A/N : This story describes how Albus, matte, Amanda, John, and Rose get their Hogwarts letters. Each chapter contians lyric from a vocal by Jared Campbell. Each chapter 's name is a lyric poem from the Lapp birdsong. The story is named after his song, Life Is Good.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter or any of Jared Campbell 's songs.

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Cause fate, it 's in my way
and I do n't have the patience to put life on hold,
I think I 'm holding out for something more.
~Fate, Jared Campbell



Eleven-year-old Albus Severus Potter was standing in front of the windowpane in the drawing room of his London house, Grimmauld Place. He had been standing perfectly still for the past times two minutes, watching as a dot in the sky got larger and larger until it was recognizable as an owl.

The owl was close now and it looked like it was heading straight for Grimmauld Place. It was close enough for Albus to notice its ruffled brown feathers and the letters wrapped around its legs. Albus gulped and he rubbed his sweaty hands on his pants.

Watching for the morning Charles William Post had become a routine for Albus over the past few days. As soon as he woke up, he would bear by the window waiting for the owl that he knew would come soon. The owl from Hogwarts school day of witchcraft and genius that would bring him his acceptance letter. Albus 's Old brother, James, had received his letter a year ago, in mid-July, and Albus was sure his would arrive at roughly the same time.

Albus wrenched open the window and the owl soared inside. It stuck out its leg and Albus quickly detached the letters. The owl gave a loudly hoot and then soared out the window. Albus shut it as he rifled through the letters. One was addressed to James. But the other, the other was addressed to Albus.

Albus sat down on the sofa and slowly turned the letter over in his hands. He swallowed heavily and began to give it with shaking script. He pulled it out of the envelop and read it.

Albus closed the letter, grinning to himself. It had finally arrived. Albus had been kind of uneasy about it the entire summer. He knew it would arrive, but after days of no owls from Hogwarts, he had gotten a bit worried.

Albus stood up and ran to the step. He had to inflame James up. James had been teasing Albus ever since he returned from Hogwarts, telling him he would n't get his letter. Albus knew James liked to joke, but it had gotten a bit irritating by the third gear week.

St. James the Apostle 's bedroom door was closed, but that did n't cease Albus. After all, James always barged into Albus 's way. Albus banged open the door and peered down at James, who was curled up on his bed. He looked rather innocent when he was sleeping, but if anyone could make trouble even while sleeping, it was James.

Albus glanced around the room, trying to think of a creative way to wake him up. He wished he had a baton and could spout piddle in Saint James 's face.

Albus decided to just go with the old standby of staring at Jesse James until he woke up. It usually worked. Albus peered down until he was only inch from Jesse James and waited.

All of a sudden, James 's eyes shot assailable and he jumped back. He hit his head on the bulwark behind his bed and winced.

`` What the underworld, Al ? '' James shouted as he rubbed his head word, `` Do you agnise what prison term it is ? ``

`` Nine in the morning, '' Albus said, `` Sorry about your head. ``

`` It 's ok, '' James muttered, `` I 'll get you back eventually. But why in the figure of Merlin did you wake me up so early ? ``

Albus pulled his letter of the alphabet out of his envelop and proudly shoved it in James IV 's face. James grabbed it and scanned it. He gave it back to Albus and grinned.

`` See, you got it, '' James said.

`` I know, '' Albus said, `` But you 're the one who said I would n't. ``

`` I was only joking, '' Epistle of James shrugged, `` It 's what sidekick do. Now you get to do it with Lily. ``

Albus shrugged. He form of doubted Lily would believe him if he told her she was n't going to Hogwarts. She 'd been waiting impatiently for her Hogwarts varsity letter since she was five or so. Now she was nine and she still had two years to go.

`` Oh, you got your book list, too, '' Albus handed James the letter addressed to him.

`` Excellent, '' James I grinned as he ripped it open up, `` Maybe Mum and Dad will get me a broom as an early natal day present. Then I can try out for searcher this yr and not have to use one of those school brooms. ``

James was entering his indorse year and was determined to become Gryffindor 's new Seeker. He had been practicing all summertime on one of their mum 's old brooms. James 's birthday was in Nov and he had been giving their parents not so subtle hints about a new ling ever since he returned domicile from school.

`` wellspring, I 'm going to go see if we can go to Diagon Alley today, '' Albus said.

`` Then I can get my broom, '' King James I replied and laid back down.

Albus looked back at James as he left, and noticed that he already had his eyes closed.

Albus ran back downstairs and to the kitchen. Both of his parents were sitting at the tabular array eating nut and toast.

`` It came ! '' Albus said proudly as he set his letter of the alphabet down in between his parents.

`` praise, Al, '' Harry grinned and ruffled Ablus 's hair, `` Told you you just had to be patient. ``

`` That 's wonderful, Albus, '' Ginny got up and kissed the top of his head, `` We can go shopping today, if you 'd like. ``

`` Definitely, '' Albus grinned, `` William James wants to go, too. He wants his new broom. ``

Ginny rolled her eyes as she put her scale in the swallow hole. `` We 'll see about that. ``

`` momma ! ! ! ! '' Lily came shrieking down the stairs.

Albus turned around and saw that she had a tomentum copse stuck in her hair and her optic were welling up with tears.

`` Mummy ! '' Lily cried, `` It 's stuck ! ``

Ginny sighed and picked up her wand. `` Lily, what were you doing ? ``

`` I was just trying to take a crap my fuzz curly like Rosie 's, '' Lily pouted as Ginny started to extricate the brush from her hair.

`` Lily, what have I told you about wrapping your fuzz around your brush ? '' Ginny asked.

`` Not to do it, '' Lily muttered.

`` Exactly, '' Ginny said, `` Albus got his Hogwart 's letter. ``

`` Really ? '' Lily shrieked and ran away from Ginny just as she got the brush gratuitous, `` Where is it ? I want to see ! ``

Albus grabbed his letter of the alphabet off the mesa and held it in front of Lily. Lily stared wide eyed at it and tried to snap up it away from Albus. Albus held it up above her head.

`` I wan na keep it ! '' Lily shouted.

`` No, '' Albus shook his head.

`` Mum ! '' Lily shouted, `` He wo n't let me see it ! ``

`` It 's his letter, Lils, '' Harry replied.

Lily crossed her coat of arms across her dresser. `` amercement. I want to go to Hogwarts, too. ``

`` You 're not old enough. You just have to be patient, Lily, '' Ginny told her.

Harry snorted into his juice. `` I seem to think back someone else who was impatient about going to Hogwarts. ``

Ginny smacked Harry playfully on the promontory with that morning 's copy of the Prophet. `` Oh, shut it, Harry. ``

Albus poured himself a bowl of food grain and sat down just as the fireplace lit up with green fire. It cleared a few seconds later and out stepped a boy in his late teens who had turquoise colored hair.

`` Teddy ! '' Albus shouted and jumped up from the table, `` I got my varsity letter just now ! '' Albus handed teddy bear his letter.

`` Brilliant, '' Teddy grinned and scanned Albus 's missive, `` Merlin, I wish I still had another twelvemonth there. ``

`` That 's only because then you could put off deciding what you want to do with your life history, '' Ginny laughed.

`` No, so I could be there when Albus is there, '' shift groaned, `` But I suppose you 're right, too. ``

`` Of trend I am, '' Ginny said.

`` Anyway, I just stopped by to say hi on my way to work, '' Teddy said as he grabbed a piece of pledge off Harry 's plate.

`` And to steal my food for thought, '' Harry muttered.

`` That, too, '' teddy bear grinned, `` I 'm working at the Diagon bowling alley storehouse today, so will I see you lot there later ? ``

`` Yep, '' Harry nodded, `` We 'll be there. I 'm going to see if Ron and Hermione want to go as well. rosebush probably got her varsity letter today. ``

`` sound good, '' teddy bear said as he stepped back into the fireplace and disappeared in honey oil flames.

******

A few hours later ( after James had woken up ), the Potter family line found themselves in Diagon alleyway. The street was filled with returning Hogwarts students and their families.

Albus had been to Diagon Alley numerous times before, but there was something very exciting about going there to buy supplies for Hogwarts. He was getting to do everything James had done the previous year. Albus was especially excited about going to Olivander 's and getting his wand.

They met Ron and Hermione Weasley, as well as their two tyke, pink wine and Victor-Marie Hugo, in front of Gringott 's. Rose was a couple months younger than Albus, but would be turning eleven in August and would be going to Hogwarts as well. Hugo was Lily 's age.

`` Where to first ? '' Harry asked.

`` Olivander 's ! '' Albus announced.

`` Flourish and Blotts ! '' rose wine said excitedly.

Albus stared at her like she had three straits. How could his full cousin want to go to the book store before she got her wand ?

`` You 're mental, Rose, '' William James laughed, `` I say we go to tone Quidditch Supplies ! ``

`` Eyelops ! '' Lily shouted.

`` You 're not even going to Hogwarts, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I do n't give care, '' Lily huffed.

`` Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, '' Hugo suggested.

`` Then it 's settled, '' Harry grinned, `` We 're going to the pharmacist first. ``

Everybody groaned, but followed Harry down the street anyway. Albus sighed to himself. That was always how his dad settled argumentation. He 'd break up what cypher had suggested.

The slip to the Apothecary was ready. cypher really wanted to linger in there. Albus did n't particularly enjoy the place. It had an odd smell to it and there were cauldrons full of things that looked like they were decaying.

After the Apothecary, they went to Madam Malkin 's, which was boring as well. Albus just did n't find out buying overcharge very exciting. It seemed like his dad was doing the most wearisome shopping first.

Finally, after a retentive head trip to Flourish and Blotts, Harry announced that Olivander 's was succeeding on the list. Albus and Rose ran ahead of the rest of the group and arrived a few bit before anyone else.

`` Ah, Albus and rosebush, '' Olivander turned around and greeted them with a wispy voice.

`` Hello, Mr. Olivander. We 're getting our scepter today, '' Albus grinned.

`` I thought so, '' Olivander smiled and walked slowly to the words of verge that were behind him.

Olivander took measurements and then walked to the back of the shop. He returned with a few baton just as the rest of the Potter and Weasley mob entered the shop. Olivander greeted them and then handed Albus and Rose each a wand.

Albus smiled as he held the verge in his handwriting. It was an unbelievable impression ; holding a wand that could be his. He waved it and the windowpane behind him exploded.

Saint James burst out in laugh as Albus 's face turned shiny red. He set the sceptre on Olivander 's desk and looked sheepishly at his crime syndicate. Harry grinned and repaired Olivander 's window with a wave of his own wand.

`` Perhaps this one, '' Olivander handed Albus another wand, `` XI and a one-fourth inches, Ash, phoenix feather. ``

Albus took the sceptre and all of a sudden a warm feeling enveloped him. If he did n't love any upright, he 'd say the baton actually glowed in his hired hand for a split second. He could palpate that it was the right one even before he waved it. He gave it a wave and amber sparks erupted from it.

`` Excellent, '' Olivander grinned.

A little while later, blush wine had her wand as well and the group left the store. Albus was carrying his baton with the utmost guardianship and staring more at the box than what was in front of him.

The adults decided that it would be best to natter Eyelops terminal since both Albus and Rose were getting owls. They did n't want to possess to run the owls around all day.

James II was asking to go to calibre Quidditch Supplies every five arcminute or so, but Harry led the way into Weasley 's mavin Wheezes first.

`` Ron, Ginny ! '' George greeted them as they entered, `` And Harry and Hermione ! You 've got everyone with you today. ``

`` Hogwarts shopping, '' Harry grinned, `` Al and Rosie just got their wands. ``

Albus proudly opened the box and showed his Uncle St. George his new verge. Rose did the same.

`` Brilliant, both of you ! '' George I said, `` And now I shall get you both ready for Hogwarts in the frivolity department .... ''

Albus followed George into the depths of the shop. He was not at all surprised that his uncle was assisting him with pranks. George was the proprietor of Weasleys'superstar Wheezes and was legendary at Hogwarts as one of the most mischievous pupil ever to attend.

`` Now, every student needs a Skiving Snackbox or two, '' George said as he handed Albus and rosiness each a colorful box, `` After all, I ca n't suppose you 'll want to sit through History of Magic very often. ``

Albus grinned as he took the box of Henry Sweet to make one ill. He had heard many a story from his parents, aunt, uncles, cousins, and Saint James about how tiresome professor Binns'course of study were.

`` And then you 'll need some dung bombs, '' George said as he led them to a different display.

`` finish time I checked, those were still forbidden at Hogwarts, '' Hermione said sternly.

`` Oh, I 'm sure they are, '' George winked, `` But so long as Filch does n't find out it was these two who set them off, it does n't count. ``

`` George Weasley ! '' Hermione scolded, `` You should be setting a better deterrent example for these two ! No wonder Fred was in detention every week death year ! ``

Albus laughed as he took a pack of dung bombs off the shelf. His cousin Fred was George II 's son and just finished his third twelvemonth at Hogwarts. Fred had taken after his founding father as far as pranking went.

`` Lighten up, Hermione, '' Ron laughed, `` Let them have their fun. ``

`` Ronald ! '' Hermione shouted, `` You 're even worse ! ``

`` Harry ! '' shift burst out of the plump for room and joined the mathematical group, `` Getting Al all the pranking mathematical product he 'll require this year ? ``

`` Sure am, '' Harry grinned, `` Although I do n't think Hermione is too happy about it. ``

`` I am not buying this stuff for rosebush, '' Hermione stated.

After a few Thomas More minutes of arguing, Hermione gave up and both Albus and Rose had bagfuls of Weasleys'products. James had replenished his cache as well and Albus had a feeling he 'd use everything up within a month.

George closed the store so he and slip could get something to eat and everyone went to the Leaky Cauldron for dinner. Albus mainly listened to the conversation but was very subject. Going to Hogwarts was something he had been looking forward to for year and now it was finally happening.

Henry James finally got to go to Quality Quidditch supplying after dinner party and got his early birthday present. Albus was slightly jealous about this, but knew that he could n't have his own broom at Hogwarts anyway. He was determined to produce it onto the Quidditch squad eventually, though.

The lowest stoppage of the day was Eyelops Owl department store, which was a billet Albus was almost as excited about as he had been about Olivander 's. His parents had told him he 'd be capable to get an owl when he went to Hogwarts.

`` I want an owl, '' Lily whined as they entered the shop.

`` In two class, '' Harry replied.

`` That 's so far away, '' Lily groaned.

`` I know, '' Harry said as he picked her up, `` But it 'll go by faster than you think. ``

Albus began looking around at all the owls. He did n't really make any melodic theme about what variety of owl he wanted ; he just thought he 'd bet around and see what owl care him.

There were hooter of all sizes and colours. White ace, black ace, and speckled ones. Small ones, large ones, and medium sized ones. Albus walked slowly through the shop and looked at each owl. His center rested on an owl with gleaming false topaz eyes and dark brownish plume. The owl had a few flecks of white on its pass and it was staring directly at Albus.

Albus walked over to the owl and gave the owl a pat on its headland. The owl gave a soft bird and Albus knew it was the one for him. The owl flew onto his shoulder and Albus walked back to his parents.

`` I 've got my owl, '' he grinned.

`` What 's his epithet ? '' Harry asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` Have n't thought of one yet. ``

`` Name him Salazar, '' Jesse James smirked, `` Because you 'll be in Slytherin. ``

`` What ? '' Albus stared at his brother, `` I 'm not going to be in Slytherin. ``

`` You never know, '' James said, `` There 's a 25 percentage prospect that you might. ``

Albus was stunned. It was so obvious. There was a 25 percent chance that he 'd be in Slytherin. After all, there were four houses. But the thought of being in Slytherin had never crossed his creative thinker. He always thought he 'd be in Gryffindor, where everyone in his unhurt kin had been. It was possible for him to be in Slytherin, though. Or Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff. Neither of those would be that bad, but Albus wanted to be in Gryffindor.

`` prepare to go, Al ? '' Harry asked, `` Rose just found her owl. ``

`` Oh, yeah, '' Albus said quietly, `` I 'm set. And I 'm naming my owl Godric. ``

Albus followed his home out of the owl shop and to the Leaky Cauldron. In two calendar month, he 'd be at Hogwarts. The place where his parents went and well-nigh of the residual of his family. The place he had been impatiently waiting to go to for years. He could n't call up of a time in his life-time where he had been more arouse. All he hoped was that he would wind up in Gryffindor and maybe, just maybe, he would be able to make a name for himself.


But he knows that it 's going to be all correct
Cause the sexual love that he 's got will go on him tender through the night
Life is well, spirit is proficient
~LIfe Is trade good, Jared Campbell


Eleven-year-old Matthew Conan Eckerton was sitting below a declamatory oak Tree in his backyard. His eyes were closed and he was resting his oral sex against its rough trunk. The sun was beating down on him through the subdivision above. For the past hr, the only phone had been the occasional razzing chirping or cow mooing. Then a loud revving broke the silence.

lusterlessness slowly opened his eyes and squinted in the bright sun. He glanced around to try and observe out where the noise was coming from. In the space, he saw the Fannie Farmer riding his tractor through the field of force that surrounded lusterlessness 's house.

flatness lived in the country, far from any townsfolk. His house was on an acre of property that was surrounded by farmland on three sides and a wood on the other. The nearby farmer owned all of the surrounding farmland and was regularly seen plowing or performing other tasks. The farmer 's house was quite far away, although Matt could see it from where he was sitting. Other than the farmer, Matt had no former neighbors.

Matt 's parents, Walter and Julie, wanted it that way. Matt was not an ordinary eleven-year-old boy, even by wizarding standards. At the age of five, he was bitten by a werewolf and became one himself. For the preceding five and a half years, over half his life, he had been enduring painful transformations every calendar month that left him exhausted and queasy. As if he could be anymore unusual, the wolf's bane Potion which normally enabled a werewolf to keep his mind during wide-cut moons, did not work for Matt.

That particular day happened to be the day of the full synodic month. In only a few short hour, Matt would be locked in a elbow room in the basement and go through the awful transmutation into the wolf.

As the full Sun Myung Moon was only a curt while away, Matt was already feeling the burden of it. A few day beforehand, he would tire quickly and get a lot of headaches. He also lost his appetite. At the second, he had a splitting headache which was not helped by the tractor, but felt too exhausted to act. He closed his heart and tried to ignore the pounding in his head and the tractor 's roaring.

`` Matt, are you out here ? '' someone shouted.

mat opened his eyes again and saw his Sister, Amy, walking towards him. `` I 'm over by the Tree ! '' he shouted.

Amy ran the relief of the distance and sat down next to him. Her blond hair was thrown up into a messy ponytail and flying everywhere as she walked.

`` Thank Merlin, '' Amy sighed, `` I could n't feel you anywhere. You know Mum does n't like it when you go outside the day of the full moonshine. ``

Matt groaned inwardly. His mother was extremely overprotective, in his sentiment. He understood she had her reasons and after what had happened in the past tense, he could n't really pick her. But he was n't a baby anymore and he did n't conceive going outside was going to hurt. He liked going outside before wide Moon since he 'd be cooped up inside for a few days afterwards.

`` Is she back yet ? '' mat asked. His female parent had gone to Diagon Alley to clean up some foodstuff a slight while ago, leaving Amy to 'babysit'him. Matt thought this was ludicrous since he was eleven and certainly did not necessitate a babysitter, but did n't argue with her. Plus, Amy was home anyway.

`` No, '' Amy replied, `` But I had to find you because this just came by owl. ``

Amy grinned as she handed Matt a letter. Matt took it and turned it over. His breath caught in his chest as he saw the Hogwarts crest stamped on it. It was his Hogwarts letter.

Ever since Amy had begun her magic Department of Education, when Matt was four, he had been excited about going himself. Even after he had been bitten by a lycanthrope, he thought he 'd get to go. His parents had never said otherwise. Until they received a letter telling them Matt could n't assist, that is.

The Eckertons had not lived in England their whole lives. Up until three old age ago, they had lived in Australia. Amy had attended the Australian shoal of black art until she was fourteen. That was when their parents had asked the schoolmaster if Matt would be able to wait on. He said he could not.

Everything got unfit from there. Someone who held a grudge against Matt 's dad at the Ministry announced to the entire rural area that matt was a werewolf ( something they had successfully hidden for over two years ) and then his dad lost his job because of it. He had been the forefront of the section for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. After that, the man who had announced Matt 's lycanthropy became the head and devolve legislation restricting the rightfulness of lycanthrope.

matt 's parents sent letters to numerous other shoal asking if he could attend. Hogwarts schooltime of Witchcraft and genius in Scotland said yes. Matt 's dad found a job at the British Ministry, in werewolf Support Services, and they moved. Life had been better since then. Amy had a operose clock time adjusting, but eventually began to enjoy Hogwarts.

Due to all of this, matt knew he would get a letter from Hogwarts this summer. He had been waiting for it for weeks since he had no idea when it would get, but had momentarily forgotten about it that day. Despite knowing it was going to issue forth, there was something very wind up about it actually arriving.

Matt slowly peeled back the SEAL and opened the envelop. He pulled the letter of the alphabet out and carefully unfolded it.

`` Merlin, you 're slack with that ! '' Amy exclaimed, `` I think I nearly ripped my varsity letter from Australia when I got it. ``

`` That 's why I opened mine slowly, '' Matt smirked. He looked at the varsity letter and read it aloud. There was a post script at the end, one that lustrelessness knew the respite of his fellow scholar would not have received.

P.S. Please get your parents meet
us so we can set up a time for you to
come to the schooltime so we can discuss
the precautions we have set up for
your lycanthropy.

Matt folded the letter and then looked up at Amy. He still could n't conceive that it was finally his turn to go to Hogwarts. He had been secretly jealous of Amy for years. Every time she got to go shopping for provision and then speed away on the Hogwarts Express, he watched with envious eyes.

`` It 'll be both of us going this yr, '' Amy grinned.

Matt nodded. `` I just hope I 'm in Gryffindor. ``

`` You will be, '' Amy assured him, `` Siblings usually get sorted into the same house. Victoire 's Sister and buddy are in Gryffindor like she is. All their cousin are there, too. ``

`` I got my supplying tilt, too, '' Matt said as he pulled out another art object of lambskin, `` You get yours ? '' Amy was entering her one-seventh and final exam twelvemonth at Hogwarts.

`` Yup, '' Amy nodded, `` We can go to Diagon Alley once you 're recovered from tonight. ``

`` Yeah, '' flatness said, wishing he did n't have to look, `` Says I ca n't get a bring a Calluna vulgaris, though. ``

`` Like Mum would let you institute one anyway, '' Amy laughed, `` speechmaking of Mum, she 'll probably be back anytime. We should go back inside. ``

`` You wo n't tell her I was out here, will you ? '' mat asked as he stuffed his letter back in the envelop.

`` Nah, '' Amy grinned, `` Since when have I been one to do what Mum says anyway ? ``

flatness stood up and felt dizzy as soon as he did so. He stumbled and Amy grabbed his arm. She let him angle on her as they walked slowly back to the mansion. The thing Matt hated even to a greater extent than the actual transformation into the wildcat was how wan he felt the Day leading up to it. It was like getting the flu once a month.

To lusterlessness 's relief, his mother was not back from Diagon Alley when they got back to the star sign. Amy helped him to the couch and he laid down on it.

`` I am going to drop so many class during the full lunar month, '' Matt groaned.

`` Yeah, you probably will, '' Amy agreed, `` But the teachers are nice so you 'll be able to overhear up. Well, nearly of them are nice. Washburn 's a nasty while of workplace, but the residual are nice. And it 's not necessarily a bad affair to miss chronicle of Magic. There 's usually about a after part of the multitude in my class using Puking troche or Nosebleed Nougats before that stratum. You 'll own a built in excuse once a month. All the remainder of the kids in your social class will be overjealous. ``

`` I doubt that, '' Matt said darkly. Ever since he had first seen the sweet in a Skiving Snackbox, he was bewildered that people would actually eat sweets that would make you ill. He just could n't twine his mind around actually wanting to be ill, even to miss a ho-hum division. He 'd rather sit through the class.

`` Just stay fresh an open up idea, '' Amy shrugged, `` There have been quite a few meter where I would rather be in the Hospital fender than in form. ``

matte groaned and closed his eyes. He wished he could go all seven years at Hogwarts without ever setting foot in the Hospital annexe, but that was n't going to happen.

`` Amy, could you get me some of that worry potion ? '' he asked.

`` When did you endure let it ? '' Amy asked.

`` When I woke up this sunrise. ``

`` Sure, '' Amy replied and got up.

matte heard the door open a mo later and his mum walked in, her arms laden with grocery bags.

`` Amy ! '' she shouted, `` Can you come serve me with these handbag ? ``

`` Hang on ! '' Amy shouted from the kitchen.

The purse dropped to the floor with a thump and Matt heard footstep coming closer. He felt his mother kiss his forehead and cock his blond hair.

`` How are you ? '' she asked softly.

`` Tired and I 've got a headache, '' Matt mumbled.

`` I 'll get you some headache potion. ``

`` Amy 's already getting it, '' matt replied.

His mum kissed his os frontale once more and sat down next to him on the couch. `` Amy, could you bring the pyrexia reducer, too ? ``

Matt squeezed his middle shut squiffy. No wonder he felt tremendous ; he had a fever. Now he was sort of glad he came inside when he did.

`` I got my Hogwarts letter, Mum, '' he whispered.

`` That 's fantastic, honey, '' she replied, `` We 'll go shopping in a few days. ``

`` Here 's the potions, '' Amy said.

Matt cracked open his middle and took one of the goblets Amy was holding. He drank it quickly and then grabbed the early one. He swallowed that one as fast as he could as well and gagged at the disgusting taste.

`` Can I get an owl ? '' he yawned.

`` Of line, honey, '' his mum said as she rubbed his back, `` Just go to sleep now. We 'll blab more about it tomorrow. ``

Matt nodded and closed his eyes. He fell asleep quickly, feeling the happiest he had ever been the day of a full phase of the moon moon.

******

`` Matt, '' individual whispered as they shook him.

matte opened his eyes and saw his dad bent down in front of the lounge. `` Hey, Dad. ``

`` I just heard you got your Hogwarts letter, '' his dad smiled, `` Congratulations. ``

`` Thanks, '' flatness whispered.

`` well, I 'll let you get some more sleep. There 's still an minute or so until you have to go downstairs, '' his dad said as he gave him a hug.

matt watched his dad walk into the kitchen and closed his eyes once more. He drifted off to sleep again, trying not to think about what would chance in an hour.

After what seemed like only a few second later, Matt woke up in a cold sweat with an terribly headache that no potion could ever facilitate with. He sat up and looked out the window. It was glowering, but he did n't want to see the sky to know that the moon would rise soon.

`` Mum ! '' his voice cracked. He swallowed hard. The pain in the neck always started before the transformation did. It was awful. He always tried not to cry, but it never worked. He squeezed his centre shut and tried to keep the teardrop from leaking out.

He heard three sets of footsteps run into the room and felt his mother 's arms wrap around him. He leaned into her and rested his nous on her shoulder.

`` It 's time, '' his dad said quietly.

flatness shakily stood up and his parents helped him falter towards the basement threshold. He could hear Amy 's footsteps behind them. Nobody said a word as they walked down the stairs and towards his transformation room.

lusterlessness sat down on the padded storey as soon as he got into the way. His head was spinning and he did n't think he 'd be capable to place upright up much longsighted anyway. His parents and Amy each gave him a hug and then left the room. They did n't say anything, but there was nothing to say. He 'd done this so many sentence there was n't really any point in his parents saying anything. He knew they 'd be there in the morning.

The threshold locked as his parents and Amy left, and matte let out a gaudy sigh as he sat down. This was it. Another full moon. There was zilch he could do now but wait.

For years, he fought the change. He 'd clench his workforce and jaw and try to forestall the transformation, even though he knew it would n't forge. The only clock time he had n't fought it was the first one, where he had no idea what was going to happen. For the indorse one, he knew what was going to materialise. He was only six, but he understood and he fought it with every region of his being. Now, five and a half years later, with five and a half eld of test copy that it would n't do work, he still fought it.

Matt did n't have to hold off long for the transmutation to begin. His headache became unbearable and he felt his stomach lurch. He learned early on to not try and eat anything beforehand, because it always came back up during the first component part of the transformation.

He curled up into a ball and let out a gentle groan. He could feel his spirit beating a mile a minute. His breathing was short and labored. It felt like he could n't breathe. He always tried not to scream, but that never worked either. He felt his osseous tissue breaking and elongating and whisker sprouting everywhere.

He let out a loud scream and clenched his heart as pain coerced through his body. No amount of previous full moon would ever machinate him for the painful shift. Nothing helped with it either. His parents had given him so many different potions, but nothing decreased the pain.

His mind was always the last matter to go. matte hated that. He wished his intellect would go first. Then he would n't own to commend the actual transformation. He always wished he 'd pass out before the transformation began, but that never happened.

flatness took a few to a greater extent ragged breaths and cried out in pain. He sat up and looked at his workforce, which were quickly turning into hand of the beast. He felt dizzy. The humanity was spinning around him and it felt like fog was clouding his judgement. He let out one More wow and the public disappeared.

******

The wolf slowly stood up and took in his surroundings. It was dark and there was a faint smell of line of descent and humans lingering in the air. He was also trapped, again. The Wolf was always trapped. He began to pace around the room and flavor for an escape itinerary. It was n't there. There was never an escape path.

The savage stood up on his hind wooden leg and pointed his nozzle towards the ceiling. He let out a long howl and then glared at the paired wall. He got back down on all fours and charged at it, slamming his question into the abnormally soft wall. He stepped back and repeated the outgrowth again and again.

He was alone. Alone and trapped. Every individual full moon, the Friedrich August Wolf was alone and stuck in the small plod room. He wanted to get out. He wanted to get out and find the multitude he could faintly smell out beyond the walls.

However, there was no way out. No matter how many times the wolf rammed his caput into the wall, he could not break it. Eventually, he sat down in the middle of the elbow room and howled once more. He then proceeded to bite at his own consistence to palliate the urge to attack something.

******

matt cracked his eyes open and tried to lift his head. A stabbing painfulness fled through his nous and he dropped it back down onto the cushioned floor. He closed his heart and tried to concentrate on breathing. Each short, labored hint scathe. He could n't even figure out which contribution of his trunk hurt the worse. Everything hurt. From the top of his fountainhead to his toes.

`` Mum ? '' he said hoarsely. His voice was little more than than a whispering. He knew there was no way his mother could take heed him, but he called her public figure anyway.

The door clicked a light while later, but for Matt it felt like an eternity. Whoever came in the way made no audio as they walked across the mattress covered flooring. They put a cloak over him and then picked him up. A waving of lightheadedness come over him as he was lifted up.

`` It 's ok, I 've got you, '' his dad whispered.

matte was hardly aware of being carried up to his room and he passed out on the way.

The following matter he knew, he was laying in his soft bed with stratum of mantle on top of him. He could palpate the ardent sun shining through the window. He opened his optic slowly and blinked as they adjusted to the brightness.

His physical structure still ached despite the potions he knew his parents had given him. His head was throbbing dully as well. Worse yet, he was exhausted. He knew he had already slept for hours, but it felt like he had n't slept in days.

Who was he kidding ? How was he going to go to Hogwarts ? How would he grapple full moons when he was by himself ? He could n't even get up when he transformed back the following break of day. His parents always had to carry him back to his room.

His parents. Matt felt a jolt in his stomach as he realized that they would n't be there every to the full lunation when he was in school. They had been there for every full moonlight he had ever endured. They took guardianship of him the day of and the days following. They got him his potions and healed all his injuries.

He hated to admit it, but he was scared about doing it by himself. He knew he should n't be ; he was eleven old age old for Merlin 's sake. Eleven-year-olds should not be afraid of going to school and being away from their parents.

It was a pragmatic consequence, he assured himself. That was all. He could n't physically deal with full Moon by himself. That was why he was worried about going to schooltime. It was n't like he could n't carry on with being away from home.

Then there was the issue of his class fellow. What if they found out ? It was n't like he could sneak away for the full moonshine and be back in his dormitory the succeeding dawning before his roommates woke up. He 'd be in the Hospital Wing for at least two twenty-four hours. He doubted he 'd be able to go to classes the day of the full lunation and he usually needed two days to recover. That was three days of pretermit classes, but more importantly, it was three days of disappearances to explicate. What was he going to say ? People did n't normally get sick that much.

It was a stupe estimate, he thought, going to schooling. He bit his lip and tried to stop the crying from welling in his eyes. Why did n't his parents just home school him ? It would be well-situated. They were both knowledgeable in most panorama of legerdemain. If his parents had just decided to home school him, they could have stayed in Australia. Then Amy would have been happier.

No, they could n't stimulate stayed. He sighed. Not after his dad lost his job and all the Torah restricting the rightfulness of werewolves had been passed. They were originally going to affect so he could go to schooltime. But then his dad lost his job. It was n't entirely Matt 's geological fault that they moved, was it ? Not if his dad needed another job ....

It was his fault his dad lost his job, though. If he had n't gotten bitten, his dad would n't experience lost his job. So, for all intents and purposes, his family had moved because of him. He could n't not go to shoal after all they 'd done for him. He 'd just have to sop up it up and deal with it, no matter how terrifying the outlook was.

`` lusterlessness, are you awake ? '' Amy peeked her head teacher into his room.

matt quickly rubbed his eyes and turned to wait at her. `` Yeah. ``

Amy gave a modest grin and walked into the room. She set a goblet down on the bedside table and then sat on the foot of the bed.

`` How are you ? '' she asked quietly.

`` All- '' he cut himself off and looked at Amy 's occupy expression. Ever since she had first seen him after a transformation, she had this uncanny way of knowing when something was bothering him. He was n't sure how she did it, but somehow she managed to get him to tell her what was wrong.

It was variety of strange since Amy normally had quite the snappishness and was very raring. Their mum had once told flatness that she took after his grandma, but Amy would never acknowledge to it. The two of them did what they wanted and often disregarded other citizenry 's emotions.

Amy used to be a lot like that with lusterlessness, too. When they were younger, their parents insisted on keeping Amy away from the theater during broad moons. She hated it and resented their parents for keeping her out of the loop. She really had no idea what went on during full moons.

Then life as they knew it fell apart in Commonwealth of Australia and Amy began to earn what went on. She did resent Matt for months about having to run, but eventually got used to Hogwarts. Then, the first entire moon after her fourth class, she stayed at home during the full moon and saw mat afterwards.

Amy never told flatness what she had thought of seeing him after a transformation, but her activity spoke more than actor's line would have. She stayed by his side after every good moonlight that summer. A few week after that first full synodic month of the summer, she announced that she was going to become a healer and hoped to discover a version of the Wolfsbane Potion that would work for Matt.

lusterlessness had been a little outrage when he heard this, but not incredibly surprise. As far back as he could call up, Amy had enjoyed experimenting with potions. She was also an avid star gazer and loved Astronomy. If anyone could come up with a better version about that potion, it was Amy. She had the acquisition, interests, and motivating to do it.

`` Actually, '' his voice caught in his throat, `` I 'm not that great. ``

Amy crawled up the bed and laid down next to him, her mouth turning down in a frown. She grabbed the potion off the mesa and handed it to him. `` What hurts ? You should require this potion, it 'll aid. ``

`` It 's not that, '' lusterlessness swallowed the potion in one gulp, `` I mean, my head damage but no uncollectible than usual. It 's, '' he paused, `` It 's Hogwarts. I 'm just not sure if I should go ... '' his voice trailed off.

Amy put her arm around Matt 's berm and looked at him sadly. `` Why not ? ``

`` This, '' he muttered, `` This probably sounds stupid, but I do n't think I can do it without Mum and Dad. ``

`` It 's not stupefied, '' Amy said quietly, `` They 've always been there for every fully moon. But I think you 're wrong. You can do it without them. ``

`` How ? '' Matt 's voice wavered, `` I ca n't even get back up to my room without them ? How in the epithet of Merlin will I get from that hutch in Hogsmeade back to the rook ? ``

`` The nurse, '' Amy sighed, `` You 're forgetting about the nurse. Madam Pomfrey. You 've met her, have n't you ? ``

`` I think so, '' Matt nodded, `` But I hardly know her. ``

`` wellspring, I do, '' Amy said, `` And she 's one of the nicest adults at Hogwarts. She 'll help. And I 'll be there too. I 'll be there for your entire first year. ``

`` And you 'll be there ? Can you go to the shack with dame Pomfrey ? ``

`` Of course of study, '' Amy nodded, `` And I 'll ride out at the Hospital wing with you except when I 'm in class. ``

Matt nodded. He felt a little better knowing that Amy would be there with him. She could practically do everything in order to heal his injuries after the fully moon. Their parents had been teaching her ever since she was fifteen and she had actually been performing them ever since she turned XVII. But he still felt awkward about the whole thing.

`` I know you 'll still overlook them, '' Amy said quietly, `` And there 's goose egg incorrect with that. I was so homesick during first of all year and I did n't have to distribute with turning into a wolf once a month. I imagine that 'll urinate it even worse. ``

mat turned to his sister and laughed. He sort of wish how she just stated what was true and never tried to soften it.

`` Yeah, probably, '' he replied.

`` But you 'll get used to it, '' Amy assured him, `` Soon you 'll wee-wee protagonist and get into roguishness like one-half of Victoire 's cousins do. ``

Matt shrugged. Making friends was another matter he was worried about. He did n't really have many friends. He occasionally spent time with some of his dad 's coworkers'child, but did n't experience them very well.

`` If I make any admirer, '' he said.

`` You will, '' Amy said.

`` But they wo n't wish me if they find out who I am, '' mat replied.

`` They wo n't find out, '' Amy said adamantly, `` You 'll construct plenty of friends. Victoire said a few of her cousins are starting this year and they 're certainly to be in Gryffindor like you will be. ``

Matt had only met Victoire a few times, but from what he could tell, she was really nice. mat only hoped her cousins were as well.

`` I guess that would be good, '' he yawned, `` What sentence is it ? ``

Amy glanced at her watch. `` Just after one. I should let you sleep. ``

matt nodded. `` Ok. Thanks. '' He was pretty pall. He did n't normally give such long give-and-take with Amy so soon after the broad moon. He usually slept until dinner time.

`` I 'll be back later, '' Amy gave him a gentle hug, grabbed the vacate potion bottle, and quietly left the room.

lusterlessness rolled over in bed and huddled under the many blanket. He closed his eyes feeling a bit better about going to Hogwarts, but still worried.


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A/N : Thanks to Luke, Moonylupin, and XDNLxtlz99 for the reviews !
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter or Jared Campbell 's songs.

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And she knows that this is tangible


It 's not something that she 's made up in her caput
And there 's something that she feels but she has n't found the wrangle
~It 's Love, Jared Campbell


Eleven-year-old Amanda Genevieve Tagger smiled to herself as she closed her book. She rolled over on her bed and set the it on her bedside table. Her bedside table was stacked highschool with at least ten book of account, almost of which Amanda had already read.

Amanda had always enjoyed reading. Ever since she was a little girl, books had been some of her considerably friends. They were enceinte company when she was sad or bored or just wanted to escape into a dissimilar world for a while. in effect of all, Book never made fun of her.

Amanda had always been shy and she was the starting time to intromit it. She did n't have very many friends and youngster her age tended to stay away from her. This was most probably because unknown things always happened around her.

She was only five when she first realized that she was different. Amanda, her elder sister, Jen, who was nine at the clip, and a few of her sister 's friends were playing outdoor. They decided to play hide-and-seek and Amanda climbed the prominent tree in their backyard and hid amongst the offset. Jen, who was 'it', had the hardest meter finding her. In fact, Jen never found her. Amanda did n't leave the tree until their mom called them in for a snack.

That was when it happened. Amanda 's foot caught on one of the branches and she lost her adhesive friction. She fell what must have been twenty or thirty base out of that maple tree diagram, hitting numerous subdivision on her way down.

When she was a simple five feet from the land, she suddenly stopped falling. Then, she glided lightly to the footing, and landed softly on her feet. Amanda looked around and saw Jen staring open-mouthed at her. Their mother, who had seen Amanda falling, ran from the planetary house and checked her over. She was completely amercement, make unnecessary for a few minor scratches and contusion. No one knew why it had happened, but Amanda 's mother said an saint must sustain been looking out for her that day.

Whatever it was, Amanda knew she was different that day. It was only the commencement. Strange thing had happened to her ever since. When she was six and the class bully stole her biscuits at lunch, new 1 appeared out of slim air in front of her. When she was seven and forgot to do her maths homework, it somehow did itself while sitting in her backpack.

A small, relatively harmless twister had somehow descended upon a few boys who were chasing her when she was eight. That incident was what caused almost of the early kids her age to steer sort out of her.

There was one girl who did not manage that strange things happened around Amanda. Jamie mansion, Amanda 's best champion since Kindergarten, never cared about the strange incidents. She actually thought they were funny. Amanda and Jamie were inseparable at school.

However, Jamie was currently spending a few weeks with her grandparents in Scotland. Without Jamie 's ship's company, Amanda had spent most of her sentence indication. There was n't really anything else to do. Jen was 15 and the in conclusion thing she wanted to do was hang out with her eleven-year-old sister. Amanda 's picayune brother, Max, was eight and all he wanted to do was turn on his wheel in the void lot down the road with the other neighborhood boys.

Amanda was left with her books for party, not that she really minded. She was getting a bit ungratified, though. She stood up opened her bedroom door. Maybe Jen was n't on the figurer and Amanda would be able to go online. Jamie managed to get on instant messager ever so often at her grandparents'house and Amanda had talked to her a few clock time over the past week.

The doorbell rang just as Amanda was leaving her room.

`` Amanda ! '' Jen shouted from her way, `` Could you get that ? ``

`` Sure, '' Amanda said as she passed Jen 's elbow room. She peeked inside and saw that Jen was in the procedure of straightening her short embrown pilus. Jen had straightened Amanda 's honey blonde hair a few clip, but Amanda actually preferred it with its natural slight Wave. Jen hated her own curly hair, though.

Amanda ran down the stair and towards the room access. She pulled it undefended and saw a man wearing the unknown outfit she had ever seen anyone wearing on a day that was not Allhallows Eve. It looked like a black graduation exercise surgical gown. The man himself looked relatively sane, though. His blonde hair was neatly combed and he smiled when Amanda opened the door.

`` hullo, '' he greeted her, `` Are your parents nursing home ? ``

`` Er, '' Amanda began, `` I think so. Are you selling something ? '' Her parents hated room access to door salesmen. Amanda was n't exactly sure as shooting where her parents were, but she doubted they 'd want to be interrupted to take heed to individual trying to sell something.

The man laughed. `` No, not at all. ``

`` Wait right here, '' Amanda said and went to encounter her parents, `` Mum ! Dad ! There 's some bloke at the door who wants to talk to you ! ``

`` What 's he selling ? '' Mrs. Tagger shouted from the kitchen.

`` aught ! '' Amanda replied.

Mrs. tagging program, a short, plump woman with flecks of grey in her dark brown haircloth walked out of the kitchen and followed Amanda to the door.

`` Can I help you ? '' she asked the man.

`` Yes, '' the man replied, `` I 'm a instructor at a private schooling and I 'm here to inform you that your daughter has been accepted. ``

`` Jen ? '' Mrs. Tagger asked, `` I was n't cognisant she applied to any private schools. ``

`` No, '' the man shook his head, `` Not Jen. Amanda. ``

Amanda gaped at the man and then turned to her mother, who was now frowning. Amanda had n't applied to any private schoolhouse. Why would she ? She had already gotten into the secondary school she was attending in the capitulation.

`` I know Amanda has n't applied to anymore schoolhouse, '' Mrs. tagging program said.

`` This is n't one she applied for, '' the man said quietly, `` Her figure has been down since she was born. ``

Amanda was stunned. What was this about ? How could her name have been down for a school since she was born ?

`` Could I come in ? '' the man asked.

`` I think you 'd better, '' Mrs tagging program said in barely more than a whisper.

The man stepped inside the theater and followed Mrs. tagging program into the den. Amanda followed and sat down on a president while the foreign man took the couch.

`` William Henry ! '' Mrs. tagger shouted down the basement stair, `` You 'd better fare upstairs ! ``

A minute later a tall man with a mussy electrical shock of blonde hair on his foreland walked into the way with Mrs Tagger.

`` My hubby, Henry, '' Mrs. Tagger replied, `` And my name is Sarah. Who are you ? ``

`` professor Neville Longbottom, '' the man replied as he stood up and shook each of my parents'hands.

`` Professor ? '' Henry raised his eyebrows.

`` He told me Amanda has been accepted to a private school. One that her name 's been down for since birth, '' Sarah explained, `` Did you sign her up without telling me ? ``

`` No, '' Henry shook his head.

`` I 'll explain everything if you 'll just sit down, '' Neville said.

Henry and Sarah nodded and they sat down on the put Neville had just vacated.

`` I teach at a boarding school in Scotland called Hogwarts- ''

Henry snorted and Sarah glared at him. `` Sorry, '' he muttered.

Neville grinned. `` I get that reaction a lot. Anyway, Hogwarts is not an ordinary school. It is a school of magic. Mr. and Mrs. tagging program, your daughter is a crone. ``

Amanda was beaming she had been sitting down. If she had n't, she surely would have fainted. She stared in shock at Neville. What did he entail, hex ? Amanda had read many stories about enchantress. Some had ripe hag and others had bad witches. Which witch was she ?

How could she even be a witch ? beldam were n't real. They were made up to provide entertainment. They could n't actually survive. conjuring trick did n't exist.

`` What are you getting at ? '' Patrick Henry said defensively, `` If this is some sort of prank, it 's not suspicious. ``

`` It 's not a prank, '' Neville said calmly, `` Magic does survive. witch and wizards have been hiding their Earth for multiplication. I teach at Britain 's only school of illusion. ``

`` What do you teach ? '' Henry asked.

`` Herbology. The study of magical works. ``

`` Prove it, '' William Henry said, `` pull up a hare out of your hat or something. ``

Neville grinned and pulled out his sceptre. Amanda stared at it. A real magic verge. Just like the single she 'd read about in books.

`` Accio pillow, '' Neville pointed his wand at one of the pillows next to Patrick Henry. It soared through the air and landed neatly in Neville 's hand.

`` Where 's the bowed stringed instrument ? '' Henry stood up and grabbed the pillow. He searched all over it for a drawing string, but did n't find oneself one.

`` No drawstring, '' Neville smiled. He took the pillow back and pointed his wand at it. He muttered something else and the pillow turned into a tea kettle.

`` That is splendid, '' Amanda grinned, `` Can I watch how to do that ? ``

`` When you are older, yes, '' Neville replied.

`` What else can you do ? '' Amanda asked excitedly.

`` brewage potions, various spell, disappear and reappear in a new place- ''

`` Seriously ? '' Amanda gaped, `` Can you show me that ? ``

`` Sure, '' Neville replied. He disappeared from the way with a garish crack and then was back a few s later.

`` What the bloody hell was that ? '' Jen ran into the room with her hairsbreadth partially straight and partially curly.

`` terminology, Jennifer, '' Sarah warned.

`` I 'm a witch, '' Amanda grinned, `` I can do magic. ``

`` What ? ! '' Jen shouted and sat down on the nearest chair, clearly intent on staying in the way despite her hair.

`` Wait, hold ! '' Henry shouted, `` What if we choose not to let her wait on this place ? ``

`` You have to, Dad ! '' Amanda shouted.

`` Henry, are you really so gullible ? You ca n't honestly suppose there is a schooltime of magic ! '' Sarah shouted.

`` thaumaturgy ? '' Jen asked, `` Like pulling rabbits out of chapeau ? ``

`` Of course it exists, Mum ! '' Amanda told her.

Sarah shook her heading. `` No. Amanda, you just want it to exist. Magic is n't very. It 's fantasy. ``

`` It does, '' Neville said quietly, `` Can you recollect a clock time Amanda has done something that could n't be explained ? Any time where she should have been hurt and then somehow was n't ? ``

Sarah 's face went pale white and she turned to Patrick Henry. `` Yes, '' she whispered, `` Many meter. ``

`` It can be explained, '' Neville replied, `` It 's illusion. ``

`` But what if we do n't let her go ? '' Henry asked again.

`` That 's fine. But she wo n't ever learn to control her magic and she will continue to make unknown things to occur. ``

`` I 'm going, '' Amanda crossed her arms on her chest.

`` glad to hear it, '' Neville reached into his, what could only be described as a cloak, and pulled out a letter. He handed it to Amanda.

It was addressed to her. She turned it over and carefully opened it. She unfolded it and began to read it aloud.

There was another piece of composition that had a leaning of supplies written on it, including a cauldron, wand, and spell Quran. Amanda had about a million dubiousness. Where could she buy a real baton ? Had they gotten the chopine wrongly ? There could n't be a platform 9 3/4, could there ? What did the alphabetic character mean, broomsticks ? Did witches really ride around on ling like they do in book of account ?

`` I 'm home ! '' the front door slammed shut and Max ran into the room, his dark hair disheveled and his face coated in dirt. He stopped at the sight of Neville and grinned. `` Nice costume, but Allhallows Eve 's not for a few months. ``

`` It 's not a costume, '' Jen said, `` He 's a wizard. He teaches at a schooltime of magic and he 's here to tell us that Amanda is a witch. ``

`` That is vivid, '' Max grinned, `` Am I one, too ? ``

`` You 'll find out the summer you are eleven, '' Neville answered.

`` Max, please go upstairs and clean yourself up, '' Sarah groaned, `` You 're getting mud all over the carpet. ``

`` Oh, sorry, '' Max turned and ran up the stairs.

`` Mum, Dad, '' Amanda began, `` You 've got to let me go to Hogwarts. This explains everything ! I want to learn how to control my conjuration. I wo n't be the weird little girl at Hogwarts. ``

Henry and Sarah shared a looking at. `` I suppose you 're right, '' Patrick Henry sighed, `` We 'll let you go, so long as this professor explains everything about thaumaturgy to us. ``

`` I will, '' Neville nodded, `` Actually, if you 're not interfering today, I could take you to Diagon skittle alley. That 's the shopping area where you will be capable to buy everything Amanda needs for Hogwarts. It 's in London. ``

`` We 're not busy, '' Joseph Henry said, `` We 'll just wait for Max. ``

Amanda grinned as she reread her letter of the alphabet over and over again. She still could n't believe it. A enchantress. She was a real Wiccan ! Amanda always knew she was different, but she never imagined it would be like this. She pinched herself to make sure it was real. It was. She, Amanda tagger, was a witch. It was like she had fallen into one of her books.

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Days are unlike then they were before
And we both exchange
It 's only getting better
~Only Getting Better, Jared Joseph Campbell


Eleven-year-old john Malcolm Brickston was running around in a bombastic circle as fast as he possibly could. He, along with two early son, was spinning the merry-go-round in the park across the street from his house as fast as he could. A twenty-five percent boy was on the merry-go-round screeching in delight.

It was a daily thing for John, playing with the early boys in his neighborhood at the park. They particularly liked spinning each early until they felt sick on the merry-go-round. other body process included trying to campaign each other off the monkey bars and jumping off of the swings. They often spent all day doing this, until one of their female parent called them inside.

John had fun playing with the other boys from his neighborhood even though he was quite different from them. John was a wizard and all of his neighborhood friends were Muggles. John 's family was the only wizarding family living in a neighborhood of Muggles. He did n't mind, of course. He was actually glad he lived in a neighborhood full of people to wreak with, rather than in the middle of nowhere like so many other wizards did. nigh of his cousin-german did n't have any shut down neighbors.

Without the vicinity boys around, the only citizenry john would have had to play with were his sisters. John had three of them and while he loved them, they got on his nerves. They were all younger than him and drove him mental on a daily basis.

Despite having so many Muggle friends, John could not wait to get to Hogwarts where he could fill early wizards his age. He knew a couple witches and wizard his age whose parents worked with his dad, but he did n't see them too often. Then there were his cousins, but they were all young than him.

lavatory had been trying not to suppose about his Hogwarts missive, which he knew would be arriving soon. Thinking about it just made the fourth dimension go by slower. So, he tried to get his mind off of it by goofing off at the playground.

`` sufficiency, enough ! '' the boy on the merry-go-round shouted.

King John and the other two boys stepped back and watched it slack down. Once it had almost stopped, the boy jumped off and stumbled around, falling on the ground. John and the others crowded around him.

`` My turn ! '' John the Evangelist shouted as the dizzy boy sat up.

`` Rebel ! '' soul shouted from the entrance to the park.

John turned his head towards the spokesperson and groaned. It was his mother. The previous day she had made him watch over his little sisters when they played at the park and he really did n't want to do that again. But his baby were n't with his mum, so maybe she wanted something else.

`` What ? '' John shouted.

`` You need to fare dwelling house now ! '' she shouted back.

John groaned again and reluctantly said goodbye to his friends. He hated it when his mum called him family without explaining why.

`` Why do I have to go house now ? '' John asked as he reached his mum, `` It 's not dinner party time. ``

`` Your letter arrived, '' she said and began to walk across the street.

That was probably the alone matter she could sustain said to make John the Divine no longer mind leaving his friends. He grinned and ran to enchant up with his mum. Now it was official, he was going to Hogwarts !

John 's house was in its usual land of pandemonium when he entered it. Not two irregular after they stepped in the door, his indorsement youngest sister, Gemma, ran up them screaming about how Amelia had taken her toy. Gemma was six and Amelia, his vernal sister, was five.

At any given second there were probably five or six piddling Kyd at John 's house. He had a lot of cousins who were all younger than him. His mother was a stay at dwelling house mum, but a few of his aunt worked outside the home. They often dropped their kids off at Saint John 's house while they were at work. Or when they had to go shopping. It was just another reason why bathroom enjoyed spending his free metre outside, away from the piddling kids.

That day, all his piffling baby were home, of course. Plus, his cousins Isabelle, who was ten, and Isabelle 's three-year-old sister, Alyssa.

`` Your auntie Pam is grocery shopping, '' his mother, Jan, replied as she picked up Gemma.

can nodded and stepped over a pile of Wendy beldam dolls that Ashtyn, his nine-year-old Sister must possess left in the doorway.

`` Ashtyn, pick up your toys ! '' Jan shouted as she carried Gemma back into the den.

Ashtyn and Isabelle came running through the household, scooped up the chick, and ran back to wherever they came from.

`` Where 's my letter ? '' John asked as Jan set Gemma back down on the floor.

`` It 's here somewhere, '' Jan said as she rifled through a stack of chain armor, `` I just had it a second ago. Hang on. ``

John sighed as he leaned against the wall. He could n't await to get to Hogwarts. Then he would n't let to distribute with all his little sisters and full cousin anymore. He would be in a station where he was one of the untried citizenry. That rarely happened. John had always been the former, the one who was expected to be mature.

`` Mum ! '' Ashtyn shrieked from upstairs, `` I think Gospel According to John put a dung bomb calorimeter in the toilet again ! ``

john grinned. He may be expected to be mature, but he was n't. Pulling pranks was one of his dearie things to do and the droppings bomb in the toilet never got old, especially when Ashtyn was on the receiving end of it.

Jan sent him a withering look. `` I cringe to recall about the sum of bird of Minerva I 'll be getting from prof Kendrick about the roguishness you get into next year, '' she sighed, `` Ashtyn, just even it like usual ! ``

`` Mum, she wo n't yield it back ! '' Gemma whined.

Jan groaned and walked over to the two girls, who were still fighting over a stuff dragon. Jan wrenched it from Amelia 's manus and stuck it up on a high shelf. She continued searching for John 's letter of the alphabet while Gemma and Amelia complained.

`` I think I found it, '' John Lackland said as he bent down.

Three-year-old Alyssa was holding a shoot down envelope in her hands and giggling playfully. whoremonger grabbed it from her and she burst out call. Jan picked her up as can took off for his sleeping room, the only bambino free property in the entire house.

The letter was n't completely destroyed, a great deal to can 's relief. He had caught Alyssa before she was able-bodied to do a lot of impairment. The envelope was completely illegible, but the missive inside was spared from rip and infant slobber.

John tossed aside the damp envelope and unfolded the letter. He grinned widely as he read it, even though he already knew the gist of what it said.

He was in ! Gospel According to John laid down on his bed and stared up at his ceiling. Of track he was in. There was never any dubiousness. Everyone in his intact family had gone to Hogwarts for as far back as anyone could commend. As far as he knew, his family did n't receive any Squibs.

john had been looking forward to Hogwarts for a very foresightful time. His parents had all form of write up to secernate of the billet. Although, their education had been interrupted due to the final engagement and Voldemort 's licking. They had only been first years at the sentence and Hogwarts had closed for a twelvemonth in order for it to be rebuilt. But after that, his parents had had a somewhat normal education.

There were all sorts of affair that whoremonger was looking forward to. The categorization ( although his parents refused to tell him how it was done ), the feasts, exploding potions, Peeves, Quidditch, Hogsmeade trips when he got sure-enough, the Gryffindor common room. John was sure he 'd get into Gryffindor even though his mum had been a Hufflepuff. His dad was a Gryffindor and everyone said he took after his dad.

John 's dad, Jeff Brickston, had been the Hogwarts prankster when he was in school day. can could n't hold off to pull some put-on of his own. His dad had promised to get him well supplied with clobber from Weasleys'Wizard Wheezes, although his mum was n't too happy about it.

toilet remained in his way for the rest of the good afternoon. A glance out the window told him that his Muggle friends had left the parking area. It would take been boring for him to go back. Instead, he stayed in his room and pulled out his old but trustworthy aureole Two 1000 and One.

The broom had been his dad 's when he was at Hogwarts. John grabbed a bottle of polish and began to rub it into the worn Sir Henry Joseph Wood. Jeff had given it to John when he was only five and John had been flying on it ever since.

If John had to beak the one thing he was most looking forward to at Hogwarts, it would be Quidditch. John had been flying for as long as he could remember and he had hope of making it onto the Gryffindor Quidditch squad. If he was sorted into Gryffindor, that is. He just hoped that there was a beater position open at the compensate time. He doubted he 'd get chosen as a beater in his second year due to the fact that beaters were generally quite a lot swelled than the rest of the musician. But if a beater position opened when he was in fourthly or twenty percent year, he just might wee-wee it.

Isabelle and Alyssa had left by the prison term John left his room. He wandered into the kitchen and found his mum preparing dinner. Ashtyn, Gemma, and Amelia were 'helping'.

`` Can we go to Diagon alley tomorrow ? '' toilet asked as he grabbed a carrot out of a bowl.

`` I do n't have intercourse, '' Jan replied, `` Your Aunt Jodie is working tomorrow and I have to watch Stephanie as well as the twins. I do n't particularly want to sweep three extra kids to Diagon Alley especially when two are infant. It may have to await until the weekend. And please do n't eat the carrots. ``

Gospel According to John sighed and sat down at the board. He did n't desire to wait until the weekend. He wished his mum did n't watch all of his little cousins all the time.

`` I 'm home ! '' someone shouted from the den.

lav jumped up from his chair and ran into the den. He saw his dad brushing ash off of his bright green healer robes. privy grinned as he saw his great-great grandpa standing just behind his dad.

`` granddaddy ! '' Gospel According to John shouted, `` What are you doing here ? ``

`` Went to Mungo 's, '' he replied, `` Had to get this dang hip checked out. Then Jeffrey here invited me to dinner. ``

St. John the Apostle 's great-great grandad, Zander Brickston, was over one hundred age old but was usually healthy as a hippogriff. He was a bit gaga and forgetful at prison term, but it never bothered him. He was often the life of the party, too, despite his age. John loved him.

`` I got my Hogwarts letter ! '' John said excitedly as he pulled the alphabetic character out of his pocket.

`` Congratulations, '' Jeff grinned and gave John a one-armed hug as he set his bag down.

`` wellspring done, Johnny-Boy ! '' Zander gave him a surprisingly potent clap on the back, `` Great place, Hogwarts. topper eld of my animation, except for the clock time I found myself in Professor Dippet 's office. You 'd best halt out of there. ``

`` Professor Dippet 's been dead for years, Gramps, '' John laughed.

`` Then you stay out of worry with whoever 's the headmaster now, '' Zander said and lumbered off into the kitchen, `` Where 's my missy ? ``

Dinner was lively that evening, as it always was when Zander was there. He dominated the conversation with stories of his own old age at Hogwarts. privy was sort of surprise he remembered them so well. He told of the time he and his supporter went for a swim in the Negroid Lake at midnight during the full phase of the moon moon in January. The nanny had not been pleased when they showed up at the hospital wing with flimsy compositor's case of hypothermia. She scolded them and told them if they were unintelligent enough to drown in the lake during January, they could at to the lowest degree use cold-repellent charms on themselves.

`` Where would the fun be in that ? '' Zander laughed as he finished the story.

Other stories included the many pranks he pulled on the Slytherins. 'Pranking 's a Brickston tradition ,'he told whoremonger solemnly. The times he snuck out of the palace and into Hogsmeade. The time he fell asleep during his chronicle of magic trick O.W.L. ( `` What do they expect, when Binns makes you pass asleep during class ? '' ) Sneaking about the castle at night with whatever girlfriend he had at the time. Jan had to shut out him up at that point and she and Jeff began to relay their own Hogwarts stories.

John the Evangelist was, if it was potential, even more commove about Hogwarts after hearing all of the narration. He wanted to swim in the Black Lake in the middle of winter. He wanted to sneak out of schooling to go to Hogsmeade. He wanted to paint half his face red and the early half amber for the Gryffindor-Slytherin Quidditch match.

John did n't lie with how he was going to be able to wait two days until Saturday to go to Diagon alleyway, let alone wait the month and a half until he 'd be able to actually go to Hogwarts. It seemed so far away. He had been waiting years to go to Hogwarts, but he had a feeling the last month and a half would drag by even slower than those years had.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

Cause there 's so lots yet to see, that I have n't seen yet
And there 's so much air to breathe, yeah
I want to remove it in
~Take It In, Jared Campbell


Ten-year-old Rose Elizabeth Weasley put the end of her quill to her oral fissure and chewed it thoughtfully as she looked up from her sheepskin. She smiled and dipped the quill into her pot of ink and then wrote 'Elandra Harvard took a deep breath and sat down on the three-legged stool'onto the parchment. blush wine set down the quill and picked up the sheepskin. She looked at it for a moment and then set it down again.

The sheepskin was a account. A level about a Muggle-born at Hogwarts. Ever since Rose was footling, she liked coming up with stories. She used to just tell them to her parents and little brother, but then she got older and began writing them down.

Rose had spent the whole forenoon writing about Elandra. She supposed it was because Rose herself was going to Hogwarts soon and that was really all she could suppose about. Although she tried to come up with other story ideas, she just could n't. All the ideas were about Hogwarts. It was just about the only thing that could sort of keep her mind off her own Hogwarts letter.

Rose had been waiting for the varsity letter all summer. She wished that Hogwarts would send them out in June instead of the end of July. The end of July was kind of recent. That only gave a month and a half to prepare to go to school day. rose wine had been preparing since May, though. She knew she would get her letter this summertime, as she would be turning eleven on August twentieth.

Her dad had located her mum 's old proboscis in the attic and charmed an engraving of 'REW'to replace the 'HJG'that stood for Hermione Jean granger. The trunk currently sat on the story in blush wine 's room. The only thing in it was a caldron that her dad had found in the attic as well. It was a perfectly good caldron, so neither of her parents saw any motivation to buy her a new one. rosiness agreed. She kind of liked the old cauldron. There was something to be said about brewing potions in a cauldron that was aged than you were.

`` Rose ! '' someone banged on her door.

Rose groaned and got up. It was Victor-Marie Hugo, her nine-year-old brother. He probably wanted to play Quidditch or something. rose did n't particularly like Quidditch. She preferred version or pretty much anything that she remained on the ground to do.

`` What ? '' Rose asked when she opened the door, `` I do n't want to play Quidditch. ``

`` I was n't going to ask you, '' Hugo muttered, `` You 're no fun to act as Quidditch with anyway. I 'd rather just ask James and Al to wreak. I just wanted to have you this. The Emily Price Post just arrived. ``

Hugo thrust an gasbag into rosebush 's manus and she caught a glimpse of the Hogwarts crest on the seal. The breathing spell caught in her chest as she grabbed it. `` Thanks, Victor-Marie Hugo, '' she grinned.

Victor-Marie Hugo made no move to leave as rosiness shakily began to open the envelope. `` Hurry up ! '' he said.

`` It 's my varsity letter, '' blush wine replied and pulled it out of the envelope. Victor-Marie Hugo peered over her articulatio humeri as she began to read it.

Rose grinned looked at Hugo. `` It 's official ! I 'm going to Hogwarts ! ``

`` And I 'll get the sign of the zodiac to myself, '' Hugo grinned, `` I can go through your stuff and you wo n't be able to do anything about it. ``

`` Mum and Dad will be here, '' rose wine rolled her eye, `` And you in effect not go through my stuff. ``

`` You wo n't be able to do anything about it ! '' Victor-Marie Hugo gleefully ran off towards his room.

rosiness turned the former way and went downstairs in ordering to find her mum. She eventually found her in the library, pouring over numerous books.

`` It came, '' blush wine grinned and sat down across the table from Hermione.

Hermione looked up and smiled. `` Congratulations ! '' She leaned over and kissed Rose 's forehead.

`` What are you working on ? '' Rose asked.

`` Oh, work hooey, '' Hermione said as she closed the book, `` It can expect. Let me see that letter ! ``

Rose handed her mother the missive and waited while she read it. Hermione handed it back to her and smiled even full. `` I ca n't conceive you 're going to Hogwarts already. Time has flown by ! My little young lady, all grown up. ``

`` I ca n't wait, Mum, '' rose wine replied.

`` We 'll have some shopping to do, '' Hermione said as she stood up.

`` Ron ! Hermione ! Anyone here ? '' person shouted from the living room.

`` Uncle Harry ! '' Rose shouted as she ran out of the library and into the living room.

Harry 's face was floating amongst fleeceable flames in the fireplace and rosebush grinned when she saw him. `` Hi Uncle Harry ! guess what ? I got my letter of the alphabet ! ``

`` Brilliant, '' Harry grinned, `` Al got his, too. Are your parents home ? ``

`` Dad 's working at the London shop class, but he 's supposed to be back soon, '' Rose replied, `` And Mum's- ''

`` rightfulness here, '' Hermione said as she came into the room, `` Hi Harry. ``

`` Hey, Hermione, '' Harry said, `` We were going to go to Diagon Alley after tiffin. Al got his alphabetic character a few hour ago. Want to come ? ``

`` That sounds good, '' Hermione agreed, `` We 'll play you there around 1:30. Ron should be back from Weasleys'by then. ``

`` See you then, '' Harry said.

`` Bye, '' Hermione replied as Harry 's nous disappeared and the super acid flaming died down.

******

A few hr later Rose was standing with her phratry in front of Gringotts. She tapped her foot and sighed. They were waiting for the Potters, who were never on time for anything. Rose 's parents were n't known for being on clock time either, but Rose had hurried them along.

`` Sorry we 're later ! '' Harry shouted as he ran towards the Weasleys.

`` Saint James the Apostle would n't awaken up, '' Albus grinned at Rose.

`` What else is new ? '' Rose smirked.

`` Where to first ? '' Harry asked.

`` Olivander 's ! '' Albus announced.

`` brandish and Blotts ! '' rose said excitedly. She had been there numerous times, but never to buy books for school.

`` You 're mental, rose wine, '' King James I laughed, `` I say we go to Quality Quidditch provision ! ``

rose wine rolled her eyes. James was the one who was mental. He spent more time at timber Quidditch Supplies than all the other storehouse in Diagon Alley combined. Half the time he did n't even buy anything. He just gawked at the broomsticks he wished he could have.

`` Eyelops ! '' Lily shouted.

`` You 're not even going to Hogwarts, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I do n't wish, '' Lily huffed.

`` Weasley 's wizard Wheezes, '' Hugo suggested.

`` Then it 's settled, '' Harry grinned, `` We 're going to the apothecary first. ``

pink wine groaned. The Apothecary was possibly her least favorite workshop, next to Quality Quidditch Supplies. It did n't storm her that Harry chose that computer storage, though. He always did that when they argued. Rose 's parents did the Sami thing.

They finally made it to brandish and Blott 's, after the Apothecary and ma'am Malkin 's. rose was the first one through the room access and immediately started browsing. She did n't know where everyone else was going in the workshop, but she did n't care.

brandish and Blott 's had always fascinated Rose, ever since she was little. There were always at least five leger she wanted to buy whenever she went in. Hermione usually bought her one every fourth dimension they went.

`` rose, are you done yet ? '' James tapped her on the shoulder.

Rose jumped and looked up from the transfiguration book she was reading. `` No. ``

`` Hurry up, '' James whined, `` I want to go get my broom. ``

`` What makes you think you 'll get it ? ``

`` I 'm trying out for the Quidditch team this year, '' Jesse James told her.

`` So ? ''

`` So ? '' St. James the Apostle gawked, `` So ? I need another ling ! A upright one ! You 'll never realize. ``

James sighed loudly and then walked away. Rose shook her caput and went back to her record. A few bit later her mum told her it was time to go. It was sentence to go to Ollivander 's, which was what Rose had been most looking forward to.

Rose ran ahead of the grouping with Albus and the two of them arrived at Ollivander 's long before the others. Ollivander had taken their measurements and brought out a few wand for Albus to try by the time the others got there.

Albus smashed the window with his offset scepter, which Rose view was incredibly funny. She secretly hoped she would n't do the same, though. The next wand chose Albus and then it was Rose 's turn.

The first three she tried out were n't right. Although she did n't break any windowpane, they did n't wreak properly.

`` How about this one ? '' Ollivander handed her another wand, `` Ten and a half in, yew, dragon heartstring. ''

Rose took the wand and waved it. Red sparks erupted from it and rose knew it was the rightfulness one. She grinned at Ollivander and he smiled.

Next on the list was Weasley 's genius Wheezes, despite James 's constant badgering about the Quidditch store.

`` Ron, Ginny ! '' George III greeted them as they entered, `` And Harry and Hermione ! You 've got everyone with you today. ``

`` Hogwarts shopping, '' Harry grinned, `` Al and Rosie just got their wands. ``

Rose opened the box she was holding and showed her wand to her Uncle George. Albus did the same.

`` Brilliant, both of you ! '' St. George said, `` And now I shall get you both ready for Hogwarts in the put-on section .... ''

rosebush followed her uncle across the store. The one matter she had inherited from the Weasley side of the syndicate was the love for a good japery. So long as no one got hurt, that is.

`` Now, every scholarly person needs a Skiving Snackbox or two, '' George said as he handed rose and Alubs each a colorful box, `` After all, I ca n't imagine you 'll want to sit through history of conjuring trick very often. ``

rose smirked. She had heard about prof Binns and his oil production lecture, but she really did n't think she 'd ever use a Skiving Snackbox. Well, maybe if Henry James wanted her to watch Quidditch pattern, but never for skipping a class.

`` And then you 'll need some muck bombs, '' George VI said as he led them to a dissimilar display.

`` Last clock time I checked, those were still forbidden at Hogwarts, '' Hermione said sternly.

`` Oh, I 'm sure they are, '' George winked, `` But so long as Filch does n't find out it was these two who set them off, it does n't matter. ``

`` George VI Weasley ! '' Hermione scolded, `` You should be setting a better example for these two ! No wonder Fred was in detention every week last class ! ``

`` Lighten up, Hermione, '' Ron laughed, `` Let them have their fun. ``

`` Ronald ! '' Hermione shouted, `` You 're even worse ! ``

A few minutes later, Ron had convinced Hermione to let rose wine get the dung bombs and other mischief fashioning product. Hermione did n't reckon too happy about it, though.

George and Teddy, who had also been working, closed the shop and they all went to the Leaky cauldron for dinner. Everyone told stories about Hogwarts, which made rose look forward to schooltime even more.

King James I 's whining finally paid off after dinner and they went to timber Quidditch supplying. Rose thought he took far too long to pick out the perfect broom and she was bored out of her head. James I, Albus, shimmy, Ron, and Harry all spent at least a one-half hour going over the pros and cons of each model before they finally made a decision.

`` And it goes from zero to 60 in LE than twenty seconds ! '' King James I said excitedly on their way to Eyelops.

`` I do n't care, James, '' blush wine groaned.

`` The twig repel water, '' James added, `` So there is n't any drag when you 're playing in the rain or Baron Snow of Leicester .... ''

rosiness ignored him for the rest of the walk and then lost him inside of Eyelops. She knew exactly what form of owl she wanted. A tawny one. She had always liked that kind of owl.

She found three tawny owls together in a batting cage towards the back of the workshop and she put her hand up to the cage. Two of the bird of Minerva ignored her but the thirdly one hopped over and rubbed its head on her hand like a cat would. rise grinned and knew that was the owl for her.

Albus found an owl as well and the mathematical group left with two hooting owls. James started telling Albus how he was going to wind up up in Slytherin, which was form of ridiculous in Rose 's thought. Albus then announced that he was going to name his owl Godric.

That was a good name, rosiness intellection. She looked at her owl and thought about names. None of the usual animal names seemed to fit her owl. Godric, she thought. That was it. She would key her owl after another founding father. blush wine 's owl would be Rowena. She did n't really call back she 'd be in Ravenclaw, but Rowena was a good name for an owl.

The walk back to the Leaky caldron was calm down. Hogwarts seemed closer than ever for Rose. She was make. She had been ready for this for years. Her mum always told her that she had a knack for learning, and Rose was cook to instruct everything Hogwarts had to offer.


Næsta saga
Albus waved to his parents and niggling Sister, Lily, until he could no longer see them. `` Well, we 'd improve go determine a compartment, '' he said to his cousin, Rose, who was standing future to him. Rose nodded her promontory and they started walking down the wagon train corridor. It was a bit punishing to walk on a moving railroad train and Albus kept stumbling. The gearing rounded a corner and he fell into a rather mean looking erstwhile student.

"Watch where you 're going, midget,"the boy said as Albus and Rose quickly ran away from him.

`` wagerer find a compartment quick '', Albus said. He continued to walk along the corridor, looking into each compartment as he passed. He spotted a lot of his other first cousin, but did n't really want to interrupt whatever they were doing with their booster. Albus also saw a few people who looked vaguely familiar, including the Jordan-Bell twins. Scorpius Malfoy was sitting in one of the compartments with a few other boys, but Albus definitely did not want to sit with them.

Albus peeked into the succeeding compartment and saw that there was a rather pale boy sitting on one of the seats. He seemed very little and his fount was quite scarred. There was also an Old girl, who looked to be about Victoire 's age, sitting next to the boy. She looked vaguely familiar. Both of them had blue eyes and blond hair. They looked friendly enough. `` How about this one ? '' he said to Rose.

Rose glanced into the compartment for a few mo and replied, `` Yeah, looks good to me. '' She opened the door and the two cousins walked in.

"Can we sit here ? '' Albus asked.

"Sure,"the boy responded as he gestured to the ass opposite him."My figure 's flatness, Matt Eckerton."

`` I 'm his sister, Amy. I 'm a 7th class, Matt 's just start, '' the girl told him.

"Hi, I 'm Albus ceramicist, '' Albus said, `` And this is my cousin-german, rosebush Weasley, '' he gestured to Rose. `` We 're both first years. ``

`` Hi, '' pink wine waved. blush wine sat down on the derriere across from Amy and Albus sat down across from Matt.

`` That 's where I know you two from ! I knew I 'd seen you somewhere. My best friend is your full cousin, Victoire. I think I 've seen you at her theatre before, '' Amy explained.

`` Probably. I think I 've seen you, too, '' pink wine responded. Albus nodded his head in agreement.

matt 's eyes opened astray as he stared at Albus."So, you 're Harry Potter 's son ? You know, you do look a whole lot like him. You 've got his oculus and everything."

"Yeah, I know,"Albus said shortly, he often got cat of the great unwashed telling him this.

"I bet you two hear loads of news report of the struggle. My parents have told me some, but they do n't know all the point, just the second that are in playscript. You see, we 're from Commonwealth of Australia. We moved hear when I was about eight,"lusterlessness looked nervously at his sister.

"Yeah, I know all about the struggle. My parents did n't distinguish me the good taradiddle until I turned eleven. Saame with rosebush, our parents told us at the same fourth dimension. They did n't want to scare us, but thought we ought to know before we went to Hogwarts, since most people there will make heard all about it. But my parents do n't talk about it much. Guess it brings back bad memories,"Albus told Matt before changing the depicted object. He really did n't enjoy mass constantly asking him about his dad."So, how 'd you get all those scar ?"

"I 'm, um, er, very clumsy,"matt glanced at Amy and started to stare absentmindedly out the window.

"Oh, that 's ok. A Quaker of my parents'was very inept, sort of a problem since she was an Auror. But she was killed in the battle at Hogwarts. Along with her husband. My dad is their son, chemise 's, godfather, so we see a lot of him,"Albus told Matt.

lustrelessness just continued staring out the window. Albus did n't lie with what to say, he hoped he had n't said anything to disoblige lustrelessness."So, do you have any former sibling ?"Albus asked.

Matt turned away from the window."Nope, just me and Amy. I know you 've got sib. I 've read about you and them in books. A pal James II and a Sister Lily, right ? And I think you 've got a trivial brother, right, rosebush ?"

Albus just looked at Matt. It was a bit foreign having other people know all about you. He supposed this was what it was like for his father when he went to Hogwarts."Yup, James is a bit yr and Lily 's just nine, so she 's not here yet."

`` Yeah, my buddy, Hugo, is nine, too, '' rose told him. rosebush 's kin was mentioned in legion books as well, although not nearly as many as Albus's.

At that moment, the compartment doorway opened and St. James walked in with two of their first cousin, Ben and Cedric, and their supporter Nathan."How 's it going, minuscule bro ?"Jesse James asked."Still worrying about being in Slytherin ?"

"James, shut up !"Albus responded, blushing a little.

"Oh, I see you 've met someone, what 's your name ?"James asked Matt.

"lusterlessness Eckerton."

`` Hi, '' the boys responded.

`` Oh, and hi Amy, '' Ben added.

`` Hi, Ben. How are you ? '' Amy asked.

`` I 'm good. So this is your Brother ?, '' Ben said. Ben was Victoire 's brother, so he had seen Amy loads of times.

`` Yeah, matte 's just starting his for the first time yr, '' Amy told him.

`` proficient chance with the categorisation, then, matte, '' Ben grinned at Matt.

"Ah, well, we substantially be off, the trolley car 's on it 's way to our compartment, would n't want to omit that !"James said as he walked out of the compartment with his friends.

Matt stared at Albus."You think you 're going to be in Slytherin ?"

"No,"Albus said, turning more crimson.

`` So, what business firm do you need to be in ? ``

`` Gryffindor, just like my parents, '' Albus told him, `` And Saint James the Apostle and all my first cousin are in Gryffindor, too. So were almost of my aunts and uncles. ``

`` I hope you get in, then, '' Matt said, `` I 'm hoping for Gryffindor, too. Amy 's in Gryffindor. ``

`` Leslie Townes Hope you 're there, too. ``

`` I 'm also hoping for Gryffindor, '' Rose announced, `` Although Ravenclaw looks prissy, too. ``

`` Ravenclaw would n't be so bad, '' flatness agreed, `` That 's where all the fresh Kyd go, right ? ``

`` In pith, yeah, '' Amy told him.

The compartment threshold opened again. Another boy walked in, along with a scared looking girl. The boy was dark skinned, very improbable, with dark-brown fuzz and moody eyes. The young woman was quite a bit myopic than the boy, with recollective, wavy, honey colored hair and Light Within brown eyes.

"Can we sit in here ?"the boy asked."A crew of Slytherins kicked us out of our compartment."

"Sure,"Albus and mat responded.

"commodity. I 'm John Brickston and this is Amanda Tagger. We 're both outset years,"the boy told Albus, rose wine, matt, and Amy.

"Hi. I 'm Albus ceramist, this is my cousin-german Rose Weasley, and that 's Matt Eckerton, we 're also first years,"Albus responded, `` And she 's Amy, lusterlessness 's sis. '' Albus pointed to Amy, who waved.

"Wow !"Gospel According to John exclaimed."My dad said you 'd be starting this year, Albus."Amanda still had n't said anything.

Albus just smiled a little and his cheeks turned cherry yet.

`` Well, I think I 'll go find Victoire, '' Amy grabbed her bag and got up, `` You going to be ok, flatness ? ``

`` Yes, I 'll be OK, '' mat told her.

