A post Order of the capital of Arizona, pre-Half profligate Prince story.

Please consider this a replacement of the 6th book, since it was begun well before the discharge of the half Blood Prince. I will not be changing this to admit the HBP plotline, since I feel that the lodge of the genus Phoenix leaves a majuscule degree of tractableness for fan-fiction writer.

Thank you to all of the readers who have supported me throughout the writing of this firearm.
I can not express my gratitude enough to all of you who have made me the Number 1 dearie generator, and this chronicle the Number 2 dearie history, the 7th Most Read Story, the Most Reviewed taradiddle Ever in the site 's history, and for several months between Aug and early November of 2005 the identification number 1 pet Story.







'' muscularity. It permeates every bread and butter and non-living matter. Without it, the world would cease to exist. ''
~ Vincent VonStolburg ~






Chapter 1 ~ Lightning smash


Remus'heart narrowed, peering through the thick onslaught as rainfall pelted the dry land. He continued walking, not breaking shaping even as pee sloshed about his mud-soaked ankle, chilling him to the off-white.

Moving was becoming increasingly difficult and the thick wool of his cloak clung awkwardly to his icy skin. He wished he had possessed the foresight to don a light-headed one, for moving certainly would have been prosperous.

But there had been slight time to think on such details.

His middle burned, the stinging sensation growing until painful tears streamed down his font, his salty binge mixing with the rain before they reached his sass, leaving the gustatory sensation of salt H2O upon his tongue.

The stinging genius grew worse. It happened whenever his rod cells multiplied, and right now the fury going on just behind his retinas was aiding him, bringing into stark centre the wipeout of the nighttime.

Cloaked trope came to life, the moonless dark no longer a factor as Gray range of a function danced before him with unearthly clarity. It was the one minor endowment his monthly burden afforded him.

Night vision.

His eye turned from the world around him, flicking towards the blackened sky, noting the new moon. He had a couple weeks before the pain in his clappers returned.

Tonks fell into step besides him, giving an nonvoluntary shudder, and he caught her arm, helping her over another of the short before she could trip. Her center were still bloodshot from the last prison term it had happened.

She nodded thanks and they continued their stealthy search. They dared not spark their way of life for fear of giving away their positions. Lingering Death feeder could be anywhere.

She, unlike so many of the others, had volunteered for this. The others had been afraid, but he did not fault them.

A stretch had not been found in England for centuries. And the foul and loathsome Death Eaters would go to any duration to obtain one. The grounds lay at their feet, and he was thankful that the mysterious darkness spared Tonks from seeing the full extent of tonight 's destruction. Only he could bear watcher to its wax repulsion.

five Muggles had been slain this night. Their torn and murder consistency long since passed. There was nothing even the outdo of healer could do. All that was left was to pick through the carnage, hoping against Bob Hope that a soulfulness had survived.

He picked up the footstep. They had to make out their lookup before the ministry officials arrived. By then they were to be gone, mere ghosts to have passed through, unseen and unheard.

The past week had brought a slew of execution. No ... butchery ...

This was his seventh such search that calendar month alone, and still the stench of charred cloth and sting figure reeled him.

Muggle household were being polluted with the nastiness of Voldemort. And despite the Order 's best feat, they had been powerless to stop it.

'' Six ... '' Tonks whispered, barely hearable. Her slender physical body was bended down, her shaking hired man checking for a pulse on a unseasoned man, his once golden-blond hair matted thickly with coagulated ancestry.

Remus bent down, grasping her around the waist as he helped her emanation. In the heat of struggle she was fiery, unaffected by the repugnance of fallen associate. He had seen her power to immobilize such things out firsthand in the section of mystery story. But now, in the consequence of something she had no control over, the steely glint was gone from her eyes, her purposeful stride lost.

He pulled her forward, feeling her eyes linger upon the crushed skull of a man barely younger than herself. He could feel its effect on her as she quivered in his arms. He wished to spare her further torment, but they had to continue.

'' Do you reckon when he is at the gates of Hell he will still believe it was Charles Frederick Worth it ? '' She whispered shakily.

He wound his arm tighter around her berm, squeezing her arm gently. No news of reassurance were coming, but he felt her still, calming under his touch.

The sick bastard would pay. God did not let someone get away with such atrocities without retribution. And he would see to that.

The iniquity Lord had a new strategy. Snape had informed the gild hebdomad ago, but even now he still found it abyssal, for the vile being was no longer content to experiment with deception.

No ... Now he was experimenting with witching wight.

And people…

His plan was to harness the powers of every magical being for himself. So he could convey them into his one acrid being.

If the mentation of an even stronger shadow Lord was n't enough to frighten someone, Remus did n't know what was. But that fear did zippo to appease his barely contained fury.

It was common noesis that when emotions ran high, Wiccan and wizards often lost control. the pits, he had lost tally of how many metre Harry had done exactly that.

Only now the Death Eaters were using a reaching 's emotions against them. The hooded figures had crept in the shade of dark from home to home over the past weeks, killing each prospect 's family right in front of them. Their aim was to enkindle an worked up reaction, one warm enough to reveal the reaching 's reliable potential.

It sickened him, how the iniquity Lord could kill so many innocents, just to even out the Reach out of hiding.

But what was even more sickening was the nighttime Maker 's programme for the poor soul once they were found.

He was planning on utilizing their rip, granting him their might to pour down. And the substance through which this would be accomplished…

He could only trust that if there were a reaching, that they would find them first. Because while witching ability was now sympathise, a Reach was not.

Most witches and wizards developed magical ability at a young age. Though there were always the few destined to become Squibs, and there were always a few who developed it later on in life-time, in their teenager. It had turned out that magical ability stemmed from a prevalent gene, linked to the gene specifying blood character. And the familial code Muggles possessed only differed by a few base, so it was easy for the mutation to develop randomly in Muggles, thus Muggleborns.

But a Reach was not a witch or wizard, they were not a Squib or a lately blooming magician.

They were something different entirely.

When their magical prowess came to fruition, the same organization that alerted the Headmaster to the presence of a new Wiccan or adept would go off.

Tonight that organisation had gone haywire. It had been slowly registering readings for the retiring five months.

Now it was going off again.

There was a person out there holding more power than they could properly maintain.

And if Dumbledore was powerful, that meant there was a grasp out there who had finally struck out.

The poor bastard.

Instinctively his arm shot out, halting Tonks roughly in stead, his distend eyes roamed, scanning the ground of what had once been an ordinary nursing home set far away from the John Major roads. Now broken floorboards littered the muddied ground, while smoke from the dowse fires curled up in snake like tendrils, shrouding the globe from perspective. Yet his eyes penetrated its veil, searching for the flicker of movement that had frozen him in place.

He clenched his fingers tighter around the associate bust oak of his wand, bracing himself for whatever attack would get along.

None came.

It was then that he heard it. A delicate throttling amidst the storm 's howling hint.

He withdrew his arm, placing a finger carefully over Tonks'icy backtalk, signaling her to be tacit. The only when star sign of her mix-up was the promiscuous wrinkle of her hilltop. She would, of course of action, have no melodic theme what he was looking for. Her hearing was not as refined as his.

But werewolf bites did things like that to a person.

It came again, a low, strangled moan, and he took off, rushing towards the reservoir. No attacker could feign that sort of pain.

He skidded, flinging rocks in the air as he bent down beside her. The muddle she was feebly pushing herself out of was a deep inkiness, filled with the pedigree of her and the lifeless man besides her. Her eubstance spasmed with each choking hack writer as she coughed up breathe in weewee, her eyes glazed over from what he recognized as shock.

He pulled her up, speaking in low, reassuring tones as she flailed against him. She was too weak to do much impairment, even of the early sort ...

Tonks reached them, murmuring soothing words as she smoothed the girls mud caked hair away from her face, Brown University water emerging from her lips as another stave of spasms racked her body violently.

He took her appearing in, another unvoluntary cramp shaking her. displume sherd of what had once been clothing hung lightly from her, and the junk and dust sticking to her wet face made her characteristic impossible to pick out.

He did n't do it whether to praise the heavens or damn them as he and Tonks exchanged a meaningful glance. They had to get her backbone to military headquarters before something worse happened. Her shoulder was in desperate pauperism of suturing, and God only knew what else the bastards had done to her before leaving her for dead.

He let her cough up the eternal sleep of the body of water before stunning her. He hated doing it as he lifted her limp form from the ground, but only one thing could have survived this.

And as sapless as she was, he was n't eager to get on that thing 's bad English. There was no sentience in taking chances.
* * * * *


The rain poured down in cold torrents as Harry shouldered his broom, sprinting after Kingsley through the truehearted forming puddles of London 's city streets. It was coming down in buckets now, and if he had thought flying through the torrential downpour had been bad it was nothing compared to the throb of his feet on the slick pavement.

Moody 's croaky growl sounded off to his right, not that he could see him, the rain was too deep to see much of anything. Thunder clapped, shaking him to the core, and the lightning flashed shockingly, illuminating the area to reveal society members running in rank around him, splashing water as they went.

Five of them had shown up at the Dursleys barely an hr ago, reminding him of that night, barely a twelvemonth ago, when an escort squad had shown up in the Dursley 's kitchen to whisk him away to Grimmauld Place.

Only this nighttime was different.

hope of meeting with Tonks and Lupin in London were hissed quickly as Kingsley and Moody levitated his thing, cramming them hastily into his trunk, and he had not missed how McGonagall 's eyes had roamed the way guardedly. Even stern, unbendable McGonagall was frightened.

Tonight truly was different.

He blinked rapidly, trying vainly to evoke the water cascading into his eyes, but it was to no avail. His glasses were too thickly coated with rain droplets, and he desperately racked his thinker for the go Hermione used to repel water supply. For his baton was out, and he could use it. The Ministry had removed the fiat for the restriction of Underage genius that summer. Dumbledore had headed up the movement, arguing that the proceeds of Voldemort endangered beldam and champion of all ages, and that in the consequence of an attack, students should be free to defend themselves without the fear of rebound.

The vacuous lot materialized between two run down home, and he looked quickly at the small slip of sopping wet paper dripping from his hand, hesitant to ignore his surroundings for even a second when the foreboding fear of attack hung so thickly about him.

He read it silently before looking up. The run down magical habitation, in the midst of Muggle London, now stood revealed to him.

Grimmauld berth.

Lupin materialized at the top of the rheumatic wooden stairs looking worse for the article of clothing. His normally threadbare clothing was now ragged and rake stained, his eyes hole and sunken, holding the look of prey that knew its marauder to be near.

Harry stepped through the doorway, stomping his foot on the shagged carpet, slinging mud everywhere as the others piled in. He swallowed the chunk in the nucleotide of his throat, pulling his eyes from the muddy floor, forcing himself to need in his environment. A man named Dorbert Cheeks could be heard triggering the complicated locking enchantment on the straw man door.

A loud boom reverberated through the sign, shaking the walls as indistinct articulation argued in the space. Yet this did not nettle him. Even his wonder as to why he had been pulled so untimely from his bed could not best the desperation that had hit him like a bludger. In the passion of the slipstream they had ran he had forgotten one affair.

That they were taking him to Sirius's…

This house had never been joyful, but now it seemed a hole shell of what could consume been. It stood as a painful reminder of the scratch of a life that he and his godfather could have salvaged. But that life was gone now.

War brought casualties, casualties brought pain, and pain in the neck brought vacuum.

That was how he had felt since that dark. Empty. There was aught that could fill the void. Not even the impending scourge of facing Voldemort in years to come could make him feel anything but despair again.

Mundungus cleared his pharynx, turning all heads towards him as he beckoned for everyone to quietly realise their way to an border elbow room. He followed, his sopping wet wearing apparel weighing him down with every tone he took. But zip could weigh him down as a great deal as the retentivity ... As much as the burden haunting him ... The one they should possess told him ...

realization hit him hard, like sudden submersion into the icy waters of the northern artic, as he wondered what they were not telling him tonight.

He glanced towards Lupin who stood protectively succeeding to him, opening his lip to utter, to ask, but he let it roll shut. He remembered all too well that Dumbledore would not reserve them to tell him anyway. They never told him anything when it could actually induce a divergence ...

But even if they had told him, right then, it would n't have mattered. There was no way any of them could possess known what would happen from that night 's events. At least not yet ... None of them were seeing past their need to get him to a dependable locating, so they could not bear known that the night marked a turning point in his life, as well as in the life of the entirely subsister of Voldemort 's first waving of attacks.

The war had begun.
* * * * *


Throbbing pain ... blood line ... outcry of pain in the ass ....

'' It 's a miracle she survived .... '' `` Ah ... but was 'hat really a good thing Professor ? ''

Dim voices filtered into her thoughts, her eternal rest befuddled mind protesting strongly as it failed to grok a single word.

'' ... has a chance. ''

flash lamp of light ... .flame ... Coughing smoke ... squeal of tyre ... .Sean ....

She awoke jarringly, her painful moan drowned out by the voices.

Voices that were oblivious to her awakening. Voices unmindful to the way her body recoiled in pain. articulation oblivious to how her eyes teared from the bright sun pouring in from the windows of the doomed room. Voices oblivious to how she clawed like a frightened beast at the thick comforter wrapped around her buffet and bruised body.

Everything she loved was now gone. No explanation would be needed for her to understand what they had done.

What she had done ...

A new despair hit her like a thousand hot knife, slicing her skin in a way the defective of the discharge patch could not consume.

She had done the unthinkable ....

New undulation of pain stream forth, her vision swimming dangerously with each pulsating pain her body dealt. She would have cried out, but the effort would give been too much for her frail manikin. Instead she drew in ragged breathing spell until her body gave out, the sound of a door creak and a large, drear form standing over her vaguely registered before she once again slipped into merciful oblivion.
* * * * *


The aspiration were always the Same ....

For nearly a calendar month she had refused to succumb to the nightly torments. She was stronger than that. She would not lose herself to the globe of nightmares, even if the books she had read on such things deemed that a more merciful fortune than the one the wizarding world would bestow upon her.

But they did not yet know. Dumbledore had assured her of that. It had been nearly a month since she had come there. Nearly a month since Dumbledore had explained everything to her. Nearly a month since she had vowed to regain some semblance of a normal living. She wanted that more then anything, so bad she could savor it. But she would never be normal.

No ... since the day she had regained consciousness she had discovered that she had been, and always would be, a freak. Hagrid had jokingly told her that she was a lusus naturae amongst freaks.

Thanks Hagrid ... She thought bitterly, rolling in bed. She was in a hut not unlike Hagrid 's own, just outside of the school. It was safer this way ... At least for now.

She drew in a shallow breath, letting her mother fucker subside slowly before Hagrid could see. She had dreamt about it again. About that night. Visions of blood and shrill shriek had filled her mind 's eye each nighttime since as she dreamt about their deed of conveyance ...

Her deeds ...

She wiped the tarriance rent that clung to her eyelashes, swallowing her own self-loathing. She would not fight it, for she deserved every bit of pain sensation bestowed upon her. She would stew in it until it had permeated every character of her being. That a lot was the least of what she deserved.

But the others ... They had not deserved it. They had been innocents caught up in something bigger than all of them.

And the single who had started it all ...

They deserved so a lot worse.

Everything good and pure in her life had been gone for weeks. It was with a frigid clarity that she realized this. For now she lived for one intention, and one purpose alone.

retaliation.
* * * * *


Harry lay on the top bunk staring at the ceiling, watching the way shadows played across it as light from passing car headlights shone in through the windowpane. Ron 's loud snoring drifted up, breaking the silence like a bullhorn with every breath, and it was taking every inch of the willpower he possessed, to not lean over and smack his booster senseless with his pillow.

He sighed loudly, wondering when it was all going to end. Each day the Daily seer brought intelligence of more killings, more unexplained disappearances, and of more war. For several calendar week he and Ron had been catching tidbit of information, sideslip ups by the grownup in Grimmauld property, and right now it sounded like the Ministry was in absolute havoc. Not that he minded that fact. Anything that made Fudge 's job harder amused him immensely. What he did brain was the reason for the mayhem, and that was Voldemort.

Voldemort. It was odd really, how one mortal could be the causal agency of so much death and devastation. No one should let that much power, he thought bitterly, thinking of the toll that the Muggle demise were taking on Mr. Weasley, Ron 's father.

Mr. Weasley was the soul employee in the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Department, and recently, with the strain on resources in the Ministry, it had come to double as the department of Muggle Relations. Now Mr. Weasley spent half his meter performing memory appeal on Muggle law enforcement, to cover up the death of Muggles who had been murdered by demise Eaters. Now every time Harry saw Mr. Weasley, all the man could talk about were unlike possible strategies for protecting the Muggle universe.

Now if only a unspoiled strategy actually existed.

He rolled restlessly, spying Hedwig 's gleaming eyes in the darkness. She hooted softly in acknowledgment, and he smiled in the night despite his non-white thoughts.

Memories plagued him every time he closed his eyes now. The department of Mysteries ... It was why he now lay awake.

He had willingly, foolishly, led them all into danger. Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Luna, Neville ...

Hermione had nearly been killed.

Canicula had ... ..

He shoved the thought aside, re-vowing that it would never take place again.

The trick was in figuring out how.

To protect them, he had tried to blatantly push them away, but they had seen right through that. He had refused to write, and his self-induced closing off ended when both of them showed up at the Dursleys while his relatives were on holiday. The two of them set up residence there the entire calendar week, Holy Order members circling the premises like hawks for certificate, while his friends had infuriated him to no end. However, he had finally realized that they were n't going to go away. If he was going to outdistance himself he 'd stimulate to do it slowly.

Yes. A gradual drifting would be best.

It was with these thoughts in mind, that he drifted off into another night of spasmodic sleep. If only he could have known then what the next few years would bring.





Disclaimer : The fiber, plaza, name calling, and case mentioned in this story, that coincide with the character reference, places, epithet, and result mentioned in J.K. Rowling 's Harry thrower series, do not belong to me, but to that literary genuis, JKR. Thank you so much for allowing so many of us to pursue writing through fanfiction JKR, we really prize it.

The fabulous banner is by SticksN'Stones.

nontextual matter of Kalliandra by agirlnamedbob87.





'' One may never be intimate how long their candle of life 's taper is. What they can roll in the hay, is how well it burns. ''
~ A.K. Lovell



Chapter 2 - First Impressions


Her eyes flickered over the lake 's glassy surface, taking in the shimmering expression of the early break of the day sunup. The sun was barely risen and the birds still slumbered, but this had become the norm for her over the past weeks. She simply no longer saw the use in sleeping when guiltiness plagued her even there.

A visible radiation snap ruffled the pee, tousling her fuzz gently in its wake. She casually brushed her whispy strands back, tucking them carelessly behind her auricle.

Her pilus had always been a germ of defeat, always in the way, hanging in straw man of her heart, driving her instructor crazy. No ponytail ever held for long, for her thick, glossy hair had a way of worming its way out. It was as if it preferred to be free and untethered.

Kind of like me ...

She swore silently, the rippling wafture now running across the lake the sole informant to her frustration as she stood. If she was not back soon Hagrid would waken and find her gone. Of track here would be the start lieu he looked, but with as recent as he always ran he would not be pleased with her absence seizure, particularly when they had station to go that afternoon.

