Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


A mother kangaroo stood absolutely still in the moonlit forest, watching her child free rein in the President Bush in front of her. The mother would gently pull the roo back every sentence he got too far away. She was watching him carefully when a loudly pop startled her. The joey hopped back over to his mother and jumped into her pouch. They hopped away quickly, not noticing the man who had just appeared a few cadence away.

The man swore under his breath as his side contorted. His round brass was elongating and his black whisker lightened to a brownish shade. He stumbled around and kicked off his shoe as his animal foot grew too large for them. It was not only his feet that were growing, but his entire body. The man was now six inches taller than he had been when he first Apparated into the forest. Finally, it stopped. The man now looked completely different and kind of strange in Muggle habiliment that was far too small for him.

He opened his bag and pulled out a set of nigrify thaumaturgist robes, changing into them quickly. He tossed the Muggle wearable into the bag and set off at a fresh pace.

`` Bloody Muggle airplanes, '' he muttered to himself, `` Ministry ought to just allow international Flooing. ``

It was a very quiet night, with only the episodic owl hooting in the space. The moon was not total enough to provide enough light to illuminate the itinerary, but the man did not need to draw in attention to himself by lighting his wand. He merely stumbled along, swearing every clock time he tripped over a rock or a Tree root.

The magniloquent man was not entirely sure how far he would have to take the air to find the place he was looking for. In fact, the man he was going to visit did not even know he was coming. Nevertheless, he kept walking through the forest, until he finally came to the edge.

A unawares length away stood a rather large house. It was not big enough to be considered a hall, but substantially turgid than well-nigh home. The man glanced at his watch before continuing towards the house.

`` Damn, '' he muttered as he noticed that his watch was still set for British time. He pulled out his wand and pointed it at his wrist. The hands on the scout swirled until coming to a halt. It was nearly midnight.

There was one lone light on in the house. former than that, the office seemed either deserted or its occupants asleep. The man did not manage if everyone was asleep ; he would merely wake up them up. He picked up his pace as he crossed the K and ascended the steps up to the front man door.

The man knocked three times and stood waiting for someone to let him in. A unawares spell later, the door opened a crack cocaine. However, it did not appear that anyone had actually answered it.

`` Is you needing something, sir ? '' a squeaky articulation asked.

The man looked down and saw a theater elf peeking his heading around the door. `` Why yes, '' the man replied, `` Is Lubar in ? ``

`` passkey Lubar ? '' the elf asked, `` He is. ``

`` I need to speak to him, '' the man said.

`` come in, '' the elf replied, `` Is you wanting a drink ? ``

`` No, '' the man muttered as he entered the house, `` Just prove me to Lubar. ``

`` Yes, sir. This way. ``

The man followed the elf through the extravagant home. He always wondered how Lubar managed to afford everything. It 's not like he made much money at his job. There were statues, whole shebang of art, gold encrusted tables, oriental carpet, and the fanciest piece of furniture in all of the elbow room he passed.

The elf led him to a room with the threshold halfway loose. sparkle was streaming out of it, but the man could n't get wind any voices. Lubar must be alone, he thought. That would be best anyway.

The man pushed past the elf and into the elbow room without knocking. He did n't see the need. Lubar was crime syndicate. indisputable, the man had n't seen him in old age, but he was family nonetheless. Lubar was the man 's married woman 's first cousin, to be specific.

Lubar was sitting at his desk, perusing a book. His untidy brown whisker was dangling over his face. He looked up when the man stepped into the room. He looked momentarily shocked, but regained his composure and stood up. Lubar was quite a bit brusque than the man in the threshold and was wearing similar black robes.

`` Jarrett, '' Lubar gestured for him to come in, `` What an, strange, surprise. ``

The man, Jarrett, walked in and took a seat in the red leather chair in front of the desk. Lubar resumed his location behind the desk.

`` To what do I owe the pleasance ? '' Lubar asked, folding his hands in front of him. `` It 's been a farseeing time, Jarrett. ``

`` I know, Ralph, it has indeed, '' Jarrett mused.

`` I have half a mind to drop you out of this house after what your brother-in-law did to my brother, '' Lubar growled.

`` And I assure you that I understand, '' Jarrett replied, `` I do not approve of what my brother-in-law did. I have not spoken to the man since. ``

Lubar raised his eyebrow. `` Interesting. And has your wife been in contact with him ? ``

`` She has, '' Jarrett sighed, `` But that is just one of the many things we have different opinions on. I am well aware that you have no plans to forgive her brother, which is why I am here unbeknownst to her. I would care to put that topic behind us and rekindle our friendship, Lubar. ``

`` I will have to think about that, '' Lubar said.

`` I understand, '' Jarrett said, `` That 's all I can ask you to do. ``

`` I am quite singular as to how you managed to get here. Is n't your intact ministry after you ? I pay attending to magical news all around the world, you know. I have been following your narrative for the past yr, '' Lubar changed the subject.

Jarrett smiled. It had been surprisingly easygoing to get to Australia with Muggle transferral. It took a piece and was rather rag, but easy.

`` Yes, the Ministry is after me. However, I took the indecorum of using Muggle transportation to arrive here. I simply took some Polyjuice Potion, bought an aeroplane ticket, and now I 'm here. ``

`` Impressive, '' Lubar replied, `` You used the new 24 time of day Polyjuice ? ``

`` Obviously, '' Jarrett smirked, `` Otherwise I would birth turned back into myself in the heart of an airdrome. ``

`` True. Now, what can I do for you ? What could you possibly necessitate that would cause you to convey Muggle Transportation to get here ? Somehow, I do n't think you would go through such extreme point measuring rod to rekindle a friendship that died a X ago. ``

`` Do you bed why the Ministry wants me ? ``

`` Something about dueling Harry ceramist ? '' Lubar smirked, `` That might be the stupidest thing you have ever done. ``

`` That 's the gist of it, '' Jarrett muttered, `` But we had rationality for doing it. ``

`` We ? ``

`` Yes. Myself, my son, and one of my admirer. ``

`` Ah, '' Lubar leaned back in his chairperson, `` Do you give care to enlighten me about your reasons ? ``

`` We want to unite the Deathly Hallows in order to help our mission to preserve the programme of master Voldemort, '' Jarrett explained, `` Harry ceramicist knows the location of all three of the Deathly Hallows and currently possesses two of them. Have you heard of the Hallows ? ``

`` Of course I have, '' Lubar snapped, `` Mind you, I thought it was just a child 's story. ``

`` I assure you, it 's not, '' Jarrett said, `` I myself saw the invisibleness Cloak. They exist and had something to do with Voldemort 's ruination. ``

`` noble Voldemort, '' Lubar mused, `` I understand. I myself agree with his ideas about the wizarding world. Especially when it comes to half-breeds. ``

`` I was hoping you 'd say that. Now, we have been on the run for over a year. After our first unsuccessful endeavor at obtaining the Hallows, we chose to lay low for a spell. ``

`` You know where all of the Hallows are ? You said Potter 's got them ? ``

`` Two of them, '' Jarrett corrected him, `` We thought we knew where all three were, but we were awry about the senior Wand. Well, Potter could be lying to us. That 's entirely potential. But even if he does not currently have it in his possession, I am sure he knows where it is. The invisibleness Cloak is currently in ownership of Harry thrower 's middle child, Albus. The Resurrection Stone is residing in the forest next to Hogwarts, although I am not certain where. ``

`` Interesting, '' Lubar mused, `` But what do you need me to do ? ``

`` I 'm getting to that. Recently, my son and I came up with a plan to get the invisibleness Cloak. My son was to entice Albus potter out of school by capturing his cousin. To pee a long level short, it ended in a duel between my son and Harry potter. ceramist captured him and he now resides in Azkaban, '' Jarrett seethed.

`` That sounds like an absolutely abysmal design. Did you actually believe potter 's kid would n't tell him his cousin-german was captured ? ``

`` We kind of hoped so- ''

`` Shut up. The full stop is, that was a horrible programme, and now your son is in prison. ``

`` Yes, '' Jarrett sighed, `` And I was kind of hoping you could facilitate get him out. ``

Lubar stared at him and then smirked. `` Me ? assistance get your son out of prison ? How in the public figure of merlin do you hypothesize I 'll be able-bodied to do that ? ``

`` Well, you 're a mellow ranking Ministry functionary, you must have a lot of influence in these kinds of things, '' Jarrett stammered.

`` I am a high ranking Ministry official in Australia, not Britain, '' Lubar laughed, `` Why do you recall I have any influence over there ? ``

`` But do n't you keep in liaison with UK 's department for the regulation and Control of Magical Creatures ? '' Jarrett asked.

Lubar laughed. `` I do not contact Britain 's Department for the regularisation and Control of Magical Creatures. My feeling are vastly different from those in Britain. I would not want to associate myself with the blokes there. Plus, my name is mud with the British section for the regularization and control condition of Magical Creatures. ``

Jarrett looked curiously at Lubar. `` That is grueling to trust. What did you possibly do to produce them dislike you ? ``

`` That, is a very tenacious story, '' Lubar replied, `` The old head of my department was a very liberalist man. He sympathized with werewolf and disliked any sort of strict legislation dealing with them. His reason for this was because his own son is a werewolf. ``

`` Really ? ``

`` Yes. Anyway, he was fired after he broke one of the wolfman laws. Then I became head word of the department and passed More police force. He hated me. He moved his family to United Kingdom, where he got a job in lycanthrope reinforcement Service. Turns out, he was planning on moving anyway, even before he got fired. He wanted his werewolf kid to attend school. The headmaster of the Australian school of black art obviously did not let him serve. The Hogwarts headmaster did. As far as I know, he 's there now. Once there, he made sure everyone in his department knew my name and what I believed. They do not utter kindly of me. ``

Jarrett rubbed his chin. `` Interesting. So there 's a werewolf at Hogwarts ? Quinton never told me anything about that. ``

`` He probably does n't make love, '' Lubar smirked, `` I tend to doubt that the werewolf would foretell it to the whole school. ``

`` Do you know the werewolf 's figure ? '' Jarrett asked.

`` Do n't remember his first public figure. stopping point name 's Eckerton. ``

Jarrett thought for a moment and then his eyes popped out of his head. `` Eckerton ? ! Quinton 's mentioned that kid. He 's one of the 1 we dueled with final year ! He 's friends with Potter 's kid. ``

`` Really ? '' Lubar smirked, `` How matter to. ``

`` Yes, extremely interesting, '' Jarrett rolled his eyes, `` ceramicist 's kid befriended a werewolf. Thrilling, really. Now, can you aid get Quinton out of Azkaban or not. ``

`` Talk like that and I wo n't help you, '' Lubar muttered.

Jarrett 's heart lit up. `` So you can help oneself ? ``

`` Possibly, '' Lubar said, `` But I could most certainly help you get the Hallows. ``

`` And how would you do that ? ``

`` number one, I give you advice, '' Lubar began, `` You 're going about this all wrong. Your offset priority should have been the Christ's Resurrection Stone, not that invisibility Cloak. Yes, the gem will be unmanageable to find, but nobody currently owns it. It 's sitting in the George H.W. Bush. You 've got to seek that George Herbert Walker Bush and get that Harlan Stone. Then, you use the Stone. ``

`` Use it ? ``

`` Yes, use it ! '' Lubar shouted, `` Honestly, I do n't know what my cousin sees in you. But anyway, use it to talk to Voldemort ! ``

`` Oh, right. ``

`` Then, you ask Voldemort what happened to the Elder sceptre ! '' Lubar continued, `` That affair is the unspoilt Hallow. The Cloak is the least utile. Anyone can make themselves unseeable with a Disillusionment magic spell. You 've got to get that verge and stone first. ``

`` Oh, I 'll get looking for the Stone, '' Jarrett muttered.

`` good, '' Lubar replied, `` And I 'll go to Britain and help you. ``

`` Seriously ? ``

`` Yes. I 'll make sure enough you do it properly. And I can match up on that werewolf kid, '' Lubar sneered.

`` What about the Ministry ? I thought they hated you. ``

`` They do, '' Lubar said, `` But I can arrive up with a skillful reason to be at Hogwarts this year. ``

`` What might that be ? ``

`` I can not excuse in detail. There is an outcome happening at Hogwarts this year. student from Australia are participating. I have understanding to be there. ``

`` Shall I wait for you to search for the Stone ? ``

`` Yes, '' Lubar said, `` I 'll make sure you do n't screw it up. And perhaps, while I 'm there, we can shape out some way to break your idiot son out of Azkaban. ``

`` Thanks, '' Jarrett muttered.

`` Just think, you owe me for this. ''


A/N : I love it when editing takes lupus erythematosus time than I thought ! Big thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, who also named this story.

This news report is more intertwined with In Moonlight 's Shadow than my former Albus stories have been. the great unwashed who have already read IMS will love this now that they 've read the prologue. I suggest anyone who has n't read IMS read it, although you 'll still be able to sympathise this account if you don't.

I may be switching my update daytime to Wednesdays because I 'm quite busy on Th. It 'll bet on how the semester goes.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



Albus Severus ceramist awoke to a high pitched scream. He sat up quickly in bed and listened. It was coming from downstairs and sounded exactly like his little babe, Lily. He groaned and got out of bed. It would be pointless for him to try and go back to sleep.

Lily had been out of the question to contend with ever since Albus returned home from Hogwarts. She was incredibly excited about the fact that she was going to go to Hogwarts in the twilight. Therefore, Lily had been constantly asking Albus about Hogwarts and the questions were usually ones Albus did not cognize the answer to or did not require to answer.

Albus quickly changed his clothes and ran downstairs. It was a mystery as to what Lily was shrieking about now. His mum probably told her some new composition of data about Hogwarts.

`` Al ! '' Lily shoved a firearm of parchment in Albus 's facial expression, `` It came ! It came ! My Hogwarts letter came ! ``

So that was what the shrieking was about, Albus thought. Lily had been waiting for that letter all summer. Every first light she 'd watch the window waiting for the post owl to arrive.

`` Congratulations, Lily, '' Albus grinned at her and continued his walk of life down to the kitchen. Lily ran ahead of him and was literally dancing around the room by the time Albus arrived.

`` Lily ! '' James shouted, `` One does not shriek and trip the light fantastic like a lunatic when one receives their Hogwarts alphabetic character. ``

`` Oh, really, James ? '' Ginny smirked at him, `` Were n't you the one to stand on top of the mesa and do some sort of dance ? ``

James blushed. `` Er, no. ``

`` Oh, do n't be ashamed, Jesse James, '' Albus grinned as he sat down next to his brother, `` At least you did n't pipe like a fille. ``

`` Yeah, that was you, '' James I laughed.

`` I did not ! '' Albus shouted, `` I acted perfectly normal ! ``

`` Normal for a young woman, '' James replied.

`` Stop it, James, '' Ginny scolded as she set a bowl of oatmeal and a few envelopes in front of Albus, `` You got some postal service as well, Al. ``

Albus picked up the pile of letter and opened the top one. It was the common leger lean as well as his Hogsmeade permission slip. `` Here, Mum, '' he handed her the pillow slip, `` You 'll receive to sign that. ``

Ginny took the lambskin. `` I ca n't believe you 're a third gear class, Al. You 're growing up so fast. ``

`` Mum ! '' Albus groaned.

`` I ca n't believe it either, '' James I sighed, `` Ickle Al is getting so big ! ``

`` James ! '' Albus smacked him.

`` Mum, Al hit me ! '' Epistle of James shouted.

`` Behave yourselves, boys, '' Ginny said without looking at them.

Albus opened the former gasbag. It was from Matt.

Dear Albus,

My parents said you could come visit
on the 16th for a few Day. They 're
going to drive us to Diagon back street too.
Let me recognise if you can occur !

Your friend,
lusterlessness

`` Mum ! '' Albus shouted, `` Can I go to matt 's house on the 16th ? ``

Ginny read the letter over Albus 's shoulder. `` for sure. We 'll gather you in Diagon Alley and get James and Lily 's hooey then. ``

Albus grinned. He was very excited about going to Matt 's mansion. He had never been there. He hoped that John the Divine and Kaden would be capable to go as well. They had n't seen each early in about a calendar month, when Albus and blush wine had had their birthday political party.

`` Thanks, Mum. ``

`` Mum ! '' Lily whined, `` I wanted to go to Diagon Alley today ! ``

`` Sorry, Lily, '' Ginny replied, `` I 'd rather get everyone 's supplies at once. ``

`` I do n't require to await ! ``

`` Lily, you have to wait, '' Ginny sighed.

Albus turned to Saint James the Apostle and they smirked at each other. Lily still had n't grown out of her whiny phase angle. It got rather annoying. Albus hoped that she would n't be like that at Hogwarts.

******

The side by side few Clarence Shepard Day Jr. passed very slowly. Albus was anxious to get away from Lily. She asked him no less than 50 times how the sorting was done and Albus replied with fifty'I ca n't tell yous'.

Eventually the sixteenth arrived and Albus sat in the drawing elbow room waiting for Matt and his parents to read up. Kaden was with him. He had arrived a few hr earlier and they had spent their clock time trying to remain away from Lily.

`` You know, Kaden, you were as irritating as Lily a year ago, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Was not, '' Kaden replied, `` And I 've matured. ``

`` Yeah, sure, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

The two male child looked up when they heard a loud cleft. Matt 's integral kinfolk had Apparated into the drawing room. Ginny walked into the room and greeted matt 's parents.

`` matt ! '' Albus grinned, `` I am so glad to see you. I ca n't wait to get away from Lily. ``

`` Oh, Al, be nice, '' Ginny sighed.

`` What ? She 's irritating, '' Albus shrugged, `` Bye, Mum. ``

`` Goodbye, Al, I 'll see you in a few daylight, '' she gave Albus a hug.

`` All right hand, '' Mr. Eckerton said, `` Albus, you can Apparate with Amy. Kaden, you can Apparate with my wife. ``

Albus nodded and stepped over to Amy. She wrapped him in a hug and the two of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the middle of a large field. There was a log home in the distance.

`` This does n't bet like a firm, '' Kaden announced as he stepped away from Matt 's mum.

`` It 's not, '' lusterlessness said as he pointed to the log sign, `` That 's my house. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden replied as they started towards the firm, `` Why did n't we just Apparate into it ? ``

`` My parents put anti-Apparition wards on the house, '' matte explained.

`` Why ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I do n't want to get into it, '' mat muttered.

Kaden groaned. `` I thought you were done keeping arcanum from me. ``

`` There are some affair I do n't tell anyone, Kaden, '' Matt sighed.

Albus smirked and shook his headland. Some thing never change. Kaden still did n't hump how to keep his lip shut.

Matt 's house was the only one in the area. Albus could n't see any early buildings besides a shed behind the house. There were orbit surrounding the house and a low fence surrounding the property. Beyond the fence was farmland.

Matt 's dad unlocked the threshold and Albus followed him inside. He stopped in the entryway and looked around. The place was about as unlike as a sign of the zodiac could be from Grimmauld Place. It was open and airy and decorated in a forward-looking yet rustic way. From the room access, Albus could see the kitchen straight ahead, the dining room next to it, and the livelihood room next to the door. On the other side of the door was a set of step leading upstairs. Albus continued walking into the bread and butter way and saw a corridor next to the kitchen that lead to a few Sir Thomas More way. Albus liked it instantly. It had a homey feel to it like the Burrow did. Except it was much cleaner. Matt had said his mum was kind of a great nut, but Albus was n't expecting it to be this neat.

`` Great family, lusterlessness, '' Albus grinned.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` But it 's too groovy. We 're going to have to commute that. ``

`` My mum likes it neat, '' Matt said, `` She 'll make you clean up whatever you mess up. ``

`` I 'll go get can now, '' Mr. Eckerton announced, `` You can come, Matt. I 'll be able to Apparate both of you. ``

`` Ok. I 'll be mightily back, Albus, '' Matt said and left the house with his dad.

`` You can just wait in the living way, '' Mrs. Eckerton gestured for Albus and Kaden to turn to their left.

Albus nodded and sat down on one of the couch. It was quite comfortable. Kaden sat down next to him and put his feet up on the coffee bean table, earning a derriere gaze from Mrs Eckerton. Kaden sheepishly removed his base from the table.

Amy sat down on a hot seat and pulled a book off the tabular array. She opened it and began reading. It was some sort of potions book.

Kaden tilted his caput and say the title. `` Do you like potions ? '' he asked.

`` Yeah, '' Amy replied, `` I 'm studying to be a Healer. ``

`` That 's great ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` I like potions too. Albus thinks I 'm insane. Well, so do Matt and John Lackland. ``

`` There are n't many multitude who appreciate brewing, '' Amy replied, `` But I 'm glad you like it. ``

`` Me, too, '' Kaden said.

Amy set her book down. `` So, Albus, how has your summer been ? ``

`` Good, '' Albus said, `` Well, Lily is driving me mad because she got her Hogwarts letter the early day. ``

`` I still remember when I got my letter to the Australian schooltime of Sorcery- ''

`` The what ? '' Kaden asked.

`` The Australian school of Sorcery, '' Amy repeated, `` The school of magic in Commonwealth of Australia. I went there for three years. Then we moved here. ``

`` You lived in Commonwealth of Australia ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` Er, yeah, '' Amy looked at him strangely, `` You did n't cognise that ? ``

`` Nope. Matt never told me, '' Kaden turned to Albus, `` Did he tell you ? ``

`` Yeah, my low gear twelvemonth, '' Albus replied, `` I never really noticed that he did n't evidence you. ``

`` Well, he did n't, '' Kaden muttered, `` But it would explain the funny story idiom he 's got. ``

Albus stifled his laughter. `` Er, yeah. ``

The three of them sat quietly for another few minute. Kaden began to laugh and it became louder and louder until Albus turned to count at him.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` The Australian school of Sorcery, '' Kaden laughed, `` A, S, S. Ass ! ``

Albus groaned. Leave it to Kaden to calculate that out.

Amy laughed. `` You know, that 's what teddy said when he first heard about it. ``

The front threshold opened and matt and John ran inside followed by Mr. Eckerton. St. John the Apostle paused in the entree and looked around.

`` Whoa, '' he grinned, `` This theater is bloody brainy ! ``

`` Thanks, '' Matt said and the two of them entered the living way. `` What are you three laughing at ? ``

`` My old school, '' Amy smirked, `` Kaden figured out its acronym. ``

`` Oh, ASS, '' Matt laughed, `` Yeah, I laughed about that for years when I figured it out. ``

`` Well, I 've got to get to work, '' Amy stood up, `` I 'll try and stop by for dinner sometime this calendar week. ``

`` Bye, Amy, '' Mr. Eckerton gave her a hug.

`` Bye, Dad. ``

`` So, I 'll picture you the upstairs, '' Matt said after Amy left.

Albus grabbed his bag and followed lustrelessness upstairs. St. John and Kaden thundered behind them. Once they reached the top, lusterlessness led them to the doorway on the left along the vertebral column wall.

`` This is my room, '' Matt announced as they entered.

Albus stepped inside and looked around. The carpet was juicy and the walls were white. It was messy than the rest of the household, but nowhere near as messy as James 's way. There was a Chudley Cannons bedspread on the bed and multiple posters on the wall.

`` Nice bed, '' can smirked, `` Nice to see the cannon can still trade product. If only they devoted that feat to their acting .... ''

`` Shut it, St. John, '' matt replied, `` The cannon have been playing better this time of year. ``

`` Oh, yeah, they did get three goals in their game against Puddlemere, '' King John said, `` Too bad Puddlemere had a hundred times that many end. ``

matte groaned. `` cum on, I 'll shew you the other suite. ``

Albus followed Matt out of the elbow room and down the corridor. The next doorway was a bath and the one after that was Amy 's room. The last door was alongside a different wall and lusterlessness gestured for them to step inside.

`` This is the library, '' flatness announced, `` We 'll be sleeping here. ``

`` Sounds like Rose 's dream come true, '' John laughed.

The depository library was twice the size of Matt 's room. Bookshelves covered all the paries and there were a few desks sitting in the heart of the room. A squashy looking couch was sitting below one of the windows and there were a few armchairs in various places. There were also four cots in the middle, but Albus doubted they were normally there.

Albus tossed his bag down on a cot as can and Kaden did the Sami. Kaden started wandering around the room and looking at the various books.

`` I do n't imagine I 've ever been in a home with this many record, '' Kaden said.

`` There 's even more in Dad 's study. ``

`` You should see pink wine 's family, '' Albus commented.

`` You 've got a lot of Christian Bible about magical animate being, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, well, that 's what Dad 's into. ``

`` Especially werewolves, '' Kaden went on, `` There 's a unit row of them. ``

`` Yeah, you can probably guess why, '' Matt mumbled.

`` So, '' Albus changed the subject, `` How was your trip to New York ? ``

The discomfort that had been on lusterlessness 's face moments before disappeared. `` It was brilliant ! We had so a lot fun. ``

`` And how was the airplane ? '' John asked eagerly.

Matt laughed. `` Just like every other one I 've been on. ``

`` Anything else new with anyone ? '' Albus asked.

`` Bethany thinks she 's a beldame, '' Kaden announced, `` She found a hold fast outside and has been pretending to cast magic spell. ``

`` Bet your grandpa loved that, '' Albus laughed.

`` He turned a cover girl shade of purpleness, '' Kaden laughed.

`` I 'd pay to see that, '' John replied.

Albus and Kaden laughed. `` I would n't suggest being anywhere near my Uncle Vernon when he turns purpleness, '' Albus put in.

`` Did I tell you that my dad 's getting a promotion ? '' Matt asked.

Albus turned to him. `` Nope. What kind of promotion ? ``

`` The straits of the section of the regulation and command of Magical puppet is retiring at the end of the year, '' Matt explained, `` And he 's recommending my dad for the position. It 's not final, but it 'll most likely happen. ``

`` That old bloke is finally retiring ? '' Albus asked, `` He 's been there for decades. ``

`` Yeah. Dad was n't sure enough he wanted the promotion, but after thinking about it, he decided to take it if it 's offered to him, '' Matt continued.

`` Why would n't he want it ? '' John asked.

`` well, that 's what he did in Australia. And he hated it towards the end. But he thinks it 'll be better up here. ``

`` From what you 've told us, everything is better up here, '' Albus said.

`` What does your dad do now ? '' Kaden asked.

`` He works in Werewolf Support Services. ``

Kaden nodded. `` You know, that is kind of funny remark, considering .... ''

Matt rolled his eyes. `` Yeah, I know. The general world did n't really think it was that curious when we were living in Australia. ``

`` And that 's why you moved ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Pretty much, yeah, '' matte said quietly, `` But I like Hogwarts, so I do n't really deal that we had to proceed. ``

`` How about you, Albus ? '' John the Evangelist asked, `` Anything energize happening in the most illustrious wizarding family ? ``

Albus rolled his eyes. If anyone besides his friends referred to his family that way, he probably would cause hexed them.

`` Actually, '' Albus began, surprised that he had momentarily forgotten about it, `` I do receive some occupy news about the Hogwarts staff. ``

`` What is it ? '' St. John the Apostle asked eagerly, `` Is Slughorn finally retiring for good ? ``

`` No, '' Albus laughed, `` I do n't remember that will ever happen. ``

`` Then what is it ? '' Matt asked.

`` My dad 's not teaching vindication this twelvemonth, '' Albus answered. Harry had broken the news to Albus, James, and Lily a few weeks ago. Albus was disappointed, but not really surprised. He had been surprised that Harry had stayed for More than a year.

Matt, John the Divine, and Kaden gaped at him. `` What ? '' John asked, `` Are you good ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded.

`` Why ? '' Matt asked, `` He 's a splendid instructor. ''

`` He thinks he needs to focus more on his Auror job, '' Albus explained, `` He wants to fully give his metre to finding Willinson and Washburn. ``

`` Oh, well, that makes sense, '' Matt replied.

`` Who 's replacing him ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` Dad did n't separate me. He said he wants me to make grow my own popular opinion of the instructor. ``

`` I wonder if we 'll ever have the exact same stave for two years in a row, '' John commented, `` I mean, kickoff year they were all new to us. Last yr we got Cedonia. And this class we 've got some new Defense teacher. ``

`` I just hope whoever the new teacher is, that they 're nice, '' Matt said, `` So what do you lot want to do ? We 've got a few hr until dinner party. ``

`` Hmm, '' Albus mused, `` Want to spiel Quidditch ? That playing area would be excellent for it. ``

Matt groaned. `` That 's the one thing we ca n't do. The Muggle granger is often out tending to his force field and he 'd see us. ``

`` I 've got an idea, '' Kaden grinned mischievously and dug around in his bag. He pulled out a football. `` Let 's bid football. ``

The boys decided it was as honest an mind as any and they ran downstairs. Albus had limited experience with football. He had watched a distich compeer and played it a few meter, but that was it. He did n't call up Saint John had ever played and he was n't for certain about matt. King John was skeptical about the fun of football, but he was willing to pass it a try.

`` Where are you boys going ? '' Mrs Eckerton shouted from the kitchen as they ran to the rearwards door.

`` We 're going to act football, '' Matt said as he pulled the door open.

`` Be heedful ! '' Mrs. Eckerton replied.

Albus followed Matt down the pack of cards stairs and into the field. He stood next to lustrelessness and john and all three of them turned to Kaden, who had set the bollock on the footing and had one substructure on it.

`` Have any of you played football before ? '' Kaden asked.

`` A few times, '' Albus answered.

`` Nope, '' John the Evangelist said.

`` When I was younger, I played a bit, '' lusterlessness replied, `` But I was never any skilful. ``

Kaden sighed. `` All right wing. Why do n't we just play two on two. John and I versus Albus and lusterlessness. ``

The other three boys nodded. Kaden pointed out two dissimilar tree diagram that would serve well as makeshift goal. He next explained the rule of the plot and they began playing.

Albus found the conception very exchangeable to that of his Chaser post in Quidditch, only he could n't use his hands. That was very odd. He had trouble keeping the egg near his metrical foot and even more trouble aiming it to flatness. Half the meter Kaden would steal it and he would n't even get a chance to pass it.

John was hardly any better than Albus. He never managed to give up the ballock where he aimed it, but Kaden 's superior acquisition seemed to correct for whoremaster 's lack of skill. The two of them ( well, Kaden ) had scored more goals than Albus and Matt.

Matt seemed to be capable to aim the ball, but he wound up tripping over it a lot. He did manage to score a few destination, though.

All in all, Albus thought it was form of fun. It was n't something he desired to be on an functionary team of, but it was fun to work informally. Not nearly as exciting as Quidditch, though.

`` trick ! '' Albus shouted as Saint John picked up the formal and took off across the field, `` You ca n't reach the ball ! ``

`` I 'm turning the game into Quidditch-football ! '' lav shouted and threw the egg at the goal, `` See, we 've got another point now ! ``

Kaden groaned and kicked the clump back into frolic. `` That 's cheating, John ! And we 're winning, so we do n't need to cheat ! ``

`` I do n't manage ! '' John grinned and picked the bollock up again.

Kaden tackled trick and tried to wrestle the ball out of his arms. King John tried to escape, but Kaden was holding onto his leg.

`` Now it 's Quidditch-football-wrestling, '' Albus said to Matt as the two of them walked towards their wrestling friends.

`` Albus ! service ! Your cousin is Muggle dueling with me ! ``

`` Well, we are playing a Muggle sport, John, '' Albus smirked and yanked the football out of his hands.

`` Hey ! '' Kaden shouted and grabbed Albus 's leg, `` Give that back ! ``

Albus stumbled and fell onto the reason. He held the Lucille Ball out of Kaden 's reach and Kaden tackled him. can, now free of Kaden 's wrath, grabbed Matt 's leg and pulled him into the mix.

`` Hey ! '' Matt shouted, `` I did n't shoot the football ! ``

`` Does n't matter, '' John grinned, `` We 're not going to let you remain firm there while we 're Muggle dueling each other. ``

`` Got it ! '' Kaden shouted a few minutes later. He held the football game up over his straits. `` And I declare bathroom and I the winners ! ``

Albus stood up and sway his head. John and Matt stood up after him. John looked quite triumphal at the win, even though he had n't really contributed to it.

`` praise, '' matt smirked, `` You beat a incompetent wizard and a Chaser at football. ``

`` Any win is a safe win, '' Kaden grinned.

`` son ! '' Mrs Eckerton shouted from the window, `` dinner is ready ! ``

Albus grinned as he walked towards the firm. As much as he enjoyed his own house, it was fun to expend a few mean solar day with matte and his other admirer. Plus, the young woman were n't there. They had never really had time away from Rose and Amanda and it was kind of fun. Not that he did n't delight their company, there were just things they could n't really do around Rose and Amanda. Like round a football lucifer into a grappling equal, for example.

`` What did you boys do ? '' Mrs. Eckerton exclaimed as they entered the house, `` You 're smutty ! I want you all to go shower before you eat ! ``

`` Just like home, '' Kaden commented, `` You 're a lot like my mum. ``

`` wellspring, I 'll guide that as a compliment, '' Mrs. Eckerton smiled.



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks so much to everyone for reading and for your rattling reviews ! You make my day when you leave reviews ! Also, I will be updating on Wednesdays from now on, they 're just easier this semester.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Dinner with lustrelessness 's parents was interesting. Mealtimes at Albus 's house were always helter-skelter and never really planned in outstanding detail. It seemed like one of his parents was always coming or going. Then there was the fact that at least one of his cousins or Teddy always seemed to be showing up partway through the meal. But Albus did n't really mind. He variety of liked the chaos that was his family.

Mealtimes at matt 's house, on the other hand, seemed to a greater extent formal and planned. His mum and house elf, Ellie, cooked a lavish spreading and served it on fancier dish aerial than Albus 's mob had. And lusterlessness did n't receive any relatives to randomly drop in. Albus enjoyed it, though. The formalities of it did n't unsettle Kaden in the least and he dominated the conversation, which centered around Hogwarts, Quidditch, and football.

The boys spent the evening in the den performing round after round of Exploding ginger nut. Since pink wine was n't there, they all had a fortune of winning. mat 's parents joined in for a few rounds and once they left, Albus and his admirer talked about the upcoming school year. Gospel According to John and Kaden agreed that they needed to pull up a few marauderesque trick, but Albus and mat were a bit reluctant. The job of schoolhouse pranksters was currently held by James II and his friends and Albus really did n't desire everyone to imagine he was a just like his brother.

Eventually, Mrs Eckerton returned to the room and told them they needed to get to bed. Albus followed Matt up the stairs and into the depository library. They all changed into pajamas, but they did n't go to bed. Their conversations continued until Mrs. Eckerton knocked on the door and told them they had to go to bed.

`` Albus ? '' lustrelessness whispered a few second later, `` Are you wake up ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus whispered back.

`` I 'm really sword lily you came, '' matt replied.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` You three are the first-class honours degree friends I 've ever had over here, '' Matt said quietly, `` I never really thought it would ever happen. ``

Albus really did n't bang what to say to that. He knew Matt had had a lonely childhood until going to Hogwarts, but the fact that he had never had friends over to his sign of the zodiac before never crossed his psyche.

`` Well, I 'll definitely require to come back, '' Albus decided to say.

`` Thanks, '' Matt said, `` Well, good night. ``

`` 'Night. ``

Albus fell asleep quickly to the muffled phone of Kaden 's snore. But what seemed like a short while later, he awoke again to the sound of someone 's whispering.

`` Kaden, '' soul whispered, `` Kaden ! ``

`` Wh-what is it ? '' Kaden yawned.

`` Are you hungry ? '' Albus recognized John 's voice.

`` Erm, a petty, I guess, '' Kaden replied.

`` neediness to go find some food ? '' John asked.

`` Sure. ``

Albus listened as John and Kaden got up from their cots and crept out of the room. There was the sound of footsteps on the stairs, and then quiet.

Albus leaned over his cot and poked Matt. `` flatness ! '' he whispered, `` Get up ! ``

mat rolled over and Albus groaned. It was always so difficult to wake him up. `` mat ! '' Albus shouted a footling louder.

Matt rolled over again and mumbled something incoherent. Albus poked him a petty harder and he finally opened his eyes.

`` What ? '' he asked.

`` John and Kaden went to get a snack, '' Albus told him. Albus did n't fuck what kind of snack the two of them were going to get, but he had a touch they would n't make it dewy-eyed. John the Evangelist and Kaden were known to hail up with some pretty mad ideas when they were together, especially when they did n't have Albus or flatness to antagonise them.

`` All right wing, '' flatness groaned and got out of his cot, `` Let 's go. ``

Albus got up and the two of them quietly left the room and went down to the kitchen. The light was on, but Albus could n't get a line anything going on. That could either be a respectable sign of the zodiac or a bad sign.

When the kitchen came into opinion, Albus saw John and Kaden rummaging around in the refrigerator.

`` We could combine this with that, '' Kaden was saying.

`` That is disgusting, '' John commented, `` But brilliant. ``

john and Kaden emerged from the icebox carrying respective containers. They set them down on the retort and then turned around.

`` Oh, hey Albus and matt ! '' John grinned, `` Want any of our midnight collation ? ``

`` Depends on what it is, '' Albus smiled wryly and sat down on one of the counter stools, `` If you think something is both disgusting and brilliant, I 'll bet it 's really disgusting. ``

`` Oh, come on, Albus, '' Kaden grinned, `` Mashed potatoes and chocolate patty would be a undecomposed combination. ``

`` Oh, nasty ! '' Matt grimaced and sat down future to Albus.

`` It 's only filthy if you forget the cetchup, '' whoremonger replied.

Even the estimate of a combination like that made Albus want to regorge. It sounded like some sort of new Bertie Bott 's flavor.

`` No thanks, '' Albus said.

`` Your loss, '' Kaden shrugged and opened the container of potatoes.

`` So, if you 're not down here to eat our Delicious food, what are you here for ? '' privy asked as he dumped the cake into the potatoes.

`` To superintend you, '' Matt replied, `` I ca n't let the two of you cook unsupervised in my kitchen. ``

`` Oh, relax, '' John the Evangelist grinned.

Albus watched as Kaden stirred the Solanum tuberosum and coat compounding. It actually did n't front that bad. Almost like some sort of strange pudding. Albus was certainly the cetchup would neutralize any sort of potential drop edibility, though.

`` Hey, what 's this thing ? '' whoremonger gestured to a black box that was attached to the tail end of the cupboards along the wall. He pushed a few push and the solid thing lit up inside and started whirring.

Albus stared at it. He vaguely remembered seeing something like it at some of his first cousin'houses, but he could n't ever recall using it.

`` It 's a microwave, '' Matt jumped off his feces and pushed a button on it. It stopped whirring and turned shadow again. `` And you ca n't sprain it on when it 's empty. ``

John stared at it. `` What 's it do ? What 's the point ? ``

`` It cooks solid food, '' Matt explained, `` Faster than an oven. ``

`` Oh, '' St. John the Apostle shrugged and picked up a fork that was sitting on the counter. He put it in the microwave and went to flex it on.

mat grabbed his arm. `` You ca n't put metal in it ! It 'll divulge ! ``

Albus smirked. And Gospel According to John said he did n't ask superintendence. He definitely did, especially since there were Muggle contraption everywhere.

`` Well that 's stupefied, '' John replied and took the fork out.

Matt shrugged. `` It 's Muggle technology. ``

`` Why 's it in here then ? '' St. John asked.

`` Came with the theater. And my mum the likes of Muggle technology for cooking. ``

`` Oh, '' John said and turned to Kaden, who had begun pouring tomato ketchup in the mixture, `` Let 's put the whole thing in the microwave ! ``

lusterlessness groaned and turned to Albus. `` This wo n't call on out good. ``

Albus laughed. `` Probably not. But Kaden 's Muggle born, so I 'm pretty sure he knows how to put to work the microwave. ``

`` Good point, '' lustrelessness said, `` John ! Let Kaden do the microwaving. ``

`` Aw, '' Gospel According to John sighed, `` It looks fun. ``

Kaden took the arena and put it in the microwave. He turned it on and Albus watched as the bowl turned around and around on the inside dental plate. It was rather ingenious, he thought. Almost like thaumaturgy. It seemed like a thaumaturgy box that cooked food for thought in phonograph record time.

A mo or so later, the microwave beeped, which caused John to jump out. `` Bloody hell ! '' he shouted, `` What was that ? ``

`` It means it 's done, '' Kaden laughed and took the bowl out, `` Who wants to try it ? ``

`` Me ! '' St. John the Apostle shouted and grabbed a few spoonful off the parry.

`` No way, '' Albus shook his fountainhead. The concoction in the bowl was the consistence of pud, but was a strange ruby-red Robert Brown coloring that was absolutely disgusting looking.

`` Me either, '' Matt said, `` Just the smell of that grosses me out. ``

John the Divine took a whiff and grinned. `` flavor thoroughly ! ``

`` Oh, double-dyed ! '' Matt covered his mouth.

`` You look a bit green, '' Albus said to Matt.

`` Good thing he 's not having any, '' Kaden took a immense spoonful and stuffed it in his mouth.

Albus watched as Kaden swallowed the food for thought. He was actually smiling when he had finished. Matt really looked like he was going to be sick after watching Kaden eat it.

`` Delicious ! '' Kaden grinned.

`` Kaden, that is the most disgusting thing I have ever seen you eat, '' Albus announced.

John tried it adjacent and pronounced it delicious as well. Albus and lusterlessness just stared at each other and tried not to watch as John and Kaden polished off the rest of the concoction.

`` Are you done yet ? '' flatness asked, `` The smell of it is really getting to me. ``

`` Almost, '' John said.

`` Done, '' Kaden replied.

`` You 'd better lave the bowls out, '' Matt said.

Kaden nodded and began to wash the dishes. John returned to the refrigerator and started rummaging around again.

`` You 're not still hungry, are you ? '' Albus asked.

`` Not really, '' John shrugged, `` Just looking. ''

He closed the refrigerator and went back over to the microwave. He stuck something in it, pushed a few push button, and it lit up and started whirring again.

`` What did you put in there ? '' Matt asked suspiciously.

`` Er, '' John stammered, `` Well, I just sort of wanted something else to eat- ''

`` I thought you were n't hungry, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't, but then I got an idea and I thought I 'd make an egg- ''

`` AN EGG ? ! '' Matt shouted as he jumped up, `` Did you put an egg in the microwave ? ``

`` Er, yes, '' John said, `` Why ? ``

`` Because eggs- ''

Matt never got to finish his sentence. A loud pop came from the microwave oven before he could continue. He quickly turned the thing off and glared at lavatory. John was grinning and looking at the microwave.

`` Explode in microwave, '' Matt finished.

`` Oh, er, sorry, '' John said, trying not to laugh.

`` That 's bright ! '' Kaden grinned and opened the microwave oven, `` I 've always wanted to try that ! ``

Albus stood behind mat and looked into the microwave oven. The inside was covered in egg egg yolk, ashen, and shell. It was a pure passel, yet kind of funny story at the Lapp time.

matt groaned, `` I ca n't believe you did that. well, ok, I can. I told you not to touch the microwave. ``

`` Sorry, '' John shrugged, `` I 'll strip it up. ``

`` strip what up ? ''

Albus turned around and saw Matt 's parents standing in the entrance to the kitchen. Both of them looked half asleep.

`` can decided to put an egg in the microwave oven, '' Matt explained.

Mr. Eckerton burst out laughing and his married woman glared at him. `` I did the Same thing when we first moved here, '' Mr. Eckerton grinned.

`` See ? '' John the Evangelist said, `` I 'm not the lone one ! ``

`` I know, '' flatness sighed, `` At to the lowest degree I caught you before you put the ramification in there. ``

`` Do I even want to have it away what you boys were doing down here ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked.

`` John and Kaden wanted a snack, '' Matt replied, `` So they made a revolt combination of mashed potatoes, chocolate cake, and catsup. They liked it, but Albus and I thought it was vile. Just the tone of it made me retch. ``

Mrs Eckerton groaned. `` wellspring, just strip up the microwave and go back bed. ``

`` Ok, Mum, '' matte replied.

`` You have to accept that was funny, Julie, '' Mr. Eckerton laughed.

`` Yes, I do actually find it funny that you made the same fault five class ago, and now John did it and he 's a 13 class old boy, '' Mrs. Eckerton smirked.

`` How was I supposed to know testis exploded in the microwave ? '' Mr. Eckerton asked as they stared back towards the stairs.

`` You should give birth taken Muggle sketch, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

Albus, lusterlessness, and Kaden waited while lav cleaned the microwave. It did n't assume him long and soon the four of them returned to their cots in the depository library. Albus fell asleep thinking about what Rose would say when he told her John exploded an egg in mat 's microwave.

******

`` What do you require to do ? '' Albus asked the side by side day. The boys were all sitting in the den throwing a Quaffle around.

`` Let 's microwave random stuff and nonsense, '' John suggested.

`` No way, '' Matt replied.

Matt 's parents had officially banned them from cooking for the end of the sojourn. Albus found this rather shady, especially the expression on John and Kaden 's faces when they were told they could n't make. The two of them spent a respectable XX second trying to find a loophole in the rule.

`` Do wiz play hide and essay ? '' Kaden asked.

`` That was random, '' Albus commented, `` But yes, genius do wager hide and essay. ``

`` I play it with my cousin-german all the time, '' bathroom said.

`` Me, too, '' Albus said. He loved games of skin and seek at the tunnel. There were splendid piazza to hide there.

`` We should play it, '' Kaden announced, `` It 's always boring to play it at my house because the only one there to play it with is Bethany. And she never skin in good places. ``

`` That 's what Amy said about me when I was little, '' mat said, `` I would always hide in the same place. ``

`` Ok, let 's play, '' John stood up, `` The couch in here can be home and we can hide out anywhere in the planetary house. ``

`` sound good. But no going outside, '' mat agreed, `` Who 's it ? ``

`` Albus, '' lavatory said.

Albus shrugged. He always liked being it. `` All right wing. You lot can all go hide and I 'll count to 100. ``

Albus closed his center and started count. He heard the footsteps of his friends disappear as he got closelipped to 100. Usually, one of his older first cousin was it whenever he played hide and seek. Albus rarely got to be it.

`` Ready or not, here I come ! '' he shouted and looked around the den. The den would be the perfect spot for concealing because it was near to the rest home couch. But there were n't very many places to blot out in it.

Albus walked quietly over to the one press that was in the room. He pulled it open and looked inside. Empty. He left the room and looked down the corridor. The bathroom, he thought, that would be a serious hiding place. Albus himself hid in the bathing tub on numerous occasions.

He stepped into the bathroom and sure enough, the exhibitor curtain was pulled shut. Albus yanked it open and saw John laying in the tub.

`` Got you, '' Albus grinned.

`` pigeon hawk, this is always a soundly smear ! '' Saint John groaned as he got out of the tub.

`` Yeah, which is why it 's always where I hide, '' Albus grinned, `` Come on, you can facilitate me search for Matt and Kaden. ``

Albus and John left the bathroom and resumed the search. Albus really did n't feel comfortable searching in Matt 's dad 's study, so they left it alone. Albus figured no one would obliterate in there anyway. They searched the repose of the downstairs, looking in every nook and cranny and closet. But Matt and Kaden were no where to be found.

Next they went upstairs and searched all the sleeping room except Matt 's parents'. The library and bathroom were searched as well, but still no fate. The game was reminding Albus of the single he played at the tunnel. James was always impossible to recover. Although one meter he got a broom and decided to loom above the house to hide. No one found him for hour and then the adults made a 'no flying'rule for hide and seek.

`` Where are they ? '' John the Divine said as they searched the program library for the second clock time, `` We 've searched the stallion business firm ! ``

`` Not the basement, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Good estimate, '' John agreed.