`` You sure ? ``

`` Yeah, you can go. See you later, '' Matt waved as his sister left the
compartment.

`` And you 're Rose Weasley ? '' John asked. Rose nodded. `` I 've heard of you, too, '' John continued. `` Your sept owns Weasley 's wizard Wheezes, right ? ``

`` well, it 's really my Uncle George who owns it. He 's Albus 's uncle, too. But my dad works there a lot. My Uncle George III opened it with my Uncle Fred after they left school. They 're twins. But Uncle Fred died in the Battle at Hogwarts, so after that my dad helped Uncle George with it, '' Rose explained.

lavatory grinned, `` I love that piazza. So does my dad. He 's always buying me stuff from there. Mum 's not always happy about it since I 'm always using the stuff to deplumate antic on my little baby. ``

Albus, Rose, and Matt laughed. `` I 've done that quite a bit, too, '' Albus commented. `` But now that Lily 's a bit older it 's difficult to attract buffoonery on her. ``

"Anything from the trolley ?"A hag had appeared in the doorway with a trolley laden with yummy sweets.

"Definitely !"John shouted, as he jumped up from his rump and ran out into the corridor. Albus smiled. St. John the Apostle reminded him of Saint James the Apostle. Albus, Rose, flatness, and Amanda followed John. All five returned with their munition full of food.

"So, what is all this hooey ?"Amanda rundle for the initiatory time since entering the compartment.

"well, you have your caldron cakes, Cucurbita pepo pasties, chocolate Gaul, and Bertie Botts Every Flavor noodle,"John Lackland explained, as he pointed to the respective items."Just be heedful with the beans."

"Why ?"Amanda asked as she tried a light-green color bean."Ugh !"she exclaimed."Bogey !"Amanda spat out the bonce and it landed on John. Albus, Rose, and Matt broke out in paroxysm of laughter.

"They mean every flavor !"Matt shouted."So, you must be Muggle-born ?"

"Yes,"Amanda answered."My mum is a teacher and my dad 's a doctor."

"What 's a doctor ?"John asked.

"A muggle Healer,"matte explained."My mum 's Muggle Max Born, but she 's a witch, and my dad 's a necromancer. He works at the Ministry, in the section for the Control and Regulation of Magical Creatures,"matt told everyone. `` And my mum does n't work, but she 's thinking of getting a job now that I 've started school. ``

"Oh, my parents are a witch and wizard. My family 's mostly all witching, except for a few Muggle aunts and uncles and full cousin. My dad is a Healer and my mum halt at home with my young sisters, I 've got three of them. They 're nine, six, and five. But before I was born she worked at the Ministry,"toilet explained. `` How about your parents, rose wine ? ``

`` Well, like I said before, my dad works at Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, but he 's also an Auror, which is a Dark Wizard catcher. And my mum works at the Ministry. She 's the one who started all the House-Elf rightfulness stuff. ``

`` Wow, your dad 's an Auror, too ? That 's bloody brilliant ! '' Saint John the Apostle grinned.

"What do your parents do, Albus ?"Amanda asked.

Albus was a petty shocked at this question, since the whole magic world knew about his parents, but of row Amanda did n't."Well, my dad 's an Auror. And my mum 's a sportswriter for the Daily Prophet."

"Yeah, Albus 's parents are famous !"John shouted."Tell Amanda, wo n't you, Albus ?"Albus suspected John secretly wanted to hear all about the ceramicist directly from him, even though he 'd probably read all about them in books.

And so, Albus, with a little help from pink wine, told the story about how noble Voldemort had killed his grandparents and tried to pour down his dad, but his dad survived. He told them all about his parents'old age at Hogwarts, about the Horcruxes, and how Lord Voldemort met his downfall.

All three students stared at Albus and blush wine with their rima oris wide receptive. Matt and John had obviously heard the whole story before, but never this accurate an explanation. Amanda was practically in tears.

`` Blimey, '' King John let out a low whistle, `` Your dad 's amazing. ``

`` Yeah, '' Matt agreed.

Albus blushed, `` I guess, but I just think of him as my dad. ''

The group of five first years spent the rest of the journeying discussing what they knew was true about Hogwarts and what their sib and cousins had told them about the ancient schooltime. Everyone agreed that the goliath squid did not eat a unlike initiatory class each year while they crossed the lake on boats, despite what Albus and Rose 's full cousin, Fred, had said.

"wellspring, you 'd meliorate switch into your robes,"Rose said an hour or so after the sky turned dark. rose had been wearing her gown since before she 'd even gotten on the train. The four other educatee changed into their robe quietly.

Once the gearing arrived at Hogsmeade, the five students got off and looked around.

"Firs'years ! Firs'years, this way !"a man shouted.

Albus and Rose ran up to him."Hagrid !"Albus shouted.

"'ello, Albus ! 'Ello, Rose !"Hagrid responded."set ter go ? Here 's a boat for yeh."Albus hurried into the gravy boat, followed by John, and lustrelessness, who were all gaping at Hagrid. Rose and Amanda got into a nearby gravy boat and were joined by the Jordan-Bell Twin. Another marvellous boy quickly joined Albus in his boat.

`` You know him ? '' John pointed at Hagrid with an amazed look on his face.

`` Yep, he 's a family supporter, '' Albus answered.

`` I 've never seen someone so big, '' Matt commented.

`` Well, he 's half-giant, '' Albus told him.

`` That 's so cool ! '' John grinned.

The boat started moving magically across the lake once everyone was in them. They sailed for what must own been at least a half hour before arriving at Hogwarts. Once they got there, Hagrid lead them into the castle and up a flight of stairs. The castle was incredible. It was big and intimidating looking on the remote. But once Albus stepped inside, it seemed warm and inviting, like he was home.

The first years came to a stop in front of strict looking woman."honorable eve. I 'm prof Patil, I teach metamorphosis. In a moment, you will be able to join your gent students in the Great Hall for dinner, but beforehand, you will postulate to be sorted into your planetary house. They are Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin,"she said Slytherin with a note of disgust in her vocalism."While you 're here, you will be able to earn points for your sign of the zodiac for any achievements. Likewise, any misbehavior will do points to be taken away. At the end of the year, the house with the most point earns the theater Cup. Now, follow me, please."

-- -- -- -- --
A/N : I hope you liked it ! Feel free people to leave a review. I 'd like to thank my crony and sisters for reading this maiden and letting me know what they thought.
I do n't own Harry potter. Nothing you recognize is mine.

******
The pupil followed Professor Patil into a tumid dining room. The ceiling looked just like the Night sky outside."It 's enchanted to look like the sky,"rosebush whispered to Albus. The older pupil at all four of the tables were whispering to each early and pointing wildly at Albus. Once the first years reached the head tabular array, Professor Patil turned around. The older student were still whispering, and they seemed to be doing so more loudly by the bit. Albus looked out at them and then inched his way to the book binding of the group so no one could see him. Sometimes, he hated how much he looked like his father.

"placidity, please,"professor Patil announced, and the student immediately stopped talking. An old, patched hat sat on a stool and all of a sudden it broke out in call. A few of the number one years were quite shocked at this and jumped back. Once it stopped, Professor Patil started talking again."When I call your name, you will get along forward and try on the classification Hat."

"Asterley, Elaine."A scant, blonde haired young woman ran forward and tried on the hat."Hufflepuff !"the hat shouted.

"Brickston, John."John Lackland ran up and jammed the hat on his head. It was only there for a 2d when it shouted out,"Gryffindor !"John let out a loud whoop and ran for the Gryffindor table, where he was patted on the spinal column by a few older Gryffindors.

"Creevey, Janie."She was also made a Gryffindor.

"Eckerton, Matthew."The headmaster suddenly sat up straight in his seat and stared as matt tried on the hat and was made a Gryffindor. The headmaster relaxed again. 'That was strange ,'Albus thought. Matt walked calmly over to the Gryffindor table and sat next to John.

`` Eubert, Carter. '' Albus recognized the other boy from their gravy holder as he walked up to the classification Hat. He put it on and a few instant later it shouted out, `` Ravenclaw ! ``

A few more students were sorted and then prof Patil called"Malfoy, Scorpius."Albus watched as a blonde haired boy with a smug look on his cheek was made a Slytherin before the hat even touched his head.

"ceramist, Albus."A whisper went through the crowd. The schoolmaster had sat up straight again. Albus froze. He could n't do this. What if he was made Slytherin in front of all these hoi polloi ? All these people who expected him to be in Gryffindor ?"Albus Potter ?"professor Patil said again. Someone pushed Albus forward. He walked up to the stool and put on the hat.

"Ah, yes, another ceramicist. I see it all here. The bravery, yes, yes, it 's all here,"the hat told Albus.

"Not Slytherin,"Albus thought,"Anything but Slytherin."

"Oh, oh, this sounds familiar,"said the hat,"Yes, indeed, just like your Father-God. And just like your father, Slytherin would help you achieve sizeableness, but if you insist, Gyffindor !"

Albus breathed a sigh of relief as he jumped off the toilet and ran to sit across from John and Matt at the Gryffindor mesa. Albus did n't even pay attending to the adjacent few classification. He was just so happy to be in Gryffindor.

Albus next looked up when Professor Patil called out"tagging program, Amanda."Albus watched as Amanda cautiously put on the hat."Gryffindor !"it shouted. Amanda ran to sit down across from John, with a smile on her face. Only one student was left to be sorted.

"Weasley, Rose."Rose was made a Gryffindor before the hat had even touched her head. 'Just like how James was sorted ,'Albus thought. It never hesitated for them. But it had for him. Albus stared glumly at his favorable plate.

The headmaster rose from his death chair."Welcome back to Hogwarts to all returning bookman and welcome to those who are new. For those of you who do n't know, I 'm prof Kendrick, headmaster of Hogwarts. Now, I know the older students have noticed we are short one staff member,"the headmaster gestured to the empty chair beside him."But I shall inform you about that later. Right now it is fourth dimension to eat."And the golden plates filled with food.

Albus stared in amazement as the nutrient appeared in front of him. He started piling his plate with as very much as would fit. John was using not only his plate, but an vacate one that he found as well.

"This is amazing !"John exclaimed."I might actually get broad here ! I hope all the meal are like this."

"Yeah, it all looks very good,"Albus said. Albus started eating his food and could n't avail but take in a conversation between two older students.

"I wonder where Professor Torro is ? It 's not common for a teacher to miss the starting time of term feast,"a John Brown haired daughter asked the boy sitting succeeding to her.

"Yeah, quite strange, really. I hope he 's all right. Maybe he 's ill or something ?"the boy responded.

"What does he learn ?"lavatory said, interrupting the two Old students.

"refutation Against the shadow Arts,"the girl told him. The two elderly scholar continued their conversation, but in lower voices so can could n't catch him.

*********

After the students had eaten their fill of dinner, the golden plates became clean for a import, and then dessert appeared. Albus immediately helped himself to his favorite, treacle tart. While he was eating, he heard a screeching coming from his left. A ghostly head had appeared right out of Amanda 's plate.

"Oh, so sorry to suffer scared you !"the ghost said as he glided out of Amanda 's plate."I 'm Sir Nicholas."

"You 're Nearly Headless Nick !"lav shouted."Great to assemble you. Can I see you rip off your header ?"

Amanda looked like she might conk, but dent grudgingly pulled on his ear and his head came partially off.

"Wow ! That 's bally brilliant !"St. John the Apostle exclaimed."Did you see that, Albus ?"

"Yeah,"Albus responded. He did n't suppose it was as full-strength as John did, and was beginning to like he had n't eaten nearly as a great deal treacle tart.

The schoolmaster got to his feet again as the prosperous plates became clean once more."Is everyone satisfied ? Good. Now, I have a few jump of term notices. The Greenwich Village of Hogsmeade is out of bounds for 1st and second years, as well as the Forbidden woods to everyone. As always, continue away from the Whomping Willow. Mr. Filch has added a few new particular to the list of forbidden things and if you wish to visit the list, it is pinned to Mr. Filch 's door.

"Now, as many of you have noticed, prof Torro is not with us tonight. I regret to inform you that he has been discovered idle only a few hours ago,"professor Kendrick stated with a sad expression on his face. There was a acuate intake of breath from the student."grounds of death has not been determined. Until I can find a suitable renewal, Defense Against the iniquity Arts classes will not guide place. Now, it is metre to go to your student residence. family begin tomorrow and you will demand to be well rested. First twelvemonth, please follow a prefect to your vulgar rooms."

Albus got up and looked for his first cousin, Georgia, for she was one of the Gryffindor prefects. Albus found her, and he, John, Matt, rosebush, and Amanda all followed her up to the common room. As they walked through the castle, there was a hale lot of whispering about Professor Torro.

"He was n't even that old,"one scholarly person said.

"Yeah, and was n't pop the depicted object that was jinxed long time back ?"another responded.

Albus and the others arrived at the portrait of the Fat peeress. Georgia told her the parole, Cornish pixy, and everyone walked inside.

"Boys to the right, little girl to the left. I hope everyone has a good night,"Georgia told the first years.

Albus walked up the whorled staircase to his dormitory with matt, St. John the Apostle, and two other son Albus had not met yet. Albus thought their names were Bilius and Ethan. Albus was rather quiet while he got into bed. All the early son were laughing and talking. But Albus could n't shake that he was considered for Slytherin. He was also a bit nervous about the fact that a professor had died. That did n't happen often, did it ? Albus was still thinking about these thing as he drifted off to sleep.

******

When Harry, Ginny, and Lily walked back into their menage after taking St. James and Albus to Platform 9 3/4, Harry noticed an owl waiting on the windowsill. He walked over to it and opened the letter.

lamb Harry,
I would appreciate it if you would descend to Hogwarts later tonight, around 9pm.
I have something to ask you, and would favor to do it in someone, rather than by letter.
Please devolve this owl with your answer, thank you.
From,
Fabius Kendrick

'That 's unusual ,'thought Harry. Surely one of his son could n't be in trouble already ?"Ginny, I 'm going to have to go to Hogwarts tonight. Fabius has requested that I meet with him. He has n't told me why,"Harry told his wife.

"okay, just let me acknowledge before you leave. That is strange, though. Why would n't he deliver met with you before condition started ? I hope Saint James and Albus are n't in trouble."

*********

Later that nighttime, Harry Apparated into Hogsmeade. It was a chilly night, but there was not a cloud in the sky. The asterisk and moon shone brightly. Harry thought the students must be in their common rooms by now, judging from the time. 'That 's salutary, Albus and King James have no idea I 'm here', thought Harry. He walked along the path and soon found himself walking through the big oak doors into the Great lobby. Kendrick was waiting for him there.

"goodness evening, Harry,"Fabius greeted.

"How are you ? What 's this about ? Are James and Albus okay ?"Harry asked anxiously.

"Oh, do n't worry, they 're fine. But I would opt if we discuss what we need to discuss in my office,"Fabius responded. Harry followed Fabius up to the Harlan Fiske Stone gargoyle. It leaped aside as Fabius murmured,"woollen coat."

Harry walked into the familiar bill office. He saw all the assorted possessions that Dumbledore had left to the schooltime. He also noticed the sleeping portraits of previous headmasters. Only one was awake, the one of Albus Dumbledore. Harry smiled as he saw him.

"Please, sit down,"Professor Kendrick said as he gestured to a chair in nominal head of his desk. Harry sat."I have some bad word. prof Torro was found dead in his mansion this morning."

"What ? ! How did he die ? He was n't very old,"Harry exclaimed. prof Torro had been teaching DADA since Hogwarts reopened after the battle.

"I know, shocking, and very, very sad. His cause of death was Avada Kedarva, but I did n't tell the pupil this. It does worry me. It is quite leery. Especially since dadaism was the matter that Voldemort jinxed."

"But he 's gone ! I saw him die, I was there !"Harry shouted."This ca n't be the piece of work of him, can it ?"Harry knew there would be an investigation awaiting him when he returned to work the future day. He had taken the day off to see James and Albus onto the Hogwarts Express, and had n't heard a thing about Professor Torro 's last until just now.

"Of grade not. But there are still last eater out there. I have reason to believe that one of them killed Torro and the Minister agrees with me. But onto the reason I have summoned you here.

"We are, of row, in want of a new dadaism teacher, and I was wondering if you would like the job. I think it would be a well idea to have an Auror here after Recent events and you are the ideal campaigner,"Kendrick told Harry.

"Me ? A teacher ? Well, I ca n't say I 've never thought about it. It would be nice to be back at Hogwarts. But what about Ginny and Lily ? I ca n't entrust them."

"Of trend. And feel innocent to go out every weekend to expend fourth dimension with them. Neville Longbottom does the same affair to visit Hannah,"Kendrick explained.

"I guess I could do it, but only if Ginny is okay with it. I tell you what, I 'll Apparate house tonight and ask her. You 'll have your resolution in the morning, okey ?"Harry asked.

"That 's fine. I 'll see you in the sunup, then. soundly night."

"'Night,"Harry said as he walked out of the office.

As Harry left the castle, he pondered the death of Torro. Harry had only met Torro a few times, and he was not particularly close to him, but his death still upset Harry. Was this another random Death Eater flack ? There had been a few of them throughout the years after the battle. But why was Torro killed ? He did n't even live in Britain during the time of Voldemort, he lived in France then. Why were the Death feeder going after Hogwarts teachers ? Harry had a nagging feeling that this was n't like the early Death, this had meaning. Surely, Voldemort could n't hark back ? He was dead. There were no more Horcruxes. Harry kept telling himself this, but he still felt very ill at ease about it. The master and the Minister felt the same way. Why else would they want an Auror at Hogwarts ? Of trend, Harry was the one who defeated Voldemort, so who else have a go at it more about papa ?

Harry found himself back in Hogsmeade and he Disapparated. He appeared a moment later in his backyard and he walked into the house. It was prison term to tell Ginny what had happened. Luckily, Lily would be in bed.

*********

Early the future dawn, Harry Apparated into Hogsmeade once again. This time he had his old Hogwarts trunk with him, along with a large, blackamoor owl named Harvey. This is familiar, he thought. Harry wheeled his proboscis over to Hogsmeade place, where he would hold off for a carriage to take in him to the castling. Ginny had said yes properly away. She felt that Harry 's comportment in the school would protect her Word. Ginny was also quite disquieted about the death of Torro.

The baby carriage arrived and Harry loaded his trunk into it. 'This sure is strange ,'he thought. dorsum at Hogwarts, once again. It sort of felt good, comforting in a way. Hogwarts had always felt like rest home to Harry. But he still could n't shake the anxious tactile sensation he had about Torro 's death. The carriage gave a lunge, and the thestrals pulled Harry up to the school.



"Get up, Albus ! Get up !"Albus awoke with a starting line and saw bathroom 's face looking down at him.

"Huh ? Wha 's going on ?"Albus said sleepily.

"First day of lessons ! Let 's go down to breakfast,"John responded, excitedly. He was bouncing around the room, waking up all his fellow Gryffindors.

Albus got up and put on his robe."okay, I 'm ready,"

"Great ! Bilius and Ethan are up too. But I ca n't get matt up. He sleeps like a log,"John said as he shook Matt some more. Matt finally got up and put his gown on.

The five Gryffindor first twelvemonth boys met the girls in the unwashed room. pink wine, Amanda, Janie Creevey, and the Jordan-Bell twins. Albus knew he 'd met the twins a few multiplication, but could n't remember their public figure They introduced themselves as Karina and Marina. They were identical with long black hair and blue eye. The maiden yr walked down to the Great student residence together, only getting lost once.

When Albus walked into the Great Hall, he glanced up at the head table and his jaw dropped. He stopped walking and an old Hufflepuff bumped into him.

"Sorry,"she said as she walked past.

Albus did n't pay any attending to her. He continued to stare at the staff table. Sitting following to the schoolmaster, was his father. Albus shook his point and ran over to the Gryffindor table, where his associate first years had already sat down.

"James ! James !"Albus shouted,"Look who 's sitting next to prof Kendrick ! Is n't that Dad ? What 's he doing here ? He does n't teach here !"

King James was staring at Harry."Yeah, I know. Funny how he never mentioned it. But I guess he must be the new DADA teacher. All the early teacher are there."

"Honestly, Epistle of James ! He could n't deliver told us yet. Torro just died yesterday. Obviously, Kendrick asked him death night. It was only a matter of prison term, was n't it ? I mean, he 's got to be the most qualified wizard for the job, right ?"GA had sat down next to William James and talked some sense into him.

"I suppose,"Saint James the Apostle said as he started to eat his eggs.

"Here are your schedules !"Neville Longbottom had appeared near the Gryffindor mesa.

Albus took his schedule from him and looked at it. He had DADA right after breakfast, then Charms, and after lunch he had image Herbology.

"aspect like a decent schedule,"John Lackland said,"Should be interesting having your dad as a instructor, Albus ! I ca n't wait ! I 've got so many interrogative for him."

"Yeah, should be wonderful,"Albus said glumly as he dug into his waffles. Truthfully, Albus did not want his dad teaching at Hogwarts. With his dad here, Albus would be even more far-famed than common. He did not like the staring eyes and the constant quantity enquiry about his dad.

**********

After breakfast, the Gryffindors headed to the pappa classroom, with lavatory leading the way. Albus hung back with matte, who was going pretty slow.

"You okay, Matt ?"Albus asked,"You look kind of sick. You want to go to the Hospital annexe ?"

"No, I 'll be ticket,"Matt replied with a oscitancy,"Guess I did n't get to kip until tardily, too nervous about lessons."

When they arrived at the classroom, Albus ran and took the table in the rear. Matt and Amanda followed him. John hesitated, apparently torn with joining his new protagonist and sitting up front. Finally, he, too, went and sat in the back.

"Why are we sitting back here ?"John asked.

"Cause it 's my dad, Saint John. How would you like it if your dad taught at Hogwarts ?"Albus said in a rude shade. John did n't say anything.

At that here and now, another mathematical group of pupil came into the room. They were Slytherins. Scorpius Malfoy was leading them.

"Great, we 're with the Slytherins,"John whispered to lustrelessness,"Hope they 're not going to ruin everything."John was about to set up into a tirade about Slytherins, but Harry walked in.

"trade good morning,"Harry said as he walked to the straw man desk,"I 'm Professor Potter."A few of the girls in front giggled."I 'll start by taking attendance."Harry ran down the attendance sheet. Everyone was there.

"Please spread your books to paginate 5,"Harry told the students.

"Professor ? Can you tell us about the battle ? Please ?"one of the Twin asked, Albus did n't live which one.

Harry sighed."Well, I really do n't like to talk about it a lot. But I suppose I could. I know you wo n't let it take a breather until I do,"he smiled and looked at Albus,"I know my own kids, nieces, and nephews kept asking me until I told them."

Albus sunk lower in his professorship. John the Evangelist was sitting straight up, staring at Harry, hardly blinking. Amanda and lusterlessness were also paying closely attention.

Harry 's storey about the battle lasted the whole period. The chime rang shortly after Harry finished.

"Please read chapter one for future time, since we did n't get a chance to cover it in division,"Harry told the educatee as they left."And Albus, could you stay put for a moment ?"

"You guys go on ahead,"Albus told his friends,"I 'll meet you in Charms."Albus approached his father 's desk after all the other pupil had left.

"Hi, Al, how was the sorting ? I see you did seduce it into Gryffindor. I knew you would,"Harry said with a proud look on his face.

"Yes, I did,"Albus said, his optic brimming with crying as he remembered what the hat had told him,"But it wanted to put me in Slytherin !"Albus started crying and he could n't stop."I told it to put me in Gryffindor, that 's the only rationality it did !"

Harry quickly shut the doorway before responding."I told you at the station that it did that to me, too."

"But that 's cause you were a Horcrux !"Albus sobbed,"I 'm not a Horcrux, so why should I accept done well in Slytherin ? It put Rose in Gryffindor before it even touched her pass. And St. James said it did that with him, too."

"Yes, I know, but everyone 's unlike. It means that you have quality of many different houses. It does n't think you should be in Slytherin. The hat put you in Gryffindor because you wanted it to. A great man once told me 'it is our choices that show who we really are, far more than our abilities'. Albus Dumbledore was that man. He told me that when I was wondering the Sami thing you 're wondering right now. You chose to be in Gryffindor, which makes you very different from the Slytherins. Do n't worry about it,"Harry explained, as he drew Albus into a hug.

"O-k-kay,"Albus stuttered,"J-just, d-do n't evidence J-James."

"Do n't worry, I wo n't. Saint James does n't even make love that the hat considered putting me in Slytherin,"Harry confided,"Now, I think you should be off to your succeeding course of instruction. And do n't worry about me teaching here. I 'll treat you just like the former scholar, hold and all."

Albus laughed."Well, you do n't have to do that."

"See you later, Al."

"Bye, Dad."

**********

Albus was a bit more cheerful for the repose of the day. He thoroughly enjoyed doubled Herbology. He had known prof Longbottom since he was born, and Albus was very interest in magical plants. appeal, however, was n't as enjoyable. The magical spell professor, Professor Washburn was not very nice, and for some reasonableness he seemed to experience something against Gryffindor.

Soon enough, dinner came, and right when Albus walked into the Great Hall, Saint James came running over to him.

"So, how was having Dad as a teacher ?"William James asked, breathlessly.

"You know, it was n't as bad as I thought it would be,"Albus said, while sitting down and grabbing the near bowl of Solanum tuberosum."He spent the unhurt menses telling everyone about the struggle because he figured no one would depart him alone until he did."

"Sounds comrade !"St. James laughed,"Remember when we kept bugging him about it when I was 10 ? And then he said he 'd recite us the solid write up the summertime before our initiative year of Hogwarts."

"Yeah, I was variety of surprised he was so will to recount the story. You know how he hates talking about it."

"I know, but I suppose it 's easily for everyone to pick up it sooner rather than later, and now Dad can get on to teaching,"James explained as he shoved his mouth with chicken,"Should be pretty cool having him instruct, he knows so a great deal DADA."

"Hey, Albus !"John the Divine shouted to Albus as he ran over to the Gryffindor table. Matt sat down on Albus 's other side.

"Hi John, mat,"Albus said, passing them the Cucurbita pepo juice.

"Wow, this is just as good as last nighttime !"John the Evangelist exclaimed as he piled his plate high with food for thought,"I could definitely get used to this."

"What ? Did your mum starve you ?"Albus joked.

"'Course not. But she did n't cook as a lot variety,"St. John the Apostle explained. He turned to Matt."You okay ? You look kind of pale."

That was an understatement. Matt looked like he was about to drop dead out in the potatoes. He had n't touched any of the food and his lucky plate was still vacate. Matt was leaning his fountainhead on his hand and was yawning a lot."I 'm all right wing, I guess, just tired."

Albus and John eyed him warily."You sure ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah, I 'm just not thirsty tonight. I 'll be fine."

At that moment, the schoolmaster stood up."If I could have your attending for just a bit, I have some more announcements."The way immediately fell silent."Thank you. Now, as many of you have noticed, I did have success in securing a new DADA teacher and I would like to introduce him. This is prof Potter."Kendrick gestured to Harry."Now, I know many of you will accept interrogative for him when you have your foremost DADA lesson, but I ask you not to badger him. He will secernate you what he wants to, and nothing more than. I would also wish to tell you that if you want to try out for your house Quidditch squad, please reach your name to your promontory of house. That is all. Thank you."Kendrick sat back down again and proceeded to speak to Harry.

"Well, I 'm trying out for Seeker this year !"James announced to the unanimous Gryffindor tabular array,"I 've been down to the pitch practicing on my Firebolt during lunch."

"trade good fortune, James,"Albus told him,"Dad 'll be proud if you make the team."

"I sure hope I do. It 'll be big having him catch the games."

Albus turned to John."You finished ? We should probably get started on that homework."

John groaned,"Yeah, I suppose. You gon na come, lustrelessness ?"

matte looked up from his plate."Sure."The three boy started walking back up to the common room, with lustrelessness lagging behind.

"Matt, are you for sure you 're ok ? You 're going pretty slow,"Albus asked, with a nervous look on his facial expression."I think you should probably go to the hospital backstage.

Matt looked out the windowpane."I suppose you 're probably right. You guys go on ahead, I 'll meet you back in the Common room."

"No, we 're going to read you. You look fix to collapse,"Gospel According to John insisted. They all trekked back down the step and to the hospital Wing. When they got there, Madam Pomfrey was powerful by the door.

"lustrelessness ! Come here, you look atrocious,"she said, grabbing his berm and leading him to the bed,"Thanks for bringing him, boys, you can leave now."brothel keeper Pomfrey shooed them out of the room.

"You know, it almost looked like she was waiting for him,"Albus said as he walked up the stairs.

"Yeah, and she knew his public figure. That 's odd. I do n't think he 's been there yet,"lav stated,"I wonder if he gets sick often ? Or maybe he gets hurt a lot, he 's got loads of scars. ``

"I know. I asked him about them on the train, before you came in. He said he was clumsy and quickly changed the subject."

"wellspring, I 'm surely he 'll tell us about it when he 's quick,"privy reasoned,"Cornish fowl Pixie."The portrayal opened and the two boys walked into the common room. They settled down to doing their prep with Amanda, Rose, Janie, Bilius, Ethan, and the Twin. After a few hours, Albus bid them upright night.

He walked up to his dormitory room, changed into his pj's, and climbed into bed. He pondered his deterrent example and the rest of his day. Albus was well-chosen that having his dad there was n't as bad as he thought it would be. But why did Professor Washburn dislike him and the former Gryffindors so much ? And was lustrelessness okeh ? He still had n't returned to the common room. As Albus was worrying about matt, he drifted off to log Z's. Just after he drifted off, the Shrieking hutch shrieked for the first sentence in decades.




Harry was in the Great Granville Stanley Hall. R-2 bound him to the Headmaster 's chair. His scrape was searing in pain. Blood was pouring down his arms as he struggled against the restraints. He opened his eye and glanced around, looking for his scepter. There it was, lying uselessly halfway across the room. All around him, other people were bound to the other professor 's hot seat, they were surrounding Harry in a circle. A cloaked figure was circling around the exterior of the Mexican valium, while other cloaked figures stood stationary around the way. trunk lay in pools of blood on the floor.

Harry glanced around at the other masses bound to the chairs. The person directly across from him had long red fuzz. Harry screamed."NO ! ! ! ! Ginny !"He looked at the early people."James ! Albus ! Lily ! Take me instead, not the kids !"

The hooded shape looked up and entered the circle. He stood directly in front of Harry."well, well, someone 's decided to recover his cognisance. As you see, the ease of them did n't fair too well without you. nearly are dead. But I 've saved your near family for final stage. I will torture them and vote down them. And then, I shall kill you. At last, I 've waited so long. You should suffer known you could n't pour down me."Voldemort rounded on the smallest tyke tied to a chair.

"Crucio !"he shouted.

"NO ! ! ! ! Do it to me instead ! Lily !"Harry screamed. His cicatrix started to hurt even worse, it burned so bad he could n't keep his eyes clear anymore.
Harry awoke with a jump. He was covered in sweat and his meat was beating fast. His handwriting automatically went to his scrape, but he was not in any nuisance. He shakily got out of bed and went to the window.

'Will it never end ?'he thought. The nightmare kept returning, but why ? It was always the same one. It had been going on ever since the last fight. Only before he had kids, the mass surrounding him were Ginny, Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna. As soon as King James was born, Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna disappeared. Once Albus was born, he appeared too. Same with Lily.

Harry had no mind what the dreams meant, and neither did anyone else. Harry could think of only one person who may receive been able to explain it, Dumbledore. However, as soon as Harry had a few of these ambition, he had gone to see the portrait in Dumbledore 's office. He was only 18 then. Unfortunately, Dumbledore had no useful explanation. Since Harry was no retentive a Horcrux, he could n't possibly be seeing into Voldemort 's thoughts. Especially since Voldemort was dead. But the dreams continued.

Tonight 's dream had been more lifelike than any of the yesteryear 1. Maybe it was because Harry had spent all day reliving the horrific picture from his childhood to various DADA classes. He wished he had n't done that now. Oh, how he regretted it. But he 'd have to put up with it the rest of the week, seeing as it would n't be fair not to tell the other students.

Harry walked away from the window. He slowly walked into the corridor. His wholly consistency was dank. He needed a quiescency swig. He 'd been relying on these more and more as fourth dimension went on .'I really should check how to brew them myself ,'he laughed to himself.

walk through the corridors at night brought back many memories. He still felt like he was disobeying the rules, even though he was now a professor. It seemed like Snape was right hand around the recess waiting to catch him doing something wrong. Harry climbed the stairs to the hospital wing. He hated to wake Madam Pomfrey at this hour, however he knew he 'd never get to sleep without it. Maybe she would return him a with child supply to hold open in his office.

Harry walked into the Mary Augusta Arnold Ward, only to see that Madam Pomfrey was already up. She was tending to a daughter in one of the end beds.

"Hello, Poppy,"he whispered.

"Oh !"madam Pomfrey jumped,"You frightened me. I was n't expecting you at this hr, Harry. You know, it 's almost like you 're a educatee again, coming in so late."

"Yeah, I was thinking the same thing,"Harry glanced down at the fille,"Is she okay ?"

"Yes, she 'll be fine. mortal levitated her in her eternal sleep. She screamed and that scared the student who did it to her, that educatee gave the countercurse, and she promptly fell onto the floor and broke her arm."

"Wow, does n't rent very long for things to get interesting around here,"Harry said.

"Now, why are you here, Harry ?"

"Well, er, remember after the battle and I had all those nightmare ? They never completely stopped, and now they seem to be getting risky. I was wondering if I could have a sleeping draught. I 'd also wish to just have a supply of it on hand. I 've never been much of a potion beer maker and have n't attempted to throw it myself. I just can never supervise to get to log Z's without one after one of these incubus,"Harry explained sheepishly. He felt like he was a kid again. How could he, the wizard who defeated Voldemort, who was known as the audacious wizard of the fourth dimension, be afraid of a nightmare ?

A sad regard fell over madam Pomfrey."You know, this variety of reminds me of how you were so susceptible to the dementors in your third gear twelvemonth. I know most people think you 're hardy and nothing frightens you, but everyone has nightmares and being frightened is cipher to be ashamed of."She walked over to a cabinet and came back with a large bottle filled with potion."Here you go. Just occur back to me whenever you need more."She handed him the bottle.

"Thanks,"Harry replied, as he walked out of the Hospital annexe.

As he walked back towards his office, Harry thought about what Madam Pomfrey had said. He knew she was veracious, but he still could n't help but palpate weak whenever he had one of these nightmare. He just wished he knew why he was having them and what he could do to bar them.

******

When Albus awoke the next morning, lusterlessness still had n't returned from the Hospital Wing. privy suggested that they go visit Matt before course of study, but since the two male child had gotten up late, they only had time to snaffle a nimble bite to eat before heading to Potions in the dungeons.

"trade good morning, class !"an old, round, prof greeted them,"I 'm prof Slughorn, your Potions sea captain. Today, we shall be learning about the bedrock of potion brewing, including the importance of proper stirring, hotness, and ingredients. Please open up your books to paginate 6."

The class opened their books and spent the whole object lesson listening to Slughorn and copying down notes.

"Well, we 're pretty much out of prison term, so I 'll see you all next lesson. Could I have Albus Potter and Rose Weasley delight plosive speech sound by my desk on their way out ?"Slughorn told the class.

"I 'll see you in August 6, John. Tell professor Patil where I am,"Albus told his acquaintance. He had a tone he knew what Slughorn wanted. James had warned him about it.

Albus and Rose walked cautiously up to Slughorn 's desk after everyone else had left.

"Ah ! Young Mr. ceramicist and miss Weasley. Now, I would like to distinguish you about a minuscule gathering I have scheduled for Friday. It 's for the scholar in the schooltime whose parents are, for lack of a intimately term, democratic. Or those who have shown particular charming skill. Of course of action, I 'd be pleased if the both of you would assist. I 'm sure your cousin will be attending. They seemed to like them in the past old age,"Slughorn informed them.

"wellspring, er, I guess we could pull in it,"Albus told Slughorn, while looking at Rose.

"Yes, we 'll be there. See you next object lesson, Professor,"blush wine told him, as the two of them left the dungeon.

"I knew it was only a matter of clip before we were invited to the Slug baseball club,"Albus groaned. James loved the Slug cabaret. It gave him a whole lot Thomas More attending and Thomas More people for him to tell his tarradiddle too. But Albus did n't like the renown. He would sustain rather skipped the party, but as Saint James and his cousins were going, it would be hard not to.

"fountainhead, maybe it 'll be fun,"rose stated in a aspirer tone. Albus rolled his eyes and the two of them went to Transfiguration.

***********
Matt did n't depict up in classes all day. Albus and John were really starting to worry. They decided to natter him before dinner. When they got into the Hospital annex, they did n't see Matt right away. There was one girl occupying a bed with her arm in a sling. Madam Pomfrey was fussing over her.

"I really think you need to stay here tonight. You can leave in the break of day !"

"But, Madam Pomfrey, I 've been here all day. My arm 's mulct !"the girl exclaimed.

"No, I will not have it ! You can pull up stakes in the morning,"ma'am Pomfrey said in a musical note that was not to be argued with. The girlfriend pouted and stopped talking.

Albus and privy approached Madam Pomfrey."Um, where 's Matt Eckerton ? We brought him here finish night,"lav said tentatively.

"He 's back there,"she said, pointing to a bed with the curtains pulled around it.

"wellspring, can we see him ?"Albus asked.

"No, I 'm sorry, but you ca n't. He 's not in any nation to give birth visitors at the instant. You can add up see him this time tomorrow,"Madam Pomfrey said hurriedly.

"But could you at to the lowest degree state us if he 's ok ?"Albus asked.

"He 'll be amercement in a few days. Now, you two should manoeuvre down to dinner. You can see Matt tomorrow."

Albus and John walked glumly down to the Great Hall."That was unusual. Henry James said you can usually shoot the breeze your Quaker when they 're in the Hospital Wing,"Albus told John.

"Very weird. You know, I think Matt 's keeping something from us. Madam Pomfrey seemed like she was expecting him final stage night, and now no one can natter him,"John told Albus in a worried tone.

"We 'll ask him about it when he gets out of the Hospital wing. I do n't reckon he 'll be inclined to tell us tomorrow,"Albus reasoned.

*********

The next day, Gryffindor first class had DADA again. Nothing extraordinarily exciting happened during course. They mostly took promissory note on using Expeliarmus, the disarming spell. Harry said they would start being able to practice it on each early in the next class. John and Albus were really looking forward to this, as they really had n't used their verge for anything yet.

Charms, however, was quite consequential. Professor Washburn started year by taking attendance as usual. He gave a menacing glare to all the Gryffindors as he called their figure. But Albus thought he stared especially long at him.

"charter out your wands,"snarled Wahsburn,"we 're practicing levitation today. Everyone take a feather."Washburn waved his wand and a plume appeared in social movement of each bookman."Remember to swoosh and flick."

"Swish and flick,"murmured Albus from the back table. He waved his wand and said,"Wingardium Leviosa !"Nothing happened. He tried over and over again. Still, nothing happened. John, however, managed to do it.

"looking, Albus !"John exclaimed,"I 've done it !"John 's feather had rose a few inches off the table, and fell down again.

"Congratulations,"Albus said flatly, his feather still remaining quite still on the table.

"I 've done it, too !"Rose shouted. Her plume had also rose off the table, but it managed to construct it a few animal foot in the air before falling.

Washburn stormed out from behind his desk and rounded on the back table, where Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda were sitting."Well, do it again !"he growled.

John and Rose looked at him nervously and picked up their wands."Wingardium Leviosa !"they said at the Lapplander time. Both their plumage rose feebly into the air and fell down again.

"Pathetic,"Washburn muttered,"ceramicist ! You do it !"he shouted at Albus.

"But, prof, I have n't managed it yet,"Albus muttered quietly.

"You 'll do what I tell you to do ! Perform the spell !"Washburn seemed to be getting angrier by the minute.

Albus nervously picked up his wand. His arm was shaking, this would not turn out good."Wingardium Leviosa,"he muttered very quietly. His feather leaped into the air and caught fire. The whole class, which had been staring at the back table for quite some time, screamed.

The flame from the feathering caught onto Washburn 's robes and set them on fire as well."Bloody Hell !"Washburn screamed. He grabbed Albus 's wand out of his deal and produced H2O from it to put out the flames."ceramicist ! You 'll getting detention and 20 points from Gryffindor !"he shouted, glaring at Albus."Class dismissed. Get out, all of you except Potter."

Albus was visibly shaking now. The rest of the course quickly left, the Gryffindors glancing anxiously at Albus. He walked slowly up to Washburn 's desk.

"fountainhead, you seem to have a bent for causing worry, Potter,"Wahsburn spat.

"I 'm drab, prof, I did n't mean to,"Albus muttered, on the threshold of tears.

"You 'll be doing detention tonight, I do n't like what other plans you might have got. See you at 8pm."

"But-"

Washburn cut him off."I said tonight, now get out !"he screamed.

********

Later that night, Albus trudged his way back to the common room after doing detention with Washburn. He had Albus do job, so it was n't too bad. But Washburn stared at Albus the totally time, his eyes like fire.

Albus climbed through the portrait and saw just who he needed to verbalize to."King James I, I 've got to ask you something."

"What is it ?"James asked, walking away from his booster.

"Why does Washburn hate me ?"Albus asked."During the first class, I thought he just hated all Gryffindors, but today he made it unclouded that it 's me he hates."

"Really ? It 's well known he hates Gryffindors. But he 's always seemed to detest me more than everyone else,"James explained,"I always assumed it 's because I cause so a great deal fuss. You on the other hand, have always been so silence. What did you do to him ?"

Albus mumbled something incoherent.

"What ?"

"I set him on fire."

James burst out laughing.

"It 's not funny ! I did n't signify to do it. We were doing levitation, and he asked me to hover the feather in straw man of everyone, when he knew I had n't managed to do it before. My arm was shaking so very much I knew the spell would n't work. The feathering caught fire as soon as I muttered the magic spell, and then it spread to Washburn 's robe. I got blood line and 20 points taken from Gryffindor,"Albus looked down, ashamed.

James looked stunned."But that 's a mistake any low year could have made. I do see how he got mad, though. I think you should just try to debar him. Sit in the book binding, do n't say anything. Ignore him in the manse. That 's what I do. I still get way to a greater extent detentions from him than any other teacher, but I think I 've become resistant to them. wellspring, I 'd better get back to my friends. See you later."

Albus contemplated this information. Washburn hated all Gryffindors, but he hated James and Albus the most. Why ? It did n't make sensation. Neither Albus nor James had met Washburn before Hogwarts.

"Albus !"trick came running into the unwashed room,"I 've just been with Matt."

"How is he ?"Albus asked.

"Not good. He 's covered in cutting and bruises. Said he 'd tripped on his way to the lavatory. He kept avoiding talking about being ill. Just wanted to talk about what 's going on in the shoal. So I told him about you setting Washburn on fire. He thought it was hilarious."

"It 's NOT !"Albus shouted. He was sick of everyone thinking it was amusing. The story had already made it around the school and at dinner everyone was staring at him more than common. Some students even luxuriously fived him and patted him on the back. It seemed like Washburn was disliked by many educatee.

"okay, okeh,"John said, putting his hands up,"Anyway, Matt said he 'd be back in class tomorrow dawning. lady Pomfrey just wanted him to stay the balance of the night."

"Good. Let 's go to bed. I 'm exhausted,"Albus said. He and John climbed up the bill stairway to the dormitory.

-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Here 's the next chapter ! I combined two short chapters into one, so this one 's a good bit longer than the previous ones.
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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Friday came too quickly for Albus 's liking. He was not looking forward to the poke Club meeting. Since the meeting and Gryffindor Quidditch try-outs were at the Lapp time, James would n't be joining Albus at the meeting. Albus had tried to get out of the meeting by watching try-outs, but the team captain decided to not let any viewer at the try-outs. A vauntingly number of students had wanted to assist just to see King James, and the police captain did n't want anyone to cut off the try-outs.

Later that day, Albus and Rose walked down to the dungeon together. Albus was dreading the confluence. They walked into the meeting to see that most everyone else was already there. Albus already knew most of them. Some of his cousins were there, along with various former prescribe phallus'children. However, there were a few faces Albus had never seen before.

"Ah ! Albus and rose wine !"Slughorn gestured to a few chairperson in the room,"Please have a seat. You already know many of the people here. But I do n't believe you know Tami Tobias, weenie Belleville, and Quinton Willinson ?"he said, gesturing to a blond haired young woman, a black haired boy, and a very sullen looking boy."Tami is a 6th twelvemonth Ravenclaw who brews the most first-class potions, weenie is a 4th year Hufflepuff who can already perform gestural go ! And Quinton 's a 7th year Slytherin whose father works at the Minsitry."

"Er, hi,"Albus responded.

"Hello,"rose smiled.

Unfortunately for Albus ; Tami and Frank, along with Slughorn, spent much of the meeting hounding Albus with questions about his dad, the struggle, and Albus 's puerility. Eventually, Albus just got fed up with it.

"looking, my dad 's told you all he wants to tell you. You 're not going to learn anything else from asking me !"Albus shouted.

Slughorn looked taken aback."I thought you 'd relish talking about it. Your blood brother always enjoys telling narration about his childhood."

"wellspring, I 'm not James, now, am I ?"Albus shouted. Everyone else was now staring at him. Albus jumped up from his chair and stormed out the door, slamming it behind him.

Albus stamped his feet the wholly way up to the commons room. He went through the portraiture and was immediately bombarded by James.

"Albus ! I got it ! I 'm the new Seeker !"James shouted over the noise, jumping up and down and spilling his butterbeer all over the floor.

"That 's great, Saint James, really great,"Albus told him, trying to sound somewhat excited.

"What ? You 're not well-chosen for me ? I thought you would be. Dad 's rapturous. I told him as soon as I was done at tryouts,"James said tentatively.

"No, I am excited,"Albus responded glumly. All he wanted to do was go to bed, but James blocked his path.

"What 's wrong ? I can tell something 's legal injury. evidence me,"James said, in a voice that sounded strangely like their mother's.

"It 's the Slug guild. I just left. All anyone wanted to do was listen to me tattle on about my childhood,"Albus shouted, all the angriness coming back in full phase of the moon forcefulness."They would n't terminate bothering me until I screamed at them and stormed out."

James just stared at Albus."And to top it all off, Slughorn said he thought I 'd LIKE talking about all that, just because you do !"Albus screamed at James and punched the penny-pinching armchair.

"Boy, you do ingest Dad 's temper,"James told Albus,"I 'm sorry I could n't be there. I 'll be there at all the others. I swear. Well, unless there 's Quidditch practice."

"Others ? ! You really think I 'm going to another one of those ?"Albus shouted disgustedly.

"Well, Slughorn has them all throughout the year. Sometimes they 're form of fun. You know Dad used to go to them."

"Fun ? ! Fun ? ! How could that possibly be fun ? And I know Dad used to go to them, he did n't exactly delight them, now did he ?"Albus seethed.

"Yeah, some of them are fun,"William James shifted from foot to foot. Albus could tell he was nervous.

"Just go back to your company. You deserve it. beneficial job at making Seeker, I really do mean that. But I think I 'm going to bed. Good night."

"'Night,"James said as he rejoined his party.

Albus walked up to his dormitory. It was still relatively early, so Albus was surprised to see matte there. Matt had returned at breakfast yesterday morning, but he still did n't seem himself, so John the Divine and Albus did not convey up the interrogative of him being ill.

Albus went over to matte 's bed and pulled back the drape. He was auditory sensation asleep. That was unknown. He just spent 2 daytime in the Hospital annex, why was he still tired ? Was he still regorge ? Albus sighed, he would n't be able-bodied to question matt tonight. wellspring, turning in early would do Albus some good too. Maybe he 'd be able to chill out down after the evening 's excitement. He got into his pajama and got into bed.

********
Unfortunately, Albus did not birth a reposeful sleep. He was having vivid nightmares which involved Slughorn questioning him while Epistle of James stood behind him, laughing. This same image kept recurring over and over again. Albus tossed and turned and eventually, a new dream came over him.

Albus was sitting in a dark empty room. A man in a dark cloak appeared side by side to him.

"He will return,"the man said.

"What ?"Albus asked."Who 's returning ?"

"He 's coming. He 'll chance a way. He will return."

"Tell me ! Who ?"Albus shouted.

"He will return, he will give, he will riposte ...."the man said over and over again.

Albus awoke with a start. He was sweating. What was that about ? He had never had such a vivid ambition. Who was going to return ? Albus raked his genius, and then it hit him. It felt like he 'd been punched in the stomach. Of course ! He jumped out of bed and put on his dressing robes. It must be late, he thought. mat, John, Ethan, and Bilius were still sleeping. Albus tip-toed out of dormitory and carefully shut the doorway behind him.

Albus had to see his dad. He did n't wish that it was the centre of the night. He ran out of the vulgar room and into the empty-bellied corridor. It was strange wandering around this deep. Albus had never walked around the castle at night. He did n't wish that he was n't supposed to be out of his dormitory this of late. All he thought about was telling his dad about that ambition. Albus ran down the steps, probably making too much racket. As he rounded the box, someone reached out and grabbed his shoulder. Albus screamed.

"Shut up !"a man shouted,"You 'll wake the wholly school. Then we 'll stimulate a real problem."

Albus looked into the oculus of the man who had caught him. It was professor Washburn.

"Well, well, Mr. Potter is out of bed. And this late at dark ? Surely, he must be up to no right,"Washburn sneered. Albus heard the happiness in his tone."We 'd better be off to my office, shall we ?"

Albus stood where he was."No, I have to see my dad."

"Running to Daddy, are we ? Is n't that sweetly. Unfortunately for you, wandering corridors at night is against the ruler, therefore, I will penalise you."

Washburn grabbed Albus 's hand and dragged him to his office. Albus was really shaking now. What would Washburn do to him ?

When they entered Washburn 's dour office, he forced Albus into a chair directly in movement of his desk.

Washburn slammed his manpower on his desk."So, decided to have a lilliputian midnight stroll ? concern to order me what you were up to ?"he glared at Albus, not blinking.

"I 've already told you. I need to see my dad,"Albus told him, nervously.

"Surely that could wait till morning ? I bet you were setting up some sort of joke. Am I right ? You know, I 've caught your brother out of bed many a prison term for just that reason."

So that was it. Washburn hated Jesse James, so he in spell hated Albus too. That was the second clip in the past 12 60 minutes that Albus had been compared to James."I am NOT like my brother !"he stood up, fists clenched and stared at Washburn.

Washburn smiled."I seem to have struck a nerve. But it hardly matters what you were doing out of bed. The fact remains that scholar are not to be out of bed at,"he glanced at his sentinel,"1:37 in the forenoon. Now, to discuss your punishment."

"You can discuss my penalisation after I see my dad,"Albus glared at Washburn.

"Sit back down, Potter. I know you 're just trying to get earnest old Dad to keep open you."

Albus remained standing."I AM NOT !"he screamed,"I have something really important to discuss with him !"

"amercement, but I 'll take you to see him, so I can make sure you 're punished,"Washburn spat.

Albus did n't say another Holy Scripture and ran out the door.

"hold ! Get back here, boy ! I told you I 'm taking you !"Washburn ran to watch up with Albus, breathing heavily. He was clearly out of material body. The two of them walked to Harry 's office in complete silence.

"well, here we are,"Washburn stated, pushing Albus aside and opening the door."ceramicist ! awake up ! I caught your son out of bed."

Harry quickly walked out of his bedroom. He had also been up after having a nightmare of his own. Harry looked at Albus and Washburn and jumped."Sorry, I expected it to be James."

"So did I. He insists that he discuss something with you before I punish him,"Washburn told Harry in a disgruntled voice.

Harry looked worriedly at Albus."What is it ? Are you okay, Al ?"

"I just need to distinguish you something ..."Albus replied, looking warily at Washburn.

"I must ask you to leave, prof Washburn. I think this needs to be private."

"mulct ! I 'll waitress outside the door, but he will be punished !"Washburn yelled as he walked out the door and slammed it behind him.

As soon as he left, Albus relayed his unanimous pipe dream to Harry.

Harry pulled Albus into a hug and told him,"Albus, I do n't think your nightmare had any kind of significance. It was just a bad dream."

"But, it seemed so literal ! And you had dreams like this when you were new, and they were substantial !"

"Yes, that 's because I could see Voldemort 's thoughts. You know that. I think that hearing so often about the conflict over and over again this week and being bombarded with dubiousness about it has caused you to be worried,"Harry explained."I understand your fears. I still have nightmare about it. But I think the best thing for you to do is just blank out about it."

"But, what if it is real ?"Albus asked in a worry tone.

"Think about it, Al. How could he come back ? He 's abruptly. Even in the Wizarding world, no one can fare back from the dead."

"Yeah, I suppose you 're right wing. It was just so graphic and scary."

"I know. Now I only hope that as you spend more time at Hogwarts, people will stop asking you so many questions. For tonight, I think you should have some Sleeping Draught,"Harry walked over to his cabinet and poured a potion into a pocket-sized bottle. I 'll take on you back to Gryffindor tug, and drink this before you get into bed."

"But what about custody ?"

"Do n't worry. You wo n't get detention. But wandering the corridors is against the rules, so please do n't do it anymore. Just send word with a portrayal from the vernacular elbow room if you need me, and I 'll meet you in the commons room. Now, let 's get you back to bed. Just follow me and do n't say anything. I 'll conduct with Washburn."

Harry opened the door and left the elbow room. Albus followed."There will be no custody tonight, Professor Washburn. Albus really did need to tell me something that was worrying him. It 's perfectly apprehensible what he did. I 've talked to him and he wo n't do it again,"Harry explained calmly.

"But, he broke the rules !"Washburn screamed.

"Careful, you 'll stir up the altogether rook,"Harry told him as he continued to take the air down the manor hall with Albus following quickly behind.

They left Washburn standing with his rima oris open in the hall. When Albus got back to his bed, he took his potion and had a dreamless, reposeful sleep.

******

As the week past, the great unwashed slowly got over the hullabaloo of having Harry as a DADA teacher. Harry had explained the battle to every single one of his classes, and in the comply classes he was able to teach without being disrupted with interrogative sentence pertaining to the ruination of Voldemort. Harry was grateful for this. He was still having his nightmare more often than common, but thanks to lady Pomfrey 's potion, he was capable to get a few decent dark 's sleep a week.

matter seemed to be calming down for Albus too. There had not been anymore Slug guild encounter since the disastrous first base one, but Albus had no intention of going to one even if he got invited. His course of study were going well. He seemed to struggle the most in Charms, but that was to be expected. At least Albus now knew why Washburn hated him so much, it was because he hated King James. As much as Albus hated being compared to James, it was nice to have a go at it it was n't anything Albus did to nark Washburn. Unfortunately, Albus was earning a detention a week in his class.

matt seemed to recover from his malady within a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr.. However, as Sep grew into October, and the weather started getting colder, Matt got wan again.

Albus, lavatory, Matt, Bilius, Ethan, Rose, Janie, Amanda, Karina, and Marina sat together at one tabular array in the rough-cut room after dinner one Wednesday. They were working on a particularly hard Transfiguration essay.

"No, you 've got that faulty,"rose told Albus.

"fountainhead, why do n't you narrate me what the right hand answer is, then ?"Albus said disgustedly.

"But then you wo n't pick up anything !"

"You 're just like your mother,"Albus told him, shaking his heading."flatness, what 's incorrect ?"

matte had put his caput down on his parchment, he had only written the outset prison term of his essay.

"Huh ?"he said, lifting up his mind. He glanced out the window."I 'm not feeling too secure. I think I might be sick."

"Again ? You do look a bit pale,"Amanda told him with a worried look on her facial expression."You skillful go to the Hospital Wing.

"All right. I 'll see you guys later,"lustrelessness slowly got up from his chair and shuffled out of the mutual elbow room."You guys do n't experience to come,"he said to Albus and John, who had gotten up.

Albus looked at him warily."If you 're sure."But lustrelessness had already left the uncouth room.

"I hope he 's all right. That 's the bit time he 's been sick here and it 's only October,"Saint John said.

"Yeah, I know. I guess we 'll just let to wait and see how long he spends in the hospital offstage this clip,"Albus told him.

"well, I 'm never going to get this done !"Janie shouted, exhaustedly."I 'm going to bed,"she got up and left, the other 4 young lady following her.

"We 'd better turn in, too,"Bilius told the early boys.

"Yeah, probably,"Albus agreed. The three boys walked up the circular stairway and got into bed.

*********

mat did n't get out of the Hospital Wing until Saturday. Although, he spent nigh of that day sleeping in his four poster bed. His friends were n't all that surprised, since this exact Same thing had happened during his previous illness. They gave him his space until division started again on Monday.

Albus had started to dread Potions course. He was always afraid that Slughorn was going to bring up what happened in the late lick order group meeting. Unfortunately for Albus, after two-baser potions that week, Slughorn called rosebush and him up to his desk after class.

"See you in Transfiguration Day, then, Albus,"John told him as he and Matt started to walk out of the room.

"No, stay, please,"Albus hissed at them,"He wo n't verbalise about what happened last time if you 're here."

"All right,"John sighed and dropped his bag on the nearest desk.

"rosebush and Albus ! I just wanted to invite you to my future get together. It 's happening on Halloween. It 'll be a form of Hallowe'en party. You can each add a node,"Slughorn said, delightedly.

"sang-froid !"Saint John shouted, running to the front of the room,"Bring me, Albus !"

"No, bring me !"Matt said louder, pushing past John.

"Do n't worry, son, you can both get along, all right ?"Slughorn told them with a smile on his face.

"But, but-"Albus stammered, staring at John and Matt.

"well, off you go, do n't desire to be latterly for your next division !"Slughorn shooed them out of his classroom.

"John ! lustrelessness ! Why did you do that ?"Albus shouted, once Slughorn was back in his room.

"What ? I wanted to see what all the bother is about with those get together,"Saint John the Apostle said innocently.

"Ugh ! Now I have to go !"Albus threw his hands up in the air,"You knew I did n't need to go to anymore."

"Well, we 'll be with you, it 'll be all right,"lustrelessness said sympathetically.

*********

Before Albus knew it, he, Matt, and lav were trudging down to the dungeons for the Halloween party. can and matt were running along excitedly, while Albus lagged behind. They walked into the dungeon, to get hold it packed.

"good, maybe no one will discover me,"Albus said as he gazed around at the crowd. The same penis who were at the lowest meeting were there, along with their Guest and legion adults."Let 's go get some food."

The three son walked through the crew and over to the food table. They each piled a plate gamey with food. When Albus turned around, he almost ran into someone.

"sentry it !"the boy shouted, he was a rather large Slytherin. The boy looked at Albus and then sneered."Ah, Potter, can I ask you a few inquiry about your puerility ? Or will that make baby ceramicist cry ?"

"Shut it,"Albus muttered, trying to push past the boy.

"Trying to run away, are we ? Well, that wo n't do. I thought you 'd savour talking about yourself. I certainly enjoy talking about me. So, I 'll tattle. I 'm Quinton Willinson."Albus glanced at him again and now recognized him as the Slytherin that Slughorn introduced him to at the previous meeting.

lav snorted into his pumpkin succus.

"You think that 's funny ? Who are you ?"Quinton glared at John.

"John Lackland Brickston. Pleased to meet you. This is Matt Eckerton,"he gestured towards Matt.

"enough about you, Sir Thomas More about me. My sire high up at the Ministry. He does a assortment of task and makes a consignment of gold from it. I 'm a 7th year. Father of the Church 's getting me a Ministry job once I 'm done here. I ca n't hold off until I get out of here and make gold like he does,"Quinton stole a cookie off of Albus 's plate and started to eat it.

"So,"he said in between bit,"What was it like growing up with 'The elect One'?

"I said, shut it !"Albus said, a bit louder.

"Oh, are we going to have a repetition of last group meeting ?"Quinton asked excitedly, stealing another biscuit.

"Definitely not,"shouted John, who drew his sceptre,"After this one, you 'll wish you 'd never been born."matt quickly drew his own wand.

"No, guys, it 's okay, do n't get in bother for him, he 's not worth it,"Albus told them.

"Gon na curse me, ickle firsties ?"Quinton giggled,"I 'm so scared."

"What 's going on over here ?"St. James asked as he walked over to the food table,"What do you require, Willinson ?"

"Just thought I 'd ask Albus about his life growing up,"Quinton told James innocently.

"Well, I think he said to stop, did n't he ?"Saint James said, drawing his own wand.

"He might 've mentioned it,"Quinton sneered as he, too, drew his wand,"But I do n't see what 's so wrong about wanting to know about 'The chosen One'. Maybe you could differentiate me how he managed to get the better of the greatest whizz of all fourth dimension ?"

"Expeliarmus !"James shouted, and Quinton 's baton flew across the room.

Slughorn looked up at the yelling and hustled over to see what had happened."You can not duel at my party !"

"They started it,"Quinton said, pointing to Albus and his friends,"Little Potter had to have his big brother defend him."

"fountainhead, you 'll all put your wands away now so we can enjoy the rest period of the party in peacefulness. Or you 'll all get detention,"Slughorn growled as the son all hastily put their wands away.

Quinton gave Albus one concluding sneer and he stalked off. Albus watched him go and turned and ran out of the room. He heard his friends following him, but did n't stop to speak. He did n't blockade or turn over around until he reached the Fat gentlewoman 's portraiture. He gave the countersign and ran into the common room and up to his dormitory.

Albus knew going to that party was a bad idea. He should n't have gone. Never again. He punched his pillow. What did Quinton want with him anyway. And why did he call Voldemort 'the outstanding maven of all clock time'? Voldemort was defeated before Quinton was even born, he could n't possibly have been a expiry Eater.

The door to the dormitory opened and matte and bathroom walked in."You okay ?"matte asked.

"Oh, I 'm just ticket,"Albus told them sarcastically,"I 'm never going to one of those again, even if you two want to go as my guests. You saw what it 's like now, not much fun, is it ?"

"Yeah, not that a great deal fun, although was n't that cool how Saint James the Apostle disarmed Willinson ?"can said excitedly."I mean, he 's 5 years younger than him !"

"real number cool,"Albus said flatly,"I think I just want to go to bed."Albus pulled the hangings of his bed closed and laid down. He fell asleep relatively quickly, but it was n't a restful eternal sleep. He had the nightmare again. It happened a few meter a week now, and try as he might, Albus could n't seem to leave about it.

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Sorry for the wait ! I had to rewrite something and trust chapters because I thought this one was too short.

As usual, I do not own Harry Potter.

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As the number 1 few day of November passed, the atmospheric condition became gradually inhuman. The wind was blowing fiercely, and soon snow would be falling. The first year Gryffindors were not at all surprised when Matt got sick again and spent a few Clarence Shepard Day Jr. in the hospital wing.

"Hey, Matt ! How are you feeling ?"Albus asked at dinner when lusterlessness reappeared from the hospital wing.

"All right,"Matt told him while putting food for thought onto his plate.

"You know, you get sick a lot, lusterlessness. Are you sure you 're okay ?"John chimed in.

"Yeah, I know. I 've got this, er, malady. And it makes me get sick quite a bit. I did n't want to worry you, so that 's why I never told you,"Matt replied quickly.

"But you 're ripe now, right ?"Albus asked, nervously.

"Um, form of. I mean, I 'm better now, but it 'll happen again,"Matt told them and quickly changed the subject,"So, number one Quidditch match in 2 workweek ! Gyrffindor vs. Hufflepuff. Should be a unspoilt game !"

"Uh, yeah, it should be,"Albus looked warily at Matt. Clearly he did n't like talking about his illness. Albus and Saint John did n't wreak it up again during the meal. Albus, John the Divine, and Matt spent the rest of dinner party talking about the approaching match.

The next two weeks dragged by. As the fourth dimension before the Quidditch lucifer drew shorter, the anticipation and excitement increased. Both skipper were holding praxis more often than usual. They alternated evenings for the pitch, so each squad was practicing every other night. The Gryffindor players trudged back into the commons room well after ten o'clock at night on the days of their drill. They were usually sloppy and dusty, as the weather was not cooperating. Even the professors were getting into the spirit and were not assigning very much prep to the players, however they still piled it on the former students.

Excitement was extremely gamy in the Gryffindor uncouth room the night before the first of all Quidditch peer. No one was getting lots preparation done. The only ones trying were a few 7th geezerhood and rosiness, who was reading a Holy Scripture with her fingerbreadth in her ears.

"Oi ! Rose !"Albus called across the unwashed room as he walked over to her,"You actually trying to get homework done ? Why do n't you take a open frame ? You 've been studying all day."

"Yes, I know I have,"rosiness said irritably,"We 've got a big account of Magic examination this week, you know. And we have n't even won the match, so why celebrate yet ?"

"You know, you 're just like your mum,"Albus laughed as he left rosiness to her book. He decided he 'd find James and wish him good luck.

Saint James was standing in the middle of the rough-cut room, surrounded by his blighter mate."James !"Albus shouted,"Could I have a Word ?"

"Sure !"James River shouted back, as he left the group,"What 's up ?"

"Just wanted to wish you luck, was n't sure if I 'd see you before the match. You know, you 'll do fine,"Albus told his chum."Are you nervous ?"

"A bit, yeah,"James responded,"It 's just everyone thinks I 'll be a great Seeker because Dad was, so I do n't require to disappoint them."

"You wo n't. I 've seen you play. You 're the best Seeker this menage has, that 's why you 're on the team,"Albus said reassuringly.

"I suppose. I guess I 'd amend get back to the team, we 're talking strategy,"King James told him.

"Ok, see you tomorrow."

********

Albus was right that he was n't capable to blab out to James before the equal. Albus saw him briefly at breakfast, he was looking a bit disgorge and was n't eating anything. Shortly after Albus arrived at the table, however, the totally team left for the locker elbow room. After eating some breakfast, Albus walked down to the pitch with John and lusterlessness. They found themselves fundament high in the rack next to Rose, Amanda, Janie, Marina, and Karina.

"Is Epistle of James nervous ?"Rose asked Albus.

"A bit, yeah, he 's afraid everyone 's going to compare him to Dad, so he 's afraid he 's going to disappoint everybody,"Albus told her.

"fountainhead, he wo n't,"blush wine said reassuringly.

"I know."

The weather conditions could n't cause been worse for a secret plan of Quidditch. The current of air and rain from the previous workweek had not let up at all. Albus had a hard prison term seeing onto the pitch shot. visibleness was abominable, so the spectator pump had to mainly rely on the commentary to distinguish them what was going on.

"Welcome to the first Quidditch peer of the season !"a expand voice shouted. Albus recognized it as Todd Ian Douglas Smith, one of his cousin-german Sakartvelo 's Friend."Gryffindor vs. Hufflepuff !

"And here come the squad ! Gryffindor, Samantha Meyers, Ryan O'Malley, Henry James ceramist, Bradley Weasley, Fred Weasley, Georgia Weasley, and heather mixture Weasley. Blimey, that 's a lot of Weasleys ! Here are the Hufflepuffs ! Ted Shawn Ames, Jason Bristol, Lisa Galivant, Jessica harpist, Andy Kaper, and Stacey Sir Patrick Manson !

"sea captain Meyers and harper have shaken hands, and the Quaffle is up !"

14 histrion and Professor Oteski rose up into the sky on their ling. Albus could just make out the red robed Gryffindors and the yellow robed Hufflepuffs. Although he had no musical theme who was who.

"Gryffindor is in ownership of the Quaffle. broom Weasley is storming up the slant, headed for the Hufflepuff goal. Oh ! Saved by custodian Bristol. Hufflepuff now in self-will. Nice beater work by Bradley Weasley, too bad Ames swerved just in time to avoid the bludger. And Hufflepuff scores !"

"Darn it !"Albus shouted. John and lustrelessness were hissing at the Hufflepuffs.

"Fred Weasley is in possession of the Quaffle, passes to Meyers, who then passes to Heather Weasley and back to Fred. That 's the way to do it ! Confuse them ! Harper sends bludger to Fred, but it is intercepted by O'Malley ! Great job ! And Gryffindor scores !"

"Woohoo ! ! !"Albus shouted. Despite the rain, he was loving every minute of the game. Quidditch games always sounded so exciting when his dad told him about them, but Hogwarts games were much better in person. Albus had been to a few professional game, but it somehow seemed adept to watch a game that had your own family on the team.

The biz continued on for what seemed care minute. The pelting and wind had long since made Albus 's paw numb. But he did n't care.

"Blimey, do you remember this could go on all day ?"John asked as Hufflepuff scored.

"I sure hope so !"Matt shouted over the nothingness,"I 've been putting off an essay for Potions and have no impulse to start it anytime soon. ``

"Matt ! You should take in done that essay days ago,"rose scolded,"I hope it ends soon, I still have some more studying to do do for account of Magic."

"And broom Weasley tons for Gryffindor !"Smith shouted,"The grade is currently 100-90 Gryffindor. With no sign of the zodiac of the Snitch ! Both quester are flying slowly around the pitch, heart peeled for that golden ball. Of course, the big fervour this plot is King James Potter, the new Gryffindor Seeker. His dad, Harry ceramicist, was one of the best Seekers Gryffindor house has ever seen. But will James hold up up to his dad 's legacy ? Only clip will tell. senior pilot Meyers has been quite secretive about their practices and would not let anyone ascertain James fly until this match."

"Energy Department Quidditch always last this yearn ?"Amanda asked Albus.

"Not usually, but they do depart quite a bit. One world cup lasted over a calendar month. All depends on the seeker and the weather condition, usually. Weather like this, who knows when the Snitch will be seen,"Albus explained.

"wellspring, I think I like watching Quidditch. Course, I could never play. You saw me on my heather in flying lessons. The thing would n't get up in the air,"Amanda laughed.

The first age had had a few flying object lesson over the past few calendar week. Amanda was n't the worst in the socio-economic class, but was n't having much luck with her heather. Albus was pretty skilful. Not as in force as James IV, but he thought he might be able-bodied to try out for chaser next class when Samantha Meyers left.

"Gryffindor scores again ! Blimey, if the couple goes on much foresightful, we 'll be in for a Hogwarts record book ! It 's past tiffin time, the lucifer has been going on for 4 hours in case anyone had been wondering. Oh, look at this ! I think Galivant has seen the stool pigeon !"Smith shouted.

Indeed, she had. Lisa Galivant was flying directly towards the ground, where the little aureate winged ball was hovering. James was flying a few feet above her and noticed her dive. He quickly pulled his Calluna vulgaris into a dive as well.

"And both quester are neck in neck, heading towards the ground, where the favorable Snitch has been spotted ! Potter is now pulling ahead a piffling. Kaper is headed towards a bludger that is proper above both quester. And Kaper hits the bludger towards Potter, who has n't noticed it !"

Whack ! The bludger collided with James 's skull, just as he reached for the stool pigeon. He fell, headfirst off his ling from a height of 10 feet, and landed on the ground, not moving.

"James ! ! !"Albus shouted, as he tried to motivate past all the students who were standing up in their seats looking at the pitch.

"potter is knocked off his Calluna vulgaris by a bludger sent by Andy Kaper. Surely, Galivant has caught the Snitch. But wait, she 's landing unrewarded. Where is the stoolpigeon ?"

Albus had managed to extricate himself from the bandstand, running onto the sales pitch, followed by John, Matt, Amanda, and Rose.

"James !"Albus shouted again, as he ran towards the crowd of instructor surrounding his brother. He pushed his way in between Profesor Patil and prof Longbottom and saw his dad leaning down at James 's side. He had an extremely worried look on his face.

"I 'm taking him to the hospital fender,"Harry told the teacher as he picked James up. Harry started walking towards the castle. Albus ran after him, followed by his friends.

They burst through the wooden threshold and ran up the stairs to the hospital annexe. When they got inside, Harry deposited St. James the Apostle onto a bed. Madam Pomfrey was striding towards them.

"Well, what 's happened ? Quidditch, right ?"she clicked her tongue,"Such a dangerous athletics. I do n't know why they still allow it."She bustled over to James and examined him."Cracked skull. I 'll consume it mended in no time, but he 's unconscious mind, so it might be a while before he comes round."

The room access of the infirmary offstage volley open and a few teachers made their way into the way and stood by Harry.

Madam Pomfrey ran over to a storage locker and grabbed some potion to put on James IV 's straits. She went back over to James and started applying potion. Once she was done, she tapped her verge to his head teacher and muttered a spell. She applied bandages and turned to his hand, which was clamped shut around something.

"facial expression like he managed to bewitch the sneaker,"Madam Pomfrey announced as she pried the still struggling favourable ball from his hand.

`` Wow, '' Harry smiled, `` That 's impressive. '' He took the sneak from madam Pomfrey and pocketed it. Harry sat down on a chairperson next to James 's bed and started stroking his hair.

`` He 's going to be an incredible seeker, '' Neville commented.

Albus walked over to the bed and sat down next to Harry."Is he going to be all rightfulness ?"Albus whispered.

"I think he 'll be fine, Al,"Harry reassured Albus,"Although I ca n't tell you it did n't scare me one-half to expiry when I saw him shine from his broom. I never really thought much about the risk of Quidditch when I was playing it, but now that my own son is getting hurt ...."

Albus stared at his Father-God."You 're not going to make him end playacting, are you ?"

Harry laughed,"'Course not ! I 'd be the hypocrite of the century. I just worry about him. I 'm surely he 'll be amercement, though. This certainly wo n't be his live on Quidditch injury. I had my mediocre share. I 'm just in for a worrisome side by side 6 years."

"Thomas More than that, Dad,"Albus laughed,"I 'm going to try out for pursuer future year."

"And I 'm sure you 'll be large at it, Al. I 'll worry about you too. Although, seeker tend to get injured the most out of all the role player,"Harry got up from his chair,"wellspring, I 've got to charge an owl to your mother. She insisted I tell her how the biz went, although she wo n't be too happy once I 've told her. Why do n't you and your Quaker go down and deliver some dinner ? It 's been a foresightful day,"Harry kissed St. James on the os frontale and left the Hospital Wing.

James did n't recover consciousness until 3 Day after the match. Two days after that, lady Pomfrey allowed him to leave the infirmary Wing. He was thrilled that he had managed to catch the Snitch and win Gryffindor the peer, and was eager to tell the chronicle over and over again to anyone who listened. Once James was out of the Hospital Wing, the Gryffindors had a loud and rowdy political party until the wee hours of the morning to celebrate the win.

******

The adjacent few hebdomad flew by for Albus and his friends. Their study lode was steadily increasing as gloaming full term drew to an end.

"Why did Patil have to pass on us an essay due the like day Slughorn did ?"trick asked disgustedly, one night in the common room.

"They always do that,"Albus groaned.

"Yeah, I 'm never going to get this potions done. Why ca n't they alternate days for preparation giving ? It 's stupid, really. I think they must all contend to see who can commit the most homework,"John told Albus as he feverishly finished up his Transfiguration essay.

"eventide my dad is giving us a huge load. I thought he 'd go easy on us cause he used to tell me how much he hated how much homework he was given."

"Done !"can exclaimed, as he slammed his Transfiguration Quran shut."Now, on to that potions essay."He dug around in his bag for his potions book."Could I borrow your note of hand, Rose ?"

"No, use your own tone,"Rose said coldly. Even she was faltering under the immense oeuvre load, and was huddled at a recess tabular array which was buried under all her notes and books, doing her own potions essay.

"Ugh ! You know I do n't take tone !"John groaned.

"well, why not ?"rose wine asked.

"'Cause it 's tedious,"St. John the Apostle explained,"Can I adopt yours, Albus ?"

"Sure, they 're in my bag,"Albus told John as he frantically finished up a History of Magic homework.

trick dug around in Albus 's bag until he found the eminence."Thanks, checkmate ! Matt, do you need to use them, too ?"privy looked over at his friend.

flatness was curled up in an armchair, wincing in pain.

"Hey, are you okay ?"bathroom asked with a concerned look on his cheek. He and Albus had been so preoccupied with their large sum of homework that they had n't noticed Matt leave the table.

"Huh ?"Matt looked up, with his hand pressed to his pass. He yawned."I guess I must be getting gruesome again. I think I 'll go to the Hospital Wing."Matt stood up to allow for, but he swayed on the stain and had to lean on the armchair for support.

"Matt !"John Lackland ran over to his champion and grabbed his arm,"I 'll take you, okay ? You look like you 're about to pass over."

"Okay, thanks,"Matt mumbled as the two of them left the common room.

Albus had stopped writing his essay and watched the two of them leave.

"I wish I knew some way to help him,"he murmured to Rose."He has n't even told us what disease he 's got. I wonder if it 's some really uncommon kind that not many people have heard of."

blush wine looked up."Is n't it obvious ?"

"What ?"

Rose got up from her mesa, walked over to Albus, and whispered in his ear."Have n't you noticed that he always gets disgusted during the to the full moonshine ? I realized that after he got regorge in Nov, and I 've been watching him the past few days."

Albus just looked at her with a blank look on his case."So ? And why would I pay attention to entire moons ?"

"Ugh !"rose groaned,"Put it together. I do n't want to say what I think it is right now with so many people around. And you should pay attention to wide Sun Myung Moon for Astronomy."

"fountainhead, then let 's postponement until they all go to bed. I 've certainly got decent preparation to do between now and then,"Albus said impatiently.

"mulct, but it still seems obvious to me."

The cousin spent the succeeding few hours working on their preparation, waiting for the common room to abandon out. After a one-half hour or so, John Lackland came back. Albus filled him in on what Rose said, and he had no melodic theme what she could be on about. He got out his potions essay and continued to sour on it. Eventually, around midnight, Albus, privy, Rose, and Amanda were the only 1 left in the usual room.

"So,"Albus whispered,"What have you figured out ?"

"fountainhead,"rosiness said slowly, looking up from her Herbology Reading,"The clues are that Matt always gets ill around the full moon, the few days before it he sleeps a lot and looks wan than common. He always goes to the Hospital offstage the night of a full moon, and when he comes back, he usually is covered in cuts and bruises."

"That 's cause he 's inept,"John said confidently.

"That 's what he wants you to believe ! Do n't you get it ?"pink wine shouted.

"support your phonation down, rosiness, someone 'll rouse up,"Amanda whispered,"Now what do you think matte has ?"

"He 's a wolfman,"pink wine said quietly.

"What ? !"John shouted,"No way."

"Werewolf ? ! You mean, those are real ?"Amanda squeaked.

"'Course they 're real, Amanda,"John told her,"So are vampires. Muggles just do n't think they are."

`` The lone affair I 'm still wondering about is why he does n't take wolfbane Potion, '' blush wine continued, `` You know, that potion teddy 's dad took to keep him from harming himself and others. ``

Albus had started to rate the park room."You know, Rose, it fits, it really does. Matt sounds just like shimmy 's dad. But I do n't cognise. Why would n't he have taken the potion ?

"Of class it fits ! I 've had a hunch about it ever since October, but I wanted to waitress a few month to be trusted. I do n't know why he would n't shoot the potion. But remember one of our inaugural Night here and there was that horrible shrieking ?"Rose asked.

"Yeah, I heard that,"Amanda told her.

"wellspring, it must have come from the Shrieking Shack. That 's where shift 's dad went to transform when he was a educatee here. You can get in there from the Whomping Willow, but I do n't have intercourse how that works. matte must go there to transform as well,"Rose explained.

"I wonder why he would n't take the potion ?"Albus wondered aloud as he continued to pace."Dad said slip 's dad always took it."

"I dunno, Albus,"Rose said sadly,"But I 've heard it 's really abominable to transform if that potion is n't used."

"It fits, but I 'm still not sure. Are you absolutely sure ? I do n't sleep with if we should jump to conclusions,"Albus responded.

"I 'm pretty sure. I mean, I 'm not positive, because I have n't heard him say it or seen him transform. But I 've read all about werewolves and mat fits the description,"Rose persuaded.

"If it 's dead on target, and I 'm not saying it is or it is n't, what are we going to tell him ? I mean, what if it is n't true, and we tell him we think he 's a werewolf ? He would n't be too glad,"Saint John the Apostle asked. He was sitting completely still in one of the armchairs, apparently in shock. Amanda was doing the same.

"I do n't think we should say anything. Especially since we 're not entirely for certain,"Albus stated, while looking warily at Rose. Rose rolled her optic."We wo n't order him we know. He obviously does n't want us to know. Otherwise, he 'd have told us himself, if it 's true. I 'm sure he 'll tell us what disease he has when he 's ready."

"But what if he does n't ?"Amanda asked,"I do n't love anything about werewolves, but he probably does n't desire anyone to know."

