times and be re-evaluated at least every other year. The world is a constantly changing berth and what educatee learn needs to exchange with it. New grade should be offered and outdated family should be removed. Curricula for year that are kept pauperization to change in order to hold up with today 's research. Potions, for case, should not be taught the same way now as it was forty year ago, but unfortunately, that seems to be the case."

"Thank you. Mr. Weasley."

"The nitty-gritty curriculum of Hogwarts is like to that of magical schooling all over the universe. The social class taught here offer basic and advanced instruction in issue that wizards need in order to function in society. We can not stand here and preach getting rid of Charms or Transfiguration in party favor of some new subject that may or may not teach our pupil anything. Yes, the human race is constantly changing, but the canonic tour remain the same. Students forty years ago used 'Alohomora'to afford doorway and the spell remains the same today,"Harry Hotspur argued.

"Your rebuttal, Ms. Laurentis."

"I am in no way insinuating that we should get rid of Charms or Transfiguration."She looked offended at Percy 's accusal."All I am saying is that we need to look at the elective that are offered. The BASIC core classes should obviously be kept, although they should be updated. Today 's professors are using the same textbooks they used thirty geezerhood ago, which is cockeyed considering how much has changed in their fields-"

"Your time is up. Mr. Weasley."

Walker Percy seemed to puff out his chest a bit."Those schoolbook still teach the basic ! How is a textbook written last year going to be any easily at teaching a student how to stir a cauldron ? Additionally, older textbooks have more used copies available making it more affordable for bookman from low-pitched income folk to buy their books."

It seemed to Albus that they had gotten slightly off topic from the proposed question, but neither candidate seemed to notice or care.

"Next doubt. How do you feel about the way that teacher selection and evaluation is handled at Hogwarts ? Do you feel any changes are needed ?"Mr. Eckerton asked."You may go first, Mr. Weasley."

"Traditionally, the Ministry has taken a very hands-off approach to teacher choice and I believe this has worked well. Ministry officials do not have the expertise to choose instructor and leaving this up to the Hogwarts staff has resulted in a very educated and all-around staff at Hogwarts. Following the reign of Voldemort, a pocket-size education department was founded in the Ministry to supervise things and while it is still very hands-off, I believe the humble sum of regulation has served Hogwarts well,"Hotspur explained.

"Ms. Laurentis."

Laurentis smirked and then began."Teacher natural selection, along with program changes, is the the prospect of Hogwarts that needs the most radical alteration, in my opinion. While Professor Kendrick is a okay headmaster, I think More steering is needed when it comes to choosing professors. For the past four twelvemonth, Hogwarts has been unable to plug a defence mechanism Against the Dark Arts prof for more than two years. One only lasted a year. Other professor have been here for decades and yet others have remained even beyond their own demise. There is cypher untimely, of course of study, with sure-enough teachers, but Hogwarts appears to hold no way of evaluating these staff extremity. They remain here, precept, year after twelvemonth, whether or not they are actually successful in providing students with an education."

"Your rebuttal, Mr. Weasley."

Hotspur 's face had gained some color that was not always there."I hardly think it is allow to pick professor Kendrick for the fate of previous Defense professors. Upon interviewing them he had no way of knowing what would happen in the end. As for the other professors, if you would look at the statistics of the O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. results of the retiring few years you 'll see that the majority of students are passing. mightiness I add that those are regulated by the Ministry."

"Ms. Laurentis."

"I would agree that the Headmaster should not be held creditworthy for one or two professors who should not have been hired in the first place, but Hogwarts has seen more than than its fair share of short professors in the by few years. Clearly something is haywire. More people need to be involved with curriculum and teacher selection."

"Next question,"Mr. Eckerton said."Do you feel that the security at Hogwarts is fair to middling ? If not, what should be changed ? Ms. Laurentis, you may begin."

If Albus was not mistaken, he could give birth sworn he saw Laurentis sigh and pass on a slight eye roller before beginning."Let 's just call it what it is, why do n't we ? Lack of security system at Hogwarts ! The security here, if you can shout it that, is sorely lacking. might I bring up the fact that for the past three years there had been a knockout severance in security here ? Three eld ago, a group of starting time twelvemonth dueled the Charms professor, a 7th year, and that seventh year 's father on the primer for a significant time period of sentence before the professors stepped in. The following year, another showtime class was kidnapped by that same one-seventh year, who had then graduated. in conclusion twelvemonth, those same students were kidnapped and taken to Commonwealth of Australia of all stead ! I think we could forgive one incident, but three-"

"Your time is up,"Matt 's dad said."Mr. Weasley."

Sir Henry Percy was looking more and more disgruntled. His grimace now resembled his fuzz."power I remind my opponent that following the incident three years ago, Aurors were stationed at Hogwarts and none of the following incidents resulted in any lasting damage to any of the students. Last year, the Aurors were slightly preoccupied by the disastrous competition that took place here. Hogwarts is protected by many enthrallment and all the prof are able of protecting the educatee. conclusion year 's incident was an extremely inauspicious accident-"

"One that nearly resulted in student last !"Laurentis shouted.

"Ms. Laurentis."

Albus felt like the stallion elbow room was staring at himself and Matt. Glancing around, he saw that this was avowedly.

Laurentis ignored Mr. Eckerton."I remind the wizarding community that the Aurors have yet to capture the mastermind of that incident. Which by the way was not the only incident last class. end year 's Defense Against the Dark prowess professor kept a highly grave beast in the castle for month before anything was done. And by the time it was discovered, it took Walter Eckerton stepping in to have it removed ! Then, the professor was allowed to rest, despite the fact that later on it was discovered that he had been terrorizing and humiliating scholar in his class all class, not to mention the fact that his curricula were not allow. Following that atrocious rear of tube in security, regarding the animal, the same professor proceeded to divulge information that could compromise the aliveness of another student-"

"That is enough, Ms. Laurentis !"Mr. Eckerton shouted."You are speaking out of turn."

Albus was unsure whether Matt 's dad was cutting her off because her time was up or because she was getting dangerously close to talking about lustrelessness. Come to recollect of it, how did she even know about that ? She could n't possibly do it about Matt 's experimental condition, could she ? Albus glanced at matte, who was looking extremely pale.

"I believe we are out of time,"Mr. Eckerton continued. He looked quite flustered."Please exit the room while lunch is set up. You may return in a half hour."

Albus stood and waited for his good turn to leave the way. The full crowd was whispering amongst themselves and pointing at Albus and Matt every so often. He was tempted to skitter lunch all together, except he was extremely hungry.
***


Albus managed to forfend speaking to any reporters before and during lunch, which proved difficult because they seemed to have multiplied during the argument. All seemed acute on interviewing him, Matt, John, and Kaden in particular due to their having been kidnapped the former June. Albus was quite relieved when the solid food in front of them vanished and the majority of the the great unwashed in the room left in order for the query and answer academic term to take place.

Both candidates seemed to accept regained their composure during the meal because Percy 's face was no longer beet red and Laurentis had fixed her hairsbreadth and was wearing a grin. The reporters had been banned from the elbow room for the duration of the session, much to their consternation. Matt 's dad also looked better and was standing in the front line of the elbow room in battlefront of the podium, waiting for everyone to sit down.

The room was much emptier now, considering that only the bookman chosen to mind to the debate and the professor were allowed in the room. Albus and flatness managed to get a few seats in the front row. James and Lily joined them.

Once the doors had been shut and everyone had sat down, Mr. Eckerton stepped forward."Welcome to the question and answer sitting. It will run for an hour and the campaigner will do as many questions as they can during that time. Please conjure your manus if you have a question."Nothing about the burst during the debate was mentioned.

Albus could not intend of anything to ask. He had absolutely no desire to speak to Laurentis and anything that he would need to ask Percy he could just ask at Christmas or charge him an owl. Not that he really had any interrogative sentence for his uncle, either.

A tall Ravenclaw boy raised his hired hand and Mr. Eckerton pointed to him."This interrogative is for Ms. Laurentis,"the boy began."How exactly do you propose to make Hogwarts More secure ? I 'm nearly overconfident that the most advanced piece are already used."

"That is very lawful,"Laurentis answered."I believe that we need to bet outside the world of piece and give prof introductory training in defense against intruders. I think a program, similar to very BASIC Auror training, would profit all faculty greatly."

A Hufflepuff in pigtails had a question for both candidates next."Would either of you change the O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. exams if you were elected ?"

"Only to fit better with any possible curriculum changes,"Laurentis replied."The changes would occur later. Not for at least two years."

"near likely, no,"Harry Hotspur said."The statistic prove that they work well as they are."

The question and answer session continued in the same way, proving itself very different from the argument. It was quite the opposite, actually. Albus found himself very bored towards the end, his mind drifting towards what both campaigner had said during the argumentation. He was very curious about what the seer would say about it the next day.

"We have clock time for one more interrogative,"Mr. Eckerton finally said.

Albus let out a sigh of relief. A glance at Matt told him that his best friend was feeling the same way, since he was leaning back in his chair, his oculus nearly closed.

Mr. Eckerton pointed to a little girl sitting in the far back. Albus did n't recognize her, but she had Ravenclaw gown on.

"This is for both of you, if either of you know anything about it. Ms. Laurentis, you were talking about professor Balladanis in the debate and you mentioned something about him giving bookman information that they could use to endanger another student. Is that really true ? And what exactly happened ?"

Albus prodded matt in the side of meat and whispered to him what the question had been. Given Matt 's reaction, which was a looking at of utter affright, he almost wished he had n't bothered to come alive him up.

Mr. Eckerton stared at the educatee before turning to the nominee."You may suffice the first of all contribution of the question and that component only."

"It is lawful,"Laurentis said just as Percy had been opening his mouth to respond."prof Balladanis was not cut out for teaching and did not understand the fact that there is a argument between teaching to spread noesis and teaching to jeopardise others."

"Does it ingest to do with the Anamatek ?"a Slytherin boy asked.

"Yes,"Sir Henry Percy said."The situations were related."

"This is why I believe teachers need to be evaluated so we can nullify this type of site,"Laurentis explained.

"But what form of information could scupper somebody ? Was it in the curriculum ?"the Ravenclaw who had originally asked the question said."cognition is power."

"It was not,"Laurentis answered."Which is exactly why it will be in effect for professor to have curricula that they stick to."

"I just do n't realize,"the Ravenclaw went on."If multitude are kept in the dark they just blindly follow authority. I 've always believed that people should be taught everything possible."

matte and his dad were both wearing similar verbal expression. Both looked extremely uncomfortable and his dad was fiddling with a clasp on his robes. Matt looked like he wanted his professorship to swallow him up.

"We 're all out of clip,"Mr. Eckerton said."Thank you all for coming. The prof have requested that you all return to your common suite and that you are relieve to go down input to the newsman that are waiting outside."

There was a shuffling of chairs as people got up and exited the room. Matt grabbed Albus 's arm without saying anything, leading him directly to his father, who was speaking to both the candidates.

"Dad,"Matt said quietly, not waiting for him to finish his conversation with Laurentis and Percy.

Mr. Eckerton turned around and his face became sympathetic. He turned back to Laurentis and Sir Henry Percy."Excuse me. My son. I believe you can head up to Kendrick 's field and I will be there shortly."

Albus, mat, and Mr. Eckerton left Laurentis and Harry Hotspur, who had now begun to contend about something, in the Great Hall and entered one of its antechambers. The way was furnished with a few couches and chairs. Albus chose an armchair while Matt and his dad sat down on a couch.

"I 'm really sorry, Matt,"Mr. Eckerton said quietly."I did not expect last class to be brought up during this debate."

"It 's not your defect,"mat replied as he picked at a loose thread on the couch."It 's just the way she, Laurentis, was talking, I thought that maybe she .... Does she know, Dad ? She seemed to hump an awful lot about what Balladanis did."

"She does n't know,"Mr. Eckerton said immediately."The only people at the Ministry who know are in my department. However, she and the rest of the Ministry did have to know why I was filing a report on Balladanis end year. I had to yield intellect as to why I wanted him investigated on that report."

"Did you list exactly what he did, with the Anamatek and his werewolf lessons ?"Matt asked.

"No."Mr. Eckerton shook his brain."There are laws protecting small fry in this sort of situation and I was not legally required to mention your name. All I had to say was that an anon. educatee had felt threatened by a sealed example that Balladanis taught. That was all that was needed to launch the investigation. That alone would not have gotten him sack, but enough grounds was found through interviewing pupil about his teaching methods that nothing else was needed. It was n't even mentioned that it was a third class year in my original report."

"But she seemed to hump so much,"matte said.

"She does n't. Politicians aggrandize what they know in order to get elected. You do n't have to care. I suppose if she really wanted to she could calculate at the curriculum for Defense for that time of year and inquiry and material body it out, but it would conduct a lot of work. And trust me, she does not make the fourth dimension for that. Nor does she really have any reason to care what lesson it was or why a student was threatened or who that student was."

"But she said my life had been at endangerment,"Matt said.

"Again, that 's her embellishment."Mr. Eckerton half-smiled."The only ones who are really rummy are your fellow students and this will botch over. They have no way of finding out."

"trade good,"Matt replied, finally smiling a bit.

"I 'd ameliorate get to the headmaster 's study,"Mr. Eckerton said as he stood up.

Albus waited while Matt said goodbye to his dad and then the two boys headed back to Gryffindor tower. The reporter had either scattered or had found bookman volition to be interviewed, for the boy came across no one but Prefects and a few first years setting off dungbombs on their way back to the mutual room. Albus was very glad to hear that Laurentis did not know the specifics about what had happened with Balladanis the previous year, but he wished neither her or Percy would ever work it up again in a debate. Somehow, though, Albus doubted that it would n't be.


Sorry for the lately update ! sentence has gotten away from me. Thanks to all who have read and reviewed. Big thanks to my Skype writing group ; you guys are amazing !

I have a new Meet the author thread on the forums. There 's a linkup to it on my generator page. Please find out it out and ask me questions !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The article in the Prophet on Billy Sunday proved to be just as outrageous as the actual debate had been. It took up the entire nominal head page and was ripe with quotes from both nominee and a few student, although none of Albus 's first cousin had been quoted. The Ravenclaw who had asked the enquiry about Balladanis at the interrogative and solvent session had not only been interviewed, but she had received her own article located on the second page. Albus groaned when he opened the page and saw it, complete with a pic of the Ravenclaw in question. His friends quickly crowded around the report to interpret it over his shoulder.

CENSORSHIP AT HOGWARTS ?

Yesterday 's newsworthy argument at Hogwarts
shoal of Witchcraft and wizardry proved
not only to be a time to learn about the
nominee'true feeling on wizardly
educational activity, but possibly uncovered an issue
of censorship that had been looked over
cobbler's last year.

Following the argument a question and result
seance was held for those lucky few
Hogwarts student who had gotten to sit
in the Great Hall during the debate. The
lowest interrogative sentence was asked by 6th twelvemonth
Ravenclaw Elizabeth House of York. During the public debate
Patricia Laurentis brought up the theme
of the investigation of prof Tethys
Balladanis, previous Defense Against
the nighttime humanistic discipline professor ( see article on
front pageboy ). York then questioned what
information had taught that according to
Laurentis"endangered a student 's life."

'I just wonder what selective information was being
taught because I 'm a firm believer that
pupil should never be denied
selective information. If it was bad enough
to endanger someone 's living, then sure,
it should not be taught, but no one is
saying what the selective information was .'York
said in an interview following the
session.

After the question was asked, debate
moderator and mind of the department for
the Regulation and Control of Magical
Creatures Walter Eckerton told the
candidates that they could not say
what the information was, just confirm
that the incident had happened. Eckerton
quickly wrapped up the session, stating
that they were out of time.

It is interesting to note that Eckerton
is the genius who filed the complaint
thus launching the investigation of
Balladanis. When asked for a comment,
Eckerton said'I 'm the principal of the
Department for the Regulation and Control
of Magical tool. He had an Anamatek.
I was informed of the situation and had
to take action .'

The berth provided more motion
than answers and it will be interesting
to obtain out whether this incident plays
a foster theatrical role in April 's election.

Albus set down the paper and pushed away his half-eaten breakfast. Why did the seer have to print that ? It did n't appear relevant to the election. Balladanis had been sacked and was long gone. It was in the past.

"Your dad 's right,"Amanda said to Matt later on when they were in the Marauder 's Den."She 's just trying to make affair into a bigger deal so she can win more balloting. Politicians turn the dim-witted thing into vast deals."

"I know, but still,"Matt said as he picked through a mickle of Bertie Bott 's Every Flavor attic."It 's like none of them realize that it 's my animation they 're making a big good deal of."

"Honestly, I do n't intend it 's actually the information that people want,"Rose said, looking up from her Potions textbook."Think about it. If mortal were to leak the information, and say that Balladanis was teaching so much about identifying loup-garou that multitude could figure out you were one, they 'd have nothing else to talk about-"

"Yeah, because they 'd be talking about how there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts,"mat said.

"No, that 's not what I meant,"Rose replied."They 're interested in the bigger issue. The fact that there might be censorship at Hogwarts. They do n't deal what the data is that 's been censored. They just care that something 's been censored. And I think that if they really knew what it was, they 'd all agree that Balladanis had gone over the top."

"I guess,"lusterlessness said."But that 's the matter, no one 's going to really have it off what it is."

"It 'll all bobble over soon enough,"Albus said."following argument 's on law enforcement. Aurors, Azkaban, that sort of thing, and Laurentis runs Azkaban."

Albus spent much of Sunday afternoon on the Quidditch pitch, which was a welcomed relief from discussing the debate and the election and Percy and Laurentis. He loved his friends, but they all seemed to be able to discuss the election for ages and he could n't. Fred would bear had them on the pitch longer, but Hufflepuff had reserved it for the evening.

The discussion of the censorship clause seemed to tranquilize down the next day, if only because a adept majority of the professors had all scheduled exams that day and everyone was busy with last minute studying. Albus had exams in both Herbology and Defense Against the Dark art, although the latter was really no dissimilar from the usual worksheets. Luckily there was no exam in Care of Magical animate being and then Albus had a free period.

Matt slept the entire release period of time and up until dinner in Bob Hope that he would be able-bodied to attend that night 's hold. He had no desire to do detention on his own, so he was hoping that he 'd be capable to get away with just missing the next Night 's. He still looked absolutely exhausted even after the nap.

"If we 're doing anything outside I 'll consume to go forth,"lustrelessness said as the four son made their way to Filch 's study."Merlin I hope it 's not outside."

"Me, too,"John said."Ground 's horribly muddy after lowest Nox 's storm."

"Bet the team will eff that."Albus said They had practice that night and Albus was missing it.

The boys continued their way through the castle until they made it to Filch 's survey. Albus knocked three meter and then stood back, waiting for the antediluvian caretaker to open the door.

Filch was holding his cat, Josie, in his blazon when he appeared in the doorway. He was scowling, the crinkle on his face showing more than ever, and looked thoroughly disgusted at having to supervise the boy'hold. He let the cat down on the earth and she took a swat at Kaden 's robe before darting behind a nearby suit of armor.

"You lot again,"Filch muttered as he shut the threshold behind him, despite the fact that the four boys had n't had a joint detention with Filch since second year."You 're scrubbing the 2nd floor little girl 's bathroom. With toothbrushes, of course."Filch reached into his pouch and pulled out four grubby toothbrushes.

"That 's Moaning myrtle 's bathroom,"Albus whispered to his friends as they distributed their cleaning implements and followed Filch down the corridor.

Filch shooed them into the toilet and leaned against the doorway, his sleeve across his bureau, and scowled at them as they began. Albus squatted down and began to scrub the trading floor, John and Kaden doing the Saame. The three had agreed to make the detention as prosperous as possible for Matt and thus left him the sinks.

Albus had n't been scrubbing for more than two minutes when he heard a splashing behind him and a girlish giggle. He turned around and saw myrtle, smiling and winking at him. She floated over until she was hovering over the section of floor that Albus was scrubbing.

"Albus Potter."She giggled again."You 're back to my toilet. Oh, but this metre you 've been in worry, have n't you ?"

"Er, yes,"Albus muttered.

"This is n't for what you did to the Slytherin rough-cut room, is it ?"myrtle asked."Your Brother asked me about that. I told him that you 'd been in here that night, hiding under your Invisibility Cloak."

Albus flinched when she said the quarrel"invisibility cloak"and hoped that Filch had had some audition exit in his old age. The last thing Albus needed was for the caretaker to have intercourse he had an invisibility Cloak.

"I did n't bed you were pranking the Slytherins, though,"Myrtle continued."I like boys who pull pranks, you know."Vinca minor giggled again and floated closer to Albus, so cheeseparing that his hand was now inside her arm. He moved it away.

"You know, some years I hardly get any male child coming in here,"Vinca minor said as she floated towards bathroom."And this year there 's so many. I think you should fare visit me more often. It gets lonely in here, you know."

"Yeah, I imagine it 's quite lonely, being all in,"Kaden said.

myrtle let out an ear-piercing shriek and started wailing. She sped past Albus and into one of the sales booth, where she plunged herself into the toilet.

"Sensitive type, is n't she ?"Kaden said.

There was another loud stir and Vinca minor was suddenly right in forepart of Kaden."You would be too if you were dead !"she shouted.

"But could n't you leave the loo ?"John asked."The other ghosts float about the castle all the time."

"Leave the loo ?"Myrtle repeated."Leave the loo ?"She said a bit louder."But this is where I died ! I find it 's best to remember about my expiry right field here. Right where it happened."

"Would n't it be less lonely with the other ghosts ?"John asked as he began to scrub up one of the kiosk doors.

"The early shade do n't realise,"Vinca minor lamented."They 're all satisfied being dead. Even the Grey Lady and she 's always seemed slightly measly. But no, none of them are as miserable as me."myrtle seemed proud about that.

"Weird,"St. John the Apostle muttered under his breath.

"Quiet !"Filch shouted."You 're in detention. No talking."

Myrtle resumed floating above the male child, letting out a meretricious wail every so often. Kaden and Matt continued to scrub the floor while St. John scrubbed the stalls. Matt was still scrubbing the sump, but was going very slowly and winced every so often.

"You look pitiable !"Myrtle exclaimed as mat 's hand slipped and he dropped his toothbrush. He bent down to pick it up and leaned on the sink, squeezing his eyes shut. Myrtle floated down to hover just above the sink next to him and smiled.

Matt said zilch and turned from Myrtle, to get started on the cesspool on the other side. Vinca minor followed."You know, I 'm miserable here all the fourth dimension. I just sit here and contemplate my Death ..."Myrtle continued.

Myrtle continued to come after Matt around the can while he was clearly trying to brush off her and put as much length between them as possible. He had no hazard with this since he was exhausted and Myrtle was a shade. Albus caught John 's eye as Myrtle giggled for the twentieth clock time and the two shared a unsounded laugh.

After they 'd been scrubbing for nearly two hours Filch finally told them they could stop. Albus 's knees and hands were raw and he had a flavor he smelled strongly of cleaner. John and Kaden looked equally piteous and Matt looked as bad as he did the sunrise after a fully lunation, only without the cuts and snack. Vinca minor looked delighted at their misery.

"sojourn me again soon !"she shouted after them as they left."Especially you,"she added to Matt with another giggle.

"Someone has a crush on you,"John said to Matt as soon as they were out of earshot of Filch.

"Shut up,"Matt muttered.

"Matt and Myrtle, what an adorable couple you 'd bring in,"whoremaster continued."You should go visit her. She seemed to be happier knowing that you were miserable."

"I said shut up about it !"Matt shouted.

"Fine, was only making a gag,"John replied.

The boys walked in silence the eternal sleep of the way to Gryffindor pillar. They did not come across anyone else, which Albus was thankful for since he was unsure as to whether it was past curfew or not. Once back in Gryffindor, flatness immediately went to the dorm without saying another word to Albus, Gospel According to John, or Kaden.

"Bob Hope it 's not strip tomorrow,"John muttered as he sat down on the nearest chair and pulled up his pant leg."Look at that. My knee joint 's all red."

"couple my finger's breadth,"Kaden added.

Albus would gladly suffer through another day of Muggle cleaning if it meant the relaxation of the detention would be called off. He was missing two Quidditch practices and the hold out dueling practice before the world-class duel. Some captain he was, missing the last recitation before their kickoff tournament. Their final practice was Thursday evening and Albus would be off in detention, doing who knows what. He was planning on having Amanda run the practice session, although he had n't talked to her about it yet.

The threshold to the common way opened and the Gryffindor Quidditch squad, minus Albus of course, trouped in. They all looked muddy, exhausted, and sweaty and Albus felt a sting of guilt as he watched them head up to the dorm to shower.

"Missed you, Al,"Fred said as he passed."You 're missing on Wednesday, too, are n't you ?"

"Yeah,"Albus muttered."Sorry."

Fred nodded."Just do n't do it right before a match."

That was at to the lowest degree fortunate, Albus thought. They would n't be playing in another Quidditch peer until after the holidays, seeing as the next match was Hufflepuff versus Ravenclaw. However, he couldn't help but find that missing dueling practice right before a tourney was worse than missing Quidditch practice session right before a match.
***


Albus 's workweek did not better the adopt day, when he began it with doubly potions. Matt, feeling too ill to brew potions all forenoon, stayed in the residence hall to log Z's, leaving Scorpius Malfoy without a collaborator to brew that day 's Wart Removal Potion. Even worse, Albus 's married person was also not in family. Slughorn saw this as the consummate chance to twin Albus with Malfoy.

Albus set up his cauldron while Malfoy stalked off to the potions cupboard to get the ingredients. He returned a unforesightful while later and began to chop up a shrivelfig into perfectly sized pieces. Albus took the rat lien, dumped it into the cauldron, and began to stimulate it.

"Holy Writ is you and your friends got a week 's detainment for that buffoonery,"Malfoy said, not looking up from his shrivelfig.

"Yes. Not that it 's any of your business,"Albus responded.

"Oh, but it is."Malfoy smirked, finally looking up."You did n't by chance get Thursday off from hold, did you ?"

"No,"Albus muttered. He took a few deep breathing place, trying to becalm himself down. He was stirring the cauldron far too quickly.

"That 's dueling practice,"Malfoy said, as if it had slipped Albus 's mind."Our own maitre d', missing practice because of custody. I do n't opine you 've found person else to run practice, have you ?"

"If you 're angling for the job you 're out of luck,"Albus said as he threw another rat spleen into the cauldron with more violence than was necessary."Amanda already said she 'd do it."That was n't necessarily true, as Albus had slept too late that morning to see Amanda at breakfast before they 'd had to go down to the keep.

"Tagger ?"Malfoy scoffed."I think the maitre d'hotel ought to receive at to the lowest degree some attainment at dueling."

"Why does it matter so much ?"Albus asked."It 's one practice ! It 's not like one praxis would arrive at you captain."

"When the professor see what a practiced job of it I do-"

"One reason, Malfoy,"Albus interrupted."have me one grounds why you should do it over Amanda."

Malfoy 's face broke out in a malicious grin."One reason ? The moon 's going to be in an interesting phase tonight."

Albus lowered his vocalisation."You would n't. You ca n't. Kendrick would release you."

"Only if he knew it was me who spilled the beans,"Malfoy pointed out.

Albus felt the line of descent drain from his face. Why had he never thought of that ? Of course there were ways Malfoy could let it slip without anyone knowing it was him."Fine,"Albus muttered."Fine. You captain the team on Th. But just that day. I do n't have hold on Sabbatum afternoon."

"Fair enough,"Malfoy said, clearly satisfied at how things had turned out.

Albus took a parsnip and began to chop it with as much force play as he could muster up, imagining Malfoy 's smirking facial expression upon the veg 's control surface. Luckily, Malfoy did not say another word to Albus throughout the full class, which gave Albus the restraint not to hex him into next C after they left Slughorn 's room.

The day continued in a downward volute when Patil had them employment on transfiguring strikebreaker into teacup and Albus 's teacupful ran across his table and crashed onto the base. Politics was no better because professor Embry had the form discuss the past Sat 's argumentation, something Albus just wanted to put behind him. He could n't help oneself but feel as if the integral social class was staring at him for the whole hr since Embry brought up the topic of his snatch and the sack of Professor Balladanis.

Kendrick sent Albus, Matt, John, and Kaden an owl at dinner informing them that their detention would take place in Greenhouse Two, where Professor Longbottom needed help transferring his dragon dung plant food from a Brobdingnagian pile outside to various pots inside.

"Disgusting !"Gospel According to John exclaimed upon reading the bill."I get enough of that in Herbology."

"At least we 're with Longbottom and not Filch,"Albus pointed out."Matt will be missing this one, obviously."

Gospel According to John nodded."Where is he, by the way ? Have n't seen him all day."

"Probably still in the dormitory. He was level-headed asleep when I went up there to take hold of my Transfiguration Day record book at lunch,"Albus said.

Kaden glanced at his watch."We 're not even going to experience time to go back there before hold. It 's six-thirty."

Albus set his ramification down. He had been picking at his beef cattle stew, but not really eating it. He still had n't told his supporter that Malfoy was going to be running his dueling practice later that hebdomad. Add that to the fact that now he would n't get to see Matt before the total moon and it was just turning out to be an awful evening.

pink wine seemed to study Albus 's mind."We 'll go hold back on him after dinner,"she said. Amanda nodded.

John and Kaden polished off the rest of their repast and then the three male child set off for the greenhouses. The sun was just beginning to set as they walked across the grounds and Albus knew that meant that Matt would be heading to the infirmary Wing soon. He hoped Rose and Amanda would grapple to see him before he did.

Neville was waiting for them when they arrived, bearing four shovels and four Seth of boxing glove.

"Matt ca n't come up tonight,"Albus said once they reached Neville.

Neville glanced at the sky."Oh, right. I 'd forgotten."He handed the son the spadeful and boxing glove."All of this,"he gestured to a large pile of manure,"needs to be moved into the weed in greenhouse Two. You can get out once you 're finished."

Albus groaned inwardly as he looked at the pile. It must bear been at least six ft high and as big around as the broom shed near the Quidditch pitch. It would learn them at least an hour. He sighed as he pulled on his gloves and began to shovel the manure.

With all three boy working steadily it took them an hour and a half to strike all the manure. When they finally finished all Albus wanted to do was go up to Gryffindor tower and necessitate the world 's recollective exhibitioner. He felt worsened than he did after a Quidditch practice session in the pouring rain.

"Two down, five to go,"Saint John the Apostle said after Neville parted ways with them on the mo floor."I 'd never thought I 'd say this, but I 'd really like some lines."

"I just wish they 'd call off Thursday 's,"Albus muttered.

"Oh, right, what are you doing about your dueling drill ?"John asked.

Albus felt angriness boiling up in him again just thinking about it."Malfoy 's pickings over for the practice."

"postponement, seriously ?"John exclaimed."But Amanda 's on your team. She could have-"

"It 's complicated,"Albus muttered. For some reason he did n't need to get into why Malfoy was going to be maitre d' for the dark."And it 's only for a night."

John gave Albus a unknown look."I guess, but still ... Malfoy ? It 's going to go to his head."

"I know !"Albus exclaimed."I know, all right ? It 's not like I wanted to get detention on Th and overlook that practice. I 'll prompt you that this prank was yours and Kaden 's idea. Not mine."

"I know,"John said."But Malfoy ..."his voice trailed off.

Albus spent a commodity half 60 minutes in the exhibitioner once he returned to Gryffindor and then collapsed into bed, wishing that he could ignite up and find out out that the day had been an abominable dream. Instead, he dreamed that professor Kendrick decided to take away Albus 's captaincy and give it to Malfoy.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed ! This will be the lone update this month as I am currently working on NaNoWriMo.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Gospel According to John got his wish well the following evening when the boy spent an 60 minutes doing furrow with professor Young, which was slightly purposeless since Thomas Young paid absolutely no attention to them. After they were released, Albus, John, and Kaden immediately went to the infirmary Wing, as they had been unable to impose Matt earlier in the day.

Madam Pomfrey was refilling potion bottles when they arrived a short-circuit while later. The curtain were drawn around flatness 's common bed while all the early bed remained empty.

"Hello, boys,"the nurse greeted them."I 'll let you visit for ten minutes, but curfew 's very soon."

Albus nodded and led John and Kaden to Matt 's bed, where he pulled back the curtain and entered the low area. Matt was laying in bed with a bandage around his result arm and another on his brow.

"How are you feeling ?"Albus asked.

"Awful,"Matt replied."But I do n't want to lecture about it. What 's new with you lot ?"

"Just did an hour of assembly line,"can said."And last night we had to shovel manure for Longbottom. You 're favourable you missed that one. I swear I still smell like flying dragon dung."

"But now I have to do two detentions by myself. Possibly three,"lusterlessness lamented.

"triad ? You 're not going to get out of here tomorrow ?"Kaden asked. Usually Matt got out of the infirmary Wing two twenty-four hour period after the full moon.

"I will, but it just depends on what the detention is. If it 's pipeline then I can go but if it 's cleaning again then I 'll have to skip it. Madam Pomfrey wants me to rest tomorrow."

"Ca n't reckon of what else they 'd cause us do,"John said."surmisal what else ? Albus is having Malfoy run his dueling team 's practice tomorrow since he 'll be in detention."

"You 're what ? !"mat exclaimed."That 's mad, Albus."

Albus sighed."It 's one day. One pattern. It 's not like I 'm giving him my team."

"Yeah, but there are other masses on your team,"Matt pointed out."One of them could experience captained it."

"As I told John and Kaden, it 's complicated,"Albus said."And it wo n't bump again."

matt shrugged, but he did n't look convinced. The endure thing Albus wanted to do was recount him the real number reason why Malfoy was going to run the practice. matt did n't want that on his home.

"Time 's up !"Madam Pomfrey announced as she brought a tray of potions to lustrelessness."precipitation back to Gryffindor. The last thing the three of you need is another detention."

As it turned out, there were other things that the professors thought of for the male child'detentions. Th evening they cleaned cauldrons without magic in Professor Slughorn 's schoolroom, something that ma'am Pomfrey forbade flatness from doing, insisting that he turn in early on instead. Albus spent the entire detention thinking about what Malfoy was doing with his dueling team and counting down the minutes until he would be capable to ask Amanda about it.

"He was really foul,"Amanda said once the boys were back in the common way after detention. Amanda had gotten out of dueling practice before they 'd finished detention."A few of the second years were cursing him afterward. I heard them. Not that I blame them since he all out yelled at them for not being able to perform a Jelly-Legs Jinx."

"What does he await ?"Albus replied."They 're indorsement age !"

"I tried to tell him that, but he did n't like,"Amanda said."He even yelled at a Slytherin."

"Seriously ?"Albus said."Wow."

"I 'm really glad Longbottom made you captain and not him,"Amanda continued."I think I 'd relinquish otherwise."

"I would 've cease if he was on my squad, period,"John said.

"He would n't utmost as master anyway,"Amanda pointed out."Professor Cedonia was supervising and she had to tell him to tone it down about five times and then once one of the sec years was close to binge, she called an end to the practice."

Albus could n't help but feel a bit of atonement that Malfoy made such a bad sea captain, despite the fact that he did feel bad for his mate. He doubted Malfoy would stop insisting that he should have been made captain, but Albus doubted anything would stop that.

Sabbatum brought with it a flash thunderstorm that rendered it nearly unacceptable to hear what anyone was saying in the Great hall at breakfast. Albus was quite happy that Fred had not scheduled a Quidditch practice for that day, but hoped that the violent storm would quiet down by the time the tournament began since his squad would need to be able to get word each other speak.