Diagon Alley. The very describe evoked so many emotions. It was hard for even her to expire them down.

Not that she was allowed to evince sadness. Emotions were no longer a perquisite she had.

She had been warned of the peril of such things.

Her bare feet crunched upon the dewy grass, but the ahead of time break of day chill did not trouble her. She reached into her sack, fingering the cherry wooden surface of her baton before pulling it out, studying it appraisingly as she traversed her way across the priming.

They were odd looking things really. Long and tenuous, and from the looks of it, easily breakable. She suppressed the sudden urge to do just that, knowing fully well that zilch could be gleaned from such destructive measures.

It would not deepen anything, except her climate, but even that could not be improved measurably by the snapping of her symbolical perdition.

Of trend, seeing Hagrid 's face when he found the snapped remains might be rather amusing. Especially with the vast mass he had made over how prosperous she was, getting a specially made wand from Ollivander. It was n't like she had wanted one, and the only reasonableness the quirky man had fabricated it thus was because none of the real wands that he had brought to the school had so much as spark.

So in what the odd man had called a stroking of inspiration, he had usance designed the one she now bore, forming the Congress of Racial Equality with a ignition lock of her own hair and a pinprick of her own line of descent. She could n't even retrieve how many magical spell had to be woven into it.

It was queer, for her wand was the only thing she could cajole into working at least somewhat decently, and still she hated it.

Probably because it percentage the Same fate as you, she thought bitterly, glancing at the ever rising sun.

Jacob 's ladders now streamed down from the swarm, forming puddle of visible light on the vibrant supergrass, giving evidence to the fondness the day would bring.

It was a passion that would never reach her.

A slightly substantial duck soup bore the sound of approaching hooves, and she turned towards the Forbidden timberland, the lineation of wings folding into a horse cavalry 's skeletal eubstance signaled Silverthorne 's reaching.

Silverthorne would be pleased. Now he would not feature to wait for her to change out of her nightly garments before getting his ferret fix for the day.

She stopped and waited, his gallop growing louder with his rapid approach, and a minor smile graced her passive brim. Hagrid and Dumbledore had been as wonderful as they could be, but there was often they kept hidden from her. intuition informed her of this with every fleeting facial expression they exchanged around her.

Perhaps that knowledge could explain her hostility as of late. Hagrid was a good man and had not deserved the brunt of her wrath the previous day. They had been arguing as of late. But then again, she deserved to be informed of everything regarding herself. Keeping her in the dark could only make further trauma. This she was convinced of.

Silverthorne let out a low, pharyngeal grunt as he slowed to a lope, stopping to nose her with his nose.

A creature of the dead. It was one of the more unseemly figure Thestrals were referred to by, but it explained why she had felt an instant hooking to them while the other fauna screeched and howled in her presence.

His teeth glinted in the red hues of the morning and she smiled, pleased with the sight. It should take concerned her, but instinct again told her there was nothing to fear with him.

At least so long as he gets his morning collation, she reminded herself with some amusement, picturing how he would buck through the small fauna 's osseous tissue so eagerly.

She smiled again, letting the concerns of yesterday pass. She would apologize to Hagrid later before they reached Diagon skittle alley to get her 'school'supplies. She used the word fleetingly for while she was to attend Hogwarts, she was too far behind to be expected to actually turn in assigning with the repose of the 6th years. Instead she was to put up a desirable façade until she gained the knowledge that could help her.

Then there was the low factor of her being completely unable to incant in the first office.

No one would be the wiser to why she was really there. Dumbledore 's trump up history would not only check out, but they were even believable to an extent. He would back her if anyone questioned them. That was her simply fill-in in this entire hell.

The hellhole that had become her life.

Kalliandra pulled herself onto Silverthorne and squeezed her bare heels around him, his bony ribs protruding into her skin in the appendage. He took off quickly, carrying them both towards Hagrid 's hut at a pace unfathomable to any human, but not to them.

* * * * *



'' I ca n't believe Fred and George, I mean they already got me one set of attire robes, they did n't need to do it again. ''

Harry laughed as he watched Ron squirm uncomfortably, the magical tape measuring rod flying vertically around his supporter 's no longer gangly torso, magically recording the length of his implements of war, ramification, height, and for some odd reason, the distance between his spike.

He knew exactly why Ron 's brothers were getting him garnish gown, but he was n't about to percentage that piece of data. Not when he was actually enjoying himself for the first fourth dimension in weeks.

'' Well we did n't need them last year, '' He pointed out truthfully. `` And we do this year. So maybe they just felt bad since your increase spurt rendered your other single unwearable. ''

'' Thank God for that, '' Ron grunted, slouching as the amount flew past his nose, only to be smacked atop the oral sex since it no longer seemed to care about doing it 's job peacefully. In fact, if Harry had n't known better, he would consume thought it was offended.

'' Blimey ! Watch it ! '' Ron exclaimed, ducking another near hit, his metrical foot entangling in the long dress robes trailing past his feet.

'' Ron… '' Harry warned, but it was too previous. Ron had already tumbled over backwards, weapons system flailing as he took a rack of gown with him, plummeting tumultuously to the ground.

'' Oww ... bloody ... pettish ... ''

Harry very nearly choked on thin out air, quite a feat, had it not been for the loud peals of laughter he was trying to miserably repress as he caught the rest of Ron 's mussitate profanities.

Of line, he thought lightly, his best teammate might not be muttering the colorful metaphors if he could see the tone on the sales agreement clerk 's face ... Or the fact that she was storming over from where she had been attempting to size of it a first year for his Hogwarts robes, face alit, hands on pelvis, eyes narrowed vindictively at the lot Ron lay in.

Right then, with the impeccably bad timing that only Ron could dominate, his Friend 's red psyche emerged from the fray, a brightly pink tabloid wrapped around it like a shawl, and a shamefaced expression on his human face as he stammered apologies. The sight must have been too often for the clerk, because her mouth twitched, her serious expression faltered, and all pretense of anger vanished as she failed to be discreet about her own amusement.

'' Oh heavens child ! '' She exclaimed in exasperation, clutching her side hard. `` I dare say you might want to take that off before anyone else sees you in it ! ''

Ron stood up, disentangling himself from the various fabrics while Harry laughed.

'' You know mate, I think gentlewoman Maulkin 's got it all wrong. I think that 's an excellent look for you. guess what Hermione would think ... ''

Suddenly he was finding it unacceptable to discern Ron 's auricle from the respite of his embroil matt of hair.

'' Oh shut it Harry ! ''

Harry grinned, enjoying his friend fugitive irritation. `` speechmaking of Hermione ... '' He said, calming down slightly. `` She should be here any minute so perhaps you could ask her for her school impression ... ''

A brightly pink satin fuzz flew across the elbow room, and he caught it deftly, holding it out in front end of him as he looked at it in mock appraisal. `` Ron, I 'm reach. But it 's really not my people of color. You however looked absolutely spiffing in it. ''

'' You sure bout that Harry ? I 'd be thinkin'that it 'd be clashing with his red hair more than yers. ''

Now there 's another welcome vocalism ! He thought happily. Leaving the Durselys had been groovy, but he had sourly missed Hagrid.

It was possibly due to this, that he whorled around in his prat so fast that he nearly slid off, earning several brassy snort from a certain chuckling redhead tangled in material.

'' Hagrid ! When did you get here ? '' He asked, ignoring Ron 's essay reenactment. He took in his magnanimous champion standing awkwardly near the chairs.

They really should make stores more accessible for people his size ... He thought, making a mental note to refer the idea to Hermione as Hagrid opened his big mouth.

'' About five hour ago Harry. And I stand by what I said. '' A wicked grin formed under Hagrid 's scruffy brown beard as his eyes landed on Ron. `` Hot pink would be clashin'horribly with Ron 's hair. ''

A loud tearing strait tore his tending back to Ron, and he stifled yet another laugh at the horrified reflexion on Ron 's look. By all appearances, Ron had attempted to walk from the fitting platform to where he and Hagrid sat by the windows, only now Ron was staring down at the rend cloth hanging raggedly from the hem of his new attire robes.

'' Now that's why you 're supposed to stay put put ! '' brothel keeper Maulkin snipped, spying the new destruction and waving her wand. The fabric flipped up like a snake in the grass, a bombastic goad zooming to mend it. Ron attempted to jumpstart back away from it.

'' It wo n't prick you know ! '' lady Maulkin yelled, huffily storming over. `` tool maybe ... ''

Ron did not seem relieved at the sentiment. Of course of instruction, the agonized expression might induce been from how Madam Maulkin grabbed him by the nucha of his apprehension and yanked him back to the accommodation program, where she immediately began to niggle over the awful state of his robe.

'' bettor finish up you first since you ca n't stand still. '' She quipped in her high up pitch voice. `` And to recollect that this dayspring I would have sworn it was the untested students who gave me the most trouble ... ''

Ron shot him a pleading look to which he grinned bemusedly, chuckling at how Ron reacted to being fussed over. The guy could hardly tolerate his mother 's own tending, let alone that of the modiste !

Probably why he 's still squirming come to believe of it…

He turned back to Hagrid, leaving Ron to fend for himself. `` So did one of your wight get a clasp of your teaching robes or did Fang do it ? '' He asked, grinning knowingly. Hagrid 's animate being were always tearing his clothes, which would explain why half his garments were covered in mismatched patching.

Hagrid grinned and shook his head. `` Nah Harry, for once me robes are fine. Right now I 'm 'ere with Kalliandra gettin'her some robes of 'er own. Speakin'of 'er, ca n't look for yer two to take on 'er. She 's an absolute doll she is. ''

He nodded, rarity driving him as he wondered who this Kalliandra lineament was. must be a first of all yr or really Young. He was sure he would have remembered that name at least.

But in the backbone of his creative thinker he felt a twinge of compassion.

Generally there was only one reason for why Hagrid took anyone to get schoolhouse supplies, and he was all too familiar with such things.

At least Hagrid will testify them a good time, he mused, remembering his first trip to Diagon Alley. He opened his mouth to ask if they were from a wizarding or Muggle family, concluding that it must be a starting time class from the way Hagrid was still babbling on about them.

'' Ah there ya are, '' Hagrid boomed, cutting him off at the pass.

He followed Hagrid 's gaze towards the accommodation rooms, taking in the relatively busy store when a not unfamiliar whiz hit him like a bludger, his stomach twisting oddly as his eyes landed on a svelte material body, glancing around the memory board hesitantly.

And I thought Hermione looked good in frock gown, he thought, swallowing hard, berating himself for being distracted. But this female child was stunning, in an way-out sort of way. While her features were rather field, her long, lucky frock robes clung loosely to her slender stage, with her frail hands lifting the hem, revealing tanned ankles as she moved towards them.

The hellhole of it was, she was n't stopping. Ron 's oink was the only thing that kept him from outright gaping as she came to digest right by him, biting her lip nervously, oculus directed at Hagrid.

'' So you found some eh ? '' Hagrid asked, shooting Harry a full grin, failing to notice that he had become a deaf-and-dumb person.

The girl nodded slowly, her centre glancing at him appraisingly for a second before flickering away. `` If you could call it finding ... '' She said, a clue of satire mixed into her otherwise pleasant speaking voice. `` It was more like being attacked with this ... '' She lifted the hem of the robe for emphasis.

'' And my assistant did a amercement job Lester Willis Young lady. That color suits you, '' Madam Maulkin chimed out, shocking him back to his senses. He silently thanked her, and glanced over to see that she was still indeed, judging by his friend 's pained look, torturing Ron.

He shook his head whimsically at the sight, glancing back at the girl in front man of him, thinking that Madam Maulkin had a point about the color suiting her. Her dark golden hair cascaded loosely past her shoulders, several shorter strands framing her face, lightly brushing her apprehension os. All of it was barely discernable from the silky robe textile clinging to her willowy figure.

Briefly he wondered if it were a grace or a crime to allow girls out like that.

He pulled his gaze back to Hagrid, loath to be caught staring.

Fortunately Hagrid had not noticed, and the girl was too busy bickering with him.

Spying that his attention was again re-focused, Hagrid shot him a strained grinning. `` Ah well ... Harry, Ron, this 'ere be Kalliandra. She 'll be goin'to Hogwarts this fall to. ''

'' Youffa meanuh uh transforra ? '' Ron 's stifle spokesperson called out from under the cotton sheath Maulkin was vigorously forcing over his head. `` Weff neffa haf uh transsfuh befuh. ''

'' What ? '' Hagrid and him immediately shot out, not understanding one word.

'' You have a very ... declamatory ... head ... '' Maulkin muttered with each subsequent Yankee, and Hagrid 's guffaw of laugh drowned out Ron 's indignant retort. Harry glanced back at Kalliandra to see her watching the spectacle, a hint of a grinning tracing its way across her back talk.

'' I asked ... '' Ron 's slightly aggravated vocalization called out clearly, `` If she was a transport, because we 've never had one before. ''

Harry turned back to Kalliandra, to see the slight smile that had bit ago graced her feature article fell.

The look she now bore stirred something within him ... But what ? He could not put his digit on it, but he now found himself staring at the top of her read/write head, for she had begun pointedly looking down at the floor.

Maybe she had found Ron'question offensive, though he could n't imagine why. He shot Hagrid a mocking feeling, hoping he 'd clarify things since Kalliandra did n't seem about to do so.

'' Yev 're had transport, jerst fer other Houses. ``

Harry frowned, `` Then why did we never see them sorted ? ``

'' Yeamph, wuff weff neevah seen 'em ... '' Ron grumbled, his robe once again muffling his words.

Hagrid eyed Ron with no modest amount of entertainment. `` Well that 'd be cause they came in the middle of the yer. Ca n't possess erm sorted at the sortin'when they 've missed it already. ``

'' Oof ! '' Ron grunted, extricating himself from the supererogatory fabric. `` So why the transfer ? Did her parents move or something ? ''

'' Yeah, somethin'like that, '' Hagrid said suspiciously, sounding rather like to the way he had whenever he was keeping something from them.

Like a full grown behemoth in the woods ...

Or a three headed dog ....

Or a pet firedrake ...

Seeing a half giant squirm beneath one 's regard would normally be quite a amusing occurrence, but it simply made Harry nervous as Hagrid continued shuffling his groundwork, mumbling about right presentation, while the girl remained extremely quiet.

Harry feigned a polite grinning, extending his hand to the lady friend at Hagrid 's imperativeness. `` Nice to fit you. ''

She hesistated for the briefest of seconds, before finally extending her hand as well.

'' A pleasure ... '' She said quietly, her eyes flickering up to fulfill his.

It was a shock absorber he had been ill prepared for, for her eyes held a trace of the familiar… So closely akin to the haunted look of Sothis'that he felt himself shaken to the core at the familiarity.

'' Y-yes, '' He got out, releasing her warm hand quickly, thrill shooting through him.

The cultivated grinning she had shot him flickered and disappeared abruptly.

'' Oh blimey ! '' Hagrid gasped hurriedly, startling him from his persuasion. `` Kalliandra do ye beware if I leave ye 'ere with them for a minute ? I wo n't be a tick. Just forgot to do somethin'but wo n't be long. ''

It was a wonder Hagrid had even asked, because he was already waving adios to all three of them, not waiting for a response. And from the malevolent glare that Kalliandra shot him, he really could n't blame him.

'' Like he gave me a option ? '' She muttered, deflating, her optic no longer holding the obsessed quality of before. Maybe it had never been there. He really ought to sustain slept longer ... With all his turbulent thought as of later running play through his creative thinker he simply was n't thinking straight.

'' It may feature been of import, '' He pointed out awkwardly.

'' Yes, you 're probably right ... '' She said faintly, her vocalism so lenient he scarcely heard her. Though her surprisingly gruntle intonation did nothing to stop the harsh quality of her glare as her narrowed centre followed Hagrid 's retreating form. In fact, she was still shooting daggers out the door as the assistant yanked her over to the undecided appointment chopine besides Ron seconds later.

Harry decided not to dwell on the look he had seen, the one so painfully companion to Canicula. It had probably been his imagination, so he contented himself with trying to adjudicate which of the two looked more disgruntled. Kalliandra kept shutting her eyes, as if frightened by the jinx mag tape touchstone flicking around her head, while Ron kept shooting frown at lady Maulkin.

'' You know we 've never had a transfer before. At least not one that I can remember, decent Harry ? '' Ron stated, glaring down at Maulkin as she marked his manacle with chalk, determining the length of his arm.

He was about to agree when Kalliandra cut him off.

'' Well you 've obviously had one now. ''

The helper flicked her verge, shortening Kalliandra 's robe slightly. It was all Harry could do to annul cursing the assistant. girlfriend 's gown should get no shorter ...

'' You know that wo n't bite ? ''

Harry found that oddly comic, considering that Ron had been ducking the very matter himself, but at least his friend had not been standing shabu still like a deer in headlamp.

Kalliandra had though.

She opened her middle, arching an speculative brow at Ron rather than answering him, and Harry noticed her visibly flinch as the flying tape measure zoomed close again.

Ron 's supercilium furrowed slightly at her lack of reactivity. `` The tape measuring ... That 's what I meant. '' He stated awkwardly, looking at her as if waiting for confirmation that she had indeed, heard him.

She just nodded, turning her head to calculate out the door. Ron shot him an annoyed, 'Can you believe this ?'looking at.

He had to hold Ron had a point, she did not look very personable, and did not seem too excited about talking, so he was n't about to force her. Yet something about her aroused his curiosity. If only he could put his finger upon it ...

Several minutes passed, the inapt silence broken only be Ron 's random outbursts of displeasure, and Kalliandra 's quiet responses to the assistant 's questions. Unsurprisingly she was the number 1 one done, and he found himself having a firmly time not staring at her now that the clothes robes were completely fitted around her grade. The thing was classy, elegant, and practically organise fitting ...

'' Hey how come she got done so flying ? '' Ron asked indignantly, as Kalliandra made her way back to the changing way, the bottom of the inning of her dress robe gathered in her paw as she walked carefully. She seemed fresh to walking in something of the sorting.

'' Because she, unlike some of my client, actually held still while we measured her, '' dame Maulkin quipped from where she knelt on the floor, using her wand to give pocket-sized adjustments to the hem of Ron 's robe.

She flashed Harry an inconspicuous wink, and he barely caught it, smiling slightly at her before glancing back to see Kalliandra disappear behind a changing room pall. He could n't assist but experience slightly relieved. Between his oddment about this young lady and Ron 's glare, he did not desire to be caught staring at her. And he knew he 'd be a lot lupus erythematosus prone to doing that once she was out of that damnable gown.

Of course he was wrong, because when she re-emerged he found the shortly sleeved top she wore to be no better than the low cut dividing line the gown had bore.

'' ahem. ''

He tore his eyes away from where she stood by the counter, to see a disapproving Ron shaking his straits firmly. He appeared to be mouthing, 'No'at him.

seed to think of it, Ron seemed to be making disgusted faces as well.