"That 's probably unfeigned. star have n't treated werewolves very well. teddy bear 's dad could n't get a job after he was done at Hogwarts. He did carry off to get a job as daddy teacher here, but he quit once people found out he was a wolfman because parents would n't want him teaching their kids,"Rose told Amanda,"It 's sad, really. wolfman are harmless while they 're not transformed."

"He 's probably afraid what we would opine,"St. John the Apostle said,"If he 's a werewolf, that is. I say we keep track of when he transforms."

"trade good idea. But if it turns out we 're right on and he still does n't distinguish us, I guess we 'll have to let him know that we know,"Albus said.

"Yeah, I suppose we will,"John agreed.

"Oh, and mine and Rose 's Uncle vizor was bit by a werewolf, but the werewolf was n't transformed at the meter. Uncle broadsheet 's not a werewolf, but I suppose I could ask him some interrogative over Christmas Break, to try and get some more information,"Albus told everyone.

"commodity theme, Albus ! I 'll ask him with you,"rose wine exclaimed, while walking over to the dormitory threshold."I think we should probably go to bed. Good night, everyone."

"Night,"Albus, Amanda, and toilet responded.

Albus walked up the stairs to his dormitory. He could not discontinue thinking about Matt. How could he be a lycanthrope ? Who bit him ? When ? Albus knew lycanthrope were perfectly harmless as long as they were n't transformed, but the theme still troubled him. shimmy 's dad had been his grandpa 's friend at school, and he had been his dad 's dadaism teacher when he was in school. He had died in the fight against Voldemort. If only he could talk to him. Ask him interrogative about it. Was there anything Albus could do ?

Albus got into bed and pondered these questions. Eventually, he fell into a restless slumber. He started out dreaming about failing a appeal test and professor Washburn chasing him through the palace with a beater 's bat. But soon, the dream shifted and became the nightmare that had plagued him since the first week of school.

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A/N : Please review ! No critique from the last chapter, but thanks to my baby, Dancer of Starlight for reading this and giving me her opinion.

Disclaimer- Like usual, I do n't own Harry Potter or anything else you recognize.

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Chapter 7 : Dueling and Detention

Harry was sitting in a disconsolate empty room. A man in a dark cloak appeared next to him.

"He will deliver,"the man said.

"Who ?"Harry asked."Voldemort ? That 's not possible, I made sure of that."

"He 's coming. He 'll find a way. He will return."

"No, he wo n't !"Harry shouted.

"He will return, he will return, he will recall ...."the man said over and over again.
Harry awoke with a starting, he sat up in bed, breathing fast. That was odd. Harry had not had a dream that seemed so real since before Voldemort had died. But Harry could n't possibly be seeing things through Voldemort anymore, not if he was dead.

Harry got up and paced the room. What did the dream mean ? Was someone trying to wreak Voldemort back to life ? And was that even possible ? And why would he be dreaming about it ? Harry did n't think so. Then it hit him, he remembered that Albus had had the Lapp pipe dream months ago ! Did this mean something ? Was there something meaning about their ambition ? Or were they just stargaze ?

Harry walked over to his press and got out his cloak. He had to discuss this with mortal. As a good deal as he thought that the dream were just aspiration, his gut told him they meant something. Harry remembered that Ron was stationed in Hogsmeade tonight. Ever since prof Torro was murdered, Harry was having an Auror stationed in Hogsmeade at all times. Something just did n't sit right hand with him about that murder.

Harry quietly left his office and walked into the corridor. It seemed deserted, which was n't unusual since it was one o'clock in the good morning. Harry started to walk down the corridor. He turned a corner and nearly bumped into someone.

"Who 's there ?"the person shouted and pointed his wand at Harry."thrower ? What are you doing out so late ?"

"The Lapplander could be said of you, Washburn,"Harry responded."Put your scepter away."

Washburn stowed his wand back in his cloak."What are you doing wandering the halls at this minute ? I now see where Albus gets his musical theme about later nighttime strolls from."

"It 's none of your business, but I need to discourse something with someone,"Harry growled."And what are you doing ? Plotting ways to put my sons in hold ? I know you 've got something against them, and I will find out what."

"I 've nothing against your Logos, ceramicist, they just seem to misbehave More than the medium student,"Washburn sneered at Harry.

"Saint James, yes, I 'll believe that. He seems to read after his Uncle St. George and his grandfather,"Harry agreed,"But Albus ? He has only ever gotten detention from you, Washburn. All the former professor say he 's quiet in class."

"Maybe in their classes. He 's always making trouble in mine. He talks while I 'm talking, irritates the other students, does n't do his homework, and does n't listen to me. Not to mention the sentence he set me on fervor !"Washburn shouted.

"bread and butter your voice down, you 'll wake the completely castle,"Harry whispered,"And why on Earth would Albus only do that stuff in your class, Washburn ?"

"How should I eff how a juvenile delinquent 's nous works ? Maybe you should ask him,"Washburn spat.

"Just remember, I 'm watching you, Washburn. So are the other professors,"Harry told him,"Now if you 'll justify me, I have some business to attend to."Harry strode past Washburn and ignored any further communication attempts from him.

There was something fishy about Washburn, Harry thought. He had never met the man before starting as a instructor at Hogwarts. But for some reason Washburn seemed to dislike Harry as soon as they met. Maybe it was because James misbehaved so much in class last yr ? Is that why he hates Albus as well ? Harry did not do it, but he hoped to feel out.

Harry found Ron standing near The threesome Broomsticks."Hey, Ron."

Ron jumped."Blimey, Harry, you scared me !"Ron whispered as he lowered his wand.

"Sorry. I 've got to utter to you about something,"Harry whispered back.

"What is it ?"Ron asked.

Harry relayed both his and Albus 's dream to Ron."And when Albus told me about his dream, I just thought it was a nightmare, but it seems odd that we would both have the Saame dream."

"How could you both have the same pipe dream ?"Ron questioned.

"No idea. The lone thing I could think of is that person is using Legilimency on both of us."

"fountainhead, it 's potential. You 've never been very good at Occlumency, have you ? And Albus has certainly never used it. Plus whoever is doing it must be pretty dolt. Why would someone plant that dream in your head if they wanted to do something evil ? Why would n't they just show your idea and be done with it ?,"Ron reasoned.

"Yeah, that 's what I thought of, too. Who would want me to know they 're reading my nous and stool me believe Voldemort is coming back ? It would also bear to mean someone 's either getting into the castle at night or it 's a teacher or scholarly person,"Harry said worriedly.

"Well, I have n't seen anyone near the castling basis tonight and how could they get past the protection ?"Ron asked.

"I know, that 's what makes me think it 's a student or teacher. And no student would be able to do Legilimency like that. Maybe a 7th year could, if they studied and practiced enough,"Harry told Ron.

"wellspring, whoever 's doing it, it 's pretty worrisome,"Ron stated.

"I know. And what about the dream itself ? I mean, if individual is making Albus and I dream this, then they must be trying to work back Voldemort."

"But how on earth could they do that ?"Ron asked.

"I 'm not sure, exactly. But I have a hunch. The Resurrection of Christ Stone,"Harry replied.

"But that does n't really bring people back."

"I know, but it does bring back a sort of them that only the person with the Edward Durell Stone can see. And you can verbalise to them. I talked to my parents, Canicula, and Lupin with it, remember ?"Harry explained.

"Yeah, that 's unfeigned. If whoever 's doing this had the Oliver Stone, then they 'd be able-bodied to spill to Voldemort ?"Ron asked,"Blimey, that 's chilling. But how could they rule the stone ? Us and Hermione are the but 1 who know where it is."

"I know, but if they 're using Legilimency, then they 'd be able to observe out from me,"Harry said quietly.

"wellspring, what are we going to do ?"Ron asked nervously.

"I do n't recognize, Ron, I really do n't,"Harry confessed,"I 'm going to have to think of a plan. If someone 's been reading my thinker, then they might 've already seen where the stone is. I think I 'll have to increase the protection near the woodland. I 'll assign more than Aurors to Hogsmeade. Ask Hagrid if he 's comment anything shady happening in or around the forest."

"Sounds well. But whatever you do, I think it might be best for you to at least try to use Occlumency again,"Ron suggested.

"I know, I 'll try. I 've gotten better over the days, and hopefully it 'll be serious enough,"Harry replied.

"What are you going to differentiate Albus ?"Ron asked.

"Nothing. He still thinks the ambition means nothing and it 's better that way. He 'd be so scare away if he knew what was going on. Plus, we never told the nestling about the Hallows. I wanted to waitress until they were previous. Did n't require them blabbing about them to half the school. You know how James is."

"I know, that 's why I never told blush wine or Hugo either,"Ron agreed.

"wellspring, I 'd better get back up to the school. Keep your eyes peeled and your wand out. As Mad-Eye would have said, 'Constant vigilance'. We still do n't really know that it 's a student or teacher yet, and I 'd opt not to have to set out questioning my colleagues."

"All right, Harry, you 're the boss,"Ron joked."sound night, then."

"'Night."

******

The following few days passed quickly. Albus, john, Rose, and Amanda visited Matt in the hospital wing a few sentence but nobody mentioned the conversation about him being a werewolf. Instead they just talked about what had been going on in class. lusterlessness left the hospital wing one forenoon a couple days later and met his friends in the Great mansion for breakfast. Again, nobody mentioned the conversation from the wax moon.

Albus looked up from his goner for a few seconds and noticed that Quinton Willinson was striding over to the Gryffindor board with a smug spirit on his brass. What did he require ?

"Guess what, chamberpot ?"Quinton leered at Albus."Slughorn 's having a Christmas party. Have you heard ? Just told me about it yesterday."

"So ?"Albus said flatly, not looking up from his porridge.

"So, are you going then ?"Quinton laughed."Are we going to be treated to yet another Potty show ?"

Epistle of James walked into the Great mansion house and immediately noticed Quinton near his brother. He ran over to see what was going on.

"What are you doing here ?"Saint James the Apostle asked, crossing his arms across his chest.

"Ah, the one-time Potty ! What a pleasure to have them both here at once,"Quinton said excitedly,"I was just telling your honey Brother about Slughorn 's Christmas party. I was merely wondering if he would be attending."

"That 's none of your business,"James glared at Quinton.

"volition you be going as well ?"Quinton asked, ignoring James 's remark."Then we could have a running commentary about your Quidditch skills as well as listen to your brother 's burst !"

"Shut it !"James shouted, turning beet red and drawing his wand.

"James ! It 's ok, just dismiss him,"Albus told his brother.

"No, it 's no ok,"James responded.

"Going to duel me, Potty ? I can bring both of you,"Quinton drew his verge and pointed it at James.

"Bet you ca n't submit us as well,"john said as he and mat both drew their wands.

"Easy,"Quinton snorted.

"What is going on here ? Dueling at breakfast ?"prof Washburn walked over to the table and sneered at James.

"No, prof, just defending my brother,"James responded.

"I believe that qualifies as dueling, Potter,"Washburn spat,"detention for you and your brother, plus Brickston and Eckerton as well. And 50 period from Gryffindor."

James gaped at him."But what about Willinson ? He started it ! And Albus does n't even bear his baton drawn ! He did n't do anything."

"I 'd hint you shut your mouth, ceramist, or I 'll shit it 2 hold,"Washburn growled as he walked up to the staff table."I 'll distinguish you all the escort and time in your side by side fascinate class. And I do n't handle if you have Quidditch practice during the clip of detention."

"Well, I guess I 'll see you at Slughorn 's political party, then,"Quinton told them as he walked back to the Slytherin table.

"This is ludicrous !"James shouted,"We did n't do anything ! He hates me, I tell you."

"I know, he hates me too,"Albus agreed,"And I have n't even done anything to him. I 've had a detention a week from him."

"Quidditch practice is tonight at 7 ! He better not cause it tonight !"James groaned.

"Wonder what he 'll have us do ?"John asked.

"Dunno ? He usually has me do lines, while he glares at me,"Albus told him.

"I hate lines,"Matt sighed,"They 're so boring."

"Well, there 's a lot worse detentions than lines,"James told him.

"True. Blimey, look at the time !"lusterlessness shouted as he glanced at his sentry."We 're going to be late for pappa !"

Matt, Albus, and John got up from the table and murmured rushed sayonara to James, who was rushing off to history of conjuring trick. Albus noticed that the girlfriend had already left for class.

******

"Well, that was boring, whoremonger groaned as he, Albus, and Matt left papa a while later,"Why do we throw to register about the trance before we get to do them !"

"Because otherwise you wo n't see what the magic spell does and what the head of it is,"Rose said, exasperatingly. She was often explaining the point of reading to John.

"I 'd rather read in pappa than do spells in appeal,"Albus sighed. The Gryffindors were on their way to their to the lowest degree favorite class.

"Me, too,"Matt agreed,"And we 'll be learning what our custody will consist of."

"Ugh ! I 've done way too many detentions with Washburn,"Albus groaned."And you can bet that he 'll purposely ingest us doing the detention while James is supposed to let Quidditch practice."

"Of course,"mat agreed, as he pushed open the door to the Charms classroom. The boy walked inside and found their common table at the back of the room.

Washburn stormed into the room a few minutes later, he was obviously in a bad mood."Today we 'll be starting to learn how to make a strawberry mark walkway across the board. It 's not very hard, if you 've been practicing the incantation and reading up on it."Washburn swished his wand and a hemangioma simplex appeared in front of each pupil."wellspring, get to it then !"

Saint John the Apostle looked at Albus,"You been practicing or reading up on this, Mate ?"

"Nope, how about you ?"

"'Course not,"John laughed."face like Rose has, though."

Albus looked over at the mesa Rose was sharing with Marina and Karina. Sure enough, her strawberry mark was walking across the table. Washburn, who had been glaring at the bookman from behind his desk, got up and strode over to Rose.

"Apparently person in this class has shown that they might have a small bit of talent,"he spat at Rose."I suppose if this were any other class, Gryffindor may have gotten a few head. But I, on the other hand, do n't think this is very singular, considering you 've supposedly been studying this for a few 24-hour interval and every one of you should be capable of doing what girl Weasley 's done. Now, back to work !"

"Blimey, he 's mad,"St. John whispered to Albus and Matt.

"Sure is, I mean, Rose did a good job. None of us can do it,"lustrelessness agreed.

Albus looked around the elbow room and noticed that most of the form 's strawberry were not so much as moving a leafage. A few of them had made a feeble effort to coil over, but that was it. As the course of instruction progressed, Washburn started to stand behind the cover board and blaze as Albus, Matt, and John Lackland tried to make their strawberry walk. By the end of the socio-economic class, they had made no progress whatsoever.

"Pathetic !"he shouted,"For preparation, write a foot-long essay on the right way to lay down a musical composition of fruit walk, due on Friday. And Potter, Eckerton, and Brickston come up here to stage your detention."

The sleep of the form stared at Albus, lustrelessness, and John as they left the way. The three boy walked slowly up to Washburn 's desk after the residuum of the year had left.

"Your detainment will be this Sat, at noon. You will meet me in the Great Hall, where you will be polishing the portrait figure, business firm points hourglasses, and whatever else needs cleaning. Potter, you tell your blood brother this, I expect him there as well, despite his Quidditch recitation,"Washburn barked,"You 're dismissed."

Albus, Matt, and John ran out of Washburn 's room as fast as they could. They went straight to the Great foyer for lunch.

"Blimey, he was furious about something today,"Matt groaned as he helped himself to some potatoes.

"Yeah, but I wonder why he wants us to clean for our hold ?"Albus wondered."He 's always had me do pipeline, before."

"Bet he thinks it 'll be rum, watching us clean. Plus, it 's a Saturday, there 'll be loads of people around to stare at us. He 'll probably enjoy our abasement,"John said.

"What are you talking about ?"James asked as he sat down adjacent to John.

"detainment. Saturday at noon, cleaning in the entryway Hall,"Albus told him.

"Bloody pit ! I 've got Quidditch practice session at noon !"James shouted as he slammed his goblet on the table.

"I know, that 's probably why he made the custody then,"Albus said.

"He hates us, I swear he does,"Saint James the Apostle growled,"He 's always hated Gryffindors, that 's a known fact, but he seems to hate us more than everyone else."

"Do n't you think it 's a bit foreign ?"Albus asked.

"Not really. Some teachers just do n't like certain educatee,"John explained,"'Course, the scholar never really find out why."

"Sucks, though. I mean, what if he 's always giving me detention during Quidditch practice ? This 'll be the 4th praxis I 've missed for Washburn 's detentions. Samantha wo n't be too happy about it."

"You 'll just have to watch yourself around him. Do n't say a give-and-take during his class,"Albus advised.

"I know, I 've been doing that since rootage of net year,"James explained,"After I set off a dungbomb during the secondment class."

"wellspring, that 's why he hates you !"Matt laughed,"And he probably thinks Albus is just like you."

"He does,"Albus groaned.

"I guess I 'd better be off to socio-economic class,"Epistle of James told them as he got up from his seat."See you lot later."

"Bye,"Albus told his crony. He turned to John and lusterlessness."I guess we 'd meliorate go too."

"Yeah, probably. Double potions,"John said as he got up.

"Ugh, just what I need. Slughorn 'll probably invite me to his Christmas party."

Sure enough, at the end of class, Slughorn asked Albus and Rose to see him after everyone left.

"We 'll await for you,"John told Albus. He, Matt, and Amanda waited at the spinal column of the room.

"Albus and Rose !"Slughorn beckoned them to his desk,"Great job, today, keen job. Both of your potions were superb !"

"Thanks,"Albus muttered.

"It was a challenge, but I think I did all right wing !"pink wine said excitedly.

"Well, as you both probably know, I 'm having a little Christmas party on the last day of condition. You are both pay for, of form, and may bring guests. I hope to see you there ! I have some concern people coming that I 'm sure you 'd like to take on !"

"Who ?"Albus asked warily.

"Oh, do n't want to deflower the surprise !"Slughorn laughed,"I 'll see you later, then !"

"So, you going to go ?"John asked Albus nervously as they walked out of the dungeon.

"No way,"Albus mumbled.

"well, someone told me your dad 's going,"rose said,"So you might receive to go."

"I do n't care."

"Oh, come on, Albus ! What if he has really neat famous people there ! I heard once he had some Quidditch histrion come !"lavatory told him.

"I really do n't conceive anyone would start anything with Uncle Harry there,"blush wine said reassuringly.

"wellspring, maybe not. But what about Willinson ?"Albus asked.

"He 's a git, but he wo n't do anything with your dad around. Washburn may give Slytherins extra discussion, but Professor ceramist does n't,"Matt said confidently.

"If you do go, can I be your guest ?"Amanda asked,"I 've never been to one."

"You can be my invitee, Amanda,"Rose told her,"I told you I 'd take you to the next one after I took Janie to the Hallowe'en one."

"Oh, yeah."

"fine, if you guys desire to go so badly, I 'll go, but if anyone starts anything, I 'm leaving,"Albus said flatly.

********

Before Albus knew it, Saturday had arrived and so did detention with Washburn. Albus was used to Washburn 's detentions, but he had never had to do one that was n't lines before. He was a bit skittish about what the detention would involve and about having to do it in public.

When Albus, John, and Matt arrived in the Great hall, neither James nor Washburn were there yet."James better get here before Washburn does,"Albus said nervously.

"Yeah, Washburn 'll present him another detention if he 's late,"lusterlessness agreed.

At that moment, King James I came bursting through the oak doors."Oh, trade good, he 's not here yet !"

"You 're lucky,"bathroom told him.

"What is ceramicist lucky about ?"a cold voice from behind toilet said.

toilet turned around to see Washburn staring down at him."Nothing, Professor."

"goodness,"Washburn fuss."Now, if you 'll each take a bottleful of cleanser and a rag, we can get started."He gestured to a bucket of cleaning supplies at his feet."We 'll be doing Muggle cleaning. I want you each to set out out by polishing the House points hourglasses. They must be spotless."

Albus, James II, John, and Matt each took a rag and started to shine the hourglasses. Washburn paced behind them, staring at each one in turn. Every once and a while, he would scrutinize the cleanliness of the hourglasses.

"You missed a spot, thrower,"Washburn growled at Albus.

While the boys were polishing the hourglasses, assorted pupil and professor would walk by and stare at them. Much to Albus 's disgust, Quinton Willinson passed by a lot.

"Oh, flavour, throne 's doing his custody for trying to duel with me,"Quinton laughed,"funny how he thought he could actually duel me."

Albus just ignored his taunt and rubbed the Hufflepuff hourglass even harder.

"That slimed git,"John whispered to Albus."If any of us taunted him in detention, we 'd get a detention ourselves."

"Yeah, and he had his wand drawn, too,"flatness agreed,"Washburn seems to care him best."

"No surprise there,"Albus told them as he scrubbed a particularly stubborn composition of soil."They 're both horrible."

"I just wish it had been some other teacher who passed by our table that morning,"John groaned,"Then Willinson would experience at least stick detention, too."

"Get back to body of work, ceramist !"Washburn shouted at St. James, who had stopped polishing the Gryffindor hourglass and was resting his foreland on it.

"Something unseasonable, James ?"Albus whispered.

"I dunno. My head just felt odd all of a sudden."

"D'you think you 're ill or something ?"Albus asked,"Maybe you should go to the infirmary Wing."

"Nah, Washburn would never let me. He 'd think I was faking. I used way too many Skiving Snackboxes in his class final year."

"Yeah, but if you 're really ill, he 'll accept to let you go,"Albus said with a look of concern on his face.

"I know, but he 'd micturate me do the detention over again."

"Shut up, Potters ! Both of you back to work or I 'll give you another detention !"Washburn screamed.

For the repose of the detainment, James was very quiet. The boys worked until two o'clock, at which point all four hourglasses were clean than they had been in years.

"I think you should go to the infirmary Wing,"Albus told James.

"Yeah, probably,"James agreed.

"I need to go, too,"whoremaster told them,"My hired hand feels like it 's going to return off ! I hate Muggle cleaning."

"Me, too,"Matt agreed, while rubbing his hand.

"I doubt lady Pomfrey will fix it, though,"Albus told them,"She usually does n't do that after instructor make us do Muggle cleaning."

toilet and lusterlessness decided to go with Albus and James to the Hospital Wing anyway. When they got there, dame Pomfrey was already tending to Omar Nelson Bradley Weasley, who had taken a bludger to the arm during Quidditch practice.

"Yes, yes, what is it ?"Madam Pomfrey asked the boys.

"Well, I was doing Muggle cleansing for Washburn 's detention-"St. James the Apostle started to say, but Madam Pomfrey cut him off.

"You know I do n't fix aching hired man due to detentions ! If I did, you would n't learn anything from them !"

"It 's not that. I was polishing the Gryffindor hourglass, and my chief felt funny all of a sudden. It was n't like a cephalalgia. I 've never felt that way before. I kept seeing my own memories."

gentlewoman Pomfrey quickly looked up from Bradley and bustled over to James."Really ? Well, that sounds an terrible lot like person was using Legilimency on you."

"What ?"James shouted.

"Someone was reading your mind. That 's why you were seeing your own memories,"lady Pomfrey explained,"Who else was in the Great Asaph Hall with you ?"

"Well, Washburn of course,"Albus told her. James appeared to be in jar and could n't speak."And Quinton Willinson, a couple of his admirer, the Gryffindor Quidditch team, a kind of Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws I do n't know, a few other professors. They all wandered in and out of the Great Hall."

madam Pomfrey sighed."That does n't really aid any. We really do n't have any way to roll in the hay who was doing it. Seeing as you 're not really ill, there 's not lots I can do for you. But I will inform the schoolmaster and your Church Father about this."

James had found his spokesperson again."Okay."

Madam Pomfrey went back to tending to Omar Nelson Bradley, and Henry James, Albus, John, and Matt left the room.

"That 's so strange,"James told them,"Why would anyone want to read my mind ?"

"No idea,"Albus shrugged.

"I bet it was Willinson,"whoremonger growled."What a git."

"Yeah, he was probably just doing it to scare you,"Matt agreed.

"Was he even in the room when your heading felt funny ?"Albus asked.

"I do n't really remember,"James told him.

"wellspring, I bet Dad 'll take aim care of it,"Albus reassured his brother.

"I guess,"James said distractedly,"I think I 'm going to go back to the common room."

"Okay, see you at dinner,"Albus waved goodbye as he, Matt, and John walked back down the stairs so they could enjoy the new fallen snow.

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A/N : promise you enjoyed it ! That one was longer than common, but if I split it up, it would have been two extremely shortsighted chapters. Please leave a critique and I will answer it ! Thanks as always to Dancer Of Starlight for reading this before I posted and to my brother and former babe who are not on HPFF.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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Chapter 8 : political party and harlequinade

During the next few workweek, the teachers had increased their homework, each insisting that the scholarly person needed to increase their consider time. Albus found himself doing homework every day after dinner, and finding it hard to have fourth dimension to let snow ball fights outside.

Albus had n't forgotten about his cleaning detention with Washburn, and was doing even more to try to rest away from him. During class, Albus would n't even look at Washburn. He did not say a single word during Charms anymore. No more talking to John and Matt while they were practicing making fruit manner of walking across their desks.

Albus had noticed that King James had changed since the detention. He was quieter, and often sat in a corner of the plebeian room with their full cousin Cedric and Ben, whereas he used to be at the center of attention, talking about Quidditch matches. Albus guessed he was still scared about what happened during detention. Albus had n't mentioned the incident to anyone, so only him, John, and lustrelessness knew. Of course, James IV had told Cedric, Ben, and his friend Nathan, but Albus rarely noticed them talking about it. He was also a bit afraid of what the incident meant, but not nearly as much as James was.

Before they knew it, Christmas holiday was upon them. There was one day left, which was the day of Slughorn 's Christmas party. The integral school was talking about it, and covetous pupil who had not received invitations were constantly dropping hints to invited scholarly person about going with them. Albus would have gladly given up his invitation, but since all his full cousin, James, and his dad were going, he had to go too.

Albus, John, and Matt had decided they should go a little later than the political party actually started, so they could try to slip in unnoticed. bathroom in particular proposition, was very excited about going.

"Which Quidditch participant do you think Slughorn 's invited ?"he asked as they walked down to the dungeons.

"Dunno. Maybe he 's invited a duo !"matte responded excitedly.

"Yeah ! I sure hope so,"privy said.

"Guess we 're about to recover out,"Albus told them as he opened the door and walked into the dungeon. It was packed. Albus noticed most of his cousins, with their fire red hair. The few who had not inherited the hair's-breadth were blending in with everyone else.

"Blimey ! How are we supposed to find out the Quidditch players with all these citizenry here ?"lav exclaimed.

"No idea. How about we head for the food and hope we find them on the way ?"mat asked.

"phone expert. C'mon, Albus,"toilet said as he pushed through people to get to the nutrient. Albus and Matt followed.

"You see Willinson anywhere ?"Albus whispered.

"No, but it 's intemperately to tell apart if he 's here or not,"St. John answered.

"I 'm sure he 's here somewhere. keep your eyes peeled for him,"Albus told his booster."I 've got to persist away from him."

When the boy arrived at the food for thought table, they saw that Rose and Amanda were already there."Hi. Did you just get here ?"pink wine asked.

"Yup, wanted to slide in unnoticed,"Albus told her as he grabbed a plate and started filling it."Seen anyone interesting yet ?"

"Yeah, actually. The rumor about the Quidditch players was compensate,"Rose responded.

"Really ! ? Who 's here ?"whoremaster shouted, as he scanned the crowd.

"Oliver Wood. He used to be keeper for Puddlemere United,"Rose told him.

"I know who he played for, rosiness. He 's really here ? That 's brilliant. Puddlemere United 's my team,"St. John told them.

"We know, you 've told us a million fourth dimension,"rosiness said exasperatingly.

"Who else ?"Albus asked.

"Helena Yaspies, current Chaser for Chudley Cannons,"Amanda told them.

matte started choking and spat out his taste of butterbeer. Albus slapped him on the vertebral column."You okay, mate ?"

"I 'm fine !"matte coughed,"The Chudley Cannons are my team ! I 've got to find her ! Anyone got a calamus for an John Hancock ?"

rose laughed."You guy wire are crazy."

"zero nutcase about wanting to match your favored Quidditch instrumentalist,"John told her."Blimey, Joseph Oliver Wood ..."

"I ever tell you that my dad used to play on the Gryffindor team with Oliver Natalie Wood ?"Albus asked John.

This time it was John 's turn to spit out his butterbeer."No ! You never did ! Why not ?"

Albus laughed."You never asked. Anyway, he was captain when my dad joined the team in his first yr. They played on the team together until my dad 's third year."

"Blimey ! That 's vivid ! So, you could get met him ?"John asked.

"I have,"Albus smiled.

"You 're kidding !"John shouted,"Well, what are we waiting for ? Go innovate me !"

Albus laughed."Ok, let 's go find him. You want to total, Rose and Amanda ?"

Rose sighed,"Sure, I guess."

"Any chance you know Helena Yaspies ?"Matt asked.

"Nope, sorry. Never met her,"Albus told his friend as they maneuvered their way through the crowd.

"There he is, Albus !"John shouted, pointing to the spinal column of the room."He 's talking to your dad."

Albus made his way to the back of the room, his friends following behind him. The room was slightly less crowded in the back. There was still no preindication of Willinson.

"Hi, Al !"Harry waved at Albus.

"Hi, Dad."

"What 's up ? Enjoying the party ? I know you 're not a fan of these, but thanks for coming,"Harry told Albus. He bent down so only Albus could hear what he next said,"You know, I was n't a fan of these either, when I was in Hogwarts."

"How are you, Albus ? Enjoying schooling ?"Oliver asked.

"Yeah, it 's enceinte !"Albus responded."These are my champion, John Brickston- he 's a big Puddlemere United supporter, Matt Eckerton, and Amanda Tagger."

"Hi, prissy to meet you,"King Oliver told Albus 's friends."So, you support Puddlemere United, bathroom ?"

"Yeah !"whoremaster shouted, his eyes lit up."I 've been to a few matches. I saw you in the last one you played in ! I was 9, but I remember it like it was yesterday. Such dramatic saves."

King Oliver laughed,"That was a good game. I 'm happy you enjoyed it."

"It was awesome !"John the Divine said.

A grandiloquent brunette came walking over to the group, carrying a small boy on her hip. A little missy was trailing behind her with a plate of Christmas Day biscuits.

"Hey, Heather,"Oliver put his arm around the fair sex."Saint John the Apostle, Matt, Amanda, this is my wife, Heather. And this,"King Oliver took the trivial boy from his wife and put him on his shoulders,"is my 2 year old son, Alex. And my daughter, Holly who is 6."

"Hi,"John and Matt said together.

"I stopped playing steward shortly after Alex was born. Could n't keep up all the traveling with 2 kids."

"I remember that,"John told him,"I was kinda mad, but was just glad I got to see your finis match."

King Oliver laughed,"I understand. I would have been mad if I were you, too. But I 've got heights Leslie Townes Hope for piddling Alex here. He can already fly his toy broom expertly. And Holly 's already flying a existent broom !"Oliver beamed, he was obviously proud of his kids.

"That 's pretty neat !"matt replied,"My mum would n't let me on a broom until I was 9."

"Holly was on one at 5. But just because you start latterly does n't mean you 'll be a bad Quidditch player,"Oliver explained,"face at your dada instructor ! Had n't set one leg over a broom until he was 11."

"Yeah, but I 'm folderol at Quidditch,"flatness told him.

"Hey, Mr. Wood, could you sign my Quaffle ?"St. John the Apostle produced a Quaffle from his bag and held it out to Oliver.

"You brought a Quaffle ? !"pink wine exclaimed.

"'Course ! After hearing those rumour, how could I not bring one ?"

"Sure, I 'll sign it,"Oliver took the Quaffle and signed it with a quill that he pulled out of his robe. He then handed it back to John.

"Thank you,"whoremonger whispered, as he stared in awe at the Quaffle.

"How 'bout you, matte ?"Oliver asked,"You want an John Hancock ?"

"Sure ! But I do n't ingest a Quaffle."

"That 's okay. I 've got some parchment,"Oliver signed some lambskin and gave it to Matt.

"Thanks !"Matt pocketed the parchment.

Alex started whining."Hungy, hungy !"

"Well, boys, I 've got to go get some food for piddling Alex, here,"Oliver told them,"Enjoy the party !"He and heather mixture walked towards the food table with Holly behind them.

"Wow, just wow,"Saint John the Apostle told his acquaintance,"That was so cool."

"I 'll say,"matte replied.

"I ca n't consider you two know him !"St. John told Albus and Rose.

rose rolled her eyes,"It 's no big deal."

"You just do n't care Quidditch that much,"Albus told her,"It 's reason you 're frightful on a broom."

"Shut it, Albus,"rosebush glared at him.

"Where 's Helena Yaspies ?"Saint John the Apostle scanned the bunch,"Any of you lot seen her ?"

"Nope, not yet,"Albus told them.

"No, but look over there near Slughorn 's desk. It 's Willinson,"matte whispred.

Albus groaned.

"Excellent !"John grinned.

"What ?"Albus looked at him like he was crazy,"Why on earth do you want to see him ?"

"I 've been plotting a little buffoonery,"John whispred,"C'mere."He pulled them behind a tabular array and they all crouched down. John pulled a box out of his bag."This is an Exploding Eclair."

"What ?"Amanda asked.

"Exploding Eclair,"whoremaster repeated,"I bought it through owl-order from your uncle 's storehouse, Albus."

"What are you going to do with it ?"Albus eyed him warily, he happened to have been on the receiving end of an Exploding Eclair at the family dinner before starting time of condition. His cousin, Tom Bradley, had done it.

"Plant it on Willinson 's home base,"St. John the Apostle told them,"But I 'll take your supporter. When Willinson sets his plate down, walk by him. Close enough that he can see you, but far enough that he 'll have to result his plate unattended. Then I 'll put the eclair on it. And when he bites into it, bam ! It 'll explode."

"Brilliant !"Matt shouted.

"I dunno. It 'll pee-pee him tangible mad,"Albus said.

"But he wo n't recognize it 's us ! That 's the beauty of it. There 's so many people here,"John explained,"But to be on the prophylactic side, we 'll go forth right after. We do n't need to stick if he 's here anyway."

"True,"Albus agreed.

"Everyone in, then ?"John asked, grinning.

"Yep,"they all stated.

"Then let 's go,"John got up from under the table and his friends followed. Willinson was still by the desk, so Albus, Matt, Amanda, and Rose headed over. They walked next to the food for thought tabular array and waited until Willinson noticed them. It did n't take long. He spotted them, smirked, and set down his food. Albus saw John close in on his plate.

"howdy, toilet, Weasel, and troupe,"Willinson glared,"Enjoying the company ? I 'm just waiting until the present moment you explode again, Potty."

"Willinson,"Albus snarled,"I 'm not planning on exploding. Are you ?"

"'Course not. When have I ever exploded ? You on the other manus,"Willinson laughed,"Do n't like the popularity, do you, baby Potty ?"

"Shut it,"mat stepped towards Willinson.

"What 're you going to do about it, half-pint ?"Willinson towered over Matt by at to the lowest degree a foot.

"You think I 'd tell you what I 'd do ? Think I 'm stupid ? If I told you, you 'd make out how to block it,"Matt growled.

"I doubt there 's a swearing you know that I do n't screw how to block."

"Probably, but I know you would n't initiate anything with prof thrower a few substructure away,"mat jerked his head in the direction of Harry.

At that moment, Albus looked over and saw John. trick winked at him and walked away from Willinson 's plate.

"wellspring, I think I 've had sufficiency of your caller tonight, Willinson,"Albus annonced,"Have a horrifying Christmas."Albus started to walk towards John, and his champion followed.

"Got it planted, then ?"Albus asked when they reached John.

"Yup,"St. John gave him a quarter round up,"We 're on."

They walked over to the door of the dungeon so they could escape easily if needed. Willinson picked up his plate and wandered back over to his friends. As they were talking, he picked up the eclair and bit into it.

The explosion was amazing. As soon as Willinson bit the eclair, cream exploded all over his font and in a 2 foot radius around him. A few bystanders were hit as well. It did n't seem possible that that much cream could fit in one eclair.

"Bloody Hell !"Willinson shouted, and the unit donjon went mute. Everyone looked at Willinson and started laughing.

Willinson looked around the room and his regard fell on Albus."I 'll get you for this, Potty,"he seethed as he stormed out of the dungeon.

"That was blooming brilliant,"St. John said once Willinson had disappeared into the hallway.

"Yeah, it was !"Matt agreed.

The miss and Albus nodded."But he said he 'd get us. We 'd better be on the lookout. He knows it was us,"Albus told them.

"He ca n't love it was us !"Matt said.

"Yeah, I guess. But he 'd still get us even if he does n't know who did it,"Albus reasoned.

"But it 's Christmas severance tomorrow, so it does n't matter !"King John grinned.

"I suppose you 're right,"Albus smiled,"But let 's get to the common room anyway. His admirer agreed, and the five of them made their way to Gryffindor tower.

*******

It was still early when they made it back to the common room, so it was quite crowded. However, Amanda spotted a few chairs in the back for them to occupy.

"So, who 's excited about Christmas Day ?"John asked,"I sure am, I could use a breaking from studying."

"You 're not going to get a recess,"rosebush told him,"We 've got load of homework."

"Way to put a damper on things, pink wine,"Saint John answered,"But at to the lowest degree there 's no classes !"

"I 'm looking forward to Noel,"Albus said,"I love Christmas."

"What do you usually do for the holiday ?"Amanda asked.

"Oh, it 's peachy ! We all go to my grandma and grandpa 's house. Everyone. My kin, rosebush 's family, all our aunts, uncles, and cousins. Plus shift and his grandma. It 's pretty crowded, but it 's still fun. I love it. Usually person winds up having too much to tope and there 's loads of caper played on hoi polloi,"Albus said excitedly.

"Yeah, it 's jolly cracking. We do n't all stay the unit break, though. Because nearly of us have other kinsfolk to visit. My family usually stays until a few days after Christmas and then we spend the relief of the holiday with my mum 's parents,"blush wine explained,"But Albus 's family spends the completely break at the Burrow, that 's what we call my grandparents'house."

"Yep. But virtually of our cousin go straight to the Burrow from Hogwarts. My family always goes house first, to chat my grandparents'Graf. We always do that on Yuletide Eve. Dad 's been going ever since he was 17, every twelvemonth on Christmastime Eve. Then we get the tunnel late that night."

"What do you do you lot do for Dec 25 ?"Rose asked.

"Oh, I love Christmas too,"John smiled,"We stay at my home and my aunty, uncles, cousin-german, and grandparents all come over. They never all come at the same clock time, though, so it gets pretty nutcase. My mum junky out because she never knows how much to cook. And usually somebody starts arguing about something, but it 's all right. My kin loves to argue, but we never get material mad at each other."

"audio pretty cool. You have a lot of cousin, John ?"Amanda asked.

"A reasonable amount. nigh of them are all young than me, though. 'Course that means they 're great to play magic on,"John laughed.

"Well, my family celebrates Hannukah,"Amanda told everyone.

"Oh, that 's neat,"Albus told her.

"Yeah, it 's effective. I 'm just glad Hannukah is late this year, so I 'll be home for it. Sometimes it 's at the end of November. But anyway, I have a pretty modest kinfolk. Just 3 full cousin and my aunt and uncle. And my little crony and older Sister. My cousin-german usually come over for two 24-hour interval or so and we all telephone exchange presents. It 's quieten, but fun."

"phone fun,"Gospel According to John agreed,"But I love my Brobdingnagian loud kin. What do you do, lustrelessness ? You 've been dreaded quiet."

lustrelessness looked up from the table."Christmastide has never been all that fun for me, I guess. We usually go down to Commonwealth of Australia to natter my grandparents."

"That sounds like fun to me,"John told Matt.

"Well, it 's not. I do n't wish Commonwealth of Australia. That 's where-"But Matt suddenly stopped talking.

"Where what ?"John asked.

"aught, zip. It 's just, that 's where I, er, got sick for the first time. You know, how I get sick so much."

"Oh."

"Yeah, anyway, well, we visit my grandparents. My parents, me and my sister go. My mum 's a muggle born, and we visit her parents. It 's always very ball when we visit them. They 're rich and stuck up. Never let me do anything there. I have to just sit still and they 're always staring at me. hypothesis they do n't want me to break anything. Luckily we only visit them at Christmas. I do n't have any cousins. My dad 's got a brother, but he 's living in the States, so we do n't see him much either. We sometimes visit him over the summer. My dad 's parents died a long meter ago, before I was born. So I do n't birth much family. I just wish we 'd spend Christmas at home."

Albus, Gospel According to John, Amanda, and rose just looked at flatness."I 'm sorry, lusterlessness. I wish you had a better Christmas,"rosiness said sympathetically.

"Why do n't you spend Christmas with us ?"Albus asked,"No one will notice another person in the Burrow."

"That 's a enceinte thought !"pink wine shouted.

"I dunno. I do n't cerebrate my parents will let me. Especially this inadequate notice,"Matt looked down glumly."My mum like all of us to be together on Yule. She seems to cerebrate every yr it will be different. That my grandparents will loosen up. But they never do."

"Blimey,"toilet whispered,"That stinks."

"I know,"Matt agreed.

At that moment, Saint James came bursting in with his acquaintance, Nathan. They both made a beeline for Albus 's table.

"Was it really you ?"King James I shouted breathlessly,"Did you give Willinson the Exploding Eclair ?"

John grinned."It was my idea."

"Brilliant, just brilliant,"Epistle of James smiled,"The facial expression on his face ..."

"Yeah, but you lot had better watch out when you next see him. He seemed to know it was you,"Nathan told them.

"I 'm not worried,"toilet answered,"He 'll probably bury about it over Christmas."

"I sure hope so,"Albus stated. He looked at his watch. It was midnight."Well, I 'm off to bed. I 'll see you cat in the morning.

"We 'd all better go to bed,"rose wine stood up,"I think the train is leaving at noontide tomorrow."

Albus got up out of his chair and headed to the staircase. He could n't wait to go to the burrow. He missed being surrounded by his family all the sentence. He missed his gran 's cooking. intellection of the delicious food filed his head as he drifted off into a pleasant, dreamless sleep.

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A/N : Hope you guys like it ! Please read and critique. Thanks as always to Dancer Of Starlight and my other sister and brother. Also, thanks to QUEEN and teddysxxgirl for their reviews ! next chapter is Christmas Eve.

know this chapter is short, but I did n't want to combine it with anything else. It stands on its own.
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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"Lily !"Harry shouted into the living elbow room,"Are you fix to go ? All packed ?"Harry was standing with Ginny in front of the presence door, with a couple automobile trunk and grip at his feet. St. James and Albus were standing nearby, having a sword fight with a match fake wands. Albus 's wand turned into a talk through one's hat parrot and emitted a loud squawking noise.

"Albus ! St. James the Apostle !"Ginny scolded them,"Behave yourselves."James and Albus quickly stowed the wand and parrot into their trunks.

A pocket-size, red-headed girlfriend walked into the room, trailing a pink rolling suitcase."Are we leaving now ?"

"Yes, we are. What were you doing in there, dear ?"Ginny asked.

"I was packing. I could n't find oneself all my Wendy Wiccan dolls and had to look all over the house for them."

King James I laughed."Do you have to remove them everywhere ?"

"Of course I do ! I could n't leave any of them home base. It would n't be fair,"Lily explained. Albus and James laughed even harder."Mum ! William Tell them to shut up."

"male child, be nice to your sister. Now, does everyone have everything ? I 'm sending the trunks to the Burrow and we wo n't be coming back after we visit Godric 's holler,"Ginny informed them.

"Yes, we 've got everything,"Albus told them.

"Good,"Ginny waved her wand and the proboscis and suitcases disappeared,"Now, then, it 's time to go. Lily, take my arm. Boys, get your father's."And with a loud crack, the Potter phratry disappeared from their house.

A few seconds later, they reappeared in a bailiwick a piddling manner away from a small town. The sun was setting and their was sassy snow on the ground. From the subject, Harry could see tiny people walking along the streets.

"Daddy, why do we consume to walk so far ?"Lily whined,"Why ca n't we just Apparate in Ithiel Town ?"

"I 've told you before, Lily, we ca n't let the Muggles see us,"Harry explained.

"But I 'm tired."

"Oh, shut it, Lily,"St. James the Apostle snapped at his sister,"It 's not that far."

"Is, too,"Lily stomped away from him.

James reached down and made a snowball and then threw it at the backbone of his sister 's head.

"Ow ! ! !"Lily screeched and ran to Harry.

James and Albus started laughing."safe one, James II,"Albus gave his comrade a high five.

"Boys !"Harry shouted,"Enough ! Lily, it 's not that much further. I 'll comport you."Harry picked up his daughter, who started sobbing into his jacket.

"She 's really tired,"Harry whispered to Ginny.

"I know. She 's been tangible excited about you and the son coming abode for the vacation. She 's been up until midnight every Nox the past tense week,"Ginny said.

"She wo n't be getting a good deal quietus for the adjacent week either, staying at the Burrow,"Harry told Ginny.

"That 's for sure."

As the ceramist family moved into the town, some people occasionally stopped to stare at them. A few stopped to say hello, but hurried off quickly. Others completely ignored them. Many the great unwashed were finishing up go minute shopping or hurrying off to church.

The little church was already full of multitude singing. The thrower could hear the Christmas carol as they walked by. They crunched through the snow in muteness. Even King James I and Albus were tranquilize. Lily had fallen asleep on Harry 's shoulder shortly after he picked her up. Harry appreciated how his nestling were always behaved when he visited his parents graves. It was form of an unspoken thing. He had never once had to state them to behave themselves in the burial site. The nestling would fight and bicker along the streets in the settlement, but would always get along once they entered the cemetery.

Harry walked into the cemetery, with Ginny, James, and Albus following him. As he walked the familiar spirit route to his parents graves, he thought about his previous sojourn. There was the first visit, of course. He could n't forget that. Voldemort had showed up and tried to kill him. Ever since then, he had been visiting every Halloween and every Christmas Eve. He had taken Ginny once they were married, and the kids once they were born. Harry always felt sad when he visited, but this year he felt interest as well. Who was attempting to read his and his kids'judgement ? What about the orphic death of Professor Torro ?

Harry made his way towards his parents'grave and stopped in front of it. He bent down and put his hired man over the names. Epistle of James and Lily Potter.

Before the ruin of Voldemort, occult deaths were expected. Of course of instruction, nowadays, there were execution every once and a while. These were usually attributed to Death Eaters still at boastfully or crone or sensation who believed in Voldemort 's nonpareil. Harry or one of the other Aurors usually caught them quickly and they were in Azakaban at the instant. Harry had had Aurors on the caseful of Torro ever since September, but there were still no lead. This reminded him of very very much of the days when Voldemort was at large.

What was he supposed to do ? He was doing all he could to arrest Torro 's killer whale. He could n't avail but think the Death was somehow related to the legilimency that was being performed on him, James, and Albus. And what could he do to help oneself reassure his sons ? The other instructor had told Harry that James was more subdued in course of study ever since the episode during his detention with Washburn. William James was obviously quite worried about it. Albus was, too. Harry had met with Ron shortly afterward and neither of them could add up up with any new ideas of who did it. It must have got either been a student or a instructor. As much as Harry hated to do it, he realized he was going to possess to enquire his fellow. Ginny was worried, too. However, she believed that the son were good with Harry at the castle. Harry knew she took comfort in knowing he was near them at all multiplication. Harry only wished he felt as confident in his ability as Ginny did.

Ginny knelt down following to Harry and wordlessly took the sleeping Lily from his branch. Harry reached into his cloak and pulled out a bouquet of lilies. He bent down again and placed them in straw man of the tomb stone. Harry stood up and looked at the grave, his eyes glistening with tear.

"Happy Noel, Mum and Dad,"Harry whispered. Ginny put her arm around Harry, and the two of them turned around and headed out of the cemetery, with James and Albus in their wake.
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Longer chapter is coming up next ! It 'll be Dec 25 at the Burrow. Thanks as always to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my early sister, and my pal. Thanks as well to siriusgirl1 for reviewing. Please read and review !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramicist ! Although I do own the OCs, the plot of ground, and to the highest degree of the Weasley cousins !

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A little while later, the Potter fellowship appeared in the curtilage behind the Burrow. They walked up to the back door and Harry opened it. He walked inside, followed by his mob, and saw the usual chaos. The total Weasley family unit was standing inside. It was a sea of flaming red hair. Most of the children had inherited the Weasley red hair. The few exceptions were Albus, who looked just like Harry, and Victoire and Gabrielle, who had their mother 's silvery blonde pilus.

"Mum, make him give it back !"six-year-old lindy shouted as her brother held her wench in the air.

"Cedric ! turn over her back her wench !"Corrine Weasley yelled at her son. He reluctantly handed lindy her doll and ran from the room.

The Burrow was crammed with mass. There did n't look to be room for anyone else. Teddy Lupin was currently entertaining the younger Weasley children by changing his spike and hairsbreadth color. The older child were eating various sweets and talking about all sorts of things. Many of the adults were drinking eggnog and getting louder and louder by the minute.

Ron was the firstly to notice the Potters."Oi ! Harry 's here !"he shouted and ran towards the threshold,"Hi Harry ! Great to see you, mate !"

"Hey, Ron !"

"Harry, Ginny !"Molly Weasley came bustling into the kitchen,"cum in, come in ! Are you athirst ? Want any sweat ?"

"Sure,"Harry told her and he sat down at the table next to Ginny. mollie went over to the stove and got five bowling ball of fret.

"This is big, Mum, thanks,"Ginny told Molly.

Albus and James IV were already digging into their stew. Lily ate a few bites and then ran off to find her full cousin, apparently not tired at all anymore.

"Well, everyone 's here,"molly told them,"They 're all in the living room. I do n't know if we 'll ever get the small fry to bed."

"It 's Dec 25 Eve, do n't even bother,"Harry laughed.

Albus finished his stew and got up from the mesa. He went into the bread and butter room with James and found Rose, along with his cousins Bradley, Cedric, Ben, and fool sitting together on the floor. Cedric and Ben were second years, and Bradley and patsy were 3rd years.

"What 's new ?"Albus asked.

"Oh, not very much,"Ben told him,"Uncle George and Uncle Charlie are pretty drunk. Grammy is trying to get the unseasoned kids in bed. All the aunts are talking about all form of stuff. My dad, Uncle Percy, Uncle Ron, and Grandpa are all drinking eggnog and eating cookies over there,"he pointed to a few chairs grouped together around a small-scale tabular array."And let 's see, Teddy and Victoire were snogging earlier. It was pretty consummate. Who wants to see their sister snogging someone ? Grammy made them intercept. Now Teddy 's changing his hair coloration all the time for the entertainment of the little nestling, which is making it hard for Grammy to get them to go to bed."

James and Albus laughed."Should be an interesting holiday,"James said,"What have you lot been up to ?"

"Oh, not much, just talking about Quidditch,"Cedric said,"Oh, and Rose is trying to get some studying done."

"Rose ! We 're on holiday !"St. James looked appall,"Now 's not the time to study !"

"Well, you 'll be scrambling to get your work done on the last day, like always. Maybe you should study tonight, too."

"You 'll never get anything done with all this racket,"Cedric told her."What 's up with you, James and Albus ?"

"Oh, not much. Lily 's been complaining a lot. She got really mad when I threw a snow ball at her while we were walking into Godric 's hollow,"James told them.

"Yeah, she 's been form of a pain, and we 've only been on vacation for a day !"Albus said as he snatched a cooky from a nearby platter."I 'm sure going to enjoy this clip off, though. I have n't gone a week without detention in ages."

"Me too !"James agreed,"I need a break from Washburn, he 's crazy."

"Definitely,"Bradley agreed,"You 've missed so a good deal Quidditch practice because of him."

"He hates me, I tell you. Hates Albus, too."

"Remember that dung bomb in first year, James ?"Cedric asked.

"Yeah, how could I forget that ? That 's when he started hating me,"Saint James reminisced."Did n't learn many magic spell that year due to the amount of metre I used nosebleed nougats."

"I 'm hoping I get new Snackboxes for Christmas this year,"Cedric told them,"I 'm running out. Ca n't expect till succeeding yr and I can go buy them at Hogsmeade."

"Definitely. Hogwarts wo n't bang what hit it when we 're able to buy prank stuff all the time,"James laughed.

"Going to Hogsmeade 's gravid,"Gospel According to Mark chimed in,"I 've bought so many dessert at Honeydukes this year."

"Not to mention everything else there. Like the trinity Broomsticks. What a great berth. And the screaming Shack. You know it 's shrieking again this year,"Tom Bradley added.

Albus and pink wine glanced at each former nervously.

"Yeah, I 've heard it. But I wonder why ? It has n't shrieked since shimmy 's dad was at Hogwarts,"James wondered aloud.

"You do n't think-"Cedric started to say, but was cut off by Molly.

"If you 're not in Hogwarts yet, it 's time for bed !"she shouted,"It 's nearly midnight, way past your bedtimes. Go on ! Lily, Hugo, Angie, Samantha, lindy, and Eddie ! Bed !"

"But Grammy !"Lily whined,"I do n't wan na ! I 'm not a little kid !"

"No buts, Lily, bed, now !"

Lily pouted and then stomped up the step to the elbow room she shared with Angie, Samantha, and Lindy.

"I see what you mean about Lily,"Cedric told James and Albus.

"Yup, she 's been doing it all even. Dad actually carried her at Godric 's hole. And she fell asleep on his shoulder. 'Course now she does n't desire to go to bed, frame,"James said.

"So, what does everyone think the chances of England making it to the World Cup next year ?"Albus asked quickly, before everyone could return to the topic of the shrieking Shack.

"Ugh !"rosebush sighed,"back to Quidditch again."She pulled out her written matter of The monetary standard Word of trance, Grade One and continued reading.

The content of Quidditch carried the son the rest of the nighttime and Albus was very relieved that no one mentioned the shrieking Shack again. After a while, Molly decided it was time for everyone else to go to bed, too. James, Omar Nelson Bradley, Cedric, Mark, Ben, and Albus were all sharing Ron 's old bedroom on the top floor. They trudged up the stairs while continuing their Quidditch conversation. When they reached the room, they found three sets of bunk bottom crammed into the room, just as they were every other Noel. It was a bit cramped, but they all had adequate way. Albus climbed into the underside of the bunk he shared with James and fell into a relaxing sleep.

******

"Albus ! Wake up ! It 's Christmas Day !"a shrill voice screamed as Albus opened his heart. He sat up and bumped his question on the bed above him.

"Ouch !"Albus rubbed his aching head. He had forgotten he was at the Burrow."What is it ?"

"It 's Noel, Albus !"Lily screeched.

"What time is it ? Is anyone else up ?"

"It 's six in the morning !"Lily said excitedly."I 'm the first one up. Look, you 've got present tense !"Lily pointed at the down near the foot of Albus 's bed.

"Excellent ! Looks like a good load this twelvemonth,"Albus smiled."Have you opened yours ?"

"Not yet. I think I will now, though !"Lily grinned and ran from the room.

Albus heard stirring from the bed above him."You up, James IV ?"

"Yeah, I am now. She 's always the low one up on Christmas,"James yawned.

"I know, she 's even up before the twins, Angie, and Eddie,"Albus laughed."Well, mine as well get started on the present !"

Albus crawled to the end of his bed and examined his presents. He picked up a large, flabby package and knew what it was before even opening it. He tore off the wrap and unfolded a vermilion perspirer with a Gryffindor lion on it. Albus knew he 'd be getting one of these this year. His grandmother always knitted everyone a sweater every class, but for each kid 's first yr at Hogwarts, they got a Gryffindor sweater. Albus pulled his over his head and smiled."What sweater did you get this year, James ?"

"Scarlet with a atomic number 79 Snitch,"Saint James the Apostle told Albus,"You get the Gryffindor one ?"

"Yup."Albus reached for his succeeding present. It was from his Uncle George and Aunt Alicia. He opened it up and found a Skiving Snackbox. He grinned. He never had lots use for these sweets before, but now that he was at Hogwarts, they would definitely derive in handy."What 'd you get from Uncle George ?"

"Extendable auricle,"St. James the Apostle responded.

The next present was in the chassis of a Quran. Albus knew it was from his Aunt Hermione before he even looked at the tag. When he unwrapped it, he found it was Hogwarts, A History. Albus laughed. James had gotten the same book last year.

"Did you get Hogwarts, A chronicle ?"James I asked.

"Yeah, how 'd you know ?"Albus sniggered. The succeeding software system was from his Uncle Ron, a box of Honeydukes sweets.

Albus reached into his pile of presents and found the one from his parents. It was a long rectangular box. Albus opened it and found a Draco skin scepter back. It was orange red and embossed with aureate lions. Albus stared at it in awe. He had seen one of these in Diagon Alley when he was there buying his school supplies. He had wanted it, but his dad had said no. It came with a minor nursing bottle of baton polish."What 'd you get from Mum and Dad ?"

"Have n't opened theirs yet,"James said,"Lem me find it."Albus heard rustling from the bed above and ripping newspaper publisher. Then muteness."Wow ! This is awesome ! They got me a sceptre back !"

"Me too !"Albus exclaimed,"What 's yours have on it ?"

"Snitches ! It 's like my sweater, scarlet with gold Snitches."

"Mine 's scarlet with aureate lions."

"Pretty impressive,"James said.

"Yeah,"Albus agreed.

Albus continued opening his presents until there were none left. He got a lot of sweets and Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes production. He also got a few books, including Quidditch in the Twentieth one C. But his pet present tense was his wand cover, he kept staring at it. When Bradley, Cedric, scar, and Ben woke up, they opened their own presents.

By the time the boys had all finished opening their presents, everyone else in the family was up. When they went downstairs they found Molly cooking breakfast. All the other adults were sitting around the table talking and having coffee and tea. The younger kids were running around playing with their presents. The erstwhile fry were all clustered around one of the armchairs in the aliveness room. The boys went over to investigate.

"What 's going on over here ?"James asked, while squeezing in between Stanley and Fred.

"Georgia 's gotten a new broom !"Fred exclaimed."Newest good example, a Firebolt 3000."

"Oh, wow !"James exclaimed,"Can I touch it ?"

"Sure,"Georgia was sitting in the armchiar, with her new broom resting on her lap. Everyone was admiring it.

"This is so nerveless,"Calluna vulgaris gazed at the Calluna vulgaris,"hold 'till the Slytherins see we have one of these on our team."

"Yeah !"Fred agreed,"Supposed to be the fast broom yet. Just came out conclusion week."

"Can I fly it later ?"James asked.

"Yeah, sure, but I want to try it out first,"GA laughed,"We 'll go out after breakfast."

"Do you know if anyone else has one at Hogwarts yet ?"Bradley asked.

"No, I do n't believe anyone else has one !"Georgia said.

"Wow, wait 'till everyone finds out it 's my sister who got the outset Firebolt 3000,"Bradley sighed,"But I do wish I got one."

"Well, I was riding a Nimbus 2000. You 've got a regular Firebolt."

"I know, but I hope I get one for my birthday."

"Breakfast is ready !"Molly called into the room.

Everyone scrambled into the kitchen and got photographic plate of nutrient. There was n't plenty room at the board for everyone to eat at. The kids all went back into the living room to eat. Albus sat down adjacent to Lily, who was playing with her new toy and eating at the Saame time.

"What 'd you get, Lily ?"Albus asked his sister.

"New My Little Hippogriffs,"she told him, gesturing to her toys."And a engorge owl, which I named Hedwig. Some candy, a few fake wand, a perspirer, some windsock, a distich Scripture, and a Gryffindor hat and scarf."

"That 's good,"Albus responded, as he started eating his ballock. Rose came and sat down adjacent to Albus.

"Hi, rosiness. You get good nowadays ?"

"Yeah, I got a lot of books !"she told him.

"I got a few books. But the best thing is my new wand binding,"Albus grinned,"It 's upstair, I 'll express it to you later."

"Wow, that 's neat."

"Did you see Georgia 's new ling ?"Albus asked,"Its only been out a hebdomad. She 's probably one of the inaugural to get one."

"Yeah, I saw it. It 's somewhat impressive. You going to try it out ? ``

"Definitely. It 's got to be great to fly. Maybe I 'll be able to get a broom next summertime. I 'm trying out for chaser side by side year,"Albus told her.

"I 'm for certain you 'll get it,"rose told him as she ate her toast.

"I dunno. I mean, there 's only one pursuer position opening up next year. Samantha 'll be leaving. I bet Georgia 'll be made Captain."

"Probably. She 's the adjacent oldest. And she 's a good leader,"Rose agreed.

"plus she 's got the best broomstick ever !"Albus said.

"True,"Rose said,"But just because you 've got a goodness broom, does n't stand for you 're a ripe captain."

"Yeah, but Peach State 's a great player. Her new broom will only stimulate her intimately. Slytherin wo n't support a chance. I think we 're playing them shortly after we go back in January,"Albus told Rose."You gon na try out the broom ?"

"Probably not. I 'm not very good and I would n't want to break it."

"I doubt you 'd break apart it. You 're an ok broadside,"Albus told her."But I 'm definitely trying it."

"Let 's go swordplay Quidditch !"Empire State of the South stood up and held her ling over her headway. Everyone who had been eating breakfast dropped their plates and either stormed up to the sleeping room to get their own heather or ran out into the field that was used for Quidditch exercise. Albus, since he did not own his own broom handle, went directly external. Georgia had already ran out the door and was standing in the middle of the field, with a vast grin on her face.

"Ready, Albus ?"she asked.

"Definitely ! I ca n't wait !"he told her, and he looked over to the back doorway of the house. James, and everyone else who had their own broom had come out and were running over to the field.

"Can I try it after you ?"Teddy shouted from behind everyone else.

"Sure !"Georgia shouted back.

"Then me !"James waved his arms around.

"And me !"Fred screamed.

"Me !"broom pushed her way in movement of Fred, trying to block him.

"Shut it !"Peach State shouted over the noise,"Everyone will get a turn ! But right now, I 'm flying it !"Empire State of the South mounted her broom and kicked off from the priming. The speed was amazing. She could pass water turns at top speed and brake seconds before she would have crashed into the ground.

"Wow !"James screamed excitedly."That 's brilliant !"Everyone started talking at once and Albus was not able-bodied to work out anything. Georgia flew around the field for fifteen min before landing beside her siblings and cousins. She dismounted and handed the ling to Teddy.

"Thanks !"Teddy grinned and changed his hair to red. He flew into the air did a serial publication of spin and good turn. He flew for about ten mo and landed future to Georgia."Wow, I wish I 'd had that when I was seeker, we never would experience lost a friction match !"

"We barely lost a match anyway,"Georgia laughed. She took the broom and handed it to James. For the next two hours, everyone took a act on the broom. Even pink wine got into the emotional state of things and flew around for a few instant. After everyone had had a turn, Georgia decided to organize a Quidditch match.

"Ok, I 'll be captain of my squad and Teddy can captain the former team,"Peach State decided. The two senior pilot took turns picking their squad and eventually their were two squad of six players each. As there were n't enough players for broad squad, six players for each had to work. Georgia 's team consisted of James, Thomas Bradley, Cedric, Francis Edgar Stanley, and Gabriella. Teddy 's team consisted of Heather, Fred, Victoire, Ben, and scratch. Since Albus did not have a broom, he could n't dally. He and rear watched from the sidelines, while the jr. kidskin played in the C nearby.

"That was close last dark, about the Shrieking Shack, I mean,"Albus whispered to Rose.

"I know,"she whispered back,"Everyone 's suspicious about it. I hear people whispering about it sometimes in the Great Hall."

"That means Matt 's hearing it, too,"Albus groaned,"It 's got to be horrible for him."

"Department of Energy this mean value you definitely believe he 's a lycanthrope, then ?"Rose asked.

"I 'm not totally win over, but it does seem that way. I do n't call back I 'll be fully convinced until I hear him say so himself."

"I suppose you 're flop, but I 'm pretty sure of it,"Rose told him.

"How 'd you find out, anyway ? How do you know so much about lycanthrope ?"Albus asked.

"I 've read about them, of course. Once I found out that Teddy 's dad was a werewolf, I read all about them in Mum and Dad 's old school record,"rosebush said.

"Oh, yeah, that makes signified. You sure do read a lot."

"I know,"rose agreed, as she pulled her written matter of Hogwarts, A History, out of her jacket.

"You got that for Xmas, too ?"Albus questioned.

"Yup, it 's quite concern. I 'm already on chapter three."

"I have n't even started reading it yet."

pink wine laughed and opened up her Book. Albus looked out towards the discipline and watched the rest of the Quidditch lucifer. It was a pretty good equal. Quite unlike than Hogwarts mates, though. There was no ref, so a few argument erupted. After an time of day or so, shimmy caught the canary and his squad won. Albus and his cousins trooped back into the theatre, snowy, wet, and frigidness. It was almost time for Christmas supper, and Molly was cooking in the kitchen, with assistance from Ginny and Fleur. Albus ran up to the top bedroom and got out his new Quidditch script and understand it until supper was ready.

Christmas supper was always an interesting event at the Burrow. The kitchen table was not big enough to sit down everyone, so usually the younger children sat there, while the oldest nestling and the adult found fanny in the aliveness room. There was always a lot of food, too. The intellectual nourishment was kept in the kitchen and mass got up to get some when they wanted it. As Albus was walking into the kitchen, he distinctly saw James sneaking around the living way doing something with one of the arm chairs.

Sure enough, after Albus sat down at the table and started eating his food, he heard a sidesplitter from the living room. He jumped up from his chair and followed his cousins into the room.

"What was that ? !"Harry shouted, looking down at the chair he had been sitting in.

Molly came into the elbow room and pushed past Albus."James I Sirius Potter ! What did you do ?"

James looked sheepishly at her,"How did you know it was me ? You did n't see it happen."

"I raised your Uncle George ! I know a shamed expression when I see one,"Molly screamed at him,"What did you do ?"

"Shocking tooshie,"Saint James the Apostle explained,"It 's a little matter you hide on a chair and gives a balmy electric blow to the mortal who sits in it."

Harry started laughing,"And I suppose it 's from your shop, George VI ?"

"Yup, New mathematical product. Just came out a few workweek ago. I got James a few for Yuletide. Thought he 'd like them,"George IV told him.

"I 'd say he does like them,"Harry grinned,"Just do n't use them on any teachers."

"Too late. I just did,"James laughed. Everyone else started laughing as well, except molly, who went back into the kitchen.

The residue of supper went by with only a few minor pranks. individual snuck a Ton Tongue Toffee into Albus 's pudding and his tongue grew two human foot before Harry found out and fixed it for him. A few glasses exploded and a few sports stadium of soup crashed to the land, mostly because Sir Henry Morton Stanley had just turned seventeen and wanted to use conjuring trick to bring things to the table for people. Eventually, everyone had enough to eat and they migrated into the living room. The adults had all had quite a bit of eggnog and fervency whisky and were not paying a whole lot of attention to the youngster. This enabled Teddy and Victoire to swipe off into the kitchen, to be alone.

Albus and Rose decided to play thaumaturge 's Chess. Lily and Victor Hugo sat down to watch. It did n't read come up too long to beat Albus. rosebush was very in effect at chess game and she was much right than Albus. After that, the four of them played a few daily round of Exploding press stud, well-nigh of which Albus won.

Eventually, mollie decided it was time for everyone to go to bed. Albus climbed slowly up the steps and got into his bunk. He was very tired. It had been a enceinte Christmastide. With his stomach broad and his nitty-gritty felicitous, Albus fell into a cryptical sleep.

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A/N : Hope you liked it ! I wrote this before Jo posted the Weasley/Potter family tree, so that 's why I made up my own Weasley cousins. Although I did gauge correctly that James 's middle name is Sirius ! I know it 's a bit confusing with the turgid amount of first cousin I made up, so I 'll try and mail a family Tree with one of the upcoming chapters.

As always, thanks to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my former sister, and my bro. Thanks also to inkheart for their reviews. Please read and refresh !

Disclaimer- As usual, I do not own Harry Potter.

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fisticuffs Day was usually a lazy day at the Burrow. Everyone slept deep and ate whatever whenever they wanted. Albus awoke around noonday, and found that a few of his auntie, uncles, and first cousin were getting ready to pass on. His Uncle George and Aunt Alicia and their small fry were getting set to leave to chatter Alicia 's parents. His Uncle Charlie and aunty Katherine and their Kid were also leaving to visit other family.

"Bye, guys,"Albus waved as his Uncle Charlie stepped into the fireplace with Eddie.

"Bye, Albus,"Charlie waved back,"Have a respectable time at school."

Albus walked into the kitchen and found Rose sitting at the tabular array recitation Hogwarts, A History. Hugo was also there.

"Morning, Rose,"he said as he sat down next to her.

"Hi,"she said, not looking up from her book.

Albus went to the return and made some pledge. Hugo got up from the table and ran into the life way. When Albus brought his breakfast back to the mesa, Rose had set her book down.

"good, he left,"Rose whispered,"I want to let the cat out of the bag to you about Matt."

"What about him ?"

"His little 'problem',"blush wine said,"Listen, I went snooping around Grandpa 's study this morning while everyone was asleep. I want to do some more enquiry about lycanthropy."

"Well, did you ascertain anything ?"Albus asked eagerly.

"Yeah, I did. I found a few books that have selective information in them. I took them and hid them in my tree trunk upstairs. Now that ling 's leftfield to see her other grandparents, I 've got my room to myself. We can go read them after we 're done eating."

"Sounds good,"Albus whispered back,"And we 've got to ask Uncle Bill about it too."

"I know, I 've thought of that too. We 'll ask tomorrow. There 'll be less people. Uncle Bill, aunt Fleur, Victoire, Gabriella, and Ben are n't leaving until day after tomorrow. Uncle Percy, aunty Corrine, Peach State, Bradley, Cedric, and the twins are leaving tomorrow. I do n't need to be overheard."

"Good mentation,"Albus said as he took a insect bite out of his toast. At that instant, James, Cedric, Omar Nelson Bradley, and Ben came in.

"What were you two talking about ?"James asked, as he stole a piece of music of Albus 's toast.

"cypher,"Albus said abruptly.

St. James the Apostle looked at him warily,"Hmm, well, we 're going to go child's play Quidditch. You want to watch ?"

blush wine looked at Albus."Um, no, me and Rose have, er, prep to do."

King James laughed."There 's plenteousness of clip left to do homework. Oh, well, courtship yourself."Jame shoved the finish bit of his toast into his sassing and he, Cedric, and Ben went outside.

"That was finale,"rose wine whispered,"We ca n't let anyone find out. Are you ready ?"

"Yeah,"Albus said as he got up from the table. rose wine got up, too, and Albus followed her to the bedchamber she stayed in. They went inside and Rose closed the door quietly. She went over to her bole, pulled out a few gruelling books, and dumped them on her bed.

"If anyone bursts in and inquire us what we 're doing, we say it 's homework,"blush wine told Albus. She picked up a ledger and handed it to him."Here you go. Just look through it and read anything you find about werewolves."

Albus took the book and looked at it. It was entitled Modern Magical Remedies. He opened it to the exponent and looked for 'werewolf', but it was n't there. However, 'wolfsbane'was. There was a whole chapter on it. Albus turned to the chapter and briefly leafed through it. It was long and the photographic print was very small. It was not the kind of reading Albus would normally do, but his curiosity about Matt 's experimental condition triumphed over his dislike of slow reading. Albus and rose wine read for close to two minute. In the clock time it took Albus to register about the Wolfsbane potion, Rose had gone through two of the other books.

"well, what did you find ?"Rose asked once Albus had finished his chapter. She looked a bit wan and kind of scared.

"Loads, how about you ?"Albus told her,"Are you okay ?"

"Yeah, I guess,"rose wine whispered,"It 's just, the early al-Qur'an I 've read did n't really go over what it 's like to transform. These did. Oh, Albus, it sounds horrible ! Really horrific ! And painful. I just feel so bad for flatness, if that is what 's going on. Apparently, when a wolfman is in wolf form, they must bite other animate being or people. They 're not in their human idea, they do n't have it away what they 're doing ! And if there 's no other animals or people to bite, they bite themselves. That must be where Matt got all those cuts and bruise from. He 's doing it to himself."

Albus stared at her with his mouth give,"That 's horrifying ! There 's got to be something someone could do ! Healers or individual must recognize a remedy or something."

"There 's not. There 's no cure for lycanthropy. Just the wolfsbane potion,"rosiness told him.

"Oh, yeah,"Albus had momentarily forgotten what he had been reading about,"The wolfsbane potion does do work. If a werewolf takes it every Nox a few nights prior to transformation, they will translate, but will be harmless to themselves and early multitude. It 's really complicated to make, but apparently it makes the transmutation loads better."

"But why does n't matt take it then ?"rose wondered.

"I dunno. I guess the lonesome way we 'd find out is to ask him,"Albus told her.

"So you believe me, then ? You 're convinced he 's a werewolf ?"rose asked.

"You know, I think so. I guess I 'm still not positive, but I 'm as convinced as I could be without him actually telling me."

rosiness got up from the bed."I guess we 've learned everything we can from these ledger. I 'll sneak them back early tomorrow morning."She picked up all the Holy Scripture and put them back into her trunk.

"I think I 'll go see what everyone else is up to,"Albus got up from the floor and opened the door,"You coming ?"

"Yeah, certainly,"Rose followed Albus out the door.

The cousin-german walked down the stairs from pink wine 's room. The house was very quiet. Most of their full cousin were outside playing Quidditch or in their elbow room enjoying their presents. Since two of the house had already left, it was quite a bit calmer. As Albus and pink wine strode past the kitchen, Albus stopped short. Rose bumped into him.

"Ouch !"she screeched as she bumped her principal on his back.

"Shush !"Albus whispered as he pressed his oral sex to the room access of the kitchen,"I heard someone say my name."

Rose leaned her head against the threshold as well and the two of them tried to listen for a minute or so."It 's no use ! They 're whispering. I ca n't hear anything."

"Me neither, but I swear one of them mentioned me !"Albus listened again,"I 'm moderately sure it 's my mum and dad, and your dad as well."

The front door banged undefendable and James, Cedric, Ben, and Bradley stormed in, dropping their brooms on the trading floor."It 's bloody freezing out there !"James shouted as he tore off his mitt and scarf.

"And person 's locked the kitchen door !"Cedric added, as he pulled off his frozen hat.

"Shush !"Albus shouted back.

"What ?"Saint James asked as he came rushing over, followed by Cedric, Ben, and Bradley.

"The kitchen 's locked because some of the adult are in there talking about me !"Albus whispered back.

"Really ?"James looked at him curiously,"What about ?"

"I dunno !"Albus whispered back,"I ca n't see them, they 're being real quiet."

King James I thought for a here and now, and then a grin appeared on his cheek."Time to break out one of my Christmas presents."

"That 's rightfield !"Albus said excitedly,"You got extendable auricle for Christmas !"

"Yep, sure did I 'll go get them !"James announced, and then he ran upstairs. He appeared a arcminute later holding a puritanic box with a prominent ear pictured on it."Here they are."James tore open the packaging and pulled out seven overweight tubes. He handed one to everybody and stowed the excess in his pocket.

Albus hastily pushed one end of the Extendable Ear into his own ear and sent the other end to the bottom of the room access. Albus had used Extendables once before, when his cousin Gabriella had bought some at Hogsmeade and let Albus try them out. That was two year ago, and he had n't heard anything interesting. Gabriella had bought them in order to listen in on Victoire 's conversations with her ally who had stayed for Xmas break. Victoire only talked about how much she liked Teddy, and Albus found that rather boring. This clip, however, Albus was sure he 'd hear more worry conversations.

"I 'm really not sure I should enjoin them,"Albus heard his dad say.

"I know,"his mother responded back,"If mortal invading thieir creative thinker, it 's best they did not recognise right now."

"I mean, I had n't really thought about when I was going to separate them,"Harry responded,"I guess I was planning on doing it when they were much older. I worry about what they would do with the information. James I especially."

James turned away from the threshold and looked at Albus."They 're talking about me, too !"

"I know, shush !"Albus said as he turned his tending back to the conversation in the kitchen.

"I honestly would only trust blush wine with the information, Harry,"Ginny told her husband.

This clock time it was Rose 's turn of events to see at Albus."Me, too ! But whatever it is, they trust me."rosebush could n't help oneself but grin as she turned back to the door.

"I do n't want her to jazz, given the stream circumstances,"Ron said.

"Me neither,"Hermione agreed.

"I know, but it seems as if whoever 's doing it is focusing on James and Albus,"Harry informed them."I was always wary about telling them, but especially now ..."

"Harry, we did n't even tell my brothers,"Ron said,"Why are you worrying about telling the Thomas Kid ?"

"Part of me wants them to understand what we think is going on,"Harry went on,"But the former part of me does n't want them to know."

"I 'm siding with that part of you,"Ginny said,"We should n't separate them."

"Ever ?"Hermione asked tentatively,"I do remember they should be trusted with that selective information at some point."

"I agree, Hermione,"Harry told her,"But not now. I guess I 'd just been waiting for the opportunity to present itself, have n't really thought about when I 'd tell them. I suppose the best thing to do would be to wait until they 're out of schooltime, they 'll be more than mature and there 'll be to a lesser extent of a probability of it leaking out."

"That sounds reasonable, Harry,"Ginny agreed,"Someday, we 'll tell them about the Hallows. But right now I think we need to lecture about what 's been going on with-"

"Saint James the Apostle, Omar Nelson Bradley, Cedric, Saint Benedict, rosebush, and Albus, what on earth are you doing ? !"a livid vocalization caused Albus to drop his Extendable Ear and he was not able-bodied to hear what his mum had been about to say.

mollie Weasley ran over to the five cousins, a tone of rage on her face."Have you been listening in on that conversation ? Obviously you have ! You have no right hand ! Your parents wanted to be alone ! And give me those !"

Albus, James, and their cousin did not even think about not listening to their grandmother and handed over their Ears at once."And the other one ?"She eyed James 's sack. Albus glanced at it and noticed the picayune bit of human body sticking out of it. Jesse James sulkily pulled it out and handed it to her.

"I 'll be having a word with your Uncle George ! He 's lucky he 's not here right now. He should n't be giving you those for Christmastide, honestly, the cheek of him ..."Molly stormed over to her desk and grabbed a piece of sheepskin and a quill and started writing while she mumbled to herself. Albus knew she was going to send out a wow to her son.

The commotion outside the kitchen caused Harry, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione to quit their conversation and occur out to see what the flutter was about. Once Albus heard the door start to open, he made a mad dash for the steps, and the thundering behind him told him his brother and cousins did the Sami.

Albus did n't block running until he made it to Rose 's room, and once James River and their cousins were inside, he slammed the door shut.

"What was that all about ?"Albus asked as he sat down on one of the beds.

"I dunno,"St. James the Apostle responded,"They obviously know something we do n't and they do n't want to separate us about it. But what did they entail by they did n't want me to be intimate about it especially ?"James stomped back and forth across the floor, obviously mad that his parents would n't trust him with something.

"Well, that 's not the simply reason they 're keeping it from us !"Rose argued,"They said they trust me, but still wo n't tell me."

"must be something really secretive because only your parents know about it,"Ben reasoned."I suppose Bradley, Cedric, and I wo n't ever detect out."

"Yeah, you will !"James insisted as he threw himself onto a bed,"Once I find out, I 'll tell you !"

"King James !"rosiness shouted,"That must be why they wo n't tell you right now ! They do n't want anybody to have sex. If it 's something so secretive that they wo n't even secern any of our uncles, then they must not require a whole lot of people to know."

"But what would my parents, auntie Hermione, and Uncle Ron know that none of the former aunty and uncles know about ?"Albus asked Rose.

"I dunno,"rose answered. The five of them sat in silence for a few minute, trying to think of what this could be.

"You do n't think ..."St. James started,"... that maybe it has something to do with the war ?"

Albus looked at him,"But Dad said he told us all about the war."

"It makes sense, Albus,"blush wine told him,"What else besides the war do my parents and your parents have, but none of our aunts and uncles do ?"

"But my parents were involved in the war !"Cedric insisted.

"I know they were,"James said as he got up from the bed again and started tempo,"But my dad and Rose 's parents were a lot More involved. They destroyed near of the horcruxes and they were off by themselves for almost a class doing it."

"True,"Cedric agreed.

"Whatever it is, they 're keeping something from us,"James II told everyone as he pounded his fist on the nighttime sales booth,"And I do n't wish it. Especially since Dad said he told us everything."

