Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.




Matt did n't return to the vulgar room until Sunday afternoon. Albus and his friends had spent near of the weekend doing preparation and playing rounds of Exploding Snap. Kaden made himself scarce and Albus hardly saw him at all. Albus vaguely wondered where he was, but he did n't really conceive about it much. All that mattered was that Kaden was n't hanging around Albus anymore. Albus and his friends did n't get a fortune to recount matte about what Kaden told Malfoy while he was in the hospital wing because it had been very crowded that weekend. Apparently, quite a few scholar had decided to practice their dueling for the coming match while they were unsupervised in the corridor. This caused Madam Pomfrey to consume an awfully lot to do. She looked very frazzle when Albus and the others visited Matt on Saturday.

Albus was sitting in the common way with the others, doing homework, when Matt returned from the Hospital flank. He still looked a bit tired and the stinger on his font were n't completely healed yet, but he looked much better than he had on Th. Albus closed his book and glanced at his friends when matte came through the portrait hole.

`` What 's with you lot ? '' lustrelessness asked, `` You 're awfully muted. ``

`` We 've, er, got to differentiate you something, '' Albus replied quietly, `` Let 's go to the Room. '' Albus got up and left the common room. His acquaintance all followed, not saying a password. Albus led them down the one-seventh floor corridor until they reached the painting of Barnabas the Barmy. Albus paced three times in front of it and opened the room access that appeared. It looked just like it did whenever Albus or his Friend asked for a place where they could be alone. There were a few sloughy armchairs and couch, a fireplace, and it was decorated in scarlet and gold.

`` Ok, so what 's this all about ? '' lusterlessness asked immediately, once the door was shut.

`` Why do n't you sit down ? '' pink wine suggested.

matt sat down on one of the couches and looked nervously at the others. `` You look like my parents did when they told me I could n't go to school in Commonwealth of Australia. ``

`` Well, we 're obviously not going to tell you that, '' Albus gave a tepid jest as he sat down on a electric chair. rose, bathroom, and Amanda sat down as well.

`` Well, get on with it, '' Matt said.

`` All right field, '' Albus began, `` You 've probably noticed that Kaden is n't around. ``

`` Yeah, I thought that was a bit odd, '' mat commented, `` What 's he done now ? ``

Albus sighed, `` I do n't really know the upright way to say this. Kaden, er, for some reason was talking to Scorpius Malfoy- ''

`` Malfoy ? ! '' Matt interrupted with a look of shock on his face.

`` It gets big, '' Albus continued, `` You know how I told Kaden that you get sick every once in a piece, so he would keep out up last month ? ``

`` Yeah ... ''

`` And I made him promise not to tell anyone, '' Albus said quickly, `` But for some reason he told Malfoy. ``

Matt sank back into his president and his side went chalk white. Albus was glad Rose told him to sit down, because if he had n't have been sitting he probably would experience fainted. Albus watched as Matt processed the information. After a few present moment he asked very quietly, `` What did he severalise Malfoy ? ``

`` That you 've got some kind of mavin disease that Madam Pomfrey ca n't cure, '' Albus answered. `` And Malfoy put two and two together and figured out that you do n't visit your throw up nan. ``

`` Oh, no, '' Matt closed his eyes and started rubbing his read/write head, `` This is n't proficient. Malfoy ca n't receive out, he just ca n't. ``

`` We 're going to try and take a shit surely he does n't, '' John said adamantly.

`` But you ca n't really barricade him ! All he 's got to do is a bit of research and he 'll know everything, '' lusterlessness moaned.

`` Maybe he 'll be too indolent to bother, '' Amanda suggested.

`` There 's another thing, '' Albus started, `` Kaden may let also told him about the Whomping willow. ``

`` No, he ca n't consume, he just ca n't, '' mat whispered.

`` We do n't know for sure, '' Albus reminded him, `` I 'm watching the marauder 's Map and if we see Malfoy anywhere near the Tree, we 'll go hex him or something. ``

Matt nodded, `` You know, if Malfoy finds out and tells anyone, fortune are I 'll accept to go away. ``

`` No, you wo n't, '' Rose assured him.

`` How do you know ? ``

`` Rose is proper, '' Albus agreed, `` When the vulture were in shoal, Snape found out about Teddy 's dad and he still got to stay in school. Dumbledore made him foretell not to separate anyone. I 'm sure Kendrick would do the same affair. ``

`` I sure hope so, '' Matt sighed, `` What about Kaden ? ``

`` Rose had to stop me and John from hexing him, '' Albus explained, `` But I yelled at him quite a bit. Have n't seen him much since and I do n't really want to. ``

`` But he 's your first cousin, '' lustrelessness said.

`` Does n't matter, '' Albus assured him, `` I hardly saw him at all until he started coming here. I told him not to separate anyone and he did, so I ca n't trust him anymore. And no one 's going to convince me to apologize this time. ``

`` All right hand, '' matt replied. `` Let 's stay here for a while. I think if I saw Kaden right now I 'd have to hex him. ``

rose groaned, `` What is with boys ? Do you always have to hex the great unwashed to solve your trouble ? ``

`` It 's a proven fact that hexing works best when dealing with Slytherins, '' John grinned.

`` Kaden 's not a Slytherin, '' Rose commented.

`` What he did was a passably Slytherin thing to do, '' Albus replied. nobody argued with that.

******

The weekend before Halloween was a very shake one for the students at Hogwarts. There was the first Hogsmeade sojourn on Saturday, which the honest-to-goodness students were very excited about. Albus, of course, was n't allowed to go since he was a sec yr. King James made sure to lord this over him at every moment possible during the calendar week preceding the sojourn. St. James the Apostle would be going on his first Hogsmeade visit, and Albus was sure that Hogwarts would be treated to a variety of pranks following. When James and his admirer returned from Hogsmeade, they ran into the common room with their bags bulging with what could only be Weasley 's products, and quickly stowed it all in their residence hall. surely enough, at dinner that night, the scholar dead body was treated to a very entertaining meal. Somehow, James and his champion had managed to abstract a potion into the Slytherins'food that caused their hair and fingernails to turn over scarlet and gold. The rest of the school laughed hysterically as the Slytherins tried to cipher out how to flex their hair and nails back to normal.

`` Nothing will switch it, '' James informed the Gryffindor board in between fits of laughter, `` Uncle George told me it will wear off within 24 time of day, though. ``

`` Too bad it 's not lasting ! '' John laughed.

`` I was going to preserve it for the day of the Quidditch friction match, '' James explained, `` But I just could n't wait. ``

`` I ca n't blame you, '' Albus grinned. He looked up at the staff table and saw his dad trying to dampen his laugh, but he was n't succeeding. The other appendage of the staff were smiling slightly, except for Slughorn, who was looking a bit distraught at the wad of his house decked out in Gryffindor colors.

The following day was the first dueling tourney for the junior dueling club. The older pupil had already had their kickoff tourney the former weekend. Albus 's full cousin Stanley 's team had won. The tournament was to take place immediately following lunch, at one o'clock, and the second, third, and fourth years were filled with excitation about it.

`` What if we have to duel each early ? '' Albus said worriedly at tiffin. `` I really do n't need to duel you lot. ``

`` I do n't either, '' can agreed, `` But we might experience to. It 'll be all right. None of us know any spells that could do any lasting damage. I 'm just hoping I get to duel Malfoy. ``

`` Me, too, '' Matt agreed.

`` I almost wish number one years could get together the dueling club, so I could duel Kaden, '' Albus commented, `` I would n't mind beating him in forepart of the entire school day. ``

`` I 'm probably just going to drop off, no matter who I duel, '' Amanda sighed, `` The only when thing I can do is disarm someone, and I 'm not even that trade good at that. ``

`` Sure you are, '' Albus assured her, `` And if you duel a indorsement year, or even a third yr, you 'll stimulate a chance at winning. Fourth years, on the other hand, I 'm not sure any of us have got a chance at winning a duel with one of them. They probably know all sort of turn we do n't. ``

`` Albus, '' Rose began, `` commend that the squad have people from all years on them. I do n't think any team has an advantage over another. ``

`` I guess, '' Albus agreed, `` But I still wish there were sign of the zodiac teams. I do n't like being on the same team with Malfoy. ``

`` Me neither, '' Amanda said.

`` We wind up recitation dueling with each other every meeting, '' Albus explained, `` And neither of us has really won any of them. ``

`` You 're both really practiced duellist, '' Amanda replied. `` You 're going to vex anyone you 're up against, Albus. ``

`` I 'm not certainly about that, '' Albus said.

`` tending ! '' professor Kendrick stood up, `` The junior dueling tournament will commence shortly. Please make your way to the dueling chamber. ``

Albus stood up, `` Well, good luck everyone. '' Albus 's friends all wished each early good lot as they got up and left the Great Hall. It was a bit odd being on freestanding teams, Albus thought. He wished his friends good chance, but he wanted his own team to win.

Albus and Amanda quickly lost the others in the sea of students filing into the dueling chamber near the Great hallway. They found Kate at one of the tables that had been set up for each squad to look at. Their team name, The Dueling Dragon, was written on a piece of lambskin that was stuck to the table. There was a realistic looking firedrake breathing attack drawn on it. Scorpius Malfoy was sitting scowling at one end of the mesa, his hair's-breadth still bright vermilion and amber. Albus and Amanda stifled their laugh and sat down on the diametric end. A few minutes later, once everyone on their team had arrived, Kate began to speak.

`` tending ! '' she shouted and the table became quiet, `` Thanks. The tournament will jump in a couple minutes. I 'm sure we 'll do great. Everyone remember what you 've learned within the past calendar month and you 'll do fine. Just do your respectable and even if you do n't win today, there 's still succeeding time. I know this inter-house squad thing is firmly, but I think everyone here has really come together to run as a team, and I 'm lofty of all of you for that. So, with that, good circumstances ! '' Kate sat back down and started talking to one of the other one-quarter years on the team.

A min later, Professor Kendrick stood up at the front end of the room and raised his hands for quieten. The elbow room fell understood and he began to verbalize. `` welcome to the first Dueling tourney for the Junior Dueling baseball club. This is the kickoff of six qualifying tournament of the class. At the end of the year, the top two teams will face off in a final tournament. There will be two duel going on simultaneously, with prof Potter and Longbottom presiding over them. Every student will duel twice today. The winner of each duel will be awarded one spot. At the end of the tourney, the team with the most distributor point will be declared the winner. The peak will role over to each tournament, after the 6th tournament, the two teams with the most percentage point will face off in the terminal. Now, each captain was given a lean of affaire d'honneur for today, so I will give you a few transactions to get organized and for the police chief to inform their teams of the schedule. skillful luck to all. ``

Kate quickly went over the schedule with her team. Albus 's number one duel was about halfway down the list and his arcsecond was the third to lowest. The only affair he could do now was wait until his turn came. Albus was growing steadily more nervous as time wore on. What if he lost ? Malfoy would never let him endure that down. Albus watched the first couple of duels while talking with Amanda. After a few duels, James 's bend came and he lost to a Ravenclaw fourth twelvemonth. pink wine was up next and she easily beat her third twelvemonth Slytherin opposer. Quite a few of Albus 's teammates had dueled by now and virtually of them had won. Before long, Amanda 's round was up. Albus wished her circumstances and she went nervously to the dueling ring that Neville was watching over.

Amanda was up against a back year Hufflepuff and the first constituent of the duel consisted of each of them mostly dodging the spells sent towards them. Eventually, Amanda managed to disarm her opposer and won. She came back grinning ear to ear. Kate congratulated her as she sat back down side by side to Albus.

`` Great job ! '' Albus smiled, `` Told you you could do it. ``

`` Thanks, '' Amanda grinned.

Matt was up next against a Slytherin fourthly class. The affaire d'honneur hardly lasted two min before the Slytherin used an get along spell that caused matte to mosh into the bulwark behind him. Harry quickly disarmed the Slytherin and disqualified him. Professor Cedonia took matte to the hospital wing while Harry assigned the Slytherin a match detentions.

`` What a git, '' Albus growled, `` I hope lustrelessness 's ok. ''

`` He 'll be fine, '' Amanda assured him, `` I think he just cut his arm a bit. ``

`` Yeah, but still, '' Albus continued, `` That Slytherin knew he could n't use while like that. ``

`` I could have blocked it, '' Malfoy announced.

`` No you could n't, '' Albus shot back. `` And how 's the fuzz ? ``

Malfoy scowled and turned away from Albus. A moment later his name was called and he was off to duel a companion Slytherin. It was a very fast pace affaire d'honneur. Both of them were excellent duelers, but Malfoy won in the end. Albus was not sure whether to be felicitous about this or not. He did n't have long to consist on it, though, because a minute later, he was called.

Albus walked nervously to the dueling ring where Neville was and he faced his Ravenclaw opponent. He was dueling James Earl Carter Eubert, a fellow second year.

`` Both of you know the rules, '' Neville said to them, `` You can start when I let out red sparks. ``

Albus and Carter bowed to each former and took a dueling stance. Neville 's wand shot out red Spark and the affaire d'honneur began. Albus sent out a disarming patch, but Carter easily blocked it. Carter then sent one at Albus, but Albus was able to block it as well. This went on for five minutes, each of them sending spells that the other blocked. Eventually, Albus managed to hit Carter with a tickling hex that had him hang over in laughter. Albus took reward of this and disarmed him easily. He had done it ! He won !

`` stage goes to thrower, '' Neville announced. Albus and Carter shook hands and went back to their teams.

`` sound job, Albus ! '' Kate grinned as Albus sat down.

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied.

`` That was amazing dueling, Albus, '' Amanda greeted him, `` Carter 's adept, too, but that tickling thing was smashing. He could hardly act. ``

`` I 'll have to remember that if I ever duel him again, '' Albus said.

The afternoon wore on and Albus found himself getting a bit bored with watching the dueling. It was taking all good afternoon. St. John dueled Albus 's cousin, Cedric, and lost. Albus was n't surprised by this, as Cedric was an first-class dueller. rosebush and Malfoy each won their sec duels, while whoremaster and Amanda lost theirs. Matt returned from the hospital wing in metre for his second gear duel, but wound up losing to his third twelvemonth Ravenclaw opposite. Albus dueled a third year Gryffindor in his secondly duel and narrowly won. His opponent did not look happy about this. Malfoy also won his bit affaire d'honneur, which was against a third or fourth twelvemonth Hufflepuff ; Albus was n't certainly which.