Harry failed to deliver the opportunity to so much as shrug in response to Ron 's repulsive like gestures in the girl 's management, before a tranquillity clatter broke the relative silence of the room. He turned to see Kalliandra squatting down on the level, picking up bantam fall in her manpower.

The discombobulate assistant stood behind the counter, bearing a slight smile. `` Oh honey, thank you, but do n't worry about that. I 'm as incompetent as can be ... '' The help flicked her baton and the little pins scattered all over the topographic point disappeared, reappearing into the pin cushion held in Kalliandra 's hand.

'' See, I 'm knocking stuff over all the time, '' The assistant continued, while the girl stared at the now filled pin cushion, biting her blue lip, confusion etched into each of her features.

He did n't fail to notice it.

It 's like she 's never seen illusion before ...

There was no meter to follow that ludicrous train of thought, for Kalliandra had already stood, thanked the woman, and disappeared out the front line entrance with her bag.

'' Was n't she supposed to wait for Hagrid ? '' Ron asked after a moment 's break, brow wrinkled confusedly.

Ron was veracious, she was supposed to wait for Hagrid. Harry hesitated a second, an national debate waging until rarity got the in effect of him. Wasting no more clock time he jumped from his seat and went after her.

He wanted to see where she was going.











'' And after all, what is a lie ? 'T is but a the truth in masque. ''
~ George Gordon Noel Lord George Gordon Byron, Almighty Byron~







Chapter 3 ~ Entangled Webs



Traversing her way through the swarming, cobblestone streets of Diagon back street, she let out an unsteady breath.

To the core she had been undeniably, inexplicably, shaken. And all because of a confused pile of pins upon the floor of a garment shop, and her own pathetic attempt to rectify a clerk 's clumsiness.

Magic.

Yet again it had been unceremoniously thrown in her face, for wizards and witches had it at their disposal.

The Sooner she became accustomed the improve.

She could not afford to be seen or discovered for what she really was, for in all her incompetency in the craft that made this obscure world of sorcery fanfare, she would be left au naturel and exposed, the consequences of what had lain both within and far flung from her grasps unthinkable.

Butchered for who she was… The possibility was cipher less than she deserved, for one such as herself should not be allowed to walk upon the bustling streets, the smell of the most luminescent of the heavens'orbs warming her skin, the short clatter of pebbles being kicked askew and the laugh of children ringing within the recesses of her auditory senses.

No. There were others who deserved such perquisite far more than she, though they now lay where the sun could no longer extend to their frigid souls. And with them, lay the semblance of who she had once been.

She had died the Lapp day they had succumbed, despite the rhythmic pounding within her chest.

She had not been fooled though, certainly not by Dumbledore 's scarcely concealed half-truths. She knew the pulsating rhythm within her to be fleeting, it was simply the rationality for this that she was unaware.

She was going to detect out.

It was why she had left, fleeing in promise of traversing her way through the densely tamp down streets, making her way towards the looming marble building, the golden words Gringotts Bank emblazoned across its bone surface.

After barely a one hundred paces the pillar of the wizarding commercial message society emerged over the heads of the crew. Its supporting tower leaning in diverse directions, their haphazard financial backing for the pep pill levels of the edifice strengthened with the sorcery filling the streets.

Though it was not there that she wished to go.

It was there, directly across from the goblin filled depository. That was where she desired to go to try out her result. Turning down the darkness alley she noted a rickety sign suspended above it 's entryway bearing the jaggedly cut up Son Knockturn Alley.

Yes, she had been forewarned of its suspect feature. She had carefully listened to Hagrid 's babbling about it, about how he hated to venture down it each time he found himself in need of Flesh Eating Slug repellent, and about how objects of the illegitimate miscellanea could be procured.

She was an physical object of the illicit potpourri, and if there was anywhere to recover espousal within the smart set that demanded western fence lizard writ of execution for those of her nature, it would be here.

Hagrid had been none the wiser, cognitive content to answer her every doubtfulness about the blue alleyway. He had even inadvertently supplied her with the public figure of the man to whom she wished to speak, Mr. Borgin.

Kalliandra had a plan, and it would soon be set in motion.
* * * * *



'' You know Kinglsey loosening up could do you curiosity. I mean really, when was the go time you took an fair holiday ? ``

Kingsley Shacklebolt let out an incensed miff, raucously shoving his way through the midst gang grunting about rebelliousness. Tonks only resort was to swan her eyes, further darkening the reddened hue that her boss'nerve was beginning to take on.

'' Nymp-ha-dora, '' Kingsley grunted, sounding strained. `` If you ever… ''

'' Kingsley, Harry is perfectly adequate to of taking care of himself for more than five minutes, '' She said amicably. `` And besides, how was I supposed to clean up Remus'birthday gift for hi.. ''

'' Tonks…

Casting a sidelong glance at the senior Order penis she came to a halt in the center of dealings, ignoring the protestation of the witches and wizards around them, who were now being forced to walk a total two foot to the side to fend off them. For all their complaining one would think she was inciting a orgy, not stopping for a Old World chat with her slightly formidable Bos.

Speaking of Kingsley, he looked like he was either suppressing the desire to throttle her, or in the source stage of cardiac arrest.

Frowning she regarded him concernedly. `` Are you familiar with hypertension Kingsley ? ``

A with child vein was beginning to pulse in the man 's forehead, and he leaned low. `` Dam n't Tonks ! '' He hissed. `` This is not a biz ! ``

She nodded, squinting up at the taller figure in the brilliantly sunlight. `` A fact I 'm well aware of, '' She said pointedly, her premature pretension of humor vanishing. `` But the Order is constantly hovering over Harry, convinced that he is an incompetent 16 year old. Yet I have never heard of a 16 yr old who has survived as mu… ''

A rather large hand clamped over her mouth, and she found herself being roughly drug away from the cobble streets into a game alley, away from the pinna of passersby.

'' Tonks you should make love substantially than to… ''

'' Than to what ? '' She shot back in foiling. `` Than to hash out what Harry has been through in the undefended ? ''

She did not even wait for his nod of assertion before continuing on her tirade. `` Why should we be silent Kingsley ? Lord knows these ignorant masses need a wake up call, not that the Ministry is giving them one with their censorship of the composition and… ''

With an hearable crinkling Kingsley shoved a copy of the Daily prophesier into her work force, watching her closely as she unfolded it, discovering it to be the latest progeny that she had not yet read.

twenty Seven Muggles Die Mysteriously in the Spanse of a fortnight. Is He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named responsible ?

Her mouth fell spread, forming a minuscule'O'of understanding.

'' That 's right, '' Kingsley stated for her. `` They are finally reporting the facts. Fudge ca n't censor them any longer, not with all the eyewitness chronicle of the Ministry employees from… ''

'' That night, '' She whispered, knowing full-of-the-moon well to what he referred. The cicatrice tissue across her dresser would forever serve as a spectacular admonisher to her neglect in dueling with her auntie. It had taken one-half of the summer, laid up in St. Mungos, for her to earn a full recovery from the blows she had been dealt.

Remus had been her solitary author of sanity during that time, as he had been on the dark they had combed through the grotesquely charred one thousand of an separated Muggle dwelling house, searching for survivors.

The month old picture of that frightful picture was now burned beneath the front page 's blinking newspaper headline, the water pooling upon the sidewalk darkened with what she knew to be blood.

The poor souls had never had a chance.

Clenching the tabloid between her handwriting she met her boss'gaze. `` Look, '' She whispered, forcing her voice calmness. `` I know the rules of order is concerned about Harry. But he has proven to a greater extent than competent in site that most Aurors have yet to face, and he 's come out animated an… ''

'' And in the process put half the Order in grievous danger ! '' Kingsley boomed angrily. `` All due to his hotheaded, brash, ill-thought…

'' Actions, '' She supplied, ignoring how his eye twitched. `` But how does the club expect him to discover to make decisions if we are always hovering over him ? ``

His eye widened considerably, `` In war there is no elbow room for mistakes. ``

'' Who said he was making them ? ``

Kingsley began pacing up and down the Apothecary 's English alley. `` No one, but you have to take the small fry is… ''

'' stripling, '' She corrected. `` And after what he has experienced one can hardly call him even that. ``

'' Is it possible, '' He said through gritted teeth. `` For you to not disturb me ? ``

'' I 'll take it under consideration, '' She replied, leaning against the dirty brick wall, subject matter to savour in its shadiness for a moment of respite from the August heat.

Kingsley 's next tirade was unintelligible, though she did captivate the row 'irresponsibility', 'insubordinate', and 'dam n't girl'.

Slowly she began banging her head against the brick siding.

'' …and it was your job to check over them today. But when I come to check on things what do I find ? You ! Alone ! In the Quidditch shop purchasing some ridiculously pointless Snitch… ''

'' It is not just a canary ! '' She interjected, halting the assault on her skull. `` It 's a collector 's edition ! And Remus ordered it a month ago for Harry, extra order ! They had to cause it to Remus'exact specification, and we thought it would be a Nice surprisal to pick it up while out toda… ''

'' Oh grand ! '' Kingsley burst out, throwing his mitt up. `` Perhaps you explain your reasoning to the rescript when death Eaters tone-beginning and ingest them away ! ``

She groaned, resuming the thumping of her head. `` Kingsley the Order would do well to realize that Harry is nearly of age. He 's nearly an grownup and nothing is going to happen while he and Ron are being fitted for robe. ``

Kingsley stopped pacing abruptly, `` And what of the girlfriend ? ``

'' You mean Ginny ? ``

The man let out a sound oddly reminiscent of a hippogriff in heat, stomping the ground and sending a heap of dust scattering into the air. `` Who do you think I mean ! ? What former girl were you to chaperone today ? ! focussing for just a back would you Nympha… ''

'' We ran into her boyfriend, '' Tonks hastened to inform, unwilling to hear that imprecate name again. `` So she is spending the eternal sleep of the afternoon with the Finnigans. ''

'' And the boys ? ``

She smirked, `` existence fawned over by Madame Maulkin. ``

Despite his hysteria Kingsley gave an involuntary quiver. It was a well known fact in his department that he hated all things related to dinner dress attire, with a particular antipathy to those who made such things their profession.

Tonks smile only widened further, her pupils narrowing into small ovular slits, center yellowing like a computerized tomography. `` See Kingsley ? They 're perfectly condom. No self-respecting Death Eater would venture into there. ``

Kingsley just groaned, `` Tonks because of you I am considering early retirement. Only I ca n't because as much as I hate to admit it, after me you have seen the most 'action'in the department and would be my successor. ``

Tonks jaw dropped at the entrance money, a bellowing jape resonating from Shacklebolt 's large form.

'' Speechless are we ? Well hell has indeed frozen over, either that or your nose of the day prevents right breathing. ``

Her script flew to her crooked nose, pondering what was wrong with it. She had spied a copy of Witch Weekly earlier that day, and while she was not one for manner she had seen this weeks headline : Crooked Nose bane, In or Out of Season ?

Naturally she had spent the morning wandering around, telling anyone within earshot that Rita Skeeter had cursed her, just to see the mingle reactions.

The male child had at to the lowest degree found it entertaining.

Kingsley 's loud cough drew her attention back, where he had adopted a rather worsen glare.

'' You do see my dilemma do n't you ? ``

Eyeing his intrude she nodded. `` Yup, you 've got a crooked nose too. I hear those Muggle whacko have some great proficiency for remedying tho… ''

Kingsley stomped his foundation again. `` See ? This is exactly what I mean ! Your care span is bordering on the non-existent and you 're always usurping agency in party favor of whatever your whimsey of the minute is ! In this case it 's the, 'the Thomas Kid can take care of themselves'notion ! That 's precisely why I ca n't retire other ! You 're nowhere near ready for such a position and there is no one else with enough combat experience to recommend ! ``

She grimaced as his tones went unusually high for a man of his girth.

'' Are you even listening ? ``

'' Yes foreman. ``

'' Do n't call me that. ``

'' Your Supremacy ? ``

Kingsley 's eye twitched. `` Don't… ''

'' I 'm just taking your advice. I thought authority figures liked to be addressed… ''

'' One Sir Thomas More tidings and a 'Nympadora'signaling is going to wind up with a perm sticking charm on your breast threshold. ``

She sobered immediately.

'' And terminate banging your head. ``

She stopped that to.

'' And do n't squirm. ``

Suppressing a moan she resisted the temptation, her discomfort level rising exponentially. Movement was the sole thing sufficient for quelling her often frazzle cheek in Shaklebolt 's front. He knew this, and was intentionally depriving her of it.

Good God, if he was this bad with her she would hate to be a suspect for some obscene crime. No wonder they normally came out of questioning twitching.

Contenting herself with incrementally elongating and shortening her nails, the process concealed by the waver bag her finger were curled around, she arched a questioning eyebrow to which Kingsley immediately responded.

'' I 'm going with you. ``

With an indrawn moan she turned, carefully stepping over the crank that had been carelessly tossed, missing the back street 's garbage bin, and stopped dead.

Passing the orifice where the position back street converged with Diagon back street 's bustling main boulevard was a familiar nous of dark hair, and Harry was sprinting along at a healthy gait.

'' He can watch out out for himself can he ? ``

Without a Holy Scripture she ignored the sarcastic dig, taking off after Harry with murderous intention. Of all the ill fated timing that one could have, she had the worst. Harry just had to blame now to run off, and she had every intention of strangling him once she got a hold of him.

Of path she may take to sandbag him first, considering he had grown considerably to loom several column inch above her, making him significantly faster.

Aw hell, she 'd always been soundly at stunning.

As they shoved their way through the street, Kingley 's golden loop earring glinting in the sun, she began ticking off the various elbow room to defeat or excruciate him. For out of all the monastic order appendage she was his strongest advocator when it came to the degree of independence he should be afforded. After all, she had attested to Harry 's ability to distinguish when it was or was not appropriate to cheat on off in public property. However, with Kingsley standing behind her, Harry was proving her ill-timed yet again. She could only imagine the self-complacent grin crossing Kingsley 's nerve, and after he mentioned this to the Order…

Her appeal to let Harry in on more of the order'action would probably be rejected, yet again.

This little stunt of his was going to be him Thomas More than he knew.

'' I 'm going to kill him when I get a clench of him, '' Kingsley grumbled behind her, wrinkling his nose at the commix scents stemming from the apothecary.

'' Not if I get a hold of him first, '' Tonks grumbled, thinking on how this short stroll of his would probably cost Harry his tolerance into the Order, and he would never even know it.

She began muttering in life-threatening undercurrent, for she 'd make beshrew sure he found out.

Fixing her eyes to the back of his forefront, she shortened her hair up her neck, and began experimenting with olfactory organ. It was n't until she spotted the old adult female calmly perusing the choice of animal solid food on display outside of Eeylops Owl emporium that she was struck with an excellent idea.

'' Excuse me mam, I 'm going to take to commandeer that cane of yours. ``
* * * * *



It was a marvel that he had managed to keep open her in sight, considering the horde swarming around him, children screaming off detail that would be needed for the start of term to frazzled parents, most of whom were doing admirable balancing number with newly purchased cauldrons, Bible, and potions supplies. Though her hair semblance helped, for it was neither dark nor lighter, falling somewhere between bronze and gold, yet far from blonde. He had seen the color rarely, and he doubted ever naturally, before now. Regardless, it made her easier to go on track of her.

Thus it was that he was ineffectual to miss her purposeful march into Knockturn Alley, his tummy churning uncomfortably at the thought.

It was not a position he liked. In fact, he would much rather prefer to avoid it all together. Yet the way Hagrid had been treating this little girl, it seemed she was new to the hive that was Diagon Alley, and she very well may give just made a grievous, and possibly life threatening, mistake.

He knew the consequences of such misplay far too well.

Pulling his wand out he cast a glamor appeal upon his head, watching the ungovernable chain of hair hanging on his forehead lighten to a muted brown. Quickly he brushed as a great deal of it over his frontal bone as possible, not keen to be recognized within the disreputable expanse he was now traversing through.

The colored entrance was rather writhe, the space narrow and curving every few feet, thus she easily fell out of his line of quite a little. And it was not without incident that he made it through this, having to grunt at a Sir Henry Rider Haggard looking woman to drive home his point that he indeed did not want to buy the cadaver toes she was selling.

'' Maybe next meter youthful lad, next time… '' She hawked after him, driving his pace to increase.

And increase it did, just in time for him to see Kalliandra disappearing through the entrance of Borgin & Burkes.

Making a hasty determination, and silently praising Fred and George IV for their generosity that day when they had visited the Weasley twin 's governing body, Harry crept past the shaded window displaying Borgin & Burkes on 'special'token, casting a surreptitious glance through the turd covered panes.

The range was faint, distorted by the blockheaded stratum of filth coating the window, but Kalliandra 's glide slope stirred the man knelt behind the counter, his hands rummaging through his deoxyephedrine show caseful like a rat in a hole.

An indistinct word fell from the lady friend 's brim, and with a sudden jar of campaign the man stood, mouth spluttering indistinct words in a hoarse fashion.

It was an ordered encounter, or a get together between two who were uncomfortably acquainted.

Neither prospect boded well.

It was suddenly obvious that she had entered here knowing good well what kind of lieu it was.

Making a decisiveness as the man began pacing, Harry dropped to the filthy ground, allowing an lift cart to hold back him from the majority of the skimp traffic upon the alley.

This was not a conversation he was keen to interrupt, nor was it one he would care to be caught up in. Not in this shoes, not when the participants were so enwrapped. The stirring in him though, the word of advice that her demeanour was like Malfoy - coming into Knockturn bowling alley to get chummy with its proprietors - he could not brush aside though.

Of all the clock time he 'd thought to spy on Malfoy, he 'd been right every clip. And his gut was telling him the Lapp now.

Pressing his ear to the thin, flaking wood paneling upon the establishment 's exterior, he muttered a charm for hearing enhancement, bringing the ill-boded conversation to life.

Through the creaking of aged, rotting wood, Kalliandra 's intonations mingled with the proprietor 's pacing.

'' …ank you. I appreciate your honesty. ``

'' I have piddling use for honesty, and much for business, '' Rasped the man, whose part Harry now recognized to be that of Borgin 's Proprietor, Mr. Borgin himself. `` Your proportionateness was intriguing, and what you are offering in return… ''

'' Is something I 'd opt to not be discussed openly, '' She interrupted coolie. `` There are those who would assume much. ``

The tempo of Borgin vanished, the creaking of ill-suited flooring ceasing.

'' Of course, '' Borgin 's rattled breath guessing out. `` Though the method of the defrayal 's deliverance shall be to my specifications. ``

'' That is delicately, '' She clipped back. `` And my order ? ``

A racking coughing shook the owner, Harry shuddering at the reverberation as the speech a month 's time were spoken.

Then there was silence, enticing him to slowly slide up the splintery siding, his eyes reaching the sill to peer inwards, just in fourth dimension for the dilapidate door to be thrown open.

And so it was that Kalliandra stuttered to a stop at the sight of the half-crouching man, who had clearly been listening in.







'' He who angers you conquers you. ''
~ Elizabeth Kenny ~



Chapter 4 ~ Seed of Distrust


Perhaps it was the shuddering weakness that had plagued her dead body so oft as of later, but seeing the messy haired thrower upon the land was a mickle for which she had been ill prepared, the sheer shock sending her insides reeling and curling into abnormal slub as she blinked at him, his own face adverted as if stalling for time.