Malfoy was already seated at squad VII 's position at the Hufflepuff board when Albus arrived later that afternoon. He was pleased to see that the rest of the team was giving him a wide place, including a few of the vernal Slytherins.

"Albus !"one of the moment year Hufflepuffs, Alice Jake, shouted when she saw him coming."So gladiolus you 're back."

"Me, too."Albus grinned as he sat down in between her and another Hufflepuff."You lot ready ?"

There was a refrain of"yes 's"and a few nods of head teacher from Albus 's team. The last few dueler ran into the room and snagged the last few place, which were unfortunately adjacent to Malfoy.

Albus glanced at his watch. Five minutes until the tournament began. He felt like he should make some sort of actor's line, like all of his Quidditch senior pilot did before equal. But what was he supposed to say ?

"Er, well, here we are. The get-go tourney,"Albus began."You are all first-class dueller, each and every one of you. We 've all been practicing hard and you 've all made big betterment. We 're going to do corking, but remember, just have got fun. But if you remember what you 've learned and duel like you do in recitation, I think we can definitely win this."

The rest of his team ( sans Malfoy ) gave a hearty cheer and then turned to professor Longbottom, who had just called for attention. Albus 's team immediately quieted down.

"Welcome to the first dueling tourney !"Neville announced."It will run as it has in the yesteryear, with two duel happening simultaneously. Professor Cedonia is coming around with the tourney agenda, which will be given to each captain. Please pay attention and recognise when you are to duel. Everyone will duel twice. prof Cedonia and I will each preside over a dueling circle and will announce the winners. The get-go person to demilitarise their opponent will be given a decimal point. Remember, you are only allowed to use trance you have learned in your family. The first duels will embark on momentarily."

Professor Cedonia handed Albus a musical composition of parchment and he set it down while his team crowded around him."I think it 'll be prosperous for me to let you know when you 're to duel. I 'll severalise you two affaire d'honneur before you 're scheduled. Alice and Sophie Tucker, you 're first."

Albus glanced down the leaning and noticed that he was the tenth part duel in Neville 's ring and the seventeenth in Cedonia 's. That would give him plenty of metre to get used to organizing his squad. It was slightly overwhelming, having to constantly be paying aid to the list and figuring out when everyone should be dueling. After a few affaire d'honneur, he managed to get the hang of it.

"Malfoy,"Albus said."You 're up in two affaire d'honneur, in Cedonia 's ring."

Malfoy nodded, but did n't say anything. He had not said a Scripture the entire tourney, which was very uncharacteristic, and the rest of the team seemed to be set on ignoring him.

Albus handed the lean to Amanda and headed to Neville 's dueling ring, where he was set to duel John. Two Hufflepuffs from other teams were currently battling it out and Albus was next. The shorter of the two Hufflepuffs finally managed to demilitarise his opponent.

"full point to team Four !"Neville shouted as the two Hufflepuffs left."Albus Potter versus John Brickston."

Albus and St. John the Apostle gave each early apologetic smiles before bowing and raising their wands, waiting for Neville 's O.K..

"Ready, duel !"Neville shouted.

Albus immediately sent a leg-locker curse at John, who easily deflected it. John sent the Sami at Albus who also avoided it. Albus continued sending charm at John Lackland, who kept avoiding them, until he finally got hit with a Jelly-legs Curse and nearly lost his footing. In the fourth dimension it took him to perform the counter-curse, Albus was able-bodied to hit him with Petrificus Totalus.

"Expelliarmus !"Albus shouted as whoremonger fell over. He caught John 's wand in his justly bridge player and then turned to Neville, who was smiling.

"Point to Team Seven !"

Neville performed the counter-curse on lavatory and the two boy left the ring. Albus headed back to his table, where Malfoy was just heading to Cedonia 's dueling ring.

Malfoy dueled a second year and won within two mo. He was smirking as he walked back to the Hufflepuff table, but he returned to mediocre applause. It seemed that the sleep of the team was still bitingly about Th 's practice.

The sleep of the tournament went well. Both Albus and Malfoy won their irregular duels, although Malfoy had a lot more difficulty since he dueled a chap quarter yr.

"Attention, I 'd like to announce the success !"Neville shouted a short while after the concluding duel. The integral elbow room immediately quieted and looked up at Neville."Thank you. In tertiary place with 44 points is Team Four !"

cheerfulness erupted from the Ravenclaw table, where squad Four was currently seated. Once they quieted down, Neville spoke."In second place with 52 period is squad Seven !"

The eternal rest of Albus 's team began to shout and inspire, but Albus was too stunned to do much of anything. He could n't trust it ! His first ever tournament as captain and his team had gotten s home ! A few people slapped him on the back and he broke out into a grin.

"And in first blank space, with 55 full stop is squad Six !"Neville announced.

There were sunniness from the other end of the Hufflepuff table, but Albus ignored them. He was still shocked that his own team had done so well.

"Great job, everyone !"he said once he regained his calm."I knew we could do it !"

The table was filled with excitement and chatter and it continued even after they got up and began to leave the elbow room. Albus was queasy to get back to Gryffindor tower where he could celebrate his skinny win with his friends.

"Nice going, ceramist,"Malfoy spat as soon as they left the Great Asaph Hall."I bet if I were the captain we would 've won."

"We got arcsecond,"Albus replied."That 's really good."

"first would 've been better,"Malfoy muttered."I 'm amazed we even got irregular considering how awful you are at practices."

"Better than you,"Albus said."No one liked your practice on Thursday. Did you notice how no one talked to you today ? They hated it."

"They 're just too used to you coddling them,"Malfoy said, taking a step closer to Albus.

"Well it does n't practically subject because I 'm the police captain and you 're not,"Albus said as he toyed with his verge, which he was still brandishing in his will handwriting.

"For now,"Malfoy replied, eyeing Albus 's wand."If you keep getting in trouble I bet they 'll replace you."

"C'mon, Albus."mat had appeared next to Albus."Let 's get back to the common room."

"Better heed to him."Malfoy gave a shortsighted laugh."You 'd think it 'd the other way around, though. Him attacking me rather than you. But I suppose that would only be in a certain time of-"Malfoy glared knowingly at Matt.

"Shut up ! And demand that back,"Albus seethed, raising his wand.

"Seriously, Albus, let 's go !"lusterlessness grabbed the back of Albus 's robes and pulled him towards the staircase.

"Evil git,"Albus muttered, looking back at the crowd in the Entrance Charles Martin Hall. Malfoy was already gone."Why does he always have to bring it up like that ?"

"It does n't matter,"Matt said.

"Of track it matters !"Albus said indignantly."It 's insulting !"

"I 'm used to it,"matt said quietly.

"So what ?"Albus exclaimed."That does n't think you should have got to spend the respite of Hogwarts having him bring it up every day."

"And you hexing him would have solved everything ?"matte asked."You just would 've gotten another detention."

"Would 've been worth it,"Albus muttered.

"No, it would n't have,"Matt argued."You 've just got to dismiss him. I ignore him."

"I really hope that next twelvemonth he 's not on my dueling team,"Albus said.

"I do n't reckon he will. Did n't they go back to House squad for dueling for fifth through seventh years this twelvemonth ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Did they ?"Albus asked.

"That 's what one of the one-sixth years said,"matte answered.

"Good,"Albus said."Then I just have to endure through this year."

Albus and mat were the last of their friends to get back to Gryffindor, where it appeared that no one was doing prep. King James had set a few fireworks off out the window and everyone was watching them while eating platters upon record of biscuits.

"What are you lot celebrating ?"Albus asked James River as he took a biscuit.

James shrugged."Just the fact that we 've got a Saturday with nothing to do. fountainhead, Cedric, Ben, Nathan, and I that is."

"Where have you two been ?"rose asked as she walked up to Albus and lusterlessness. trick and Kaden were behind her, a biscuit in each hand.

"Al nearly got into a duel with Malfoy in the Entrance manor hall,"mat explained.

"Albus !"Amanda exclaimed."You ca n't get anymore custody !"

"I know, but he said something really vile,"Albus said and turned to John."You would 've hexed him."

"What did he say ?"Rose asked.

"He said that he was surprise I was n't attacking him,"Matt said quietly.

"You 're right,"privy growled."I would 've hexed him."

"See ?"Albus said.

"And I told you that it was n't deserving detention over,"matt repeated.

"But if it continues,"rose said,"you 've got to tell Kendrick."

"I 'm not telling Kendrick,"Matt insisted."I think he 's got enough to occupy about with the hypothesis of the full school getting changed if Laurentis wins this election."
***


"Why in the name of Merlin are we doing detention in the woodland ?"Kaden asked at breakfast the espouse morning.

"Seriously,"trick agreed."That 's not really detention, is it ? The timber is cool. I 've always wanted to go in there."

"Are you two insane ?"Amanda asked."There 's all sorting of creatures in there."

"My sister did detention in the forest once,"Matt said."She had to harvest these flora Slughorn needed and they could only be harvested the dark of the full moon."

"well that 's one detention you 'll never have to do."John laughed.

"Maybe we have to reap some other variety of flora ?"lustrelessness suggested, ignoring Saint John 's comment.

"Dunno."Albus shrugged. The letter they 'd received had not gone into specifics. It just stated that they were to meet Hagrid near his hut at three that afternoon.

"At least you 're not going at night,"Rose pointed out.

The few 60 minutes Albus and his supporter had until detention went by rather quickly. They spent the minute in the plebeian elbow room alternating doing homework while participating in very enceinte rounds of Exploding Snap with nearly all of Albus and Rose 's cousins. Everyone was covered in ash by the time three o'clock rolled around and the son had to run up to their dormitory to wash their faces before heading down to Hagrid 's hut.

Albus liked Hagrid. He had known the half-giant since he was little and was slightly confused as to how hold with Hagrid could possibly be considered detention. Perhaps Professor Kendrick was unaware that Albus and his friends visited Hagrid every so often and enjoyed spending time with him.

Hagrid was already outside when Albus and the other three boys arrived, armed with his crossbow and Fang by his side. Albus swallowed hard upon seeing the crossbow. Did Hagrid really think they would involve that ?

"'Ello, boys !"Hagrid greeted them."Fairly simple custody today. We 'll be collectin'unicorn stern hairs."

"Like getting them from unicorns ?"Kaden asked."I thought they did n't like boys."

Hagrid gave a booming laugh."No, no, Kaden. It 'd be a crime to take 'em right from the unicorn, wouldn'it. No, we 'll be gettin''em from Dubyuh and trees. As the unicorns run past they get snagged. Let 's get goin'."

Fang let out a loud bark as they made their way to the forest. Collecting unicorn hair. That was n't bad at all. But still, it was the wood and that was where Washburn and Willinson had spent a lot of their time the late twelvemonth. They would n't be back there, would they ? Obviously Washburn and Quinton Willinson were in Azkaban, but what about Quinton 's father ? Where was he ?

"What do we need unicorn hairs for ?"John asked as they entered the forest."No one here makes wands."

"Used for a lot more'n baton, aren'they,"Hagrid answered."Potions, mostly. Tha 's what we need 'em for. 7th long time are brewing somethin'that needs unicorn hairs so professor Kendrick volunteered you four to collect 'em. Slughorn 's too old to do it himself."

"That 's for sure,"lav muttered to Albus.

It was very dark in the forest, despite the fact that it was day. All four boy lit their wands and Hagrid 's pink umbrella was providing more light than two sceptre combined. Hagrid had told them that they would n't find any hair until they were at least fifteen minute of arc into the afforest since unicorns rarely ventured near the edge.

The forest was very dense and it was unmanageable for them to walk next to each other. Soon, they were forced to walk single file cabinet through a very diminished path that was riddled with Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree offshoot and tilt. Albus stumbled every so often and Matt managed to fall over three times before anyone found any unicorn tail hairsbreadth. Galloping hooves could be heard in the aloofness and Albus figured they were Centaurus. His dad had told him that there was a herd of centaur in the woods, although Albus had never seen one before.

"Here we are,"Hagrid said after what had been at to the lowest degree a 20 minute of arc walk. He gestured to a nearby shrub."Jus'have a look around here and I 'm for sure we 'll find slew. This is a fuck area where unicorns live. Don'wander too far."

Hagrid had provided them all with buckets in which to collect the whisker. Albus set off for the nearest bush and found a few hair's-breadth snagged in the branches.

"Last hold,"John said as he worked alongside Albus."Thank Merlin."

"Speak for yourself,"flatness called out from a Tree a few meters away.

"Do you know what you have to do for your next ones ?"Albus asked.

"stemma, all three dark,"matt said."Easier, I suppose, than coming up with anything else when it 's just me."

"Better than cleaning privy again. Or digging up flying dragon dung,"Kaden said."Whoa, I just found a unharmed bunch of hair."

After they 'd been working for a half minute Hagrid decided that they 'd collected enough. They set off re-tracing their dance step through the forest. Albus found it a little less scary on the walk back and he was n't sure whether it was because he had gotten used to the noise or because he could see the sunlight at the sharpness. He was very alleviate to rule that he did not see Jarrett Willinson anywhere in the timberland, although now that the detention was passed he realized that Willinson would n't go back there now that the Resurrection Stone was no longer there. No, Willinson was most likely still in Australia, where no one was looking for him. At least, Albus hoped he was.


Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed ! You guys are awe-inspiring ! Sorry for the want of updates lately. NaNo gave way to a unrestrained finishing of all the newspaper I 'd neglected during November. But I won NaNo and grade are over so I 'm hoping to get a good bit of writing done within the next month.


The last few hebdomad of November provided the Hogwarts students and faculty with a much needed geological period of calm. The adjacent election argumentation would not take place until Dec and the the censorship at Hogwarts matter seemed to have died out, with the Daily seer no longer publishing clause on it. Both Quidditch and dueling tournament were over for the term, leaving the students with a bit more clip to pay to their studies. The next Hogsmeade visit was scheduled for the indorsement Saturday in December, a calendar week before term ended.

Albus enjoyed the monotony of those few hebdomad. His years were filled with prep, Quidditch practice, and dueling practice. team seven was very happy to have Albus back as their captain and most continued to ignore Malfoy during practice session. Malfoy still reserved a exceptional public eye of hatred for Albus and his friends, but he did not try to initiate anymore duel in the corridor, like he had after the dueling tourney.

December arrived with a snow storm that caused the Ravenclaw Quidditch team to cancel two of their practices. This gave Fred the opportunity to Holy Writ the pitch for two extra practices, something that earned him a salubrious dot of U-No-Poo in his break of day pumpkin succus courtesy of William James and Tom Bradley. Albus was glad to see that the job of school practical joker had been rightfully returned to James and his champion. The workweek of detentions had certainly dissuaded Albus from planning anymore clowning. The like could not be said for John and Kaden, who were plotting something, although Albus did not know what.

Albus, flatness, and Amanda spent the first Saturday of December ignoring their prep in the marauder 's Den. The Slytherin team had the pitch for the stallion day, which gave Albus a much needed break from Quidditch. whoremaster and Kaden 's location would probably only be found with the Marauder 's Map and rosebush was tutoring in the library.

There was a tacky beef from outside the room, which was blush wine 's signal that she was outside and wished to be let in. Albus got up from his game of Gobstones and let her in. She dropped her bag unceremoniously on the storey and flopped down on the couch.

"I 'm worry about Elsie,"pink wine said.

"Elsie ..."Albus prompted.

"Elsie Willinson !"she exclaimed."The for the first time twelvemonth I 've been tutoring all year."

"Oh yeah, the one with the moron for a blood brother and a cousin and uncle who want to land back Voldemort. Yeah, I 'd be worried, too,"Albus said as he returned to his secret plan.

"No, I 'm not worried about her stupid brother. I 'm vex about her."

"What, is she still failing all her field of study ?"mat asked.

"No, she 's actually doing much better,"Rose said."She 's just very quiet. She never lecture about anything other than homework-"

"auditory sensation like you."Albus turned around and grinned at his first cousin."Although you 're not quiet."

"I 'm serious, Albus,"rosiness said flatly."Her brother walks her to the depository library for our seance and then picks her up when we 're done. I never see her with anyone other than him and occasionally Malfoy. I 've never seen her eat with anyone other than them, either."

"That is kind of strange,"Amanda said.

"See ?"pink wine said."Amanda thinks it 's weird."

"So she 's shy."Albus shrugged."I just do n't see what it 's got to do with you."

"It does n't really,"Rose said quietly."But if she 's having issues. We all know about her phratry. If her brother 's keeping an eye on her there must be a reason."

Albus had n't thought about it that way. What if Felix Willinson was trying to hold open an eye on his sister ?"If she 's doing something her family does n't wish I bet she 's going against something they want."

"That 's what I thought,"rose agreed."Which means she 's trying to do something good. Or he 's trying to name sure enough she does n't spill mob secrets."

"You think they have more than family secrets than just wanting Voldemort back ?"Matt asked.

"Of course they do,"Rose said."We only found out last year that they were related by marriage to Lubar. I mean, you never would 've guessed that in first or second year."

Matt shuddered."Probably a good thing that I did n't. I probably would have refused to come to Hogwarts."

"Most pure-blooded category like them have dark secrets,"Albus said as he fiddled with a Gobstone. It squirted him in the human face and he rubbed the liquid on his gown."The one that want the rip to remain pure and stuff. Like the Malfoys."

"And I 'd bet my last-place Galleon that Elsie Willinson found out one of those enigma and wants to recite mortal,"rose stated.

"You think it 's got to do with what they 're trying to do ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm certainly it does."

"The only job for them is that Jarrett 's on his own now,"Amanda said."With the former two in jail, what 's he going to do ?"

"You 're forgetting about Lubar,"Matt said darkly.

rose got up and started walking around the room."To be honorable, I do n't know how often he 's going to be involved, especially if this going to contract topographic point in Britain. Think about it, last yr he had the excuse of the tournament to be here. He 's got no excuse this year. He 's a Ministry official. A horrific one, but still a Ministry official. It 's not in his best interest to be trying to bring back Voldemort."

"That did n't even work,"Albus cut in."They ca n't bring him back, even a ghost of him, with the Resurrection Stone."

"Jarret Willinson was a Ministry official,"flatness pointed out.

"He was a secretary for the Obliviator office. That 's a short different from a question emplacement,"rosiness explained."Lubar has more to lose."

"I say we try and figure out what Elsie 's keeping secret and I bet it 'll have something to do with what Willinson is planning now. Because I guarantee he 's planning something,"Albus decided.

"How are we going to do that ?"Amanda asked."She 's always with Felix."

"Not when Rose is tutoring her."Albus turned to Rose."You think you could try and get her to open up ?"

"Well she 's not going to just come out and tell me. I can try, but it 'll require a patch,"Rose said.
***


Albus told john and Kaden about the conversation about Elsie later that night. whoremaster proclaimed that he knew something had been weird about that girl from the bit they had seen her at the kickoff of the yr. Both boy agreed that they needed to regain out what it was she was keeping secret. Albus then asked them what prank they were planning, but whoremaster and Kaden mysteriously went quiet as soon as Albus brought the subject up.

Albus laid awake that Night for a long time thinking about Elsie Willinson. He could not excite the simulacrum of her with Felix and Malfoy in the beginning of the year from his mind. She had looked so timid and innocent, far too innocent and youthful to be involved with anything like what her family was involved with. In fact, she reminded him a bit of Lily, although he was n't sure why since Lily was anything but timid.

Morning arrived shortly after Albus had fallen asleep and despite the fact that he 'd only gotten a few hours sleep, he got up around six and decided to get a bit of reading done in the common room. He knew he would n't be able to fall down back asleep.

Upon arriving in the common way, Albus thought he was still dreaming. He rubbed his heart and pinched himself to try and fire up up, but it was no use. He was in fact awake. The range of a function before his heart was real, and it was dreadful to look at.

The Gryffindor common room was no longer red and gold. It was now decked out in putting green and silver. The comfy couches and chairs were gone and had been replaced instead with standard schoolroom professorship. Various banners were hung up in the room that depicted serpent. In fact, the Gryffindor common room now looked exactly as Albus imagined the Slytherin vulgar elbow room to look, except for it not being under the lake.

However, the sheer Slytherin-ness of the common room was not the unearthly change, by a prospicient injection. The unusual new improver to the Gryffindor common room was a grey and white Capricorn the Goat. It was standing in the middle of the room, its head down and buried in a book. The thing about laughingstock, though, was that they did not enjoy books the way people did. Goats ate books. This Capricorn was currently munching on The Standard Book of enchantment : Grade Two. Albus 's eyes drifted from the Goat and around the room again, where he now noticed remainder of early books, quill feather, homework, and even a cloak.

The goat looked up and stared at Albus. It let out a bleat and then went back to the book. Albus crept a little snug and noticed that a house was affixed to the Capricorn. It said 'The Gryffindor Goat : Gryffindor 's new mascot. Gifted by the Slytherins. following clip, think twice about putting volaille in our usual room .'

Albus stood in the centre of the room, his stare alternating from the Capricorn to the note and back again. A goat ? That did n't even make any horse sense. Not only that, they were clearly trying to copy John and Kaden 's japery. And changing the room into a Slytherin room ? It was horrifying, absolutely horrifying.

Albus tore his eyes away from the goat and ran back up the gyrate stairway until he got to his own student residence. He flicked on the lights and Ethan, the lightest sleeper of the lot, rolled over and groaned.

"Everyone get up !"Albus shouted."Up, get up !"

"What ?"Ethan asked shortly."It 's like six in the morn !"

"I know it 's six in the first light !"Albus replied."Get up and go down to the mutual way. Now."

Ethan slowly got out of bed and went over to Bilius 's bed to get him up. Albus woke John up and then the two of them woke Matt up while Bilius and Ethan went down to the common room. Their shouts of anger could be heard all the way in the dormitory.

"What is it ?"John asked as he and matt followed Albus back down the stairs.

"The Slytherins have had their revenge,"Albus said, handing King John the note.

Albus took a roundabout way to the thirdly year 's dormitory to get Kaden up. Kaden 's roomie got up as well and soon there was a large bunch in the commons room. By the time Albus entered the room again, the first gear, second, and 6th yr were all there. The seventh and fifth part twelvemonth were right behind him.

The common room was in Chaos. St. James, Cedric, and Nathan were inspecting the laughingstock. The prefects were all congregated in one spot, clearly trying to picture out what to do. A quarter of the scholar were standing frozen, with flavor of horror on their faces. Another quarter were laughing, despite the fact that the prank had happened in Gryffindor. Victor-Marie Hugo was wrestling the goat for the copy of the Standard Quran of Spells : Grade Two, which evidently was his.

The lady friend'hall door opened and all the Gryffindor girls flooded out of it. Rose and Amanda made their way over to Albus and the rest of the boys, who were receiving legion stares and glare from their feller pupil. Clearly a few of them were blaming Albus and his friends for the Slytherins'pauperism for revenge.

"What in the public figure of merlin happened ?"Rose asked.

john handed her the note."The Slytherins have had their revenge."

"Malfoy ?"Amanda asked.

"No way to know, is there ?"Albus replied.

"It 's got to be, though,"John said."No one else hates us like he does."

"I bet a lot of Slytherins wanted revenge,"rose said.

"All right, quiet everyone !"Albus 's first cousin, German mark, shouted over the crowd. He was one of the sixth class Prefects."You 're all to get back up to your student residence. I 'm going to fetch prof Longbottom. Who 's the one who first saw this ?"

"I did,"Albus announced.

sign sighed, as if mentation he should consume known."Al, detain down here. The rest of you, back upstairs.

Rose handed Albus the banknote back and she and the residuum of Albus 's friends turned to go back to their dormitories. There was a general grumbling and whispers as everyone left. Soon, the plebeian elbow room was empty-bellied except for Albus, the Capricorn the Goat, and the six Prefects. Mark left in rescript to go get Professor Longbottom.

The Prefects whispered amongst themselves while Mark was gone. Albus stood off to the side, as he did not be intimate the Prefects very well. He recognized a few as friend of his cousins.

grade returned ten mo later with Professor Longbottom in tow. The herbology professor froze in mid-step when he entered the room. His gaze shifted from the new furniture to the caprine animal to the banners and back to the goat.

"Albus discovered it,"sign said.

Longbottom turned to Albus."And it looked like this when you found it ?"

"Mostly,"Albus answered."The goat had been chewing on one of Victor-Marie Hugo 's ledger so he took that. And someone 's cloak had been here, but it was a Gryffindor cloak."

Longbottom sighed."All right hand, Albus, you can go back up to your dormitory."He turned to the Prefects."Let 's go through all this and see if we can find any clues to visualise out who it was."

Albus reluctantly went back up to his student residence, where he found not only all of his roommates but Kaden as well, discussing the prank. They all turned to Albus when he entered.

"discovery anything out ?"St. John asked.

"Nope,"Albus answered."The Prefects are helping Professor Longbottom go through everything for clues."

The boys whiled away the sentence until breakfast by trading Chocolate Frog cards, playing rounds of Exploding Snap, and discussing the Quidditch time of year. lustrelessness fell back asleep after defending the cannon to everyone else, but no one else was able-bodied to go back to bed.

Mark knocked on their door a few time of day later and told them they were barren to get up and go to breakfast. Albus woke Matt up and the boys went back down to the common way. It looked normal once Sir Thomas More. All remnants of the Slytherins were gone and the stooge was nowhere in sight. The classroom death chair had disappeared and the regular comfy lounge were back. Albus was relieved to see their unwashed room back to its usual State, although that did naught to fill his oddity about who had done it.

"wonder what they did with the goat,"Kaden said as they walked down tot he Great Hall.

"Probably gave it to Aberforth,"Matt said.

"Aberforth ?"Kaden asked.

"Dumbledore 's Brother. He owns the Hog 's headland in Hogsmeade. Keeps goats in his pub. Weird bloke,"flatness answered.

"He keeps goats ? In his pub ?"Kaden repeated."Do they just wander around ?"

"Yeah,"Matt said.

The Great Hall was populated only by Gryffindor students, which did not surprise Albus in the slightest given the former hour and the fact that it was Sun. The prof were all up having breakfast and were whispering amongst themselves. No doubt that Longbottom had told them about the japery. Slughorn in special looked faze.

Rose convinced the rest of the group that it would be a good idea to head to the library after breakfast to use up reward of the fact that it would be void. Albus had a few essays that he 'd neglected and John and Kaden needed to take a shit up some new predictions for Trelawney.

After a few hours of studying Albus felt his attention start to wander. The depository library had filled up since they had arrived and lady Pince was watching over the place like a hawk. The doors opened and Albus was surprised to see Elsie Willinson walk in, followed by her brother and Scorpius. Scorpio 's eyes met Albus 's and he veered from his little group in order to waltz over to Albus.

"How 's your mutual elbow room ?"he asked with a smirk.

"Is that a confession ?"Albus replied as he stood up.

"Of course not. It 's all over the schooltime. Everyone knows that your common room looked like an extension of mine this sunup. And that goat, I heard it ate a few ledger. Serves you right after what you lot did to ours,"Malfoy said.

"We know you did it, Malfoy,"can said."Just waiting for the professor to prove it."

"If I did do it, and I 'm not saying I did, I would n't have left any grounds like you idiots obviously did."

"We did n't,"John said flatly."Albus confessed to save his cousin and brother who had been wrongly accused."

"How noble."Malfoy laughed.

"Just recite me one matter,"Albus said."How did you get into the mutual room ?"That was what had been bothering Albus the most. He and his friends had used the invisibleness Cloak to figure out the Slytherin password, but how had Malfoy done it ? As far as he knew he did not have an invisibility Cloak.

"I did n't,"Malfoy said."And if I did I would n't enjoin you how I did it."With one More limelight at Albus, the Slytherin walked away towards the table that Felix and Elsie had found.

"How did he get into our commons room ?"Albus asked as he sat back down.

"No idea,"Matt said.

"I 'm betting he threatened a first year into telling him what it was,"John said."Would n't put it past him."

"You do n't know it was him,"Amanda pointed out.

"They 're never going to find out who it was, either,"rose wine said."Not unless they confess like you did. Otherwise no one would 've found out it was you."

"Guess it does n't really count at this point."Albus sighed."They 've had their revenge."

"Which means it 's time for ours,"Kaden said as he grinned at John.

Rose groaned."Really ? It 's just going to wrench into a huge caper war if you have revenge."

"That 's the point,"John replied.

If John and Kaden were trying to start a prank war Albus did n't want any part of it. He had had enough detention for a lifetime and did not want expenditure anymore of his Hogwarts career scrubbing bathrooms or doing lines. Albus sighed and returned to his reading. toilet and Kaden got up and left the library, presumably to work on their next prank.

Later that day at dinner Professor Kendrick gave a very rump lecture to the entire school about breaking rules, especially the normal about not entering common rooms that were not yours. It was very similar to the lecture he gave after the chicken prank, except this fourth dimension Albus could tell that the headmaster was even Thomas More angry. Albus kept glancing at Malfoy during the spoken communication but the Slytherin boy did not search shamed at all. In fact he seemed disinterested in Kendrick 's speech.

The talk of Gryffindor 's Goat ( as the prank had now been dubbed ) died down by the middle of the week. almost of the castle was excited about the upcoming Hogsmeade misstep and then the wintertime vacation. professor Longbottom sent around a sign-up sheet for those scholar who wished to stay home during the holiday, although none of Albus 's friend signed it.

"I 've always wondered what it would be like to abide,"John said as prof Longbottom passed by.

"Me too,"Albus agreed."But my parents already said I ca n't this year since there 's some big Ministry Christmastime company we 've got to go to. For the election and all."

"Same here,"Matt said."We 're not even going to Australia because of it."

"Wow, that 's the second year in a row,"Albus replied.

lustrelessness nodded."My grandparents are coming here and then we 're visiting them over the summer."

"I think we should all stay next year,"Kaden said."Then I can go a whole school day yr without seeing my grandparents. Or aunty Marge."

Albus agreed that that was a skillful cause to stay at Hogwarts over the vacation."Yeah, that would be fun. My dad says the castle 's great at Christmas."

"It would be interesting to see what Dec 25 is like,"Amanda said. Amanda 's family was Judaic and celebrated Hanukkah.

"You 're welcome to come to our grandparents'menage for Christmastime this year,"Rose suggested.

Amanda grinned."I 'll ask my parents. I 'm sure they 'll say yes since Chanukah was early this class and I 've already missed it anyway."

"Rose, you 've got place,"Albus said, gesturing to Rose 's family 's owl, which had just landed on the table.

"Oh, good !"Rose said as she ripped open the letter. She scanned it for a minute before smiling widely."I wo n't be going to Hogsmeade with you."

"You wo n't be ?"Albus gave her a teasing look.

"No. Mum and Dad are taking me to the disputation that 's that day. I owled them a few days ago to see if I could go and they said yes !"

"You want to go to another one ?"lavatory asked.

"I 'd go to all of them if I could. They 're just so fascinating."She scanned the letter again."I 'm supposed to to to Kendrick 's study at ten on Saturday to floo home."

"What 's this one on ?"Albus asked.

"Law enforcement. The Auror Department. How it 's run and and how trials are run. I think it 's going to be the most interesting one since both Uncle Percy and Laurentis have already hinted at their views on that topic."

That was for sure. This argument would probably be even more explosive than the one on education."You 'll experience to let us know all the details,"Albus said.

"Oh I will,"pink wine replied."It 's why I wanted to go. I 'd rather not learn everything bit deal from the Prophet."

She had a peak there, Albus thought. Although he was glad that rosiness was the one going and not him. As a good deal as he thought the election was interest, he 'd rather be in Hogsmeade with his friends than sitting in a courtroom listening to political leader all day.


A/N : Thanks to everyone who has read and reviewed this so far ! I 'm almost done with school ( forever ! ) so I 'm hoping to update more often.


The workweek leading up to the Hogsmeade tripper dragged by very slowly. Albus was certain that Midweek in particular was at least twice as long as a normal day and by the time Friday finally decided to make an show Albus was sure he would go insane from all the preparation he had to complete. Tuesday had been the full Sun Myung Moon, but luckily mat left the infirmary wing Th afternoon and had been cleared by Madam Pomfrey to go to Hogsmeade.

When Saturday arrived there was a receive break in the blizzard that had blanketed the Hogwarts grounds in two feet of C. P. Snow. Albus and his friends slept latterly and by the time they woke up Rose had already left to go to that day 's debate. Albus, Matt, and John quickly dressed and met Kaden and Amanda in the common room.

Fred accosted Albus as he was about to leave."Albus ! Glad I found you. I booked the pitch for today at three since there 's a jailbreak in the storm."

"But Fred, it 's Hogsmeade today,"Albus pointed out. As much as he loved Quidditch, Hogsmeade trips were rarefied occasion and he had Christmastide shopping to do.

"Exactly !"Fred exclaimed."So none of the other team have booked the pitch. It 's booked solid the rest of the week and we need another practice in before break starts."

Albus sighed. Fred was flop, of course. He glanced at his watch. It was noon, so if they hurried through lunch he would still induce a good two hours in the settlement."All right wing. I 'll see you at three."

"Excellent,"Fred said."Just have to discover St. James the Apostle ...."

Amanda snorted and started laughing. Fred, who had turned to depart, stopped and looked back at her."What ?"

Albus, John, lustrelessness, and Kaden also looked questioningly at Amanda.

"Oh, I guess I forgot to severalise you,"Amanda began."rose and I were in the subroutine library terminal week and overheard James asking some Hufflepuff fifth year out. They 're going to Hogsmeade together today."

Fred burst out laughing."wait, Saint James has a particular date ?"

"James II asked a missy out in the library ?"Albus joined Fred in his laughter.

"Do n't tell him that rose wine and I overheard him,"Amanda said."He 'd hit us if he knew it was us who told."

"Bet he 's already in Hogsmeade, then,"Fred said, still laughing."They comfortably not be in Madam Puddifoot 's because I do n't fancy going in there to evidence him about practice."

Albus was still laughing about the idea of Epistle of James asking a missy out in the library of all places. He wondered who the Hufflepuff was. Maybe he 'd oversee to captivate a glance of them in Hogsmeade together.

"He 's not actually going to go away her to go to Quidditch exercise,"Amanda shouted after Fred as he left the common room.

"He will if the date 's going poorly,"Fred shouted back and disappeared into the corridor.

"Well let 's hurry up and get to Hogsmeade,"Albus said."I want to see if I can enter out who this girl is."

Albus hurried out of the common way followed by his friends. They ate a very rushed lunch in the Great Hall and then ran outside and down the route to Hogsmeade. As they neared the village Albus kept his eyes peeled for his brother.

"Where to first ?"Matt asked.

"Weasleys',"John and Kaden said together.

Albus and Matt shared a glimpse. They should own known. They followed Saint John and Kaden as the two arch male child led the way to Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes.

The shop was packed to electrical capacity as it always was on Hogsmeade weekends. Albus waved to his Uncle George III who was behind the counter ringing people up as fast as the public treasury would let him. shimmy was working that weekend and was restocking a shelf of Skiving Snackboxes. St. John and Kaden each grabbed two as the boys passed.

Albus grabbed a few extendable Ears as his seemed to have disappeared and a box of Deluxe whizzbang for James II for Christmastide. He joined the farsighted queue at the trough and was joined by John and Kaden who each had arms overflowing with product. lustrelessness and Amanda were n't buying anything and were playing with a few pigmy Puffs that were in a coop in the front of the computer storage.

"Neither of you have seen Saint James the Apostle, have you ?"Albus asked.

"Nope,"John said."Bet they 're at the Three Broomsticks."

"Or that place that Fred mentioned. lady whatever ?"Kaden put in.