Albus and John ran down the stairs and towards the cellar. They opened the door and ran down another flight of stairs. Albus flipped on the light and the two of them began to look around. lustrelessness had showed them the basement earlier, when he showed them Amy 's potion brewing room.

John Lackland checked the potion brewing room while Albus looked in the principal part of the basement that seemed to be a combination reposition orbit and den. Still zilch. The cellar was perfectly pipe down, too.

`` What about that elbow room ? '' St. John pointed to a room at the dorsum of the basement.

`` mat said it was just repositing, '' Albus replied, `` I doubt either of them are in there. Plus, it 's so tranquillity. We 'd get wind some sorting of movement. No one 's down here. ``

`` Then where are they ? '' St. John the Apostle asked.

`` Maybe they made it to the couch, '' Albus suggested.

Albus and John returned the den and flatness was laying on the sofa. He grinned and sat up when Albus and John entered the room.

Albus gaped at flatness. `` Where were you hiding ? We did n't even see you run in here ! ``

`` I was in that W.C., '' Matt pointed to the loo Albus had searched earlier.

`` But I checked that as soon as I finished counting ! '' Albus groaned, `` And no one was in there ! ``

`` There 's a diminished door in there that leads to a littler press, '' Matt got up off the couch and walked over to the closet. `` smell, '' he opened the door.

Matt pulled back a few coat that were hanging up and Albus noticed a very diminutive door in the wall. Matt opened it and revealed a flyspeck press that was just big enough for a small person to go up into.

`` See ? '' Matt grinned.

`` You had an unfair advantage, '' John said, `` You know glut about this house that we do n't. ``

`` Well, when we play at your house, then you 'll throw an advantage. ``

`` My house does n't bear any lilliputian private closets, '' John muttered.

`` What 's that for anyway ? '' Albus asked.

`` Dunno, '' mat shrugged and looked around the room, `` Hey, where 's Kaden ? Did n't you find him ? ``

`` Nope, '' Albus replied. He never would have thought that Kaden would be this adept at pelt and seek.

`` We 'd better go find him, '' lavatory said.

`` wonderment why he has n't tried to run to the couch, '' Albus said as they left the room.

`` No idea, '' lusterlessness said, `` But with Kaden, it could be anything. ``

The male child searched the entire house twice, but they still could n't find Kaden. He was the ultimate hide and seek musician, Albus thought. He could even give Epistle of James lessons.

`` Where the ruddy Hades is he ? '' John shouted as they walked down the stairs.

`` I wonder if he 'll ever even come out if we do n't line up him, '' Albus said.

`` He 'll come out once he 's hungry, '' Matt pointed out.

`` What are you boys doing ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked. She was sitting on the couch Reading a record in the life room.

`` performing hide and seek, '' Matt replied and sat down on a chair, `` But we ca n't find Kaden. ``

`` Did you look outside ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked as she set down her book.

`` Outside was off limits, '' John said.

`` We 've searched the family twice just now, '' Matt said, `` And Albus and John searched it twice before that. We 've looked everywhere. ``

`` Everywhere ? '' Mrs. Eckerton raised her eyebrows, `` Even in the basement ? ``

matte 's face paled. `` Oh, Merlin ! Not the intact cellar ! ``

`` You 'd improve go cheque, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

Matt jumped off the sofa and ran towards the cellar doorway. Albus shrugged at St. John as they followed. He did n't suffer a clew as to why matte was so nervous about Kaden concealing in the cellar. Plus, Albus and John checked the basement. Except that storage way. But why would that piddle Matt nervous ? What was in it ?

Albus ran down the stairs and followed Matt. Sure enough, matt went straight to the depot room.

`` Merlin ! '' Matt muttered and paused in front of the door, `` Why did he shroud in here ? ``

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked.

matte sighed, but did n't resolve. He put his mitt on the doorknob and slowly opened it.

Albus gaped as he saw what was in the room. Well, what was n't in it. The room was completely abandon and had no windowpane. But the strangest parting was that it was padded. The story and walls were completely covered with what looked ilk mattresses.

`` Is that ? '' John asked, `` A padded room ? ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden, who was running around and literally bouncing off the walls, ran over to them, `` Took you long enough ! flatness, why did n't you secern us you had a padded way in your planetary house ? This is brilliant ! ``

Albus did n't think that lusterlessness thought it was so vivid. He was staring at Kaden and was as Edward White as he had been when his mum suggested they search the basement.

`` Bloody perdition, this is glorious ! '' whoremaster grinned and walked into the room.

`` No it 's not, '' matte said quietly, `` arrive on. ''

lustrelessness turned and left without waiting to see if the others would follow. Albus followed immediately and he heard John and Kaden run after him. Matt did n't say anything as they walked back upstairs, and Albus hoped Kaden would sustain the sentience not to say anything either.

`` Did you find him ? '' Mrs Eckerton asked as they entered the living room.

`` Yeah, '' mat muttered.

`` Was he- ''

`` Yeah, '' Matt said without stopping.

Albus followed him all the way upstairs and into his sleeping accommodation. lusterlessness flopped down on his bed and stared up at the cap. Albus sat down on the level and John and Kaden sat down on either side of him.

`` Er, what did I do ? '' Kaden whispered to Albus.

`` Shush, '' Albus replied. He had an inkling as to what that elbow room was used for, but he was n't sure. He did experience that it was usually best to let Matt enjoin them what was going on in his own time, though. Kaden 's pestering inquiry certainly were n't going to help.

Albus sat quietly for a while as they waited for Matt to say something. He was still laying on his bed staring at the cap. Kaden kept glancing at Albus and then at Matt and back again. John was playing with a gobstone that he had found on the floor.

lustrelessness sighed and sat up. Albus glanced up from the flooring and looked at him. `` You ok ? '' he asked.

`` I guess, '' he nodded, `` I should accept just told you not to veil in that room. ``

Albus nodded and sent Kaden a face so he would n't ask about the room.

`` I do n't know if you guessed what that room is for, '' Matt began, `` But I guess I 'll state you. ``

`` You do n't have to, '' Albus said quietly.

`` I know, '' flatness sighed, `` But I will, '' he paused, `` That way is where I transform. ``

Albus nodded. That 's what he had guessed. Judging by the tranquillize look on John the Evangelist 's side, he had guessed it too. Kaden on the other helping hand, was gaping at Matt.

`` postponement, what ? '' he asked.

`` That 's where I go during full moon, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, '' Kaden replied, `` Why is it padded ? ``

Albus groaned inwardly. Kaden really needed to discover not to ask about these sorting of things.

Matt laid back down on his bed and stared at the cap. `` Back when I was five and I went through my number one transmutation, I spent the whole nighttime ramming into the wall trying to get out. My dad put the padding on the walls before the next wide moonshine. Then when we moved here, my dad recreated the same elbow room in the basement of this house. ``

Albus winced at the persuasion of matte ramming himself into a wall. Every fourth dimension flatness told him something else about the full lunation, Albus felt even sorrier for him.

`` Oh, '' Kaden muttered, `` Er, sorry for hiding there, then. ``

matte sighed, `` It 's ok. I should have told you not to hide there. ``

`` What about the Shrieking hovel ? '' Kaden asked, `` Is that padded ? ``

`` No, '' matt replied, `` But it 's liberal, so I do n't bang my head as a great deal. ``

Kaden nodded. `` Well, I ca n't say I 've ever seen a cushioned room in anyone else 's family. ``

`` You 'll probably never see one again, '' Matt said dryly.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You cat are all awesome !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The difference of the visit at Matt 's house went by very fast for Albus. Albus and the other male child spent the succeeding few days playing various games and doing some of the homework they had put off until the cobbler's last minute. Amy visited for dinner one evening and let Kaden brew something in her potions elbow room. Kaden was thrilled and after he and Amy had finished, he pronounced Amy the best potions brewer he 'd met besides Slughorn. Albus, Matt, and Gospel According to John did not participate in the brewing since all three of them got enough of potions at Hogwarts.

Albus threw his bag over his shoulder and went downstairs with Matt, John, and Kaden. Mrs Eckerton and Amy were waiting by the door.

`` Are you boys gear up ? '' Mrs. Eckerton asked.

`` Yeah, '' lusterlessness answered.

Mrs. Eckerton opened the door and Albus followed everyone outside. They walked a few meters away from the house and then Mrs. Eckerton put an arm around Matt and the other around Albus. Amy did the Sami with St. John the Apostle and Kaden and all six of them disappeared with a crack.

They reappeared in the middle of the Leaky caldron, which was practically empty. Albus was n't surprised since it was early afternoon on a weekday. Albus looked around the pub and saw his mum, Uncle Ron, James, Rose, Victor Hugo, and Lily sitting at a nearby tabular array. John 's mum and sisters were sitting with them. James looked bored out of his mind and a little devil as can 's sisters ran around the room.

The adults greeted each early while Lily, Victor-Marie Hugo, and John 's baby, Ashtyn, flew out of their seats and over to Albus and the other boys. rosiness followed them and stood side by side to Albus.

`` We 're getting our wands today ! '' Lily announced.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn grinned, `` And Word of God and gown and cauldron and- ''

`` We know, Ashtyn, '' whoremonger groaned, `` You 've been telling me about it since I got abode from school. ``

`` Me and Lily are going to be in Gryffindor, '' Ashtyn said proudly, `` But Lily says Hugo is going to be in Hufflepuff. ``

`` Am not, '' Hugo retorted.

`` There 's nothing wrong with Hufflepuff, '' John said, `` My cousin is in Hufflepuff. ``

`` wellspring, anything 's salutary than Slytherin, right Albus ? '' Lily said.

`` Er, right, '' Albus agreed.

`` fry ! '' Ginny shouted, `` We 're going to go to Flourish and Blotts first, then gentlewoman Malkins. Al, you need new gown. ``

`` So do you, rosebush, '' Ron put in.

`` As do you, Johnny, '' Mrs. Brickston said.

`` I want my wand ! '' Lily whined.

`` You 'll get it, '' Ginny said, `` But you need robes too. And your baton will be useless without book. ``

Lily pouted and folded her munition across her chest, but followed Ginny out of the pub. Albus and his Friend followed the adult, James, and the female child out of the pub and into Diagon Alley.

Diagon alley was a bit more crowded than the Leaky cauldron, but still rather deserted. Albus walked with the large group into tucket and Blotts, where the salesman took one tone at them and ran into the backbone way. He returned with a saleslady.

Ginny walked up to them. `` Let 's see, I have four Hogwarts Quran lists. ``

`` And I have two, '' Ron rummaged around in his robes and pulled out two crease pieces of parchment.

`` I 've got two as well, '' Mrs. Brickston said.

`` And I have one, '' Mrs. Eckerton said.

`` Ok, if you 'll just hold us a few minutes, we 'll get them for you, '' the salesman took the listing and gave half the hatful to the saleslady.

`` So, what did you lot do at lustrelessness 's theatre ? '' rose asked as they were waiting.

Albus looked at John and burst out laughing. `` John had fun with the microwave, '' Albus smirked.

rosebush groaned. `` What did you do ? ``

`` Microwaved an egg, '' Saint John the Apostle replied, `` It made a nice explosion. ``

`` Bet your mum was n't well-chosen, '' rosiness said to Matt.

`` She just made him clean it up. My dad did the Same matter after we moved here. We did n't birth a microwave in Australia, '' Matt said.

`` Muggle work ought to be mandatary, '' Rose sighed.

Albus spent a few Thomas More minute telling Rose about what they had done at lustrelessness 's household, although he left out the part about the padded room. Matt could tell apart rose that later if he wanted to.

`` Here you go, Al, '' Ginny dumped a flock of books into Albus 's arms.

Once everyone had a slew of book of account in their weapon, the chemical group left the book store. They walked down the street until they reached ma'am Malkin 's. Luckily, the shop was hollow, although they 'd cause to await a spell until everyone was fitted for robes.

Lily and Ashtyn went first, since they were tidal bore to get their new robes. Hugo was excited about going to Hogwarts, but he could n't like less about robes.

Albus sat down on a chair as he waited for his spell. Matt and John sat down on either position of him. Albus glanced over and saw that Matt was staring wide eyed at his stack of Word of God. Albus peered down at his own quite a little of books, but the one on top was Intermediate Transfiguration.

Albus looked over at Matt 's stack of books and he gaped when he saw which book was on top. It was the take Lapplander Koran that Kaden had found at fanfare and Blotts a class ago. The one entitled Dark Creatures : How to Protect Yourself.

`` Interesting book choice, '' Albus muttered.

matte looked up at Albus. `` This does n't bode well for the new defense teacher. ``

Albus shrugged. `` Well, tierce year refutation does centre on dark creatures. ``

`` It does ? '' lusterlessness groaned, `` Great. That 's just what I need, for everyone to larn about you know what. ``

`` I doubt they will, '' Albus replied, `` No one 's going to pay that much attention in class. The only one in our year who would 've put the clues together after learning it in division is Rose, and she already knows. ``

`` I guess, '' matt muttered, `` I just hope the teacher is gracious. ``

A half hr later, everyone had new robe who needed them and the bombastic group exited Madam Malkin 's. They made their way down the street and towards Olivander 's. Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn arrived before anyone else did and could n't expect to set off trying out wands.

Albus watched as his sis waved numerous wands and subsequently broke everything on Olivander 's desk. After she tried a few Thomas More, Lily found her verge and proudly held the box as carefully as she could. Hugo and Ashtyn found wands a few minutes later and the group set off to the Apothecary.

After a sojourn to the apothecary, Eyelops, and Weasley 's thaumaturgist Wheezes, everyone had what they needed for the upcoming school yr. Albus was rather tired by the time they finished, but Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn seemed to have dateless zip. They kind of prompt Albus of the way Kaden had been the previous yr. Granted, Kaden still had endless zip, but the three eleven-year-olds had surpassed him.

Albus said bye to his booster in the Leaky caldron and then Flooed back to Grimmauld Place with his mum, Kaden, James, and Lily. He and Kaden watched Lily try to execute charm with her new wand while they waited for Dudley to pick Kaden up. Lily was variety of frustrated that she was unable to do much of anything besides 'Lumos'.

******

In an effort to try and void nearly missing the string like they had the former year, Ginny insisted that Albus, James, and Lily pack their automobile trunk the night before. Despite this, Albus awoke to the shouts of his mother.

`` Albus Severus Potter ! '' she shrieked, `` Get up ! We have to leave in ten minutes ! I seriously hope you 've got your body packed ! ``

Albus slowly got out of bed as he listened to the aloud footsteps of his mother in the corridor. `` James Sirius Potter ! Get out of bed this heartbeat ! ``

The door to his bedroom opened and Lily came bounding in, already dressed in her Hogwarts gown. `` Al ! We 've got to provide ! ``

`` I know, Lily ! '' Albus said in an stung timber, `` Now get out so I can get dressed ! ``

Albus hurriedly threw on some clothes once his sister left. He grabbed his owl cage and school bag and quickly left the way. He was quite gladiola his body was packed and already downstairs.

Harry was sitting on top of Albus 's trunk in the drawing room when Albus walked in. Lily was once again trying to perform piece with her wand.

`` Hey, Al, '' Harry grinned, `` prepare ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We leaving soon ? ``

`` As soon as St. James packs his trunk, '' Harry smirked.

`` James Sothis Potter ! '' Ginny shouted from upstairs, `` I told you to jam that concluding Night ! Hurry up ! ``

`` Daddy, why ca n't you learn Defense this yr ? '' Lily asked.

`` Because I have too much work at the Ministry, '' Harry explained as he pulled her onto his lap.

`` But it 's not comely, '' Lily whined, `` James and Al got to get you teach them for two years. ``

`` The new teacher is very competent, '' Harry assured her.

`` Is he nice ? '' Albus asked.

`` fountainhead, he 's, '' Harry paused, `` He 's fair. That 's a beneficial way of putting it. He 'll treat everyone the same. ``

At least he did n't sound like Washburn, Albus thought. But on the former hand, he did n't go like Neville or Cedonia either.

`` And just because I 'm not teaching, does n't think of I wo n't be around, '' Harry grinned.

`` What do you entail ? '' Albus asked.

`` I 'm not giving anything away, but Hogwarts will be an exciting place to be this yr, '' Harry said, `` Plus, the Ministry decided that Hogwarts needs more trade protection in the form of Aurors after utmost year 's incident. And the twelvemonth before 's. ``

That certainly spiked Albus 's curiosity. What could be going on that would make Hogwarts more exciting than usual ?

`` seminal fluid on, '' Albus replied, `` Ca n't you hold us a mite ? ``

`` Nope, '' Harry laughed, `` I probably should n't have even said that. ``

Albus groaned. `` Aw, just tell us. ``

`` Tell us what ? '' James asked as he entered the room.

`` Dad says something exciting is happening at Hogwarts this year but he wo n't tell us what. ``

`` Please, Dad ? '' James whined.

`` No, '' Harry lifted Lily off his lap and stood up, `` Now we 'd meliorate go or you 'll miss the gear. ``

The ceramist arrived on chopine 9 3/4 with fifteen minutes to spare, which was actually earlier than they had arrived the previous year. They met Kaden and his mob as well as rosiness, Hugo and their parents. Harry and Ron loaded all the shorts onto the string and then returned to say goodbye.

`` I 'll see you soon, Al, '' Harry said as he gave Albus a hug.

`` Be good, Albus, '' Ginny smiled, `` And film aid of Lily. ``

`` I will, '' Albus replied, `` Bye, Mum. Bye, Dad. ``

Once everyone had said goodbye, Albus headed to the train with rose wine and Kaden. St. James the Apostle immediately left to find his friends, and Lily and Hugo followed Albus and rosiness. They climbed on just before the railroad train started moving and waved to their parents until the train left the station.

Albus peered into all the compartments trying to find the one that his Quaker were in. He eventually found them halfway down the string and pulled the room access open.

`` Hey, '' Albus grinned as he sat down next to Matt.

`` Hi, Albus, Rose, Kaden, '' Matt greeted them.

Kaden sat down next to John and Rose sat next to Amanda. Victor Hugo and Lily sat down near Ashtyn and the three of them immediately started talking about the sort and the Hogwarts planetary house. Albus, who had been listening to Lily speak about that all summer, did not want to participate in that conversation.

He turned to lusterlessness. `` Guess what ? ``

`` What ? '' Matt asked.

`` My dad says something exciting is happening at Hogwarts this twelvemonth, but he wo n't tell me what, '' Albus said.

`` Really ? wish he 'd tell you what it was, '' lustrelessness replied.

`` How could he say that and not secern you ? '' John groaned.

`` Any estimation what it is ? '' Matt asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus shook his promontory and then turned to Rose, `` Has Uncle Ron said anything ? ``

`` Just that it was something exciting, '' Rose sighed, `` The only thing I can think of is the Triwizard Tournament. ``

`` The what ? '' lustrelessness, Amanda, and Kaden asked at the Same time.

`` Did n't someone die the last time they had that ? '' Gospel According to John asked.

Albus nodded. `` The Triwizard tournament is a contest that involves three wizarding schools : Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang. A friend from each school participates in three sorcerous chore and whichever champion wins gets the Triwizard Cup.

`` The finis time they had it was in my dad 's fourth year and a dying eater tricked the cup into choosing my dad as a fourthly whiz. He won, but the other Hogwarts mavin, Cedric Diggory, died during the final task. ``

`` Whoa, '' mat stared at him, `` Do you really think they 'd do that again ? ``

`` No, '' rosiness shook her mind, `` There 's no way they 'd do that again. At least not for years. Cedric 's Death is too sassy in a lot of people 's minds to have that tournament again. So I have no estimation what my dad and Uncle Harry were talking about. ``

`` I wish they 'd do the tourney again, '' John said, `` I fancy myself as the Hogwarts champion. ``

`` Me, too, '' Kaden grinned, `` That would be superb. ``

`` Not me, '' Albus shook his head. He hated being in the spotlight. `` I bet Saint James would do it, though. ``

`` I would n't, '' lusterlessness said.

`` Me, either, '' Amanda agreed, `` What about you, climb up ? ``

`` I 'd probably enter, '' Rose replied, `` But lastly clip they did it, you had to be seventeen. So even if that is what was going on this year, none of us would be able to come in. ``

`` I bet GA would move into, '' Albus commented.

`` No doubt about that, '' rosiness agreed.

`` Oh, and my dad knows who the new Defense instructor is, '' Albus announced.

`` Is he nice ? '' Matt asked immediately.

`` All my dad said was that he was fair, '' Albus sighed, `` He kind of dodged the question when I asked if he was decent. ``

`` That 's a bad preindication, '' mat groaned.

`` If he 's fair, then he wo n't be favoring the Slytherins, '' St. John pointed out.

`` Have you looked at that book yet ? '' Albus whispered to Matt.

`` Nope, '' Matt replied, `` Have n't wanted to. ``

`` wellspring, '' John began, `` If he 's think to you, we can try and get him clear before he starts the you-know-what unit. That unit of measurement 's not until the end of the yr. ``

`` And how are you going to do that ? '' Rose raised her eyebrows.

`` Dunno, '' john shrugged, `` We 'll recollect of something. ``

`` That, '' rosiness sighed, `` Has got to be the dumbest idea you 've come up with. And that includes microwaving the egg. ''

`` Well, have you got any safe ideas ? '' John asked.

`` Why do n't we just time lag and see what the teacher is like before we start thinking about getting him sacked ? '' rosebush suggested.

The rest of the caravan ride passed quickly. The full compartment participated in an Exploding Snap contest, which Rose won. Then they bought a gravid amount of snacks from the tramcar. Albus fell asleep shortly after he finished eating and the adjacent thing he knew, rose wine was nudging him wake and telling him to change into his gown.

The sky had turned dark and the weather stormy while Albus had been sleeping. Thunder sounded and lightning flashed as he pulled on his gown. He was very gladiolus he was n't going to be crossing the Black Lake like Lily was. He 'd much rather need a thestral-pulled pusher and appease dry.

The train pulled into Hogsmeade place and Albus joined the throngs of bookman heading out into the rainy weather. He heard Hagrid calling the showtime years and said goodbye to Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn. Albus found an discharge posture and led his friends inside.

`` The first years are going to get soaked, '' toilet said as he wrung out his hat onto the nates of the carriage.

`` Spooky crossing the lake in this weather, '' Kaden grinned, `` Makes me wish I was crossing the lake. ``

`` Maybe the Giant squid will tip over one of the boats, '' John grinned mischievously, `` I 've heard it does n't care this variety of weather. ``

rosebush rolled her eyes. `` The calamary is not going to flip one of the sauceboat. ``

If the Squid tipped Lily 's boat, she would freak out. Albus 's sister had always scared easily, a trait that King James I and Albus always took full-of-the-moon advantage of.

`` James purposely tipped his sauceboat when he crossed the lake, '' Albus said. He still remembered his female parent receiving an owl telling her about that. She wasted no time in getting a thigh-slapper off to James.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` Wish I 'd thought of that. ``

`` Me, too ! '' John agreed.

`` I 'm glad you did n't, '' Albus laughed, `` We all would have been soaked. ``

`` Yeah, '' lusterlessness agreed, `` That would not have been pleasant. ``

The oddment of the trip up to the castle was spent discussing the likeliness of one of the boats being tipped over by the Giant calamary. John Lackland and Kaden decided that they wanted to find the Giant calamary that year and agreed to choose a swim in the Black Lake during the inaugural available weekend.

The entire Entrance Hall was covered in water by the time Albus and his friends entered the castle. Albus was trusted Filch would own a hippogriff when he saw it. Albus led his friends to the familiar Gryffindor board and sat down, eager for the spread to start.

Albus scanned the stave mesa and his heart rested on the only unfamiliar face. A posterior looking man with his disgraceful hair cut in a Muggle military style was sitting completely still. His eyes seemed to penetrate every student in the stallion room at the Lapplander time. Albus did not get the sense that this teacher would be nice, although he lacked the hate that Washburn had emanated.

`` That must be the new defence mechanism teacher, '' matt whispered to Albus, `` Merlin, he does not attend well-chosen. ``

`` Looks like his typeface is frozen that way, '' Kaden muttered.

`` I would n't want to be on his bad side, '' Albus replied.

`` spirit to me like he had a bit too much U-No-Poo, '' John laughed.

Albus snorted and shook his head. It did kind of flavor like the professor had a bit too very much of that certain Weasley merchandise. His Uncle Percy wore that same look when his Uncle George VI put U-No-Poo in his tea over the summer.

The Great hall immediately quieted down as Professor Patil led the world-class eld into the elbow room and towards the stave mesa. They congregated near the three-legged stool upon which the categorization Hat sat.

`` They look shorter than close twelvemonth 's first years, '' King John whispered as the sort Hat began singing.

`` They are, '' Kaden agreed, `` I was n't that short conclusion year. ``

`` Yeah, you actually were, '' John replied, `` Hey, Matt, I think these maiden eld might actually be shorter than you. A few of them, that is. ``

Matt rolled his eyes. `` At least I 'm not a giraffe like you. ``

`` Hey, height has its welfare, '' John retorted.

`` And so does lack of tallness, '' matt pointed out, `` At least I did n't throw to stand still while Madam Malkin poked me with needles like you did. ``

`` Shush ! '' Rose hissed, `` They 're starting the Sorting ! ``

Albus watched as a chubby boy was sorted into Ravenclaw. The following first year became a Slytherin and the future was another Ravenclaw.

`` Brickston, Ashtyn ! '' Patil announced.

John 's baby ran forward and jammed the hat onto her capitulum with a big smile on her human face. Mere seconds later, the hat exclaimed, `` Gryffindor ! '' Ashtyn practically flew across the room and sat down across from John.

`` Congratulations, Ashtyn ! '' John grinned, `` Gryffindor really is the best star sign. ``

`` Yeah, '' Ashtyn agreed, `` Although Isabelle kept telling me to desire for Hufflepuff. ``

`` Well, she is a Hufflepuff .... ''

Albus did n't really pay attention to the next few sorting. He vaguely recognized a few names, but did n't really know any of them. He snapped back into reality when he heard Patil announce, `` Potter, Lily ! ``

Lily ran forward with almost as much exhilaration as Ashtyn. The hat took a little more prison term to decide than it had with Ashtyn, but it soon shouted, `` Gryffindor ! ``

The Gryffindor table erupted with cheers as Lily ran towards it. Albus clapped her on the back, as did James and all their cousins, and Lily took a seat next to Ashtyn.

Soon, Hugo was the only initiatory yr left standing near the hat. Hugo had already started putting the hat on when Patil called out his epithet, which caused a few of Albus 's cousin to burst out in laughter.

`` He may be the but Weasley to ever be in Hufflepuff, '' Cedric smirked.

`` Gryffindor ! '' the hat announced a arcminute later.

`` Or not, '' Cedric grinned as he clapped along with everyone else.

Hugo sat across from Lily and Ashtyn. `` Told you I 'd be in Gryffindor, '' he said to Lily. Lily shrugged.

prof Kendrick stood up. `` Welcome, scholarly person and staff ! As common, I will bring through all the speech making for after the feast. '' He waved his baton and sat back down.

Food appeared on all the golden plates and Albus helped himself to some of everything. He was hungry, although this year he had variety of wanted Kendrick to annunciate what the exciting thing was before the feast.

The theme of discussion varied greatly during the feast, and Albus mostly listened. lav and Matt had a heated argument about the Quidditch season, primarily the Chudley carom'spectacular red to the Holyhead Harpies that had taken billet a few Day previously. arise chattered non-stop about the new classes she was taking and bombarded her older first cousin with head about them. Albus was amazed she had any questions left, since she had done the same matter during the Weasley Family dinner party prior to the start of term.

Kaden talked to whoever would hear about the panorama of adding Muggle technology to Hogwarts. Albus groaned to himself as he heard Kaden narrate one of the first days about his petition to have televisions put into the common rooms. Amanda listened to Kaden, although it did n't seem like she was nearly as wind up as Kaden was.

`` So, how was the slip across the lake ? '' bathroom asked Ashtyn as the desserts appeared.

`` Wet, '' Ashtyn replied.

`` Any of the boat tip over ? '' he asked eagerly.

`` No, '' Ashtyn laughed.

`` Hagrid said he had anti-tipping charms put on them after Epistle of James tipped his a few years ago, '' Victor Hugo announced.

`` That 's no fun, '' whoremaster sighed.

A little while later, the golden plates became clean once again and Albus looked eagerly up at the stave table.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, and thanks as well to all the awful reviewer and referee !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


professor Kendrick rose to his base. `` May I have your attending ! '' he shouted and the room quieted down, `` Thank you. Now, I have a few rather boring announcement, two somewhat exciting ones, and one really exciting one. I shall start with the boring ones.

`` As common, the forest and Whomping willow are out of bounds to everyone. If you wish to try-out for your house 's Quidditch team, give your public figure to your head of house. The Dueling guild and Junior 's Dueling Club will be starting up again and once meetings have been set up, I shall let you know.

`` As for the somewhat excite declaration, we have a new Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor. Please welcome Professor Balladanis. ``

The stern looking professor stood up for a few arcsecond and received mediocre clapping. He resumed his hindquarters and prof Kendrick turned back to the students.

`` The other somewhat occupy announcement is that Hogwarts will be patrolled by Aurors a few daytime a week. After net year 's incident, the Ministry has deemed this a requisite precaution to need. The Aurors are positive that Jarrett Willinson and Jameson Washburn will try to return to Hogwarts at some head this year. I do not evidence you this to frighten you, but to score you aware of the situation. If anyone sees any fishy behaviour or has any selective information regarding the whereabouts of either fugitive, please narrate a teacher. ``

The entire Gryffindor board turned to Albus and his friends at this declaration. Albus felt his case turn red and he stared down at his home base. He really hated all the tending he got from what happened the former two years.

`` And now, '' Kendrick continued, `` I have a very exciting announcement to have. ``

Albus grinned and turned to his champion, who were all wearing equal faces of upheaval, and then turned back to the headmaster.

`` offset, I would like you all to call back the inter-house dueling from cobbler's last year. ``

The entire vestibule groaned and people started whispering amongst themselves.

`` Quiet down, '' Kendrick said, `` There was a reasonableness why I enacted that last twelvemonth. more than than just school ace, that is. I wanted the school to become more merge because of an event that is taking place this class. An consequence that will put us into contender with early witching schools- ''

`` The Triwizard Tournament ? ! '' Omar Bradley exclaimed, `` Is that it ? ``

`` No, '' Kendrick replied, `` This is not the Triwzard tournament. It is a different competition that will involve Sir Thomas More than just one student from each school.

`` Tomorrow eventide, shortly before dinner, a select group of scholarly person from the Adirondack honorary society of magic, which is in New House of York State, and the Aussie School of black art will travel to Hogwarts, where they will live and attend year for the duration of the year. ``

Albus turned to look at flatness, who was gaping at Kendrick.

`` The student from both schools will be Sorted into the four Hogwarts houses during a special Sorting ceremonial occasion tomorrow evening. They will experience in whichever house they are Sorted into and look classes with those in their year. I expect you all to do by them like they are colleague Hogwarts students.

`` However, you will also be competing against them. There are two case. The inaugural is Qudditch. Each of the schooltime has created a Quidditch team comprised of the best Quidditch thespian in their several schooling. We will be doing the same matter here. The three squad will roleplay each former throughout the year and whichever team wins shall receive the Quidditch Cup for Schools.

`` The early upshot will be dueling. Each of the schools has also put together a squad of the best duelers in their respective school. Again, we shall do the same. The tournament will lick much like the Dueling clubhouse works here. ``

The stallion school started talking at once. Albus thought the whole matter was brilliant. It was like the Triwizard tournament, only less dangerous. Maybe he could even enter. He was a enough chaser and dueler.

`` Albus, you 've got to try out for the Hogwarts Quidditch team ! '' John shouted.

`` I will ! '' Albus grinned, `` As long as they do n't cause an age limit or anything. ``

`` I do n't recall they will, '' blush wine said, `` Quidditch is n't that dangerous. ``

`` It sort of is, '' John laughed.

`` Maybe I can duel, '' Kaden said, `` I 'm a second year now. ``

`` I think it 'll be enceinte just to go to shoal with child from Australia and New House of York ! '' rose wine exclaimed, `` Think of all we can learn from them ! ``

`` Yeah, '' Amanda agreed.

`` silence ! '' Kendrick shouted over the cackle and everyone settled down, `` The Hogwarts Quidditch squad is spread out to anyone who is currently on a sign of the zodiac Quidditch team. I 'm dark if that upsets some of you, but it would be out of the question to retain try-outs for the intact schooling, and I think it would be better if our team were comprised of those who have experience on a Quidditch squad. If you have interest group in trying out, delight tell your head of house.

`` Try-outs for the Hogwarts Dueling squad will be open to fifth through seventh class only. ``

`` bull, '' Kaden muttered.

`` If you want to try out, give your name to your head of household. Try-outs for both team will most likely be future weekend. I believe that is all I have to say for now. start years, please conform to a prefect to your common room. soundly night, everyone. ``

Albus got up from the table and walked to Gryffindor towboat with his friends. They talked about the competition the entire meter. Albus was incredibly excited about the outlook of playing for the Hogwarts Quidditch team, and a little aflutter at the same clock time. Of class, his chances of getting picked were form of slim. He was the youngest chaser eligible to try out.

`` Albus ! '' James pushed his way through the crowd of Gryffindors in the common way, `` Are you trying out ? ``

`` Of row ! '' Albus grinned, `` You ? ``

`` Yeah ! '' James exclaimed, `` That 's everybody ! Everyone on the Gryffindor team is trying out ! Would n't that be amazing if we were all picked ? ``

`` You wo n't be, '' blush wine said, `` The wholly point is to have a Hogwarts team, not a Gryffindor squad. ``

`` Albus and James will get picked, '' Kaden said adamantly, `` You two are both great Quidditch musician. ``

`` Thanks, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` But all the other chaser are elderly than me. ``

`` DOE n't matter, '' John assured him, `` They 'll be searching for science, not age. ``

`` Who 's picking the team ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Probably professor Oteski, '' James IV said, `` And maybe the point of sign will facilitate. ``

Albus and his friends talked about the Quidditch competition for another few minutes before retiring to their dormitories for the night. Albus climbed into his associate four-poster bed, but found that he was too emotional to slumber. The more he thought about the Hogwarts Quidditch team, the more he thought he actually had a fortune of making it. He was also excited about having the Australian and American pupil at Hogwarts. He had n't really met many foreign witches and genius before, not including his Aunt Fleur 's home. matt and Amy and their parents were the closest he 'd come, and they 'd been living in England for a patch. lusterlessness did n't seem very excited about the solid thing, though. In fact, he had remained rather quiet ever since Kendrick made the announcement.

******

It was easy to feel the hullabaloo at Hogwarts the following day. Since it was Dominicus, classes were n't starting yet. Most people slept belatedly, and the main matter of conversation in the Great Hall at lunchtime was the contest and the bookman from Australia and New York.

GA organized a prod of the moment Quidditch practice for the Gryffindor team in order to cook for the Hogwarts team try-outs. Albus and the rest of the team practiced for at least two hours that afternoon.

`` You 're a walkaway, James IV, '' Albus told his brother as the two of them began to walk off the pitch, `` Everyone knows you 're the best Seeker in the school day. ``

`` Well, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw are the exclusively former sign that are keeping their Seekers from last twelvemonth, '' James pointed out, `` So I 'll only be competing against Lisa Galivant and Miranda Corner. ``

`` And you 're considerably than both of them, '' Albus said, `` I 'll be competing against at least six early chaser. ``

`` Yeah, but you 're a good chaser, '' James assured him.

Albus nodded and shouldered his Scots heather. He was already anxious about the try-out, and it was almost a week away. What if he was so nervous during the try-out that he completely messed up ? He 'd just possess to be sure to calm down by then. Albus sighed and continued walking off the rake. Just as he was getting close to the stands, he noticed mortal sitting alone in the lower stage. It was Matt.

`` I 'll see you back in the commons elbow room, '' Albus said to his pal as he detoured towards the standstill. King James I nodded and continued back towards the castle.

Matt had hardly said a Logos the entire day. He was normally serenity, but it was never a just sign when he was completely silent. Albus knew better than to ask why, but he was still curious. He had a feeling it had to do with the Aussie students.

`` Hey, '' Albus sat down following to Matt.

`` Hi, '' mat mumbled.

`` Where 's everyone else ? '' Albus asked.

`` Rose is in the library researching about the magical schools in Australia and New York, '' mat explained, `` Amanda is with her. ``

`` Why does that not surprise me, '' Albus smirked, `` I 'm assuming John is n't with them ? ``

`` No, '' Matt gave a half-hearted laugh, `` He and Kaden are in the Marauder 's Den. I was there with them, but they kept talking about Quidditch and Dueling competition and I just got sick of it, so I came out here. ``

Albus nodded. Matt was going to have a hard clock time finding someplace in the school where no one was talking about the competitions.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively, `` I mean, you 've been form of quiet. ``

Matt sighed. `` I, '' he paused, `` I 'm just not that excited about the rivalry thing. Well, it 's not that, it 's the fact that we 're doing it with Australia. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus said, not certainly what to say next.

`` I was supposed to go to the Australian schooltime of Sorcery, '' Matt continued, `` That 's where Amy went. Then the master told my parents I could n't. In fact, he said it in a downright cruel way. I never read that letter. I think Mum burned it. But she never told me what it said. She just said it was mean. The headmaster hates, well, people like me. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. He turned to count at matt. He looked quite upset about the altogether thing. Albus had no theme what to say.

`` I do n't need the headmaster to descend here, '' Matt said quietly, `` I know that 's stupid person, really. I mean, he 's never met me. And we moved five year ago. He probably would n't even distinguish my last name. ``

`` It 's not stupid, '' Albus assured him. Albus could n't really conceive of what this was like for Matt, though. He supposed the only matter close would be if Washburn came back to teach or something. `` But I do n't retrieve you 'll really come into inter-group communication with their headmaster much. You ca n't try out for the Quidditch team or the Dueling Team, so I do n't recall you 'll do much more than walk him in the corridor. ``

`` I guess, '' flatness sighed, `` It 's just going to be so Wyrd. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` But I do n't cerebrate anything will take place. This is Kendrick 's schooltime. Even if the Australian headmaster is here, he ca n't really do anything. He 's got no control over anything here. ``

matte nodded. `` That 's true. I had n't really thought about that. ``

Albus stood up. `` semen on, let 's go find John and Kaden. I 'm trusted we can convince them not to talk about the rival. We could ask them how their plan for swimming in the blackamoor Lake are coming. ``

lustrelessness laughed, `` They 're all quick to do it. They just did n't want to do it today since you were practicing Quidditch and rose and Amanda were in the library. ``

The rest of the good afternoon went by very quickly. Shortly before dinner, Albus and his protagonist made their way into the Great residence hall. The entire room was buzzing with fervour. Albus noticed that nearly all of the professors were wearing dress robes. The only one who was n't was Professor Balladanis, who as wearing the same black gown as the previous day.

Albus sat down at the Gryffindor mesa, where everyone was talking about the strange schools.

`` I heard that the Aboriginal Australian School of black art is secret ! '' Hugo shouted excitedly.

Matt snorted. `` It 's not. ``

`` Oh, maybe it was the Adirondack honorary society of Magic, '' Hugo replied.

`` That one 's not tube either, '' lustrelessness laughed.

`` How do you bed they 're not ? '' Victor-Marie Hugo asked.

`` My babe used to go to the Aussie School of black art, '' Matt explained, `` And my uncle lives in New York. I 've seen that school, too. ``

`` wellspring, that 's boring, '' Hugo muttered, `` Would let been better if one of them was underground. ``

`` Hey, Hugo, '' Kaden grinned, `` infer what the initials of Australian schoolhouse of Sorcery are ? ``

`` A, S, S, '' Victor Hugo shrugged and then a big grin appeared on his nerve, `` Ass ! That 's brilliant ! ``

`` Quiet, please ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crew, `` The students from the Adirondack academy of Magic shall be arriving at any moment ! ``

No sooner had Kendrick finished his judgment of conviction, masses began to whisper and change by reversal their principal towards the door. Albus craned his headland up and saw a marvellous man striding into the Great manse. He was wearing Navy sorry robes and had a rather large amount of messy grayness hair on his head. Behind him were a dozen or so pupil wearing identical blue sky robes. almost of the students looked to be a few years elder than Albus. They all stared around at the Great Hall, a couple of them pointing excitedly at the cap.

The tall man ( who Albus presumed to be their master ) led the educatee to the staff table. Kendrick greeted them and then looked up at his own students.

`` Let me introduce professor Marvin Henry M. Robert, schoolmaster of the Adirondack honorary society of Magic, and his scholarly person, '' Kendrick announced, `` Welcome to Hogwarts. ``

Albus and the rest of the Hogwarts educatee organic structure fusillade into applause. Once it died down, Kendrick opened his mouth again.

`` And now, if I 'm not mistaken, the students from the Australian School of Sorcery are arriving at the very second. ``

Albus turned back towards the threshold and saw another man entering the way. He wore emerald greens robes and was completely denuded. He made up for the lack of fuzz on his brain by sporting a pointy mustache and goatee. He was n't nearly as improbable as Bartholomew Roberts, but not short either. He walked purposefully towards the staff mesa with his group of student clad in matching emerald green robes following him.

Albus noticed that flatness did n't take his eyes off the man. It was almost like he was frozen in place, except for his oculus, which followed the man to the staff board.

`` Now I 'll preface Professor Addair Killigan, '' Kendrick said, `` And the scholarly person of the Australian School of Sorcery. ``

Albus clapped along with everyone else, but it was more subdued. He took an prompt dislike to Killigan just because of what matte had said. Albus noticed that Matt did n't really acclaim at all.

`` Thank you, '' Kendrick said once the clapping stopped, `` Now, we shall have a special categorisation ceremonial occasion in society to feel out which house you belong in. The four houses are Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, and Slytherin. While you are here at Hogwarts, you will exist in your planetary house dormitory, spend free clock time in your house common rooms, and attend classes with the other scholarly person in your sign of the zodiac. ``

`` You know, it 'll be interesting to see if they adopt the planetary house prejudices like we have, '' Rose whispered, `` What if two of them are really good Quaker and then one is sorted into Gryffindor and the early into Slytherin ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged. pink wine had a peak, though.

`` To be Sorted, all you have to do is put on the sorting Hat, '' Kendrick continued, `` It will tell you where you should be. ``

Professor Patil stood up and walked around to the other side of the staff table. She was holding the three-legged stool and the Sorting Hat. She set the hat down on the stool and it burst into song.

There were brassy gasp from all of the students from the other two schools. A few of the Hogwarts bookman giggled at this. All the foreign pupil stared intently at the hat and whispered amongst themselves.

`` When I call your name, issue forth sit on the throne and put on the hat. It will enjoin you which house you 're in and then you can go sit at the appropriate table, '' Patil said after the hat stopped singing. `` Allen, Gregory. ``

A tall and lanky boy with messy brown fuzz stepped away from the group and sat down on the faecal matter. He was wearing navy blue devil gown, so he must bear been from New York.

`` Slytherin ! '' the hat shouted. Gregory the Great Allen took the hat off and went to join the Slytherin table.

The Sorting continued and Albus clapped loudly whenever anyone got Sorted into Gryffindor. So far, all the new Gryffindors looked at least two years Old than Albus.

`` I think that bloke is going to hold to suffer the green robe, '' John commented as one of the Aussie pupil was Sorted into Gryffindor, `` It 's just not normal to wear greenness robes when you 're a Gryffindor. ``

`` I imagine they 'll get Gryffindor robes soon, '' rose said.

`` Do they even have star sign at the Australian School of Sorcery ? '' John wondered aloud, `` I mean, all their gown look alike. ``

`` They do, '' matte told him, `` But those are the plain schoolhouse robe. ``

`` I 'm guessing they wanted to look unified, '' pink wine suggested, `` I doubt Albus will wear Gryffindor Quidditch robes when he plays on the house squad. They 'll probably have extra Hogwarts robes. ``

`` If I 'm on the team, Rose, '' Albus sighed. Everyone seemed to think he was going to ready the squad. What if he did n't ? Everyone would be disappointed. Albus did n't really like the pressure.

`` Morales, Linda, '' Patil shouted.

Albus turned back to the Sorting and saw a rather dead girl gradation forward. Albus watched as she walked towards the three-legged BM and he could n't fill his eyes off her. She was beautiful. There was n't really any other way to delineate her. Albus had n't ever seen a girl as pretty as she was. Her dark brown haircloth cascaded down her back in diffuse waves. It did n't quite match her surprisingly blench skin, but it was beautiful nonetheless. Her scant skin went well with her emerald green robes. She looked a bit nervous as she sat down and Patil dropped the hat on her head.

Albus turned to look at his friends. matte, John, and Kaden were all staring at the girlfriend. So was St. James the Apostle. In fact, all the son at the Gryffindor table seemed to be staring at her. The girl were whispering to each other and glancing up at Linda Morales every so often.

The hat seemed to be taking forever to determine. The entire Great Hall had erupted in whispers. Finally, the brim of the hat burst give and shouted out, `` Gryffindor ! ``

Linda morale took off the hat and walked quickly towards the Gryffindor table.

`` Bloody hell, '' lav whispered as she took a posterior a few space down from Albus.

Albus nodded and turned to look at the girl. She looked, if potential, even more aflutter now that she was sitting down.

`` Albus ! '' blush wine seethed, `` Do n't gaze at her ! ``

Albus shook his head to clear his thoughts and tried to reverse his attention back to the classification. A footling while later, the close scholar was Sorted into Hufflepuff and Patil and the other headmasters took seats behind the staff table.

Kendrick stood up. `` I 'm sure you are all quite famished by now, so without further ado, dinner party is served. '' Kendrick waved his wand and the lucky home filled with food.

None of the new educatee had sat near Albus and his friends, so they did n't get a chance to really get to have it away any of them. Most of them were senior anyway. Albus 's first cousin struck up conversations with a few of them, though. Albus did notice that Linda was n't saying much, despite the fact that she had quite a few Gryffindors trying to talk to her.

`` fountainhead, I certainly hope everyone enjoyed the feast, '' Kendrick announced after the plates cleaned themselves of dessert, `` I have just a few promulgation. The new bookman need to take note of the fact that the timber and the Whomping willow are out of bounce. There is also a rather prominent list of disallow objects. The entire list can be viewed on the caretaker 's door, which is located on this level. Or, you can ask your young man students. Anyone with the finish name of Weasley has a particularly across-the-board cognition on the subject. ``

There was a magnanimous amount of laughter at this, mostly from the Gryffindor table.

`` Also, try-outs for the Hogwarts Quidditch team will be held this Saturday at one in the afternoon. Dueling squad try-outs will be held a week from today, also at one in the afternoon. And with that, I suggest you all turn in early, as classes start tomorrow. ``

When Albus and his friends returned to the Gryffindor common room, Linda Morales was already there, surrounded by a rather heavy grouping of boys and a couple girls. She did n't appear to be enjoying it, though. She looked as nervous as she had been in the Great Hall and was mostly just nodding.

`` I 'll bet anything all those bloke have asked her out already, '' Rose muttered as they watched the group.

`` Probably, '' Amanda agreed.

`` They should just lead her alone, '' Rose went on, `` It does n't seem like she wants all that attention. I 'll bet she 's overwhelmed by everything. ``

`` I wonder how old she is, '' Albus said. He 'd been trying to cipher that out all evening.

`` Dunno, '' rosebush shrugged, `` She looks our age, but honest-to-god at the Saame clock time. It 's kind of odd. ``

`` guesswork we 'll ascertain out tomorrow, '' Albus said, `` She might be in our social class. ``

`` Well, I 'm going to bed, '' matte turned away from Linda and stood up.