Eventually, all the duels finished and professor Kendrick stood up once again. `` Great dueling, everyone ! You all did a terrific job. Now, to announce the winner. I am please to harbinger that the flying genus Phoenix, captained by Barty heath of Slytherin have come in first place with 23 spot ! Thank you, everyone. The next tournament will take place at the end of November or showtime of December. Your captains will be informed of the claim date as it comes closer. ``

`` We 'll win future metre, '' Kate assured her team as they got up. `` See everyone at pattern on Wednesday. ``

Albus and Amanda made their way out of the room, but realized they would never receive their friends in the crowd. `` We 'll run into them in the green room, '' Albus said as they started up the stairs.

When they got to the common way, it was already full with students rehashing parts of the duel. Albus noticed Kaden listening to King James I 's account statement of his duels. James had won his sec duel and appeared to be very majestic of it. Albus and Amanda ignored Kaden and found John and matt sitting at their common table. Albus and Amanda sat down and a few moments later were joined by Rose, who was glowing.

`` felicitation ! '' Albus announced as his cousin sat down. The others echoed his word.

`` Thanks, '' Rose replied, `` I was n't sure we were going to win. heathland is n't the great captain. I think we just have naturally sound duellist on our squad. Carter is amazing, although not as good as you, Albus. ``

`` I 'm just gladiola I beat him, '' Albus grinned, `` Malfoy would n't have shut up about it otherwise. ``

`` gladiola I 'm not on his team, '' John muttered, `` Ca n't believe I lost both my affaire d'honneur. ``

`` You 'll do better succeeding time, '' Albus assured him.

`` At least you did n't twist up in the hospital annex, '' Matt commented, `` I 'm the only when one that did. figure of speech. ``

John laughed a bit at this, `` I think you 've got some kind of attraction for that stead. ``

`` Oh shut it, '' Matt replied.

`` That was n't your defect, though, '' rose pointed out, `` That Slytherin was n't supposed to use that hex on you. ``

`` You 're ok now, right ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Oh, yeah, I 'm mulct, '' Matt assured him, `` Madam Pomfrey healed my arm in an instant, but she was fretting over me as usual. prof Cedonia convinced her to let me go back for my endorse duel. ``

`` Good, '' Amanda said, `` I like professor Cedonia. She reminds me of the instructor I had in primary school. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` She hardly ever gives detention. ``

`` And no exams ! '' John grinned. Albus liked this as well. So far, the only grades they had in that course of study were from essays they had been assigned as homework. Cedonia had not given them a single in course of instruction test.

`` I 'm not sure enough I like that, '' pink wine sighed. The four other students looked at her like she was mental.

`` Are you mad ? '' Albus asked.

`` How is she supposed to know if we 've mastered the good luck charm if she does n't prove us ? ''

`` She watches us in class to see if we 've improved, '' Albus replied.

`` And those essays for homework, '' lustrelessness commented.

`` But those are n't at all what the O.W.L.s will be like, '' Rose reminded them, `` We 've got to get used to taking exam in charms. ``

`` Those are three years away ! '' privy sighed.

`` Two and a half, '' pink wine corrected him, `` And it 's in effect to start preparing early. ``

`` All I know is that I 've learned more charms this class than last year, '' Albus said.

`` Well, I 'm going to ask her about it on Tues, '' Rose replied.

`` No ! '' Albus and the others shouted at the like clip. Albus liked Cedonia 's style of commandment and he did n't want her to start giving them exams like the other teachers did. Without charms examination, Albus had LE to concern about. Hopefully, Cedonia would ignore Rose 's plea for test and cover the way she had been.



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to XDNLxtlz99, sinwillys822, potterfan89, Luke, Denas, ladymblack, and Moonylupin for their reviews !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.




Albus was helping himself to some pumpkin succus when the post arrived on Tues morn. He looked up and noticed a small brown owl flying towards him. He immediately recognized it as Victoire 's owl. `` Victoire 's sent me something, '' Albus announced as the owl landed next to his plate. Albus took the letter and gave the owl a while of toast before it flew off.

`` Look, it 's addressed to all of us, '' Rose commented as she glanced at the letter.

Albus turned the gasbag over, wondering what it could be about. Victoire had sent him a pair letters so far this year, about of them sent along with Amy 's letters to Matt. These usually arrived a couple days after the full Moon, as Amy always wanted to sleep with how Matt was. Since the replete Moon had been a few weeks ago, Albus was singular as to what Victoire had to recite them. He opened the letter and began to read it. blush wine, Matt, trick, and Amanda read it over his shoulder.

Dear Albus, Matt, rosebush, John, and Amanda,
How have you been ? I hope you 're enjoying classes and not making too
much trouble. praise on your success in the dueling tourney,
especially you, blush wine. I hope there are many slap-up triumph to come. honorable
luck in your first Quidditch mates, Albus. We hope to be able to attend, but
it depends on employment and healer training schedules.

Training has been going well. We 've been attending form in the dawn
and training at St. Mungo 's in the afternoon, like always. Teddy has been
very busy with Auror training as well.

By now you 're probably wondering why we 're writing to you now, as it 's not
our usual time to drop a line. We 're not sure if you read the Prophet regularly,
which is why we 're telling you this in a missive. Quinton Willinson was
spotted yesterday-

Albus immediately stopped reading the letter and glanced at his friends. As Albus fell back into his school day act, he had almost forgotten about Washburn and the Willinsons. He felt his fear come back as soon as he read that Willinson had been spotted. Albus returned his eyes to the letter without saying anything.

He was spotted in a Muggle Greenwich Village in Southern England, quite far from Hogwarts. The Aurors are already on his shadower and are tracking him this very
minute. shift heard about it while he was at breeding, and we decided to
give you a psyche up. Uncle Harry will probably secern you as well.

Do n't worry about it too much. He ca n't get into Hogwarts and Uncle Harry
has it under control. secure luck with Quidditch, dueling, and class, and we
hope to see you soon.

dear,
Victoire, Teddy, and Amy

`` I 'd nearly forgotten about Willinson, '' John said darkly after they 'd finished reading the letter.

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed.

`` It explains why Professor Potter is n't here, '' mat commented.

Albus looked up at the stave tabular array and noticed that his father was missing. `` speculation so. ``

`` Do n't worry, '' Rose said, `` I mean, it 's kind of right that someone spotted him. Before they had no leads, and now they sort of know where he is. ``

`` I suppose, '' Albus replied. He had n't thought of that. But what about the early two ? Were they with Quinton or had they parted ways ? Albus just hoped his dad and the former Aurors managed to capture him.

`` Could I see the oracle ? '' pink wine asked one of the older students who was sitting across from her. The female child nodded and handed her the composition. `` Let 's witness the article. '' Rose scanned the front pageboy and found a short article on the depart side of the Sir Frederick Handley Page. She read it aloud.

`` 'Eighteen-year-old Quinton Willinson was seen near the Muggle town, Hythe, in Southern England early yesterday morning. A virtuoso who prefers not to be named in this article saw him and immediately informed the Ministry. Willinson has been wanted by the Auror department since his tone-beginning on header Auror and defense reaction Against the nighttime Arts teacher at Hogwarts schooltime of witchcraft and genius, Harry ceramicist, last outpouring. Five underage Hogwarts bookman were also attacked. Willinson, along with his father, Jaret Willinson, and the sometime Charms prof, Jameson Washburn, attacked ceramicist and the five bookman on the terra firma. ceramicist declined commentary for this article. The psyche Auror has informed the wizarding public that all three men are dangerous and not to attempt to fight back them. If any of them are seen, people are requested to inform the Ministry immediately. Ministry Aurors responded to the sighting and are currently investigating .'''

`` Wow, '' rosiness said once she 'd finished reading the clause, `` I hope they catch him soon. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus agreed, `` I 'm glad he 's so far away, though. ``

`` But they 're going to get back, '' rosiness sighed, `` To find the, you-know-whats. ``

`` well, hopefully prof Potter will catch them before they get the prospect, '' Matt replied, `` Anyway, I hope Amy and Victoire come to the Quidditch peer. I have n't seen Amy in years. ``

Albus looked over and saw that matte was looking a bit sad. Albus knew he and Amy were very close, but had n't really thought about how unlike it must be for flatness this year. Albus did n't think matte had ever gone this yearn without seeing her. `` They 'll probably arrive, '' Albus assured him, `` And if they ca n't, they 'll shoot the breeze when they can. ``

`` Yeah, '' Matt gave a half-hearted smile.

`` We 'd better get to Charms, '' Rose announced. The five second years got up from the mesa and made their way out of the Great Hall. Albus noticed that Kaden was sitting side by side to James, talking animatedly about something. James II did n't come along too happy about this and had the smell of someone pretending to hear, but not really listening. Albus almost felt bad about James having to deal with Kaden, but not bad enough to make up with his cousin.

Professor Cedonia spent the first one-half of social class teaching the charm for tying place, and during the second one-half, the course of instruction practiced. Unlike last year, Albus thoroughly enjoyed virtual example in Charms. Professor Cedonia did not bear in mind them talking with each other as they practiced, and although she watched their progression, she did n't vibrate like Washburn had done.

`` exculpation me, Professor ? '' Rose announced shortly after she succeeded in charming her shoes to tie themselves.

`` Rose, do n't, '' Albus whispered. He knew she was about to ask if they were going to bear any tests.

`` Yes, Rose ? '' Cedonia walked over to her desk and immediately spotted her perfectly tied shoes. `` Oh, tremendous job ! ``

`` Thank you, Professor, '' pink wine replied. `` But I was just wondering, are we going to have any exams in this class ? ``

Everyone in the integral room stopped what they were doing and looked over at rose. well-nigh of them looked horrify, but a few appeared to also be wondering if they would have any test. Since they had good luck charm with the Ravenclaws, this did n't really storm Albus.

`` Ah, '' Cedonia smiled, `` I was wondering if anyone would ask. I, unlike the other teachers at this schoolhouse, do not believe in testing scholar in the conventional way. I prefer to assign essays that are done outside of family, where you are gratuitous to use your books, to assess your cognition of theory. As far as hard-nosed exam go, I prefer to tax your advancement in socio-economic class. If I have any belief that you are not mastering the task at hand, I will give you extra help until you can dominate it. However, in accordance with Hogwarts tradition, there will be a practical exam at the end of the semester. The theory exam will be an essay that you can complete using your book, in class. ``

`` Oh, '' Rose said. She looked a bit stunned. `` All right. ``

`` If you 'd care an exam, I will create one for you, but no one else will bear to take it unless they want to, '' Cedonia announced.

`` No, that 's all right, '' rosebush replied.

`` Excellent. I assure you, Rose, that you will have a staring understanding of s year Charms by the time the class is up, and you will be in excellent shape to motivate on to third year. ``

rosiness nodded and Cedonia walked back to the front of the elbow room. Albus turned to John and grinned. `` Yes, no exams ! '' he said.

`` Brilliant, '' St. John the Apostle agreed, `` I really thought rosebush was going to win over her to quiz us. ``

`` Well, I suppose she kind of is testing us, '' Matt explained, `` Just in a different way. I 've never had a instructor like her before. ``

`` Me, neither, '' toilet said.

Albus nodded. All of his instructor in primary coil school day had been like the ones at Hogwarts, with conventional exams and preparation. `` I went to a Muggle shoal and all of the teacher gave us examination. Rose went to the same one. ``

`` Same here, '' John replied, `` formula Muggle school. ``

`` Not me, '' Matt announced, `` I was home-schooled. You can probably guess why. Amy went to Muggle school, though. ``

`` All the teacher were like Cedonia at my school, '' Amanda turned around to talk to the son. `` We did n't take exams or mark or anything like that. It was fun. I really liked going to school. Except when I made strange clobber happen. People thought I was weird. Turns out I was, but in a estimable way, '' she laughed.

`` I suppose this will work, '' rosiness sighed, `` She is assessing us, just in a unlike way. At least she 's Nice. Everyone seems to like her. ``

`` We do n't really have any mean teachers this class, '' Albus commented.

`` I had n't really thought about that, '' whoremaster said, `` But you 're mighty. ``

`` Who knows about adjacent year, though, '' lustrelessness replied, `` We 'll start new bailiwick and who knows what those instructor will be like. ``

`` Hagrid teaches Care of Magical Creatures and he 's keen, '' Albus told them.

`` What kind of magic creatures ? '' whoremonger grinned at Matt.

`` Do n't even go there, '' Matt grinned back. `` Amy says the antediluvian runic letter teacher is nice. ``

`` Trelawney 's kind of strange, but nice enough, '' Albus commented. `` She teaches Divination. ''

`` No way am I taking that, '' Matt announced, `` I do n't want to fuck what my future holds. ``

`` Arithmancy sounds really interest, '' blush wine said, `` And Peach State told me the teacher is stern, but not mean. ``

`` Well, just, '' Albus replied, `` But we 've got months before we have to adjudicate what new subjects we 'll take. ``

`` I wish I could select them all, '' rosiness sighed.

`` You could, '' Albus laughed, `` But I do n't think it would turn out well. '' Albus and Rose shared a laugh that the others did n't really empathise. Albus saw their confused faces and decided to narrate them about Hermione 's third year schedule sometime soon.

******

Harry was back at Hogwarts in metre for Albus 's Defense socio-economic class on Thursday. Harry called Albus up to his desk after course of study. Albus had been anxiously waiting the hale class to see if Harry managed to catch Quinton Willinson. Albus had a feeling he had n't because there was n't any mention of it in the Prophet that morning.

`` Hi, Al, '' Harry gave Albus a hug once all the other scholar left. `` I 'm guessing you know why I left ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus replied, `` Victoire sent us a letter and I read it in the Prophet, too. ``

`` Good, '' Harry sighed, `` I 'm glad Victoire told you before you read it in the Prophet. I had to leave very abruptly and was afraid you would n't know what happened. ``

`` Well, did you bewitch him ? '' Albus asked. The suspense was killing him and he did n't desire to wait any longer.