"lady Puddifoot 's,"Albus said."Horrifying place. Covered in ruffled things, and ping stuff."

"Let 's not go there,"Kaden said.

Albus and John both agreed. They would look for James, just not at lady Puddifoot 's. The queue moved relatively quickly and soon Albus, John, and Kaden had their supplies.

The next stay was Honeyduke 's where everyone stocked up on candy and Albus bought a Christmas present for Lily. Then they made their way to the Quaffle Shop and then the Three Broomsticks. Albus had yet to see James, but his time was quickly running out. He had a half minute before he had to head back to the castle for Quidditch practice.

Saint John went to the bar to get five Butterbeers while the rest of the chemical group found a table. Luckily Scorpius Malfoy was nowhere in sight. Albus gazed around the bar until he spotted his brother 's familiar red whisker. Unfortunately the girlfriend he was with was facing away from Albus 's table so all he knew was that she had very long, very straight brown hairsbreadth.

"There they are,"Albus whispered to Matt, Kaden, and Amanda."Any of you know who the girl is ?"

"That 's Gabby Ellis,"John said as he returned with the Butterbeers."My cousin knows her. She 's one of the fifth year prefects."

"Wait, so James not only asked her out in the library, but she 's also a prefect ?"Albus exclaimed.

"dead reckoning so."trick shrugged."I 'll never ask out a prefect. Now he 's going to ingest to watch his step."

"You realize that there 's a good chance one of us might be a prefect side by side year,"Amanda pointed out.

"Nah, they 'll pick Bilius or Ethan,"John said."They 'd never foot me, Al, or Matt after that prank."

"Well Rose is obviously going to be a prefect,"Amanda said.

"We 'll just throw to sneak around more next twelvemonth,"John said."Ca n't have a prefect knowing about our pranks."

"Dervish and Banges is still untenanted,"lustrelessness said, changing the subject."Do n't you think that 's kind of odd ?"

Albus had n't really thought about it."Yeah, but no one 's going to desire to buy a shop where someone was murdered."

"Still, it 's just strange,"Matt said as he sipped his Butterbeer.

"Someone might still own it,"Amanda pointed out."They might not desire to do anything with it or sell it."

"guessing that 's a good point,"Matt said.

"Look, Jesse James and the girl are getting up,"Kaden said.

Albus turned and saw that James was indeed rising from his chairman. Gabby did as well and the two of them walked side by side out of the pub. Gabby was pretty, Albus had to admit. Her eye were bright and her buttock were pink. James River was grinning. Neither of them noticed Albus or the others on their way out the door.

"Think he 'll evidence to Quidditch practice ?"John asked.

"If he values his life,"Albus replied."Speaking of that, I should probably get going."

Albus said goodbye to his friends and headed back out into the cold. The sun was out and there was no wind, but it was still bitingly cold. He trudged his way through the C. P. Snow and bet on up to the castle, where he ran up to Gryffindor pillar to drop off his purchases and change into his Quidditch robes.

The remainder of the squad was already on the auction pitch when Albus arrived. Fred was arguing with Jesse James about something while the relaxation of the team stood off to the side of meat.

"She 's not even on their team !"James I shouted."She 's not going to slip any of our plays."

"But she 's still a Hufflepuff and this is a closed drill !"Fred argued.

Albus glanced over to the stands and saw Gabby sitting there, wrapped in a very bombastic Hufflepuff blanket. She smiled and waved at Albus, who gave a slender Wave back.

"I could n't just go away her. I promised we 'd drop the day together."

"And she wants to watch you represent Quidditch ?"Fred asked."Fine, fine. She can remain. Let 's just get going. We 're wasting time."

Fred and James joined the rest of the mathematical group."All right !"Fred shouted."Let 's fly around the pitch a few meter to get warmed up."

Albus mounted his broom and soared into the air. He joined the rest of the squad in their flight of steps around the pitch and lost himself in flying. It was decent to just fly and forget about everything else that was on his mind.

The practice went incredibly well. It was their best practice session in week since the conditions was cooperating. The Gryffindor team did not bear any issues with playing, but the conditions was usually awful whenever they practiced. Fred insisted this was a good thing since it would serve them learn how to play in matches with bad weather but no one else agreed. Albus was very felicitous to have a praxis where the condition were ideal. It made Quidditch so much more enjoyable.

James and Gabby hurried off as soon as practice ended and the rest of the team walked back to the castle together. They were nearly back to Gryffindor tug when Rose, flatness, can, Kaden, and Amanda came running towards Albus, all five looking slightly terrified.

"What 's wrong ?"Fred asked.

"It 's nothing,"rose wine said."We just need to babble out to Albus."

"Meet us in the room after you stash your Calluna vulgaris,"matte whispered and the five of them hurried off.

Albus hurried into the green room and up to his dormitory room. He had absolutely no idea what was going on, but it must have just had to do with his friends because everyone else in the common way was acting normally. Albus quickly put his broom away and ran back out to the corridor.

It did n't take him long to reach the Marauder 's Den. All his ally were sitting quietly and looked up at him when he entered.

"What in the name of Merlin is going on ?"Albus asked.

"Two things,"blush wine began."One, the argument. It was ... well ... insane is the but word to describe it, really. And two, I 'll let everyone else explain that first."

"Malfoy was lurking near the shrieking hut,"lusterlessness said."After you went to Quidditch practice we walked around the Village and noticed him. It looked like he was trying to get in."

"Did he ?"Albus asked.

"No, he ca n't,"Matt said."There 's wards. It 's just odd. He was alone."

"Does he know that that 's where you go ?"Albus replied as he sat down next to Rose.

Matt shook his head."I 'm not really disturbed about it, either. It 's just very weird."

"Malfoy is admirer with Felix Willinson so anything weird that he does needs to be remembered,"Albus said darkly.

"That 's what I said,"privy replied.

"He 's not the first one to be curious about the scream shack,"matte pointed out.

This was unlike, Albus thought. He would have expected Matt to be the one worried about this, not John.

"But he 's Malfoy ! It 's not soundly that he 's trying to get in,"John said.

"well he ca n't get in. And he already knows what I am,"Matt countered."Let 's just forget about it for now. What blush wine has to say is far worse."

Albus turned to look at rose wine, who looked upset and slightly scared. That was strange in itself since Albus could hardly remember a time when Rose was scared.

"The debate was on law enforcement,"blush wine said quietly."She wants to completely vary the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. She wants to investigate every ace Auror and shake up the section because she does n't imagine things are working as they are. She ... well ... she basically called your dad incompetent."

Albus stared at his cousin. He could not trust what he was hearing. Albus 's dad had been in charge of the Auror department for year and there had never been any ill. How could Laurentis just insult him like that ?

"Which means she 's going to lose,"John Lackland said confidently."No one 's going to vote for soul who insults Harry Potter."

"No,"blush wine whispered."They will. There 's been column in the Prophet for weeks about how the electric current Ministry is n't working. She has support."

"That 's insane,"Albus said."What did Uncle Percy do ?"

"Argued with her,"Rose said."Talked about all the good your dad has done, but she argued aright back."

"What about everyone there ? Did they clap for her ?"Albus asked.

"Everyone clapped for everyone. They were all civilised about it and there was no way to tell who supported who,"Rose said."If you ask me, I think she 's going to replace all the Heads of section who do n't hold with her. She 's going to require people in power who are on her side."

"Which means my dad will be gone,"Albus said."Everyone knows he supports Uncle Harry Hotspur. It 's obvious."

"So that leaves what, Matt 's dad 's job, Head of Magical Law Enforcement, Head of Magical Transportation, and what else ?"can asked as he counted on his digit."There 's got to be more."

"There are,"Rose said as she stood up and began pacing around the room."International Magical Cooperation, Magical stroke and disaster, Magical Games and play, and then the Department of Mysteries."

"Do you know anything about the capitulum of those department ?"John asked.

"The lady who 's Head of Magical Law Enforcement was here during the debate. She 's really old and Dad says Mum is a shoe-in for her job when she retires,"Rose said."But I do n't know much about the others. The feller in mission of witching transport moderated the number 1 debate."

"That 's eight locating,"Matt said quietly,"and she could replace all of them. That would wind up being an entirely new Ministry."

"Essentially, yes,"rose said as she sank into an armchair."That 's why it 's so bad. There 's a reason most newly elected Ministers do n't supervene upon everyone. It 's too much upheaval. But if she wants immediate change, it would be the well-situated way to get it done."

"What 's the side by side disputation on ?"Amanda asked.

"Azkaban,"blush wine said."Originally they were going to debate Azkaban with law enforcement, but Laurnetis requested a differentiate Azkaban debate. She 's in kick of it, so I 'm not surprised."

"And when is it ?"Amanda replied.

"Just after the new class,"Rose answered."Once we 're all back in schoolhouse. Then Feb 's debate is on magical creatures-"

"Oh that 's going to be good,"Matt said."Guess that 's when we 'll observe out if my dad keeps his job after the election if she wins."

"And then in march they debate International Magical Cooperation. Then it 's the election at the beginning of April,"rose continued."That one is going to take place here. So is the Azkaban one."

"I still do n't think anyone 's going to vote for her,"John muttered."Anyone who sacks Harry Potter would n't get enough votes."

"You 'd be surprised, St. John the Apostle,"Amanda said."It sounds like she 's playing to everyone 's fearfulness. I mean, I have n't been in the wizard world long, but it seems like everyone fears another Voldemort. If she makes it seem like the current Ministry and Auror department are too lenient and speck at the possibility of another war, and then call that she could squash it before it became a war, she would easily get the vote. hoi polloi are easily persuaded."

"That 's exactly it,"Rose agreed.

The room descended into uncomfortable silence. At the beginning of the school year, none of them had practically interest in the election or the Ministry in universal, but now, just a few months later, Albus and his supporter were learning just how lots the termination of the election would impact them. The possibility of drastic change to both Hogwarts and the wizarding existence did not sit well with Albus, especially if it meant both his and flatness 's dada were out of a job.
***


The remaining week of schooling went by quickly. With the looming holidays and break from school, hardly anyone in the castling was focusing on homework or the election. Instead, the yack that filled the Great Hall during meals was about Yuletide and snowball fights and disbursement prison term with house. Albus was sucked into the Christmas cheerfulness as well, but the election was still on the back of his mind.

For Albus, Rose, and the rest of the Weasley/Potter clan, the Christmastide holiday would be wrapped up in the election. A New year 's party at the Minister 's house was scheduled for New year 's Eve, for all of the upper-level officials and their families, as well as Percy, Laurentis, and their kinsperson. All of Albus 's extended home would be attending. But perhaps the most flaky prospect of the holiday was the fact that Uncle Walker Percy was going to allow a newsperson from Wizards powder magazine to follow him for not only the Ministry party, but Christmas at the burrow as well.

"This is just weird !"Cedric exclaimed at breakfast the lastly day of term."A newsperson ? At the Burrow ? And it says she 's going to be staying with us."

Cedric handed the letter back to Omar Nelson Bradley, whom it had been addressed to. Bradley pulled out his baton and burned it, which seemed to be his new way of dealing with post from his father.

"Did Gran agree to this ?"James asked as he loaded his plate with bacon.

"She must 've,"Bradley said."Anything to get Dad elected, probably."

"I kind of agree with her,"Albus said."I do n't desire that Laurentis woman to win."

"Neither do I, but I do n't want some reporter staying with us at the burrow,"Cedric said adamantly.

"guesswork you wo n't be getting the substantial Weasley Christmas experience,"Albus said to Amanda, whose parents had given permission to stay put with Rose for Christmas.

Amanda shrugged."Not a big raft. With your crime syndicate, it 's bound to be interesting."

"You have no thought,"Albus said."We 'd better get to History of Magic."

Albus got up and his supporter followed. Despite the fact that it was the last day of term, Professor Binns still gave a lecture. Nobody paid him an ounce of aid. The sleep of the professors did n't annoy teaching any new fabric as they figured the students would just forget it over the break. Professor Cedonia set them a hard-nosed lesson, but did n't remonstrate them when they stopped charming their teacups to trip the light fantastic toe and instead talked about Christmas. Hagrid had a large balefire going to keep them warm, but did n't learn anything. Instead, he told the story of Norberta and bawled about how much he missed her. In ancient rune, there was an exam.

The following break of day Albus and his acquaintance climbed aboard the Hogwarts limited for the trip back to London. On the Hogwarts limited, Albus felt weirdly immune to everything that was happening in the wizarding world. He felt rubber from Jarrett Willinson and somehow the election did n't appear as big a deal. The train was like its own petty world with only students and confection from the trolley ; on the power train, nothing bad could happen.


Long hiatus ! I apologize for that. I am now working on this for the second half of June 's Camp NaNoWriMo, so I 'm hoping to get a bunch of chapters written so I can go back to weekly updates. Thanks so much for all the reviews !


"Remember, do n't say anything in front line of her you do n't need printed in the article,"Harry said as they walked toward the Burrow.

"testament she really print anything ?"Lily asked.

"Yes,"Harry said.

It was Christmas Eve and Albus and the sleep of the ceramicist had just Apparated to the landing field behind the Burrow. Albus was a bit nervous about being in the front of a reporter from Wizards magazine and was not at all keen about being in an clause. He was relieved they were late, as usual, because by now the reporter would probably be involved in listening to mortal else 's conversation and might not even notice Albus.

"And Henry James, do n't even consider about slipping something into her soup,"Ginny said sternly.

Harry, who had just put his script on the doorhandle, turned around and stared at James."Seriously, James IV, absolutely not."

"I was n't going to !"James IV said."I swear !"

Harry sighed."Empty your pockets."

"But I was n't going to-"

"Henry James Dog Star Potter, listen to your father,"Ginny said.

Albus put his deal over his mouth to enshroud his laughter while his chum pulled a handful of Ton-Tongue brittle and a vial of Weasleys'Itchiest Itching Powder out of his scoop. Ginny took them and incinerated them with her sceptre. She brushed the ash onto the background and James stared at it longingly.

"Shut up, Albus,"James muttered as Harry opened the door.

That just made Albus laugh even harder, earning him a punch in the shoulder from William James. Albus returned the punch while Lily rolled her eyes.

"son, cut it out,"Ginny scolded.

"Ginny ! Harry !"mollie exclaimed as they stepped inside."Happy Christmastime !"

"Happy Christmas, Mum,"Ginny said as the two hugged.

Albus slipped past after giving his grandma a quick hug, grabbing a handful of cookie on his way to the den. The number one affair he noticed was that the reporter was sitting on a throne in the recession. She stuck out like a Weasley at a Malfoy gathering, in her black skirt, flowery top, high-heeled shoes. Who wore heels to the Burrow ? Weird, Albus thought. Her jet-black tomentum was done up in some sort of bun and her rim were smeared with burnished red lip rouge.

The second affair Albus noticed was just how clean the Burrow was. He had n't noticed it in the kitchen, what with the many grass and dishes full of warmly, steaming food, but out in the den, it was very noticeable. The Burrow was never dirty, exactly, but it was n't immaculately not bad like Matt and Kaden 's planetary house were. Instead it merely looked lived in, Albus always thought. It was cluttered with piles of Word of God and stacks of board games and respective Muggle and magic gimmick. blanket and pillows were thrown haphazardly onto couch and chairs, never being folded or stacked neatly. But today, everything was neat. The stacks of book had been shelved and the cover folded. The sheer quantity of stuff seemed to hold been moved or vanished because Albus did n't see a one Muggle electronic device half-taken apart on the floor or mesa. It was bizarre. The Burrow did n't look like the tunnel without its clutter. You never knew what you 'd find at the Burrow and Albus liked that.

Shaking his head slightly, Albus carefully stepped around a few of his cousin-german and walked over to where Rose and Amanda were sitting on the flooring. They had a large platter of intellectual nourishment in front of them, making Albus realize how thirsty he was.

"So, what have I missed ?"he asked in between bites of roll."I see someone cleaned."

"granny did. Said she wanted to make a good impression. Uncle Percy 's been bragging loudly to the reporter about all the natural law he 's helped passport,"rose said."But all the newsman wants to do is interview the rest of us. I guess her article is all about where Uncle Hotspur came from and what his home is like."

"Who 's she talked to so far ?"Albus asked.

"aunt Corrine, nanna, Gramps, Uncle Bill, Uncle Fred, both of my parents, Victoire, Samantha, and lindy,"rosebush said.

"Wow. Already ?"

"She has n't wasted any time,"Amanda said.

"There 's a photographer around here somewhere,"Rose said as she glanced around the room."Oh there he is."

rosebush indicated to the stairs, where Percy was leading a scrawny bloke back into the den.

"Is he wearing-"

"dress robes ?"Rose said."Yeah, he 's been wearing them all night."

"Let 's get a few guesswork of you playing a game with the twins,"the photographer said as he and Percy walked preceding Albus, rosiness, and Amanda.

"Wonderful idea !"the reporter exclaimed as she hopped off her stool.

"How did she hear that ?"Albus whispered to Rose.

"Harry Potter 's son !"the reporter said as she grabbed Albus 's arm, causing him to strike down the biscuit he was holding."Let 's get him in the shot, too. Hmm ..."she glanced around the way, her eyes finally coming to rest on Amanda."We 'll need a shot with you and Percy as well. Candidate plays Exploding snatch with the prime quantity minister of religion 's niece ! perfective tense ! I could not have planned this better."

"How did she bang that I 'm the blossom rector 's niece ?"Amanda asked.

"She knows everything,"blush wine said darkly."Creepy, really."

Albus soon found himself playing a staged game of Exploding snap bean with Uncle Percy, Samantha, and Lindy. The whole thing was very idiotic since none of them were photographed with ash on their faces. Then it was Amanda 's turn, but she was posed with a set of ace 's cheat,"for variety."

"Now that 's something Laurentis wo n't give birth,"Percy said jovially after the photographer finished."Photograph with the Prime pastor 's niece."

"But nonentity knows I 'm the prime minister of religion 's niece,"Amanda said once she, rosebush, and Albus escaped into the kitchen."It 's supposed to be a secret."

"Maybe it wo n't get printed,"Albus said.

"God, I hope not,"Amanda muttered."So is this what Christmas Eve is usually like ?"

"Mostly,"Albus said as he walked over to the room access. He peered into the den and took stock of what his house was up to.

His uncles Fred, Ron, broadsheet, and Charlie, were closest to the kitchen and were singing 'Odo the Hero .'All four had mugs of eggnog in hand. grannie was listening to Celestina Warbeck while Aunt Fleur glared at the wireless. It seemed to be distracting her from the conversation she was having with aunty Katherine and Aunt Hermione. Most of his cousins were eating or laughing about one matter or another. Samantha and lindy were playing Exploding Snap for tangible now, along with Eddie and Angie.

In fact, the only if one who seemed to be acting any differently was Uncle Walker Percy, who was talking with the newsman and the photographer. Aunt Corrine was as well, but none of their older small fry were anywhere in sight.

"Have you seen Thomas Bradley, Cedric, or GA anywhere ?"Albus asked Rose.

"Actually, no,"Rose said."Let 's go find them."

Albus and Amanda followed rose wine out of the kitchen and up the stairs. As they peered into each bedroom, Albus found out just where his gran had stored all the stuff that used to be in the den. Every single room had a mess of random stuff in it. They eventually found their three cousins hiding out in Uncle Ron 's old bedroom at the top of the house. They were sitting on one of the seam and were deep in conversation.

"What 's going on in here ?"Albus asked as they shut the room access.

All three startled, but then seemed relieved to find it was only Albus, rosebush, and Amanda.

"We 're avoiding the reporter,"Georgia said,"and talking about how much it will suck if Dad gets elected."

"But Laurentis is flaming insane,"Albus said as he stepped over a typewriter and sat down on the opposite bed."Uncle Harry Hotspur has to win."

"fountainhead, I do n't want him to,"Tom Bradley said."Do you see how a great deal liveliness will vary if he does ?"

"I 've got a bit of an idea,"Amanda said, sitting down side by side to Albus. blush wine sat on his former position.

"Before his campaign started no one really knew what Dad did,"Omar Nelson Bradley said."Or even who he was. I mean, if they heard his name they would know him, but he was just Walker Percy Weasley. Do you know what I mean ?"

"He 'll be Percy Weasley, Minister of Magic. Not just Percy Weasley, your dad,"Amanda said."Minister is n't a just a job. It 's not something he 'll leave at the post at five. It 's Thomas More a lifestyle."

"Exactly !"Bradley agreed.

"And you 'll always be the Minister 's son,"Amanda said.

"How do you know all this ?"Cedric looked at Amanda strangely.

"My Uncle 's the blossom Minister,"Amanda said casually.

"Of Britain ?"Bradley exclaimed."And you 've kept this mystical for four years ?"

"Yeah. It wo n't be for a great deal longer since that photographer just took a pictorial matter of me with your dad,"Amanda said."Anyway, you 're right that your life wo n't be the same if he gets elected. And even after his term is up you 'll still always be the Minister 's son."

"And we 'd have to move into the government minister 's hall,"Thomas Bradley said.

"You would n't. You 're going to calibrate in June,"Cedric pointed out."And Georgia already moved out."

"You 'll be in Hogwarts most of the year,"Georgia pointed out.

There was a knocking on the door and then it swung panoptic open. Harry Hotspur stood in the doorway flanked by the reporter and photographer. Sir Henry Percy had changed out of his gown and was now wearing a green Weasley pinny with a red'P'on the front. In his arms was a stack of what appeared to be Sir Thomas More Weasley jumpers.

"There you lot are,"Harry Hotspur said."We 're doing a film of the whole family in our jumpers."He tossed one to each of his tyke and then one each to Albus and rose wine."Get changed and get downstairs."

"Are they all initial jumpers this class ?"Empire State of the South asked as she held hers up. It was grey with a purple'G .'

"Must be,"Albus said as he yanked off the jumper he was wearing and pulled on his new one. It was blasphemous with a gold'A .'

"Bet it 's to make us attend like a cheesy family,"Bradley muttered as he changed.

Once they 'd all changed Albus and Rose followed their cousins back down to the den. Amanda followed as well, but she lingered on the steps, clearly not wanting to be dragged into anymore photographs.

Albus 's entire family was posed in half the den. The photographer was running around making small adjustments, which Albus thought was pointless. There was no way he was going to get thirty-two people to all look at the camera and smile nicely at the same time.

The photographer noticed Albus, rosebush, Georgia, Bradley, and Cedric and shoved Albus in between James and Lily, who were sitting right in the middle, on the floor.

"Lovely !"the photographer exclaimed a few instant later. He ran to the former English of the room and stuck his principal behind the tv camera."Everyone grinning ! Beautiful !"He took dozens of delineation and Albus soon grew tired of sitting still and smiling.

"Wonderful !"the reporter shouted once the photographer finally finished."I think we 've got what we need. I wish you all a happy Yuletide. The article should be out just after New Year's."

"I thought she was staying for tomorrow, too,"Albus whispered to Rose.

rosiness shrugged."Maybe she got enough from just one night. Either that or she got overwhelmed."

Sir Henry Percy walked the newsperson and lensman out of the Burrow, thanking them profusely as he did so.

"Bedtime, everyone !"mollie shouted.

No one objected. It had certainly been the strangest Christmastide Eve gathering the Weasley family had ever had and Albus was very much looking forward to tomorrow, when things would get back to some semblance of normal. Albus walked up to bed with blush wine and Amanda, wishing them both proficient night when they reached Uncle Charlie 's old bedchamber, where the two would be staying. James, Ben, Cedric, and Bradley were already in Uncle Ron 's old room when Albus arrived.

"Quidditch tomorrow ?"Henry James asked as all four boys climbed into their beds.

"You 're going down, ceramist,"Omar Nelson Bradley replied.

"Is that a challenge, Weasley ?"

"Sure is,"Bradley said.

Yes, tomorrow would be a lot more normal, Albus thought. Quidditch was a Yule tradition for his family and cipher, even his uncle running for Minister, was going to preclude it.
***


"And that 's how we do it in Kenmare !"Peach State exclaimed, having just saved a goal by spinning in midair and hitting the Quaffle back into play by the end of her broom."Kenmare Krazy Keeper move !"

"You 're still going to lose !"Bradley shouted as he hit one of the Bludgers toward Albus, who dodged it and caught the Quaffle."We 've got Teddy !"

"If slip were a real searcher he 'd be playing for a conference team and not studying to be an Auror !"Georgia shouted back.

"He 's still not as good as Jesse James,"Bradley said.

"Yeah, I taught James everything he knows !"Teddy said as he flew past, heading toward Peach State 's left goal Wiley Post."And that 's game !"he shouted, returning with the Snitch clutched in his hand."Aurors have to possess constant vigilance, just like Seekers."

Albus flew to the ground, still holding the Quaffle. It had been a good game, even though his team had lost, but the temperature was dropping and the clouds were rolling in. It was a soundly time to guide back inside for Christmas dinner, especially since the perfume of roast turkey and potatoes had been drifting exterior for the by half hour.

Tables, already covered in numerous dishes of food, had been set up in the kitchen extending into the den while they played. Albus hurried upstairs to switch and when he returned, everyone was drifting toward the tabular array. Albus hurried to the hindquarters Rose and Amanda had saved him, which thankfully was nowhere skinny Percy.

"How was Quidditch ?"Rose asked.

"commodity,"Albus said."We lost, but chemise 's pretty much unbeatable, so I was n't surprised."

"I 'm surprised he did n't play professionally,"Amanda said.

"He thought about it,"Albus explained."And he had offers, but he deferred them for a year because he was n't sure. Then he just decided to join the Auror academy, because of his parents, you know."

"shuffling good sense,"Amanda said.

"I 'd care to fix a goner,"Percy announced after everyone was seated. He held up his glass of pumpkin juice."I just want to say thank you, to all of you, for putting up with the reporter yesterday, and for everything you 've done for the safari. We only have three months to go, so let 's throw the most of it. Keep up all the with child work. Here 's to a win in April !"

Albus clinked glasses with rosiness and Amanda and then served himself a with child helping of Meleagris gallopavo. This was what he enjoyed the most about Dec 25 at the tunnel. As he he ate, he listened in on the conversations his cousins, aunty, and uncles were having.

To Albus 's left, his auntie Hermione was giving Saint James, Cedric, and Ben study tips for their O.W.L.s. The boy were nodding as if they were listening, but Albus knew they were n't. Victoire and Teddy were holding deal under the table, which was kind of funny because Victoire was having to eat with her left bridge player, a science she clearly did not own. James, Tom Bradley, and GA were discussing Quidditch with Uncles George IV and Ron. Eddie was showing the twins, Lily, and Hugo just how many peas he could fit into his mouth at once. Hotspur was, of course, discussing the gritty point of his hunting expedition with his wife and parents. Fred and Mark were telling Angie about the hugger-mugger passage that lead into the basement of Honeyduke 's. The quietus of his family was too far away for Albus to pick up what exactly they were saying, but everyone seemed happy.

"This is what it 's really like,"Albus told Amanda."Usually there are a few pranks."

"You missed one other,"rosebush said while Amanda laughed."James put one of those wind-up Pygmy puff of air in granny 's giving pot, so while she was chopping vegetables it jumped out and started screeching. Aunt Ginny knew it was James, too. He got chewed out while you were upstairs changing."

"She had no validation !"James cut in."It could have been Cedric."

"But it was n't,"rosiness said."It was you."

"William James, did you take heed me ?"Hermione asked."I was just saying how you need to bug out with your decrepit subject low. Honestly, you should 've started preparing death yr. Albus, Rose, Amanda, are you listening ? You should part revise now."

"I started calendar week ago, Mum,"Rose said.

Hermione smiled."That 's my girl."

"She 'll be favorable if James starts revising a month before,"Albus whispered to Amanda.

"That would be poor fish,"Rose said."What does he want to do after Hogwarts ? He 'll need sure O.W.L.s to get into the mighty N.E.W.T. classes."

"He 's got no approximation,"Albus said,"except he wants to play Quidditch."

"He 'd break get going,"Rose said.

"Oh, and I suppose you 've got it all figured out, rose ?"King James asked.

"As a matter of fact, I 'm thinking of getting into psychiatry,"rose said."Get my healing academic degree, specializing in psychiatry."

"fine, then,"James muttered.

"Really ?"Albus asked.

Rose nodded."I 've been thinking about it since summer and it 's really wish I want to do."

"Do n't you think you 're a bit young to let decided that ?"Albus asked.

"lusterlessness 's sis had it all figured out in twenty-five percent year and look where she is now,"blush wine pointed out.

She did have a point there, Albus thought. matt 's sister was well on her way to getting both her healing and brewing grade, with only two and a half more years to go. Albus did n't even want to think about what he would do after he graduated from Hogwarts. It was too far away.

"I have an annunciation to pull in !"Gabriella said as she stood up.

The room quieted and everyone turned to bet at Gabriella. She was n't usually one to gain actor's line or announcements during fellowship dinners. In fact, she was one of the quieter of Albus 's cousins, certainly not coming near to the level of boisterousness of Bradley, St. James the Apostle, or Georgia.

"Thanks,"she said."None of you know this yet, since I figured I 'd just separate you all at once today. I 've decided to be active to France."

The room was silent, lots like it was after Sir Henry Percy announced his purport to run for government minister at the before schoolhouse dinner party. Then, as happened after Walker Percy 's announcement, everyone began to talk at once.

"You 're what ?"Bill exclaimed.

"Gabriella, honey !"Fleur shouted, dropping her glass of wine."What prompted this ?"

"The political climate in France is very unfirm,"Sir Henry Percy said."I would n't recommend moving there."

"What are you going to do there ?"heather mixture asked.

Albus was n't at all surprised. Gabriella had spent a few weeks in France that surrender and seemed to savor it. He was n't sure as shooting why her parents seemed so surprised.

"If everyone could just let me talk !"Gabriella shouted. The room quieted one more."I 've already cleared it with Grandmere and Grandpere. They 're going to let me outride with them until I get on my feet. When I painted there this tumble it just felt so right-hand. My house painting there were so a lot ripe than the one I 've painted here-"

"But what will you do for money ?"Bill asked."You know I could still get you that internship. This is crazy."

"Dad, it 's what I want to do. I do n't want to spend everyday in an office and miss out on life. No offence. picture is what I love. I want to try this."

"But Gabriella, it 's not practical-"bank bill began.

"flier,"Molly said quietly."She 's just rebelling a bit. You did the same when you were her age. Remember the earring ? The hair ?"

poster 's face reddened."It 's not the same, Mum. I had a job. I was n't learning the finer points of being a starving artist !"

"Dad ! I 'm a just artist ! I 'm not going to thirst !"

"You know my parents would never let her thirst,"Fleur said.

"That 's not the point. The point is that she should be doing something productive. When Victoire was her age-"

"I 'm not Victoire !"Gabriella exclaimed. She turned and left the way, running up the stairs. A few moments later a door slammed.

Bill made to get up, but Victoire put her script on his shoulder, forcing him back into his backside."Dad, I 'll go."

The room lapsed into uncomfortable silence after Victoire took off after her Sister. Albus was slightly shocked at his uncle 's dislike of Gabriella 's programme. Albus had always thought of Bill as his cool uncle, the uncle who would be supportive of whatever his tike wanted to do. But now he was acting just like Sir Henry Percy had about Georgia 's desire to be a Quidditch player.

"I support you, Bill,"Percy said pompously."creative person is not a career. You 've got to agitate this. Went through the same affair with Georgia-"

"Really, Dad ?"GA asked."After the past tense few month of going to my games and making the imperativeness think you 're supportive of my dreams, you still do n't reckon I should bet Quidditch ?"

"Quidditch, like house painting, is a hobby,"Hotspur said."It 's not a career."

"You 're improbable !"Georgia exclaimed."The support, the cheering, it 's all pseud, is n't it ?"

"Georgia-"

"You know what, Dad ? Do n't even bother."Georgia stood up and left the board in a exchangeable manner to Gabriella.

"This,"Albus whispered to Amanda,"is not normal."

"I thought Gabriella liked Uncle Percy 's imitation support,"James muttered.

"Well, she did at first but she probably thought there was no way he could bullshit it for so long and not begin to occur around. She surely thought it was real by now,"rose said.

"You 're going to make a thoroughly head-shrinker,"Albus said.

"Yeah, you can pop out with Uncle Harry Hotspur,"James said.

"Does anyone want pudding ?"Gran asked.


A/N : Thanks for all the reexamination !


Never before had Albus experienced such an awkward Christmas dinner, and that included the time his aunty Katherine went into labor with Eddie at the table. After Gabriella and Sakartvelo stormed out, gran served pudding to the remaining family members, but everyone ate in silence. Albus, Rose, and Amanda ate as fast as they could and then escaped to the one place they did n't conceive anyone else would go- the noggin.

The loft of the tunnel was like to an archaeological web site. It contained bed of Weasley family history and if you dug deep enough you could even find word-painting of Uncle Bill when he was a child. It used to sign a ghoul, but the ghoul died years before Albus was born. Albus did n't go up in the bonce often anymore, but when he was minuscule it had made an excellent concealing spot.

"I never realized how similar Gabriella and Peach State were,"Albus said once they 'd shut out the attic door.

"I never realized how alike Uncle Percy and Uncle broadside were,"Rose replied."I never thought Uncle notice would respond like that."

"Me either,"Albus agreed."Let 's not talk about it. I just want to do something fun."

"Let 's child's play monopoly,"Amanda said."It 's a Muggle biz. I brought it from my house."

Albus and Rose readily agreed and soon the three were playing Monopoly in the noodle. It took Albus and blush wine a little while to get the hang of the money, which was based on Muggle money, but once they did, it was very fun. Albus 's favorite thing about it was how hanker it took. They spent hours on one game and by the time Amanda beat him and blush wine, almost all of his kinsperson was asleep.

By breakfast the future dawn nearly everything had blown over. half of his auntie and uncles had left because they had to go to work on and the early one-half were in the physical process of getting ready to leave. Some of his cousin were still there, but quite a few had left. When Albus went downstairs he noticed his uncle circular and aunt Fleur having a talking with Gabriella over phonograph record of blimp. Albus paused in the room access, waiting for them to finish.

"We do n't require you to believe we are n't supportive of your art,"Bill said."We are. Both of us. I just want to bonk you 're going to be okay."

"I am, Dad,"Gabriella said."I 'll be staying with Grandmere and Grandpere."

"That 's reassuring,"Bill said."And I did overreact last night."

Fleur snorted."Yes, I 'd say you did."

"I certainly do n't want you to think I 'm anything like your uncle Harry Hotspur,"Bill whispered."I 'd never try and stop you from pursuing your dream."

"Well, painting in France is my dreaming for now,"Gabriella said adamantly.

"Then we 'll support you,"beak said. Fleur nodded in concord."I 'm dismal for overreacting last night. I think we were all on border from the reporter."

"Thanks, Dad,"Gabriella said.

"When were you planning on leaving ?"Fleur asked.

"After that Ministry company. Ca n't miss that or Uncle Harry Hotspur would go insane."

"The weekend after that, then,"handbill said."We want to help you move."

Gabriella nodded."Thanks."

Bill stood up and gave his daughter a hug."I 've got to get to go, but I 'll see you at dwelling later. I love you, Gabby."

"Love you, too, Dad,"Gabriella said as she hugged him back.

Albus walked into the kitchen as his uncle left, grabbing a few sausages and a cinnamon bun on his way to the table. He was relieved that Uncle Bill and Gabriella came to an agreement, especially one that involved Gabriella still moving to French Republic. He wanted his cousin to be happy and he still wanted to believe of card as his nerveless uncle.