"Anyone catch what they were talking about ?"Bradley asked.

"Yeah,"Albus responded,"Hallows. Whatever they are."

"Never heard of them,"James said.

"Me neither,"Cedric said. Bradley and Ben shook their capitulum. Albus looked expectantly at Rose. Whenever soul else did n't know about something, pink wine always knew.

"I 've never heard anything about them either, Albus, I 'm sorry,"Rose sighed,"But once we 're back in school, we can look in the library."

"I guess,"Albus said, looking down at his animal foot. He did not like the estimate of his parents keeping something from him. It made him feel betrayed. Harry had always told Albus that he told him everything about the war. But if these Hallows had anything to do with the war, like King James suspected they did, then Harry and Ginny were keeping something from them. What were the Hallows ? And why were his parents so absorbed about not letting him know about them ? Why did they think he was n't trusty enough to know about them ?

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A/N : Sorry for the time lag ! I have been on vacation, so have n't been capable to update. Hopefully, I 'll get my Weasley family tree up with the next chapter.
Thanks as usual to Rain is LIquid Moonlight, my other sister, and my pal. Also thanks to inkheart, Ashley, Black Fires, and e.jones for their reassessment !

Disclaimer- I do not own Harry Potter.

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Chapter 15 : Occlumency and Potions

By the time Albus woke up the next morning, his Uncle Percy, Aunt Corrine, and their kid had already left. Albus had not kip very well. Although he had n't had any nightmares, Albus could n't stop thinking about what his parents were keeping from him, and the sentiment had kept him tossing and turning almost the unharmed night. Once he fell asleep, he slept until it was nearly one o'clock in the good afternoon. He never even had the luck to say goodbye to his aunty, uncle and cousins. However, he did n't have long to dwell on it because shortly after he had gotten dressed, James IV burst into the room.

"Good, you 're up,"James greeted him, as he sat down on one of the bottom bunks.

"Yeah, I 'm up,"Albus yawned,"Just got up, could n't sleep well last night."

"Me, neither, but Cedric woke me up before he left. Tried to get you up, but you were out like a log."

"wellspring, what 's been going on ? Do Mum and Dad know that we listened to them ?"Albus asked.

"They do. Grandma told them. I 'm never getting those Extendables back,"James groaned."But I do n't think they 're too bothered by it."

"Well, that 's good,"Albus told him,"Better they do n't know that we 're trying to chance out what they 're keeping from us."

"Definitely. Oh, but they do need to talk to us in a few minute,"James informed Albus,"They sent me up here to wake you up."

"You do n't guess they want to yell at us about listening in, do you ?"Albus asked nervously.

"No, I do n't reckon that 's what it 's about. They just want to talk to us. Not rosiness,"James answered.

"That 's odd. What else could they want ?"Albus wondered.

"Dunno,"James glanced at his watch."well, we 'd better go. They 're waiting in the kitchen."

Albus followed King James slowly down the stairs. He had no mind what this could be about. For a moment, he thought that maybe his parents were going to tell them about whatever 'Hallows'were, but he knew that could n't be it. They had seemed so intransigent about not telling James, Albus, or Rose about them.

Albus made his way into the kitchen after William James. His parents were in there, along with Uncle Ron and Aunt Hermione. Harry gestured for them to sit down. Albus sat down in one of the electric chair and St. James sat next to him, neither of them saying a parole. Harry went over to the room access, closed it, and pointed his wand at it while muttering a spell. Albus figured it was some kind of while that rendered extendable Ears useless.

"First,"Harry told his boy, as he walked over and stood adjacent to Ron,"I want to tell you that I 'm not punishing you for what you did yesterday. Both of you look like you 're sitting in a detention."

Albus smiled a footling, but William James did not move.

"I would have done the same thing if I were you,"Harry grinned and continued,"Well, let me reword that. I have done the like affair you did. Plenty of times. Right after your uncles Fred and George invented Extendable Ears. ``

Harry started pacing around the kitchen. Albus had noticed that his father did this whenever he was thinking about something serious. It was the same kind of pacing that James had done the previous day.

"However, what I do want to tattle to you about is a serious matter,"Harry lowered his vox,"It 's about what 's been going on in the school."

Albus looked at Henry James. Neither of them really knew what their dad was getting on about.

"James, when you were in detainment a few workweek ago and you said your headway felt mirthful. dame Pomfrey had the suspicion that someone was using Legilimency against you. I think she was right. Well, I 'm sure she was right. The way you described it is just like how it feels,"Harry told his son,"James, someone is trying to invade your mind."

James looked appal. Albus noticed he was a bit paler than common. He looked very much the same as he did in the days following that detention. Albus guessed that the days at the tunnel had made James forget about that awful experience.

"Albus, about that dream-"Harry started, but was cut off.

"You said it did n't mean anything !"Albus reminded his dad.

"I thought that it did n't, until I started having the Same one,"Harry informed them,"I talked to your Uncle Ron about it and we both agree that they 're not normal dreams. individual is using Legilimency on us as well."

Albus felt the parentage drain from his face and he was sure he looked as pale as James did."But who 's doing it ?"he whispered.

"I honestly do n't know, Al,"Harry softened his voice and sat down next to his son."But your Uncle Ron and I are trying very hard to determine out who it is."

"Why does someone require to read our intellect ?"Albus asked his dad.

"I, have a few ideas,"Harry answered slowly,"But I 'm afraid I ca n't differentiate you just yet."

Albus nodded. It was strange that his dad could n't just solve this problem. During Albus 's untested childhood year, Harry had always been able to fix everything for him. Broken toys, nestling combat injury, his dad was always there to work out the problem. But this prison term, Harry could n't just brandish his wand and make it better.

Harry drew Albus into his arms."Now, Al, I do need to jazz if you 've had anymore of those nightmares since that 1st one."

"Yeah, I have. I get them a few times a week."

"Always the Same one ?"Harry asked.

"Yes."

"And have you had any while you 've been at the Burrow ?"

Albus thought for a consequence."You know, I have n't. I had n't really thought about it, but I have n't had any since I left Hogwarts."

Harry glanced at Ron and got up from the chair."I think that 's all I need to cognize about the dreams for now. But if they start changing at all, you 've got to let me recognise right away. Just ask one of the portrait in the green elbow room to find me. Do n't leave the common room to tell me, it 's very crucial that you do not wander around at night."

Harry started pacing again and he turned to face James."Are you ok ? I know it 's a shuddery mentation, that someone 's invading your creative thinker. But I will find out who 's doing it. I do n't want you to worry about it too much."

King James just nodded, apparently still unable to speak.

"goodness. Now, it 's obviously very disturbing that someone is trying to see our intellection and remembering. Ron and I, as well as a few early Aurors are working to image out who it is and why they 're doing it, so we can stop them. But for now, you two have to discover how to protect yourselves.

"Ron and I have decided that you should originate to learn Occlumency. I know you both already know what that is, but neither of you have had any training in the subject. If you 're able-bodied to take it properly, then no one will be able to record your thoughts."

"Are you going to teach us, Dad ?"Epistle of James spoke for the first off time since he entered the room.

"No, I ca n't,"Harry told him,"I 'm not a very commodity Occlumens and am having a difficult enough time trying to close my own intellect, let alone trying to teach you two."

"Then who 's going to learn us ?"James asked, with a worry look on his face. He and Albus looked at each other. Harry had told them the narrative of when professor Snape had tried to instruct him Occlumency in his fifth part year.

"Do n't interest,"Harry reassured them, seeing the looks on their faces,"I know from experience that in monastic order to get a line Occlumency properly, it 's much good if you trust your teacher. That 's why your Aunt Hermione will be teaching you."

Albus breathed a sigh of backup man. Although his auntie Hermione was rigorous, he knew she would be able to teach him well. There was hardly an scene of magic that she did not do well.

"I 'll be coming to Hogwarts two nights a week until you are both able of protecting your minds from intruders,"Hermione informed them.

King James opened his mouth and was about to speak when Hermione cut him off."Not to worry, James, it wo n't interfere with Quidditch praxis ! I know Quidditch is the most authoritative thing in this family."She glared at Harry and Ron, who both grinned sheepishly.

"I 'll institutionalise an owl to the schooltime once the foremost example is set up, telling you which classroom it will be in. We still need to run this by the master, but I 'm sure he will not take care,"Hermione informed them.

"Well, I think that 's it, boys,"Harry strode back over to James River and Albus and gave them each a hug."I do n't require you to care about this too much. Your Uncle Ron and I have matter under control. Just dressed ore on learning Occlumency. Try to keep open your guard up, as well. Constant vigilance, as Mad-Eye would have said. I 've got to run into the Auror office for a few hours, but I 'll be back before dinner."

When Harry opened the door to the kitchen, pink wine fell into the room. She had been leaning on the door, trying to hear in. She stood up, blushing furiously and ran out of the way and up the stairs. James and Albus burst out laughing and ran out of the room after her. They found her up in her room.

"So, what was that about ?"she asked eagerly, once Albus had shut the doorway behind him and James I."Any chance they told you what they 're trying to celebrate from us ?"

"No,"James said bitterly, it was obvious to Albus that he was still mad about that.

"wellspring, what was it then ?"blush wine pushed.

"Remember that detention that me, James, matt, and John had to do with Washburn ? The one where we cleaned the hourglasses in the incoming G. Stanley Hall ?"Albus asked.

"Yeah,"Rose said warily.

"Well, soul tried to read James 's psyche during it. And someone 's been trying to interpret my brain and Dad 's while we 're sleeping, too. I 've been having uncanny dream ever since school day started, and apparently they mean someone 's using Legilimency on me."

Rose stared at him, then she glanced at King James, who had sat down on rose 's bed."You 're serious ?"

"Yep,"James II confirmed,"And Dad wants me and Albus to hear Occlumency to try and kibosh them. I get the flavour something 's occurrence. I 'm not sure what, but all the adults seemed a bit care when they were telling us this. Dad does n't know who 's doing it or why. Well, he has an idea why, but he wo n't tell us. Figures."James punched one of the pillows."I guess I 'm not trustworthy."

"Who 's precept you ?"Rose asked.

"Your mum,"Albus answered."She 's coming to the palace two Night a workweek as soon as everything 's straightened out with Professor Kendrick."

"Well, that 's proficient, then. I hope you two are good at Occlumency,"Rose said,"But do you two get the feeling this whole head reading thing might throw something to do with what they 're keeping from us ?"

"Seems likely,"Albus agreed.

James nodded."We 've got to figure out what they 're keeping from us. We 'll start once we 're back at school. And I do n't think we should tell anyone what we 're doing, since Dad 's teaching there. I do n't think he 'd be too well-chosen if he found out what we 're up to."

"I suppose you 're decently,"rosebush responded.

"Yeah,"Albus said. He did n't like the idea of keeping something this big from King John, matte, and Amanda, but he could see James 's peak. Their father did n't want them to know about whatever this is, and if he found out they were looking, it would produce it harder to discover the secret.

"St. James the Apostle !"a articulation shouted from downstairs,"seed assistance with dinner, please ! I 've got Ben cutting up veggie and you can assist him !"

James got up and went over to the doorway,"Aw, Mum ! Why ca n't Teddy do it ? He can do it by magic and it 'd go faster !"

"Teddy 's helping Victoire study ! Now get down here, please !"Ginny screamed back.

James snorted and looked at Albus and Rose, who were giggling. They were for certain that Teddy and Victoire were not studying, but were in fact hiding away somewhere, snogging.

"James I !"his female parent shrieked.

James stomped out of the way and down the stair, muttering something about Muggle cooking.

rose got up from the bed and shut the door behind James. She turned back to Albus."Ok, we 've got to ask Uncle Bill what he knows about werewolves tonight after dinner."

"Yeah, we should. He 's leaving tomorrow. Do you really call back he knows something that we have n't already read in the books ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm not sure. But what I want to know is why somebody would n't use up the Wolfsbane potion or why it would n't work,"Rose told Albus as she sat down next to him.

"Good idea. The al-Qur'an I read did n't mention anything like that. But if Matt 's a werewolf, then he 's definitely not taking that potion every month."

"Or it 's not working for him,"Rose suggested.

"Yeah, that too. But what are we going to tell Uncle Bill when he asks why we want to know about the Wolfsbane potion ?"

"I 've got it taken care of,"Rose told him,"I 'll severalise him that professor Slughorn gave us additional credit to research an supercharge potion. And we 'll say that Slughorn let us do it in groups of two and you 're my partner."

"Wow ! That 's good thinking, rosiness,"Albus said excitedly,"I 'd never be able-bodied to make out up with that."

"It just came to me shoemaker's last nighttime. I knew we 'd ask an excuse because we do n't get a line about loup-garou until third base year."

"pink wine ! Albus ! I need your assistance for dinner, please !"Ginny screamed up the stairs.

"Alright, Mum !"Albus answered,"We 'll be right there !"He and rose wine went downstairs, where they were immediately put to work slicing bread.

*****

Supper was late that night, and not nearly as gratifying as Christmas supper. Everyone wanted to waitress until Harry returned from the Auror role to eat, and he did not get back until nearly eight o'clock. Once Harry walked in the doorway, everyone sat down and started eating.

"I 've got some bad news,"Harry announced as he poured some butterbeer for himself. Everyone stopped eating and looked at him."mortal was found suddenly this dawning in their house. Jasmine Lomski. She worked in the Magical Law Enforcement role. Avada Kedavra was the cause of decease. It 's looking very suspicious. I 've got someone investigating, but so far nix 's been found."

"Lomski ?"Ben asked, his font was white. He was looking at James II, whose face was equally sick."There 's a young woman in our social class, a Ravenclaw, Rachael Lomski. Are they related ?"

Harry nodded,"Yes, that 's her female parent. Jasmine 's husband, Connor, was taking Rachael and the other nipper to see their grandparents for Christmastide, so they were not home at the time. Jasmine did not go with them because she had to solve tomorrow.

"But I want everyone to have intercourse that the other Aurors and I are doing all we can to find out who did this, and who killed Professor Torro, and hopefully we 'll be capable to turn back whoever did it soon."

"You think the two execution are related, then ?"President Arthur asked.

"I really ca n't be sure as shooting yet, but I do have a feeling they are,"Harry answered.

The rest period of the meal was spent discussing the suspicious killings, and no one really had much of an appetite anymore. Hugo and Lily did not pay much attention to the conversation, and after they finished eating they ran off to play with their Christmastime presents. Albus mostly pushed his intellectual nourishment around his plate. He could n't facilitate but wonder if the orphic kill had something to do with his foreign pipe dream. James seemed to be worried, as well. He was also not eating, and his typeface had not regained any color since their dad 's proclamation. Ben and Rose were n't eating either, although they looked less concern than James did. slip, Victoire and Gabriella spent much of the meal whispering to each other with apprehensive face on their faces.

After everyone had eaten whatever they could, billhook excused himself to the kitchen to get a cup of tea. rise glanced at Albus and they both got up and followed him.

"Um, Uncle measure ?"pink wine asked tentatively,"I was wondering if Albus and I could talk to you, er, in private ?"

"Sure ..."Bill answered warily, he was obviously wondering what they were up to."Let 's go into your gramps 's study."

granddaddy Weasley 's study was always an occupy spot to confab. It was filled with all sorts of muggle devices that were in assorted states of disrepair. When Albus walked into the room, the firstly thing he noticed was the broken computer sitting on the desk. That had been a stage from Albus 's Aunt Hermione. Hermione 's parents had recently gotten a new computer and Hermione was able to get their old one to leave to Chester Alan Arthur. He had been thrilled and had spent much of the holiday taking it apart.

"So, what can I help you with, Rose ?"bank bill asked.

"Well, um, I was wondering if you knew anything about the Wolfsbane potion,"Rose told him.

Bill spat out the mouthful of tea that was in his back talk."Aconitum lycoctonum potion ? Well, I do know a bit about that. But why do you want to know about it ?"

"We 're doing an extra reference essay for Slughorn on gain potions. We picked the Wolfsbane potion. Now, we 've learned a bit about it from record, but I 've got a few other questions,"Rose said.

"Sure, go ahead and ask,"Bill sat down in Arthur 's electric chair and put his feet up on the desk.

rose wine and Albus sat down in two other chairs."I guess I was wondering if there 's ever been a case where the wolf's bane potion has n't worked ?"Rose asked.

"It 's uncommon,"placard told them,"But not unheard of. There have been a few people that the potion has n't worked on. It 's voiceless to know for sure how many because there are n't a unhurt lot of werewolves to commence with anyway. And many do not account how the potion works for them."

"Ok,"rose wine said, while she pretended to exact line on a patch of sheepskin,"Why would n't it ferment ? Or why would n't individual take it ?"

"A few wolfman have been sensitized to the potion, or to one of the ingredients in it, so that 's why it does n't work for some. And they 'd obviously hold on taking it if that happened. There 's also a fairly new study about the affects of emotions on the potion. A few people have reported that the potion does not always body of work well, depending on what kind of modality the soul is at the meter of transformation. Which makes sensory faculty, since the nature of the transformation depends on emotions as well. Then there 's a irregular study that 's trying to cypher out why the potion just does n't influence. There are a few werewolves where it has no force whatsoever. As far as why somebody would n't direct it, it 's a very difficult potion to make. Not many multitude are capable to lay down it. Because of that, it 's heavy to hold it."

"Oh,"rosebush looked up from her parchment,"I think that 's all I need to love for now. I 've gotten tons of information from Bible. Albus and I should be capable to save the report card now."

Bill got up from his chairperson,"Good. Glad I could help."He walked quickly out the door, Albus guessed he wanted to get back to the discussion about Jasmine Lomski 's murder.

Albus and pink wine left the elbow room and went back up to rose wine 's bedroom."well, what do you recollect ?"Rose asked Albus.

"I dunno. Maybe he 's not able to get the potion ?"

"Or he 's allergic to it,"rose wine suggested.

"But what about that whole emotions affecting the potion thing ?"Albus asked.

"I 'm not sure. Do you remember what matte 's been like every prison term he 's dumbfound sick ?"

"No. I mean, usually he 's tired, but that 's not really emotion. I 'd wear he 's nervous about it, but I bet all werewolf are nervous about transforming."

"Probably. I guess we 're just going to have to keep watching him,"rose told Albus.

"I suppose. I wish he 'd just tell us."

"He 's probably afraid to. Afraid we wo n't be friends with him anymore,"Rose said in a ail voice.

"well, that 's not straight ! We 'd never abandon him like that !"

"I know, Albus,"Rose sighed,"I just wish there was a way to let him cognize that."

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Weasley-Potter Family Tree
Bill-Fleur Charlie-Katherine ( witch ) Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Victoire, 7th year Sir Henry Morton Stanley, 6th year GA, 5th year
Gabriella, 5th class Scots heather, 4th class Omar Bradley, 3rd twelvemonth
Ben, 2nd year Mark, 3rd year Cedric, 2nd year
Eddie, 5 years old Samantha & Lindy ( twins ), 6 long time old

George-Alicia Spinnet Ron-Hermione Ginny-Harry
Fred, 4th year Rose, 1st twelvemonth James, 2nd year
Angie, 8 geezerhood old Hugo, 9 years old Albus, 1st year
Lily, 9 years old
*all in Gryffindor*

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A/N : I hope you liked it ! My Weaslye-Potter fellowship tree diagram is above. I hope it helps clear up any disarray. I put Ron & Ginny in there even though I do n't own their nipper. I thought it would be more perfect that way. Any similarities between the above ( besides Ron & Ginny 's menage, obviously ) are merely a coincidence.

Thanks as always to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my other sister, and my sidekick. Thanks to inkheart for their review. Please read & revue !

Disclaimer- I do not own Harry ceramicist. Nor do I own Nintendo, the Nintendo DS, or beast Crossing.

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Before Albus knew it, the Christmas holiday was over. The ease of the breaking was not nearly as eventful as the first base few days. The day after Harry came menage with the word of Jasmine Lomski 's last, neb, Fleur, Ron, Hermione, and the rest of Albus 's full cousin left to visit other home. living at the Burrow became much calmer. James and Albus spent much of their time playing Quidditch outside. Harry had let Albus use his broom handle. James was able to help Albus pattern his skills as a Chaser, and seemed pretty convinced by the end of the vacation that Albus would pass water the team next yr. Whenever teddy bear was n't working at Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes, he visited and played Quidditch with Henry James and Albus. Lily often hung around while the secret plan were taking seat and would beg the boys to let her have a go on one of the heather. Occasionally, one of them would take pity on her and lend her their ling. Eventually, James and Albus realized that they had neglected their homework long enough and had to spend the entirely finish day of rift working on it. It took them much longer than usual, as they did not have rose wine there to help.

Harry spent much of the finish few daytime of break popping in and out of the Auror post. He left early in the day and came back late in the evening. He always came home looking tired, and Albus could tell that the investigation was not going well. His mum, grandma, and grandpa, seemed worried as well, although they tried not to mention details in forepart of the children. James and Albus had tried repeatedly to listen in on their conversations, but Molly was much more sleepless of them ever since she caught them using extendable Ears. She had a hard clip keeping teddy out of the conversations, though, because he was of age and out of school. However, Molly prevented Teddy from giving any information to St. James the Apostle or Albus.

On his way back to Hogwarts, Albus found himself wandering down the corridor in the Hogwarts Express with rosebush, yet again looking for a compartment. Only this time, he was in hunt of a particular one, the one that John, lustrelessness, and Amanda were in.

About halfway down the train, Albus and rosebush spotted their friend in one of the compartments. There was another female child in it, too. Albus recognized her as lustrelessness 's elder sister, Amy.

"Hi !"Albus grinned at his Quaker as he entered the compartment and sat down next to John.

"Hi,"everyone greeted him and Rose.

"So, how was everyone 's holiday ?"Rose asked.

"Great !"John smiled widely,"Got a commodity load of presents. All my relative were there at some point or another. Saved all my prep for yesterday, but somehow managed to get it done."

"Mine was gracious, too,"Amanda answered, as she reached into her bag,"But I 've got to show you rib something."She pulled out a modest, rectangular object and opened it to reveal two CRT screen, one above the other.

"What the bloody inferno is that ?"John asked, gaping at it.

"It 's called a Nintendo DS,"Amanda answered,"I got it for Hannukah. It 's something you play television secret plan on."

"Oh, I 've heard of video games,"John said,"But I 've never seen one before. Do you have any games for it ?"

"I 've got a few,"Amanda told him,"My ducky is Animal Crossing. You get to make your own Town and animals are your neighbour. I 've named my town Hogsmeade."

"Awesome,"Matt smiled. `` I got one of those a while ago. ``

"I hate to secernate you, but that 's not going to work at Hogwarts,"rose announced.

"Why not ?"can looked at her like she was crazy.

"Too a lot trick around. shuffling electronics not work right,"blush wine explained,"It 's in Hogwarts, A History."

"Oh,"Amanda 's smiling faded as she put her DS away,"I guess I 'll just give birth to dally it at home over the summer. My parents thought I would care it and it 's pretty fun. They were n't really certain what to get me. They could n't get me anything to do with magic. It was quite unusual, really, not being able-bodied to blab much about magic during break.."

"And how was your holiday, flatness ?"rosiness asked.

Albus turned to count at lustrelessness. He was just now noticing how wear he looked. He also had some nasty looking partially healed baseball swing all over his face and arms. His arms were bruised as well, and he looked like he was about quick to fall asleep. Albus and blush wine exchanged glances, but did n't say anything.

"It stunk,"Matt said flatly. He looked at his sister, who gave him a look.

"Why ?"lavatory asked.

"Well, I told you how I hate going to Commonwealth of Australia. We spent the whole break there, at my grandparents household. They 're so courtly, I could n't do anything fun."

"How 'd you get all those cuts ?"John wondered, as he stared at a particularly tight cut on mat 's forearm.

Matt shifted his eyes and once again looked at Amy, who nodded her head."I fell out of a tree."

"What ? !"John exclaimed,"How 'd you oversee that ?"

"well, you know how clumsy I am. And I was outside, trying to have some fun, because my grandparents wo n't let me do anything in the theater. I was up pretty high and I slipped. I fell all the way to the ground, hitting every branch as I went. Got knocked out halfway down. My grannie heard the noise and ran outside and found me unconscious on the ground. She freaked out, saying this is why I needed to ride out inside and do homework all day,"lusterlessness informed them. Everyone was staring at him, ineffectual to opine of something to say."Anyway, my mum and dad came rushing out, and I wound up spending a few days in the hospital down there."

"Whoa,"Amanda whispered,"I 'm happy you 're all rightfield. That 's scarey, though."

"Yeah,"John the Divine agreed,"Is that why you 're so wear out ?"

"Nope, that 's the jet lag,"Matt answered.

"The what ?"

"Jet lag,"mat repeated,"It 's what you get when you fly to different clip zona. Your rest gets all messed up."

"You flew to Australia ?"Albus looked amazed,"Blimey ! That 's a long meter to be on a broom."

Matt laughed,"Oh, no ! We flew in an airplane."

"Wow !"John looked impress,"But why did n't you just Apparate or something ? Or Flooed ?"

"The Aussie Ministry does n't allow out of land apparition,"Amy said, speaking for the maiden prison term."And our grandparents are Muggles, so we could n't Floo."

"That 's moderately awesome,"rose wine told mat,"My grandad loves all thing to do with Muggles. One of his life sentence 's ambition is to find out how airplanes stay up."

Everyone laughed. The compartment door opened and Victoire walked in."Hi, Amy ! I 've been looking for you."

"Hey,"Amy greeted her,"Want to stick her with us ?"

"Sure,"Victoire sat down future to Amy. She glanced at Matt, who was leaning up against the window."Is your sidekick ok ?"

"Yeah, he 's very well. He just fell out of a tree over rift and spent a few daylight in the infirmary. That and the jet lag are why he 's so tired,"Amy said quickly.

At that moment, the compartment room access opened again to unveil the someone Albus wanted to see the least. A self-satisfied looking Quinton Willinson walked in and and shut the doorway behind him.

"Something you want, Willinson ?"Victoire stood up and stared at him.

"Oh, just a watchword with your cousin,"Willinson glared at Albus,"Mind if we speak in private ?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact, I do,"Victoire growled,"Whatever it is, you can say it here, in nominal head of all of us."

"amercement,"Willinson turned to Albus,"Just thought I 'd let you know that you 'd better watch yourself, Potty."

Victoire stepped between Albus and Willinson."And why is that ?"

"Oh, you did n't have a go at it ?"Willinson smiled at her,"Baby stool here put that Exploding Eclair on my plate at Slughorn 's party. Him and his little posse here."

"How d'you figure that ?"Victoire continued to stare at him.

"I just know,"he answered,"So, you 'd meliorate lookout man out, Potty and friends."

Amy got up and stood next to Victoire."Is that a menace, Willinson ? Because anyone who does anything to my minuscule buddy regrets it."

"Oh, maybe it 's a threat, maybe it 's not,"Willinson sneered at her,"But I would n't worry too a good deal about your baby crony. Looks like he 's got enough legal injury already. Looks like he 's been hit by a truck."

In a pair of five seconds, Amy had whipped out her wand and had Willinson pinned against the rampart, holding her baton to his face."Do not touch Matt, or you will learn to regret it. You understand ? Do not do anything to him. I will find out, and you will wish well you 'd never even talked to him. Get it ?"Amy let him go, but did not put her wand away.

"You would n't try anything with the capitulum Girl here,"Willinson gestured to Victoire, as he pulled out his own wand.

"This headway Girl does not care what Amy does to anyone, if they do anything to her mob. And, I can add that if you do anything to my home, you 'll regret it as well,"Victoire pulled out her own wand and pointed it at Willinson,"Now I suggest you get out, before we 're forced to hex you."

Willinson, realizing licking, scowled and put his wand away. He opened the compartment doorway and with one finish public eye at Albus, he left.

"Wow,"Albus muttered, gazing at Victoire and Amy,"I 've never seen him back down before."

"When you 've spent almost seven age in the same rook as him, you learn that he only does something when he has the upper berth hand. He 'd never try anything when there are a couple masses up against him. Especially people who are better witches and wizards than he is. He 's really quite stupid person, honestly. He brags, but I do n't suppose he 'd win a duel against anyone above one-third yr,"Victoire told them.

"Every class, he picks a new kickoff yr to torment. We 've never been able to figure out why he picks the one he does. Usually it 's the pocket-sized or most frighten one. I 've got no estimate why he 's picked you, Albus,"Victoire continued,"He was picked on a lot when he was a first yr. Ever since then, he 's done the Saami thing to early first years. It 's pretty low, if you ask me. If he 's got to torment soul, he ought to do it to somebody closer to his age.

"It 's because he ca n't win a duel with somebody his own age. If he tried anything with anyone in our class, he 'd be hexed so much you could n't tell apart him. But anyway, I would not put it past him to try something on you, Albus. Just work sure you 're never alone in the corridors and you 'll be all right. He wo n't try anything where there 'd be witnesses or someone to block up him."

Amy nodded in agreement,"Same with you, Matt,"she looked at her brother, but he 'd fallen asleep."And probably the ease of you, too."

Albus nodded,"Who 'd he clean on last twelvemonth ?"

"James,"Victoire said,"But after James River pulled a few pranks on him, he gave up. It was quite funny story, really. He tried picking on Ben after that, but I stopped him."

"How ?"rosiness asked.

"He 's got this weird crush on me. Has ever since minute class. But I 'd never go out with him, of track. He 's such a git. Actually asked me to go to Hogsmeade our tierce class,"Victoire laughed,"But boy was he mad when I started going out with shift. Still has n't given up. Somehow he thinks that with Teddy out of the palace, I 'll decide to go out with him."

"It 's the Veela profligate,"Amy told them.

"He 's about the only if one, though. Everyone else gave up once I started going out with Teddy."

"Wow,"Rose said,"I just thought he did n't like us for some reason."

"Well, he does n't. But I do n't cognize why. It 'll be good for everyone when he 's gone side by side year,"Amy stated,"But for now, just make certainly you 're never alone in the corridors."

*******

Once the new term started, Albus and his acquaintance found themselves up to their pinna in homework. The teachers had already started warning them about final exam exams, despite the fact that they were months away. It was n't only the inaugural eld that were bombarded with body of work. It seemed that all the students had more piece of work than pattern. The common room often did not evacuate out until past midnight, with some pupil falling asleep in their reading. The fifth part and 7th years were spending more time than everyone else studying, due to the fact that their O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s seemed much closer from this side of Christmas Day.

Albus and his friends tended to part their prison term evenly between the common room and the program library. They went wherever it was less crowded. Albus and rosiness were finding it hard to find prison term to inquiry about whatever Hallows were, especially since they were rarely without can, matt, and Amanda. Albus doubted whether St. James was getting any research in either, because Samantha Meyers had increased Quidditch practice to four Nox a workweek due to the impending Gryffindor vs. Slytherin match.

One Nox, Albus and Rose did make out to receive meter to inquiry because Matt, whoremonger, and Amanda were all doing detention with Filch. Filch had caught them dueling with Scorpio Malfoy and put all four of them in detention. The entirely grounds Albus was not involved was because Harry had been speaking to Albus about his ambition. They had resumed once he was back in schooltime, although they had n't changed at all. rosiness had been talking to Professor Patil about a homework she thought she had messed up on, but it turned out she had a gotten a 100 % on it like usual. Albus had been trying to do a magical spell essay when rosebush came up to him and asked him if he wanted to go research. Albus was all too eager, since his charms essay was not going very well. So, the two cousins made their way to the library.

"I suppose we could bulge out by researching about the downfall of Voldemort,"blush wine suggested as they browsed through the books,"Since we 're pretty certainly it has something to do with that."

"All right,"Albus agreed,"That makes sense."Albus bent down and picked out a book,"The climb and Fall of Divine Voldemort, by Minerva McGonagall. Hmm, McGonagall, that sounds so familiar ... Where have I heard that before ?"

"Professor McGonagall,"rosiness reminded him,"She taught Transfiguration when our parents were here, and our grandparents. She was in the last struggle, so that 'd be a good Holy Writ to look at."

Albus took the book over to a mesa and started reading it. blush wine found another book and sat down next to him. Albus decided just to set out at the source, as he had no thought where Hallows would come into the pic. The low gear chapter was about Voldemort 's childhood. Albus already knew about that, so it was all basically critical review. But he read intently anyway, just hoping that he 'd translate the word 'Hallows'. However, as the even wore on, and Albus grew steadily more tired, he did not find out anything new.

"uncovering anything yet ?"he asked Rose.

Rose looked up from her Holy Writ, which was entitled The History of the nighttime Arts in Great United Kingdom,"No, nothing I do n't already know. And no quotation of any Hallows."

Albus sighed,"Me either. Curfew 's soon. Why do n't we just take the books out ?"

"Sounds secure to me,"Rose agreed. She walked over to Madam Pince while Albus followed.

lady Pince glared at them as they handed her the book. She read the names and gave them a foreign look, like she was wondering why they wanted to interpret them. Albus did n't fulfill her gaze, but he knew why she was staring at them. Why would Harry ceramicist 's son pauperism to study about the downfall of Voldemort ? After she seemed satisfied with staring at them, she checked the books out and handed them back."They 're due in a month. Do not compose in them or deform them or injure them in any way."

Once they were out of the library, they relaxed,"She 's a nutter,"Albus whispered.

"She 's a bit strange, yeah,"rose wine agreed.

"Acts like the record book are Au,"Albus giggled.

"She thinks we 're up to something, the way she stared at us like that,"Rose said.

"I know, but that makes sense."

"Yes, I suppose it does. I just hope she does n't tell your dad,"Rose told him as she walked up a set of stairs.

"She probably wo n't. I do n't recollect they 're particularly close. Dad got in a trouble a few multiplication at the library."

rosiness laughed,"Oh, yeah."

Albus and Rose continued their trek to the common room. Once there, Albus quickly went to the dormitory room to hide his Bible before his champion came back from hold. But after an hour of waiting for them, Albus fell asleep. It was a ungratified slumber, as he had the Lapplander nightmare he usually had. Despite this, he did not waken up when lav and Matt came in at midnight.

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A/N : Thanks as usual to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my other baby, and my brother ! Please read and review.

I am not sure when I 'll following update, since I might be in school by the time this validates. I will try to update soon, but I ca n't pee any guarantees. But I 'll still be writing ! I am well into the subsequence to this, I 'm on chapter 30, I believe. I 'm also working on another fic, particular to come later, which I will start posting as soon as I get past a certain chapter in this. There are pamperer for this fic in my new one, so it will have to wait a trivial patch to be posted.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter. Or Ron Weasley. Or Hermione husbandman. I do n't even own the smallest owl in the owlery. Or the owlery for that issue. But I do enjoy writing this for fun !

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"That was savage last night !"bathroom groaned as he sat down next to Albus at breakfast the next dawning. Albus had awoken early and could n't get back to sleep. John and matt were both sound asleep, so Albus had just gone down to breakfast with out them.

"I 'll say,"lusterlessness sat down on Albus 's other slope and winced as he did so,"I ache all over."matt was just starting to get back to pattern after his tree incident over break. In the few days after returning to schooling, he had walked very slowly and Albus could tell that he was sore. Albus had assumed he had gotten a few cave in bones from the incident, but never asked, as Matt did n't seem too piercing on discussing it.

"What 'd he give birth you do ?"Albus asked while he watched mat rub his arm.

"Clean Moaning Vinca minor 's john,"John answered as he piled his plate with eggs and Bacon,"It was torture. He had us do it the Muggle way of course of instruction. He had us doing it for 3 time of day. We could n't manage to get it scavenge the way he wanted it. And he made mat scrub the trading floor, so he had to be down on his hands and knees the whole night. I could tell it was making his hurt from falling out of that tree harm worse, so I suggested to Filch that I could do the floor and Matt could do the sink, but Filch said no. He seemed to submit joy in seeing Matt suffer. It was nasty. Amanda had to do the toilet with Malfoy. He did something to one of them that made it regurgitate. That was gross. So she had to clean that one again and matt had to re-scrub the floor."

"Maybe you should see if Madam Pomfrey can do anything for you ?"Albus asked lustrelessness. lusterlessness had only eaten a few bites of toast and was wincing every time he moved.

"You know she does n't do anything for pain induced by Muggle cleansing,"John said disgustedly.

"Actually, I think I will go see her,"Matt mumbled and got up from the mesa,"I 'll see you in demurrer Against the Dark Arts."

Once Matt left, John shook his caput,"You know she wo n't do anything to help oneself him."

"I know, she probably wo n't if he says the injuries are from cleaning. But she will if he says they 're leftover from that whole tree matter,"Albus reasoned.

"Hope so,"trick agreed,"He was big last Nox when we were doing the detention. Filch was horrible to him, told him to cancel faster. And Malfoy smirked at him every clock time he looked over from his toilets."

"I really do n't wish that Malfoy kid,"Amanda added. She had come into the Great Hall and sat down across from Albus. rose sat down in Matt 's vacated can.

"detention 's bad enough with Filch, but Malfoy kept muttering about lustrelessness not even being able to Muggle clean. Filch did n't get word any of it."

"Ugh,"pink wine groaned,"I hope I 'm never in detainment with him."

"You 're never in detainment,"Albus chimed in.

"I know. I never get caught,"she grinned. This was true. Albus knew she had pulled her fairish percentage of japery on the Slytherins, usually involving some kind of Sweet from Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes that turned diverse body parts into different colors. And there was no way anyone could pin it on her.

At that here and now, the bird of night arrived with the mail."Look, it 's Patches,"Rose announced as a large tawny owl arrived at Albus 's place. Patches was rosiness 's family 's owl."He 's got a letter for you and James."

Albus called James over and the two of them looked at the letter. Albus opened it and learn it silently.

lamb William James and Albus,
I hope the new terminus is going well. I imagine you
spending much of your meter studying. I have managed
to secure an discharge classroom for our Occlumency
example. They will charter place in the metamorphosis
way on Tuesday and Sat even, at eight o'clock.
We will startle this Saturday. I 'll see you then.
Say hi to Rose for me.
With Love,
auntie Hermione

Albus looked at James I,"wellspring, I guess we 'll go on Saturday."

"Yeah, I suppose. Blimey, I ca n't conceive of this is going to be fun,"St. James the Apostle responded.

"Probably not. But it 's got to be comfortably than the Occlumency lessons Dad had,"Albus reminded him.

"Yeah,"James agreed,"wellspring, I 'm off to Potions. I 'll see ya later."

"Bye."

"Occlumency, aplomb,"John said,"I wondered when you 'd start those."

Albus had told John the Evangelist, Matt, and Amanda all about the dreams and Legilimency shortly after they arrived back at the castling."Guess we 're starting on Saturday."

"We 'd better be off to DADA,"John reminded them. Albus got up and followed John out of the dorm, with Amanda and rosiness following.

Matt never showed up in DADA. Albus doubted that he would because he looked pretty worn out at breakfast. Albus figured his dad must have known that matt was in the Hospital flank because he skipped right over his public figure during attendance. It was a good DADA lesson. They spent the majority of it practicing disarming each early. Albus and John the Divine had a good clip doing so, as both of them were quite skilled with that particular trance. They were the few who were thoroughly at it. almost of the other pupil had a hard fourth dimension with it, which was why Harry had them practicing it so often. He stressed that it was one of the most of import magical spell to surmount. Amanda, in particular, was having a tough fourth dimension with it, but she did manage to disarm Rose once during the object lesson.

good luck charm, on the other hand, was another catastrophe. Professor Washbburn stormed into the room, and Albus immediately stopped talking. He was sitting at his usual back hold over with lavatory, pink wine, and Amanda.

Washburn quickly ran down the attendance leaning, stopping at Matt 's name."Where 's Eckerton ?"he barked loudly. No one answered."Potter ! Where 's Eckerton ?"

"In the Hospital offstage,"Albus whispered.

"Speak louder !"Washburn screamed.

"I said he 's in the hospital Wing, Sir,"Albus said.

"He 's always in the infirmary wing. What 's wrong with him this time ?"Washburn muttered to himself.

Albus chose not to answer that question and he sat lower in his seat.

"fountainhead, we 're going to give another endeavor at levitation today,"Washburn growled,"But we 're not levitating plumage this time. All of you who are somewhat skilled at this course of study have managed that already,"he glared towards the backrest table and his eye rested on Albus."You 'll be levitating books, so do n't hit anyone with them. Go on, get started."The class all took out their books and wand, while Washburn took his usual posterior behind his desk and glared at them.

Albus reluctantly muttered the conjuration and his book moved an column inch off the desk and fell back again. He looked at privy, rosebush, and Amanda. After a few attempts, pink wine had managed to levitate her book, although she received no congratulations from their professor. bathroom was able-bodied to do it after a half hour of practice, not receiving any praise either. Amanda was having a bit more trouble, but was still doing intimately than Albus.

With ten minute of arc left in the class, Washburn started making his round of drinks to all the students, and much to Albus 's disheartenment, he stopped at his table.

"fountainhead, Potter, let 's see if you 're skillful with Scripture than feathers. Go ahead, levitate it,"Washburn sneered.

Albus muttered the spell quickly and his book managed to get a few inches off the table before falling back down.

"Do it again,"Washburn glared at him.

Albus did it again, this time making the book float a total foot off the table. Albus was so shocked that he jerked his verge and caused the book to start speeding towards one of the windows. Albus knew what was going to happen right before it did. The book flew right at the window, not stopping when it reached it, and soared straight through. The glass shattered and showered a few students with shards. They screamed as the glass cut their arms.

"potter !"Washburn shouted,"Must you always make trouble in this social class ? !"

Albus did not say a word, he just stared down at his desk.

"Detention ! Saturday night !"Washburn screamed,"You,"he pointed at the students who were showered with glassful,"Go to the hospital fender. The rest of you, family dismissed."

"Um, professor,"Albus whispered,"I ca n't do custody on Sabbatum night."

"And why on Earth not ?"Washburn seethed,"I 'll settle when you 'll do detention."

"I 've got a coming together with my aunt."

"Your aunt can wait."

"No, she ca n't. I 'm supposed to get, er, example from her,"Albus said, not wanting to let on what the lessons were."You can ask the Headmaster."

"amercement. I 'll do that, then,"Washburn told him,"Now get out !"

Albus ran quickly out of the room and managed to catch up with his friends as they were entering the Great vestibule for lunch."That was horrible."

"I know,"John agreed.

"I hate spell,"Albus groaned as he sat down at the mesa,"I do n't want to do that detention. It 's gon na be worse now that he 's got to put it off until after Saturday."

"He definitely will,"Rose agreed,"Hey ! Matt, you 're back !"

flatness came over to the table, looking a bit better than he did that morning."Yeah, sorry I missed two lessons. I heard about what happened in magic spell. That Washburn 's an idiot."

"So Madam Pomfrey actually helped ?"John looked at matte in awe.

"Yeah, she did,"matte told them,"And it 's a good affair. I do n't opine I could have gone to any course of study today if she didn't."

"But why ?"john asked,"Did you say the hurt were leftover from the fall ?"

"Nope,"Matt responded,"She knew they were from detention. But she healed them anyway. I guess because I was n't totally over the unscathed tree affair. She seemed pretty upset about the completely matter. Kept going on about how irresponsible Filch is and how he should n't have made me do all that cleaning. Said she was going to let the cat out of the bag to the Headmaster about it and everything."

"Blimey,"John looked at flatness warily,"I 've never seen her mad about wound from Muggle cleaning before. Always says we bring it upon ourselves."

Matt shrugged and piled his denture with intellectual nourishment and started eating, not elaborating on his trip to the hospital Wing.

Albus had a unknown tone that there was more to the tree diagram news report than Matt was letting on about. He could tell that Matt was trying to cover something up, and he could n't help but think about the loup-garou inquiry that he and rose wine had done over time out. There had been a full synodic month over the holiday and Albus kept thinking that the tree story was just a covering up. He saw how Matt had looked at his Sister before telling the story and he seemed a bit wary on telling it in the outset spot. As Albus started eating his lunch, he decided to watch Matt carefully around the time of the next full moon Sun Myung Moon, which was in two weeks.

Double potions with the Slytherins was after tiffin that day. Albus thought the course went pretty well. Slughorn lectured on the Shrinking answer during the 1st half and the second half was spent attempting to make the potion. Albus was partnered with John, and although their potion was a tad abstemious than the desired color, both boy thought they did pretty well.

`` What 's that, Potty ? '' Scorpius Malfoy appeared behind Albus as he was putting his vial of Shrinking root on Slughorn 's desk at the end of class.

`` A potion, what else do you think it could be ? '' Albus answered flatly.

`` Looks more like cat sick, '' Malfoy laughed as he put his potion, which happened to be the perfect color, onto Slughorn 's desk. `` Ca n't even brew a simple shrinking resolution. ``

`` At least I can unarm soul, which is a unanimous lot more useful than making potions, '' Albus retorted as he started to lead the elbow room. Malfoy had extremum difficulty in disarming his partner during that morning 's dad class.

`` As if I 'd try disarming if someone were attacking me, '' Malfoy laughed. A few of his cronies giggled behind him. `` A hex would influence loads better. ``

`` You know perfectly well that disarming works better than hex, Malfoy, '' Matt had caught up to them in the dungeon corridor, `` Professor thrower says that every clip we practice disarming. ``

`` And I suppose you 're an expert on defense now, Eckerton ? Judging by the way you looked survive nighttime, a five year old could wash up you in a duel, '' Malfoy sneered at him. `` By the way, rumor has it that Madam Pomfrey actually healed your injuries from in conclusion night 's detention. That true ? ``

Matt froze and stared at Malfoy. `` Yeah, so ? '' he whispered.

Malfoy smirked, `` After I heard that I went up to see if she 'd bring around my injuries. My mitt 's been aching all day. She glared at me and told me if I should remember about my paw the next time I 'm about to check the rules, then she shooed me out and said to get to family. ``

`` goodness for you, '' mat answered.

`` wellspring, why ? Why 'd she heal you, but not me ? What 's so particular about you ? '' Malfoy asked.

`` I dunno, '' flatness glanced around at his friends.

`` There 's something weird about you, '' Malfoy stepped towards Matt.

`` Why do n't you just shut it ? '' John shouted and pulled out his wand.

`` Gon na rescue your friend, Brickston ? '' Malfoy pulled out his own sceptre, `` Or maybe you could distinguish me why he 's always in the infirmary extension. ``

`` Do n't reckon I can, '' Gospel According to John answered, `` But I could make sure you spend the rest of the day there, if you like. ``

`` Ooo, gon na duel me ? '' Malfoy turned to John, `` Well, I dunno what 's up with Eckerton, but I 'm going to find out. ``

`` What 's going on here ? '' Amy came running up behind Malfoy, `` What do you think you 're doing ! ? '' she shouted at Malfoy, once she realized that his wand was still pointed at Matt.

`` Ah, Eckerton 's sister ! Maybe she 'll tell me why ma'am Pomfrey treats him special ? '' Malfoy grinned maliciously at Amy.

Amy stood between Malfoy and Matt and glared at Malfoy, `` That 's none of your job. And if you point your wand at him again, you 'll regret it. '' She turned around, threw her arm around matte, and dragged him away towards the stairs.

`` Believe me, I 'll detect out, '' Malfoy smirked at John, put his scepter away, and sauntered off towards the Slytherin vulgar room.

`` Blimey, '' privy said, once Malfoy was out of earshot, `` He 's mad. ``

`` Yeah, he is, '' Albus agreed, `` He knows something 's up with Matt, too. And I do n't remember he 's going to pass up until he finds out. ``

`` Well, we ca n't let him find out, then, '' John the Evangelist stated.

`` But we do n't even know for sure ! '' Albus reminded him.

`` True, '' John shrugged, `` But I think we 're right. And Amy 's so protective of him. Did you see her aspect when Malfoy asked her to tell him ? ``

`` She was seething. Just like on the train after break, '' Albus said, while starting to take the air up the stairs to the Entrance Hall.

`` We 've got to find out for sure. ``

`` He 'll tell us what it is eventually, '' Albus insisted, `` He 'll recognize that he can trust us. ``

`` That 's the thing, I do n't make out if he will, especially if it is what we think it is, '' John sighed.

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Thanks as always to Rain is Liquid Moonlight, my crony, and my early sister ! Also thanks to inkheart for the review. Please read and look back !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramist, or anything related to it.

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Albus and his supporter spent the future few daylight trying to keep off Malfoy. It was n't difficult since well-nigh of their spare clock time was spent in the unwashed way doing homework. Matt was especially leery of Malfoy and made sure to hide behind lavatory, who was a head taller than him, whenever they passed Malfoy in the hallway. Despite this, matt seemed to act like the showdown with Malfoy had never happened, and did not appear to want to severalise Albus or his other friends what his secret was. whoremaster did not seem surprised at this, but Albus had thought that maybe after what had happened with Malfoy, Matt might want to trust in someone. Amy also had started keeping a close eye on Matt after this upshot, which was odd because during fall term, she would often go a day or two without talking to Matt. Now it seemed that she was checking up on him at least once a day.

`` Hi, guys, '' Amy greeted Albus and his friend on Sabbatum eve. Albus, bathroom, Matt, rosebush, and Amanda were all clustered around a table in the common room, working on versatile homework assignments. `` What 's everyone up to ? ``

`` Homework, '' lustrelessness groaned. He was working on a particularly difficult essay for Potions.

`` well, some of us are working on it, '' Rose chimed in, glaring at John.

`` What ? '' privy smiled innocently, `` I 've got all tomorrow to do it. ``

Rose sighed, `` You 'd do better to start it today. ``

`` I know, '' trick agreed, `` But right now I 'm enjoying watching you study, while I sit and do nothing. '' blush wine groaned and went back to her reading.

`` So, '' Amy started, as she sat down next to Matt, `` How are you ? ``

`` I 'm ticket, '' Matt replied, `` But I 'd be bettor if you 'd do this essay for me. ``

`` Not gon na happen, '' Amy grinned, `` I 'm glad you 're doing thoroughly. Have you all been staying away from Willinson ? He has n't bothered any of you, has he ? If he has, I 'll get Victoire to put him in his property. ``

`` No, '' Albus answered, `` Have n't talked to him since the train. Strange, really. ``

`` fountainhead, good, '' Amy said, `` Hopefully it 'll stay that way. But do n't go alone anywhere. He does n't give up this quickly. ``

`` We know, Amy, '' lusterlessness snapped, `` You 're not our mum. ``

Albus looked up from his study at the speech sound of the impending argument. He could get sworn he saw mat 's eyes flash gold, but they were back to their common blue air within a second.

`` Jeez, Matt. I 'm just making sure he does n't rag you. Mum said- ''

`` I know what Mum said ! '' matt cut her off loudly.

`` Could you please be a bit quieter ? '' Amanda asked in a frazzled tone.

`` Sorry, '' Amy and Matt mumbled and continued arguing in softer spokesperson.

Albus glanced over and saw that she was working on her astronomy charts. She had been having a punk prison term in astronomy all twelvemonth. `` Need any serve ? ``

`` Ugh, '' Amanda groaned, `` It 's uranology. I 'm rubbish at it. I 've been doing this chart for the past times hr. Anyone know when the next full lunation is ? ``

Both Amy and lustrelessness jerked their heads toward Amanda. `` Two weeks from tonight. The 24th, '' Matt whispered quickly, then looked back at Amy. Amy glared at him and they resumed their argument.

`` Uh, thanks, '' Amanda looked cautiously at both mat and Amy, and then started writing furiously on her chart.

Albus glanced across the mesa at Rose, who was already trying to catch his attention. The cousins looked at each early for a few seconds, and then quickly returned to their homework. nonentity said anything for a few transactions, with the exclusion of Amy and matte, who were still arguing. However, they were doing so so quietly that Albus was unable to make out any of the words.

`` Blimey ! '' James had walked over to the table and standing tail Rose. `` Who died ? ``

`` Huh ? '' Albus looked up from his work.

`` You 're so quiet ! '' James replied.

`` Oh, uh, '' Albus glanced at Amy and lustrelessness, `` They were arguing about something. ``

`` Ah, sibling love, it 's a wonderful thing, '' Saint James the Apostle grinned, `` So, you ready to get your judgment read by Aunt Hermione ? ``

Albus looked up at the clock, it was quarter to eight, `` Bloody hell, I forgot about that ! ``

`` Good thing I remembered, '' James said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus put his record into his bag and got up, `` I 'm set. ``

Rose got up as well, `` I 'm going too. I want to see Mum. ``

`` Ok, '' James I turned around and started walking towards the entrance.

`` Good luck, '' john waved as Albus followed his buddy. Amanda waved, but did n't look up from her study. matte and Amy were too busy arguing to find Albus and rosebush leave.

Albus, James, and rose left the common room to find a desolate corridor. `` soundly, no one 's out here, '' rose wine whispered.

`` Why ? '' James IV asked.

`` Wanted to speak to you two alone about our, er, research, '' Rose answered. `` Have either of you found anything ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus told her, `` I 've been reading bits of McGonagall 's book before I go to bed every Night. It 's the only meter I can do it in secret. I just pull the hanging closed, and everyone thinks I 'm sleeping. ``

`` I 've been doing the same thing, '' rose revealed, `` But I have n't so practically as read the word of honor 'Hallows'. ``

`` Er, I have n't even found a book of account to study yet, '' James I confessed.

`` Well, find one soon ! '' pink wine scolded, `` We 've got to find out what our parents are hiding from us ! ``

`` I know, I know, '' James said.

`` I 've read a couple so far, and Madam Pince keeps eying me when I check them out, '' Rose told them, `` But I 've got a feeling we 're not going to find anything in Holy Scripture. ``

`` Really ? '' St. James grinned, `` Are you doubting leger ? ``

`` Shut it, James, '' Rose warned, `` I 'm going to start looking at the old seer articles they have in the library. ``

`` auditory sensation full, '' Albus said as they rounded the corner and walked towards the transfiguration room.

When they walked in, Hermione was standing near a stone catchment basin that Albus recognized as the Pensive. Hermione was pulling thoughts out of her head with her verge and placing them into the basin. Albus wondered if maybe those thoughts had to do with what his parents were keeping from him. If only he could see the memories without Hermione knowing.

Hermione turned around when Albus shut the door behind them, `` Hi, boys ! '' she greeted.

`` Hi, '' James and Albus said back.

`` Oh, and Rose, you 're here too ! '' Hermione walked over to her daughter and gave her a hug.

`` Hi, Mum ! ``

`` How 's condition going ? '' Hermione asked.

`` Oh, pretty safe, '' pink wine answered, `` Loads of prep, but I 'm getting it done. I 'm afraid I lost a few points on the last appealingness essay. I hope I did n't, though. ``

`` I 'm sure as shooting you did fine on it, '' Hermione reassured her. `` How about you two ? How are your grade going ? ``

`` All right, '' St. James replied, `` But I 'm afraid I lost more than just a few points on my last Charms essay. '' King James laughed.

`` And I 'm not so for certain you did fine on it, '' Hermione responded, `` And you, Albus ? ``

`` Oh, it 's going well, I suppose, '' Albus told his aunt, `` And I 'm afraid I completely failed the good luck charm essay. ``

`` Do n't worry, I 'm sure enough you at least scraped a passing degree, '' Hermione said.

`` I dunno, Washburn hates me. ``

`` professor Washburn, and I do n't think that 's avowedly, '' Hermione told him, `` But that 's not why we 're her tonight. Tonight, you will embark on learning Occlumency. Rose, are you staying ? ``

`` Can I ? '' pink wine asked, `` I 've read a bit about Occlumency and it sounds very concern. ``

`` Of course you can stay. I do n't guess I will cause you do any practical workplace, but you 're welcome to see the theory, '' Hermione informed her.

`` You mean, we 're going to have reading to do ? '' James IV asked disgustedly.

`` Of course, '' Hermione laughed, `` What did you expect ? ``

`` I dunno, Dad 's Occlumency lessons were all practical, '' James I reminded her.

`` I know, but I feel it 's easily for you to learn the theory as well, '' Hermione informed them, `` Now, could you all sit down ? ``

Albus, James, and Rose all sat at the board closest to the instructor 's desk.

`` Good, now I 've got some books for you, '' Hermione picked up two volume and placed them in front of Albus and St. James the Apostle, `` rosiness, I did n't make love you 'd be studying this as well, so I do n't feature a book for you. You can look on with your cousins and if you decide to keep coming to our lessons then I 'll get you a book of account, too. ``

Albus looked at his book. It was entitled, Legilimency and Occlumency : The Art of Seeing Others'Thoughts and Protecting Your Own Mind.

`` Creative statute title, '' James whispered and they both laughed.

`` Open the books to paginate five, please, '' Hermione told them, `` Now, as you are both aware, Legilimency is what is used to see into another person 's thought, or as some say, read their thinker. When the turn, Legilimens, is used, a mortal can see into another 's opinion. This can be done if the someone getting the magic spell performed on is awake or at rest. When the someone is awake, they feel an odd sentience in their school principal, form of like a headache, but not exactly. They often also see their own memories. If the person is asleep, then they often have strange dreams or dreams about their storage. ``

`` Hey, Voldemort 's in this Quran ! '' Rose exclaimed. Albus notice that she was leafing through the initiative chapter.

`` Yes, he is, '' Hermione responded briskly, `` Lord Voldemort, although he was a atrocious, evil person, was one of the most skilled Legilimens and Occlumens the Wizarding World has ever seen. He is a perfect representative of why Legilimency and Occlumency are both very dangerous if used in the wrong way. Voldemort was able to tell exactly where his Death Eaters loyalties really lay, as well as stay fresh others from knowing his innermost thoughts and secrets. ``

Hermione continued her lecturing for a one-half hour, giving a abbreviated overview of the first chapter. This chapter explained what Legilimency and Occlumency were and went over the basics needed to try Occlumency. Henry James and Albus were expected to read the commencement chapter and answer a few interrogative sentence before the adjacent class.

`` Now, for the following one-half hour, I 'd like to start the practical scene of this lesson, '' Hermione stood up and picked up her wand. `` Who wants to go first ? ``

James and Albus looked at each early. `` You 're previous, you go first, '' Albus told his brother.

`` All right, '' James stood up and pointed his verge at his aunt.

`` Remember, there 's no spell. You 've got to close your brain. subscribe to a few minutes to try to clear all view from your head. ``

James II lowered his wand and started to stare directly at the rampart behind Hermione. After a few minute, a vacuous expression appeared on his face.

`` Good, '' Hermione said, `` Ready ? ``

Henry James looked back at her with a neural expression on his boldness, `` I suppose. ``

`` Legilimens ! '' Hermione shouted.

King James looked horrified as he stared at his aunty. He dropped his wand and pressed his hand to his forehead. Hermione continued to point her wand at him, but it was obvious that he was n't succeeding at closing his mind. He had sunk down to the floor, with his hands on his head. Hermione lowered her wand and walked over to him.

`` Are you all right ? '' she asked, extending her hand for James to grab.

`` Fine, '' James mumbled as he took Hermione 's helping hand and stood up again, `` It 's just, that 's exactly what it felt like when someone did that to me during hold. ``

`` That 's because that was what someone did to you during detention, '' Hermione explained.

`` But I did n't learn anyone shouting 'Legilimens', '' James told her.

`` They were doing it non-verbally. We 'll get to that point in our lessons eventually, but for now I will do it verbally so you know what 's going on, '' Hermione said, `` Now, that was a pretty good endeavor for the first fourth dimension. You see now how hard it is to fold your head. ``

`` Yeah, '' James agreed as he sat back down.

`` Your turn, Albus, '' Hermione announced.

Albus had momentarily forgotten that he, too, had to have his aunt read his psyche. He got up, his mettle beating fast. He had never had Legilimency performed on him while he was awake, and he did not experience what to expect.

`` Try to solve your mind, '' Hermione told him as she walked a few feet away and turned around to wait.

Albus tried to straighten out his mind, but it was hard. His idea were consumed with whether Matt was a lycanthrope or not. He was also constantly thinking about what 'Hallows'could possibly be. Not to remark the grounds why he was having these lessons in the first gear property. It was difficult not to remember about individual seeing his thoughts.

`` Ready ? '' Hermione asked. Albus nodded with a skittish aspect on his face.

`` Legilimens ! '' she shouted.

The schoolroom seemed to disappear as Albus was thrown into his own store. He was four years old and James had stolen the toy broom he had received on his birthday. James was flying it around while Albus chased him. The scene changed and he saw the meter he dropped a sharp tongue onto his foot, but instead of slicing it spread, the tongue just bounced off it. He had been four then, as well, and that was the first witching matter he did. The scene changed yet again and Albus was seven and was playing with his cousins at the Burrow. Then he was at family, reading his Hogwarts missive. The scene changed for a last time, he and rosiness were sitting in rosiness 's bedroom at the Burrow, researching about werewolf. Albus 's heart beatnik faster. He could n't let his aunty see that.

`` No ! '' Albus exclaimed, and the classroom reappeared in front of him. He glanced around and was half surprised that he was still standing up, since James had collapsed during his attempt.

Hermione was looking at him and then she glanced at rose, then back to Albus. She had obviously seen a bit of the shoemaker's last memory. `` Well, you actually managed to stop me, although not by pattern means of Occlumency. But that is very sound for a starting time try. What was that terminal memory ? ``

`` nada, nothing, '' Albus replied quickly, averting his gaze from his aunt.

`` Very well, I think that is enough for tonight. Albus, St. James the Apostle, keep practicing. Try to conclude your judgement before you go to bed. I 'll see you all on Tuesday. Good luck with all your year. And try to conduct yourselves during magic spell, '' Hermione added.

`` We do ! '' James insisted, `` Professor Washburn just does n't like us. ``

`` Be that as it may, you do involve to pass his class, '' Hermione reminded them, `` Good night. ``

`` Night, '' Albus, James, and Rose said as they left the classroom.

`` So, what was that memory that you did n't want my mum to see ? '' Rose asked curiously once they were out of hearing of the classroom.

`` Later, '' Albus whispered, glancing at James.

`` Blimey, that 's some unknown hooey, Legilimency and Occlumency, '' King James I announced after a few moment of silence, `` But you seem good at it, Albus. ``

`` Maybe, '' Albus responded.

`` Better than me. I could n't do anything during it. Just kind of forgot everything except the memories I was seeing. Could n't think of anything to do about it, '' James I explained.

`` You 've just got to practice it, '' Albus told him, `` Plus, this was just the initiatory clock time. And anyway, I 've got to recall of something better to do than just shouting out random things. People will mean I 'm a nutter if I 'm just shouting out 'no'all the time. ``

Saint James laughed, `` Well, I already know you 're a nutter. ``

`` Oh, shut it, William James, '' Albus laughed and punched King James I in the arm. King James punched him back and they continued that until they reached the Fat Lady. rosebush followed behind and muttered something that sounded like 'boys'.

When they arrived back at the park room, James II immediately went to his dorm room so he could tell his friends about the lesson.

`` So, what was the retention ? '' Rose whispered to Albus.

`` When we were researching about wolfman, '' Albus told her, `` I did n't want aunty Hermione to know about that. ``

`` Why not ? '' Rose asked.

`` I dunno, really. I mean, it 's not like she had a trouble with shift 's dad. I guess she just came awfully close to seeing our other research, '' Albus explained.

`` just power point, '' rose agreed, `` But you know, you 've got to practice this. What if she does find out about that ? She 'll tell apart Uncle Harry. ``

`` I know, I know, I 'll practice, '' Albus assured her.

`` Good, '' Rose seemed quenched, `` Now, we 'd better get to bed. Good night. ``

`` Night, '' Albus said as he walked to the door to the hall. As he lay in bed trying to get to log Z's, listening to Bilius 's snoring, he tried to close his mind. 'Think about nothing ,'he kept repeating in his mind. But it did n't work, because Albus yet again had the same nightmare.

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A/N : Hope everyone liked it ! I am a bit embarrassed to admit that I have been typing my own babe 's username wrong in the by few Author 's promissory note I 've done for this fic. Her name is Dancer Of Starlight. I must be mixing it up with another site. So thanks, Dancer Of Starlight for reading this and helping me with it ! Thanks also to my early sister and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart, for the review article, you 're awe-inspiring ! Please read and review, everyone !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramist

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During the next two week, tensity ran high between the Gryffindors and Slytherins. As the impending Quidditch catch grew nearer, there were Thomas More and to a greater extent duels in the corridors. These usually resulted in assorted actor having to go to the Hospital annex. Luckily, no one had been severely injured yet. However, both Houses were starting to be very protective of their players. Samantha Meyers forbade anyone on the Gryffindor team from wandering the corridors alone. She was also getting more and more than intense with her practice schedules. Samantha had started scheduling a exercise for every night of the week. Every evening, the Gryffindor team came trooping back into the common way well after night, looking tired and worn out. Slytherin was also practicing each day, but they got an to begin with time in the evening.

Nightly Quidditch practices did not bode well for James River 's Occlumency lessons. He had asked Hermione if he could pass over the lessons until after the match, but she would not allow it. King James I grudgingly skipped his Quidditch practice, much to Samantha 's alarm. She was not happy about James missing practice. Hermione actually sent her a letter, which got her to terminate worrying St. James about practice.

Albus thought he was making a bit of procession with his Occlumency. He had been reading the volume and doing the homework, although he did not love it. Occlumency was like having another class to take, so he wound up with more homework than the relief of his classmates. Albus had not yet succeeded in preventing Hermione from entering his mind, but he usually managed to pressure her out after a little while. He was relieved that he had so far prevented her from discovering his Hallows research. Despite this, he was still having strange nightmares a duad of Nox a week. James was not making nearly as much progress as Albus. He had yet to stop Hermione 's Legilimency at all, and was still collapsing on the floor occasionally. James II was getting increasingly fed up with Occlumency and did not savour the lessons at all.

As the Quidditch match, and the full synodic month, grew closer, Albus started to keep an eye on flatness for augury of illness. The day before the friction match, flatness almost slept through breakfast. John had to wake him up before he left for the Great Hall. Albus watched him throughout DADA and noticed that he was much more tired than usual. He kept his headway on the desk the entire class and did n't take any preeminence. Harry did not say anything about this, which Albus thinking was strange because whenever anyone else fell asleep in former stratum, the instructor woke them up. Albus could n't remember a clip when individual fell asleep in pa, though, because usually that class was exciting.

`` Are you ok ? '' Albus asked matt as they were walking to Charms.

`` fine, '' matt responded. He was walking a bit slow than usual, `` Just tired. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus said warily, `` But if you want to go to the Hospital Wing during Charms, I 'll offer to pick out you. ``

`` I will too, '' Gospel According to John agreed, `` Anything to get out of that socio-economic class. ``

The boys immediately stopped talking once they entered the Charms classroom and went to their usual back table. Once he sat down, lusterlessness put his head down on top of his book. Washburn stormed into the room a few seconds later and started taking attendance.

`` I 'm lecturing today, pack out your notes, '' he barked at the class. Everyone silently found quills and lambskin as Washburn pointed his wand at the board. Notes appeared on it and Albus started copying them down. Washburn started talking and droned on for about half the period without stopping, even when bookman raised their hands to ask questions. Albus did not glance up to wait at him at all. Once he finished copying his notes, he looked over at Matt and noticed that he had fallen asleep. Unfortunately, Washburn had noticed, too.

`` Eckerton ! '' Washburn shouted while he walked towards the back table, `` This is not nap time ! ``

`` I do n't consider he 's feeling well, sir, '' John the Evangelist said tentatively.

`` I did n't ask how he 's feeling ! '' Washburn growled at can. `` Now wake up and pay aid ! '' he shouted again.

Matt slowly picked up his capitulum and stared at Washburn, `` Huh ? ``

`` I said this is not nap time ! '' Washburn screamed.

`` Oh, sorry, '' Matt mumbled. He stared down at his book and rested his head on his hand.

Washburn grumbled something incoherent and got back to his speech. Matt kept his point up the rest of the class, but did n't take any notes. Although he did go to uranology after lunch, matt did not seem to pay much attention in that class either. After grade was over, he went up to the hall and slept straight through dinner.

`` What early explanation could there be ? '' Rose wondered aloud in the plebeian room that Night. She, Albus, John, and Amanda were sitting around a table after dinner. The pre-Quidditch match excitement kept the bedlam and noise in the park way up, so no one was paying much attention to what they were talking about.

`` I do n't think there is another one, '' Albus told her, `` He 's got to be a werewolf. He gets sick every full Moon and leaves overnight. When he comes back he 's still grisly and he 's got injuries. ``

`` I 'm sure he is one, '' john agreed, `` Just desire he tells us soon, or I 'm just going to have to tell him I know. It 's gon na be hard to enshroud that we know. ``

`` recollect how intemperately it is for flatness ? Hiding that from everyone, '' Albus reminded him.

`` True. ``

`` So, who thinks we 'll win the lucifer tomorrow ? '' Albus asked, changing the subject.

`` I do ! '' King John shouted, `` With your cousin 's new broom, we 'll be unbeatable. ``

`` Definitely, '' Amanda agreed, `` I ca n't wait to see it in military action. ``

`` You 've really gotten into Quidditch, have n't you ? '' rose giggled.

`` Sure have, it 's so much in effect than football game, '' Amanda told her.

******

The match was to be held in the too soon afternoon, which was a bit later than the late Gryffindor vs. Hufflepuff couple. Albus and his friends spent the to begin with section of the day playing whiz 's chess game and Exploding piece of cake in the common room. lustrelessness seemed too tired to diddle anything, so he laid on one of the couches and watched the games. Albus noticed the Gryffindor squad huddled in one corner of the room, reviewing finale second tactics. James looked a bit unquiet, which was understandable considering the last lucifer landed him in the Hospital Wing.

The sunup dragged by, but eventually, everyone started to make their way down to the sales pitch after lunch.

`` Should be a good game, '' Albus said to John as they were walking towards the pitch.

`` Definitely. I 've been looking forward to a Gryffindor vs. Slytherin game. I 've heard they 're the best single, '' John told him.

`` That 's what I 've heard, too. Dad says they were usually the most exciting ones in his Day here, '' Albus informed John.

`` Conditions could n't be worse, though, '' St. John lamented. He was right. The weather was not cooperating for a game of Quidditch. Although the profile seemed to be a bit better than Gryffindor 's finally catch, the C was falling at a calm rate and it was bitterly cold.

`` Hopefully it wo n't survive as long as last clip, '' pink wine pulled her cloak tighter, `` I 'm freezing. ``

`` Me, too, '' matte agreed. He was already shivering, and was a few gait behind everyone else.

Albus and the rest of the group slowed down to allow matt to catch up with them. `` Well, I just hope Epistle of James does n't get offend again, '' Albus said.

`` Hope not, '' Amanda agreed.

The five first years made their way through the crowds and found their way to a few fundament on Gryffindor 's side of the stands. As they were walking slowly to pair Matt 's tempo, they were some of the last the great unwashed in the stands. They found their buttocks just before the commentary started.

`` Welcome to the Gryffindor vs. Slytherin match ! '' Todd Smith shouted over the crowd, `` This is a highly anticipated match that should prove to be as charge up as always. The weather 's brutal, but that should n't break off a fountainhead trained team.

`` And here come the squad ! first base onto the pitch is the Gryffindor team. senior pilot Samantha Meyers, followed by Georgia Weasley, Fred Weasley, Calluna vulgaris Weasley, Bradley Weasley, Ryan O'Malley, and James Potter ! ''

The team flew around the rake once and then landed future to each other on the ground.

`` Here are the Slytherins. Captain Talan Flint, followed by Lance Goyle, Jackson Naiser, Ferris Henry Fielding, Peyton Haines, Hailey Odele, and Glenna Dabney. ``

The Slytherins flew once around the rake and landed in front of the Gryffindors. The referee, Alan Oteski, had the captains shake hired hand, and the teams were off.

`` Professor Oteski releases the Quaffle, Bludgers, and canary, and the player are up ! Quaffle goes to fielding and he 's flying towards the Gryffindor end posts. Oh, nice Bludger work by O'Malley ! Quaffle goes to Meyers, she flies down the pitch, passing to the two Weasley chasers. And Heather Weasley scores the foremost destination ! ``

The Gryffindor team scored three destination within the initiatory five mo. Slytherin had not managed to get any goals past Georgia.

`` Of course, the wind up voice of this game is Georgia Weasley 's new broom. It 's a Firebolt 3000. The firm Scots heather yet ! It seems to be proving itself in this plot. What with Georgia 's incredible acquisition, and that broom, I 'd be surprised if Slytherin scores any goals at all ! '' Todd shouted excitedly.

`` She 's amazing ! '' lavatory exclaimed, `` I want one of those ling ! ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` I flew it over holiday. It was amazing. ``

`` Wow ! Think she 'd let me ride it ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Maybe. If you come to my place over the summer, I 'll ask her, '' Albus told him.

`` Awesome ! '' John grinned.

`` Another end scored for Gryffindor ! Making the score 40-0 in favour of Gryffindor ! Fred Wealsey has the Quaffle, he 's storming up the lurch, headed to the Slytherin goal postal service. Ouch ! Hit in the cover with a Bludger sent from Naiser. Odele has the Quaffle now and is headed towards Georgia Weasley. She passes to Fielding, who attempts to score a destination. And saved ! Wow, I did n't think a broom could act that fast, '' Sweeney Todd was jumping up and down at the commentator 's podium now.

`` Flint does not face happy, '' Albus commented.

`` No, he does n't. Looks like he 's ready to hex someone, '' John agreed.

`` Would n't put it past him, '' pink wine chimed in, `` These matches are known to get ugly. ``

The biz continued for a piece, with Gryffindor scoring a few more than goals. Slytherin did manage to get one goal after Flint sent a Bludger at Georgia right field when Odele was attempting to score.

`` Think this match will last much longer ? '' Matt asked.

`` Dunno. Does n't reckon like James or Dabney have seen the fink yet, '' Albus peered out at the field. `` They 're just hovering above everyone else. Looks like they 're trying to continue out of it. I can see why. The Bludger work is getting nasty. ''

And it was. All the Gryffindor chasers were sporting some kind of injury. Georgia had a nose bleed, but seemed to be ignoring it. Odele and Haines both had taken Bludgers to arm and it seemed to let affected their ability to catch the Quaffle.

Albus looked over at matte. He was sitting down, shivering, with his head resting on his paw. `` You ok ? ``

`` I guess. I just hope the equal is done soon, '' lusterlessness winced.

`` want to go back inside ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, I 'll be finely, '' mat insisted.

`` Another goal for Gryffindor ! Making the match 110-10 Gryffindor ! '' Todd bellowed, `` And the catch is getting ugly. Ouch ! Fred Weasley takes a Bludger to the headway, causing him to pretermit the Quaffle. But it 's caught by Meyers ! She passes to heather, who scores another goal !

`` Flint appears to have abandoned the Bludgers and is soaring up towards Potter and Dabney. What 's he up to ? Meanwhile, Bradley Weasley hits a well aimed Bludger towards Fielding, who drops the Quaffle. backrest to Flint River. It appears that he is getting into an argument with Dabney. I wonder what they 're saying ? Hope it 's of import. Looks like his neglect of beater duty has caused his uninjured Chaser to get hit. ``

Flint turned his head around and flew consecutive towards Georgia. Odele was flying towards the goal posts with the Quaffle. `` What 's he doing now ? He 's take hold of clench of Peach State 's Scots heather ! Foul ! flint has grabbed Georgia 's broom and appears to be preventing her from keeping ! Foul ! '' Todd screamed angrily. Odele took advantage of the situation and scored a goal.

Oteski blew his tin whistle, `` penalization shot for Gryffindor ! Unnecessary grabbing of opposing keeper 's broomstick. Honestly, you should know skillful ! Such an obvious foul ! And that goal does not count ! ``

`` Gryffindor master, Meyers, easily scores the penalty shooter, bringing the scotch up to 130-10 Gryffindor, '' Todd announced, `` Slytherin chaser, Fielding, manages to get the Quaffle and is flying towards the Gryffindor goal posts. Tom Bradley Weasley sends a Bludger towards him and, ouch ! He 's knocked off his broom. Lucky for him, he was low to the soil. But looks like he 's out for the eternal rest of the secret plan, probably broke his arm or something. ``

`` This is amazing ! '' John exclaimed, `` I 've never seen Quidditch like this. I wonder if Slytherin 's ever lost by this much before. ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus responded, `` But I do n't think their Seeker 's very good. All she 's doing is following James around. And Flint was yelling at her for something. ``

`` Probably telling her just to catch the sneaker so they can end the misery, '' John laughed.

`` St. James the Apostle better catch the stool pigeon soon, '' matt groaned, `` I do n't imagine I can look at much more of this. '' He was huddled on his tail end, holding his abdomen in pain.

`` Sure you do n't want to go in ? '' Albus asked.

`` I dunno, '' flatness moaned, `` Maybe. ``

`` Looks like potter 's seen the Snitch ! '' Sweeney Todd shouted. James had started speeding towards the Gryffindor destination Emily Post, with Dabney following closely behind. `` The Slytherin beaters seem to be trying to hit ceramicist with the Bludgers. But, bent on, the Gryffindor chaser and beaters seem to have surrounded Potter, protecting him from Naiser and Flint River. Blimey ! I 've never seen anything like it ! And it worked ! ceramist caught the Snitch ! ``

The bunch erupted into applause, Gryffindors storming the priming coat, lifting James I up into the air. They started walking back to the castling. The Slytherin team was looking homicidal and Flint was screaming at Dabney.

`` Let 's go, '' Rose said, looking at Matt.

`` Oh, good, '' Matt moaned as he slowly stood up.

`` You want to go to the Hospital Wing ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, I do n't think so, '' flatness said, leaning on John the Evangelist for support.

The five friends slowly made their way up to the castle. By the time they got there, everyone else had already made it back. It took them a while to wax the stairs to Gryffindor Tower, but eventually, they made it.

When they entered the common room, a party was already in full swing. Matt made a beeline for the dormitory room and did n't look back.

`` Albus ! '' James River came running up to him, butterbeer in hand, `` We did it ! Beat Slytherin ! They are pathetic. And here I was, thinking they actually had a in force team. No way they 're in the running for the Cup now. Blimey, losing 10 to 300 ... ''

`` You did great ! '' Albus grinned at him, `` Dad would be very gallant. ``

`` Proud of what ? '' a voice came from behind them.

Albus turned around, `` Dad ? ! ``

`` What are you doing here ? '' King James I asked.

`` Came for the company. Blimey, things have n't changed a bit. The party after we beat Slytherin were always best. Anyway, congratulation, James ! ``

`` Thanks ! ``

`` We 're not being too cheap, are we, Professor Potter ? '' Samantha Meyers had come over to see what was going on.

`` No, 'course not ! '' Harry grinned, `` Ca n't expect you to be quiet after that win. Just hush down by midnight. ``

`` Sure, no problem ! It was amazing, was n't it ? '' Samantha said excitedly.

`` Oh, it was glorious, '' Harry agreed. Harry and Samantha quickly settled down to rehashing every bit of the mates, and were soon joined by Georgia.

`` Never grow out of Quidditch, right ? '' James laughed.

`` right wing, '' Albus agreed, `` Honestly, I thought it 'd be a bit unusual having him as our teacher, but it has n't been weird at all. ``

`` Yeah, it 's been pretty neat. ``

******

The party in the Gryffindor common room lasted well into the eventide. almost of the Gryffindors did not even go down for dinner party. Albus 's first cousin had managed to bring a honorable bit of nutrient up to the common room, so there was really no demand to go to the Great Hall. Harry left shortly before dinner, though, so he could join the rest of the stave for the meal.

`` Honestly, I 'll never get any piece of work done with this noise, '' Rose sighed. She, Albus, lav, and Amanda were sitting around one of the table in the common room eating sweets. Rose was the only one trying to get any work done.

`` Why bother ? You 've still got tomorrow, '' John commented, `` Hey, I got your dad, Albus. '' John held up a drinking chocolate toad frog card.

`` I do n't see why everybody 's got to party so late into the evening, '' rose said, `` It was n't that spectacular a win. Slytherin was dire. ``

`` That 's the point, '' John told her, `` Slytherin 's usually got a pretty honest team. It 's the principle of the thing. Gryffindor and Slytherin are huge rivals, and when we beat them, it 's a ground to celebrate. Even if they 're rubbish. ``

`` Whatever, '' Rose put her fingers in her ear and continued to read.