`` He 's been quiet all evening, '' lavatory commented as Matt left.

Albus leaned over to Gospel According to John. `` That Killigan bloke, the headmaster, is the reason he could n't go to school in Australia, '' Albus whispered.

`` Oh, '' bathroom said, `` Well, that would explain it. ``

Albus and his friend stayed up for a few more bit before turning in for the night. Albus laid awake for a while, though, thinking about Linda Morales.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the amazing mass who have read and reviewed this !


Dislcaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


As it turned out, Albus did n't have to wait until classes to screw if Linda morale was his age or not. rose and Amanda burst out of the girls'dormitory as Albus, lusterlessness, and toilet were heading down to breakfast.

`` Albus ! '' Rose caught up with him, `` Linda is our age. She 's in our dormitory room. ``

`` Really ? '' Albus replied, realizing that he had n't really thought about which dormitory the new students would be in.

`` Where is she now ? '' John asked.

`` Still up there, '' Amanda said, `` She 's been in the toilet for ages. ``

`` Girls, '' John muttered, `` I 'll never read them. ``

The chemical group hurried down to the Great Hall and ate a promptly breakfast before their foremost class. Neville handed out schedule and Albus saw that he had upkeep of Magical wight first.

`` Blimey, this schedule is packed, '' John said as they headed out of the castling towards Hagrid 's hut.

`` wellspring, we are taking two extra classes now, '' Albus pointed out.

`` admiration who we 'll get this division with, '' flatness said.

`` With our lot, it 'll be the Slytherins, '' Amanda groaned.

`` Maybe Linda 's taking this class, '' privy said hopefully.

Amanda sighed, `` You have n't even met her. ``

`` Yeah, but this class would be the perfect fourth dimension to do that ! '' John pointed out.

Amanda groaned and they continued their trek to Hagrid 's hut. Once they got there, they saw that they were indeed with the Slytherins. Albus groaned inwardly and stood with his protagonist as everyone waited for Hagrid to appear.

`` 'Ello, everyone ! '' Hagrid said as he stepped out of his hut a few transactions later, `` Welcome to Care o'Magical animal. ``

`` Hi, Hagrid, '' Albus grinned.

`` 'Ello, Albus, '' Hagrid grinned back, `` Now, today 's lesson 's abou'Flobberworms. Can anyone tell me anything abou'them ? ``

Flobberworms, Albus thought. Flobberworms were about the least exciting charming brute in the world. Albus wished they were doing something a bit more energise.

`` Nobody ? '' Hagrid said, `` Well, I know they are n't the most excitin'creatures, but we 've got to startle somewhere. Now, flobberworms are small T. H. White worm .... ''

Albus listened as Hagrid explained about flobberworms, but he did n't conduct any notes. rose would receive, but Albus did n't see the period. Flobberworms were pretty basic.

`` Now, everyone can take a worm, '' Hagrid held up a box, `` An'draw them into yer notes an'observe 'em. ``

Albus and his friends each took a worm and began the tedious labor of recording the dirt ball'every movement and sketching them. Albus thought the rest of the class was rather oil production and was a bit discomfited. He had kind of been expecting Hagrid to wreak in some sort of dangerous creature, like he had when his dad was at Hogwarts. Although, come to think of it, his cousins had said Hagrid had adopted a more normal curriculum.

`` I wish Hagrid would bring in a dragon or something, '' John said as they made their way back to the castling for Transfiguration.

`` He probably wishes that, too, '' Albus laughed.

The Transfiguration classroom was already filling up by the sentence Albus and his supporter entered. Albus noticed that they had this class with the Hufflepuffs. pink wine was already inside, sitting at her common tabular array in the front line. Amanda quickly joined her. Linda was there as well, but she was sitting by herself at the other strawman desk.

`` Let 's go sit by Linda ! '' Saint John said excitedly.

`` Sure, '' Albus grinned and started to walk towards her table.

`` waiting, '' matt said, `` There 's only two rump. And do you really want to sit in the front end ? ``

`` Er, that 's true, '' Gospel According to John said, `` We 'll sit behind her then. ``

Albus vaguely wondered why Matt so set on not sitting with Linda, but he did n't dwell on it and sat down at the table behind Linda. Patil walked in a mo later and everyone quieted down.

`` For the first few form we shall be learning about a very difficult subdivision of Transfiguration, '' Patil said after she took attendance, `` And it is called the Animagus transfiguration. Can anyone tell me what that is ? ``

Albus smirked as Rose 's deal shot into the air. Albus knew the answer, of course of action, but he was perfectly happy to let pink wine answer.

`` Yes, Miss Morales ? '' Patil pointed to Linda.

Albus turned away from rosiness and saw that Linda had half-way raised her hand. The eternal rest of the grade was staring at her as well, probably because Rose always answered the prelim questions in class.

`` The Animagus Transfiguration is the act of transfiguring oneself into an animal, '' Linda answered.

`` Yes, that is correct, '' Patil smiled.

Albus noticed that rosebush was staring in shock at Linda. He had to stifle a laugh at this.

Patil went on to describe Animagi in Thomas More detail and Albus took a few eminence.

`` Can anyone name a registered Animagus they may have heard about in another class ? '' Patil asked.

Both blush wine and Linda 's hands shot up into the air. Patil called on rose wine this time.

`` Minerva McGonagall, '' Rose answered.

`` Yes, she turns into a cat. She used to teach Transfiguration here and was the Headmistress for a few years. How about an illegal Animagus ? ``

Albus scribbled the words 'Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs'onto a art object of parchment and showed it to mat and John. All three of them stifled laughter and then looked back up at Patil.

`` Rita Skeeter, '' rose wine grinned.

Patil smiled. `` Yes, and it was your mother who discovered her. ``

The quietus of the division passed by at a reasonably quick pace and once it was over, Albus and his champion went to the Great Hall for lunch.

`` You 've got some contender, Rose, '' Gospel According to John grinned as they walked down the corridor.

`` Shut up, '' rosiness muttered.

`` She might vanquish you on the succeeding psychometric test, '' lavatory laughed.

`` And your head is ? '' rose snapped.

They walked the eternal sleep of the way in silence, as no one wanted to set pink wine off even more. Albus had no idea she would get that private-enterprise about grades. Although after two years of easily being the smartest in their year, Rose had n't previously had any competition.

half the Gryffindor table was roaring with laugh when they arrived for lunch. James quickly filled Albus in on the fact that Hugo had exploded his first potion earlier in the morning and was apparently quite proud of it.

`` Well, you 'll have no competition from him, '' King John muttered to Rose. rose sent him a shrink look and sat down to eat.

Albus spent dejeuner telling Kaden about aid of Magical puppet. Despite the fact that they learned about flobberworms, Kaden was jealous.

The third base year Gryffindors had double potions after tiffin, with the Slytherins again. Slughorn started the class with a revue of the previous year 's potions. Once again, Rose and Linda both knew the response to every head. Then, when Slughorn had them brew a new potion, both Rose and Linda tied for best potion. Slughorn gave them each a bar of Honeyduke 's cocoa. Albus was quite surprised that Linda seemed as saucy as pink wine. He had never met anyone his age who could compete with Rose with grades. whoremonger was right. originate did have some competition.

******

`` Well, fourth dimension to go meet the new Department of Defense teacher, '' Albus said as he finished breakfast the next morning.

`` I wish your dad was still teaching, '' Matt sighed.

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` The new teacher looks like the kind of bloke who gives a lot of preparation. ``

`` You really ought to just restrain an open mind, '' rosiness commented as they left the Great Hall.

`` Easy for you to say, '' John muttered, `` You 're freakishly saucy. ``

`` You have got to be kidding me ! '' Albus groaned as they reached the classroom, `` We 're with the Slytherins, again ! ``

`` Great, '' matte sighed, `` Three class in a row, what are the chances of that ? ``

Albus led the way into the classroom. Linda Morales was already seated at one of the front mesa. Rose and Amanda immediately took the other forepart table.

`` Let 's sit in the back, '' Matt muttered.

Albus nodded. He really did n't desire to sit near the front. The teacher was already there and was wearing an unreadable expression. If he turned out to be mean, Albus preferred to be as far away as possible.

The classroom looked exactly the Lapp as it had the year before, except for a trunk that was sitting in forepart of the teacher 's desk.

A few More students trickled in and once the bell rang, the teacher waved his baton and the threshold slammed loudly. Albus jumped in surprise and snapped his attention back to the new teacher.

He walked slowly from behind his desk and stood in front of it. He was holding a part of lambskin and a quill. Albus noticed that he was wearing the Saami mordant robes, except now he noticed that there were intricately designed silver fastenings on them.

`` Please raise your helping hand and say 'present'when I call your epithet, '' he said in a unappeasable voice. He ran through the list, fixing each student with a piercing gaze when he called on them.

`` Brilliant, '' he said flatly, `` All here. I am professor Balladanis, as you all know from Professor Kendrick 's speech. You will speak me as professor Balladanis, or Professor, or Sir. I will not tolerate speaking out of turn or misdeed of any kind in my schoolroom. I expect all homework and other duty assignment to be completed on time, no exculpation. ``

Professor Balladanis began to pace back and Forth in front of his desk. `` As you shall discover throughout the year, I take justificative witching very seriously. '' He paused and glared sharply at Linda and Janie Creevey, who had sat next to Linda.

`` Defensive illusion is a very very of import branch of magic. I would make the argumentation that is the most authoritative. It can save your life. It has saved my life on numerous occasions. I have no incertitude that your former two class of instruction were very encompassing and I am sure you all have a basic cognition of defensive while good manners of Professor ceramicist. ``

Balladanis stopped pacing and paused before continuing his speech. `` However, the third year defense mechanism Against the Dark Arts program focuses on defense against saturnine puppet. '' He turned to Albus 's mesa and gave Albus, flatness, and John a piercing stare.

`` I will be continuing the curriculum that has been used in this shoal since after the final fight, '' Balladanis continued, `` I have looked over the curriculum and have deemed it satisfactory. I immensely approve of the first day 's moral for third years. I 've always thought a pragmatic approach was good for Defense, although I do expect you to carefully take your text Christian Bible as well.

`` In this box, '' Balladanis gestured to the proboscis, which jumped a little as he touched it, `` Lives a boggart. Can anyone tell me what a boggart is ? ``

Rose and Linda 's hands shot up into the air. Balladanis smirked and pointed to rose. `` Yes, misfire ... ? ``

`` Weasley, sir, '' Rose replied, `` A boggart is a human body gearshift. It takes the flesh of whatever scare you most. No one knows what one really looks like. ``

Balladanis nodded. `` Correct. 5 points to Gryffindor. Boggarts, '' he began pacing again, `` Take the form of whatever scares us most. The boggart focuses on the nearest person and turns into whatever scares them.

`` We will feature an vantage over our boggart. There are a lot of us, which means the boggart will go confused about what to flex into. However, that is not enough. There is a necessary incantation for defeating boggarts. It is 'Riddikulus'. Repeat after me, 'Riddikulus'. ``

`` Riddikulus, '' Albus said along with everyone else.

`` good, '' Balladanis said, although his vox was n't exactly pollyannaish, `` You 'll also require to opine of a way to wrick whatever your most feared matter is into something funny. laughter is what really finishes off a boggart. Then, think of that as you 're saying the incantation. Now, take out your sceptre and stand up. ``

Albus pulled his baton out of his bag and stood up. He was n't even indisputable what he was most afraid of. snake in the grass ? No, he really did n't fear snakes. wanderer ? Nope, not them either. He had no idea what that boggart was going to turn into, and that made it even scarier.

Balladanis waved his wand and all the tables and chairman moved to the sides of the schoolroom. `` Form a product line, '' he instructed.

Everyone pushed to be at the front line of the melodic phrase. Albus wound up being towards the book binding, behind whoremonger and in front of Matt.

`` Miss Weasley, '' Balladanis motioned for Rose to maltreat forward, `` Perhaps you could go first. ``

blush wine nodded and stepped out of the cable. She stood in front of the trunk with her wand raised. Albus had no idea what the boggart would reverse into for Rose either. Nor did he ingest a clue what John and Amanda 's boggarts would be. He had an glimmer about matt 's, though.

Balladanis stood off to the English and pointed his verge at the tree trunk. The lid slowly opened and out stepped ... Neville. Albus gaped at the boggart.

The boggart Neville opened his oral fissure. `` I 'm pitiful, Rose, you did not get the in high spirits grades in your year. You 've been beaten. ``

Oh, Albus thought, that kind of made sense. For a mo there, Albus actually thought rose wine was afraid of Neville, which was ridiculous.

`` Riddikulus ! '' Rose shouted.

The boggart Neville swayed, but did n't look any different. He opened his mouth again. `` Rose, you have beaten everyone in the entire schooltime ! You have the ripe mark in the story of Hogwarts. ``

Albus smirked. It was n't entirely funny, but it fit Rose perfectly.

`` Interesting, '' Balladanis muttered, `` Next ! ``

rose wine stood off to the side and grinned as Amanda stepped forward. Albus watched as the boggart turned into a very bombastic snake.

Amanda stared at it for a few moments and then shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The serpent twirled around and tied itself into a burl. Amanda, along with most of the sleep of the class, burst out laughing. Amanda stepped to the side next to Rose and Janie Creevey stepped forward.

Janie 's boggart turned into a giant rat, which then got transformed into tiny mouse. A few Slytherins were up after her, and then it was Linda esprit de corps 's turn.

Albus watched intently as the boggart that had previously been a dragon turn into a raging fire. Linda raised her sceptre and shouted, `` Riddikulus ! '' The flaming turned into a falls and Linda joined the growing mathematical group of students off to the side.

Marina Jordan-Bell was next, and her boggart turned into a wanderer, as did her sister, Karina 's. Karina had a bit of worry, but eventually managed to turn the spider rainbow colors. Ethan and a yoke of the Slytherins had difficulty as well.

Leigh Montague charmed her ma boggart into a pass crownwork and then it was trick 's go. He stepped forward and the mummy turned into a merry andrew. A clown, complete with a big red nozzle and immense shoes.

Albus could take heed a few of the other pupil snickering already. Albus was n't exactly a fan of clown, but he could think of at least ten affair that were chilling than them.

`` Riddikulus ! '' John shouted. The goofball boggart started to walk forward, but it tripped over its ridiculously large foot, which were growing at an alarming rate. The entire course of study burst out in the cheap laughter yet as John joined Rose and Amanda.

Albus took a deep breathing space and stepped forward. The goof with the huge human foot started spinning again and when it stopped, it looked like Professor Oteski. The Oteski boggart stepped towards Albus.

`` You did not take the Hogwarts Quidditch team, '' it said.

Albus gulped. get along to think of it, that was what he was most afraid of at that minute. But how could he induce it funny. He racked his nous as the Oteski boggart continued walking towards him.

`` Riddikulus ! '' Albus shouted.

The boggart spun around again and then stopped. `` You did make the team ! '' it said, `` In fact, everyone is on the team ! All of Hogwarts will play at once and therefore win the contest ! ``

Albus laughed at the thought of a Quidditch team consisting of over 200 people on it and joined privy at the incline of the schoolroom. Albus watched as lustrelessness stepped forward.

`` Hey, Potter, '' Scorpius whispered, `` I bet the boggart wo n't make love what to change by reversal into with Eckerton. He 's afraid of everything. ``

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus growled.

`` Quiet over there ! '' Balladanis shouted. Albus immediately shut his mouth and Scorpius did n't say anything else.

The boggart was spinning around again and when it stopped, it did n't turn into the burnished fully moonshine that Albus had been expecting. It had turned into a very forbidding looking man. He was skinny and rather short and had a mop of untidy browned whisker on his head. It was n't like Roberts 's hairsbreadth, though. This bloke 's hair was unchewable and contaminating looking. His eyes were piercing, not unlike Balladanis 's, and he was sneering at Matt. Albus did n't recognize who it was. He had n't seen anyone that resembled the boggart.

The boggart stepped slowly towards lustrelessness, who looked frozen in stead. Albus could see his wand quivering in his bridge player.

`` Who 's that cuss ? '' John whispered.

`` No idea, '' Albus said.

Albus continued to watch as the boggart advanced towards lustrelessness. Balladanis was n't doing anything besides watching with an unreadable aspect on his face.

The boggart was now only a duet feet away from Matt, who still was n't doing anything. The boggart began to slowly raise its hands and muttered something that Albus could n't quite catch.

At that moment, Matt seemed to unfreeze. He stepped back and all of a sudden ran towards the doorway. He wrenched it open and disappeared from the room. Everyone who had already faced the boggart started whispering amongst themselves

Albus turned to John, who shrugged. Albus could n't even begin to think why Matt was afraid of that unknown man, but he could sense that it went beyond a rule fearfulness.

`` I 'm going after him, '' Albus whispered to John Lackland. John nodded and Albus ran from the room without asking Balladanis or even looking back at him.

Albus could hear Balladanis trying to tranquillize the rest of the students down as he walked quickly down the corridor. matte was n't anywhere to be found. Albus continued to walk down the corridor, not really knowing where he was going. Where would Matt go ? The residence hall ? Room of necessity ? Marauder 's Den ? That was it, Albus thought. That 's where Matt would go. After all, only a few people knew about that.

Albus walked through the empty-bellied corridors, thankful that cipher else was wandering around. He glanced at his watch. There was only ten transactions left in division.

The one-fifth flooring corridor was also deserted. Albus quickly pulled up the arm on the appropriate cause of armor and then searched the opposite wall for the tiny paw prints. He found them and glanced up and down the corridor once more before wrenching the threshold open.

The room looked empty when Albus stepped inside. In fact, it looked just like they left it at the end of the previous year. Albus had n't been in it for months. He quietly walked further into the room and headed straight person for matt 's alcove.

Matt was sitting on his four-poster bed, just staring directly at the wall in front end of him. Albus wordlessly sat down on the bed, not certainly of what to say. Matt did n't even acknowledge the fact that Albus was there. Either that or he did n't notice.

`` Er, are you ok ? '' Albus asked after a few import of unenviable silence.

Matt looked over at him. He did n't look all right. His cheek was pale white. `` I guess, '' he said quietly, `` But everyone probably thinks I 'm afraid of everything now. Nobody else ran out of the room. ``

`` Maybe everyone else 's boggarts were n't as scarey, '' Albus suggested.

`` Maybe, '' Matt muttered.

Albus heard the door unfastened and he craned his head around to see that rosebush, John, and Amanda had come inside. John and the girls walked over to where Albus and Matt were.

`` We 've got your bags, '' John said as he dropped Albus and mat 's cup of tea on the floor.

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied.

`` Are you all right ? '' John asked Matt.

`` Yeah, '' lustrelessness sighed.

`` What have we got next ? '' Albus asked.

`` Herbology, '' rosiness answered, `` And we 'd better go if we do n't want to be late. ``

`` Are you coming ? '' Albus asked lusterlessness.

`` Yeah, '' Matt got up off the bed, `` Let 's go. I just hope we do n't bear it with the Slytherins. I 'd bet my shoemaker's last Galleon that Malfoy 's going to throw fun of me for this for rest of the year. ``

Albus would have been bequeath to bet that as well. Fortunately, the third year Gryffindors had Herbology with the Ravenclaws that year. A few of the other Gryffindors stole warm glances at Matt during the beginning part of the socio-economic class, but cipher said anything to him. Neville quizzed them about a few works they had learned about the premature year for a few instant. Rose and Linda answered all of them. Then he gave a broad overview of what they 'd be doing that year.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


After tiffin, Albus, Rose, and Matt headed to antediluvian runic letter while John and Amanda went to fortune telling. Albus did n't really hump what to expect from antediluvian Runes, nor did he love anything about the teacher. Matt had told them that Amy said the teacher was nice enough.

Albus, Rose, and lustrelessness sat down at one of the tables in the heart of the way and waited for the teacher. Linda esprit de corps was already seated at one of the strawman tables. Albus wondered how she always seemed to be the outset to arrive to any class. There was also an assortment of Hufflepuffs in the room. Albus, Rose, Matt, and Linda appeared to be the only when Gryffindors taking the class, though.

The professor walked in a few arcminute later. She was a short woman with curly grey hair and a patient aspect on her face.

`` hullo, '' she smiled, `` I 'm Professor Sturly. ``

She took attendance and then gave a prolonged lecture about what the field of study of antediluvian rune was. Albus kind of opinion she could have condensed it and he found himself zoning out about halfway through. rose was paying rapt attention and Albus had a feeling this would suit one of her favorite classes.

Towards the end of the class, Sturly gave an overview of the first chapter in their book of account and then assigned the rest of the chapter for prep. The chapter covered a motley of basic runes that Albus and the eternal rest of the students would ingest to memorize.

spell consisted of Rose and Linda alternatively answering every dubiousness Cedonia threw at them. Albus had a look it would become a habitue occurrence in all the classes he had with both Rose and Linda.

`` How was fortune telling ? '' Albus asked his acquaintance after dinner as they were sitting around the Marauder 's Den.

`` Entertaining, '' John laughed, `` I think it 'll be my easy course of instruction. ``

`` So, who did Trelawney say would die this twelvemonth ? '' Rose asked.

`` What ? ! '' Kaden exclaimed, `` Someone 's going to die ? ``

`` No, '' Rose sighed, `` Trelawney just predicts someone 's death every year. The student in dubiousness has never actually died during that year. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden shrugged, `` So she 's not a real number psychic ? ``

`` You mean a vaticinator ? '' Rose asked, `` Well, she has made a few real anticipation. She 's the one who spoke the prophecy about Albus 's dad. But can she really predict the future with watch crystal balls and such ? I doubt it. I really doubt anyone can do that. I 'm sure there are tangible illusionist out there, but they 're extremely uncommon. soothsaying is a very obscure branch of magic that is hard to interpret. My mum says we should n't put much faith in it. ''

`` I still think it would be brilliant to bonk the future, though, '' Kaden grinned.

`` I do n't know, '' mat shrugged, `` I 've always thought the future tense was best left unknown. ``

`` I 've always thought so, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` So, who 's going to snuff it ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Howard Carter Eubert, '' Gospel According to John replied, `` That Ravenclaw we shared a boat with when we crossed the lake in first year. I have to say that I 'm relieved it was n't me. ``

`` Me, too, '' Amanda agreed.

rosebush groaned. `` I 've told you that it 's not real ! Trelawney has never accurately predicted a student 's destruction. She predicted my Uncle Harry 's expiry and he 's still alive ! ``

`` Yeah, but did n't he nearly die at the end of his third twelvemonth ? '' King John asked.

`` Key word, nearly, '' Rose replied, `` Plus, he faced death pretty much every year. ``

`` Ok, ok, '' John said, `` But I 'm still glad she did n't bode my death, even if it 's not a real forecasting. ``

`` So how was Ancient rune ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Really interesting ! '' Rose said excitedly and proceeded to give a comment on how the class had went. However, Kaden seemed to be the only if one really intrigued by it.

Albus and his champion spent the rest of the evening in the Marauder 's Den. Once they had exhausted the topic of their first off two days of classes, they moved on to the Quidditch competitor and Albus 's chances of making the Hogwarts team. Everyone thought Albus had a good hazard of making it, except Albus. Then they talked a bit about their upcoming Hogsmeade trip-up, although that subject kind of made Kaden envious. John brought up the matter of Linda team spirit, but both rose and flatness did n't want to talk about her at all.

Eventually, they had to generate to Gryffindor towboat in order not to pause curfew. On his way up to his dormitory, Albus noticed that Linda once again was surrounded by a mathematical group of admirers, but appeared not to be enjoying it at all.

******

`` No ! I do n't require to go ! Dad, do n't micturate me go ! ''

Albus 's eyes snapped undecided. He peered at the clock and saw that it was just after two in the dayspring. He could hear someone tossing and turning and mumbling in their sleep in the bed next to him.

`` Please, I do n't want to. Just let me go dwelling house. ``

Albus was wide awake now. The talking was coming from matt 's bed and Albus knew he was having a nightmare. Albus had been woken up by Matt 's nightmare on numerous occasions, especially during first year. They always seemed to amount around the wax moonshine. Although, Albus was pretty sure that the full-of-the-moon moon was n't for a few hebdomad. This nightmare sounded unsound anyway.

The mumbling continued for another few transactions and then stopped all of a sudden. Albus heard the bed creak and footstep crossing the room until they disappeared altogether. Albus sat up and waited a few minutes before quietly getting out of bed. He stepped into his skidder and padded across the room and carefully shut the threshold behind him. None of the other boys had woken up.

The common way was dark and discharge when Albus got there. The flack had foresightful since died out and Albus shivered slightly as he stumbled around the way. There was timid scepter light coming from one of the corners. Albus walked slowly towards it and saw flatness sitting curled up in one of the chairs, staring at the floor.

Matt startled when he saw Albus. `` Oh, Albus, '' he sighed, `` What are you doing up ? ``

Albus shrugged and sat down in the chairperson next to lustrelessness 's. `` Followed you down here. ``

`` Oh, did I wake you up ? ``

`` Sort of, '' Albus replied, `` But it 's ok. I just came to see if you were all veracious. I mean, first the boggart and then that nightmare- ''

`` How do you know I had a nightmare ? '' Matt asked.

`` I sort of heard you mumbling, '' Albus answered, `` You were talking in your eternal rest. ``

`` Oh. ``

`` Listen, '' Albus paused, `` You do n't possess to tell me, but I was variety of wondering who that gent was that your boggart was. I mean, I form of thought it would be a full Sun Myung Moon. ``

`` So did I, '' Matt said quietly, `` Which is part of why I freaked out so much. ``

Albus nodded, wondering if Matt was going to go along or not.

`` I know I have n't told you much about what happened when I lived in Australia, '' lustrelessness began.

Albus nodded again. All he really knew about flatness 's life story in Australia was that he had lived in a sign of the zodiac and his dad had been the read/write head of the department for the ordinance and control of Magical Creatures.

`` That bloke the boggart turned into is the current Head of the department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures, '' Matt continued, `` He replaced my dad. But before that, he was the Head of the loup-garou control Unit. ``

Albus was still a bit at sea about why he was matt 's boggart, but he figured it would be best to just not say anything.

`` While my parents were in the process of finding out where to incite, a law was passed that all wolfman had to transform in a Ministry approved center if their stead of translation failed an inspection. Mine failed. ``

`` What ? ! '' Albus gaped at him, `` But your dad was- ''

`` The head of the section, I know. They passed the law while we were visiting New York. My parents refused to let me transform at one of the Ministry gist, so they broke the law and were fined. The first-class honours degree time that happened, my dad was fired over it.

`` But that bloke, Ralph Lubar is his gens, would n't give up until I transformed in one of the centers. My parents said it was because he hated my dad so much. The two of them had some sort of hanker full term row going on or something. I do n't know the details. But anyway, '' lustrelessness paused, `` Eventually, Lubar was able to pass a law that made it legal for the Ministry to accept wolfman by force to one of the transformation centers. He flooed to our star sign, grabbed me, and flooed to the Ministry approved marrow before my parents had a chance to block him. ''

Albus stared at Matt. He could hardly believe what he was hearing. What was even more improbable, was that it had been legal. How could it be legal to basically snatch a kid for a night ?

`` I do n't think back any of it, '' matt said quietly, `` Except for what happens in the nightmares I have. It was frightful, though. The former werewolves were all grownup and they all sort of ganged up on me. I spent a day or so at the hospital in Australia and then my parents had me transferred to St. Mungo 's because they wanted therapist Sterling to take care of me. I spent three workweek there. ``

`` fountainhead, it makes common sense that you were so daunt of that boggart, '' Albus said, `` Lubar is one of the most frightful wizards I 've ever heard of. ''

Matt nodded and shifted slightly. `` I thought I was over it. I mean, it was over five years ago. I really thought that boggart would turn into a total moon. But I guess having Killigan here brought everything back. I thought all that material that happened in Australia was behind me, but I guess not. ``

`` Nothing like that is going to happen here, '' Albus said quietly, `` Lubar has no mastery over our Ministry. He 's in Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` I guess you 're right, '' matte sighed, `` I think I 'll go see if Madam Pomfrey will ease up me any dreamless nap potion. Could I use the invisibleness Cloak ? ``

`` Yeah, of course, '' Albus said as he stood up. He had a tactual sensation that lady Pomfrey would definitely give him the dreamless sleep and probably try and convert him to expend the night in the hospital extension as well.

Albus and matte quietly walked back to the dormitory and Albus dug out the Cloak, as well as the second edition Marauder 's Map, and handed them to flatness. Once Matt had left the room, Albus climbed back into bed.

Albus lay awake thinking about what lustrelessness had told him for a piece. His own boggart of not making the Hogwarts Quidditch team seemed very insignificant now that he knew the details about Matt 's boggart. That did n't make Albus any less spooky about the try-outs, though.

******

Albus and the other Gryffindor third geezerhood, as well as the Ravenclaws, started out the future day with account of Magic. All Albus learned during the minute was that third gear yr account of Magic was equally as boring as second year. August 6 consisted of another lecture on Animagi and Albus noticed that can paid a considerably more amount of care than he usually did. Albus thought this was pointless, though, since they had already established the previous class that they would not become Animagi.

Care of Magical creature was after lunch and the course of instruction moved on to the slightly more interesting bowtruckles. Albus was very thankful for the break they had afterwards, when Rose went to Muggle Studies.

`` It 's only the third day and I 'm already sick of preparation, '' Albus muttered as they entered the Marauder 's Den.

`` So do n't do it, '' St. John said as he pulled a drinking chocolate Frog out of his bag.

`` You should do that soothsaying homework, '' Amanda said, `` You know, the one where we predict what happens to us succeeding Wednesday. ``

`` Already did it, '' john announced.

Albus, Matt, and Amanda all stared in shock at Gospel According to John. John never ever did homework early on. He was always the one finishing the last lines of an essay as the instructor took attendance.

`` What ? '' John shrugged, `` I occasionally do stuff before it 's due. ``

`` No, actually, you do n't, '' matt smirked.

`` Divination 's different. It 's fun to make up fake prognostication. ``

`` So what 's happening to you next Wednesday ? '' Amanda asked.

`` I 'm going to bust my neck when I fall off my heather. ``

`` John, you do n't even work Quidditch, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Trelawney wo n't care. ``

Albus personally thought it was a waste matter of meter to come up with role player foretelling for soothsaying, but that was probably why he had n't signed up for the class.

`` Oh, did we ever tell you what Balladanis 's boggart was ? '' John asked Albus and Matt.

`` Nope, '' Matt said.

Amanda burst out laughing. `` You 're going to love this. ``

`` Yeah, '' John grinned, `` When the two of you left, the boggart got a bit disconcert because no one was standing that close to it. Everyone was whispering and not paying an troy ounce of care to it, so Balladanis stepped in movement of it and you 'll never hazard what it turned into ! ``

`` A werewolf ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, but that would have been funny, too, '' John laughed, `` Anyway, it turned into a woman. ``

`` A woman ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` Yeah, '' John said, `` A tall, skinny, pale faced charwoman. Her skin was as pale as Linda 's. Her hairsbreadth was a bit wakeful, but still a dark brown. The woman just form of walked over to Balladanis with a smile on her nerve. She was kind of pretty in an odd form of way. ``

`` Now that is weird, '' Albus replied, `` Why in the name of merlin would he be afraid of cleaning woman ? ``

`` Maybe it was a particular woman, '' Matt pointed out.

That would make more common sense. After all, Matt was n't afraid of all men. His boggart had turned into a particular man. But Albus did think it was kind of odd that Balladanis, the stern man who hated Dark humanities, would be afraid of a witch. Albus would let thought he 'd be afraid of some sort of scary dark creature.

`` Who do you cerebrate she was ? '' mat asked.

whoremonger shrugged. `` His wife ? ``

Albus smirked. `` Well, that would be rum. ``

`` My dad caper that he 's afraid of my mum at times, '' can replied, `` But I doubt his boggart would call on into her. ``

`` Maybe she 's some sort of dark beldame that he 's faced in the yesteryear, '' Amanda suggested.

`` just thinking ! '' mat agreed, `` Maybe she was a death feeder. ``

`` I do n't know if he fought in the War or not, though, '' Albus said, `` My dad 's never mentioned his public figure before and he does n't really seem like the kind of fella to just remain in the background signal, does he ? ``

`` I guess not, '' Matt replied, `` She could still be an evil beldame, though. ``

`` That does make the nearly sense, '' John said, `` She must be really evil. I mean, Balladanis does n't seem like he 'd be afraid of anything. ``

`` Everyone 's afraid of something, '' Albus pointed out, `` But yeah, she must be vicious. ``

`` What did Balladanis do to micturate her funny story ? '' mat asked.

`` Turned her into some sort of statue, '' John answered, `` It was unknown, like she was petrified. She just froze in situation. And then Balladanis banished it to the trunk. ``

`` How is that funny ? '' Albus asked.

`` No theme, '' John shrugged, `` Just adds to the closed book that is Balladanis. ``

`` I 'm still not sure I like him, '' Matt commented.

`` Me, neither, '' Albus agreed.

`` But hey, at least he did n't throw us any prep on the outset day, '' John pointed out.

******

The succeeding day Albus found himself yet again sitting in the rachis of the defence classroom in between matte and John the Divine. Malfoy kept turning around in his seat and smirking at mat. Albus was glaring at him, silently daring him to say anything about matt 's experience with the boggart.

Balladanis stormed into the room a few arcminute later in a way that reminded Albus of Washburn. The class immediately quieted down and Malfoy faced forward in his seat. Balladanis quickly ran through attending and then stared at his students.

`` Well, some of you were successful with last class 's boggart, '' Balladanis began, `` However, there were quite a few of you who were n't. ``

Malfoy yet again turned around and looked at matt, this fourth dimension unable to strangle his laughter.

`` Quiet, Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis growled, `` Five distributor point from Slytherin. ``

Albus could n't avail but grin at that. At to the lowest degree Balladanis was n't favoring Slytherin.

`` Therefore, we will remain battling the boggart until you all have achiever with the spell, '' Balldanis continued, `` I do not want any of you to slide through the tornado and skate through this family on the tail end of more successful students. That may solve while at Hogwarts, but the moment you get out into the real world, it will abruptly end. Without a basic knowledge of defensive attitude spells, you will contact an untimely end at the hands of non-white thaumaturge. ``

This teacher was making it seem like they were in the midst of a war. Albus knew it was important to be able to defend yourself, but he thought Balladanis was acting like everyone was out to get you. It kind of reminded him of what his parents, aunts, and uncles had said about Mad-Eye Moody.

`` Dark sorcerer love finding victims with little noesis of justificatory spell. The students who skirt by with acceptable cross and just barely pass each exam, without really understanding anything. They also love people who read book after book and pretend to realise everything. And while these hoi polloi may induce a wax knowledge of defensive spells, they may not possess the attainment necessary to perform them, '' Balldanis 's eyes rested on Rose and Linda.

`` I want everyone in this room to feature more than the basic skill needed to do defensive accomplishment. I want everyone to be able-bodied to total off better in a duel. I want everyone to be able to hold themselves against dark fauna and wizards alike.

`` Starting with the boggart, I will not rest until every student is adequate to of performing every spell we learn in this family. I will assign extra deterrent example to those I deem it necessary. You will come in for additional assist. I do not handle if it interferes with clubs or Quidditch practice. Quidditch will be of trivial help when you are facing a saturnine genius or creature.

`` Stand up ! '' Balladanis ordered. The class scrambled to their groundwork and Balladanis moved the desks aside.

`` Sir ! '' Malfoy called out, `` What if we 've already had achiever with the boggart ? ``

`` Then you 'll do it again, '' Balladanis replied, `` practice session makes perfect. ``

The class lined up in front of the trunk. Albus and his champion wound up being in the backrest, and Albus did n't think lustrelessness minded this in the least. He looked very nervous at the medical prognosis of seeing the Lubar boggart again and Albus could n't blame him.

The line moved much faster this time than the last category. Everyone who had had problems with the boggart during the premature course seemed to do a ameliorate job this time.

Albus stepped forward once it was his act and the boggart once again turned into Oteski, who told him he did not arrive at the team. Albus vaguely wondered what the boggart would reverse into after the try-out, if they battled it after that. He shouted the while and moved to the side to stand next to Rose and Amanda.

St. John the Apostle was next and battled his clown around boggart in the Saami way he had the other day. He stepped to the position and matte walked slowly towards the boggart.

`` Two Galleons says he runs again, '' Malfoy whispered in Albus 's ear.

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Albus and John said at the Lapp time.

The boggart once again turned into Lubar and Matt slowly raised his scepter, which was shaking.

`` R-R-Ridikkulus, '' Matt whispered. nix happened and the boggart advanced towards Matt.

`` Louder, '' Balladanis told him.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' Matt shouted. Still nothing. His verge arm was shaking even harder.

`` R-Ridikkulus ! '' he shouted once again.

This meter, the boggart spun around and when it stopped, Lubar was decked out in a sinister and white striped prison outfit with a clod and chain attached to his good leg.

`` flavor like you owe us two Galleons, '' John smirked at Malfoy.

`` Not a opportunity, Brickston, '' Malfoy growled.

`` expert job, '' Albus grinned as Matt joined the group.

Balladanis already had the boggart shut in the tree trunk when Albus looked back at his teacher.

`` That 's adequate for today, '' Balladanis announced. `` You, '' he pointed at Matt, `` Come see me. ``

flatness glanced at Albus and then walked slowly towards Balldanis as the relief of the grade left the room. Albus and his friends lingered near the doorway, but Balladanis gestured for them to leave. They reluctantly left, but waited just outside the doorway.

`` What did he want ? '' Albus asked once Matt exited the room.

`` I have to go in for redundant help, '' lustrelessness groaned, `` Until I can front the boggart successfully. ``

`` But you were successful, '' John Lackland pointed out.

`` Not successful enough for Balladanis. ``

`` Somehow, I do n't think anyone would be successful enough for him, '' Rose muttered.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` That was some speech he gave at the offset of family. ``

Albus still did n't do it what to call back of their new Defense prof. He seemed very stern and Albus did n't really feel comfortable with him, but on the early hand, he seemed very knowledgeable in defensive while. Albus had a feeling they 'd watch a lot from him, and even though they were n't involved in a war at the mo, Albus knew demurrer accomplishment were always important to have. That 's what his forefather had told him ever since he could recollect. Albus had grown up knowing the motive for defense against the dark nontextual matter. He just had never had it taught to him in such a forceful strict way.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The remainder of the week went by quickly. Albus spent all his spare time on the Quidditch pitch, trying to hone his science for the try-outs on Saturday. Unfortunately, the Slytherin Quidditch team booked the pitch all Fri eve, so Albus was unable to mug up in a last minute practice session session.

Instead, Albus sat in the coarse elbow room with the rest of his friends, trying to write an essay for Transfiguration. He was supposed to inquiry a famous Animagi and indite a substructure long essay about him or her. Albus had wanted to write about his grandfather, but given the fact that Prongs 's Animagus status had been a secluded, Albus did n't think such an essay would work. So, Albus eventually decided to compose about McGonagall. He had a feeling half the course of study would write about her.

`` What are McGonagall 's grading ? '' John asked, proving Albus 's theory.

`` Spectacle mark around her eyes, '' Albus answered as he stared at his mostly blank spell of parchment.

`` Thanks, '' St. John grinned, `` You just saved me XV minutes of research. ``

`` No problem, '' Albus replied. He was n't for sure why the essay was taking him so long. He knew a great deal about McGonagall and her Animagus capabilities. He supposed he just had his mind on other thing, like the Quidditch try-outs.

`` How can she even concentrate on her studying ? '' Rose sighed loudly.

`` Who ? '' Albus asked.

`` Linda morale, '' Rose muttered, with a hint of contempt in her vox, `` Just feeling at her. ``

Albus turned around and saw Linda sitting at a mesa with a clustering of books and parchment strewn about it. There was quite a crowd of boys surrounding her, including Bilius, Ethan, King James, Ben, Cedric, Nathan, and a few second yr Albus did n't love the gens of. They all seemed to be talking at once while Linda had her oculus fixed on one of the books.

`` Well, from what you 've said, she 's so freakishly impertinent she does n't necessitate to contemplate, '' Kaden said.

`` Humph, '' Rose huffed, `` Everyone needs to study. ``

`` I think you 're covetous, blush wine, '' Albus smirked.

`` Am not, '' rosebush replied.

`` I wonder what position she plays, '' Gospel According to John mused.

`` What ? '' Albus asked.

`` view. You know, in Quidditch, '' John explained, `` She must be on the Australian team. Since she 's our age, she ca n't be on the dueling team. ``

`` quester, '' rosebush said.

`` How do you know ? '' Albus asked.

`` Karina asked her one day in the dormitory, '' rosebush explained.

`` Who 's a searcher ? '' Matt dropped his bag onto the mesa and sat down in the chair next to Albus.

`` Linda Morales, '' Albus told him, `` How was your boggart object lesson ? ``

`` Wyrd, '' lusterlessness replied, `` Balladanis was n't stern like he is in course. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden gaped, `` I do n't think I could guess him not strict. ``

`` Yeah. I would n't say he was dainty, but he did n't act like he does in family. ``

`` What did he do ? '' lavatory asked.

`` Well, I walked in and he was sitting at his desk. So I walked up to him and he got up and went over to the trunk. He did n't say much, just told me to conflict the boggart. And then I did. Over and over again until I thought I was going to go mad. ``

`` That sounds like Balladanis, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` I know, '' Matt replied, `` I 'm getting there. Anyway, eventually he told me I could bar. Then he told me to sit down and that he wanted to tattle to me. He basically told me the Saami thing he told everyone in category the former day. But he changed it a bit. ``

matt lowered his phonation. `` He said that the percentage point of defence mechanism class was n't only to memorise how to represent ourselves against the non-white artwork. He said it 's also to instruct us why the dark arts are so horrible. He then went on to tell me that it was especially significant for me to know that. ``

`` That is unearthly, '' Albus said quietly, `` You do n't call back he said that because of, well, you know. ``

`` Yeah, I think he did, '' Matt replied, `` But he did n't say it in a intend way or anything. It was just really really odd. ``

`` I 'll say, '' John agreed, `` Do you have to go there again ? ``

`` Unfortunately, yes, '' Matt muttered, `` He wants me to go every Friday until he says I do n't have to anymore. ``

`` How did it go with the boggart, though ? '' Rose asked.

`` I thought it went ok. I mean, I 'm doing dependable than I was. But he still wants me to go in for extra help. ``

`` fountainhead, '' Kaden said after a few moments, `` This just proves that Balladanis is a very very strange teacher. ``

******

Albus awoke riddled with nerves the next morning. It reminded him of the nerves he had only one class ago prior to the Gryffindor team try-outs. Only this was ten times worse. He felt like he 'd eaten a few populate pygmy puffs and they were bouncing around his tum trying to escape.

Try-outs were to be held shortly after luncheon and Albus spent all morning talking with his fellow Gryffindor teammate in the common way. Sakartvelo spent over an hr talking about the strong suit and weakness of the other hoi polloi who would be trying out. Albus only sort of paid aid. The relaxation of the squad seemed excited and not nearly as nervous as Albus. Albus thought James was favourable ; he was only competing against Lisa Galivant of Hufflepuff and Miranda corner of Ravenclaw, as Slytherin was getting a new Seeker that year.

Albus sat with his team at lunch, although he did n't eat lots. Georgia continued talking about everything they 'd need to know for the try-outs. The former Gryffindors kept coming up to him and wishing him hazard. All Albus could manage to do was nod and murmur 'thanks'.

In an effort to keep rules of order on the Quidditch pitch, the headmaster had banned the rest of the student from watching the try-outs. Albus was very grateful of this and was sort of relieved when Empire State of the South finally announced that they should leave for the rake. Albus 's friends wished him luck and he left the Great Hall following James.

The paseo to the pitch was lull. Georgia had stopped her running comment on the strategy of the rest of the Hogwarts Quidditch participant and everyone else seemed to agnise they were more nervous than they thought.

Albus took a deep breather as he entered the pitch shot and adjusted his broom on his shoulder. He tried to think positively charged thoughts and followed his team onto the pitch shot. Then, he stopped in his rails and felt his jaw drop-off to the ground.

Standing in the heart of the pitch, next to Professors Oteski, Longbottom, Slughorn, Patil, and Polo, was none other than Teddy lupin. Standing with chemise and the prof were Oliver Ellen Price Wood and Tyler expressway, the Head Boy from Albus 's first year.

`` What 's teddy doing here ? '' Saint James whispered.

`` No approximation, '' Albus whispered back, wondering the same affair. Why was Teddy there ? He had n't mentioned anything over the summer about doing anything at Hogwarts that year.

Albus stood with his team and looked at the relaxation of the educatee who were trying out. The Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff players were already there. Amongst the Ravenclaws were Kate Waverly, the Keeper ; Natalie cable, Damien Waverly, and Dan Burke, the Chasers ; Zack Valentino and Allie Davis, the Beaters ; Miranda nook, the Seeker. Their entire team was trying out, like the Gryffindor squad.

The Hufflepuffs had a few less participant trying out. Their steward, sixpence Royce was there, along with Anna Reilly and Ted Shawn Ames, the pursuer. One of their Beaters, Andy Kaper was there. Albus remembered that their other Beater had graduated the previous year. Lisa Galivant, their Seeker, was there as well, looking determined.

The Slytherins showed up a few mo later. Leading them was their new chieftain, Ferris Fielding, who was a Chaser. His swain Chasers were Peyton Haines and Hailey Odele. Their stay on Beater, Talan flint, glared at the Gryffindor team as he walked by.

Professor Oteski gazed around the pitch and then looked at his watch. He said something to the four heads of houses and then cleared his throat. Albus stopped watching the Slytherins and turned to Oteski.

`` I think everyone 's here now, '' Oteski began, `` First, I want to enclose you to your Head Captain and your Assistant Captains. Oliver Wood, formerly of Puddlemere United, has agreed to captain the team. ``

There was a very loud round of clapping and a few whistles from the crew of educatee. Albus grinned and clapped until the hand clapping began to quiet down.

`` And your Assistant Captains are erstwhile bookman you probably all recall. Teddy lupine, quondam Seeker and Captain of the Gryffindor squad, and John Tyler Pike, former searcher and senior pilot of the Ravenclaw squad will be your helper maitre d'. ``

Albus clapped hard enough to make his hands hurt. He had no approximation Teddy was going to facilitate run the Hogwarts team ! Teddy must feature had a tough time keeping that a enigma over the summer.

`` You will all try out this afternoon and I, along with your captain and oral sex of houses will take a crap the decisions tonight. The final tilt of the squad as well as the second-stringer participant will be posted in your common rooms tardy tomorrow.

`` Now, I thought we 'd start with the quester. Everyone else please go sit in the stands. ``

Albus and the vast majority of the gang drifted towards the stands. James, Lisa, and Miranda remained in the pitch. Miranda was a third yr and Lisa was a one-fourth yr. Albus thought James had a pretty safe opportunity of making the team. He had beaten both of the other Seekers numerous times.

Albus paid some attention to James 's try-out, but mostly he was thinking about his own try-out. Eventually, James and the other Seekers finished and Oteski called for the steward. GA practically ran down to the sales talk, followed by the other two custodian. Albus watched and he was pretty confident Sakartvelo would make the team as well. After Georgia returned with a vast smiling on her typeface, Oteski called the Beaters down. Albus 's cousin, Thomas Bradley, as well as Ryan O'Malley did well with their try-out, but so did the other Beaters.

Finally, Oteski announced for the Chasers to enter the pitch shot. Albus stood up with his cousins, Scots heather and Fred, and walked nervously down to the tar. Teddy flashed him a grin as he entered the tar.