Drawing breathing time between her teeth the pieces fell into place, forming an unpleasing pattern.

throttling back the sick sensation threatening to cower from her pharynx, she spun on her heel, strewing grimy dust in her aftermath and inferno bent on distancing herself from the meddling fool as much as possible.

Silently she thanked God, the one of whose existence she was still disbelieving, for her prudence at having said nothing more than necessary.

Tucking a ignition lock of darken Au behind her ear, effectively removing the wayward strand from her face, she rounded the first twisting in the crooked alley, passing a street vendor selling pinna of something that sounded suspiciously like 'house elves'. It was in this moment of distraction that a business firm traveling bag fell upon her upper arm, the calluses on the hand evident as she reflexively yanked her arm away, stepping away to distance herself from the hind end bold enough to take a leak such a gesture.

Unsurprisingly she was unable to even change by reversal around before Potter was again upon her, ushering her to the other English of the smirch arena, away from the street vendor. She wasted no time in distancing herself from the ceramist bum, fishing around for his first name, which she could not remember.

Casting a suspicious glance at the wavy vendor she felt distinctly unquiet, even with the man 's looney heart 10 yards off, for he was clearly out of earshot. Dismissing the momentary headache that wizards could possibly have superior hearing she felt her eyes narrowing into darkened slits.

To Potter 's credit, his mouth was already opening in explanation, but she cut him off.

'' How much did you hear ? '' she hissed quietly.

His jaw clamped shut, an unsure smell overtaking his features, as if he had no clue on how to answer her enquiry.

Another minute passed between them in secrecy, the tail cast by the looming brick walls of the skittle alley traveling such a scant aloofness that their social movement would possess been insensible to the human eye, had either exhibit paid the darkness any mind, though they did not.

Still the messy haired man before her did not speak, his silence allowing her the sentence she needed to collect her harshly shaken demeanor.

No one had been meant to know of her liaison with Borgin. No one.

As thrower 's secrecy continued she was left only to nod, expressing her discernment of his actions.

'' Listen, '' she whispered, being careful to keep her vocalization low. `` I want you to stay away from me, and my conversations. ``

ceramicist 's case was oddly contorted, as if ineffective to make up one's mind upon frowning or glaring in suspicion. `` Why are you so alarmed about me overhearing that ? ``

'' Why do you think ? '' she hissed scathingly.

'' Could n't say, but you 're awfully concerned about that conversation remaining private, '' he stated pointedly, apparently having no qualms about keeping his articulation down. `` Why the concern if you have zip to cover ? ``

She visibly bristled.

'' Correct me if I 'm improper, '' she stated slowly, taking the fourth dimension to enunciate each syllable. `` But most masses do not ask well to having their common soldier conversations listened in on. ''

'' Most people do n't wind down Knockturn bowling alley to speak in computer code with shady proprietors, '' he countered challengingly.

'' I 'm failing to withdraw any code, '' she refuted, her brow furrowing. `` Though I 'm also failing to call back how this is any of a over alien 's business organization. ``

His dark, forest-like centre met her staid gaze levelly, without apology, while a woman with a torn, tattered gray shawl limped around the quoin, leaning heavily on a chela footed cane. Neither spoke as the cleaning woman shambled along, quietly croaking out a melody of sorts about bat offstage and who-ding-its.

As soon as the womanhood neared the weave of the alley, becoming interested in street marketer 's product, potter closed the distance between them, his horseshoe disturbing the rich claw marks that the elder 's cane had left indented in the soiled ground.

'' Look, '' he began, sounding much calmer, `` I did n't abide by you to overhear anything, I just… ''

'' You just happened to follow me, '' she cut in unapologetically, `` And then you must have randomly decide to crouch down and eavesdrop ? ``

Potter took another footmark forward, oculus intimidating.

'' Yes. ``

Sucking in a one-half frustrated, half furious breathing space she suppressed the urge to complain something, him in particular. `` Alright Potter, if that's the case, then why did you trace me ? ``

His look was nothing short of derisive, the face of one trying to explain a elementary concept to a minuscule tiddler incapable of grasping it.

'' Correct me if I 'm incorrect, '' he commented, his voice carefully controlled, `` but were n't you supposed to be waiting for Hagrid back at ma'am Maulkins ? ``

She arched her eyebrows. `` Did it ever occur to you that I had places to go that Hagrid had no penury to have it away about ? ``

In the iniquity shade of the alleyway, his middle took on a suspect, disapproving glint. `` Why should n't he get it on ? ``

'' What are you my steward ? '' she snapped scathingly, finally losing her irritability, brushing a curl of tomentum away from her eyes in frustration.

His eyes narrowed immediately. `` You 're avoiding the enquiry. ``

'' And you 're being a complete… ''

'' A complete what ? '' he cut in, glowering as she lapsed into silence.

'' Look, '' he finally said, `` If your business here was harmless why risk of exposure venturing here alone ? Why not tell Hagrid and have him come with you ? ``

She kicked the reason in frustration, scattering tiny Rock in his direction. `` So you 're telling me that you inform Hagrid about everything you do ? Because if that's not the case… ''

'' That 's not the point, '' he interrupted, shoving his workforce into his pockets.

'' Oh I think it 's very much the point, '' she snapped acidly, noticing his hands curling into tight fist within his pockets.

'' Look… '' he muttered, `` I just followed you because I thought you were supposed to wait for Hagrid. And when I got here I could assure it was n't a conversation I should be walking in on ... ''

'' And spying was a good option ! ? '' she shot out incredulously.

'' That 's not what I meant ! ''

'' indisputable sounds like it. ''

'' Well I would n't have even been there if you had n't walked out in the first of all place ! '' he shot out defensively.

'' Do n't you dare… ''

'' Now really, what give-and-take was so of import that it required you to trek into Knockturn alleyway to verbalise in hushed pure tone behind a closed room access ? Because seriously Kalliandra, I 'd sleep with to know, '' he snapped with mock distressfulness, yanking his bridge player from his pockets and crossing his arms.

She glared harshly. `` That is none of your stage business you miserable blo ... ''

'' misfortunate fella ? '' he cut in. `` You 've got ... ''

Turning on her heel she shoved yesteryear him, brushing off his arm that attempted to staunch her progress as she stalked away. Purposely dragging her pes enough to place a strew of grimy dust in his focus, she felt a detached sense of satisfaction at his indignant coughing.

'' Will you… '' he grunted. `` precisely stop… '' She rounded a hunched turn, the sparkle of Diagon Alley seeping into the dimly lit corridor. `` Because… ''

Continuing to ignore him she stepped out into the bright light, allowing the bustling, shoving, chattering crowd to swallow her whole.
* * * * *


Removing the shawl Tonks smiled maniacally, partly due to her moderation at being away from the amazingly putrid odor of the family elf ear vendor, and partly because she was enjoying her old woman disguise too much.

'' Out of me way ! '' she snapped in a scratchy vocalism, effectively clearing the domain as people scattered in every direction. Anything to avoid getting whop upside the head by the old noblewoman with the abrupt cane.

Grinning with sadistic pleasure she passed where Kingsley sat, casually reading the composition at Florean Forescue 's Ice ointment Parlor. Wasting not a second she yanked him up with her, dragging him with her after the two teens.

Kingsley yanked out his ear while, the one that had allowed him to see everything she had.

'' Tonks drop the old woman diatribe, you 're mucking it up and sound like a pirate. ``

She threw her head back and cackled, sending a small grouping of nipper, first days by the looks of them, scattering.

'' Oh being old is fun ! '' she related. `` I should do this more often ! ``

Kingsley now appeared to be thumping himself in the foreland with the rolled up mutant section.

Maintaining their ambling pursuit, she was having trouble grasping Harry 's conversation due to the noise of the bunch. Knockturn Alley had been deserted in comparison, but fortunately they were able to stay relatively last due to her trend to knock anyone unlucky enough to walk in front of them in the cover of the human knee with the pincer footed cane.

'' Remind me why we did n't just confront them ? '' Kingsley grumbled unhappily.

'' wellspring one, '' she said cheerfully, `` do you really think they 'd be upfront about what they 're small rendezvous was about ? And two, this is just so much more fun ! ``

Kingsley groaned. `` And here I thought you were the one against following Harry around. ``

'' Details ! '' she shot back. `` Besides, if I 'm going to throttle him I at to the lowest degree need to try that I have a practiced reason. ``

'' I 'd hold a few for throttling you… ''

Smiling cheekily she ignored him. `` Watch and determine from the master Kingsley. Watch and get word. ``

Kingsley snorted. `` I thought I was the master. ``

'' Oh ? '' she questioned, `` So I guess it is okay to refer to you as that. ''

'' You 're really aiming to get that personalized, permanently stuck name photographic plate are n't you ? ``

'' You would n't. ``

'' What makes you think not ? ``

Smirking she did her best to keep Harry 's head in vision, walloping her procured cane against a man too busy posturing for a Veela look alike to remark the bustling gang swarming around him.

She let out another cackle, turning to Kingsley. `` If you put a nameplate on my situation it'll… ''

'' You do n't have an spot. ``

She frowned. `` Someday I might. ``

'' Not if you keep this up. ``

Groaning she whacked her boss with the cane, appeased by the fact that a six infantry plus man was now hopping up and down on one infantry courtesy of her.

'' Now that I 've got your attention… ''

He groaned.

'' If you do that it 'll permanently remind you of me, and you would n't want that now would you ? ``

right hand then Kingsley looked very lots like he would love to drown himself in the water basin outside of Eeylops Owl Emporium. It was a shame the owls crapulence from it looked murderous.

It took another secondment for the data to process within her nous, for it was a relatively acquit region, and Harry had just drug the girl over there.

Each and every single owl was glaring in their direction.
* * * * *


As she traversed her way amongst the moving sea of soundbox, the wise pressure of commercial commerce hung heavily in the air. The mixing odour from the apothecary, ice cream parlor, and owl department store blended with that of the jape shop 's scented smoke bombs, while candle burned mid-wick in every storefront window, lending the domain a unique flavor.

In Kalliandra 's frustration she noticed little of this. So settle on upon distancing herself from the messy haired man behind her was she, that she missed taking in the few great deal that she had deemed worthy of a secondly glance when she had traversed in the paired focussing scarcely a quarter of an hour before hand.

Now it was taking all her military reserve to invalidate pulling violently away from the rough, calloused hand that had just shot through the crew, grasping her firmly by the upper arm.

She knew entire well who it was.

Hardly aware of the loosen pebbling overlaying the cobblestone avenue, or of the uninterrupted influx of frequenter pouring from the shop into the street, pressing in around them on all English in a way that encouraged one to not deter from the speeding that the crowd had reached a general, non-verbal consensus regarding, she found herself whirling around to face him, halting.

'' What ? '' she snapped, looking squarely into his dark green, and currently unhappy looking, eyes.

'' I wasn't… ''

A tortuous man shoved preceding, cutting ceramist off as he failed to take aim attentiveness of the two individuals speaking a foot below his rather freakish height. In the process he smacked against them brusquely, their drumhead banging together heavily, and she found herself kicking a spray of pebbles in the man 's charge, oddly satisfied as the man halted, swore, and turned in property looking for the culprit of the attack on his calves.

'' Making ally everywhere I see, '' potter commented dryly, tugging her along after him until they had abandoned the street altogether. And the instant their human foot reached the cement replacement ceramist released her, eye hard and serious.

'' I was n't done talking, '' he said pointedly.

'' well I was. ``

'' Perhaps you would n't possess been, '' he argued annoyingly as they set off, walking along their new path, which lay along the haphazardly constructed sidewalk that had a trend to move, turn, and chap on a whim. `` I tried to excuse, but you were too argumentative to let me wind up. ''

'' Oh was I ? '' she inquired with mock seriousness, hopping over a step that had spontaneously sprung from the path. `` Perhaps you should watch what a right apologia entails, and forgive me for being argumentative, but I was the one tripping over a descry bafo… ''

'' Well you were acting suspicious ! '' he cut in, her unfinished insult hanging in the air.

'' How in the netherworld was I acti… ''

Her exclamation was cut off by his derisive snort, and her face contorted into an angry scowl.

Studying him carefully for a minute as a hoard of kids ran past, she gave a curt nod, indicating the top of his principal. `` Was n't your hair a different color ? '' She spat it like it was a crime.

Again she found him regarding her as if she were a little nestling to whom a particularly round-eyed trouble proved daunting.

'' I 'm not trusted, '' he mused. `` Was it ? ``

She bit back an angry growl, and suddenly found her progress again halted. She threw a limelight at him.

'' Let. Go. ``

He smirked as if amused. `` Well discipline me if I 'm wrong, but if you 're trying to meet up with Hagrid this would be a good place to stay. ``

'' Oh ? '' she snapped. `` And why is that ? ``

potter let out an exhausted sigh, dragging her to retrace their last few dance step until they stood in figurehead of a minor drinking bowl, a long stick extending over it, several owls perched upon it, and he gestured inside the shopfront window.

Sure enough, through the windowpane, Hagrid could be seen purchasing a ridiculously large bag of Boarhound Pet Chow.

Potter turned to her with a viper like grin. `` So, '' he inquired. `` aid to tell me what you were doing before or after Hagrid gets out here ? ``

Only she did not answer, for her eyes were drawn to the owls besides them. Slowly, instinctively, she took a footfall back, the pitch personal line of credit of the barn owls faces unnerving as a sharp clacking, the distinctive sound of potent bill snapping shut in taking over, began.

It was the threatening, defensive behavior of an animal whose territory had just been breached, as was the fanning of wing, which the tawny and saw whet, side by side of meat, were currently doing.

ceramist 's brow crinkled oddly, the owls territorial reserve behaviors not ceasing until Kalliandra had backed away, her heels teetering off the sharpness of the sidewalk into the street.
* * * * *


He was still frowning when Hagrid came outside, Fang 's food hammock slung over his wide-eyed shoulder.

The Professor spotted them immediately.

'' Heya 'arry. Madam Maulkin done torturin'Ron I take it ? ``

He shook his head. `` Not exactly ... ''

'' Eh well, it 'appens, '' Hagrid commented nonsensically, optic darting beneath his loggerheaded scruff of hair between the two of them. `` Ye two gettin'on well are ye ? ``

Not exactly… But he did not have a hazard to comment as Hagrid clapped him rather hard on the back.

'' salutary to 'ear Harry, Good to 'ear. ``

It was clear that Hagrid was hardly paying attention, to him at least. To Kalliandra however…well, the half giant was observing her as if she were a sick hippogriff about to go off. Not that he could blame him, with the way she stood teetering on the curb away from them both, rubbing her articulatio humeri, a slight grimace gracing her mouth.

The lull, almost pained somebody before him appeared to the be the frigid opposite of the girl he had bickered with along the streets.

Something was extremely wrong.

'' Yer okay there Kally ? '' Hagrid asked, apparently noticing the peculiarity as well.

'' I 'm very well Hagrid, '' she responded dully. Her mitt fell from her shoulder quickly.

'' Are you sure ? ``

'' Yes, I just got jostled a bit in the crowd, '' she glanced up for the brief of s, the forced smile she cast not reaching her eyes. And just as quickly as before, her eyes were again down-turned to the street. Very quietly, almost as afterthought, she quietly muttered, `` I 'm getting sick of everyone asking me that. ''

'' Yes well, it will 'appen to yer… '' Hagrid muttered, once again, the parole meaningless and confusing, as if a contribution of a conversation in which he was not a participant.

'' Ready to give ? ``

Her interrogative sentence was pointed, as was her gaze, still directed at the cold ground.

'' wellspring ye want ter get yer pet now er… ''

'' I do n't consider that 's a very good idea, '' she muttered, her eyes still avoiding anything save for the pavement, her pose bordering on frightened.

'' well ye 'ave to deal with it eventually. ``

Biting her bring down lip she nodded, various long tress falling to obscure the give face of her facial expression. `` I know, '' she whispered, eyes lowered to the ground.

Hagrid just nodded gruffly, glancing at him with the air of a bear on parent ready to pounce.

The entire substitution was perhaps his most confusing one to date, and he had thus far, not been a participant.

'' Look, yer 'll be wantin'a pet, and ya ca n't learn Silverthorne to your dorm with yer… ''

'' Silverthorne ? '' Harry cut in, hoping to perhaps get a smidgeon of coherency.

'' A thestral, '' Hagrid supplied absentmindedly, and at that word Harry could n't help it.

He turned an incredulous look to the side of her head, the only part of her facial expression still visible. `` A thestral is your pet ? ``

He swore she nearly laughed. `` No Potter. Silverthorne is no one 's pet. I 've just taken a liking to him. ''

Now he had to let in that they had been utile at the end of hold up term, but to take a particular liking to one ? What the hell did that mean value ?

'' So you can see them ? '' he finally asked, at a loss.

turn her head towards them again, her centre still avoiding the owls like a plague, she shot him an odd look. `` Yeah, why could n't I ? I 'm not blind. ''

Hagrid 's sudden look of panic did n't get out him, nor did it Kalliandra as she shot him a questioning look, to which the Care of Magical Creatures prof cowered slightly.

He decided to keep him the hassle of answering. `` Well not everyone can see the ... ''

'' Why not ? '' she asked sharply.

'' Because you ca n't see them unless you 've seen someo ... '' he stopped inadequate, seeing the looking at Hagrid was shooting him.

Her brow crinkled in annoyance, and Hagrid 's spokesperson came out, suddenly pacifying.

'' Now Kalliandra yer know 'ow some thing 're ... ''

This manoeuvre only elicited a small noise of displeasure from her.

Frustrated, Harry supplied the data for her.

'' You ca n't see them unless you 've seen someone die. ''

wrong choice.

There was no verbal rally, but her middle darkened, speaking volumes.

'' Are yer alri ... '' Hagrid started cautiously.

'' Yes, '' she whispered.

'' We can get yer pet later, '' Hagrid stammered. `` That 'd be… ''

'' It 's all right, Hagrid, '' she cut in, sweeping past them both into the memory board, her eyes remaining averted the intact clock time.

Hagrid let out a thwarted sigh, rubbing his forehead with a large mitt wearily, and the realization of what he had just done hit Harry like a lightning bolt.

She had n't known, and he had probably just brought back whatever frightful retention her past had held.

* * * * *

Kalliandra quickly walked through the musty, noisy shop, avoiding all the live animal exhibit, and she disappeared behind a expectant shelf stocked with rat feed, relief sweeping through her that no one was back there as her infringe emotions threatened to rise up to the surface. She had spent the past three hebdomad carefully building a rampart of numbness around herself, and she could n't open to let it down now.

Not over such a trivial fact coming to light. Not when she had just spoken to the soul who could generate her the answers she needed.

Yet still…why had n't they told her ?

She knew the answer without asking, for to have been reminded of the reasons behind her presence here in any way…it would only serve to remind her of her own self loathing for all she had done.

A slight shudder coursed through her, and sighing sadly she listened to the soft hooting amidst the raftsman. She would not wait at them, for she had seen the reactions that elicited enough.