`` And their new quester 's horrible, '' Albus said, `` I bet she could n't see the snitch if it was ripe in forepart of her human face. ``

`` Yeah, she 's no match for James River, '' King John agreed, `` I 've heard from some of the honest-to-goodness students that he 's as ripe as Ted lupin was. ``

`` fountainhead, he should be, '' Albus laughed, `` Teddy 's been training him ever since James could get on a broom. I think they started when Saint James the Apostle was about five. ``

`` But he 's got it in his profligate, too, '' Amanda chimed in, `` I mean, Albus, your dad was the unspoilt searcher Gryffindor 's ever seen. And your Uncle Charlie was a expectant Seeker, too. Plus, your mum played for the Holyhead Harpies. ``

`` Yup, '' Albus grinned, `` Quidditch is a gamy priority in my category. ``

`` dead reckoning Rose just did n't get any of those Quidditch genes, '' lavatory poked Rose and she jumped.

`` Shut it, John, '' rosebush told him, `` Where 's Matt ? ``

`` Still sleeping, '' Albus said, glancing at the room access to the residence hall, `` Been there ever since the end of the match. ``

`` wellspring, why do n't you go check on him ? '' Rose suggested.

`` All right hand, '' Albus got up from his chair and walked to the dormitory. When he got there, he saw that Matt was healthy asleep in his bed.

`` Matt ! '' Albus whispered, `` Hey, mat ! Get up ! '' Albus lifted lustrelessness 's arm up and it fell limply back onto the mattress when he let go. `` awaken up ! '' Albus shouted a small louder.

`` Huh ? Wha'? '' flatness groggily lifted his head and grimaced.

`` You all right ? '' Albus asked with a face of vexation on his face.

`` Ugh, '' Matt groaned and sat up. `` What fourth dimension is it ? ``

`` Almost six, '' Albus told him.

`` Ohh, '' lusterlessness slowly got up off the bed and swayed, `` I 've got to go to the Hospital extension. ``

`` fountainhead, I 'll take you, '' Albus grabbed matte 's arm so he would n't fall.

`` No, I 'll be ticket, '' Matt said.

`` No, I 'm taking you, '' Albus insisted. Matt did not resist any further and leaned on Albus for support. They made their way down into the green elbow room, where the party was still in good golf stroke. Albus led Matt straight out of portrait hole and into the corridor towards the Hospital Wing.

`` C'mon, we 're almost there, '' Albus said as they walked down a escape of stairs.

`` I think I 'm going to be vomit, '' lustrelessness groaned and clutched his stomach.

`` It 's ok, we 'll be there soon, '' Albus winced under matt 's weight. Matt was leaning on Albus more and to a greater extent by the second, `` Madam Pomfrey will fix it. ``

`` No she wo n't. She ca n't, '' Matt 's voice wavered as he talked.

`` Here we are, '' Albus opened the door to the Hospital fender and led Matt inside. gentlewoman Pomfrey was waiting and rushed over to Albus and Matt.

`` It 's ok, dearly, fare on, '' she pulled Matt away from Albus and let him tip on her, `` I 'll train it from here, Albus. You 'd scoop go back to your commons room. ``

Albus turned to impart, but not before seeing Madam Pomfrey soothing lustrelessness, who had started to cry. Albus shut the threshold, wishing he could do something to aid. Matt seemed to be doing worse this month than he had the past months. He had n't seemed any different during the past few years, but maybe he was just in force at hiding his emotions. Albus had forgotten to focalize on figuring out what Matt was feeling in the 24-hour interval leading up to the full moon due to being preoccupied with homework and Occlumency object lesson. Why did this month seem regretful ? What was going on ?

Albus pondered these thought process as he walked slowly back to the common room. How could he convince Matt that it would be safe to severalise Albus his secret ? Would he ever tell ? And more importantly, was there anything anyone could do to help ?

`` Something troubling you, Potty ? '' a cold voice said. Albus looked up and saw Quinton Willinson, flanked by two early Slytherns, standing at the top of the stair that Albus was climbing. `` partiality a saunter by yourself ? ``

`` Go away, Willinson, '' Albus growled as he reached the top of the stairs.

`` It 's a free castle. Not curfew yet. I 'm liberate to digress the corridors just as you are, Potty, '' Willinson sneered at Albus.

`` Just leave me alone, '' Albus tried to walk past him, but the other two Slytherins blocked his path.

`` No, do n't think I will. I still have n't forgotten that Exploding Eclair, '' Willinson said, drawing his wand and pointing it at Albus, `` I know it was you. ``

`` How ? '' Albus asked nervously as he drew his own verge and pointed it at Willinson.

`` I just do, '' Willinson snapped his fingerbreadth and his brother pulled out their wands and pointed them at Albus, `` And now you 'll pay. ``

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted, and Willinson 's baton flew out of his script and landed on the level. A snag second base later, two green of light came from the other two Slytherins 's wands and hit Albus in the chest. Before he knew what was happening, he stumbled backwards and fell down the stairs. He blacked out halfway down, and the last affair he saw was Willinson and his two supporter running in the opposite direction.

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A/N : Sorry for the cliffie ! Well, not really, I do like putting them in. Originally, this chapter did not own a cliffie, but it was quite shortsighted so I stuck about half the succeeding chapter at the end of this one. So now it 's a bit longer than usual.

Thanks as usual to my sister and now official Beta, Dancer Of Starlight. Thanks as well to my comrade and my other sister. Please read and retrospect !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry potter

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`` You have no estimation who did it, then ? '' Albus heard his dad ask.

`` No, when Neville found him, there was no sign that anybody else had been there, '' Madam Pomfrey whispered.

`` Well, when I find out who did it, there 'll be trouble, '' Albus heard a charge and he figured his dad had just slammed his clenched fist onto something hard.

`` Harry, please be a bit quieter. I 'm sure whoever it is will be punished. ''

`` I 'll be sure as shooting of that. ``

Albus opened his center and looked around. He was in the hospital Wing. Judging by the darkness outside, it must ingest been the center of the night. He had no idea how many hours had passed, but he guessed it must birth been quite a few. Albus tried to sit up, but was immediately hit by a searing pain in his head and had to lay back down.

Harry rushed over upon seeing that he was awake, `` Albus ! What on worldly concern happened ? ``

`` How 'd I get here ? '' Albus groaned.

Harry bent over and hugged Albus tight. `` Ouch ! '' Albus winced.

`` Really, Harry, I 've only just healed those bones ! '' lady Pomfrey pulled Harry away.

`` Neville found you a couple hr ago. You were laying unconscious at the bottom of one of the staircases. It was obvious you 'd fallen down, but it looked like someone had stunned you as well. You 've got a cracked skull, a few die costa, and a broken arm. '' Harry answered, once he sat down in the professorship next to the bed. `` But who did it ? ``

`` Quinton Willinson, and two early Slytherins I do n't cognize, '' Albus told him.

`` What year are they in ? ''

`` Willinson 's a seventh year, I dunno about the others, '' Albus answered.

Harry slammed his hand onto the bedside mesa and stood up, `` 7th year ? ! Bloody netherworld ! What in the epithet of Merlin 's saggy left- ''

`` Harry, calm down ! '' Madam Pomfrey rushed over to pick up the water jug that had fallen off the table.

`` Sorry, '' Harry resumed his seat, `` But honestly, what seventh year work party up on a get-go yr ? ``

`` Victoire and Amy Eckerton warned me. They said he picks a first twelvemonth every yr to harassment. And they told me not to go anywhere alone, because he never picks a fight unless you 're alone. Apparently he 's not a very good dueller. But I totally forgot about that when I took mat here, '' Albus looked around at the empty beds around him, `` By the way, where is he ? ``

`` aught to care about now, '' Madam Pomfrey said shortly.

`` Well, Willinson will be getting hold, and loads of it. And those two other Slytherins as well. I 'll be talking to Slughorn, '' Harry muttered.

`` Oh, Dad, I disarmed Willinson ! '' Albus said excitedly, `` I 'd forgotten about that. Right after I disarmed him, the other two stunned me and I fell down the stairs. ``

Harry grinned, `` Brilliant. You 're slap-up at disarming. And if the other two were n't there, you 'd have been fine. But, it 's heavy to disarm three wizards at once. ``

`` It 's getting late, I think you 'd ameliorate give Albus a chance to catch some Z's, Harry, '' Madam Pomfrey came over holding a goblet of potion.

`` All right, '' Harry stood up and gave Albus a easy hug, `` I 'll be back in the morning. G'night, Al, I love you. ``

`` Love you, too, '' Albus awkwardly hugged his dad back, `` Good night. ``

`` I 've got a potion to help you sleep, '' Madam Pomfrey handed him the potion, `` drink in up. ``

Albus took the goblet and downed it in one gulp.

`` Knew it was only a issue of time before you showed up here, '' Madam Pomfrey muttered, `` ceramist seem to be ineffectual to prevent themselves out of this shoes ... ''

*****

`` What happened, Poppy ? '' Albus heard someone ask.

`` Bad transformation, really bad, '' lady Pomfrey replied grimly.

`` What can you do ? '' the voice asked, Albus recognized it now as Neville.

`` I 'm really not sure, '' Madam Pomfrey sighed, `` I 'll administer the usual potions and cure the osseous tissue, but early than that ... I 've got to contact St. Mungo 's. ``

`` I 'll do it, '' Neville announced, `` Is Albus ok ? ``

`` He 'll be okay, '' Madam Pomfrey assured him, `` I 'll preserve him here until tomorrow morning. ``

Albus heard Neville leave and Madam Pomfrey tug the mantle shut around one of the beds. She moved quickly around the room whispering to herself and loudly grabbing bottles off of ledge. Albus opened his eyes briefly and saw that the bed at the end of the row had the drape shut. That 's where mat was. And Albus had been right. He was a werewolf. Any doubt that Albus had was gone. He felt sick with dread at the opinion of Matt going through that transmutation every month. Stuck with a cuss that prevented him from living a formula living. Albus knew what animation was like for a loup-garou. He heard about Teddy 's dad 's life. After Hogwarts, what would Matt do ? Would he be able to get a job ?

`` Are you awake ? '' lady Pomfrey came bustling over with a breakfast tray, `` thoroughly, eat up. ``

`` Is mat going to be ok ? '' Albus asked nervously.

`` Never you mind, '' Madam Pomfrey answered as she walked back to Matt 's bed and disappeared behind the curtains. She spent much of the next hr bustling back and forth between Matt 's bed and her sketch, where Albus could see her consulting books and mixing potions. Albus watched her and noticed she looked much more apprehensive than common. What was going on ?

Neville returned about an time of day later, followed by a tall, balding man in lime green robes. Albus recognized them as Healer gown. gentlewoman Pomfrey came out from behind the curtains when she heard the door opened and walked quickly over to the two men.

`` I 'd better go find Amy, Poppy, '' Neville announced.

`` Yes, I suppose you should, '' ma'am Pomfrey answered, `` Poor dear will be worried cat when she sees him. ``

`` I know, '' Neville sighed and left the room.

Madam Pomfrey turned to the former man, `` Oh, skilful, they 've sent you, Healer Sterling, '' she welcomed the Healer with a sigh of easing, `` I was afraid they 'd send one of the trainee Healers. ``

`` No, no, I insisted on coming, '' Healer Sterling assured her, `` I 'm the one in charge of the study- ''

Madam Pomfrey cut him off and gestured to Albus 's bed, `` Shush ! We 'll talk about it shortly. Albus, why do n't you finish your breakfast ? ``

`` I 'm not hungry, '' Albus mumbled.

dame Pomfrey 's nerve softened, `` Albus, Matt will be ok. You must n't worry. ``

`` But what 's going on ? '' Albus asked, `` I 've already figured it out. I know he 's a loup-garou. ``

`` Be that as it may, I can not inform you about the berth, '' Madam Pomfrey said as she and healer Sterling walked towards Matt 's bed, `` Now, it 's best for you to get some rest. ''

Madam Pomfrey drew her sceptre, muttered a enchantment, and she and the two men disappeared behind the curtain. Albus knew she had casted the Muffliato charm on him. He had witnessed his parents using that trance before. He sighed and picked at his testicle, but he really could n't eat anything. He knew that Madam Pomfrey really was not sure whether matt would be ok. Albus sat pondering about what could be awry, when a loud boot jolted him out of his thoughts.

Albus turned around in his bed and noticed that the banging was coming from the door. brothel keeper Pomfrey ran out from behind the drape and headed towards the door. `` Who 's there ? '' she shouted.

`` Rose Weasley, '' Albus heard his first cousin 's spokesperson, `` Why are the room access locked ? Ca n't we come in and see Albus ? ``

`` I 'd rather you did n't. I 've got another bookman in here who needs muted, '' lady Pomfrey said through the closed door.

`` Is it Matt ? '' rosebush asked, `` Because he 's still not back yet. ``

gentlewoman Pomfrey sighed, `` Yes. ``

`` We 'll be quiet, '' rosebush answered, `` I promise. ``

`` Oh, all right, '' gentlewoman Pomfrey opened the door, `` But only for a little spell. ``

Rose walked through the doorway, followed by John, Amanda, and James IV. `` Oh, Albus, are you all right ? '' she whispered as they neared Albus 's bed.

`` I 'll be fine, '' Albus told them.

`` What on world happened ? Never saw you after you took Matt here last nighttime, '' whoremonger asked. He, Henry James, Amanda, and Rose sat down on the bed next to Albus's.

`` Met up with Willinson, '' Albus groaned, `` Him and two other Slytherins. ``

`` He 's trouble, I tell ya, '' James shook his head teacher, `` ram me mad until Victoire talked to him last yr. ``

`` Yeah, well, he does n't appear to be listening to Victoire this year, does he ? '' Albus responded, `` Anyway, I disarmed him, but his two friends stunned me at the same time and I fell down the stairs. Got knocked out halfway down and woke up here. ``

`` Whoa, are you ok ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I 'm fine. Got a few go against castanets, but they 're healed now. My chief still hurts, though, '' Albus rubbed his forehead.

`` We were so worried when you were still gone this break of day, '' Rose told him, `` break straight to Uncle Harry 's study and he told us you were here. By the way, he said he 'd be visiting later this morning. ``

`` Dad was here last nighttime, too, '' Albus said, `` He 's really angry about it. He 's going to dedicate Willinson wads of detention. ``

Saint John grinned, `` Excellent. He 'll finally be getting what he deserves. ``

`` Well, I 've got to get going. Quidditch recitation, '' Henry James announced as he got up from the bed.

`` But you just had a match yesterday, '' Rose shook her head.

`` Does n't matter. Sunday 's one of our usual practice days, '' James reminded her. `` Glad you 're ripe, Albus. '' James waved and left the elbow room. As he left, Neville, Victoire, and Amy came rushing through. Amy ran straight to lustrelessness 's bed with tears in her eyes and Neville following quickly behind. Victoire stared at her questioningly, but turned to Albus 's bed.

`` I told you not to go anywhere alone ! '' she sighed.

`` I know ! '' Albus replied, `` Sorry. I was just taking Matt here. He was pretty pale last night, and it did n't happen to me that I 'd be walking back to the common room alone. ``

`` Oh, I understand that, '' Victoire answered, `` But just be careful from now on. ``

`` I will, '' Albus assured her. Sometimes, it felt like his older cousins were just extra parents.

`` wellspring, Uncle Harry 's wild, so I do n't think you 'll have to worry much anymore, '' Victoire told him, `` I heard him talking to Slughorn earlier. Apparently, Harry and prof Longbottom are going to withdraw bout overseeing his detentions and let 's just say he 's not going to bear a lot detached clock time in the come up calendar week. ``

`` good, '' Albus responded.

`` I 'd better be off, '' Victoire said, `` I 'm due to tutor print in transfiguration in a few mo. I was just with Amy, she started getting hysteric when Neville came and found her in the vernacular room. But she would n't tell me what 's going on. I do n't suppose you know ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus said.

`` Well, I 'll see you later, '' Victoire started to point towards the door, `` Whatever it is, I hope Matt 's ok. ''

`` Ok, now that she 's gone, I 've got to tell you about lustrelessness, '' Albus whispered, `` Come finisher, I do n't want brothel keeper Pomfrey to get a line. ``

Rose, John, and Amanda climbed onto Albus 's bed. `` What about him ? '' John asked.

`` He 's a werewolf, '' Albus muttered.

`` What ? '' John exclaimed a bit too loudly, `` How do you screw for sure ? ``

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered, `` He was n't here last Night when I woke up. And this break of day, Professor Longbottom and brothel keeper Pomfrey brought him here, but he was unconscious. ``

`` I knew it, '' Rose whispered.

`` Anyway, Madam Pomfrey said he 'd had a really bad transformation, '' Albus told them, `` He 's still unconscious. And there 's a healer from St. Mungo 's here. They 're all behind the curtains on Matt 's bed. They wo n't tell me anything. They casted Muffliato, so I ca n't learn anything. ``

`` form, '' Rose groaned, `` Adults never let us know anything. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` But what are we going to do about Matt ? ``

`` Well, we 've got to figure out how to tell him we know, '' John answered.

`` I do n't eff about that, '' Albus responded, `` There 's a reason he 's not telling us. I think we should let him recite us. ``

`` How do we cover that we know, Albus ? '' John asked.

`` We just do, '' Albus said adamantly, `` Anyway, it 's got to be harder for matte to observe this secret than us hiding the fact that we know. He 's got to distinguish us sooner or later. ``

`` I think Albus is right, lav, '' rose agreed, `` He 'll tell us soon. This has got to be something he tells us. He has to be ready. ``

`` mulct, '' John the Evangelist sighed. The four friends sat in silence for a moment, succumbing to their own mentation about lustrelessness 's lycanthropy.

gentlewoman Pomfrey and Healer Sterling came rushing out behind the drapery, and once they did, the Muffliato appealingness broke.

`` I think I can handle him here, Poppy, '' Sterling said to Madam Pomfrey, `` I do n't cogitate there 's any need to move him to St. Mungo 's, unless he gets regretful. ``

`` Oh, beneficial, '' Madam Pomfrey sighed with relief, `` That must signify it 's not as bad as I thought. ``

`` No, it 's not quite that bad. It will take a while to care for, but he will find perfectly amercement, '' Sterling assured her, `` Right now I 've got to take these tone back to St. Mungo 's and consult with some other healer. I 'll also contact his parents. I should be back sometime in the afternoon. Just keep administering the potions every hour until then. ``

`` I 'll see you later, then, '' Madam Pomfrey bade him sayonara as he left the room.

`` I think it 's time for you three to lead, '' she announced, `` Mr. ceramist needs his rest and he 's got to adopt a few more potions. ``

`` See you, Albus, '' John got up and started towards the door.

`` Bye, '' Amanda followed behind John.

`` Glad you 're ok, '' rose got up, `` When do you get to exit ? ``

`` Tomorrow daybreak, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey answered.

`` Can we see Matt ? '' rosiness asked.

`` Absolutely not, '' Madam Pomfrey said sternly, `` He 's in no term for visitors. ``

`` Ok, ok, '' rosiness responded, `` Bye, Albus. ``

`` Bye. ``

******

Throughout the rest of the day, therapist Sterling popped in and out of the Hospital wing, bringing with him several potions from St. Mungo 's. Shortly after lunch, lustrelessness 's parents showed up and they stayed until the evening. Everyone kept using the Muffliato appealingness against Albus, so he was unable to listen in on any conversations. Eventually he gave up on trying to chance out any selective information about lustrelessness 's condition and fell asleep. Madam Pomfrey let Albus exit the hospital Wing early Monday sunrise, while breakfast was still going on in the Great Hall. Albus was quite bored with the hospital extension and once Madam Pomfrey had deemed him well, he ran straight to the Great Hall. lav, Amanda, and Rose were all sitting together, whispering.

`` Albus ! '' John shouted once Albus had sat down future to him, `` All better then ? ``

`` Yeah, I 'm fine, '' Albus assured him, `` Bit hungry, though. '' Albus piled his shell with ball and toast.

`` We were just talking about matte, '' rose informed him, `` How is he doing ? ``

`` I 'm really not sure, '' Albus said through a taste of goner, `` I could n't find out a word anyone was saying. They 're being very secretive. ``

`` Is he wake up yet ? '' Amanda asked.

`` No, he 's not, '' Albus sighed, `` At to the lowest degree I do n't think so. The morsel of conversation that I have been able to hear are mostly about figuring out how to waken him up. ``

`` No chance of visiting him, then ? '' St. John the Apostle wondered aloud.

`` Do n't think so, '' Albus told him, `` I mean, Madam Pomfrey 's still keeping the door locked. You have to say who you are and what you want in order to get in. The only one who 've been allowed to sojourn are his parents and Amy. ``

`` Oh, '' John sounded disappointed, `` I hope she lets us in soon. ``

`` Scorpio Malfoy tried to get in, '' Albus lowered his voice, `` Last Nox. ``

`` What the hell did he desire ? '' whoremonger growled, `` Slimy git. ``

`` Wanted to find oneself out what 's wrong with Matt, '' Albus answered, `` He 's way too nosy. Anyway, he banged on the room access and told Madam Pomfrey he had a nose bleed. But he 'd only taken a Nose Bleed Nougat, because once he got in, I saw him eat the other half and the blood stopped immediately. While ma'am Pomfrey was shutting the door after him and locking it, he ran over to matte 's bed. ``

`` He did n't see him, did he ? '' blush wine asked anxiously.

`` No, the pall were up. Amy noticed him and she was looking murderous. She yelled at him to go away and take care his own business. Then lady Pomfrey came back over and noticed he was n't bleeding anymore and made him forget. Said she was going to tell Slughorn about it. I hope he gets detainment. ``

`` Wow, he does n't give up, does he ? '' toilet responded.

`` No, he does n't, '' Albus agreed, `` We 're gon na have to be careful about him. ``

`` stake is here, '' Amanda looked up and commented on the owls swooping into the room.

`` Albus, look, '' Rose pointed to a copy of the Daily Prophet that had been delivered to the girl sitting across from them.

Albus glanced at the newspaper publisher and immediately noticed what rose wine was showing him. The front line page headline was 'Mysterious Deaths Mystify Ministry Aurors'with a rather turgid picture of Harry below it. Albus turned to Rose, `` What 's that about ? ``

`` I do n't bonk, but I do n't like the phone of it, '' Rose answered. `` Can I borrow that ? '' she asked the girl.

The fille looked at them, and then the article, `` Sure, but I 'd care it back when you 're done. '' She gave them one last face and then turned to her acquaintance and the two of them started whispering.

Rose took the paper and put it in between her and Albus.

Mysterious Deaths Mystify Ministry Aurors

It started with the murder of Hogwart daddy teacher, Eric Torro, in the beginning of September. Supposedly, the Aurors looked into the last immediately, but there have been no lead. Harry potter, the Boy Who Lived, the Chosen One, Head Auror, and Hogwarts DADA instructor, has been leading the investigation. But are his teaching duties getting in the way of his Auror duty ? There have also been no lead story in the decease of Jasmine Lamski, which occurred a month ago. We asked if these deaths are connected, but the Auror office responded with 'no comment'. Do they lie with More than they 're telling us ? It is these kinds of murders that remind many of us of Lord Voldemort 's clock time of threat. Could there still be Dark necromancer among us ? Is the Auror power doing enough to intercept them ? And more importantly, should Harry thrower be teaching tike when his efforts are obviously needed in the Auror Office ? Despite this, Harry ceramicist assures the Wizarding domain that affair 'are under restraint and there is no indigence to worry .'hoi polloi are being murdered and the murderers are not being caught. It might indeed be sentence to worry.

`` That 's rubbish ! '' Albus shouted when he finished the article.

`` What ? '' whoremaster asked, trying to translate upside down.

`` Read this, '' Albus grumbled as he handed John and Amanda the report. `` Who wrote it ? '' he asked Rose.

`` Rita Skeeter, '' rosebush told him.

`` Figures ! '' Albus shouted, `` She 's always twisting the truth. ``

`` Energy Department n't look like the teachers are too happy about it, '' rose wine pointed to the staff board, where all the teachers were whispering amongst themselves. Most of them wore looks of worry and anger. The solitary one who was n't whispering was Washburn, who was glaring at the pupil, just like he usually did. Harry was noticeably lacking from the table.

`` Blimey, '' toilet let out a low whistling, `` That 's the way to frighten away everybody. ``

`` There are n't really still dark Wizards are there ? '' Amanda asked quietly, she was picket as a ghost.

`` 'Course there are, '' Albus told her, `` There 's always evil in the mankind. But it 's not like Voldemort 's coming back or anything. If my dad says there 's nothing to worry about, then there is n't. ``

`` Ok, but it 's still scary, '' Amanda responded.

`` That 's what Rita Skeeter wants, '' Albus informed her, `` That 's what she does. She 's rarely ever written anything that 's she has n't stretched the the true. ``

`` But what about those aspiration and Legilimency ? '' Rose asked, `` Even your dad admits there 's something going on with that ? ``

`` I know, but he 's taking care of it, '' Albus assured her, `` I mean for certain, it 's scary, but I do n't think it required an article that strikes worry and fear into everyone. No one besides you lot and my family have intercourse anything about those aspiration. So to them, it 's just like someone just started randomly killing a few people. ``

`` That 's rightful, '' Saint John the Apostle agreed, `` Where 's your dad ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus told him, `` I saw him last night in the infirmary Wing. He 's probably at the Ministry, trying to shine everything over with this article. If people start complaining that the Aurors are n't doing enough, then he could lose his job here. ``

`` Bloody hell, '' lav exclaimed, `` That would n't be rightfield. I 'm surely the Aurors are doing a good job. ``

`` Quiet ! '' prof Kendrick had stood up. The room fell tacit as he did so. `` Thank you. Now, I 'm sure most of you have read today 's front line pageboy clause in the prophesier. I want to assure you all that we are perfectly rubber and there is no need to worry. Certain journalists often have the habit of stretching the truth in orderliness to daunt people, and that is what is going on here. The Aurors are doing everything in their power to view whoever murdered Professor Torro and Jasmine Lamski. I also need to inform you that DADA lessons will not take place today, because Professor potter is spending the day at the Auror Office and the Ministry, trying to calm everyone down. If you have DADA today, please use the clock time to study for your approaching exams. That is all. '' Professor Kendrick sat back down and resumed his conversation with Neville.

Once Kendrick had finished his delivery, whispering resumed amongst the student. Anyone who had not seen the article before, was now scrambling to find a transcript of the seer.

`` Well, what 're we going to do with our free menses, then ? '' john asked. The Gryffindor get-go year had papa first that day.

`` I 've got homework to fetch up, '' Amanda groaned, `` Essay for Herbology. ``

`` Ugh, do n't remind me, '' John groaned as well, `` I have n't finished it either. ``

`` fountainhead, then you do take reminding ! '' blush wine exclaimed, `` I finished that over the weekend. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus commented.

`` Why do n't we go cease it, then, John ? '' Amanda suggested, `` The vernacular way will be moderately quiet with everyone off in class. ``

`` fine, '' John reluctantly agreed. He stood up and headed off with Amanda to fetch up the essay.

`` That could n't have worked out better, '' Rose whispered to Albus, `` Now we can go to the depository library and resume our enquiry. ``

`` good thinking, '' Albus told her, `` I 've finished that other book. Returned it a few days ago. I 'd better get another. ``

`` I 've looked through three, but there 's loads others, '' Rose informed him. She started walking out of the Great dormitory, with Albus following, `` But I have n't found anything useful. ``

`` Me, neither. ``

Albus and rosiness were pleased to receive that the depository library was rather hollow. There were a few old students who had a free period, but all of them seemed too busy studying to observe the two first base yr. They headed straight to the Holy Scripture ledge that held the books they had previously looked at.

`` Are we really going to accept to appear through all of these ? '' Albus wondered aloud.

`` Hopefully not, '' Rose said as she pulled out a rather orotund playscript, `` Once we find something about Hallows, we can stop. ``

`` I 'm beginning to doubt if that 's going to pass off, '' Albus responded.

`` I sure hope we find something soon, '' Rose opened her book and glanced quickly at the table of capacity, `` Exams will be in a few months, so we 're going to possess to start studying More, which means less time for this. ``

`` Yeah, maybe we 'll get lucky today, '' Albus hoped, `` Want to go get a table ? '' He had picked out two books to look at.

`` Sure, '' Rose followed Albus into a secluded part of the library, away from Madam Pince and the early students. They read silently for 15 minutes.

`` Well, this volume 's absolute scrap, '' Albus closed his first-class honours degree book, `` Says Dad and Voldemort dueled for half a day before Voldemort finally died. ``

Rose broke out laughing, `` Really ? ! Wow, amazing that got published. ``

Albus set aside that book and opened the other one, `` This looks a bit better. ``

`` wellspring, look who it is ? '' someone said from behind rose.

Albus glanced up. `` And what do you need, Malfoy ? ``

`` Just seeing what you 're up to on your detached clip, '' Malfoy smiled smugly, `` I 'm assuming you read the clause. ``

`` Yeah, I did, '' Albus said coldly, `` But it 's not unfeigned. Just mortal trying to agitate up worry. ``

`` Never can tell, though, can you ? '' Malfoy sat down at their table, `` The Ministry 's often quiet down things up. ``

`` What do you sleep together about that ? '' Rose asked.

`` Nothing, nothing, just stuff I 've overheard my father saying, '' Malfoy looked over at the Christian Bible Rose was reading.

`` A History of lord Voldemort, '' Malfoy read the title, `` concern deed. Why are you reading it ? ``

`` Just a bit of background reading, never can larn too practically. ``

`` Hmm, '' Malfoy looked at Albus, `` So, I hear you got into a bit of a duel the former day. ``

Albus turned red, `` Uh, yeah. ``

Malfoy smirked, `` Ca n't really engage on three seventh years. ``

`` He disarmed Willinson, '' rosebush said angrily, `` And is it really your byplay ? ``

`` No, not really, but I still want to know. ``

`` I could 've taken on Willinson, '' Albus added, `` He 's horrible at dueling. But his two partner got me. ``

`` That 's true, Willinson 's dueling acquisition leave a lot to be desired, '' Malfoy agreed, `` But he 's smart enough not to duel without others on his side. ``

`` Good for him, '' Albus mumbled.

`` Well, we 'd better be off to Charms, '' Rose slammed her rule book shut and got up.

`` Yeah, bye, '' Albus muttered and followed rosiness. They checked out their record book, which got them more inquiring public eye from dame Pince, and headed off to Charms.

Charms was surprisingly uneventful. prof Washburn did inquire where flatness was, but he seemed fill with 'in the Hospital wing'as an result. Double Herbology went as common, although Neville seemed kind of tense and distracted during the class. Albus had assumed this was because of Rita Skeeter 's article. Both Saint John and Amanda had managed to finish their essays, although privy 's was n't long enough.

`` We should see if we can visit matte tomorrow evening, '' Rose announced at dinner.

`` Definitely, '' King John agreed, `` If ma'am Pomfrey lets us. ``

`` I ca n't, '' Albus said, `` I 've got Occlumency tomorrow. ``

`` Oh, that 's right ! '' pink wine responded, `` I 'd completely forgotten. I 'll just jump that lesson, then. ``

Albus laughed, `` Well, you do n't even have to do it anyway. ``

`` I know, but it 's really interesting stuff. ``

`` I hope lusterlessness 's ok, '' Albus said in a apprehensive tone, `` Madam Pomfrey seemed so upset. ``

`` I wonder how long he 'll be stuck in there, '' John asked.

`` I dunno, '' Albus answered, `` I just hope he 's conscious now. ``

`` We should probably convey his preparation, '' rose wine suggested.

`` That 'll barrack him up, '' King John said sarcastically.

`` He needs to do it if he 's going to maintain up with stratum ! ''

`` True, '' John agreed, `` Speaking of homework, has anyone finished that essay for Slughorn that 's due tomorrow ? ``

`` I did, '' rosiness said, `` But let me guess, you have n't ? ``

`` Nope, '' John grinned, `` Want to contribute me your bank bill ? ``

`` Not really, '' pink wine shook her head.

`` I finished it, '' Amanda added, she had been rather lull throughout the entirely conversation. Albus could tell that the idea of Matt being a wolfman freaked her out a trivial bit. He could empathize, considering up until a few calendar month ago, she had n't even known werewolves were real. But he did trust Amanda would n't take off treating Matt differently.

`` Good, I 'll use your notes ! ''

`` I 'm not quite finished with it either, '' Albus informed them, `` I 've just got to write three Thomas More column inch, then it 'll be done. ``

The four ally finished up their pudding and headed back to the usual elbow room. Gospel According to John worked on his essay with Amanda 's helper, while Albus finished his. rose did other homework, and eventually she decided to help whoremaster as well.
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A/N : tenacious chapter yet, I think ! I did n't want to split it up because then it would receive been two really brusk chapters. And I know when I read stories, I prefer longer chapters.

Thanks as common to my sister and beta Dancer of Starlight, and my brother and early sister. Thanks as well to inkheart for the reviews.

I 'd also like to share that it was about a year ago that I started writing this. So, felicitous birthday to the story ! I finished it about six month ago.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower, or any of his many relatives.

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Shortly before seven the next evening, James and Albus headed to Occlumency, while whoremaster, rosiness, and Amanda went to the Hospital offstage. As it turned out, the instructor told rosiness that they had already sent Matt 's homework to the infirmary Wing and there was no need for her to collect it.

`` People talking about that article in your form ? '' Albus asked his buddy on the way to the Transfiguration classroom.

`` Yeah, '' St. James the Apostle responded, `` They always stop right when the teacher comes in, though. ``

`` Everyone in my classes have been whispering about it. They try to spill the beans quietly so I ca n't hear them, but I can, '' Albus informed him.

`` That 's what it 's like for me, too, '' James said, `` But you know Peyton Haines, the Slytherin chaser ? Well, he keeps loudly discussing how the Auror Department unable to do anything and everyone 's in stark danger. Always within earshot of me, too. ``

`` Git, '' Albus growled.

`` I heard he scared the hell out of the Hufflepuffs in magic spell today. Said he heard all the death eater had broken out of Azkaban and no one had caught them yet. shipment of trumpery. Got away with it, too, because Washburn was n't in the way yet. ``

`` Probably would n't deliver mattered if he was in the room, '' Albus muttered, `` Slytherins can do no legal injury in his eyes. ``

James opened the doorway to the Transfiguration Day elbow room and walked inside, Albus followed. Hermione was already there.

`` Hi, boys ! '' she smiled and gave them each a hug.

`` Hi, Aunt Hermione, '' Albus and James greeted her.

`` When 's Dad coming back ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, dear question, '' James chimed in, `` And what 's with that clause ? ``

Hermione 's grinning faded and she gestured for the boys to sit down. `` He 'll be back later tonight, so do n't worry about that. And as for the article ... Well, you both know that most everything Rita Skeeter writes is rubbish. ``

James and Albus nodded.

`` That article was written for the sole use of scaring people. All the it did was grow dubiousness. The article itself was just a consignment of questions. The murders do remind people of Voldemort 's reign, so it was quite sluttish to just write this article and station people into a panic. The fact that the Aurors have no leads in either slaying just fueled the fire. But I can control you that whatever is going on, your Padre and the other Aurors are taking care of it. And he is perfectly subject of teaching here and heading the Auror department, '' Hermione told them.

`` So there is something going on ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, of course of instruction something 's going on. There have been two mysterious slaying, and someone is trying to see your thoughts, '' Hermione explained, `` But it is nothing the Ministry ca n't handle. ``

`` So, do you know what 's going on ? '' Jesse James asked.

`` Your dad has a few glimmering and he has expressed them to me, but I ca n't tell apart you them, '' Hermione answered, `` Now we 've got to start the moral. spread your books to page 50. ``

Albus and James opened their script and Hermione lectured them for a half hour. Albus found this part of the lessons extremely boring, but every lesson started this way. Albus did n't expect any unlike from his Aunt Hermione, who was always trying to get him to record a lot of record book. Eventually, the lecture piece of the example was over and the practical constituent began.

Albus had been getting better at Occlumency. He had yet to prevent Hermione from entering his thinker, but usually managed to force her out after a few minutes.

`` Albus, you first. ``

Albus got up from his chair and stood in straw man of his aunty. `` Remember to close your mind. Legilimens ! '' she shouted.

Albus stood there, being flooded with his own memories, for a few bit. He saw James IV levitating Albus 's glass of pumpkin juice at last summer 's syndicate reunion, the metre he got lost in a Muggle grocery store when he was five, and the first clip he ever rode a ling. Albus concentrated hard on blocking out all thoughts, and he was able to force Hermione out of his mind.

`` good job, Al ! '' Hermione congratulated him, `` It took you less time than cobbler's last object lesson. ``

Albus tried two Sir Thomas More times, both clip producing the same results as the first, and then he sat down to watch James.

Jesse James had been having a much more hard prison term than Albus. He had only been successful once, and it had taken him nearly ten minutes. This time proved to be no dissimilar, and after fifteen minutes, James had not been able to pull Hermione out of his mind. The last try, he had even wound up laying on the floor. Hermione had thought that was enough, and James and Albus went back to the common room.

`` How 'd it go ? '' blush wine asked, when Albus sat down next to her. rosiness, John, and Amanda were all sitting at one of the board, doing homework.

`` Pretty skilful, '' Albus answered, `` It 's taking me less meter to get your mum out of my idea. But Epistle of James ca n't get her out at all. ``

`` He 'll get there eventually, '' Rose responded.

`` Did you get to see matte ? '' Albus asked as he pulled out his Potions homework.

`` No, '' lavatory said sadly, `` He 's still unconscious. And madam Pomfrey still has the doors locked. She 's got a really myopic temper, too. ``

`` Yeah, Scorpius Malfoy was skulking around ! '' rose exclaimed, `` We went up there and he was trying to heed in through the door. ``

`` Little git, '' Albus muttered, `` So what happened ? ``

`` We told him to go away, but he would n't, '' John explained, `` He whipped out his wand and tried to hex Amanda, but missed her. gentlewoman Pomfrey came out when she heard the commotion and told him to get back to his mutual way or she 'd get Slughorn. Then she told us matte was still unconscious and we would n't be able to see him. ``

`` Malfoy 's really got to check investigating this, '' Albus responded, `` He ca n't find out. He 's got to mind his own line. ``

`` We ca n't let anyone come up out, '' Rose agreed.

`` But he 's still not up ? '' Albus sighed, `` Whatever is going on, it sounds really bad. ``

`` I know, '' Rose shook her head.

`` well, his birthday is next week, '' John reminded them.

`` Oh, yeah, on the 6th, Wed, '' Albus remembered.

`` I think we should do something for it, '' can stated, `` Even if he 's still in the infirmary Wing. ``

`` I bet he will be, '' blush wine said, `` But we can still do something if we 're allowed in. ``

`` Let 's plan it, then, '' lav announced, `` Our first Hogwarts birthday company. Because you guys did n't do anything for mine, '' he added.

`` Your natal day was over the holiday ! '' rosebush lightly smacked him with her dada book.

`` I know, '' bathroom grinned, `` Anyway, we could institute some food into the hospital fender and have the political party there. ``

`` Great idea ! '' Albus grinned.

`` But none of us know where the kitchens are, '' Amanda reminded them.

`` No problem, '' Albus glanced around the common room, `` Oi ! Bradley, scratch ! '' he waved his two cousins over.

`` Whatcha penury, Albus ? '' Omar Nelson Bradley asked as he sat down in an empty death chair at the table.

`` We 're going to have got a petty birthday company for our friend, lustrelessness, '' Albus told them, `` But none of us know where the kitchens are. So, since there 's a Hogsmeade visit on Saturday, could you get us some material ? ``

`` Sure, no problem, '' Mark said, `` Butterbeers and some hooey from Honeyduke 's sound good ? ``

`` Yeah, that 'd be dandy. ``

`` What should we get him for a present ? '' pink wine asked.

`` Hmm, I dunno ... '' King John stopped to think, `` Stuff from Weasley 's is always good. ``

`` How about a Chudley cannon Jersey ? '' Albus suggested.

`` Sounds good ! '' John agreed. Rose and Amanda nodded their heads.

`` Anywhere in Hogsmeade that you could get one of those ? '' Albus asked his cousins.

`` The Quaffle Shop should have it. I 've only been there once. It just opened up this past times summer, '' Bradley told them, `` I can get you one. ``

`` Thanks ! '' Albus grinned.

`` But you 'll own to consecrate us money for everything, '' bull's eye told them.

Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda each forked over a couple sickles and handed them to Mark.

`` Ok, we 'll get the stuff and give it to you when we get back, '' Omar Nelson Bradley said, and he and sucker rejoined their friends on the other incline of the common room.

`` It 's really rotten luck that he 's going to be in the Hospital Wing on his birthday, '' St. John the Apostle commented.

`` Yeah, but we 'll try to cheer him up, '' Albus reasoned.

`` What if ma'am Pomfrey does n't let us in ? '' Amanda wondered.

`` She better, '' Rose stated, `` But she 's got to, it 'll be his birthday. If anything, we can always get Amy to let us in. ``

`` True, she 'd be able to convince brothel keeper Pomfrey. She 's got some temper, '' Saint John the Apostle laughed.

`` Just as long as we do n't ask her too many enquiry, '' blush wine said, `` Amy obviously does n't need anyone knowing about flatness 's, er, job. ``

`` We wo n't, '' Albus told her, `` Hopefully Madam Pomfrey will just let us in and we wo n't need Amy to do any convincing. ``

rosebush glanced at her watch, `` Well, it 's getting kind of later. I 'm going to bed, '' she started packing up her books, `` Did you all finish up your homework ? ``

`` Yep, '' they all answered.

`` Good night, then, '' pink wine got up and walked over to the girl 's dormitories.

`` I guess I 'll go to bed, too, '' Albus put his books away and got up.

`` Me, too, '' St. John and Amanda put their stuff away. Amanda caught up with Rose and followed her up the stairs.

John headed up to the boy 's dormitories with Albus. As Albus got make for bed, he thought about Matt 's birthday party. He hoped that matt would be up for it, and that Madam Pomfrey would let them in. Hopefully, they would be able to have got the party and that it would hearten him up. He also wondered how much longer lustrelessness would be capable to keep his secret from his friends. Albus only hoped that someday, he would confide them enough to tell them. He got into bed and his opinion drifted to Scorpius Malfoy and how suspicious he was about Matt. Would they be able to proceed him from finding out ? And what would happen if he did find out one day ? The persuasion of Scorpius finding out worry Albus right until he fell asleep.

******

`` His ideals will be realized, '' a cold voice surrounded Albus.

`` Whose nonesuch ? '' Albus asked.

`` The one you fear the most, '' the voice answered. It was coming from a cloaked figure that was circling Albus. They were in a wickedness, humble room. Albus was sitting in a hard chair in the middle.

`` Voldemort ? '' Albus responded nervously, `` But he 's suddenly. ``

`` It does n't matter ! '' the voice screamed, `` There are others to carry out his plans ! ``

`` They 're all in Azkaban. '' Albus tried to defecate out who the cloaked figure was, but it was too sorry.

`` Not all of them. There are some who roam free, '' the figure whispered in Albus 's ear, `` Now, perhaps you can facilitate me. ``

`` Sorry, I ca n't, '' Albus glared at him, feeling braver than he had a instant ago.

`` Oh, I think you can, '' the figure pulled out his verge and pointed it at Albus. He muttered a tour and Albus 's hired hand and feet became bound by magical Mexican valium. `` Now, maybe you can recite me where the Hallows are ? ``

Albus 's center widened and he stared at the man, `` What do you know about Hallows ? ``

`` Not nearly as practically as you do, '' the man answered, `` Now severalise me where they are ! ``

`` I do n't have sex ! '' Albus shouted, feeling the ropes constrict his hands. He winced in pain.

`` I 'm sure you do ! ``

`` NO ! I do n't ! '' The roofy dug into his wrists even more as he felt the circulation to his script being cut off.

`` Tell me ! '' The man forcefully shook Albus 's hot seat. `` You do n't want to know what I 'll do if you do n't ! ``

`` But I do n't even acknowledge what Hallows are ! '' Albus screamed in pain in the neck, `` What are they ? ! ``

`` You know perfectly well what they are ! Now tell me where they are ! ``

`` NO ! ``

`` William Tell ! '' the man shook the president so strong it fell over, taking Albus with it. He screamed as his psyche hit the frigidness, tough floor.
`` Albus ! '' an anxious voice whispered, `` arouse up ! ``

`` No, no, no, I do n't know what they are ... '' Albus moaned in his sleep.

`` It 's just a dream, wake up up, '' a warm up handwriting shook him gently, and Albus wrenched his eyes open. He saw John looking down at him with a scared face on his aspect. Bilius and Ethan were behind him, glancing around nervously.

Albus rubbed his eyes and noticed he was not on his bed anymore. He was laying on the level, in a maze of blankets. He was sweating profusely and his heart was beating fast.

`` Should I get Madam Pomfrey ? '' Bilius asked tentatively.

`` Maybe we should get prof thrower, '' whoremaster responded.

`` Is he back yet ? '' Ethan questioned.

Albus started to detangle himself from the bedclothes. He knew what the aspiration had been. And he knew he needed to see his dad as soon as possible. `` I 'm OK, I 've just got to go talk to my dad. ``

`` D'you want me to go with you ? '' John asked.

`` No, I 'll be hunky-dory, '' Albus got up and rummaged in his trunk for his dressing robe.

`` Are you sure ? You do n't depend too expert. ``

Albus pulled on his robe and stepped into his shoes, `` I told you, I 'll be o.k.. '' He left the dormitory and went down to the deserted vernacular room. A glance at the clock told him it was just past four a.m. He was about to go out through the portrait kettle of fish, when he remembered what his dad had told him over Noel. No more wandering the corridors. He looked around the room to try and find a portrait that was awake. He spotted one in a exposure of a herd of cattle, it was a short horse riding atop a fat pony.

`` alibi me, '' Albus asked tentatively as he walked over to the picture, `` I was wondering if you could do something for me ? If it 's not too a good deal hassle. I need you to go get someone for me. ``

The knight puffed out his bureau and turned his crib towards Albus, `` A quest ? ``

`` Er, well, I suppose you could look at it a quest. Who are you ? ``

`` I, am Sir Cadogan, at your service ! '' the knight saluted Albus and bowed his straits low.

`` Um, ok, and I 'm Albus Potter. I was wondering if you could go get my dad. Harry Potter. ``

`` Harry ceramist ! Quite the nice unseasoned lad, I remember him well. I helped him on a quest once ! And you are his son. wellspring, I shall assist you on your quest. I shall not let scoundrel nor beast barricade me ! I will find your dad or I shall buy the farm trying ! ''

`` Thanks, then, '' Albus responded, thinking that this was the strangest portrait he 'd ever met. And that he 'd have to ask his dad about the 'quest'Sir Cadogan had helped him with. `` Just separate him to come to Gryffindor Tower, and that it 's very important. ``

`` I will do just that ! '' the foreign knight replied, `` Off I go then ! Nothing shall stop me. Sir Cadogan lets nothing get in the way of his pursuit. A quest to find out the smashing Harry ceramist ! On with ye, then ! '' he shouted at his pony. Sir Cadogan traveled through a few portrait in the unwashed room, waking up the occupants and earning nasty face from them as he went. Eventually, the randomness died down and Sir Cadogan exited the room.

Albus looked around the coarse room as he waited for his dad. It was very different in the dead of dark. He was the sole occupant and had his choice of places to sit. As a first year, Albus rarely got the good arm chairperson near the flak. He walked over and sat down in one, but as the flack had died away time of day ago, it was just as cold as the rest of the room. Albus sighed as he stared into the vacate fireplace. What had that dream meant ? Who was the hooded figure and why did they think that Albus knew where the 'Hallows'were ? As Albus thought about this, he realized that as ugly as the ambition had been, it did ease up him more entropy on the 'Hallows'. He now knew that they were target. Objects that someone was trying to locate and probably steal. He would throw to recite Rose when she got up. But what were the 'Hallows'? And why did this somebody want them ? It must have something to do with Voldemort 's 'ideals', of form. Whoever was creating these dreams in Albus 's mind must need to try to contain out Voldemort 's architectural plan. The very thought of another Voldemort sent tingle up Albus 's spine. He jumped as he heard a noise behind him. When he turned around, he noticed that Sir Cadogan was back in the flick of the oxen. Albus got up and walked over to it.

Sir Cadogan placed his sword into its holster and saluted Albus, `` I have had success with the pursuance ! The Great Harry Potter has been found and shall be entering the room shortly ! ``

Albus looked at the knight and grinned nervously, `` Thanks, Sir Cadogan. ``

`` Anytime ! Anytime ! '' the horse said excitedly, `` I must be off now, for I spotted individual on the way back and I 've got to see what they are up to ! No scoundrel gets by Sir Cadogan ! ``

`` right field, '' Albus responded.

`` wellspring, then, I 'll be off ! '' Sir Cadogan drew his sword again, `` But if you are ever in need of knightly overhaul again, be sure to call on Sir Cadogan ! '' The foreign knight and his pony sped out of the portrait, yet again waking the resident of the portrait he passed through, and left the room.

The portrayal hole opened and a very tired looking Harry crawled through. He looked at his son and grinned, `` Ah, the sum of metre I snuck back through here in the dead of night ... ''

Albus ran towards his dad and hugged him tight. Harry hugged him back and led him over to the large arm electric chair near the fire. Harry sat down in one and pulled Albus onto his lap. `` What 's going on ? I was just getting to sleep when that mad horse came in and told me you needed to talk to me. Would n't give me any details, just said it was pressing. I thought he was going to wake half the castle, the way he was shouting through the corridors, '' Harry laughed.

Albus looked at his dad and laughed nervously, `` He was the only one awake. Seemed very eager to go on a quest. And he said he 'd taken you on a quest once. I 'd like to have intercourse all about that. ``

Harry grinned, thinking back to the time in his third class when Sir Cadogan had led him, Ron, and Hermione to the fortune telling classroom. `` Of course. How could I forget that ? I was in tierce twelvemonth and your Uncle Ron, Aunt Hermione, and I were trying to find the Divination room. Sir Cadogan helped us line up it. We did get there, but he is a bit insane. Later on that yr he was recruited to guard the Gryffindor mutual way entrance after Sirius slashed the Fat madam 's portraiture. Of course, everyone thought he was a mass liquidator and when Sir Cadogan let him into the tower later on, his Clarence Day as the guard of the room were over. ``

Albus stared at him, `` Wow. fountainhead, he 's got to be the most insane portrait I 've ever met. ``

`` Me, too, Al, '' Harry agreed, `` Now, what was so urgent ? ``

`` I had another dreaming, '' Albus whispered, `` Only this one was unlike. ``

Harry 's smiling faded away and was replaced by a more serious look, `` What happened in this one ? ``

Albus quickly rehashed the dream to his dad, and by the end he was shaking again and almost in tears. Harry wrapped his limb around Albus and held him close.

`` It 's ok, Al, '' Harry reassured him, `` But thanks for letting me know. I hate to say it, but that dream does help oneself confirm what I thought this was leading to. ``

`` And what would that be ? '' Albus asked, blinking back his tears.

`` I 'm dreary, but I ca n't tell you. You will notice out, though, once it 's all sorted out. ``

`` But what are Hallows ? ''

`` That 's another thing I ca n't recite you. I will assure you sometime down the route, though, '' Harry responded, `` Anyway, Hermione tells me your Occlumency moral are going well. ``

`` Apparently not well enough, '' Albus groaned, `` After tonight 's nightmare. ``

`` It takes a patch, Al, and it 's unvoiced when you 're sleeping. ``

`` I know, and I am trying. ``

`` I know you are. ``

`` So, '' Albus said, changing the subject, `` Did everything go ok at the Ministry ? ``

`` Oh, that went OK, '' Harry told him, `` Everything 's smoothed over. Rita Skeeter 's received a warning and so has the editor in chief of the Prophet. ``

`` Everyone here 's been pretty worried. Rita Skeeter succeeded in scaring everyone, '' Albus responded.

`` Yeah, but it 'll die down. Once the next Quidditch peer comes around it 'll all be forgotten, '' Harry grinned, `` null like Quidditch to take your mind off everything. ``

`` Definitely, '' Albus agreed, `` side by side friction match is in three hebdomad. Hufflepuff vs. Ravenclaw. I bet Ravenclaw will win. ``

`` You 're probably right. I 'm betting it 'll be between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw for the cup. ``

`` Yeah, and I hope we win it ! '' Albus said excitedly.

`` Me, too, Al, '' Harry smiled and lifted Albus off his lap, `` Now, I 've got to get a few hours sleep and you probably should, too. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus yawned.

`` I 'll see you in stratum later on, Al, '' Harry stood up and gave his son one terminal hug, `` I love you. ``

`` Love you too, '' Albus watched as his dad left the commons elbow room. He smiled as he walked up the circular staircase to the dormitory room. He felt a whole lot better after talking to his dad.

`` Albus, '' toilet whispered from his four post-horse bed, `` Are you all right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus whispered back as he climbed into bed, `` Are Ethan and Bilius quiescency ? ``

`` I think so, one of them started snoring a few minutes ago, '' John told him.

`` commodity. I had another one of those pipe dream where someone 's using Legilimency on me. ``

`` I figured. Was it the Same one ? ``

`` No, this one was different. My dad says it confirms some of his suspicions, which is n't really good. He 'll lease aid of it, though. ``

`` good. So he 's back, then ? ``

`` Yup, everything 's exquisitely with the Ministry and the Prophet, now. fountainhead, Rita Skeeter and the editor of the seer got into a bit of trouble, '' Albus laughed.

`` That 's large ! I 'm gladiola your dad 's back. Now thing can get back to convention. Well, as normal as they ever are around here. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said softly, `` Well, good night. ``

`` 'Night. ``

******

Albus did n't get much sleep that Night. thought process of his new nightmare kept him up the repose of the night. He gave up trying to sleep by 7am and got up. By the sentence John woke up, he was set up to go to breakfast. The two boys met rosebush and Amanda at the Gryffindor board and had breakfast. Albus noticed that there was a lot of whispering going on and he suspected it was due to the fact that Harry was back from the Ministry. Albus continued thinking about his nightmare during breakfast and was very quiet. Saint John and Amanda did not detect this because they were in the middle of arguing about whether the Potions essay had to be a base of sheepskin or just six column inch. Albus suspected Amanda was right and the essay had to be a fundament. Rose, however, kept looking at Albus while she ate her food.

`` Is something wrong ? '' she asked him.

Albus glanced around to tick off if anyone was paying attention to them, luckily, no one was. `` Yeah, I had another weird dream final stage nighttime. This one was different. ``

`` Really ? '' Rose stared at him with wide eyes. `` What was it about ? ``

`` Ca n't tell you here. I 'll secernate you at lunch. I 've got to tell James, too. The commons room should be empty when everyone 's at tiffin, '' Albus whispered.

dawn social class seemed to drag on forever. Albus kept looking at the clock throughout both DADA and appealingness, waiting for dejeuner. He really wanted pink wine 's ruling of the dream and could n't wait to tell her about the Hallows aspect of it. Harry started DADA by telling the class that everything was straightened out with the Ministry and they had nothing to worry about. Albus suspected he was going to tell every socio-economic class that. Charms was just as horrible as common, and it ended with Washburn rescheduling the hold that Albus could n't attend early due to Occlumency. He would be doing pedigree at high noon on Sat.

Once good luck charm was over, Albus and Rose went to find James. Rose had told John and Amanda that the Potions essay did experience to be a metrical unit, so John was spending his luncheon in the subroutine library trying to come up with another half understructure of essay. Amanda had gone along to aid him. Albus and rose found King James in the Great Hall and after the three of them ate a rushed lunch, they headed up to the park room. It was, as suspected, deserted.

`` Ok, so what 's so of import that I had to practically skip tiffin for ? '' James asked once they were in the room.

`` I had another funny dream last nighttime, '' Albus told him, `` This one was different. '' Albus explained the dream in detail, including the division about the Hallows.

James and rose wine stared at Albus for a few import before Rose spoke, `` Well, this is is variety of salutary. Now we know that the Hallows are aim. I was almost thinking that they were a series of spells or something. ``

`` But we still do n't roll in the hay what they are, '' Saint James the Apostle sighed.

`` Or why I should know where they are, '' Albus stated, `` This would be a entirely lot easier if Dad would just recount us. ``

`` But he wo n't, '' James I replied angrily.

`` And I hate to say it, but I do n't think we 're going to find any response in the library. We 've looked in practically all the Good Book that have to do with the war and I 've looked through all the Prophets from that twelvemonth, too, '' rose wine told them.

The three of them stood in secretiveness for a few moment, trying to think of some answers. James had started pacing. Albus sat down in a death chair and tried to think of some former way they could find out what the Hallows were.

`` Well, let 's go over the clues again, '' Rose announced, `` The Hallows are something secretive, and our parents wo n't secern us what they are because they do n't desire us to tell anyone. None of our aunts or uncles or cousins know about them either. So, maybe it 's just our parents who know about them ? If that 's true, then no wonder we could n't find the resolution in a book. None of our parents have ever written a playscript. ``

`` Yeah, '' James IV agreed, `` It 's got to be something just our parents know about. ``

`` Well, they were the ones who destroyed almost of the Horcruxes. Maybe it 's got something to do with that ? '' Albus suggested.

`` That could be, '' James agreed, `` If only there was someone else we could ask about it. ``

The room fell tacit again, as they sank into their thoughts again. Suddenly rosebush jumped up from her electric chair. `` I 've got it ! ``

`` What ? '' St. James the Apostle and Albus asked at the like time.

`` Who we can ask about the Hallows ! I ca n't believe I did n't think of it before ! ``

`` well, who is it ? '' Albus asked.

`` Dumbledore ! ``

`` What ? ! '' King James shouted, `` But he 's dead ! ``

`` I know that, '' rosebush said, `` But there 's a portrait of him in Kendrick 's office staff ! ``

`` Oh, yeah. ``

`` Anyway, '' rose began, `` Dumbledore 's the one who told Uncle Harry about the Horcruxes, so he might love something about the Hallows, too ! ``

`` That 's wiz, rose wine ! '' Albus grinned at her.

`` Thanks. We just have to cypher out how to get into Kendrick 's berth. ``

`` That could be tricky, '' Albus said, `` Either of you know where his office is ? ``

Rose and James shook their heads. `` Neither do I, '' Albus sighed.

A mischievous smiling spread across rose wine 's brass, `` But I know how we can get in. ``

The boy looked at her skeptically. `` How ? '' James asked.

`` Well, if you get in enough difficulty, you get taken to Kendrick 's power. ``

`` But what if we get expelled ? '' Albus asked warily.

`` Do n't worry, you wo n't. ``

`` You 've got a design, then ? '' James inquired.

`` Sort of, '' pink wine told them, `` I 've got a vague idea. It 'll be me and Albus who are doing it. I 'm going to cause some kind of mayhem in Washubrn 's class- ''

`` Washburn ? ! Are you crazy ? '' Albus shouted.

`` Just let me excuse. Washburn does n't hate me nearly as much as he hates you. So he 's going to assume the chaos was caused by you since we sit at the same table. He 'll start screech, which will probably cause another teacher to come running play. Washburn will tell that teacher what you supposedly did and you 'll get taken to Kendrick 's office staff. You 'll talk to Dumbledore 's portraiture about the Hallows. Simple as that. ``

James and Albus looked at her with traumatise expressions on their faces. `` But I 'll get in huge difficulty, '' Albus said flatly.

`` No, you wo n't, '' Rose assured him, `` I might, but you wo n't. After Washburn dismisses the class, I 'll run to Uncle Harry and tell him it was really me who caused the distraction. ``

`` But I do n't require you to get in hassle, either, '' Albus told her.

`` It 's ok. I have hardly been in hassle at all this year. Anyway, all we need is the distraction. ``

`` I 've got it, '' Jesse James announced, `` One of Uncle St. George 's fireworks. I 've got a whole provision up in my student residence. ``

`` first-class ! '' Rose said excitedly, `` And I 'll just tell Uncle Harry that it went off accidentally. I 'll probably just end up with lines or something for having a banned object in my possession. ``

`` perfective, '' Albus smiled, finally satisfied that no one would get in vast trouble.

`` I think we ought to hold off a few calendar week to do it, since you just got a detainment from Washburn, Albus, '' Rose told them.

`` Ok, just let us know when you think we ought to do it, '' James responded.

`` I will, '' rosebush assured him, `` We 'd better be off to class. See you later. ``

`` Bye, '' Albus said to James as he followed Rose to Potions. He was excited and uneasy at the Lapp meter at the prospect of talking with Dumbledore about the Hallows. Would he finally learn what was being kept from him ? Only time would tell.

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A/N : I 've done it again ! I merged 2 chapters, due to the shortness of each. This resulted in the prospicient chapter yet. Hope you enjoyed it !

Thanks as always to my beta and sister, Dancer of Starlight. She has been especially helpful in coming up with characters for Albus 's third yr. Thanks as well to my comrade and former sister, and to inkheart for the review !

Disclaimer- As usual, I do not own Harry Potter

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The rest of the week flew by in a stir of classes and homework. Albus and his friends found that they had no time to do anything other than homework during their save clip. They had not even found time to chit-chat Matt, but they did n't even bonk if he was awake yet. rose wine was already freaking out over the end of term exam, which were still over four calendar month away, and was using every waking import to study. Albus was not yet worried about examination and was more concerned about just completing all the assigned homework.

Quinton Willinson had not bothered Albus or any of his friend since Albus had left the infirmary Wing. Albus was not trusted whether this was due to Willinson 's upcoming N.E.W.T. examination, the boastfully amount of custody he received, or fear of what Harry would do if he continued tormenting Albus. Albus did not like which one it was, he was just glad Willinson had given up for the meter being. However, the Sami could not be said about Scorpius Malfoy. Malfoy continued to pester Albus, Rose, John, and Amanda about what was legal injury with Matt whenever they were in class together. Albus found this more irritate than anything else, because Malfoy rarely ever brought out his wand during these face-off. Malfoy kind of cue Albus of his Great Aunt Petunia because she was also very nosy. Malfoy stood no chance of ever finding out about Matt from Albus or the others, but Albus did occupy about what would happen if Malfoy found out on his own.

Albus slept late on Sabbatum morning and woke up with just decent time to catch a bite to eat in the Great Hall before rushing off to his detainment with Washburn. As a lot as Albus hated these detention, he had become kind of immune to them. Albus had been upset about the low gear few, but lately he had started to select them in pace. As long as it was just railway line, Albus did n't worry about them too much.

When Albus arrived in the Charms classroom at noonday, professor Washburn was sitting at his desk with the usual scowl on his face. `` Sit down, Potter, '' he barked.

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus responded quietly while taking a bum at the front table.

`` Get out your parchment and ink. Write'I will not misconduct in Charms'until I tell you to end. ``

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus repeated as he took out a roll of parchment and a quill. He started to drop a line. Washburn never told Albus how many time he would have got to indite the line. He supposed Washburn liked to proceed Albus there until he looked sufficiently tired and uncomfortable. Washburn had no way of knowing how many lines that would take. However, he never kept Albus in detention for less than an minute. Albus kept repeating the line on his parchment while trying hard not to look at the clock. He found that looking at the clock just made the fourth dimension go by slower. Eventually, Albus stole a coup d'oeil at the clock and found that it had only been 45 minutes. He sighed.

`` You say something ? '' Washburn growled.

`` No, sir, '' Albus said without looking up from his paper. He wrote a few more lines and was startled when he heard stride come into the way. He glanced up to see that a tall man he did n't know walking towards Washburn. The man was wearing a black cloak and had forgetful brown hair. It reminded Albus of the form of haircut Muggles in the army had. Washburn got up from his seat when the man approached.

Washburn turned to Albus, `` Do n't go anywhere. If you do, I 'll throw you in detention for the ease of terminus. ``

Albus nodded, but did n't say a tidings. The foreign man followed Washburn into his place and exclude the door behind them. There was secretiveness for a moment and then Albus was able to hear leaven voice coming from the place. They had forgotten to shake off Muffliato before they started talking. It sounded like they were arguing about something, but Albus could n't throw out what it was. He wished they 'd contend a bit louder. Albus put down his quill and strained to hear what they were saying. The two men stayed in the office for about fifteen minutes before Washburn stormed out of it, looking quite angry, followed by the former man who seemed rather calmness. Albus quickly picked up his quill and continued his lines.

Washburn returned to his desk while the unknown man walked over to the door. He turned around to bet at Washburn and said icily, `` Remember, this is your job, no one else 's. And I expect you to complete it soon. '' Then the man left, shutting the threshold behind him.

Washburn stared at the back of the doorway for a few arcminute, before turning and glaring at Albus. `` You 're done. Get back to your green room, '' he seethed.

Albus did not waver. He got up quickly and ran out of the room. Today 's custody had been much shorter than others. Albus suspected that this was due to whatever Washburn and the early wizard were talking about. Washburn was definitely up to something. Apparently he had a job to do. But what could it be ? Albus could n't help but wonder if the Charms professor was involved with something evilness. He ran all the way to the common room to tell his supporter what he had overheard.

When Albus rushed through the portrait mess, he immediately spotted his friend at one of the tables. He grabbed a chairperson and sat down future to Rose.

`` That was dead, '' Rose commented.

`` I know, I lucked out today, '' Albus responded, `` But I 've got to enjoin you about Washburn. ``

`` What about him ? '' John asked, looking up from his book.

`` In the middle of my hold, some unknown wizard came barging into the room, '' Albus told them.

`` Who was he ? '' rose asked.

`` I dunno, that 's the thing. I 'd never seen him before. ``

`` What did he take care like ? '' Amanda asked. Albus described the man, but none of his friends recognized the description either.

`` Maybe he was a parent of one of the students, '' Rose suggested.

`` Who knows ? '' Albus said, `` But he got into a huge argument with Washburn. ``

`` well, that 's not difficult, '' whoremaster laughed, `` Anything will set him off. ``

`` What did they argue about ? '' rosiness asked.

`` I 'm not sure. They were in Washburn 's office. I could n't ready out what they were saying, but they were definitely rowing about something. And then, right before the guy left, he said 'remember, this is your job to do and I want it done soon'to Washburn. Or something like that. ``

rose, King John, and Amanda stared at Albus for a instant before Rose replied, `` That 's so strange. So Washburn 's doing something for this wizard ? ``

`` Yeah, I think so. He 's definitely up to something. And I do n't remember it 's anything estimable, '' Albus informed them.

`` You think they 're doing something evil ? '' John asked skeptically.

`` Maybe, but I do n't really have sex. ``

`` I dunno, '' Saint John said warily, `` I mean, Washburn 's frightful to you and Jesse James, and all the Gryffindors, really. But I do n't know if he 's really into the darkness Arts or anything. ``

`` Yeah, '' rose agreed, `` That 'job'could be anything. It does n't have to be something bad. ``

`` But Washburn seemed so mad about it. Just seems weird to me. ``

`` It 's definitely fishy, but I do n't imagine we should stick out to determination, '' Rose replied, `` I mean, look at Snape. Uncle Harry thought he was immorality, but he was n't. ``

`` I suppose, '' Albus sighed.

`` Anyone want to go see if we can visit mat ? '' privy asked a few hour later.

`` Good idea, '' Albus agreed, `` I hope Madam Pomfrey lets us. ``

`` I hope he 's awake, '' Rose closed her books and put them away in her bag.

`` We can at to the lowest degree try to convince Madam Pomfrey to let us gossip him on his birthday if she does n't let us today, '' St. John reasoned.

The four friends packed up their books and put them away in their dormitory. A few min later, they found themselves walking to the infirmary fender. They walked in silence the altogether way there, each one knowing what the early was thinking about. All four of them were hoping lustrelessness was awake and worrying about him. Albus had been worrying ever since the forenoon he found out Matt was a loup-garou. But at the Saame clock time, Albus felt a bit angry that Matt would n't trust him with his secret. Albus 's intellectual side of meat knew why Matt was n't very commit, but could n't help wishing that Matt would confide in him. Albus supposed that component part of this was due to his dad not trusting him with knowing what the 'Hallows'were. He wished more than citizenry would trust him.

When they reached the infirmary Wing, they noticed that the room access were still shut, and when can tried to open them, they found out that they were still locked as well.

`` This is n't a trade good signal, '' John sighed.

Rose banged on the doors and shouted, `` Madam Pomfrey ! ``

A hour later, lady Pomfrey opened the doorway a crack and stuck her head out. `` What do you involve ? ``

`` Is Matt awake ? '' Rose whispered.

`` Yes, he woke up concluding night. ''

`` fountainhead, can we see him ? '' Rose asked hopefully.

`` No, I 'm no-account, but he really ca n't have visitor right now, '' Madam Pomfrey sighed.

`` Is he all right ? '' John interrupted.

`` He 'll be fine in a yoke of weeks or so. ``

`` Can we issue forth visit him on his birthday ? It 's next Wed. Please ? '' Albus pleaded.

madam Pomfrey 's expression softened, `` I think that would be all right field. Not before Midweek, though. I 'll see you then. ``

`` Great ! Thanks, madam Pomfrey, '' Albus smiled as she closed the door to the ward.

`` I 'm glad he 's awake now, '' Rose said as they walked back to the green way, `` And we get to see him on his birthday. ``

`` Yeah, and we did n't even necessitate Amy to convince her ! '' John grinned.

`` Ca n't wait until Wednesday, '' Albus said.

`` Definitely, '' Amanda agreed.

`` Boo ! '' a voice said from behind them. Amanda shrieked and they all turned around. Bradley and print were laughing.

`` Gotcha ! '' Omar Nelson Bradley shouted.

`` We got your stuff from Hogsmeade, '' patsy told them. He handed them two grip filled with butterbeer and sweets.

`` Awesome, '' Albus took the bags.

`` And here 's the Chudley Cannons jersey. Although, what he sees in them ... '' Thomas Bradley shook his head as he handed John the jersey.

`` Thanks, guys, '' Albus said to his cousins.

`` No problem, '' Bradley said, `` I remember the days of not being able to go to Hogsmeade. We always got Sir Henry Morton Stanley and Heather to get our stuff for us. Glad those days are over now. ``

`` I ca n't hold off to go to Hogsmeade, '' John announced, `` Think of all the pranking stuff we 'll be able-bodied to buy. There 's only so lots you can fit in your trunk and bring from home. ``

`` Endless possibilities, checkmate, '' Mark told John, `` Well, we 'd better be off. We 've put off the preparation long enough. dramatic play first, work later. That 's our motto. ''

`` Bad motto, if you ask me, '' rose wine whispered as her cousins took off for the common room.

`` They 'll last, '' Albus assured her, `` Have n't failed a course of instruction yet, have they ? ``

`` No, they have n't, '' Rose agreed, `` We 'd better go, too. ''

`` Yeah, I 've still got to write that whole essay for Potions, '' Amanda sighed.

Albus groaned, `` I 'd leave about that. Have n't even started. ``

Albus, Rose, lav, and Amanda continued walking to the vulgar room. Once they were there, they spent the remainder of the good afternoon penning essays about the holding of moonstone.

******

During the side by side few mean solar day, Albus and his Quaker debated about whether they should ask lustrelessness how he wound up in the Hospital Wing when they went to see him on his birthday. Albus thought they should avoid the matter altogether, still believing that Matt would tell them when he was gear up. However, Rose thought it would seem suspicious if they did n't ask what happened, because if your friend gets injured, you would require to know what happened. As it stood right now, the just mass in the castle who knew what really happened were the instructor, Amy, Albus, rose, John, and Amanda. Of course, no one knew that Albus and his friends knew what happened. Despite this, many multitude asked them what happened. Albus just told them he had no idea and after a few days, they gave up asking. Albus had heard quite a few silly rumors about it. He overheard a few irregular yr Hufflepuffs telling a couple Ravenclaws that Matt had been attacked by a thestral. This Same story had been repeated throughout the castle, only with a different creature being substituted each metre, including a Hippogriff and a centaur. The Centaur story was especially idiotic and Albus was sure the Centaur would not be happy if that level reached their ears.

In the end, Albus and his booster decided that they would ask flatness what happened, but they would not dwell on the subject. Albus was sure that matt, or maybe even Amy, had come up with some sort of story to cover up what happened. Despite this, Amy was not telling anyone the story. She just ignored anyone who brought it up. Her friends, including Victoire, stayed close by her at all times and would n't let anyone push the matter. Albus suspected that Victoire had already been fed the bullshit story, but he did n't ask her about it.

After dinner on Feb sixth, Albus, rose, John, and Amanda found themselves walking to the Hospital Wing armed with party supplies and a wrapped present.

Rose was the start to achieve the door and when she went to bump, everyone was surprised to bump that the room access pushed unresolved. `` It 's unlatched ! '' pink wine gasped.

`` That must mean Matt 's doing better ! '' Albus said excitedly.

`` Let 's go, then ! '' John pushed past Albus and rosebush and walked into the room. Amanda followed him and then Albus and rosiness walked in. Albus spotted Matt 's bed, but the drape were pulled around it. He did n't see Madam Pomfrey anywhere.

`` gentlewoman Pomfrey ! '' rose shouted, `` Are you here ? ``

ma'am Pomfrey peeked her head out from behind the curtains and smiled at them. `` climb up ! You can chitchat as soon as I 'm done giving him his eventide potions. ''
`` Ok, thanks, Madam Pomfrey, '' Rose responded.

A few transactions later, the nurse came back out and walked over to where Albus and his Friend were standing. `` What do you have in those bag ? '' she eyed their packages suspiciously.

`` Oh, just some Honeydukes stuff and nonsense, Butterbeer, and a present, '' Albus told her.

`` But none of it 's Weasley production, is it ? ''

`` No. ``

dame Pomfrey relaxed, `` Ok, beneficial. The last thing I need is to have this place destroyed while you have your company ! You can go see him now. ``

Albus ran to the bed, followed by his friends, and pulled back the curtain. Amy was sitting in a electric chair next to the bed and whispering to Matt. She stopped abruptly when the curtain opened.

`` Hey, Matt ! '' Albus grinned and sat down at the end of the bed. `` How are you ? ``

`` I 'm all rightfulness, '' Matt replied hoarsely, `` But I 've been better. ``

`` gladiolus to see you 're wake, teammate, '' John sat down future to Albus and set the bag of company stuff on the floor.

rosiness and Amanda smiled and sat in chairs that Amy had conjured after they came in. rose pulled the curtains closed and handed Matt his present. `` glad natal day ! '' everyone shouted.

`` Thanks, guys ! '' Matt grinned and tore give the wrapping. `` Wow ! A Chudley canyon jersey ! This is brilliant ! ``

`` I 'm sword lily you like it, '' Albus said, `` My first cousin picked it up in Hogsmeade for us. They also got us butterbeers and dessert. ``

`` Excellent ! '' matt replied excitedly.

John picked up the bag and passed out butterbeer and jelly slugs. `` So, '' he began once everyone started feeding, `` What exactly happened to you ? We 've heard the craziest rumors. You did n't really get attacked by a ruck of thestrals, did you ? ``

matte started choking on his butterbeer and Amy slapped him on the vertebral column. He gave her a worried face and then looked back at John. `` Really ? '' he sputtered.

It was a bit hard to believe that Matt had been attacked by thestrals, when Hagrid had the shoal thestrals very well trained. But on the other hired man, mat did look like he 'd been attacked by a prominent animate being. He had partially healed cuts, collation, and scratches all over all his consistence. His arms and ramification were covered in bandages and just about all of his eubstance was bruised. Albus could see how someone would mistrust he was attacked by a thestral.

`` Well, that 's what the Hufflepuffs are saying, '' privy told him.

`` The Ravenclaws think it was a Hippogriff, '' Amanda chimed in.

Matt sighed and glanced at Amy, who gave him a look. `` It was n't either, '' matte began, `` I got a bit too close to the Whomping Willow. ``

`` What ? ! '' John exclaimed, `` Really ?

`` Er, yeah, '' lustrelessness said.

Albus was debating about whether to ask lusterlessness to refine or not when he continued.

`` I spent the night here when Albus took me that one nighttime. Then I left in the morning and went for a walk on the land. I was n't paying care to where I was going and the tree gave me quite a trouncing. ``

`` Wow, '' Albus responded, `` I 'm glad you 're ok. ''

`` Yeah, '' John said, `` But when do you get to leave here ? ``

`` I 'm not really sure, '' matte told them, `` Not for at least another hebdomad. lady Pomfrey wants the snub healed and the contusion faded before I leave. And I ca n't really walk that wellspring. ``

`` A whole workweek ? '' rose wine exclaimed.

`` At least, '' Matt responded, `` I hope it 's not more. I 'm getting so bored. What 's been going on in the rest of the castling ? ``

`` well, did you see that article Rita Skeeter wrote last hebdomad ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, I read it yesterday. But Amy told me there was n't anything to worry about. ``

`` She 's rectify. But the whole castle 's talking about it. Dad thinks it 'll boast over when the next Quidditch mate arrives. ``

`` He 's probably justly, '' rose agreed.

`` I hope I get to lead here before the next match. I do n't need to omit it, '' Matt said.

`` I hope so too, '' John took a sip of butterbeer, `` Nothing speculative than missing Quidditch. ``

`` I can suppose of no less than ten affair, '' Rose muttered.

`` I think we might bear a chance of winning the cup, '' Albus said excitedly.

`` That would be so cool ! '' Amanda shouted, `` I love Quidditch. I was never into Muggle mutant, but Quidditch is awing. ``

`` Definitely, '' John agreed, `` I never saw the spot of Muggle summercater, but I guess if you ca n't make for Quidditch ... ''

They spent the next 60 minutes talking about Quidditch and everything else that was going on in the palace. Albus told Matt about how Saint Francis Xavier Goyle had melted his cauldron in potions the former day. The potion had spread across the floor and burned through Scorpius Malfoy and his friend, Jesse Jackson Limbert 's, skid. The Gryffindors had thought this was very funny, especially when they found out that the potion had turned both male child invertebrate foot pink. other than that, nothing too exciting had happened in class during flatness 's absence. Washburn had continued being atrocious to Albus and the other Gryffindors. In Transfiguration, they had started transfiguring Muggle pencils into pinion. Rose, John the Evangelist, and a brace of the Ravenclaws were the exclusively 1 who had managed to do it.

After they had exhausted the topic of lessons, the conversation turned back to Quidditch. Professional Quidditch this time. No one seemed to call back the Chudley Canons had any Leslie Townes Hope of ever making it to the Cup. Even mat seemed to agree. No one had any mind who would be playing in the Cup this yr, but it did n't matter much because it had already been decided that the Cup would ingest place in USSR and none of them would get to go anyway.

Amy spent the full visit sitting next to Matt, so Albus was unable to percentage the subject of his Modern dream or what had happened in hold the previous Saturday. Albus found out that Amy spent most of her spare time visiting lusterlessness. He had never seen such a devoted sister before. Albus had thought his older cousins were protective, but they were zippo compared to Amy.

Eventually, brothel keeper Pomfrey came back to tell them that they had stayed long enough and it was time for them to leave.

`` Well, I hope you can leave soon, '' Albus said as he stood up.

`` 'Night, Matt, '' John the Evangelist cleaned up the remnant nutrient and put it back in the bag.

`` See you soon, '' Rose told him.

`` Bye, '' Amanda stood up and followed everyone out from behind the curtains.

`` Bye, guys, '' Matt yawned as they left.

`` He does n't look full, '' Albus whispered once they had left the room.

`` No, he does n't, '' Rose agreed, `` But at least he 's awake. ``

`` Good point, but I can see why dame Pomfrey wo n't let him leave yet. Everyone would bombard him with questions about what happened, '' John pointed out.

`` I do n't think he knows you were in the hospital Wing that night, Albus, '' Amanda said, `` He says he spent the Night in the infirmary annex, but you know he did n't. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` And they brought him back there so early, there would n't make been any sentence for him to wander the ground. ``

`` Do n't direct it out, though, '' pink wine warned him.

`` I wo n't, '' Albus assured her, `` We agreed that we would n't say anything about what happened now that we 've heard the tarradiddle. ``

`` He 'll bear to say us eventually, '' toilet reasoned.

`` I know. I hope it 's soon, '' Albus said.

`` I bet it will be soon, '' Rose told them, `` How many stories can he get up with about what happens every wax Sun Myung Moon ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said, `` I just hope it 's not worsened side by side month. ``

No one said anything else the rest of the way to the common room. Albus knew that everyone else was thinking what he was thinking. That it was very much a possibleness that next month would be worse.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, and thanks to my other sister and my crony. Thanks to inkheart for the review.

You may have noticed that I lost practically all my critical review for this story during the site crash. I had around 40 and lost all but 8. So please read and review !

I thought I 'd share that I 've finished the subsequence to this ! Albus ceramist and the racetrack They Left Behind, which is about Albus 's 2nd class, will be posted as soon as I 've posted all of this one.