There were ten other Chasers besides Albus ; the big chances of all the placement to get a spot on the team.

`` Ok, I want everyone to fly around the auction pitch a few times, '' Oliver Natalie Wood announced.

Albus mounted his ling and flew into the air. His boldness seemed to sedate down as he felt the malarkey blowing against his face. Just think of it as another Quidditch match, he thought as he flew amongst the early pursuer hopefuls.

The thought of try-outs being like a Quidditch mate carried Albus through the whole try-out. He was still spooky and did drop a few Quaffles, but all in all, it was n't as bad as he thought it would take been. The rest of the pursuer had dropped a few Quaffles as well. Albus still was n't surely he 'd make the team, but at least he had n't made a fool of himself.

`` Everyone did groovy, '' Oliver Wood said at the end of the try-out, `` We 'll defecate our decision and post the team tilt tomorrow. I 'll be seeing some of you really soon. ``

The mathematical group started to disband and teddy made his way towards the Gryffindor team.

`` Teddy ! '' Sakartvelo shouted, `` I ca n't think you might be my captain again ! How in the epithet of Merlin did you sustain this a confidential ? ``

Teddy shrugged. `` Honestly, I 'm not even sure. I guess I kind of liked knowing something you lot did n't. ``

Georgia groaned. `` Oh, shut it, Teddy. ``

`` You all did really well, though, '' shimmy grinned.

`` Yeah, but there 's so many other pursuer, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Al, even if you do n't make it, you 're a brilliant pursuer and you 'll still have the planetary house Quidditch. That 's still going on during this solid thing. ``

`` Oi, Teddy ! '' John Tyler state highway called, `` Get a move on, we 've got to discourse the team ! ``

`` I 'll see you later, Al, everyone else, '' Teddy waved as he left.

Albus left the sales talk with the balance of his squad, who were all talking animatedly about the high spot of the try-outs. Albus was thrilled that chemise was going to be one of the captains and it made him hope for a point on the team even more than he had before.

Albus and the residuum of the Gryffindor Quidditch squad were greeted by raucous clapping when they returned to the common room. Albus thought it was form of premature, since none of them were actually on the squad yet, but it was still nice. Rose, Matt, and Amanda were sitting at their usual table and Albus went over to them.

`` How was the try-out ? '' Matt asked immediately.

`` Better than I thought, '' Albus replied as he sat down, `` I think I have a thin hazard of making it. ``

`` That 's dependable, '' Matt grinned.

`` Oh, and slip 's one of the headwaiter ! '' Albus told them.

`` Really ? '' rosiness said, `` Who are the others ? ``

`` President Tyler Pike, the nous Boy from our first year, and Oliver Wood- ''

`` John is going to be thrilled when he finds that out, '' Matt interrupted.

Albus grinned. Oliver Grant Wood had gone to Slughorn 's Noel party in their first year and John had given him a Quaffle to ratify. John was a big garter of Joseph Oliver Grant Wood and Puddlemere United.

`` Where is john anyway ? '' Albus asked, `` And Kaden ? ``

`` In the vulture 's Den, '' lustrelessness answered, `` Plotting. They 're planning on swimming in the lake tomorrow with the Giant calamary. ``

`` I 'm rather afraid of what sorting of plotting they 're doing, '' rosebush muttered, `` If swimming requires plotting, nothing good will follow of it. ``

`` I take it you three do n't want to join them ? '' Albus laughed.

`` Definitely not, '' Amanda said.

`` Are you insane, Albus ? '' Rose raised her eyebrow, `` Of course not. ``

`` Nope, '' Matt shook his head, `` I 'd rather not get in hassle this soon into the yr. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't desire to either. '' Albus and his protagonist had gotten into quite a bit of fuss, mostly because of Kaden, the previous year and Albus was hoping he 'd hold Filch 's detentions to a lower limit this year.

`` The two of them are going to be in detention more often than they 're not, '' pink wine muttered.

`` That would n't surprise me, '' Albus replied. John had always been the trouble-maker of Albus 's group, even before Kaden entered the scene. And then when Kaden had arrived, nothing was going to stop him. Now whoremonger had mortal to conspire with for all of his mischievous schemes.

******

Although Albus and Matt flat out refused to swim in the lake with John and Kaden, the two puckish male child managed to convince them to at least vigil by the side of meat of the lake. However, rose and Amanda refused to be anywhere near the lake when this took place. pink wine insisted that she needed to devote the day to studying and Amanda decided to link up her. Albus had a opinion pink wine 's increased sum of money of studying had a lot to do with Linda Morales, but knew practiced than to refer this to his cousin.

lav and Kaden walked excitedly ahead of Albus and Matt on their way out of the castle the next day. Albus still had no idea what exactly they were planning on doing, and for that he was grateful. If John and Kaden got caught, Albus preferred to not bonk anything about it, so he could refuse his involvement.

There were a few bookman sitting around the lake enjoying the warm late summer day when the male child arrived. Albus and mat chose a stain underneath a large beech tree and sat back to look out the result unfold.

Saint John the Apostle and Kaden grinned at each other and then pulled off their shirts and place, so they were only wearing boxers. A few first yr girls who were sitting near Albus and matt giggled and began whispering to each other. Albus turned to Matt and rolled his eyes. matt stifled a laugh.

`` This is n't going to end well, '' Albus said.

`` But it will be entertaining to look on, '' Matt laughed.

whoremonger and Kaden began to obnoxiously stretch by the bound of the weewee. Albus had a feel they were doing it only to try and gain the care of the few student who were n't watching them. Next, they bent down to the water system and felt the temperature.

`` Bloody hell ! '' John shouted, `` It 's freezing ! ``

`` That means we 'll just jump out right in ! '' Kaden announced. He turned around and walked away, and then took a operate start into the lake. He landed with a loud splash that soaked John, who was still standing by the edge.

`` They 're mad, '' Albus grinned.

`` All right, here it goes ! '' Saint John the Apostle shouted and followed Kaden into the water supply, `` merlin, that 's frigidity ! ``

Albus laughed as John and Kaden got used to the water system. The two of them were flailing around and shrieking same piddling girls. They had gained quite a few on-lookers who were standing around the lake laughing their heads off.

Albus may not receive wanted to do something this crazy himself, but he was having a sound time watching his booster do it. The two of them got used to the water and then began swimming around.

However, merely swimming in the Black Lake was n't that exciting. Albus knew they had something else up their sleeves ( or miss thereof ) and it was only a affair of time until they put their program into action.

John and Kaden were just beginning to stimulate a competition to see who could remain underwater the longest when a foresightful tentacle appeared out of the water a few feet behind them.

`` Ooo ! '' a girl shouted, `` It 's the calamari ! ``

Both John and Kaden turned around. `` Yes ! '' they both shouted at the Saame fourth dimension, `` The squid has arrived ! ``

Albus watched as John the Evangelist and Kaden swam towards the tentacle, wondering what form of badgering they were going to impose upon the squid. He did n't intend the squid was particularly dangerous, but who knew what it would do if it was provoked.

John and Kaden treaded water on either face of the tentacle and then began to vellicate it. This earned a caboodle of loudly gasp and more than hysterical laughter from the crowd.

A few more of the calamary 's tentacles appeared out of the water and two of them smacked John and Kaden on their heads.

`` Hey ! '' lav shouted and pushed the tentacle away.

Then, the squid 's head emerged from the surface of the water. A few of the young missy who were watching began to shriek and the Old students laughed even harder. Albus was laughing and shaking his head at the same time. He could n't help oneself but jest at his friends'stupidity. They should give known that the calamary would try and thrill back. And it had more arms than whoremaster and Kaden combined.

John and Kaden grinned at each other and then drown towards the back of the calamary as it rose out of the water. They grabbed onto its back and began to ride it. Albus gaped as the squid began to swim around with John and Kaden on top of it. The two of them had actually decided to ride the Giant Squid.

`` They 're idiots, '' mat commented.

Albus nodded as the squid swam finisher and finisher to the shore. The onlookers retreated and scattered as it drew nearer. Gospel According to John and Kaden both looked thrilled, until the squid propelled them onto the shore. They landed in the grass and the squid returned into the mirky deepness of the lake.

Albus jumped up and ran towards privy and Kaden, followed by Matt. He squeezed his way through the gang and looked down at his two friends.

`` Urgh, '' bathroom groaned as he sat up, rubbing his head.

`` That was incredibly poor fish, '' Albus grinned, `` And very think about. ``

`` Let 's do it again ! '' Kaden said excitedly as he examined his arm, which was bleeding.

`` How can you actually want to do it again when the calamary threw you five foot into the air ? '' matte asked.

`` It was fun, '' Kaden shrugged.

`` motion aside ! '' a female voice shouted.

The crowd immediately dispersed and people ran towards the castle and to other areas of the grounds.

Albus looked up and saw professor Patil striding towards them. Albus groaned. He knew they would n't get away with this.

`` I 've just been informed that the two of you were riding the Giant Squid ! '' Patil shouted at Saint John and Kaden, `` Is that true ? ``

`` Er- '' John began.

`` Well ... '' Kaden said.

`` Of class it is ! '' Patil replied, `` Look at you ! I 'm very disappointed ! I thought it was a given not to drown in that lake and the fact that you provoked the squid ... '' she shook her head, `` Well, you two will take to go to the Hospital Wing and then I 'll assign you detention. ``

bathroom and Kaden stood up and nodded. The chill that had been on their faces just moments before, was completely gone.

`` And what about you two ? '' Patil said to Albus and flatness, `` Were you involved ? I see you 're both dry, but I 've noticed that the four of you are always getting in trouble together. ``

`` They did n't do it, professor, '' Kaden announced.

`` Yeah, '' toilet agreed, `` They did n't even know what we were going to do. ``

Albus felt a surge of gratitude for his friends, especially Kaden. Just a year ago, Kaden had been getting all four of them in trouble for things only he had done. Now, he was actually telling teachers that Albus was n't involved. True, Albus had n't been involved, but it was the rule of it.

Patil nodded. `` All right. Mr. Brickston, Mr. Dursley, you 'll need to follow me. Mr. ceramicist and Mr. Eckerton, you may return to your common room. ``

Albus did n't need to be told twice. He and flatness took off towards the castle and once they were out of hearing of Patil, started talking about can and Kaden 's adventure.

`` I think the two of them could single handedly cause the end of the stallion palace, '' Albus laughed.

`` It 's only a topic of when they 'll do it, '' matte smirked, `` Let 's see, Kaden 's already tormented the Whomping willow, and now they 've tormented the titan calamary. What 'll be next ? ``

`` Filch 's new cat ? '' Albus suggested.

`` Filch would sleep together that, '' matte replied.

At some point in between the end of the live year and the start of this one, Filch had obtained another cat. Albus had heard account about his previous cat, Mrs. Norris, from his parents, aunts, and uncles, but had never actually met her. She had died before Albus was born. Apparently Filch had been so overcome by heartbreak that he had n't gotten another one, until now.

The new cat, Josie, was a Lester Willis Young sprightly kitten, whose only resemblance to Mrs. Benjamin Franklin Norris Jr. was her uncanny ability to locate students who were breaking rules. All the bookman took an prompt disfavor to Josie and turned in the other direction when they saw her humble orangeness body emerge from around the corner.

mass were already talking about Saint John and Kaden 's swim in the lake when Albus and mat entered the Gryffindor mutual room. Albus had a feeling it would be week before anyone forgot about it.

Albus and mat spotted Rose and Amanda and sat down at their table. It was spread with numerous books and rolling of parchment and quills. The only other table that rivaled its amount of Holy Scripture was the one Linda Morales was sitting at.

`` I take it you 've heard about John and Kaden 's incident with the squid ? '' Albus asked.

`` chip and pieces, '' rose muttered without looking up.

Albus and matt launched into the intact narrative and Amanda was in stitches by the fourth dimension they finished.

`` Those two are going to be expelled if they 're not careful, '' Rose said as she frantically scribbled something onto a roll of parchment.

Albus looked curiously at his cousin. Rose had always been a stickler for homework, but never had he seen her this obsessed with it unless it was right before the end of term exams. And this was only the first week of school.

`` rosebush, why do n't you take a falling out ? '' Albus suggested. He was actually sort of worried about her. poring over was practiced, but too often was variety of unhealthy.

`` Ca n't, '' rosebush muttered, `` My Potions essay is only a rolling wave and a half of parchment. ``

Albus gaped at her, `` blush wine, you do know that Slughorn only wants a half a roll, right ? ``

Rose nodded. `` Yeah, but Janie said that Linda 's essay is already two axial motion. So I 've got to hit mine at least that long. ``

`` Rose, '' Albus sighed, `` Your essay does n't feature to be longer than Linda 's. ``

`` Yes, it does, '' rose wine insisted.

Albus sighed and sat back in his chair. He knew it was a lost cause. His cousin had that determined look in her eyes and Albus knew there was no convincing her that she did n't take to be so competitive with Linda.

`` I think she subject so much because she does n't really get any friends here, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` What ? '' Albus looked at her incredulously. At any given moment, Linda was surrounded by at to the lowest degree five other people. She was easily the most democratic of all the Aussie educatee. `` looking at at her ! She 's got eight mass talking to her at once ! ``

Amanda groaned. `` They 're not her friends. They just think she 's pretty. She does n't even want them around. They do all the talking. All she does is sit there and work. Plus, ever notice how she 's never around any of the other Australian educatee ? ``

Albus looked at Linda again. Amanda was right. Linda was n't actually talking to any of the scholar around her. And come to think of it, he had n't seen her talk to any of the former Aussie students either. `` wonder why that is ? ``

Amanda shrugged. `` fountainhead, all the other Australian students are a lot quondam than her. All her admirer are probably still in Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` She could befriend any of those blokes near her, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Again, they 're only there because they think she 's pretty, '' Amanda sighed, `` But she 's really really unruffled. Her first night here, she did n't say a word of honor in the dormitory. Now, Janie 's really the only one she talks to. I mean, being shy is one thing, but never talking at all ? ``

Albus turned to Linda once again. It was kind of odd for her never to sing to anyone, besides the instructor. It was like the just thing she wanted to do was sketch. Her compulsion with preparation seemed to be ten times that of pink wine 's and Albus was n't certainly if Rose could keep up.


A/N : Big thanks to PotterCast for giving me the idea for the colossus squid incident ! The deed for this chapter was also made up by PotterCast. It 's used in one of their interview with J.K. Rowling podcasts.

As usual, thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this chronicle !

Also, I am yet again doing NaNoWriMo, so if I 'm ever late on updates or seeming to take a hanker time to suffice reviews, that 's why !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


John and Kaden returned to the uncouth room an hour or so later, completely healed and scolded. They had a hebdomad 's worth of detention with Filch and 50 compass point taken from Gryffindor. The early Gryffindors had been congratulating John and Kaden on their nerve and stupidity until they heard about the percentage point. After that, can and Kaden were glared at and ignored by their house-mates.

The boys joined Rose and Amanda in their poring over once the inflammation died down. All of the boy had neglected their homework over the weekend.

Albus tried to centralize on his Potions essay, but he could n't. The list of who made the Hogwarts Quidditch team was going to be up within the next few hr. Albus kept stealing coup d'oeil at the content instrument panel as if the list would suddenly appear there.

It did n't help that several extremity of the Gryffindor Quidditch team were coming up to Albus and trying to get his thought of whether they made the squad or not. How was he supposed to recognize if they made the team ? He was the youngest one trying out. If anyone was going to be asking about whether they made the team, it should be Albus.

Would it even be that bad if Albus did n't make it ? He was n't sure. He did require to cook the team. He wanted that more than anything, but at the like time, he knew it was going to be a lot of body of work and quite nerve wracking. It would be a bigger tidy sum than playing for Gryffindor, that was for sure. The entire shoal would be watching his chasing skill and hoping he would win. Albus loved playing Quidditch, but if he was honest with himself, he did n't like a unhurt lot of people watching him. Making the Hogwarts team would control that century of hoi polloi would be watching him.

Albus managed to indite about half his essay before dinner, but he did n't remember it was very good. Oh, well, he thought. One failed essay would n't count in the longsighted run.

He went down to dinner with his acquaintance, but did n't participate much in their conversations. In fact, he was probably as quiet as Linda.

Albus glanced up at the staff table. His eye rested upon professor Oteski, who was deep in conversation with a grey-haired Auror who had been assigned to patrol Hogwarts for the hebdomad. Oteski had probably already decided on the team. Albus hoped he 'd hurry up and post the list.

`` Albus ! '' Georgia nearly collided with Albus on his trek back up to the Gryffindor common elbow room after dinner, `` The listing is posted ! '' Georgia turned around and sprinted back to the common room.

Albus took a deep breath and his marrow sped up. This was it, he thought. Within a few minutes, he 'd know whether he made the team or not.

There was a orotund gang around the content panel when Albus entered the room. James burst out of the gang with a huge smiling on his face.

`` I made it ! '' he shouted, `` I 'm the Hogwarts Seeker ! ``

The stallion common way volley into clapping. Albus grinned through his nerve and patted his blood brother on the back.

`` What about me ? '' Albus whispered to James, `` Did I make it ? ``

`` looking at for yourself, '' St. James grinned and pushed him towards the substance board.

`` I do n't cogitate I can, '' Albus sighed. This was worse than close year when he tried out for the Gryffindor team.

`` You have to, '' bathroom insisted.

Albus took a deep breath and squeezed his way through the crowd. He closed his heart and then stared at the list.

Keeper- Georgia Weasley, Gryffindor, 7th year.

That did n't storm Albus in the least. In fact, he would have been shocked if GA had n't made the team. No wonderment she looked so excited when she ran into Albus.

Chaser- Damien Waverly, Ravenclaw, 7th year.
Chaser- Anna Reilly, Hufflepuff, 7th year.
Chaser- Ferris fielding, Slytherin, 7th year.

Albus felt a wave of disappointment overcome him. He had n't made it. All the other Chasers were seventh year, and captains of their respective house squad at that. Why had he thought he 'd be able to compete with them ?

He continued to interpret the list. There were still the reserve players after all.

Beater- Andy Kaper, Hufflepuff, 5th year.
Beater- Allie Davis, Ravenclaw, 4th year.

So, James was n't going to be the lonesome one who was n't a seventh year on the team. That was good. But still, most of the team were 7th years. All the squad skipper made the squad. That made sense. As captain, they were most probably the best Quidditch actor in the school.

Seeker- Saint James potter, Gryffindor, 4th year.

Reserve Players

Keeper- Kate Waverly, Ravenclaw, 5th year.

Kate would be felicitous, Albus thought. She had been Albus 's dueling captain last year. She was nice and Albus was happy she at least got to be the stockpile Keeper.

Chaser- Hailey Odelle, Slytherin, 7th year.
Chaser- Albus thrower, Gryffindor, 3rd year.

Albus gaped at the list. He blinked and read it again, just to nominate sure his heart were working properly. They were. He, Albus Severus Potter, was one of the reserve Chasers ! Suddenly, the disappointment was gone and Albus felt as glad as he would have if he made the regular team. military reserve was amend than naught after all. Plus, there would n't be as practically pressure.

Beater- Talan Flint River, Slytherin, 5th year.
Seeker- Lisa Galivant, Hufflepuff, 4th year.

Albus turned around and walked back to where his brother and friends were gathered.

`` I 'm a reserve Chaser, '' he announced.

`` See ! '' James grinned, `` Told you you 'd pull in it ! ``

`` wellspring, I 'm not actually on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Yeah, you are, '' James contradicted, `` Did n't you say at the bottom where it said the reserve players have to go to pattern and everything ? ``

`` Er, no, '' Albus shrugged sheepishly. He had n't noticed much after his own name.

`` fountainhead, that 's what it said, '' King James continued, `` 1st practice is on Sabbatum. ``

Albus tried to influence on his Potions essay later that evening, but it was no use. The common room was in the midst of a party that usually only followed a spectacular win at Quidditch. GA, William James, and eventually Albus were thrown into the throng of it and he quickly gave up on his essay. No one else, besides rosiness and Linda, was working on homework and Albus figured it would be pointless to even try. Maybe Slughorn would n't own enough time to even get to Albus 's essay due to the duration of Rose 's and Linda's.

******

In fact, the quietus of the week was much like that nighttime in the Gryffindor green elbow room. Albus seemed to attract attention wherever he went. On his way to class, in class, even on his way to the lav, citizenry came up to him and congratulated him. Students who he had never even talked to before were telling him what a brilliant pursuer he was. All in all, he was form of shocked at the all thing. It 's not like he was one of the primary Chasers on the team.

Albus 's friends were kind of enjoying the whole thing. They were kind of attracting attention by association. John and Kaden were already known as 'those Gryffindor blokes who rode the Giant squid'and now had the added fame of being some of Albus 's closest booster. rose wine seemed oblivious to the whole thing and devoted more time than ever to studying. matte and Amanda seemed to like they would n't attract so much attention.

eventide Lily and Victor Hugo were attracting tending by being the Sister and first cousin of the Hogwarts searcher. Albus 's fame paled in comparison to James II 's. James II had a mathematical group of admirers following him all the prison term. Lily and Victor Hugo told anyone they could that they were the sis and cousin of James. Ashtyn, John 's sister, told everyone she was the sister of one of the blighter who rode the Giant calamary and that her crony was friends with Albus.

John and Kaden had nightly detentions with Filch and both boys came back quietly cursing Filch every evening. Apparently the caretaker was as ruthless as ever with his detentions.

The detention was n't the only thing John earned from his trip into the lake either. On Monday morn, he was blessed with a scream from his mother. Instead of running into the entering hallway like most students did with their howler monkey, John Lackland opened it at the Gryffindor board and the entire way, including the teacher, listened to John Lackland 's mum screaming at the top of her lungs about how pillock he had been. John Lackland said it was worth it, though, and was n't fazed at all by the Howler.

Albus was relieved when the calendar week was finally over. He was hoping that the turmoil of the Hogwarts Quidditch team being picked would die down over the weekend.

On Sabbatum afternoon, Albus left his friends in the common room and walked with Empire State of the South and James to the Quidditch pitch.

Oliver Sir Henry Wood, Tyler Pike, and Teddy were already there, along with a few of the squad members. Albus stood with Peach State and James IV as they waited for the rest of the team to designate up.

`` number 1, I 'd wish to say congratulations, '' Oliver announced once everyone arrived, `` You are now the Hogwarts Quidditch squad. I 'm King Oliver Wood and I will be your captain. Teddy and Tyler are here to help.

`` Now, I know even Quidditch is still going on, so we 'll have to turn around each house 's practice agenda. I 've looked at those and I think Saturday afternoons will exploit best for practice. For now, we 'll stick with once a week exercise and increase if necessary.

`` I thought we 'd start by doing a few drills, just so everyone can get used to playing with each other. I know it 'll be an adjustment, since you usually compete against the other theatre, not play on the same team as them. ``

An adjustment was an understatement, Albus thought. As the praxis progressed, it became apparent that it was extremely hard to play with penis of other business firm. Albus found that it was instinct to try and retain the Quaffle away from his colleague Chasers rather than to pass it to them.

woodwind instrument, Teddy, and Tyler tried to get everyone to forge together, but Albus thought it would take Thomas More than one drill. Everyone was rather subdued by the meter the drill ended. nobody had been capable to solve together, except for James and Lisa. The two of them actually cooperated. But the chaser and Beaters in particular had a laborious time working together. Ferris Fielding, Hailey Odelle, and Talan Flint left the slant muttering about how they could n't work with 'bloody Gryffindors'.

Wood looked set up to scream and throw things by the time everyone left. He was whispering to teddy bear and Tyler as Albus left with James and Georgia.

`` That was a disaster, '' Georgia groaned on their way back to the castle.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` I do n't cognize how this is going to work. ``

`` It 's got to solve, '' James said adamantly, `` I mean, Lisa and I practiced just ok with each other. Why ca n't everyone else ? ``

`` It 's Fielding and Odelle, '' Albus muttered, `` They would n't pass anyone else the Quaffle ! It 's like they 're trying to prove they 're the best pursuer ! ``

`` Well, they 're idiots, then, '' James said, `` And they better stop if they want to actually win this. ``

Albus definitely agreed with that. Fielding and Odelle certainly were n't acting like team players. Fielding had actually pushed Albus out of the way in rescript to get the Quaffle before him.

Albus felt rather depressed about the pattern for the eternal rest of the day. It seemed that the household rivalries really were awful. Albus would be the number 1 to admit that the disliked Slytherin and certainly was n't lining up to become best friends with any of them, but he was unforced to put the rivalry behind him for the sake of the Quidditch tournament. But it did n't seem like many former members of the team wanted to do so.

Luckily for Albus, the fame of being a reserve participant on the team seemed to decrease during the next week. He was able to catch up on his homework and spend time with just his friends, without anyone else following him.

Of course, spending time with rosiness was beginning to be pointless. Albus could n't think of the last meter he 'd had a substantial conversation with her or seen her without a book heart-to-heart in social movement of her.

`` rose wine, you 've got to impart it a rest, '' Albus said the following Saturday. He was sitting in the commons elbow room, killing time before the second Quidditch drill. `` No one can possibly learn this much. ``

`` I can, '' rosebush muttered as she read, `` Linda can. She studies at night. I woke up in the middle of the night and saw her Reading. I do n't think she sleeps. I 've heard her sneek out in the middle of the Night before. I think she goes into the green room and written report. ``

Albus stared at Rose. He had never seen her like this. Usually Rose was rational. `` pink wine, I 'm serious. submit a break. ``

`` No, '' Rose said adamantly.

Albus sighed and got up to go to practice. He was really occupy about rosiness. Unfortunately, Quidditch practice did nothing to lift his spirits. The practice was another disaster.

`` All right hand, all right hand ! '' Wood shouted and motioned for everyone to fly down.

Albus landed side by side to Saint James and looked at Sir Henry Joseph Wood. He was looking very very stern and determined.

`` We 've had two practice, '' Wood began to pace, `` Two praxis and you 're still flying like you 're a squad comprised of five-year-olds. Five-year-olds who do n't get along. I 'm upchuck of it. I agreed to captain the squad because I thought you 'd be the practiced of Hogwarts 's Quidditch participant. The ones who could someday fiddle professionally. But I 've been sorely disappointed.

`` The theater rivalries are disrupting your playing. I 've got as much Gryffindor pride as the future Gryffindor, but I would put that aside if I had gotten the opportunity to do this while I was in school. This is the chance of a lifetime. You realize that there will be sentry for professional team at these matches ?

`` In literal life, you 're going to bear to function with people you do n't wish. So you 'd better get used to it. All I have to say is that if you do n't mold up and put the petty bickering aside, I will not waver to kick you off the team. I 'll consecrate you a week to do it. If any of you are still fighting future Sat, you 're off the squad. Practice is over. ``

No one said a password as they filed out of the sales pitch. Albus thought Wood 's speech had been soundly. He was sick of the fighting as well. He 'd put the rivalries aside for the interest of Quidditch. After all, Albus was on the Lapplander dueling team as Scorpius Malfoy and they acted civilly towards each other. Albus wondered if the Aussie and New York teams had had this many issues with getting along. He had n't watched any of their practices, but GA had. She said both squad were incredibly good.

******

`` I ca n't study it anymore ! '' Rose shouted as she slammed her volume down on the table, which startled Matt out of his prep and impending full moon induced slumber.

Albus and his friends were in the Marauder 's Den, working on the plethora of homework they had been assigned on that particular Mon. Albus, who had been watching Rose develop steadily more than tense and snappish over the preceding few days, knew it was only a matter of time before she cracked.

`` Er, Rose, are you ok ? '' Albus asked tentatively.

`` No ! '' Rose shouted so loudly that lustrelessness winced and rubbed his head. `` I 'm not ok ! I ca n't aim it ! I just ca n't ! Nothing I do is good enough, nada ! I just ca n't nonplus her. She got a gamy grade on that Potions essay and she answered more questions in Transfiguration today. Not to note the fact that she does n't attend like she 's going to descend asleep at any here and now, like John was so variety to point out about me earlier. '' Rose glared at John.

John Lackland shrugged. `` Well, you do .... ''

`` I know ! '' pink wine shouted.

Albus looked at his cousin. She did look make to fall asleep at any here and now. Her center had purple bags under them and were bloodshot. Combine that with the fact that she was nearly in tears, and she looked awful. In fact, she looked an awful lot like Matt did.

`` Rose, '' Amanda said quietly, `` You do n't throw to drum her at everything. ``

`` But I do ! '' Rose wailed, `` I do n't even jazz why, but I do ! ``

`` Look, '' Amanda continued, `` She 's from Australia. They might learn stuff in a unlike rules of order down there. Maybe she 's already learned this. But eventually, we 'll get to something she has n't learned and then maybe she wo n't puzzle you. ``

`` Maybe, '' Rose sighed and poked flatness, `` matte ! Do you know what they 're learning in Commonwealth of Australia now ? Amy went there, did she tell you ? ``

matte groaned and glared at Rose. `` No, how would I know ? Amy went there years ago. '' He stood up and walked slowly over to his bed and collapsed onto it.

`` Did I say something ? '' pink wine asked.

Albus sighed, `` You just woke him up. Do you even know what tomorrow is ? ``

`` Tomorrow ? '' Rose asked, `` What 's substantial about tomorrow ? Oh, we 've got a Defense essay due ! I have to edit out mine ! ``

`` No, '' Albus groaned, `` Tomorrow 's the full moon. ``

Rose froze. `` Oh, merlin. I had n't even realized. ``

`` I figured, '' Albus said, `` hear, you 're not doing anymore preparation tonight. ``

`` But I need to edit- ''

`` No, '' Albus said, `` You need a break. ``

`` Albus is the right way, '' Amanda agreed and took Rose 's down of volume away, `` You 're not studying for the rest of the night. ``

`` Uh, ok, '' rose smiled nervously, `` I can do that. I mean, what 's the risky that can materialize ? ``

Rose did n't seem to know what to do with herself. Albus found it difficult to concentrate on his own homework as he watched rosebush pace around the room, trying to fancy out something to do. Eventually, she settled on helping Kaden with his Transfiguration essay. Albus and Amanda exchanged glances at this, but neither of them said anything since Rose was n't technically doing any homework. She was merely helping Kaden.

Albus, matt, John, and Kaden spite up spending the nighttime in the Marauder 's Den. Matt had been so fathom asleep by the time curfew arrived, that no one wanted to inflame him up nor did anyone lack to leave him there alone. Albus certainly did n't mind. He liked spending the nighttime there. It gave him a kind of connective with his grandfather.



A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, and all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this !

Here 's the Weasley Family Tree, to aid everyone keep on track of them.
Wealsey-Potter-Dursley fellowship Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree

Bill-Fleur Charlie-Katherine ( witch ) Percy-Corrine ( Muggle )
Victoire, 19 Stanley, 18 GA, 7th year
Gabriella, 7th yr heather, 6th class Bradley, 5th year
Ben, 4th yr marking, 5th year Cedric, 4th year
Eddie, 7 class old Samantha & Lindy ( twins ), 8 years old

George-Alicia Spinnet Ron-Hermione Ginny-Harry
Fred, 6th twelvemonth blush wine, 3rd year James, 4th year
Angie, 10 class old Hugo, 1st class Albus, 3rdd year
Lily, 1st year

Dudley-Christina ( Muggle )
Kaden- 2nd year
Bethany- 8 geezerhood old

*all in Gryffindor*


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


rose wine handed in her unedited essay to Balladanis the next morning. Albus did notice her scribbling some finish moment sentences onto it as Balladanis collected the essays.

defence reaction Against the Dark Arts continued to be the strangest stratum in Albus 's schedule. Balladanis expressed such a solid dislike for the dark arts that he started nearly every course of instruction with a buns talk about why they were learning defensive spells and why the dark arts were bad. His eyes tended to perch on Matt and for some odd ground, Linda, whenever he gave these talks and Albus got the feeling it made Matt extremely uncomfortable. Albus could n't blame him. He certainly would n't desire to be under the teacher 's eye like that.

Albus could n't really say whether he enjoyed Balladanis 's class or not. It had been nearly a month since the term started, but Albus still did n't cognise whether he liked the course of study or not. It was definitely dissimilar than when his dad taught. Balladanis was rigid, but a good instructor.

The rest of the day went by quickly. Albus listened to John vamper Rose during Herbology since she was fretting about her defence reaction essay. ancient Runes was rather boring and Albus doodled idly on his notes while Matt fell asleep on his. Charms was rather fun since they worked on Cheering appeal and Albus left the room grinning profusely, along with most of the other category. Matt in particular looked strange with a huge grin across his pale fatigued face.

Matt left for the Shrieking Shack shortly after dinner party and Albus went to the piranha 's Den with his admirer where they distracted Rose from her perusing by playing Wizard 's Chess.

The next day Albus truly began to realize how in use his third year schedule was. For the preceding two years, he and his protagonist almost always had time to visit Matt in the infirmary Wing in between division. This year, however, they did n't have time until after dinner. Albus was positively exhausted by that degree, as he had stayed up late working on homework the night before, and still had Dueling Club practice afterwards. Lynley Anderson, the fourth year Hufflepuff who had replaced Kate as captain, had insisted that the altogether team attend that meeting, as it was the first one and there were new secondment old age on the team. Kaden was n't put on Albus 's team, but he was put on John 's squad, much to the pleasure of both boys.

Hectic was really the only when way to describe Albus 's animation at Hogwarts. As September turned into Oct, it only got busier. Gryffindor Quidditch team practices picked up again and along with Hogwarts Quidditch practices and Dueling Club practices, Albus hardly had anytime to perch.

The Hogwarts Quidditch team was shaping up nicely after Sir Henry Wood 's stern warning during the second drill. That and the fact that they now practiced on both Tuesdays and Saturdays. Even the Slytherin squad extremity were beginning to work together. They did n't really admit their teammates outside of practice, but Albus did n't give care as long as they got along with everyone during practice.

Albus was really starting to savour the Hogwarts Quidditch squad. He was actually beginning to care he could play in the first mates, which would be taking place towards the end of October.

`` kickoff Hogsmeade weekend ! '' Saint John the Apostle said excitedly to Albus one Friday evening as Albus was trying to catch up on his homework. Kaden was standing future to him. Albus guessed they had just returned from Dueling order practice.

`` When ? '' Albus asked without looking up.

`` Oct 27th, '' Saint John the Apostle grinned, `` Ca n't wait ! ``

`` Yeah, it 'll be brilliant, '' Albus agreed, hoping he would n't take in too much homework to go.

`` That 's not all, either, '' John Lackland went on, `` There 's a Hallowe'en party that Nox. ``

`` You mean the Halloween feast ? '' Albus asked.

`` No, there 's an real party ! '' John said, `` But it 's not on Halloween, it 's on the 27th. It 's because of the tournament. So we can amalgamate with the foreign educatee. Or at least that 's what the poster on the notice plug-in says. ``

Albus nodded. He really had n't had that often contact with the alien bookman. Sure, he 'd seen them in the corridors and the coarse way and stuff and nonsense, but that was about it. The only one who was around his age was Linda and she still did n't seem to babble to anyone.

`` And, '' lavatory continued, `` Costumes are encouraged. ``

`` Costumes ? '' Albus asked, finally looking up.

`` Yeah, costumes, '' John grinned, `` We get to dress up ! This is going to be brilliant ! ``

`` What should we dress up as ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` We 'll visualise it out later, '' John said, `` Where 's everyone else ? ``

`` Rose and Amanda are at the subroutine library, '' Albus told him, `` And mat 's with Balladanis. ``

`` Merlin, is he ever going to give up about that boggart ? '' John asked.

`` Knowing Balladanis, probably not, '' Albus said.

`` Well, let 's go to the library, '' Saint John announced, `` We 've got to tell rosiness and Amanda about Hogsmeade. ``

Albus was all too eager to agree to this. He was thoroughly gruesome of trying to catch up on all his homework. It was good to ingest a break every now and then anyway.

Albus pushed open the door to the subroutine library a little while later, fully expecting to see pink wine up to her elbow joint in Scripture furiously scribbling away on a roll of parchment that was nearly used up. He gazed around the library and he spotted blush wine 's bushy red hair and walked towards her table.

rosiness was up to her cubital joint in preparation. In fact, there were so many books on pink wine and Amanda 's table that you could no longer see the actual table. What Albus was n't expecting to see was a third person at their board. Linda Morales

Albus stopped short-change a few fundament from the table. He turned to reckon at King John, who looked equally shocked.

`` Is that- '' John began.

`` Linda Morales ? '' Albus gaped. He blinked twice to make certain he was n't seeing things. After all, he was quite commonplace. But even after he blinked, Linda was still sitting across from Rose and Amanda.

All three of the girl were working quietly. In fact, none of them even seemed to find the others.

Albus slowly walked towards the table and John followed. Albus was n't entirely sure what to say. He had n't had often interaction with Linda. Albus had hardly said howdy to her since she arrived at Hogwarts. He was n't trying to ignore her or anything ; it had just ended up that way. Linda had n't shown any real sake in making friends with Albus or any of his acquaintance. Yet here she was, doing preparation at the like table as pink wine of all multitude. Albus had n't the slightest idea why either.

`` rosiness, '' Albus whispered once they arrived at the table.

Rose startled and then looked up at Albus. `` What ? I 'm trying to study ! ``

`` Can I talk to you ? '' Albus glanced at Linda, `` Alone ? ``

Rose sighed loudly. `` mulct, but cook it prompt. ``

Albus led his cousin over to a deserted area of the depository library. John Lackland took pink wine 's vacated butt and began to whisper to Amanda about the Hogsmeade visit.

`` All right, what is it ? '' blush wine asked once they were alone.

`` Could n't help but remark that you were studying with Linda ... '' Albus 's vocalism trailed off. He really did n't know what he wanted to say to rise about it.

`` Oh, well ... '' Rose began, `` I guess I just realized I was being pillock in trying to compete with her. ``

Albus smirked, `` Yeah, you were. But I told you that loads of times and you did n't mind. ``

rosebush sighed. `` I know. Amanda 's the one who convinced me to end trying to compete with her. She said Linda would know a lot about Australian wizarding history and I could learn a lot from her if I stopped with the competition thing. ``

Of course, Albus thought. Appealing to rose wine 's beloved of learning would definitely work. Although he had n't really been trying to sustain rose wine and Linda become supporter. He just wanted rose to ease up on the studying.

`` I guess, if you ca n't thrum 'em, you might as well join 'em, '' rosebush shrugged.

`` So now you 're admirer with her ? '' Albus asked.

`` That 's where it gets complicated, '' blush wine sighed, `` You see, she still does n't really talk to us. ``

`` How did you wind up studying with her then ? '' Albus was still thoroughly confused.

`` Amanda and I came in and she was sitting alone at the table, so I asked if we could join her. She just nodded and moved her books over. She has n't said anything yet. ``

Albus nodded. `` I do n't suppose I 've heard her say anything outside of year. ``

`` Neither have I, '' Rose said, `` Amanda and I figure we 'll just be nice to her and maybe she 'll take up talking to us. ``

Albus thought that was probably a good idea. She was the rival, but even if they played against each other on the Quidditch team, that did n't have in mind they could n't be friends off of it. Linda seemed decent enough. Of line it was surd to tell since she had n't said much. And she certainly was pretty. Albus could n't deny that. Linda was n't surrounded by half the male population of Gryffindor every eve for nothing.

`` Oh, the first Hogsmeade visit 's on October 27th, '' Albus said, suddenly remembering the rationality he had gone to see Rose in the first office, `` Followed by a Halloween party in the Great Hall. ``

`` That sounds like fun, '' rose grinned, `` And maybe Linda will want to go with us. ``

`` And it 's a costume company, '' Albus told her.

`` This could get worry, '' Rose said.

******

Albus did n't induce a cue as to when he 'd actually get time to see out his costume for the Hallowe'en party. John thought it would be cool off if their group 's costumes coordinated, but that was the last thing on Albus 's mind.

The weekend seemed to literally fly by for Albus, meaning he was on the Quidditch pitch Thomas More than he was off it. He had heard chronicle about Natalie Wood 's ruthlessness when it comes to practice session from his dad and standardized stories about Teddy from his older cousins. Having the two of them captain one team seemed to create praxis that lasted nearly five hours, with short breaks every so often. Albus would never again complain about Peach State 's length of practices.

Albus had a flit thought that since he was a reserve role player, he would n't have to exercise as lots as everyone else, but Sir Henry Wood crack that down during that Sabbatum 's practice. He said he saw no reason for the reserve players to be any to a lesser extent prepared for the forthcoming match than the regular players.

It was n't that Albus did n't enjoy Quidditch practice. He did, and very much so. He loved Quidditch, but too much of anything could run a person down.

Albus spent a lot of his Sunday on the Quidditch pitch as well, in the heart of a souse rain. Peach State had scheduled Gryffindor Quidditch pattern that day and she flat out refused to cancel due to rain. James had asked. He was even Thomas More run down than Albus, since either Teddy or Tyler were constantly training the two quester during Hogwarts Quidditch practice.

Albus returned to Gryffindor tower after eating a recent dinner party with the Gryffindor team Sunday eventide, realizing he had no melodic theme what his friends had spent the weekend doing. He had seen them on juncture, but virtually of his free time had been spent doing homework or sleeping. Two things he still had to do.

Albus grabbed his bag from his dorm and walked down to the crowded common elbow room. He saw Rose, Amanda, and Linda at one board, but his early friends were no where in sight. The girls looked very absorbed in their homework, so Albus decided to go check the marauder 's Den for his early friends.

By the meter Albus made it to the Marauder 's Den, he felt ready for a good dozen minute sleep. Unfortunately, he still had mess of homework to do. Albus sighed to himself and opened the door to the room. He paused in the entranceway, surprised to see that matte was the only one there.

`` Hey, lustrelessness, '' Albus said as he sat down at the table.

`` Oh, hi Albus, '' Matt looked up and smiled, `` I was wondering when you 'd point up. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said wryly, `` I never thought Georgia would end practice. ``

`` brand me gladiola I 'm not on the Quidditch squad, '' matte commented.

`` Where are John and Kaden ? ``

`` custody, again, '' Matt smirked.

`` What did they do this time ? '' Albus groaned. John the Divine and Kaden had been earning quite a few detentions every workweek. Albus was quite sword lily they were n't involving him in their frivolity, since he had no useable sentence in his docket for detention.

`` They were levitating rolls of privy newspaper around the corridors and charming them to hit people in the brain yesterday, '' Matt explained, `` I think you were at Quidditch practice. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus laughed, `` Wonder what they 're in for this time. ``

`` No idea, '' Matt said.

`` What are you doing here ? Rose and Amanda are in the mutual way. ``

`` Yeah, I know. But they 're with Linda, '' Matt muttered.

`` Oh, ok, '' Albus replied, a little confused. He still did n't quite understand why matt did n't seem to like Linda. Sure, she was from Australia, but Matt was n't avoiding anyone else from Commonwealth of Australia. Of course of action, the repose of the Australian bookman were older and Matt would n't really consume to avoid them.

`` John said Rose is actually trying to get friends with Linda. ``

`` She is, '' Albus confirmed, `` She 's finally realized that it 's pointless to try and compete with Linda. ``

`` I guess that 's good, '' matte shrugged.

trick and Kaden burst into the room a curtly patch later, successfully ending the conversation about Rose and Linda. Both of them were freely cursing Filch, who had made them clean house the entry Hall without magic. Once they finally seemed to run out of whammy, all four male child settled into doing their prep and no one brought up the topic of Linda again. Albus still thought it was odd how mat seemed to possess taken a dislike to her, although Linda herself was rather odd, in Albus 's opinion.

rose and Amanda joined Linda at her board during Transfiguration the future day. Linda had arrived before them, as always, and did n't appear to observe or worry that blush wine and Amanda sat on either slope of her.

The same thing happened in double Potions after dejeuner. pink wine, Amanda, and Linda even worked together on that day 's potion. Slughorn had decided to give up on the inter-house pairs idea of the previous year, which Albus was very thankful for. Linda had previously worked alone on her potions because there was an odd identification number of people in the class, but Slughorn did n't object to all three daughter working together. In fact, he seemed thrilled that the two bright mass in the social class were now working with each other.

`` Ah, yes ! '' Slughorn exclaimed excitedly as he peered into their cauldron, `` Your potion is turning just the right refinement of green. ``

Albus looked up from his and mat 's slightly John Brown potion and saw Slughorn gently stirring the young lady'cauldron.

`` Ours is better, '' Malfoy muttered from behind Albus. He was working with Andrew Jackson Limbert, Albus 's pardner from the previous year. Malfoy and Limbert were easily the two best Slytherin potion-brewers in the class.

Albus turned around and looked at Malfoy 's caldron. It was indeed the objurgate shade of green.

`` And what are you looking at, ceramicist ? '' Malfoy asked, `` Jealous that I 'm Limbert 's partner now ? I doubt your potions grade will be be that good with Eckerton as your partner. ``

`` At to the lowest degree I 'm partnering with him for a grounds early than trying to get a decent grad, '' Albus glowered at him.

`` Yeah, well ... '' Malfoy 's spokesperson trailed off.

Albus smirked to himself and turned back around, happy that Malfoy could n't derive up with a expert comeback.

At the end of the class, Slughorn announced that blush wine, Amanda, and Linda 's potion had been the expert, much to Malfoy 's dismay.

`` You 'd better watch out at the Dueling tourney, '' Malfoy seethed as they left the room.

`` We 're on the Sami team, Malfoy, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I was n't talking to you, '' Malfoy turned and glared at rosiness, Amanda, and Linda.

`` Is that a threat, Malfoy ? '' John asked loudly.

`` I think you can figure that out for yourself, Brickston, '' Malfoy said as he turned in the direction of the Slytherin common elbow room, flanked by Limbert and Goyle.

`` He 's just overjealous, '' rose wine muttered as they made their way out of the dungeons.

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` But he 's a good dueller, much as I hate to admit it. ``

`` chance are, I wo n't even duel him, Albus, '' Rose sighed, `` And even if I do, there 's only so many spells he 's allowed to use. ``

Albus did n't vex reminding rosebush about the Slytherin who used a forbidden expletive on Matt last year. Albus was variety of interest about one of his friends having to duel Malfoy. Malfoy was the only when one Albus had ever dueled and did n't wield to beat. And Albus had beaten students who were two years older than he was.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome hoi polloi who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` All right, we need to come up with a good costume idea, '' John announced the following Saturday as he flew poorly made lambskin plane around the Marauder 's Den.

`` Definitely, '' Kaden agreed as his very much better lambskin plane flew gracefully over john 's point and landed softly on the couch.

`` Anyone got any ideas ? '' Matt asked.

`` Have n't even thought about it, '' Albus muttered as he tried not to move anymore musculus than he had to. He just completed a four hour Hogwarts Quidditch practice, which mainly focused on dodging Bludgers. Unfortunately, Albus had n't dodged them all.

`` You should go see Madam Pomfrey, '' Matt told him.

`` I 've already been there twice this week, '' Albus groaned, `` If this keeps up, I 'll break your record. I 'm fine, I just need nap. Empire State of the South canceled practice for tomorrow because of the Dueling tournament, so I think I 'll be amercement. ``

`` Back to the costumes, '' john said, `` I was thinking that we could be the vulture. You know, their animal contour. ``

Albus craned his point to see whoremonger. John looked quite excited by this idea. Albus had to admit that it was a pretty dependable idea. He could affix talk through one's hat antlers to his nous. Or see if one of his older full cousin could transfigure some onto his head.

`` That 's brilliant ! '' Kaden shouted excitedly.

`` I like it, '' Albus grinned.