Harry sighed again and put his hand around his son 's shoulder joint. `` I 'm sorry, Al. He got away. We got some more leads, though. Talked to a few Muggles and a wizard who were around when Quinton showed up. I still have n't heard anything about Quinton 's male parent or Washburn. But we 're still searching and it 's only a matter of time. ``

Albus 's grimace fell and he became more worried as he realized that not much advancement had been made. He had been so certain that his dad would get Quinton this fourth dimension. But he had n't. Washburn and both Willinsons were still out there. How long would it be until they went back to Hogwarts ? `` What if they come back here ? '' he asked quietly.

`` I 'm not going to traverse it. They probably will fare back here. But there is a large amount of protection around the schoolhouse. terminal yr, it was well-fixed for them to be on the grounds since Washburn was a professor and Quinton was a bookman here. They do n't make that going for them now. And I do n't think any of them could abuse foot in Hogsmeade without soul alerting me or the Ministry. ``

Albus thought about this for a bit and felt a bit better. `` All right. Are you leaving again ? ``

`` Not unless one of them is seen, '' Harry explained, `` The early Aurors have it under control. ``

`` Good, '' Albus smiled. He felt a lot better knowing his dad was at the school.

`` Well, we 'd better caput to the Great Hall, '' Harry gave Albus another hug.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, `` If we do n't hasten, John will eat all the food for thought. '' Harry laughed and the two of them left the room together.

******

Albus wandered sleepily into the common room the next week completely tired out from Quidditch practice session. The first equal, against Slytherin, was on Saturday and Georgia was having them practice every eve. It had been a drizzly even and Albus 's robes were soaked. He went up to his dormitory to put away his broom and change. Once he was done, he grabbed his books and went back to the rough-cut way to do his homework. When he got there, he could n't find his friends anywhere. Albus sighed. Where could they be ? They were n't in the student residence, Albus had just been up there.

Albus squeezed his way through the herd mutual elbow room until he found Bilius and Ethan studying at a nearby board. `` Have you seen John and Matt anywhere ? '' Albus asked.

`` Oh, hi Albus, '' Ethan looked up from his book. `` How 's practice going ? We 're going to wash up Slytherin, right ? ``

`` 'Course we are, '' Albus gave a trite grin, `` They 're poor. ``

`` Excellent, '' Bilius replied, `` I think John the Evangelist and matt left an hour or so ago. I 'm not certainly where. ``

`` Yeah, '' Ethan agreed, `` Rose and Amanda were with them. Matt did n't appear so good. Maybe they went to the hospital annex. ``

Oh, yeah ! Albus had completely forgotten that the wax lunation was the side by side night. They must suffer gone to the Room of requirement. Albus had also momentarily forgotten about the room due to the fact that Kaden was always hanging around them, and they did not desire him to know about the Room.

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied, `` I think I know where they are now. '' Albus waved to Bilius and Ethan and left the room.

Albus walked down the corridor as fast as he could without actually running. He slowed down as he reached the portrayal of Barnabas the Barmy, as there was a prefect roaming nearby. Albus loitered until the prefect turned a corner and then he started pacing in presence of the wall. Three stride later, the threshold appeared and Albus walked in.

`` There you are ! '' Albus announced after he shut the door. `` I thought you 'd be in the common room. ``

Rose, John, and Amanda were all furiously scribbling on slice of lambskin and they looked up as Albus came in. Matt was sleeping on a nearby chairperson and did n't notice Albus.

`` We were, '' pink wine said, `` But it was awfully loud in there. Plus, now that Kaden has left us alone we thought we 'd start coming in here again. ``

`` phone good, '' Albus agreed. He grabbed a death chair and sat down next to John. `` What are you lot working on ? ``

`` Transfiguration, '' John groaned, `` Eight inch essay due tomorrow. I 've got four inches so far. ``

`` History of conjuration, '' Amanda said, `` Also due tomorrow. ``

`` I finished those a while ago, '' blush wine commented, `` Now I 'm doing Herbology. ``

`` I still have the History of Magic stuff to do, '' Albus said as he pulled out his account Word of God. `` How long has he been asleep ? '' Albus pointed to Matt.

`` Since we got here, '' John answered. `` Probably just as well since before that he was just rambling about how Malfoy 's going to explore the Whomping Willow tomorrow night. ``

`` Why would Malfoy do it at night ? '' Albus asked, `` He 'll get in more hassle if he 's out past curfew. ``

`` That 's what we told him, '' pink wine explained without looking up from her Bible. `` I think he gets kind of delirious and does n't intend straight at this time of the month. ``

`` You 're probably right, '' Albus agreed, `` But can you blame him ? ``

`` No, not really, '' rosebush sighed.

Albus started to leaf through his History of deception leger, but he could n't concentrate. It was n't by curfew now ; what if Malfoy was exploring the tree right now ? Albus closed his book and started rifling through his bag. He pulled out the marauder 's Map and set it down on the table.

`` What are you doing ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Looking for Malfoy, '' Albus replied. Everyone looked up from their workplace and watched Albus. `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no in effect, '' Albus pointed his sceptre at the map.

Albus searched the map for a few moments before his eyes rested on Malfoy 's dot. He breathed a sigh of relief as he saw that Malfoy 's dot was currently residing in the Slytherin vernacular room. `` He 's in his unwashed elbow room. ``

`` Oh, thoroughly, '' rose wine smiled. `` I really do n't think he 's going to inquire that Tree. ``

`` Why 's that ? '' John asked skeptically.

`` He 'll get in big worry if he gets caught, '' pink wine reminded him.

`` So ? That probably would n't bar me, '' John laughed.

Albus was relieved that Malfoy was n't currently trying to get into the Whomping willow, but he did tally with John that Malfoy would eventually try. The thing was, what were the chances of it happening while Albus was looking at the map ? Not very highschool. And what would Albus do if he did see Malfoy near the tree ? Albus had no idea. He sighed as he whispered, `` maleficence managed. '' Albus watched as all the ink disappeared from the map. He still did n't want to do his homework, but he had to. He started to put the map back in his bag, but the slew of a small mark on one of the corners made him stop.

Albus slowly lifted the map back out of his bag and stared at the corner. He had never seen any cross on the map after he wiped it clean before. But this mark was so small it could throw easily been missed. He peered at the tiny marking until he noticed what it was. It was four paw prints. A wolf, dog, hart, and rat mark. It obviously meant the Marauders. Albus knew he had seen it somewhere before, but where ? He continued to gaze at the paw prints, wracking his mental capacity to try and recall why it seemed so familiar.

`` Albus, '' Rose was watching him. `` What are you doing ? ``

Albus looked up at the auditory sensation of her vocalisation, `` Oh, there 's something on the map. I never noticed it before. It 's a Wolf, dog, stag, and rat foot print. Here, look. ``

Rose, John, and Amanda all leaned in to look at the grade. rosiness furrowed her hilltop and tilted her capitulum as she looked at it. `` Why did the Marauders have this affair stoppage on the map ? All the other ink disappears. Now it 's just a random firearm of parchment with these paw print on it. ``

Suddenly, Albus remembered where he 'd seen the paw prints before. The objet d'art of parchment that fell out of the photo album in the Ionic dialect of Grimmauld Place ! Albus had completely forgotten about that during the course of the school class. The symbols were exactly the same. They must mean something, Albus thought. He jumped up from his seat. `` I 've seen it before ! Remember when we were exploring the garret at my house, Gospel According to John ? ``

John nodded his head. `` Yeah ... ''

`` And the photo album we found in that box ? '' Albus continued, `` And the piece of parchment that fell out of it ? ``

Realization dawned on John 's human face. `` Oh ! I 'd forgotten about that ! Do you still cause it ? ``

`` Yup ! '' Albus shouted excitedly, `` In my luggage compartment. I 'll go get it ! '' Albus ran out of the room, leaving a very excited King John and a thoroughly confused rosebush and Amanda.



A/N : Sorry for the cliffhanger, but the adjacent chapter is prospicient and I had to rive it up somewhere.

The idea for Cedonia 's education style and the schooltime Amanda used to go to came from a school that used to be near where I live. It recently closed due to lack of funding. But the students did n't have tests or receive grades. They also got to take whatever they wanted to study. It was a really interesting musical theme and it worked well until it closed. I never went there, but I always thought it was neat.

Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as potterfan89, Denas, XDNLxtlz99, sinwillys822, Luke, and Moonylupin for their reviews !

Be on the lookout for my unexampled story, spirit Is Good, which is a prequel to Secrets Within that chronicles how Albus, rose, lusterlessness, whoremaster, and Amanda received their Hogwarts letter of the alphabet. I 'm hoping to post the first chapter sometime next week, as I have Spring Break.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



Albus ran all the way to the Gryffindor common room, narrowly avoiding another prefect. He went to his hall, dug through his trunk, and found the parchment. He was so glad he had n't left it in the attic. He knew it meant something ! Albus ran back through the vulgar room, ignoring the strange stares he was receiving from his young man classmates. When he got back to the Room, St. John was in the procedure of explaining to blush wine and Amanda about what they had found in the garret. `` I 've got it ! '' Albus shouted. He ran back to the table and spread the parchment out on the table.

`` You 're right ! '' rose wine grinned, `` Exactly the same print. ``

`` But it 's just a blank piece of parchment, '' Amanda reminded him.

`` I know, but there 's definitely something mysterious about it. Why would the piranha put this symbol on it if it meant nothing ? ''

`` I think you 're right, Albus, '' privy agreed, `` I do n't roll in the hay much about the predator, but from what you 've told me, there 's no way this is just a random musical composition of parchment. ``

pink wine looked from the map to the new art object of parchment and back. `` Hmm, I wonder if this is like the map ? Do you think we have to say something to get it to work ? Maybe it 's an university extension of the map, Hogsmeade perhaps ? ``

Albus thought for a consequence. That kind of made sensory faculty. The predator frequented Hogsmeade quite a bit, during their full phase of the moon moon sashay. Maybe they wanted a map of the village as well. `` There 's only one way to get out, '' he grabbed his scepter and tapped the piece of sheepskin, `` I solemnly swear that I am up to no good. ``

Ink spread across the map and Albus 's heart jumped. It had worked ! Albus and the others leaned over the table and watched the ink. But there was something different about it. It was n't forming a map, it was forming actor's line. Once they were formed, Albus stared at them.

'Nice try. Mr. Padfoot would like to felicitate you, as you have obviously found the vulture 's Map and figured out how to use it. However, he assures you that the vulture would not use the Saami incantation for this picky item .'
Albus and rosiness burst out laughing. This piece of sheepskin was kind of like the map ! There was something charming about it, but it obviously was n't the same as the map. King John smirked and shook his head.

Amanda stared wide-eyed at the parchment. `` B-but, I thought h-he was dead ? How can he be talking through lambskin ? '' she stammered.

Albus grinned at her. He still often forgot that she was muggle-born. `` It 's magic. The marauders either found or invented some kind of spell that enabled the vulture 's Map to communicate with mass who try to use it and they 've done the Sami thing with this. '' Albus pulled the piranha 's Map in front of him and tapped his wand to it, `` check this. I, Albus Severus Potter, requirement you to show yourself. ``

Ink appeared across the map, but it was n't the usual ink. John and Amanda stared in awe, as they had never seen the map do this before. Albus and rosebush had done this on occasion and they thought it was extremely funny.

'Mr. Moony would care to would wish to separate Mr. Potter to proceed his dirty hands off the parchment.

Mr. Wormtail agrees with Mr. Moony and would care to add that despite the fact that Mr. Potter shares a first gens with the master, it does not pass on him the authority do what he pleases.

Mr. Padfoot agrees with Mr. Moony and Mr. Wormtail and would like to add that Mr. Potter 's middle name has got to be the most shameful gens he has ever heard.

Mr. Prongs agrees with Mr. Moony, Mr. Wormtail, and Mr. Prongs, and would wish to be capable to insult Mr. Potter 's last gens, but feels he is unable to do so .'
Amanda and John started laughing hysterically after they finished reading the map. `` Does it do that to anyone ? '' can asked.

`` Yup, '' Albus laughed.

`` I did n't have a go at it Kendrick 's kickoff gens was Albus, '' Amanda commented.

`` It 's not, '' Albus explained, `` When the Marauders were in school day, Albus Dumbledore was headmaster. And the piranha hated Snape, so they always insult my name. Except my grandpa, he 's never able-bodied to manage it. ``

`` That 's pretty impressive legerdemain, '' Gospel According to John said.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed.

`` You know, '' Rose began, `` If the Marauders did n't want anyone else reading that map, they would hold just put a spell on it that prevented anyone except themselves to read it. I reckon they hoped someone would eventually find out how to record it. ``

Albus contemplated that for a moment. rose wine was probably good. The predator were always prankster, and they would probably want others to notice the map and use it for mischief.

`` But, '' Rose continued, `` Do you opine they might possess wanted another item that only they could read ? ``

`` What are you getting at ? '' Albus asked.

`` That early piece of lambskin. Maybe it 's something that the predator did n't want anyone to be able to read. ``

`` But then we could n't register it, '' Albus sighed. It did kind of make mother wit that the vulture wanted something to be buck private. But then why did they put the Same mark on both parchments ?

`` There 's got to be a way, '' John said adamantly.

`` We do n't even recognise if Rose is right, '' Amanda argued.

`` Even if only the Marauders could read it, would they still have to say something to look at it ? '' Albus asked.

`` I 'm not sure enough, '' rose replied, `` I mean, there 's probably some kind of magic trick that only enables a few multitude to show it. form of like a Fidelius good luck charm for books or something. ``

Albus grabbed the parchment and pointed his scepter at it. The simply way to find out if something would reveal it was to try. `` Hmm, I am going to lay down trouble. '' Nothing happened. `` I want to make mischief-making. I am going to perpetrate a caper on someone. I promise I will ca-ca problem. '' Albus tried many different variations on the conjuration for the predator 's Map, but nothing worked.

`` It wo n't work, Albus, '' rose wine said after a while, `` You ought to just do your homework. ``

Albus did n't want to do his homework. He wanted to make the parchment body of work. Right now, he did n't care about anything else. `` There 's got to be something. ``

`` If it 's something only the predator can read, then you 've got to be a Marauder to register it, '' bathroom sighed.

`` That 's it ! '' Albus shouted. He had been thinking the incantation was like the vulture 's Map, but it must be something that would prove you 're a Marauder. `` I solemnly swear that I am a Marauder. '' Nothing happened. Albus sighed. He had been so sure that that would have worked.