Albus returned to Grimmauld station later that day and it only took him a few hours of boredom to start his holiday version. blush wine and Amanda had returned to rose 's house, so without them, he was forced to be productive. In fact, Albus was actually looking forward to the Ministry party for the fillet of sole reasonableness that he 'd get to see Rose and Matt.

The few days in between Boxing Day and New year 's Eve were fairly uneventful, especially compared with Christmas day. Georgia and Uncle Sir Henry Percy still had n't made up and Georgia came over for a heart-to-heart with Albus 's mum the day before the party. Albus often forgot that his mum used to play master Quidditch and would be the perfect person for Georgia to search advice from.

Albus attempted to take heed in on their conversation via extendible Ear, but his mum must 've put an interperbabble magical spell on the kitchen door because he could n't get wind a thing. Dejected, he put away his Extendable Ear and returned to reading his Transfiguration book.

Shortly after GA left Saint James the Apostle walked in the dorsum door with a grin on his look.

"What are you so happy about ?"Albus asked.

"Mum forgot to put the appealingness on the windowpane,"James IV said."I heard everything."

"Well, secernate me what you heard !"Albus said as he closed his book.

"I do n't have it away ...."

"Come on, James,"Albus said."If you do I wo n't tell Mum and Dad what you 're planning on doing to the punch at the party tomorrow."

"fine,"St. James muttered as he sat down."Basically, Georgia 's still mad at Uncle Percy and does n't require to go to the political party tomorrow. Mum convinced her that she needs to take the high gear road and be supportive of Uncle Hotspur even though he is n't being supportive of her. And she said there 's no cloak-and-dagger to getting him to recognize Quidditch as a valid career. He just has to realize it on his own and all Georgia can do is be the expert histrion she can and support herself and not ask him for money. But then she reminded Empire State of the South that gramps was very supportive of her Quidditch career."

"nothing too exciting, then,"Albus said.

"Nope, not really,"James agreed."Going to make for an worry company, though."

"That 's for surely,"Albus said.
***


"Is the diplomatic minister 's Mansion glowing blue ?"Albus asked as he followed his parents up the winding path to the mansion.

It was New twelvemonth 's Eve and the thrower were slightly latterly for the political party, as usual. This sentence James had not been the understanding ; they were late because Ginny had had to lengthen Albus 's robe last minute.

"It looks that way,"Harry answered."postponement until you see the inside. The election New yr 's Eve party at the diplomatic minister 's mansion is one of the grandest juncture the Ministry puts on, only beaten out by the political party that will take place for the winner of the election. It 's going to be far fancy than the party for Mr. Eckerton finis year."

Albus nodded. As they drew closer to the hall Albus noticed that the risque brightness seemed to halt from the soil, illuminating the sign as it went upward, but he could not see where the light came from. It looked to just appear out of the priming coat. The path itself was lined with silver standard candle.

The door was already spread out when they reached the end of the course. A man dressed in a wide-cut black tie with arse stood in the room access and he took Ginny and Lily 's wraps while another man led the ceramist into the M ballroom.

The ballroom was already filled to capacity and Albus noticed that nearly one-half of the people in attendance were his aunts, uncles, and cousins. The ballroom itself was lit by silver candles similar to the ones that lined the path outside. The windows were draped in gravid navy curtains tied with atomic number 47 roach and matching linens dressed the table and professorship scattered throughout the room. Larger tables containing platters of solid food stood in the center of the room, each one holding an ice sculpture. The sculptures were of versatile diachronic edifice in wizarding Britain, including one of Hogwarts.

server dressed in the same tuxedos as the wizards by the door walked throughout the way carrying plates of food and drinkable. After taking a expression at some of the food they carried, Albus wondered if there was anything normal or if it was just take to hors d'oeuvres.

"Before you all take off to find your cousin-german,"Harry began, staring more at his sons than at Lily."James, absolutely no pranks. Albus, no sneaking off to other parts of the planetary house or going outside this year. call me, both of you."

"I promise,"Albus and James IV each mumbled.

"All right, you may go,"Harry said."And keep an eye out for your younger cousin. Make for sure they 're not getting into trouble."

Albus nodded and then slipped into the crowd in search of Matt, Rose, and something to eat that did not resemble something his aunt Fleur 's female parent would crap. He finally wound up at the dessert table where he found both a large piece of drinking chocolate cake and his friends.

"Albus, there you are !"rosiness said."We 've been here for an hour already."

"Mum had to lengthen my robes,"Albus said in between bites of cake.

"I 'm not surprised. You grew a foot in the past class,"rose wine commented.

"Seriously, you 've got to discontinue,"matte said."You make me look like a second year."

"Is everyone else here ?"Albus asked as they walked over to a mostly empty table. Its only occupant was a very old man who seemed to be taking a nap.

pink wine nodded."Even Empire State of the South showed up. But I did determine out that the simply understanding we were all invited was to make Uncle Sir Henry Percy look like to a greater extent of a family man."

"Really ?"Albus asked."I thought it was just because families of the candidate were always invited."

"No. Usually it 's only immediate household member, plus all the caput of departments and top Ministry officials and their families. So not all of us were going to be invited at first. It 's to take a crap us calculate like a very close knit family."

"You are a close knit kinfolk,"Matt said."It 's like you 're all brothers and sisters rather than cousins."

"But Uncle Harry Hotspur never really require any of us in his Ministry career before,"Albus pointed out."Anyway, Matt, how was your Yuletide ?"

"commodity,"Matt said."Rose already told me about yours. Sounded much more interesting than mine. My grandparents came to impose and they went dwelling house yesterday. Mum and Cinda argued over the fact that we do n't visit them enough anymore and then Mum and Amy argued over the fact that Amy never comes home except for holiday. Dad, Richard, and I just stayed out of it. I swear, those three could debate over nothing."

"Sounds like yours was interesting then,"Albus said.

matt shrugged."Honestly, it 's been rather boring at home."

"I 'm cook to get back to Hogwarts,"Albus said."Is Amy here ?"

"Yeah, she 's off with Victoire and chemise,"Matt said.

"Oh, by the way, do n't drink the slug,"Albus warned them."St. James is planning to put something in it."

"What ?"blush wine asked.

"I do n't get it on, but it 'll probably be gross,"Albus said.

"If your uncle wins your full cousin will get to live here,"matte said as he gazed around the room."Weird to think about. This lieu looks fully grown than my old house."

"It probably is,"pink wine said."And you 're right, that is weird to call back about."

The old man let out a snort and woke up. His eyes darted around until they rested on Albus, Rose, and matt."Who are you three ?"he demanded.

"Er, I 'm Albus ceramicist and that 's Rose Weasley and lusterlessness Eckerton,"Albus said.

His boldness softened."Oh, skillful to meet you ! I 'm Gregory the Great Laurentis. My daughter 's running for Minister. Could not be prouder, but I suppose she 's running against your uncle. Albus Potter, Merlin 's beard ! I told cake, I told her she was crank to run against Harry Hotspur Weasley what with him being related to Harry Potter himself, but her company picked her to run so I suppose there was aught I could do about it. And she could n't flex down that opportunity ...."

Albus glanced at Rose and Matt while Laurnetis 's dad continued to rattle on about how proud he was of his daughter, yet marvel at her betise for running against somebody related to Harry Potter. He was rather mirthful, Albus thought.

"This place is too beshrew partiality,"St. Gregory of Nazianzen Laurnetis muttered as he fingered the tablecloth."And the food, my God, what I would n't fall in for some firecracker and mash ...."

Albus stifled a laughter, but he did fit with the old man."I think I hear one of my full cousin calling me,"Albus said."We 'd ameliorate go."

"Oh, right, right,"Gregory Laurentis said."I do n't try anything, but then again my hearing 's so bad these days. Well, full chance to your uncle, then. Not that he 'll need it !"

"goodness fate to your daughter, too,"Albus said as he stood up.

All three burst out laughing as soon as they were out of earshot of Gregory Laurentis. A few Ministry functionary looked at them strangely as they did so, but Albus did n't worry.

"Albus !"matte suddenly whispered."Is that Balladanis over there ?"Matt pointed to the far back corner, where a man in plain dark gown stood with his arms folded across his chest.

Albus peered at the man for a few present moment."Yeah, I think it is."

"What 's he doing here ?"lusterlessness asked.

"Probably in typeface of an attack,"blush wine said."Every prominent Ministry official is in this room right now. There 's probably Aurors stationed at every door outside, too."

"Do n't let him see us,"lusterlessness said as he grabbed both Albus and Rose and pulled them behind a large mathematical group of hoi polloi."Can we just go somewhere else ?"

Albus glanced at Balladanis and then back at matte, who looked more than a trivial nervous. Albus did n't charge him. After last year 's malicious gossip with Balladanis, it was no wonder mat never wanted to see the man again. Albus thought briefly of what his dad told him when they got there, but pushed the promise from his mind. If Matt did n't want to be in the Lapp room as Balladanis, then Albus was just going to receive to split up his promise.

"Come on,"Rose said before Albus could reply. She took Albus and flatness 's hired man and pulled them through the gang. She let them go once they reached the corridor.

The corridor was much placid than the dance hall. Albus had n't even realized just how tatty the ballroom was until now. Between the euphony and people 's voices, it was a wonder he 'd even been capable to guess in there.

"Thanks,"Matt said quietly."He just gives me the creeps."

"No problem,"Rose said."Where should we go ?"

"We could try and find that library again,"Albus suggested.

rose wine and flatness nodded and the three set off down the corridor. It took them fifteen minutes and three wrong turns to find the subroutine library and once they got there, they saw that it was already occupied by none former than Empire State of the South, Bradley, and Cedric.

"We 've got to stop using the Lapplander hiding berth,"Sakartvelo said with a laugh as they entered."Just joking. Come on in."

Rose shut the door behind them and they joined GA, Omar Nelson Bradley, and Cedric on the former slope of the elbow room.

"Sick of the party ?"Sakartvelo asked.

"We saw Balladanis,"Matt said quietly as he sat down."Did n't need him to notice us."

GA shuddered."Do n't pick you there, especially since your dad is the reason he got sacked."

"I kind of liked him,"Bradley said.

Matt looked at him like he was insane."Are you kidding ?"

Omar Bradley shrugged."Nope. I 'm not terribly upset he 's gone, but he was variety of cool."

"You 're mad,"Matt said.

"What about you three ? What drove you to the library ?"Albus asked, wanting to stave off an literary argument between his honorable Friend and cousin.

"Decided to explore the planetary house,"Cedric said."If we 're going to hold to live here, we wanted to see what we 'd be getting into."

"And what do you think ?"Rose asked.

"Living here would n't be so bad,"Cedric said."Omar Nelson Bradley and I would n't hold to ploughshare a way. Neither would Samantha and Lindy, for that matter."

"I told you, one of you can consume my room,"Georgia said.

"Dad wo n't let us,"Bradley replied."Says you 're going to issue forth back when Quidditch stops paying off."

Georgia groaned."Really, the faith he has in me is incredible."

"We met Laurentis 's dad,"Albus said.

Georgia burst out laughing."Seriously ?"

Albus nodded and told the story. All three of his full cousin were laughing by the time he finished.

"I may have to go back out there just so I can get together him,"Georgia said, still laughing.

"He sounds like a very interesting bloke,"Thomas Bradley said.

matte got up from his electric chair and began wandering around the program library. He paused by the doorway, as if listening.

"What are you doing ?"Albus asked.

"I heard something,"Matt whispered."Shut up, all of you."

Georgia immediately stopped laughing and all five of them stopped talking. Matt 's eyes grew big and he hurried back over."mortal 's coming !"

"I do n't learn any-"Bradley began.

"Sshhh !"Albus said as he jumped up."Trust him on this. We 've got to hide."

"There 's a closet,"Rose said as she hurried to open the doorway."It 's not very big-"

"Energy Department n't matter,"Matt said."Hurry, get inside."

Albus just started hearing the phonation as they hurried inside the cupboard. It was a very sozzled hug and rosiness was stepping on his provide foot, but he said nothing as he shut the door. Two bit later he heard the doorway to the program library undetermined.

"It 's not working !"a fair sex said. Her voice was muffled ; Albus could barely make out what she said, let alone who she was.

"I ca n't learn anything,"Cedric whispered."Is this door solid mahogany or something ?"

"Shut up !"Matt seethed. He had his ear pressed to the door.

"The one time I do n't bring any Extendables with me,"Cedric muttered.

Albus pressed his ear up against the door. The voices were still muffled, but he could hear.

"I told you they 'd eat up the whole family man thing,"another vox said. This one was male."Not to mention he 's Harry thrower 's brother-in-law for God 's sake !"

"Harry Potter is an fumbling idiot and you know it,"the woman replied."He 's famous for something he did as a child and the general populace is dullard to still think of him as the hero of the wizarding world. He 's gone soft."

"It 's Laurentis !"matte said.

"How can you tell ?"Omar Bradley asked."This room access is so blooming thick."

"I just can,"matt said.

Albus could n't tell apart that the voice was Laurentis 's, but based on what she was saying, Matt was right.

"Well, what am I supposed to do about it ?"the man said.

"We 've got to imagine of something,"Laurentis said."The Azkaban debate is in a week. I 'm certainly you can opine of something to do for that."

"I think that 's her crusade manager,"Matt said.

"She sounds frightful,"Albus said.

"It should n't be that hard. All we have to do is expose Weasley for what he really is and get everyone to realize thrower 's not the hero they all think he is,"Laurentis said.

"And who is Weasley, then ?"

"A ceremonious idiot !"Laurentis exclaimed."You do n't really buy the completely fact that he supports his daughter 's Quidditch career, do you ? I 've seen the way she looks at him and there 's no way that 's real."

"You ca n't really be intimate that-"

"I can,"she interrupted."I can read people, Pierce. That 's why I got into politics. It 's all about reading people and figuring out the lies from the verity. See what you can dig up. We 'd better return to the party. I left my begetter alone with Minister Langston. That wo n't wrick out well."

"Yes, Ms. Laurentis,"Pierce replied.

Albus heard the sound of high up heels on hardwood floor, the door creaking candid, and then tick shut again. He waited two full minutes and then opened the door to the closet. Everyone hurried out.

"What was that ?"Matt demanded."What is she up to ?"

"How did you take hold of all that ?"Omar Nelson Bradley asked."Do you have super human audience or something ?"

"Or something,"Matt muttered,"but never brain that. Laurentis knows your dad 's putting on an act and is going to try to expose him."He turned to Albus."And she is going to try and turn over the wizarding existence against your dad."

"She 's insane !"Albus exclaimed.

"You 've got to separate your uncle-"Matt began.

"No way,"Georgia said loudly."Trust me, all he 'll do is blame me for not playing my part well enough. This is n't leaving this room."

"But she 's going to sabotage his crusade,"Albus said.

"Peach State 's right,"Rose said."It wo n't help anything. run are half about digging up poop on the early candidate. Anything she says about Uncle Harry, no one will conceive it unless they 're an idiot. Anyone with half a head knows he runs the Auror Department well."

"If anyone says anything he 'll just get mad at us for spying,"Bradley added.

"Not to mention we 're not technically allowed in here,"Cedric pointed out.

"Oh, right,"Albus said."My dad did have me predict not to leave the ballroom."

"No one 's saying anything,"Georgia said."And I think we 'd all better get back to the ballroom, just in case anyone notices we 're all gone.


Thanks for all the inspection ! Remember to hold back them 12+. Props to all who caught the 'mahogany'thirstiness Games reference. Credit for that goes to Suzanne Wilkie Collins. If any of you are appendage of the assembly ( and if you 're not, you should be, associate on the right side of the page ! ), feel barren to contain out my Meet the source Sir Frederick Handley Page ! It 's linked on my author page. Please ask me questions on my MTA page since I love answering them !


When they returned to the dance palace Albus was pleased to see that Balladanis was nowhere in sight. Perhaps he left to patrol the priming. Albus did n't really care ; all that mattered was that he was n't there anymore. Judging by the gang in the way, no one else had left yet, and they all seemed a bit more robustious, most probable due to the crapulence.

Percy accosted them before they were even capable to get to the desert table to reload their home base with cake. He walked with purpose, similarly to the way he had walked when he took Albus and his booster to Kendrick 's study. He seemed very at home plate in the Minister 's Mansion and it was n't even his yet.

"Georgia !"he said."There you are. I 've been looking for you everywhere."

"I was in the loo. Something you need, Dad ?"Georgia asked.

"Er, yes, actually,"Harry Hotspur replied."I need you to carry Samantha and Lindy plate. It 's nearly eleven and your mother and I are going to be here well past tense midnight. Samantha ate too much cake and tactile property ill. I just think it would be best for them to go home and get some sleep. They 're over at that table."Percy gestured to a nearby board, where Samantha and Lindy were sitting, both with their chief in their hands, looking extremely bored.

Georgia raised her eyebrows, as if storm that Percy was actually going to not only let three of his minor leave, but request that they do so. Albus was surprised he 'd even thought about the fact that it was n't really a party for two nine-year-olds.

"Yeah, I can take them plate,"Georgia said.

"What about us ?"Thomas Bradley asked, gesturing to himself and Cedric."Could n't we take them home ?"

"I 'd rather Georgia do it,"Percy said."You do n't even have your phantom license yet, Cedric. And Thomas Bradley, you just got yours. You 're not ready to side-along Apparate two people."

"They do accept open fireplace here, Dad,"Bradley muttered.

"Sakartvelo 's taking them, and the two of you are staying here,"Percy said adamantly."Thank you, Georgia."

"You 're welcome,"Empire State of the South said as Percy strutted off to talk to some Ministry functionary."Ha !"she said once he was out of earreach."I get to leave."

"Shut up,"Cedric said."I 'm going to go receive James."

GA headed over to the board her baby were sitting at while Bradley and Cedric disappeared into the crew. Albus, Matt, and Rose wandered over to the afters table, piled a plate high with the cooky a waiter had just set out, and then set off to incur another board. They found one, which Victoire, chemise, and Amy were vacating.

"Where are you three off to ?"Albus asked.

"We 've got ahead of time rounds tomorrow,"Victoire said."Five in the morning. If we 're lucky we 'll get four hours of sleep."

"I do n't see lots spot in staying if they 're not here,"shift said."Technically I was n't even invited, but seeing as I 'm Harry Potter 's Godson, no one was going to kick back me out."

Albus laughed."See you later, then."

After Victoire, chemise, and Amy left Albus sat down and his admirer sat on either side. He absentmindedly chewed on a cooky and watched the crowd.

"Do these taste funny to you ?"Matt asked, holding up a partially eaten biscuit.

Albus took another bite. They did taste weird."Yeah."

rose wine burst out laughing and started pointing at their header."I think James messed with the biscuits instead of the lick. Al, your hair is low-spirited and Matt, yours is green."

Albus and Matt both started laughing. Albus took another look at the crowd."Look, that noblewoman 's hair is purple !"He pointed to a Wiccan a few K away. The blighter she was talking to was clearly trying not to stare at her head.

Over the next few minutes citizenry gradually began to realize that their hair's-breadth was turning various colors and that the biscuit were the culprit. Wands appeared everywhere, as the guests charmed each other 's hair back to its normal gloss. Another minute later Albus spotted both of his parents walking around the perimeter of the room, clearly looking for James IV, but he was nowhere in sight.

"I like this caper,"Albus said."I 'm leaving my hair as is."

"Me too,"Matt agreed. They both turned to Rose."You should eat one."

blush wine sighed."Might as well."She took a cookie and a min later her formerly red hair was a lovely tincture of pink.

The balance of the party was rather drill. Harry eventually found King James and told him he 'd be staying in his room for the remainder of the vacation, only being allowed out for meals. When midnight rolled around Albus, Matt, and Rose toasted to the new year with Lily and Hugo. Matt and his parents left immediately afterward and Albus and his fellowship left a short-change while later. Albus was relieved to be going home since the Night had been exhausting, and he still could n't get the conversation he overheard in the subroutine library out of his brain.
***


"It 's here !"James shouted the adjacent dayspring at breakfast, brandishing a copy of whiz powder magazine. The front line back was a picture of Albus 's grandparents, his mum, Uncle Hotspur, Uncle Bill, Uncle Charlie, Uncle George IV, and Uncle Ron.

"Let me see it !"Albus shouted.

"No, I got it first !"William James shouted back.

"I want to show it first !"Lily exclaimed.

"youngster, finalise down !"Ginny said."James got it first. Al can read it next, and then Lily."

"Not fair,"Lily muttered."I 'm never first."

That was a lie, Albus thought to himself. It was either James or Lily who got affair first, never Albus. curse of being the middle kid, he figured.

Albus sat and ate his breakfast while James read the clause. His brother let out moan and sigh and even laughter while he read, which made Albus even more unquiet to translate it. After what seemed corresponding forever, it was finally Albus 's turn. He yanked the magazine out of James I 's hand and opened it up to the article.

The first page ( or rather, first two pages ), contained the impression of his entire house. Albus had been right in guessing that there was no way the photographer could 've gotten a picture that they all looked good in. Albus himself at least looked middle decent. He was smiling and kept turning to await at Rose and then back to the camera. Lily on the early hand, was caught mid-grimace and always returned to that pose every few bit. Across the exposure was the figure of the article- 'Christmas With the Weasleys .'Albus turned the pageboy and looked at all the other pic that accompanied the article before reading it. There was one of Sir Henry Percy, Corrine, and their kids. Another featured Percy and Albus 's dad. Then there was the one with him playing Exploding breeze with the twin and Walker Percy, as well as the one with Percy and Amanda playing chess. The caption on that read 'Minister hopeful Walker Percy Weasley challenges the bloom Minister 's niece to a game of chess .'Amanda was not going to be glad, Albus thought as he turned his attention to the article.

When I first entered the childhood home of Percy
Weasley I immediately noticed the pleasant-tasting feeling
that filled the air. molly Weasley, Percy 's female parent,
was punishing at work cooking Christmas Eve dinner. The
small, but cozy, base was filled to electrical capacity with
Weasleys, although it only grew more crowded with
the reaching of the ceramist an hour later.

The Weasley family gather for Christmas at the
domicile of President Arthur and mollie Weasley every year.
Arthur, a retired Ministry employee, says ,'I
be intimate having the entire phratry together. It 's
helter-skelter, but I would n't have it any former way .'
The even begins with a meal, although eating
seems to take situation over many hours. The atmosphere
is homy and happy, with every one kin
appendage enjoying their time with each other.

Sir Henry Percy Weasley, a loving Fatherhood of five, sum in
on the fun and Christmastide spirit by challenging
his nine-year-old girl Samantha and Lindy,
as well as nephew Albus Potter, 14, to a secret plan
of Exploding Snap .'I feel it 's important to
spend metre with my children, as well as my nieces
and nephews ,'Weasley said, 'we have such little
clock time with them before they go off to Hogwarts.
My eldest is already out on her own and my son
only have a picayune sentence left at Hogwarts. The
twins are still Cy Young, so I try to drop time
with them every ace day .'When asked
about their father 's campaign, Samantha said,
'I want him to win. He 's good at his job .'
Lindy merely shrugged, 'It would be cool if he
winnings, but he 'll still just be Dad to us .'

The dwelling house of President Arthur and mollie Weasley is not
only open to Weasleys at Christmas time. This
year they were joined by a champion of Albus Potter
and rose wine Weasley, 14. Amanda Tagger, also 14, is
a fourth year student at Hogwarts. tagging program is no
alien to political kinfolk since her uncle
is Michael Smythe, bloom diplomatic minister of Great
United Kingdom .'I think it is just rattling that
the Prime Minister 's niece is a Wiccan ,'Percy
said. 'We are always trying to further a
healthy relationship with the Muggle Ministry
and this will only avail .'

Before posing for the photograph found on pages
20 and 21, the Weasley kinsperson first donned
their Weasley jumpers. Each member of the family
receives one of these jumper for Christmas
every year. The traditional pinafore are knitted
by mollie Weasley .'I 'm not sure enough how it started,
really ,'mollie said, when asked about the origin
of the sweater ,'I suppose it was when broadsheet and
Charlie were little, before Percy was born. I
wanted to knit them matching pinafore and they
outgrew them by the play along year, so I made
new ones. Then when Sir Henry Percy was born he needed one
so it soon grew into a yearbook affair .'

If I had to prefer one word to name the Weasley
sept, I would opt 'laid-back .'Spending a
Christmas Eve with this family, you would never
think that they were famous for their try in
the war against Voldemort. They are just so normal.
even Harry Potter, head Auror, is just your
average father. He spends Christmas Eve joking
around with his brothers-in-law and playing plot
with his children, nieces, and nephews. I asked
him what a typical Christmastide day is like in the
Weasley mansion and he responded with, 'Quidditch.
We live for Quidditch. No affair the weather condition we
get out there every Christmas and play a match or
two. Then we 'll hail inside and have dinner, all
of us together. It 's uncomplicated, but perfect .'

There you have it. Yuletide with the Weasleys
summed up in one sentence by none other than Harry
thrower himself. I thoroughly enjoyed spending
Noel Eve with Percy Weasley and his entire
family. future clip I consultation him, I really must
ask for his mother 's shepherd 's pie recipe. It
truly is wonderful.

"Really ?"Albus asked after handing the magazine to Lily."After all that ? She interviewed half the family and only quoted a few of us ?"

"I 'm guessing the rest could n't really be used for the character of article she was going for,"James pointed out."observation how she only included clobber Samantha and lindy said."

"And she made it seem like the photographer just happened to fill movie of us playing secret plan with Uncle Percy,"Albus said."All of that was staged."

"That 's news media,"Ginny said."Not good news media, mind you, but it is fairly green practice."

"I guess it could bear been worse,"Albus said.

"Yes, it could have been,"Ginny agreed."I think we 're all just grateful she did n't stay for Christmas dinner."

James II laughed."I wonder how she would 've spun that. I 'm astound no one 's figured out that Uncle Percy does n't really wish that Peach State plays Quidditch."

"donjon your mouth shut about that, James,"Ginny said quietly.

"Anyone with half a brain could see it,"James muttered.

Albus said zero. He still was n't completely sure that saying nothing about Laurentis figuring that out was the the right way thing to do. But he could n't exactly say anything, not when all his cousin and Matt had agreed not to.

"James,"Ginny said."Enough. And I suggest you use the remainder of your break to contemplate for those O.W.L.s. June is a lot sooner than you think."

St. James the Apostle certainly did a good job of pretending to canvas for the remainder of the holiday, while shut up in his room for his punishment. Albus noticed that while he always had a book cracked spread nearby, to grab when one of their parents walked into the room, it was always the same book, opened to the Saami page. Albus was amazed neither of his parents realized that, but he supposed both of them had their minds on Sir Henry Percy 's election. Albus finished all his preparation before the weekend, leaving him with two blissful Day of doing nothing. On Saturday he, along with his parents, James, and Lily, visited Kaden and his family for a late Dec 25 and New twelvemonth 's celebration. Albus was relieved that Kaden 's grandparents were n't there.

Monday arrived and it was meter to go back to Hogwarts. Albus was quite happy about this because he had grown bored of staying at home and doing nothing and was sick of being in such close fourth with William James and Lily. At least in Gryffindor tower they kept to their own groups of ally. But mostly, Albus wanted to get Amanda 's take on the conversation they overheard at the government minister 's Mansion.

"Everyone 's staring at me,"Amanda said as she entered the compartment Albus, Rose, Matt, John, and Kaden were occupying."Took me ages to bump you, just because people kept wanting to talk to me. It 's that stupid magazine article. Now everyone knows I 'm the prime Minister 's niece."

"It was bound to happen Oklahoman or later,"blush wine pointed out."But I 'm dreary. If I 'd known the reporter was going to blab about that, I would n't sustain invited you for Christmas."

"No, it 's okay,"Amanda said as she sat down."I 'm glad I went. It 's just annoying. guesswork I know how it feels to be you lot."

"Except us,"John said as he gestured to himself and Kaden."We 're normal."

"You 're pattern, toilet,"Amanda said."But Kaden 's Harry Potter 's first cousin-german once removed or something."

"And that really makes me wonder how I got wrapped up in all this,"John said."My parents just are n't nearly as ambitious as yours all are."

"How was that party, by the way ?"Amanda asked.

"Mostly oil production,"Albus said."But we did wind up in a tiny closet with my full cousin Peach State, Tom Bradley, and Cedric and overheard a conversation between Laurentis and her campaign manager."

"You what ?"Saint John exclaimed."And you did n't think that warranted an owl ?"

"We wanted to tell you in person,"Albus said."The conversation was really weird."

"Tell us !"Amanda said.

Albus explained what he overheard, with service from matte, who had been able-bodied to hear it a bit to a greater extent clearly. John and Kaden looked slightly uncomfortable when they finished, but Amanda did n't seem at all surprised or upset.

"That ca n't be expert,"Gospel According to John said."What do you believe she 's planning ?"

"That 's just it, I do n't know,"Albus said."And all my cousins and Matt agreed not to say anything-"

"They 're good, of course,"Amanda said."You 'd just stir up trouble. Your uncle has got to focus on convincing people he 's the right one for the job, not discrediting everything Laurentis says."

"But she 's going to try and convert everyone my dad 's a bad Auror,"Albus pointed out.

"Your dad is n't running for pastor,"Amanda said."And honestly, I do n't think she 's going to be able to win over all of wizarding Britain that your dad 's incompetent by April."

"But what about the Georgia thing-"

"Albus,"Amanda said as she stared directly at him,"this is what politicians do. Half the campaign is spent trying to win over people the opponent is bad for the job. As much as it should just be spent on trying to convince the great unwashed they 're in good order for the job, prospect just do n't do that. Trust me. My uncle 's on his 2nd terminal figure. I know how these things work."

"I guess,"Albus said. He felt slightly better about it, now that he had Amanda 's opinion, but he still felt uneasy."Something is going to happen at the Azkaban debate, though. She wanted her military campaign manager to dig something up."

"Worst case scenario, she figures out that your uncle Percy does n't really approve of Georgia 's Quidditch calling,"Amanda said."Then he 'll hold an interview and say that at first he was n't because he was worried about her time to come but then he saw her maneuver and now he realizes how good she is and rant, blah, blah. It 'll be fixed."

"She 's right, Albus,"rosiness said. The others nodded.

"How do you bonk all this ?"Albus asked."I mean, seriously."

"I 'm an excellent eavesdropper,"Amanda said with a grin."And all without Extendable Ears."

"Amazing,"John agreed.

"It 's wide-eyed, really,"Amanda said."Be the kid in your sept that goes unnoticed. My older sister is the play queen, so everything that happens to her, no subject how low, is a huge slew. My piddling brother is a little terror who demands constant attention. Me ? I 'm the quiet one. They 'll have completely conversations about stuff in social movement of me that they 'd never have in front of either my comrade or sister."

Kaden laughed."Bet that changed when you found out you were a witch."

"At number 1, but then me being a witch became rule,"Amanda said.

flatness let out a low pennywhistle."Wish I had that skill. I still ca n't even go into the same room as my parents without one of them asking me if I feel okay. Bit of an exaggeration, but still."

"I think my parents drop too much of their childhoods eavesdropping on people to founder me a decent chance at it,"Albus said."They know all the tricks."

"So do mine,"rosebush said."I swear my mum can feel an extendible Ear a naut mi away."

"I think I 'm too tacky,"bathroom said.

"Sami,"Kaden agreed.

"So, would you believe me if I said I actually wanted to go to the Azkaban debate ?"John asked as he opened a box of Bertie Bott 's Every savour Beans.

rosiness burst out laughing."Really, John ?"

"Yes, really,"John said, popping a bean into his sass."Butter, Wyrd. If Laurentis is going to do something, I want to be right there to witness it."

"Maybe you 'll get lucky and you 'll get picked,"Amanda said."I hope I get picked for one."

"I bet they 'll let you go to all of them now, being the Prime Minister's niece and all,"lavatory said.

"Not necessarily,"Amanda said.

"You can always take my spot, John,"Matt said as he got up to slip a smattering of John 's Bertie Bott 's."Full lunation 's on Friday, so I wo n't be going."

"Maybe you can convince Madam Pomfrey, since it 's educational,"Kaden said.

Matt popped a bean into his mouth and then promptly spit it out."Ew, stain. Does n't matter what Madam Pomfrey says. Day after the wax Moon ? I 'll be asleep. You 'll just have to take Federal Reserve note and let me experience what happens."

John groaned."I 'll overtake on your fleck if I have to take notes."

"someone 's going to consume to take eminence either way,"Matt said."I 'll ask them for the essay that Embry will assign."

"Do n't vex, I 'll take government note,"blush wine told him.

"Thanks,"lusterlessness replied."Now, who 's wants this bean ? It looks just corresponding shite, but it could be chocolate."Matt held up a suspiciously brown bean.

"I 'll take it !"John Lackland said. He took a tiny nybble, screwed up his face, and threw the remainder of the bean back at Matt, hitting him square up on the forehead."Thanks, Paraguay tea, another dirt."

Albus laughed and took a handful of beans. The residue of the misstep was much more lighthearted than their conversation about the campaign tactics of Laurentis and Sir Henry Percy. They finished off can 's Bertie Bott 's, growing braver as the box emptied. Albus stopped after he got a vomit flavored one, but enjoyed it immensely when Kaden ate one of the same smell. The train ride went quickly and soon they arrived in Hogsmeade station with Hogwarts, Albus 's second house, just a little rig ride away.


Sorry for the late update ! My cousin got married on Friday so I was gone the hale weekend and did n't have my computing device with me. Thanks to my sister, Linda, who in my menage, is just like Amanda and can eavesdrop on everyone. She gave me the approximation for that. Thanks for all the lovely reviews !


"This full term we will concenter on how the first and instant state of war against Voldemort shaped how the Ministry of Magic is organized today,"professor Embry announced after the bell rang for Tuesday 's politics social class."This component of the socio-economic class will overlap with your History of Magic class quite a bit, although I 'd venture a guess that none of you pay attention in History of Magic, not that I blame you. I never could stay awake in that class either.

"First, we will take a closer look at exactly how the Ministry was organized prior to Voldemort 's rise to magnate and why it was such a problem,"Embry continued."piece of the rationality why Voldemort was capable to rise to tycoon as quickly as he did was because the Ministry was susceptible to a putsch. Since then, precautions have been taken to prevent a similar situation. Does anyone jazz the main deviation between the Ministry before Voldemort and the Ministry now ?"

A few helping hand went up in the air, including Amanda 's. Albus knew the answer, but he did n't really desire to provoke his script. He preferred listening during class.

"Yes, missy Tagger ?"

"The Minister was n't elected,"Amanda said,"which is odd because the Muggle parson is elected, sort of. It 's not like in the United States, but the public votes on which political party will be in power."

"Exactly,"Embry said."Prior to the reorganization of the Ministry of Magic in 1998, the minister was appointed by the Wizengamot. Can anyone tell me why that is a problem ?"

Amanda 's hand injection into the air once more. She was even faster than Rose in this class.

"Miss tagger ?"

"It was bad because the citizenry had no power. Only the Wizengamot had any top executive in the Ministry, because they were the single who appointed the pastor, who then appointed all the other official. No one had any say in anything."

"Right again. Ten compass point to Gryffindor,"Embry said."The Wizengamot, prior to 1998, was a group of very influential witches and wizards, mostly purebloods, who essentially ran the Ministry of Magic. They also served as the juridical organisation. These crone and wizards inherited their buns on the Wizengamot from kin members because each influential family in the British wizarding world once held a seat in the Wizengamot. The problems with this are obvious because it meant that only purebred and a select few half-bloods had any semblance of power."