`` No bloody way, '' matte said flatly, `` I am not dressing up as a lycanthrope in front of the stallion school. ``

Albus had n't even thought about that. No, there was definitely no way flatness could do that.

`` Oh, right field, '' John sighed, `` Sorry, had n't thought about that. ``

`` How about we just raiment up as the predator in their human mannequin ? '' Albus suggested. All he 'd have to do is get a pair of round black glasses and he 'd be set.

`` I do n't know ... '' Matt said, `` Everyone knows slip 's dad was a werewolf. What if they realize that I 'm one, too, since I dressed up as him ? ``

`` I bet people will just think we dressed up as them because of Albus, '' Gospel According to John pointed out, `` And someone would have to be Moony. might as well be you. You probably look the most like him anyway. ``

`` He does, '' Albus said.

`` See ? '' whoremaster replied.

`` Yeah, but still ... '' Matt sighed.

`` It does n't weigh, '' Kaden said, `` Because there is no way that I am dressing up as Pettigrew unless it 's his rat figure. ``

That Albus could definitely understand. `` Ok, so I guess we 're not doing the marauder thing. ``

`` Too bad, '' John sighed, `` Would 've been cool. ``

`` Says the bloke who would n't throw to clothe up as a treasonist, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` And we 're back to square up one, '' Albus said, `` Any other approximation ? ``

`` The actor from Puddlemere United ? '' John suggested after a few arcminute. `` You know, if rosebush, Amanda, and Linda joined us, we 'd sustain enough people to be the integral team. ``

`` Why not the carom ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` Because they 're awful, '' whoremonger groaned.

`` Are not, '' lustrelessness refuted.

`` Are to, '' Saint John the Apostle said, `` Let 's be Puddlemere. ``

`` Cannons, '' mat said adamantly.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden interrupted.

`` Who ? '' privy and matte said at the Saami time.

`` Manchester United, '' Kaden repeated, `` Football team. ``

Both trick and matt groaned. `` Puddlemere, '' toilet said once again.

`` Cannons. ``

`` Manchester. ''

`` Puddlemere. ``

`` None of them ! '' Albus shouted. He was already irritable due to his aching brawniness and fatigue from Quidditch practice session. The last affair he wanted to do was heed to his friends quibble about Quidditch and football teams.

`` well, have you got any other melodic theme ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Actually, yeah, '' Albus replied. matt 's mention of not wanting to dress up as a wolfman had sparked an thought. Albus had been mulling it over while his friend argued about Quidditch teams.

`` What is it ? '' Matt asked.

`` Well, I variety of cerebration it would be full-strength to use Muggle costumes, '' Albus said, `` You know, we can dress out up as things Muggles usually dress up as on Halloween. ``

Matt, bathroom, and Kaden stared at Albus for a few moment. Albus shrugged. He had thought it was a just musical theme, but maybe his fatigue was clouding his mentation. Then, all three of his friends broke out in Brobdingnagian grins.

`` That 's superb ! '' Kaden shouted, `` No one else will opine of it ! ``

`` Yeah, '' John agreed, `` We 'll be the only single at the party with Muggle costumes. ``

`` As long as I do n't have to dress up as a wolfman, I 'm fine with it, '' Matt said.

Albus grinned. `` just. Kaden, what are some classic Muggle costumes ? ``

`` Ghosts, witches, lamia, frame, mummies, '' Kaden rattled off, `` Oh, and snake god. Frankenstein's monster, too. ``

Albus had no theme who Frankenstein was and he was n't in the mood to listen to Kaden explain it, but the early ideas were commodity. `` Who wants to be what ? '' Albus asked.

`` Matt should be a vampire, '' Kaden grinned.

`` Why 's that ? '' Albus asked.

`` Vampires and loup-garou are mortal foe, '' Kaden explained, `` At to the lowest degree in the Muggle mankind. ``

`` In this world, too, '' lustrelessness muttered, `` And I 'm not dressing up as a vampire. ``

`` Aw, come on, '' John said.

`` No, '' matt said adamantly, `` I 'm being a ghost. The only head is, how do I make myself transparent. ``

`` Aw, no ! '' Kaden sighed, `` When Muggles dress as wraith, they just put a white rag with eye holes over themselves. That 's what Muggles think ghosts are. White. ``

`` Oh, that makes matter easier, '' Matt laughed, `` But seriously ? ``

`` Yep, '' Kaden laughed, `` whiteness sheets. Now, what about the rest of us ? ``

A half an hour later, everyone had settled on what they were going to snip up as. With Kaden 's avail, that is. Albus, Matt, and Saint John the Apostle really had no estimation as to what Muggles wore when they dressed up for Hallowe'en. John insisted on being a vampire, much to flatness 's disgust. However, Saint John the Apostle was going to be a classical Muggle vampire. The ugly, waxy, blood-stained backtalk, turn into a bat type of vampire that Muggles thought of when they heard the password 'vampire'. Albus did n't bang much about vampires, but he knew they were n't completely like the single Muggles thought of.

Kaden was going to coiffe up as a ma, which was a very simple costume. All he 'd cause to do was find a caboodle of funnies of egg white cloth. Albus said he 'd pick some up in Hogsmeade.

Albus was going to be a skeleton in the cupboard, which was the most hard of all the costumes. He was going to buy a black long-sleeve jersey and a pair of bleak pants and then paint on bones in T. H. White paint. He was hoping Amanda would be able to assist with it. She was the but one in their group who had any esthetic talent.

`` Maybe the female child can be witch, '' Kaden suggested.

`` They are witches, '' John smirked.

`` You know what I mean, '' Kaden sighed.

`` I know, '' whoremonger grinned, `` Hey, Albus, catch ! ``

Albus snapped his oculus spread just in clip to see a Quaffle seminal fluid gliding across the elbow room. It hit him right in the stomach before he had a chance to catch it.

`` Oh, ow ! '' Albus groaned and curled up, `` That 's where I got hit with a Bludger ! ``

`` Brilliant, John, '' matt sighed, `` Are you ok, Albus ? ``

Albus squeezed his eyes shut and nodded. It did anguish. It hurt a lot. A lot more than it should, he thought. He was sick of getting pelted by Bludgers during recitation.

`` Albus ? '' St. John the Apostle asked worriedly, `` Merlin, I 'm dreary. I did n't mean to hit you with it. ``

`` It 's ok, '' Albus whispered. He inhaled sharply. Now it was getting hard to breath. This was not good.

`` Albus, you 've got to go to the Hospital Wing, '' lusterlessness announced. He walked over to Albus and helped him off the sofa. `` C'mon. ``

Albus nodded. There was no stop in objecting. He knew he had to go. But honestly, three fourth dimension in one week seemed excessive.

The Hospital fender was vacuous when Albus stumbled inside, being supported by lustrelessness and St. John the Apostle, a little while later. madam Pomfrey came out of her authority when she heard the threshold open. She saw who it was and threw her hands up in the air.

`` You again ! '' she groaned, `` Let me estimate. Quidditch ? ``

Albus nodded and collapsed onto the nearest bed.

`` well, what did you spite this time ? '' the nurse asked.

`` Bludger in the stomach, '' Albus replied, not bothering to mention that John hit him with a Quaffle as well.

Madam Pomfrey clucked her tongue and waved her baton over Albus. `` Broken rib. That 's the second gear one this week, '' she waved her scepter again and pressed it to Albus 's ribs. Then she bustled away to a Potions cupboard.

Albus 's stomach immediately felt better and he sank back into the bed. The balance of his muscleman still ached, though, and he wanted zippo more than to go down asleep right there.

ma'am Pomfrey returned a few minutes later and hurl a potion into Albus 's custody. He drank it quickly and grimaced at the disgusting taste.

`` You 're staying the night, '' she announced in a tone that Albus knew not to indicate with. Not that he really felt like arguing anyway. He was just too exhausted.

ma'am Pomfrey turned to matte, John, and Kaden. `` You lot can return to Gryffindor. Albus needs to roost. ``

Albus 's protagonist said good night and then left the room.

`` I 'll be speaking with Professor Kendrick, '' lady Pomfrey muttered to herself, `` Honestly, what was he thinking ? Twice the total of Quidditch ? Twice the amount of injuries is what I say ! ``

Albus did n't give birth the faint-hearted idea as to what Madam Pomfrey wanted Kendrick to do, but he did n't imagine about it for long. enervation overcame him and he was asleep within minutes.

******

Albus awoke feeling serious than he had in Clarence Day. One face at the clock told him why. He had slept over twelve hours. It was just after eleven o'clock. Two hr until the Dueling Tournament. Albus pulled the blankets off and started to get up.

`` Where do you think you 're going ? '' Madam Pomfrey appeared at his bed.

`` Er, the common room ? '' Albus slowly sat back down, `` The Dueling Tournament is in two hr. ``

`` Dueling ? You think I 'm going to let you duel ? '' Madam Pomfrey demanded.

`` Well, yeah, '' Albus muttered. Come to think of it, he actually was n't surprised that the nursemaid was n't going to let him duel.

`` Definitely not ! '' she exclaimed, `` You 're spending the day in bed ! ``

`` cum on ! '' Albus groaned, `` Please ? '' He had to duel. He was practically the scoop on his squad. What would Malfoy say when he did n't show up ?

`` I wo n't get it ! '' Madam Pomfrey said, `` You were short on your feet last night ! You 're going to rest today ! ``

Albus groaned in defeat. He was going to miss the first Dueling tourney of the year, because of a Quidditch wound. His two favorite things to do were now conflicting with each other.

lady Pomfrey brought a tray of breakfast, or maybe it should have been lunch, for Albus a little while later. He was n't in the climate to eat, though. Why could n't he just go to the tournament ? He felt fine now.

matte, John, Kaden, Amanda, Rose, and for some intellect, Linda, burst into the Hospital extension just as Albus was finishing up his food for thought. lady Pomfrey looked a bit taken aback at the sum of visitors, but she did n't say anything.

`` Albus ! '' John shouted, `` Dueling 's in an hour. You going to be getting out of here soon ? ``

`` She wo n't let me go, '' Albus muttered.

`` What ? '' Gospel According to John exclaimed, `` Why not ? ``

`` She says I need to rest, '' Albus explained.

`` Honestly, it would induce surprised me if she did let you go, '' Matt commented.

`` I 'll convince her, Albus, '' John announced and walked over to where Madam Pomfrey was organizing potions. `` You 've got to let Albus duel. ``

`` I do not stimulate to do any such thing, '' she replied, not looking up.

`` But it 's Kaden 's first tournament, '' John pointed out.

`` I would n't worry if it was Merlin 's first tournament, I 'm not letting Albus go. ``

`` Please ? '' John Lackland begged.

`` No, '' she said, `` And if you do n't stop arguing, I 'll earn you impart. ``

John the Evangelist sighed and walked glumly back to Albus 's bed. `` Sorry, '' he muttered, `` And this was variety of my fault since I threw that Quaffle at you. ``

`` No it was n't, '' Albus assured him, `` A Quaffle would n't have broke my costa. It was that Bludger from Quidditch practice. ``

`` But still ... '' John said.

Albus 's friends remained in the Hospital fender until it was time for them to go to the Dueling tourney. It was kind of tense, and Albus could only attribute this to the fact that Linda was there. It was strange how someone who never said a word could stimulate the respite of Albus 's friends to remain quiet as well.

After his ally left, Albus was filled with boredom. The Hospital wing really was a bore place, especially when you were n't actually sick or injured. Albus began to count the cracks on the cap, but lost track after 467.

It was n't until after the tournament was over that gentlewoman Pomfrey actually let Albus leave. He figured she had n't let him leave behind earlier since then she would 've had no way to know he would n't go to the tourney.

Albus jumped out of bed as soon as he promised Madam Pomfrey that he would n't wreak Quidditch that day. He ran as fast as he could down to the dueling chamber, hoping that the tournament was still going on.

Unfortunately, bookman were already streaming out of the way chattering excitedly about the tournament. Albus sighed dejectedly and slumped against the rampart, where he waited for his friends.

`` Hey, Albus, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, hey, matt, '' Albus replied, `` Who won ? ``

`` My team. No thanks to me, of course. ``

`` Who 'd Malfoy duel ? '' Albus asked, thinking of his menace to pink wine and Amanda.

`` Some Slytherin moment yr and a Ravenclaw quaternary year, '' matte answered.

Albus nodded, relieved that he had n't dueled either Rose or Amanda.

`` Albus ! '' someone shouted excitedly.

Albus turned around and saw Kaden with a huge grin on his face. St. John was standing next to him, looking equally happy.

`` Hey, John, Kaden, '' Albus smiled.

`` I won one of my duels ! '' Kaden announced, `` I dueled a Ravenclaw and I actually beat him ! ``

`` That 's neat, '' Albus told him, still wishing that he had gotten to scramble a Ravenclaw. Or a Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Gryffindor.

`` But he was horribly beaten in his second duel, '' john laughed.

`` At least I won one of them, '' Kaden smirked.

`` Yeah, yeah, '' Saint John muttered.

`` Did you lose both ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, '' lavatory sighed.

The son set off for Gryffindor tug, figuring they 'd catch up with the girls once they were up there. Albus was eager to see Amanda because he wanted to know how his team had done.

Amanda, Rose, and Linda were talking about the tournament when Albus entered the rough-cut room. He was shocked to see that Linda was actually talking. Although, she immediately stopped when Albus and the former male child showed up.

Apparently Albus 's team had came in bit place. Amanda said they were only two percentage point behind lustrelessness 's squad, which caused Albus to wish even more that he had been there. He could have easily gotten the two degree they needed. Amanda said that Malfoy thought the Saame thing, because he shouted angrily about Albus not being there once they announced the winner. Albus was kind of amused by this. He never thought Malfoy would ever be lamenting Albus 's absence from anything.

The mathematical group, including Linda, spent the residuum of the afternoon in the common room. It was sort of odd, though. Linda did n't say a word, yet Rose and Amanda tried to absorb her in every conversation. flatness remained almost completely mute, whispering quietly so only Albus and John could take heed what he was saying. Kaden of course did n't detect any of this and talked as loudly as he usually did. It did n't really avail that various boy kept coming up to Linda and asking her useless doubt about Australia and Quidditch and assorted other topics. Linda gave them very short, quiet answers. John paid rhapsodic attending to every little thing she said.

`` So, '' rose wine began, `` firstly Quidditch equal in a week. Australia versus New House of York. Are you unquiet, Linda ? ``

Albus stared at rose wine. He could n't commend the death time Rose actually brought up Quidditch in a conversation.

`` A bit, '' Linda muttered, not looking up.

`` well, I hope you win, '' rose wine smiled, `` Since Hogwarts is n't playing. ``

`` Thanks, '' Linda whispered.

Albus was looking forward to the first equal. He was glad he was n't playing in it. His team would be able to assess both Australia and New York 's acquirement before they played either team. That was definitely effective for strategy. Then when they actually played, they 'd be capable to use the team 's helplessness to their advantage. Wood had given them specific counselling to look for weaknesses in both team. Of course, opportunity are Albus would n't be playing in the start Hogwarts lucifer, or really any of the matches.

Albus walked down to dinner with his friends and Linda sat in between Rose and Amanda. He glanced absentmindedly at the staff mesa as he scooped mashed potatoes onto his shell and noticed a new wizard talking with the master from Australia. He was a rather short man, compared to Killigan, and his aspect seemed to birth absolutely no emotion on it. His dirty blonde hair sat flat on his read/write head and fell over his oculus. He was wearing spare total darkness robes.

`` I wonder who that bloke is, '' Albus said to John as he pointed at the faculty table.

`` Dunno, '' John shrugged, not really seeming interested.

Rose turned to bet at him. `` Probably some cuss from Australia, I 'd be guessing. I imagine a few hoi polloi from Commonwealth of Australia and New House of York will visit to see what 's going on with the tourney. ``

`` Recognize him, matte ? '' Albus asked.

Matt looked up and then quickly turned away. `` No. ``

`` How about you, Linda ? '' rose asked.

`` No, '' Linda whispered.

Albus shrugged and returned to his dinner party. It seemed like he was really the only one interested in the unfamiliar hotshot at the faculty table. Was he really only there to see the tournament ? The Quidditch lucifer was n't for another week, so why was he there already ? Would he really be spending the altogether calendar week at Hogwarts ?

Kendrick stood up after dinner party started to wind down. Albus immediately stopped eating and paid attending. Maybe he was going to tell everyone who the strange wizard was.

`` If I could ingest your attention for just one consequence, '' Kendrick announced, `` Thank you. When I first began to coordinate this competition, I always thought we would continue with the usual Hogwarts Quidditch Cup tournament like usual, but I did n't think about what affect it would have on the player who would play on both their home team and the Hogwarts team. ``

Albus had a feeling he knew where this was going and it had everything to do with that talk Madam Pomfrey said she was going to have with Kendrick. Albus sank get down in his seat and tried not to look at anyone.

`` It 's come to my attention that playing on two Quidditch teams at once is much Sir Thomas More work than could have been anticipated. Therefore, I have decided to scrub the Quidditch Cup tournament for this yr only, while the tourney is going on. ``

`` What ? ! '' Over half the room erupted in various shouts and jeering. Albus sank even bring down in his seat. This was all his fault. He was the one who had been to the Hospital Wing so many times that calendar week. He had gotten Quidditch canceled for the all school.

`` Quiet down, '' Kendrick shouted, `` It 's what 's best for the instrumentalist. Plus, it 's been rather tight to mash in so many practice session for so many squad. We only have one Quidditch pitch. With four less squad to admit, it 'll be easier to schedule drill. This is my final word on the subject. Remember that we still have excellent Quidditch going on this yr. ``

`` I should n't deliver gone to see madam Pomfrey last night, '' Albus muttered.

`` Albus, this is n't your error, '' Rose assured him, `` You 're not the solely one who 's been injured numerous times. ``

That was true. Pretty much everyone on the Hogwarts team had been to see Madam Pomfrey at least once a week since the start of terminus. So maybe it was n't all his break. Plus, there was the scheduling difference of opinion on the pitch shot. Albus had witnessed a few fighting between the home captains that certainly could n't be sound for teamwork on the Hogwarts team.

Albus had to admit that life would be a lot easier without Gryffindor squad practices. Now he would only be practicing Quidditch twice a week. Well, Wood would probably increase it to three times now that Kendrick canceled the house Quidditch. But even that would be less than he had been doing. He might even have an eve or two off a week now.

The Gryffindor team was sitting together in the common way when Albus returned. Georgia immediately flagged him over.

`` I still do n't care it, '' Fred sighed, `` Now I do n't get to spiel at all this yr. ``

`` Yeah, well I do n't get to play for Gryffindor in my seventh yr, but it really is for the best, '' GA said.

`` I 'll say, '' James IV agreed, `` I 'm already behind on prep and it 's only Oct. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus said.

`` Just think, Fred, '' Heather began, `` next year, one of us will be police captain. ``

`` It 'll be me, '' Fred announced.

`` Really ? '' Heather raised an eyebrow.

`` Yeah, Gryffindor 's had two young woman captains recently. It 's fourth dimension for another bloke. ``

heather rolled her center. `` Not if I 'm a in force leader. ``

`` What makes you think it 'll be either of you ? '' Bradley asked, `` It might be Ryan or I. We 'll be sixth year. They do n't always choose 7th years. ``

`` Maybe, '' Fred replied, `` I 'm still going to escape it, though. ``

`` We could play pick-up matches on the weekends, '' Ryan suggested.

`` I guess, '' Fred sighed.

Albus remained quiet down for the eternal sleep of the time with the team. Although he did n't pick himself for the cancellation of household Quidditch, he felt guilty that he was relieved it was canceled. But most of the team was far from felicitous about it. In fact, it seemed like only Epistle of James and Albus were relieved.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this story ! You cat are awesome !

Frankenstien belongs to Blessed Virgin Shelley.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus was amazed at how much extra clip he had now that he did not cause to go to Gryffindor Quidditch practice. During the succeeding week, he got all his homework done on meter and got a right amount of quietus. Plus, he made fewer trip-up to the hospital annexe, which he attributed to having Sir Thomas More sleep.

stratum were going well. Albus was very glad they had moved onto more sex tool in tutelage of Magical brute. They were n't up to hippogriffs or thestrals, but nifflers were certainly entertaining. Despite the rather boring start, guardianship of Magical puppet was quickly becoming one of Albus 's dearie classes. He seemed to stimulate an affinity for the mixture of animals they learned about ; something Hagrid was quick to notice.

Arithmancy was turning out to be kind of dry, but Albus was just glad he was n't taking fortune telling. Even St. John the Apostle was beginning to get tired of making up forge foretelling for Trelawney. 'What 's the point ?'he had shouted out angrily one Night as they were working on homework. Albus was n't capable to suppress his grin at that, which earned him a Divination Scripture to the head when lav saw Albus 's smirk.

Defense Against the Dark Arts continued to be the foreign division Albus had ever attended. He was beginning to suppose he was enjoying it, but still was n't trusted. He liked the grade, but was n't sure if he liked Balladanis himself.

The professor continued to be a mystery to scholarly person of all years. hours were spent debating his scope in the vulgar room. He seemed to learn power point away equally from each house, which either meant he was extremely fair or had never attended Hogwarts himself. Quite a few scholarly person had asked their parents if they 'd ever heard of Balladanis ( namely, had they gone to school with him ), but so far none of the parents had.

Balladanis 's teaching methods were certainly singular. Albus could count on one hand the telephone number of actual lectures he had had in that course of instruction. virtually all the lessons were virtual, but not in the same way Harry had done them. Harry 's method had been very caring and all about trying. Balladanis 's methods were Thomas More rough and focused on winner. He insisted that everyone deliver the goods and refused to let anyone stop until they did, even if it meant coming in for extra help.

The amount of scholarly person going in for supernumerary supporter was increasing quickly. lustrelessness was no longer seen as washy or odd for having to go in for extra help. Nearly half of Albus 's course of instruction was spending extra time with Balladanis at least once a workweek. The prof still had n't let Matt finish going.

`` Stand up ! '' Balladanis barked at Albus 's class.

These two words were frequently spoken by the professor. Albus wondered why he did n't just do away with the desks all together instead of having to locomote them at the showtime of each class.

`` Get a motility on ! '' he shouted, `` Unless you think your Word will attack you. Books can only get you so far. You need to pattern ! ``

The class spent nearly an hour practicing the magic spell to gross out grindylows and once the doorbell rang, Balladanis announced that they 'd be practicing on real grindylows in the following class.

`` Brickston ! '' Balladanis announced, `` You 'll be coming in for excess help tomorrow night. You may arrive the same fourth dimension Eckerton does. ``

Albus did n't call back John Lackland had done that bad with the patch. It had taken him a patch, but by the end of the class he had managed it. Albus was beginning to opine that by the end of the yr, everyone would be going in for spear carrier help.

`` He 's certifiably insane, '' Saint John the Apostle muttered as they walked to potions after they left the DoD classroom.

`` Well, I 'm sort of gladiolus you 're going in for helper, '' flatness said, `` You can proceed Amanda and I company. ``

`` That 's nearly all of us going in for helper, '' Rose commented, `` Just Al and Linda and I. ``

Kaden had been going for supporter nearly as long as lusterlessness had. Amanda had started a few days ago.

`` Albus wo n't ever give birth to go, '' lustrelessness said, `` He 's too good at Department of Defense. ``

`` I 'm not that great at it, '' Albus muttered quietly. sure as shooting, he managed all the go, but it 's not like they were very advanced.

******

`` What do you think Balladanis did before he taught here ? '' Kaden mused late the next day.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I think he was an Auror, '' privy said, `` I mean, he obviously hates the dark arts. ``

`` No, '' Albus shook his head, `` My dad would have mentioned that. ``

`` Maybe he was a foreign Auror, '' John suggested.

`` But he sounds British, '' flatness pointed out.

`` So do you, for the most section, but you 're from Australia, '' John countered.

`` Really ? I always thought I sounded Australian. ``

`` You do a bit. But your parents vocalize more Aussie than you do. Same with Amy, '' Albus told him.

`` Oh, '' Matt shrugged, `` So I guess he could be foreign. ``

`` Why did he come teach here, then ? '' Albus asked.

No one had an response to that. Albus was really curious to what the solution was, but it 's not like he could actually ask the professor. In fact, the idea of being lonely with Balladanis kind of scared him. He was really happy he did n't bear to see the professor outside of class.

The outset Inter-School Dueling tournament was scheduled to direct piazza the following day. The intact shoal was buzzing about it. It was the inaugural big competition between the three schoolhouse. Albus did n't know a whole lot of people who were on the Hogwarts Dueling squad. Just his cousin, Fred. Despite this, he was still excited. Albus absolutely loved dueling and wished he was old enough to be on the schooltime team.

The tournament was taking place in the Great G. Stanley Hall, since the dueling chamber was much too small to accommodate the stallion schooling. Albus walked with his supporter into the room and saw that all the mesa had disappeared. They were replaced with embossed stall, sort of like the Quidditch rake. Albus found prat towards the front end and waited impatiently for the tournament to begin.

The dueling area was a raised political platform in front of the standpoint. On the other slope of it was a smaller set of standpoint, in which all the teachers were filing into. The mysterious virtuoso who had been seen talking to Killigan, but never introduced, was sitting next to the Australian headmaster, but neither of them were talking. Both wore monovular looks of determination mingled with captivation. A hag Albus did n't recognize was seated next to Henry M. Robert and the two of them were talking. Albus assumed she was from New York. The Auror who had been assigned to patrol Hogwarts that week was talking with Albus 's Uncle Percy, who had came to present the Ministry. Neither Albus 's dad nor his Uncle Ron were there, so Albus assumed they were meddlesome with work.

Once all the students, teachers, and various early spectators were seated, Professor Kendrick stood up and everyone quieted down.

`` Welcome, students, stave, and visitor to the first Dueling tournament between Hogwarts, the Australian schooltime of black magic, and the Adirondack Academy of Magic. All three schools will duel this afternoon. Each schoolhouse 's team has five students and each pupil will participate in two duel. Whichever student wins the duel gets a point for their school. The school with the most power point will win. But keep in mind that this is just the initiative of many tournament that will take place during this class. Now, here are the teams. '' Kendrick gestured to a room access on the face of the room.

The doorway opened and Professor Longbottom led the Hogwarts squad into the room. The other two schooltime'teams followed and Albus did n't accredit either of their prof. He had n't really thought about the other team'captains before. He kind of figured they had them, but had n't seen them before. He guessed they just came to Hogwarts for practices. They must cause set up some variety of especial floo connectedness with the school.

The tourney commenced in much the Lapplander way the Junior Dueling social club had, except only one duel took blank space at a clock time. The charm used were much more progress, too. The trance that Slytherin had used on lustrelessness during the previous years paled in comparing to the ones being used by the older student. Albus was absolutely fascinated. He paid rapt attention and wished that he could learn such advanced spells.

The tournament took nearly two minute, but Albus was n't bored at all. In fact, he was kind of disappoint when the last duel was over.

Professor Kendrick tallied the power point and then rose once again. `` Thank you everyone. Each and every student performed well today. However, this is a tournament and I must declare a winner. And that winner is the Adirondack honorary society of conjuring trick. Congratulations to them ! ``

There was a small sum of aloud applause from the New Yorkers who were in the consultation, as well as some civilized applause from everyone else. Albus sighed and clapped politely along with most of his fellow students.

`` well, it 's only the initiatory tournament, '' lustrelessness said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` Plus there 's Quidditch. ``

`` And we 've got a vivid Quidditch team ! '' John grinned as he stood up, `` Now we 've just got to trust that one of those other pursuer jailbreak something so Albus can play future week. ``

`` lav ! '' Rose scolded.

`` I 'm only kidding, '' John shrugged, `` Sort of. ``

`` We could just give one of them the Orange end of a puking cough drop, '' Kaden suggested, `` And not move over them the majestic one-half. ``

`` Would n't make for, '' St. John the Apostle sighed, `` Madam Pomfrey recognizes those things now. ``

`` I know I probably wo n't get to play, '' Albus said as they left the elbow room, `` You do n't call for to land yourselves in detainment to get me a property on the team. ``

`` We know, '' Kaden said, `` We 're just joking. ``

Albus figured they were, but when it came to those two, one just never knew.

******

Albus stowed his broom in his dormitory late Tuesday evening following a particularly tiring Quidditch practice session. Ellen Price Wood 's focusing during this particular exercise had been goal scoring, so Albus had worked hard the entire two minute. At least the focal point had n't been on dodging Bludgers. He yawned, grabbed his bag and headed out of the common room. He walked slowly to the Marauder 's Den, thinking he could tweet a bit of homework in before bed.

`` Albus ! '' someone shouted as Albus reached the courting of armor in social movement of the room.

Albus turned around and saw rose wine, red hair flying behind her, running down the corridor towards him. `` Rose ? ``

`` Albus ! '' Rose panted, `` I saw you leave the green room. ``

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus shrugged. He usually did his prep in the Marauder 's Den since it was quieter and well-off to concentrate.

`` I wanted to talk to you, '' pink wine said.

`` Ok, '' Albus said as he located the paw mark on the diametrical wall, `` We can talk in here. ``

`` Actually, '' Rose said, `` I kind of wanted to babble to you alone. Are Matt, john, and Kaden in there ? ``

`` Probably, '' Albus replied. What did Rose need to talk about that she did n't want their former acquaintance to find out ? `` I did n't see them in the commons room. ``

`` Well, I 'd rather spill the beans to you alone, first, '' Rose shifted nervously from infantry to foot.

Albus looked at her strangely. Rose rarely ever looked aflutter, especially when she was talking to Albus. What could she possibly have to tell him ?

`` Er, all right, '' Albus said slowly, `` I guess we could find an empty classroom or something .... ''

`` commodity, '' pink wine nodded and took off down the corridor. Albus ran after her and she found an hollow schoolroom. Albus followed her into it and shut the door behind him. `` What is it ? ``

blush wine paced around the elbow room for a bit, wringing her hands together, before letting out a loud suspiration and leaning up against one of the desks. `` It 's about Linda. ``

Albus blinked. Linda ? He barely knew her. What could Rose possibly consume to say about Linda ? `` Linda ? ``

`` Yes, Linda, '' Rose sighed, `` You know Amanda and I are sort of becoming friends with her. Well, we are Quaker with her now. She talks to us. I think she misses Australia. Anyway, I was kind of thinking it would be dependable if she started to make friends here. You know, like you. And maybe matte, John, and Kaden. ``

Albus still had no idea why rose wine felt the need to spill to him alone about this. She wanted Albus to befriend Linda. How was he going to do that if Linda did n't say a word around him ? Not to mention the fact that Matt did n't appear to care her.

`` Er, why exactly did n't you want mat, John, and Kaden to see this ? '' Albus asked, `` You ca n't really expect them to become friends with Linda unless you tell them you want them to. ``

`` I know that, '' Rose groaned, `` But the four of you are always holing up in the marauder 's Den, so I hardly see any of you anymore. What I wanted to love was whether Linda could come into the Marauder 's Den with us. ``

Albus stared at his cousin. So that was what she wanted to let the cat out of the bag about. `` You want Linda to total into the predator 's Den ? ``

`` Yes, '' Rose nodded, `` She 's in the common room with Amanda. Can she ? I 'll go get them right now if you say yes. ``

`` Wait, delay, '' Albus shook his fountainhead, `` It 's not up to me. ``

`` Yes it is ! '' Rose replied, `` You found that map. It 's yours, so the room is yours. ``

`` No it 's not, '' Albus said, `` It 's Matt, John, and Kaden 's, too. All four of us had to make to get that map to show up and to find the way. If it were n't for them, it would still be a lacuna art object of parchment. ``

`` But- ''

`` No, pink wine, '' Albus said irritably, `` I ca n't just let you lend random people into the elbow room without asking everyone. ``

Albus and his friends had n't really thought much about whether they 'd let other people into the room, but Albus knew he could n't do it without talking to them. Letting rosebush and Amanda in had been a given, since they helped with it, but Linda certainly had n't helped.

`` I have to talk to matt, John, and Kaden, '' Albus told her, `` I can spill to them now, if you want. ``

`` All rightfulness, '' pink wine sighed and stood up.

Neither of the cousin said a intelligence to each early as they walked back to the Marauder 's Den. Albus was still rather bewildered by this whole thing. First, he had never really talked to his ally about letting other citizenry into the predator 's Den. He always assumed it would be their secret. He was n't entirely sure he wanted anyone else in it, no matter what his friends thought. second, it was rather out of character for rosiness to be this spontaneous and demanding. Whether this was due to the increased oeuvre load, the sudden competitor in class brought on by Linda, or something else entirely, Albus did n't know.

Albus took a cryptic hint as he opened the door to the way and glanced at rosebush. She was looking more uneasy than before. Albus walked into the room and pause. John and Kaden were lounging on the floor, playing a rather rowdy game of chess ( the two of them could turn any board secret plan into something physical ), while their ignore prep sat haphazardly on the table. Matt was paying wispy attention to the game while stretched out on the couch. It did n't surprise Albus that he was n't doing a good deal, since the fully Sun Myung Moon was the future Nox. trick and Kaden looked up when they heard the threshold open.

`` Albus ! '' Kaden shouted, `` How was practice ? ``

`` blush wine ! '' John grinned, `` I was beginning to think you 'd forgotten about this place. I do n't guess I 've seen you here in over a month. ``

`` Hey, John, Kaden, '' Albus smiled, `` praxis was practiced. What have you lot been up to ? ``

`` whipping Kaden at chess, '' Gospel According to John explained.

`` Hey, I beat you once ! '' Kaden countered.

`` Only once, '' John repeated, `` I 've won four secret plan. ``

`` I 'm storm neither of you have detention tonight, '' Albus smirked.

`` They almost did, '' matte announced, `` Professor Longbottom caught them sneaking into the young woman 's toilet- ''

`` What were you doing in there ? '' Albus raised his eyebrows.

`` We were going to put dung bombs in there, '' Kaden explained.

`` Anyway, '' Matt continued, `` Longbottom took pity on them since they 're already doing so many detentions and only took away points. ``

`` prof Longbottom is great, '' John grinned.

`` I would n't ask him to let you off again, '' Matt pointed out.

`` lack to playact chess game, rosiness ? '' Gospel According to John asked, `` I could use with some real number competition. ``

`` Hey ! '' Kaden crossed his arms across his chest, `` I 'm real competition. ``

Albus glanced at Rose. `` Er, Rose has something she wanted to ask us, '' Albus said quietly.

rose wine glared at Albus. Clearly she wanted him to add up the theme. Albus gave her a spry shake of his head. There was no way he was going to ask. She was the one who wanted Linda there.

`` Well, what is it ? '' whoremonger asked, `` If it 's about homework, I 'll have you know that I 've already finished about of it. ``

`` It 's not about preparation, '' rose sighed and sat down on the end of the couch that Matt was n't occupying.

Albus settled himself into an armchair opposite the couch and waited for his cousin-german to continue.

pink wine took a recondite breathing spell. `` You lot know Amanda and I have sort of get friends with Linda, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' John said and Kaden nodded.

`` Well, since then Amanda and I have been spending more than time in the common room with her. But you lot still hang out here all the time .... '' her voice trailed off.

`` well, yeah, because this room is so much practiced than the rough-cut way, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` I know, '' Rose sighed, `` And I do lose being with all of you, but at the same sentence, Linda 's my admirer now, too. ``

`` So spend time with all of us, '' St. John said, `` I 'm indisputable Linda would be fine by herself for a few hours a day so you can be here with us. ``

blush wine groaned. `` That was n't what I had in judgement. What I want is for all of us to drop time together. As in you lot can become supporter with Linda, too. She needs more than Friend. ``

`` She does n't blab out, '' Kaden said.

`` She does when she gets to know you, '' rosebush explained.

`` So what you 're saying, '' privy began, `` Is that you want us to halt hanging out in this vivid elbow room and go back to the boring usual room ? ``

`` No, of course of study not, '' rose replied, `` I want all of us to hang out here. Linda, too. ``

The room was completely dumb. Albus watched his Friend'response with great pursuit. Both Gospel According to John and Kaden gaped at Rose and then turned to look at Albus. They then turned their heads back to Rose, but did n't say anything. lustrelessness suddenly sat up, middle wide out-of-doors, and stared at Rose with an incredulous aspect on his face.

nobody said a intelligence for what must have been nearly five minutes. Albus kept looking from rosiness to his Quaker and back. rose wine was looking nervously at everybody in turn and then sending pleading glance at Albus. Albus was about to open his mouth, when Matt finally broke the stony silence.

`` No, '' he said. It was hardly Thomas More than a voicelessness, but was very forceful.

`` We have n't let anyone else in, '' John pointed out, `` Why should Linda be the number 1 ? ``

Kaden turned to Albus. `` What do you recollect, Albus ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` Why not ? '' Rose demanded, `` She 's mine and Amanda 's admirer. ``

`` But she 's not our Quaker, '' John said.

`` But she could be ! '' rosebush insisted.

`` Then we 'll get Friend with her before we let her in the elbow room ! '' John replied, `` It 's still our secret. We have n't even evidence Teddy about it yet. ``

Albus turned and looked at John. He had n't even thought about that. John had a point. They had n't told shimmy about the way yet. Or his dad. Should n't they see it before other hoi polloi did ?

`` If anyone has the right hand to know about this way, it 's Teddy and my dad, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Yes, but they are n't here, '' Rose pointed out, `` semen on, why wo n't you let her in ? ``

`` We do n't know her, '' John said.

`` She 's got no connectedness to it, '' Albus said.

`` I like keeping it a secret, '' Kaden said.

`` You could know her ! '' blush wine shouted, `` Then she would have got connections to it. And it would still be a secret. ``

`` Look, Rose, '' flatness said loudly, `` We 're not going to let her in ! You ca n't convince us otherwise ! ``

Albus, Gospel According to John, and Kaden turned to look at each other. Albus had never heard Matt invoke his voice like that, and certainly not with Rose.

`` And what 's your reason why she ca n't ? '' Rose asked icily.

flatness glared at her. `` They 're the same as Albus, St. John the Apostle, and Kaden 's ! ``

`` You just do n't care her ! '' rosebush shouted.

`` So what if I do n't ? '' matt asked hotly.

`` You do n't even know her ! You have n't said one news to her the whole time she 's been here ! ``

`` Neither has she ! '' Matt yelled.

`` You lot are so stubborn ! '' Rose huffed, `` I just do n't get why you wo n't let her- ''

`` Do you really want to experience why ? '' Matt raised his voice even louder, `` I honestly would n't call up I 'd have to tell you ! You 're bright ! This is the one place in the palace that nobody else knows about ! It 's the only place I can go and get some peace and subdued and not have to worry about anyone else barging in ! The lonesome citizenry who know about it already make out what I am, so I can actually decompress ! If you let Linda in here, it wo n't be like that anymore ! I like the quiet of this seat. And it was hushed before you came in here demanding that we let a witch we hardly know into it ! ``

lustrelessness leaned back against the arm of the couch and squeezed his eyes shut as he rubbed his temple.

Albus stared in jolt at john and Kaden. Albus had never seen Matt yell at mortal like that. certain, he got a bit short with people around the to the full moon, but had never had a full-blown row like this.

`` fountainhead, maybe if you become friends with Linda, you 'll tell her what you are, '' Rose said. She looked quite taken aback that matt had shouted at her like that.

`` Are you bloody insane ? ! '' matt yelled, causing him to cringe even more. Albus had a feeling he was giving himself a headache.

`` You told us, '' rosebush said.

`` That 's unlike, '' Matt shook his read/write head, `` You figured it out on your own. ``

`` What if we had n't ? ``

`` I would n't consume told you, '' matt muttered, `` And Linda 's going back to Commonwealth of Australia after this year, so there really would n't be a point. ``

`` You know, since she 's from Commonwealth of Australia, she might already screw, '' rose pointed out, `` You did say that the stallion state found out shortly before you moved. ``

That was the wrong matter to say. Albus knew she was going to say it just import before she finished and he tried to shake his forefront to tell her to stop, but she either did n't bill or did n't want to stop.

All the colouring drained from lusterlessness 's face and with it nigh of the ire. He merely looked a little scared now.

`` You think I have n't thought about that ? '' he asked quietly, `` Why do you conceive I was n't thrilled about this totally tournament affair ? Why do you imagine I try to keep off anyone from Australia ? I mean, it was five geezerhood ago, so I really hope most masses have forgotten about it, but all it would require was one of them to remember and soon the altogether schoolhouse would know. ``

`` I doubt Linda would state anyone, if she did bang, '' Rose said.

`` Yeah, because she does n't let the cat out of the bag, '' Kaden laughed.

parting it to Kaden to find humor in this situation, Albus thought. He could n't assist but grin at his cousin-german 's financial statement himself.

`` Could you at least think about it ? '' Rose asked.

`` No, '' Matt raised his voice again, `` Do n't you get it ? I do n't desire to risk anyone else finding out. I do n't want this to be a repeat of what happened in Australia. I like it here. I do n't want to be active again. So I 'm not going to change my mind. I 'm going to bed. ``

Matt got up off the couch and walked slowly over to his bed and rammed the mantle shut behind him.

Albus exchanged coup d'oeil with John and Kaden, completely at a red as to what to say. blush wine got up off the lounge a present moment later and left the room without another word. Albus, whoremonger, and Kaden quietly began to work on their homework, but the remainder of the eve was very subdued. Albus stared at his Herbology book, but could n't possibly concentrate on it after the row his full cousin and best friend had just had.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !

NaNoWriMo is now over and I managed to win, although not nearly as quickly as I did last yr. Big congratulations to Dancer of Starlight for winning as well, during her first year of the veritable NaNo program ! Now it 's back to fan fic for the prison term being.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus 's grouping of friends had never been torn apart by a row before. From the import they met on the train ride over two years ago, the five of them had been close. During their beginning year, only one time had any of them had a row. It had only lasted ten minutes. Albus remembered it like it was just yesterday. The night he and whoremaster had fought about whether to tell lustrelessness they knew he was a werewolf. It had been a very brief row, ending when Matt walked in.

Then, just a twelvemonth ago, Kaden had flew into their group in a mist of hyperactivity and garishness. Albus did n't really count the wrangle he had shared with his cousin as rows within his mathematical group of ally. Kaden had not been Albus 's Quaker then. They reconciled and then became friends. That was how Albus saw it.

No row had come between them like this one, though. Albus was still in shock about it the next day. If he had had to cull two of his acquaintance to agitate, he would n't take chosen Matt or pink wine. The two of them seemed least probably to fight.

rosebush did cause a temper. There was no denying that. She and Albus had shared quite a few sibling-like bickering growing up, but they had grown out of it. pink wine 's pique remained, though. She was stubborn as well. Albus had a lot of experience with that. Once Rose got an idea into her head there was no stopping her. It seemed that bringing Linda into their mathematical group was one of those things. Albus just could n't fathom why. Sure, she was impertinent, but was that really a cause to become friend with someone ?

lustrelessness, on the early hand, did n't appear to consume an furious bone in his organic structure. This was definitely ironic considering that he became a raging loup-garou once a calendar month. In the two years Albus had known him, he had only seen him angry a couplet times. to the highest degree of these affair were when he was having whispered conversations with his sister. Albus would never have predicted that he would shout at pink wine like he had.

Albus had no estimation what to carry the next day. He doubted this was the kind of thing that would just fumble over.

It certainly had not blown over, as Albus discovered at breakfast. His group of ally was no longsighted sitting together. When Albus, Matt, and John the Divine entered the Great Hall, they noticed that Rose, Amanda, and Linda were sitting at one end of the table, while Kaden was a few infantry down from them. Saint John the Apostle immediately headed to where Kaden was sitting and Albus and Matt followed. Rose did not look to find them pas, nor did Amanda or Linda. There was no doubtfulness in Albus 's brain whose side Amanda was on. She was rosiness 's respectable ally first and foremost. And whatever her reason was, she had also befriended Linda.

Even though the girls were seated far away, nobody said anything during breakfast. lav still looked angry as he stabbed his eggs with a bit too much force. Matt looked more tired than anything, but there was a glint of choler in his optic. Kaden was at a complete going for words, which happened very rarely. Even he went the whole meal without uttering a affair. Albus had no urge to start any conversations either. He was still quite angry with his cousin. The nervus of her to ask if they could let a complete stranger into the marauder 's Den was unfathomable to him.

The silence continued through History of thaumaturgy and August 6. Albus sat in between Saint John and lustrelessness during both socio-economic class and glared at the back of Rose 's principal. She was sitting in between Amanda and Linda at the table in front of Albus 's during both classes.

Albus paid zero attention during History of deception. He merely recounted the row over and over again, which only caused him to become more angry. Judging by the smell on John 's aspect, he had been doing the same thing. matt merely slept the full course of study, completely unnoticed by professor Binns.

Albus forced himself to pay attention and convey promissory note during Transfiguration Day, although King John did not. Matt remained awake during the class, but had a glaze over look over his eyes.

It was n't until Care of Magical wight that the uncharacteristically foresighted silence dissolved. flatness decided to bound off that class and sleep in the Marauder 's Den instead and Albus could n't blame him. It was a particularly windy and cold autumn day and Albus shivered as he walked down to Hagrid 's hut with John. rose wine and Linda had Arithmancy, so they were n't even there. Amanda was, but she stood with Janie, Marina, and Karina for the duration of the class.

`` Wow, '' John said in a low rustle as they sat on the frigidity, hard ground drawing mental picture of the puffskeins they were watching.

He did n't sustain to say anything else. Albus knew what he was talking about. `` Yeah, '' he muttered.

`` Have you got any idea why rosiness was so insistent about Linda ? '' John asked quietly.

`` She 's refractory. She always has been, '' Albus replied, `` Once, when we were eight or so, she wanted to go to this sleepover my cousins Gabriella, Georgia, and broom were having. Her parents said no and she did n't speak to them for nearly a week. ``

`` Seriously ? '' John gaped and then smirked, `` Siriusly .... ''

Albus rolled his eyes. `` Yeah, she did. ``

`` Do you retrieve she 'd do that this time ? Not spill to us for a week ? ``

`` It would n't surprise me if she did n't verbalise to us until we let Linda into the way, '' Albus sighed.

`` That 's not going to bump, '' John said.

`` No, it 's not, '' Albus agreed, `` Even if by some chance we decided to let her, there 's no way Matt would. And I think Kaden would just agree to whatever I said. ``

`` Well, I ca n't blame Matt for not wanting her in there, '' John lowered his voice even more, `` He always sleeps there before the you know what. He 's not going to want her to have intercourse about it. ``

`` I ca n't blame him either, '' Albus agreed.

`` You do be intimate what this means, right ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked.

`` What ? ``

`` We 're going to make to take our own billet in class now, '' John groaned, `` No way is rosebush going to let us take up hers anymore. ``

Albus could n't assist but giggle a little at that. Albus could always bank on John to relieve the mood. Either him or Kaden. Albus and John the Divine did n't babble much for the oddment of the family and the brief bit of humor died away quickly.

Albus and Saint John the Apostle headed straight for the marauder 's Den after family. They passed blush wine on their way there, but she acted like she did n't notice them.

`` You awake ? '' John the Evangelist shouted as they entered the room.

`` I am now, '' Matt replied groggily from his bed. A few minute later he got up and laid down on the couch.

`` You do n't expect so unspoiled, '' privy said as he tossed his bag unceremoniously onto the level and jumped onto the early end of the couch.

`` You think ? '' Matt said sarcastically.

`` No, I mean, you look unsound than common, '' John replied.

`` Oh, that 's gracious, '' Albus said as he sat down in one of the chairs.

Saint John the Apostle did experience a dot, though. flatness was as pale as he usually was the day before a full moon, but the dark lot under his eyes were more pronounced. His eyes were also more bloodshot, which gave him the face of a person who had n't slept in days.