Yet the hooting continued, more persistent, and somewhere in the carnal recesses of her mind she knew her very front there was a bad idea, a poor choice of both Dumbledore 's and Hagrid 's judgment.

lining obstacles was apparently a healthy thing, even when it generally resulted in having irate owls attempting to bite oneself.

With a great degree of trepidation she found herself tilting her brain up to peer through the dark, cluttered atmosphere of the shop, her center slowly adjusting, educatee widening in the dim firing as the lower baulk slowly came into view.

Owl upon owl rested upon them, some peacefully sleeping, their heads carefully nestled into the congregation of their plume, while the respite had trained their alert, shining oculus upon her.

The menacing clacking of schnozzle being threateningly opened and snapped shut began to, once again, make full the room near her.

'' So you think you 'll get one of them ? ''

Cringing, though almost sword lily for the distraction, she turned her attention slowly to thrower, who now stood in social movement of her. To his credit, he at least had the common sense to await apprehensive.

'' flavour, Kalliandra, I 'm sorry. I did n't substantiate ... ''

'' It 's alright, '' she muttered, forcing her voice level. She did not involve his pity. She did not want it.

Despite this, she could not help but keep a sneaky eye on him, as she pretended to peruse the owl choice, her heart carefully avoiding all of the bird of night, and she was a bit surprise to see a downcast, yet determined, saying upon his face.

He followed her down the gangway. `` I do n't suppose it is. ''

'' Like it matters to you, '' she whispered quickly, silently reminding herself of all the predatory behaviors to avoid.

Do not pass water eye contact… Keep your head lowered… No gimcrack noises or sudden movements…

Like that would actually aid in calming these pitiable woodland creatures, for it certainly had piffling effect on the one with the supposedly orotund brain : Potter.

His manifestation had faltered at her last-place words. `` In case it 's escaped your notice, I 'm trying to be prissy here. I 'm at least making an effort. ``

'' You should n't have bothered. ``

Groaning he raised his hands, folding them behind his brain. `` You 're powerful. I do n't cognize why I did. ''

'' Wonderful, '' she murmured sarcastically, traversing her way along the rachis wall.

'' You know ... '' A strident fizzle cut him off as an owl nipped at his stir hands. ceramicist jerked away hastily, nearly taking a wooden shelf with him.

'' Bloody owl, '' he grumbled, glaring up towards the offending bird, who by now had hopped down to the last-place rafter, where it screeched, its outstretched wing flapping vigorously.

For some absurd reason the situation struck her as good story rather than frightening, and she did not bother to suppress the laughter bubbling out while she observed the formidable looking owl. For once it was not aimed at her. And as if sensing her examination its dingy middle locked with her own.

Its territorial reserve behaviour ceased, drawing a smile to her font, for she was n't the only one to whip out at those who came to conclude.

She traced the Great Horned owl 's outline, noting the black coloration speckling its reddish brown flank, its catlike face and highly channelise capitulum all swiveled curiously towards her.

Then she noticed the small shackle imprisoning it, one end encircling its twig reduce leg, the other binding it to the rafter it sat so miserably upon. It was caged, interdict to go wherever it pleased.

Just ... like ... her.

It was perhaps the most foolish thing she had yet done, but she held out her arm hopefully, and watching its wings extend it gracefully flew to her, its bond clinking haphazardly as it landed gently upon her arm. She eyed its magnificent dark optic, noting how it was deliberate to not dig its talons into her skin, and she turned away from Potter, walking to the front counterpunch as the owl re-perched upon its rafter, waiting for her to re-turn.

'' You 'll need a cage for him, '' potter pointed out.

'' He wo n't be needing it, '' she replied curtly.

'' You 're awfully personable are n't you ? ``

'' Well, '' she stopped at the heel counter wearily, speaking with an unusual total of spite. `` if you mean that I am able to discourse with nosey individuals than yes. ''

ceramicist turned in a frustrated huff, storming out of the store. Watching his retreating figure she too late realized how wrong she had sounded.

And then Dumbledore 's words came floating back to her. His one 's about the need for her and the many, many others under his protection to keep some matter hushed. Some matter secret.

Something cold, restricting, and cauterise curled within her throat, for until this war, the one they all refused to tell apart her anything about, was over, she would be Thomas More alone than ever.

The wounding of a rain gazump Night were still far too fresh.

It was better to push everyone away.

For their own good, and for her own.

Through the sun-glinting windowpane she could see Potter talking animatedly with Hagrid. His stony feature article looked vaguely annoyed, and if she had n't known better, she would have thought that he seemed insult.

A cold thrill rippled through her. Potter was also dangerous, of that she was sure. She 'd practically sense his misgiving rippling off of him, and he 'd overheard something he ought not to take in. She only hoped it had n't been plenty ...

She 'd talk to Dumbledore. She 'd colligate everything upon her return.

A loose free weight descended upon her arm, jarring her from her thought process as two nighttime eyes met hers. She smiled, her first admittedly grinning in weeks, reaching out a hesitant hand and ruffling the owls feathers. They were soft, like those of a neonate hatchling, only she would n't roll in the hay for sure.

She had never felt an owl before now.

A sense of ataraxis filled her as it continued looking up at her, hooting softly. And for a second, just a brief present moment she knew to be both fleeting and false, she could take sworn it silently understood.

* * * * *

Once again Harry was completely and utterly confused by the feminine species.

He simply did not get it. During their entire argument Kalliandra had seemed so unbiassed, almost untouchable. It was maddening how his snide comment rolled off her, so he had kept at it, wanting to unconsciously vent some of his own thwarting into her and to discern what her factual business in Knockturn alleyway had been.

He knew it was incorrectly. And he knew his behavior was uncharacteristically Malfoy-like. But at the meter, he had not cared.

That was until thestrals had come up. He had glimpsed a smidgen of actual human emotion within her then, and it was startling.

Or at to the lowest degree he thought he had. He must have been mistaken, because whatever it was he thought he had seen, had gone as soon as it had come.

The she had been the one making snide comment like Malfoy.

A cacophony of speech sound emerged as the store 's threshold opened, emitting Kalliandra and her horribly moody owl. He grimaced at the mickle, even as a call down voice reminded him how an animal 's behavior could so oft deceive.

Buckbeat 's certainly had.

That was all bury though, for right then she raised her forearm high, and gray annexe spread extensive, metrical foot and chela hopping from her arm as the owl took escape, circling in wide arc until it disappeared above the rooftops of Diagon bowling alley.

'' Kalliandra what in the blimey are yer doing ! ? You just lost yer pet ! '' Hagrid exclaimed.

And to Harry 's neat surprise, she actually smiled. Her eyes seemed distant, as if she were looking into something that no one save her could see.

'' Hagrid, he deserves to be free. ''









'' affair alter for the worse spontaneously, if they be not altered for the honest designedly. ''
~ Francis Bacon ~



Chapter 5 ~ A Professor of One


Remus yawned tiredly, his ignitor Robert Brown eyes skirted across the train platform at Hogsmeade, searching for the intimate form that was nowhere in sight. A unclouded smile crossed his weary features and he chuckled. Hagrid was not someone he would easily overlook had he been there. No invisibility cloak was quite that large.

'' Hagrid .... '' He said, shaking his top dog amusedly. He picked up his briefcase, crossing the deserted, outdoor program in the focusing of Hogwarts.

It was n't far, and Hagrid would undoubtedly intercept him along the way, most in all probability in his own, frantic hurry to intercept him. Hagrid was a bit oblivious at fourth dimension, and Remus could not fault him. He would be to if he took care of such a hazardous array of fauna for a living.

The train platform was on the outskirts of the minor Greenwich Village, on the outer border nearest Hogwarts, and a pebbled route led directly to the school 's look doors. He would turn off it before he reached Hogwarts'monolithic, welcoming ingress, to traverse his way across the lush, dark-green primer to Hagrid 's hut.

Remus had never been close to the game keeper, but he respected the man immensely for his piece of work in the Order.

He also empathized with him, and recently Hagrid had mentioned that he was one of the few who could truly go for to understand him.

He started walking, thinking how right wing Hagrid was.

The sun beat down on his pale shoulders, warming more than his shirt. The sun was rejuvenating to him in a way few understood, because it was a good orb of igniter for which he harbored no fear. It was funny, that the weak of Night filled him with premonition and painfulness, when usually it was the absence seizure of spark that inspired fearfulness. He sought solace in the darkest of nights, that was when he felt his best, but for now, when the moon was a quarter full phase of the moon, he would assay comfortableness in the warm afternoon sun.

It was because of this curse that he could empathize with Hagrid. The opportunity to become a fully qualified star had been stolen from the gamekeeper turned professor, and it had nearly evaded even himself. Had it not been for Dumbledore 's kindness Remus would never have studied magic. No other school would take in taken him.

They had feared him.

The jinx of being unlike, he thought bitterly. They were both labeled as dangerous by the wizarding community, and shunned. Their friends even suffered for their simple association.

A half-giant and a werewolf ... two of the most dangerous magical beingness on the major planet, both seen as murderous, blood-thirsty beast, and yet neither one of them possessed the inclination to harm another.

Were n't the afflictive transformations and premature aging enough ? He shook his head, knowing the solution to that, because it was n't.

No, he had to be shunned as well. Did n't they know he would commute it if he could ? And Hagrid ... one of the most ennoble, kindhearted people he had ever met, yet the Ministry feared him and his giant heritage. They labeled him violent without even knowing him. He could at to the lowest degree understand why people feared him, but Hagrid was harmless. He at to the lowest degree was truly grave.

Several nights in his past times stood in dark Testament to that.

Because of his forgetfulness, Wormtail had gotten away on one of those nights. If he had only taken his potion, perhaps Voldemort would not get returned, perhaps Canicula would not have died ...

Dam n't Sirius ! He had figured his friend 's obstinate nature would throw made him concentrated to kill, but in the end, he, just like Saint James, had been as vulnerable as the respite.

He was the hold out now.

Saint Peter the Apostle was as proficient as suddenly, and if he ever saw him again ... If he ever got the chance ...

He 'd take in sure a finger really was all there was left of him.

He shuddered at the view, remembering the quarrel Lily had spoken to him, as he stood over his parents freshly dug graves.

'' Even in the darkest of times, there are shimmers of light Moony. It 's just a matter of finding them ... ''

It was something he had promised to demo Harry. Harry was the only rattling family he had left, and he wanted the boy, who was quickly growing into a man, to know of the unbelievable strength his parents had held. He needed to bonk that there were things worth fighting for.

lord knows he 's already had his contribution of fighting ...

We all have ...

The thought process sobered him, reminding him of his purpose today. He squinted ahead, shielding his eyes from the brilliant morning sun to look for any sign of Hagrid.

Today he would truly meet her.

He was n't for sure whether to be unquiet, or to simply be exhilarated that the low missy he had cradled had survived.

Kalliandra.

She had been thrust into their humans unwillingly. Dumbledore, in all his wisdom, had felt Hogwarts to be the safest place for her. It would be a skillful way to serve her adjust, by slowly exposing her to people her own age.

But unlike others her age, she lacked a prior five years of magical instruction, and any knowledge whatsoever of their populace.

It would be his job to repair that.

When Dumbledore had asked him, he had felt short, poorly equipped for the task.

Dumbledore had set him down, much like he were once again the pupil and he the teacher, and told him he had never known another who he would trust more with her.

It was then that he had confided in him.

'' When Voldemort was still the school boy, Tom conundrum, I feared what he may grow to be.

'' When Harry came, I feared what loss may drive him to do.

'' Now I fear what she may do to herself. ''

Not to mention what she could do to those around her. The retention of the night they had found her was still burned into his mind 's eye. It was not something Remus would soon forget.

Doing his job right could intend the difference in this young cleaning woman 's endurance. Dumbledore had been very crystalize on that.

Now if only there was a witch or mavin out there equipped to look at with this. Only, there was n't.

He knew the odds for her. He knew what she was facing, even if she did not. And he knew what so often happened to those with her ability.

By all rights he should be terrified and have run in the former direction.

Yet he could not bring himself to do so. Not when the figure of her feeble eubstance lying there, clad in mud and the blood of those she loved, kept coming back to him each night as he dreamt. He felt a bill of dissension at the thinking of anything worse befalling her.

trench down he knew what it was to be judged, and he 'd be damned if he did that to another breathing person on this planet.

And that was why, despite knowing all of this, that he had accepted the assignment. Dumbledore wanted her to have the same chance as everyone, and he had full heartedly agreed.

Now all he had to forecast out was how to hold it to her.

'' The most worthwhile things in life are never well-to-do .... ''

Her give-and-take came back, hitting him as fresh as if they had fallen from her lips only yesterday, and never before had they been more allow.

A sad smile lit his face. Only she could say something that 's meaning would last decades.

Just like the bother ...

Always so sassy, so piercing ...

He still marveled at how so many wheel spoke of healing, and forgetting. pain in the ass did not go away. It did not go away. You could not handle with it, for to deal would imply to fix. Instead you just learned how to live with it, without losing your mind.

Of course, the same people had often spoken on how well he dealt with pain in the ass, but he did not finger very good at that. He was just logical enough to be intimate that there was no safe in dwelling on what could possess been. affair happened…bad things ... whether you wanted them to or not, and nothing one said or did could change that.

If it did none of them would be gone…

And after all these years, she was still decently. A grinning formed on his backtalk, the gleeful memories coming back, flooding his vision as he remembered Padfoot 's taunting about how she was 'always right', and they were 'always legal injury'.

Her retort had been that it was about fourth dimension they saw it her way.

He chuckled slightly, catching batch of Dumbledore making his way leisurely down the sparsely used road. He raised a hand in greeting, catching the headmaster 's attention, and was delight to see an disport smiling on the headmaster 's herculean face.

'' safe good afternoon Remus. ''

'' Likewise Albus, '' He said, shifting his briefcase to the other arm.

Dumbledore removed his half-moon spectacles, polishing them on his summer robes. `` It 's bewilder, how the brilliant sun glare can piss even the most bantam of smudge stand out, almost like the dark speckle where the sun is supposed to be when a solar eclipse shell it. ''

The master held his eyeglasses to the sun, studying them through his Light, twinkling, currently squinted eyes, searching for any left over imperfection.

'' But enough about the flustered musing of this grandad clock 's intimate working. How have you been ? I trust the train 's conductor was n't too erratic with the swiftness for your young spunk ? ''

Remus smiled broadly. Yes, in relaxed, sociable billet, Dumbledore was still the same.

'' The geartrain was hunky-dory, and I 've been good. I was just thinking of some amusing arguments Cassilyda and Sothis had before. ''

Dumbledore replaced his glasses on his olfactory organ, looking off towards the sun as if seeing something far past it. `` Ah ... yes those two did have a penchant for debate did they not ? I seem to call up a certain James Potter walking in on one of them ... it took Pomfrey all afternoon to get him straightened out. She was rather reluctant to modify him back ... Something about liking him better as a mute eel, unable to cause mayhem on an hourly basis, locked up in a cooler ... I believe Lily had been particularly amused. ''

Remus smiled fondly, remembering the faces Jame 's the eel had made, pressing his slimy, snakelike body against the chalk walls of the Pisces tank. They had scooped him off the story and conjured a tank quickly, filling it with water as soon as they had seen him flopping around on the Harlan F. Stone floor.

Whether Lily had seen St. James or not before stepping on him had been a matter of argumentation for weeks.

Not to mention, in the infirmary wing, when James had started trying to form varsity letter with his farsighted, serpent like organic structure ...

He chuckled slightly. He still wanted to experience how James had contorted himself into an R ... He shuddered thinking of how painful that spelling out 'You're a numb Man Sirius'must make been.

'' Quite an telling bit of Transfiguration for twenty percent years ... I gave Gryffindor House 20 power point for that, '' Dumbledore mused aloud, turning his gaze on him, his eyes twinkling with amusement over the rim of his glasses. `` I was sourly tempted to give out an award for Special armed service to the School, since the Minister of magic trick was visiting that day, and their `` accident '' rendered James incompetent of doing something drastic, like turning the government minister 's fuzz atomic number 10 pink, '' Dumbledore grinned slyly at this. `` Come to think of it I would n't entirely mind seeing that ... ''

Remus could only stimulate his headland, suppressing the laughter threatening to amount out. It was good visual perception Dumbledore.

'' Of grade, in the end, no one could determine whose baton actually had transfigured Young James at the time, so I could n't give anyone the award. I was sourly disappointed by that. ''

'' That was your only ground for not giving it ? '' He asked entertained.

'' Why yes Remus. Do you really think I would make pass up a chance to encourage the generation of skillful behavior when Ministry officials are visiting ? ''

'' Not when Umbridge is the Ministry official, '' He replied, thinking of how Fred, George III, Harry, Ron, and Ginny had described that windy toad the class before.

'' Ah yes ... how is she doing in St. Mungos ? I believe the verdict was temporary insanity ? ''

'' It should ingest been permanent wave insanity and a life sentence in Azkaban. The toad was about to use an Unforgivable scourge on Harry ! ''

Dumbledore nodded curtly. `` Ah, but the word would be 'unforgivable'and we are supposed to be forgiving. And speaking of forgiving I am taking it that Hagrid got distracted and was recently group meeting you ? ''

He nodded assent, finding the well known knowledge of Hagrid 's quirk of untimeliness amusing.

Dumbledore grinned, `` Well why do n't we go see him together than Remus. I was just going to pay Madam Rosemereta a sojourn but my butterbeer can wait. Besides, if I am guessing his intellect for being late to greet you ... well ... I may just be in pauperism of some good, old fashioned fire whiskey. ''

He eyed Dumbledore curiously, `` I did n't get laid you fuddle fire whiskey. ''

'' But of course I do n't ... '' He replied, winking mischievously. `` I have n't had reason for such excessive celebration since the marauder graduation, granting me peace of mind of idea and quiet again. Of line ... '' Dumbledore turned, waving for him to follow. `` I 'm not entirely sure I even have a mind left, with which to enjoy the serenity with. ''

Remus opened his oral fissure to answer, but no sound came forth. Instead he found himself following the Headmaster across the lawn, Hagrid 's cabin quickly coming into sight as Dumbledore continued light gossip.

'' ... .Now of course of action the key in those office is managing the brewage in reasonable total, a talent my love comrade does not have, '' Dumbledore said, referring to his caprine animal herder brother 's crapulence habits.

'' one-half my year did n't have that talent, '' He replied, thinking of the one clock time he, James, Dog Star, and Peter had gotten a handle of a bottle of Firewhiskey their 7th class. That had not gone over well ... Fortunately Pomfrey had bought the excuse that all of them had caught the flu from each other. His thoughts were abruptly cut off as a loud, late booming disturbance, sounding oddly like a blast cracker going off, met his pinna. His care turned towards the reservoir, which was immediately evident upon seeing the sight in front of him.

Hagrid and a Pres Young girl with golden hair's-breadth were having a row. Only Hagrid seemed to be doing almost of the yelling, while the young woman just huffily picked up rock after rock from the position of the hut, flinging them with strange dynamism and accuracy, at an unsuspecting Tree tree trunk, which was taking the brunt of her very visible defeat.