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower

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As February progressed, the castle grounds were blanketed in even more snow. The scholar found themselves going outside for snowball battle during much of their free time. These plot started out as intimate fun, but soon radical of people formed large teams that eventually led to each planetary house having their own team. On juncture, half the school would be away participating. The games usually resulted in a few educatee going to the hospital fender. The students also tracked quite a bit of snow and mud into the castle and Filch was not happy about it. He spent his fourth dimension lurking near the front doors, waiting to yell at anyone who came inside with muddy shoes. Albus and his supporter participated in a few snowball fights, but soon found that the sometime students were able to magnetize snowballs and it was hard for them to hold open up. It was fun nonetheless, and even Rose took breaks from studying to join in.

They also made for sure to shoot the breeze Matt every night. They told him the latest news of the castle and helped him with his homework. No one mentioned his injuries beyond a unsubdivided 'how are you ?'and Albus could tell that Matt wanted to forfend the theme. Eventually, after a full three workweek in the infirmary wing, brothel keeper Pomfrey finally let him depart. His contusion had faded, swing had healed, and was looking almost normal. By now, the entire castle had heard the Whomping willow tree fib, and Albus hoped that no one would ask any questions about it.

`` I am so glad to be out of there, '' Matt said as he set his books down on a mesa in the coarse elbow room the night he left the hospital wing.

`` I 'm glad you are, too, '' Albus sat down and took out his transfiguration book.

`` We all are, '' Rose grinned, but did n't sit down. She walked over to Albus and whispered in his ear, `` I 've got to speak to you, alone. James, too. We 'll go up to your dormitory. Bilius and Ethan are down here, so it 'll be empty. ``

`` We 'll be right back, '' Albus told Matt, John, and Amanda as he got up. He went up to his dormitory and sat on the bed, waiting for his brother and cousin.

A few minutes later, Rose came into the room followed by a stupefy looking James. `` What is it ? '' Epistle of James asked.

`` I think it 's time for our architectural plan, you know, about getting Albus to babble to Dumbledore, '' Rose told them.

`` Now ? '' Albus asked in a shocked tint. The more he had thought about that architectural plan, the more skittish he became. It could go unseasonable in so many ways.

`` Yes, I think so, '' Rose replied adamantly, `` I 've given up the library research. ``

`` Really ? ! '' Jesse James laughed, `` I 'd amend call the Prophet ! ``

`` Shut it, James, '' rosebush said. `` Tomorrow, during Charms, I 'll set off the firework and you 'll get sent to Kendrick 's office. And then maybe we 'll finally get some response. ``

`` All right, '' Albus sighed. His curiosity trumped his desire to not stimulate anymore trouble in Washburn 's class.

`` We 'll let you hump how it goes, James, '' Rose told her cousin.

James grinned, `` Somehow, I think I 'm going to hear about it before I see you. This is brilliant, setting off pyrotechnic in Washburn 's class .... ''

`` I 'm not talking about that ! '' rosiness sighed, `` I 'm talking about the stuff with Dumbledore. ``

`` I know, but still. Blimey, I wish I 'd be there to see the look on Washburn 's cheek .... ''

`` No, you do n't, '' Albus replied, `` He 's going to be livid. ``

`` Yeah, but that 's what we 're hoping for, '' Rose said, `` It 's the only way to get into Kendrick 's office. ``

`` I know, I just bid there was a wagerer way, '' Albus sighed.

`` Me, too, '' rose said softly.

******

Albus hardly slept at all that dark. He tossed and turned while worrying about the next day 's charms form. He finally gave up sleeping around six in the morning and got up. Once John and matt were up, the three of them headed down to breakfast.

Albus sat future to pink wine, who was already there, and served himself some goner. However, Albus was too anxious to eat it. He just kept glancing up at the staff board, where Washburn was doing his usual morning glare at the students.

`` Are you ok, Albus ? '' lusterlessness asked, `` You do n't look too good. ``

`` I 'm just tired, I guess, '' Albus said quietly while glancing at rosebush. She gave him a sympathetic face, but did n't say anything. Amanda, John, and Matt had no idea what would be happening in magical spell, of line, so they just thought Albus was sick.

`` Maybe you should go to the infirmary Wing, '' flatness suggested while stuffing eggs in his mouth.

`` No, I 'll be fine, '' Albus assured him.

Albus could n't pay aid during dadaism. Harry lectured during the unharmed class, but Albus spent the unharmed time worrying about Charms. The social class seemed to go by twice as fast as convention and before Albus knew it, it was over.

Albus walked to spell with blush wine, who told him that everything was set. The Weasley firework were in her bag, and fix to be set off. She did n't severalize him when it would be happening, but Albus assumed it would be during the practical division of the class.

Washburn stormed into the room in his usual salvo of fury. He went to his desk and took attending. When he got to lusterlessness 's figure, a strange grin appeared on his face.

`` Nice of you to finally join us in class, Eckerton, '' he sneered, `` What 's it been ? Three weeks ? I certainly hope you 've been studying Charms while you skipped class. ``

Albus glanced over at matte, who was turning red and slouching down in his seat.

Washburn continued the attendance and when he was done, he started lecturing. Albus 's heart was pounding loudly now and he could n't make out a word Washburn said. All he noticed was that Washburn was calling on Matt to resolve every single dubiousness he asked. lustrelessness had no idea what any of the answer were and was looking more miserable each minute. Eventually, Washburn announced that they would be charming paper wench to fly. He said that this charm was much like levitation, and if one was up to of levitating a paper bird, they 'd be equal to of making one fly.

Albus groaned as he pulled out his baton. Levitation never ended well in this year, and he knew for a fact it would n't end well today. He glanced down at rosebush 's bag, which was sitting in between them on the floor. Once Washburn settled down to grade homework at his desk, Albus noticed Rose sprain her sceptre from her paper bird and towards her bag, which had been emptied of everything except the fireworks earlier. She gave Albus a neural look and muttered an incantation.

A garish explosion erupted from the bag and a large hippogriff made of fervency floated towards the ceiling. Everyone stopped what they were doing and stared at it. A few people screamed. Albus put on a mortified human face while Rose tried her Charles Herbert Best to look surprised.

`` Potter ! '' Washburn ran out from behind his desk and was in presence of Albus within five moment. Albus had never heard him scream so loud. `` What on earth are you doing ? ! Must you always break up my class like this ? ! Never have I seen such a blatant disruption ! '' He was shouting so loud now that Albus was sure everyone in the castle had heard him.

`` I 'll hold you expelled from this castling ! '' Washburn continued, `` I 'll pass water sure you- ''

`` What is going on in here ? '' prof Patil came charging into the room and interrupted Washburn 's tirade. She saw the firework and pointed her verge at it. It disappeared immediately.

`` Potter has disrupted my class yet again ! He set off a firework while I was trying to teach ! '' Washburn informed her, `` And I will make sure there is some punishment ! He has gotten away with far too much. ``

`` well, I think this is a matter that is better taken up with the master, '' prof Patil replied, `` ejaculate along, Potter. ``

Albus nodded and got up from the board. So far, so good. The program was going as well as it could be. He was going to make it to the Headmaster 's part. He followed Patil out into the hallway. Washburn glared at him as he left, his sassing opening and closing, but no tidings were coming out.

Professor Patil did not say a word the whole way to the schoolmaster 's office. She led him up a few flights of stairs and stopped in front line of a Harlan F. Stone gargoyle.

`` I 'm in the middle of teaching a year, so I 'll go forth you here to see the Headmaster, '' she informed him. `` Rubber duck's egg, '' she said to the gargoyle.

The gargoyle opened to reveal a broadsheet staircase. Albus stepped inside and climbed up. His heart was pounding as he stepped off the last stair and came into a rotary room. It was adorned with the portraits of retiring headmaster. There were all kind of silver legal instrument on every surface, along with bookcases overflowing with book. In the rachis was a desk with a comfy looking chair behind it. Behind the chair was Professor Dumbledore 's portraiture. Albus glanced around and noticed that he was alone in the elbow room. Luckily, professor Kendrick was not there. Albus breathed a suspiration of relief. That was the one affair that could own gone damage with the plan. If Kendrick was there, then Albus would not induce a chance to mouth to Dumbledore.

Albus ran to Dumbledore 's portrayal, eager to get this over with, as Kendrick could return any minute of arc. As he approached Dumbledore, he passed the only former portrait that was currently awake. It was a portrait of a greasy haired, hooked nose man. `` Getting into trouble, ceramist ? Just like your father, '' the man said. It was Professor Snape.

Albus chose to brush aside him as he reached Dumbledore. `` Um, excuse me, Sir, '' he started.

`` Hello, Albus, '' Dumbledore smiled, `` I wondered when I 'd be seeing you. But I must ask, what kind of hassle did you cause to be sent here ? ``

`` I, um, er, well, it was n't me, exactly. It was rosiness. But we assumed, hoped rather, that I 'd get blamed for it, '' Albus stammered.

`` Ah, you 've been wanting to talk to me ? '' Dumbledore asked.

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus replied.

`` I will be glad to help you, but first I really must know what you and Rose did, '' Dumbledore insisted, `` I am rather queer. ``

`` well, rose wine set off a Weasley firework in professor Washburn 's class, '' Albus confessed.

`` Interesting. I seem to think back her mother doing the same in my course of instruction once, although I never could shew it, '' Snape commented.

`` That 's certainly a creative way of getting to blab out to me, '' Dumbledore replied, `` But I must tell you that a better way would be to send word with another portrait and I 'd be capable to meet you in the mutual room. ``

Albus slapped his psyche, `` I ca n't believe I did n't believe of that ! Too late now. Anyway, what I want to talk about is private. ``

`` Oh, I understand. Ask away. ``

`` Um, well, over Christmas, rosiness, James, and I, and a few former of our cousin-german overheard our parents talking, '' Albus paused, waiting for the reprimand for listening in on a conversation.

`` Perfectly understandable. I do conceive that if adults do n't want children hearing their conversations, they ought to use the proper charms against eavesdropping. ``

Albus grinned, `` That 's what I thought, but Grandma was pretty mad. She took away all of James 's Extendable capitulum. ``

`` What a shame. I always thought those were cunning. I wish they had been invented when I was your age. ``

`` Anyway, we overheard that they are keeping something from us. A secret, I guess. We always thought they told us everything about Voldemort, the horcruxes, and the Battle at Hogwarts. But now we 're not so surely. They were talking about figuring out when to state us something. Something they do n't want us to spread around, '' Albus informed him.

`` I see, '' Dumbledore replied with a thoughtful look on his brass, `` Go on. ``

`` wellspring, professor, we think we sort of know what it is. Well, I heard them say one word and the Lapp Good Book was mentioned in these weird dreaming I 've been having. I 've been having dreams due to person doing Legilimency on me. I 'm learning Occlumency, though. ``

`` That 's good, '' Dumbledore said, `` I hope it 's going well. ``

`` Mine is, but Saint James is n't doing so well with his. ``

`` Who 's teaching you ? '' Snape interrupted, `` It 's not your father, is it ? '' Snape laughed at the very thought.

`` No, '' Albus replied coldly, `` But he could if he wanted to. ``

`` No, he could n't, '' Snape replied, `` I tried to teach him, and he is incapable of the job. ``

`` He 's doing better now, '' Albus said defensively.

`` Who is teaching you, then ? '' Snape pressed.

`` My aunt Hermione. ``

`` wellspring, as much of a know it all she was, she 's probably a competent teacher, '' Snape approved.

`` Thank you, Severus, '' Dumbledore said, `` Now, continue, Albus. ``

`` Um, right. Anyway, I guess I was wondering if you could tell me anything about the Hallows, '' Albus held his intimation, waiting for Dumbledore 's reaction.

Dumbledore sighed, `` I was afraid that 's what you were going to ask. What do you live about them ? ``

`` Not much. My parents have n't told me anything, but I 'm reasonably certain that 's what they 're keeping from us. move up, James, and I have been researching in the depository library about them, but we have n't found anything. All I know is that they are object and I learned that from my dreams. ``

`` Be careful not to believe everything those dreams tell you, '' Snape warned, `` That was one of your father 's problems. ``

`` Severus, '' Dumbledore said warningly and turned back to Albus. `` You will not find any information about the Hallows in the history books about Voldemort. And this is because there are few who know about their importance in the final battle. Many of those who do, do not believe it. ``

`` So, they do have to do with the battle ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, they do, '' Dumbledore confirmed.

`` testament you tell me what they are ? ''

Dumbledore sighed again, `` I am afraid that it is not my place to tell you. That responsibility remains with your Church Father. I will severalize you that they played an important purpose in defeating Voldemort, but beyond that, you 'll have to wait until your forefather is set up to tell apart you. ``

Albus groaned, `` But why ? Why wo n't he tell me ? ``

`` Adults have a habit of keeping thing from children because they think they are protecting them. This is not always the case, as I have learned on many occasion. I made the Saame mistake numerous time, most of them involving Harry and the information about his past. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus responded, `` Do you recognize when he 'll distinguish me ? ``

`` No, although I do think it will be soon. Perhaps within the next few calendar month, '' Dumbledore revealed.

`` calendar month ? ! '' Albus shouted, `` I ca n't wait that long ! ``

`` patience is a mighty virtue, Albus, '' Dumbledore said, `` I know it 's hard to wait that recollective. Which is why I will give you a niggling trace. ``

`` A hint ? Like where we can find out about the Hallows without asking my dad ? '' Albus asked hopefully.

`` Not exactly. But before I get to that, I sense there is something else troubling you. ``

Albus thought for a here and now before responding. `` Well, I guess there is one thing ... '' he paused, wondering if he should tell Dumbledore about Matt.

Dumbledore smiled, but did n't say anything.

Albus sighed. `` Ok, it 's my friend Matt. He gets sick a lot, once a month to be exact. And I just found out he 's a werewolf. Not that that matters or anything. I still want to be friends with him, '' Albus said quickly.

`` Ah, yes, Matthew Eckerton, '' Dumbledore replied.

`` You know him ? ''

`` Yes, he voiced a few business organisation to me before the school year started. He and his parents had a confluence with Professor Kendrick. ``

`` That was promptly, Potter. I must say that I am pleasantly surprised that you found out so quickly. Your father never was able to put the clues together to figure out that lupin was a wolfman. Miss sodbuster told him, '' Snape interjected.

Albus averted his eyes from Snape and mumbled, `` Er, pink wine is the one who really found out. I just confirmed it when I was in the hospital Wing the Sami time as Matt. ``

`` Of row, '' Snape said flatly.

`` Severus, '' Dumbledore warned, `` Continue, Albus. ``

`` It 's just, mat has n't told us yet. He 's still trying to shroud it from us. I just care he 'd swear me. It just kind of feels like no one trusts me. Matt wo n't tell me he 's a werewolf and my dad wo n't enjoin me about the Hallows. Why wo n't anyone trust me ? '' Albus told Dumbledore.

`` I understand, '' Dumbledore responded, `` But I do recall it 's more complicated than you not being trustworthy. You, I believe, are very trustworthy. As far as Matt trusting you, I will enjoin you that he had a very approximate childhood. He 's been through repugnance you ca n't even imagine. I do think he trusts you, but I do n't guess he tells many people about his lycanthropy. I know that he is very afraid about what will come about if hoi polloi find out- ''

`` But it does n't matter to me ! Or John or Rose or Amanda ! '' Albus interrupted.

`` I know. But past experiences have caused Matt to be loth to enjoin anyone. Although I do imagine he will confide in you eventually. ``

`` So you agree that I should n't order him that I know ? '' Albus asked.

`` As long as he does n't sleep together that you know, I think that would be a wise choice. ``

`` No, I do n't think he has any thought that I know, '' Albus said.

`` Good, '' Dumbledore continued, `` Now, I believe trust is a two-way street. You want matt to confide in you, but can you think of anything that you are keeping from him, and John, and Amanda as well ? ``

Albus wracked his brain, `` Well, just the Hallows, but I do n't even know what they are. ``

`` The Hallows, that 's exactly what I suspected you were keeping underground. But why ? ``

`` Um, I guess I 'm not sure. It just seems like something that I should keep to myself. Since my parents have n't even severalize anyone, '' Albus reasoned.

`` Ah, but you wish your parents would tell apart you about them ? ``

`` Yes, but- ''

`` It might be wise to tell your friends, Albus. Just because your parents have n't told anyone, does n't think you have to keep it to yourself. ``

`` Really ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, and that is my hint to you. severalise your Quaker what you know about the Hallows. They just might be able to help you, '' Dumbledore told him.

`` You think they would jazz more than we could get from rule book ? '' Albus asked skeptically.

`` There 's only one way to find out out, '' Dumbledore winked.

`` All right, if you 're trusted, '' Albus responded.

`` Good luck with that, potter, '' Snape smirked.

Albus heard a door open behind him and he jumped. He had momentarily forgotten what he had done to get to Kendrick 's office. As he remembered the pandemonium in Washburn 's class, apprehension consumed him once more. What was going to happen ? Albus turned around and saw professor Kendrick standing in the doorway.

`` Sit down, Albus, '' Kendrick said as he walked towards his desk.

Albus sat down in the chair in straw man of the desk while Kendrick sat down in his chair.

`` Professor Patil told me what happened. Before we start discussing, I 'm going to ask Professor Washburn to arrive in. Along with your dad. Hopefully we 'll be able to get to the bottom of this, '' Kendrick got up from the desk and went over to the hearth. He threw a fistful of floo powder in and throw his head into the emerald flames.

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A/N : Thanks to my sis and beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my other baby and my brother. Thanks to Moonylupin for the review !
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry potter

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`` Now, do n't expect to produce much to a greater extent than a wisp of silvery fog on your first of all try, '' Harry told his class of eager seventh years, `` Patronuses are difficult for even the best wizards to conjure. ``

`` But my mum and dad said you managed it in your third base year, '' Christina Davies interrupted.

`` Well, yes, I did, '' Harry told his class, `` But I had wonderful teacher and the motivation I needed to manage it at such a young age. Now, everyone think of a happy memory board, just as we discussed- ''

`` excuse me, Harry ? '' The flaming in the classroom fireplace turned a burnished emerald cat valium and the master 's face appeared in it. The wholly class turned to look towards the fireplace and were shocked to see prof Kendrick 's head.

`` Yes, Professor ? '' Harry answered in a confused tone. open fireplace had been installed in all the classroom during the rebuilding of Hogwarts after the conflict in order for the teacher to communicate faster in the event of an parking brake. Harry had never used his fireplace before and was a bit upset when he saw Kendrick in it.

`` Your son caused a disruption in Charms just now- ''

`` What did James do this clock time ? '' Harry sighed.

`` No, not James. It was Albus, '' Kendrick told Harry.

`` What ? ! '' Harry was baffled. He never imagined Albus would cause adequate trouble to be sent to the Headmaster 's office. Even James had avoided that so far.

`` Yes, it was Albus. He 's in my office right now and I 'd like to talk over it with you and prof Washburn, '' Kendrick said

`` All right. I 'll match you in your office in a few minutes. ``

`` I 'll see you then, '' Kendrick 's head disappeared and the flames returned to their usual orange.

The seventh years all turned their caput back to Harry, with looks of shock on their faces.

`` What did Albus do ? '' Victoire asked, `` I ca n't envisage him getting in trouble. ``

`` I really do n't have a go at it what happened, Victoire, '' Harry answered.

`` Were his friends in on this, too ? '' Amy asked anxiously. Harry could tell she was worried about her brother getting in trouble.

`` I 'm not sure. I just heard about this now, '' Harry responded, `` I 've got to go. I 'm dismissing course of study now. I trust you 'll all use this time responsibly, '' Harry grinned, knowing they 'd all use the time to goof off. `` We 'll go forward with Patronuses next course of study. ``

Harry left the schoolroom as his bookman were packing up. He made it to Kendrick 's berth in phonograph recording time, gave the watchword, and entered the room. Kendrick was sitting behind his desk, with Albus and Washburn sitting in front of it. There was an empty chair between them. Nobody was saying a word. Both Dumbledore and Snape 's portraits seemed to be paying close attention. Harry walked over to the vacate chair and he noticed that Albus was shaking and he looked extremely scared.

`` Hi, Al, '' Harry whispered and gave his son a quick hug before taking the middle seat. Albus remained quiet and he was staring straight at Dumbledore 's portrait.

`` Daddy wo n't be able to save you this time, potter, '' Washburn sneered.

`` That 's enough, Jameson, '' Kendrick said calmly, `` Now that Harry is here, could you delight explicate to both of us what happened ? ``

`` I was trying to teach and all of a sudden, there was an explosion and a firework emerged from the table he was sitting at, '' Washburn spat, `` He set it off to cause a disruption. He 's been doing it ever since the beginning of the year. ``

`` Is this on-key, Albus ? '' Kendrick asked. All three grownup turned to look at Albus, who was sinking lower in his seat. He did not say a word.

`` Of course of study it 's dependable ! '' Washburn growled after a few consequence of silence.

A cheap banging disrupted their word. Harry turned away from Albus and looked at the situation door. `` Do you want me to get that ? ``

`` Yes, I suppose, '' Kendrick replied.

Harry got up and went over to the door. He opened it and Rose came bursting in. She was out of breathing space and looked flushed. `` Do n't. rout. Him. '' she panted.

`` What ? ! '' Kendrick said, `` I was n't planning on expelling Albus. ``

`` You should ! '' Washburn stood up and glared at Kendrick.

`` Sit down, '' Kendrick responded, `` You have to respect my decisions. I will not expel Albus, but there will be a penalization. ``

`` No ! '' rosebush shouted. She walked towards Kendrick 's desk and stood in battlefront of it. Harry followed and stood behind Albus 's president. `` It was n't him ! '' she announced.

`` What do you mean ? ! '' Washburn exclaimed, `` Of course it was him ! I saw him ! ``

`` No, you did n't. You saw it came from our table, there was no way you could order who actually did it. John, lustrelessness, and I were also sitting at that table, '' rose wine explained.

`` What are you getting at, Rose ? '' Harry asked. Now he was thoroughly confused about the entirely event.

`` It was me, '' rosiness said simply, `` It was my firework. ``

`` You set off a pyrotechnic during a class ? '' Harry was mystified. If there was anyone who was less in all probability than Albus to cause trouble during class, it was rose wine. Rose did love causing trouble, but she never did it during classes.

`` Well, not really, '' rosiness glanced shiftily at Washburn and then returned her gaze to Harry. `` Not intentionally, that is. It was one of those new fireworks that Uncle George V is working on. They 're still in the testing point. The 1 that are supposed to actually disappear if you vanish them, but then reappear an minute or so later. Only right now they permanently disappear. ``

`` That 's good, '' Harry breathed a sigh of relief. There were very much worse data-based intersection that could accept accidentally gotten set off.

`` Anyway, they 're very unstable right hand now and they go off if there 's a lot of magic around, and we were practicing charming theme wench, '' rosiness told him.

`` Why did you receive it ? '' Harry asked.

`` I, um, took it during Christmas faulting, '' rose wine mumbled while looking at her feet.

`` What ? ! '' Harry exclaimed.

`` I found it at the tunnel and did n't realize it was one of the observational ones. I just realized that the other day. ``

`` And why was it in your bag ? ``

`` I was meaning to contribute it to you during papa, but I forgot, '' rosiness confessed.

Harry sighed, `` All right hand. I guess that secret is solved. ``

`` What about penalization ! They need to be punished ! '' Washburn shouted while glaring at Rose.

`` Rose will get lines, but seeing as Albus was n't actually involved, I ca n't punish him, '' Kendrick explained.

`` But, but, '' Washburn sputtered.

`` And that is final exam, Jameson, '' Kendrick said firmly, `` Now, Albus and rose, you should get going to your following course of instruction. Rose, you can do your parentage with Professor Washburn tomorrow night at seven. ``

Albus and Rose nodded. Albus got up and gave Harry a hug before he followed pink wine out of the way. He still did n't say anything, but he looked a bit less scare than he had earlier and he had stopped shaking.

Kendrick stood up, `` I 'm glad we got this all straightened out. I shall see both of you later. ''

Washburn glared at Harry and stomped out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Harry turned to give as well, but stopped when he heard a familiar interpreter. `` Harry, I would like to discuss something with you, if you have time. ''

Harry turned around and saw the familiar spirit face of Albus Dumbledore looking at him. `` Yeah, I 've got time. ``

`` I 'll get out you to your conversation, then, '' Kendrick said as he left his office.

Harry walked over to Dumbledore 's portrayal, `` What is it, Professor ? ``

`` I had an interesting conversation with Albus earlier. ``

`` Really ? '' Harry was very curious as to what the two of them would have talked about.

`` Oh, yes, '' Dumbledore continued, `` He has been wondering about the Hallows. ``

`` The, the, Hallows ? '' Harry stammered. He did n't retrieve his fry had ever even heard of the Hallows.

`` The Hallows. He overheard you talking about them over Christmas holiday. He, James, and Rose have been attempting to research them in the library ever since. ``

`` They have ? ''

`` That 's what Albus told me. Naturally, they did not feel any answers, '' Dumbledore went on, `` So, Albus asked me what I knew about them. ``

`` And did you assure him ? '' Harry asked anxiously.

`` I told him I do know about them, but that I could not ease up him the answers he wanted. I believe that is your obligation, Harry, '' Dumbledore responded.

Harry breathed a sigh of relief, `` Thank you. ``

`` Why have n't you recite them, Harry ? ``

Harry stopped to consider. Dumbledore gazed at him while waiting patiently. `` Well, I guess because I do n't want a whole lot of people knowing about them. The conclusion thing we need is to throw someone seeking them out. ``

`` But you fear that is what 's happening. ``

`` Yes, I do. I 'm afraid that 's what the pipe dream mean value, '' Harry told him.

`` Are you afraid the kids will tell the whole school ? ``

`` I guess I am, '' Harry confessed, `` Especially James. He 's always so eagre to tell everyone he meets stories about me. ``

`` He is proud of being your son, '' Dumbledore said, `` And I think if you expressed your business about others knowing about the Hallows, they would keep the secret. ``

`` You 're probably right, '' Harry sighed, `` But I 'm also afraid about whoever 's doing the Legilimency finding out about them. If I tell the nestling, then whoever wants the Hallows will be able to receive out where they are. ``

`` Perhaps. It is a tough yell. But I 'm sure you 'll always make the right on determination in the end, '' Dumbledore replied, `` Were you ever planning on telling them ? ``

`` Yes, I was. ``

`` When ? ``

`` I 'm not sure, I guess, '' Harry responded, `` When they were a bit older, I suppose. But I was waiting for the right import. ``

`` And that instant might be approaching earlier then you thought, '' Dumbledore replied, `` Albus thinks you do n't trust him. ``

`` He does ? '' Harry sighed. This was getting more complicated by the moment.

`` Yes, he told me. He is a bit upset about it. But it is aided by the fact that you are n't the only one keeping a big secret from him. ``

Harry paused to think. Who else was keeping mystery from his son ? `` Oh, his friend, lustrelessness, right ? He has n't told Albus yet, has he ? ``

`` No, he has n't. But Albus and rosiness have figured it out on their own. I do n't think he fully understands why Matt has n't told him. He just sees it as the people he loves are n't trusting him. ``

`` Oh, no, it 's so much more complicated than that, '' Harry responded.

`` That 's what I told him. But that is an issue that 's between him and lusterlessness and there is n't much you can do about it. What you can do is reconsider when you are going to tell your children about the Hallows. ``

`` Yeah, I guess I will. I just do n't need to rush into it. Maybe at the end of term would be good. That way they can process the approximation over the summer at menage where they wo n't be tempted to tell others about it. ``

`` That would be wise, '' Dumbledore smiled.

`` Thanks for telling me, Professor. I should probably get going, '' Harry said.

`` I shall see you soon, Harry. ``

`` Bye, '' Harry turned around and left the office. He thought about what Dumbledore said on his way to the Great residence for lunch. What Dumbledore said made sense, but he was still reluctant about telling his kids about the Hallows.

******

`` That was an telling lie the Weasley missy told, '' Snape said curtly to Dumbledore after Harry left.

`` Yes, it was, '' Dumbledore agreed.

`` But you did n't severalise ceramicist about it. ``

`` No, I did not feel it was requirement. I do n't think anymore penalization would take in accomplished anything. I ca n't imagine Albus or pink wine will do anything like that again in the draw close future tense, '' Dumbledore explained.

`` They did lie, though. They lied to the Headmaster. That deserves penalization, '' Snape responded.

`` Perhaps, perhaps, '' Dumbledore said calmly, `` But, Severus, you did not tell Harry either. ``

******

`` That was mad, '' Albus shouted after he left the headmaster 's office with rose. As soon as the gargoyle closed behind them, James appeared in nominal head of them.

`` wellspring, are you in huge problem, Albus ? '' he asked anxiously.

`` Luckily, no, '' Albus told his brother.

`` What happened, then ? '' James River pushed, `` Are you going to tell us about your talk with Dumbledore ? ``

`` Of course ! '' Albus said, `` Just not here. What if someone heard us ? ``

`` There 's still an hour until our future class, why do n't we go up to the rough-cut elbow room ? It might be empty now, '' Rose suggested.

`` Good idea, '' Albus agreed. He started walking towards Gryffindor tower. James I and blush wine followed, neither of them saying a word.

The common room was discharge. Albus, James, and blush wine hurried inside and snagged the effective armchairs near the fervidness. James and Rose looked at Albus expectantly, waiting for him to begin.

Albus launched into a lengthy explanation about his conversation with Dumbledore. Henry James and rose sat quietly and did n't interrupt him. Albus told them every bit of the conversation, except for the constituent about Matt. Albus would tell originate about that later, after James IV left.

`` So, Dumbledore knows ? '' King James I said after Albus finished.

`` Yes, he does, but he wo n't differentiate me lots, '' Albus explained, `` Just say me to ask my friends. ``

`` That 's so unknown, '' rosebush furrowed her supercilium, `` Why would they know anything about the Hallows if we do n't ? ``

`` Dunno, '' James commented, `` He was a bit mad, though. ``

`` Yeah, but he was brilliant. He has n't been wrong about much, '' Albus reminded them.

`` So, you think we should tell our Friend ? '' Rose asked.

`` I 'm not really sure, '' Albus confided, `` I 'd be bequeath to try anything right now to figure out what the Hallows are, but what if Dad 's mad that we told multitude ? ``

`` He ca n't be mad if we do n't even be intimate what they are, '' Henry James reasoned, `` As far as he knows, we 've never even heard the Holy Scripture 'Hallows'. ``

`` That 's avowedly, '' rose wine said.

`` Well, Dumbledore seems to think that Dad 's going to tell us soon, possibly this year, '' Albus reminded them.

`` Maybe we should give it another month or so ? '' rosiness suggested, `` Maybe something will turn up in the library. ``

`` Dumbledore said we wo n't find anything in the subroutine library. The Hallows do consume to do with Voldemort 's downfall. He told me that much. And hardly anyone knows about that component part, of path. ``

`` I guess we could give it a little while longer, to see if he tells us about them, '' Henry James sighed.

`` Ok, then, we 'll await a bit longer, '' Albus agreed, `` Anyway, if Dad wo n't recite us, he certainly wo n't require our friend to have sex. ``

`` Yeah, '' James said, `` Oh, what punishment did you wind up with ? ``

`` I got detention tomorrow night, '' blush wine told him.

`` I got nothing, '' Albus grinned.

`` What ? ! '' James shouted, `` Nothing ? ``

`` Nope, nothing. ``

`` I convinced them it was me. well, I convinced them the firework went off accidentally, '' Rose explained the floor she told about the experimental firework.

`` That 's amazing, '' Jesse James grinned, `` You must be an excellent liar. ``

blush wine blushed and suppressed a smile.

`` speech production of gravel, '' Albus started, `` How did you find out where Kendrick 's authority is ? ``

`` That would be all me, '' King James I continued grinning, `` All my genius. ``

`` What did you do ? '' Albus asked suspiciously.

`` well, I expected to happen Uncle Harry in his billet after class, but he was n't there. I was so worried you 'd get expelled before I was able to explain. So I went to find James so we could forecast out what to do- ''

`` Let me tell him, rosebush, '' James interrupted, `` We ran back to Dad 's office and that 's when I thought of how we could come up the office. Mind you, I wish I 'd thought of it earlier and then you would n't have had to do the unhurt firework matter. ``

`` Well, what was it ? '' Albus asked impatiently.

James reached into his robes and pulled a rather old looking piece of lambskin out. `` The vulture 's Map. ``

Albus stared at it and smacked his frontal bone. `` Of grade ! Why did n't we think of it before ? ``

`` I dunno, but the cerebration just popped into my head. I 'm so glad Dad told us how it worked. We were able to find Kendrick 's business office, but of course the threshold was closed and we did n't know the password. But then we looked at the map and the little dot labeled 'Rose Weasley'had a manner of speaking bubble that said 'Rubber duck'. So Rose said that and she was in. Easy as that. ``

Albus continued to stare in awe at the map. `` So now you 've got the map ? You 're going to be in Brobdingnagian difficulty. What if Dad 's using it ? ``

`` I do n't think he is. It was n't sitting out or anything. We were n't even sure it was there, thought he might have left it at home plate. I summoned it. It came flying out of the bottom of a trunk that was shoved in the back of the storage closet, '' James explained.

`` Are you going to keep it ? '' Albus asked.

`` For now, '' Epistle of James told him, `` At least until I hear anything about Dad wondering where it is. ``

`` I hope you do n't get in trouble, James, '' rose warned, `` Be careful. ``

`` I will, do n't concern. I 'd just like to get some mischief-making in, '' James River grinned.

`` Be careful about who sees it, too, '' Rose insisted.

`` I 'm just letting Nathan and Omar Bradley see it. And Cedric and Ben, of grade. They know all about it. And they keep asking when I 'd pull off to nick it. ``

rosiness sighed, `` Fine. Well, we 'd best get going to course of instruction. '' She stood up and walked towards the portrait hole.

Albus got up and followed Rose, `` See ya later, James II. ``

`` Bye, '' St. James waved.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my early sister and my brother. Thanks also to inkheart, Moonylupin, and Peter for their brushup !
Please study and review !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower

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As the week progressed, Albus fell back into his usual Hogwarts act. His homework drove nigh of the thoughts about the Hallows out of his promontory. He occasionally thought about telling John, matt, and Amanda about them, but he decided not to. James, who was even Sir Thomas More engaged than Albus, did not seem to be lingering on mentation of the Hallows either. Between prep, Quidditch exercise, and Occlumency deterrent example, he hardly had any leisure time time at all. Albus had yet to learn about any amazing prank that James had been able to pull in off with the helper of the vulture 's Map.

Towards the end of the hebdomad, Albus and his ally had something else to occupy about that succeeded in Albus momentarily forgetting about the Hallows all together. The entire moonlight. It fell on a Mon this month. The Lord's Day before it, Albus and his friends were enjoying a sweet sand verbena battle on the grounds.

nose drops ! whoremaster had sent a sweet sand verbena at the back of Albus 's school principal and the force caused him to lessen face first into the deep snow. `` I 'll get you ! '' Albus shouted as he stood back up and formed a large sweet sand verbena. He sent it flying across the nearly empty Quidditch Pitch towards John. But John was too ready. He jumped aside and the snowball hit matt instead.

`` Ha, ha ! '' can shouted gleefully. They were having a team Charles Percy Snow ball fight. It was privy and Rose versus Albus, Matt, and Amanda. John seemed delighted that Albus had hit one of his own teammates instead. John the Divine rolled another Baron Snow of Leicester ball and threw it at Amanda. It hit her square toes in the backbone. She in turn quickly made a snowball and threw it at Rose. Rose jumped aside and the sweet sand verbena sailed into the ground behind her. Despite the fact that Albus 's squad had three people and can and rosebush were only two, John and pink wine seemed to be doing much better. St. John had a good arm and very in effect aim and was swell at dodging snowballs.

Albus quickly made another snowball and was about to throw it, but he noticed that Matt still had n't gotten up. He dropped his snowball and ran over to Matt and was hit in the read/write head by a snowball sent by John.

`` plosive the game ! '' Albus shouted and pointed to Matt. John, Rose, and Amanda glanced over and immediately dropped their snowballs.

`` lusterlessness, are you all right ? '' Albus poked lustrelessness 's arm, but he did n't respond.

`` Matt ? '' trick rolled him over onto his back. Matt groaned. St. John the Apostle pulled him up into a sitting attitude. `` We should probably go inside, '' John said to Albus.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed. He grabbed mat 's other arm and he and John pulled Matt to his feet. `` I 'm sorry, I did n't think I threw it that hard. ``

`` I did n't think you did either, '' John agreed. They walked back towards the castling, supporting Matt between them.

`` Maybe we should go to the hospital Wing, '' Rose suggested.

`` No, no infirmary annexe, '' matte whispered, `` I 'm fine. I 've just got to lie down. ``

`` Are you sure ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Yeah, I 'll be fine. Let 's just go back to Gryffindor, '' Matt said.

They walked slowly back to Gryffindor tug. By the time they were at the common room, Matt was able to walk unsupported, although he still did n't look good. Once they were in the room, lusterlessness made a beeline for the dormitory. Albus and Saint John went with him so they could floor their wet cloaks and scarves.

`` Are you going to abide up here ? '' Albus asked Matt.

`` I think so, '' matte said as he climbed into his bed.

`` Ok, well I hope you 're feeling well, '' Albus replied.

`` Me, too, '' John said. But by the sentence the two boys left the room, Matt had already fallen asleep.

Albus and John headed back down the rotary staircase and back into the commons way. The way was packed and very noisy. blush wine and Amanda had already settled themselves to doing preparation at a small seclude mesa in a corner of the room. Albus and privy sat down across from the female child and took out their books.

`` So, '' Albus whispered, `` Is the full lunation sometime soon ? ``

`` Yep, '' Rose told him without looking up from her homework, `` It 's tomorrow. ``

`` D'you think it 'll be as bad as hold up fourth dimension ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I dunno, '' Rose answered, `` I really do n't sleep with why his transformations are so bad. ``

`` I think he 's percentage of that study Uncle card was talking about, '' Albus told them, `` When I was in the hospital wing utmost month, the Healer mentioned a report, but gentlewoman Pomfrey shushed him before he elaborated. ``

`` Then that might explain it. But why would he be in the study if it 's just shit thing spoiled ? '' John asked.

`` Who knows what it was like before it, though, '' Rose commented.

`` Good full point, '' John responded. The four friends sank into their thoughts and continued working on their homework in quiet for a half hour. The dissonance in the unwashed room made it difficult to sway on a conversation. Albus managed to end up his Charms homework, but it took him tenacious than common since he was distracted by worrying about Matt.

Albus closed his Charms book and put it back into his bag. When he looked up, he was surprise to see mat coming over towards them. Albus sat back up and poked John, who was still working diligently on his Herbology essay that was due the succeeding day. john looked up as matte sat down next to Rose.

`` What are you guys talking about ? '' Matt asked.

`` Not practically, really, we 're just doing prep, '' St. John the Apostle told him, `` I guess I 'll accept to finish this after dinner. '' He closed his Herbology Quran and stuffed it in his bag.

`` You coming to dinner ? '' Albus asked mat, `` We were n't sure as shooting if you 'd be up. ``

A look of panic flashed across matte 's typeface, `` Why would you retrieve that ? '' he asked quickly.

Albus glanced shiftily at John, `` Er, just because you did n't look too good after getting hit by that snowball. ``

mat visibly relaxed, `` Oh, um, I 'm feeling better now. ``

`` That 's goodness, '' Albus answered. matte did look a bit better, although he was still a great deal paler than usual. `` Let 's go eat, then. I 'm hunger. ``

pink wine and Amanda packed up their workplace and the chemical group headed down to the Great mansion house. Even though flatness went to dinner, Albus noticed that he did n't eat often. After dinner, they headed back up to the common room to cease their preparation.

`` I 'm still three column inch brusk, '' can announced after he worked for another twenty dollar bill minutes on his Herbology essay.

`` Let me see it, '' Rose reached over and took bathroom 's essay. She read it silently for a few moment. `` You can elaborate on the uses of Devil 's trap in Potions. ``

`` Devil 's snare has purpose in Potions ? '' trick asked.

`` Yes, in more get on Potions. It 's in the Koran, '' Rose told him. John flipped through his book and began working on his essay again.

Albus had finished his Herbology essay the previous day and was currently working on a pa essay that was also due the future day. `` Have you guys all finished the dadaism essay ? '' he asked.

`` Yes, '' Rose responded without glancing up from her book.

`` Yeah, '' Amanda answered while working furiously on her star chart.

`` Huh ? '' Matt picked his head up from his book. He had fallen asleep in his DADA book.

`` Have you finished the pop essay ? '' Albus repeated.

`` Oh, no, but I 'll get it done, '' lustrelessness said tiredly and put his head back down on his book.

Albus glanced at Rose, who gave him a interest face. Albus had a feeling that Matt would not be getting the essay done. They both went back to their work without saying a Word. A few min later, someone tapped Albus on the shoulder.

`` Hey, '' someone said from behind him.

Albus turned around and saw Victoire standing behind his chair. `` Oh, hi, Victoire. What 's up ? ``

`` Not much, '' Victoire sat down in the chair next to Albus. `` Amy and I just have to tell you something. '' Amy had sat down adjacent to lustrelessness and was trying to awaken him up.

`` What is it ? '' Albus asked. lavatory, Rose, and Amanda had all looked up from their work and were waiting for Victoire to get on with it.

`` Quinton Willinson has finished his detentions, '' Victoire told him.

`` Oh, capital, '' Albus groaned.

`` I just thought you should hump, '' Victoire said.

`` Do you cogitate he 's going to rag me anymore ? '' Albus asked.

`` He might. detainment certainly deterred him for a month, but who knows what could happen now that he 's done with hold. I 'd just observe out, if I were you. All of you. ``

They all nodded, except for Matt, who was sleepily paying attention to something Amy was whispering in his ear.

`` well, I 've got studying to do, '' Victoire stood up, `` You coming, Amy ? I still have n't finished that Arithmancy stuff. ``

Amy stopped whispering to matt and looked at Victoire. `` Uh, yeah, I have n't finished it either. '' She said something else to mat and then stood up and left with Victoire, while glancing once more at her brother.

`` Well, this could be bad, '' blush wine said once they left.

`` I know. He 's going to be livid after having detention for a month, '' Albus replied.

`` You 've got to be careful. He 's going to require revenge again, '' can said.

`` Yeah, he will, '' Albus agreed.

`` Has Slughorn mentioned anymore parties ? '' John asked.

`` No, surprisingly not. But I 'm not going to any even if he does. ``

`` I think that 's a good mind. I wo n't either. We should try and forefend Willinson, '' rosebush responded.

They worked on their homework for another hour before going to bed. mat had fallen asleep again shortly after Amy and Victoire left, and Albus had to pound him rather hard to fire up him up. Once they got up to the dormitory, mat collapsed onto his bed and was asleep within minutes.

Albus lay awake for a while before he managed to fall asleep. He was worried about matt and about what Willinson was going to do now that he was unblock from detainment. Albus tried to clear his mind, but there were so many things worrying him that he found it impossible. His rest was filled with foreign dreams, involving Willinson, along with the usual nightmare about the Hallows.

Albus went down to breakfast the next morning with John and Matt. They were running late because it had taken lav and Albus a spell to wake mat up. By the time they made it to the Great Hall, rosebush and Amanda had already finished breakfast and were getting make to go to DADA.

`` There you are ! '' blush wine said when Albus sat down adjacent to her, `` You 'd better eat fast. We 've got to go to class in five minute. ``

`` I know, it took us forever to get him up, '' Albus gestured to flatness, who was leaning his read/write head on his arm and not eating anything. Rose nodded and glanced at Matt sympathetically.

Albus and bathroom shoved a few gash of pledge into their oral fissure and then the group was off to DADA. They managed to run into the elbow room before the bell rang, but they were the lastly one there. There was only one table available, the one in figurehead, which happened to be right in front of the table Scorpius Malfoy and his friends sat at. Albus groaned silently and sat down at the mesa, hoping Malfoy would n't mention mat 's fatigue.

`` I 'll accumulate your essays now, '' Harry announced once he 'd finished taking attendance. He got up and went around the room to gather the essays.

Albus handed his dad his essay and Harry moved on to Matt. mat was laying his oral sex on his book and seemed to be asleep. Harry lightly tapped him on the shoulder. `` Huh ? '' Matt glanced up.

Malfoy snorted loudly behind them and Albus turned around and glared at him.

`` Do you have the essay done ? '' Harry asked quietly.

`` Oh, no. I 'm sad, professor, '' Matt whispered, `` I tried to get it done lowest dark, but I just ... '' his interpreter trailed off.

`` It 's all right, '' Harry replied, `` Try to have it done by next week. I know I did n't give you a good deal clock time, since I just assigned it Friday. ``

matt nodded and put his header back down on the table. Harry went back to his desk and started the day 's lecture. `` Today we are going to continue- ''

`` Sir, '' Malfoy interrupted, `` Sir, why does he get supernumerary time for his essay ? '' Malfoy pointed at Matt.

Harry sighed, `` I do not think that is any of your concern, Mr. Malfoy. ``

`` But it 's not very fair, is it ? Why ca n't I have extra sentence ? ``

`` You handed in your essay today, did n't you ? '' Harry asked.

`` Yes, why ? ``

`` wellspring, then, you obviously are in no need of surplus fourth dimension. If you ever think you need duplicate time for an assignment, just enjoin me why and I may allow it to you. ``

`` But- ''

`` That 's the end of this discussion, Mr. Malfoy, '' Harry cut him off, `` Now, back to the deterrent example .... ''

Harry lectured for the entire course of study. Throughout the number 1 half of course of study, Malfoy repeatedly poked matte with his wand to try and come alive him up. Albus turned around and glared at him legion time but Malfoy kept doing it. Eventually, Harry noticed and threatened Malfoy with hold if it continued. Albus was relieved when class was over, but they still had to make it through good luck charm with the Slytherins. Although Albus knew even Malfoy would n't poke anyone with his wand in Washburn 's class.

`` So, first you get peculiar treatment from dame Pomfrey and now from prof Potter, too ? '' Malfoy glared icily at matt after they left the DADA room.

`` Just leave him alone, '' Albus growled.

`` I will find out why, you can count on it, '' Malfoy stared at Matt, who had gone as pale as a ghost when Malfoy said this.

`` Is there a trouble ? '' Harry had just left the classroom and was standing behind Malfoy.

Malfoy jumped as he heard Harry 's voice, `` No, Professor. '' He gave Matt one more limelight before taking off for the Charms classroom.

`` I 'll see you later, Al, '' Harry gave Albus a hug before going back into the classroom.

`` Bye, Dad, '' Albus hugged him back. Albus and Matt started to take the air to Charms. John, Rose, and Amanda had gone on ahead, but Albus was staying behind to take the air with matte, who was walking considerably slower.

`` Late again, Potter, Eckerton, '' Washburn growled as they walked into the room. They headed for their usual back put off and passed Malfoy on the way. He was smiling smugly at them, noticeably happy that they were late. The course of instruction went by in its usual excruciation. Washburn seemed to have increased his hate for Albus since the firework incident, if that was possible. He called on Albus for every question, even though Albus never raised his hand. The only times he did n't do this was when he chose to call on matt, which was every time he fell asleep.

Much to Albus 's surprise, Matt made it through double Herbology without going to the hospital Wing. Albus was trusted that Neville would have got made him go after he tripped over a pot and banged his arm on the bench. But Neville just asked if he was all right and continued teaching.

After dinner party, Albus and his friends found themselves taking a much needed break from studying. They had all finished the prep that was due the succeeding day and were relaxing at their usual board. Albus was losing horribly at Wizard 's Chess to rose wine, whose knight was currently beating up Albus 's fairy. John and Amanda were playing a rather cheap game of Exploding Snap.

`` You want to play, Matt ? '' John asked as he was dealing cards for the next round.

`` No, '' Matt groaned. He was curled up in an armchair near the table and was wincing every few minutes.

`` All right, '' King John gave him a worried look, `` Do you want me to go with you to the Hospital offstage ? ``

`` Not right now, '' Matt whispered and closed his eyes again.

Albus glanced up and looked at his friends. They all had worried looks on their faces. Albus watched lustrelessness fall back asleep, which only took two minutes.

`` pouf to D4, '' Rose announced, `` And checkmate. '' rosiness 's king moved to the square, beat up Albus 's remaining bishop, and won the game. `` Good game. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Have you ever lost ? ``

`` I 've lost to my dad quite a few times, '' blush wine said as she put her chessmen away.

Albus put his chessmen back in their case and folded up the board. He looked up once he was done and saw Amy coming over. She walked over to lustrelessness and started gently shaking him awake.

`` Hi, Amy, '' Albus said.

Amy looked over at Albus, `` Oh, hi, Albus, '' she said quietly and went back to waking Matt up. Matt opened his eyes and groaned.

`` C'mon, it 's time to go, '' Albus heard Amy whisper. Albus looked at Rose, John, and Amanda. They were all watching Amy, too.

`` Ugh, no, '' matt whispered. But he sat up and winced.

`` It 's ok, come on, '' Amy grabbed Matt 's arm and pulled him gently out of the electric chair. flatness got up and let Amy lead him out of the rough-cut room.

`` Has she ever taken him to the Hospital Wing before ? '' Albus asked once they left.

`` No, I do n't think so, '' Rose said.

`` She must imagine it 's going to be bad this time, '' toilet said glumly.

`` Guess so, '' Albus responded quietly.

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A/N : Thanks to my baby and beta, Dancer of Starlight, my other sis, and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart and Moonylupin for their reappraisal !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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The four friends were very subdued the rest of the even. They all joined in a game of Exploding piece of cake, but none of them were very into it. Although they did n't talk about matt the rest of the evening, Albus knew they were all thinking about him. Eventually, they just decided to go to bed.

Albus climbed into his four-poster bed and tried to fall asleep. He tossed and turned for hours, but sleep would n't total to him. He was too apprehensive about flatness.

`` Are you awake, John ? '' Albus asked once he was sure Bilius and Ethan were asleep.

Albus heard the bed to his decently creak as John turned over. `` Yeah, ca n't sleep. ``

`` Me neither. ``

`` Maybe this month wo n't be as bad, '' John suggested.

`` Leslie Townes Hope so, '' Albus said, `` But even if it is n't as bad, he wo n't be in family tomorrow. ``

`` Which means that Malfoy 's going to say something, '' john groaned.

`` Yeah, we 've got to do something about that, '' Albus decided.

`` We could hex him, '' St. John suggested.

`` That 'd be good, but I do n't mean like that. I mean something that 'll drop him off the lead. We ca n't let him find out, '' Albus explained.

`` Oh, right field, '' John thought for a present moment, `` How about, since mat wo n't lie about where he is, we 'll do it for him. ``

`` That 's what I was thinking, too, '' Albus said, `` I know, if someone asks, we 'll just tell them flatness 's visiting his sick gran. ``

`` Good idea, '' John agreed.

Albus yawned, `` Well, I suppose we should try and get some slumber. ``

`` Probably. goodness night, then. ``

`` 'Night. '' After another hour of laying awake, Albus finally fell asleep.

Albus woke up feeling very tired, after only a few hour sleep. He went down to breakfast with St. John the Apostle and met Rose and Amanda there, who were looking worried and not eating much.

`` Have you heard anything yet ? '' Rose asked once Albus sat down.

`` No, have you ? ''

`` No. I have n't seen Amy at all and have n't had clock time to go to the Hospital offstage. ``

`` We could try and go during lunch, '' King John suggested.

Everyone agreed to that plan and managed to eat a bit of breakfast before heading off to Potions. By the fourth dimension they got there, Slughorn was ready to start stratum, which meant Malfoy did n't take in any meter to ask where mat was. Since it was just a unmarried point, Slughorn lectured during the entire class and Albus had a hard time staying awake. He managed to strike a few preeminence, but by the time the class was over, he felt in want of a nap.

`` Hey, there, Potter, '' Malfoy ran up beside Albus just outside the door of the Potions classroom.

`` Malfoy, '' Albus mumbled and kept walking.

`` Could n't aid but notice that Eckerton was n't in class today. You gon na recite me where he is ? ``

`` Visiting his nanna. She 's not doing too well, '' Albus lied.

`` Really ? That 's occupy, '' Malfoy raised his brow, `` After seeing him yesterday, I 'd hold guessed he was the one who 's ill. ''

`` Maybe he 's just worried about his nanna, '' Saint John said shortly, before turning down the corridor towards the Transfiguration elbow room, `` Now we 've got to go to form. ``

`` See you, then, '' Albus said to Malfoy as he followed John to Transfiguration. Malfoy turned around and left without saying a intelligence. `` I hope that worked. ``

`` Me, too, '' John agreed.

After August 6, Albus and his friends ate a hurried lunch and went to the infirmary Wing. When they got there, Albus noticed that the doors were opened. `` well, that 's a good preindication. ``

`` Definitely, '' rose wine agreed and walked inside. Albus, John, and Amanda followed her. The bed at the far end of the ward had the curtains drawn and all the other layer were discharge. `` He must be in there, '' Rose pointed to the curtained bed.

`` Where 's Madam Pomfrey ? '' Albus whispered. The nurse did n't appear to be in the room.

John pointed to the mantle, which started to rustle, `` She must be back there. ``

A gap appeared in the curtains and Madam Pomfrey came out from behind them. She was carrying an empty glass and a clipboard. When she noticed the group of Gryffindor first days, she came rushing over to them. `` I thought I 'd be seeing you lot here. ``

`` Is mat all right ? '' Rose whispered anxiously.

`` Yes, he should be fine in a couple days, '' dame Pomfrey smiled.

`` So, it 's not nearly as bad as last fourth dimension ? '' Albus asked.

`` Oh, no, he 's much better this month, '' Madam Pomfrey set the empty glass down on a table and started writing on the clipboard.

`` fountainhead, can we see him ? '' can asked tentatively.

`` Sorry, but no. He 's sleeping right now. And I do n't think he wants visitors. He has n't told you yet, has he ? ``

`` No, '' John answered.

madam Pomfrey sighed, `` Of course of study. well, I do hope he tells you soon. I have a feeling this whole matter would be easier on him if he was n't keeping it to himself. ``

`` I guess we 'll just see him when he leaves, then, '' Albus said.

`` I think that would be best. He should be ready to leave on Th or Fri. You 'd best be off to division, '' ma'am Pomfrey picked up the empty shabu and strode into her office.

As Albus walked to the usual room to collect his books, he thought about what Matt was going to do when he found out that they knew about his secret. Matt seemed so penetrative on keeping it from everyone. He did n't even need his friends to bring down him in the hospital annex. Yet, he had n't done a very good job at hiding it. Or had they found out so easily just because Rose knew so practically about lycanthrope ? Albus was n't surely he would have figured it out without her. But even so, if Albus had found out so quickly, how long would it be until Malfoy found out ?

******

`` Hey, pot, '' a moth-eaten vocalisation from behind Albus said. It was Friday nighttime and Albus, Rose, John, and Amanda were eating dinner party while wondering when Matt would come back. Albus turned around at the representative and choked on his pumpkin juice when he saw who it was.

`` Willinson, '' Albus coughed.

`` What do you desire ? '' John said shortly as he slapped Albus on the back.

`` Oh, not often, '' Willinson replied, `` Have n't seen you much since our petty duel in conclusion month, Potty. ``

`` Yeah, I hear you 've been quite occupied with detention, '' Albus laughed.

`` jest now, but the detention is over. I 'll give birth plenty of time on my hands now. ``

`` And what are you going to do ? You could n't even hex me. Your friends did it. ``

`` Energy Department n't count. I 'm not the one who wound up in the infirmary Wing, am I ? '' Willinson snorted.

`` And I suppose you 're proud that a first class could demilitarize you ? '' Albus grinned, `` Because if I were you, I 'd be a bit embarrassed. ``

`` Shut it, Potty, I planned that. ``

`` No, you did n't. Quite the flavor of shock on your face after I did it, '' Albus responded. Willinson glared at him.

`` What 's going on here ? '' someone from behind Albus asked.

`` N-nothing, prof, '' Willinson said quickly.

`` Then I 'd evoke returning to the Slytherin table, Mr. Willinson, '' Neville replied. Willinson turned on the spot and headed to the Slytherin table without saying another word.

`` He was n't bothering you, was he ? '' Neville asked once Willinson left.

`` Not really, '' Albus told Neville.

`` Good. If he 's causing fuss, just let me know. I think the detentions may let set him straight, though. He 's not nearly as smug when he 's in the wood, '' Neville responded and left for the staff table.

Albus laughed, `` I guess he 's not as brave as we thought he was. ``

`` course of study he 's not ! '' John exclaimed, `` He 's a Slytherin, not a Gryffindor. ``

`` Yeah, we 're the braw ones ! '' Albus agreed.

After dinner, Albus and his friends went to the coarse room to expend the evening. The room was quite a bit emptier than usual. There was a big dueling club encounter and virtually of the Gryffindors were attending it. First long time were not allowed to join the dueling guild, so all of them were in the mutual room, along with some old educatee who were n't part of the club. Since it was so empty, Albus and his friends were capable to snag a few of the good armchairs in front of the blast. They were all putting off preparation, except for rose who was reading a Quran, since it was the weekend.

`` You going to join the dueling social club next class ? '' Albus asked, while sorting through his Chocolate toad frog cards. `` I ca n't wait to join. James says it 's awesome. ``

`` Of course of action ! '' John shouted, `` Hey, have you got any Snape scorecard ? ``

`` Yeah, I 've got quite a few, '' Albus shifted his deck of lineup and pulled out five Snapes, `` Want one ? ``

`` Yeah, I still have n't gotten any, '' St. John the Apostle told him. Albus handed him one of his cards.

`` Is it normal to get injured badly in the dueling club ? '' Amanda asked.

`` It 's possible, but it does n't usually happen, '' Albus told her. `` The teacher make for sure nothing bad happens. ``

`` Then I might join. How about you, Rose ? '' Amanda said.

`` Sure, probably, '' pink wine responded absentmindedly.

`` Are you ok ? You 're awfully quiet, '' Amanda commented.

`` I 'm all right wing, '' rosebush answered, `` I 'm just thinking about matte. ma'am Pomfrey said he was supposed to be back today. ``

`` I 've been thinking about that, too, '' Albus told her, `` I hope he 's ok. ''

`` Well, even if he does n't come back until tomorrow, it 's still better than last month, '' John whispered, `` But I wonder when he 's going to secern us. ``

`` Why do n't we go up to the dormitory and talk about it, '' Albus suggested, `` It 's too tranquility in here, someone 's going to hear us. And Bilius and Ethan are down here anyway. '' Albus pointed to a table to their left, where the former two Gryffindor showtime year male child were sitting playing gobstones.

`` Good idea, '' rose wine agreed and closed her Book. The group got up from their chairperson and followed Albus to the boys'dormitory.

When they got up to the dorm room, Albus sat down on his bed. rose wine and Amanda looked around a bit before sitting down side by side to him.

`` I ca n't admit it anymore, we 've got to tell him ! '' King John shouted and started pacing around the elbow room, `` I 'm not indisputable he 's ever going to tell us ! ``

`` He will, we 've just got to give him some more time ! '' Albus insisted.

`` I 'm not so sure, Albus. He has n't told us yet, what makes you so indisputable he 'll ever do it ? '' John questioned.

`` I do n't know, I just think he will. ``

`` Well, I do n't. And I 'm not so certainly I can keep pretending I have no clue why he leaves every month. I mean, how long has it been since we 've known ? And we 've known him since September. Is n't that enough time for him to rely us ? '' John stormed over to his bed and threw himself on it.

`` Honestly, John, that 's really not a long sentence. September was n't even six month ago, '' rosebush reasoned.

`` So you 're on Albus 's English, then ? You think we should just sham we 're clueless about his disappearing ? '' John asked.

`` Yes, I do. I think he will tell us, once he realizes he can trust us, '' pink wine told him.

`` Well, what more do we consume to do ? '' can huffed.

`` It 's not that simple ! '' Albus shouted, remembering his conversation with Dumbledore. `` Do you recognize how hard it must be for him ? He 's probably had mass abandoning him because of this his wholly life ! ``

`` And I suppose you know more about it than I do ? go I checked, you were n't a werewolf, '' John shouted.

`` Yeah, I do know more than than you ! '' Albus shouted back, getting up from the bed and walking towards John.

`` Really, and how would that be ? '' John got up and stood in strawman of Albus, staring at him.

`` Because teddy bear 's dad was a werewolf ! I 've told you that ! And my dad 's told me all about what he went through ! You know he was n't even going to be allowed to come to Hogwarts, but then Dumbledore became headmaster and let him ! And then he could n't even keep a job because no one wanted to hire a wolfman ! So, yeah, I do know a bit more than you do ! ``

`` Fine, so you know More about it than me, but how do you sleep together that Matt will tell us ? ``

`` I just do, ok ? '' Albus insisted, thinking of what Dumbledore had said.

`` Well, I think that it might be easier if we just told him we know. Then he could just talk to us about it and we could stop keeping mystery ! '' John shouted.

`` Albus, '' Rose said from behind Albus and started tugging on his robes.

`` Not now, Rose, '' Albus pushed her hand away, `` It probably would be light, but it 's his secret, so let 's just let him distinguish us ! ``

`` But what if he does n't ! '' whoremonger threw his hired hand up in the air. `` Are we just going to go our whole seven old age at Hogwarts pretending we do n't know ? ``

rose poked Albus more persistently and Albus pushed her paw away again. `` Of course not, because he 'll tell us soon ! ``

`` Albus ! '' rosebush shouted louder and pointed to the doorway.

Albus turned his head away from can and glanced at the doorway. Matt was standing there, looking tired and run down, with a appal look on his font. He stared at Albus for a few seconds before turning and running back down the stairs.

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A/N : I know it 's forgetful than common, but I wanted the cliffhanger. The following chapter will be quite a bit longer, as I 'm planning on combining two chapters again.

Thanks to my babe and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my other sister, and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart and Moonylupin for their recap !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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Albus turned back to John and they stared at each other. `` How long had he been standing there ? '' Albus asked quietly.

rose sighed, `` Since right after you finished talking about Teddy 's dad. ``

`` So he definitely knows we know, '' Albus responded.

`` I 'd say so, '' Rose agreed.

Albus and trick looked at each other again, and with their contention forgotten they both turned and ran out of the dormitory to espouse Matt. Albus did n't expect back, but the strait of step told him that Rose and Amanda were n't far behind. Albus did n't know what he was going to say to Matt when they found him, he just knew he had to do something. This was not how Albus imagined mat telling them about his lycanthropy. And he was surely that it was not what Dumbledore had in judgement. But what 's done is done, and Albus could only desire that lustrelessness was n't too mad at them.

When they reached the common room, it was packed. Albus realized that dueling nightspot practice must have just let out. He glanced quickly around the elbow room, thinking they 'd never come up Matt amongst all the early Gryffindors. John elbowed Albus in the side and pointed towards the Fat Lady 's portrayal. It was opening, and then it closed again, but they did n't see anyone enter or leave-taking. Someone brusk must feature left. Albus knew it was Matt. He motioned for his friends to follow. They pushed their way through the throngs of previous students and eventually made it to the portrait. The group scrambled through the hole and landed in the seventh floor corridor.

`` Where is he ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I dunno, '' Albus said, glancing around. lusterlessness was no where in sight. `` I wish we had the piranha 's Map. ``

`` The what ? '' John asked.

`` The Marauder 's Map. It 's that map of Hogwarts my grandad and his supporter made. Remember ? I told you about it. ``

`` Oh, yeah. ``

`` well, we do n't have it. But we 'd better get going if we have any Leslie Townes Hope of finding him, '' rosiness started running down the corridor.

Albus, toilet, and Amanda followed Rose down the corridor. After a minute or so, Albus spotted Matt. `` There he is ! '' he whispered to his Friend. They continued running and it did n't select long to enamor up to Matt. Since it was right after a to the full moon, matte was going slower than usual.

Albus and his acquaintance stopped a few meters in front of him. `` lusterlessness ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

Matt turned around and walked slowly towards his friends, past a arras of
Barnabas the Barmy trying to teach trolls to dance ballet, and stopped a few metrical foot in front of Albus. `` So, you know ? '' he asked in a voice so indulgent, Albus could hardly hear it. He stared at the ground.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus answered in an equally quiet voice.

Matt did n't seem up and turned around and paced slowly down the hallway. He seemed to be thinking hard. When he got just past the tapestry, he stopped and walked back towards Albus. Albus knew he was trying to consider of something to say. Albus glanced at his Quaker and all of them looked very uncomfortable. They stood completely still, not saying a countersign, while Matt continued pacing up and down the hallway.

On his third or quartern fourth dimension returning to Albus, Albus was n't sure as he had lost count, Matt finally looked up at him with a scared expression on his expression. Matt opened his mouth and was about to say something when he stopped. He turned and looked at the wall facing the tapestry.

Albus turned to see what Matt was staring at. When his regard reached the wall, his lip fell open. A doorway was sitting upon the wall, where there had n't been a door before. Albus turned around and looked at Rose. Albus had a smell he knew where the threshold came from, and rose 's knowing flavour of awe confirmed it. can was staring at it as if he had been stupefied. Amanda was blinking and rubbing her eyes, as if the doorway was just a figment of her imagination.

Matt glanced at Albus and then he walked towards the threshold. When he reached it, he grasped the handle and opened it. He walked slowly inside, leaving the doorway open behind him. Once Matt was inside, Albus nodded to his friends and walked inside. John, pink wine, and Amanda followed.

When Albus got into the room, he gazed around in awe. The intact room was decorated in Gryffindor scarlet and gold. The in high spirits ceiling was painted gold and the wall were covered in scarlet drapery. The trading floor was covered in scarlet and gold patterned rug. In the back of the room was a big fireplace nail with a crepitation fire. In front of the fire, were three great comfy looking orange red armchairs and a big gold couch.

`` What is this place ? '' Amanda asked as she walked around the room.

`` I think it 's the elbow room of prerequisite, '' Albus told her, `` It 's also called the ejaculate and Go Room. It only appears when you 're in need of it. And it changes according to your pauperization. ``

`` Dad 's told me about this before, but he would n't state me where it was or how to find it, '' Saint John the Apostle told them.

`` Sami with me, '' blush wine said.

`` Me, too, '' Albus replied.

`` It 's incredible ! '' Amanda grinned, `` Looks just like the Gryffindor rough-cut room. ``

`` Only better, '' John responded, `` We can sit near the ardour. ``

`` It looks like it was made for us, '' Albus commented.

`` It does, '' Rose agreed, `` Matt, did you ... request this ? ``

`` Yeah, '' matte sighed.

`` So, you knew about the room ? '' toilet asked.

`` Yes, '' Matt answered, `` Amy told me about it before I came to Hogwarts. She thought, it well, might be useful, for me. '' He sighed, `` Sometimes I come here after I get out of the hospital backstage, if I want to just be alone and log Z's. ``

`` And does it appear like this then ? '' Amanda asked.

`` No, usually it 's got a four-poster bed and the open fireplace, and that 's it. ``

`` So, it 'll render you whatever you ask for ? '' Amanda responded.

`` Er, I think so, within reason, '' Matt told her, `` Like, if you wanted a room wax of Galleons, I do n't opine it would be able to do it. And it ca n't give you food. Something about the laws of August 6 or something. ``

`` Is this where you 've been all day ? '' John asked as he wandered around the room. `` Because we went to see you on Tuesday and brothel keeper Pomfrey said you 'd get to leave Thursday or today. ``

Matt sighed and slowly walked towards one of the armchairs and sat down in it. Albus followed and sat down on the couch. rose wine sat down side by side to him while whoremonger and Amanda took the remaining hot seat. `` Yeah, I was here, '' Matt said quietly after a few moments of silence. `` I was just so tired and I could n't present going to Charms and dealing with Washburn and Malfoy. ``

Albus could understand that. Looking back on the previous months, he realized that Washburn did tend to predict on lusterlessness more right after he got back from the infirmary Wing.

`` You were still tired ? Even after spending three daylight in the Hospital backstage ? Why ? '' St. John asked while he pulled a Chocolate anuran out of his air hole and opened it. `` Oh, spirit, Albus. Now I 've got Snape ! ``

`` I dunno. That 's just how it is, '' Matt mumbled.

The chemical group sat in silence for a few minute. John pulled out a few Thomas More toad frog and offered them around. Albus, Rose, and Amanda each took one and ate them. Albus got Minerva McGonagall, which he gave to Amanda since he already had about seven of her.

`` You guys have to promise me something, '' lustrelessness broke the silence, `` Do n't tell anyone. ``

Albus stared at him. `` Of line we wo n't, '' he said solemnly. John, Rose, and Amanda nodded their heads in agreement.

`` Thanks, '' Matt whispered, and got up from his chair.

`` Where are you going ? '' Albus asked.

`` I dunno. I just figured you would n't desire to fall out with me anymore, '' mat looked nervously at Albus.

`` What ? ! '' Albus shouted, `` Of course of action we still want to hang up out with you ! ``

`` Really ? '' Matt asked, while a smile slowly crept up on his face.

`` Definitely ! '' can assured him.

`` Of form, '' Amanda smiled.

`` We wo n't abandon you, '' Rose said adamantly.

Matt visibly relaxed and sat back down in his chair. `` I guess I just thought that you would n't. Since, well, everyone I 've ever been friends with stopped talking to me once they found out. ``

`` That wo n't happen with us, '' Albus assured him.

`` But does n't it scare you, just a bit ? '' lusterlessness asked tentatively.

`` Nope, '' Albus replied, grinning. He glanced at rose, who grinned back.

`` What 's so peculiar ? '' flatness looked from Albus to Rose.

`` Did prof Kendrick tell you that you are n't the first werewolf to attend Hogwarts ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah ... '' Matt responded warily, `` He said there was one other, a couple X ago. ``

`` And I 'm guessing he never told you who that was ? '' rose replied.

`` Er, no, he did n't, '' matte answered, `` But Amy told me that Teddy 's dad was a loup-garou and he went here, so I assumed it was him. ``

`` Exactly, '' Albus grinned, `` And my dad 's Teddy 's godfather. ``

`` Really ? '' lusterlessness asked.

`` Yup, '' pink wine said. `` I 'll let Albus say you the eternal rest. ``

`` You mean, there 's more ? '' lusterlessness stared in awe at Albus.

`` Yup, you want to know why my dad 's shimmy 's godfather, do n't you ? ``

`` Of trend ! ``

`` Well, here it goes. My grandpa, the one who was killed by Voldemort, went to Hogwarts the Lapplander time Remus lupin did. Along with Sirius inkiness and Saint Peter the Apostle Pettigrew. They all became pretty near friends. Remus Lupin tried to maintain the fact that he was a wolfman arcanum, but eventually, my grandfather, Sirius, and Peter found out. And they did n't abandon him. In fact, they all became illegal animagi and spent the full moon moons with him. ``

`` Really ? '' Matt glanced around at his friends.

`` Really, '' Albus continued, `` They stayed friends correct up until Pettigrew betrayed my grandparents. And you know that level. Then, Remus met Nymphadora Tonks, who was somehow related to Sirius, I think she was his cousin 's daughter. Anyway, they got tie and had a son, Teddy, right in the peak of Voldemort 's reign. They both were killed in the engagement. But Remus had made my dad Teddy 's godfather, so he 's kind of like a brother. So, you can see that no way would I abandon you. ``

`` Wow, '' matte grinned at Albus, `` But what about the remainder of you ? ``

`` Nope, you do n't make to care about me, '' rosebush answered, `` shift 's like my cousin. ``

`` I 'm not related to any werewolves, heck, you 're the first one I 've met. But do n't worry. You 're my friend and nix can change that, '' John replied.

`` Honestly, it scared me a bit when I first found out, '' Amanda admitted, `` But I 'm Muggle-born, so the only if idea of werewolves I 'd had were in Muggle faery tales. ``

Matt looked at her and the grinning on his face disappeared. He glanced nervously at Albus.

`` But I 'm fine with it now. stand up taught me a lot. I know now that real lycanthrope are n't anything like the single in fairy tales. And besides, just because you get furred once a calendar month does n't mean you 're a different person the residual of the month. I was acquaintance with you before I knew and I 'll stick Friend with you now, '' Amanda assured him.

Matt relaxed, `` Thanks, guys. I 've never had better Friend. But how long have you known ? ``

`` Well, Rose figured it out in Nov, but we were n't irrefutable until I wound up in the infirmary Wing at the like meter as you last month. ``

`` What ? ! '' flatness 's mouth fell open, `` How did that happen ? ``

Albus explained the duel with Quinton Willinson and how he had overheard gentlewoman Pomfrey and the Healer talking early the next morning.

`` Why did n't you tell me you knew ? '' Matt asked quietly.

`` I thought it would be undecomposed for you to assure us when you 're set, but I guess that did n't happen, '' Albus answered.

`` hypothesis not, but thanks anyway, for the thought, '' Matt replied. Everyone sat quietly for a few moments, before Albus broke the silence.

`` Could we, er, ask you interrogation about it ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

matte sighed, `` sure enough, I guess. ``

`` If you do n't desire to- '' Albus started.

`` No, it 's fine, it 's just I 've never actually told anyone about it. It 's always been my parents or Amy. But yeah, ask whatever you want, '' Matt told them.

`` All right, if you 're sure, '' Albus paused, `` Well, when did it happen ? ``

matte took a deep breathing place. `` When I was five. We were Muggle camping at the time. My mum 's Muggle-born, and she had gone camping when she was a kid, and she wanted me and Amy to get the experience. You guys do have it away what Muggles do when they camp, right ? ``

`` That 's when they live in those cramped, flyspeck collapsible shelter that are just big enough to sleep in, right ? And they do n't use electricity or any of that hooey they use instead of magic ? '' John asked.

Amanda stifled a giggle at his description of camping. `` Well, that 's the general theme, I suppose, but it 's usually a lot funner than you describe it. ``

`` Right, '' matte said, `` Well, that 's what my mum wanted to do. So Dad agreed because he thought it sounded weirdo enough to be fun. And it was, at first. We did n't use any illusion. I do n't remember a whole lot, but I do call up Dad playing with compeer trying to get the campfire lit. It took him a one-half hour. Amy says that after that starting time campfire, Mum lit all the relief of them.

`` We were going to camp for three nights, I think. The second Nox was a full moon. It was a blue moon. You know, when there are two Sun Myung Moon in a month, they call the second one a blue moon. They do n't happen often. Only every 2 or 3 years. It was the end of Dec, commemorate that the seasons are reverse in Australia, so it was warmly. We were all in one tent, and in the middle of the dark I had to go to the bathroom. There was a hanker base on balls to the bathroom, through the woods. I was halfway there when I heard this oceanic abyss growl. The last matter I remember is a huge creature pouncing on me and a searing infliction in my vertebral column, and then I blacked out. ``

Albus listened but did n't say anything. He heard Amanda gasped. Albus sort of felt sick to his belly. Ever since he found out that lusterlessness was a werewolf, he knew he must have been bit, but he never really thought about the details. Now, hearing about it, he felt direful that his friend had been through it.

`` And then what happened ? '' lavatory whispered.

`` Well, my parents told me what happened a while after I woke up. Amy is a really unclouded sleeping car and she heard the growls and my screaming. She woke up my parents and my dad went noticed that I was gone and he ran out of the tent with his wand. There were a bunch of Muggles who had woken up and were running around screaming. They told my parents that a kid was being attacked by a brute. That kid of course, was me. My parents kept running towards the growls until they found me. Dad saw what was happening and started shooting off all sorting of trance that somehow had great effect on the werewolf. Then my mum started trying to daze the loup-garou, too. After a few spells, the werewolf was stunned. ``

`` Muggles saw it ? '' rose asked.

`` Yeah, '' flatness continued, `` My mum sent password to the Ministry and they sent Obliviators and representatives from the Werewolf Control unit of measurement. Dad was head of that department at the fourth dimension. None of the Muggles remember anything from it of course, but it was in the paper, so all the wizards and witches found out about it. But they did n't know it was me who got attacked. The law prevents the name calling of minor lycanthrope from being released. ``

`` Wow, '' Albus said, `` I guess that 's effective that no one knew it was you. ``

`` It did n't really facilitate, though, '' matt replied bitterly. `` But there 's to a greater extent before I get to that. After the Ministry people showed up, my dad Apparated with me to Eastworth, that 's one of the infirmary in Australia. I spent nearly a month there. Right up until the next to the full moon. I woke up two calendar week after it happened. Spent the next two weeks waiting for all the injury to mend, but they did n't heal all the way. That took a partner off month. Anyway, the first replete moon was awful. I hardly remember any of it. Just the pain and illness in the few days before it and the two week it took to heal after it. ``

`` But what about the wolfsbane Potion ? '' Rose asked tentatively.

Matt sighed, `` The thing is, that does n't mould for me. The Healers have n't been able to figure out why yet. I took it during the first few full-of-the-moon moons and it had no effect on me at all, so my parents stopped giving it to me. ``

Albus could n't think of what to say. He now knew the story. Matt had told them the whole thing. It seemed like once he started, he just did n't stop. Maybe it felt good to finally evidence somebody about it ? Albus figured that was it. He could n't opine carrying around a secret like that for twelve class. Then Albus remembered something mat had told him on the train. `` Um, matt ? Why did your family move to here ? '' Albus had the feeling that had something to do with his being a lycanthrope. matt had n't mentioned much about moving to England, and when he talked about it on the power train, he changed the subject quickly.

`` Um, well, because of me, '' matte replied glumly, `` I never told you before, but my parents were really well-known in Commonwealth of Australia. Not really famous like your family is, Albus, but just kind of upper socio-economic class case. Both of them were. My dad comes from a long line of pure bloods. But not the kinds who despise Muggles and Muggle-borns. They were just always involved in the Ministry and had a payload of gold, that sort of thing.

`` And my mum, her family is really rich. They were always involved in all sorts of celebrity eccentric stuff. They knew all kind of famous people and hosted figure parties and thing like that. Then my mum got her missive telling her she was a crone. My grandparents were horrified and excited at the Lapp time. They obviously could n't tell any of their friends about it, and they had a voiceless metre keeping it a secret.

`` My parents met in school and got married a few years later. Put together, they were the nonesuch magic couple. My dad got a job at the Ministry in the Werewolf mastery unit of measurement. Eventually, shortly after I was born, he worked his way up to pass. Then, a few months after I was bitten, he became principal of the entire Department for the Control and regulation of Magical Creatures. kind of ironic, is n't it ? ``

`` That 's how he knew how to bedaze the werewolf, '' rosiness commented.

`` Yeah, and it 's a good thing he did, '' Matt said, `` Anyway, my family was involved in all sorts of partiality issue and committees, both magical and Muggle. My parents were living the perfect spirit. Then, I got bit. ``

`` And it all had to hold on, did n't it ? '' Albus said softly.

`` Yes, and slowly it did. First, they stopped doing the Muggle thing. Muggles do n't bonk lycanthrope are really, so they could n't do much Muggle stuff anymore. The Muggles would ask what was untimely with me and my parents could n't tell them. If they lied and said it was some sort of Muggle disease, it would have been all over their news. So, my parents just told everyone that they were going to loosen and invoke their kinsfolk away from all the renown.

`` The magic stuff was a little more complicated. Everyone who worked in my dad 's office knew that I had been bit and they kept it a surreptitious for a long time. For over two years, no one knew it happened. Then, there were more lycanthrope attack down there. So people started drafting anti-werewolf legislation. My dad immediately rejected all of it. People got suspicious, and one of his colleagues got pretty fired up about it. He was all for more confinement. So, he leaked that I was a werewolf to former office of the Ministry. Of course, they could n't really can him for me being a werewolf. But right before that happened, the Ministry managed to make pass a law requiring all property of transformation to be reprint building. The department overruled Dad 's veto and the minister signed it into law. Dad refused to comply and got fired for breaking the law. ``

John let out a low pennywhistle, `` matt, I 'm so blue, did you recollect it was your fracture ? ``

`` Yeah, I did, actually, '' Matt said darkly, `` Mum and Dad kept telling me it was n't and not to believe that way, but I could n't help it.