`` Maybe you have to say which Marauder you are, '' John Lackland suggested.

`` Oh come off it ! '' rosiness shouted, `` There 's going to be some sort of good luck charm on it to see if he really is a Marauder. Just saying so is n't going to work. ``

Albus kind of agreed with rose wine at this detail, but he was bequeath to try anything. But which predator ? Prongs. It had to be. Prongs was his grandfather. If this was going to work for anyone, it would work for him. He was related to one of the vulture. Albus pointed his verge at the lambskin with his heart beating fast. `` I solemnly swear that I am Messr Prongs. ``

Albus held his breath as he watched the lambskin. John, Rose, and Amanda watched as well. Albus 's eye bugged out as he saw ink appearing across the sheepskin. `` It worked ! '' he whispered. His friends nodded, but did n't say anything. Albus began to show as the words formed completely.

'Messrs Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs welcome you to the piranha 's Map, s Edition .'
`` indorsement map ? '' lav looked up, `` I thought there was only one. ``

`` So did I, '' Albus replied. He stared at the sheepskin as more Book appeared across it. John, rose, and Amanda all watched with him, no one saying a word.

'Mr. Prongs disagrees with you and insists that you are not Prongs .'
`` Merlin, '' Albus sighed. It had n't worked. The parchment could recognize different people.

`` wait, '' Rose pointed at the parchment. `` It 's not done. ``

'However, you could be the second Prongs .'
`` What ? ! '' Albus looked up in confusion. Was this some kind of jape ? How could there be another Prongs ? And how could Albus be that 2nd Prongs ?

`` What is this parchment ? '' trick asked curiously.

`` Either it 's a joke or a highly promote magical object, '' Rose remarked. The four acquaintance continued to watch as more penning appeared.

'When four male child, who are Gryffindors, are linked together through friendly relationship and devilment, they may portray themselves as the following generation of predator .'
`` The what ? '' Albus stared at the lambskin. The side by side genesis of predator ? What had his grandad and his friends done ?

`` This is incredible, '' rosiness whispered.

'These four friends must each exemplify one of the Marauders, for if even one is missing, this map will not shape. Before this goes any further, you must prove that you know the enigma of the Marauders. evidence that you know, and you may continue along the path of discovery .'

'The itinerary of uncovering ? I never knew you were so poetic, Mr. Prongs .'

'Oh, believe me, Mr. Padfoot, I am not. Mr. Moony came up with that altogether matter .'

'Then I pay my compliments on the diction to Mr. Moony .'

'Mr. Moony advises that whomever is reading this ignore Mr. Prongs and Mr. Padfoot and pop out proving that they know the Marauders .'

'Mr. Padfoot agrees with Mr. Moony and also advises that if whomever is reading this has no idea who the piranha are, that they quit while they 're ahead .'

'The Marauders want you good luck .'

The ink disappeared from the parchment and Albus looked up at his supporter. `` What in the name of Merlin is this ? ``

`` I think it 's something the Marauders invented to assure that they would never be gone from this school, '' Rose said in awe, `` It 's perplex. ``

`` I 'll say, '' Amanda grinned, `` Probably the dependable magical affair I 've seen yet. ``

`` And I do n't think we 've even discovered the most of it, '' Albus commented.

`` How are we going to find out the remainder ? '' whoremonger asked.

`` fountainhead, I think we 've somehow got to prove that we know who the vulture are and that we know their secrets, '' Albus explained.

`` We already know their biggest secrets, '' rose said, `` But how would we evidence it to a piece of lambskin. ``

`` I 've got no theme, '' Albus told her, `` I mean, I doubt we can just tell the parchment. ``

`` Why could n't we ? '' John the Evangelist asked.

`` Seems too unsubdivided, '' pink wine said.

`` It 's worth a try, though, '' John argued. `` Albus ? ``

Albus did n't think it would work, but he did n't cogitate it could really harm anything either. `` Worth a guess. '' Albus picked up the lambskin and stared at it. This seemed really silly when he thought about it. He was about to mouth to a composition of parchment. `` Here goes nothing. Let 's see, Moony is a wolfman. Prongs, Padfoot, and Wormtail are all illegal animagi. Prongs is a stag, Padfoot is a dog, and Wormtail is a rat. ``

Albus and the others watched the parchment. A few words appeared on it. Could it induce actually worked ?

'Nice try .'
`` I told you it would n't work on, '' pink wine smirked, `` It 's got to be more subtle than that. ``

`` We 'll just take to guess on it, '' Albus replied. He had no mind how they were to prove to the new map that they knew the predator'arcanum, but he had to find out. This parchment was perhaps even more interesting and magic than the Marauder 's Map, and he was going to figure it out.

`` What are you lot doing ? '' lusterlessness sat up and was looking around with a unconnected spirit on his cheek. `` What time is it ? ``

Albus looked up when he heard Matt 's vocalization. Albus had practically forgotten that he was there during the agitation of the new map. `` It 's about 8:30. We 've got a half hour until curfew. As for what we were doing, well, we 've got a new mystery on our hands. ``

Albus, whoremonger, Rose, and Amanda spent the next few mo explaining about the new map to lusterlessness. They told him about how Albus had noticed the symbol on the vulture 's Map, how he had gotten the new map to show the piece of writing, and how they had to prove that they knew the marauder'enigma. Then they showed him the new map.

`` That is smart as a whip, '' Matt commented.

`` Yup. And we 're going to picture out how to puzzle out it, '' Albus grinned. `` Maybe we are the new Marauders. ``

`` Well, I know what we can do while we 're trying to calculate it out how to essay we know the marauder, '' John announced, `` We 've got to figure out who we 're going to represent. ``

`` Oh, yeah, '' Albus said, `` I guess we each have to be one of the Marauders. ``

`` I think it 's obvious who I am, '' lusterlessness said tiredly. `` I 'm definitely Moony. ``

`` I 'd say so, '' John Lackland laughed, `` I 'll be anyone except Wormtail. ``

`` Me, too, '' Albus 's face fell as he realized that someone was going to have to represent Wormtail. cipher was going to want to be him.

`` You 're obviously Prongs, '' John replied, `` I mean, you 're his grandson. Plus, you 're a pursuer, just like he was. ``

`` That makes sense, '' Albus agreed, `` How about you ? ``

`` He 's Padfoot, '' matt yawned, `` He 's got to be. He 's loyal like a dog. Remember that custody last year in the trophy room, when he yelled at Washburn ? ``

John grinned sheepishly, `` I could be Padfoot. ``

`` Good, '' Albus agreed, `` We 've got Moony, Padfoot, and Prongs. But what about Wormtail ? ``

Everyone groaned. `` I 'm not going to be him, '' Rose said disgustedly.

`` You do n't have to, '' Albus told her, `` The map clearly said four boys, four Gryffindor boy to be specific. ``

`` So Amanda and I do n't get to be involved ? ''

`` Hey, it 's not our fault the piranha wanted it to be male child, '' Albus shrugged, `` But you can help us calculate the whole thing out. ``

`` right hand now, we 've got to find a Wormtail, '' Amanda said. `` Who else are you three good admirer with ? ``

`` No one, really. Just Bilius and Ethan, '' privy explained, `` And whomever is Wormtail is going to get hold out about Matt. ``

The supporter all looked at Matt, whose face had paled at hearing this. Albus had n't thought about that. He did n't want anyone who resembled St. Peter Pettigrew finding out about mat. If that 's what it took to find out the secrets of this map, then the map would just outride secret.

`` We 're not doing it, '' John said adamantly, `` No one like Wormtail is going to retrieve out that Matt is werewolf. ``

`` And that 's why you 're Padfoot, '' Matt yawned. `` Thanks. ``

`` No problem, '' whoremaster smiled.

`` You know, '' rosebush began, `` When this map was made, Wormtail had n't betrayed Albus 's grandparents. He was a predator. They trusted him. All we 've got to do is detect mortal who you lot are friends with, not necessarily someone who was like the Wormtail we 've heard of. We just need soul who is even slightly like Pettigrew. ``

Albus thought about this. It could put to work. But could they really find mortal they could commit enough to reveal mat 's underground ? Or, did they even have to break it ? Was it potential to do this without telling the fourth person ? `` Let 's just keep our eyes out for someone who is anything like Pettigrew and we 'll consider about it. Who knows, we might not even have to let them have intercourse about Matt, at least not for a while. Is that all right, Matt ? ``

Matt had fallen asleep again and jerked his drumhead up when he heard his name. `` Huh ? Oh, yeah, that 's all rightfulness. ``

`` Sounds like a design, then, '' trick said.

`` We 'd ameliorate get back to the common room, '' pink wine looked at her watch, `` It 's almost curfew. ``

Albus and the others left the elbow room and walked back to Gryffindor pillar. Albus thought about the new map and what it could possibly hold. It was obviously a more involved map than the piranha 's Map. Albus could only ideate what was actually on it. The prospect of finding out excited him, but he was wondering if they would even find out. What were the chances of them finding someone who would be willing to represent Wormtail ? And if they did get that person, could they picture out the map without telling that someone that lusterlessness was a werewolf ? Albus hoped so, but he doubted it.



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight. Thanks as well to Luke, Moonylupin, TheAlbusPotterCritic, potterfan89, sinwillys822, Denas, and XDNLxtlz99 for their critique !

The prequel to mystery Within, life sentence Is goodness, has been posted and the first chapter is up. I 'll be updating it hebdomadally, most likely on Tuesdays.


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Over the next few years, Albus constantly thought about the new map. He kept it in his bag all the sentence and found himself looking at it whenever he got the chance. He read the clues again and again, hoping to find something he missed before that would distinguish him how to raise that he knew the piranha'secrets. Albus found that he could n't really concentrate on anything else. He was sure he failed his Potions test on Friday because he had so a lot difficulty settling down to consider the night before.

His school work was n't the only thing suffering, either. Albus was also having a difficult time paying attention during Quidditch practice. Seeing as the mates against Slytherin was on Saturday, this could n't have happened at a tough time. Empire State of the South had to shout at him at least five times during practice on Friday, and he dropped the Quaffle quite a bit.

`` Albus, '' Georgia said once practice was over and everyone was starting to go back to the castle, `` stay here for a endorse, I need to utter to you. ``

Albus trudged over to GA. She had a grim expression on her aspect that made Albus palpate terribly. He knew he had played horrible during practice, but he just could n't get the map out of his head. `` What is it ? '' he asked, knowing perfectly well what Georgia wanted to talk to him about.

`` Albus, '' Empire State of the South began, `` I know you 're a marvellous chaser. That is why I chose you to be on the team. It was not because you are my cousin. If one of the former mass who tried out played better than you, they would have gotten in. You know perfectly well that I do not play favorite. ``

This was true. Georgia was ruthless about Quidditch. She was even more so than Samantha Meyers, which was saying something. Albus knew wide well that if he continued playing this badly, he would get kicked off the team.

`` You play wonderfully with Fred and heather mixture, which is why I chose you. You 've had experience working with them, and I thought that would assist us. I think I know why your playing has declined over the past times few days, '' Georgia softened her gaze, `` You 're unquiet. ``

Albus glanced up when his cousin said this. To tell apart the truth, Albus had n't even thought about being spooky. But he was more than leave to blame his amazing playing on mettle. `` Er, yeah, a bit. ``

`` I understand that. I was extremely nervous during my first base match as well. But you are going to do ok. We 're going to crush Slytherin tomorrow. And we 'll turn out all those people wrong who thought I was favoring my family, '' GA grinned.

Albus gave a lukewarm smile. He had to stop thinking about that map, if only just for tomorrow. If not, it could cost him his place on the squad. `` Thanks. I 'll try to calm down a bit. ``

`` Good, '' Sakartvelo replied, `` Now let 's get back to the palace. ``

******

Despite Albus 's lack of spunk the past few days, he was certainly making up for it on Saturday morning. He woke up with butterflies in his stomach and could n't manage to eat anything for breakfast. tough yet, he was still thinking about the map. Albus had to center on this match. His berth on the team rested on it.

`` Are you ok, Albus ? '' flatness asked. He had returned from the hospital Wing the previous evening and was looking much better. Judging by his tonicity of voice, Albus suspected that lusterlessness looked sound than he did.

`` Yeah, just nervous, '' Albus mumbled. He had n't told any of his friend about Georgia 's talk endure night.

`` Well, you 'd amend win, '' Gabe Bourne, the fourth-year who Albus had beat during try-outs was glaring at him. `` If not, Empire State of the South made a big fault in choosing one of her cousins over me. ``

`` Shove off, bourn, '' Bradley sat down across from Albus and glared at Gabe. Gabe turned to glare at Thomas Bradley and then stalked off to the early end of the tabular array. `` Do n't worry about him. He thinks he 's sound at everything. We 'll record him. ``

Albus nodded, but did n't say anything. Albus was n't nearly as confident as Omar Bradley was. But he knew they had to win that catch. If they did n't, Albus would make to deal with Bourne, and he did not want to do that. Albus never thought so often would be resting on one match of Quidditch, let alone his start match.

Soon enough, Peach State announced that the team needed to go to the changing elbow room. Albus 's champion wished him luck as he left with the team. The majority of the Gryffindor board cheered as they left, with Bourne and one of his friends glaring at Albus, but not clapping. Albus changed into his Quidditch robes in muteness while the respite of the team talked animatedly around him. It seemed like Albus was the only one who was nervous about this peer.

`` time to go, everyone ! '' Georgia announced.

Albus grabbed his ling and followed the rest of the squad out onto the pitch, with his essence pounding fast. He gazed up at the crew, never realizing before how many people actually attended Hogwarts. It was one thing to spiel Quidditch during practice, but in front of everyone ? Albus was for certain he 'd flow off his broom and chagrin the integral team.

`` Here is the Gryffindor team ! '' Albus heard the familiar spirit voice of Sweeney Todd Adam Smith booming over the pitch. `` Ryan O'Malley, Albus ceramist, Saint James Potter, Omar Bradley Weasley, Fred Weasley, Georgia Weasley, and Scots heather Weasley ! Georgia is the new captain this year, and Albus Potter has replaced Samantha Meyers as pursuer. Will he be able to dwell up to her legacy ? Only clock time will recount. ``

Albus gulped when he heard that. Why did Todd have to say that ? Albus felt as if every eye in the stadium was focused on him. Albus stood next to James as they waited for the Slytherin squad to come onto the field. Henry James sent him a supportive smile that Albus returned nervously.