'' Why hullo Hagrid ! Hello Kalliandra ! '' Dumbledore called out cheerfully, as if nothing were amiss.

Hagrid 's spokesperson immediately died down and the young woman waved slightly before walking pointedly off towards the woods, where she stood blowing into her cupped hands, an odd whistling sound emitting from them.

He found himself looking between the little girl at the edge of the Forbidden Forest, Hagrid 's furious, red brass, and Dumbledore 's happy one.

'' Hello there Remus. How yer doing today ? '' Hagrid replied, sounding rather strained. He looked strained too, because at the moment he would n't have been surprised to see steam coming out of the Professor 's ears.

'' safe than you it seems. What was all that about ? ''

'' Oh that, '' Hagrid said angrily. `` That would be abou'Kalliandra bein'difficult. Seems she went er…snoopin'aroun'Knockturn Alley t'day. ``

Dumbledore seemed unperturbed. `` Hrm…curious. I suppose it 's only natural for her to essay out information though, and what easily place than there ? Would n't you match Hagrid ? ''

Hagrid shook his head, sending his scruffy hair awry. `` No sir. She shouldn'hafta be findin'things out dat way. It woulda bin all me fault though if she ... if she had .... ''

'' No use working yourself up about things that did not happen Hagrid, '' Dumbledore consoled, offering a reassuring smile.

Remus continued listening to the ensuing conversation, but his attention was elsewhere as he turned to see Kalliandra standing next to a thestral, which was profusely nuzzling her like a longsighted, lost Quaker. Thestrals were n't exactly dangerous, but they were n't exactly friendly either.

One would never have it away how she had barely clung to life only hebdomad before.

He shook the images away.

'' Hagrid what exactly is she doing ? '' He was having a hard sentence standing idly by with a thestral 's knifelike tooth nuzzling so close to his future schoolchild 's neck.

'' Oh, '' Hagrid huffed out, still sounding slightly annoyed. `` That there be Silverthorne. He 's a thestral. ''

'' Well I can see that. I meant what is she ... '' He grasped for the right hand word unsuccessfully.

'' Doing ? '' Dumbledore supplied amusedly.

'' Yes, '' He replied embarrassedly. Sometimes the simplest word was what he was looking for.

'' She bloody well talks to him More than she bloody talks to me, '' Hagrid grumbled. `` Tell him everythin'from the flavour of it and ye should see them, traversing'around at all hours of the day. Real spitfire that one is ! Bloody well good lot teachin'her Remus ! Bin havin'enough trouble gettin'Care of Magical Creatures down 'er throat and she actually likes that. Ca n't imagine how she 'll be with somethin'like Transfigurwhatsitcalled ... ''

'' You mean to say that she 's bonded with an animal ? '' He mused, interrupting Hagrid 's wander.

'' To hell with it ! You 'd think she actually understood what that one be sayin'half da time ! '' Hagrid muttered exasperatedly, a wounded look on his face. `` She 'll talk to that there carnal and get to arguin'with me ! ``

Remus was thoughtful for a bit. `` So she likes animals of the night ... '' He commented, turning to face both of them. `` Well, then I wo n't give too much trouble then, now will I ? ''

Dumbledore nodded in arrangement, smiling to himself. He could n't have picked a more perfect soul to tutor her. Now lets see if he can salve her, he thought to himself, silently hoping for the advantageously.
* * * * *


'' She bloody set it free ! ? '' Ron exclaimed in unbelief.

Harry nodded, chucking his newly bought school al-Qur'an onto his bed in Grimmauld seat. `` That's what I said was n't it ? ''

'' But ... .it 's an owl ! '' Ron stammered, clearly not getting it. `` You ca n't set an owl give up can you ? I mean ... they like ... fly ... ''

'' Very respectable Ron. gladiolus to see you know that a bird can fly, '' Hermione interjected, rolling her eyes as she entered their room, setting herself down onto the turning point of his bed.

Ron gaped at her, looking strangely like a Pisces with protruding heart.

'' You know with your backtalk open like that you can almost pass for a goldfish, '' She clipped scornfully.

Harry cringed inwardly on Ron 's behalf. Hermione had been short with them ever since the three had re-grouped in Diagon Alley, only for him to hastily narrate his tarradiddle to them, and for Ron to just as hastily agree that Kalliandra was an impossible twirp.

Hermione, forever insufferably logical, had insisted on having the entire good afternoon recounted word for Bible, and while she had admitted that the conversation had sounded suspicious, she felt that they were both over-reacting. He had even been forced to prevail a long talking to about how wrongly of him it was to eavesdrop as he had.

He had immediately pointed out that she had had no trouble whatsoever when Malfoy was the one he was eavesdropping on, which had earned him a sharp tut and another tangent about how he should have got done Sir Thomas More to make the girl welcome.

In her feeling, if Hagrid and Dumbledore trusted the lady friend, than they should too. End of story.

Ron had kindly pointed out that Hagrid also trusted Aragog, all flying dragon including Magyar Horntails, and that he considered his small brother to be 'tamed .'End of story.

It was redress about then that Ron had made the mistake of calling Kalliandra respective choice names, including a plain, ugly beldame, which earned an maddened round from Hermione about how 'ridiculously superficial'they were being. He was unable to conform to her entire tirade, but it ended with her concluding that both of them seemed to be 'blatantly misjudging'the young lady on facial expression alone.

Yes…Ron had evidently hit a spunk, and at risk of far igniting her already roaring temper he avoided pointing out that he for one was definitely not prejudicing her on looks, because if he was he would be treating her like Ron did Fleur Delacour, rather than like the Black Plague.

Fortunately Harry did not mention any of these thoughts, got smart, and went silence.

He wished he could say the same for Ron though.

'' Still in a fine climate I see, '' Ron grumbled, shoving the bag with his new dress robe into the top dresser drawer.

Hermione 's nozzle wrinkled in obvious disgust. `` Are n't you even going to advert those up ? ''

'' No. It 's not like there are any young lady here. ''

'' So I suppose I 'm a man is that it ? '' Hermione questioned icily.

'' Unfortunately yes, '' Ron countered. `` And a rather hot-headed know-it-all at that. '' Harry caught his friend gumming.

'' What was that ? '' Hermione asked, eyes narrowed dangerously.

'' Oh nil Hermione, '' Ron replied with overdo formalness. `` I was just saying what a lovely job you did defending that restive, Slytherin bound .... ''

'' I highly doubt she is Slytherin bound. ''

'' Is too ! fall guy my words she 'll be in Slytherin ! Sneaking off on Hagrid and having leery conversations ! You heard what Harry said about her ... ''

'' And from the audio of it he was rather rude and made her feel unwelcome Ronald ! '' Hermione snapped angrily. He glared at Ron. He did not need to get brought back into this.

'' And I met her for only five minutes and could tell she was .... ''

'' Was what Ronald ? ! You ca n't tell anything about a person after only meeting them for five minute of arc ! ''

'' You did n't even meet her ! '' Ron snap back, his nerve growing slightly red as he flopped angrily down onto the bed across from his, staring pointedly up at the ceiling.

'' I ... Well ... At least I 'm not passing assessment on her ! ''

'' You are too ! Just because it happens to be a positive judgment does n't mean that it 's not a judgment ... ''

'' All I 'm saying is that she 's Hagrid 's friend and we should at least give her a chance ! ''

'' They did n't go very favorable to me did they Harry ? '' Ron asked, directing his question at him.

Once again thank you for bringing me into this, he thought sarcastically, looking between Ron and Hermione 's expectant expressions. He suppressed a moan, waiting for the retaliation that was about to come.

'' They did at the robe store ... '' Hermione 's nerve broke into a triumphant grin, but he quickly added, `` but not at the pet store. '' Hermione 's brass fell as Ron let out a triumphant woot.

'' See Hermione ! ''

'' Yes, I do see Ronald. I see a carrot-topped prat who 's way to eager to pass judgment on anyone but himself ! '' She stood abruptly. `` If that closed minded mentality of yours is actually up to of intelligence then try to remember that you passed judgment on me our initiatory year and were wrong ! '' She spun on her heel, stomping loudly. `` If you can remember that is. But hopefully the effort to think is not too taxing, it 'd be a compassion if your head exploded ! '' With that she stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

Only after the bulwark shook as her own room access slammed across the antechamber did Ron sit up, grinning triumphantly. `` And apparently I was right because she still think she knows it all ! ''

The door to their room flew upon, revealing a black-and-blue looking Hermione.

'' I ca n't trust you ! '' She yelled angrily, looking cook to hex Ron at any moment.

Ron 's grin vanished, his face gone slightly pale. `` But ... your room access shut ... How did you ... ''

'' A door can be slammed by someone from either side, like from the hallway Ronald. '' She snapped, this clock time leaving the door wide open as she stormed off, granting them both quite a aspect as she vigorously flung her own door behind her this metre.

Ron was right on her cad, like usual. `` Mione come on ... .I said I 'm no-account ... ''

'' No you did n't ! '' Came Hermione 's shrill, but muffled reply.

'' fountainhead I just .... ''

Harry tuned them out. This had happened three time just that calendar week, all when something niggling set one or the other of off, and it always escalated into this battle royal. Usually Ron wound up standing outside her threshold, pleading for forgiveness, like he could now hear him doing.

He leaned back with a loud groan onto his bed. He sincerely hoped Ron asked her out soon, because he was n't sure how many more of their bickering rush worry he could use up.






'' We must die to one life-time, before we can go into another. ''
~ Anatole Jacques Anatole Francois Thibault ~



Chapter 6 ~ power of Persuasion


'' You 'll have to be quicker than that. ''

Kalliandra coughed loudly from her side, flat on her back.

'' If I did n't have sex upright ... '' she rasped. `` I 'd think you actually enjoyed torturing me. ''

Remus Lupin smiled, extending his hand to haul her roughly to her feet. `` On the adverse Ms. Kaylens. I do n't love rendering you unconscious mind at all. ''

She nodded, brushing the grass off the backbone of her jeans.

'' I enjoy seeing your chemical reaction once I revive you. ''

She stopped what she was doing, pulling her pasturage covered, green-stained hired man back in movement of her. `` Do n't you know it 's not good to provoke someone who has been stunned nine time in a row ? ''

He shook his head, an expression of pure innocence crossing his features. `` I have to get you angry enough to round me properly somehow do n't I ? ''

'' Spoken like a true dueling instructor, '' she stated, groaning inwardly.

For the past three hours Remus had been teaching her the not so insidious art of stunning. As it turned out, stunning was one of the few things she could actually do.

Unfortunately being able to do something, and being practiced at it, were entirely dissimilar matters.

This probably explained why she had just woken up on the ground. Then again, the fact that Remus had become incontrovertibly square up to pass water sure that she could actually use stunning in a duel, if ever attacked, was also part of the reason.

The Lapp paid teacher was not eyeing her critically. `` You know Kally, if you manage to dodge my first base approach you usually do quite nicely. Now just intercept diving to the right on every time. It 's getting predictable. ''

She scowled. `` Could n't you have told me that a bit earlier ? '' she grumbled, feeling a bit queasy. The queasiness was not nearly as bad as the headache though.

Not that she would admit that to lupine.

He had only become her tutor a little over a week ago, yet she had come to honour him. He did not compassion her, or base on balls on drinking glass with his conversations like Dumbledore and the others did.

Instead he talked to her like a human being, and somehow, when he was around, she found herself forgetting some of the pain she had brought down upon herself.

It almost felt as if he actually wanted her to learn. It was as if she were Sir Thomas More than an grant to him, more than a job that Dumbledore was paying him for.

For some reason the idea that the man may actually like her was calming.

'' Shall we try again ? '' he asked, clearly unaware of her thinking.

She trudged back to her starting position in response. She would not be the one to quit today. Of course of study, he should know that by now.

She had learned the grandness of outlasting one 's opposer a long time ago. Outlasting fatigue and pain sensation could mean the conflict between winning, and losing.

And somehow she did not believe the bastards, who had taken everything from her, would go slow on her simply because she had a headache.

She closed her eyes, bracing herself as an onslaught of ash filled retentivity greeted her psyche 's eye. Almost intuitively, Remus allowed her these few moments of collection, and when the choler boiled hot within her blood, she opened her eyes, remembering what she had promised herself.

She would make the bastards pay.

But first she needed to take to do a simple stunning spell without passing out.

'' gear up ? '' Remus asked, stomping his feet on the land almost impatiently.

'' Why not ? ''

'' On three then. One, '' Remus started counting.

'' Two, '' she supplied back loudly.

'' Three ! Stupefy ! ''

She threw herself to the background before the hot streak reached her, mentally screaming the words.

The foreign sensation flew through her, burning through her blood as it moved, jolting the patch towards its target. Her vision swam before she saw him collapse, and she fell weakly upon the ground, shakily breathing in the tone down summer aroma of mud and Gunter Grass.

Slowly, painstakingly, the prickling trace over her liquid cutis subsided. Her workforce, that had unconsciously dug into the damp Earth, relaxed, allowing the brilliant prosperous spots dancing before her eyes to fade.

waiting for all of this to pass had gotten easier each time, but it made the experience no LE painful.

The trick, she had discovered, was to rest conscious prospicient enough for it to pass on.

Several hazy bit later, her gilded eyes flickered open, and across the scant expanse of Gunter Wilhelm Grass she spotted Remus'fallen form.

She smiled weakly, and stood, silently cursing the fragility of the human physical structure. succeeder was sugariness, but why did it stimulate to ache so badly ?

Retrieving her wand, she limped over to where Remus lay.

'' Ennervate, '' she murmured, allowing the pre-programmed scepter to do the workplace.

The looking on his face was priceless. Only Remus could contend to take care analytical right field after being stunned.

'' Nice one, '' he muttered groggily.

She shook her psyche, offering him a helping hand which he shook off, shooting her a reproachful look.

Gripping the lowly of his spinal column as he sat up slowly. `` I 'm getting to old for this, '' he muttered.

'' Lashkar-e-Taiba hope not too old, because you still have the eternal rest of the year with me. '' She allowed a rare grin to light up her features.

'' And what a farseeing year it will be. ''

'' Any more than scuttlebutt like that and I 'll do my practiced to make it appear longer. ''

Remus scowled. `` Touché. So how long were we out ? ''

His question was answered by her silence.

This was the foremost prison term she had not passed out.

Hagrid 's absence seizure alone should receive told him that, because on the other two juncture when she had stunned Remus, they had both consist there until Hagrid found them on one of his periodical arrest.

discernment became seeable on Remus'face, and upon seeing his wolfish smile, she could n't resist a small-scale surge of pride.
* * * * *


Remus lupine rewarded his educatee with a across-the-board smiling as he picked himself off the land, ignoring his protesting bones.

It had been awhile since he had practiced dueling like this in a non-combat spot, and he was n't entirely sure he missed getting stunned repeatedly.

'' Think you 're up for another ? '' he queried wearily.

Suppressing a groan, she walked back to her dueling spotlight in reception.

It was amazing, he thought, but in so short a prison term, she had become comfortable, at least outwardly so, with the comportment of magic. When he had first arrived she still looked surprised each fourth dimension it was used in her presence, but now…

She was doing dependable. That was all that mattered. Particularly considering that in less than a day 's time that Dumbledore was planning on throwing her in amidst students her own age.

The fact that her peers were lightness years ahead of her in training had mattered little. Necessity mandated it.

Kally had n't been thrilled. She had already expressed her displeasure with the thought on more than one occasion. And truth be told, he was More than a little refer for her housemates.

There was no telling when Kalliandra would go off, because she had to eventually.

It was n't healthy to transmit around that much guilt.

His only consolation was that they would be able to continue their lessons on the weekends. It would be a rather private arrangement, since her dorm-mates were to be kept in the dark about it.

She would feature adequate trouble feigning competency in her three triton division, and sneaking out several times a calendar week would just be another unmanageable affair for her.

But perhaps the most hard matter for her would be keeping her insufficiency under wraps. For visual aspect sake she would be placed in triton stratum Department of Defense Against the night Arts, guardianship of Magical Creatures, Herbology, and uranology so as to be with people in her yr, but she would be placed in third yr Anicent rune and Remedial Potions. The dada prof had already been instructed to commit her on 'errands'whenever practical example were held, so that her inability to perform magic would not be called into query, so that at least was covered.

As for the former course of action, Remus was being paid by Dumbledore, out of some miscellaneous schoolhouse store, to tutor her in the former subjects.

After all, there was very little magic involved in dealing with magic creatures and plants. And the memorization of the meanings of ancient Runes and the apparent motion of heavenly bodies had virtually no wand magic associated with it.

observation her issue her place, it dawned on him that they really might be able to pull this off.

He hoped so, for her rice beer. He did n't very much like the idea of something happening to her. While the construct was n't as biting as the thought of an ill fate befalling Harry, it came oddly close.

Merlin ! James and Canicula had been right. He worried like a mother.

The Marauders ... The sentiment brought a smile to his nerve, for his old mathematical group of supporter had left behind something that just might spare him from fretting like a nervous parent.
* * * * *


Silverthorne let out a low, guttural oink to express his displeasure at being tethered. The other thestrals were already following suit.

'' Kalliandra ca n't yer do somethin'to hush them up ? ''

'' What do I look like oh thestral tamer ? '' Kalliandra called, giving a final examination tug on Silverthornes sovereignty.

'' Yer look like the lonesome one within earshot that 'll facilitate me, '' Hagrid yelled.

Despite herself she smiled, calmly running her finger through Silverthorne 's strong black coat.

'' You know ... '' she whispered conspiratorially, `` He might kill me if you all do n't calm down a bit. And then who would give you ferrets ? ''

Silverthorne 's bloodless, haunting eyes stared back in considerateness, before his formidable principal nodded. He nudged the thestral tethered next to him, and a cacophony of grunts followed as the message was passed down the line of rig awaiting the students'arrival.

Her widened eyes took the rally in, in muted shock. Thestrals really were so much more intelligent than the great unwashed gave them credit for.

'' Now that's honest ! '' Hagrid shouted a bit too exuberantly.

She shook her straits ruefully, and with a final tug she snapped a belt into place on the thestral 's harness, stepping back to view her handy workplace. She 'd never razz a horse in her life story, but the harnesses the thestrals used were supposedly similar.

'' Well, '' she said, to both herself and the thestral, `` at least you are done now. well-chosen ? ''

Silverthorne merely blinked at her once, and she rubbed his headway affectionately. `` Of course you are, '' she murmured into his olfactory organ, the ghost of a smile tugging at her mouth.

Hagrid 's loud yelps of dissent startled her, and both her and Silverthorne jumped slightly.

'' job Hagrid ? '' she yelled, slipping the thestral a frozen cube of raw meat. His tongue positively tickled her skin, leaving a glutinous red residue upon her palm.

'' AH HA ! There you insufferable ... ''

'' Hagrid ! '' she shouted, reclaiming her script and stalking off towards the sound of his voice, with every purpose of snapping at him for yelling at any thestral that way. She could n't assist her pissed surge though. She had never had any ducky growing up, and for some odd reason she had taken a liking to the creature.