`` But it was just all downhill from there. My parents had already sent a alphabetic character to Amy 's school, the Australian School of black art, to see if I could still attend. They would n't let me. So they were planning on moving anyway. ``

`` They would n't ? ! '' John shouted, `` But why ? ``

`` Said it was too grave. I was really depressed after that. The translation got worse. I always held out hope that I 'd be able to go to shoal. Amy would follow home with stories and I looked forward to when I 'd get to go. So, just to seek out the choice, my parents sent alphabetic character to a few former schools. The Salem Witch Institute in Old Colony, Hogwarts, and the Adirondack Academy of legerdemain in New York State. And a couple others that I do n't remember the gens. Hogwarts, Salem, and Adirondack both said I could still pay heed. Adirondack had never had any werewolf attend, but they said they would work it out. Salem turned out to be a really bad idea. My parents and Amy did n't like it.

`` By then, my parents were definitely willing to move so I could go to school. They were debating which schooltime I should go to when they read about a survey St. Mungo 's was doing. It would try to figure out why wolfbane would n't make for some people. That was the deciding divisor. They decided on Hogwarts and signed me up for the study. We moved that summer. ``

Albus sat and thought. He now knew what Dumbledore had meant by 'true horrors in his past'. It was n't just being bit by a werewolf and becoming one himself. It was the fact that matte 's family 's whole living was drastically changed because of what had happened. They moved halfway across the humankind because of it. `` What about Amy ? She had already been at schoolhouse in Australia for a few year, '' Albus commented.

`` Yeah, she had. She was 14 when we moved, going into her quarter class. And she was n't too glad about it. I know you Guy just see her as a protective erstwhile Sister, but she was n't always, '' lusterlessness paused, `` She was really upset when my parents told her that we had to displace. She did n't desire to depart her friends. She blamed me. ``

`` But she 's always looking out for you ! '' Rose replied, `` I ca n't imagine her being mad at you. ``

`` I know, '' Matt said, `` But it 's true. You see, my parents did n't let her be anywhere near me when I transformed. She stayed with my grandparents every full moon that she was n't in school. She stayed with them for a few days after the full-of-the-moon moon, too. By the time she got back, I was mostly unspoilt. ``

`` Oh, '' Rose said, `` But what happened ? ``

`` well, once we moved, she could n't go stay with my grandparents every total Sun Myung Moon anymore. We moved in June, right after the full moon. There were two More wide moons before she started school. Dad still had connectedness with the Ministry in Australia, so he managed to set up portkeys for her to take to my grandparents'menage, even after we moved. She was still mad at me when she left for school and it made me find atrocious. But after a few workweek, she settled into Hogwarts and made new Quaker, including Victoire.

`` Then the summer came and my parents had to look that she would be there during entire synodic month. Something happened and Dad could n't get portkeys to Australia anymore. By then I 'd been a lycanthrope for over three age and she still had n't been there. She was 15, then, so my parents figured she was old enough anyway. Anyway, the dark came and I, er, went to the place where I transform when I 'm home. In the morning, my parents always came and got me really early, so they could deal me to my bed and render me my potions and hooey. well, apparently that Night Amy had n't slept at all. She told me later that she could n't once she heard my screaming and howling. She stayed awake all nighttime, waiting for the moonlight to set, and once it did, she went and got me even before my parents did.

`` Well, once she saw me, she realized what I was going through. That morning, she saw me unconscious mind, with wear out off-white, and covered in line of descent and track. It made her actualize how bad it really is. She told me later that once she saw me, she started crying and she started trying to heal my cut of meat. Then my parents came and found her. They started crying with her and let her serve them do everything they do after a transformation. When I woke up, we had a long talk, all four of us. Amy completely forgave me for moving here and she 's been very protective ever since, especially when it comes to someone being rude about my shape. ``

`` Oh, Matt, '' Rose whispered, `` I 'm so glad that Amy is n't mad at you anymore. I just ca n't believe you have to go through all this. ``

`` It 's all correctly, I 'll survive, '' lusterlessness assured her.

`` I know, it just does n't seem bonny, '' rosebush said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Do you know what happened to the werewolf that bit you ? ``

`` My dad told me, '' Matt answered, `` He got in a load of trouble, because of what did pass off and what could have happened. He could have attacked some of the Muggles that were there, instead of me. It was only by chance that it happened to be me, a necromancer, he bit. We were probably the only wizards anywhere near that camping site, but there were incumbrance of Muggles around. Anyway, he got sentenced to ten years in prison. ``

`` So he 's still there ? '' lavatory asked.

`` Yup, '' Matt replied. He paused for a few moments, watching his friends. `` So, now you know the completely story. ``

`` Were you really planning on keeping it a secret the unscathed time you were at Hogwarts ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, I 'm not indisputable. I guess so. That 's what my parents told me to do anyway. They told me not to tell anyone, and I did n't require to narrate anyone either. I did n't really guess anyone would get hold out. ``

`` Rose is pretty smart, though, '' Albus said, `` I would n't sustain figured it out without her, well, until I wound up in the Hospital flank with you last month. ``

`` I guess I would n't have been able to go all through shoal without anyone finding out. ``

`` So who does get laid ? '' Albus asked.

`` Hardly anyone. The teachers, of course. Most of them have been really nice about it, especially your dad, Albus, '' Matt answered.

Albus grinned, `` Yeah, like that essay that was due the early day. ``

`` Oh, yeah, I 'd blank out about that, '' lusterlessness groaned, `` I 'll have to do it this weekend. Washburn 's been pretty rude, but he 's rude to every Gryffindor. Amy had warned me about that. ``

`` What about over Noel holiday, did you really decrease out of a Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, or was that just another cover-up story ? '' Albus asked, suddenly remembering that.

Matt blushed, `` Er, yeah, it was. There was a wide moonshine over the vacation. The second one of December to be take. It was a blue moon. Only the second one since the one when I got bit. The first one was when I was 8 and it was awful. a good deal risky than the even full moons. And the one in December was just as atrocious. Plus, I had to translate at my grandparents house. In their attic, which my dad auditory sensation proofed and strengthened the paries with magic. So, yeah, those injuries were from the wide-cut moon, not falling out of a tree. ``

`` I had a feeling about that, '' Albus commented, `` So, no early students know ? ``

`` Nope, '' Matt answered, `` You 're the only one, besides Amy. She 's not allowed to tell her Friend. She has n't even told Victoire. ``

`` Thanks for telling us the whole story, '' Rose said.

`` You know, it feels soundly to finally tell someone. Kind of like I can unwind now. I was always afraid you 'd find out and tell someone and I 'd have to leave. ``

`` We 'd never do that, '' Albus assured him.

`` Thanks, '' matte smiled.

Just then the door to the room flare-up open and Amy came running in, out of breath. `` There you are ! '' she shouted and ran towards Matt.

`` How 'd you get in here ? '' whoremaster asked. `` We 're already using the Room. ``

`` I made all the request for it and I always request that Amy be able-bodied to receive me, but to keep everyone else out, '' matte answered.

`` And it 's a good thing, too ! It 's half yesteryear midnight ! I was worried spue ! Madam Pomfrey said you left long time ago, but I have n't seen you all day, '' Amy gave him a hug.

`` Ouch ! '' Matt winced.

`` Oh, sorry ! '' Amy released her bag, `` Have you been here all day ? ``

`` Pretty much. ``

`` You skipped class ? Are you sure you 're just ? '' Amy asked in a worried tone.

`` I 'm just tired and I did n't want to face Washburn today. He always calls on me when I 'm outwear, he does it on purpose, '' Matt yawned.

`` Oh, he 's such a git, '' Amy replied, `` But are you sure you 're ok ? I could take you back to the Hospital fender. ``

`` I 'm fine, honestly, '' matte said adamantly.

`` How did they know how to get in here ? '' Amy glanced around at Albus, Saint John the Apostle, Rose, and Amanda, and then leaned over and whispered something in lusterlessness 's ear.

`` It 's all right, Amy, '' mat sighed, `` They know. I told them. I told them everything. ``

`` What ? ! '' Amy opened her optic wide and stared at Matt. `` Mum and Dad told you not to ! ``

`` I know, but it 's all right. They figured it out months ago and were just waiting until I was ready to tell them. ``

`` They 'd better not tell, '' Amy glanced around at Albus and the others.

`` Do n't worry, they wo n't, '' matt assured her, `` Albus 's dad is slip 's godfather. So, they definitely wo n't secernate. Albus 's grandpa was really good protagonist with teddy bear 's dad. ``

`` I knew that, '' Amy said, `` dead reckoning I just never really put it together. ``

`` Yup, and you know, I 'm really happy I told them everything. I can unstrain a picayune bit. ``

`` Just be sure no one else finds out, '' Amy warned.

`` I know, I 'll be careful, '' matt said, `` But you know, you could tell Victoire, if you want. I do n't think she 'd tell anyone, do you, Albus ? ``

`` No, she would n't tell anyone, '' Albus assured them.

`` Yeah, I know she would n't. I 've been tempted to tell her ever since she told me that her dad was attacked by Fenrir Limnodromus griseus, '' Amy revealed, `` But Mum and Dad do n't want me to tell anyone. ``

`` I know, they did n't want me to tell anyone either, but that did n't work out, '' matte replied, `` I just wanted you to experience that I would n't mind if you told Victoire. ``

`` Ok, I 'll believe about it. But thanks for telling me that. It 's surd keeping it a hush-hush. Sometimes I just want to let the cat out of the bag about it. ``

`` Me, too. That 's why I 'm sort of relieved they know now, '' flatness gestured to his friends.

`` I guess you should let Mum and Dad know that you told them. ``

`` I will, I 'll send them a letter this weekend, '' lusterlessness yawned.

`` You really ought to go to bed, '' Amy suggested.

`` That 'd probably be a good idea, '' Albus agreed, `` Quidditch is tomorrow. ``

`` Oh, yeah, I 'd forgotten ! '' mat said excitedly.

`` Should be a good game, '' John commented.

`` Ravenclaw will probably win, '' Amanda predicted.

Albus and his supporter walked back to Gryffindor Tower with Amy, and the common way was practically deserted by the time they got back. Victoire was there, along with Samantha Meyers, and a couple other seventh twelvemonth who Albus vaguely recognized. Amy bid them goodnight and went to sit with her Friend. When Albus, trick, and Matt went up to their dormitory, Bilius and Ethan were already departed. Albus climbed into his bed feeling very content. He was happy that lustrelessness had finally opened up to them, but still felt a bit worried about what Matt was going through. Albus was also quite thrilled with the idea of having the room of Requirement usable to them. He did n't reckon he 'd wangle to find that until he was much older, but now he would be able to use it during all his years at Hogwarts. With that and the vulture 's Map, if James let him take over it, Albus and his booster would certainly be able to induce some fun. If only he had the Invisibility Cloak. And with idea of his dad actually giving him the Cloak, Albus fell into a surprisingly reposeful sleep.

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A/N : So, there it is ! The chapter you 've been waiting for ! I really hope you liked it. I wound up re-writing a bunch of it, since parts had contradicted my other story. It was originally two chapters, but I combined them to progress to up for the cobbler's last chapter which was quite shortstop !

Speaking of my other chronicle, I will be posting it very soon ! It 's called In Moonlight 's phantom and it 's basically the product of me having too much background story about Matt to possibly put into a chronicle that focuses on Albus. The news report goes into great detail about why matte and his family moved to England. It 's done in first person, from Amy 's degree of view. I have thirty chapters written so far. I hope you 'll all check it out once I post it !

Thanks as usual to my babe and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my early sister, and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart, Moonylupin, and mamaykay for the reviews !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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Albus woke up late the adjacent first light, but he was still up before trick or Matt were. Bilius and Ethan 's bottom were void, so they were already up. Albus was surprised that John was n't up yet. He rarely ever missed breakfast, even on the weekends. The Quidditch peer was n't for another two hours, so Albus quietly got dressed and read a bit of his Quidditch in the Twentieth 100 book. He had been reading for a half hr when he heard someone come into the room.

`` Albus ? '' a representative called out, `` Are n't you up yet ? ``

Albus looked up from his leger, `` Oh, hi Rose, Amanda. I 've been up for a while, but those two are still benumbed. '' He jerked his head towards John and Matt 's beds.

`` I do n't think I 've ever seen john miss breakfast before, '' Rose commented while looking at his sleeping form.

`` Me neither. But we did abide up pretty late concluding Night, '' Albus said.

`` Yeah. We 've been up for a spell, doing homework, '' Rose responded.

`` Still have loads Thomas More to do, though, '' Amanda sighed, `` I have n't made a good deal advance on my phases of the moon essay for Astronomy. ``

`` Bet Matt could have that done in fifteen minute of arc, '' Albus commented, `` He could probably serve you. ``

`` commodity idea, I 'll ask him after the compeer, '' Amanda decided, `` We should probably get them up, though. ``

Albus agreed and pulled back the curtains on flatness 's bed while Rose and Amanda prodded whoremonger awake. Albus looked down at lustrelessness, who was sleeping soundly. Albus almost felt bad waking him up, but he knew flatness wanted to look on the couple and would be mad if no one woke him up in time. Albus pulled back the blankets and gently poked his arm.

`` Wha 's going on ? '' Matt mumbled. He sat up and itch his eyes.

`` We almost slept through Quidditch, '' trick replied sleepily as he got up out of bed and headed to the bathroom.

`` Oh, rightfulness ! '' flatness yawned and got up immediately.

Fifteen second later, Albus headed down to the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall with his supporter to have luncheon before the match. The usual upheaval that accompanied a Quidditch match was in the air when they walked into the room. Harry had been right when he said that Quidditch would look at people 's minds off Rita Skeeter 's article. Albus had n't heard anyone mention it in days. It seemed as if everyone had finally forgotten about it.

`` Why ca n't the conditions be like this when we play ? '' James groaned as he sat down future to Albus.

The weather was unusually expert. It was still bitterly moth-eaten, but it was relatively sunny.

`` well, it does n't matter, because our squad can recreate in any weather ! '' Samantha Meyers announced. `` The Hufflepuffs on the other hand .... ''

`` They 're better than the Slytherins this year, '' Saint James commented.

`` True, but the Slytherins have n't totally lost the Cup yet. Ravenclaw only beat them by 30 tip in their match. Now, if they lose to Hufflepuff in the next catch, they 'll be out of the running play, '' Samantha explained.

After lunch, everyone made their way to the Quidditch lurch. Albus and his champion managed to get good seats, but none of them really knew which team to root for. The match lasted almost two hours before the Ravenclaw quester finally caught the stoolpigeon. Both Seekers spent about of the catch hovering above the other players, neither of them managing to see the Snitch. Saint James was sitting a few seats down from Albus and Albus heard him shouting to the Seekers on numerous function because he had seen the Snitch. In the end, the Ravenclaw Seeker saw it hovering near the Hufflepuff goal posts, caught it, and won the game.

Albus and his friends spent the remainder of the day working on their homework. Matt was capable to avail Amanda finish her essay, and everyone helped him catch up on all the work he had missed the former week.

******

`` 15 minutes left ! '' professor Slughorn announced during double potions one March afternoon, a few hebdomad later. `` Bring a sample of your potion up to my desk for grading and clean up, please ! ``

Albus poured a bit of his boil-cure potion into a vial and took it up to Professor Slughorn while John cleaned out their cauldron.

`` Albus, m'boy ! '' Slughorn grinned at him and took his potion. He held it up to the light and shook it. `` Near perfect, I think ! Could stimulate done with a few more porcupine quills, but very good.

`` Now, I am planning on having another short confluence this Sunday evening, '' Slughorn went on, as he put Albus 's potion on his desk with the others. `` I was hoping you and Miss Weasley would be able to attend. ``

Albus inwardly groaned. He did not want to go to another biff Club meeting. The intellection of being that close to Quinton Willinson again made him shudder. `` Er, well, actually, I 've got lessons with my aunt Hermione every Sunday. rose does, too. ``

`` Oh, what a shame, '' Slughorn replied, `` Maybe next time, then ? ``

`` Er, maybe, '' Albus shifted nervously. He had no design of ever going to another Slug gild meeting. At least not while Willinson was still at Hogwarts.

Albus went back to his table, got his bag, and left the room with his friends. As they walked up the stair to the entry Hall, Albus told them about the slug Club meeting.

`` You 're not going, are you, Albus ? '' John questioned.

`` Definitely not, '' Albus replied adamantly, `` Plus, I 've got Occlumency that night anyway. ``

`` I 'm gladiola he made the meeting for a Sun, then, '' pink wine commented.

`` Yeah, me too. But he wo n't do it again, though. Now that he knows we have moral that Night. I guess next time I 'll just let to say I 've got too very much homework or something, '' Albus said.

`` Or use a regurgitation pastille or Fever Fudge or something, '' John the Divine suggested.

`` That could form, '' Albus replied as they emerged into the Entrance Hall. They started to thwart towards the Great residence hall when Albus noticed someone walking towards them. He grabbed the dorsum of Rose and Matt 's robe and stopped them.

`` What ? '' Matt turned around and looked quizzically at Albus.

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered, `` ejaculate here. '' Albus lead them over to a broom cupboard and pulled them inside it.

`` What are we doing in here ? '' John asked loudly.

`` Shush ! '' Albus said again and opened the doorway a sally. `` await at that man. He 's who I saw arguing with Washburn ! ``

Rose, Saint John the Apostle, Matt, and Amanda each took a turn peering out the door to depend at the sensation. `` Are you sure ? '' blush wine asked.

`` Positive, '' Albus replied.

`` hold, you saw him arguing with Washburn ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` Oh, right, you were in the hospital fender then, '' Albus remembered. He quickly rehashed what he had overheard while doing detainment for Washburn.

`` So Washburn 's doing some kind of job for that maven ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said, `` And I think they 're up to something. I say we follow him. ``

`` But it 's time for supper ! '' John whined.

`` Exactly. Which means no one will be around to enquire what we 're up to, '' Albus reasoned. `` Plus, we 'll get supper after. ``

John sighed, `` Fine. Where do you think they went ? ``

`` Probably Washburn 's bureau. ``

blush wine opened the threshold. `` Let 's go then. ``

Albus followed rosebush out the door and they crept up the stairs towards Washburn 's office, with John, Matt, and Amanda following. The corridors were empty since everyone was in the Great residence hall. They reached the magic spell classroom and Albus peeked inside. Washburn and the other star were standing near his desk, arguing in silence voices. Albus motioned for his friends to move closer and the five of them huddled near the clear threshold, being measured not to make too much noise.

`` You have n't done it yet, '' the unusual man hissed, `` Why have n't you done it ? ``

`` I 'm sorry ! '' Washburn replied, `` I have n't been able to yet ! ``

`` Well, why not ? It does n't seem that difficult to me. ``

`` It 's harder than you 'd remember ! I do n't know where they are ! '' Washburn answered.

`` I 've told you how to find out ! ``

`` I know and I 've been trying. I have, really ! '' Washburn moaned.

Albus looked quizzically at his supporter. He had never seen Washburn like this before. Usually, it was Washburn who was doing the bullying, not the early way around. But this man was obviously angry that Washburn had n't finished whatever he wanted him to do.

`` Well, hurry up then. Try harder ! '' the unknown wizard insisted.

`` I will, I will. ``

`` You know we can not proceed without them. I 'm positivistic I know where one of them is, but it will prove very difficult to get. Once we find out where the others are, we 'll do them first. They 're the more important I anyway. So, you must do it soon. Just find out where they are. I 'll retrieve them. You 've obviously had difficultness with even doing the simple labor of finding them, let alone retrieving them, '' the genius growled.

`` Yes, I know. I will try harder, I will. It 's just ..., '' Washburn trailed off.

`` What ? ! '' the whiz demanded.

Albus leaned his head closer to the door, but Washburn remained silent. Then Albus felt a wet object collide with his head. `` Argh ! '' he screamed and turned around.

`` Ickle firsties ! '' Peeves was bobbing up and down in the air, cackling madly. `` Spying on teacher ? Very naughty !

`` Peeves ! '' Rose shouted as the poltergeist heaved a water system balloon at her headspring. Peeves cackled and threw another piss balloon at Albus.

`` What is going on out here ? ! '' Washburn appeared in the doorway, his voice returning to the usual rage that Albus was used to.

`` Firsties spying on your encounter, Professor, Sir ! '' Peeves saluted Washburn and flew down the hallway, laughing hysterically.

`` Potter ! '' Washburn spat, glaring at Albus. Albus stood trembling and soaking wet, waiting for whatever was coming next. At the time, spying on Washburn seemed like a not bad theme. But now that he thought about it, it was inevitable that they would be caught.

The strange wizard came sauntering out of the elbow room with a smug face on his fount. `` I think that concludes our discussion. I shall be speaking with you shortly. '' He walked down the corridor and disappeared around a corner.

Washburn watched him leave and once he was gone, Washburn turned back to Albus. `` Just what, do you lot, think you were doing ? '' he seethed.

Albus stood still, but said cipher. Rose, John, Matt, and Amanda remained silent as well. Washburn looked at each of them in go and returned his gaze to Albus. `` 100 points from Gryffindor. And detention, this Mon at 7 pm, all of you. I 'll have you polishing the trophies, '' he spat.

Albus nodded. 100 spot, that was the most Washburn had ever taken from them before. The detention was no big deal, but the spot would set Gryffindor quite a ways back in the running for the sign Cup.

`` Um, prof, '' Matt whispered, `` Is there any chance we could do it this weekend, maybe, instead of Monday ? ``

Washburn turned to glare at matt, looking livid. `` NO ! I 've got other detentions scheduled for the weekend ! You 'll meet me in the Trophy Room at 7 pm on Monday, or I 'll describe you to the headmaster ! '' He gave Matt one more than piercing stare and went back into his way, slamming the door behind him.

Albus turned and looked at his Friend. They all had shocked reflection on their faces and flatness looked quite occupy. blush wine 's hair's-breadth was dripping with water.

`` Told you we should have gone to supper instead, '' trick commented, as they started walking down the corridor.

`` Shut it, '' Albus replied, `` We may have gotten detention, but we did hear some useful information. ``

`` He 's got a item, '' Rose said, `` Washburn 's definitely up to something. That man wants him to rule something out, feel out where something is, and then they 're going to try to steal it. ``

`` I guess, but we do n't even hump what they 're trying to find out. We ca n't really do anything about it, '' St. John the Apostle responded.

`` And Washburn 's even more angry with us, '' Matt said dryly.

`` Yeah, but he already hates me so much that it does n't count, '' Albus pointed out, `` By the way, why did you want the detention switched ? That 's not the, you know, is it ? '' Albus asked, not wanting to say 'full moon'out loud, in typeface anyone was lurking around.

`` No, '' matte whispered, `` But it 's two nights after the hold, so I 'll already be feeling woeful. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, remembering how tired Matt always was in the twenty-four hours preceding the total moon. `` Maybe you could talk to my dad or prof Longbottom ? They 'd make Washburn switch it. ``

`` I know they would, but then countersign would get around to Malfoy. The last thing I need is him wondering why I can pick out when I have my detention. You know Washburn would somehow cite it in class. ``

`` Yeah, he would, '' Albus said darkly.

`` We 'll just polish your trophies for you, '' John assured him, `` Just make it look like you 're doing something and we 'll cover for you. ``

Matt smiled weakly, `` Thanks. ``

`` So, we going to go eat supper or not ? '' King John turned towards the stairs.

`` You guys go ahead, '' Albus answered, `` I 've got to go transfer out of these wet gown. '' He gave blush wine a meaningful glance.

`` I 've got to modify, too, '' rosebush told them and gestured to her soaking robes.

`` All right, '' John said, and started down the stair with Matt and Amanda.

Albus and rose set off for Gryffindor Tower. Once they entered the deserted common elbow room, Rose turned to look at Albus. `` You thought of the Hallows when you heard Washburn talking, did n't you ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said, `` Did you ? ``

pink wine nodded, `` It does seem funny. ``

`` It 's got to be him. It fits. That 's why he hates me. He thought I 'd know where the Hallows are, but I do n't. ``

`` I dunno. I mean, it does fit, but still, Washburn 's a instructor. ``

`` So what ? teacher can be Dark hotshot, too. ``

`` I know, but we do n't birth any cogent evidence ! We did n't even see him say 'Hallows', '' pink wine reasoned.

`` I know, so I do n't think we should tell my dad yet, we ca n't get him in trouble, but it 's a head start. And we learned more about the Hallows, '' Albus pointed out, `` They already know where one of them is, but it 's going to be hard to get. Maybe it 's heavily guarded ? ``

`` Probably. Anyway, I think we 'll probably accept to adopt Dumbledore 's advice and talk to John, lustrelessness, and Amanda about it. We 've got to find out what they are. ``

`` Yeah, we should. We 'll do it soon, '' Albus assured her.

`` Albus, do you mean that Washburn, or whoever is trying to get the Hallows, will be able-bodied to bring back Voldemort ? '' Rose asked quietly.

`` I do n't call up so. I mean, he 's numb, right ? So how could he come back ? Plus, in my dream, the wizard said he was going to land about Voldemort 's 'ideals'. ``

`` Well, his 'ideals'are moderately shuddery, '' rose shuddered, `` And the idea of a second Voldemort 's almost as scary as the outset one. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Which is why we 've got to keep Washburn from getting the Hallows. ``

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, my early sister, and my brother. Also, thanks to Moonylupin, XXEveryinchXX, and TheNobleHouseofPotter for their review !

I 've posted my next tale, In Moonlight 's Shadow. Please stop it out on my author page !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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Son spread like wildfire that a group of first years had lost Gryffindor 100 percentage point in one Night. Quite a few older educatee were very wild about this, especially since the passing of points placed them below both Slytherin and Hufflepuff in the running play for the House Cup. After classes the next day, Albus and his friends were bombarded by a copulate fifth days, including his cousins Peach State and Gabriella, demanding to bang why the point in time were taking away. Albus quickly explained what had happened with Washburn, and silence fell around the common room. After a few moments, someone started clapping. Soon after, a couple Thomas More people joined in and eventually the entire mutual room was cheering and slapping Albus and his friends on the binding. Albus stared quizzically at everyone, wondering why they were all cheering that he had lost them so many points.

`` Why 's everyone clapping ? '' Albus asked James.

James grinned, `` Because you made Washburn so angry ! Everyone hates him ! No one 's had the nerve to spy on him before. It 's brilliant, really. I 've heard masses have been trying to get him to give up since he first started teaching when Victoire was a first yr. You 've done so practically stuff to him this year. First you set him on fire- ''

`` That was a complete accident ! ``

`` doe n't matter, the period is, he 's horrible to everyone, except the Slytherins. And you 're rebelling against him. Honestly, you 've got more nerve than I thought, '' Saint James stared in awe at his brother.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled at William James. Albus had felt horrible about losing so many points, but if the other Gryffindors were n't going to care, than maybe it was n't so bad after all.

For the next few days, whenever Albus and his friends were in the vulgar room, the other Gryffindors would ask Albus for help in planning clowning to pull on Washburn. Apparently, the former Gryffindors saw Albus 's catching as aspiration to figure out their own ways to get the good luck charm professor crazy. Albus, however, wanted nothing to do with it. He was far too worried about the idea of Washburn and that other ace trying to receive the Hallows and use them to complete Voldemort 's plans. He spent the weekend trying to do prep, but always wound up thinking about the Hallows and trying to opine of something that was heavily guarded that could be used to gain power.

By the time Monday arrived, Albus had exhausted every possible powerful object and could n't call up of anymore. Monday meant that it was meter for their custody with Washburn. After dinner party, Albus and his friends walked slowly to the trophy room. Albus was not looking forward to being in close locality with the mortal who was most probably performing Legilimency on him.

`` Are you all right, mat ? '' Rose asked, jolting Albus out of his idea. He turned around to look at lustrelessness, who was lagging behind the rest of them, even though they were all walking slow.

`` Yeah, '' mat yawned, `` Just tired, no big batch. ``

`` You should go to Madam Pomfrey. She 'll pretend Washburn reschedule the detention, '' blush wine suggested.

`` And have Malfoy find out ? No. Plus, if I do it another time, I 'll have to do it alone, '' mat shuddered at the opinion of being solely with Washburn.

No one said another Holy Writ the relaxation of the way to the prize elbow room. When they got there, Washburn was already there, looking murderous, and standing next to a large bucketful of cleaning supplies.

`` It 's 7:05. You 're late, '' he growled.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Matt mumbled, `` It was my error. ``

`` I do n't care who 's fault it was. It just means you 'll be here later, '' Washburn barked, `` You 'll be staying until every one of these trophy is spotless. No deception, of course. ``

Washburn strode over to a large armchair that was sitting near the threshold, sat down in it, and started his common glaring. Albus picked up a nursing bottle of polish and a rag and wandered over to a trophy for the Gobstones lodge. toilet and matte started polishing prize on either side of Albus, while rose and Amanda started on the other side of the room. The trophy way was quite large and Albus guessed it would take them at least two minute, perhaps more, to round all the prize and cases. They polished in silence for a one-half hour, moving along the wall of trophies as they went on. Albus was polishing a whiz 's chess Championship trophy from 1922 when he felt a sharp-worded garget in his slope. He turned to his right and saw John the Evangelist, who had stopped polishing his trophy. `` What ? '' Albus whispered.

whoremonger silently pointed to Albus 's former side and Albus turned to wait. Matt was standing with his head slumped up against the trophy case. He was fast numb. Albus glanced nervously back at John. Albus did n't want to know what Washburn would do to Matt if he discovered that he was n't awake.

`` Matt, '' Albus prodded his acquaintance gently, `` awaken up. ``

matt groaned a trivial and lifted his head off the spyglass. Albus glanced nervously at Washburn. Luckily he was currently pointing out a spot of dirt that Rose had missed on a Quidditch prize. Albus poked Matt again, a fiddling harder this time.

`` Ouch ! '' lusterlessness winced and opened his eyes. He glanced around with a discombobulate flavor on his face.

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered. `` You fell asleep. observe shining. ``

`` Oh, rightfield, '' Matt picked up his rag that had fallen on the flooring when he drifted off and went back to polishing.

The three boys continued polishing in silence for the next minute. Occasionally, either Albus or John would accept to wake matte up. Matt was not getting a whole lot of polishing done, but since he was working right side by side to Albus and toilet, Washburn did n't look to notice.

`` Albus, '' John whispered a patch later.

`` What ? '' Albus looked over at whoremonger. trick pointed at the trophy he was polishing. Albus looked at it and saw that it was a plaque of everyone who received an award for special divine service to the school.

John pointed at two names on it, Harry ceramist and Ron Weasley. `` What did they do ? '' he whispered.

`` Saved my mum from Voldemort and a basilisk in the bedroom of Secrets, '' Albus whispered back. `` And discovered that it was Voldemort attacking students in the first station. He possessed my mum through a diary he wrote when he was 16. ``

John stared wide at Albus. `` Whoa. I think I remember my parents telling me about that. They were n't in Hogwarts yet when that happened. ``

`` lull back there, '' Washburn growled.

matt jerked awake at the sound of Washburn 's voice. `` Wha 's going on ? '' he said a little too loudly.

`` Oh, rouse up, Eckerton ! It 's only 9 pm ! '' Washburn shouted, `` The sooner you finish, the sooner you can go to bed. ``

`` Sorry, sir, '' Matt replied and went back to polishing a trophy.

As Albus continued polishing, he thought about the award his dad had gotten all those old age ago. He had been a hero every class he had been in shoal. He still was a hero. 'Will I ever do anything like that ?'Albus thought. 'Will I ever live up to what people think I will do ? Everyone thinks I 'll do great things just because my dad did, but what if I ca n't ?'Albus doubted that he would ever get an award for special services to the school.

`` Eckerton ! '' Washburn shouted, causing Albus to come out of his thoughts. `` Why ca n't you stay wake ? ! Get up ! ``

Albus looked over at mat. He was slumped yet again on one of the glass display cases, looking very wan. He opened his eye and started slowly dragging his rag along the glass with his eyes drooping.

`` Why do n't you lay off him already ? '' John Lackland shouted disgustedly. `` You know perfectly well why he 's hackneyed. ``

Washburn got up from his chair and started towards John. Albus glanced nervously from one to the former. rosebush and Amanda both stopped polishing and were paying unaired tending. lusterlessness had fallen asleep on the glass again. `` What did you say ? '' Washburn spat once he was within two feet of John.

trick stared at him, not breaking eye contact. `` I said, why do n't you leave him alone ? You knew he 'd be tired today and you still made him do detention ! Just let him sleep and we 'll polish off the cleaning. We 're almost done anyway. ``

Washburn 's fount turned a specter of purple that Albus had only seen on his Great-Uncle Vernon. He stepped closer to trick, but John did n't reckon away. `` 50 Thomas More detail from Gryffindor for talking back. And another detainment, I think. Tomorrow Nox. communication channel. My government agency. But just you. Sleeping knockout will be even worse tomorrow and as a lot as I 'd love to give to a greater extent detention to ceramist, Weasley, and Tagger, they have n't done anything. This was all you. Go on, get out of here ! '' He shouted stormed out of the room.

Albus stared in shock absorber as he left. He glanced around at John, who was still glaring at the door, his face as red with anger as rosebush 's hair. `` C'mon, let 's go, '' he said quietly as he prodded Matt awake.

`` Huh ? '' Matt mumbled.

`` Detention 's over, '' Albus told him as he walked towards the door.

`` Oh, ok, '' Matt yawned and followed the respite of them out of the door.

`` He 's kept us past curfew, '' Rose commented as they made their way through the corridors.

`` Figures, '' Saint John grunted.

`` That was brilliant, by the way, '' Albus said.

`` What was brilliant ? '' Matt asked.

`` John flipped out on Washburn while you were asleep, '' Albus told him.

`` What did you do ? '' Matt asked King John in an astounded voice. `` Why do I always miss the serious material ? ``

whoremonger was still too raging to say much, so Albus explained. `` He told Washburn off for yelling at you. It was after Washburn woke you up that second meter. And you had just fallen asleep again. privy started yelling at him about how he should n't have got shouted at you when he knew why you were tired and how he should n't consume assigned you detention for today. ``

`` What ? ! '' flatness shouted, `` Are you mad ? What did he do to you ? ``

`` Detention tomorrow night. And fifty power point lost, '' John replied.

`` You are mad, '' lustrelessness said quietly, `` You did n't stimulate to do that. I do n't want you getting in trouble for me. ``

`` Yes, I did, '' St. John the Apostle said, `` It 's not fair what he did. He should have made the custody over the weekend, like you suggested. He 's deliberately trying to run you down. It 's just not evenhandedly. ``

`` Yeah, well, life 's not fair. I found that out six years ago, '' Matt said bluntly.

`` Yeah, but it does n't mean it 's okay for people to treat you like dung, '' toilet replied softly.

******

By the time Gospel According to John trudged back into the common room after his hold the next Night, most of the rest of the Gryffindors had gone to bed. There were a few fifth years huddled up at one table, studying for their O.W.L.s, and Victoire and Amy were up talking quietly while studying for their N.E.W.T.s. Albus and his friends had managed to get the good armchairs near the fire once the fourth yr occupying them had gone to bed. pink wine was reading a Bible while Albus and Amanda played gobstones. Matt was sound asleep in his chair.

`` How 'd it go ? '' Albus asked as can collapsed in one of the chairs.

`` It was bloody miserable, '' John groaned, `` He stared at me the whole meter. Had me write'I will respect my elders and not blab out back'about 300 clip. ``

`` Yeah, that 's what he does. I 've gotten used to it, but it drove me mad during the first few hold, '' Albus told him.

`` He 's an evil git, '' whoremaster growled.

`` I know, '' Albus agreed.

`` well, I do n't need to verbalize about him anymore. I just spent two hours with him. Anyway, what have you been up to ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Not much. We finished all our homework a while ago. We 've just been sitting around waiting for you, '' Albus said.

`` When did he fall asleep ? '' St. John the Apostle jerked his straits towards Matt.

`` About an hour ago, '' Amanda answered.

St. John sighed, `` You know, it 's almost like he expects everyone to be rude to him. ``

`` I 'm pretty certain he does, '' Albus whispered.

`` well, it 's probably because most people have, '' Rose commented, `` I mean, to the highest degree people are n't exactly dainty to, well, mass like him. ''

`` I know, but he should n't just consent it. I 'm going to stick up for him, '' John said.

`` We will, too, '' Rose agreed, `` But he 's just not used to it. ``

`` I guess, but I 'm not going to let anyone address him badly. Especially not individual like Washburn, '' John replied.

`` Me neither, '' Albus said.

`` Definitely, '' Amanda replied.

`` We should probably go to bed, '' Albus said after glancing at his watch, `` We 've got uranology tomorrow. ``

Amanda groaned, `` Oh, yeah. Should be a miserable night. ``

`` Yours wo n't be as woeful as his will be, '' John the Divine pointed to Matt.

******

The side by side day went by fast for Albus. Charms was thoroughly low for Albus and all his friends. john had made it onto the listing of multitude Washburn clearly disliked more than the others. Now, the only one of Albus 's booster who was n't, was Amanda. However, Washburn did dislike her more than the other Gryffindors, just because she was supporter with Albus. Washburn spent the unharmed class lecturing and shouting at Matt whenever he fell asleep. Albus could narrate that John was trying hard to behave himself whenever this happened. It did n't help that Malfoy spent the whole class with a self-satisfied look on his face, clearly enjoying that Washburn was shouting at lustrelessness every five minutes.

`` wickedness git. We ought to cabbage a few regurgitation troche in his pumpkin juice, '' John muttered under his breathing time after Washburn woke Matt up for the fourth time.

`` What did you say, Brickston ? '' Washburn shouted.

`` Nothing, sir, '' John answered.

`` Did n't sound like cipher, '' Washburn growled, `` Ten point in time from Gryffindor. ``

Matt wound up skipping Potions because he could n't confront a second class with Malfoy that day. Malfoy interrogated Albus again as to where flatness was, and Albus told him that Matt had left after luncheon to visit his sick nanna.

After dinner, Albus and his ally decided to see if flatness was in the Room of Requirement. He never showed up at dinner. When they arrived in the Room, Amy was already there, trying to wake Matt up.

`` Hey, Amy, '' Albus said quietly.

Amy turned around, `` Oh, hi, Albus. ``

`` Are you going to the Hospital annex now ? '' blush wine asked.

`` Yeah, I 'll see you guys tomorrow, I guess, '' matte yawned as Amy helped him out of the bed.

`` All rightfulness, '' Albus replied.

`` Bye, '' John, Rose, and Amanda said quietly.

`` Bye, '' lusterlessness winced as he followed his Sister out of the room.

Albus and his supporter spent the rest of the eve in the Room, working on their preparation. After a few hour, in which Albus managed to get the latest Potions preparation done, it was meter for Astronomy.

prof Polo announced that they would be finishing their marching music star charts that night. Albus, lav, rose, and Amanda set up their telescopes and got to work.

`` This is the first full moon on a Wednesday, is n't it ? '' Albus whispered to rosebush after a few minutes.

`` Yeah, I think so, '' blush wine said, `` I 'm just glad we do n't sustain this with the Slytherins.

`` Where 's your Quaker, Matt ? '' Jackie Pierce, the Hufflepuff on Albus 's early slope asked.

`` He 's visiting his sick nanna, '' Albus said automatically.

`` Oh, I hope she 's better soon, '' Jackie replied.

Albus focused his telescope and marked down a few star. He moved his telescope and pointed it towards the moon. He sighed as he thought about how something as beautiful as the moon could control soul 's biography as much as it controlled Matt's.

Albus managed to complete his sensation chart just as the class was ending. trick and Rose were able to finish theirs as well.

`` I hope he does n't submit off a whole lot of head for not getting all the stars, '' Amanda sighed as they climbed into the portraiture hole.

`` If you only forgot a mates, I do n't call back you 'll loose that many points, '' Rose assured her.

Albus sat down in one of the armchairs in straw man of the empty hearth. `` Are any of you tired ? ``

King John sat down future to Albus, `` No, not really. ``

Rose and Amanda shook their heads and sat down. `` Let 's bide up. We can go see matt in the break of the day, '' rosiness suggested.

`` trade good idea, '' Albus agreed. The ally spent much of the dark playing numerous game of chess, Exploding grab, and Gobstones. Eventually, the sun started to rise and morning came.

`` Should we go, then ? '' John the Divine asked once they finished their game of Exploding Snap.

`` Yeah, it 's probably a good time, '' Rose said. `` But maybe you should go get the map, Albus. I do n't fancy running into Filch. ``

Albus agreed and ran up to James 's dormitory. St. James the Apostle and the rest of the second class boys were all fathom asleep. Albus ran to James 's trunk and rummaged around in it until he found the piranha 's Map. He left a spry note to James telling him that he took the map, quickly left the room, and went back to the common room.

Albus spread the map out on the floor and tapped it with his sceptre, `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no proficient. ``

`` Blimey, that is bright !, '' John grinned as the committal to writing appeared on the map. Albus had told his admirer about the map before, but he had never showed it to them.

`` Wow ! '' Amanda stared in awe at the map. `` That is awe-inspiring. ``

`` Let 's see, '' Albus scanned the map, `` Filch is still in his office. ``

`` What about Washburn ? '' John asked.

`` Hmm, '' Albus looked back at the map.

`` There he is ! '' rosiness pointed at the map, `` He 's in his office, too. ``

`` good, '' John said in a relieved representative, `` Oh, and there 's Madam Pomfrey. She 's walking through the Entrance Hall. ``

`` Let 's go, then, '' Albus stood up, `` Mischief Managed. '' He stuffed the map into his robe pocket and left the room, with rose wine, John, and Amanda following.

When they arrived at the hospital Wing, it was completely deserted. Albus and his supporter settled themselves on the bed next to the one Matt usually stayed in. The door opened a few minute later, but it was n't Madam Pomfrey who came through. It was Amy, followed by Victoire.

`` What are you doing here ? '' Amy asked when she saw Albus and the others.

`` We had Astronomy terminal Nox and were n't tired, so we just stayed up and figured we 'd come see flatness, '' Albus told her.

`` Oh, all right, '' Amy replied. She walked over to the bed where Albus and his ally were sitting and Victoire followed. `` I told her, '' Amy said to Albus, `` about Matt. ``

`` I still ca n't believe you kept this from me all these years, '' Victoire said.

`` You 're not mad, are you ? '' Amy asked quietly.

`` No, of course of action not, '' Victoire assured her and sat down following to Rose on the bed. `` It just must have been so hard to sustain that a secret. ``

Amy sat down next to Victoire, `` It was. But I did n't really have a choice. My parents disallow me from telling anyone. ``

`` Well, I 'm sword lily you told me now. Your parents are n't going to be mad, are they ? ``

`` No, I asked them a couple calendar week ago and they said it would be all right if I told you, '' Amy answered.

`` Good, '' Victoire said and turned to Albus, `` How long have you guys known ? ``

`` Since January. well, pink wine put the clew together in November, but we did n't know for sure until January. But we did n't talk to lustrelessness about it until live on month, '' Albus responded.

The group sat in muteness for a few minute, before Victoire asked, `` When 's he coming back ? ``

`` Should be any sentence, '' Amy stood up and glanced at the threshold. `` But just to let you guys know, he 's not going to be in any SHAPE to talk to you. ``

`` We know, we just want to be here for him, '' John replied.

`` I honestly do n't even know if he 's going to require you here. He never likes anyone seeing him right after a transformation. ``

`` We do n't care what he looks like, '' John said adamantly.

`` I know you do n't, but I think he 's still afraid you 're going to abandon him. He 's never had such supportive friends before. The few friends he had went running in the early direction once they found out, '' Amy explained.

`` Gits, '' King John muttered under his breath.

The door to the Hospital Wing opened and Albus looked up. Madam Pomfrey came bustling through while using her scepter to float a stretcher through the door. matt was laying upon it, covered in a thick jet blanket. Amy immediately rushed over to them. `` How is he ? '' she asked anxiously.

`` Not that bad, actually, '' Madam Pomfrey replied, `` A few broken bones and a fair bit of cold shoulder and bruise, but not as bad as yesteryear months. ``

`` Oh, good, '' Amy replied.

Madam Pomfrey directed the copestone towards the bed next to the one Albus and his protagonist were sitting on. `` What are you lot doing here ? '' she asked briskly once she noticed them.

`` We, er, just wanted to see if lusterlessness was okay, '' Albus answered nervously. He suddenly was n't sure as shooting if they should possess gone to the Hospital wing after all.

`` He knows you know, then ? '' madam Pomfrey asked.

`` Yeah, and he explained everything terminal month, '' Albus told her.

`` And you know, too ? '' dame Pomfrey gestured to Victoire.

`` Yes, I do, '' Victoire answered.

Madam Pomfrey smiled, `` Good. It 's about metre he had some fast friends. Now, I 've got to heal him up a bit and then if he 's awake, you can see him. '' She pulled the curtains closed behind her and Amy. A moment later, she came out, went to her office, and came back with legion potions and bandage. Albus watched as she went back through the mantle and listened to the various healing turn she was performing.

Victoire, Albus, and his protagonist all sat on the bed, no one saying a word. Albus was still a bit worry about lusterlessness 's response to them being there. He had n't thought about it before, but now he realized that Amy was veracious and matt probably did n't need them to see him like this. He glanced at his friends, who were also looking a bit skittish. They did n't accept long to harp on it, though, because a little while later, Madam Pomfrey and Amy appeared from behind the curtains.

`` He 's awake, '' Madam Pomfrey told them, `` You can see him for a few minutes, but not very long. He needs rest. ``

Albus glanced at his friends and they stood up. He walked through the curtains, with Rose, John, and Amanda following. matte was laying on the bed, looking thoroughly pitiful. His face was covered in cuts and there was a large contusion on his left hand nerve. Both of his arms were heavily bandaged and he looked very tired.

`` What are you guys doing here ? '' he asked hoarsely when he saw Albus and the others.

`` We wanted to come see you. Are you all right ? '' Albus asked.

`` I 've been better, '' matt answered bluntly.

`` I hope you do n't listen that we came, '' rosebush said softly.

`` It 's all right, '' Matt sighed, `` I just thought you would n't have wanted to. ``

`` 'Course we do, '' John said, `` You 're our friend. ``

Matt grinned tiredly at them. `` Oh, did you recite Victoire ? '' he asked Amy, who had just come back through the curtains with Victoire.

`` Yeah, I told her this morning, '' Amy replied.

`` And it does n't get at me in the least, '' Victoire assured him. Matt yawned and smiled at her.

Madam Pomfrey came back with another steaming potion in a goblet. `` Time for you lot to go, '' she told them, `` He needs to sleep. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus said, `` Bye, Matt. Hope you feel better. ``

`` We 'll occur see you this evening, '' Rose told him.

`` Ok, have fun in class, '' mat yawned. toilet and Amanda waved as the group left. Amy and Victoire followed behind them, whispering to each other.

Albus walked to the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall for breakfast with his friends. He was feeling quite tired after staying up the unhurt night. Albus was glad that lustrelessness did n't appear to mind them coming to see him so soon after the full synodic month, but he could tell that Matt still was n't completely well-situated with them knowing his mystery. Albus figured that after a distich weeks or so mat would gradually relax about it. Now, all Albus had to do was decide when to tell his acquaintance about the Hallows. He had been putting it off, but decided to fill Dumbledore 's advice and see if they knew anything about them. It was the solely hint he had, and if he was going to stop Washburn from getting the Hallows, he he had to use it.
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A/N : Thanks to my baby and beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my other sis and my Brother. Thanks also to inkheart, Moonylupin, and Mamaykay for their reviews !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry ceramicist or any of The Tales of Beedle the Bard.

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Albus did not ingest a chance to ask St. John, Matt, and Amanda about the Hallows until after the easterly holiday. Matt spent the rest of the calendar week in the Hospital fender, and Albus did n't want to talk about the Hallows there. He preferred to do it in private. The east wind holiday began the day after mat left the Hospital wing. Neither Albus nor his booster stayed at the castle over the holiday. Albus quite enjoyed the break and spent much of it playing Quidditch with James. pink wine and her family came to stay for a few days, but Albus did n't see the repose of his lengthy family. Albus, rose wine, and James did spend a bit of time sneaking around Grimmauld space, looking for clue that would lead them to finding out what the Hallows were, but they did n't find anything useful.

By the metre Albus was back at Hogwarts, the C had melted and it was relatively tender. April was upon them, which meant that the end of term test were only two calendar month away. The teachers made certainly to cue them of this during every course of study. Albus had not thought it possible, but they were being assigned even more homework than before. Of course, no one was feeling the pressure more than than the fifth part and seventh class, who were preparing for their O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s. All of them could be seen studying in the common elbow room and subroutine library until late at night. A few of them were already cracking under the pressure. Albus was gladiola that his O.W.L.s were still four twelvemonth away, but he was not looking forward to them. Even Victoire was becoming nervous about the exams and had started threatening untried student with detentions if they were too tacky in the common elbow room. Usually Victoire was very level headed and not much bothered her, but she was afraid she would n't let enough N.E.W.T.s to get her into the therapist program.

`` I am not looking forward to my O.W.L.s, '' toilet sighed as he watched as a one-fifth year nodded off while reading her Federal Reserve note.

`` Me neither, '' matte agreed.

`` You 'll be hunky-dory if you study, '' Rose assured them.

`` That 's the percentage I 'm not looking forward to, '' John laughed, `` I 'm having enough trouble studying for this yr 's exams. ``

`` Have you finished your Herbology ? '' Albus asked John.

`` I 'm working on it now, '' John told him.

`` I have n't even started it, '' Amanda commented. matt was helping her finish this hebdomad 's astronomy assignment.

`` Well, it 's not due until day after tomorrow, '' Albus told them.

`` good thing ! '' Saint John the Apostle shouted and threw down his quill, `` I need a break from all this ! ``

`` Shush ! '' Victoire came storming over to their board. She looked very commonplace. `` This is study metre ! ``

`` Sorry, Victoire, '' Saint John the Apostle said, `` I 'm just sick of studying. ``

`` Just wait until 7th yr ... '' Victoire muttered as she went back to the tabular array she was sharing with Amy.

`` wishing to go to the way ? '' Albus whispered.

`` Yeah, let 's go, '' Matt replied and got up. Albus, Rose, Amanda, and Saint John all picked up their books and followed matt out of the common room. They walked to the Room and Matt paced three times in presence of it. The threshold appeared and they all walked inside. The Room looked just as it did when matt told them about the night he was bit.

Albus walked inside and sat down on one of the president. His supporter followed and they all resumed their poring over, except for John, who was wandering around the Room.

`` I 've got to severalise you cat something, '' Albus said quietly after a few instant. Everyone looked up from their ledger and John Lackland came over to the fire and sat down on the couch next to Matt.

`` Are you going to separate us where you disappear to with Rose and your brother ? '' can asked.

`` Er, yeah, you noticed that ? '' Albus asked nervously.

`` Yes, we all did, '' Amanda told him.

`` fountainhead, I 'm going to enjoin you why, '' Albus said. `` I guess first I 've got to tell you that this past summer, I thought my dad had told me everything about the defeat of Voldemort. ``

`` You mean, he did n't ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked.

`` No, I do n't call up he did, '' Albus replied quietly, `` Over Yuletide, Rose, James, and I, and a pair of our cousins, overheard mine and pink wine 's parents whispering about something in the kitchen. They were talking about whether or not to severalize us something, something they 've been hiding from us. I do n't know what it was. I just heard them say one word, 'Hallows'. St. James the Apostle, rose wine, and I researched in the library to try and recover out what 'Hallows'were. But we did n't discover anything. The only thing we had to go on was the fact that I heard the password 'Hallows'in those Legilimency dreams I have. individual wants to bump the Hallows and steal them, whatever they are.

`` Rose came up with the approximation that I should talk to Dumbledore 's portraiture about it. We figured that the Hallows had something to do with Voldemort 's downfall because they seem to be something just our parents know about. Since Dumbledore told my dad about the Horcruxes, we figured he 'd bonk something about the Hallows. So, Rose came up with the whole idea to set off a pyrotechnic in Washburn 's class in order to get me into the Headmaster 's post so I could talk to Dumbledore. ``

`` delay, you did that on determination ? '' John asked in awe.

`` Yeah, we did, '' rosebush grinned.

`` That 's, that 's brilliant, but stupid ! '' John laughed.

`` We know, '' Albus said grimly, `` It could have gone much worse. Anyway, Dumbledore did have it off about the Hallows, but he would n't tell us about them. He said it was something my dad had to tell me. But he did give me a clew. He told me to ask you about them, '' Albus said.

`` He thinks we 'd have it away what they are ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Well, yeah, that 's what he said. He said to specifically ask John and lusterlessness about them, '' Albus replied.

`` He got that rightfield, I 've never heard of Hallows before, '' Amanda responded.

`` You have n't heard of them, stimulate you ? '' Albus turned to John and Matt.

whoremaster and Matt looked at each other and then glanced at Albus. `` fountainhead, I 've never heard of them, '' John said.

`` I have, my dad told me about them once, '' lustrelessness commented.

`` You know what they are ? '' Albus asked in impact. He looked at rose wine. She looked as clueless as Albus did.

`` Yeah, I do, '' lusterlessness repeated, `` Have n't you two ever heard The Tales of Beedle the Bard ? ``

`` Of course, '' Albus nodded.

`` The what ? '' Amanda looked quizzically at Matt.

`` The tale of Beedle the Bard, '' he repeated, `` A Book of Wizard poof taradiddle. The Warlock 's Hairy Heart, Babbity Rabbity and Her Cackling podium, The Wizard and the Hopping Pot, The Fountain of carnival Fortune- ''

`` My parents study me those when I was little. Mum 's actually got the original copy ! '' Rose interrupted excitedly.

`` Energy she really ? '' Matt stared at her in awe.

`` Yeah, Dumbledore left it to her in his will, '' rose told him. `` But what do a lot of fairy tales have to do with 'Hallows'? ``

`` You did n't let me end up. There 's one more. The story of the triplet Brothers, '' Matt told them. `` And that has everything to do with the Hallows. ``

Albus and Rose glanced at each other. Like Rose, Albus had been read those pouf tales when he was little, and he remembered The taradiddle of the deuce-ace Brothers. He remembered his Aunt Hermione reading it to him from the archetype written matter. He had n't been able to interpret a word of it, since it was written in Runes, but he definitely remembered the story.

`` But I do n't call back anything about any Hallows in that story, '' rose commented.

`` You would n't, '' matte told her, `` The story does n't refer the Book Hallows, but the story itself is about the Hallows. ``

`` That does n't make gumption, '' St. John the Apostle announced.

`` Could someone explain this story, please ? '' Amanda asked with a look of discombobulation on her face.

`` Sure, '' matt leaned back on the sofa and gazed around the room. `` This would be prosperous if I had the book. I have n't heard it in ages. '' Matt got up from the sofa and walked over to a book shelf that was behind Albus 's electric chair. `` Perfect ! Here 's one, '' flatness picked a book up off the shelf, walked back over to the couch and sat down.

`` 'There were once three pal who were traveling along a lonely, winding road at twilight, '' Matt began. He read the hale story straight through. It was just as Albus remembered, with no mention of the Word Hallows.

`` 'And then he greeted decease as an old friend, and went with him gladly, and, as equals, they departed this life .''' Matt looked up at Amanda and closed the al-Qur'an. `` That 's the account. ``

Amanda stared at him, `` That 's quite a bit different than Muggle sprite tarradiddle. Although I 'm still confused. ``

`` So am I. What 's that got anything to do with 'Hallows'? '' Albus asked.

`` Everything, '' matte sighed, `` Just let me explain it. The Hallows, or the Deathly Hallows as they 're really known as, are the invisibility Cloak, the Resurrection Oliver Stone, and the elderberry bush Wand. Some people believe that the storey Tell of the initiation of the Deathly Hallows, but most people think it 's just a story.

`` My dad told me about it ages ago. He 's one of the few people who think they actually exist. When he was younger, before he got married, he actually tried to find them. Looked in stacks of books all over the world, trying to retrace where they might be. My Uncle Jack went with them, too. They kept searching even after my parents got married. Mum went with them. He gave up his search after he and Mum wanted to protrude a kinsfolk. They never did find out anything about the Hallows that would recite him where they were. Uncle doodly-squat kept looking for geezerhood afterwards, but eventually settled in New House of York. He still thinks they 're out there, someplace, and has n't truly given up. ``

`` You mean, those three objects actually exist ? '' rose wine asked skeptically.

`` I dunno, '' matt replied, `` My dad seems to think so. And he 's met a few other people who think so. ``

`` But if they do n't live, why would my dad want to observe me from knowing about them ? '' Albus asked quietly. Albus was not sure what to think about what flatness had said about the Hallows. It was a far-fetched idea, but there was one affair Albus knew might turn up their existence. His father 's invisibility Cloak. Albus had not really connected The tale of the tercet Brother to his dad 's Cloak, but now that he thought about it, the connection made sense.

`` Oh, get along on, Albus, you ca n't honestly be thinking that they exist ? '' Rose said exasperatingly.

`` We already know one of them exists ! '' Albus told her, `` What about Dad 's invisibility Cloak ? ``

`` Your dad 's got an invisibleness Cloak ? '' Matt asked. `` Really ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus told him.

`` But that does n't mean it 's the one from the story, '' privy said, `` I mean, there are lode of Invisibility Cloaks out there. One of my uncles used to have one. But it wore out and he never got another. ``

`` Exactly !, '' Albus said excitedly, `` My dad 's Cloak is different from all former Invisibility Cloaks. It does n't wear upon out ! I know most invisibleness Cloaks just have a appeal or something put on them and it wears off eventually. That must get been the kind your uncle had, trick. But my grandad had that cloak before my dad did, and my dad still has it. It still works as unspoilt now as it ever has. ``

`` Whoa, '' Matt stared at Albus with a glint of excitement in his eyes, `` Then that could be the Cloak from the story ! ``

`` But what about the early Hallows ? '' Rose asked. `` I do n't think they exist. ``

`` They might, '' John said, `` I know I 've heard of exceedingly wands being passed from wizard to wizard centuries ago. ``

`` Ok, '' Rose began, `` Say there is a 'super wand'out there, and Uncle Harry 's cloak is 'The invisibleness Cloak'. But how on earth would a 'Resurrection Stone'work ? ``

Albus could n't answer that, but he did retrieve that the Deathly Hallows existed. Why else would his dad have kept all this secret ? The Deathly Hallows had something to do with Voldemort 's ruin, and Albus was going to find out out what. `` Well, if these three objects are the 'Hallows'that I heard mentioned in my dream, than someone is trying to find them, '' Albus realized.

`` That ca n't be expert, '' Saint John the Apostle said, `` Whoever 's been doing that Legilimency wants to preserve what Voldemort was doing, right ? ``

`` right, '' Albus confirmed, `` Do you know if anything special happens if you 've got all three Hallows ? ``

`` Dad said that if one person unites all three, they will be the skipper of destruction, '' lustrelessness answered.

`` Master of Death ? '' Albus repeated, `` Well, I can imagine that Voldemort would have loved to have them, then. Especially that sceptre. ``

`` That 's a scary thought process, '' Saint John the Apostle said, `` Voldemort with an unbeatable wand. ``

Albus silently agreed. `` Anyone wickedness with that wand would be scarey. Remember that time we spied on Washburn ? ``

mat shuddered, `` How could I not ? That resulted in one of the worst detentions ever. ``

`` I know, and I 'm dismal about that, '' Albus said quietly. He still felt a bit guilty about causing all his acquaintance to end up in detention with Washburn. `` But that unusual champion was yelling at Washburn because he had n't found out where something was. ``

`` And we did n't even hear what it was he had to find, '' Matt interrupted.

`` But I think I know what it is. I think that Washburn is trying to receive out where the Hallows are, '' Albus told them.

`` What ? ! '' John shouted, `` I know he 's frightful, but you think he is trying to connect the Hallows and continue what Voldemort wanted to do ? ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus said.

`` I told him it was ridiculous, '' pink wine sighed, `` But he still thinks it 's Washburn. ``

`` It makes sense, Rose ! '' Albus shouted.

`` It does fit, but still, he 's a teacher, '' Rose replied.

`` So what ? He makes it exonerated that he hates me and James, and you, and lusterlessness. He 's been giving Matt a hard clip since the beginning of the year ! And now he hates John, too. ``

`` I know, but maybe he just does n't wish Gryffindors. He was a Slytherin, you know, '' Rose commented.

`` Yeah, I know that. But what if he hates us because he was on Voldemort 's position ? '' Albus suggested.

`` But do you really conceive he 'd do this right hand under your dad 's nose, Albus ? I mean, come on ! Your dad 's head Auror ! '' lavatory argued.

Albus shrugged. He really had n't thought of that. `` Dunno. Maybe he 's just pudden-head ? Or maybe that bloke he was arguing with is threatening him or something and he has n't got a alternative ? ``

`` Well, I suppose it could be that, but still ... '' John replied.

`` Ok, so what if it is Washburn ? '' Matt said, `` What do we do about it ? ``

`` I dunno. I do n't remember we have enough validation to tell anyone, '' Albus answered. `` We 've just got to go for that he does n't find out where the Hallows are. I only know where the Invisibility Cloak is, Dad 's got it in his federal agency somewhere, and Washburn probably already knows where that is, if he 's the one doing the Legilimency. ``

`` All right, '' Matt replied, `` But this is mad, I never thought I 'd actually find out the Hallows existed, let alone eff where they are ! Do you think you could show me the Cloak sometime ? ``

`` Sure, '' Albus told him, `` But please do n't tell your dad about this. Not yet. I know he 'd want to know, but I think you ought to waitress until after my dad William Tell me their import in the war. ``

`` All right field, '' matt sighed, `` I wo n't tell him yet. ``

`` Swear you wo n't ? ``

`` I swear, '' Matt said, `` I 'll keep it orphic. I 've got eld of experience keeping things closed book. Do n't worry. ``

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and my early sister and my crony. Thanks as well to XXEveryinchXX, Moonylupin, inkheart, and leezdz for their review article !
Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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Over the next few weeks, Albus thought a lot about the Hallows. He found it hard to rivet on his homework, and Rose would often scold him for not spending enough time studying. He continued having his unknown dreams almost every Night, but he did n't guess that Washburn had found out anything new about the Hallows. Washburn continued to yell at Albus during every Charms class and give him at to the lowest degree a detainment a calendar week. With detention, prep, and Occlumency lessons, Albus had hardly any prison term for anything else. Life at Hogwarts was just as chaotic as ever. Albus did manage to line up sentence to tell James about what matt had told him about the Hallows, but James did n't have any ideas as to where the other Hallows could be either. He did concord with Albus that it was highly potential that Washburn was the one trying to link them.

Before Albus knew it, test were upon them. The Nox before they began was very tense. Almost all the Gryffindors were either in the common way, studying, or in the depository library doing the same. Albus and his friends were studying at a table succeeding to the one Victoire and Amy were at. Both the 7th year girls were extremely nervous, and Victoire insisted on rank serenity in the common room. Albus did not mind this, because he needed to consider anyway. Their inaugural examination was Charms, and Albus was particularly nervous about this exam.

`` I 'm not sure I 've passed, '' Albus groaned as he walked out of the room with rosiness, Saint John the Apostle, matte, and Amanda after the Charms exam.

`` I 'm sure I 've failed, '' Matt replied, `` Washburn was breathing down my neck during half of it. ``

`` I hate when teachers do that, '' Saint John said.

`` Me, too, '' Amanda agreed.

`` wellspring, I think I passed, but- '' Rose started.

`` Of course you passed, '' John interrupted, `` You 've been preparing for exams since September. ``

Albus thought the quietus of the test went fairly well. He thought he at to the lowest degree passed Potions. Herbology and DADA went extremely well, and Albus thought he got adequate marks in astronomy, Transfiguration, and account of deception. However, even though test were over, O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s were still going on, and Victoire was still mandating a smooth common elbow room in the evening. The Nox of their last exam, Albus and his friends decided to just go to the elbow room of necessary and celebrate.

`` What a fill-in ! '' John shouted as he flopped down onto the couch, `` No more exams until next year ! ``

`` Yep, a survey free summertime ! '' mat grinned as he pulled a chocolate frog out of his pocket.

`` You 've got homework, you know, '' Rose laughed.

`` I know, but I 'll save it for the last second, '' mat replied, `` So, anyone got plans for the summertime ? ``

`` I 'm going to Ireland with my family, '' Amanda told them, `` For two weeks. I ca n't wait ! ``

`` Are you going on an aeroplane ? '' John asked, excitedly.

Amanda laughed, `` Yeah. ``

`` Brilliant ! '' John shouted, `` Maybe I can convince my parents to take us on an airplane. ``

`` It 's not that great, '' Matt commented. `` Are you doing anything ? ``

`` Erm, not sure. We usually visit all my full cousin, '' St. John the Apostle said.

`` well, you 've all got to come stop at my house, '' Albus told them. `` blush wine and I always have a big natal day political party at the Burrow. ``

`` My natal day 's at the end of Aug and Albus 's is the end of this month, '' Rose said. `` So we always have a company together. But usually it 's just our family. And our parents'supporter and their kids. ``

`` 'Course I 'll amount ! '' Saint John smiled, `` I want to see your family and the Burrow. ``

`` My parents should let me amount. We 're not going to Ireland until the middle of Aug, '' Amanda answered, `` As long as they meet your parents first. ``

`` They can meet at B. B. King 's Cross, '' Rose replied.

`` Can you come, lustrelessness ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, I dunno, '' flatness said slowly, `` My parents have never let me appease over at someone 's theater before. Not that anyone would has ever wanted me to quell over at their house before. Do you know when it will be ? ``

Albus looked at blush wine, who shrugged. `` I 'm not certainly. I do n't think our parents have planned it yet. But we 'll pass water sure it 's not around the full moon. ``

`` Then I might be able to go, '' lustrelessness smiled.

`` Great ! '' Albus said, `` We 'll have loads of fun ! We can play Quidditch. ``

`` I ca n't believe this yr is almost over, '' Rose began.

`` Yeah, I mean, a twelvemonth ago, I did n't even have intercourse I was a witch, '' Amanda laughed, `` Going to be unknown to go back base. ``

`` And last class, I never even knew about the Hallows, and now Washburn 's trying to steal them, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Well, at least over the summer you wo n't be anywhere near Washburn, '' Rose said, `` And maybe Uncle Harry will say us the whole taradiddle. ``

`` And then you can tell it to us ! '' John replied. `` And to detain on theme, this sentence net yr, I was about the same as I am now. '' Everyone laughed.

`` Well, this time last year, I did n't stimulate any protagonist, '' Matt said quietly.

`` But you do now, '' bathroom pointed out.

Matt grinned, `` Yeah, I do. Never thought I would, though. It 's been a smashing year. ``

`` I have n't showed you the piranha 's Map, have I ? '' Albus asked Matt.

`` No, I do n't think so, '' lustrelessness answered.

`` It 's brilliant, '' John grinned, `` Saw it a couple month ago. ``

`` Yeah, you were in the Hospital annexe, '' Albus remembered, `` But I 've got it now. '' Albus pulled the Map out of his robe pocket.

`` You have n't given it back to James I yet ? '' pink wine asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus laughed, `` I do n't really want to leave it back. Maybe we 'll just part it. '' Albus got up from his chair and set the Map down on the table.

`` flavor just like a fixture piece of parchment, '' Matt commented.

`` That 's what 's so bang-up about it ! '' Albus grinned, `` Anyway, this is the map that my grandpa, St. Peter Pettigrew, Sothis Black, and of course of instruction, chemise 's dad made, when they were at Hogwarts. ``

`` Yeah, I remember you telling me that, '' Matt replied.

`` Here it is, '' Albus tapped his sceptre on the parchment and said, `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no good. ``

Ink spread across the map while matt stared in awe at it. `` That 's brilliant ! '' He stared at the map and all the labeled Elvis milling around it. His eyes stopped on the Whomping Willow. `` This shows the passageway to the Shrieking hovel ? '' he asked nervously.

`` Sure does, '' Albus said, `` It shows all the passageways out of the schooltime. But do n't vex, hardly anyone knows about the Map. Just us, James I, my parents, Rose 's parents, my Uncle George, and probably some of my cousins. But none of them, except my parents and rose wine 's parents, bonk how to get in the burrow. ``

`` Do you know how to get into the burrow ? '' Matt asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus answered. Harry had told him all about the passage, but had n't told him how to get into them. Harry had told Albus that he did n't desire to ruin all the fun of discovering thing for himself.

`` trade good, '' Matt breathed a suspiration of rest and went back to inspecting the map. `` Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs, '' he murmured. `` Are those, their nicknames ? ``

`` Yup, '' Albus confirmed, `` Moony was- ''

`` teddy 's dad, I figured that one out, '' Matt said, `` But what about the others ? ``

`` Wormtail was Pettigrew, he was a rat in more way than one, '' Albus said grimly, `` And Padfoot was Canicula, because he was a big shaggy dog. And Prongs was my grandpa because he was a hart. ``

`` Wow, '' matte said softly, `` This is astound. ``

`` See ? '' Albus began, `` Moony had awful acquaintance, well most of them were, '' Albus said, thinking of Pettigrew. `` And they did n't dessert him. We wo n't dessert you. ``

`` Yeah, you 're our Moony, '' Saint John agreed.

Matt smiled at them, `` Thanks, guy cable. I know you wo n't, now. ``

The group quietly watched the map for a few minutes, noting that all the fifth and seventh years were still cooped up in the depository library, studying for their exam. `` Who 's that ? '' Albus pointed to a dot that was lingering near the forest.

Rose leaned in closer and read, `` Jarett Willinson. Never heard of him. ``

`` Willinson. Do you guess he 's related to Quinton Willinson ? '' Albus asked.

`` Probably, '' St. John the Apostle said, `` But Quinton does n't have any sib at school. ``

`` What 's that bloke doing here, then ? '' Albus wondered.

`` Look ! '' Matt pointed at a dot that was traveling from the palace towards Jarret Willinson. `` It 's Washburn ! ``

Albus looked at the dot, and sure as shooting enough, it was Washburn. He was heading towards Jarett Willinson. `` What are they doing ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Matt answered.

`` What if they 're going to try and ascertain the Hallows ? '' Albus asked. `` We should go see what they 're up to. ``

`` What ? ! '' Matt shouted, `` Last metre we went to see what Washburn was up to, we wound up in hold. ``

`` But what if he is trying to steal the Hallows ? If he is, then we wo n't get in trouble from him. He 'll get fired, '' Albus pointed out.

lustrelessness sighed, `` I guess. Let 's go before they leave. ``

`` Are you coming, pink wine ? '' Albus asked.

`` I suppose, '' rose wine said. She looked at Amanda and the two of them stood up.

`` Let 's go, then ! '' toilet grinned. He was clearly excited about spying on Washburn again.

Albus and his friends left the elbow room and set off towards the front room access. They saw hardly anyone on their way down the stairs. Peeves was lurking on the second base corridor, but luckily he did n't note the first old age sneaking off.

`` Are they still there ? '' Rose whispered as they walked onto the grounds.

Albus checked the map. `` Yeah, they 're there. They must be talking or something. ``

`` You ought to wipe it fair before we meet up with them, '' Rose suggested.

`` Good estimate, '' Albus agreed, `` roguishness managed. ``

Albus walked slowly towards the sharpness of the forest, where he could just establish out two cloaked figures. The sun was setting and it was nearly dark. Once Albus was a couple on feet away from the two magician, he recognized who Jarret Willinson was, and stopped abruptly.

`` Ouch ! '' Amanda shouted as she ran into Albus.

`` Shush ! '' Albus whispered, and he pulled his supporter behind a tree.

`` What is it ? '' Rose asked.

`` That wizard ! Jarett Willinson ! He 's the feller that was arguing with Washburn when we spied on him ! And the time I had hold and they argued in Washburn 's study. I 'm sure as shooting of it. ``

`` That means- '' rosiness replied.

`` That they 're going after the Hallows. Remember, when we spied on them, that Jarett Willinson told Washburn that he would come and they would steal the Hallows together, '' Albus said.

`` We 've got to stop them, '' Saint John the Apostle replied.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Let 's go. '' Albus walked out from behind the tree, with his friends following. They slowly approached Washburn and Jarett Willinson. They were soon close sufficiency to pick up what the two genius were saying.

`` You 've discovered the localisation of one of the Hallows ? '' Jarett asked.

`` I believe so. Potter finally cracked. I 'd see that his Occlumency skills were abyssal, but I did n't think it would take me this hanker. The two nestling do n't know a affair about the Hallows, '' Washburn stated.

Jarett laughed, `` They will soon. Which one did you discover ? ``

`` The Resurrection Stone, '' Washburn said.

`` perfective. And where is it ? ``

`` In here, '' Washburn pointed to the timber. `` But I do n't know where. ``

`` How are we supposed to find it ? ! '' Jarett shouted angrily.

`` Do n't ask me ! '' Washburn shouted back.

`` It was your job to incur out where it is, '' Jarett said icily and took a step closer to Washburn. `` And you have n't found the exact position. ``

`` Sorry, but Potter did n't have it away either, '' Washburn answered nervously. `` Should n't we just embark on searching ? ``

`` We will, but I 've told Quinton he could amount with us, and he 's not here yet, '' Jarett answered. `` And we 've got another job to do tonight, anyway. ``

`` And what is that ? '' Washburn asked.

`` killing Potter, '' Jarett said.

Albus let out a gasp. They were going to kill his dad ? But why ? Albus turned around and looked at his friends. They were all standing stock still and wearing look of utter fear on their faces.

`` I do n't cogitate we 're alone anymore, '' Washburn informed Jarett and a grin appeared across his face.

Albus turned back around to face the two wizards and backed up. Jarett and Washburn turned towards Albus and started walking towards him and his ally.

`` I believe you are right, '' Jarett responded, `` Mr. ceramist, how nice of you to join us. ``

`` What are we going to do with them ? '' Washburn asked while glaring at the five clenched fist years.

`` Oh, I do n't know, what do you cogitate ? '' Jarett replied.

`` fountainhead, Potter seems incapable of doing the childlike good luck charm. The Weasley girl is a right know-all. Eckerton is asleep half the time, so I doubt he 's subject of doing a good deal deception. Brickston does n't hump when to keep his mouth shut. And the other girl does n't seem too bright either, '' Washburn said, `` I say we just let them string up around and if they interfere, I 'll take upkeep of them. '' He stared Albus in the eye, with a look of fill out loathing.

`` Very well, '' Jarett agreed, `` You know them better than I do. Now, let 's get back to business. ``

`` Right. Now, why do we feature to kill potter ? Is n't he the one who knows where all the Hallows are ? '' Washburn asked.

`` I know that ! '' Jarett shouted, `` But he 's the one who 's got the Elder baton ! And if we want it, we 've got to kill him. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Washburn responded.

Albus watched the two wizard and glanced nervously at his Quaker. He had no idea what he was going to do next. Albus had been right, Washburn and this other wizard were after the Hallows. Albus heard footsteps behind him and turned around, pulling out his sceptre at the same time.

`` Quinton, '' Jarett said, `` You 're of late. ``

`` Sorry, Father, '' Quinton mumbled, `` Filch was lurking around. I had to look for him to leave. ``

Jarett Willinson was Quinton 's dad. As Albus watched them, he only hoped that Jarett was as hopeless at dueling as his son was.

`` Put your sceptre away, Potter ! '' Washburn growled at Albus.

`` forget it out, Al, '' a vox said from behind Albus. Albus turned around and saw his dad pulling off the Invisibility Cloak. Albus let out a sigh of relief. His dad was there, everything would be okay.

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A/N : Thanks to my Sister and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks to my other babe and my brother, too. And thanks to inkheart, TheNobleHouseofPotter, XDNLxtlz99, drownzer, and Moonylupin for their reexamination !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry thrower

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`` Nice of you to join us, Potter, '' Jarett stepped towards Harry. `` How did you retrieve us ? ``

Harry drew his wand and stared at Jarett. `` Followed your son. bookman are n't supposed to be out of their common rooms after hour. ``

`` I do n't think it matters what he does now, '' Jarett replied icily. `` Once we have the Hallows, we will have mightiness you know nothing of. ``

`` So it 's you, '' Harry said, `` You 've been after the Hallows. And you 've been doing the Legilimency, Washburn ? ``

`` Yes, I have, '' Washburn confirmed. `` Only your sons do n't have it away anything about the Hallows, so it proved pointless. You, however, provided us with a great flock of information. ``

`` No, I have n't told them about the Hallows yet. But I suppose I 'll take to after tonight, '' Harry said.

`` I do n't cerebrate you 'll have the chance, Potter, '' Jarett growled.

`` You 've found out where the Hallows are, then ? '' Harry asked.

Washburn nodded, `` The Resurrection rock is in the forest. I managed to break through your pathetic Occlumency. The Invisibility Cloak is in your hired man. And you 've got the Elder sceptre, we already knew that. ``

Harry held up his sceptre, `` I 'm afraid I do n't. ``

`` What ? ! '' Jarett shouted and looked at Harry 's verge, `` But you had it ! That 's how you defeated Voldemort ! ``

`` Maybe so, '' Harry began, `` But I have n't got it now, have I ? ``

`` You 've got it somewhere ! '' Jarett growled. `` Enough talk ! Give me the Cloak ! ``

`` Do n't think so, '' Harry shoved the Cloak into his air hole and raised his wand gamey. `` We 'll duel if you want, but if you come with me now, you 'll have less time in Azkaban. ``

`` I do n't care about Azkaban ! '' Jarett shouted. `` Crucio ! ``

`` Protego ! '' Harry shouted at the like sentence. A shield formed in front line of Harry, protecting him, Albus, and Albus 's friends from Jarett 's spell.

Washburn and Quinton ran from behind Jarett, holding their wands out. Harry stepped towards Jarett and Jarett stepped closer to Harry. Albus watched them, his nerve beating fast. Jarett sent more charm towards Harry, but Harry blocked each of them. Albus smiled a piddling as he saw how much in effect at dueling his dad was than Jarett.

blue jet of light flew out of both Harry and Jarett 's wand, lighting up the night around them. Harry sent a charm towards Jarett and he flew back and landed on the land. Jarett stumbled back to his feet and sent a stunning spell at Harry.

`` Just tell apart me where the wand is ! '' Jarett shouted as he dodged Harry 's curse.

`` No ! '' Harry shouted back and leaped out of the way of another stunner. The two genius continued dueling, each one sending enchantment and whammy towards the other. Albus stared at them. He had never seen dueling like this before. Neither wizard seemed to be slowing down. Harry was noticeably faster and dodged spells more easily than Jarett, but Jarett did n't appear to be giving up anytime soon.

`` What do we do ? '' Rose whispered to Albus.

Albus turned away from the duel. `` I dunno ! '' Albus heard stride behind him again and turned to see Quinton standing with his wand facing Albus.

`` So, we duel again, ceramist, '' Quinton smirked. `` Impedimenta ! ``

Albus dodged the spell easily, but did n't know what to do next. He had n't learned many dueling spell yet. He held his wand up higher and watched Quinton.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Quinton shouted. Albus jumped to the slope and dodged the new spell.

`` Ahh ! '' person screamed behind Albus. He turned around and saw St. John the Apostle, Rose, and Matt standing around Amanda, who was laying rigid on the undercoat. The go meant for Albus had hit Amanda foursquare in the chest.

Quinton laughed. `` One down, four to go ! ``

`` ticker out ! '' Albus shouted to his friends. They held up their wands and stood succeeding to Albus.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Quinton shouted again. Albus and his protagonist darted to one side and Quinton 's piece hit a nearby bush.

Albus regained his correspondence and turned to Quinton. He raised his verge and shouted, `` Expelliarmus ! ``

Quinton dodged the tour and smirked at Albus, `` Think that 'll exercise again ? Petrificus Totalus ! ``

Albus and his friends dodged the spell yet again. `` Do n't you know any former magical spell ? '' whoremonger laughed.

`` Shut it ! '' Quinton shouted, breathing heavily.

Albus whispered to rosiness, `` We 'll all demilitarize him at once. On the count of three. Tell them. '' Albus waited until Rose had passed the intelligence on to John and Matt and began to look. `` One ... ''

`` What are you doing ? '' Quinton asked nervously.

`` Two ... Three ! '' Albus shouted.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' All four first year screamed the go before Quinton realized what was going on. He was knocked off his feet and his verge flew out of his hand and sailed through the air, landing near Matt. matte picked it up and stowed it in his robe.

`` Urgh, '' Quinton picked his brain up off the ground.

`` Let me take it from here, '' Washburn stormed over to where Quinton was laying. `` Pathetic ... ''

Albus 's warmheartedness started beating even faster. He had never seen Washburn duel before. It would surely be a whole lot harder to disarm him than it was to demilitarise Quinton. Albus had no desire whatsoever to start up dueling with one of his teachers.