`` And here are the Slytherins ! Ferris Fielding, Talan Flint, shaft Goyle, Peyton Hughes, Garth Octavius, Hailey Odele, and Jackson Naiser ! The Slytherins have replaced their Seeker since death year. Garth Octavius is the new quester. ``

Albus remembered Georgia telling them this. Glenna Dabney, the Slytherin seeker from last class, had been utterly unequal to of catching the stoolpigeon. Albus hoped that Garth would be just as inept, but he doubted it.

`` Mount your Calluna vulgaris, '' professor Oteski announced, `` Ready, go ! ``

Albus soared into the air on Oteski 's whistle. He took a few deep breath to clear his head and tried to block out the crowd 's cheering and booing. He glanced around the pitch and saw that Fred had the Quaffle. Albus flew towards the other side of the field in parliamentary procedure to get away from Odele, who was flying right following to him. With his faster ling, he was away from her in no clip. He could do this, Albus thought.

Albus dodged a Bludger and both Slytherin Beaters as he made his way down the pitch. He got nearer to Fred and Fred passed him the Quaffle. Albus grabbed it and flew towards the Slytherin end office. He was almost there when a Bludger collided with his arm. `` Ouch ! '' he shouted as he dropped the Quaffle. He swore and examined his arm. It did n't look to be broken. It was just a picayune irritating. Albus looked around and saw that Haines had the Quaffle.

Albus flew after him, but he had already managed to make it past both Bludgers and was heading straight towards GA. He threw the Quaffle and it sailed into the left most hoop.

`` mark ! Slytherin scores the first destination of the game, making it 10-0 Slytherin, '' Todd announced.

Albus groaned and flew towards the Gryffindor end. He zigzagged through the other players, dodging both the Bludgers. Albus was very good at maneuvering his broom and avoiding other histrion. He saw that both heather and Fred were covered by Slytherin Chasers as everyone waited for the Georgia to confound the Quaffle back into gaming. Georgia faked to the right and then threw the Quaffle to the leftfield. Albus immediately flew towards it, and with his dissipated new broom, grabbed the Quaffle just as Fielding tried to watch it.

Albus turned his broom around and sped like lightning towards the other end of the pitch. He looked all around him, noticing that the Slytherin chaser were closing in, while the beaters aimed both Bludgers at him. Albus flew straight up and avoided all of them.

`` Albus Potter is really flying now ! He 's got that brilliant Firebolt 2000 that Sakartvelo has. I believe they are the just two in the school to receive one, '' Smith called out.

Albus ignored Ian Smith 's commentary and continued flying. He passed St. James, who gave him a thumbs up. Henry Fielding was hot on his buttocks now. Albus looked around, he needed to pass the Quaffle. heather mixture was surface and Albus gave the Quaffle a hard toss. Heather caught it and brought it down to the Slytherin destination posts. She threw it at the middle hoop and it sailed through.

`` Score ! '' Joseph Smith announced, `` Heather Weasley has scored, making the game tied with 10 points each. ``

Albus grinned at Heather and flew to the Slytherin goal posts. He waited for Goyle to thresh about the Quaffle back out, and let his judgement wander to the map. Albus had n't really thought about it at all so far, which was adept. Who could they get to correspond Pettigrew ? Albus found himself thinking about this all the clock time. Every someone he passed in the halls made Albus wonderment, could he be the one ? No, he could n't, Albus always told himself. Because they 'd never notice anyone. Albus, John, and matt were destined to just be a chemical group of three friends, and that was n't going to work for the new map. Why would n't it just take on rosebush or Amanda ? Albus thought bitterly. Of course, neither young woman would agree to representing the traitor that was Saint Peter the Apostle Pettigrew anyway.

`` Albus ! '' A meretricious vox jerked Albus back into the peer. He looked up and saw that Heather was glaring at him. He shook his head and started flying again.

During the remainder of the match, Albus found his mind drifting more and more towards the map. He dropped the Quaffle more than a few multiplication, earning disapproving spirit from Georgia. Although he had n't scored a single destination, he did help Calluna vulgaris and Fred score a few each. Unfortunately this was n't enough, and soon Slytherin was ahead.

`` Another finish for Slytherin ! '' Smith shouted, `` Making the score 120-80 Slytherin ! ``

Albus groaned and looked around at his teammates. Peach State looked tense, ling and Fred looked determined, Bradley and Ryan looked wild, and James looked like he was concentrating hard on finding the Snitch. Odele currently had the Quaffle and Albus followed her towards the Gryffindor finish posts. Fred intercepted it as Odele tried to score.

`` Albus ! '' Georgia shouted, `` You can do this ! Just dressed ore ! ``

Albus nodded and sped down the pitch. He could do this. He just had to get his mind off the map. There would be plenty of time to figure it out later. Quidditch, Quaffle, scoring goals, that was what he had to think about now. Fred passed him the Quaffle and he continued flying towards Goyle. Henry Fielding was on his fag end again and he passed the Quaffle to Heather, who was open.

All of a sudden, Saint James the Apostle whooshed past Albus, heading straight for Ryan. Albus looked over quizzically and realized that James must sustain seen the Snitch. Garth Octavius followed King James I but he was n't nimble enough. James grabbed the Snitch, which was idling near Ryan 's arm, and pulled out of the dive. He held it up with a exultant grin.

`` thrower has caught the fink ! '' Joseph Smith announced happily, `` Gryffindor wins with 230 compass point ! ``

Cheers erupted in the rack, with the Gryffindors storming the slant. Albus landed happily adjacent to James River. It was over, his first Quidditch match was over. He breathed a sigh of relief. They had won, Albus was not going to be kicked off the team. He stood there grinning with the rest of the team as their boyfriend Gryffindors clapped them on the binding and high-fived them. Albus had never been a fan of this form of affair before, but he did n't really mind it right now.

`` Great job, Albus ! '' Gospel According to John broke through the crowd, followed by matte, rose, and Amanda.

`` Excellent, '' Matt grinned.

`` You were awe-inspiring, '' Rose agreed.

`` commodity compeer, '' Amanda added.

`` Thanks, '' Albus smiled, `` But I did n't even make any goals. ``

`` Department of Energy n't matter, '' Matt replied, `` You had quite a few assists, and we won so it 's all good. ``

`` political party in the usual room ! '' one of the former students shouted. Everyone else cheered and the crowd started to move slowly to the castle.

`` Hi, Al. '' Albus turned around to see his dad wearing a huge grinning. `` You did great ! ``

`` Thanks, Dad, '' Albus smiled as his dad gave him a hug, `` But I 'll do better next time. ``

`` Of track you will. The first match is always the most trying, '' Harry replied.

`` Yeah, '' Albus agreed, although spunk were only a part of why he had n't played one hundred per centum that day.

`` Well, I 've got to owl mum and let her know you 're all right, '' Harry laughed, `` She gets so worried about Quidditch. ``

Albus laughed to himself as his dad left. His mother did worry a lot, although she did have a honorable cause. His family always seemed to attract bother, and he was mildly surprise that he escaped his first of all match with only a minor contusion from a Bludger.

Albus walked to the common way with his friends and when they got there the common room was already filling up. Everyone congratulated Albus as he entered, telling him what a bully job he did that day. Albus smiled at them and thanked them, but he broke into a huge smiling when he saw Victoire and Amy sitting at one of the tables.

`` You made it ! '' Albus shouted over the noise. `` Did you see the match ? ``

`` Sure did ! '' Victoire replied. `` You were an excellent chaser. ``

`` Definitely, '' Amy agreed.

`` Thanks, '' Albus said, `` I did n't see you on the pitch. ``

`` We left right after James II caught the Snitch to go to Hogsmeade to get party supplies, '' Victoire gestured to the large amount of intellectual nourishment and butterbeer.

`` What did you do to your arm ? '' Amy grabbed the arm that had been hit with a Bludger early in the match.

`` Bludger, '' Albus answered, `` It does n't ache much anymore. ``

Amy reached into her robes and pulled out her wand. `` I 'll cure it for you. '' Amy muttered an incantation and Albus 's arm immediately felt better.

`` Wow, '' Albus grinned, `` Does n't hurt at all now. ``

`` Good, '' Amy smiled, `` We 're able-bodied to cure minor cuts and bruises right now, although virtually of the stuff we 've learned is theoretical. It 's all quite fascinating, though. ``

`` I 'm glad you like it, '' Albus said. `` How long until you 're healer ? ``

Victoire laughed, `` Not for another two years. It 's a farsighted process. ``

`` Although not nearly as long as Muggle doctors, '' Amy told them, `` They 've got to go through eight year of schooling after subaltern schooltime. ``

`` That is mad, '' lav shook his head, `` Why would anyone want to be in school that long ? ``

`` I would n't beware, '' blush wine grinned.

`` Of course you would n't, '' privy laughed.

`` We 've learned a bit of Muggle medical specialty, '' Victoire told them, `` Just in vitrine we ever have to treat Muggles. sorcerous healing does n't have much of an consequence on them. ``

`` I much prefer Magical healing, '' lusterlessness announced, `` Muggles use too many acerate leaf. Incantations and potions are much honest. ``

`` If Muggles use phonograph needle, then I agree, '' John said.

`` It 's not that bad, '' Amanda laughed.

`` I think I 'd rather have soul wave their sceptre than have soul stand by me with a phonograph needle, '' Albus shook his head. Sometimes he just did n't understand the things Muggles did.

`` Ever hear of stitches ? '' Matt grinned mischievously.

Albus, Rose, and Victoire laughed. They had all heard the level of their grandpa 's experiment with Muggle stitches. `` My grandfather had them once, '' Albus grinned, `` Did n't call on out too well. ``

`` What are stitches ? '' john asked.

`` They sew your skin together, '' mat explained.

`` Sew ? '' St. John the Apostle had a disgusted look on his case, `` Like what they do with dress ? That 's mental. ``

`` Bloody painful, too, '' Matt commented, `` I had them once. I 'll tell you that story sometime. ''

`` Albus ! '' Saint James the Apostle walked over to their table with a butterbeer in his hand. `` Great get-go match ! ``

`` Thanks, '' Albus replied, `` fantabulous catch. ``

`` Thanks, '' King James grinned, `` Ca n't believe Octavius did n't see it. It was glittering in the sunlight. Oh, well, better for us if their new Seeker ca n't see the Snitch. ``

`` Ca n't reason with that, '' Albus laughed.

`` Listen, '' Henry James lowered his voice and glanced around him. `` What did you do to Kaden ? ``

Albus was startled by the change in conversation. He had n't really thought about Kaden much the retiring few twenty-four hour period. He assumed that Kaden just realized that Albus did not want to be around him anymore and found his own supporter. Albus had not really paid much attention to his little cousin since he told Malfoy that Matt gets fed up every calendar month. `` Er, Kaden ? ``

`` Yes, Kaden, '' James sighed, `` He said you were mad at him. Are you still mad at him ? ``

`` Uh, yeah, '' Albus glanced around at his friends, who were all paying close attention. Victoire and Amy were also listening.

`` Ugh, '' St. James the Apostle groaned, `` Are you ever going to forgive him for whatever he did ? What did he do anyway ? ``

`` Er, '' Albus looked at lustrelessness and then back at James, `` He kind of told mortal something that I told him to keep tranquillity about. ``

`` Well, whatever that was, you should stimulate up with him, '' St. James replied, `` He 's been moping around me for the retiring month and it 's getting on my heart. ``

`` What do you desire me to do about that ? '' Albus asked coldly.

`` Be friends with him again ! ''

`` I was n't really friends with him to begin with, '' Albus commented, `` He just started hanging around us. I thought he found his own booster since I stopped talking to him. ``

`` Nope, he has n't, '' Saint James groaned, `` Oh, flavor, here he comes. ``

`` James ! '' Kaden said, `` There you are ! '' Kaden looked around at Albus and the others. `` Oh, hi Albus. ``

`` Kaden, '' Albus replied.

`` Good job on the match. ``

`` Thanks. ``

`` well, see ya later, Albus, '' James stood up. Albus and the others said bye-bye. Kaden followed Saint James like a puppy dog.

`` Did n't think he 'd start annoying James, '' rosiness commented.

`` make sense, though, '' Albus said.

`` I take it you 're not going to excuse ? '' Matt asked.

`` Nope, I told him not to tell and he did anyway, '' Albus said adamantly.

`` I 'm guessing you would n't tell us what he did ? '' Victoire asked curiously.

`` Actually, '' Albus lowered his vocalisation, `` I would, if you 'd do to the way. ``

******

`` It 's been so long since I 've been in here, '' Victoire smiled as she looked around the Room of Requirement.

`` I know, '' Amy agreed, `` It 's foreign. I was getting used to not being here anymore, but now that we 're back, I 'm starting to miss it. ``

`` Me, too, '' Victoire said, `` But if somebody told me that you 'd miss Hogwarts back when you first came here, I 'd never have believed them. ``

Amy laughed, `` I know, but I got used to it. ``

Albus watched them as they reminisced about Hogwarts. He had never imagined that Amy would throw disliked Hogwarts. `` Why 's that ? ``

`` well, '' Amy began, `` When I first came here, I missed my old school and my old champion. Little did I know that I would come to love this topographic point even more and make even undecomposed Friend. ``

`` All rightfulness, '' Victoire threw herself down on one of the lounge, `` What 's this about you and Kaden ? ``

Albus sat down following to her, while his friends and Amy took keister on various former chairs and couch. `` Have you ever met Kaden ? '' Albus asked his cousin.

`` Once, I think, '' Victoire answered.

`` Well, he 's very annoying, to say the least. He thinks everything about the magical reality is wonderful and that witching can solve everything, '' Albus explained.

`` I 'm guessing you 've tried to tell him otherwise ? '' Victoire asked.

`` Yeah, but he did n't seem to understand, '' Albus replied, `` Anyway, he latched himself onto me and started following us around everywhere. It got very vex, but we tolerated it. Then, the day of the first full moon, Kaden got disgusted and Madam Pomfrey gave him some potion and he was better instantly. This really amazed him and he came back to the uncouth room praising brothel keeper Pomfrey and her potions. He came over to where we were sitting and he noticed how ill Matt looked. ``

`` Oh, Merlin, I can see where this is going, '' Amy sighed and looked at Matt, who was looking a bit uncomfortable.