`` It 's true, '' bathroom shrugged, `` Have n't you been sleeping all day ? ``

Matt sighed and shook his headspring. `` No. Did n't sleep that much last-place dark either. I just ca n't. I keep thinking about what happened yesterday .... The exclusively existent sleep I 've gotten was in chronicle of deception. I need a good Binns talking to to put me to slumber now. ``

Albus did n't think he 'd ever take heed the phrase 'good Binns lecture'before. `` Wo n't that take in this night worse ? '' Albus asked quietly, `` Not sleeping before it ? ``

`` Yeah, of course it will, '' flatness said quietly, `` But I ca n't make myself sleep. ``

`` Ask brothel keeper Pomfrey for a potion, '' John suggested.

`` She 'll ask too many interrogation, '' flatness said, `` I never have a problem falling asleep before the full moon moonshine. She 'll be suspicious. I do n't want to secernate her about the row. ``

Matt did n't elaborate anymore about his deficiency of nap, so Albus and St. John the Apostle played a bit of Exploding Snap. Matt did n't feel like playing.

`` Albus ? '' matt asked after a half hr or so.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` Rose would n't, '' Matt paused, `` You know, tell anyone about me, would she ? Because I 've been thinking, she 's the form of hugger-mugger keeper for the good luck charm for Kaden, but if she tells someone then who knows what would happen with that, so maybe we should switch to you and- ''

`` No, '' Albus interrupted him, `` She would n't do that. Rose might be stubborn and angry with you, but she would never ever order anyone that you 're a lycanthrope. She knows that it 's your mystical to severalise. ``

`` But what if she just slips up ? '' mat asked anxiously.

Albus tried to see this from Matt 's point of opinion. He also reminded himself that lustrelessness was probably sleep deprived and combine that with how wan he always got before the total Sun Myung Moon, he would n't be seeing matter rationally. But the idea of blush wine telling someone that flatness was a lycanthrope just because she was mad at him was hard to believe.

`` She wo n't, '' Albus said adamantly, `` I 've known her retentive than you. She wo n't do that. ``

`` All right, '' Matt said warily and leaned back on the couch.

Albus exchanged glances with John as Matt 's eyes began to glaze over. This was not going to blow over quickly.

******

Albus slept horribly that night. He tossed and turned and stared at the glowing circle the wax Sun Myung Moon created on the suspension of his bed. Bilius 's soft stertor filled the way. Albus was sure he would n't fall asleep at all that night. He had too much on his mind.

His secure friend and his cousin were fighting. The cousin he had grown up with, spent all his pre-Hogwarts days with. His upright champion since first year. Albus felt dread about it. He could think of at least twenty things he 'd rather do that have his easily ally and his cousin fight like this. A month 's worth of detention with Filch, for example.

This was different than a little disagreement, too. lavatory and Rose often fought with each other, but Albus variety of thought they liked it. Albus himself sort of enjoy squabbling with James. flatness never fought with any of them, though. And none of them ever really rowed. What if Rose and Matt never made up ? Albus swallowed backbreaking and stared fixedly at the end of his bed. They had to make up, eventually. But what if they did n't ? A nag interpreter in the back of Albus 's heading told him it was a possibility. He tried to shake it out of his head teacher as he closed his eyes in a vain attempt to get some sleep.

Albus had been hoping defence force Against the Dark artwork would render a much needed escape from his thoughts of Matt and pink wine never making up. That class usually required every bit of Albus 's brain might and he could n't really cogitate about anything else during it. Unfortunately, Balladanis decided to give one of his rare talking to. Albus 's creative thinker wandered and by the time the class was over, he really could n't call up what Balladanis had lectured about. He had assigned an essay, too, which did n't help matters.

Slughorn, on the former hand, decided to have a practical deterrent example even though it was only a 1 division. Since Matt was in the hospital flank, Albus worked with John and Janie Creevey, lav 's usual potions partner. He was just glad Slughorn did n't make him turn with Rose and Amanda. Linda was mysteriously abstracted, so their chemical group was down to two people.

John sent Albus to go get ingredients while he and Janie set up. He joined the queue behind Amanda.

`` Albus, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` Amanda, '' Albus replied, reminding him a lot of the way he and Limbert had worked the former year. Polite greeting and no talking.

`` Albus ? '' Amanda asked as they neared the cupboard.

`` Yeah ? '' Albus replied.

`` Er, how 's lusterlessness ? '' she asked quietly.

Albus shrugged. `` Have n't had the time to chitchat him today. ``

Amanda nodded. `` Um, what about the row ? How is he about that ? ``

`` He 's still angry with pink wine, '' Albus muttered.

`` Oh. I was hoping ... '' her voice trailed off.

`` How is rose wine ? ``

`` Angry, '' Amanda sighed, `` Oh, Albus, I hate this ! I hate not being able to be with you lot, but I ca n't abandon Rose. ``

`` I hate it too, '' Albus said quietly. He was sort of surprised that Amanda still wanted to be around them, after they denied Linda memory access to the elbow room. After all, she was Linda 's friend, too.

`` It 's so stupe, '' she whispered, `` Fighting like this. ``

`` I know, '' Albus said, `` But I do n't think Rose and flatness think it 's stupid person. ``

`` What about St. John the Apostle and Kaden ? What do they think ? ``

`` St. John flat out food waste to let Linda into the room. I do, too, '' he said quickly, `` We 're all in agreement about that. Kaden, too. ``

`` I know. And I get why. I just think its stupid to let it come between us. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` But blush wine is so stubborn. I know she 's your best protagonist, but I 've grown up with her. And she refuses to cave in in. So this might finish a piece. ``

`` I do n't desire it to, Albus, '' Amanda said quietly.

`` I do n't either, '' Albus sighed.

Albus got his ingredients and went back to John 's cauldron. He could n't tell can anything about the conversation, though, since Janie was there. In fact, they only talked about the potion as they worked.

`` prison term 's up ! '' Slughorn announced a while later, `` impart a sample up to my desk for grading. ``

Albus dropped their potion off to Slughorn on his way out the room access with Gospel According to John. He glanced back at Amanda. She was talking with Rose, but looked up and gave Albus a half-hearted smile. Albus returned it and left the way, somehow feeling worse than he had when he entered.

Albus and John hurried to the Great Hall and found Kaden. The three of them ate a spry luncheon and then rushed off to the infirmary wing before their succeeding classes.

Madam Pomfrey was sitting at her desk when they walked in. She looked up, but remained seated when the three son walked inside.

`` how-do-you-do, boys, '' she greeted them.

`` Hi Madam Pomfrey, '' Albus replied.

`` Where 's ... '' the nurse began to ask, but then shook her head and closed her mouth.

Albus shrugged and continued his way towards the only occupied bed in the ward. He pulled the curtains open and sat down on the end of Matt 's bed.

Matt was asleep. Sound asleep judging by the rhythmic way his chest moved up and down under the blankets. His face was scratched and there was a bandage around his brow, but other than that he looked all right field. Granted, nigh of his trunk was covered by the blanket, but Albus hoped he was all right otherwise.

He did n't stir when Albus sat down. John Lackland gently prodded his blanketed arm, but he did n't appear to notice it at all.

`` If he 's asleep, I suggest you let him be, '' dame Pomfrey shouted from her desk, `` In fact, I insist. ``

`` Is he ok ? '' John the Divine asked, `` He usually wakes up when we come in. ``

`` He had a rough nighttime, '' the nursemaid sighed, `` It 's like he did n't get any balance beforehand, but Hagrid tells me he skipped Care of Magical Creatures, so I 'm sure he must have slept. But he 's only fire up up once since I brought him back this break of the day. So, for whatever the grounds, he must take to sleep. Perhaps it would be best if you came back after dinner. ``

Albus nodded and got up off the bed. He knew why Matt needed the extra slumber. He had n't slept much the previous day. Albus did n't say a great deal to John and Kaden as they left. He muttered a lull goodbye as he left for Ancient runic letter. He was dreading that class. It was one he shared with rose and Matt, and since Matt was practically unconscious in the hospital extension, it would just be him and Rose.

Albus was half tempted to just skip Ancient Runes. After all, he had n't ever skipped a class before, except when he was sick. Even when Washburn was teaching charm, Albus was there for every class. But, he was sure the teacher would send an owl to his parents, so he trudged his way to antediluvian Runes as slowly as possible without being late.

However, Albus had n't thought about the downside of being the last one to evidence up for class. When he walked into the room, there were only two seating area left, at Rose 's board. Linda was mysteriously absent again.

Albus groaned inwardly and sat down future to his cousin. He stole a quick glance at her, but she was facing forward, looking determined.

prof Sturly walked in a moment later. Albus crossed his finger for a lecture class, something he rarely did. If the family was a public lecture, he could easily not sing to climb up at all. But if they were working on decoding runic letter, he would have to work with a partner as usual. Since both matt and Linda were n't in socio-economic class, he 'd have to married person with Rose.

Sure enough, Sturly passed out lozenge of runes for the class to decipher. She placed one in between Albus and rosiness and told them to function together since their usual partners were n't there.

`` Albus, '' Rose said icily as she turned to the tablet.

`` rose, '' Albus muttered.

They worked quietly for a patch, only talking about the runes.

`` That 's not a sun, Albus, '' Rose said as Albus wrote the word 'sun'on his parchment.

`` Then what is it ? '' Albus asked.

`` It 's a synodic month. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus muttered and changed his solution, `` Er, where is Linda ? ``

`` Why do you care ? '' Rose glared at him.

`` I 'm just curious, '' Albus shrugged.

`` She 's sick, if you must know, '' rosebush said, `` She has n't looked well for the yesteryear few day. ``

`` She was n't in the hospital flank, '' Albus replied.

`` Not everyone goes to the infirmary wing for every little matter, '' blush wine said shortly.

`` Well, if she 's been sick for a few days- ''

`` That 's her occupation, is n't it ? '' Rose interrupted.

Albus nodded. rosebush was right about that. `` Er, are n't you going to ask how matt is ? ``

`` I guess, '' pink wine muttered, `` How is he ? ``

`` spoiled than common, thanks to your row. ``

`` That was n't only my fault. He was right there rowing with me, '' rosebush seethed, `` So do n't guilt me into doing anything. ``

`` I 'm not trying to guilt you into anything, '' Albus groaned, `` I just thought that you might actually wish how his- ''

Albus cut himself off. Transformation. rose wine said Linda had been sick for the past few daylight. So had Matt. Linda had been ghastly around the good moon. Was it potential that she, Linda, was a loup-garou, too ? Albus stared dumbstruck at the tablet he was supposed to be decoding. It was kind sort of too much of a conjunction for them both to get sick at the Lapplander time. But then why would Matt be so opposed to Linda finding out that he was a wolfman, if she was one herself ?

`` Albus ? '' blush wine asked.

`` Rose- '' he paused. Would resurrect really say him if Linda was a werewolf ? Probably not. `` Never mind. ``

`` Er, ok, '' Rose shrugged.

The quietus of the family dragged by. As soon as the bell rang, Albus grabbed his stuff and ran out of the elbow room. He had to find john and Kaden. They had to witness out if Linda really was a werewolf or not.

Albus made it to the vulture 's Den in phonograph record time. Neither John or Kaden were there yet. issue forth to think of it, Kaden had class anyway, so he would n't even be there. But Gospel According to John did n't. Albus tossed his bag down and began pacing around the room.

John entered the room a unawares while later. Albus looked up and ran over to him.

`` John ! '' Albus shouted.

`` What ? '' John asked, thoroughly confused.

`` I had to partner with rosebush during ancient rune since Matt was n't there. surmisal who else was n't there ? Linda. And she was n't in Potions either, '' Albus said quickly.

`` So ? '' John asked.

`` I asked Rose about it and she said that Linda 's been ill the past few daytime, '' Albus continued.

`` But she 's been in course of instruction, '' lavatory pointed out.

`` I know, that 's division of it ! '' Albus replied, `` Can you retrieve of anyone else who goes to class even when he 's ill ? ``

John paused and then his eyes widened in shock. `` Matt ! Wait, are you thinking- ''

`` Linda 's a loup-garou, '' Albus said.

`` You really consider ? '' john asked.

`` fountainhead, I obviously do n't know for certain .... ''

`` What about the last full moon ? Was she sick then ? ''

`` I do n't retrieve, '' Albus sighed, `` I did n't really pay attention, did you ? ``

`` Nope, '' John said, `` But seriously ? ``

`` I do n't know. I mean, it 's possible, but if she 's a werewolf, why was flatness so afraid of her finding out he 's one ? ``

`` Good point, '' John sighed.

`` We 've got to find out. ``

`` I know, we can ask mat ! '' whoremonger said, `` Because she would 've been with him in the Shrieking shanty, right ? ``

`` Not necessarily, '' Albus shook his read/write head, `` If wolf's bane works for her, she could n't have been near him. ``

`` Oh, right, '' toilet replied, `` But maybe he 'd know anyway. ``

`` Or maybe not. Maybe he has n't got a clue, but if he did know he would n't be so worried about her finding out about him, '' Albus said.

`` And then he and Rose could make up. ``

`` Exactly, '' Albus grinned. He wanted nothing more than Rose and matte to make up. `` Let 's go see if he 's awake. ``


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John practically ran to the hospital wing. They slowed down as they neared it and tried to look as daily as they could as they walked in. Madam Pomfrey was fussy with a patient, so she did n't even point out them as they made a beeline for flatness 's bed.

Albus yanked the curtains back and exclude them again once John and himself were inside. To his relief, Matt was arouse this fourth dimension. He looked exhausted, but he was awake.

`` Hey, Matt, '' Albus said.

`` Hey, Albus, '' Matt replied, `` How are you ? ``

`` All rightfield, '' Albus said, `` How about you ? ``

`` Tired, '' Matt sighed, `` Er, how is rose ? Is she still ignoring us ? ``

`` Pretty much, '' Albus said quietly.

bathroom nodded and then glanced at Albus. Albus took a deep intimation. He had n't really thought about how he was going to ask flatness about this.

`` Are you two ok ? '' Matt asked tentatively.

John poked Albus. Albus glared at him and then turned back to mat. `` Well, we sort of wanted to ask you something, '' Albus lowered his voice, `` I 'm sure as shooting you 'll think its mental .... ''

lusterlessness stared at him curiously. `` Er, all right, what is it ? ``

`` I was talking to climb in Ancient Runes- ''

`` I thought she was still ignoring us. ``

`` She was. But we were collaborator, since you were n't there. ``

`` What about Linda ? '' Matt asked.

`` She was n't there either, which is what I wanted to ask you about, '' Albus paused, `` Rose said Linda 's been ill the past few 24-hour interval. I could n't really help but notice that she was ill around the same metre you were and well, can and I were sorting of wondering if maybe, well, she was- ''

`` Like me ? '' mat whispered. His eyes had widened in shock and he was staring incredulously at Albus and John.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus muttered, `` Told you it was mental. ``

`` It is, '' matt said adamantly.

`` So you know she 's not ? '' John asked, `` You saw her in here or something ? Or did brothel keeper Pomfrey order you ? ``

mat smiled wryly. `` Of course not. Even if she was, I doubt Madam Pomfrey would tell apart me. You two missed the obvious hint that she 's not like me. ``

Albus turned to Gospel According to John, who shrugged.

`` Linda normally goes to the Australian School of necromancy, '' Matt stated, `` The schooltime that I was n't allowed to go to. Obviously, if Linda was like me, she could n't go there either. ``

Albus felt like he should throw smacked himself in the head. He turned to trick, who looked like he was about to burst out laughing. How could they have forgotten about that ? It was staring them straight in the face and they completely overlooked it. Professor Killigan was prejudiced against werewolves. There was no way he would admit Linda if she was one.

`` Oh, right, '' Albus mumbled, `` Should suffer remembered that. ``

`` It 's actually sort of good story that you thought she was like me, '' lustrelessness smirked.

`` I guess she 's just got a frigidness or something, '' John the Divine shrugged.

`` Yeah, probably, '' Albus said. So much for the idea of blush wine and Matt making up. Albus would just have to recollect of some other way to get them to be friend again.

`` When do you get to bequeath ? '' privy asked.

`` Not sure, '' matte sighed, `` Probably late tomorrow, if I 'm golden. ``

`` Hogsmeade is on Saturday, '' John said.

`` I know. I 'll be out for that, even if I have to sneak out when ma'am Pomfrey is sleeping, '' Matt replied.

Albus did n't really imagine Madam Pomfrey would catch some Z's through someone trying to pinch out of the Mary Augusta Arnold Ward, but he hoped matt would be out in time to go to Hogsmeade. It would be incredibly unfair if he was n't allowed to go.

******

The silence continued into the next day. Linda returned from her mysterious illness and went back to spending all her free time with Rose and Amanda. Albus spent his time with John Lackland and Kaden in the predator 's Den.

Albus hated the quiet more and to a greater extent every day. It kept him up at nighttime, but he could n't think of anything he could do about it. The row was mainly between blush wine and lusterlessness. Albus could n't lick it, but it was eating away at him like it was his own row. He was very happy he was n't playing Quidditch in the approaching mates. He would n't have been able to concentrate.

Matt did n't leave the hospital wing until Friday evening. Madam Pomfrey had reluctantly let him entrust in guild to go to Hogsmeade the following day.

Albus woke up not feeling nearly as excited as he probably should experience about going to Hogsmeade. He and Rose had imagined going to Hogsmeade together since they were little tiddler. They plotted where they would go and what they would do. Both of them had been to Hogsmeade before, but never without one of their parents. The idea of going by themselves had always been exciting.

Now that the day had actually arrived, Albus could n't serve but feel a bit disappointed. He would n't be going with Rose. Not while they were still in the midst of a row. It was either go with lustrelessness and St. John, or ditch them and go with the little girl. The latter was n't even a very choice. He was still mad at Rose and if he decided to attain up with her, he 'd give birth Matt and Saint John the Apostle angry with him. He just had to face up it ; going to Hogsmeade with blush wine was not an option.

Albus, lusterlessness, and John joined the queue of people in the Entrance Charles Martin Hall later on in the morning. lustrelessness and John were more wind up than Albus was, but still Thomas More subdued than the sleep of the third base years.

`` We 've got to remember the stuff for the Halloween party, '' John reminded them.

The Allhallows Eve party was that night. Albus had nearly forgotten about it over the past few days. It was another affair that would have been more fun if they were n't fighting with the girls.

`` Yeah, '' Albus nodded, `` We 've got to get Kaden 's poppycock, too. ``

`` merlin, he was envious that we get to go and he does n't, '' St. John the Apostle smirked.

`` Ca n't blame him, '' lusterlessness lowered his voice, `` I mean, this is the for the first time sentence we 'll get to try out the Hogsmeade part of the map. ``

Albus grinned. That was one part about the Hogsmeade trip that Albus was still thoroughly excited about. He had the new map in his cloak air pocket, all make to go.

`` We can see who likes to go to the Hog 's Head, '' toilet grinned mischievously.

`` Hey, Amy used to go there, '' Matt said.

`` Really ? '' John asked.

`` Yeah, she liked how empty it was. ``

`` Seems like an awfully depressing place, '' John said.

`` Where do you lot require to go first ? '' Albus asked as they gave their names to Filch.

`` Weasley 's, '' John said immediately, `` I 've got oodles to buy there. And Kaden gave me a leaning of clobber he wants me to get him, too. ``

`` Why does that not surprise me ? '' Albus smirked.

The son walked the unforesightful distance into Hogsmeade once Filch checked their names off. It was a chili pepper autumn day. There was a slight snap in the air and it was cloudy, but not the variety of swarm that threatened rainwater. They could n't have asked for good atmospheric condition in late Oct.

Once they arrived, they hid behind a tree in order to look at the map. Albus glanced around to take a leak sure nobody was watching and then pulled it out of his cloak. He muttered the incantation and soon, an inky-black comeback of Hogsmeade was on the yellowed paper.

`` Whoa, '' Matt whispered, `` bet, Weasleys'is so push, you ca n't translate any of the recording label. ``

There were dots spilling out of the gag shop class and even more inside, piled on top of each other. Albus was n't surprised in the slightest. His uncle 's shop was the most popular in Hogsmeade. There were more pocket-size collecting of Transportation in the rest of the shop class and gin mill. A tenuous few were in the Hog 's Head.

`` Anyone we know in the Hog 's Head ? '' John Lackland asked.

`` Nope, '' Albus said after he read the labels.

Albus wiped the map clean and then they set off for Weasleys'wizard Wheezes. It took them a piece to squeeze into the crowd, and once there, Albus and Matt quickly lost John to the throngs of students grabbing merchandise.

Both George and slip were behind the counter, ringing up purchases as fast as they possibly could.

`` Hi Uncle St. George ! Teddy ! '' Albus shouted.

`` Hey, Al ! '' George III shouted back.

`` Albus ! '' chemise exclaimed, `` How 's your commencement Hogsmeade trip ? ``

`` Great, '' Albus smiled, `` Are you coming to the Halloween party ? ``

`` Would n't leave out it, '' Teddy grinned, `` Victoire and Amy are going, too. ``

`` That 's secure, '' Albus said, `` Are you dressing up ? ``

`` 'Course, '' Teddy laughed.

`` What as ? ``

`` Where would the fun in that be ? '' teddy bear winked.

John returned a piddling while later, blazon laden with merchandise. He dumped it all on the counter and a few Skiving Snackboxes fell on the ground. Albus picked them up and smirked as he put them on the counter.

`` Stocking up for a twelvemonth ? '' Albus asked.

`` Nah, this is just until next Hogsmeade trip-up, '' St. John the Apostle said.

`` You 're one of my best customers, whoremaster, '' George III laughed.

`` Do you really need five Snackboxes ? '' mat asked.

`` Definitely. foretelling 's awful. And two are for Kaden, '' john replied.

Saint John the Apostle paid for his purchases and then the group wandered down the route until they reached Gladrags Wizardwear. They slowly walked inside, only to discover that it was filled with giggly girls.

`` I 'd be happy if I never had to set foot in here again, '' John groaned as he gestured to a display of pink sparkly robes.

`` We just need to get our costume stuff and get out, '' Albus muttered, equally unhappy about having to visit a clothing shop.

The three boys tried to impress as quietly as possible through the crowd of daughter in order to find their costume clobber. Albus immediately found a black shirt and pants for his skeleton costume. He had bought glowing in the dark pigment at Weasleys'and one of his first cousin was going to paint bones on the shirt and pants with it.

John had purchased Muggle vampire teeth and Muggle face paint at Weasleys', so all he needed was a black ness, which he found quickly. lustrelessness located a white sheet, which was all he needed for his ghost costume. Albus got another white sheet, which they would cut up into flight strip for Kaden 's mommy costume.

`` Finally ! '' St. John the Apostle exclaimed once they left the shop, `` That 's my least favored situation in Hogsmeade. ``

`` You should go to lady Puddifoot 's, then, '' Albus laughed.

privy shuddered. `` No way. I will never set foot in that hideous situation. ``

`` Anyone want to go to the 3 broomstick ? '' Matt shivered.

`` Yeah, I could use with a Butterbeer, '' Albus agreed and pulled his cloak tighter. The hint had picked up and Butterbeer would be good to warm up with.

Albus led his friends up the street and into the crowded pub. It seemed that everyone had the idea of warming up with a Butterbeer. Albus and Matt snagged the live on empty table while John went to the bar to get a few Butterbeers.

`` What do you think the company is going to be like ? '' lustrelessness asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` It 's not really uncouth for there to be an actual party. Usually it 's just the spread. I guess they just want us to interact with the foreign students. form of like the Yule egg for the Triwizard Tournament. ``

`` I just ca n't wait to see what multitude dress up as, '' toilet announced as he returned with the Butterbeers.

`` Think the teachers will dress up ? '' Matt asked.

`` I hope so, '' Gospel According to John grinned, `` Probably depends on the teacher, though. I could see Kendrick dressing up. And Longbottom. Not sure about Slughorn. ``

Albus snorted into his Butterbeer. `` Slughorn, dress up ? Now that would be laughable. ``

`` I think any of the teacher dressing up would be funny, '' Matt laughed.

`` So, how long do you think it 'll be until Kaden attempt sneaking into Hogsmeade ? '' John asked.

`` future trip, '' Albus said immediately, `` I know he 's plotting it. He asked me if I was taking the map today. I think he wanted it to filch in. ``

`` Are you going to let him have it succeeding time ? '' Matt asked as he sipped his Butterbeer.

`` Probably, '' Albus nodded.

`` What if he gets caught ? '' Matt asked.

Albus shrugged. `` He 'll get a couple detentions. It 's not like he 'll notice another two detainment. ``

`` full point, '' Matt grinned and turned to John, `` You two spend half your waking sentence in detention. ``

`` It 's not that bad, once you get used to it. I think Filch is getting a bit fed up with us, though. He 's starting to pawn us off on the prof. ``

`` Well, when you spend every other dark with him, who can blame him ? '' Albus smirked.

`` Shut it, Albus, '' John laughed, `` Or future time we get caught, we 'll tell Filch whatever we were doing was all your idea. ``

`` He 'll never trust you, '' Albus grinned.

`` Albus, '' a distaff voice said from behind him.

Albus turned around and saw rosebush, Butterbeer in script, with Amanda and Linda on either English of her.

`` rosiness, '' Albus muttered.

The modality at the table quickly turned from joking around to tense up silence. Albus nervously glanced from Amanda to Rose and back again. He looked at Matt and John the Evangelist, who were both glaring at the girls.

`` All the tables are taken, '' Amanda sighed, `` Do you mind if we sit here ? ``

`` Er- '' Albus began.

`` We were just leaving, '' Matt announced as he stood up, `` Right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Gospel According to John agreed.

Albus nodded and stood up as well. He followed matt and John through the push pub, looking back at the girls. Amanda was the but one who was watching them leave.

`` Why could n't they have found some other prorogue to sit at ? '' John groaned after they were back outside.

`` I dunno, '' Albus muttered. He had been having fun joking around with Matt and John, but as soon as the girls showed up, he was reminded once again of the rift that had formed in their mathematical group. `` Anywhere we have n't been yet ? ``

`` Madam Puddifoot 's, '' Matt laughed.

`` Do n't even joke about that, '' John shuddered, `` But you know, we have n't been to the Shrieking shanty. ``

lustrelessness groaned. `` You 're kidding, right ? ``

`` Nope, '' St. John grinned and took off up the street, `` Come on, do n't even say you 're not going. Because you are. ``

Matt sent Albus a shrivel up look and set off at a boring pace after John. Albus laughed to himself and followed them.

There were a couple people leaning on the fencing in straw man of the shanty. They were all third yr. Albus figured the thrill of the Shrieking Shack wore off after the first couple Hogsmeade trips. Albus and Matt joined John, who was standing near a couple young woman who were looking at the Shack.

`` It 's the most haunted building in Britain ! '' a Ravenclaw named Ann William Wymark Jacobs told her friend.

`` Really ? '' the little girl 's eyes widened. Albus vaguely remembered that she was Muggle born.

`` Yeah, it 's haunted by spook ! '' Ann W. W. Jacobs said excitedly, `` right, Albus ? ``

`` Er, yup, '' Albus nodded, `` shade. ``

`` I wonder if we could get inside ! '' the other missy said.

`` You ca n't, '' mat said quickly.

`` How do you be intimate ? '' the girl asked.

`` My baby tried once, '' Matt answered, `` She graduated our first year. The place is completely sealed. ``

`` Oh, '' the girl sighed, `` Would have been cool. ``

`` We should get back, '' Matt said, `` We 've got to get our costumes quick. ``

`` Good estimation, '' Albus agreed.

The son bade goodbye to the two Ravenclaws and headed back to the castle. They were all very quiet on the base on balls back. Albus sunk back into his view of how he should have gone to Hogsmeade with Rose. He hoped he 'd be able to go with her the next trip-up. Albus could n't ideate that he 'd still be mad at her when that came around. At to the lowest degree he hoped he wouldn't.

Kaden was waiting in the piranha 's Den for them. He immediately bombarded them with questions, and the rest of the boys launched into a detailed verbal description of their entire trip.

After Kaden 's curiosity was finally satisfied, the boys got to work on their costumes. mat, John, and Kaden stayed behind in the piranha 's Den to make matte 's ghost costume and Kaden 's mommy costume while Albus set off to find one of his cousin-german to paint his skeletal frame costume.

Gabriella agreed to draw the costume. Not wanting to find the female child and ask Amanda to do it, Albus had been hoping Gabriella would. Gabriella was the most creative of all his cousins and even though all he needed was person to perform a painting charm, he figured Gabriella would do the best job.

`` What are you dressing up as ? '' Albus asked as Gabriella performed the charm.

`` A Veela, '' Gabriella replied.

`` Creative, '' Albus laughed.

`` My Quaker actually came up with it. A couple of us are going as Veelas. ``

`` Well, you 've already got the hair, so it wo n't pick out lots for you to do up, '' Albus said.

Gabriella grinned and handed Albus his costume. `` Here you go. I 'll see you at the party. I 've got to go get set up. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus said.

When Albus returned to the piranha 's Den, he was met not by his friends, but by a ghost, mummy, and vampire. All three costumes were brilliant. Matt looked just like a Muggle ghost, complete with eye jam and a rhythm oral fissure yap. Kaden was wrapped in strips of Edward D. White sheet that were hanging off of him in various places. John 's costume was the outflank, in Albus 's ruling. He wore a black cape with a E. B. White shirt and black pants underneath. He also had a red bow-tie on, which Kaden insisted would throw him await more vampirish. His face was completely covered in blank constitution and he was wearing bright red lipstick that dripped onto his chin. When he grinned, he revealed pearly white vampire fangs.

`` You lot look great, '' Albus grinned, `` The Muggle costumes was definitely the way to go. ``

`` Put yours on, '' matte said.

Albus nodded and went to his incision of the room. When he came out, he was wearing his costume. Albus looked at his weaponry and they were glowing. Gabriella had done an excellent job with the house painting charm. His chest was covered in a glow in the dark rib cage.

`` Brilliant, Albus, '' John the Evangelist grinned.

`` We 're going to have the best costumes in the school day, '' Kaden announced, `` Are the young woman still dressing up as witches ? ``

`` No estimate, '' Albus sighed. He had n't talked to rise up about the costumes in weeks. `` conjecture we 'll find out. ``

Albus had no idea what to wait from the party. The professor had never sponsored a party before while he was at Hogwarts. He walked down to the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall with mat, whoremonger, and Kaden. They passed quite a few people on the way down and saw all form of different costumes.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who read and reviewed this ! You guys are awesome !


isclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


When Albus walked into the Great dormitory, he stopped in his tracks. The room had been completely transformed. There were huge jack o'lanterns everywhere, lit up by candles. naturalistic looking spider World Wide Web were draped across every surface. The four House mesa had disappeared and were replaced by spindly round wooden tables. falsify spiders were crawling around the flooring. Fake bats were flying around. board of nutrient were set up everywhere. Cauldrons were smoking on top of them, emitting all sorts of different colored smoke.

The professors were all milling about and talking with each other. Kendrick was dressed up as Merlin or Dumbledore, Albus could n't secern which. Neville was dressed as Godric Gryffindor, Patil as Rowena Ravenclaw, and even Slughorn was dressed as Salazar Slytherin. Marco Polo was not dressed as Helga Hufflepuff, a fact John was quick to point out. He was probably dressed as some early famous Hufflepuff, but Albus had no idea who it was.

In fact, nearly all the prof were dressed up. The only one who was n't was Balladanis. He was wearing his usual pristine total darkness gown with the intricate silver fastening. He was wearing a grim look as he brushed past times Albus and his supporter. His eyes narrowed a little at John but he quickly looked away. Albus thought this was odd, but did n't dwell on it.

As the elbow room gradually filled with more and Sir Thomas More bookman, Albus noticed that there were an alarming sum of money of them dressed up as his father. Most were first old age. Albus just kept staring as eleven-year-olds with plastic crank and fake scars on their faces walked past. He thought it was really really odd.

`` We 're surrounded by your dad, '' can laughed as another toy Harry Potter walked by.

`` This is just weird, '' Albus muttered, shaking his head.

`` It 's sort of good story, '' whoremaster laughed even harder.

`` Bet you would n't think that if everyone was dressing up as your dad, '' Albus replied.

`` And that kid 's dressed up as your uncle ! '' Kaden announced, pointing to a red-haired boy who could 've easily passed for a Weasley. In fact, he did n't really look like he was dressed up at all, but Albus figured he was his Uncle Ron.

`` Uncle Ron would like that, '' Albus smirked.

`` He would, '' someone said from behind Albus.

Albus turned around and saw the actual Harry Potter with a scale of biscuits in script. `` Hi, Dad ! ``

`` This has got to be the strangest party ever, '' Harry said, `` I 've never seen masses dressed up as me before. It 's rather odd. ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed. He did n't really like that so many mass were dressed as his dad.

`` Too bad Ron is on duty tonight, '' Harry sighed, `` He would 've liked to see a kid dressed as him. Where 's Rose ? ``

`` Er .... ''

Harry gave Albus a queer looking at. `` Is everything all right ? ``

`` Um, yeah, '' Albus mumbled, `` I guess. ``

`` fountainhead, you know I 'm always here if you need to verbalize, '' Harry replied, `` I like your costumes, by the way. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus grinned, `` Kaden 's thought. ``

`` So far I have n't seen any former Muggle costumes, '' Harry pointed out, `` I 've got to go lecture to Kendrick, so I 'll see you soon. ``

Albus nodded. `` See you later. ``

Once Harry left, Albus and his Quaker wandered over to one of the food board. They loaded up plates with chicken and Solanum tuberosum and assorted early stuff and went to observe seats.

`` Look, Albus, '' Matt pointed to the door, `` The female child are dressed as Muggle crone. ``

Albus looked up and saw Rose, Amanda, and Linda strolling into the elbow room dressed as the Muggle variation of a beldame. All three of them were wearing plainly Shirley Temple Black robes, smuggled witch hats, and had painted their faces green.

Albus caught Amanda 's eye and they gave each other rickety smiles as the lady friend walked into the room.

`` Guess they could n't come up with any other estimate, '' John muttered.

`` We did agree on costumes before they stopped speaking to us, '' Albus pointed out.

`` I guess, '' John said.

`` face like they 're coming over here, '' lustrelessness groaned.

Albus set down his denture and watched as the young lady progressed towards them. rose 's face was still flinty, even in green. Amanda was leading them, so Albus figured she wanted to say hi, not Rose.

`` Hi, Albus, '' Amanda greeted them, `` Matt, John, Kaden. Great costumes. ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` You, too. ``

nobody else said anything. Albus stood awkwardly with Amanda and looked around at the group. pink wine was glaring at mat and vice versa. John and Kaden were shifting nervously around. Linda was staring at John, but not in a loathing way. It was more of a compounding between oddment and revulsion, which Albus thought was form of odd.

`` This is just so pudding head ! '' Amanda finally exclaimed, `` Do you lot want to keep on scrap for the rest of the year ? ``

`` Not really, '' Albus muttered.

Rose sent a withering look at Amanda and then turned around and left in a huff. Amanda sighed and followed her. Linda shook her fountainhead and then ran after Amanda.

`` wellspring, that was awkward, '' Kaden announced a few moment later.

`` Is this really what the sleep of the class is going to be like ? '' Albus asked, looking pointedly at flatness, `` Because I think I 'll go mad if it is. ``

`` well, rose wine started it, '' mat muttered.

`` You both started it, '' Albus snapped, `` And you both had better finishing it. ``

`` It 's not that simpleton, Albus, '' Matt sighed.

`` It is n't ? '' Albus asked, `` What am I missing, then ? I was there. You two fought over whether Linda should be in the Room or not ! And we all said no, but Rose is still upset over it ! I just do n't understand it. ``

`` Told you it was n't simple, '' matte said in barely Thomas More than a whisper.

`` They 're girls. Nothing is dim-witted with girls, '' John groaned, `` And do you know why it 's not simple, Matt ? ``

matte shifted uncomfortably and looked away for a few indorsement. `` Yeah, I do, '' he whispered.

`` charge to explain ? '' Albus asked, now thoroughly confused.

`` Not here, '' Matt said, `` Come on, let 's go to the room. ``

Albus followed mat out of the Great Hall with John the Divine and Kaden on either incline of him. None of them said a Holy Writ until they reached the Marauder 's Den. They went inside and sat down on the furniture. Matt stood up as soon as he sat down and then began pacing around. It reminded Albus of the fourth dimension he explained about the Hallows back in their first year.

`` All right, what 's up with the young woman ? '' John asked after Matt paced for a few moments.

matt stopped pacing and stood in front of them. `` Ok, here it goes. What do you roll in the hay about vampires ? ``

`` Wait, what ? '' Albus shook his heading. What in the gens of merlin did vampires have to do with the girl ?

`` What do you be intimate about vampires ? '' Matt repeated.

John laughed. `` They vant to suck your blood ! '' he exclaimed in a bad Transylvannian speech pattern. He opened his mouth and leaned towards Kaden 's neck.

`` Ew, '' Kaden moved away, `` lamia are afraid of ail and they ca n't see themselves in mirrors. They ca n't go out during the day and they turn into squash racket. Oh, and you have to vote down them with a wooden stake to the affection. ``

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` I do n't really have a go at it much besides the whole blood sucking thing. ``

`` You know, '' Matt began, `` You know goose egg about vampires, yet you knew enough about werewolf to forecast out that I was one. ``

`` That was Rose, '' Albus reminded him.

`` Right, anyway, Kaden, those are the vampire as Muggles see them. They 're not like that. ``

`` Oh, '' Kaden said.

`` What do vampires own to do with this anyway ? '' John asked, `` I just want to know why rosiness is so stubborn. ``

`` It 's just the way she is, '' Albus muttered.

`` Vampires, '' Matt continued, `` In the wizarding public, are the undead. They 're bushed, but they 're still around, obviously. Vampires feed on human lineage, but if they do n't suckle a human completely dry, the dupe becomes a vampire themselves. ``

`` Sort of like werewolves, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, I guess, '' matt replied, `` But not really. Anyway, they basically die but they do n't. They become deity and period ripening. Someone could be bitten when they 're twenty and still look twenty two hundred years later. Their pith bar beating and they run out of line of descent. That 's why they turn pasty white. Then, they need to feed in on blood in lodge to survive. They can either use man or animal blood. The vampire that like to incorporate into human society prefer to use animal stock. All they need to survive is blood. They do n't need food. But they eat it to pretend they 're homo. They do n't call for to kip either. ``

`` Really ? '' Kaden asked, `` That is weird. ``

Albus never knew any of that. Now the vampire unit in defence mechanism class was going to be incredibly easy.

`` How often do they drink in blood ? '' Albus asked.

`` Depends on the vampire. Most need to drink it every couple of calendar week or so. ``

`` What happens if they do n't ? ''

`` They get weak, '' lusterlessness explained, `` Vampires are exceptionally strong and fast, but if they have n't had any ancestry recently, they feel weak and spew. ``

`` Like you do before the full-of-the-moon moon, '' Kaden pointed out.

`` Yeah, '' mat nodded, `` form of like that. ``

`` Can they go out during the day ? '' John asked.

`` There 's a potion that they take so they can go out in the sun. The sun hurts them. Kind of like the moon for wolfman. ``

`` But what 's this got to do with Rose ? '' toilet asked impatiently.

`` I 'm getting there, '' matt said as he began pacing again, `` Anyway, lamia are fast and strong so they can entrance their prey. But they are also more beautiful than unconstipated humans. That way people are attracted to them. They 're also really really charismatic. When you meet one, you 're naturally attracted to them. It 's difficult to explain, you 're just drawn to them. It does n't even matter if they 're a boy or a girl or if you 're a boy or a girl. ``

Albus suddenly remembered the day the strange bookman arrived and he first laid eyes on Linda. She was beautiful. Albus had n't been able to get hold of his center off her. But she did n't look particularly magnetic. After hearing lustrelessness 's description of a lamia, Linda did fathom like one, except for the charismatic parting. She hardly said a word.

`` So if a vampire walked through the door, I 'd immediately desire to to go over to them ? '' John asked.

`` Pretty a good deal, yeah, '' matte said.

`` How do you lie with all this ? '' John asked.

`` Remember the library at my business firm ? There are loads of vampire books there because of my dad 's job. I 've read a few of them. ``

`` Well, you 'll do great on whatever trial Balladanis gives us on vampire when we get to that unit, '' John laughed.

`` delay, '' Kaden looked at Matt curiously, `` Muggles believe that lamia and werewolves hate each former, and did n't you say that 's real ? ``

`` Er, yeah, '' matt said quietly, `` That 's pretty often it. But mostly the big rivalry is between werewolves and vampires who live away from wizards. There are inner circle of werewolves and covens of lamia who fight over territory and material. That does n't go on as much as it did eld ago, but it still does occasionally, mostly in other countries. ``

`` So, you do n't really hate all vampires ? '' Kaden asked.

`` I 've never really met one, '' matt shrugged.

`` And what in the name of Merlin does this have to do with pink wine rowing with us ? '' Saint John the Apostle asked exasperatingly.

Albus was getting a bit impatient as well. Sure, he liked hearing about vampire. They were sort of interesting, but he mainly wanted to know what mat knew about Rose.

`` Linda is a vampire, '' mat said simply.

The elbow room was silent for a few minute of arc. Albus stared at flatness. Linda was a lamia ? It was possible. She did fit some of the characteristics, but it was still toilsome to get the picture. Albus had never met a vampire before, let alone one that was his age.

`` When did you count on that out ? '' Albus asked.

`` As soon as she walked past the Gryffindor table, '' flatness answered.

Saint John the Apostle looked at him in awe. `` Wow, that 's telling. You ought to go into the department for the rule and Control of Magical animal. ``

`` Now that would be even more ironic than my dad working there, '' matt laughed, `` But I would have known she was a lamia even if I did n't cognise so a lot about them. lycanthrope and vampire can instantly agnize each other. ``

`` How ? '' Albus asked.

`` flavor, '' lusterlessness said, `` Vampires have a distinctive smell, but veritable wizards ca n't distinguish. loup-garou can, though. And vampires can smell werewolves. ``

`` And you did n't narrate us ? '' Saint John asked incredulously.

`` I did n't see the point, until now. ``

`` Did n't see the point ? There 's a vampire at Hogwarts and you did n't suppose to distinguish us ? '' Gospel According to John shook his fountainhead, `` There 's always a cause to secern us that kind of stuff. ``

lustrelessness shrugged. `` Well, you know now. ``

Albus was still processing the entropy. Linda was a vampire. Matt knew Linda was a vampire from the outset. Werewolves can reek vampire. Vampires can smell out wolfman. That meant-

`` Wait, '' Albus began, `` Linda knows you 're a lycanthrope, does n't she ? ``

Matt sighed. `` Yes, she probably does. ``

`` Then why does it matter if she gets to go in the Marauder 's Den ? '' John the Evangelist asked, `` Not that I want to let her in. ``

`` It 's the principle of the thing ! '' mat replied, `` I just do n't see why Killigan let her go to his school but he would n't let me ! I know it 's stupid to avoid her because of that because it 's not her faulting, but I just do n't get it. ``

Albus had n't even thought of that. lustrelessness was right ; it did n't make signified. How was letting a vampire into a school any unlike from letting a werewolf ?

`` But if you had been let in, you would n't make moved here, '' John pointed out.

`` I know, and I 'm glad we moved, but it 's just not fair, '' lusterlessness sighed.

`` So, '' Kaden said loudly, `` There 's a lamia at Hogwarts. Who 's blood is she sucking ? ``

"That, is actually a good interrogation, '' Albus said.

`` I have no theme, '' Matt replied, `` I 'm guessing she 's sucking animal ancestry. Probably hunts in the forest. ``

`` What about the unhurt 'vampires are charismatic'affair ? '' Albus asked. Even if Linda did need to nurse human stock, he had no idea how she 'd manage to entice a man towards her. She seemed to avoid as many citizenry as possible.

matte smiled wryly, `` That 's where it gets concern. The three of you do n't see her as charismatic, right ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus said. John and Kaden nodded.

`` That 's what I thought. It 's because you 're Friend with me. ``

Albus turned to look at whoremaster and Kaden. Both of them looked as confused as Albus felt.

`` hold, what ? '' Gospel According to John asked.

`` Even way back when there were to a greater extent packs of wolfman and covens of vampires running about, it was possible for homo to associate with one or the former. Occasionally, a plurality of werewolves would class of 'adopt'a human and the human would live with the gang. I mean, the man would leave for the entire moon, but live with the pack the rest of the month. But if the homo came upon a lamia, the man would be completely unwanted to a vampire because they were affiliated with wolfman. ``

`` And we 're affiliated with you, so Linda would n't want to suck in our blood, even if she did suck human being stock ? '' Albus asked.

`` Exactly, '' matte replied, `` call up how everyone seemed to constellate around Linda when she first came here ? Everyone except us. Even Rose disliked her rachis then. ``

`` But she does n't now, '' Kaden reminded him.

`` I know. That 's because as Rose started spending to a greater extent time with Linda, she spent less time with us, with me. She became less affiliated with me, so to utter. And then when we had that row, well, now she 's just affiliated with Linda. She 's completely under Linda 's personal appeal. ``

Rose was affiliated with a vampire ? Did this mean there was no hope of her reconciling with matt ? Albus groaned inwardly. He really did n't like Linda now. She was putting a huge rift into their group.

`` Is it possible for a soul to be ally with both a lycanthrope and a lamia ? '' Albus asked quietly.

`` I think so, '' Matt sighed, `` But Rose wo n't even speak to us. ``

`` I think the only way she will is if we agree to let Linda into the marauder 's Den, '' Albus muttered, `` She 's just so stubborn. ``

`` But we do n't desire to let her in here, '' John groaned.

`` No, we do n't, '' Matt agreed.

`` Do you conceive blush wine knows she 's a vampire ? '' Albus asked. rose wine was ache, but if she had found out Linda was a lamia, she probably would have told him. She told him Matt was a werewolf, after all. Unless of course of instruction she discovered Linda was a vampire after the row.

`` No mind, '' flatness shrugged, `` Do you know if she knows anything about vampires ? ``

`` Probably not much, '' Albus answered.

`` Then she might not. Linda 's obviously trying to hold in that she 's a lamia. I bet she 'll find out when we do the vampire unit in defense, though. ``

`` Unless we tell her showtime, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Are we going to ? '' John Lackland asked.

`` Would she even heed ? '' flatness asked.

`` I sort of think we should at to the lowest degree try to distinguish her, '' Albus said, `` And Amanda, too. ``

`` I suppose, '' matt sighed, `` But they 're always around Linda. ``

`` We 'll just have to hold off until she 's at Quidditch practice. I think the Australian squad exercise on Mondays, so I guess we 'll wait until then, '' Albus said.

The room descended into silence for a few second. Linda had definitely spiked Albus 's wonder. He was mostly peculiar about why Linda had been allowed to go to the Australian shoal of Sorcery but lustrelessness had n't. What was the conflict in letting a vampire attend than a loup-garou ? Even if Linda did suck animal bloodline, there was still the potential for her to soak up human blood.

`` Bloody Hell, '' Kaden let out a low whistle, `` A vampire at Hogwarts. ``

Albus nodded. Kaden pretty much summed up what Albus was thinking. Linda being a vampire had shocked him more than mat being a werewolf. He was n't sure why, but maybe it was because teddy 's dad had been a werewolf and he attended Hogwarts, but as far as Albus knew, no vampires had ever been there.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You cat are awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The air at Hogwats the next day reminded Albus a lot of what it was like the day of the Quidditch Final. It was the day of the maiden Quidditch match of the Inter-School Competition. Australia would be playing New York. Albus was excited, but not as excited as he would deliver been if Hogwarts was playing. He did n't particularly care who won this equal. He was odd about Linda 's seeking skills, though.