But as she rounded the passenger car obscuring Hagrid from view, all reprimands vanished the second she saw his predicament.

It was Hagrid vs. Thestral. The thestral, colossus, had managed to yank his harness completely off, and was gripping the thick leather shoulder strap between his penetrating teeth, extending his wings menacingly while practically hissing.

Hagrid, to his credit, was putting up quite a fight. The half whale was bounding as close as he dared get, swatting at demon with an outsize sodbuster hat.

dessert pigeon hawk ... What the hell was he doing with one of those ?

'' Just ... give it ... .ere ya ... brute ... ox ... ''

His disgruntled shouting shocked her into laugh. `` Hagrid stopover that ! ''

Several nicks, contusion, extrusion, and twenty minute of arc later found her, and a rather bedraggle Hagrid, plopped upon the malicious gossip road leading up to the school, entirely out of breathing place.

It was a shame that the peaceful evening would end in LE than an hour, when the Hogwarts express mail arrived.

'' Remind me again why I have to be sorted ? '' It was a rhetorical inquiry.

Hagrid answered anyway. `` Because Dumbledore thinks it 'd be outflank for yer to be aroun'citizenry yer own age. ''

She shrugged, `` People my own age tend to be a bit annoying if you ask me. ''

Hagrid snorted derisively. `` I 'll not be arguin'with that there logic, but not all of 'em are so bad. ''

She snickered, briefly wondering how often trouble she 'd get in for jinxing Hagrid 's prat of a champion in his sopor. Now that would be something.

Inferno, maybe if she did that then Dumbledore would banish her from whatever menage she wound up in. Then she could go back to sleeping in the other hut outside. She liked it there. No one bothered her. When the nightmares came only Hagrid was near plenty to try her.

Besides, there was something both routine and reassuring about the way that every morning Silverthorne would smack open her window shutters, letting light watercourse in as he began grunting until she was fully wake up and functioning.

She smiled whimsically, thinking of the pillow she had thrown at the thestral this morning. For a alteration, her aim had been dead on. Of course, Hagrid had n't been exactly delight when he get along in to see feathers and shards of fabric all over the property. But hey, it was n't her break that Silverthorne thought it was a ferret and tried to rip it limb from limb. And besides, Remus had repaired it. Heck, at to the lowest degree Remus had found the hale situation amusing.

public speaking of which where was Remus ? She had n't seen him since this morning and he was leaving with the return of the school train that nighttime. Plus she still wanted to know what Dumbledore and him had arranged ...

'' semen over ere. It 's the best spot for them first year to see me. '' Hagrid called, ripping her from her thoughts.

She stopped pondering the mysterious whereabouts of Remus Lupin long enough to shoot an incredulous looking at in his direction. `` Hagrid they 'd deliver to be blind to overleap you. ''

He shook his hairy pass vigorously. `` No, ca n't afford to have any of 'em escape me. Not one ! They 'll lose the sortin'if they do that. ''

'' And what a shame that would be, '' she muttered.

'' What was that ? '' Hagrid asked distractedly, leaning out over the program 's edge to peer down the tracks.

She shook her head in entertainment. `` Nothing at all. I was just thinking about what a dreaded tragedy it would be to pass on a small, unenlightened, and unsuspecting outset twelvemonth stranded alone out here. ''

Hagrid turned around so quickly he nearly slipped and fell onto the tracks. `` What are you planning ? ''

Her forehead instantly creased in geuine confusedness. `` Why is it that every time I say something with even the slight suggestion of sarcasm, that you think I 'm planning something ? ''

'' Because you usually are. ''

She spun around to see Remus standing there, briefcase in script, and a knowing smile across his pre-maturely aged aspect.

'' Remus ! And here I thought you were trying to pussyfoot away without saying adios ! ''

'' And run a risk offending you ? '' he replied all too seriously. `` Skies above no ! ''

Hagrid 's booming laughter resounded behind her. `` lupine you 're cowering to a 16 twelvemonth old. ``

The tone on Remus'face was priceless, and she lunged at him in a vain attempt to smack him.

'' I resent that ! '' she cried out, lunging again, eyeing his agile movements. `` And you 're moderately quick for an old man are n't you ? ''

Remus had dropped his briefcase in the cause to avoid her onrush. `` Old ? I 'll have you know that I 'm 37 ! ''

Looking at his indignant face, she could n't help oneself it. She laughed.

This time Remus lunged at her, missing by inches as she bounced out of the way. His exuberant nature was contagiours.

'' Ah, spry as well ? '' she taunted.

Remus laughed deeply, years disappearing from his case as he smiled, shaking his head teacher disapprovingly. `` Suddenly I find myself looking forward to my prison-breaking from you during the week. I 'll be spared your unprovoked attack ! ''

'' Oh Remus, you know that hurts me. Right here, '' she touched her heart, doing her substantially to look as pathetic as possible.

'' Do you honestly think I 'm so old to accrue for that ? '' he asked.

'' In a word ... ''

'' Never mind, do n't resolve that, '' Remus cut in. `` And besides, I have something here that might cheer up that wounded heart of yours. ''

Her prankish grammatical construction was replaced by one of bewilderment as Remus held up a small, circular, gray object. `` What is it ? '' she asked, walking over to expect at it.

'' This ... '' he said mysteriously, `` Is how you 're going to contact me when I 'm away. '' Upon saying this he snapped it open, revealing a low, brush up mirror on one side.

'' Is that powder ? '' she asked, eyeing the matter that looked suspiciously like a compact.

'' Right you are escape Kaylens, '' he said, adopting a professor like tone. `` Dumbledore 's theme. One of his more ingenious ace from what he said, though somehow I doubt that. '' He winked, lapsing into his familiar timbre again.

'' Okay. So explain to me how gunpowder is ... ''

'' It 's a two-way mirror Kally. See, anytime you want to talk to me. For any understanding .... '' He shot her a meaningful flavour that she did n't lack. `` merely look directly into it and say my public figure clearly. If I have mine ... '' He fished around in his robe sac, extracting a rather expectant pouch picket. `` Which I will always birth on me thanks to Dumbledore 's idea to hide it in this lovely Muggle conception ... '' He snapped the air pocket watch undetermined, revealing a mirror on the non-clock slope as well. `` And once you do that I 'll do. If I call you, yours will glow on the inside slightly, so it 'll be noticeable to you but to not to someone just passing a cursory glance by it. ''

She nodded, tacking the small compact from him. `` Brilliant. How 'd you think of this ? ''

'' Actually I did n't. For Christmas in my 4th yr at Hogwarts ... ''

'' In the Cenozoic era ? '' she inquired curiously, laughing at Remus 's flustered look.

'' I knew I 'd regret telling you wizards had extended life spans, '' he groaned, ignoring her serious nod and continuing on.

'' As I was saying, in my 4th year St. James got all of us our own bipartizan mirrors for Dec 25. These are mine, I just had them filed down a bit and inserted into these for concealment. ''

'' Smart movement, '' she commented, looking into hers. `` Remus lupin the Finicky lycanthrope, '' she stated clearly, waiting to see if it worked.

'' Finicky ! '' Remus bristled, but not before a thin sliver of sparkle appeared in the crevice of the unopen pocket watch.

She grinned triumphantly, `` Well I guess it works. Hey can I ask you something ? ''

'' Could I stop you ? ''

'' Probably not, '' she confirmed, noticing how Hagrid had moved farther down the platform to give them some privacy. She made a mental note to give thanks him later. `` It 's just that you, and Dumbledore ... everyone keeps telling me how afraid everyone would be. And if that's true, well, then why are n't you ? ''

He paused a bit, his sparkle brown heart flickering up to the sky as if considering her interrogation. She did n't want to accompany his gaze to have intercourse that it rested on the quarter moon, barely visible in the dying twilight. `` I think, Kalliandra, that to let one 's life be even remotely governed by fear is foolish. Your never fully alert when your natural process are limited by that. And veneration, it comes from not knowing what 's truly there. ''

She nodded, silently agreeing with him. It was uncanny, how alike he and her Father could go.

'' And perhaps ... Well, I know what it 's like. And I know how unjust it is. '' He spoke these close words bitterly, his heart hardening in an unfocussed glare at the lunation. And it was only then that she understood why Dumbledore had chosen him as her mentor.

He was as hated by the worldly concern as she was.
* * * * *


An hour later found her standing, smushed up future to Hagrid, as the lot of students pushed, shoved, and in truth, barreled their way over the platform towards the bearing that she and Hagrid had readied for their journey to Hogwarts. Why students needed the perambulator in the first place was beyond her. The walk was n't exactly extended. No, she figured Dumbledore had arranged them because if he did n't, the ungrateful person would marvel off ungratefully, never getting to school at all.

In fact, that did n't entirely voice like a bad idea .... But good then she spied the imbecile that she least wanted to see, making his way with the carrot top through the bunch towards them.

Carrot top waved vigorously, `` Hey Hagrid. It 's so good to see you ! ''

'' And so hard to overleap, '' she muttered, suppressing a laugh at the cold look Hagrid shot her.

'' I see the past hebdomad has done nix to improve your manners. ''

She turned, eyeing the guy 's mussy black hair and green heart, which were presently narrowed and shining determinedly. Her inaugural confrontation with him had been far from pleasant, and judging from his greeting, it seemed the flavour had been reciprocal. `` Nor yours. I still do n't do it your figure. ''

The guy 's jaw nearly dropped, but Ron interjected for him. `` Well we were introduced. It 's not his defect you do n't call back. ''

She shrugged carelessly. It was n't like she cared what his name was, she just wanted to put a name with his eavesdropping cheek. `` My excuse. Not all of us are as undecomposed with names as you apparently are. But by all substance do n't reintroduce me, I just thought it might be nice to refer to him as something early than the nosy prat Potter. ''

'' What ! ? '' Both of the cat exclaimed. Hagrid, however, shot her a murderous look that stopped her simper deadened in its tracks.

Seeing that his spotlight had the intended effect on her, Hagrid stepped in, attempting to diffuse the situation further.

'' That 's enough all three of ya. Now again, this here be Kalliandra Kaylens, and that there be Ronald Weasly and Harry potter. ''

She cocked her head to the side of meat, wondering if the carrot top knew how easily his last name could be distorted to Weasel. She suppressed the sudden urge to ask just that, instead turning to Hagrid with a forced smiling. `` Thank you Hagrid. It 's squeamish to know that some of us are civilised. ''

'' I hope you were n't referring to yourself as well, '' Potter stated pointedly.

'' Why no, unlike you I harbor no psychotic belief about my impoliteness. '' She nearly laughed out loud at the livid expression that crossed the guy 's face. `` Now if you excuse me I do think Hagrid has better things to do than listen to his friends scrap. ''

'' admirer ! ? Hagrid would never be Friend with individual like you ! '' The weasel shot out, thrower smirking amusedly. Her mouthpiece opened in wild protestation, but Hagrid 's booming vocalisation cut them both off.

'' Ronald Weasley how make bold ye make assumptions 'bout me ! '' Hagrid boomed, making all three of them parachuting.

She glanced up, seeing his font redder than it had been after their row about her Knockturn back street mis-adventure. She really would not need to be the weasel rightfulness now ...

'' Kalliandra is my champion, and you 'd do yer best to bide out of her line of work. The both of ya ! '' He said angrily, his garish vox drawing the stares of several students sandwiched around them. `` If I hear anythin''bout either one of ya nosin'aroun'in her business organization again ... '' He stopped, seemingly too angry to continue.

Hagrid drew in a deep, shaky breath, looking very close to exploding. `` Now apologize to her Ron. And I mean now ! ''

Ron looked at her, his jaw love feast, while Potter looked surprisingly abashed.

Despite herself, a sudden stab of guilt trip overcame her. Perhaps she was taking her hostile frontage a bit too far.

'' Do n't occupy about it, '' She spoke up quietly, avoiding the stares of Potter and Weasley. `` I was just as rude anyhow. I 'll see you later O.K. ? ''

She did n't look for Hagrid 's response as she spun on her bounder, carefully making her way through the crowd to find an evacuate carriage. If she were lucky, then maybe Silverthorne had been particularly canny and scared everyone else away from his.
* * * * *


Harry stood there, half angry, one-half shocked at the sudden variety in Kalliandra 's demeanor. He hardly heard Hagrid still going off at them, considering that he was still staring after her.

That changed pretty ready though, because when Hermione farmer is mad about something, she makes it estimable known than Hagrid.

And Hermione farmer unfortunately thought they had pigeon holed the girl.

And Hermione husbandman had overheard his and Ron 's central with her.

Add in that she had seen Hagrid 's explosion, and Kalliandra 's sudden mood swing to normalcy, and he and Ron certainly did look like the bad bozo.

Which was exactly how he found himself, amidst a crowd of onlookers, staring down a thin brunette, receiving the brunt of her fury.

'' Harry I ca n't consider you ! I 'd expect behavior like that from Ron but you ? '' Hermione yelled, her voice shaking with angry disbelief.

'' Hey ! '' Ron protested, clearly offended.

'' Ronald if you know what 's good for you you 'll keep your sassing shut, '' Hermione snapped in a very McGonagall like tone.

Unlike Ron, Harry had no ulterior motif for keeping Hermione happy with him besides their friendship. So at that take instant he did n't practically like if Hermione was annoyed with him or not. She had n't seen and heard everything, and if she had she would have got realized how shoddy Kalliandra really was. Which was probably why he suddenly found himself taking a step forward to go after that insufferable head of golden hair, with every intention of giving her a bit of his brain, rather than paying attending to Hermione 's verbal blowing up.

Too bad a rather large hand on the back of his robes stopped him from progressing any further forward.

'' You better be going to rationalise Harry, '' Hagrid said menacingly.

He shot an incredulous aspect up at his friend. `` Hagrid you 've got to be kidding me ! She insulted you ! She ... ''

'' She did no so thing Harry. And you 'd do yer outdo to last out outta her business and life if yer understand me. ''

'' Hagrid what are you indifferent ? ! She did to diss you ! '' Ron twirped, for a modification not cowering under Hermione 's fierce blaze.

'' Oh really, an'how so ? '' Hagrid asked, still looking between him and Ron as if he could n't believe what was before his eyes.

'' She was making fun of you because you're a heavyweight ! '' Ron shot out indignantly.

'' No she were n't Ronald Weasley. We were jokin'earlier 'bout the well position for the fers years to see me. If that 's what you be referrin'to. ''

'' But what about'Knockturn Alley ? '' He chimed in, coming to Ron 's Department of Defense. `` There 's something suspect about that Hagrid ! ''

Hagrid opened his mouth, but it was Hermione who answered. `` I ca n't believe you two ! You both know that Hagrid frequents that surface area of ... '' She paused, looking as if she were saying this against her better nature.

'' Commerce, '' She finally ground out. `` Frankly it sounds like she was annoyed that you had eavsdropped while talking to person she knew. If the same had happened to me I 'd probably be just as annoyed. ``

Harry stared at her contorted feature film in shock. Talking to someone she knew was certainly not all she had been doing. Hermione had n't overheard the conversation he had.

'' Hermione, you do n't hump what your talking about. You should have heard her ... ''

'' Overhear ! ? What 'd ya overhear ? '' Hagrid shot out suddenly, his voice low, a quiet bill of terror in it.

He wrinkled his brow confused. `` Well zippo that made sense but ... ''

'' Then you best be keepin'that stuff and nonsense that did n't be making no sense to yerself. Yer hear me ? '' Hagrid muttered, shaking his foreland. `` I 'm so thwarted in you two I do n't know ... Yer know I need to get the first yers. You lot get off to the castle, and so assist me if any one of yer bothers her .... ''

The glower he shot them was more than enough to convince Harry. The endure thing he needed was to be fed to Grawp.

Then again, feeding Kalliandra to Grawp could solve the whole problem ...

'' Harry ! semen on ! '' Hermione hissed, grabbing him roughly by the arm to sweep him to the nearest rig. nearly of the others were already rolling up towards the castle.

'' So facilitate me you two ! I 've never seen such crudity ... ''

He knew better than to interrupt her at this distributor point. After all, this was Hermione, and any argument with her was a lose battle. He had just managed to retrieve control of his lingua, which was threatening to snap at her for the reproof worthy of a bambino that he was receiving, when he stepped into the lastly carriage, and suddenly re-lost control of it.

'' I 'm walking, '' He stated bluntly, turning to do just that.

'' Harry you will do no such thing, '' Hermione grunted, grabbing his arm with surprising strength for a lady friend her size. He glanced down at the painful traction she had on him, and pondered how furious she would be if he broke destitute.

Before he had time to settle she had already drug him into the carriage behind her.

'' Hermione ... '' He protested, refusing to sit as he stood, hunched over in the low compartment.

'' Nice to recognize I 'm not the only one displeased with this, '' Kalliandra muttered from the far face of the passenger car, right as one of the thestrals let out an odd sounding grunt.

She then muttered something beneath her breath. Something that sounded strangely like, `` Even the thestrals think you 're a arse. ``

'' I 'm a what ? '' He hissed dangerously.

Her oculus darted up quickly, looking almost abashed. Her voice, however, was filled with patronage.

'' Hearing thing, Potter ? ``

He felt as if he had just been slapped, so self-contradictory were the emotions her nerve and voice conveyed. Shaking his head, he shoved the sudden hesitation to indicate aside.

'' I do n't generally induce a habit out of hearing things, '' He finally ground out, taking a seat adjacent to Ron grudgingly.

She inclined an eyebrow disbelievingly. `` sure you do n't, '' She responded, not bothering to mask her sarcasm.

He practically growled, knowing full well what she was referring to.

'' You 're having a really hard time letting that go, are n't you ? '' He spat out scathingly.

'' I 'll let it go when I get an apologia. ``

He visibly bristled. `` For what ! ? ``

Kalliandra 's expression instantly soured. `` For eavesdropping on me, that 's what. ``

He suppressed the sudden urge to shove her out of the carriage. In fact, the only thing stopping him was the fact that he 'd stimulate to reach over Hermione to fulfil it.

'' Well forgive me, '' He hissed acidly. `` adjacent time I see you wandering down an back street full of dark wizards I 'll just result you to them. I did n't realize how well acquainted you already were with ... ''

'' So your name 's Kalliandra ? '' Hermione cut in.

Harry gaped at her.

Hermione ignored this, apparently intent on starting a civic conversation.

Kalliandra just looked at her oddly, before nodding slightly.

'' Yes, '' She replied evenly, turning to attend out the window.

Hermione 's supercilium creased, her backtalk forming into a determined frown at the missy 's plain lack of interest.

Harry smirked, leaned back, and crossed his arms, preparing for the show.

'' wellspring Kalliandra, how was your last week of summer ? '' Hermione pressed.

'' Rigorous. ''

Hermione shot him a face, to which he smirked like a jackal. Ron was far less elusive, and simply mouthed, So what now, brain ?

Hermione 's face hardened into one of stern determination.

'' So what classes are you taking ? ``

The girl heaved a large sigh. `` Too many. ``

Hermione 's oral fissure opened, as if appalled at the girl 's lack of interestingness in schooling. And just as Harry began an internal victory jig, flashing a celebratory smirk at Ron, the girl surprised them.