`` Yeah, he insisted that lustrelessness go see lady Pomfrey. I tried to explain that deception could n't fix everything, but he just would n't listen. We told him to block off going on and on about healing potions, but he would n't. Matt left because he had to go to the infirmary Wing, and I yelled at Kaden. However, the scrap did n't last long because we all agreed that Kaden did n't know about matte, therefore he had no musical theme that what he said was hurtful. I explained to Kaden once again that there were things that conjuration could n't solve, and that matt had a disease that magic could n't solve- ''

`` You did n't say him, did you ? '' Amy asked Matt anxiously.

`` Of course not, '' matt assured her, `` He 's still got no musical theme. ``

`` Good. ``

`` After that, we just kind of accepted that Kaden would be around us all the metre and got used to him, '' Albus continued, `` But then he decided to look into the Whomping Willow. ``

`` What ? ! '' Victoire and Amy shouted at the accurate same clip. Amy 's aspect lost all vividness as she stared at Albus.

`` He did. We were lying around the grounds after Quidditch practice and Kaden wanted to investigate it. We told him legion multiplication not to, but he did anyway. He got hit a couple metre, but eventually he wound up inside the tunnel. ``

Amy turned to her sidekick with a facial expression of fright on her facial expression. `` Did he play along it ? '' she whispered.

`` He wanted to, '' Albus answered, `` But I went in after him and persuaded him not to. We got out and Filch caught us. He gave us three exhausting dark of detention, which you already know about. ``

The miss nodded their heads. Albus had owled Amy and explained about the detention on the Astronomy Tower, but had not told her why they were in detention.

`` Right after we got out of Filch 's office, we took Kaden up to our dorm and persuaded him not to ever await for that burrow again or to narrate anyone about it. He said he would n't, '' Albus continued, `` Just like he said he would n't tell anyone that matte had a disease that could n't be fixed by magic. ``

`` Oh, Merlin, '' Victoire sighed, `` I 'm guessing he told individual ? ``

`` You 're right, '' Albus said darkly, `` He did. For some strange reason, known only to my stupid cousin-german, he decided to tell Scorpius Malfoy that matte gets sick every once and a while, and tell apart him about the Whomping Willow ! ``

`` What ? ! '' Both girls shouted and stood up with feel of anger on their faces.

`` And Malfoy has been trying to observe out where I go every month and now he 's got more clew. Up until now we 've been telling him that I have to natter my throw up gran, but that wo n't work anymore, '' lustrelessness explained. `` It 's only a matter of meter before he finds out. ``

`` We wo n't let him, '' Amy said adamantly, then she turned to Albus, `` So this Scorpius Malfoy knows about the burrow under the Whomping Willow ? ``

`` Er, we think so, yeah, '' Albus said quietly.

`` Not estimable, this is not good, '' Amy started pacing, `` Have you told any of the instructor ? ``

`` No, '' mat answered.

`` You 've got to. He ca n't go exploring that tree, he just ca n't, '' Amy told them. `` We 'll go recount Kendrick now. Come on, flatness. ``

Matt stood up, his look as pale as Amy 's. `` All rightfulness. '' He reluctantly followed his sister out of the Room.

`` And you 've been ignoring Kaden ever since, '' Victoire said, not as a query, but a fact.

`` Yeah, '' Albus confirmed, `` It 's been over a month now. ``

They all sat in secrecy for a few mo, all lost in their own thoughts. Albus had n't really given Kaden much thought the past times few Clarence Day. He 'd been much too busy thinking about the map. But now, the incident with Kaden was back in the front of his brain. What was Kendrick going to do about Malfoy ? What if he decided that matte could n't last out in shoal anymore now that hoi polloi knew about the tunnel ? Albus shuddered at the cerebration of his Quaker being kicked out of school because of what Kaden had done.

`` Albus, '' Victoire said quietly, `` I know what Kaden did was horrible. hell, I 'm mad at him now and I do n't really know him. But I really think there is to a greater extent to this than meets the eye. I do n't jazz why he told Malfoy, but I do n't recollect he just randomly decided to tell Malfoy. I really think you ought to think about forgiving him, or at least asking him why he told Malfoy. ``

Albus thought about this for a second. The last thing he wanted to do was talk to Kaden, let alone forgive him. Kaden might be the reason one of his ally is forced to entrust the school ! If that happens, Albus decided, no way would he ever forgive Kaden. Sure, what Victoire said might be genuine. There might be some variety of underlying rationality why Kaden told Malfoy, but the fact remains that he told him. And that could n't be changed.

`` I kind of agree with Victoire, '' Rose whispered, `` I do n't think he really meant to give Malfoy hint about mat 's lycanthropy. ``

`` I know that ! '' Albus shouted, `` Kaden does n't even love about it ! But I told him not to assure and he did n't listen. We ca n't entrust him with anything ! Everything I 've told him not to order, he 's secern somebody, and it was Malfoy of all people ! You realize that if I forgive him, he 'll set forth following us around again. He 'll get more suspicious about mat and eventually he 's going to find out. And what do you retrieve he 'll do then ? We 'll severalize him not to say anything, and he will. He 'll probably say Malfoy. ``

`` I agree with you, Albus, '' St. John the Apostle said.

`` Me, too, '' Amanda replied.

`` fine, '' rosiness snapped.

`` Just think about it, Albus, '' Victoire said as she got up. `` I 've got to be going. Teddy should be home by now and I want to go visit him. ``

`` Where is he ? '' Albus asked. He had been wondering where slip was.

`` He had some variety of Auror training affair today, '' Victoire responded, `` grooming is reasonably intense. And it 's at all kind of crazy hours. I guess they 're preparing him for what it 'll be like when he 's a fully trained Auror. ``

Albus nodded. He knew what that was like. Harry was always leaving at random multiplication, only to revert in the dead of nighttime. Aurors had some of the unusual hours he had ever heard of.

`` Of course, my time of day wo n't be much skillful when I 'm a Healer, '' Victoire commented, `` With our hours, we 're never going to get to see each former. Well, I 'll see you soon, Albus and rose. I 'm not sure when, but I 'll definitely see you at Christmas. ``



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and Denas, Jen, sinwillys822, XDNLxtlz99, Luke, and Moonylupin for their reviews !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.




Albus and his friends sat around the elbow room of requisite for the following half hour, waiting for Matt to get back. Nobody said much, but Albus could tell that they were all worried about what was going to happen. Albus certainly was. Albus looked up sharply as he heard the door to the room undefended. `` What happened ? '' he asked immediately.

matt ran over to his friends with a smile on his case. `` Not a good deal. ``

`` You do n't have to will ? '' Rose asked.

`` Nope ! '' lustrelessness grinned. `` Kendrick said he 'd take caution of it and no one 's going to be able to get into the passageway anymore. ``

`` That 's great ! '' Albus replied. He was very unbosom. It would not possess been funfair for matte to have to will Hogwarts just because of Kaden 's stupidity.

`` Yeah. Kendrick said I should have just told him immediately, though. ``

`` We did n't really call up of it at the time, '' John commented.

`` I know, and Kendrick understands. He 's not giving me custody or anything, '' matte told them.

`` Good, '' Amanda replied.

`` So, '' can said tentatively, `` cypher can get into the passage now ? ``

`` Pretty much. Kendrick did n't really explain, but he told me no one would be capable to get in, '' mat explained, `` Just me and dame Pomfrey, I think. ``

`` Oh, '' John said, `` I was form of hoping we could go explore it some time. ``

mat turned and glared at him, `` Are you insane ? There 's no way I 'd adopt you into the Shrieking Shack. ``

`` It could induce been like our own common elbow room, '' St. John the Apostle continued.

`` No way. Nope. Not going to happen, '' Matt said flatly.

`` All right, delicately, '' john sighed, `` Would 've been poise, though. ``

******

The next day at breakfast, Albus was still thinking about the new map. He kept wondering what made it so different from the original Marauder 's Map. Albus was hoping that it would demonstrate Hogsmeade, along with everyone who was in Hogsmeade.

`` Who 's that old lady up there ? '' Amanda pointed to the faculty table. There was a short old beldame with a patched and frayed hat sitting where Professor Longbottom usually sat.

Albus looked up and watched her. For some cause she looked rather familiar, but he could n't put his finger on it.

`` Yeah, and where 's prof Longbottom ? '' Matt asked.

`` Dunno, '' Albus shrugged. He looked up towards the cap as the Post bird of night started to come. Rose 's family owl made a beeline for her and stood waiting for her to aim the alphabetic character off.

Rose took the letter and gave her owl a piece of toast. She opened the letter and read for a few minutes before reemerging from behind it with a vast grinning on her face. `` professor Longbottom 's married woman has had her sister ! Her name is Lucy Augusta. That explains why professor Longbottom is n't here. ``

Albus smiled. `` That 's great. '' Albus had n't seen Hannah since the summer, and she 'd been quite pregnant then.

`` You know, I never really think about the teachers having families, '' matte commented.

`` wellspring, we met Professor Longbottom 's married woman at the Leaky cauldron over the summertime, '' John pointed out.

`` I know, but I do n't really remember her that well, '' lustrelessness explained, `` I did n't feel too great that day. ``

`` Oh, yeah, '' bathroom remembered, `` And Professor potter obviously has a family. '' Saint John the Apostle grinned at Albus.

`` He does ? '' Albus opened his eyes wide in a look of fake electrical shock. `` I never knew ! ``

Matt laughed, `` I wonder about the other instructor, though. ``

`` I think Patil is married, '' rose wine told them, `` Slughorn is n't, but I 'm not sure as shooting about the others. ``

`` May I have your attention ? '' Kendrick stood up and banged his spoonful against his goblet. `` Thank you. I have two announcements this morning. The first one is that it has come to my care that a few of you have not heeded my warnings about staying away from the Whomping willow. I must tell you again how serious it is. ``

Albus stole a glance at Kaden, who was steadily turning more pink. Albus glared at him and this made him turn a bright shade of red.

`` As an added guard, I have put a few wards around it that will inform me when individual neglect my rules. There will be severe punishment for anyone who is caught around the tree diagram, '' Kendrick said sternly.

`` On a lighter banker's bill, I 'm sure enough you all have noticed that Professor Longbottom is not here today. ``

Most of the early students started whispering among themselves, no doubt wondering why this could be considered a 'lighter banknote'.

`` Yes, yes, no pauperization to worry. prof Longbottom 's wife has had a baby girl and he will be gone for a few weeks. Professor Sprout, who taught here class ago has offered to assume his blank space until he returns, '' Kendrick gestured to the older witch.

That 's where he knew her from, Albus thought as Sprout stood up and waved. Albus had met Sprout once when he was much untried.

`` I believe that is all. I hope everyone has a effective Sunday and is well rested for course of study tomorrow, '' Kendrick sat back down.

`` I hope Sprout is courteous, '' Matt said as he and the others wandered around the primer coat after breakfast. It was a very mild day for Nov and most of the students were outside enjoying the weather.

`` She is, '' Albus assured him. `` My parents had her. So did about of my aunts and uncles. ``

`` Mine, too, '' John said.

`` I 've met her a few prison term, '' Rose commented, `` I like her. ``

`` Good, '' Matt smiled, `` It seems like we have n't got any beggarly teachers this year. ``

The group spent the dawning wandering around the grounds, putting off the homework they should consume been doing. They talked some more about the map, but nobody had any idea as to how to get it to function or who could lay out Wormtail. Albus also thought a lot about what Victoire had said. He was beginning to wonder if he should just forgive Kaden. It would certainly be a hale lot gentle than trying to avoid him, like he had been doing the past calendar month and a half.

`` I do n't think we 're going to be able to disregard Kaden forever, '' Albus announced as they were laying underneath a beech Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree near the lake.

`` You 've just realized this ? '' Rose asked, smirking.

`` Well, I 'd been hoping we could just disregard him, '' Albus told her.

`` You ca n't, Albus, '' rose wine sighed, `` He 's your cousin, whether you like him or not. ``

`` I know, '' Albus replied, `` I 'm getting sick of having to avoid him all the time. ``

`` I still do n't wish him, '' whoremaster said adamantly, `` I mean, maybe if he 'd get wind how to shut his back talk, I 'd care him better. ``

`` Maybe there 's some form of go we can use to get him not to blab out about things he 's not supposed to, '' Amanda laughed.

`` That 'd be nice, '' Albus agreed. `` So, you think we should forgive him ? ``

`` We probably should, '' Matt replied quietly. `` No one can get into the tree now, and Malfoy 's going to find out eventually, '' he sighed, `` It 's only a matter of clip. He 'll obtain out whether Kaden gives him hint or not. He 's smart. Kaden wo n't cypher it out until someone tells him, but Malfoy will find out on his own. It 's only a matter of when. ``

Albus stared at his friend. Albus did not think lustrelessness would ever be well-disposed with Kaden again, but what he said actually made gumption. Malfoy was going to find out. `` It 's all right with you if I forgive him ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Matt said, `` He 's your cousin-german. If I had any first cousin, I 'd want to be friendly with them. ``

Albus sighed. He knew the mighty thing to do was to just forgive Kaden. Albus knew that as soon as he made up with Kaden, Kaden would start up hovering around them again. He just wished Kaden would obtain his own Quaker. But it did n't look like that was going to take place anytime soon. Every meter Albus saw Kaden, he was either alone or with Jesse James.

`` Want to go back to the castling ? '' trick asked a little while later. It was starting to get visionary and swarm were rolling in. It would probably rain soon.

`` Sure, '' Albus agreed.

`` I 've got to find Slughorn, '' rosiness announced as she stood up. `` I need to talk to him about that last essay. Want to derive, Amanda ? '' Amanda nodded and the two miss took off for the castle.

`` Bet she thinks she lost a point on it, '' John Lackland laughed.

`` Probably, '' Albus grinned as the three boys started walking back to the palace. They joined the big chemical group of bookman now running towards the castling as it got darker outside.

`` What do you want to do ? '' John Lackland asked as they climbed the stairs.

`` Want to go to the Room ? '' lusterlessness suggested.