`` Hi, Al, '' individual said from behind Albus as he walked down to the pitch with matte, bathroom, and Kaden.

Albus turned around and saw his dad. `` Hi, Dad ! Here to see the match ? Or are you on tariff ? ``

`` Just to see the catch, '' Harry grinned, `` I 'm hoping to be able to see them all, especially the ones you and Henry James get to meet in. ``

`` I do n't really get to play in any of them, '' Albus pointed out.

`` You never know, '' Harry said, `` Well, I 'm sitting with Neville, so I 'll see you after the match. ``

`` Bye, Dad, '' Albus waved as he ran ahead of them.

The son found decent can and waited for the match to begin. The weather condition was particularly nice, especially for a late October day. The sun was out and there was only a slight picnic in the unseasonably lovesome air.

`` It 's kind of odd to not be rooting for Gryffindor, '' Matt said.

Albus agreed. cypher was segregated into House segment like they usually were during Quidditch mate. `` I do n't fuck who to settle down for. ``

`` Me either, '' John lowered his vocalisation, `` I mostly just want to see how Linda plays. Never seen a vampire play Quidditch before. ``

`` She must be practiced. She 's only a indorse class and she 's on the team, '' Albus pointed out.

`` But she 's god, '' Matt reminded them, `` So she 's probably decennium aged than us at least. ``

Albus still found that aspect of lamia very strange. He sighed to himself and focused on the pitch, where a few people were milling about. Albus could nominate out Professors Kendrick, Roberts, and Killigan, along with a few other people Albus did n't recognize.

`` Welcome, educatee, staff, and invitee to the first of all Quidditch mate of the competition ! '' Kendrick shouted over the crowd a few minutes later, `` This will exploit exactly like fixture Quidditch peer. Ludo commercial traveler of the Department of Magical Sports will referee this lucifer. And now, I give you the Quidditch teams of the Adirondack academy of Magic and the Australian School of necromancy ! ``

The New Yorkers were dressed in gloomy Quidditch robes and the Aussie were dressed in green. Both teams entered the sales talk with heather in their hands. Albus watched as each of their headwaiter shook workforce. commercial traveller blew a whistling and all fifteen of them rose into the air.

`` And they 're off ! '' Sweeney Todd Smith, who was apparently the commentator for the inter-school matches, shouted, `` Haberino of New House of York catches the Quaffle and is flying to the Australian end posts .... ''

It was a very fast step lucifer. The Quaffle passed back and Forth between players faster than Smith could announce. Albus was very impressed. He also doubted he could fly as well as them and was sort of glad he was n't playing.

Albus knew he should pay the airless tending to the chaser, but he could n't serve but gawk at Linda as she flew around the pitch. She was noticeably faster than the remainder of the instrumentalist. Her form was practically a blur every time she darted in between the rest period of the players.

`` Merlin, she 's dissipated ! '' Albus exclaimed as Linda went from one end of the slant to the other in mere seconds.

`` I do n't think I 've ever seen anyone fly that fasting ! '' whoremonger gaped, `` And I 've been to loads of Puddlemere matches ! ``

`` wellspring, that would explain it, '' Matt smirked.

`` Puddlemere has lot of fast fliers ! '' John the Divine shouted, `` It 's you who 's probably never seen anyone fly fast, what with you being a cannon fan .... ''

Matt rolled his middle. `` She 's fast because of what she is. ``

Albus nodded. He sort of figured that. It did n't seem bonny, though. None of the early squad had a lamia for a Seeker. James obviously was n't a vampire and Albus doubted the New York seeker was one either. He was a lot slower than Linda. It seemed like there should be some form of rule that would forestall Linda from being on the Australian team. Although, Albus was n't sure Kendrick and Roberts knew Linda was a vampire.

`` New York scores ! '' Smith shouted, `` 40-20 New York ! ``

Linda may make been fast, but New House of York seemed to deliver good chaser. Their style of playing reminded Albus of how he played with his cousin-german. When Albus played with ling and Fred, it was almost like they shared a brain.

All of a sudden, Linda shot across the sales pitch, from the Australian goals to the merchantman of the New House of York destination. Albus stood up and watched the New York Seeker flew after her, but was meters behind. Linda dove for the soil and aviate back into the air clutching something in her hand.

`` Is that ? '' whoremaster began.

`` The Snitch ? '' Kaden gaped.

`` It is, '' Albus stared as the two team descended to the ground. It had only been 15 minutes since the match started !

`` Linda Morales of Australia has caught the Snitch ! '' Joseph Smith announced, `` Australia wins 170-40 ! ``

`` That was the quickest game of Quidditch I 've ever seen, '' trick said.

Everyone agreed. Albus had never seen anyone capture the stool pigeon that fast before. If the other matches were like this one, Australia was going to stimulate the challenger in the bag.

`` I 'm guessing this match wo n't be followed by a party in the park room ? '' Kaden asked as the male child got up from their seats.

`` Probably not, '' Albus laughed, `` Hogwarts did n't play, so we 've really got nothing to fete. ``

`` Linda 's in Gryffindor, though, '' King John pointed out.

`` Yeah, but I 'm betting almost of the Gryffindors are going to be a bit upset at Linda 's seeking attainment. I mean, James is salutary, but even he 's going to have job going up against Linda. I think she 'd even devote Teddy a run for his money, '' Albus pointed out.

`` James II can beat her, '' John said confidently as they began the journeying back to school, `` He 's a brilliant seeker. ``

`` But she 's faster, '' Albus sighed.

`` She 's bound to drop off up eventually, '' Kaden said hopefully.

Albus certainly hoped so. Maybe the Beaters could just constantly pelt her with Bludgers throughout the entirely match so she would n't stimulate a chance to feel the Snitch.

They continued to take the air alongside the forest on their way to the castle. The fuzz on the back of Albus 's neck bristled and he looked quickly over his shoulder. It felt like someone was watching him. He stopped in his caterpillar tread and looked into the woodland. He saw a morose figure parachuting behind a tree. Someone was in there.

`` Why 'd you contain, Albus ? '' Kaden asked.

`` There 's person in the forest, '' Albus whispered.

`` Hagrid ? '' Matt asked.

`` No, '' Albus shook his foreland, `` Too small to be Hagrid. ``

`` We should go recover out who it is, '' John announced.

`` Are you genial ? '' flatness said, `` Whoever 's in there could be a murderer or something ! ''

Albus was n't sure about that, but he was indisputable that he was curious. He wanted to know who was lurking about the woodland after a Quidditch match.

`` Maybe we should, '' Albus said.

Matt sighed. `` Albus, you 're supposed to be the sane one. ``

`` I want to go see who it is, '' Kaden said.

`` It 's the Forbidden Forest ! '' Matt groaned, `` Forbidden ! If we get caught, we 'll be in Brobdingnagian difficulty ! Look at everyone walking around. someone is going to catch us. ``

That was a good point. But at the Sami time, Albus really wanted to do it who it was. He could n't just stand there and not go find out who the cryptic image was ....

`` Al, '' a voice said from behind him.

Albus jumped and turned around. His dad was standing there, looking at him curiously. `` Oh, hi Dad. ``

`` What are you doing ? '' Harry asked.

`` Er, there 's someone in the forest, '' Albus replied.

Harry peered into the timberland and then turned back to Albus with a gruesome look on his cheek. `` Thanks for letting me know, Al. I 'll ascertain it out. I want all four of you to go back to the castle and go straight to Gryffindor Tower. ``

`` Who do you think it is ? '' Albus asked. His dad seemed rather worried.

`` I have a few guess, '' Harry replied, `` If it 's anyone important, I 'll let you know. ``

Albus nodded and started to walk back to the castling with his friends. He glanced back at his dad and saw his Patronus track in the opposite focal point. A few hoi polloi were pointing at it and whispering.

`` Who do you think it is ? '' Kaden asked.

Albus shrugged. `` Dunno. I mean, the only people I can cerebrate of are Washburn and Willinson, but they have n't been sighted in months. ``

`` It 's got to be one of them, '' John said, `` Why else would your dad get so occupy about it ? ``

`` But he could n't even see who it was, '' matt pointed out, `` It might bend out to be cypher. ``

`` Scary, though, '' Kaden shivered, `` One of them coming back. I mean, I 've never met either of them, but if they 're anything like Quinton .... ''

`` Do n't concern, '' Albus assured him, `` We 'll just go back to the uncouth room and we 'll be fine. ``

The male child hurried back into the castle and up to Gryffindor Tower. virtually of the citizenry around them were talking about the mates, but Albus overheard a few multitude talking about his dad 's Patronus.

The Gryffindor common room was packed when they entered it. There was a very large group of people in the midsection shouting about Quidditch and Albus had no doubt that Linda was in the midriff of it, even if she did n't want to be. Albus did n't see rose or Amanda anywhere and figured they were with Linda. Albus had a fleeting opinion that he needed to enjoin them about what he saw, but decided not to since rosebush was n't speaking with him. He just did n't find like telling her anything authoritative while she was still giving him the silent treatment. He was starting to feel a bit dejected that it had been going on so long.

Albus and his booster found a mesa and sat down. They were quickly joined by Lily, Victor-Marie Hugo, and Ashtyn.

`` Can you believe she caught the canary that fast ? '' Lily asked.

`` That was incredible, '' Albus agreed, `` But she 's going to make it hard to puzzle Australia. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Hugo sighed, `` Everyone is trying to forecast out how she 's so fast. Fred thought she had some sorting of particular broom, but she denied it. ``

`` Well, she obviously would n't admit to that, '' Ashtyn rolled her eyes.

`` Maybe pink wine could ask her, '' Lily suggested.

`` I doubt Rose would do that, '' Albus muttered.

`` Are you still rowing with her ? '' Lily asked.

`` Er, yeah, '' Albus said.

`` Why ? Nobody 's told me what your row was even about, '' Lily huffed.

`` It 's not your business organisation, Lily, '' Albus sighed.

`` ejaculate on, '' Lily whined, `` I 'm your sis. ``

`` And I do n't evidence you everything, '' Albus said, `` So give it a eternal rest. ``

`` Can I have everyone 's attention ? '' somebody shouted from the portrait hole.

Albus looked up and saw Neville standing there. Everyone immediately quieted down. instructor rarely went into the coarse room. In fact, the entirely time they did was when something bad happened or when Gryffindor had a spectacular Quidditch win.

`` I do n't want anyone leaving the unwashed room for now, '' Neville said in an unusually exacting tone.

`` What 's going on ? '' Peach State asked.

`` Someone was spotted near Hogsmeade and in the woods, '' Neville replied.

`` Who ? '' Fred asked.

`` The Aurors do n't want us to disclose that data yet, '' Neville said, `` I 'll be back when we know More. ``

Neville left and the common room erupted into voicelessness. Albus turned to his acquaintance, who had all turned a few ghost lighter after hearing Neville 's announcement.

`` It 's got to be, '' Matt whispered, `` They would n't exclude us in if it was n't soul dangerous. ``

Albus nodded and swallowed hard. He knew he was perfectly safe in the usual room, but could n't serve feeling a bit mark.

`` I bet it 's Washburn ! '' someone shouted from across the mutual room.

`` Who 's Washburn ? '' one of the 1st years piped up.

`` evilness Charms teacher, '' someone replied.

`` Yeah ! '' Ashtyn said, `` He tried to kill my crony ! ``

`` Mine, too ! '' Lily put in.

`` And he tried to kill my baby, '' Hugo added.

Lily, Ashtyn, and Hugo started telling the other first twelvemonth what had happened to Albus and his Quaker. Albus groaned and shook his header as all four XI class olds watched him.

`` Wish we could go to the way, '' Albus muttered.

`` Let 's go to the dormitory, '' lavatory suggested, `` I 'll bet it 's evacuate. ``

The son left the common room ( much to the consternation of Lily, Victor Hugo, Ashtyn, and their growing group of on-lookers ) and went up to Albus 's dormitory, which was thankfully empty.

Albus, Matt, and John all sat on their layer and Kaden sat on the foot of Albus 's. None of them said a word. Albus supposed that deep down in his judgment he knew Washburn would fare back, but he tried not to think about it. He figured Washburn was after the Resurrection rock. That meant he would n't try and break into the castle, did n't it ?

No, it did n't. Albus 's gaze fell upon his bole, where the invisibility Cloak resided. If Washburn still wanted to unite the Hallows, he 'd need that cloak. Albus gulped. Washburn was going to try and break into the rook. Albus did n't bang when, but he knew it would pass off at some point.

******

Harry never returned to the castling to tell Albus what had happened. Neville came back to the common room an 60 minutes or so later and told everyone they were complimentary to allow for if they wanted to, but he did n't disclose any point. Albus and his protagonist stayed in the common way, hoping Harry would eventually find Albus, but he never did.

The Great Hall was filled with much More chatter than was formula on Monday morning. Albus and his friend sat down at the Gryffindor table and James River immediately passed Albus a copy of the Daily Prophet.

`` They did n't enamor him, '' St. James the Apostle said as he tossed Albus the paper.

Albus took it and all four boys read the front page article at the same time.

Washburn Sighted in Hogsmeade ; Mysterious Man Sighted in Forest

Jameson Washburn, wanted for torturing underage
scholar and the illegal use of Legilimency on an
underage student, was sighted by an anonymous witch
in Hogsmeade yesterday afternoon.

The sighting took topographic point a few hours after the foremost
Quidditch compeer in the tournament between Hogwarts,
the Australian schooltime of Sorcery, and the Adirondack
academy of conjuration. The anonymous witch stated that
'a man ran from behind the Hog 's Head up towards the
hills. He looked like Washburn .'

Harry Potter, head word of the Auror department, was on the
Hogwarts grounds at the time and reported quickly to
the tantrum. No planetary house of Washburn were found and Potter
is surely he had Disapparated quickly.

Potter had previously been investigating the Forbidden
forest, after receiving a tip from a student that
soul had been lurking around. Nobody was found.

Hogwarts school day of witchery and genius went into
lock down after the supposed sighting of Washburn.
Students were not informed about the situation. The
Auror section has not said whether extra
protection will be given to the schooling. Currently, an
Auror is assigned to the school at all fourth dimension, after the
kidnapping of a student by Quinton Willinson ( currently
residing in Azkaban ) last Spring.

'We do n't want hoi polloi to worry. We 're not even surely
whether either sighting was actually Washburn or not ,'
potter told reporters.

Albus set down the paper and turned to attend at his acquaintance. There was no doubt in his mind that that man in the woodland had been Washburn. He had gotten away again. For person who seemed incompetent at just about everything, Washburn certainly was good at escaping.

`` I wonder where he 's hiding, '' John said, `` I mean, he 's probably somewhere around here, you 'd guess ? ``

`` I bet he Apparated someplace far away, '' Albus replied, `` He 's not going to want to stick around and get caught. ``

`` Yeah, that 's true, '' whoremaster said, `` But I bet he 'll be back. ``

`` Probably, '' Albus agreed, `` Willinson might even go with him. I wonder where he is. ``

`` I hope he 's far away from here, '' Matt said, `` We 'd improve get to class. ``

Albus was happy that they had attention of Magical brute first because he would be able-bodied to remain talking about Washburn as they observed firecrabs.

`` You do n't think they 'll cancel the Hogsmeade trips, do you ? '' John asked once they had walked a safe distance away from the Slytherins.

`` I dunno, '' Albus shrugged, `` They did n't call off them when Sirius escaped from Azkaban. ``

`` I hope they wo n't, '' privy said, `` They could just have Aurors patrolling the village. That 'll keep Washburn away. ``

`` There are already Aurors patrolling the school, '' Matt pointed out, `` So I 'm surely they 'll be patrolling Hogsmeade now, too. ``

`` Just as long as they do n't add any dementors here, I 'll be happy, '' Albus shivered. He had never actually seen a dementor, but he knew enough about them to fear them.

`` Well, that did n't exactly mold out well when Sirius had escaped, did it ? '' St. John the Apostle replied.

`` I know, but still .... '' Albus 's voice trailed off.

`` Dementors do n't even hold Azkaban anymore, so I do n't see why they would get sent here, '' lav said as he stopped his firecrab from escaping.

`` I wonder where they went, '' Albus pondered, `` I 've never seen one. ``

`` Me neither, '' John shook his principal, `` But that 's a good level. What did happen to them all ? ``

`` That 's one thing my dad never told me, '' Albus shrugged.

`` I 've never seen one either, '' Matt shivered, `` But my dad has. He 's had to deal with them at work- ''

`` So he knows where they were sent ? '' Saint John interrupted.

`` No, '' lusterlessness shook his head word, `` He dealt with them in Australia. There are a lot of them on the outback. There 's hardly anyone living around there, so every once in a spell, they 'll descend on some diminutive town they come upon. Then some witch or wizard reports it and my dad or individual else from his bureau would have to go clear them out. ``

`` That would be a horrible job, '' Gospel According to John said quietly.

`` He hated it, '' Matt replied, `` He 'd get home all shivering and depressed and Mum would tip him tons of burnt umber. Then they 'd go talk by themselves. He refused to tell me and Amy what he hears when he comes across dementors, though. Amy asked loads of times, but he never told. ``

`` My dad wo n't order me what he hears either, '' Albus said, `` It 's got to be awful. ``

`` Neither of my parents have ever seen dementors, '' Gospel According to John said, `` I think my parents lead relatively normal animation compared to yours. ``

`` No one in my kinsperson leads a normal life, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine either, '' Matt agreed.

`` Well, hopefully your dad will catch Washburn and Willinson and then you can cause a somewhat normal life, Albus, '' St. John said.

`` Maybe, '' Albus shrugged.

`` As for me, I like a little excitement in life, '' John grinned.

`` You can make all of mine, '' Albus laughed.

`` Mine, too, '' lusterlessness smirked.

`` Nah, '' John shook his school principal, `` I 'll make my own. ``


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


In all the agitation of the potential sighting of Washburn in Hogsmeade, Albus nearly forgot about talking to Rose that evening. He was sitting in the common elbow room trying to say his defense team Against the Dark Arts ledger when John prodded him.

`` What ? '' Albus looked up at John.

`` Linda just went to Quidditch pattern, '' John gestured to the portraiture hole, which just closed behind someone, `` We can talk to Rose now. ``

Albus nodded and closed his book. He had to admit that he was a bit queasy about telling Rose that Linda was a vampire. He had a feeling she would n't take it well. They were going to have to discontinue this to her very nicely.

It was n't that Albus was worried that Rose would be upset that Linda was a lamia. Albus knew that would n't gravel her in the fragile. It was the fact that Albus was the one who figured it out that he was worried about. Albus fully expected Rose to deny that Linda was a vampire for the exclusive ground that she had n't figured it out herself.

`` I guess we 'd better, '' Albus said as he got up. He glanced around the uncouth elbow room and his eye rested on the table Rose and Amanda were sitting at.

Albus walked over to her table with Matt, John, and Kaden following. The two young lady looked to be working on homework.

`` rosiness, '' Albus sat down next to her, `` We need to babble to you about something. ``

Rose put down her quill and looked up. `` Is it about Washburn ? If you 're worried about him coming back, do n't be. He ca n't get into the castle. ``

`` It 's not about him, '' Albus sighed, although he had a feeling Washburn could get into the castle if he wanted.

`` Then what ? '' Rose said shortly.

`` It 's about Linda- ''

`` Then I do n't want to hear it, '' rosiness interrupted.

`` Rose, it 's of import, '' Albus insisted, `` Just come talk of the town to us. ``

`` No, '' Rose said a bit louder, `` I know you lot do n't like her, but I do. And I do n't ask you telling me who I can and ca n't be friends with. ``

`` That 's not what we 're going to tell you, '' Albus groaned, `` There 's just something about her you should know. ``

`` Just talk to them, rose wine, '' Amanda said, `` To be honest, I 'm sick of you ignoring them. ``

Rose looked a bit taken aback. `` All right, fine. '' She shoved her Christian Bible into her bag a bit harder than necessary and stood up.

Albus said zero but lead everyone out of the mutual way. nonentity said a Son until they were in the vulture 's Den. rose wine sat in one of the president and folded her subdivision across her chest.

`` What ? '' she asked, `` What do you possibly have to tell me ? ``

Albus glanced at matte, who nodded. Albus took a deeply breath. `` Linda is a vampire, '' he said quietly.

Rose 's back talk fell give and then she burst out laughing. `` Are you bloody insane ? How in the epithet of pigeon hawk did you possibly come up with that stunned theme ? ``

Albus groaned. `` It 's not a stunned thought. It 's true. And Matt told us. ``

rose rolled her oculus and glared at Matt. `` Of track. You 're the one who hates Linda the most. ``

`` blush wine, it 's reliable ! '' Matt insisted, `` Do you honestly think that I would just randomly claim soul was a vampire ? For all the departure between vampire and loup-garou, they both get discriminated against. ``

`` Oh, I do n't know. Maybe because you want me to terminate being friends with her ? '' Rose shouted.

`` well, that would be stupefied of me because I know you would n't stop being friends with her because of that, '' Matt said quietly, `` After all, you 're friends with me. Or at to the lowest degree you used to be. ``

`` I still am, '' Rose whispered.

Albus smiled to himself. That was promising. Maybe their friendship was n't totally destroyed.

`` But do n't you lot think that if Linda was a lamia, I would have figured it out ? '' Rose asked, `` I mean, I was the only one to figure out that flatness 's a loup-garou. ``

`` How lots do you know about lamia, blush wine ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, not much, I guess, '' Rose said sheepishly, `` But still, how do you know ? ``

Albus opened his bag and pulled out his denial book. He tossed it at Rose. `` Read the bit about lamia. ``

Rose caught the Good Book and opened it up. She began to understand it with Amanda reading over her articulatio humeri. A few minutes later, rose wine set the playscript down. Her face was pale.

`` You 're right wing, '' she whispered and then turned to Matt, `` Is that why you do n't like her ? ``

`` form of, '' Matt shrugged, `` It 's not the fact that she 's a vampire. It 's the fact that she knows I 'm a lycanthrope. ``

`` Oh, '' Rose nodded, `` And she 's from Australia and Killigan does n't care werewolves. I get it. But, wait, how come Killigan lets Linda go to shoal but he would n't let you ? ``

`` No estimation, '' Matt sighed, `` It 's a whodunit. ``

The room descended into an clumsy secrecy and Albus looked at all of his ally. blush wine still looked a little shocked and Amanda did as well.

`` So, '' Albus began, `` Are you going to keep ignoring us, rose wine ? ``

`` Are you going to let Linda amount in here ? '' pink wine asked.

`` No way, '' Albus, Matt, John the Divine, and Kaden said at once.

rose sighed. `` Fine. I 've missed you lot, but I am still going to spend metre with Linda. I guess I 'll just split my time, then. ``

Albus grinned. `` thoroughly. But next Hogsmeade trip, you 're coming with us. ``

******

Over the next duad of weeks, Rose and Amanda began spending more and more than time with Albus and the other male child. Albus was thrilled about it, especially since after a few daylight passed, it was like Rose and matte had n't rowed at all. cypher ever brought up the theme of Linda, though. Rose and Amanda both spent time with Linda, usually in the depository library, but Albus did n't particularly mind. He form of liked having clip to drop just with Matt, John, and Kaden.

lavatory and Kaden found it increasingly difficult to pull pranks due to the fact that Hogwarts was being patrolled by Sir Thomas More Aurors since the Washburn sighting. Teachers, prefects, and the principal boy and fille were also patrolling more often than they used to. Albus was secretly felicitous about this since he had an increasing awe of Washburn breaking into his student residence to steal the Invisibility Cloak. John and Kaden, on the other hand, came back to the rough-cut room ranting about how they could n't tear off some prank or the other due to an Auror or prefect finding them. Matt did n't seem to have an view on the subject and Albus suspected he would be happy so long as Killigan stayed away from him.

The next Quidditch match was in the beginning of December, and although that was still a month away, Ellen Price Wood increased drill to three daytime a hebdomad instead of two. Sir Henry Wood was especially rugged on James since the next friction match would be between Hogwarts and Australia. Sir Henry Joseph Wood was determined to mystify Australia and that think of Saint James the Apostle would have to try and fly faster than Linda. Teddy was working with him one on one during all the practices.

The adjacent junior dueling tourney was coming up as well and Albus was determined to actually duel during this one. He did n't care if both his stage were broken, he would still go.

Between his versatile practices and socio-economic class, Albus did n't own much time for anything else. All his teachers were increasing the body of work load, especially Balladanis. He started packing Sir Thomas More and more into each lesson and had begun assigning weekly essays. And since all the lessons were hard-nosed, Albus had to read the account book to do the essays. There were no notes from course of study to use.

Albus and the residual of the students no longer bothered taking their Good Book and lambskin out at the beginning of class. In fact, the majority of Albus 's class did n't even bother sitting down. Albus wondered why Balladanis even bothered to put the desks back at the end of division, since he had yet to get wind of any of the years having an actual lecture in that class.

Due to this, Albus was completely shocked when Balladanis told the division to sit down at the beginning of defense reaction in the beginning of November. Albus turned to Matt and John, who looked equally surprised. Balladanis, on the other hand, was acting like this was perfectly normal.

Albus sat down in between matt and John amongst the whispering of the rest of the class.

Balladanis stood in front of his desk and looked out at the students. There was a gravid trunk in front of him which reminded Albus of the first day of grade. But why would Balladanis bring a Boggart back to class ? lusterlessness told Albus that Balladanis was n't even using Boggarts in his help sessions anymore.

`` Today 's example will be part lecture, '' Balladanis announced, `` The reason for this being that the especial creature we are studying today is not in your schoolbook script. ``

The stratum erupted in more whispering and Albus distinctly heard rose gasp.

`` settle down, '' Balladanis said, `` The creature is not in your Quran because it is extremely rare and well-nigh wizards will go their entire sprightliness without ever encountering one. Because of this, it is not normally in a third year curriculum. The creature is usually studied in advanced N.E.W.T. Defense Against the Dark liberal arts only. I however, believe this brute is extremely good to third class defense and am adding it in, despite the fact that it is not in your book. ``

Albus was on the edge of his seat now. He was staring directly at the luggage compartment in straw man of Balladanis, where the animate being probably resided. It could n't be that dangerous, could it ? Otherwise, Balladanis would n't take brought one. Although, there was n't a good deal that Balladanis could do that would actually surprise Albus. He was a very odd teacher.

`` The wight I am talking about is an anamatek, '' Balladanis said as he began pacing back and Forth River in front end of the trunk. He stopped in front of rose, Amanda, and Linda 's board. `` Does anyone know what an anamatek is ? ``

Albus had never heard of one in his life. Rose did n't put her deal up either. The only when hand in the class that went up was Linda's.

`` Yes, girl Morales, '' Balladanis said.

`` An anamatek is a shape-shifter, but it is different from a boggart. anamateks are forced to change into whatever form the thaumaturge controlling them wants, '' Linda explained.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis began pacing again, `` anamateks are very strong and knock-down creatures. It takes a very firm and powerful crone or sorcerer to control them. Not many are able-bodied to do so. But if a crone or superstar can, the anamatek must transform into whatever form the wizard wants.

`` This of course of instruction is very life-threatening if a darkness wizard gets bind of one. Can you imagine if Voldemort had been able to command a few anamateks and had them transform into chimera ? ``

The entire room was soundless. Albus shivered at the view of an army of chimaera, especially in the helping hand of Voldemort.

`` Luckily for us, anamateks are extremely rarefied and the bulk of wizard ca n't control one, let alone an U. S. Army of them. The few anamateks that exist in the humanity reside in lovesome climates and they prefer to stick hidden amongst trees or Bush. Anamateks are rarely sighted in U.K. and I would gauge that there are n't Thomas More than four or five in the total land. They are a bit more plebeian in warmer climate such as the Southwestern United body politic, Latin US, Confederacy U.S., Africa, and Australia. However, you could search all of these area extensively and never come across one.

`` Anamateks do not like ace because they do not desire to be controlled. Not only can wizards control what the anamatek turns into, they can also make it do whatever they please. When they are not controlled, they can wrench into whatever they like and usually choose a particularly life-threatening animal in order of magnitude to dissuade wizards from capturing them. They can not, however, turn into humans, for the most piece. There are exclusion to that. Certain powerful witches and wizards have had succeeder turning them into humans, but they do not act like human beings. No anamatek can release into a human on its own. ``

Balladanis paused and stopped side by side to his proboscis. `` I have captured an anamatek. I captured it many years ago and it has been under my control ever since. Having an anamatek at my disposal provides a bully eruditeness opportunity for all of you. Can anyone guess why ? ``

Rose 's deal injection into the air. `` Yes, Miss Weasley, '' Balladanis said.

`` You can have it turn into whatever we 're studying and we can learn to fight it instead of having to contend a veridical one. That way, you can command what its doing and none of us will get hurt, '' blush wine answered.

`` Correct, '' Balladanis said, `` Before class, I performed a spell which caused the anamatek to rick into a kappa, which I hope you are all aware that we are currently studying. When I say so, get up and organise a line in front of my desk. You will be performing the spell you learned last class to try and repel the anamatek, which is going to bet and act exactly like a kappa. ``

`` Sir ? '' Malfoy raised his hand.

`` Yes, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` Sir, are you going to tell us the trance to bestow an anamatek under a wizard 's control ? ``

`` No, Mr. Malfoy, I am not, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` First, it 's not just one go, it is a set of extremely difficult spells, beyond N.E.W.T. level. Second, there is a lot debate as to whether the spells are darkness Magic or not. Third, it would be pointless since none of you would throw the capability of performing such conjuration and will likely never have the opportunity to perform it. one-quarter, the schoolmaster would not be happy if I did so. I will also not sign any bank bill to admit any of you into the Restricted discussion section of the subroutine library to enquiry the while. ``

Malfoy scowled at this and Albus stifled a joke. It did n't surprise him in the slightest that Malfoy would need to watch the charm. Albus was extremely queer as to how Balladanis managed to do them, and how he had come across the anamatek in the first place. Albus doubted that he would tell that story, though. Balladanis never talked about his past.

`` Everyone get up ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus hastily stood up and watched as the residue of the class did the same. Rose and Linda shoved their greenback into their bags, but nonentity else had bothered to take notes. The thought process had n't even crossed Albus 's creative thinker. He was so used to not taking notes in Defense.

Balladanis moved the tabular array to the slope of the room and Albus joined the queue forming in front of the body. He stood on his tip-toes and peered around john to try and catch a coup d'oeil of the anamatek when it emerged from the trunk.

Balladanis pointed his verge at the trunk and it shot out-of-doors. Nothing happened for a few secondment and then a slimy, scaled kappa crept up over the top of the trunk and climbed out. It stretched out its lacy manus and started towards Janie Creevey, who was first in the line.

Janie held up her wand and muttered the tour. The kappa was shot back towards the trunk and Balladanis nodded at Janie. She stepped to the side and Karina walked forward as the kappa recovered.

The waiting line moved forward and Albus was able to get a secure look at the anamatek. It looked exactly like a kappa. If Albus did n't experience any better, he would say that it was a real kappa.

Balladanis made everyone execute the spell until they could do it successfully. Rose and Linda got it on their foremost tries, but Amanda had a bit of hassle. Albus had a spirit she would be working with the anamatek in her next redundant assistant session. john managed to have winner on his number one try and he stepped to the side and Albus stepped forward.

The anamatek crept towards Albus, who held up his scepter. Kappas did n't really scare him in the slightest, yet his mettle had begun pounding faster. The anamatek is what scared him a bit. The thing had the potential to change into something dangerous like a chimera at any moment. How much control did Balladanis really have over the affair ?

Albus shouted the trance and the anamatek was thrown back against the trunk and landed with a loud crack.

`` Very undecomposed, Mr. ceramicist, '' Balladanis smiled ever so slightly, `` A few of the rest of you might bid to film note of the force Mr. thrower put behind his while. A shape kappa would accept been able-bodied to reclaim very quickly from most of your charm. Mr. Potter, on the early manus, would throw been able to escape if this had been a tangible kappa. ``

Matt 's turn was adjacent and Albus stood next to John Lackland to watch him. The kappa was only slightly deterred by matte 's first spell and he had to try about three times to get it to work.

`` Now I know what Balladanis is going to have me do tomorrow night, '' Matt whispered to Albus as they watched Malfoy take on the kappa.

Malfoy sent the kappa slamming into the tree trunk with almost as a good deal forcefulness as Albus had, earning him a rebuff smile from Balladanis as well.

`` Where in the name of Falco columbarius did Balladanis get that thing ? '' King John exclaimed after they 'd impart the classroom.

`` No estimate, '' Albus shrugged, `` But I wish he 'd state us. ``

`` He wo n't, '' Matt sighed.

`` I know, but I still want to acknowledge, '' trick said, `` And what did he do for a living before this ? I mean, I do n't intend teachers normally come upon anamateks. ``

`` Probably not. I do n't think my dad has ever seen one and he 's an Auror, '' Albus pointed out.

`` They are extremely rare in Britain, '' Rose ran up succeeding to Albus, `` I bet Balladanis lived in some former nation before he started teaching here. Africa or Australia or one of those places where anamateks are more green. ``

`` Yeah, but they 're not exactly common in those station either. My dad has n't seen one either and he worked with magical creatures in Australia for years, '' Matt said.

`` I 'm surprised Kendrick lets him cause that thing in the shoal, '' Amanda said.

`` I doubt Kendrick knows about it, '' Albus replied.

If Kendrick had n't known about the anamatek before, he most likely did by the end of the day. The entire school day was buzzing about it. Apparently Balladanis had not only shown it to his tertiary years, but bit and fourth through seventh years as well. The plebeian room was filled with chatter about it after dinner, as well as extremely jealous initiatory years. Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn whined about not being capable to see it.

`` Are you ready for Quidditch practice, Al ? '' Georgia said to Albus as Lily and her protagonist left.

Albus looked up. Sakartvelo 's face was White River and she looked more than a piffling pall. Albus stared at her curiously.

`` Yeah. But, Georgia, are you ok ? ``

`` I 'll be fine, '' she assured him, `` Balladanis had that anamatek thing turn into a dementor during class right field before dinner. We spent the entire form trying to throw away Patronuses against it. Let me tell you, that anamatek was just like a dementor. '' Georgia closed her eyes and shuddered.

`` You should have got some chocolate, '' Albus told her and pulled a coffee toad out of his bag. He tossed it to her.

Georgia caught it and ripped it loose. `` Thanks. Let 's go find James II. ``

Albus said cheerio to his friends and went to go get hold James IV with Sakartvelo. He felt a bit unnerve that Balladanis had used the anamatek as a dementor. Having it turn into a kappa was one thing, but a dementor ? They were really dangerous. As far as Albus knew, the Patronus charm was n't actually practiced on dementors until Auror preparation. Part of Albus hoped that Kendrick would ban the anamatek from the school before he started learning the Patronus charm in seventh year.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome mass who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Much to Albus 's surprise, the anamatek was still sitting in Balladanis 's classroom the next stratum. Albus really thought Kendrick would let made him get rid of it. The class continued practicing on it and after a few sessions with it, Albus got used to the fact that it was an anamatek. As long as it did n't turn into a dementor or a chimaera or something else really dangerous, Albus did n't mind.

Practicing on the anamatek was a lot like practicing dueling anyway. That 's how Albus saw it. defence reaction classes were beginning to be a lot like dueling recitation. Albus was very happy about this, especially since the next dueling tournament was quickly upon him. It took place on a Saturday in the center of November, the day before the second inter-school dueling tournament.

`` Nice to see that you actually showed up today, ceramist, '' Malfoy smirked as Albus and Amanda sat down at their squad table.

`` Shut it, Malfoy, '' Lynley Anderson said as she walked past Albus, `` Or you wo n't duel in the following tourney. ``

Malfoy scowled and Albus smiled to himself. He sat down and looked to the forepart of the room. The usual dueling anchor ring were set up and Neville was standing in movement of one. Balladanis was standing in strawman of the other one. He must hold been chosen to be the former professor in heraldic bearing of the dueling night club since Albus 's dad left.

The tourney began a shortly while later and Albus sat back to wait for his turn. As much as Albus loved dueling, he could n't stand having to wait while everyone else dueled. He could n't wait until he was a fifth year and could try out for the regular dueling baseball club. The teams were much smaller for that and Albus would get to duel more during each tourney. If he made the team, that is.

`` Albus ceramist and Kaden Dursley, '' Balladanis announced.

Albus looked up and stared at him. Kaden ? Albus turned to yaw at Amanda, who shrugged. Albus was going to let to duel Kaden ? Albus had yet to duel any of his cousins.

Albus got up and walked towards the closed chain. Kaden was already there when he arrived. Albus and Kaden bowed to each early and then raised their wands.

`` Begin, '' Balladanis said.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his verge at Kaden while silently apologizing to him. He really did n't want to duel Kaden.

Kaden 's wand flew from his hand and Albus caught it. Albus looked up at Balladanis. Balladanis was looking at Albus with his piercing stare and Albus quickly looked away.

`` point in time to Potter, '' Balladanis said without taking his eyes off Albus.

Albus handed Kaden back his baton and went back to his squad 's table. Lynley and Amanda congratulated him and he sat back down.

`` I ca n't believe they had you duel Kaden, '' Amanda giggled.

Albus shrugged. It had n't been much of a combat. Albus rarely had trouble dueling anyone during the tournaments. The alone person who Albus ever had difficulty dueling was Malfoy, and he was on Albus 's team.

Albus was n't really thinking much about having to duel Kaden. He could n't get the flavour Balladanis had given him out of his mind. It was form of like the looks he 'd received in social class, only more restrain. There was a hint of oddment mixed in with something Albus could n't account. It was almost like he was trying to read Albus 's mind, but Albus had had enough experience with that to bang that Balladanis was n't doing it.

Malfoy was up side by side and he dueled Henry James. It was a very fast-paced and wind up duel. In the end, Malfoy managed to disarm St. James the Apostle. Albus had no musical theme how he felt about this. persona of him was happy that his squad got the head, but on the former hand, the thinking of his brother losing to Malfoy was rather unsettling.

James I had a mutinous look on his font as he grabbed his scepter out of Malfoy 's outstretched hired man. He stormed back to his table without a endorse glance at Malfoy or Balladanis.

Albus looked back to Balladanis and saw him giving Malfoy the same odd spirit he had given Albus earlier. Albus had no idea what to make of that. Balldanis had n't looked at anyone else like that.

The future individual Albus dueled was a bit more challenging, but Albus still disarmed her within three minutes. She was a fourth class Ravenclaw who had the reputation of being the impertinent of all the quartern years.

Balladanis gave Albus the same strange feel as he awarded him the point. Albus quickly gave the girl back her wand and went back to his table.

Albus 's team narrowly won the tournament. Lynley congratulated everyone and said the entire team had improved greatly since the last tournament. Albus and Amanda got up and joined the throngs of people leaving the way. They headed up to the uncouth elbow room, where they had agreed to receive their friend after the tournament.

`` Good job, '' John said as he sat down next to Albus.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled.

`` Yeah, '' Kaden agreed, `` I mean, you beat me pretty quickly. ``

`` Albus is the best dueler out of all of us, '' lusterlessness said as he joined them.

`` Balladanis was certainly interested, '' whoremonger said, `` What was up with him looking at you like that ? ``

`` I dunno, '' Albus said, `` It was really odd. ``

`` He was looking at Malfoy like that, too, '' Rose said as she and Linda sat down.

`` I 'll bet it 's because you 're both such good duelers, '' Matt replied, `` I hate to intromit it, but Malfoy is really good. ``

`` Did you see James 's font after Malfoy beat him ? '' John laughed, `` That was pretty funny. ``

`` I do n't think James would concord with you, '' Albus smirked.

`` Well, we should probably do some prep, '' Rose said.

Everyone groaned but nobody disagreed. Albus went up to his student residence and returned with his books. He cracked outdoors his Herbology book and started an essay that was due on Tuesday.

`` You 're from Australia, are n't you ? ``

Albus 's head snapped up. Linda was staring curiously at Matt, whose eyes were darting about. Everyone else was now staring at Linda. Albus did n't think he had ever heard her talk outside of class.

`` Er, why do you think that ? '' lustrelessness asked nervously.

`` The former day after Defense, you mentioned that your dad had n't seen an anamatek even though he worked down there, '' Linda explained.

`` Oh, yeah, '' mat muttered, `` I did used to live there. ``

`` Why did you move ? '' Linda asked.

`` My dad 's job, '' Matt said.

`` Oh, '' Linda replied, `` Well, if you had n't, we could have gone to school together. ``

mat mumbled something under his breath.

`` What ? '' Linda asked.

`` Nothing, '' flatness said and closed his book, `` I 'm, er, going to the library. ``

Albus closed his own Book and got up to watch lustrelessness, but he had already left. Albus sighed and looked at Rose, who was slowly shaking her brain. That was exactly why Matt had wanted to abide away from Linda and Albus could n't find fault him.

The repose of the good afternoon was spent in silence in the vernacular room. Albus managed to finish his Herbology essay just before dinner. He had no idea if Matt actually went to the subroutine library, but found him in the Great manse at dinner. He made no reference of what Linda had said, so Albus did n't lend it up. Albus only had sufficiency time to eat a quick dinner anyway, because he had Quidditch recitation afterwards.

******

`` All right wing, that 's decent for today, '' Balladanis announced as the Melville Bell rang the succeed Tuesday, `` leave alone your essays on my desk on your way out. ``

Albus stowed his wand in his robes and rummaged around in his bag for his essay. For some reason, Balladanis always collected essays at the end of class. Albus had no idea why. All the other instructor collected them at the first, presumably to prevent students from frantically scribbling their essay during class the day it was due. That would be impossible in Balladanis 's class, though.

`` potter, Malfoy ! '' Balldanis shouted, `` Please see me before you leave. ``

`` Looks like you 're getting extra help, too, '' can laughed, `` Welcome to the clubhouse. ``

`` Somehow I doubt that, '' Matt replied, `` Albus was the only if one to cause that anamatek to fly halfway across the elbow room today. Well, besides Malfoy. ``

Albus shrugged and muttered that he 'd meet them in Herbology. His pith started beating a bit faster as he placed his essay on the raft and stood in front of Balladanis 's desk. Why did he want to see him anyway ? Could Balladanis really think he needed extra help ?

Malfoy tossed his essay onto the pile and then leaned up on Balladanis 's desk as he watched the relief of the course of instruction leave.

`` Stand up, Malfoy, '' Balladanis said as he shut the anamatek 's body and walked over to his desk.

Malfoy jumped and quickly stood up straight. Albus stifled a laugh and turned to Balladanis, whose face was expressionless.

Balladanis walked over to the door, shut it, and returned to his desk. `` I could n't help but find that both of you won both of your duels utmost Sabbatum. ``

`` I always win both of my duel, '' Malfoy said pompously.

`` I thought so, '' Balladanis replied, ignoring Malfoy 's less than respectful timbre, `` I 'm assuming the same goes for you, Mr. Potter ? ``

`` Yes, sir, '' Albus nodded.

`` Have either of you ever been defeated in a affaire d'honneur before ? ``

`` I 've disarmed Potter during practice, '' Malfoy smirked.

`` And I 've disarmed you, Malfoy, '' Albus rolled his eyes.

`` Any other multiplication ? '' Balladanis asked.

Albus opened his mouth, but Balladanis interrupted him.

`` During the dueling tournaments, Mr. Potter. I have heard about your altercation with Jameson Washburn, Jarret Willinson, and his son. ``

`` No other clip, '' Albus replied.

`` I could have defeated Washburn, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I sincerely doubt that, '' Balladanis said, much to Albus 's joy, `` But that is not what I have asked to discuss with you. I have noticed, both in class and during dueling tourney, that the two of you seem to own exceptional skill when it comes to dueling. You 're dueling skill appears to be much higher than the third base or even fourthly twelvemonth level.

`` Therefore, I would care to cultivate both of you privately. There is only so very much you can learn in a turgid group with those whose science is less than your own. I will be capable to teach you spells you would n't normally pick up until fourth or fifth class. Are either of you interested ? ``

`` Of course, '' Malfoy said immediately.

Albus could n't believe it. His house and friends always told him he was an excellent duelist, but somehow having Balladanis severalise him meant more. Balladanis was incredibly hard to delight, and not only did he call up Albus was a great dueler, he was offering to teach him more advanced spells. That was incredibly exciting. Albus would be able to learn patch that James had n't learned yet.

`` Yes, I 'd care that, '' Albus grinned, thinking it would be brilliant to beat James IV in a duel.

`` I shall see you on Fri at eight, then, '' Balladanis told them, `` After I am done tutoring the less skillful in your class. '' He pulled out two while of paper and scribbled onto both of them. `` give way these to your teacher, as you are quite late to course by now. Get out of here. ``

Albus took his annotation and left the room touch that Friday was an incredibly recollective time away. secret dueling lessons. He could n't wait. Sure, they 'd be with Malfoy, but Albus was unforced to put up with him in order to learn upgrade spells.

Albus hurried to Herbology, but the class was already well into that day 's example by the metre he arrived. He handed his note to Neville and then sat down following to Matt, who was shoveling dirt into an empty pot.

`` What did Balladanis require ? '' lusterlessness asked.

`` You 're never going to believe this, '' Albus said as he pulled on his gloves, `` Balladanis wants to cave in Malfoy and me buck private dueling example. He wants to learn us advanced spell that we would n't normally learn until one-quarter or fifth year. ``

`` You 're kidding, '' lusterlessness said in awe.

`` Nope, '' Albus grinned.

`` But why ? '' flatness asked, `` Did he say why he 's teaching you ? ``

`` Just because he thinks we 're good duelers, I guess. ``

`` Well, you are a adept dueler, Albus, '' matte agreed, `` When do you start ? ``

`` Friday at eight. Right after your aid school term, actually, '' Albus answered.

`` I 'm not going to the help session this week, '' Matt lowered his voice, `` And you 'll be having scores more fun than me. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Albus whispered, remembering that the full synodic month was Friday night, `` I 'll let you know how it goes, though. ``

After Herbology was over, Albus told John the Divine, rosebush, and Amanda about Balladanis 's dueling lessons and then had to repeat it to Kaden when they ate lunch. All of them were excited about it, especially Kaden. Albus suspected he was a bit jealous, too.

The remainder of the week seemed to sneak by at a flobberworm 's yard. It was n't corresponding Albus did n't deliver anything to preserve him busy, but he just could n't mean about anything former than the dueling lesson.

`` Albus, you 've got to stop tapping your shaft, '' rosebush said shortly, `` It 's driving me mad. ``

Albus and his Friend were in the vulture 's Den. It was Friday evening and dinner had just ended. Albus was trying to centre on homework, but it was n't working. Rose and Amanda were both reading. Linda had mysteriously disappeared after her go social class and Rose and Amanda had been with Albus and the other boys ever since. bathroom and Kaden were discussing a joke that involved charming gobstones to follow the Aurors and prefects around as they patrolled the corridors. rosiness had already advised against this, but Saint John the Apostle and Kaden did n't listen. Matt was laying on the sofa with his center closed, but he was n't asleep. John and Kaden kept asking him affair and he 'd react with very unawares answers.

`` Sorry, '' Albus muttered and dropped his quill.

`` So where 's Linda tonight ? '' John asked.

`` I dunno, '' rosiness shrugged, `` She did n't take care that great today, though. ``

`` Then she 's probably sucking some animate being 's blood in the wood, '' flatness announced.