Albus was scribbling furiously. He knew the basics of the political organization just from overhearing his parents'conversations, but the details were blurry. Now that he was learning the gritty inside information, he wondered why it took so long for the Ministry to be reorganized. It seemed like it was based solely on blood status and how a lot money someone had, which was n't right.

Embry continued to explain the old Ministry and the versatile power that each somebody or chemical group of hoi polloi in the Ministry had prior to Voldemort 's reign. By the end of the speech Albus had just over a pes of notes, which was ripe because Embry had already set them an essay.

"Before you leave, I 'll annunciate who will be attending Saturday 's debate,"Embry said after he finished lecturing."Like last time, Albus Potter, Rose Weasley, and Matt Eckerton will be able to give ear. The two Hufflepuffs who will be attending are Elaine Asterly and Parker Wieland. The two Gryffindors are Amanda tagger and Ethan Kesse. You will report to the Great Radclyffe Hall at ten and hold for instructions from the prefects waiting by the room access. Everyone else will be listening to the argumentation via radio receiver in the Transfiguration classroom. I expect an essay on which nominee you feel made their point better by next category. You are dismissed."

"I guess I wo n't get to go to all the argument after all,"Amanda said as they left the classroom.

"This one will be good, though,"Rose said."You 're lucky they picked you for it."

"Wish I got picked,"lavatory lamented.

"I 'm telling you, just go instead of me,"matt insisted."Tell them I 'm ill and you 're taking my spot."

"I really do n't believe they 'll let-"

"Planning on being ill on Saturday, are you ?"

Albus and his Friend stopped in the heart of the corridor, turning around to see Scorpio Malfoy behind them, his arms crossed across his pectus. He looked self-important and vaguely annoyed as common, but there was something else there. He looked slightly upset and for some reasonableness, that unnerved Albus.

"Give it a rest, Malfoy,"John said, stepping closer to the Slytherin."We get that you know. We 've gotten over it."

Scorpio stepped closer, ignoring John and turning to mat."How do you get into the shriek hovel ?"he demanded.

Matt 's face paled. John grabbed delay of Scorpius 's gown and dragged him into a nearby classroom. John had at least four inch on Malfoy, so it did n't seem difficult. Albus and the others followed, rosebush shutting and locking the room access behind them.

"Why do you desire to know about the shrieking Shack ?"John asked as he let go of Scorpius.

"None of your stage business,"Scorpius said, glancing at the locked door. He slowly drew his wand.

can drew his own wand."Put your wand away. And it 's his line which makes it all of our business."privy gestured to Matt, who had sat down on one of the desks.

"There 's five of you. Like hell I 'm putting my wand away. So I am right, he does transubstantiate in the scream Shack,"Scorpius said with a sly grin. The look of sadness Albus thought he 'd seen was gone ; maybe he 'd imagined it.

"lav !"matte exclaimed."Now look what you 've done !"

"Sorry,"John said."I did n't mean to-"

"Never mind,"lustrelessness said, getting up from the desk and walking over to John and Scorpius."How did you figure it out ?"

"Where else could you transform safely ?"Scorpio asked."I did a little enquiry in the subroutine library and that was built the summer before Remus lupine started at Hogwarts and everyone knows he was a loup-garou. No one ever lived in it, but people reported audition weird noises from it. Everyone said it was ghosts, but they went strangely quiet seven twelvemonth later, only to re-emerge four and a one-half eld ago, when we started at Hogwarts. Quite a coincidence, I thought. And now I see that I 'm right."

Albus was form of shocked Scorpius had done all that research and put everything together. Perhaps he was smarter than Albus and his friends gave him credit for.

"Well, you ca n't assure anyone, just like you ca n't severalise anyone I 'm a werewolf,"Matt said."Kendrick would expel you."

"I do n't care that it 's where you translate,"Scorpius said."The distributor point is that it 's vacuous except for one dark of the month. How do you get in ?"

"I 'm not telling,"Matt said.

"Fine, I 'll figure it out myself,"Scorpio said, pointing his verge at the door. The lock chamber clicked and he strolled over to the door, opened it, and left.

"That was Wyrd,"Albus said as soon as Scorpius was gone.

"Yeah,"lustrelessness said, sitting down on the good desk."Why does he want to get in the screech Shack ?"

"Clearly he needs somewhere that 's hollow, but the question is what is he planning on doing ?"rose asked."And did anyone else notice that he seemed a bit sad in the corridor ?"

"I thought I 'd imagined that,"Albus said.

"You did n't. He 's definitely upset about something,"blush wine said.

flatness groaned."He punter not actually figure out how to get in there."

"If he does, he would n't be dumb enough to go in there during a wide-cut moon,"Albus pointed out.

"Yeah, but still. That 's my blank,"matt muttered."I need a nap. I think I 'm going to skip dinner and just go back to Gryffindor. I 'll see you later."

lustrelessness hopped off the desk and left the room. Albus sighed. The last thing he wanted, amidst all of the election stuff and his family line 's drama, was another outcome with Scorpius Malfoy, but it looked like things were heading in that direction.
***


The come good morning when Albus and his friends entered the Great anteroom for breakfast the student already eating were lots tawdry than pattern. Albus turned to Rose, who shrugged in muddiness, as they walked inside. Everyone in the room, scholar and teachers alike, were talking ominously. Copies of the Prophet were exchanging hands faster than the Quaffle during a Gryffindor/Slytherin mates.

"Albus !"James shouted once they reached the Gryffindor table."Read this. There 's been a break-out at Azkaban."

"Again ?"Albus exclaimed, hurrying over to where James was sitting. He took the paper and his supporter crowded around him.

"Not like last time,"Epistle of James said darkly."High-profile prisoner and More of them. Death feeder. There has n't been a break-out like this in eld. Not since our parents were our age."

Albus 's heart began to pound as he unfolded the paper. There it was, right on the front page. A big photo collage of five people, all gaunt and evil-looking, was right in the eye, with the Word of God 'Five Prisoners Break Out of Azkaban'above them and an article below them. Albus 's tummy churned when he recognized the depiction of the middle prisoner. It was Quinton Willinson. His eyes drifted to the article so he could picture out who the others were.

Early this morning Azkaban officials
reported that five high security prisoners
escaped deep terminal nighttime. It is indecipherable how
they managed to do so. The prisoners, all
imprisoned for felonies, should be regarded
as life-threatening and should not be approached.

quartet of the five prisoners have been in
Azkaban since 1998, having been imprisoned
for war crime. They are Alecto Carrow,
Amycus Carrow, Fenrir Greyback, and Dolores
Umbridge. All but Umbridge are proven Death
eater. The twenty percent captive, Quinton Willinson,
has been in and out of prison since 2018,
having escaped and been recaptured just last
year.

'Finding and recapturing these individuals is
our top priority ,'Head Auror, Harry ceramicist,
said to newsman early this morning. minister
campaigner and school principal Azkaban official, Patricia
Laurentis, refused to annotate on the break-out.
The Auror section has asked all those with
tips to report them to the Ministry via owl
immediately.

Albus sat stunned after reading the article. Three Death eater, Dolores Umbridge, and Quinton Willinson had escaped from Azkaban. How did that happen ? How did five gamy security measures captive just escape with no one stopping them ? It did n't make sense.

"This is not going to make Laurentis look good,"Amanda said quietly.

"Forget Laurentis, this is bad,"Albus said."Very bad. Umbridge is evilness, curve evil. My dad 's got scars on his helping hand from what she did to him when she was a teacher here. And the Carrows, they were teachers, too. They taught wickedness Arts. Not defense, but genuine dark nontextual matter, and how to torture Muggles. Greyback-"

"Greyback bites people, for fun,"matt said, his face pale clean."He 's the one who bit Teddy 's dad."

"The four of them,"Albus began,"the four of them make Quinton Willinson look like a unicorn."

"That 's the uncanny thing,"rose said."The others are in prison house for life for war crimes. Willinson will be in there for a while, but he 'll get password eventually and the only if intellect he 's a high security department prisoner is because he escaped before. So why did he break out with the others ? Why did they let him in on it ? They 're up to something."

Albus had n't even thought of that. Why was Quinton Willinson now connected with war crook who had been in prison since before he was born ? It did n't make sensation. Albus thought about it throughout all his year that day, but did n't number up with any answers.

It was obvious that the Azkaban break-out had unnerved the entire castle. Professors spoke in low whispers when they thought students were n't around, student no longer wandered the palace by themselves, and even Scorpius Malfoy seemed a bit more subdued during dueling practice on Thursday.

All five prisoner still remained at large on Fri, when Ministry officials began arriving for the disputation. Laurentis still had yet to comment on the break-out, which struck Albus as strange. Azkaban was her territory and yet she said zippo on the subject.

"Is it just me or are there even more reporters here than there were last clock time ?"Albus asked.

"It 's not just you,"Amanda said.

Albus, Matt, John, and Amanda were walking back to the castle from precaution of Magical animal. It was dim going since the full synodic month was that night and Matt was exhausted, but luckily the weather was unseasonably lovesome for January. They 'd just been passed by a group of hurried looking newsman coming up from Hogsmeade.

"There 's probably more because of the break-out,"lusterlessness said."Laurentis is going to deliver to finally say something about it tomorrow since the theme is Azkaban."

"Does anyone else think it 's Wyrd that there was a break-out three mean solar day before the Azkaban debate ?"Albus asked.

"I thought of that, too,"Amanda said."Very weird coincidence."

"wellspring, it 'll be adept for your uncle,"John said."Laurentis is going to appear like an idiot, not being able-bodied to keep five high up security prisoner in Azkaban."

Albus nodded. He supposed that was one near thing that came from three Death feeder escaping from Azkaban, not that there was anything unspoiled about it.

"I 'm skipping Charms,"Matt said through a yawning."And Ancient Runes."

"I 'm storm you did n't skip forethought of Magical brute,"John said.

matt shrugged."I felt okay earlier, probably because of the nap I took in History of Magic."

John laughed."I felt much better after my nap in History of magic, too."

"Very funny,"matt said as they reached the rook.

Albus found it increasingly difficult to concentrate on anything for the rest of the day. By the time he went to ancient runic letter he was unable to conceive about anything besides the break-out and the fact that Death eater were now roaming disengage. Deep down he knew he was perfectly secure at Hogwarts, but it was still troubling.

professor Kendrick welcomed the Ministry functionary to Hogwarts at dinner that dark and Albus thought back to the last debate, when Hogwarts had housed the Ministry functionary. He was very glad that this time he would n't be confessing to a buffoonery to his uncle in the Gryffindor common room. Neither John the Divine or Kaden had done their retaliation prank to the Slytherins yet and Albus variety of hoped they would n't.

After a fitful sleep Albus woke early on Saturday morning and contemplated visiting Matt before everyone else woke up, but figured that lustrelessness would be asleep and thus it would be pointless to visit. He 'd call in with everyone else later, after the debate. They 'd have wad of sentence sin there was n't going to be a query and answer session this clock time.

At ten o'clock Albus, rose wine, and Amanda stood in line of merchandise in figurehead of the Great Hall, waiting to be let inside. John had decided not to bother asking if he could take Matt 's place, since he did n't require to pull in any care to the fact that Matt was not there.

"Albus,"Rose whispered, poking him in the face."feel. Malfoy 's here."

Albus glanced over to where blush wine was pointing and saw that Scorpius was in fact waiting in line. He looked sullen and upset again and Albus wished he knew why. It was weird seeing Malfoy, the usually chesty pecker, upset.

"speculation he won the Slytherin speckle,"Albus said.

The doorway to the Great Hall opened and Albus and blush wine said bye-bye to Amanda before they were lead to the movement of the room by a Slytherin prefect. They were seated in the same row they were before, along with the residue of their Hogwarts cousins.

The Great Hall slowly filled up over the next half hour. The rest of Albus 's cousins, aunts, and uncles arrived, taking blot in the front few wrangle. Albus caught Georgia 's eye as she took her rump in the row on the contrary face of the way from him and she gave him a slight grin.

Albus wondered if Laurentis 's campaign manager had actually found anything on Uncle Percy and whether she would say anything during the debate. With the break-out, he hoped she 'd been too busy to dig up a great deal shit or even think about exposing anything.

Albus turned to the presence of the room and watched a very suddenly man accompany Professor Kendrick to the moderator 's podium. He was dressed in Ministry blue robe and had very niggling haircloth on his oral sex.

"Attention, please !"Kendrick shouted. The gang quieted."Thank you. I 'd like to receive all of you to Hogwarts and introduce our moderator for this morning. superior Farleigh, Head of the section of Magical Transportation."

"Thank you, professor,"the shortstop, balding man said."I 'd now like to introduce our candidate, although I am sure you all know them. Mr. Hotspur Weasley and Ms. Patricia Laurentis."

Percy and Laurentis walked into the room from one of the antechambers and took their places at each of the rostrum. Percy looked as confident as always and Laurentis, despite the scandal of the break-out, looked poised and excited.

"Today we will be debating the juridic system, specifically Azkaban prison,"Farleigh announced."The usual rules apply. Five mo line of reasoning, two arcminute rebuttals."

Laurentis inched airless to her podium, as if she was readying herself to pounce on whatever Percy said. Hotspur remained composure and collected, continuing to toy the role of the cool politician.

"Mr. Weasley, you will reply first. Do you feel that the juridical arrangement as a whole is fair to both the accused and victims of criminal offence ? Are the time handed out by the Wizengamot fair ?"

"I believe everyone is able-bodied to get a fair tryout by the Wizengamot,"Walker Percy began."I have reviewed many cases, and while I am not nor do I pretend to be a solicitor, and I feel that the majority of the sentence handed out by the Wizengamot fit the criminal offence. However, there is always a chance that a someone guilty of a crime will go unblock, as there is an equal chance that someone will be wrongfully imprisoned. The juridical system works hard to score indisputable this happens as infrequently as possible and corrects legal injury when they do occur."

"Ms. Laurentis ?"

"I disagree with my opponent,"Laurentis said."near of the condemnation handed out by the Wizengamot are not harsh enough. Ever since the defeat of Voldemort prison sentences have grown shorter, with the exception of those imprisoned for war criminal offence. And one shamed mortal who roams free is too many. If I am elected parson I will work hard to ensure that no guilty people get off. captive belong in Azkaban and the Wizengamot is far too lenient."

"Your rebuttal, Mr. Weasley."

"While a goal of not having any hangdog mass get set rid is suitable, it is unrealistic,"Percy said."The Wizengamot is composed of hag and wizard like you and me. They are not any more sinewy than we are and do not possess the ability to know for certainly that the accused are guilty. mistake happen and while we should work to minimize them, it is very unrealistic to say that we can get rid of them completely. Ms. Laurentis is offering false hope."

"I am not offering false hope,"Laurentis said."There are piece, potions, mode to regain out if people are hangdog that the Wizengamot does not use. If I am elected parson I will approve use of these and they will attend to the Wizengamot in ensuring that no hangdog criminals are set free."

Albus agreed with his uncle. There was no possible way Laurentis could undertake that all criminal would be imprisoned.

"Next question,"Farleigh said."Ms. Laurentis, you will go first. Do you feel the parole system is effective ?"

Laurentis gave a wry grin before beginning."lots like the Wizengamot, the word system is too lenient. I have seen felon guilty of grand thievery get paroled after a mere two years in prison. The statistic are clear, most of these criminals who are paroled early on in their sentences wind up back in Azkaban within a year, whether for breaking the rule of their parole or committing another crime. As Head of Azkaban, I am able to cave in my input of whether a captive is paroled or not, but in the end it is up to the Wizengamot."

"Mr. Weasley."

"As my opposition has said, many criminal are paroled too quickly. However, I do not believe that leaving them in Azkaban yearner is the solution. If I am elected I will create and support a better system for integrating criminal back into gild. Muggles have seen winner with halfway theatre and I feel we should try that in wizarding society."

"Halfway home ?"Laurentis said with raised eyebrows."An intriguing idea. However, Mr. Weasley lacks the experience that I have with dealing with prisoner. most are not fit for guild and many never will be. Even with halfway household they will twine up back in Azkaban. Why spend the money on trying to rehabilitate when it wo n't work ?"

"It 's about giving people a opportunity,"Sir Henry Percy said."Not everyone is a lost causal agency and should be written off so quickly. Many prisoners have made a few bad choices as a resolution of bad childhoods and a bit of renewal will set them straight."

"Thank you, Mr. Weasley,"Farleigh said."Next question. Is Azkaban an allow place to house captive ? Is the adroitness still doing its job ?"

Percy shifted a bit before answering."Azkaban is an allow facility for high security prisoner, but I have always felt that we need a less intimidating building to household our lower security measures captive. Right now all outlaw, from those who committed junior-grade theft or skipped bail to those who have murdered hoi polloi, are all housed in Azkaban. I have been to Azkaban. Despite the fact that it is no longer in ascendancy of the dementors it is still a terrifying and high surety place. It also requires a lot of money for its upkeep. If we were to ramp up a humble building located on the mainland to house miserable security system prisoner, we would be able-bodied to decrease spending at Azkaban itself. We could then increase surety at Azkaban without wasting effort and money on less life-threatening criminals."

"Ms. Laurentis."

"How is building another facility going to hold open money ?"Laurentis asked."Once again you show your ignorance in the judicial system and Azkaban. I believe that Azkaban is doing its job perfectly well. I am in charge of the prison house, including its upkeep and it is in perfect condition. We are not spending an outrageous amount of money on the place. Further, I do not believe that less dangerous criminals deserve a humbled security prison. They are all criminals and if they did not wish to be in Azkaban, they should not receive committed a crime."

"Maintaining Azkaban is expensive,"Percy said."It is also extremely difficult to hire guards because of its location and general feel of the home, not to mention the dangerous felon. If we housed less dangerous criminals in another construction, it would be easy to find guards to work there. We could then use the guards will to guard high school security prisoner only to guard high protection prisoners. We would no longer have to scourge them on depress protection prisoners."

"But we will still have to maintain Azkaban, and then another edifice,"Laurentis pointed out."It just makes far Thomas More sense to go on all criminals in one place and an island is a serious place to do that-"

"Obviously not that effective, given the escape-"

"Mr. Weasley,"Farleigh interrupted."You are speaking out of turn. It is time to impress on to the succeeding query. In light of the Recent Azkaban break-out, what do you feel needs to be done to ensure it does not happen again ?"

Laurentis gazed out over the crew. Albus felt like she was looking directly at him, but assumed she just had that ability to seem to be looking every someone in the eye at once. She then turned to Sir Henry Percy and gave him one of those creepy grinning that seemed to hold become her theme song facial expression. Albus turned to Rose, who raised her eyebrows and shrugged.

"I am well aware that I have remained quietly on the subject of the break-out,"Laurentis began,"and I have done that on purpose. I see that all of the newsperson in the back have their Quik-Quotes Quills poised and ready to write down my every discussion on this national. Surely you 're all hoping to be the first to publish my thoughts.

"You 're probably all assuming I will deny that there is anything wrong with the security at the prison and that the break-out was a mere fluke and it wo n't chance again. I am not going to say either. There is a job and if we do not fix it, it will happen again. Every single one of those turn tail prisoners is highly grievous and if we do not retake them soon, who knows what will happen. When they are captured, we will need to possess better security in station. After all, what is more authoritative that the refuge of our children ? With those five prisoner roaming disembarrass, every person in this room, in this castle, in this country is in danger.

"Fortunately, I have a answer. It is a controversial solvent, but I feel we need to go to extremes to protect our kinsfolk, especially our nipper. That is why if elected minister, the first affair I will do is reinstate the dementors as Azkaban guards."


Sorry about the drop-off hanger ! I did n't want to do it but the chapter was twice as long as they normally are and there really was n't a right place to cleave it. Thanks for all the cover girl reviews !


Albus let out a gasp, as did everyone else in the way. The Great Charles Francis Hall was suddenly in pandemonium. Everyone was whispering and a few people had let out cries of outrage or excitement. Albus could practically take heed the newsperson'quills scratching across roller of lambskin, and Laurentis was grinning again. Percy stood behind his podium, his mouth seeming to be frozen in a encompassing, gawp status. Farleigh was attempting to win order, and failing.

"That is literally mad !"pink wine exclaimed."Reinstate the dementors ? Is she mad ? Is she throwing the election ?"

"I do n't cognise,"Albus said."But she must be mad. Will people actually approve of this ? Will she even be able to do it ?"

rosiness nodded."Whoever she gets to replace herself as top dog of Azkaban will surely want the dementors back, too. Then she 'll approve it as rector and it 'll pass."

"But it would be pudden-head to play them back,"Albus said.

"It would,"rosebush agreed."They 're life-threatening and their allegiance variety so easily. But to be honest, I 'm not sure everyone will feel that way. Not with those captive on the loose."

"Quiet, quiet !"Professor Kendrick shouted. The crowd finally settled down.

"Mr. Weasley, it is your twist to utter,"Farleigh said exasperatingly.

Percy shook his principal to retrieve his equanimity. He 'd lost his sang-froid, calmness, and collected political leader facial expression and now he looked more like he did after arguing with Peach State about her Quidditch career.

"Well, I, er, do not conceive that dementors are the answer to the security measures problems in Azkaban,"Walker Percy said."What we need are more skilled sentry duty in guardianship of high security prisoners as well as a revamp of the spell and enchantments currently keeping captive inside. It will also assist to go over the organisation of the guard agenda because at the time of the escape, only three precaution were maintaining that part of the prison. That was surely an oversight that could have been prevented."

"Human erroneous belief,"Laurentis said."It happens and it will bump again. Can we really risk the lives of our kid in the prospect that another erroneous belief will go on ? Dementors were proven guards who did not reserve prisoners to escape. During their reign in Azkaban, before their allegiance changed, only one mortal managed to escape. Since their removal we have had numerous escapes."

"Clear evidence that we need to revamp prison house security,"Percy said."But dementors are not the solution. They are dangerous creatures and as you said, their allegiance changed. What 's to say that wo n't happen again if, God forbid, another Voldemort were to rise to power ? If anyone offered those dementors a safe peck than we did they 'd have a unscathed prison house of dangerous criminals at their administration to do their bidding. It 's not deserving the risk."

"Another Voldemort is not going to wax to magnate,"Laurentis said with a laugh."We have learned from our history and it wo n't happen again."

"You ca n't insure that,"Percy said."Even if there is a very humble chance of it happening, it is not worth risking having dementors guard Azkaban."

"Mr. Weasley, Ms. Laurentis,"Farleigh said."It is time to proceed on-"

"You are talking about a supposed !"Laurentis exclaimed, throwing her hands up in the air."I am talking about what is happening now ! Five serious criminal have escaped, four of whom were on Voldemort 's side of meat during the war, and are out there, wreaking mayhem as we speak. If the dementors were guarding Azkaban this never would have happened."

"Now look who 's talking hypotheticals !"Walker Percy shouted back, ignoring Farleigh 's vain attempt to get both nominee to check talking."For all we know they would 've escaped anyway !"

Laurentis let out a deep laughter."Five captive escape when the dementors are allied with the Ministry ? That 's laughable. Only one person was able-bodied to do that and it was because he was an Animagus. None of the prisoner are Animagi. We test for that before admitting anyone to the prison."

"Be that as it may, dementors are life-threatening magic animal. Not to mention the ethics of subjecting prisoners to their effects-"

"prisoner have no right wing,"Laurentis said."They give up their rightfield when they commit crimes-"

"Basic human being rightfulness !"Percy exclaimed."There are introductory human right that everyone deserves ! Talk about learning from our history. History tells us what happens when someone believes they are above others. Or do you not commend the reign of Voldemort ?"

"I lost my mother to that war !"Laurentis said."Do n't you differentiate me that I do n't remember it."

Albus was on the edge of his seat. His uncle was so red in the look that he was starting to change by reversal purple and resemble Kaden 's grandpa. Laurentis 's hair was breaking loose from its nasty bun and there was a vein popping out in her brow. Farleigh was still trying to get both candidates to stop talking and failing miserably, while every other individual in the Great Hall sat completely still, staring at Percy and Laurentis.

"secretiveness !"Professor Kendrick shouted in a magically amplified voice.

Both Harry Hotspur and Laurentis immediately quieted. The vena on Laurentis 's forehead continued to shiver, and Percy still looked like an overripe tomato.

"I think we 've run out of time,"Farleigh said, in a vocalization barely more than a squeak."Thank you all for coming."

"scholar, please render to your common elbow room,"Kendrick announced."dejeuner will be in an hr. As a admonisher, there is no question and answer seance today."

The whisper rose up immediately after Kendrick stopped speaking and since everyone was whispering the stochasticity degree rose very high up. Albus, Rose, and Amanda joined the waiting line of people ambling to go forth the Great Hall, and without even talking about it, went immediately to the piranha 's Den, where they found John the Divine and Kaden.

"What the bloody nether region is she trying to do ?"Saint John asked as soon as Albus shut the door.

"She 's lost her mind !"Rose shouted as she began pacing around the room."She has legitimately lost her nous. That 's the only explanation."

"Well there 's no way she 'll win now,"Albus pointed out."Dementors ?"

"It 's a bit convenient, do n't you think ?"Rose asked."This break-out happens and then she announces she wants the dementors back ? It did n't fathom like a plan she 'd just come up with."

"We 've got to incur out if she 's tried to get them back before,"Albus said."If she has it 'll be in the prophesier tomorrow."

"Dementors ..."Kaden murmured."They 're what sucked all the happiness out of us when we were in Australia final year, right ?"

Albus nodded."They 're awful creatures."

"And they used to defend the prison ?"Amanda asked incredulously."That 's just wrong."

"It is,"rosiness said darkly."That 's why after Voldemort they stopped using them as guards. That and all the dementors changed allegiance and let Death feeder escape."

"Would they even come back, though ?"Kaden asked."I mean, if they switched commitment so easily ...."

"They 'll go wherever they 're offered the most humans to feed off of."rose wine shuddered."Voldemort offered them far more than even Azkaban could offer. But right now they do n't have a good rootage. They just travel around, feeding. They 'll ward if given the opportunity."

"Should n't people be against it ?"Amanda asked."It 's so ethically wrong."

"That 's why it was dumb of her to harbinger it,"Albus pointed out.

"She would n't announce anything if she did n't believe it would get her votes,"rosiness said."near masses our parents'age and Old, who lost loved one in the war, will own absolutely no sympathy for decease eater and would n't manage if the dementors were brought back, especially if Laurentis could then guarantee no one would escape."

Albus had n't thought of that and apparently no one else did, either, because the room grew tranquillity. Albus sank onto one of the couches and started counting the number of Bertie Bott 's Every-Flavor Beans that were scattered on the base. He got to twenty-three before anyone said anything.

"I wonder what Malfoy thinks of all this,"John mused."Was n't his dad a decease feeder ? So he should n't want the dementors back in Azkaban, but the way he was talking in the Three Broomsticks a while back made it seem like he 's very against your uncle."

"Of class he 's against my uncle,"Albus said."His altogether family disapproval my whole family and it goes the early way, too. But his dad was never found shamed of his crimes so he never did time in Azkaban."

"Surely his dad 's got booster there,"John said.

Albus shrugged."Probably."To be honest, he did n't really handle what Malfoy thought about Laurentis and Uncle Sir Henry Percy.

"We should go to lunch and then visit lustrelessness,"Rose said."apprehension him up on all this."

Albus had completely forgotten that lusterlessness was still in the hospital annex, in the midst of Laurentis 's announcement. He felt vaguely guilty about it, but at least rose had remembered.

Everyone gathered for lunch in the Great Granville Stanley Hall was talking about Laurentis 's desire to bring back the dementors. Percy, Laurentis, and the Ministry official were still there, having tiffin with the professors at the stave table, and all were deep in discussion. Albus would 've loved to be able to heed in on their conversations, but wearing the Invisibility Cloak in the crowded Great Hall was n't a undecomposed approximation.

"Better get used to the theme of your dad being minister,"one of the seventh years was saying to Bradley."No one 's going to vote for Laurentis now."

Bradley muttered something under his breath that Albus could n't see. Albus took a fundament a few people down from his cousin-german and began to make a sandwich.

"She 's got my whole family 's right to vote now,"one of the former seventh years said."Both of my grandparents were killed by Fenrir Greyback. If the dementors will catch him and continue him in there forever, it 'd make all of us sleep better."

There were a few nods from other sr. educatee sitting nearby. Albus was slightly shocked. If this many scholarly person approved of her melodic theme, a lot of adults probably did, too. And these were one-seventh long time ; they could vote.

"postponement, the dementors find malefactor, too ?"Kaden asked."I thought that 's what Aurors did."

"Only the really awful escaped prisoner,"Albus said."My dad 's Godfather, Sothis, when he escaped, the dementors were given permission to pass him the Dementor 's candy kiss if they caught him."

"What 's the Dementor 's Kiss ?"Amanda asked.

Albus shuddered."It 's where they suck out someone 's soul."

"And they die ?"Amanda asked quietly.

Albus shook his chief."No, they live without a soul. Everyone says it 's uncollectible than dying."

"And they were going to do that to Sirius ?"Kaden replied.

Albus nodded."He was the first-class honours degree to escape Azkaban. He 's the one Laurentis was talking about and at the time everyone thought he murdered thirteen Muggles and gave my grandparents up to Voldemort."

"That 's absolutely horrible !"Amanda exclaimed. She turned to the few sixth and seventh days who had said they 'd vote for Laurentis."How can you wish that on soul ?"

"If your grandparents were murdered by Death feeder you would, too,"one of the girls snapped.

"Albus 's grandparents were murdered by Voldemort and he does n't need the dementors back at Azkaban,"Amanda pointed out.

"wellspring, Voldemort 's dead,"the fille said."Maybe if grayback were short I 'd find differently. But he 's not so I want the dementors back."

"I do n't recall she 's going to recede as easily as we thought,"Amanda said quietly.

"Of course she 's not,"rosiness said."This is probably better for votes than digging up dirt on Uncle Percy."

"It 's absolutely barbaric,"Amanda said, shoving her plate forward."Sucking out someone 's soul ? And they just give suck your happy store out ?"

"Yeah,"Albus answered, thinking back to the previous June. He shuddered."You 're forced to live over your worst memories."

"That 's all you can think about ?"Amanda asked."Just the bad I ?"

Albus nodded."My dad said it makes you go mad after a while."

"Of form it does !"Amanda shouted."That 's just not right ! Are you lot done eating yet ? I ca n't sit here anymore."

Albus was surprise Amanda had had such a strong reaction to the dementors, but he supposed coming from the Muggle earthly concern, where she had n't even sleep with such creatures existed, it would be a bit of a seismic disturbance. He was even more surprised that she 'd nearly gotten into a shouting match with a 7th yr over them, when she was normally so quiet.

"I 'm done,"Rose said.

"Me, too,"Albus said as he got up.

toilet and Kaden each grabbed the remaining halves of their sandwiches and followed the others out of the Great Hall. Amanda lead the way, stomping her feet a bit more forcefully than was necessary.

"It 's just wrong on so many levels !"she said as she led them to the Hospital Wing."It 's straining, honestly. That 's what it is. Emotional distortion. Ca n't they just be killed off or something ?"

"They do n't die,"Rose said."They ca n't. They just sort of ... exist. Once my mum gets word of this, well, she 's not going to stay on quiet."

"And she should n't,"Amanda said."Can she stop Laurentis ?"

"Not if Laurentis is minister,"Rose answered."Right now Mum 's the senior helper of Magical Law Enforcement, so if Laurentis tried to get this to slip away now, my mum could help stop it. But pastor Hartwell would never put something like this through."

"They 're contaminate beast,"Amanda continued."Having them guard anything or anyone is a severe idea."

Albus decided now would not be a good time to evidence Amanda that when his dad was a third year Hogwarts was guarded by dementors.

"A dementor went after my dad once,"Kaden announced as they continued to the Hospital Wing."Albus 's dad saved him with a Patronus. Then he nearly got expelled for doing underage magic in the presence of a Muggle."

"You 're kidding,"Amanda said."God, the Ministry really was screwed up when your parents were at Hogwarts. This is the form of matter Embry should be using as examples."

"I doubt it 's a well-known fact,"Albus said."That the famous Harry Potter nearly got expelled."

"It 's a serious example of injustice,"Amanda said.

"You sound just like my mum,"Rose said."It 's creepy. Does n't she ?"

Albus agreed."You do sound just like her mum."

"Your mum has the right melodic theme,"Amanda said as they reached the hospital Wing.

flatness was the only patient in the ward. The curtains were n't drawn around his bed and he was sitting up and eating a bowl of soup, which was a good star sign. Madam Pomfrey was sitting at her desk, working on charts, and muttering to herself about something.

"Hey, how are you feeling ?"Albus asked when they got to his bed.

"Fine,"Matt said."ternion cracked ribs and a lot of nasty cuts, but I 'm fine. Listen, I heard the argument. Madam Pomfrey had it on on the wireless. How insane is Laurentis ? ! You should hold heard Madam Pomfrey ranting about her earlier."

"You 're not to replicate what you heard,"madam Pomfrey said."But Albus and Rose, you can tell your uncle that he 's got my voter turnout. Always thought he was a small pompous when he was at Hogwarts but at least he 's not dumb enough to utilize dementors as guards of Azkaban."

"Amanda 's on a rampage,"Albus said.

"It 's kind of funny remark,"John added.

"It is not funny !"Amanda exclaimed."It 's serious."

"It 's just that you 're so quiet, but you got into it with that seventh year."

"I did not get into it with a seventh year !"Amanda shouted and turned to matte."John 's exaggerating. She announced that she and her class were all going to vote for Laurentis because her grandparents were killed by Greyback and she wants to make sure as shooting he stays in prison."

lusterlessness toyed with his blanket and did n't meet Amanda 's eye.

"What ?"she asked."Do n't separate me you want the dementors in Azkaban."

"I do n't,"Matt said quickly."It 's not that. It 's the whole Greyback thing, I can class of see where she 's coming from. It 's got to be chilling, knowing he 's out there when he killed her grandparents .... I mean, I guess I 've always been form of lucky. The chap who bit me is in prison and has been since he bit me."

Albus had never heard Matt public lecture about the werewolf who bit him, except for mentioning that he 's in prison.

"He gets out next year,"lustrelessness said quietly."He can get paroled."

"Do you know much about him ?"Albus asked.

"Just his gens and how old he was,"Matt said."My parents know a bit more but they 've never told me and I 've never asked."

"Is the Australian prison house guarded by dementors ?"Amanda asked.

Matt shook his drumhead."No, and it never has been. And I do n't think prison house should be guarded by dementors. But grayback ... he 's scary. He 's uncollectible than Silas Humphrey, that was the bloke who bit me. Humphrey 's flak on me, that was an accident. Reb bit people on purpose. He 'd seize with teeth people and then kindle them in his pack. That 's why he liked going for kids. shift 's dad ... Greyback bit him and tried to get his parents to impart him up. They did n't, of course, but a lot of parents did."

Albus swallowed hard. He had n't known that about Teddy 's dad and was n't even sure if Teddy knew that. Teddy 's dad 's parents died long before Teddy was born and Albus doubted his grannie knew that.

"How 'd you find that out ?"Albus asked.

"When we first moved here Amy learned about Teddy 's dad when she was catching up on Brits History of illusion. She told me all about him and how successful he wound up being just to make me feel better. But then I decided to research other loup-garou and found out about Greyback in one of my dad 's books. It talked about his whole thing with biting kids. It never said teddy 's dad specifically was one of those tiddler but I figured he must 've been."

"That 's horrible,"Albus said quietly. The others nodded.