`` Sounds safe, maybe we can figure out how to work the new map, '' Albus said. `` After all, once I talk to Kaden, we wo n't be able to sneak off there without him wondering where we are. ``

`` I had n't thought of that, '' King John groaned. `` Maybe you should n't babble out to him. ``

`` I 've got to, John, '' Albus sighed. `` He 's my cousin. ``

`` How are you going to keep him from knowing about the map ? '' Matt asked.

`` No idea. I guess we 'll just have to mess up with it while Kaden 's in class. ``

The boy continued their journeying up to the 7th floor corridor. They were halfway down the 6th story corridor, heading towards the stairs, when Matt stopped in his course. Albus stared at him quizzically, wondering why he had stopped. `` What 's wrong ? '' he whispered.

mat said aught but pulled his two champion into a nearby void classroom. He shut the door and turned to face his friends. `` There 's people whispering just around the corner. ``

`` What ? '' Albus asked. He had n't heard anything in the corridor. It had seemed completely deserted.

`` Are you mad ? '' bathroom stared at him, `` We were the solitary ones out there. ``

`` I 'm serious ! '' Matt said.

`` No you 're not, '' John laughed, `` I 'm supposed to be Sirius. You 're Remus. ``

lustrelessness groaned, `` You know what I mean ! But I definitely heard something. My auditory sense 's practiced than yours. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Albus replied, remembering that werewolves did accept master sense of hearing. `` Well, what was it ? ``

`` There 's at least two people out there and one audio scared, '' lusterlessness explained.

`` Do you think they 're students ? '' Albus asked, immediately thinking of the Willinsons and Washburn. Had they come back to feel the Hallows ?

`` Yeah, definitely scholar. ``

Albus breathed a sigh of relief. It could n't be Washburn or either Willinson, if they sounded like students.

`` Let 's go investigate, '' John said mischievously.

Albus was open if he wanted to go see who was whispering around the corner or not. He was definitely curious, but he did n't want to get hexed. Eventually, his wonder beat out his veneration. `` All right. ``

`` Hold out your verge, '' Matt instructed as he opened the threshold. The boys crept quietly out into the corridor and walked to the corner. As they got closer, Albus could protrude to make out bits of conversation.

`` cum on ! '' an icy voice seethed, `` You know more. Just tell us and we wo n't hex you. ``

`` I swear, I told you everything ! '' individual croaked. He sounded like he was shaking.

Albus quickened his pace. soul was going to hex someone. He had to stop them ! Albus vaguely recognized both the vocalisation, but he could n't quite stead them.

The boy rounded the corner and Albus saw why he recognized the voice. Scorpius Malfoy and Felix Willinson were standing with their wand pointed at Kaden, who was leaning on the paries, his deal shakily holding his verge out in front of him. Albus stopped in his tracks, and John and Matt did the same. Neither Malfoy, Willinson, or Kaden had noticed them yet.

`` Just tell me what 's beyond the tunnel, Dursley, '' Willinson snarled.

`` I do n't know ! '' Kaden repeated.

`` prevaricator, '' Malfoy raised his verge a little higher.

That was it. Albus could n't take over to watch Malfoy interrogating his cousin like that. All his bitter opinion toward Kaden flew out the window the present moment Albus saw Kaden 's terrified face. Albus ran forward and shouted, `` Expelliarmus ! '' Malfoy 's wand sailed out of his hand and landed on the floor a few feet down the corridor. John ran forward and grabbed it.

Albus and Matt stepped forward as Malfoy and Willinson turned around. `` Well, if it is n't Potter, '' Malfoy gaiter. `` What can you possibly require ? ``

`` Quit threatening my first cousin, '' Albus growled. He pointed his sceptre at Malfoy 's chest.

`` That can be arranged, '' Malfoy replied, `` If you tell us where the tunnel under the Whomping willow tree goes. ``

Albus did n't break in eye contact with Malfoy, but he knew Matt had gone white side by side to him. `` Why would you imagine I know where it goes ? ``

`` The Mudblood told us, '' Willinson smirked. `` But he claims he 's got no melodic theme where it goes. I think you do. ``

`` Do n't call him a Mudblood ! '' Albus shouted.

At the Saame time, trick shouted, `` Expelliarmus ! '' and Willinson 's wand sailed neatly into John 's hand.

`` Looks like you 've got your cousin 's dueling skills, '' Albus commented. `` Quinton Willinson is your cousin, right ? ``

`` Sure is, '' Willinson confirmed. `` Now, will one of you tell us where the tunnel goes ? I 'll let your Mudblood cousin go if you do. ``

`` I said do n't forebode him that ! '' Albus shouted, `` And no, we wo n't recite you where it goes. ``

`` Fine, '' Malfoy smirked, `` Guess your cousin will get hexed. ``

whoremonger burst out laughing, `` skilful luck with that, seeing as I 've got your wands. ``

Apparently both Malfoy and Willinson had forgotten about that and they stared at each other. Kaden, realizing that neither Slytherin could hex him, stumbled over to where Albus and the others were standing.

`` Dueling in the corridors, '' a panting vocalisation behind them said. `` That 's against the formula. ``

Albus jumped as he heard the vocalization and turned around to meet it. It was Filch. Albus groaned inwardly. Why did Filch always have to be around ? He, mat, John, and Kaden all exchanged glances as Filch grinned at them all.

`` Follow me, all of you, '' Filch said gleefully.

`` But, Sir, '' Malfoy replied sweetly, `` Felix and I do n't have got our wands. Clearly these four Gryffindors attacked us. ``

`` If I 've learned anything over the yr, '' Filch growled, `` It 's that Slytherins are never innocent. ``

Albus stifled a laugh as he followed Filch down the hallway. Nobody said anything as Filch led them into his cramped office. It was very difficult for the six boys to fit within and everyone was too close for comfort.

Filch went through his usual routine of filling out forms and filing them in the correct console. He smirked as he filed Albus 's form. `` Seems you 'll throw a file nearly as big as your father and grandad 's by the metre you graduate. ``

Albus said zippo as Filch continued to fill out and file his sort. After what seemed like an time of day, but was probably only a few minutes, Filch finished. `` You 'll have two Night 's detention. Tonight and tomorrow night. Meet me here. Now get out. ``

Albus did n't consume to be asked twice. He was the first one out the room access, followed quickly by Matt, St. John, and Kaden. After the two Slytherins left and started heading towards the dungeons, Albus began to lead his friend up the stairs. No one said much as they walked towards Gryffindor pillar. Kaden stuck to them like soul had affixed a perm sticking charm on him, but Albus did n't listen. He needed to verbalize to Kaden anyway. Why were Malfoy and Willinson threatening him ? Was this the grounds he told Malfoy about the passageway in the Whomping willow ?

When they got to the common room, it was packed. There was hardly any room for them. Albus wordlessly lead them up to his dorm and shut the door behind them. John and lusterlessness sat down on flatness 's bed, but Albus and Kaden remained standing.

Albus was n't sure as shooting where to start out. Should he just tell apart Kaden that he forgave him ? Or ask him what was going on with Malfoy and Willinson ? But before Albus could decide, Kaden started the conversation.

`` I 'm no-count, '' Kaden whispered quietly.

Albus did a image issue. Kaden was sorry ? `` For what ? '' Albus asked. Kaden had n't done anything wrong recently. Not since he talked to Malfoy over a calendar month ago.

`` For telling Malfoy, '' Kaden explained. `` I know you 're mad at me and I 'm sorry, '' his interpreter cracked. `` And I 'm no-count for landing you lot in detention, again. ``

`` Kaden, this one was n't your defect, '' Albus insisted, `` It was Malfoy and Willinson 's fault. Speaking of them, want to tell us what 's been going on ? '' Albus had n't paid an oz. of attention to his cousin since their big fight over a calendar month ago, but Albus was surely that this was n't an marooned incident with the Slytherins.

`` They cornered me, '' Kaden whispered, `` Over a month ago. They knew I hung out with you, and they wanted to get laid if I knew anything about Matt 's, er, illness. ``

Albus nodded. That 's why Kaden had told Malfoy. The Slytherin weaseled it out of him. `` Go on. ``

`` And I 'm sad, Albus, '' Kaden 's heart watered, `` I really am. They just both pointed their verge at me, and I do n't do it any undecomposed hexes, and I just got pit, and I know Gryffindors are supposed to be brave, but they told me they 'd hex me if I did n't tell them what I knew. So I did, and before I realized it I mentioned the Whomping Willow. ``

So that was it, Albus thought. He should have just listened to Victoire. There was a grounds Kaden had told Malfoy. Kaden had n't just willingly given him the information.

`` And it was too late, '' Kaden continued, `` They were going to hex me if I did n't tell them. So I told them there was a burrow but I did n't know where it went. They did n't believe me, though. They 've been trying to get me to recite them about once a week and I get enchant every time. dame Pomfrey fixes it, though. ``

Albus sighed, `` I told you to distinguish me if they were bothering you again. ``

`` But you were mad at me, '' Kaden 's vocalisation wobbled, `` I figured you did n't handle anymore. ``

`` Kaden, sometimes you do matter that I just do n't understand, '' Albus explained, `` But I 'll always manage about you. You 're my cousin and zilch can change that. ``

`` I know, and I 'm really sorry about everything, '' Kaden replied, `` I wanted to keep it all a secret, but- ''

`` It 's all right, '' Albus cut him off. Kaden was obviously deplorable about what he had done. Albus was starting to experience really bad that he had ignored his cousin for so long, especially when he was being threatened by Slytherins. `` And I 'm dingy I did n't listen to you before. ``

Kaden nodded, tears starting to talk out of his eyes. `` You 're not mad at me anymore ? ``

`` No, '' Albus answered, `` Just tell me next clip they do that. And try not to evidence anyone the things I tell you in private anymore. ``

Kaden nodded and turned to whoremonger and Matt. `` Are you two still mad at me ? ``

john and Matt looked at each former and then escape from their head word. `` No, we 've been mad at you long enough, '' Matt told him.

Kaden smiled through his split and looked back at Albus. `` I do n't reckon you 'd recite me where the tunnel goes now ? ``

`` Not a chance, '' Albus grinned. Even after all that, Kaden was still his usual curious ego, forever affirmative that Albus would actually evidence him all of Hogwarts 's secrets.

`` Did n't think so, '' Kaden replied, `` But it was worth a jibe. Anyway, I have n't had a chance to tell you, but I still think football is expert than Quidditch. ``

`` Are you mad ? ! '' John Lackland and Matt shouted at the Saame time. Both of them had looks of disgust on their faces.

Kaden grinned sheepishly, `` I just think it 's better. You ca n't kick the Quaffle around like they do in football. ``

John turned his gaze from Kaden to Albus. `` We 've got to fix this, '' he said solemnly.

`` We 'll accept him to the Cup, '' Matt decided, `` No matter where it is. We 'll go and prove to him that Quidditch is best. ``

`` It wo n't change my mind, '' Kaden replied.

`` Once you see the Cannons play, you 'll shift your idea, '' matt told him as he stood up.

`` The Cannons ? '' John laughed and walked over to the door, `` Are you the insane one now ? ``

`` Not at the mo, no, '' mat smirked. John and Albus burst out laughing at John 's pick of Logos and Kaden looked at them confusedly.

`` Another matter I do n't get to know ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Yup, '' the three other boys said at the like time.

`` Anyway, '' Saint John the Apostle continued as they left the way, `` The Cannons are the worst squad, you do n't want to see them play. It 's not like they 'll make it to the conference Cup. ``

Matt punched him playfully in the arm, `` Do n't insult my squad like that. It 's not care Puddlemre United is doing practically better. ``

This time it was trick 's turn to plug mat in the arm. `` Puddlemere is better than the carom can ever hope to be. ``

toilet and lusterlessness continued their argument all the way down into the park way, with Kaden paying rapt attention. Albus smiled as he watched them. Maybe Kaden could fit in with their radical after all.



A/N : Thanks to Dancer of Starlight for betaing for me ! Thanks as well to Denas, sinwillys822, XDNLxtlz99, Rebekah, Moonylupin, Luke, and lilausty for their reassessment !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.




It did n't remove foresightful for Kaden to fit himself back into Albus 's group of friend. By the end of the week, Albus, Kaden, and the others got back to their common turn of doing preparation in the common way after dinner. Of trend, that did not start out until after the boy served their hold with Filch. The caretaker had them plumb almost every bathroom in the intact castle. This was a tense affair due to the fact that Malfoy and Felix Willinson were serving the detention alongside them. Albus was quite felicitous when the detainment was over.

All in all, school day was going well for Albus. He was doing well in all his classes and Quidditch and the Dueling nightspot were going well, too. Albus managed to shove aside his thoughts of the new map during Quidditch, which pleased Georgia greatly. The downside to having Kaden cover was that Albus and his other Quaker could n't really filch off to the Room of Requirement anymore, unless they wanted to bring Kaden. They all liked Kaden well enough, but none of them really wanted the younger boy to live about the Room yet. That, and they did n't want Kaden to cognize about the map. He did n't even know about the veritable Marauder 's Map. So, Albus had no choice but to just think about the map, rather than mess up around with it.

As November turned into Dec, snow fell upon the flat coat and students of all ages flocked to them to sustain snow ball fights. Albus and his friends took theatrical role in quite a few, usually being crushed by the older bookman. Albus enjoyed these competitiveness immensely, but cerebration of the new map were always in the back of his mind. He just wished they could have some time away from Kaden to enquire it some more. The chance to do just that arose one day in the beginning of Dec. Kaden was not doing too well in August 6 and one of the elderly Ravenclaws had offered to tutor him and a few other first geezerhood in the library.

Albus immediately shut his charm book after Kaden left the common room. `` All right, he 's gone. Let 's go to the Room. ``

`` You 're awfully aegir for him to impart, '' John smirked, `` I thought you did n't mind him so much now. ``

`` You know I do n't, John the Evangelist, '' Albus replied, `` I just want to mess up around with the map. ``

`` Do you think you know how to exercise it ? '' matte asked.

`` I 've got an estimation, '' Albus said.

`` Let 's go, '' Rose announced.

The group left the push rough-cut room and followed the familiar path to the way. Once there, they took their usual seats and waited for Albus enjoin them his idea.

`` Well, '' Albus began. He took the map out of his bag and spread it out on the table. `` I think we should try writing on it. You know, remember what I tried to tell the map last time ? I think I should write that on the map. ``

`` Are you out of your nous ? '' Saint John the Apostle exclaimed, `` What if you ruin it ? ``

lusterlessness and Amanda stared at Albus in shock, but rose did n't seem fazed at all.