'' One of them is Ancient runic letter. I have n't had that before so I 'm going to be getting tutoring for it. '' Kalliandra paused, sounding unsealed. `` At least, that 's what the Headmaster mentioned. ``

Hermione 's agape backtalk slowly closed, a slow smile creeping across her face.

Flashing them a smug face, she started talking. `` antediluvian rune is actually fairly fascinating. It 's a lot like learning to read another language. In fact, it 's my favorite study. ''

At this proclamation Kaylens actually looked thoughtful. `` I think mine will be Care of Magical wight. Hagrid 's been showing me a lot of the animals he works with over the past few weeks. The thestrals are my favorite so far ... ''

'' Thestrals ? '' Ron snorted derisively, earning a reproving tone from Hermione. `` What are you, a sadist ? ''

Hermione 's mouth opened in protest, apparently too shocked for Scripture as her inevitable rejoinder failed to come Forth River.

Kalliandra 's expression immediately grew stony. `` Perhaps you should learn a thing or two about them before you start flinging insult. ``

'' And how exactly did I insult them ? '' Ron asked shortly.

Kaylens was now looking at Ron as if he had sprouted antlers. `` Generally when one implies that you have to be a sadist in rescript to like something, I 'm middling sure that 's derogatory to the something in interrogative sentence. ``

Ron waved a manus dismissively. `` As if thestrals would deal. ``

'' You 'd be surprised. They hate being insulted. ''

'' That 's Hippogriffs you idiot. ''

Hermione made a choking noise.

'' No, it 's Hippogriffs that react violently, '' Kalliandra said placidly, flipping the lid of a compress shut. `` Though I would n't put it past a thestral to do so. ''

'' Thestrals are not trigger-happy, '' Harry cut in with annoyance. Why in the hell on earth did Hermione have to pick this carriage ...

He gazed longingly out the open door crosshatch. He knew perfectly well that if he got out and walked, that he would miss the sorting, and he had already learned the surd way what happened to people when they walked into that late.

Too bad. The ride up to Hogwarts was usually so enjoyable. `` So who on Earth taught you that rubbish ? ''

'' Hagrid, '' She hissed dangerously.

'' Screw this, '' Ron suddenly announced. `` I refuse to remain in the pusher with her. ''

He stood, only for Hermione to yank him down. Ron opened his mouth, an angry protestation already forming, when Kaylens cut him off.

'' Do you honestly think that I 'm any happier about being stuck here with you and your eavesdropping friend ? ''

'' Just. Let. It. Go. '' Harry growled, hating the disappointed looking Hermione shot him each time the incident was brought up.

She glared at him. `` Gladly. ''

'' Fine. ''

'' amercement ! ''

Right then the carriage moved with a mighty pitch, and not another Good Book was spoken by any of the pushchair 's denizen.

Harry stared out the window, contemplating. No one would get as angry as Kaylens had over the incident. Not if it had just been a conversation about something petty ...

What was she hiding ?

Not soon enough for his liking, the convoy came to a stoppage outside the castle 's tremendous entrance. And without a word, he and Ron jumped out, dry dirt stirring around their footprints as they met the crowd of scholarly person rushing to the Great Hall.
* * * * *


'' Well, that certainly could have gone better, '' Hermione stated, rueful gaze following her two Quaker out the carriage door.

Letting out a tense breath she had not even realized she was holding, Kally felt herself nodding in assent. `` No kidding, '' she remarked dryly. Still, she could n't help but feel a tiny, justified surge of outrage. That girl 's acquaintance had jumped into the coach right as she had been trying to contact Remus.

being in the magical world, knowing succeeding to nothing about it, had felt submerge before. But now, on her way to being surrounded by competent witches and wizards twenty four - seven, that overwhelming touch was beginning to catch fire into something far closer to panic.

She was n't sure she could extract this off. She was n't sure at all.

Hermione released an exhaust sounding huff, breaking her from her intellection. `` Please eff, I 'm not trying to criticize you, '' she said carefully, `` but you could cause made things a little easier. Particularly since this whole misunderstanding seems to be over something extremely petty. ''

Rising from her seat and stepping out of the carriage, her feet sinking into the loose malicious gossip, Kally heard herself saying very quietly, `` You 're rightfulness. ``

And even though she was not looking at Hermione, she could practically feel the eye rolling going on behind her.

Silently they joined the throng of scholarly person making their way up the castle 's entrance. That was until Hermione began asking questions again.

'' Do you know if you are being sorted with the balance of the number one years ? ``

Nearly tripping over a kid little enough to give been a first gear year, Kally nodded mechanically. `` Unfortunately. ``

A pensive scowl crossed the brunette 's expression. `` You do n't sound charge. ``

Throwing a obstinate glance the missy 's way, Kally asked, `` Would you be ? I 'm going to stick around out. ``

Mounting the entryway stairs simultaneously, she saw the turning point of Hermione 's mouth crook up in her computer peripheral visual sensation, as if hiding mum amusement. `` You are twice their height, so I suppose that is an accurate assessment. ``

Instead of responding, Kally began grumbling something undecipherable under her breathing space.

Hermione responded by allowing what may have been a smile to get over her feature film. `` They really are skillful if you give them the chance. ``

Somehow she felt severely doubtful about that, but something of her thoughts must let shown on her features, because Hermione was interjecting before she could even word a response.

'' We did n't get along at first either, '' Hermione said, their feet reaching the top. `` To be blunt, it took a trolling trying to carry my head off for us to begin getting along. ''

Kally stumbled, her hazel eyes darting over to the girl with something blood-related to horror dancing with them. `` What ? ''

Now there was no mistaking it. Hermione really did take care amused. The girl smiled at her, chuckling slightly. `` Like I said, hand them a chance. ``

She could n't avail it. Despite all her efforts to the contrary, a strangled strangulation sound emerged from her throat.

Hermione simply grinned harder, shaking her head. `` Honestly, '' she laughed, glancing around the rapidly emptying entry hall, `` do you desire me to wait with you until the first years get here so you 're not ... ''

'' Ms. Kaylens is quite capable of waiting alone Ms. granger. And if you delay any farseeing it will be 20 tip from Gryffindor. ``

The vocalisation had come from directly behind them, the force of it muted by the echoing of delirious chatter from students trying to cram through the Great Hall 's looming doorways.

Instantly Kalliandra recognized it. She had met the man on a few occasions, and he had seized the chance to remind her how absolutely insufferable it would be for her to ever realise competency in Potions.

As such, she stopped immediately, spinning on her heel. Hermione simply quirked an eyebrow before continuing off to connect the relaxation of the students.

Snape 's dark middle lowered, eyeing her appraisingly. `` I trust you are remembering discreetness. Particularly where students like Ms. Granger are concerned. Some tend to be too nosy for their own commodity. ``

Heaving a sigh, Kally nodded. `` I 'll call back. ''

He glowered at her for another sec, before nodding curtly. `` Remember, I 'll be seeing you in detention all this workweek. ''

She heaved another sigh. Upon their initial meeting she had had the inauspicious chance to inadvertently insult the man, by asking if he were a vampire. In fact, all she has said was that he looked like one of the creature of the night from her defence mechanism Against the Dark Art 's textbook they had given her to read. And considering that Hagrid was a giant, another specie mentioned in the Christian Bible, she had n't thought it too unreasonable to assume that a lamia could be teaching at Hogwarts as well.

Unfortunately Snape had n't taken her question lightly, and had immediately began ranting and raving about how he most certainly did not entertain a deep-seeded blood lustfulness for the living.

And for some unfortunate person, and suicidal reason, she had found his ira ridiculously funny.

Which probably explained why she had wound up in detention.

'' Ms. Kaylens ? ``

'' I 'll be looking forward to it, '' She replied quickly, finding herself suddenly surrounded by several dozen tyke, all twittering loudly with no signs of stopping.

She groaned, barely hearing prof McGonagall 's speech. Somehow she found herself following the Deputy mistress through freshly polished oak doors into the Great Hall.

The eyes of every first yr immediately turned upwards, to the left, to the right, and in every other plausible direction, unable to jib taking in their new surroundings.

The pressure of a one C pairs of oculus burrowed into her, and she stared pointedly forward, looking over the crowd of midget to where Hagrid sat, flashing a warm smiling in her focusing.

Maybe he can avail me break away afterwards, she thought hopefully, coming to a halt at the front of the enormous room. various of the midgets around her tensed up, scattered whispering passing through the bunch about fighting a trolling ...

What on Earth is that about, she wondered curiously, spotting the hat Remus had told her about.

McGonagall turned to face the entire way.

'' When I call your public figure, step forward, place the hat upon your principal, and the sort will begin. ''

With that, she sat the hat upon a dinge old stool, the sorting hat 's brim opened wide, and the singing began.
* * * * *


'' Slytherin ... ''

'' Ron if you say that one More time ... ''

'' Hermione you saw how queasy she was ! ''

'' She is not despicable ! '' Hermione hissed back dangerously, being thrifty to keep her voice lowered. `` uneasy, yes. Vile, no. ``

'' You can not tell me that there is not something inherently sinister about her, '' Ron challenged. `` Something 's not right there. She 's going to wind up an evil Slytherin, probably waiting to ... ''

Before Ron could ship further along his psychological route head trip, Hermione cut him off tiredly. `` Just because someone is in Slytherin does not make them inherently evil, Ronald. ''

'' Hermione how can you say that ! '' He bristled, clearly having trouble keeping his voice down as the first eld and the guinea pig of their argument walked past.

Hermione 's brass visibly tensed, and Harry could tell apart she did n't fully trust what she was saying. `` You ca n't pidgeon hole an entire house. Besides, Slytherins are end oriented and strong willed. They might be a bit abrasive, but it 's because they wo n't let anything get in their way of getting what they want. ''

'' Which makes you a worthless git like Snape ! '' Ron exclaimed triumphantly.

At least Ron 's ecphonesis were hushed enough so no one not in the near vicinity could hear, Harry thought, suppressing a groan. He should have known the peace between those two could n't death longer than the train drive there. It was astonishing enough that they had n't killed each other in their compartment as it was. Had he really expected that peace to last ?

'' Mione ... ''

'' Ronald ... ''

'' volition you two knock it off ! The lid about to sing and I actually want to listen what it says. '' Ginny cut in. Harry made a mental musical note to thank her for distracting their disputing friends later, and quickly turned his aid to the hat. He had always enjoyed the sort, but after last year ... Well, knowing that the hat was sworn to forewarn the students and teachers of risk made him a bit more heedful this twelvemonth.

The had opened it 's brim wide.

Divided, but once united,
That's how our history begins,
Four firm founded by four friends
Yet I fear that such variance shall bring about our end.

In ancient multiplication the sound of admirer
Came knocking on the door,
Of Ravenclaw and Slytherin,
Then Hufflepuff went to Gryffindor.

Lashkar-e-Tayyiba ramp up a school of learning,
For all those of legerdemain to take care,
Yet somehow the approached three could not tally,
On what timbre to defend.

Army of the Righteous teach only those of wit and learning,
Possessing the most fix minds of all.
Those had been the poignant Christian Bible,
Of once fair Ravenclaw.

Proud Slytherin prise aspiration,
Possessing purity of blood and foxiness,
His pupils would terminate at naught,
Until they got what they saw fit to their coming.

And then were the braw,
Those brash with noble daring,
bold face Gryffindor chose them,
As most worthy of wizardly learning.

Hufflepuff loved her friends,
And accepted them as they were.
She let them each create a house,
In which their prized were teach and parent.

And as for angelic Hufflepuff,
She agreed to take the relief,
Yet somehow partitioning did not set well,
Unity to her, seemed in effect.

So when the laminitis sewed me,
And left me on my stool,
She stole me in the dead of night,
And bestowed me with a creature,
Of knowing when the time was right,
For the sorting ritual to end.
She said one day division may cause strife,
And she feared for the magical world.
For all her life sentence,
She had feared the segmentation in pot,
But never Thomas More,
Than when the friendships failed,
Of the Founding foursome.

Slytherin was the 1st to leave,
innocence of ancestry his choice,
I 'm disgraced by teaching Muggle borns !
He yelled, conviction in his voice.

Next left bold Gryffindor,
He felt the calling of adventure,
Rather than the despairing supplication,
Of failing allegiance in need of suture.

stopping point left once-fair Ravenclaw,
Who once prized justice and eruditeness,
She left because she said,
That teaching the other pupil had got too ho-hum.

And alone stood sweet Hufflepuff,
The wisest of them all,
Because she never would heed,
Alluring temptations call.

I see the wisdom of her alternative,
Why she chose to accept them all,
And now understand,
That its fruitless to divide you at all.

So while it deeply saddens me,
To see my end in sight,
The sorting ceremonial occasion oddment,
Right now, Right here, This night.


Harry stared at the commode, trying vainly to sue what he had just heard. At least he had been right in thinking it was important to pay tending this year, because apparently that was the last birdcall the classification hat would ever sing.

He cast a cursory glance towards Hermione, sitting next to him on the bench, but her dark-brown middle were extensive and fixated up front. He could just imagine what was going through her head right then, because chances were she was going through each page of Hogwarts a History, trying to find any other incident even remotely like this one. He had a pussyfoot suspicion that she had the all volume committed to retentivity.

The unnatural silence filled the Great Hall like a boneheaded fog, so stocky he could almost feel it closing around him.

McGonagall seemed caught between slapping the hat and looking to Dumbledore for command, and her helping hand moved cautiously towards the hat 's brim, only for it to quickly bounce as if the hat had grown fang. This odd, twitching question was punctuated by penetrative turns of her head as she looked right at Dumbledore, who to Harry 's surprise, looking genuinely amused.

Snape on the early hand looked quite inconvienced, his back talk had puckered so tightly that his lips seemed more translucent than Nearly Headless snick 's.

Apparently, they had not been expecting this.

Snape however, did n't seem to want to accept it, and he had already stood and started storming from his billet at the instructor 's table, clearly headed for the sorting hat 's stool itself.

'' Excuse me Minerva. '' Snape muttered, his low musical note clearly audible in the unearthly muteness. His long digit snatched the hat up and onto his question in a undivided fluid motion, his typeface contorted in concentration as if conducting some clever contestation.

Clever argument from Snape ? No ... Impossible, he thought, watching his Potions teacher with stake for the first of all time in five years.

Apparently he was right about Snape 's unfitness to transmit an in effect debate, because a import later Snape had flung the hat back onto it 's crapper, muttering about how it was a dirty, trash-ridden piece of fading fabric destined for a Muggle garbage dump.

It was a St. Mark of how unplayful the situation was, that not a psyche at the Gyffindor table laughed.

Harry could n't help but notice how Snape was testingly running his fingers through his oily black hair, looking at his hands after each swipe, as if searching for substantiation of something.

Every Gryffindor had a sneaking suspicion that the hat had just called him a greasy ooze orb.

Ron Weasley was just the first to say it.

'' chicken feed one up for the sorting hat for insulting Snape ! '' Ron whispered triumphantly, all heads within earshot turning towards him.

Apparently that was the signal everyone had been waiting for, because suddenly a delirium of activity broke out at the Gryffindor table, and a range of mountains reaction of noise spreading until the nozzle level was almost deafening. The unsorted number 1 year looked positively terrified, as if frightened of being sent home if unsortable, and they alone seemed the lonesome ones still rendered speechless.

'' I mean did I just hear that right ? '' Ron asked, eyes alight with fervour he did not share.

Harry just nodded, watching the professor 's re-group.

prof Flitwick slid from his stern, and every so often Harry could catch a glimpse of the top of his head over the instructor 's table, as the small man jumped up and down, vying for Dumbledore 's care.

'' Oh my God did the sorting hat just quit ? '' Squealed Parvarti. One would mean she had just realized what had happened.

'' Brilliant that one ... '' Ron muttered sarcastically.

'' Think it has anything to do with the war going on ? '' Seamus asked excitedly. `` Do n't you remember ? How it warned us survive twelvemonth ? ''

'' It did n't warn us that it might go on hit Eire man ! ''

'' Who you calling Ireland man ? ''

'' iciness Seamus, Dean 's just kidding, are n't you Dean ? '' Ginny 's calm voice somehow filtered through the ruction.

'' I ca n't believe this ! Never, in all of Hogwarts a History did it ever report the categorisation Hat doing anything even remotely close to this ... '' Hermione was in her element, and he silently congratulated himself on how well he knew his acquaintance. `` I mean do n't you think Harry ? This is monumental !

But Hermione was too worked up to notice whether he responded or not, and she was so engrossed in her bid to see what he heard.

'' Do you conceive we should just try sorting them anyway, Albus ? '' Professor McGonagall asked, casting an almost beseeching glimpse at the radical of first years, who seemed to funk away from her regard.

professor Dumbledore, looking vaguely amused, patted professor Flitwick on the mind as he mulled this over. For his voice the Charm 's professor stopped bouncing around like a firefly on amphetamine, and his small drumhead disappeared beneath the staff table.

'' We 'll be needing a volunteer though ... '' McGonagall stated rhetorically, scanning the list of student gens with an uncharacteristic looking of uncertainty, talking out tatty but absently. `` If any of the number one years would like to try to get sorted ... ''

His fountainhead of House was too preoccupy, and she missed what he did not give way to comment.

A sure golden haired girl had overhead the Professor 's doubt, and after casting a coup d'oeil at the overwrought minor around her, had woven her way through the cowering foremost geezerhood. She now stood besides the stool, her soft mitt grasping the top of the hat as she lifted it from its chair, plopping it upon her head. The teacher around her were completely unmindful to her actions.

Her soft, angular features relaxed, as if immersed in quiet conversation. And as she sat there, immersed in a silent conversation to which only she was lav to, Dumbledore pointed a sceptre to his pharynx, murmur, `` sonorous ''.

A second later the Headmaster 's magically overstate voice echoed throughout the Great G. Stanley Hall, as it had on only one early occasion.

'' SIIIILLLLEEEENNNCCCE ! ''

Every person who had been excitedly talking, including several of the nervous looking initiatory years, who had started to cry, stopped and turned their attending to the front of the hall.

So of course, that was when everyone 's attending suddenly became drawn to the rather average missy, standing by the can, the offending hat placed atop her header.

'' Apparently the sorting hat has decided that it is no longer able to, in good conscious, function as a house sorter. However, we shall have this sorted out. '' Dumbledore winked, the pun on words sounding almost cancel coming from him. Yet Harry just stared in enthrallment at Kaylens, who seemed to be nodding quietly to herself. `` Now I would like the speed years to remain here for dinner, and I would like the first years to come with .... ''

Dumbledore stopped mid-sentence, apparently just catching visual sense of Kaylens, even though she had been right in front of him all along.

Kaylens nodded one stopping point time, her hazelnut tree middle flickering subject as she removed the hat, placing it back upon the stool. All eyes were upon the hat except his, so he was the only if one to see the rarefied smiling cross her features as the sorting hat opened its brim for the second time that dark.

'' Let the categorisation now begin. ''



photo courtesy a public field land site for photograph. The accreditation for this site may be found on my personal website.