"He had a whole pack of loup-garou to do his bidding,"Matt said."And now he 's out. What if he wants to do that again ?"

"Bite people and make a ring ?"Albus asked.

flatness nodded."That or detect masses who 've already been bitten."

Albus saw where this was going now."He 's not going to find you. Hogwarts is safe."

"That 's what everyone always says, but the past few years it really has n't. Remember last year ?"

"Technically we were n't in the rook when we got taken to Australia. We were in the Floo. So if we just abide in the castle ..."Albus pointed out.

"It 's still not a guaranty,"Matt said."I wonder how many masses he bit last night."

Albus did n't answer. There was no way of knowing what Fenrir Greyback did during the wide-cut moon, just like there was no way to secure that Hogwarts would be dependable. All Albus and his booster could do was hope that it would be safe and that the escaped demise Eaters would be recaptured soon. Albus still thought having dementors safety Azkaban was an absolutely terrible idea, but after listening to flatness public lecture about Silas Humphrey and Fenrir Greyback, he sort of understood why some multitude might want the dementors back at Azkaban and thus vote for Laurentis. She might even get elected just because of this. And that, when it came down to it, was what scared Albus the most.


A/N : No cliffhanger this clip ! Thanks for all the wonderful reviews ! If you like predator era, please retard out my newest novel, Between Here and Somewhere !


"I guess Laurentis has been trying to get the dementors reinstated in Azkaban for twelvemonth,"Albus said the observe morning at breakfast, as he set down a transcript of the Prophet.

The article on the public debate had been a long one, taking up nearly the total front page. It featured a picture of Percy and Laurentis arguing with each other, and Albus was capable to see his uncle 's brass turning steadily more purpleness, despite the fact that the delineation was in black and white. The article that followed detailed Laurentis 's apparently years-long campaign to get the dementors back. She had put the proposition up for vote four times and it was shot down by parson Hartwell each time.

"Of course he shot it down,"Rose said after skimming the article."It 's a poor fish estimation. Oh, look, they 've quoted my mum. I 'll scan it. 'Hermione Weasley, Senior supporter of Magical Law Enforcement, when asked about Laurentis 's proposal, said, 'It 's absolutely savage. Everybody, including prisoner, have basic human rights that can not be broken. I thought we 'd moved past the twenty-four hour period when the Ministry sanctioned emotional ill-treatment of its prisoner and the view that a woman running for government minister is proposing this is quite candidly horrifying. It is my earnest Bob Hope that the people of wizarding U.K. will think long and hard about the impression this will have, not only on prisoner, but on our gild as well, before they cast their votes in April. ''"

"Always one to speak her mind, your mum,"Albus said.

"I could n't agree more than,"Amanda replied."Although if Laurentis wins I bet she gets sacked."

"She ca n't,"Rose said."Her job is n't appointed solely by the curate. If she were pass of the section, then yes, but she is n't headspring yet. It 's confusing."

"good,"Amanda said."We 'll need some reasonable citizenry in there if Laurentis is elected."

"What are you lot doing today ?"Saint John the Apostle asked, steering the conversation away from the election."Kaden and I are going to spend the day plotting our new prank."

"I do n't want to know,"rose said, holding up her hands."I 'm probably going to go to the library."

"I 'll go with you,"Amanda said."I want to research dementors and their use in Azkaban."

"Quidditch recitation,"Albus replied."All day. We 've got to get ready for the match on Sabbatum against Ravenclaw. After the cobbler's last match, we 've got to wee-wee sure we we win by a decent sum of money of point if we 're going to coup Slytherin 's place for the Cup."

"Oh yeah,"Kaden said."Whatever happened with that Olivia young woman ? She had a huge calf love on James, did n't she ?"

Albus laughed."I 've no idea."

"She sent James a box of chocolates for Christmas,"Cedric, who had been sitting next to Albus, whispered."But you did n't see that from me."

"I was there when he opened his nowadays,"Albus said.

"She gave them to him before we went domicile for the vacation,"Cedric explained."She hijacked our thestral perambulator and scent up riding to the train with us."

"How awkward was that ?"Albus asked, still giggling.

"Very,"Cedric said as he glanced over his shoulder."She stared at him the whole time."

"Creepy,"Albus said.

"Shh,"Cedric said."He 's coming over."

"I think I 'm going to go sojourn lusterlessness before Quidditch practice,"Albus said."I 'll see you later ?"

"Sure,"Rose said."You know where to happen me."

"And us !"John announced."vulture 's Den. frivolity planning."

"I do n't require to be involved,"Albus said as he got up.

John shrugged."Suit yourself."

Albus hurried up to the infirmary Wing and managed to get inside without brothel keeper Pomfrey noticing, although the nursemaid would n't consume minded him being there. But she was very preoccupied with two students who had somehow fused their left arms together. matte was already alive and much gay than he had been the previous day, when talking about knot. He was pretty sure brothel keeper Pomfrey was going to let him out that night, so they agreed to meet in the piranha 's Den just before dinner.

Quidditch recitation went very well and Albus was fairly certain they would pound Ravenclaw on Saturday. No one mentioned the election or Laurentis 's wanting to bestow back the dementors, which was a certain sign that thing were getting back to normal at Hogwarts. Albus spent the rest of the day in the Marauder 's Den working on his homework with Matt while trying to forfend hearing any percentage of John the Evangelist and Kaden 's new prank.

The week went by quickly since Albus spent every instant he was n't in class on the Quidditch pitch. But the weather remained seemly so it was enjoyable. The only day Albus was n't on the pitch was Thursday, when he had dueling drill.

"When 's the next tournament ?"Amanda asked as she and Albus walked into the Transfiguration classroom, where they were were scheduled to praxis. Heather was there to monitor, sitting in a corner. A few of the team penis were there already, including Malfoy.

"Weekend after this one,"Albus said."I think we 'll do well."Albus glanced over to Malfoy, expecting some sort of snarky comeback from him. But he was n't even paying attention. Instead he was hunched over a long piece of parchment."Wonder what he 's doing ?"

Amanda shrugged."cobbler's last instant homework ?"

Suddenly, Malfoy sat up straight and crumpled the slice of sheepskin. He shoved it into his pocket and stood up, staring at Albus as he did so. He looked sour and averted his eyes after only a few seconds.

"I do n't mean that 's homework,"Albus said.

"Weird,"Amanda said.

"Very,"Albus agreed."Let 's get started ! I think we should drill blocking."He took a sidelong glance at Malfoy, expecting him to flout and claim that they already knew how to hinder, but instead Malfoy just turned to the student nearest to him and began to do as Albus said. What was even weirder was that the student he partnered with was a indorse class Hufflepuff. Albus blinked to make sure he was n't seeing things and then began shooting spells at Amanda while she blocked them.

The practice session school term got stranger as the night went on, in terminus of Malfoy 's behavior. Not once did he second supposition what Albus said and he did n't say one tidings to anyone that was n't directly related to dueling. broom raised her brow at Albus on numerous social occasion since she had supervised Albus 's recitation before and knew how much Malfoy usually tried to be the captain. He ran out of the room as soon as the practice was over, looking vaguely upset, as he had at the public debate.

"That was the strange thing ever,"Amanda said as she and Albus walked back to the Gryffindor common room."And I witnessed my brother endeavor to brew a potion this past summer and pledge it, thinking that it would bend him into a wizard."

Albus burst out laughing."Was he really disappointed that he did n't get a Hogwarts missive ?"

Amanda nodded."I never thought he would but did n't tell him that. But do you have any thought why Malfoy did n't debate with you tonight ?"

"I 've no estimate,"Albus said."But I really hope he stays this way."

"I bet it had something to do with whatever he was reading when we walked in."

"I wonder what it was."

Amanda shrugged."No idea, but I wish I did. It 's just so odd."

"Whatever it is, I hope it keeps him like this during next week 's tournament."

"Albus ! What if it 's something really awesome ?"Amanda asked.

Albus had n't thought about that."Well, we do n't cognize that it is, so I do n't make to guess about it."

"Albus, I doubt anything good would get to Malfoy shut up like that,"Amanda reasoned."I 'm just saying, it might be something awful."
***


Gryffindor 's tendency to trifle Quidditch during really bad weather came up in full strength on Sat, when the unseasonably warm temperatures decided to desert Hogwarts. In its place were freezing cold temperatures and a ululation snow storm that probably should have resulted in the match being canceled. But since Hogwarts never canceled Quidditch, Albus was preparing himself for a miserable lucifer. He wished they could have nice weather, like they had when they played Slytherin in November.

The last time Albus had played in a storm this bad he 'd been in his second class and injure up in the hospital offstage with the flu afterward. He certainly did not want a repetition of that so he was hoping that James would catch the sneak Sooner rather than later.

"Fred, this is dotty,"Ryan said as they stood in the doorway of the changing rooms, waiting for the couple to begin."There is literally no way to see the Snitch in this."

"There 's zippo I can do about it,"Fred snapped. Everyone could tell apart he was stressed about this catch, since they 'd lost to Slytherin."We have to play unless Kendrick calls it off."

Ryan was right. Albus stared out onto the rake and all he saw was white. The Charles Percy Snow was swirling and blowing and Albus could n't tell if more Charles Percy Snow was actually falling or if it was all just getting blown around. But either way, finding a snitch in it was going to be almost impossible.

"I 'll arrest it,"James said confidently."Do n't worry."

"We 're not going to be capable to get a line the commentary,"Fred said."Just pick up it as soon as you can. Do n't vex about catching it after we 're up a sure issue of points. We just demand a win at this point."

There was a very pall, still roar of applause and Fred led the team out onto the delivery. The Lucille Ball were released and Albus flew up into the raging storm. Soon, he did n't know which way was up or down, let alone where the Quaffle was. After about ten minutes of meandering around the auction pitch, not knowing where he was going, the Quaffle suddenly appeared. Albus caught it, but had no idea where the goal posts were.

Albus flew straight ahead, hoping it was in the decent instruction, but instead of reaching the goal place, he reached the stands. Groaning, he turned and headed toward the finish office. At least he now knew where they were. He managed to score, mostly because Ravenclaw 's Keeper did n't see him.

The match continued in chaos, with no one knowing where anyone else was. Albus did n't see a exclusive Bludger the whole time and assumed the Beaters were just trying to keep track of them rather than trying to get them to hit the diametrical team 's actor. Fred had been right about the commentary ; Albus could n't hear a word of it.

It felt like he was playing a match by himself. The entirely other players he saw were the Ravenclaw Seeker, Fred, and heather mixture. They had given up chasing as a team and instead, when one of them got the Quaffle, they flew it down to the goal posts as best they could.

"Albus, Albus !"somebody shouted.

Albus turned and squinted, but he could n't ready out anyone flying near him.

"Albus !"

Albus continued flying in a circle trying to figure out who it was. He did n't even recognize their vox, but it could have been distorted by the twist. Finally, he began to micturate out a figure flying toward him. It was Heather.

"Albus !"she shouted once she reached him."The match has been canceled. We 're all to repay to our vulgar way rectify now."

Albus nodded, figuring that Kendrick finally came to his sensory faculty. It was just impossible to play a good plot of Quidditch in a violent storm like this.

When Albus and Calluna vulgaris finally reached the changing elbow room they found the rest of the team sitting in their wet Quidditch gown, their faces pale. Albus noticed that even Heather looked slightly afraid.

"What 's going on ?"Albus asked.

"You were flying so high, you probably did n't discover,"Fred said as Albus sat down."The match was n't canceled because of the weather."

"But it 's so bad out there,"Albus said."That match was pointless."

"One of the Ravenclaw first years,"Fred continued, ignoring Albus,"she was late to the catch and on her way down she saw-"Fred paused, swallowing unvoiced."She saw Fenrir Greyback on the grounds."

"What ?"Albus exclaimed, suddenly feeling nauseous."But it 's so snowy. How could she possibly know for sure ?"

"She ca n't, of path,"Fred said."But she went running to Professor Longbottom as soon as she reached the pitch and told him. That 's when they canceled the match and sent everyone back to the castle."

As if he heard Fred mention his figure, prof Longbottom walked into the changing elbow room, looking scared himself."I 'm going to escort you all back to the usual room. Wands out as we walk."

Albus drew his verge and followed the relief of his teammate out of the changing suite. They were all hushed on the manner of walking back to the castle since the storm was still raging. No one would have been able to see anything anyone said, even if anyone felt like talking. Albus felt too ill to lecture. The mentation of Fenrir Johnny Reb being light was bad enough, after hearing what matte knew about him, but the thought of him being here, on the Hogwarts soil, was too awesome to even conceive about.

As they walked up to the castle and then up to Gryffindor tugboat Albus kept telling himself that it was fully potential that the Ravenclaw young woman had n't seen Fenrir Greyback. She was probably just thinking about the elude prisoners and imagined something. Albus had n't even been able-bodied to name out his own cousin when she 'd been calling his epithet in this tempest. What were the luck of a showtime year being capable to plunk out Fenrir greyback ?

But still ... what if it had been Greyback ? He had to be somewhere, so why not Hogwarts ?

The common room was buzzing with chatter when the team entered a short patch later. Albus avoided everyone, including his friends, until after he went up to his dormitory to use up a shower. He was shivering and felt terribly and did n't want to speak to anyone until after he was in dry apparel.

To his surprise his friend were all gathered in his residence hall after he got out of the shower. Bilius and Ethan were n't there, and the door was shut.

"We ca n't go to the vulture 's Den,"Matt explained."We 're not allowed to will our common suite until further notice."

"Are they doing an investigation ?"Albus asked as he sat down on his bed."And what exactly happened ? Fred only explained a lilliputian before Longbottom came to take us back to the castle."

"It was Weird,"rose said."No one really knew what was happening because it was so snowy and the wind was so loud. We could n't see the catch, so we were just standing there using a lot of heating charm and hoping matter would be over soon. But then we started hearing whisper about Johnny Reb on the grounds. Then, probably two mo later, Kendrick magically amplified his voice and told us all that we 're to report back to our plebeian rooms immediately and to walk back with our wands out and in large radical.

"So then, even though Kendrick never said for certainly, we knew that person had seen Greyback on the undercoat. It was so scarey. Eventually we found out that one of the Ravenclaw first years thought she saw him on her way to the lucifer and told Professor Longbottom. But besides that we do n't fuck much. No one 's told us anything for sure and we 've just been hanging out here and talking."

"But what 's he doing here ?"Kaden asked."And I thought there were Aurors guarding Hogwarts."

"It was planned,"matt said."Do n't you see ? That storm out there is so bad that no one can see three foot in front of them and the wind is so trashy no one can get a line anything either. It was the perfect day for him to purloin onto the grounds, and if that young woman had n't seen him who knows what he would 've done."

"So you think she really saw him ?"Albus asked skeptically."You said it yourself, no one can see anything."

"For all we know he said something to her,"flatness said."No one knows the full write up yet."

"But why ?"Kaden asked."Seems really stupid to me. If he escaped he should be hiding out in the raft, not going to Hogwarts where there are Aurors."

"Remember what I said after he escaped ?"mat asked quietly."This just confirms it. He 's going to try to create his own werewolf U. S. Army again. He was insane before Azkaban ; guess how mad he is now. They do n't need dementors in prison to make masses go insane."

"And you think-"

"That he came to try and enter out how to best position himself to bite kids during the full moon ?"Matt interrupted."Yeah, I do."

Albus shuddered."That 's sick."

"That 's what he does,"Matt said. He looked more distressed than everyone else."But what I do n't get is why it seems like he 's trying for Hogwarts child. Last time he went for really youth kids."

"But we do n't even bang for for certain that 's what he 's up to,"lav pointed out."I mean it makes sense, but we still do n't know."

"Still,"matte said."You have to promise me you wo n't go out of doors during the full moonlight. I do n't require any of you joining me in the Shack."

John looked questioning."There 's other grounds why he could be here."

"Promise me,"mat repeated, staring directly at John."It 's not Worth the risk."

whoremonger shrugged."Yeah, I promise."Everyone else nodded.

"What about the rest of them ?"Amanda asked."Do you think they 're working together ?"

"I do n't cognize,"Albus began."I 'm certainly the Carrows are together and Umbridge might be with them. But I doubt Willinson and Rebel are with them. The Carrows were Death eater, but Greyback was n't technically a Death eater. Voldemort used him, but always thought he was scum because he 's a wolfman. The Carrows probably agreed. And Willinson, he 's got no connexion, which is why I 'm still confused as to why he broke out with them."

"For all we know they left the threshold open and he followed,"John said with a laugh.

Amanda groaned."Everyone 's got their own cell in high security."

"Oh, yeah, I suppose you 're proper,"John said.

"Two Death Eaters, a war criminal, a werewolf, and Willinson,"Albus said."It 's so random. Why them ?"

"Sounds like the start of a jest,"John the Evangelist said."Two Death eater, a war criminal, a lycanthrope, and Willinson walk into a pub ...."

Matt groaned."Do n't even go there. I just really hope they catch him before the future fully Sun Myung Moon. There was n't anything in the prophesier about him biting anyone this last full lunar month, but I do n't think he 'd go two moons without biting. And there 's no way he 'd go on Wolfsbane, even if he could get some."

"I wonder where the others are,"Rose mused."You think they 're just hiding out ?"

"They must be,"Albus said."There have n't been any sightings."

There was a knock on the doorway and then it opened. Saint James walked inside and sat down on the end of Albus 's bed.

"Longbottom just came to verbalize to us,"he said."We 'll be allowed to leave the uncouth room for dinner party, but not before that."

"Did they captivate him ?"Matt asked anxiously.

"No,"King James I said."But, Longbottom said the owner of madam Puddifoot 's also saw him, so the Ravenclaw girl probably did see him. They 've scoured Hogsmeade and there 's no preindication of him, though."

"Are they rescheduling the couple ?"Albus asked.

James IV nodded."Next Saturday. dependable thing, too, because I do n't cerebrate that one would 've ever ended. Do n't tell Fred, but there 's no way I would 've seen the Snitch."

"One upside to Greyback being on the land, I guess,"Albus said.

"Lucky he did n't attack that girlfriend,"Matt said as James left."He attacks people even when he 's not transformed."

"He did that to my uncle visor,"Albus said.

"Really ?"Matt asked.

Albus nodded."At the end of my dad 's 6th year, the dark Dumbledore was killed. He does n't transform, but he likes really rarified meat. Like hardly cooked at all meat."

"Eww !"Kaden exclaimed."That 's egregious. Wait, Matt, do you like really rare pith ?"

Matt grinned."Yeah. I hardly ever get it, though. Mum refuses to let me eat it because she thinks it 'll reach me ill. And they do n't answer it here."

"My uncle eats it all the sentence,"Albus said."auntie Fleur likes her steaks pretty rare, too. So does Teddy for that matter."

"I like mine well done,"Kaden said.

"Now that 's what 's flagrant,"Matt replied."I should ask the house elves to have me rare steak."

"They probably would,"rosiness said."They make you pretty often whatever you want."

"Let 's go tonight,"Matt said."We have n't been down there in ages."

Kaden groaned."So we 're going to have to witness you eating a small-arm of raw meat ?"

"Not raw,"matt said."Slightly cooked, bit of blood dripping out."

"Oh, gross !"Kaden shouted."I 'm going back down to the rough-cut room."

Albus laughed and Matt grinned as Kaden ran out of the room. There was nothing like a misstep to the kitchens to get their nous off of Greyback and the former escaped convicts.


A/N : Sorry for the former update ! I totally forgot it was Friday. Thanks for all the terrific revue ! Please see to it out my Marauders fic, Between Here and Somewhere.


The first year who saw Greyback on the grounds became an instant Hogwarts renown. By the next day her full story had spread throughout the student body like wildfire, and every I someone in the castling knew her figure. She was Quinn Gregory, a petite miss who looked like she belonged in the Weasley clan with her long red hair's-breadth and spray of freckle across her face. Quinn seemed to be enjoying her newfound fame and always had a crowd of people around her, asking her to recount the story.

Albus, himself, had heard the tarradiddle at least five sentence. Quinn had been running to the pitch, late, because she 'd spent a half minute trying to convince one of her roommates to go to the peer, but in the end her roomy had decided she did n't require to brave the storm. Quinn then spotted someone lurking near the greenhouses and went to investigate, but instead of finding another student, she found Fenrir Greyback. Apparently Greyback had said 'hi, fiddling young woman'to Quinn, who then took off running even faster for the Quidditch pitch. Reb then escaped to Hogsmeade and who knows after that.

As the workweek progressed Quinn 's story grew until it ended with her disarming Greyback after a xx minute duel and running to the Quidditch pitch in edict to warn the rest of the scholar, rather than because she was scared. Albus was very happy that, for once, this had n't happened to him or one of his supporter.

"surmisal what I heard today,"Kaden said as he entered the Marauder 's Den Friday evening, after dinner.

"What ?"Albus asked, looking up from the Marauder 's Map, which he 'd drop the stopping point ten transactions studying. privy and mat were in the room as well, Matt studying and lavatory sorting Chocolate Frog cards. rosiness was tutoring Elsie Willinson again and Amanda had gone with her.

"Quinn,"Kaden said as he sat down next to Albus."She 's now saying that greyback stole her sceptre and she got away from him by kicking his kneecaps."

Albus burst out laughing."That 's ludicrous. She 's still got her wand."

"She claims Ollivander 's sent her an exact replica,"Kaden replied.

"But no two wands are the like,"John pointed out."Everyone knows that."

"She 's Muggle-born,"Kaden pointed out."She might not."

"But still,"Albus said."She 's taken it too far. No one 's going to believe her now and it 's all going to die down."

Albus laughed as he looked back at the piranha 's Map. He 'd been checking it, both the Hogsmeade and Hogwarts part, looking for greyback every so often since finish Sabbatum. He 'd yet to find oneself anything remotely interesting on it, least of all grayback or one of the other escaped convicts.

"Scorpius is leaving the castle,"Albus said, noticing the dot labeled 'Scorpius Malfoy'was no longer in the Slytherin vernacular room, but instead slowly making its way across the cause.

"What ?"lusterlessness asked, closing his book."But it 's eight o'clock. And it 's snowing."

"It 's him all right,"Albus said."Come see."

Matt, John, and Kaden all crowded around Albus and they watched Scorpio 's dot locomotion further and further from the castle. There were no former pane on the grounds, except Hagrid 's, and his was remaining stationary behind his hut. It did n't appear that Malfoy was meeting anyone outside, nor did anyone go with him. It was odd, especially in luminousness of his other odd behavior.

"I wonder what he 's up to,"Albus mused.

"We should come him,"John said."See what he 's up to."

"I agree,"Kaden said."No one goes outside at night during a storm for no ground at all. He 's up to something."

"We 'd get caught,"Albus pointed out.

"And it 's freezing,"lusterlessness added.

"We 'll take your invisibility Cloak,"John said.

"I do n't guess we all fit anymore,"Albus said, not taking his name off Malfoy 's dot.

"Then Kaden and I can go,"St. John the Apostle replied.

"No way,"Albus said."It 's my cloak and I do n't want you having it when Filch catches you. He 'll confiscate it."

"Who says we 'll get caught ?"Gospel According to John asked.

Albus laughed and turned to look at John."Of course you 'll get caught. And then my cloak will get taken away and I 'll never see it again and my dad will murder me."

"Your dad 's Harry ceramicist,"St. John said."He 's not going to polish off his own son."

"If he did Laurentis would lie with it."Kaden laughed."I can see the headline now. 'Harry Potter murder Own Son, Clearly Unfit For Duty. Weasley Still Supports Him .'”

"Oh shut it,"Albus muttered.

"Wait,"lusterlessness said, staring at the map."He 's going to the Whomping Willow."

Albus looked back at the map and saw that Matt was right on. Malfoy 's dot was slowing down and circling the tree, giving it a astray berth."What 's he doing ?"

"You do n't think he 's figured it out, do you ?"lusterlessness asked.

"Well now we have to go after him,"John said, standing up.

Matt nodded."Come on, Albus, let us take your cloak."

"amercement,"Albus said, knowing that the battle was lost. Malfoy was at the Whomping Willow, which meant that this was now personal for Matt, and therefore, for all of them."But I still do n't know if we 'll all fit."

Albus walked over to his bed and located the cloak in one of the drawers beneath it. He rarely kept it in his dormitory anymore, since he and his friend spent far more sentence in the Marauder 's Den than they did in the uncouth room.

"Let 's try it,"Albus said as his friend walked over to him. They stood airless and Albus threw the cloak over them.

"half my body is showing,"John said, turning to take care at his still visible arm.

"And all our infantry are showing,"matte pointed out.

"That 's because Albus and bathroom are giant star,"Kaden asked, glancing up at the five column inch of infinite that separated his oral sex from the top of the cloak.

"Both of you are going to have to hunker down,"Matt said.

"But what about the fact that half my organic structure is showing ?"bathroom asked, yanking on the cloak.

"Now I 'm not under it at all,"lusterlessness said, yanking it back.

"I wish we could do disenchantment charms,"Albus muttered."Too bad we do n't study those until seventh year."

"rosiness could probably figure them out,"John the Divine said."We should have her learn them."

"Well we do n't have clip for that now and we 're wasting time arguing. Malfoy could be in the tunnel by now,"mat said.

"There are ward,"Albus pointed out.

"Still ..."Matt muttered.

"fine,"whoremaster said."Albus and flatness can go and Kaden and I will stay here."

"What ?"Kaden shouted."Why 'd you volunteer me to rest ?"

"fountainhead, Albus is n't going to let anyone take the cloak without him going and Matt has to go since Malfoy 's by the Whomping Willow,"John said."That leaves you and me. I do n't think more than than two of us are going to fit."

"Let 's go, then,"matte said, yanking the cloak off of John and Kaden and repositioning it over himself and Albus."See you in a bit."

Albus nearly had to run to continue up with flatness and hold himself crouched down enough to ride out enshroud, and that was saying something since usually Albus was much faster than flatness. The two of them said nothing on their way down to the front door and were n't noticed by any of the students or professors they passed.

"Remember, we 've got to be back before curfew,"Albus said once they shut the front end door."We do n't require to be locked out like back in second year."

"This is total deja vu,"Matt added."Two yr ago we caught Kaden messing with the Whomping willow tree. That 's when Kendrick added the wards."

"But unlike with Kaden, I do n't think we 'll wind up friends with Malfoy after,"Albus pointed out.

The grounds were very quiet, the alone sound being the crunching of their feet in the snow. Albus carefully vanished their footprint as they walked, while mat led them down the path to the Whomping Willow. It was very frigid and snowy, which reminded Albus even More of the time they got locked out of the rook after sneaking into the Shrieking shack.

"Is he even still there ?"flatness asked quietly when they were halfway to the tree.

Albus paused and pulled the Marauder 's Map out of his sac. Scorpius 's dot was still walking methodically in a R-2 around the tree."Yeah, he 's there."

flatness nodded and they continued walking. Neither of them had lit their sceptre, so they slowed down in society to not be hit by the Willow 's orotund branches. Finally they reached it and stood just outside its hitting chain of mountains, waiting for Malfoy to come back around.

The Slytherin boy was wrapped in a thick cloak and pacing with his head always turned toward the tree. He had his wand out and did n't appear to notice that he had been joined by Albus and Matt. Albus glanced at Matt as Malfoy walked past them, unsure of whether to call his aid to their presence. Since they were invisible, they could just stand there and watch out him.

"There 's got to be a way,"Malfoy muttered."Every ward has a weak breaker point. They do n't all final forever."

Albus could now see that Malfoy was sending various hexes and jinxes into the cellblock, but they were all deflecting away. As he rounded the tree once more, a hex bounced off the wards and nearly hit Albus, who had to jump out of the way to void it. His leg slipped out from underneath the cloak in the process, but Malfoy did n't see it.

"It 's got to work on,"Malfoy said."There 's no other way in ...."

"Into where ?"Matt mouthed. Albus shrugged.

They waited for Malfoy to make another circle around the tree and this clock time one of the whammy reflected off the Montgomery Ward and toward matte, who jumped to get out of the way, but tripped over a partially buried Tree root instead. He fell over, yanking the cloak down with him, leaving both himself and Albus exposed. Matt let out a stream of hex and a cry of painful sensation. Albus heard a sickening compaction as he fell and hoped it was the tree root and not lustrelessness 's leg.

"Who 's there ?"Malfoy shouted, aiming his baton at Albus and matt. He lit it and his face visibly paled."What are you two doing here ?"

Albus lit his own wand. Matt was still sitting in the C. P. Snow."I could ask you the Same affair, Malfoy,"Albus said.

Albus pointed his wand at matt and reached down to assist him up. He was clutching his wrist and his font was as pale as Malfoy 's, although for different reasons.

"I said, what are you two doing here ?"Malfoy repeated, not sounding very confident.

"following you,"Albus said simply, thinking money plant would be the dear policy here. After all, all three of them were breaking the convention. Not lots head in denying it or making up excuses.

"How did you know I was here ?"Malfoy asked. His baton arm was now trembling, although Albus did n't cognize if it was from the cold or fear.

"Saw you leave the castle,"Albus said."Figured we 'd see what you were up to."

"What do you want with the Tree ?"matte demanded. His voice sounded pained.

Malfoy 's mouth turned up in a sly grinning."Once again, you just confirmed my suspicions. This tree 's how you get into the scream hovel. I did a little more research, and turns out this thing was planted the Lapplander year the scream Shack was built. The Same twelvemonth Remus Lupin started going to Hogwarts. That shack 's all boarded up so I figured there must be some sort of tunnel leading to it and what better way to veil a tunnel than to put a homicidal tree diagram above it ? hassle is, I ca n't disable the wards. Bet you can, though."

"Why ?"Matt asked. Albus heard him inhale sharply and began to wonder if his carpus was broken."Why do you want to get in there ?"

"Ca n't distinguish you,"Malfoy said.

"Well, I 'm not disabling the wards,"Matt said.

"I 'll count on it out eventually,"Malfoy said.

Albus wanted to ask him about his conduct at dueling practices so badly. They 'd had another praxis the premature day and again, Malfoy had n't said two words to anyone. It was just unusual. Bur Albus figured that even if he asked, Malfoy would n't suffice.

"It 'd be dumb, you know,"matte said."Going into the Shrieking Shack."

"Well I would n't go in on a good moon, changeling,"Malfoy said."Believe it or not this has zip to do with you or your evilness side. I could n't like less that you 're a foul werewolf. I have skillful things-"

Albus jabbed his wand into Malfoy 's thorax, nearly knocking him over in the appendage. His heart was pounding and he could feel estrus rising up in his body."You. Take. That. rachis,"he seethed.

"Albus, do n't,"mat said.

Malfoy scowled."No. I wo n't, because it 's true. I do n't like. It was the whodunit that I liked and naught more. You do n't know the one-half of what 's going on or why I want that Shack. He only uses it one nighttime out of twenty-eight. I want it the other xxvii. I do n't get why that 's such a huge deal."

"What 's going on over there ?"a garish vocalization boomed over the priming."Eh, what 're yeh doing ?"

Albus quickly moved his wand and pointed it elsewhere. It was one thing to get caught on the footing after dark but another to be caught threatening another student. He pointed his wand in the charge of the part and saw Hagrid making his way toward them, his large Newfoundland, Fetch, at his side.

"Albus ?"Hagird asked as he drew nearer."Matt ? What 're yeh doing out here ? And Malfoy ?"

"Er, nothing,"Albus muttered.

"well, yer breaking the rules so I 'm going to have to charter yeh to Longbottom,"Hagrid said and then turned to Malfoy."And you 'll have to see Slughorn."

"infirmary offstage,"Matt said."First."

Hagrid turned to lusterlessness and looked at his wrist."O'trend,"he said."What did yeh do ?"

"Tripped over a root,"Matt said."Landed on a rock."

Hagrid nodded and clapped Matt on the spine, a motion clearly meant to comfort him but instead nearly knocked him over again. After he recovered they set off for the castle, walking next to Hagrid. Malfoy followed at a unretentive space. Hagrid did n't ask them what they were doing by the Whomping willow again, although Albus had a feeling he probably knew. After all, he knew why the tree was there and the fact that Matt was a werewolf.

The castle was much emptier when they returned than when they had left. Albus only saw a few prefects doing their rung and realized that curfew must have passed. So much for not getting in trouble.

Hagrid walked them to the hospital wing and left Albus and Matt there while he then escorted Malfoy to Slughorn 's study. Malfoy had remained pipe down during the entire walk, but lost the sneer he 'd worn when he insulted Matt.

"I thought you lot had grown out of this,"Madam Pomfrey said as she examined Matt 's articulatio radiocarpea."This sneaking about in the dead of nighttime, following people. At least you did n't get locked out this sentence.

"Yes, your wrist joint is definitely broken. But I can mend it quickly."

Madam Pomfrey took her scepter out of her robe and pointed it at Matt 's radiocarpal joint. She muttered a patch and instantly, his wrist was healed.

"Thanks,"Matt said, bending his wrist.

"You 're welcome,"the nanny replied. She hurried over to a cabinet and returned with a chalice of potion."Take this for the pain and you 'll be estimable as new. No need to persist the night. I know you stay here enough as it is. You 're to look here until prof Longbottom comes to collect you."

flatness nodded and downed the potion in one large draft. Albus sat down next to him on the bed and they waited for Longbottom. Albus did n't think Hagrid had seen him with his verge pointed at Malfoy, so his punishment should n't be too bad.

"You do n't think he 'll make you overlook Quidditch tomorrow, do you ?"Matt asked.

Albus had n't thought of that."I hope not. Fred would stamp out me."

The doorway to the ward opened and professor Longbottom walked inside. He looked threadbare and slightly annoyed. He sighed and shook his head when he saw Albus and Matt.

"You two again ?"he asked."Hagrid said you were on the soil after curfew ?"

"Yes, sir,"Albus replied. He always felt uncanny calling Professor Longbottom 'sir', but figured it could n't anguish in this situation.

"Should I bother asking why ?"Longbottom replied.

Albus shook his foreland, knowing that telling Longbottom why would n't get them any fewer detentions, nor would it stop Malfoy from trying to figure out how to get into the screeching Shack.

"I 'll make this well-fixed, then,"Longbottom said."Ten points from Gryffindor, each. And you 'll both serve detention tomorrow, immediately following the Quidditch match. Lines, in my office. I 'll see you then."Longbottom turned to leave alone. He nodded to Madam Pomfrey as he walked to the door."dependable Night, Poppy."

"good night, Neville,"madam Pomfrey said.

Albus and Matt said safe night to the nurse and then left the ward, both automatically going back to the common way rather than the Marauder 's Den. If they were caught outside of Gryffindor pillar twice in one Nox they 'd get a a lot worse penalization than twenty lost level and a hold. Albus thought they 'd gotten off gentle, to be honest. He wondered what Slughorn had set for Malfoy.

John, Kaden, blush wine, and Amanda were waiting for them when they got back. John and Kaden were smirking.

"Do n't say a Holy Scripture,"Albus muttered."I knew whoever followed him would get caught."

"Figured you did, seeing as you 've been gone for over an hour,"John the Evangelist said."What 's your punishment ?"

"hold tomorrow after Quidditch and we each lost ten pointedness,"Albus said.

"You got off easy,"Kaden replied."If it had been me and trick we would 've gotten three detentions."

"I think Longbottom took pity on us because Matt broke his wrist while we were out there,"Albus said.

can laughed."Of course he did."

"Shut it,"lusterlessness said."It really wound. I was dodging a curse that Malfoy sent to the willow tree that reflected off the wards."