`` So you four, well five, if you count Tagger, '' Washburn began, `` Decided to regain out what I was doing. Thought that it was a expert idea to meddle in my business ? ``

`` Er, '' Albus mumbled.

`` Do n't deny it, ceramist ! '' Washburn shouted. `` You came here tonight ! You spied on me month ago ! ``

`` If you 're going to obliterate my dad, than it is my job ! '' Albus shouted.

`` You could see it that way, if you 'd like. But if it 's your line, and you get in the way, we 'll kill you, too, '' Washburn growled at Albus.

Albus 's stomach churned with fear and he looked over to where Harry was dueling Jarett. Harry had just sent a spell at Jarett that had completely knocked him off his feet. Harry looked over to Albus while Jarett was trying to get up. `` Do n't do anything to my son, Washburn ! '' Harry shouted. `` Protego ! '' He sent a buckler magic spell in between where Albus and Washburn were standing. `` You 'll regret it ! ``

`` I do n't think I will, tinker ! '' Washburn shouted back, aimed his wand at Harry, and sent a mum curse word towards him. Harry easily dodged it.

`` Crucio ! '' Jarett had regained his residuum and was pointing his wand at Harry. Harry turned back and ran out of the way of the unforgivable condemnation just in time. He returned to his duel with Jarett, sending more super C of Christ Within at him.

`` Are you Death Eaters ? '' privy asked once Washburn returned his gaze to the chemical group of first years.

Washburn smirked at John. `` You still have n't learned to shut your mouth, have you ? No, we 're not Death feeder. Although Jarett 's sire was. He 's in Azkaban now. Albus 's bloody father captured him ! ``

`` So, what are you going to do ? If you were planning on killing us, you would 've done it by now, '' whoremonger replied.

Washburn stepped stuffy to John, `` Maybe I like to drag in it out. But enough of that. ceramicist ! '' He looked at Albus and pointed his wand at Albus 's bureau. `` I do n't suppose you know if your Padre has any spare wands laying around ? One that might be the Elder Wand ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus whispered, `` I do n't remember so. ``

`` 'Course not, '' Washburn growled, `` And you probably would n't tell me if you did. ``

`` Do n't intend so, '' Albus said.

`` Now, I think you four would be a whole lot easier to deal with if you did n't have your wands, '' Washburn seethed. `` Expelliarmus ! '' he pointed his wand at flatness. Harry 's buckler charm had worn off and disappeared moments before.

Albus looked over to where matte was. Matt collapsed to the primer when the enchantment hit his chest, and his wand and Willinson 's baton flew through the air, landing future to Washburn. Albus darted over to where Matt was laying to see if he was ok.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted at Washburn after he realized that Matt was knocked out frigidity. `` What did you do to him ? ! ``

Washburn deflected the go and picked up the two scepter. `` I just disarmed him, that usually does n't bump you out unless there are multiple people casting it. Always knew he was watery, '' Washburn sneered.

`` Shut it ! '' John shouted as he bent down to try and stir up Matt up, `` Why do n't you ever leave him alone ? ! ``

`` Ahh, looks like you 'll be next, '' Washburn pointed his wand at St. John the Apostle, `` Expelliarmus ! '' John 's wand sailed out of his hand and Washburn caught it. `` Now for the Weasley girl. Expelliarmus ! '' Rose 's sceptre left her hand and landed in between Washburn and Albus.

Albus ran forward to pick up Rose 's baton. `` I do n't think so, ceramicist, '' Washburn reached the wand first and picked it up. `` You 're side by side. Expelliarmus ! ``

Albus felt his sceptre leave his hand and saw Washburn pick up it. He glanced nervously at his friends. They were n't doing too well. No wands, and two of them were unconscious. Albus looked at Washburn, who had started pacing in a rope around them.

`` Defenseless scholarly person, '' he smirked, `` I think you 'll be much more willing to do what I say now. Time to go into the afforest, we 're going on a fiddling scavenger hunt. ``

`` No, '' Albus told him, `` We 're not. ``

`` You 're not in a position to negotiate, potter. You 'll help me find the Resurrection Stone, '' Washburn barked, `` Now, watch me ! '' Washburn started to take the air towards the woods, but Albus did not espouse. `` Let 's go, Potter ! ``

`` We 're not going, '' Rose said, crossing her weapon across her chest.

`` You 'll regret that, '' Washburn said icily. He walked back to where Albus, rosebush, and bathroom were standing. `` Crucio ! '' he shouted at Rose.

Rose screamed and jumped to the side, just missing the scourge. Washburn started sending oath towards all three of them. Albus jumped behind a Tree to avoid a curse that wound up hitting the tree diagram. He looked over to where Harry and Jarett were dueling. As far as Albus could tell, Harry was winning. Jarett appeared to be slowing down, but Albus noticed that his dad was limping a bit as he dodged Jarett 's spells.

`` What are we going to do ? '' Rose asked anxiously.

`` I do n't know ! '' Albus shouted back. He peeked his headland out from behind the tree diagram and saw St. John the Apostle running towards them. Washburn pointed his wand at whoremonger 's back and hit him with a tripper Jinx. trick fell forward and he landed on the terra firma with a sickening crunch. `` John ! '' Albus shouted and ran out from behind the tree.

`` Just you and the Weasley girl now, Potter, '' Washburn growled. `` Sectumsempra ! '' he shouted at Rose.

`` No ! '' Albus shouted as the curse hit one of her arms. She sank down onto the ground, screaming in infliction. Albus could see blood seeping out of her robes. `` Stop it ! '' Albus shouted again. Albus glanced over to his dad again. Both of the sorcerer were slowing down. Willinson was definitely the defective off, he was leaning against a tree, trying to agree up his wand with a broken arm. `` Dad ! Help ! ``

Harry turned away from his duel and came limping over when he heard Albus 's shout. `` Expelliarmus ! '' he shouted at Washburn, and all five scepter the Charms teacher was holding sailed out of his custody. Washburn turned away from rose wine and looked at Harry. `` Do n't go near my niece, '' Harry growled at Washburn.

`` Let 's go, '' Washburn lifted Quinton onto his feet, `` You all right ? ``

`` Fine, '' Quinton grunted. The two of them took one face at Harry and ran off into the night. Albus saw them disapparate just as they left the Hogwarts grounds.

Albus glanced over to where Jarett had been moments before. He was gone. `` Are n't you going to go after them, Dad ? ``

`` Ca n't, '' Harry lifted his robe and revealed a nasty cut on his leg, `` Took all my effectiveness to get over here and save you. '' Harry sank down onto the priming, breathing heavily. `` Are you all right ? ``

`` Yeah, I 'm ticket, '' Albus sat down side by side to his dad and leaned up against him. `` But I want to get laid the unit story about the Hallows. ``

`` I know, and I will tell you, '' Harry sighed, `` After we get back to the castle. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus whispered. He looked over to where Rose had collapsed and saw her getting up. She walked slowly over to Albus and Harry and sank down on Harry 's other side.

`` Uncle Harry ? Can we go back to the castle now ? '' she asked quietly. Her vocalisation was shaking. She was holding one of her hands down over her arm, stopping the hemorrhage that Washburn 's execration had caused.

`` I think that would be a just thought, '' Harry replied.

`` Harry ? '' a new representative said from behind them. `` What happened ? ``

Albus, Harry, and Rose turned around. Neville was standing behind them. `` Bit of a nasty affaire d'honneur, '' Harry answered, and went on to explain the full evening.

Neville shook his headland, `` Blimey, Washburn 's always been a piddling cold, but I 'd never have expected that. What was he after ? ``

`` I 'll explicate that later, '' Harry said, while trying to stand up, `` But right now we 've got to get back to the palace. ``

`` Right, '' Neville agreed, `` Give me your hand. '' Harry extended his arm and Neville helped him up. Albus and blush wine got up after him.

Harry leaned on Neville and Neville helped him walk over to where John Lackland was laying. Neville conjured a copestone and with a motion picture of his wand, John the Evangelist was laying upon it. He did the same with Matt and Amanda. `` What happened to them ? '' Harry asked quietly.

`` John got hit by a trip hex and hit his principal on a rock, Amanda got a full-body-bind cuss, and lustrelessness just got hit by Expelliarmus, '' Albus explained.

`` That 's nothing Madam Pomfrey ca n't fix, then, '' Harry replied. `` Let 's go. ``

The chemical group slowly made their way back to the castling. It took them quite a while. Albus was fine, except for a few stinger and being completely worn out. The bleeding on Rose 's arm seemed to have slowed down, but it would need to be magically healed or else it would surely afford up again. Harry was walking quite slowly, and Albus could severalize by the way he winced every time they went up the stairs, that he was in a great trade of painful sensation. Eventually, they made it up to the infirmary fender. When they got into the Montgomery Ward, brothel keeper Pomfrey was already bustling around, and when she saw them issue forth in, she immediately descended upon them.

`` There you are, Harry ! '' the nursemaid shouted, `` I 've been trying to meet you all evening. James got into a tight duel with a couple Slytherins and he 's been unconscious ever since. '' She gestured to one of the layer at the far end of the room and looked back at Harry. She gazed upon the group and her sass fell loose. `` What in the name of Merlin happened to you lot ? ''

`` Quinton Willinson 's father, Jarett Willinson, tried to pop me, '' Harry said simply. `` Had quite the duel with him down near the timber. Him, along with Quinton, plus professor Washburn. ``

Madam Pomfrey 's heart became large with shock. `` prof Washburn ? And where are they now ? '' she asked quietly.

`` They took off, disapparated once they left the grounds, '' Harry told her, `` I could n't catch them with this nasty cut on my leg. ``

`` Well, come on, then, '' the nurse said, `` Harry, you go in bed one, since it 's closest. Albus, bed two, and rosiness, bed three. '' lady Pomfrey gestured to the layer and then approached the copestone that Neville was holding up with his wand. `` And let 's see, Neville, take them to sleep with four, five, and seven, since James is in bed six. ``

Neville nodded and directed the capstone to the empty bottom. Albus walked over to the instant bed and lay down. He stared at the cap, thinking about what had happened. Washburn thought Harry had the elder sceptre, but Harry did n't. Where was it ? Who had it ? And why did Washburn think that Harry had it ? At least Harry said that he would severalise Albus everything. It was only a matter of fourth dimension before Albus knew the whole story about the Hallows.

brothel keeper Pomfrey came bustling over to Albus 's bed. `` Here, drink this, '' she handed him a potion. `` Dreamless sleep. '' lady Pomfrey turned away from Albus and strode across the room to one of her cabinets. She rummaged around inside. `` All the potter in the Hospital Wing at once, it was bound to bump Oklahoman or later ... '' she muttered.

Albus gratefully took the potion, and a few instant later, he fell into a restful sleep.

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A/N : Thanks to my babe and genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight and my other sister and brother. Thanks as well to XDNLxtlz99, drownzer, inkheart, Moonylupin, and MiZzPrInCeZz for their brushup !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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When Albus awoke the sun was shining into the window next to his bed. He sat up and peered at the clock on the wall. It was two o'clock. Albus looked over at pink wine 's bed ; she was still asleep.

dame Pomfrey came out from behind the drape around one of the beds. She walked over to Albus once she noticed he was awake. `` How are you, dear ? ``

`` I 'm fine, '' Albus told her, while trying to glint at the other seam, to see how everyone else was.

`` Are you sure ? '' Madam Pomfrey asked, `` nil hurts ? ``

`` No, I 'm fine, '' Albus answered truthfully, `` But what about everyone else ? Where 's my dad ? ``

`` They 're all hunky-dory, too, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey assured him, `` They 're at peace. And your dad left a few hr ago. He had to take care of some things at the Ministry. He said he 'd be back later. Now, do you want something to eat ? ``

`` Sure, '' Albus said, suddenly realizing how hungry he was. Madam Pomfrey left the room for a few minutes and came back with a tray filled with sandwiches and pumpkin juice. She set it down on Albus 's bedside board and Albus started eating. rose and James woke up a few minute later, and they joined Albus in his lunch. Saint James the Apostle immediately asked them what had happened go night. Albus and Rose explained the whole thing.

`` Blimey, '' James said quietly, once they had finished, `` I always knew Washburn was evil. ``

`` Explains why he hates us so often, '' Albus replied, `` We knew aught about the Hallows, and he thought he 'd be able to find out where they were by reading our psyche. ``

`` Guess so, '' James agreed. `` So, Dad said he 'd separate us about the Hallows ? ``

`` Yeah, he did, '' Albus told him, `` I guess he will when he gets back from the Ministry. ``

whoremonger, lustrelessness, and Amanda woke up an minute later, and Albus and Rose told them the eternal sleep of what had happened the previous night. They were all felicitous that Washburn, Jarett, and Quinton had n't gotten any of the Hallows, but were worried that they had gotten away. They spent much of the good afternoon discussing what would happen next.

Albus was sure that, somehow, the rest of the school already knew what had happened the dark before. They had no thought what Washburn, Quinton, and Jarett were after, but they knew about the duel that had taken lieu on the priming. lady Pomfrey spent a lot of time keeping curious students out of the Hospital annex, and eventually she locked the door. Victoire and Amy were the world-class ones to visit Albus and the others in the Hospital backstage, followed by the rest of Albus 's first cousin. They all wanted to eff what went on, and Albus told them most of the story. He left out the component about the Hallows, since none of Albus 's cousin-german knew about them. Amanda, John, and Matt 's parents showed up for a few 60 minutes each and were all relieved that their kids were ok.

Once evening arrived, Madam Pomfrey made all of Albus 's first cousin and Amy leave, and she gave Albus and the others a large platter of food for their dinner. After they finished eating, Albus heard individual trying to get into the room.

`` Bloody hell, I think she locked it ! '' a vox shouted out.

`` Oh, Ron, honestly. Just whack, '' a female voice said. Albus heard a tatty knock, and gentlewoman Pomfrey came running out of her office. She flung the door open and Ron and Hermione came running in. `` Rose ! '' Hermione shouted and descended upon her daughter. She wrapped rosiness in a big hug. `` Are you all right ? ``

`` Yes, Mum, '' Rose hugged Hermione back. Ron sat down on the bed and wrapped his arms around rose as well.

`` Where 's Harry ? '' brothel keeper Pomfrey asked, `` I thought he was coming with you ? ``

`` He was behind us, '' Ron glanced at the door.

`` I 'm here, '' Harry appeared in the room access and limped over to Albus 's bed. He sank down on it and gave Albus a hug.

`` I told you not to walk on that leg yet, '' Madam Pomfrey scolded.

`` Did n't have much of a option. I had to alarm the Ministry. I 've got Aurors looking for Washburn and both Willinsons right now, '' Harry explained.

`` trade good, '' brothel keeper Pomfrey handed Harry a goblet of potion, `` Drink that. ''

Harry took the potion and downed it in one mouthful. `` Disgusting. ``

`` Dad ? '' Albus asked tentatively, `` Are you going to secern us about the Hallows now ? ``

Harry sighed, `` I suppose. ``

`` You 've got to let John, lustrelessness, and Amanda listen to, '' Albus insisted.

`` I know, they 've got to know what happened, too, '' Harry agreed, `` We just need some place private. ``

`` How about the Room of Requirement ? '' Albus suggested.

`` You 've found that already ? '' Harry grinned.

`` Well, Matt showed it to us, '' Albus explained.

`` Oh, '' Harry replied, `` Well, that would be the consummate place. '' Harry stood up. `` Poppy, I 've got a bit of explaining to do to the kids. ``

`` Ca n't you do it here ? '' Madam Pomfrey asked, `` It really would be topper for them all to bide here a while longer. ``

`` I promise we 'll all come back once I 'm done, '' Harry said.

`` Really, Harry, they need rest ! '' ma'am Pomfrey insisted.

`` I owe them an explanation, Poppy, '' Harry said quietly.

`` Oh, mulct ! '' lady Pomfrey threw her bridge player up in disgust, `` But do n't cause them out too long. ``

Harry grinned. Albus got up out of the bed. James, Rose, St. John the Apostle, lustrelessness, and Amanda all got up as well. They followed Harry, Ron, and Hermione to the door.

`` I 'm getting too old for this, '' gentlewoman Pomfrey muttered as they left.

`` You 're not leaving, are you ? '' flatness asked nervously.

Madam Pomfrey smiled, `` Of trend not, dearest. Do n't you worry. ``

The group made their way slowly to the seventh floor. Once they reached the portrayal of Barnabas the Barmy, Harry started pacing. After a few moments, a door appeared where it had n't been previously. Harry opened it and everyone followed him inside. The room looked a lot like it did when lusterlessness asked for it. The only noticeable difference was that this time there were more armchairs and another couch.

Harry sat down on one of the couch. Albus and Epistle of James sat on either English of him. Ron, Hermione, and rosiness took the early couch, while John, flatness, and Amanda took the death chair.

`` Dad, '' Albus began, `` We already know about the Hallows. ``

`` You do ? '' Harry asked.

`` Er, yeah, we know about the connection to the narration of the terzetto Brothers, and we know that the Deathly Hallows are the Elder sceptre, Resurrection Stone, and the invisibleness Cloak. We just do n't hump why you 've kept it a secret. ``

Harry sighed, `` How long have you known ? ``

`` A few month now. Since April. lusterlessness told us about them. ``

`` Really ? '' Harry looked at flatness, `` You knew about them ? ``

`` Yeah, my dad told me, '' Matt answered, `` But I was n't certainly if I believed they existed or not, until Albus told me about the Cloak. ``

`` Not many multitude think they 're real, '' Harry replied, `` I first heard the Tale of the tierce crony when I was 17. It was the year that Ron, Hermione, and I were hunting Horcruxes. When Dumbledore was killed, he left each of us something in his will. You already know that he left Hermione the original copy of The tale of Beedle the Bard, written completely in ancient runic letter. Ron got the Deluminator, and I got the first Snitch I ever caught.

`` Hermione decoded the runic letter and noticed a symbol in a lottery that went with the Tale of the trine buddy. '' Harry pulled a man of parchment and a pinion out of his pocket. He drew a triangle, with a circle inside it, and a subscriber line connecting the top of the trilateral to the bottom. `` This was the symbol. We recognized it because at Bill and Fleur 's wedding, Xenophilius Lovegood was wearing it on his robes. Viktor Krum approached him about it because this symbol is also Grindelwald 's symbolization. ``

`` Grindelwald, that vicious hotshot Dumbledore defeated ? '' Matt asked.

`` Yes, '' Harry continued, `` But at one point, Dumbledore and Grindelwald were friends- ''

`` What ? ! '' flatness shouted.

`` They were, '' Harry said. Albus already knew this character of the story, but it must have had relevance to the Hallows, if Harry was telling it again. `` They were friends, who were obsessed with uniting the Hallows. That symbol is the symbol of the Hallows. The trigon is the Cloak, the rophy, the Stone, and the lineage, the elder Wand. Grindelwald and Dumbledore 's friendship fell apart after Dumbledore 's sister was killed. Eventually, Dumbledore had to confront Grindelwald and defeat him. Grindelwald had the Elder wand, and when Dumbledore defeated him, the wand changed its allegiance, and Dumbledore became the new passe-partout. ``

`` Dumbledore had the Elder Wand ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yes, he did, '' Harry said, `` Now, after Hermione decoded the news report, we went to see Xenophilius Lovegood, and he explained the Hallows to us. We were doubting, but we knew that the Cloak existed. You may have already guessed this, but Voldemort found out about the senior verge and he wanted to get it, because he believed it would enable him to shoot down me. That is why he wanted somebody to drink down Dumbledore. However, before Snape killed Dumbledore, genus Draco Malfoy disarmed him. The Wand changed allegiance once again. You see, the elder Wand does n't change dedication when a wizard kills the magician it belongs to. That adept just needs to be defeated. licking does n't always equalise Death. Since Snape killed Dumbledore, Voldemort assumed that the wand had shifted its commitment to Snape, but in actuality, it belonged to Draco.

`` When we got captured and taken to the Malfoy manor, I disarmed Draco. I defeated him. Even though he did not have the Elder Wand in his will power at the time, it was still his wand. But when I disarmed him, it became mine. The senior baton had been buried with Dumbledore, but Voldemort stole it. Voldemort assumed that the wand had allegiance to Snape, so Voldemort used his ophidian to wipe out Snape.

`` After Snape died, I viewed his memories in the Pensieve, and found out that I was a Horcrux and I would have to die in rescript for Voldemort to die. As I was walking into the forest, I tried once again to spread out the sneak that had failed to unfold earlier in the twelvemonth. It opened, and inside was the resurrection gemstone. In the forest, Voldemort tried once again to kill me, but he only succeeded in killing the Horcrux inside me. When I came back, Voldemort and I had one concluding duel. He had the Elder Wand, but it 's allegiance belonged to me. He tried to kill me with a baton that was mine. A wand will not work properly against its rightful owner. So, when we dueled, Voldemort 's killing nemesis bounced off my disarming spell, and hit him. ``

Albus stared at his dad, `` But what about the fact that Voldemort used your blood to come up back to lifespan ? Is n't that why you survived ? ``

`` That 's region of it, Al, '' Harry told him.

Albus did n't fuck what to say. He finally had the solution he had been looking for. This was why no one else knew about them. The Hallows did deliver to do with Voldemort 's downfall, a big part.

`` Where 's the senior scepter now ? '' Jesse James asked, `` Do you have it ? ``

`` No, '' Harry answered, `` That wand is too very much trouble. It 's back with Dumbledore. And if I die a natural demise, it will have no dedication. ``

`` Oh, '' James replied, `` Would 've been cool, though, having an unvanquishable wand. ``

`` And the Stone ? '' Albus asked, `` Is it really somewhere in the timberland ? ``

`` Yes, '' Harry answered, `` And I have no approximation where. The merely Hallow I 've got is the invisibility Cloak. ``

`` But you did unite them, the Hallows ? '' Albus asked.

`` For a picayune while, yes, '' Harry said. `` I was the schoolmaster of Death. ``

`` That 's what Washburn and the Willinsons wanted to do, right ? ''

`` Yes, that was their plan, '' Harry answered. `` But they did not deliver the goods. ``

`` Do you think they 'll try again ? '' Albus asked quietly.

`` Yes, Albus, they probably will, '' Harry replied, `` But I 'm hoping that they will be in Azkaban soon. There are Aurors looking for them right now. ``

`` I hope they 're caught, '' Albus said.

`` Me, too, '' Harry agreed, `` I 'll do everything I can to make for sure that they are. ``

Albus sat quietly, thinking about everything his dad had said. Harry had united the Hallows, he had been the 'Master of Death'. Albus was relieved that he finally knew the all chronicle, but he still had more head. Had his dad ever used the Resurrection Stone ? How did it weave up in the forest ? But Albus decided to ask the interrogative that had been pulling at him since he first heard 'Hallows'mentioned month ago. `` Dad, why did n't you secern us ? ``

Harry sighed, `` It was a mistake not telling you sooner. I want you to know that. I should have told you final stage summer, when I told you everything else. But at the same time, I did n't want you to say anyone about it. I wanted to wait until you were older and more mature. ``

`` So you did n't trust me ? '' Albus asked. He hated it when people told him he was n't old enough to do something, or know about something.

`` Not exactly. I did n't want you to be tempted to evidence mass about the Hallows. If word got out that there is an unvanquishable wand out there, especially one that is on the Hogwarts grounds, the answer could be bad. Look at what Washburn and the two Willinsons did. And they are just three mass. Imagine if half the school was going after that scepter ? I 'm not saying everyone would want to use the wand for immorality, but if a lot of hoi polloi were going after it we could feature a disaster on our hands. The idea of power, whether one is going to use it for trade good or evil, does crazy matter to people. And that is why I did n't tell you. I did n't want a lot of multitude to get it on about it. But that did n't work out at all. Now, More people than just you and James and rose know about it.

`` Which brings me to my next stage, '' Harry said in a more serious tone, `` None of you can tell anyone anything I have told you tonight. You ca n't tell anyone that the Hallows exist, and that they are all currently residing somewhere in or around Hogwarts. A lot of hoi polloi know about my Cloak, but without cognition of the Resurrection Lucy Stone or the elderberry bush baton, they wo n't recollect anything of it. ``

`` I ca n't even tell our first cousin ? '' James River asked.

`` No, I 'm no-account, but you ca n't, '' Harry replied

`` I wo n't recite, '' Albus assured Harry. blush wine, John, and Amanda all nodded.

`` Wish I could tell my dad, '' lustrelessness said, `` He 'd love to hear about it. ``

`` Is he worry in the Hallows ? '' Harry asked.

`` Yeah, he was. He went all over the world researching them when he was younger. Never found out where they were. Gave up after he and my mum decided to start a family, though. He still believes they exist, '' Matt replied.

`` Maybe I 'll tell him, someday, '' Harry answered, `` But for now, please do n't differentiate him. ``

`` All right, '' matt agreed.

`` Well, then, I think we ought to get back to the Hospital Wing, '' Harry stood up, `` brothel keeper Pomfrey will have my head if I keep you up much later. ``

******

brothel keeper Pomfrey let Albus and the others leave the Hospital Wing two mean solar day later. Albus was quite happy about this, as he was getting bored with the infirmary wing. Albus and his friend spent much of the 24-hour interval following talking or playing biz in the plebeian elbow room or on the curtilage. Shortly after they were released, O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s finished, and the common room returned to its common noisy state. A few educatee asked Albus and his friends about what had happened with Washburn and the Willinsons, but Albus did n't tell them anything. The students'aid was soon turned towards the Quidditch final. Just as Albus and Harry had predicted a few calendar month prior, it would be Gryffindor vs. Ravenclaw.

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A/N : Thanks to my babe and beta, Dancer of Starlight, and my early sister and my brother. Thanks as well to inkheart, smirkyhaha, and harshabc for their recapitulation !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter

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`` You 're going to be fine, James, '' Albus assured his brother at breakfast a few mornings later. James was sitting across from him, but was n't eating anything. With the exception of James, everyone else at the Gryffindor tabular array was in high emotional state. exam were over, and it was the last Quidditch match of the twelvemonth. The only one besides St. James who was n't eating anything was Matt, and considering that the full moon was that night, it was n't surprising.

`` King James, you 've got to eat something, '' Samantha Meyers had appeared behind Epistle of James and was pouring him a glass of pumpkin juice, `` At least drink this. '' James nodded and took the goblet, but he only drank a few sips. He glanced nervously at Albus, and then looked up at the staff table.

Albus turned and looked as well. Harry was n't there. The by few day, Harry had been away from Hogwarts more than he had been there. He had been spending a lot of meter at the Ministry, organizing the search for Washburn and both Willinsons. `` He 'll be there, James. He said he would. You know he would n't lose the match for the world. ``

`` Ok, team, let 's go ! '' Samantha stood up and beckoned her team to follow her. James followed the eternal rest of the team, with one last glance at the staff tabular array. As they left, the entire Gryffindor table stood up and cheered.

A few minutes later, Albus and his friends walked down to the sales talk. `` go Quidditch match of the year, '' Albus sighed.

`` Yeah, just hope we win ! '' St. John shouted.

`` Hope so, too. But Ravenclaw will be hard to scramble. They 've got a good team, '' Albus replied.

`` At to the lowest degree the atmospheric condition 's skillful, '' toilet pointed out, `` I do n't remember we 've played in estimable conditions than this the whole year. '' trick was right about that. It was warm, hardly windy at all, and there was just sufficiency swarm cover to mask the glare from the sun.

`` I hope it 's a fast match, '' matte yawned as they climbed into the stands.

`` It probably wo n't be, '' Albus said, `` We 're passably evenly matched with Ravenclaw. ``

matte groaned, `` Maybe James will make out the Snitch early. ``

`` Would n't calculate on it, '' Albus responded, `` James told me that in order to win the Cup, we 've got to be at least 40 points up before he catches the Snitch. Otherwise, we 'll win the equal, but Ravenclaw will get the Cup. And Samantha has made it clear she wants the Cup. It 's her only hazard. She 's only been captain for this class. Before her, it was Teddy. ``

`` Maybe you should 've stayed in the palace, '' pink wine said sympathetically.

`` And miss Quidditch ? '' Matt stared at her like she had three heads.

rosiness sighed. `` I do n't sleep with what 's with you Guy and Quidditch, '' she muttered.

`` It 's a good game ! '' Amanda grinned, `` Way better than football. ``

`` Does n't take a great deal for something to be more matter to than football, '' John laughed, `` I mean, honestly, what were the Muggles mentation ? How can a game be exciting with one ball ? ``

Albus laughed. He had to agree. He had been to one football match before. It was a biotic community league, and Harry had taken him and Henry James to see if they had been interesting in playing it. Throughout the whole match, both Albus and James had commented on how much better Quidditch was.

Albus watched the tie-up fill up, hoping to overhear a coup d'oeil of his dad. He looked at the percentage of the stands where the staff sat, but the seat next to Neville that Harry usually occupied during Quidditch lucifer remained hollow. Where was he ? The match was about to start. He promised James that he would be there.

`` Welcome, Hogwarts bookman and staff to the Quidditch Final ! '' Lord Todd Julia Evelina Smith 's voice boomed over the gang. `` Today 's compeer is between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw ! And here come the squad !

`` First is Ravenclaw. maitre d' President Tyler superhighway, followed by Dan Burke, Natalie overseas telegram, Allie Humphrey Davy, Damien Waverly, Kate Waverly, and Zack Valentino ! '' Seven players in blue robe walked out onto the field, with their brooms over their shoulders.

`` Next we have Gryffindor ! Captain Samantha Meyers, followed by Ryan O'Malley, James River ceramicist, Bradley Weasley, Fred Weasley, Georgia Weasley, and Calluna vulgaris Weasley ! '' The Gryffindor team marched onto the field of view and stopped in front of the Ravneclaws.

`` Professor Oteski steps onto the field. Captains Meyers and thruway rock helping hand, and the teams are off ! ``

Albus watched as both teams soared into the air. broom immediately took control of the Quaffle, passing it back and Forth River between Fred and Samantha. They flew down the tar, dodging Bludgers sent by Valentino and Davies.

`` Gryffindor scores the outset finish of the secret plan ! '' Todd shouted out, once Heather managed to get the Quaffle past Kate Waverly. `` Ravenclaw in monomania now. Waverly crack to Burke, and then back to Waverly. ``

`` Hi, Al. ``

Albus turned around at the phone of his gens. Harry had appeared behind him and was climbing over the butt in order to sit down. Albus moved over so Harry could sit in between him and Matt. `` Dad, you made it ! ``

`` 'Course I did ! I said I would, '' Harry replied as he sat down, `` Did I miss anything ? ``

`` Heather just scored the for the first time goal of the game, '' Albus grinned.

`` Awesome ! She 's got some arm, let me tell you. Even as a sister. I remember once, she threw one of her toy at me. Gave me a opprobrious eye, '' Harry laughed.

`` Why are you sitting here ? '' Albus asked, `` You usually sit with the rest of the stave. ``

`` To be honest, it 's More fun sitting here, '' Harry grinned, `` I do n't feature to moderate my excitation when Gryffindor scores. ``

At that mo, Samantha scored a finish, and all the Gryffindors jumped up, screaming and hollering with joy. Harry screamed the tacky of them all.

`` See what I mean ? '' Harry grinned, `` The stave always has to contain their excitement, in order not to flirt favorites. ``

For the next hour, the game continued with both Gryffindor and Ravenclaw scoring goal after finish. After the foremost initial goals, Ravenclaw caught up quickly and tied the match. Both teams showed particular skill, and there had still not been any glimpse of the Snitch.

`` Now, this is Quidditch, '' Harry grinned and looked at Albus. `` This could be another for the phonograph record books. ``

Albus agreed, `` Yeah, we 've just got to trust that we can somehow get 40 stage ahead. ``

`` That could consume a patch, '' Harry said.

`` Cable of Ravenclaw has scored ! '' Todd shouted, `` 110-100 Ravenclaw ! ``

`` Falco columbarius ! '' Albus shouted. Albus looked out over the lurch. heather mixture was in possession of the Quaffle again. Valentino was flying directly behind her and hit a Bludger towards her head. Luckily, she ducked at that very moment and the Bludger wound up hitting Damien Waverly instead. Waverly slipped off his broom, but managed to hold on with one script. He got back on the broom and sent a foul look towards Valentino. In the meantime, Heather managed to score another goal.

It became clear within the future half 60 minutes of the secret plan, that the Damien Waverly had been injured by the Bludger. His coordination was all off, and he was having job catching the Quaffle. This, of course, worked to Gryffindor 's reward, and soon enough the score was 120-150 Gryffindor.

`` Just one more goal, '' Albus said, `` One more and James can charm the canary. ``

`` It 'll be hard to keep up that 40 point confidential information, though, '' Harry pointed out. `` He 'll have to notice the fink soon after the goal is scored. ``

`` I hope he does, '' rosebush said, `` I do n't think lustrelessness can contain much more of this. ``

Albus looked over at his friend and felt bad that he had become so absorbed in the game, that he had n't noticed how bad Matt looked. Matt appeared to have fallen asleep and was leaning his brain on Harry 's shoulder. He was wincing every once and a while, much like he had been during the Gryffindor vs. Slytherin game. Why did they always schedule Quidditch matches around the full moon ?

Harry nudged matte gently until he woke up, `` Wha 's going on ? '' Matt asked sleepily.

`` You fell asleep, '' Harry said gently, `` You 're welcome to lean on me, but I was n't sure if you wanted to miss the match. ``

`` I do n't, thanks, '' Matt replied, blushing a fiddling, `` It 's bad enough having Malfoy see me hang asleep in class, but during Quidditch .... ''

`` I do n't think he can see you here, '' Albus said quietly, `` He 's on the former side of the stands. ``

`` Good, '' lusterlessness responded. `` But I still do n't want to overlook the match. ``

Albus turned his attention back to the match. It seemed to be getting harder and harder for Ravenclaw to to grade goals with only two chaser. Damien Waverly was flying more erratically by the minute and his mate had prospicient since stopped trying to throw him the Quaffle. However, despite the trouble, Ravenclaw was putting up a good fight. Their other two chasers were superb.

`` Burke scores ! '' Todd shouted out over the crew, `` Making the score 130-150 Gryffindor ! C'mon, you can do it, Gryffindor ! Just two more goals and catch the canary ! ``

`` Darn, '' Albus sighed, `` So often for one Thomas More goal. ``

`` It 's all right wing, Al, two finish wo n't be severely, '' Harry shifted awkwardly to turn towards his son. matt had fallen asleep on his berm again. `` Madam Pomfrey did n't even want him to go to the match, '' Harry gestured to Matt. `` But I convinced her to let him. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` He did n't want to miss it, even if he is asleep during half of it. ``

`` Well, madam Pomfrey worries a lot, '' Harry told him, `` Frankly, she was n't too keen on King James playing, either. Said he 'd just recovered from his affaire d'honneur with those Slytherins and he ought to be resting. But I insisted that he could play. ``

`` He seems to be doing fine, '' Albus said as he glanced out over the pitch. James River was currently circling above the relaxation of the players. The Ravenclaw Seeker, Tyler Pike, was doing the same.

`` He is, '' Harry agreed, `` Staying out of the way, that 's the secure strategy for a Seeker. ``

`` Gryffindor scores ! '' Sir Alexander Robertus Todd exclaimed, `` Captain Meyers has scored ! ``

`` See, Al, now it 's just one more finish, again, '' Harry said.

The game was now entering it 's third gear hour. There was still no foretoken of the snitcher, which was good for Gryffindor, since they still needed to hit one more goal before James could enamor it. About ten minutes after Samantha scored, Heather managed to nock as well.

`` Yes ! '' Albus jumped up in his ass and shouted out in hullabaloo. Now, James could catch the snitcher.

`` As long as Gryffindor can keep their forty point lead, and catch the Snitch, they will win the Cup ! '' Sweeney Todd shouted.

Albus watched as James started picking up speed and fly around the delivery, looking for the Snitch. But in the meanwhile, Dan Calamity Jane was once again storming up the pitch with the Quaffle. He flew heterosexual towards the Gryffindor goals and managed to score another goal.

`` Damn ! '' Lord Todd shouted.

`` linguistic process, Ian Smith ! '' Patil shouted side by side to him.

`` Sorry, Professor, '' Todd said, `` Now, Gryffindor must score another goal in ordering to put on back the 40 point lead. And they might be doing that now ! Fred Weasley has gained possession of the Quaffle. He passes to Meyers and then Meyers passes it back. Fred aims the Quaffle, and grade ! Gryffindor has the forty point leading again ! ``

The Gryffindors were all on their feet now, shouting in excitement and chanting 'Go, James, go ! All of them except Matt and Harry. Somehow, Matt was managing to sleep through everything, and Harry continued to let him lean on his berm. Luckily, no one seemed to notice, besides Albus, John, Rose, and Amanda. They kept glancing worried aspect at Matt, but eventually, they got sucked up into the emotion of the game and watched James 's hunt for the Snitch.

`` And I think he 's seen it ! '' Todd screamed, `` Yes, thrower has seen the stoolpigeon ! He 's flying directly towards the ground. Pike has noticed it as well, but he is all the way at the other end of the delivery. I do n't think he 'll get there in time. No, he definitely wo n't ! ``

Albus watched as James flew closer and closer to the land. Albus was for certain he would dash into it, and watched nervously as James finally pulled out of the dive, just in metre. He flew back up a few feet, holding the struggling snitch in his paw. Albus turned to his dad. `` We 've won ! We 've got the Cup ! ``

`` Gryffindor wins ! With 320 points, Gryffindor has not only won the mate, but they 've won the Cup as well ! Congratulations, Gryffindor ! '' Lord Todd 's representative rang out over the crowd.

`` lusterlessness, wake up ! '' John nudged his Friend awake, `` We 've won, wake up up ! ``

`` Wha'? '' mat slowly lifted his head off Harry 's shoulder and looked at all the fervor around him. `` Oh, decent. Awesome ! ``

Harry stood up, smiling, `` I 'm going to go pride St. James the Apostle. I 'll see you later. I 'll probably stop by the common way, for the party. ``

Albus gave his dad a hug before he left, `` All rightfield. See you later. ``

`` Let 's get back to the common way, '' Rose suggested as she watched Matt rub his straits, `` We 'll see St. James the Apostle there. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus agreed. He knew Matt had no desire to join the mob of Gryffindors currently storming the pitch.

Despite their slow walk back to the castle and up to the one-seventh floor, Albus and his protagonist made it back to the common elbow room before almost of the early Gryffindors. In fact, the only other people there were a few older bookman Albus did n't know, Amy, Victoire, and someone Albus definitely did n't expect to see.

`` Teddy ! '' Albus shouted as he spotted chemise sitting succeeding to Victoire on one of the sofa. `` What are you doing here ? ``

`` Came to see the match. King James I did brilliantly ! They could n't have found a better quester to supplant me, '' he grinned, `` And came to see Vicky 's graduation, of course of study. '' He smiled at Victoire and giggled.

`` Oh, right, '' Albus grinned, `` Glad you came ! ``

`` Yeah, it 's great to be back here, '' chemise grinned, `` Well, I think I might go to Hogsmeade and plunk up some supplies for the party. ``

`` Great ! '' Albus said, `` See you in a bit. ``

`` You, too, '' Teddy stood up. He gave Victoire a quick kiss and exited the plebeian elbow room. It was really starting to fill up now, although the team had yet to arrive.

`` Are you going to stay for the party ? '' Albus quietly asked flatness.

`` I do n't mean so, '' lustrelessness yawned, `` Think I might take a nap. ``

`` Ok, '' Albus responded. matte left the group and made his way through the gang to the dormitories.

`` It 's so unfair, '' rosiness said softly as he left. Albus, whoremonger, and Amanda nodded in agreement, but no one said anything else on the subject.

The radical found arse at their usual board and shortly after they sat down, James II and the rest of the squad came into the room.

`` We 've got it ! '' Samantha Meyers was the first to break open into the room, holding the Quidditch Cup above her head. `` We did it ! '' She was positively beaming. The rest of the team climbed in behind her, all of them grinning from ear to ear. The entire rough-cut room fit into clapping as soon as they were all inside.

`` Thank you, everyone ! '' Samantha shouted over the crowd, `` I just want to say a few words. '' She waited until everyone was silent. `` First, I just want to thank the unscathed squad. We could n't have done this without any of you. We 've got a fantastic team here, and I 'm definitely going to miss all of you next class. I especially want to congratulate James, '' she turned to James, who was clearly basking in the glory, `` You have done an outstanding job this unscathed year. Coming in as Seeker, right after teddy Lupin, who was one of the advantageously Seekers this menage has ever had. That, and being expected to exist up to your dad 's reputation. wellspring, all I can say is you have lived up to that outlook. And I think you are definitely going to match chemise as far as seeking science goes- ''

`` Ah, Samantha ! '' teddy came bursting back into the common room, `` Am I missing you rambling on about my genius on the Quidditch sales talk ? ``

`` Actually, no, shimmy, '' Samantha laughed, `` I was just saying how King James could break you a run for your money when it comes to seeking. ``

`` well, that 's no surprise, since it was Yours Truly who trained him, '' teddy bear joked.

`` Oh, shut it, Teddy ! '' Samantha replied.

`` And I get no credit at all ? '' Harry had come into the common way and was standing behind Teddy.

`` Harry ! '' Teddy turned around, grinning, `` Glad you could follow to the party ! I 've just gotten back from getting supplies. ``

`` good, '' Samantha grinned, grabbing one of the bags and pulling out Butterbeers, `` Then let 's get this company started ! ``

The company proceeded much like the one following the Gryffindor vs. Slytherin match had, only even more knockabout. Teddy had not only bought stuff from Honeydukes, but from Weasley 's Wizard Wheezes as well. slip treated everyone to a video display of everlasting pyrotechnic, which took the shape of Gryffindor lions, Snitches, and broomstick. Albus and his friends quite enjoyed it, and they also played round after round of Exploding crack. Just like the former party, no one left for dinner. Teddy had bought enough food that no one needed to. Even Harry stayed well into the evening.

`` You know, Rose, '' John said after what must have been their tenth game of Exploding Snap, `` I do n't cerebrate I 've ever seen you without a script before. ``

Albus looked over at blush wine, who was indeed without any sort of record book. `` wellspring, examination are over now, '' Rose laughed, `` I do pick out a break from studying every once and a patch. ``

`` It 's just sort of shocking, '' whoremaster grinned, `` Rose without a book. ``

`` Do n't vex, '' Albus laughed, `` I guarantee you she 'll be back to studying within two weeks of going back home. ``

`` Oh, shut it, Albus, '' rosebush grinned.

`` Hey, guys, '' Saint James was standing next to their table, his grin still as big as when he first came into the room.

`` Oh, hi, James ! '' Albus replied, `` extolment on the match ! You did brilliantly. ``

`` Yeah, it was awesome ! '' John agreed.

`` Great job ! '' Amanda said.

`` It was great !, '' Rose said.

`` Thanks, '' James replied, `` You 're trying out future year, proper Albus ? ``

`` Yeah, definitely, '' Albus answered, `` But I do n't know if I 'll piddle it. I mean, the only position afford will be Samantha 's. ``

`` I 'm sure you 'll make it, '' James assured him, `` You 're a cracking Chaser. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus said quietly, his cheeks turning a bit crimson.

`` Great party, huh ? '' Epistle of James said, `` But where 's Matt ? ``

`` He, er, does n't experience upright. He 's in the dormitory, sleeping, '' Albus answered.

`` Oh, I hope he feels better soon. He did n't look too good this morning, '' James responded, `` Well, I 'd better get back to the team. See you later. ``

Albus waved as Epistle of James left and was absorbed back into the immense bunch in the room. It seemed as if every Gryffindor was in the vulgar room. With Harry and Teddy there as well, there was hardly elbow room to act. Albus variety of liked it though. He was n't a huge fan of gravid crowds of people, but as long as everyone was n't focusing on him, he was ok with it. And now, the attention was definitely on James and the rest of the Quidditch team. Albus glanced around the room and saw that the stallion team was right at the midpoint of things, along with teddy and Harry.

`` Oh, hi, matt, '' rose said quietly. Albus turned his foreland away from the Quidditch squad and saw that Matt had come down from the dormitory. He was leaning on the table and looking very tired.

`` Hi, '' he mumbled quietly, `` I 've got to go now. I 'll see you tomorrow, probably. ``

`` Yeah, tomorrow, '' Albus agreed. During the past tense few month, Albus and the others had started visiting mat the day after every full moon. Ever since the first time they had done that, mat had started getting to a greater extent and more comfortable with the idea of his protagonist seeing him so soon after a transformation. But Albus and the others had not visited him so early in the good morning since. They now visited in the late afternoon, after grade were done for the day.

`` Want me to go with you ? '' John asked.

`` No, it 's ok, Amy 's going to, '' Matt replied

`` quick ? '' Amy appeared next to Matt.

`` Yeah, I guess, let 's go, '' matt turned and started to walk towards the portrait hole. Amy followed closely behind.

`` cobbler's last one here, until September, '' Rose commented after they 'd left.

`` Wonder what it 's like at home ? '' John the Divine mused.

`` Dunno, but I do n't cogitate we should ask, '' Albus said quietly.

`` No, probably not, '' lav agreed.

Albus and his friends stayed up late into the night, playing games of chess and Exploding shot. Harry spent to the highest degree of the evening in the common room, but he left around 9 pm. However, the party continued well into the wee hours of the daybreak. It probably would give birth lasted much longer, but Neville came in around 1 am, and told them they had to go to bed. Apparently, the disturbance had carried into other parts of the castle and some of the other professors wanted to get some sleep. After Neville left, Albus dragged himself up to his dormitory. He was completely exhausted from staying up so lately and fell asleep the moment his head hit the pillow.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as my early sister and my brother. Thanks also to BKL8008, inkheart, Moonylupin, and XDNLxtlz99 for their follow-up ! There are only a few chapters left in this storey, just to let everyone know.

Chapter 38 : gradation

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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`` May I have your care, please, '' prof Kendrick stood up and announced at the End of yr feast the a couple days later. Albus stopped talking to privy and turned to confront the Headmaster.

`` Thank you, '' Kendrick continued once the Great anteroom was quiet, `` What a class, what a year. It is intemperate to conceive that it is now June. The class has ended with quite a shock. I know that you all know by now what transpired on the grounds this past week. ``

Albus glanced around at his fellow scholarly person and saw that they were all turning to stare at him. He sunk down in his rear end a little bit and tried to avert their gaze.

`` I want to reassure you all that the Aurors are looking for both prof Washburn and Jarett Willinson, as well as Quinton Willinson. Whether this was an insulate attack, I am not for sure. But whether there are more attacks to come or not, I am sure we will all tolerate strong, and stand as one. Whatever is coming, we will get by with it. We have dealt with immorality in the past and fortune are we will deal with it in the future. '' Professor Kendrick paused and looked out at his students. Everyone had returned their gaze to him, and were no longer staring at Albus and his friends.

`` Now, onto lighter matters. I have a few announcements, then the House Cup needs awarding. beginning, O.W.L. and N.E.W.T. results will be mailed partway through the summer, as usual. Second, the graduation ceremony will subscribe to shoes tomorrow, at ten o'clock. And lastly, as common, I must remind you of the fact that using magic is prohibited while you are not in school day over the summer.

`` And now, the House Cup. In last place, Hufflepuff with 376 dot. '' Kendrick announced. Albus clapped politely along with everyone else in the Hall. `` adjacent, Gryffindor with 413 item. '' Albus groaned, as did everyone else sitting at the Gryffindor table. No doubt that the many points Washburn took from all of them helped see to it that they did not get the business firm Cup. `` In 2nd post, with 452 item, Slytherin. '' There was a bit more polite clapping, but none of it from the Gryffindor tabular array. `` And in starting time place, Ravenclaw with 563 head ! Congratulations, Ravenclaw ! '' Kendrick waved his sceptre and the medallion transformed from their usual Hogwarts colour into the Ravenclaw blue.

Albus clapped his hands, while looking glumly at his plate. Oh, well, there was always next year. At least they 'd gotten the Quidditch Cup.

`` I think that is all that needs to be announced, '' Kendrick said once the applause died down, `` And with that, enjoy the feast ! '' Kendrick waved his wand once again and intellectual nourishment appeared on all the plates.

`` We 'll win it next yr, '' John announced as he heaped his plate high with chicken, `` But you know what, I 'm going to miss this food for thought over the summer .... ''

`` 'Course we 'll win it succeeding year, '' Albus agreed, `` Washburn wo n't be here anymore to take off unfair points. ``

`` You do n't have intercourse who Kendrick 'll get to exchange him, though, '' Rose warned.

`` trade good period, '' lustrelessness said as he buttered a musical composition of kale. He was still recovering from the full Sun Myung Moon and was n't that hungry. Normally, he would n't even be out of the Hospital extension yet, but he had convinced dame Pomfrey to let him hang the feast. `` Do you know if your dad will be teaching papa again next year ? ``

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged. He had n't really thought about it before, but Harry had come to instruct DADA at a moment 's notice, and maybe Kendrick really did n't receive time to get anyone else. But now he 'd have the whole summer.

`` promise he does, '' Matt replied, `` Otherwise, we 'll be getting two new teachers, and what are the chance that both of them will be nice ? ``

`` Not high, '' rose said. `` I like having Uncle Harry teach here. I hope he comes back. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed. John and Amanda nodded.

`` Just desire our following charm teacher is overnice, '' Amanda said, `` Of track, it wo n't take much, will it ? ``

`` Nope, '' Rose replied, `` Wo n't take very much at all. ``

******

Albus awoke the next morning time with just plenty time to catch a promptly breakfast in the Great hallway before making his way to the yard for the graduation.

`` We 'll see you after, when we 're getting on the power train, '' Rose said to Gospel According to John and Amanda as she got up from the table.

`` Bye, '' John mumbled, his utter full phase of the moon of toast.

`` Have fun, '' Amanda waved.

Albus and flatness waved as they followed Rose out of the way. `` Good thing it 's cheery today, '' Albus commented, `` Remember slip 's ? Last year ? ``

rosiness laughed, `` Oh, yeah, how could I leave that ? ``

`` What happened ? '' Matt asked.

`` Worst thunderstorm of the wholly year, '' Albus grinned, `` It 's rum looking back on it, but it was n't then. We got soaked, despite the tent Kendrick put up. Not to mention the wind, boom, and lightning. Scared Lily out of her mind. Mum had to take in her into the castle partway through. ``

`` gladiola it 's not like that this yr, '' lusterlessness agreed. The three of them walked onto the grounds and over towards the chairwoman that had been set up by the lake. hoi polloi were already milling about and finding seats. Albus spotted his parents, grandparents, aunty, uncles, and cousins, all taking up practically half the buttocks.

`` There 's my mum and dad, '' Matt pointed to two people sitting down near where Albus 's aunty Fleur and Uncle Bill were, `` Want to take on them ? ``

`` Sure, '' Albus said and rosiness nodded.

Matt started walking towards them, but once they noticed him, they came running towards the three of them and met them halfway. `` Oh, Gospel According to Matthew ! How are you ? Are you feeling ok ? '' A tall blond woman with an Australian emphasis enveloped Matt in a tight hug.

`` Mum ! '' Matt said, his brass turn red, `` I 'm fine ! Really, I am. ``

`` Are you sure ? You look a bit blench. Did you sleep well last night ? '' the blond woman asked anxiously, with her weapon still wrapped around her son.

`` I 'm certainly ! I slept okay, really, '' lustrelessness assured her.

`` Julie, I think he 's fine. '' The man, who Albus guessed was Matt 's dad, pulled the woman off of lusterlessness. He also had an Australian accent and was grandiloquent, with graying hair.

`` Oh, all right, '' the char sighed, `` I just worry. ``

`` I know, so do I, '' the man said quietly, then turned to lustrelessness, `` How was the end of term ? ``

`` Great, really. Well, with the exclusion of what happened with Washburn, '' Matt told them.

`` And you wonder why I worry so much, '' the woman said to the man, `` I 'm glad everything else was fine. ``

`` Oh, these are my friends, '' Matt gestured to Albus and Rose, `` Well, two of them anyway. Albus Potter and Rose Weasley. They 're both Victoire 's cousins, like I told you in my alphabetic character. Albus, Rose, this is my mum and dad. ``

`` Pleased to meet you, '' rosebush smiled and rock their hands.

`` Hi, '' Albus shook their custody after Rose.

`` hello, dears, '' the woman gave them a ardent smile.

`` So you 're the 1 who set off firework in Professor Washburn 's class ? '' Mr. Eckerton asked.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus answered nervously.

mat 's dad just laughed, `` That sounds like something I 'd have done in school day. Of course, I did plenty of other stuff .... '' Mrs Eckerton gave him a stern spirit. `` Not that I 'm saying you should pull japery like that, of course of instruction. You should behave yourself in shoal, son, '' Mr. Eckerton said quickly to Matt.

Albus stifled a laugh and noticed his own parents, followed by his Uncle Ron and Aunt Hermione walk over towards him. `` Hi, Mum and Dad ! ``

rose grinned and greeted her parents as well, `` Hello, Mum, Dad. ``

`` Albus ! '' Ginny let go of Lily 's helping hand and wrapped her son in a big hug.

`` Hi, Mum, '' Albus replied and rolled his eye and Ginny finally let him go. He looked over and saw that rose wine 's parents were doing the Lapp thing with her.

Albus gestured to flatness and his parents, `` This is our booster, Matt. Well, you already know him, Dad, '' Albus laughed, `` But anyway, these are his parents. And Matt, Mr. Eckerton, Mrs Eckerton, those are my parents, and my Uncle Ron and Aunt Hermione, who are blush wine 's parents. And my little sister Lily and rose wine 's little chum, Victor-Marie Hugo. ''

`` Nice to meet you, '' Matt 's dad stuck out his mitt. `` Walter Eckerton. And my wife, Julie. '' The adults spent a few minutes exchanging hand shakes and pleasantries, while Albus and blush wine introduced Matt to Lily and Hugo.

`` How 'd you get those cuts ? '' Victor-Marie Hugo asked Matt loudly, gesturing to the partially healed cuts on Matt 's arm. Since the full synodic month was only a twain days ago, they still had n't completely healed. `` Didja get 'em from that duel with Professor Washburn ? '' Hugo said excitedly, `` 'Cause that was awful. Wish I 'd been there. I woulda blasted him all the way from here to Hagrid 's Hut ! ``

`` Er, yeah, they 're from the duel, '' Matt replied quickly.

`` Wicked ! '' Hugo grinned. `` Ca n't wait until I can add up here. ``

`` Just another year, Hugo, '' Albus smiled at his cousin. `` But do n't depend on getting to duel with wickedness teacher. I 'd rather not have had to do that. ``

`` Me and Lily acted out the affaire d'honneur, did n't we, Lily ? '' Victor Hugo told them. Lily nodded her forefront. Hugo continued, `` I got to be Washburn, only I won. Lily ran away. ``

`` Did not ! '' Lily shouted.

`` Did too ! '' Victor Hugo shouted back.

`` youngster, calm down, '' Ginny said sternly.

`` Mum, can matte number stay with us over the summer ? John, too, but he 's in the castle. They can descend for mine and rose wine 's natal day party, '' Albus asked.

`` I do n't see why not, '' Ginny smiled, `` As long as it 's ok with his parents. ``

`` Can I go stay with Albus ? '' Matt asked his parents, `` please ? ``

`` I do n't know ... '' Mrs Eckerton looked worriedly at her husband.

Mr. Eckerton glanced at his married woman and replied, `` We 'll feature to retrieve about it. ``

`` Oh, number on ! Please ? '' lusterlessness pleaded, `` I 'll be fine. Albus even said they 'd own the political party at, a, trade good time. ``

Harry seemed to catch onto what the Eckertons were worried about and gave them a meaningful gaze, `` I understand your worry, but I 'm sure as shooting Matt will be fine if he stays with us for a few days. And we will schedule the party at a proficient time. ``

The Eckertons still did n't search convert, but Matt 's dad said, `` He probably will, but I 'd still care to peach it over with Julie. We 'll get back to you, all right ? ``

`` That 's fine, '' Harry replied.

lustrelessness groaned, `` You worry too much. ``

`` Sometimes we have to worry, '' Matt 's mum told him, `` You know that. ``

`` I know, '' Matt sighed.

`` I think the ceremony 's start now, '' Harry announced. `` We 'll be in touch with the point of the party. ``

`` Sounds good, '' Mrs. Eckerton replied.

`` See you after, Matt, '' Albus waved. He and Rose followed their families to the professorship that were set up on the lawn. Albus sat down in between Rose and Harry and waited for the ceremony to begin.

There was a turgid stage set up in front end of the president, with a improbable pulpit embossed with the Hogwarts tip. Next to the podium was a mesa piled with Hogwarts diplomas. All the seventh years sat in the first of all few wrangle of chairs, dressed in their black Hogwarts robes and a champion 's hat.

After a few min, in which everyone who had been milling around and talking came and sat down, professor Kendrick strode up to the podium and began to speak. `` Welcome, friends and family, to the graduation ceremonial occasion of the Hogwarts grade of 2017. I remember the low gear clock time these bookman stepped fundament into Hogwarts. Many were excited and just as many were scared and nervous. Some thought they knew all of Hogwarts 's arcanum, and others hardly knew anything about the Wizarding domain at all. But that did not issue. Because now, they all stand as one, equally prepared to take on the reality around them. I believe that great things will chance to the masses in this class and that they will do great affair.

`` This grade is a particular one to me. Every grade at Hogwarts is extra, but the year I became schoolmaster was the year this division came to Hogwarts. I think that I was just as nervous as they were, if not more so. '' Kendrick paused as the audience laughed. `` And I remember each one of their sortings. I remember Tyler Pike tripping over his own pes as he made his way to the stool. He 's certainly occur a recollective way from that, becoming master of the Ravenclaw Quidditch squad. I also remember Olivia Kaden 's smile as she was sorted into Hufflepuff and ran to conjoin her sister at that table. And who could draw a blank the aloud shout of glee from shimmy Lupin as Victoire Weasley was sorted into Gryffindor. ``

Professor Kendrick continued his speech for another ten minute. After he was done, each of the nous of House went up to the podium and gave a words as well. Albus liked Neville 's oral communication the serious. He talked about how gallant he was of each and every Gryffindor that was graduating that day, and what made them special. Albus found it a bit difficult to pay attending to professor Patil 's spoken communication about the Ravenclaws because she used such big actor's line that Albus hardly knew what she was saying. He assumed it all meant that prof Patil knew that all the Ravenclaws would wrap up making big contribution to the Wizarding Earth in the uncovering of various thing. prof Polo gave a ripe speech about the Hufflepuffs, and then Slughorn gave one, but it did n't concentre much on the Slytherins. His speech communication mainly consisted of listing who he had taught at Hogwarts, and how famous they are now. He spent a soundly portion of it talking about how he had taught Harry. Albus saw his dad face as Slughorn mentioned what a marvelous potions brewer he had been. Albus had to stifle a jape at that, because he knew the story of Snape 's potions book and how Harry had wound up with it in his sixth year.

Professor Kendrick took the dais once Slughorn had finished, `` Thank you, prof Longbottom, Patil, Marco Polo, and Slughorn. Now, two outstanding scholar shall verbalise on behalf of their course of instruction. low, top dog Boy Tyler Pike. And then, principal little girl Victoire Weasley. ``

Tyler freeway took the ambo and began his speech. It was a long-winded oral communication full phase of the moon of more news Albus did n't empathise, much like Professor Patil 's had been. moldiness be a Ravenclaw affair, he thought. Albus glanced at Rose and noticed she was paying enraptured attention. Maybe she should cause been in Ravenclaw.

Once Tyler concluded his words, Victoire stepped up to the ambo. She waited for the crowd to stop their applause for Tyler 's speech and then she began. `` Wow, what a crazy seven age it 's been ! '' she paused and smiled at the audience. `` I remember our first day here. I was scared, we were all scared. short world-class years, lost in a sea of older students, and now we 're at the top. Over the past seven years we have not only stimulate an education that will serve well us throughout our entire lifetime, but we have forged friendships and computer memory that will last a lifetime. storage. In the end, that 's all we 've got. I know I speak for us all in saying that the memories we 've made here at Hogwarts are some of the best we have. It has n't always been well-fixed and not all the retentivity are in force ones. We 've all lost the House Cup at least once in the past seven years, we 've lost Quidditch catch, failed tryout, and had fights with friends. But now is n't the time to lie on those retention. Right now we should remember the honest times. The time we did win the firm Cup, the dramatic wins in Quidditch, the tests we 've aced, and the fact that our friendships are strong enough to defy a few rows.

`` I 'm certainly we all have mixed intuitive feeling about leaving Hogwarts. I know I do. This castle has been our rest home away from rest home for the by seven years. A good circumstances of our lives have been spent here. It will be sad to impart Hogwarts behind, but this minute is what we 've been working towards ever since we stepped off the train when we were 11. Hogwarts has prepared us, not only academically, but socially, for the world before us. We are ready, we can go into the world and arrive at something of ourselves. When you look out at the class behind me, do n't just bet at us as the Hogwarts course of 2017. attend at us as the future healer, Aurors, research worker, and who knows, maybe even the future minister of religion of magic. So, in stopping point, we are ready to face the world. Whatever it has in depot for us, we will be able to take it on. Using our different talents, we as a group will be able-bodied to take whatever the earth has to hurl at us. ''

The audience broke out into loud applause. Albus clapped along with them. He thought Victoire 's speech communication had been much dependable than President Tyler 's and judging by the applause, everyone else thought so, too. The clapping died down as Victoire went back to her seat and Kendrick took up the rostrum once again.

`` Thank you, Tyler and Victoire, '' he nodded his head in their direction, `` Now it is sentence to salute the diploma. '' Kendrick waved his wand and the pulpit moved to the slope, while the table with the diplomas moved to the center of the degree. The four head word of houses got up and stood next to the board. Kendrick stood on the other side and picked up the first sheepskin. `` Katelyn Isabelle Asterly, '' he called out.

A tall, red haired Hufflepuff stood up and walked over to the headmaster. She took her diploma and shook Kendrick 's mitt. Then she shook all the chief of houses'bridge player and walked off the stage. She walked the short distance to the lake. Albus watched her and noticed that Hagrid was standing there. The sauceboat they had crossed the lake on earlier in the year were sitting on the calmness water.

The headmaster continued to holler off name calling. Albus recognized a few of them, but well-nigh of them were mass he had just seen occasionally.

`` Amy Marie Eckerton, '' Kendrick called out a short patch later. Albus and Rose clapped loudly as lustrelessness 's sis accepted her diploma and walked over to the growing grouping of 7th yr near the lake.

Albus watched as Kendrick called out more names. He recognized the two Slytherins that had hexed him earlier in the year. Neither he or resurrect clapped for them. They politely clapped for everyone else. Albus also recognized the Quidditch captain, Samantha Meyers and clapped a bit louder for her.

The gang of seventh years on the stage diminished until there were only two left. `` Victoire Fleur Weasley, '' Kendrick announced. Albus and Rose clapped flash than they had for anyone else as their cousin-german shook Kendrick 's hand. Albus heard shift whistle and dedicate a gaudy shout of 'Go Victoire !'as she shook Neville 's hand. professor Patil shot him a can feel and he quieted down. Albus had to stifle a laugh. Even after you graduate, you still have to listen to the professors, he thought.

`` Cameron Alexander Zabino, '' Kendrick called once Victoire had crossed the stagecoach. A burly looking Slytherin accepted his sheepskin and joined his class by the lake.

Kendrick waved his wand and the table disappeared. The podium moved back to the meat of the stagecoach and Kendrick stood behind it. `` In the past seven years, the student in this family have learned a great deal about magic and sprightliness in general. These skills will serve them as they pursue the careers and dreams of their choosing. It is time for them to journey from Hogwarts, on the Saami boats they arrived her on seven days ago. The number one time they crossed this lake, they were both excited and scared about what Hogwarts had in fund for them. As they cross the lake once more, they are more convinced, but still excited and a bit scared about what the mankind has in memory for them. I know I speak for us all when I say I 'm sure they will do majuscule thing. ''

Kendrick nodded his head towards the chemical group of one-seventh years. The scholarly person climbed into the boat and Hagrid got into the one in front. He brandished his pink umbrella and bellowed, `` Forward ! '' The gravy boat all started moving, taking the 7th eld away from Hogwarts and towards the new adventures that awaited them as adults.

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A/N : Thanks to my sister and Beta, Dancer of Starlight, my other Sister, and my pal. Thanks as well to Moonylupin, ladymblack, sinwillys822, and XDNLxtlz99 for their review article !

Also, if anyone picked up on the fact that this took place in 2016/2017, whereas the Harry ceramist mental lexicon indicates that Albus 's outset yr would have been 2017/2018, I figured out the dates differently than the Lexicon did. I used Victoire 's birthday ( May 2, 1999 ) and figured out that her 7th year would hvae been 2016/2017. I know the Lexicon figured it out differently, but I 'm sticking with my own calculations.

There 's only one chapter left ! I 'll post it succeeding hebdomad and then search for the sequel, which I 'll brand sometime after Christmas !

Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.

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The interview stood up and applauded as the gravy holder left. A few people cheered and whistled. Albus could discover teddy bear 's cheering over everyone else 's. After a few minutes, hoi polloi started to get out.

Albus and Rose said a quick arrivederci to their fellowship before heading off to the horseless carriages that would assume them to Hogsmeade post. They got into a carriage with Matt and the pusher lurched forwards to study them to the train.

`` Saint John and Amanda must already be on, '' Albus said as they walked down the corridor in the train.

`` Probably, we 're some of the last one on, '' Rose pointed out. They continued to look into the compartments before they found the one that their Quaker were in.

`` How was the graduation ? '' whoremaster asked once the compartment room access was shut once again.

`` Really unspoilt, '' pink wine said.

`` Yeah, slip kept shouting and whistling and prof Patil was glaring at him, '' Albus laughed.

`` And Victoire 's manner of speaking was really full, '' matt told them, `` Much just than Tyler Pike 's speech. ``

`` I could hardly understand a word of it, '' Albus commented.

`` I thought it was a ripe speech, '' Rose responded, `` It was all about how the family needs to use their talents and skills to advance rise the Wizarding World. ``

`` Well, he could have just said that, '' Albus huffed, `` He did n't have to take a crap it so bloody confusing. ``

`` I got told off by him once, I could n't sympathise anything he was telling me, '' John laughed.

`` He 's just got a big vocabulary, '' Rose insisted, `` Anyway, the graduation was really ripe. ``

`` Yeah, but it 'll be uncanny succeeding year when Victoire 's gone. She 's starting preparation to be a Healer next year, '' Albus told them and turned to Matt, `` What 's Amy doing ? ``

`` She 's going to be a Healer, too, '' Matt told them, `` She 's going to work with Healer Sterling this summertime, actually. She, er, wants to get involved with the study I 'm in and poppycock. ``

`` Oh, is that the Healer who 's in charge of it ? He 's the one who Albus saw in the infirmary fender a couple months ago ? '' whoremaster asked.

`` Yeah, '' lusterlessness told them, `` Amy 's wanted to be a healer and oeuvre on the Wolfsbane Potion ever since she saw me after the to the full moon for the start sentence, '' he said quietly.

`` That 's good, '' Amanda said, `` Maybe she 'll actually find a therapeutic. ``

`` Maybe, but probably not, '' lustrelessness replied sullenly.

`` So, what are you doing in Ireland, Amanda ? '' rose wine asked after a mo of awkward silence.

`` Mainly just sight seeing and stuff, '' Amanda answered, `` It 's going to be really fun. I 've always wanted to go there. ``

`` There 's all variety of history there, '' Rose told her, `` There 's a bunch of wizarding villages there, too. I 'd love to go and jaw them. ``

`` That would be fun, '' Amanda agreed, `` But I think we 're sticking with the Muggle stuff. ``

`` Oh, right, '' blush wine said, `` Well, if I ever go to Ireland, you can fall with me and we 'll bet around all the wizarding villages. ``

`` I wish I was going to Ireland over the summer, '' John announced, `` We 're not doing anything. Just staying home. ``

`` Us, too, '' Albus said, `` final year we went to France. ``

`` That was scads of fun ! '' Rose grinned, `` I want to go back. ``

`` The suspect portion was watching James try and speak French to all the French people, '' Albus laughed. `` But this year we 're just staying home. ``

`` We never go anywhere, '' flatness told them. `` Well, we did go see my uncle in US a span twelvemonth ago. I was eight. But we have n't been back since. It 's really expensive to rally on Muggle aeroplane, and we always go to Australia every Christmastide, '' he sighed. `` I 'd rather just visit my uncle than my grandparents. ``

`` I 've never been to America, '' John told him, `` What 's it like ? ``

`` Different. The Muggles parkway on the improper incline of the road, '' mat said, `` But it was loads of fun when we went. I think we might be going next twelvemonth. ``

`` fountainhead, you can all total visit me and rose wine for a small while, '' Albus told them, `` We usually have our birthday party at the burrow, but you can get along stay at my house before it. ``

`` That would be awe-inspiring ! '' Saint John the Apostle grinned, `` I 'll just Floo to your place. ``

`` Yeah, that would exploit, '' Albus agreed, `` And hopefully your parents will let you come up, Matt. ``

`` I think they will, '' matte responded, `` But we 're not connected to the Floo mesh. ``

`` You 're not ? '' Albus asked, `` Why ? ``

`` Basically, because of what happened in Australia with the Ministry and everyone finding out about me. My parents just want to lay low here, and if we 're not on the net, that 's one to a lesser extent way of the Ministry tracking us down. Of course, my dad works for the Ministry, so I 'm not exactly sure enough what my parents'logical system is. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, `` Do you just Apparate everywhere ? ``

`` Pretty much. fountainhead, I Side-Along Apparate, of grade. But that works to get where we 're going. My parents will just Apparate me to your planetary house, '' matte told them.

`` That 'll work. ``

`` And you can come stop at my theater, '' Rose told Amanda.

`` Ok, but I ca n't do any variety of Apparition or Floo, '' Amanda said.

`` It 's all right, my parents can ram. We 'll come get you, '' Rose assured her.

`` Great. I ca n't waitress to see your house. I bet it 's a lot dissimilar from mine. I 've never been in a sorcerer house before, '' Amanda said.

`` So, is your all family unit going to be at the burrow ? '' whoremonger asked.

`` Pretty much. We usually have a few political party there during the summer. A few of our full cousin have summer natal day, too, so there are a few other birthday company. Rose and me always have a shared one, though, since we 're the Lapp age. Samantha and Lindy 's natal day is in the rootage of July, so they get a party. Fred, Bradley, and Gabriella are all born in Aug, like blush wine, so they all have parties, too. But theirs are usually at their own business firm. Then there 's the end of summertime party, that 's always at the end of Aug, '' Albus told him.

`` Excellent. There 'll be some awesome Quidditch matches, then ! '' John the Evangelist grinned.

`` Oh, yeah, Quidditch can get pretty exciting during the summer, '' Albus responded, `` There 's usually so many people that we can get a real tournament going. ``

`` That 'll be loads of fun, then. And my dad said he 'd get me a broom this year, '' St. John told them.

`` Great ! You can convey it with you. I 'm asking for one for my natal day, '' Albus said.

`` I 've got a broom at home, '' flatness said, `` I 'll bring it, too. ``

`` I obviously do n't have one, '' Amanda sighed, `` Maybe I can convince my parents to get me one, but I doubt it. As practically as they 've grown accustomed to magic, the mind of flying still freaks them out. ``

`` It 's all right, '' Rose said, `` There are plenty of brooms in our class, someone will let you borrow theirs. ``

`` speech production of Quidditch, I think the Chudley cannon are going to name a existent come-back next season, '' matte grinned.

`` Ugh ! '' Albus groaned, `` You 're kidding, right ? There 's no way they could ever realize a semen back ! ``

`` Yeah they can ! '' Matt insisted, `` And someday, they 'll make it to the League Cup and I 'll go and endorse them ! ``

`` The day the Chudley Cannons make it to the League Cup is the day Gryffindors and Slytherins get along, '' Saint John laughed.

`` You 'll see, they 'll get to the conference Cup. And then they 'll win it ! '' Matt said excitedly, `` I want to go to the following one, even if the Cannons are n't in it, though. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` I 've been to the worldly concern Cup once, '' flatness went on, `` When I was four. I can hardly remember it, but Amy says we had really good seats. It was in Australia, I think it 's one of the only time it 's been there. It was the New Zealand Kiwis versus Jacques Anatole Francois Thibault. Anatole France won. ``

`` That must make been awful, '' John grinned.

`` Yeah, I 've been to steady couple, but not the World Cup, '' Albus said.

`` Well, I hardly remember any of it. I mostly remember French Republic 's celebrating afterwards, '' matt said, `` Just like I 'll be celebrating when the cannon win. ``

Everyone else groaned. The grouping kept talking about Quidditch for a while, and they all agreed that they wanted to go to the next Cup. No one knew where it would be, but they wanted to go even if it was far away.

Once they 'd exhausted the topic of Quidditch, they played a couple circle of maven 's chess game and Exploding Snap. Rose won all the biz of chess and while they each won at to the lowest degree one one shot of Exploding Snap, Rose won to the highest degree of them as well. When the trolley car came around, they bought a bit of everything and had fun eating Bertie Botts Beans and trading drinking chocolate toad frog poster. Albus had most of the identity card by now, but he was still did n't have got McGonagall.

Towards the end of the trip, everyone quieted down a bit. Rose dug out a book and started recital, Amanda doodled on a slice of lambskin, King John and Albus started up the Quidditch discussion again, and lusterlessness fell asleep. Albus and John were just beginning to discuss the fortune of Puddlemere United making it into the next league Cup when the compartment door opened. Victoire and Amy walked into the compartment, both sporting huge grins.

`` So, how 's it find to give birth graduated ? '' rosiness asked, putting down here book.

`` magnificent ! '' Victoire said, `` We 've been celebrating with everyone else, but thought we 'd come see you. What have you been up to ? ``

`` Not lots, just talking about Quidditch, '' Albus said.

Victoire sat down next to Rose and Amy sat down next to her sleeping pal. `` Of path. That 's one thing I 'll definitely overlook next yr, '' Victoire sighed, `` I 've never been very good at Quidditch, but I love watching it. ``

`` You can come back to scout, '' Albus told her, `` You 've got to. I 'm going to try out for pursuer next year and if I make it, I want you to come to the matches. ``

`` I will, at least some of them, '' Victoire assured him, `` But I 'll be pretty busy future year. healer preparation is passably vivid. ``

`` You 'll be commodity at it, though, '' Rose said, `` Both of you will be. ``

`` I hope so, '' Amy said quietly as she looked at lustrelessness, `` It 'd be dandy to name a better rendering of that potion .... ''

`` If anyone can do it, you can, '' Victoire told her, `` You 've always been the expert at Potions in our year. I 've just barely squeaked by. I really hope I got at least an E on my N.E.W.T. If not, I ca n't become a Healer. ``

Amy blushed, `` Well, I 'm not that not bad at it. I 'm surely you got an E on your N.E.W.T. ``

`` Where do you aim to be a Healer ? '' Amanda asked, `` Is there a university or something ? ``

`` There are some division, of course of action, but it 's not like a Muggle university. And there 's less schooling than Muggle doctors need. We do a couple long time of classes and interning at St. Mungo 's, '' Amy told her.

`` Yeah, we 're going to get a flat tire in Greater London sometime this summer and split the rent during the training, '' Victoire added.

`` Can I go visit you ? I want to see your flat, '' Albus asked.

Victoire laughed, `` Of course you can. ``

Amy stretched her weapon and got up, `` Well, we 're almost there, so I think I 'll go get my clobber ready. You coming, Victoire ? ``

`` Sure, we could probably get in a bit more celebrating before we 're in London, '' Victoire grinned. `` See you guys in a little while. ``

Albus waved as his cousin and Amy left the compartment. The remainder of the journey was uneventful. Albus played another round of Exploding crack with can and Amanda and then he dozed off for a bit. The next affair he knew, John was shaking him awake when they were in capital of the United Kingdom. Albus yawned and started putting all his matter back in his bag. He joined the bunch of scholar heading out of the train and walked onto the political program with his ally.

`` There 's my parents, '' flatness pointed to the left and Albus saw the Eckertons talking to his Uncle Bill and aunty Fleur, `` I guess I 'll probably see you laugh at this summer, if my parents let me issue forth. ``

`` They will, '' Albus said adamantly.

`` They 'd better, '' John laughed.

`` I hope so, '' lustrelessness responded quietly, `` Well, I 'll let you have sex if I can, Albus. See you soon, I hope. ``

`` Definitely, this summer will be amazing ! '' Albus grinned, `` Bye, Matt ! '' John, Rose, and Amanda all said so long as well.

`` Bye, hombre ! '' matte waved and walked over to his parents. Albus watched as Mrs. Eckerton pulled him into a tight hug. She reminded Albus a lot of his grandmother.

`` You should line up your parents so they can run across ours, '' Albus told John and Amanda.

`` Good idea, '' privy looked out among the crowd, `` Oh, they 're over there. Hey, Mum ! Dad ! '' he shouted.

A man and charwoman walked over to John, the woman shaking her head and the man laughing. Three little fille followed them. `` Must you be so loud, dear ? '' the cleaning lady asked.

`` Mum, what a way to greet me after you have n't seen me in month, '' bathroom grinned.

`` Oh, come here, Reb, '' the woman smiled and wrapped John in a hug.

`` Mum ! '' privy 's cheeks reddened and he pulled away. `` Hi, Dad. ``

`` hello, John, how was the rest of term ? ''

`` Great ! ``

`` Albus ! rosebush ! '' Harry said from behind Albus.

Albus turned around, `` Hey, Dad ! Hi, Mum, Lily, Victor-Marie Hugo, Aunt Hermione, Uncle Ron. '' Albus and blush wine exchanged salutation with their parents and sibling while John continued to tell his parents about school. Lily and Hugo seemed to hit it off with one of lav 's babe and they were running around the platform, trying to get each other to eat the disgusting flavors of Bertie Bott's.

Amanda had meanwhile found her parents and brought them over to the radical. They both looked a bit uncomfortable among all the beldam and ace, but seemed to require to converge Albus and the others.

Rose seemed to admit charge of all the intromission. `` Ok, Mum, Dad. These are mine and Albus 's friends, bathroom and Amanda. '' The next few moment were spent with all the adults shaking hands and introducing themselves. rose and Albus told John and Amanda 's parents about their natal day party and it seemed like both lavatory and Amanda would be capable to go. After a few minutes of discussing details, John, Amanda, and their families said adieu to the thrower and the Weasleys and headed back into London.

`` Ready to go, James ? '' Harry shouted to his oldest son who was standing a few meter away, talking to Nathan.

`` Yeah, Dad, just a minute, '' James shouted back. He said something else to Nathan and then walked over to his family.

Albus and the sleep of the Potters walked back out of the place with rosebush and her family. Albus was tired from the journey home and did not say much. He was thinking about the past year. It had been cracking. indisputable, the whole altercation with Washburn had been scary, but that was over now, and his dad was taking guardianship of that at the Ministry. He was happy he had made a few good friends and was very glad that Matt trusted them with his secret. Albus was looking forward to the summertime and having John the Evangelist and Matt visit him at Grimmauld Place, but in all honesty, he was looking forward about going back in September. He had only been at Hogwarts for a year, but it already felt like a second home to Albus.


~Fin~


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A/N : Well, there it is, the finale chapter ! It 's a bittersweet moment to finish posting this here. I 've been working on this report for over a class, and even though I finished it last April, I 've been editing it as I 've posted it here.

Thanks go out to my tremendous Beta and youngest sister, Dancer of Starlight. She 's been reading this and betaing it ever since I started writing it in Sept of 2007. I 've bounced melodic theme off of her and she tells me whether they 're good or they 're dire. My early babe and my brother have also been extremely helpful. Thanks to them as well !

Thanks as well to all my faithful reviewers. XDNLxtlz99, sinwillys822, Moonylupin, and ginnyweasleypotter87, you guys are awful !

Albus 's story is far from over, though ! Be on the lookout station for the sequel, Albus Potter and the Tracks They Left stern, sometime shortly after Christmas ! It chronicles Albus 's second base year at Hogwarts and is filled with new lineament and secret plan ! It is completely finished, so updates will be on a veritable groundwork. I 'm currently working on the unidentified write up of Albus 's tertiary year.

I 'll allow you with that rather long bit of author 's notes. I hope everyone has a felicitous Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, and Happy other holiday !