`` fountainhead, there 's a lovely motion picture, '' Kaden said loudly, `` Linda biting the neck of some helpless animal and sucking the life out of it. remember of all the ancestry. It must get all over her face and neck. That 's pretty crying. ``

`` Thanks for that paradigm, Kaden, '' Matt replied.

`` It 's better than her sucking human blood, '' Rose pointed out.

`` That 's confessedly, '' Kaden agreed, `` So, should we fill the gobstones with stench sap before we charm them ? ``

`` Of course ! '' John grinned.

`` And that 's my cue to go forth, '' Matt sat up slowly and rubbed his header, `` I 'll see you lot tomorrow, probably. ``

`` Yeah, we 'll see you in the cockcrow, '' Albus assured him.

`` Have fun, '' Kaden said.

`` Fun, '' matt muttered on his way out, `` That 's a word I 've never used to depict it. ``

`` We 'd better go, too, '' Amanda said.

`` Yeah, time to go sit through an extra Defense example, '' John groaned as he stood up.

`` I thought you did n't heed them, '' blush wine said.

`` I do n't. They just get old after a while, '' John sighed as he and Amanda left.

Albus worked on his homework for the next hour, mainly because there was n't anything else to do. move up was working on her own homework and did n't appear to want to do anything else. The hr dragged by at an incredibly obtuse rate, but eventually Albus packed up his script, said goodbye to rose wine, and left for Balladanis 's room.

The door was half-way out-of-doors when Albus arrived. He took a deep breath, suddenly overcome by brass, and knocked lightly. There was no reply. Albus pushed the door open and walked very slowly inside.

The room was dim. The only Light stemmed from a few torches lit on the wall. It was obviously the same classroom he had Defense class in, but it looked completely different in the evening.

There was n't anyone left in the room from the excess Defense deterrent example earlier. Albus had passed John and Amanda in the corridor. They both wished him good destiny.

Albus looked around the room and saw the body that contained the anamatek sitting unnaturally still in social movement of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis himself was also sitting unnaturally still at his desk. He stared directly into Albus 's optic and Albus, remembering the Occlumency lessons he received two years prior, quickly averted his own eye and began to close his mind.

`` You know Occlumency, Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis said not as a question, but as a statement.

Albus nodded as Balladanis slowly rose from his chair and walked around to the forepart of his desk. Albus took a step back and nearly collided with the front table. He swallowed nervously and kept his eyes off of Balladanis.

Albus had always been a minuscule wary of Balladanis, but now he had to allow that he was a bit pall. The just way for Balladanis to do it that Albus had been practicing Occlumency was if he had actually been performing Legilimency. Albus had sufficiency experience with teachers performing Legilimency on him and he did n't want to do go through that again. The only affair Albus was thinking about then was how he could pull up stakes the elbow room without Balladanis getting suspicious. He wished he had a Puking Pastille or something in his pocket.

`` Who taught you ? '' Balladanis asked.

`` My aunt Hermione, '' Albus muttered. He wondered where Malfoy was. That had to be the beginning and probably only time he would ever wish Malfoy to be present.

`` Hermione Weasley, '' Balladanis mused, `` Yes, she is one of the most carry through Occlumenses of her generation. ``

Albus 's head snapped towards the door as he heard footfall enter the room. He breathed a sigh of relief and had to smother a laugh at the fact that he was happy Malfoy was in the room.

`` Mr. Malfoy, you 're late, '' Balladanis said.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Malfoy muttered.

`` Sit down, '' Balladanis pointed to the front table.

Albus turned around and sat as quickly as he could in one of the electric chair. Malfoy took his time in sauntering over and sat in the chair next to him.

`` Mr. Potter. Mr. Malfoy, '' Balladanis began to gait in straw man of them, `` By now I am for certain you are both mindful of my stance on the Dark artistic creation. If not, I suggest paying a bit more care in class.

`` You may also be aware of my cultism to helping the scholar who are struggling in my socio-economic class. I hold extra service sessions every single day after dinner. However, I also wish to avail those who are truly talented to reach their unfeigned potential.

`` You two are the most talented duelers in the tertiary year, '' Balladanis paused and looked at each of them in the eye, `` I would argue that you are the most talented duelers amongst the pupil below fifth part twelvemonth. I would even wager that you could give a twosome of the sixth years a run for their Galleons. ``

Albus stared at Balladanis. He did n't think he was that practiced of a dueler. He knew he could beat most of the bookman in the Junior 's Dueling Club, but sixth years ? They were doing N.E.W.T. defensive structure classes. They knew spells Albus had never even heard of.

`` I would n't go picking fights with 6th years, though, '' Balladanis continued, `` They know spells you do not. What I mean is that you have the natural endowment to find out spells that the sixth years are learning. The spells I am currently teaching in class are incredibly simple for the two of you. What I hope to do is teach you tour that are More at your floor. Now, stand up, the both of you. Let 's see what you can do. ``

Albus stood up and pulled out his baton. He had no musical theme what Balladanis wanted him to do. Would they be practicing on the anamatek ?

Balladanis waved his scepter and the desks moved to the sides of the classroom. Another moving ridge and the light increased. `` I would like you to duel each other. Use any trance that you have learned in schooltime. Do not use any enchantment you have picked up elsewhere. Madam Pomfrey would not be glad with me if I sent the two of you to the Hospital annex with missing limbs. Keep going until I say to stop. ``

Albus could n't trust it. He was getting to duel Malfoy ! He had been wanting to do that ever since Kendrick had first announced the dueling club. The little practice session duels they did were n't really what he had wanted to do, though.

Albus raised his scepter and stared at Malfoy. Malfoy was smirking and pointing his scepter at Albus. The two of them bowed and Albus took a step forward.

`` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Albus shouted and pointed his wand at Malfoy.

Malfoy easily dodged the spell and sent a tickling hex at Albus. Albus threw up a shield and then tried to disarm Malfoy. Malfoy jumped onto a nearby desk and the trance collided with a chair which collapsed.

The duel continued in this thing for quite some time. Albus tried as hard as he could to actually hit Malfoy with a spell, but Malfoy kept dodging and blocking them. It was driving Albus mad. He kept thinking of everything Malfoy had done to him in the by two years and how much he wanted to beat him in this duel. If he beat Malfoy, he 'd birth something on him for the respite of the year.

`` Expelliarmus ! '' Albus shouted for what must ingest been the 10th time.

Malfoy dodged it and sent the like magical spell at Albus. Albus jumped and the magic spell hit Balladanis 's desk.

`` That 's enough ! '' Balladanis shouted.

Albus lowered his wand and glared at Malfoy. Albus shoved his wand back in his robe and looked around to find a death chair that remained intact. He found one and collapsed into it. That affaire d'honneur had been exhausting.

`` Well, that was certainly matter to, '' Balladanis gave a rarefied grin, `` Not a scratch line on either of you but my schoolroom has been destroyed. It seems that I was not previous in my judgment of your dueling skills.

`` Have either of you thought about what you want to do when you get out of Hogwarts ? ``

Albus stared curiously at Balladanis. That was an sharp modification in conversation. Albus had never thought about life beyond Hogwarts. He was only thirteen. He never thought there was any need to think about it yet.

`` Er, '' Albus began, `` Not really. I mean, I always thought being an Auror would be interest. ``

`` Indeed it would, '' Balladanis said, `` Your Padre certainly is glad with it. How about you, Mr. Malfoy ? ``

`` No mind, '' Malfoy replied.

`` There are many things you can do with dueling accomplishment such as yours. I would suggest looking into it, '' Balladanis said.

`` But sir, we 're simply third years, '' Malfoy scoffed, `` Is n't it a bit early ? ``

`` I already knew what I wanted to do at thirteen, '' Balladanis said quietly.

`` And what is that exactly ? '' Malfoy asked.

Balladanis gave Malfoy the foreign look Albus had ever seen. It was a combining of sadness, anger, and pride.

`` I do not wish to discuss that, '' Balladanis said, `` Perhaps you will find out someday. For now, I think it best we call it a Night. If you wish to con progress spell, return at this prison term future week and we will begin. ``

`` I 'll be here, sir, '' Malfoy said as he walked out the door.

`` Thanks, Professor, '' Albus said as he followed.

`` Mr. Potter, '' Balladanis said, `` Please state Mr. Eckerton that it will not do for him to skip his extra supporter sessions. ``

`` But sir, '' Albus looked at him incredulously, `` You know what tonight is. He could n't possibly induce gone. ``

`` The moon did n't rise until after the session was over. I do not adopt alibi. ``

Albus sighed to himself as he left. Balladanis had been teaching him for over two calendar month and he still surprised Albus all the clock time. Albus had seen a different incline of him that dark. He did truly detest the dark humanistic discipline, that was something Albus did not doubt. But he had also performed Legilimency on him. Albus did n't think he could ever believe a instructor that did that. Not after his experience with Washburn.


A/N : To answer a common question multitude have left in reappraisal, I came up with the anamatek, but based it off of boggarts in the HP serial. Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


`` What did Balladanis instruct you ? '' was the first affair Matt asked Albus when he went to see him the following afternoon.

Albus had given every short detail about the evening to his other ally once he returned to the dormitory room afterwards and they were impressed. John 's first reaction had been that perhaps Albus would be able-bodied to ascertain out what Balladanis did before he began teaching.

`` He did n't really teach us anything, '' Albus explained to matte, who looked exhausted but was paying rapturous attention. `` I dueled Malfoy. ``

`` Wow, '' Matt looked ingrain, `` How was that ? ``

`` Neither of us won, '' Albus sighed, `` Balladanis made us stop because we pretty much destroyed his classroom. ``

`` I wish I had seen it, '' John chimed in, `` Bet the flavor on Balladanis 's nerve was priceless. ``

`` He just looked impressed. He was n't angry or anything, '' Albus told them, `` Then he asked us what we wanted to do with our lives. ``

`` Like what kind of job you want to get ? '' Matt raised his eyebrow, `` You 're only xiii. ``

`` Yeah, I thought it was foreign, '' Albus shrugged, `` But he said I should think about doing something that would put my dueling skills to use. ``

`` Like an Auror ? '' lusterlessness asked.

`` I do n't think so. I mentioned that and he form of made it seem like that would n't put my dueling skills to use. ``

`` I ca n't think of any former job that you 'd duel more than that, '' lustrelessness replied.

`` I have no estimation what I want to do with my life, '' Kaden announced.

`` Me either, '' John Lackland said, `` I say we 've got plenty of metre to enter it out. ``

`` I 'll say, '' gentlewoman Pomfrey stuck her head in between the curtains, `` And you certainly do not stimulate to figure it out now. It 's time for you lot to leave. ``

Albus, King John, and Kaden reluctantly left the infirmary fender, lamenting the fact that Madam Pomfrey had n't let them stay very long. They had no idea why the nurse had shortened chit-chat prison term so much, considering that flatness had n't seemed worse than usual, but they never understood why gentlewoman Pomfrey did most of the things she did.

******

Albus 's week could be easily summed up in two Bible. Quidditch and homework. Normally he would only complain about the latter, but Joseph Oliver Wood was like a Muggle drill sergeant when it came to Quidditch. Since the peer was on Saturday, Oliver was insisting on day by day practices. Albus and the other replacement had to be at every practice because according to King Oliver, 'you never know when someone will get honk or hexed right before a match .'

In fact, Oliver even wanted them to practice on Fri dark, the night before the match. Albus was n't too happy about this since he had his lesson with Balladanis at eight. That was the same time Quidditch praxis let out, so he had to run to the defence force classroom still completely covered in mud from practice.

He ran into the classroom ten second late, core pounding with trouble about what Balladanis was going to say.

`` Mr. ceramicist, you 're lately, '' Balladanis said as Albus entered the room. He and Malfoy were sitting at the nominal head desk.

`` Sorry, sir, '' Albus said as he joined them, `` Quidditch drill. ``

`` So I gathered, '' Balladanis eyed Albus 's muddy robes, `` I was just telling Mr. Malfoy about the responsibility that come with learning advanced dueling spells. ``

Balladanis pulled out his wand and pointed it at Albus. Albus 's robes were clean and dry and he muttered a thank you to the professor. Malfoy was smirking to himself.

`` The most important responsibility is that you can not and I repeat, can not, use the spells I teach you here in the junior dueling tournament. It would impart your team an unfair reward and you could inadvertently wound your opposer. The piece I teach you are not to be used outside this classroom, unless I instruct you otherwise.

`` You are not to duel your familiar students in the corridors with these tour. Nor are you to use them against your sib and cousin-german, '' his center rested on Albus.

`` I also feel the want to discourage you that these charm are more exhausting than the ones you have been learning. They use a lot of magic energy and do not be surprised if you feel as though you have just run a marathon, '' he turned to Albus again, `` Or played in a very long Quidditch match. ``

Balladanis stood up and gestured for the boys to do the Lapplander. Once they did, Balladanis moved the desks aside and stood in between where Albus and Malfoy stood.

`` I am going to birth you work on your shield good luck charm first- ''

`` I already be intimate how to do a shield charm, '' Malfoy announced.

`` I am well aware of that, Mr. Malfoy, and I do ask that you not question my teaching style, '' Balladanis said darkly, `` The cuticle charms you have been using are relatively rickety and fade away after only a few spells are cast against them.

`` With a fair bit of exercise and mental concentration, one is capable to keep the carapace up for long periods of fourth dimension in edict to block multiple while. Really skilled duelers can even keep the shield up while casting other spell. That is quite useful, as you can ideate. It is also possible to screen a great many people with just one person 's shield charm, which is also very utile. Some harbor appeal can even protect one against charming creature onrush, '' Balladanis lowered his voice and averted his optic at this, which Albus thought was odd.

`` It takes a lot of denseness to maintain time lag of a shield magical spell for so long, which is why the charm can be unmanageable. I doubt either of you will produce a long condition shield charm tonight, so do n't be disappointed. Wands out, both of you, and we 'll see how recollective you can take the charm, without any spells hitting it. ``

Albus held up his scepter and muttered the incantation for the shield magical spell. He had practiced this charm legion times before, usually with someone else trying to hex him at the like time. It was quite easy to just hold it there and even kind of boring. He and Malfoy just stared at each other and Albus doubted that either of them were going to drop their shields. It would be like admitting licking to the other.

After what must let been at least ten minutes of holding the shield appealingness, Albus found he was getting tired. His arm ached from holding his wand up and from throwing so many Quaffles at practice earlier. Malfoy had the vantage since he did n't birth Quidditch practice session. lots to Albus 's dismay, he noticed his shell starting to fizzle. He was n't going to be capable to take for it much longer and Malfoy 's still looked strong.

Balladanis looked at his watch. `` Let the buckler go, '' he instructed, `` Wands down. ``

Relieved, Albus lowered his weary hand and then sat down in a chair. Balladanis was right when he said shape up shield were exhausting.

`` Very good, '' Balladanis said, `` Stand up again. Now I 'll see how many spells each of your shields can stand firm. ``

Albus and Malfoy both put their shields up again and Balladanis sent disarming charm at both of them. Albus could find his shield falter after the low gear magic spell and did n't think it would hold out as long as Malfoy's.

Albus 's cuticle fizzled out after three charms. Malfoy 's dismantled after four. He had the biggest smirk on his human face afterwards, but did n't say anything. He probably did n't want to crow in straw man of Balladanis. Albus knew he 'd take heed about it the next clip they had a stratum together, though.

If only he had n't had Quidditch practice ! Then Albus would induce beaten Malfoy. Or at to the lowest degree tied with him.

`` That 's sufficiency for tonight, '' Balladanis said as he eyed Albus. Albus had a feeling that he looked absolutely exhausted.

`` face like I 'm the ameliorate dueler, '' Malfoy said once they were out of the room.

`` That 's not what it meant, '' Albus muttered, `` We did n't even duel each former. I could stick you in a very duel. ``

`` And I could beat both of you, '' a Slytherin Prefect, who was making his round of golf, said as he walked by, `` So get to your dormitory. ``

Albus had no musical theme if he could beat the Prefect or not but he did n't want to adhere around to lose planetary house points. Plus, it was a well self-justification to stop talking to Malfoy.

******

The exhilaration that filled the Great Hall the next morning reminded Albus yet again of the previous year 's Quidditch final. Only this was n't a final. It was the Hogwarts versus Australia match, the number 1 match Hogwarts was going to wreak in.

The Hogwarts team did not sit together at breakfast or dejeuner. There was considerable argument at practice the late night about this. Joseph Oliver Sir Henry Joseph Wood, President Tyler Pike, and chemise all wanted the squad to sit together in rules of order to squeeze in last moment strategizing, but nobody could match on which board to sit at.

In the end, Teddy sat with the Gryffindor players at the Gryffindor table, President Tyler sat with the Ravenclaw role player at the Ravenclaw tabular array, and Oliver walked from board to remit giving out last infinitesimal advice. Albus thought this worked out OK since Oliver did n't seem to be able to sit still for more than a minute.

Albus was form of relieved that cypher on the Hogwarts squad came down with Spattergroit or lost a finger in potions class because he did n't really want to play. He loved Quidditch, but so very much was at stake. He wanted to merely watch the outset match that Hogwarts participated in. Then, if mightily before the next mates, one of the Chasers came down with a coldness and Madam Pomfrey forbid them from playing, Albus would gladly take their place.

The excitement only increased as Albus and his Quaker walked to the sales talk. Rose and Amanda were there, although Linda was n't. Albus thought this was only fitting since Hogwarts was playing against Australia in this match.

"Welcome, everyone !"Lord Todd Smith 's part boomed over the crowd,"Hogwarts is playing its initiatory lucifer in the Cup and they are up against Australia ! The Hogwarts team is captained by Oliver woods with helper from Ted Lupin and Tyler throughway !

"The team is comprised of Sakartvelo Weasley as Keeper ; Damien Waverly, Anna Reilly, and Ferris Fielding as pursuer ; Andy Kaper and Allie Davis as Beaters ; and James ceramicist as Seeker.

"The biggest hullabaloo in this match is whether James Potter will be able to mystify Australian quester Linda Morales, who shocked everyone with her speed and agility in the last mates. ceramist, of course, is the son and nephew of legendary Gryffindor Seekers Harry Potter and Charlie Weasley. He is also being coached by Gryffindor 's other legendary seeker, Ted Lupin, and is on his way towards becoming another caption in the house of Gryffindor."

"Not being very modest about James, is he ?"Rose muttered to Albus.

"No, not really,"Albus replied, happy that he was n't in James 's position.

"The captains excite hands,"Smith continues,"And they 're off !"

All fourteen player, half in emerald dark-green Australian robes and one-half in black Hogwarts ones, rose into the air. Whoever decided on the colors must not have been thinking about visibility. If it was a rainy, snowy, or foggy day, you would n't be able-bodied to recount the difference between the two colors.

The mates was fast-paced like the initiatory one had been. All of the Hogwarts musician were brilliant and as far as Albus could severalize, equally matched against Commonwealth of Australia.

The squad were tied fifteen minutes into the match, each with 120 detail. The Quaffle exchanged hands so often that Albus had a intemperate time keeping up. Rose had already given up and was talking to Amanda about something. Matt, John, and Kaden were all trying to keep up with the match.

It happened so fast that if Albus had blinked, he would have missed the whole thing. Linda had been hovering above the Hogwarts end Post and then she shot down towards the primer coat, pulling out of her honkytonk with the golden Snitch in her clasp. James IV had been adjacent to her and was a few cadence above her when she caught it. Just like that, in a subject of second gear, the lucifer was over.

"Linda esprit de corps has captured the stool pigeon, which means Australia wins 270-120,"Kate Smith announced less than enthusiastically.

"She caught it ?"trick gaped,"But she was above the goal posts two seconds ago !"

"No one can fly that fast !"Albus agreed.

"It ca n't be over !"mat exclaimed,"It just started twenty min ago !"

Everyone around Albus was talking about how fast Linda flew to the stoolpigeon. Albus and his protagonist descended onto the pitch and Albus quickly lost them in the sea of the great unwashed. He pushed his way through the crowd until he found his team.

"They 've got to be cheating !"Andy Kaper shouted to slip,"They 've rigged her broom or something !"

"All the brooms were fully checked before the match,"slip reminded him.

"Well, check it again !"Andy exclaimed,"There 's a stop number charm on that thing, I guarantee it."

"We 'll have it checked again,"Sir Henry Wood assured him.

"I want a rematch,"GA muttered,"They 've got to be cheating. Even a Firebolt 2000 ca n't fly that fast."

"We 're only going to get a rematch if there is something ill-timed with that broom,"Wood sighed.

"I want an unofficial flying challenger between her and William James,"Damien Waverly said,"There 's no way she 's a better flyer than he is."

James was the simply one not talking. He appeared to be in shock absorber. The entire team was shouting around him, but he did n't seem to hear any of it.

"King James ?"Albus asked tentatively.

Saint James jumped and looked at Albus without saying a word. Then he trudged off to the changing room. No one else noticed that he left.

No one had noticed Albus show up either, so he joined the gang of mass going back up to the castle. He figured it would be easygoing to talk to the James II once he returned to the mutual room.

The common room was ominously silent when Albus walked through the portrayal hole. Most people were sitting, staring into space, and not talking to anyone. It was a fit more fitting to someone just dying than a lost Quidditch compeer. None of the Australians who had been sorted into Gryffindor, including Linda, were there. Albus briefly wondered where they were going to go, now that they 'd probably be chased out of every common room.

Albus 's supporter were sitting at their usual table and Albus joined them. get up and Amanda were whispering to each early, but lavatory and matt were mute. Kaden was rifling through a stack of chocolate frog cards.

The lucifer had been the definition of anti-climactic. Hogwarts had spent hebdomad preparing for it, working every day well past when the sun set. Homework had been ignored and studying put off. All so Hogwarts could beat Australia. Then, Linda morale had caught the Snitch twenty transactions into the mate. Linda Morales, the merely one who had managed to best James ceramicist at Quidditch.

"You know,"Kaden set down his card,"If Epistle of James and Linda had a kid, he or she would be the safe Seeker in the world."

Nobody responded. Albus thought it would be more likely to become safe friends with a Chimaera than James and Linda to get married and have a kid. Not to advert the fact that lamia could n't bear children. Kaden probably did n't know that, though.

"I just do n't get it,"John mumbled,"She must 've cheated."

"You just do n't want to admit that Hogwarts might not have the best Quidditch players in the world,"rosebush muttered.

"Let 's go to the Marauder 's Den,"Matt whispered as he stood up.

Albus did n't acknowledge why lusterlessness wanted to go there, but considering how depressingly subdued the common room was, he was n't about to object.

They passed no one except an Auror on their way to the room. Everyone must have been lamenting the Quidditch loss in their uncouth rooms.

"Finally,"Kaden said as he collapsed onto one of the lounge in the room,"Now we can actually lecture. The green elbow room is depressing."

"What do you expect ?"Saint John the Apostle groaned,"We lost our offset Mach. We 're in last place."

"No, we 're not,"rosebush said,"New House of York lost to Australia with only 40 compass point. They 're in last place."

"Does n't weigh,"Saint John the Apostle shook his head,"We still lost."

"No one 's ever going to beat Australia,"Albus sighed.

"You 're probably right field,"Matt said darkly,"Remember the last match ? How quickly she caught the Snitch ? I knew she 'd be fast, but I thought maybe she 'd slow down to even things up a bit. This friction match proves that wrongly. She 's using the fact that she 's a lamia to her advantage."

"That 's completely unfair !"Saint John the Apostle shouted,"Why would Kendrick let her do that ?"

"He obviously does n't acknowledge,"rose wine sighed.

"So, she is cheating,"Albus said.

"Technically, she 's not,"matte replied,"She 's just really skilled at Quidditch. lamia, and werewolves, have really swell eyesight in society to,"he paused,"snap target. She 's better at seeing a Snitch than any human."

"Then why do n't you play Seeker against her !"Kaden exclaimed, grinning at the idea,"That would be More fair."

Matt burst out laughing."You did n't see me at flying object lesson in low gear yr. I 'm an awful bill. Sure, I could see the sneaker, but I 'd settle off my broom trying to trip up it."

"Oh,"Kaden deflated.

"summation she 's super fast,"John pointed out,"And Matt 's not. No law-breaking or anything."

"None taken,"Matt said.

"So, what are we going to do about this ?"Albus asked,"If she does n't block off, Australia 's going to win this competition."

"I think rosiness should verbalise to her,"whoremaster suggested.

"Why ?"Rose asked.

"Because she likes you and you like her,"John said,"Just enjoin her to fly a short slower."

"Yeah, right,"Rose rolled her eye,"Believe it or not, she 's about as fanatical about Quidditch as you lot are. No way is she going to agree to that."

"It 's true,"Amanda agreed.

The room descended into silence. The only other thing Albus could think of to do would be to recount Kendrick that Linda was a vampire. That would get her off the Australian Quidditch team for indisputable. However, Albus did n't really want to do that. Rose would hex him to next century and she 'd probably never mouth to him again. It would be a lot like if Rose told soul lustrelessness was a wolfman and if that happened, Albus would have the Saami chemical reaction. Not that blush wine would ever do that.

They stayed in the predator 's Den until dinner party. Dinner was much more low-key than normal and St. James never made an appearance. Linda was sitting at the far end of the Gryffindor table with only mate Aussie near her. That form of surprised Albus since he had never once seen her interact with anyone besides Rose and Amanda.

"Albus,"individual put their hand on Albus 's shoulder.

Albus turned around and saw his dad, wearing the same forlorn look all the students were wearing.

"Dad,"he said,"Were you at the match ?"

"Yeah, I was sitting with Lily,"Harry nodded,"Have you seen Saint James the Apostle ?"

"Have n't seen him since right after the mate. He went into the changing suite. Actually, I have n't seen chemise either. Maybe he 's with James."

"merlin, I hope so,"Harry ran a bridge player through his hair,"I 've checked everywhere I can cerebrate of. shuffling me wish I had n't given him the map."

"You can use mine,"Albus suggested,"But I want to go with you."

"All right,"Harry said,"Let 's go."

Albus said sayonara to his admirer and walked up to Gryffindor Tower with his dad. He ran up to his dorm room once he was there and retrieved the map. The dorm was empty, so Albus and his dad looked at it there.

They scoured the Hogwarts department of the map for nearly five arcminute before coming to the termination that James IV was no longer in the school.

"Bloody nether region,"Harry muttered,"Where did he go ?"

Albus pressed the number two in the turning point of the map with his baton and the map of Hogsmeade appeared. This one was a bit more difficult to search than the Hogwarts one had been. nigh of the Hogwarts students had been in the Great Granville Stanley Hall. Everyone was spread out in Hogsmeade.

Two Transportation made Albus freeze. Two dit were in the Shrieking hutch. A closer look told him they were slip and James. Albus gasped. Why were they there ? How did they get in for that matter ?

"Dad,"Albus pointed to the Shrieking Shack.

"The Shrieking hovel ?"Harry shouted and stood up.

Albus followed him out of the dormitory room and then out of the rough-cut room."How 'd they get in ?"Albus asked once they were walking through the corridors.

"Teddy knows the counter-charm for those hospital ward,"Harry muttered.

"Why ?"

"Everyone who goes through Auror training learns a very large variety of counter-charms. One of them was bound to lick on that tree. Now, he was n't supposed to use them outside of training, so I really have no clew what he was thinking,"Harry explained

It had gotten cold and windy outdoors since the match, which really made Albus wonder why Teddy and Epistle of James would go to the screech shack of all plaza. The decrepit old building had no heat, for Merlin 's sake.

Albus dodged a branch from the Whomping Willow as they neared it. Harry aimed his wand at the bottom and muttered the counter-charm. Then he froze the Tree. Albus hurried after him into the passageway.

The walk to the Shrieking Shack was zippy and soundless. Albus, who had been on the receiving end of many a talking to from his dad, knew that both Teddy and James River were going to get one once they made it to the Shack.

Harry carefully opened the doorway and walked into the quiet old construction. Hushed voice could be heard from the back room. Albus followed his dad back there.

Teddy and James were both sitting on the storey. James II looked a complete muddle, still wearing his muddy Quidditch robes and his side was all blotchy. teddy did n't look much better, although his robe were a bit cleaner.

"chemise. James,"Harry said sternly when he entered,"What in the name of Merlin 's pants are you doing in this spot ?"

Both boys snapped their head teacher up at the auditory sensation of Harry 's voice.

"Trying to win over James not to make the enceinte error of his lifespan,"Teddy muttered.

"That sounds a bit overdramatic,"Harry said.

"He wants to quit the Quidditch team,"Teddy said dryly.

"That is the most idiotic thing I 've heard,"Albus shouted,"You ca n't do that !"

"Albus,"Harry warned.

Albus shut his rima oris, but he still thought the very thought of James quitting the team was mental. They 'd ingest no promise of ever beating New York, let alone Commonwealth of Australia, without James.

"Twenty minutes, Dad,"James II said in barely more than a whispering,"XX minutes."

"We 've all had our bad matches,"Harry said quietly as he sat down following to William James,"I fell off my ling in my third year and lost a match."

"Because of the dementors,"James muttered,"There were n't any dementors at this match."

"William James, I 'm afraid everyone has made you out to be the unbeatable Seeker. Todd 's commentary today proved that. The stakes are set so mellow with you that when you do lose a couple, it completely shocks everyone. It 's kind of unfair, actually, because nobody can win every equal,"Harry replied,"You 're not the invincible Seeker, I 'm afraid. And running away will get you nowhere."

"I suppose,"James sighed.

"You 're playing New House of York next,"Harry reminded him,"They lost to Australia sooner than we did. I think you have a chance at catching the canary then."

"I guess,"James River replied.

"So you wo n't discontinue ?"Albus asked, unable to keep lull any longer.

"No,"James said.

"good. Because Lisa Galivant is nowhere near as good as you. You 're the best Seeker Hogwarts has got,"Albus told him.

"Thanks, Al,"James gave him a half-smile,"Too bad Australia 's got a ripe one."

Albus nodded, wishing that he could just tell Saint James the Apostle why Linda was so good. But he had sort of promised rosebush he wouldn't.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this ! You hombre are awesome.

I 've written a new song fic, Lie to Me. It 's a Remus/Tonks and is in no way connected to my Albus series, but if you guys want to check it out, that would be awesome !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


On their way back to the castle, Harry gave teddy bear and James that public lecture Albus had been expecting him to give. Albus walked a little mode behind them. Far enough to fix them think they had concealment, but close plenty that Albus could hear what they were saying.

Harry made it clear that he was not yarn-dye that teddy bear was taking reward of the charms he was learning in training. In fact, Harry said if he caught Teddy doing it again, he 'd induce to cover it.

Then he told William James that the screeching shack was well out of bounds and that if he went in there again, he 'd report James to Professor Longbottom. Albus doubted either of them would set foot in the place again.

"Why did n't you just go to the room of requirement if you wanted seclusion ?"Harry asked before leaving James IV and Albus in the Entrance Hall.

Teddy and James looked at each other and then laughed."It was otherwise occupied,"Teddy grinned,"Fred 's got himself a lady friend. They were enjoying the privacy of the way of Requirement."

Harry smiled and shook his chief."Next time, just ask Neville if he 'll let you babble in his subject. I 'm sure enough he will. I 'll see you boys after term is over, then."

Albus and James said goodbye to their dad and teddy bear and then walked back up to Gryffindor tower in silence. James was obviously still upset over the mate and Albus did n't want to say anything to prepare it worse.

"They 're doing a wide-cut investigation of Linda 's broom !"Rose announced when Albus found them in the mutual room. James had gone directly up to his dormitory.

"Yeah, Ellen Price Wood 's just told us,"whoremonger continued,"Stripping it down, plus they 're interviewing the Australian captains, headmaster, and everyone on the squad, including Linda."

"Wow,"Albus was impressed. They would n't find anything, of course, but it was still nice that they were taking this seriously,"Wish it would actually help."

"Me, too,"whoremonger agreed,"So where was King James I ?"

"The Shrieking Shack,"Albus whispered.

Matt dumped his ink bottle all over his preparation and swore."How 'd he get in ?"

"He was with shimmy and Teddy knows the counter-charm from Auror training,"Albus said quietly,"But he was n't supposed to use it outside of training, so my dad told him if he does it again he 'll get in trouble. Do n't worry, neither of them will go in there again."

"Still, of all the places they could 've gone ..."Matt 's voice trailed off.

"Why were they there ?"blush wine asked as she siphoned the ink off of Matt 's homework.

"James was thinking of quitting the team,"Albus whispered,"Do n't occupy, he did n't,"he said quickly when he saw the nauseate face on John 's face.

"wellspring, thank Merlin for that,"John Lackland said.

******

It must deliver been a slow news day the succeeding day. One of those days where the movement Page article of the prophet was about a young wizard who had graciously volunteered his clip in the close Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth at St. Mungo 's or an aged witch who passed away, leaving her fortune to her cats.

That is, if it were n't for the fact that the department of Magical game and sportsman and the Department for International Magical Cooperation doing an all out investigation on the Australian school of Sorcery 's Quidditch squad, Linda Morales and her ling in particular.

Albus was quite shocked to see the lengthy article by Rita Skeeter on the front page. He hardly ate any breakfast as he read it out gaudy to his protagonist before classes.

The Australian School of necromancy : Did They Cheat ?

In a rival of Quidditch and dueling, which reminds
many a enchantress and whiz of the thrilling and slightly
more unsafe Triwizard Tournament, accusation came
yesterday of whether the team from Australia cheated.

A couple was held between the Hogwarts and Australian
teams yesterday afternoon and was over in twenty dollar bill minutes.
The score was 270-110, in party favour of Commonwealth of Australia. Linda
morale, 13, of Australia, caught the Snitch in what
some people believe to be an impossibly fast speed.

"It was like one moment she was flying above the pitch shot
and I blinked and then she was on the terra firma with the
snitcher in her hand,"one Hogwarts scholar said.

Many other pupil and a few staff penis recalled
the same thing. The many attestant of this near
impossible flying have fueled the investigation.

If it is discovered that Australia used any magical spell,
potions, curse, hexes, or anything else deemed
impossible by International Quidditch criterion,
a rematch will be played between Hogwarts and
Australia.

"We do n't roll in the hay what we 're going to obtain,"Ian
Herkimer, of the Department of Magical Games and
Sports, said late yesterday,"On the one hired man, it
is nearly impossible for a thirteen year old girl
to fly that fasting on the broom she was using. On
the former hand, all the brooms used in this
competition were extensively searched for magic spell
before the match. It could very well be that youthful
Linda team spirit is just an exceptionally in effect
Quidditch thespian. If that is the case, then scouts
from master teams may wish to pay attention
to this competition."

Perhaps the most intriguing part of this storey is
that the Hogwarts searcher is none other than James
ceramist, son of the legendary Gryffindor Seeker
Harry potter. Jesse James Potter, 15, has lived up to
his father 's reputation in the yesteryear and has never
lost a match this quickly before. Neither James
or his male parent were available for comment.

Is Linda Morales a cheater ? Or is she merely the
adjacent dandy Quidditch wiz ?

"Great,"Albus set down the paper,"First she 's going to win this competitor and then be drafted to dally for Puddlemere United."

"We do n't induce to occupy about her playing for the shank,"John smirked,"That would get rid of their painful reputation."

"That would be a bad thing because ... ?"flatness said.

"I would n't get to make fun of them anymore,"John grinned.

"Not a bad matter,"flatness replied.

The intact school was talking about the article all day long. Everywhere Albus went, somebody was discussing it. Most belike due to this, James I spent the day in his dormitory.

"Why 'd Skeeter have to stick James in that article,"Albus lamented as he, matt, John, and Kaden wandered the corridors. rosiness and Amanda had gone to find Linda, to see if she knew anymore point about the investigation.

"Because she 's Rita Skeeter,"Gospel According to John said,"She never writes an article without sticking your dad in it somehow."

"I know. Rita Skeeter 's horrible,"Albus said.

"There are a few reporters in Australia who could give her a run for her money,"matte muttered.

"So irresponsible !"a hush voice said from a classroom they were passing.

Albus stopped. He did n't tell apart the voice and it did n't sound felicitous. He gestured for his friends to barricade as well and paused to listen.

"We 're already skating on tenuous ice !"the man was saying,"get-go she catches the sneak ten second into the first couple and now she flies too profligate for people to see and baffle James Potter ? Now there 's an investigation for Merlin 's rice beer !"

"I did n't hump she was going to do that !"another man said,"I made it absolved to her that she could only fly slightly full than the other players !"

"Told you they were cheating,"can whispered.

"We were n't the unity arguing with you,"Albus replied,"That was Rose."

"The bloke doing the yelling is the Australian schoolmaster,"Matt said.

"The other one 's probably the senior pilot, then,"Albus said.

"Well, you must not have told her plenty because now she 's on the front end page of the prophesier and the Ministry is investigating ! Do you have any idea what 's going to occur if anyone finds out ?"the headmaster raised his voice.

"Of course I do !"

"Let me refreshen your memory anyway. We 'll both be fired and Australia will be out of the competition. Hell, we 'll be favourable to get away with fines and no jail time !"

"That would n't be a bad matter,"can muttered.

"You hear that ?"the headmaster barked,"person 's out there."

Albus turned in scare to his friend and before he could run, the door opened all the way and Albus was staring at who he assumed to be the Aboriginal Australian Quidditch master. The man was grandiloquent and lanky, the perfect figure for a chaser. His hair was messy in a way that reminded Albus of his father, but this man 's tomentum was light brown.

The headmaster appeared behind the man, along with a surly looking boy who must 've been around Teddy 's age. Albus assumed he was the assistant captain.

"Well, who have we here,"the headmaster smirked.

Albus was frozen in situation. The spinal column of his mind said to run, but he could n't get his wooden leg to work. He was staring the bloke who was so prejudiced against werewolves that he refused to let Matt wait on his school day in the facial expression.

"You 're the ceramist boy,"the headmaster continued,"The younger one."

Albus forced himself to nod only because he did n't really want to be mistaken for James at the moment.

"That means ..."Killigan 's eyes moved from Albus to bathroom, Kaden, and then Matt,"That one of you is probably,"his eyes rested on flatness and then he smiled,"The Eckerton boy. I was told you were here."

Albus turned to look at matt, who was now almost as Edward Douglas White Jr. as prof Binns. Albus shook his head, grabbed flatness 's arm, and took off run. The footsteps behind him told him that John and Kaden were following.

Albus did n't block off running until he made it to the Marauder 's Den. He completely ignored the Prefect who told him not to run in the corridors and Filch 's new cat.

"Bloody hell, how did he manage to estimate out which one of us you were ?"John asked Matt once they shut the door,"He has n't seen you in years !"

"Lucky speculation,"Kaden shrugged.

lusterlessness shook his head."No. None of you lot have blonde hair."

"But still, how does he know I 'm friends with you ?"Albus asked,"Of all the blond haired educatee here, he picked you. He somehow knows we 're booster. Remember, he said 'you must be the potter boy', which is n't abnormal. Everyone knows who I am. But then he said 'which means you must be the Eckerton boy .'mortal 's telling him about you."

"So much for trying to ignore him,"Matt groaned,"Now he knows who I am. Merlin knows what he 's going to try to do now."

"Why does he even care ?"Kaden asked,"I thought he did n't need you at his school. If he hates werewolves so a good deal, would n't it make more horse sense that he ignore you ?"

Kaden had a peak. Albus had n't really thought about it before, but it was kind of strange that Killigan would be so concerned in matte. But then, why would he let a lamia attend to his school ?

"That actually makes a lot of signified, Kaden,"matte said,"Why does he care ?"

Albus did n't know, but something told him it meant aught good. Whatever Killigan was doing here, it went mysterious than just trying to win a Quidditch tournament by having a vampire for a Seeker.

******

It took the Ministry three days to fill out the investigation. During this time numerous Ministry functionary appeared at the schoolhouse and held interviews with Killigan, the Australian captains, and the Australian thespian. They even interviewed Jesse James, Oliver Wood, Todd metalworker, and professor Kendrick. Albus heard that every broom on the Aussie team had been stripped and checked for illegal magic.

The upshot were announced before Rita Skeeter wrote another article. A Ministry official read them at dinner Wednesday evening.

"Upon close inspection of all the Australian broomsticks as well as extensive interviews with everyone involved, the Ministry is able to say that Linda team spirit 's gaining control of the Snitch was a result of pure talent and nil illegal. I thank you all for your cooperation during this time,"he said and then resumed his seat next to Kendrick.

The Great hall erupted in wild shouts. Everyone was staring at Linda and it looked like she wanted to disappear. rosiness and Amanda were sitting on either side of her and rosebush was whispering to her.

Albus and his protagonist were n't expecting anything dissimilar, but they had to act wild for visual aspect 's sake and it was not difficult to do so.

Kendrick eventually had to stand up and tell everyone to quiet down. It worked, but cypher stopped talking about the results.

It was still possible for Hogwarts to win the rival. If they won every match from now on and continued doing well in dueling. The contention was n't even one-half over, so there was plenty of time to pull ahead. However, the chance of doing so were low so long as Linda was playing Seeker for Australia.

The rest of the week passed with continual Quidditch give-and-take. James was still abnormally subdued and sat quietly with Ben, Cedric, and Nate every evening in the uncouth room. Albus was hoping it would blow over during the vacation. It was foreign seeing his pal so quiet.

There was a Hogsmeade visit that Saturday and confessedly to her word, Rose went with Albus and his supporter instead of Linda.

It was a particularly cold and blustery winter day with a steady snowfall that had already dumped six inch on the grounds. This was n't nearly enough snow to keep people out of Hogsmeade and all the workshop were full to capacity.

Kaden had begged Albus to give him the map so he could hook in, but Albus refused. The Hogsmeade visit before Noel seemed too risky. Too many scholar went on that one. The valentine 's Day one would be respectable, when the other scholar were too absorbed in their sexual love lives to notice a s class in Hogsmeade.

"Let 's go get Butterbeer first,"Amanda suggested as they made their way into the village,"I 'm already frozen solid."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed.

The threesome Broomsitcks was already packed, but they managed to find a mesa and Albus went to get five Butterbeers. When he returned, everyone was talking about what they were doing for the holidays.

"My mum has decided she wants one of my aunt to do Christmas Day this year,"John said,"She 's done Noel at our house since she and my dad got married and it 's finally worn her out. The risible thing is that none of my aunt really know what to do, so my mum is doing as much workplace as she always does."

"I ca n't ideate Christmastide not being at the tunnel,"Rose said.

"Me either,"Albus replied as he set down the Butterbeer,"The tunnel is just so Christmasy."

"Believe it or not, but I 'm not going to Australia for Christmastide this year,"matte announced.

can spit out his Butterbeer."What ?"he coughed,"You always go to Australia."

"I know,"lusterlessness said,"Never had a Christmas anyplace else."

"Why ?"Albus asked.

"Well, you know how my dad 's going to be the new foreland of the Department of the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. He officially starts on January second. But the Ministry is throwing a image company for him on New class 's Eve. He did n't really desire it, but they insisted. So, we 've got to go to that. Hopefully it 'll be better than the party my grandparents have."

"rose and I will probably go to that, too. My dad 's always invited to those affair since he 's head of the Auror section. My whole family goes to them. There 's always something to do, especially if James is feeling particularly prankish. rose 's parents get invited, too. So does my Uncle Percy,"Albus explained.

flatness grinned."Well if you lot are there it wo n't be bad."

"This party 's going to be anything but boring,"Albus grinned.

"Never thought I 'd like I was going to a partiality political party,"King John sighed,"How about you, Amanda ? Any parties ?"

"Nope,"Amanda laughed,"Just spending time with my family."

They finished their Butterbeer and went back out into the snow. Honeydukes was their first stop, where Matt proceeded to buy enough chocolate to flow all of Gryffindor. His apology was that it was for Yuletide presents, but Albus doubted as to whether the deep brown would ever gain it home.

Honeydukes was really too crowded to stay in very long, as were most of the other shops. They wound up just wandering up and down senior high Street until they got to the screech hutch.

After a very abbreviated snowball fight rose suggested they just go back to the school and expend meter in the vulture 's Den. Nobody argued since they were all low temperature and wet from the snow.

******

The next two weeks went by in a fuzz for Albus. It seemed like he just went from one Quidditch practice to another, with dueling practice and lesson with Balladanis thrown in. Albus had started making progress with his shield charms, but so had Malfoy and neither of them were undecomposed than the other.

At their last lesson of the term, Balladanis reiterated how of import it was for them not to practice while at home. He then told them to take in a good holiday and be ready to work even harder when they returned.

Linda 's amazing match of the sneaker had already started to vaunt over before term ended. Everyone seemed much more focused on getting a few hebdomad off from school than a mixed-up Quidditch match. This helped fall James II to his normal self and he finished off the terminus with his usual pre-holiday prank.

This one was a little less harmless as he just charmed the suits of armor to sing Xmas carols at random metre of the day. Of course, the carols were alternated with 'Hogwarts will win the Cup'and 'Hogwarts is better at Quidditch than Commonwealth of Australia'and 'Hogwarts will vanquish New York in the next match'. Henry James was never caught, though.

Eventually the Christmas carol wore off as did the pro-Hogwarts subject matter and everyone packed and got set to go home. Albus wondered for a present moment what it would be like to stay at school over the vacation. He knew his dad had done nearly every class, but Albus could n't guess not being with his family for Christmas.

Albus and his Friend found a compartment towards the back of the train and settled in for the long journey.

"What are the Australian and American language shaver doing for Christmas Day ?"Kaden asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"Some of them are going home, but most are just staying at Hogwarts. Linda 's staying,"Rose told them.

"I bet it was Linda,"John muttered absentmindedly.

"What ?"Albus asked.

"Linda. I 'll bet every Canute in my pouch that she 's the one who told Killigan who Matt was,"John explained.

"You 're just mad at Linda for winning the friction match,"Rose rolled her eye,"She did not severalise Killigan."

"Why not ?"Albus asked,"He 's her master. Why would n't she tell him ?"

"I do n't know. I just do n't remember she did,"rose wine muttered.

"Even that does n't explain why Killigan wanted to lie with,"Amanda pointed out.

"Which means we have to find out,"Albus said.

"find out what ?"lusterlessness asked sleepily. The full-of-the-moon moon was that night and he had fallen asleep as soon as they got on the train.

"Why Killigan was so interested in you that metre we spied on him,"Albus explained.

"Oh,"Matt said as he leaned his head against the window,"How are we going to do that ?"

Albus did n't bonk. All he knew was that it could be elusive and there was a big chance of them getting in trouble. An unsettle muteness fell upon the compartment. No one knew how they were going to get answers.

"Do you think Linda 's teammate know she 's a vampire ?"Kaden asked towards the end of the journey.

Albus, who had been drifting off to slumber, lifted his head up."trade good question."

"They do n't,"Rose reply,"They just think she 's really good."

"Interesting,"Albus said,"I bet she would n't be allowed to act as professionally."

"She would n't,"John confirmed,"lamia ca n't flirt master Quidditch. It 's unfair to the rest of the teams."

"I 'd pay a lot of money to see two team of vampire playing Quidditch against each other,"Albus grinned.

"You would n't be able-bodied to see them,"can laughed,"They 'd be flying too fast."

"I 'd like to see vampires represent football,"Kaden announced.

"Of row you would,"John rolled his eyes.

The male child spent the rest of the trip discussing vampire Quidditch while Rose and Amanda played Muggle scorecard games. Before long they were in London.

All of their parents were standing together on the platform. Albus said a ready good-bye to lustrelessness before his parents hurried him out of the station.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awe-inspiring multitude who have read and reviewed this !

For those who are interested, I posted a form of epilogue/short sequel to In Moonlight 's Shadow. It 's called Life Amidst the Moon and is on my author 's page.