"Did you find anything utile out ?"Rose asked."Not that I approve of this."

Albus and Matt explained what had happened, including the contribution where Malfoy insulted matte and Albus nearly hexed him.

"Very odd,"rosebush mused."What can he possibly want the Shack for ? And what did he mean when he said he had other clobber going on ? What other stuff could he possibly have going on besides school ?"

"Whatever he 's got going on with Willinson ?"Saint John suggested."Surely Felix knows what his cousins are up to and Malfoy 's always involved with that."

Albus shrugged."Maybe. But why would he need the Shack ?"

"Who knows,"John said.

"I bet it 's got something to do with that letter of the alphabet,"Amanda said."And why he 's acting so strangely lately."

"Speaking of acting strangely, Elsie Willinson is still acting weird,"Rose said."I thought she would 've adjusted by now, but she has n't. She does n't appear to have any friends."

"Energy Department her brother still pick her up from tutoring ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah,"rose wine replied."It 's very odd. I asked her if she wanted to fall out with me and Amanda until curfew, but she said she could n't. So I said maybe another time and she said probably not."

"That 's odd,"John the Evangelist said."Clearly they 're up to something."

"They 're always up to something,"Albus pointed out."I 'd love to have intercourse what it is, though. I wonder if they 've been in impinging with Quinton."

"They 'd be stupefied to be,"rosebush said."Kendrick did n't punish Felix for what happened to Kaden two years ago, telling him if he did it again he 'd get expelled."

"I still say you 've got to figure out what 's up with Elsie,"St. John said.

"I 'm trying,"rose insisted."It 's not as well-off as you 'd think. She hardly negotiation at all."

"Just keep trying,"John said.

"team !"Fred suddenly shouted from across the common room."Off to bed, all of you ! We 've got a second chance at this and let 's not break it by staying up all night."

Albus did n't fence. Turning in early on was a good musical theme and he was actually quite fag out after his excursion to the Whomping Willow. He bade serious dark to his friends and went up to his quiet, empty dormitory. It did n't take him long to hang asleep and he dreamt of playing Quidditch with Malfoy while the two of them dodged the Whomping willow tree on brooms.


A/N : Thanks for all the reviews ! I am doing clique NaNoWriMo again this month ( probably not a good idea ... ), and I 'm writing this for it, so hopefully I 'll finish it !



The weather for the rematch was vastly different from the previous Sat 's weather. The sky seemed to be all out of Snow and the sun was shining. Although it was still bitterly cold-blooded, there was little wind. Albus hoped the match would be a farsighted one since as soon as it was over, he had to serve detention with prof Longbottom.

Albus went down to the Great student residence by himself for breakfast. His early on night had given way to him waking up far sooner than he normally did. It was nice being able to hang around over breakfast, though, and concentrate on the upcoming match rather than interact with his friends. As he ate, the Great Hall slowly filled. He had just finished the last of his ball when the situation owls arrived.

Albus observed the owls and did n't recognize any of them. Clearly he was not receiving any berth today, which was a skillful affair because he was fairly certain Longbottom had owled his parents about his custody. But then he noticed a very prominent owl holding a red gasbag in its sass ; it was a howler and the owl was heading toward the Slytherin mesa. Albus continued watching it and saw it land right in front line of Scorpius, who yanked the envelope off the owl 's leg and tripped over the bench in his hastiness to exit the room. Albus actually sympathized with him ; it was painful opening a scream in populace. From the audio of it, Malfoy did n't quite get to it to a loo or empty classroom. Muffled shouting could be heard coming from the entree Hall.

Malfoy did n't retort to the Great student residence. Albus figured it must throw been a particularly awful howler and was wondering what it could possibly have said when his friends sat down next to him.

"Malfoy got a thigh-slapper,"John said as he started loading his scale with bacon.

"I know,"Albus said."Saw him get it."

"fountainhead, we heard the tail end of it,"John said.

"It was awful,"Rose replied.

"What did it say ?"Albus asked."Who was it from ?"

"His dad, I 'm guessing,"lav said."It was a man 's articulation. We crouched down on the stairs when we saw him. Basically his dad was yelling at him for getting in trouble for unintelligent affair when he should be studying and concentrating on his school work and keeping his head down. Then he said something about how Malfoy knows that they, meaning his parents, have far more important matter on their minds than worrying about Malfoy getting in worry in school. And how they ca n't worry about him at school when they 're busy worrying about former things."

"That 's vague,"Albus said."He did n't say what the other things were ?"

"Nope,"John said."But Malfoy obviously knows what they are because he was shaking and he ran for the dungeon after the howler blew up."

"I told you the alphabetic character he read at practice was about something bad,"Amanda said.

"And now we know it 's got something to do with his family,"Albus said.

"Maybe they 're going to join up with Willinson and the Carrows and all them,"Matt said."His dad was a demise Eater, was n't he ?"

"Sort of,"Albus said."His grandfather was, but his dad kind of got caught up in it and he got off. So did his grandfather, actually. No one really knows why, but my dad vouched for them at their hearing."

"Now that is unearthly,"Matt said."Maybe his grandpa is planning on joining them."

Albus shrugged."Maybe, but it just does n't go right. Listen, I 've got to get to the pitch. I 'll see you after."

"Yeah, for custody,"Matt muttered."Going to be a blast."

Albus 's wish for a foresightful friction match came true. Since the weather condition was cooperating, James put off catching the sneaker until Gryffindor was up by 200 breaker point, instead focusing his campaign on faking dives to hold Ravenclaw 's quester away from the stoolpigeon. It worked, and three and a one-half hours later Epistle of James caught the Snitch and won the match for Gryffindor. Albus was sorely disappointed that he 'd have to overlook the resulting company in the common elbow room, but figured that 's what Longbottom was going for when he scheduled detention for right after the match.

Matt was waiting for Albus in the Great Hall and the two of them grabbed a straightaway lunch before hurrying to Longbottom 's office. They spent the next two minute writing'I will not lift out of the castle after nighttime'over and over again. By the prison term they were done Albus wanted to curl up and take a nap, since the Quidditch match itself had exhausted him. He and Matt decided to pass the afternoon in the Marauder 's Den, just relaxing if not actually sleeping.

When they arrived they found John and Kaden in the midsection of plotting their new put-on. Rose and Amanda were in the library, apparently avoiding privy and Kaden and their prank.

"Are you two sure you do n't desire to be involved with this ?"John asked."It 's going to be legendary."

"It wo n't be worth the hold,"Albus said.

"Seriously,"Matt agreed."If it 's legendary it 's going to stand for a lot of detentions."

"Fine,"John said.

John and Kaden lowered their voices, but Albus distinctly heard the word of honor 'Weasleys '', 'itching powder ,''Slytherins ,'and 'alarm clocks .'At that decimal point, he really did n't require to get it on. He and Matt decided to get a game of chess and attempted to tune out can and Kaden 's whispering.

"I was thinking the early Nox and realized if my dad loses his job when Laurentis is elected it 's going to be just like Australia,"Matt said as he captured one of Albus 's pawns.

"I had n't thought of that,"Albus said."Does that mean you 'd travel again ?"

"I do n't know,"Matt said quietly."I really hope not. I guess I do n't think so because the real number cause we moved here was so I could go to schoolhouse, not for Dad to get a new job."

"Then you probably wo n't,"Albus replied, taking one of flatness 's bishops.

"But if he does miss it, it 's going to probably think of Laurentis disagrees with him on werewolf issues,"mat pointed out."That could be really bad."

"You never know,"Albus said."There 's other things your dad mint with that they might disagree on."

"But my dad 's the most vocal on werewolf right wing. Everyone knows that,"Matt said."If they 're going to disagree on something, that 's going to be it."

"I guess you 'll own to await until the debate,"Albus said.

"I 'm thinking of going,"matte said quietly."It might be horrific, but I want to make out what she says firsthand, not from the Prophet."

"That makes sense,"Albus said."When is it ?"

"In three workweek,"lustrelessness said."Feb 15th. That 's the solely thing ; it 's the day of the Hogsmeade trip."

"That happened final stage Hogsmeade weekend,"Albus said,"when Rose went. Sucks that they do that."

Matt nodded."I think I 'll go anyway. I mean, it is the Valentine 's Hogsmeade trip. speechmaking of that, is James still going out with that Hufflepuff young lady ? I forgot her name."

"Gabby Ellis,"Albus said."I 've no theme, to be reliable. I guess we 'll find out when the Hogsmeade misstep comes."

"Just as long as Fred does n't schedule Quidditch recitation for that day again,"matte pointed out.

Albus laughed."He wo n't. None of us minded too much since the weather was so dainty, but I think if he did it again the whole squad would hate him."

"That would puddle an awkward family dinner party, considering over half the squad are your cousins,"matte said.

"syndicate dinners with my home have become awkward by definition,"Albus said."Luckily the next one wo n't be until far after the election."

"Only a piddling over two months to go,"lustrelessness said."You can draw it."

"I hope so,"Albus replied, as he moved his fairy in the direct stock of Matt 's magnate."Checkmate."
***


"Rufus Scrimgeour was the last Minister of Magic to be appointed by the Wizengamot,"Professor Embry said as he strolled around his schoolroom. It was the firstly calendar week of February and the course of instruction had finally gotten to the point where they were beginning to talk about the second war."He was appointed quickly, after Cornelius Fudge resigned.

"Minister Fudge is commonly known as the to the lowest degree competent Minister ever to hold position,"Embry continued."He refused to believe evidence that was laid out plainly in front end of him, for fear of being known as the government minister who held office when Voldemort returned. Somehow, he thought that if he ignored what was right in front of him, it would just simply go away. This backfired, of course, because he is now known for being the least competent Minister.

"Scrimgeour is seen in a slightly well light than Fudge, although he was minister of religion when the Ministry fell to Voldemort in August of 1997 ...."

Albus knew all of this, of path. He 'd grown up listening to his parents jape at the incompetency of Fudge and the pointlessness of Scrimgeour being considered a minister at all. Nevertheless, he listened to Embry and took detailed note since the essays Embry set were often long and hard.

"The meter of the arcsecond war was a time of care and topsy-turvyness,"Embry said as he reached the front of the elbow room again."No one knew what was going on or who to believe. Many people heartily believed Fudge and what he said, believing Albus Dumbledore to be a dupery or even doddery. When this reality was shattered for them in June of of 1996, they did n't lie with what to do or who to flex to, or even what to believe. They 'd been fooled for a wide year, believing what their Ministry and newspaper told them. Now that they knew they 'd been lied to for a class, what were they to do ? They did n't trust anyone, let alone the Ministry. Most people 's goals were to protect their kinfolk and ally and that was it.

"It was the fear and topsy-turvyness that allowed Voldemort and his following to take control of the Ministry. Without the support of wizarding U.K., the Ministry was imperfect and susceptible to a putsch. It was simple for Voldemort to slip in and takeover in a matter of weeks."

"exculpation me, Professor ?"Olivia Price said, raising her hand.

"Yes, Miss Price ?"Embry replied."You have a interrogative ?"

"Yes, sir,"Olivia replied."I was just wondering, and you do n't have to serve, but what were you doing during the second war ?"

If Embry was surprised that Olivia asked him a question about his personal sprightliness, he did n't show it. Instead he gave a slight smile and began to walk around the schoolroom again.

"I do n't take care answering that,"Embry said."Many of your parents were involved with the war travail, so of course you 're curious. When the Ministry fell I 'd been working there for about six years. I got a job as an undersecretary in the Department of Magical expatriation when I was just out of Hogwarts and worked my way up the ranks.

"I 'd welcome a forwarding shortly before Minister Fudge resigned and worked to enlist Pentateuch, but I quit after Scrimgeour got appointed because I saw that the Ministry was weak and defile and no longer wished to line up myself with it. After Voldemort 's defeat, I was approached by Kingsley Shacklebolt asking if I would like to be involved with rebuilding the Ministry, and I said yes."

Albus was impress. Embry had n't mentioned what form of job he did at the Ministry and Albus had had no idea he had been so involved with its rebuilding after the war.

"So you can see why I believe it is so important to train all of you about the chronicle of the Ministry and how it is organized now,"Embry finished."tone like we 're out of meter for today so please write an eight inch essay on Rufus Scrimgeour 's term as Minister for homework, due next Tuesday."

Albus packed up his bag and headed back up to Gryffindor tugboat with his friends. When they arrived, there was a bunch around the bill plug-in, which was unusual. The Hogsmeade weekend date had already been announced and rarely did other observance garner such a crowd around the card board.

Albus shrugged at his friends and they squeezed through the crowd until they could read it. It was a turgid poster, covering the bulk of the board, imposing an former curfew Lord's Day Nox. Everyone, first through seventh years, were to be back inside the castle by five in the even, no exception. Below that it warned that Filch was going to shut up the front doors at exactly five and that everyone was to describe to their vernacular elbow room at five-thirty.

"That 's weird,"Albus said as he and his protagonist retreated."I do n't retrieve they 've ever imposed a curfew so early before, and for everyone ?"

"It 's because Greyback has n't been caught,"matte said quietly."Sun 's the good moon."

"They must think he 's going to come back,"Albus replied.

"Scary,"whoremaster added."Do you really think he will ?"

"I do n't bang,"Matt said."But I 'd bet my parents'solid Gringotts vault that he 's going to seize with teeth someone Lord's Day night."

"delay,"blush wine said."You do n't usually go to the Shrieking Shack until six or seven."

"They 're probably doing it early just to be rubber,"Matt said."In type some people do n't follow it or something. It says on there that the prefects are going to do a forefront count. That 's why we all have to come back to the common room at five-thirty."

rosiness nodded."Then you 'll have to exit later, after the doors are locked."

"Either that or Madam Pomfrey will have me go betimes,"lusterlessness replied."I really hope not, though. I hate sitting out in the screech Shack."

"I hope not, too,"Albus said quietly.

Albus and his ally were probably the lonesome bookman who knew the reasonableness why a curfew had been imposed on Sunday. Even the prefects seemed clueless, since Albus overheard a few of them trying to figure it out. More than a few students were angry about it, although Albus had no idea why since it was n't mutual for students to admit a stroll on the yard on a Sunday night in February. He supposed they liked the choice, though.

As Sunday drew skinny lusterlessness became quieter and even more closed off than he normally was. In fact, it reminded Albus a lot of the way he was in first of all year, before Rose figured out why he disappeared once a calendar month. Both Albus and Rose tried to get him to give up about it, but he shrugged them off and insisted he was o.k.. trick and Kaden did n't look to notice any difference in Matt, and Amanda was n't one to ask about it when he closed himself off.

Saturday 's Dueling tourney proved uneventful. Albus spent the entire few hour worrying about flatness because he had elected to hop-skip the tournament in order to sleep, which was odd since he 'd normally at to the lowest degree try to participate. At least Malfoy made Albus 's life easy by remaining quiet throughout the tournament and not blaming Albus when the team came in third topographic point. Albus himself won both of his affaire d'honneur, as did Malfoy.

On Sunday Albus and his friends spent the day in the Marauder 's Den, working on homework and playing games. Matt slept for much of the day and he still was n't saying anything. While Albus was worried, he was fairly certain the ground matte was so quieten was Greyback. When a quarter to five rolled around, they had to render to Gryffindor to leaven they were in the castle. lusterlessness was still deceased, so Albus told everyone else go to on ahead and that they 'd follow.

"matt,"Albus whispered as he shook his booster awake."We 've got to go back to the common room."

"This is dazed,"Matt muttered."They 're counting everyone to make sure no one gets attacked by a werewolf when they 've got one life in the castle."

"Is that why you 've been so hush this week ?"Albus asked as matte got up. He did n't respond."You and knot are n't the same."

"I know,"Matt said as they left the room. The corridor was void, so he continued to spill the beans."It 's just the fact that we 're both werewolf. That 's the same. What if they start doing this curfew thing every broad moon, all because of me ?"

"They wo n't,"Albus said."You 're not dangerous because you 're in the screech Shack. It 's all certain up."

"I guess, but it 's still possible."

"You and Greyback are different because he wants to seize with teeth people. He purposely transforms near people, not on wolfbane, so he can taint people. You hide yourself away to protect everyone. That 's a immense difference."

"But what if he does come to Hogsmeade,"lustrelessness continued."He 'll pick up me howling and know there 's a wolfman in the Shrieking hutch and he 'll try to get in."

"But he wo n't be able to,"Albus pointed out.

"And then if he does bite someone, and let 's look it, he will,"lustrelessness said."It 's going to see bad for all werewolves. All it 'll take is a few attacks and the great unwashed will start up believing we should have our rights taken away. That 's what happened in Australia."

"You 're getting ahead of yourself,"Albus said as they reached the green elbow room."Right now you do n't know that any of that 's going to happen. Wandering banshee."

"You 're nearly late,"the Fat noblewoman said as she swung her portrayal open.

Albus and Matt climbed inside and found the common room the most crowded they 'd ever seen it. Prefects were milling about attempting to get everyone to quiet down, but everyone was still trying to figure out why such an early curfew had been set. The room was so crowded that Albus and lusterlessness could n't encounter the rest of their protagonist and since being in a crowded room was not the advantageously idea for lustrelessness right before the full moon, they quit searching and instead sat down near the dormitory doors.

"Everyone, tranquility, delight !"Calluna vulgaris announced in a magically amplified voice. The room finally quieted down."I know you 're all upset about the curfew but they have n't even told us prefects why it 's been imposed. It 's not that big a pile since it 's February, dark, and freezing outside. None of you would be outside anyway. Now just remain placid while we take roll so we can all get downstairs for dinner party. After we 're done you 'll be allowed to drift the castle until your normal curfew."

Heather began calling out name calling in alphabetical order by year. It took her 15 or so hour to get to the fourth years and after that Albus tuned her out. fifteen minute of arc after that she finished and all the Gryffindors had been accounted for. The park room emptied out quickly, since everyone wanted to get to the Great Hall for dinner. matte had fallen asleep and after Albus prodded him awake, he went up to the hall to sleep until he had to go to the hospital wing.

When Albus and his protagonist returned from dinner party matte had already left for the infirmary wing. They decided to just stick around the usual elbow room since it was fairly empty and spent the evening working on their essays for prof Embry.

"Any chance you lot know why we 're stuck inside ?"James asked as he snagged the last chairperson at Albus 's table."Cedric, Ben, and I are asking everyone."

Albus exchanged a glance with rosebush. He supposed it could n't injure to assure James the reason why, just so long as he did n't evidence him why they knew. Of course of study, as soon as he told James it would go around around the castling like Draco pox at a wizarding nursery school, but again, that would n't really smart anything.

"We 've got a hunch,"Albus said."Remember how Quinn Ugo Buoncompagni saw Greyback on the grounds during the Quidditch match ?"

"Yeah,"King James I said.

"Well, tonight 's a full moon,"Albus said."Put it together."

St. James was still for a instant and then his eyes grew big."You think Kendrick thinks he 's going to occur here tonight ?"

"That 's our surmisal,"Albus said and his acquaintance nodded.

"brand mother wit,"James said."Can you think what kind of trouble Kendrick would be in if someone got bitten by a wolfman on the priming ?"

Albus did n't need to think about it. He doubted Matt wanted a associate in the screaming shack.

"Scary,"James said,"thinking about greyback transformed while wandering around the grounds. I wonder why they did n't just tell us. No one would be angry about it if they 'd secern us the reason."

"Probably did n't desire anyone to panic,"Albus said.

"Guess so,"William James agreed."But still, everyone 's going to roll in the hay now."He grinned and then got up to go detect Ben and Cedric. The fact that the curfew was due to greyback would be common knowledge in the castle within ten proceedings, Albus guessed.

Albus managed to finish his essay and decided to call it a dark shortly after. He did n't find like talking, not with the possibility that greyback was either running around the Hogwarts grounds or setting himself on some unsuspicious village, wanting to infect small child with lycanthropy. It was frightful to think about. Albus laid awake for hours, trying not to intend about it, but try as he might, he just could not push the persuasion from his thinker.


It was a rarefied social function that Albus witnessed the sun rise. Being fourteen-years-old, Albus preferred to catch some Z's until the very late morning or ahead of time afternoon, but this particular forenoon he was up before the sun. He had n't slept much that night due to his worries about Fenrir greyback and Matt, and decided that it was pointless to try and slumber when he 'd just have to be up in an hour anyway.

Albus sat at the windowpane and watched as the sun slowly rose over the horizon. The dry land looked peaceful, and not at all like the lieu where a werewolf could 've been roaming just a few minute before. The moon had set and both Matt and greyback would be back in their human forms by now. Whatever had happened was over now and there was nothing anyone could do to change it. Albus wondered just how farseeing it would fill for the Prophet to release some variety of article on any attacks Greyback might 've been the cause of.

Bilius and Ethan awoke before john did and busied themselves with talking of the Balycastle and Kenmare peer that had taken place Saturday, completely unworried about Greyback. Albus was n't surprised since neither of them had any variety of personal connection with the escaped loup-garou. But they at least lie with that the previous nighttime had been a full moon, since James had spread that information around the castle.

John finally rose shortly after Bilius and Ethan left for breakfast. Albus was relieved since they could now speak freely.

"What time is it ?"bathroom asked as soon as he sat up."Have we got time to chatter Matt before Herbology ?"

"Just after eight, so not really,"Albus said."And there 's no pointedness in visiting him now as he 's probably unconscious or sleeping. The moon just set two hours ago."

"Yeah, but he might know something,"bathroom said as he closed the hangings on his bed while he dressed."He might 've heard Greyback last night."

"He never remembers anything about full moons,"Albus pointed out.

"It 's still worth a shot,"St. John replied.

Albus thought it would be variety of pointless, but they did n't birth time before Herbology anyway. After privy finished, the two hurried out of the residence hall and down to the Great mansion house for a agile breakfast before socio-economic class. pink wine, Amanda, and Kaden were already there.

"Anything in the Prophet ?"Albus asked as he grabbed a stack of toast.

rosebush shook her read/write head and swallowed her Bacon before answering."No. Absolutely nothing, but that does n't mean much. It could just be too soon for decent details to own emerged."

"fountainhead, we 've got a free period this afternoon, so we can go ask Matt,"bathroom said.

"I told you that he 's not going to know anything,"Albus reminded him.

John shrugged."You never know."

The rest of the scholarly person dead body seemed to have already forgotten about the early curfew and the total moon. Albus did n't pick up anyone discussing it on his way to Herbology or at lunch later that day. Since there had n't been anything in the composition about an attack, it was old news for the Hogwarts pupil. Everyone that is, except for Albus, John, rosebush, and Amanda.

Albus, John, and Amanda were still discussing it on their way to Care of Magical tool that good afternoon. When they arrived they found Hagrid surrounded by John Cage filled with humble, black, fluffy creatures.

"'ello !"Hagrid shouted."I 've got nifflers for yeh today. Can anyone tell me what makes nifflers alone ?"

Albus raised his hand.

"Albus,"Hagrid said.

Albus grinned."Nifflers find treasure. They like shiny things."

"Tha 's right,"Hagrid said."So if you 've got picket or jewelry on, take it off. I 've buried a incumbrance of leprechaun atomic number 79 and your job for today will be to use the nifflers to find it. Everyone pair off and then total get a niffler. Whichever pair finds the most gold gets a coterie of chocolate Frogs."

There was a stir as everyone hurried to use up off their jewelry and find a niffler that looked like it would be a particularly gem hunter. Albus took off his watch, shoved it into his pocket, and followed St. John and Amanda over to the nifflers. With flatness in the hospital wing, Albus was without a partner and decided to just conjoin John and Amanda.

St. John the Apostle grabbed the niffler with the long snout and held the end of the lead while they followed it around the grounds. Every so often the niffler would give up and dig through the blow, revealing a diminished nap of coins. Albus collected them and shoved them into a bag Hagrid had provided.

The total procedure was rather hold. Albus enjoyed watching not only his niffler, but the rest of the family 's nifflers as well. They were adorable, risible creatures. At one power point, Janie Creevey and Karina Jordan-Bell 's niffler managed to whiff out a set of scales in Bilius 's bag resulting in all three of them playing tug-of-war with the niffler.

"Why 's he got his scales in there anyway ?"St. John asked as they watched."We have n't got potions today."

Albus shrugged."No idea."

"Albus, John, looking !"Amanda shouted, pointing toward the castle.

Albus turned around and saw two figures walking toward Hagrid 's hut. It took a few indorsement, but he soon realized that he knew both of them. One Albus recognized as a young Auror from his dad 's department. His name was Cardinal Newman and he 'd been one of the Aurors to help when Kaden was kidnapped two years ago. The mo man was none early than Matt 's dad.

"What 's matt 's dad doing here ?"can asked.

"Yeah, and who 's that early fella ?"Amanda asked.

"He 's an Auror,"Albus said."But why are they here ?"

The two wizard walked past Albus, whoremaster, and Amanda without making any sorting of eye contact, acting as if they 'd never seen them before. By now, the eternal rest of the form was looking at them strangely. Matt 's dad and Paul Newman kept walking until they reached Hagrid, and they began speaking with him in low voices.

"C'mon,"Albus said as he began walking toward Hagrid.

John tugged the niffler 's tip and he and Amanda followed Albus. Albus stopped once they were within earshot, hiding behind a George Walker Bush. Gospel According to John and Amanda crouched down on either side of meat of him.

"I s'ppose I did hear some funny noises las'night,"Hagrid said."More'n usual, that is. Always queer racket from the forest. A bit more howling than normal las'night, coming from Hogsmeade. Could 've been a werewolf, but I don'know for sure."

"And did you see anything roaming the basis ?"Matt 's dad asked. His voice sounded serious.

"No,"Hagrid said."Wasn'outdoors late. What 's this about ? greyback ?"

matte 's dad and Paul Newman glanced at each other."Yes,"Matt 's dad said."We have reason to believe knot was in the orbit last night and we 're looking for anyone who might 've seen something."

Hagrid shuddered."care I could help yeh. But yeh get it on, that howling from Hogsmeade could 've just been-"

"Yes, I know,"Mr. Eckerton cut him off, with a quick glance at Newman."We 've had study of more vicious, louder howling. Howling that seems to modify location."

"Oh !"Hagrid exclaimed."Yeah, well, again, wishing I could help oneself. I 'll pay a bit to a greater extent attention next full moon."

"We 'd apprize it,"Mr. Eckerton said."Thanks for your time."

Matt 's dad and Newman turned and left, without a arcsecond coup d'oeil at Hagrid or the class. The remainder of the course of instruction had retentive since returned to their nifflers and all had old bag of Au far gravid than Albus, John, and Amanda 's. But Albus no longer cared about winning the burnt umber Frogs. It seemed that something did happen last night, but nobody knew exactly what.

At the end of the course of instruction, Albus, can, and Amanda came in dead last for amount of money of coins collected. Hagrid seemed disappointed, but said that their niffler must 've just been tired. After returning it to its cage, the three hurried back to the castle, anxious to stow their cup of tea and go sojourn mat.

"If Greyback is n't on wolf's bane should n't he be easy to find after the full lunation ?"Saint John asked as they walked to the hospital wing."Would n't he be injured ?"

"Not necessarily,"Albus said quietly."matt only bites and attacks himself because he has nothing else to aggress. If knot 's out roaming the countryside, he can attack animals and people."

"But what about the actual transformation ?"John the Divine replied."Even loup-garou on Wolfsbane are achy the next day because of that, right ?"

"I think so, yeah, but I bet if you 're being chased by Aurors that 's the last thing on your creative thinker,"Albus pointed out."I 'm not sure enough. matt would probably know."

matte was the merely patient in the hospital wing and Madam Pomfrey was busy in her study, so Albus and his friends were disembarrass to discourse whatever they pleased. Albus was happy to see that Matt was awake, although he did front slightly unsettled.

"Was there anything in the Prophet ?"Matt asked as soon as Albus, St. John the Apostle, and Amanda had taken seats on his bed."And I 'm fine, so do n't rile asking."

"Er, no,"Albus said."Why ?"

"Last dark was weird,"Matt said.

"Told you he 'd hump something,"John said to Albus.

"But I do n't,"lusterlessness replied."It was just unearthly. I do n't eff how else to describe it."

"What happened ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't sleep together,"Matt said quietly as he pulled his work force out from under the blankets. They were completely bandaged."looking at. My manpower are the only region of me that 's injured. I mean, I ache all over from the shift, but I did n't bite myself at all last night."

Albus looked at the bandages."But your hands. You did n't bite them ? Then why are they bandaged ?"

"Splinters,"matte said."dame Pomfrey thinks I spent the nighttime scratching at the door and trying to get out. I 've never done that before. I never remember anything from when I 'm the skirt chaser, but I do sometimes remember tone. Like if the wolf was really wild or something. Last night it was heroic, although I have no approximation what for. I guess to get external, if Madam Pomfrey is right."

"And your wolfy self has n't done that before ?"Albus asked.

"No,"lustrelessness shook his head."I 've been transforming in the Shrieking Shack for three and a half years and the beast has never done that before."

"I 'll order you something weirder,"John said."Your dad was here earlier."

"What ?"flatness exclaimed."When ?"

"Just now,"John said."During Care of Magical Creatures, he and some Auror came to peach to Hagrid. We listened in-"

"Of course,"Matt cut in.

"Your dad and the Auror, they were asking Hagrid if he 'd seen or heard anything weird finis night. Hagrid said he did n't see anything, but he thought he heard more noise than common from Hogsmeade. Then he said that it may have just been you, but your dad cut him off, probably because of the Auror. Then your dad said that there had been account of more savage howling than usual."

"They definitely think that Greyback was in Hogsmeade last night,"Albus said.

"What would 've happened if you got out ?"Amanda asked.

"Out of the Shack ?"Matt asked."Nothing good. But now he knows that I was there. He 'll go along coming back until he 's captured. I wo n't actually be able to escape from the Shack. The wards are too good."

The door to the ward flew open and Matt 's dad came striding inside, still looking as serious as he had earlier. After a promptly glance around the room, he strode over to Matt 's bed.

"Dad,"Matt said.

"You do n't look surprised to see me,"Mr. Eckerton replied as he gave his son a hug."How are you feeling ?"

"I 'm all right wing,"mat said with a shrug."Albus, St. John the Apostle, and Amanda saw you talking to Hagrid. fountainhead, they heard you, too. Where 's the Auror ?"

Mr. Eckerton let out a shortstop laugh and then turned to Albus."I saw you in the President Bush. succeeding time you 're trying to hide, do n't hide with a niffler. They 're ill-famed giveaways. Yours was trying to sniff out Newman 's scoop watch."

"I missed nifflers ?"Matt asked, clearly disappointed.

"Yeah,"Albus said."I bet Hagrid would let you see one after you 're better, though."

"I need to speak with you about last night, matt,"Mr. Eckerton said quietly."In private, perhaps ?"

lusterlessness shook his head."I already told them about last dark, so they might as well stay."

"All right,"Mr. Eckerton said."I need you to try and think of if you heard or saw anything unknown concluding nighttime. I know you never remember anything, but try."

lusterlessness held up his bandage workforce."madam Pomfrey thinks I tried to get out of the hutch survive night. That never happens. Whatever was outside kept the wolf occupied all night. I did n't attack myself."

Mr. Eckerton 's optic grew large and Albus noticed that the serious flavour had dissipated. It was replaced with a look Albus had seen quite often on his own male parent. It was a father 's shock and vexation.

matt explained the rest, including the function about the wolf feeling desperate. Mr. Eckerton seemed to contemplate this for a few minutes before sighing and shaking his head.

"What 's going on, Dad ?"Matt asked.

Mr. Eckerton sighed once more."I suppose it could n't hurt to tell you. It 'll be in the vaticinator tomorrow anyway. Two children were attacked in Little Shingleton stopping point Nox. It 's a town about five Swedish mile away, on the other English of that mountain next to Hogsmeade. We 've been trying to figure out whether it was Greyback or not, since he left immediately after biting them."

"Were they Muggles ?"flatness asked.

"No,"Mr. Eckerton said."Which makes me believe that this was a carefully planned attack. Little Shingleton is a Muggle village, with these two youngster and their parents being the lone enchantress and whiz in the surface area. It 's too coincidental. And why attack both children ? nigh werewolves take off immediately after biting soul, their instinct telling them to get as far away as potential, as quickly as possible."

"And did they ... survive ?"Matt replied.

"They 're both in stable condition at St. Mungo 's. Once their bites heal, they 'll be fine, save for the fact that they now have lycanthropy. The bites were clean and minor, not convention werewolf bites. These bites were inflicted just to infect. Another sign toward Greyback."

"But what about Hogsmeade ?"Albus asked.

"Little Phoebe miles is not an unacceptable journeying for a werewolf in a nighttime,"Mr. Eckerton explained."nearly probable Calidris canutus heard lustrelessness 's ululation last night and followed the sound. Once there, he probably spent the sleep of the dark attempting to get inside the Shrieking hutch, which is impossible."

"So you really think it was him ?"Matt asked.

"I do, and Auror Newman agrees with me. I left him in Kendrick 's field of study, after telling him I needed to visit you since we were already here. But what you 've told me just solidifies it."

"But ca n't you just go get him ?"Saint John the Apostle asked."He ca n't be that far. No offense, matte, but if you were outside you would n't get very far."

"None taken."

"The affair that makes lycnathropy so unmanageable to study, and also most probable the grounds why Wolfsbane does n't work for all werewolves, is that each person 's lycanthropy is vastly different from others. Its effects depend a lot upon a person 's position toward their own lycanthropy. Fenrir Greyback has spent his lifetime embracing his lycnathropy and livelihood for that one night a calendar month where his true nature emerges. He embraces his wolf side so practically that he even attacks people when the moon is not full.

"You, Matt, on the other hand, identify most with your human slope. As you should, considering you 're only a savage one night out of XXVIII. Therefore, you resist the translation. You fight it with your every fiber, every month. Limnodromus griseus embraces it, and probably tilt a lot easier than you do. His translation most likely do not cause him the like pain."

"I guess that makes sensory faculty,"lusterlessness said.

"But still,"lavatory said."They should be combing the forest for him."

Mr. Eckerton chuckled."They are. trustingness me. They have the integral werewolf Control Unit searching for him, along with six Aurors, and a fistful of junior and trainee Aurors. They do n't normally dispatch Aurors to get scallywag werewolves, as that 's usually the loup-garou Control Unit 's job. And it 's not usually my job to enquire wolfman tone-beginning. But this is a high profile case, so they want many people on it, including people in direction. We 'll get him."

Albus wondered if teddy bear was on the instance. He was a Junior Auror now. Knowing Teddy, he 'd desire to be on the pillowcase since Greyback had turned his dad into a werewolf.

"I 've got to get back to the Ministry and fill out a composition,"Mr. Eckerton said as he stood up from his chair."If you think of anything else, Matt, ask to use Professor Longbottom 's Floo. Owls are easily intercepted."

Matt said bye to his dad and soon the boy and Amanda were alone in the hospital wing once more. Albus did n't know what to say. Fenrir Reb, it seemed, was up to his old tricks and somehow matte had gotten involved.
***


Fenrir Greyback 's attack on the two children took the all front page of the oracle the conform to break of the day. The stallion Great Hall was talking about it, professors, scholarly person, and ghosts. written matter of the newspaper were being passed faster than phonograph record of bacon. Albus managed to snag a copy from his cousin Ben.

FENRIR Reb ATTACKS IN LITTLE SHINGLETON

Fenrir Greyback, escaped convict and werewolf,
was sighted last Night in Little Shingleton,
Scotland. Little Shingleton is nearly an
entirely Muggle village, preserve for one
wizarding family. The kinsperson, whose
gens have not been released due to the
Underage lycanthrope trade protection Law,
suffered an extreme point tragedy last night,
when Fenrir Greyback attacked both of
their shaver. Both children are
reportedly in horse barn condition at St.
Mungo 's.

An investigation, organized by both the
Auror department and the department for
the Regulation and ascendence of Magical
Creatures, headed by fountainhead of that department,
Bruno Walter Eckerton, concluded tardy yesterday.
'We 've interviewed several eyewitnesses
who saw or learn a loup-garou in Hogsmeade
during the full moon. Hogsmeade is only
about five miles from Little Shingleton .'
detective said that numerous early
clues led them to conceive that the onset
was by Fenrir knot, despite not having
actually seen him in Little Shingleton.
'We are not gear up to unwrap all contingent
of the probe. But we are confident
that this was an plan of attack by Johnny. A team
of Aurors and wolfman ascendence Unit employees
are working around the clock to capture
Greyback .'

The article was followed by a review of Rebel and the crime that had landed him in Azkaban in the initiatory spot, along with a tight photograph of him. Even in his human configuration he looked rather wolf-like, which was such a drastic contrast compared to Matt, who did n't resemble a wolf at all, carry through for his eyes. Albus glanced up from the clause and his eyes fell on Matt 's. They had a yellowish tint to them, with flecks of Au amidst their lifelike amobarbital sodium color. They were indeed the merely wolf-like trait he possessed when the moon was n't full.

"This is why people want stern werewolf ascendance laws,"Matt said quietly.

"evening those could n't experience stopped this,"Albus pointed out.

"People wo n't think about that. All they 'll think about is how their tyke are n't safety, and they 're redress. It 's just dirty timing. Laurentis is going to use this to her advantage."

Albus wanted to ensure Matt that everything would be all decently, that Laurentis would n't blow everything out of proportion, but he could n't. He knew that lusterlessness was aright, that Laurentis would once again use a terrible tragedy to draw more keep from the wizarding world. If his uncle Walker Percy was going to stand a chance against her, he was going to have got to drastically change his campaign strategy.


A/N : So I just realized that I uploaded the wrong chapter final stage Friday. This is the real chapter 25 and the one I uploaded last Friday is chapter 26. Sorry about that !


The thing about werewolf attempt was that they were only able-bodied to go on once a month. There was absolutely no fortune of a lycanthrope onrush during the residuum of the month, so it was easily for the Hogwarts students to soon forget about Fenrir Greyback, or at least button him into the furthermost nook of their idea. After the initial article about Limnodromus griseus 's attack on the two young children, the paper returned to its usual election coverage, although both nominee were being very quiet about the onset. Neither Percy nor Laurentis made a statement, which did n't surprise Albus. The public debate on regularization of magical creatures was scheduled for Saturday, so both prospect would relieve oneself financial statement then. There had been a few editorials in the composition written by masses pushing for stricter werewolf laws, but that had been it.

Sabbatum was also the day of the next Hogsmeade tripper, and this gave the Hogwarts students a much needed distraction from the extraneous humankind. Word spread amongst Albus 's cousins that James IV was once again taking Gabby Ellis to Hogsmeade, and quite a few of his early cousins had date as well. Albus himself did not, and was planning on spending the day with John, Kaden, Rose, and Amanda. Matt had arranged to attend to the debate with his dad, and would lose the trip.

"Are you sure you want to go to this argument ?"Albus asked Matt as they played chess game in the Marauder 's Den.

"What ?"Matt asked, turning to Albus. He 'd been staring at the bulwark under the guise of taking his turn for the by five minutes.

"You were zoning out,"Albus said."I asked if you 're sure you want to go to that debate Saturday."

lustrelessness had seemed distracted all workweek and whether it was from Greyback being so near during his transformation or the upcoming debate, Albus did n't know.

"Yeah, I 'm sure enough,"matte said."I 'd rather hear it straight from her than understand it in the Prophet."

"What about your dad ?"Albus asked."Is he going to mouth out against her if she wants stern law ?"

Matt shrugged."I do n't know. That did n't work too well in Australia."

The doorway to the Den burst unfold and Saint John the Apostle and Kaden came barging in, both wearing identical grinning. It was slightly uncanny, how similar they looked.

"We 've finished,"Saint John announced.

"Finished what ?"Albus asked. He was slightly worried. It was never a good sign when John and Kaden were that felicitous about something.

"Our harlequinade,"Kaden answered."We 've finished planning. We 're not quite sure when to do it, though."

"Yeah, any suggestions ?"trick asked."Or are you two still being all prefecty on us ?"

Albus burst out laughing and turned to Matt, who smirked."Prefecty ?"Albus repeated.

"Yeah,"John said."Everyone knows it 'll be one of you who makes prefect succeeding year. And you 're getting started early by not liking our pranks."

"We just do n't want detention again,"flatness explained."Honestly, I could n't care less if you prank the Slytherins. Malfoy 's a git. Prank him all you want."

"Are you sure you do n't desire to know what it 's going to be ?"St. John asked.

"No,"Albus said.

"Not a luck,"lusterlessness said.

John shrugged."All right. But when should we do it ?"

"Let 's just wait and see when the time feels right,"Kaden suggested."It 's not, er ... time-sensitive ...."

lav and Kaden burst out laughing."Sure,"John said."Not time-sensitive at all."

Albus and lustrelessness exchanged a glimpse.

"We could tell you why that was so funny,"Saint John the Apostle said.

"Or you could just expect and see like the rest of the castle,"Kaden added.

"We 'll waitress,"Albus said. He was curious about it, but not singular enough to possibly twine up with another hebdomad 's detention.

Whatever the prank was, John and Kaden did n't implement it before the next day. Saturday brought blasphemous skies and bitterly frigidity temperatures and Albus put on two Weasley sweater in preparedness for walking around Hogsmeade.

Matt left early on for the debate, Flooing from Professor Longbottom 's survey. Albus and John Lackland slept late and met Kaden, Rose, and Amanda in the Great Hall for a fast lunch before setting off for Hogsmeade.

The Feb Hogsmeade trip-up was always an interesting one. The village became filled with offspring twosome either snogging passionately in front of the shops or staring awkwardly at each early across a table in the Three broomstick or Madam Puddifoot 's. Having never been on a date before in his living, Albus found it really funny to watch. John and Kaden found it amusing as well, but rose and Amanda seemed to stare wistfully at the couple and did n't find them at all funny.

"Where to first ?"Albus asked.

"Not gentlewoman Puddifoot 's,"John said immediately, grimacing as a few love-struck couples headed toward the place.

"I plan on never setting fundament in there,"Kaden said."I do n't handle how many girls ask me to go there with them."

John laughed."You 'd receive to get a girl to like you first."

"Shut up,"Kaden said."Let 's just go get some Butterbeer."

The rest of the radical agreed and they were soon crowded around one of the just vacuous table in the three Broomsticks. Albus was hoping to hitch a coup d'oeil of James I because despite the fact that James had been out with Gabby Ellis before, Albus could n't get over the fact that his brother was going out on particular date. It was just weird.

After finishing their Butterbeer, the group went to Honeyduke 's and Weasleys'in rescript to stock up on Skiving Snackboxes and burnt umber toad frog. By then it was nearly dinner party time and they decided to call it a day. The wind was picking up and none of them fancied being caught in a storm.

"Albus !"John shouted just as they were setting off on the path back to the castle.

"What ?"Albus asked, turning to see what John was pointing at.

"James and Gabby Ellis,"St. John the Apostle said.

Albus squinted and just made out his blood brother, leaning against the outside of Honeyduke 's, his mouth attached to Gabby Ellis 's. They were so unaired that they almost looked like one person.

"Oh my God,"Albus said quietly.

"That is disgusting,"Rose added."I could 've gone my entire life without seeing person snog James."

King John and Kaden were both laughing."Looks like they 're enjoying it,"John Lackland said.

"Oh gross !"Albus exclaimed as he turned back to the way of life."Let 's go."

"I think it 's safe to say they 're together,"Amanda said as they walked back.

"What she could possibly see in Saint James the Apostle ..."rosebush muttered.

"Well, he does run Quidditch,"Amanda pointed out.

"So do over half my first cousin,"Rose said."So does Albus."

"Can we change the topic ?"Albus asked."Please. C'mon, let 's rush up. I bet flatness 's back from the debate."

That seemed to get his friends'minds off of St. James the Apostle 's romantic lifetime. Albus himself wanted to put the paradigm of his blood brother kissing soul out of his mind forever. At least she was a Hufflepuff and he 'd never deliver to see them kissing in the common way. If he did he may have to spend all of his time in the Marauder 's Den.

dinner had n't started yet when they arrived at the castle, so the group decided to go find Matt first. They found him right where Albus figured he 'd be, in the Marauder 's Den. Albus was slightly nervous about what had happened at the debate, but Matt was sitting on the couch casually reading his Charms book, seeming hardly upset at all.

"How was Hogsmeade ?"flatness asked as he set his book down.

"Disgusting,"Albus said as he sat down next to matt. lav, Rose, and Amanda pulled up chairs.

matt raised his eyebrows."Disgusting ?"

"We saw William James snogging his new girlfriend,"rosebush said with a shudder."corporate trust me, there 's nothing pleasant about seeing the boy you remember eating a mud pie kissing a girl while pressed up against Honeyduke's."

Matt laughed."I have n't got any cousins, so I 'll take your word for it."

"Consider yourself lucky,"Albus muttered."But what happened at the disputation ?"

"It was n't as bad as I thought it would be,"Matt said."fountainhead, OK, parts of it were n't as bad as I thought they 'd be. It was at the Ministry, in one of those motor hotel rooms in the cellar. Mostly it was people who work at the Ministry there, but there were some former citizenry there, too, because the room was so big.

"I 'm not trusted how much you know about the section for the Regulation and mastery of Magical beast, but every creature is divided into one of three categories. being, liquor, and Beasts. flavour are spook and poltergeists and boggarts. beingness are creatures that are n't human, but have human intelligence. Beasts are everything else. The bloke who was running the debate started by asking Percy and Laurentis how they feel about the rights given to Beings. You know, goblins, house-elves, Centaur, those sorts of brute. They did n't have much to argue about that because neither of them think any of those animate being should have their right wing taken away. And Rose 's mum has worked so arduous to get them right.

"Then they moved on to the life partitioning and there was n't a lot controversy with that, either, since there 's not a lot that can be done about purport. They 're just sort of there. Ghosts do n't harm anyone and poltergeists it all depends on the particular poltergeist. Laurentis brought up the subject of Peeves, which was odd, but Percy did n't seem to have an opinion on Peeves."

Albus had n't expected lots tilt with the organism division. There had been a lot of argument cover and forth about the right of organism back when his parents had been in school and his aunt Hermione had dedicated her body of work aliveness toward giving rights to organism, especially house-elves. Over the long time she 'd done a very upright job with it and had n't met a good deal opposition. As for the disembodied spirit section, Albus did n't intend there had ever been often controversy there. Ghosts were just wraith. They pretty much did as they pleased.

flatness paused."Then there was the wolf air division. Throughout account both wolfman and vampires have sometimes been in the Being naval division and sometimes been in the wildcat division. classification in the Beast part is the intellect why werewolves have been stripped of their rights and how the Ministry can get away with it. If they 're not seen as being, then legally, they do n't birth to be given the Saame rights as homo. It 's a technicality, really.

"A farseeing fourth dimension ago werewolf were in the Being class, but they got reclassified in the 1950s, after a Brobdingnagian werewolf approach on an entire town. It was ugly. But ever since then, no one has wanted to separate them as beingness again. My dad has been an advocate for classification as existence ever since he started in Australia.

"The affair about classification is that, for the almost part, Ministries all over the world have to hold. That 's why reclassification is such a time-consuming and hard thing to do. individual has to bring it up and coordinate dialogue between countries and it requires a lot of effort. When Voldemort came to power no one in Britain had the metre or energy to put toward the reclassification of lycanthrope. Not to mention they could n't dispense with the multitude to put the meter into it. Since the brutal plan of attack in the 50s happened in England, the other countries have n't wanted to touch the idea. Although I 'd play that Australia would put up a upright fight if it was ever brought up again.

"So, basically, my dad has been trying to do this for historic period, but he does n't induce the support. Even Minister Hartwell has n't wanted to meet it since it 's such a controversial issue and he does n't make much time left."

"Wow,"Albus said."Binns did n't instruct us any of that in story of Magic."

"And he probably wo n't,"Matt said."It 's not a well-known issue since almost masses probably do n't manage to put in the effort to reclassify werewolves. The only people who 'd want to are werewolves."

"That 's frightful,"Amanda said."But what happened at the debate ?"

"The sorcerer in kick of the argumentation dodged the question of Greyback for a while, asking questions about other creatures like thestrals and dementors and the ilk. But he finally brought up the topic of Greyback and Laurentis basically said that it was n't a matter of werewolf restraint natural law, but a matter of Azkaban security-"

"Well, that 's good,"Albus said. He would n't suffer expected that of Laurentis.

"variety of,"flatness replied."I have n't finished. Anyway, your uncle agreed with her, but he of course said that putting the dementors back would be stupid. Laurentis said that if the dementors had been there then Greyback would n't have escaped and those kids would 've been rubber. Then they started arguing about Azkaban and dementors again. But the bloke in charge cut them off.

"Then he finally brought up the fact that my dad 's been pushing for the reclassification of werewolves as beingness for twelvemonth and how he 's got the support of Rose 's mum and asked what their opinion of it was."

"But if my mum was able to help house-elves and hob, then why could n't she do it for werewolves at the like time ?"pink wine asked.

"House-elves and hob have always been classified as beingness,"Matt explained."They were being denied right wing that they technically already had. It was just a affair of reworking the laws and enforcing them properly. None of the wolfman right field law of nature can be changed unless their classification is changed-"

"But that 's just stupid,"privy said.

Matt shrugged."It is, but there 's cypher anyone can do about it."

"fountainhead, what did Laurentis say ?"Albus asked.

"Laurentis said that reclassifying werewolves as Beings would render the stream wolfman control condition police unenforceable and that it would give the Ministry far lupus erythematosus control over lycanthrope. Which is on-key,"Matt said."Not that it would be a bad thing."

"Of course of action not,"Albus agreed.

"Then she said that if werewolves were currently classified as being it would make it difficult to even catch Greyback and prosecute him for what he 's done, which is n't lawful at all. My dad was turning purple at this point. She really knows nothing about the way his section works."

"What about Uncle Hotspur ?"Rose asked.

matte did n't say anything for a full minute."He was n't as bad as Laurentis, but well, your uncle does n't want to transfer anything. I 'm sure you 've noticed that he says everything 's fine the way it is and we do n't need to change anything, whether it 's Azkaban or Hogwarts. He thought the Saame about werewolves."

"What do you mean ?"Albus asked."He thinks that-"

lustrelessness averted his gaze, looking at Kaden rather than Albus and rose wine."He thinks that 'putting energy into reclassifying werewolves as organism would be a pitiful idea, given the other egress facing the corking wizarding community .'And that is a direct quote. I ca n't ever forget that."

Albus wished he was surprised. He really did. But the fact remained that Uncle Percy did n't like to stir the caldron, so to speak. If things were working the way they were, he would n't deepen them. He 'd rather hold on matter the same then speak out openly either for or against anything, if it would cost him support or votes.

"Then he went on to explain,"Matt continued."He said that werewolf compartmentalization does n't move a large number of witches and wizards and that it 's very complicated and would take a lot of feat, which is true. But it 's like he did n't think it was worth it, just because it would n't affect a lot of people."

"It does n't surprise me,"rose wine said quietly."The election is so soon. I do n't think he 's going to say anything too controversial."

"Honestly, it was almost worse than Laurentis,"Matt said, turning back to Albus and Rose."Sorry. I know he 's your uncle-"

"Do n't apologize,"Albus said, suddenly glad he was n't of age and would n't have to choose between the two candidate.

"It 's like he does n't even have a strong belief on it. He does n't want to have a strong legal opinion on it,"Matt added."Laurentis at to the lowest degree has a reason. Your uncle does n't even induce that. Honestly, Albus, I 've no idea who my parents will vote for now. Lapp with Amy."

"I do n't know who I 'd vote for now,"Albus said quietly.

"But either way, I do n't remember werewolves will get reclassified,"Matt replied."nothing will happen without support of the British parson at this point."

"That 's just not fair,"Amanda said."What exactly does the law say now ? What are you not allowed to do ?"

lustrelessness averted his gaze once more. This was another topic that flatness had n't ever spoke of before and Albus had n't dared ask.

"fountainhead, technically,"Matt began,"I 'm not allowed to be at Hogwarts."

"What ?"Albus shouted. The residue of his Quaker let out exchangeable exclamations of shock.

"But Teddy 's dad-"pink wine began.

"Not legal,"Matt said."Dumbledore frequently broke the law and that was no different. Professor Kendrick follows the law a bit more but he liked the idea of allowing me to hang. It 's form of murky, to be honest. It 's in the law that werewolves can not hang Hogwarts, but at the same time, Hogwarts schoolmaster have fill out restraint over who they admit. So as long as it 's kept quiet-"

"But what about Malfoy ?"Rose asked."If he were to let it slip-"

"Then Kendrick would rout him,"Matt explained."And he 'd be allowed to, since it would be detrimental to another scholarly person 's Education Department for him to let out my experimental condition. I told you ; it 's very murky."

"What else ?"Amanda asked.

"The respite has mostly to do with employment,"Matt said."well, that and the Ministry is allowed to keep werewolves for questioning about full moon attacks without actually arresting them. Werewolves as prisoners have virtually no rights.

"But anyway, employment. I 'm legally obligated to inform any voltage employers of my condition. If werewolves were classified as Beings, that would n't be required, because lycanthropy would be seen as a medical condition and employment can not be terminated based on a someone 's medical exam conditions."

"That is the most puzzling thing in the world,"Albus said. His psyche was spinning."How do you keep all that straight ?"

flatness shrugged."It 's my life. That 's the other matter, Albus, your uncle really has no idea how things are run in the department for the Regulation and Control of Magical fauna. He 's not really qualified to say what gist the reclassification would have on everything. Because, honestly, it would only affect werewolves."

"That seems obvious,"Albus said.

"So someone can not hire you just because you 're a wolfman ?"Amanda asked incredulously.

Matt nodded."Does n't even count if they 're on Wolfsbane or not, either."

"What will you do after Hogwarts ?"Amanda asked.

"No idea,"lustrelessness said."I 'm trying not to think about that. But this whole pretence to be rule affair that I 'm doing at Hogwarts ? It 's temporary worker. That 's all there is to it."

No one quite knew what to say after that. Albus certainly did n't. He wished more than anything that his uncle would stick out the reclassification of werewolves as organism, despite the fact that it might turn a loss him a few voter turnout. It might even cost him a few not to take spoken up, because now, Matt 's parents and Amy might not vote for him. But this had such a gravid effect than just the election. matt was right ; this was his life, and Uncle Percy and Laurentis were just seeing it as a way to drum up More suffrage. Maybe Uncle Harry Hotspur was n't the correct man for the job, after all. But Laurentis certainly was n't, and since no one else was running, what would happen after the election ?


A/N : Thanks for all the awesome review article !


The disputation on the rule and Control of Magical Creatures did not appear to be a hot subject of discussion amongst the Hogwarts educatee. Unlike the debate on education, this detail disputation did not relate directly to Hogwarts scholarly person, and thus there was n't much discussion beyond a few opinions at breakfast the side by side day. The article on the public debate was much Sir Thomas More tame than the former articles, most likely because Hotspur and Laurentis had n't disagreed on the topic. In fact, the clause mostly focused on the dementor issue.

Albus and his booster kept confining watch on the Prophet in vitrine there were any updates on the escaped captive, but the rest of February passed without any sightings or captures. It was form of strange since the prisoner had to cause been hiding out somewhere. Yet they 'd been loose for nearly two calendar month and the entirely one who had been sighted was knot. Willinson, Umbridge, and the Carrows were nowhere, it seemed.

In the meantime, Laurentis used the lack of captures to her advantage, by publishing a new statement every few days declaring how incompetent person the Auror Department was. These command were usually followed up with another declaration of how the prisoner would n't accept escaped if the dementors had been in dominance of Azkaban.

When March arrived, the vaticinator began putting a countdown until the election at the top of the front varlet, every single day.

"April sap 's Day,"John commented as he pointed to the countdown, which read '29 days .'“ Does n't that seem a bit weird, to do an election on that day ?"

"A little,"Albus said."But I doubt the Ministry cares."

"We should do our caper that day,"Kaden said.

"Do n't,"Rose said."Hogwarts is a polling place. You 'll mess it up."

"No, we wo n't do it then,"John said as he exchanged a mischievous grin with Kaden."Want to love why ?"

"Not really,"Albus said.

"They 'll find oneself out soon enough,"Kaden said.

"Department of Energy this have anything to do with why you two disappeared all evening yesterday ?"mat asked.

"Possibly,"John said."Oh, look at the time. We 've got to get to potions."

Kaden burst out laughing."Oh, yes, looks like it 's clip for me to go to Divination."

Albus looked at matte and shrugged. Saint John and Kaden had been laughing at every mention of 'time'or 'clocks'for the past few hebdomad, but had yet to contribution why. Albus could only assume that it had to do with their put-on.

Albus, Matt, John, Rose, and Amanda said adieu to Kaden and headed for the donjon. Since it was a stunt woman class, Slughorn gave them a potion to brew and sat at his desk grading essays while they worked.

Albus and lusterlessness partnered on their potion and worked quietly, chopping and mixing. Halfway through the second class they were chopping asphodel when Matt suddenly stopped.

"Did you hear that ?"he asked Albus.

"Hear what ?"Albus replied. He had n't heard anything.

"Never thinker,"mat muttered."Could 've sworn ... dead reckoning I 'm hearing things."

A few minutes passed and lusterlessness stopped again."I swear there 's something ringing external. It sounds like an warning device clock."

Albus glanced around the classroom, but cipher else seemed to have heard it. Everyone was working quietly, except John, who was staring at the room access for some strange rationality. Then Albus heard it. The wispy reverberance.

"Do you hear it now ?"lustrelessness asked.

"Yeah,"Albus said. It was becoming louder, too. The rest of the family was beginning to acknowledge as well, and John Lackland suddenly turned around to look at them. He grinned widely and then returned to his potion.

"It 's their harlequinade,"Matt hissed."It 's got to be."

cipher was paying any attention to their potions now and a few of them were boiling over. Slughorn got up from his desk and left the room, without saying a news to the class. He returned a few hour later.

"bottle your potions as is,"he said."It seems there is some sort of alarm going off all over the rook. After you 're done cleaning up you may allow early."

Albus and flatness worked quickly, wanting to talk to John as soon as they could. They met him, along with blush wine and Amanda, outside the schoolroom a few minutes later, and headed to the Great Hall. John the Evangelist still had n't said anything.

Kaden was already there when they arrived."Trelawney let us out as soon as the dismay started. I think it was driving her mad. I mean, more mad than she already is."

"Are you going to tell us what you 've done ?"Albus asked as he began making a sandwich.

"Yeah, we might as well,"John the Divine said."We put an warning device clock inside every I wooing of armour and charmed them to go off at five minute intervals."

Albus started laughing."That 's brilliant !"

"That 's actually really good charm workplace,"Rose said, clearly impressed.

"It gets better,"Kaden said."The teachers wo n't be able to turn them off with one spell. We charmed them so they have to be manually turned off. It 's going to lease them ages."

"I feel bad for whoever 's got Transfiguration next,"James said as he sat down next to Albus."There must be xx courtship of armor across the corridor from the Transfiguration room. It 's so brassy in there you can barely pick up yourself think."

"Damn,"Albus said."We 've got Transfiguration next."

"Look, Kendrick 's standing up. Bet he cancels classes."John pointed to the staff mesa.

"lull !"Kendrick shouted."Very amusing japery. It would seem that the alarm clock clocks have to be manually turned off, so I am canceling classes for the afternoon while the faculty and prefects turn off all the alarms."

There was a loud cheerfulness as Kendrick resumed his seat. The staff tabular array was only half-full, as the sleep of them must have been already turning the alarms off.

"He does n't seem turn over,"Albus said."This is actually sort of tame. I thought you were going to get revenge on the Slytherins."

John grinned."Oh, we are. That 'll get another day."

After dejeuner Albus and his supporter went to the Marauder 's Den with the intention of spending the day there, but the incessant alarms quickly grew too annoying. Despite the cold, they decided that outside would be preferable to inside. The C had melted, so they were able to observe a dry spot to sit.

"I still hear the ringing,"mat said as they settled down under a vast beech tree by the lake."It 's like my straits is an consternation clock. I think if you had done this around the to the full Moon I would 've murdered you."

"That 's why we did n't do it around the full moon,"John said.

"Really ?"Matt asked skeptically.

John laughed."No. Had n't even thought of that, to be honest."

"We did it today because I had a chronicle of conjuring trick exam this good afternoon,"Kaden said."I 'm hoping Binns will block about it."

"It 's soon, though, is n't it ?"John asked.

"The full moon ? Yeah, it 's Monday,"Matt answered."I 've been thinking about it. About Greyback. He 's probably going to get back unless the Aurors catch him before."

"Probably,"Albus agreed.

"I had an idea,"flatness said quietly."I think we can help entrance them, using my wolfy side."

"As bait ?"Albus asked, shocked."Then you 'd be in danger."

"No, I would n't,"Matt said."I would n't be doing anything dissimilar. I 'd just be in the Shrieking Shack like usual. Albus, the vulture 's Map label Animagi as their human being names, right ?"

Albus nodded."Yeah, of course. That 's how Teddy 's dad found out about Pettigrew."

"Well, should n't it be the same for wolfman ?"matt asked.

Albus had n't thought about that before. In all his time of having the endorse edition Marauder 's Map, he 'd never checked the shriek shanty during a full moon."I think it should."

"Then all the Aurors have to do is watch the new edition of the Marauder 's Map during the full moonshine, wait for greyback to usher up, and then catch him."

Albus thought for a few moments. It seemed so simple, almost too simple to work."lusterlessness ... that 's brilliant."

"When did you imagine of this ?"rosiness asked.

"Few weeks ago,"mat answered."Calidris canutus was there by the screaming hovel for nearly the entire night. It would 've been easy to becharm him if somebody just knew he was there."

"delay,"rose said, looking at Albus."You are n't proposing that you do this, are you ? Because that would be stupid."

"Of course not,"Matt said."It would be my dad and Albus 's dad."

"I do n't cerebrate my dad 's in charge of the grayback capture,"Albus pointed out."It 's that other Auror, Newman."

"If I 'm going to go along with this and state them my plan then it 's got to be your dad,"matte said adamantly."He already knows I 'm a werewolf. Newman does n't. I do n't know what he 'd do if he knew there was a werewolf at Hogwarts."

Albus thought back to what Matt had told them about how it was n't clear whether admitting werewolves to Hogwarts was legal or not."All right field. That make sense."

"But why are you so sure he 's going to come back to this same speckle ?"Amanda asked."If he were smart he 'd transform someplace completely different."

"He 's got a hangup about werewolves pretending to be human,"matte said quietly."He thinks that we 've all got to sweep up our wolf-selves and hold up together in packs. I do n't mean he 's going to give up easily on finding me. He did the Lapp thing with Teddy 's dad."

"Then he might be transforming near those kids he attacked finale month,"Rose pointed out."They should station Aurors there, too."

Matt nodded."Let 's go send some owls."
***


Albus and Matt did n't say much in their missive to their fathers, wanting to save most of the inside information for later. Both of them replied saying they would converge the boys at Hogwarts Fri eve in fiat to lick out the details.

The week went by very slowly and Albus noticed that lustrelessness drew quieter and quieter as it progressed. He never said it out tatty, but Albus had a touch sensation he was incredibly anxious about the architectural plan and his persona in it, despite his saying he would be exquisitely. By the clip Friday arrived he was completely dumb, except for the few times he snapped at whoremonger and Kaden for being irritating.

"You know if this design actually works and Greyback is captured it 's going to make Uncle Harry bet very good,"rosebush said."Which will be secure for Uncle Percy."

"I thought of that,"Albus said."And since the election is only three hebdomad away, it 's perfect timing."

"When are you meeting your daddy ?"whoremaster asked.

"VII,"Albus answered as he glanced at his lookout man."We should probably go."

Albus shoved the last raciness of his cake into his mouth and left the Great Hall with lustrelessness at his side. prof Longbottom had leant them his study for the meeting, so Albus and Matt walked up to the fourth floor.

prof Longbottom was n't there when they arrived but the room access was partially open. Albus led flatness inside and they sat down on a couch to waitress. Albus had always loved Longbottom 's study. It was filled with all sorting of exotic plant life that you never wanted to touch because some of them bit. The furniture was mismatched and the whole spot was pleasantly cluttered. It felt very safe.

Harry and Bruno Walter walked in a few minutes later and close the door behind them. Both looked very intrigued and slightly confused.

"Al,"Harry said as he gave his son a quick hug."What 's going on ?"

Albus glanced at lustrelessness, who had just been let go of by his own male parent. This was his plan to explain.

"I know how you can catch Calidris canutus,"Matt said quietly, and then proceeded to explain the intact programme."See ? goodness program, right ?"

Harry and Walter exchanged coup d'oeil. Walter looked incredibly worried."Matt, look, I know you want to aid and I know the fact that greyback 's out there scares you out of your mind-"

"I 'm not that scared,"Matt interrupted, but everyone in the room knew he was."flavour, he 's going to get along to Hogsmeade anyway. You might as well be there waiting for him."

Walter sighed."Yes, I suppose you 're right-"

"So what 's the problem ? I 'll be in the Shrieking Shack with all the wards up."

"There really is n't a problem,"Bruno Walter said."It just sounds bad on the surface, me using my son as sweetener. What do you think, Harry ?"

"I think it 's up to you,"Harry said."You 're in charge of this search. I 'm not even on it. I assigned it to Newman."

"Cardinal Newman ca n't be there,"mat said quickly as he turned to his dad."He ca n't be. He does n't know about me."

"He 's ripe,"Walter said."It 's got to be you and me if it 's going to be anyone. Whoever works this is going to see out there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts."

Harry sighed and began to pace the room."I had n't thought of that. But there 's got to be More of us. I 'll take Ron in, and Teddy."

"Ron ?"mat asked.

"Rose 's dad,"Albus explained."My uncle."

lustrelessness breathed a sigh of relief."Oh, all in good order then."

"They 'd be OK,"Walter said."Four of us should be able to wield it. What about those kids in Little Shingleton ?"

"I 'll specify John Henry Newman to them,"Harry decided."And you can peck a few people form your section to go with him."

Walter nodded."What about the villagers ? We ca n't hang around the shriek Shack all Night. It 'll wait suspicious."

Albus suddenly remembered the map. He pulled it out of his pocket and handed it to his dad."Use the map. Then you can watch until he gets there."

Harry grinned."I 'd forgotten about this."He turned to Bruno Walter."Map of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade, created by my dad, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin, and Peter Pettigrew. It shows where everyone is, so it should show us when greyback turns up. We can look at the Hog 's chief until then. No one there will pay us any attention."

"And in the report ? In the paper the following day ?"Walter asked.

"No mention of matt or his being in the shriek hovel,"Harry said."We 'll say we got an anonymous tip that he 'd show up in Hogsmeade."

"Can I wait with you ?"Albus asked.

Harry laughed."Absolutely not. You 'll stay in the castle, where it 's safe. I believe they 're doing a mandatory early on curfew again ?"

Albus nodded. They 'd put up card in the plebeian room a few mean solar day ago. This time, no one seemed upset about it.

"I wish they 'd do it in Hogsmeade,"Walter said."But getting something like that set up takes weeks."

"fountainhead, if people are smartness they 'll stay inside with wards up,"Harry pointed out.
***


Never before had Albus heard so many people talking about the full Moon. All weekend, everywhere he turned, he heard somebody mentioning either the replete moon or greyback or both. Suddenly, werewolf were the hot topic of word at Hogwarts.

most people, from what Albus could accumulate, did n't have a strong opinion on werewolves one way or another. But a few citizenry, virtually having had a comparative murdered by Fenrir Rebel, told anyone who would mind how happy they were that neither candidate wanted to change the classification of werewolves from Beasts to beingness. It only took Matt overhearing one of these conversations to decide to spend the rest of the weekend in the predator 's Den.

"It 'll all be over in three weeks,"Amanda said."Once the election takes place no one is going to wish as much. But these past few weeks have certainly made me wonder if I should go into the section for the Regulation and restraint of Magical Creatures."

It was William Ashley Sunday Night and Albus and his friends were in the Marauder 's Den, yet again, working on their homework that was due tomorrow.

"You could turn with my dad,"Matt announced from the lounge."That 'd be weird."

"Well, it 's just terrible,"Amanda said."And it does n't cook sense. Why should hobgoblin and house-elves be organism but not werewolf ? You 're more human being than a house-elf."

Matt laughed."Tomorrow night I wo n't be, and that 's what it comes down to. House-elves are n't that dangerous. Werewolves are."

"I do n't have a go at it,"Albus began."When my dad was a minute year a house-elf charmed a Bludger to fracture his arm. That 's fairly dangerous."

"What about vampire ?"Rose asked."I ought to owl Linda."

"vampire are Beings,"Matt explained."It 's because they do n't make to drink man blood to live on. It 's a alternative. Werewolves, when we bite someone, it 's not a choice. We ca n't see to it it."

"Except with Aconitum lycoctonum,"Rose pointed out.

"Yeah, and maybe if someone invents Wolfsbane that works for all wolfman we might get reclassified,"Matt said.

"What about vampire who bite masses ?"Amanda asked.

"They 're put in prison,"Matt said.

"So can lamia go to school and prevail jobs ?"Kaden asked.

"I suppose they could. Linda went to schooling. But they live forever so most do n't want to go to schoolhouse or already accept, because nearly vampires are older. As for problem, they do n't have to tell employers what they are, so yeah, they could."

"It 's so bloody confusing,"lav said."Does n't make a bit of sense."

"It really does n't,"matt said with a oscitance."But it 's life."

matt slept the rest of the even and most of the next day, not attending any of his family. Albus could n't fault him, what with all the wolfman talk that was going around the schooltime. Albus himself found it difficult to concentrate on any of his grade or preparation since there was the decided possibleness that Fenrir knot would be captured that dark.

Albus and his friends reported to the common elbow room at five, as per the curfew, and then went to dinner. Matt did n't join them. He was gone when they returned. Albus gave up on homework for the night and played a few half-hearted rounds of Exploding elasticity with Gospel According to John and Kaden before deciding to go up to his hall early. He knew he would n't slumber, but figured it would be slightly more productive than cleaning ash off his face.

Instead of sleeping, Albus sat in the windowsill and watched the sky. It was clear, giving him a very good view of the stars. After locating a few constellations Albus watched the horizon and the faint glow that was above it. Then, the synodic month rose.


A/N : So, some of you may have noticed that I screwed up shoemaker's last week 's update. I accidentally skipped chapter 25 ( Full Moon Attacks ) and went right to chapter 26 ( booze, being, and Beasts ). If you have n't already done so, go back and read the real chapter 25. The story will progress to much more sense after that.

I am pleased to declare that I have finished this story ! It topped out at 37 chapters. I may get going updating this twice a calendar week, but have n't quite decided yet. A lot of you are asking in reviews when the next update will be, so I 'll restate that I update every Fri. The precise time will vary. Thanks for all the reviews !