`` No, listen, '' Albus continued, `` think the diary Horcrux ? well, my mum and dad wrote in that and the ink just disappeared into it. ``

`` But this is n't a Horcrux ! '' John said.

`` Have you got any respectable melodic theme ? '' Albus asked.

`` Er, no, but- ''

`` Then we should just try it ! '' Albus insisted.

`` I agree, Albus, '' blush wine announced.

`` Thank you, rosebush. ``

`` At least pen it really small, '' matt suggested, `` That way if it is n't the flop way, it wo n't mess up it up. ``

Albus nodded. That made sentience. `` All right hand. '' He took a deep breather. `` Here it goes. I solemnly swear that I am Messr Prongs. ``

The familiar ink appeared on the sheepskin, telling Albus that he needed to prove he knew all the Marauders'secrets. He looked up at his friends, who were all wearing looks of anticipation. Albus grabbed a quill and an ink pot. He poised his quill pen over the parchment and wrote in very tiny letters,

'Moony is a wolfman. Prongs, Padfoot, and Wormtail are all illegal animagi. Prongs is a stag, Padfoot is a dog, and Wormtail is a rat .'
Albus put the shaft down and stared at the parchment. Everyone watched in complete secretiveness. The ink disappeared into the map and Amanda let out a gasp. A few moments later, new Son appeared.

'Close, but not quite .'

Albus let out a forte moan as the words dissolved. `` I really thought that would be it ! ``

`` We 're never going to estimate this out, '' john sighed.

`` Energy n't matter anyway, we do n't have a Wormtail, '' Matt pointed out.

`` I think that would get been too obvious anyway, '' Rose explained, `` It 's got to be something more elusive. ``

`` How do we subtly tell a art object of parchment that we know the vulture'secrets ? '' Albus wondered aloud.

`` fountainhead, '' pink wine began, `` We 've got to remember that these are the vulture. And I 'm sure they wanted to make it difficult for whoever found this map. ``

`` honest detail, '' John said.

`` This most likely holds more information about Hogwarts than the vulture 's Map did, and possibly Hogsmeade as well, '' Rose continued, `` So we 've got to call up about this the way they would 've. ``

Albus had n't thought of that. Of course of instruction the Marauders would n't deliver just had them write something on the map. It was too promiscuous. `` right field, so they liked getting in trouble. They would probably require us to do something that might get us in fuss. ``

`` And most likely dangerous, '' Rose added.

`` Dangerous ? '' Amanda repeated, staring at Rose.

`` Definitely, '' Albus confirmed. The more he thought about it, the more it made sense. The vulture spent their Hogwarts life history causing trouble and doing grievous affair. They obviously would need the great unwashed just as daring to be the side by side Marauders.

`` How can it be dangerous to prove that we know their arcanum ? '' John asked.

`` No mind, '' Albus sighed, `` And it 's got to be something we can put on this lambskin. ``

`` What can we put on parchment that shows they were all animagi and a werewolf ? '' Matt asked.

`` We could draw paw prints on it, '' John laughed.

pink wine 's side lit up. `` John, that 's it ! ``

`` Drawing paw prints ? '' King John stared at her, `` How 's that severe ? ``

`` No, not that. But the paw print idea, '' Rose grinned mischievously, `` We 've got to get a loup-garou, hart, dog, and rat paw print onto the map. ``

The idea sounded ridiculous to Albus, but it did seem like the form of thing the Marauders would do. It would definitely be serious to get the paw mark, and unmanageable as well. Not many people would actually be able to get them all. It was subtle as well. No one would have any idea what the paw photographic print would mean unless they knew the vulture'secret. The only thing he did n't like about it was the idea of a bunch of creature trampling the map.

They all stared at Rose, who was looking quite happy with the approximation. Eventually, Albus spoke. `` Are you sure enough ? ``

`` Not positivist, '' Rose answered, `` There 's only one way to find out. What do you lot think ? ``

`` I think that might be it, '' Albus replied, `` It seems very Maraudery. ``

`` Is that a word ? '' Rose laughed.

`` Probably not, '' Albus grinned, `` But I like it. ``

`` Good estimate, rose, '' John agreed.

`` Sounds like it might operate, '' Amanda said.

`` Makes sense, '' Matt replied.

`` So it 's settled, '' rosiness announced, `` We shall put paw print on the map. ``

`` Wait, '' Albus said, `` I really do n't care the theme of brute stepping on the map. What if it gets ripped accidentally. ``

`` Good spot, '' rose sighed. Everyone thought about this for a few moments, then rosebush had another idea. `` What if we use unlike while of parchment and then use a transference charm to put them on the map ? ``

`` Brilliant, '' Albus grinned. Sometimes, he loved how smarting his cousin-german was. `` Anyone get it on how to do one ? ``

They all stared at each early and stir their foreland. `` Er, that might be a trouble, '' Albus sighed, `` I 'm passably sure that good luck charm is well past O.W.L. ``

`` I 'll learn it, '' Rose told him, `` I 'm indisputable I can detect it in the library somewhere. ``

`` We 're lucky you 're such a book worm, rosiness, '' john laughed.

`` All rightfulness, so we 're going to try this, '' Albus said adamantly. He was up for trying anything. Even if it did n't work, they would still be making progression. `` Rose, you start figuring out the transference charm, and the relaxation of us will get the paw prints. ``

`` The dog will be slow, '' Amanda announced, `` I 've got a dog, retrieve ? ``

`` Oh, yeah ! '' Albus replied, `` So you can get the dog print over Christmas Day. ``

`` Sure, '' Amanda grinned, `` It 'll be easy. ``

`` Christmas ? '' John sighed, `` I thought we 'd have it done before that. ``

`` It might take me a while to compute out the charm anyway, '' Rose commented.

Albus had wanted to image out the map before Christmas as well, but considering the fact that there were n't any dogs in Hogwarts, that would n't be possible. `` I think we can find a rat somewhere in the rook. Probably near the dungeons. ``

`` Great, Slytherin territorial dominion, '' bathroom groaned.

`` I 've seen them in the Potions classroom, '' Rose said, `` All we 've got to do is cast Petrificus Totalus on one during Potions and lift it up here. Who wants to do it ? ``

Albus glanced around at his friends. He was n't genuine fond of rats and would prefer not to have to carry one around in his bag all day.

`` I 'll do it, '' King John said after a while, `` It should n't be that concentrated. I just hope the piece lasts until I can get it up here. ``

`` It should, '' Rose replied, `` Just try and get up here as soon as potential. ``

`` Good, '' Albus said, `` We 've got the dog and the rat covered. Next is the stag. That 'll be a bit more difficult. ``

`` There are probably stags in the woods, '' Amanda suggested, `` But we 'd get in hassle. ``

`` That 's what the Marauders would cause wanted, '' Albus told her.

`` We do n't have to go to the Forbidden Forest, '' rosebush announced, `` We 've just got to go to a woodland. I live right near a wood, Albus and I can try and get the print over Christmas. ``

`` That is a brilliant idea, rose wine, '' Albus smiled. He did not really want to go wandering around the Forbidden Forest and not just because it was out of spring. It would be very dangerous to go in there. `` And that just leaves- ''

`` The wolfman one, '' Matt whispered. Albus and the others turned to look at matt. He had been very quiet over the yesteryear few minutes and Albus noticed that he was paler than usual. Albus could understand why. The werewolf paw mark could possibly be the most severe one to get.

`` You know, '' blush wine said quietly, `` This is why the paw publish thing makes so much sense to me. I highly doubt a steady Friedrich August Wolf print is going to work. And if this really is the way to get the map to work, the only way to get a werewolf paw print would be if a werewolf was at Hogwarts. ``

Albus thought about this and it made pure sense. This would be one way for the piranha to make trusted that the new Marauders would have at least one similarity to the originals. `` But how do we get it ? We obviously ca n't go into the Shrieking hut the nighttime of the full moon. ``

The room fell quiet as everyone tried to think of a way that they could safely get a wolfman 's paw photographic print. Albus had no idea. They could n't exactly try and stupefy lustrelessness while he was transformed like they were planning on doing with the rat and the stag.

`` All right, '' Matt sighed after a few minutes. `` I 've got an idea. ``

Albus and the eternal sleep of his friends said nothing but watched as they waited for mat to elaborate. Albus could say that lustrelessness really did n't desire to do this, but they had to. How else would they get the map to work ?

`` We go down to the screeching shack a couple up daytime before the full Sun Myung Moon and sting a few pieces of self-inking parchment to the trading floor. Hopefully I 'll mistreat on one of them and we 'll make a paw print, '' Matt explained quietly.

`` That could act upon, '' Albus said slowly.

`` But we ca n't let anyone see us, '' flatness told them, `` So we 'll have to go at night. ``

`` We 'll get caught, '' blush wine said.

`` Not if we use my dad 's invisibility cloak, '' Albus grinned. `` I 'll slip into his field of study sometime when he 's in family and borrow it. ``

`` Really ? '' matte half-smiled. `` That would be great. ``

`` We wo n't all be able to fit underneath, though, '' Albus told them, `` Probably just two of us, three at most. ``

`` You three can go, '' Rose gestured to Albus, Matt, and lav, `` You 're going to be the new Marauders anyway. ``

`` knack on, '' John interrupted, `` I thought Kendrick put up Baroness Jackson of Lodsworth on the Whomping Willow. How are we going to get in without him knowing ? ``

`` I know how to deactivate them, '' Matt explained, `` Otherwise I would n't be able to get in. ``

`` Oh, right. ``

`` When 's the next total lunar month ? '' Albus asked.

`` Next workweek, '' matte sighed, `` Are we doing it that soon ? ``

`` power as well, '' Albus replied, `` I 'll try and get Dad 's cloak tomorrow. He 's got classes in the good afternoon but we do n't. Then we can sneak down to the shrieking Shack this weekend. ``

`` perfective, '' rosiness grinned, `` And I 'll start searching the library for the magical spell. Hopefully we 'll cause it figured out right after Noel. ``

`` Leslie Townes Hope so, '' Albus replied. He was excited. They were close to figuring this out ; he could finger it.

`` fountainhead, I 've got homework to do, '' rosiness announced as she pulled out a few books from her bag.

Albus sighed, `` I do, too. ``

The group worked silently on their prep for a spell, only talking when they needed to ask dubiousness about it. Albus tried his outflank to centralize on his Transfiguration essay, but his judgement kept wandering back to the map. He wished they could get the paw mark faster. Albus was very anxious to find out what this map had in stock for them. Of course of instruction, they still had to find someone to be Wormtail, but Albus tried to push that thought from his mind.

`` It 's so quiet, '' Gospel According to John said, tapping his quill on his book.

`` Nice, is n't it ? '' pink wine smiled.

`` Not really, '' bathroom replied, `` It 's too quiet. I 've form of gotten used to Kaden 's glitz. ``

`` It is kind of strange not having him around tonight, '' Albus agreed. He had sort of gotten used to Kaden 's constant comportment over the past tense few hebdomad. Albus would even go so far as to say that he was starting to go friends with his cousin.

`` He 's always around us, though, '' flatness laughed, `` He kind of follows us around like a pup dog. ``

`` He looks up to Albus, '' rose explained, `` To him, Albus ca n't do anything wrong. ``

That 's it ! Albus dropped his quill feather and stared at Rose. Of course ! Why had n't he realized it before ? Kaden did follow them around and practically worship the ground they walked on. Kaden was Wormtail.

`` Albus ? '' pink wine asked. `` Are you all right ? ``

Albus shook his head and looked at rosiness. `` I 'm fine. Better than that, actually, '' he grinned. `` You 've just given me an idea as to who can be Wormtail. ``

`` Who ? '' toilet asked anxiously.

`` Kaden. ``

`` What ? ! '' John the Evangelist, Matt, Rose, and Amanda shouted at once.

`` You 're kidding, right ? '' Rose asked.

`` No, I 'm not, '' Albus replied. He did n't see how they could n't understand it. It made sodding gumption to him. `` You do n't see it ? ``

`` Not really, '' lavatory said.

`` Just listen, '' Albus sighed. `` low gear, we 've got to remember what the map said when I told it I was Prongs. It said 'four Gryffindors connected by friendship and mischief'. The three of us are obviously connected through both. '' Albus gestured to Saint John and lustrelessness. `` But we need a fourth mortal. Since they have to be somehow connected through us, we ca n't just pluck a random pupil. Can you think of anyone besides Kaden that we have gotten in trouble with ? ``

`` Not really, '' toilet said after a few here and now silence.

`` Right, '' Albus continued, `` And I 'd say we 're friends with him now. Would you ? ''

John and flatness nodded. `` Yeah, I think so, '' lustrelessness agreed. `` I see what you 're getting at. But how is he like Wormtail ? ''

Albus looked at his Friend for a moment before responding. Albus talked the to the lowest degree about Wormtail than all the other Marauders. Obviously, Albus felt a mysterious hatred for Peter Pettigrew, and this resulted in him not wanting to tattle about him. So Albus 's friend really did n't know a solid lot about him. Just the parts that had to do with him betraying Albus 's grandparents. `` Well, we 've got to remember that when the vulture made this map they were friend with Wormtail. He had n't betrayed them yet. He did have good character, as a good deal as I hate saying that, '' Albus said grimly.

`` So what are these lineament ? '' lavatory asked skeptically.

`` Er, I 'm not for certain exactly, '' Albus confessed, `` I mean, all the piranha were dead by the meter I was born, so there 's not really anyone to tell me what they would be. But my dad has told me some stuff, and it sounds a bit like Kaden. He told me that Wormtail practically worshiped Sirius and my grandpa. ``

`` Like Kaden does with you three, '' Rose commented, a look of realization appearing on her nerve.

`` Exactly, '' Albus said, glad that person was finally translate, `` And he used to do whatever they wanted. ``

`` auditory sensation like Kaden, '' Matt agreed.

`` Definitely, '' John replied.

`` You know, '' Rose began, `` Wormtail obviously caved under threats and Kaden did, too. ``

Albus had realized this as well, but he really did n't desire to mean about it. Albus did n't ever mean his cousin would betray anyone like Wormtail had done. `` Well, I guess we 've found our Wormtail. ``

`` When are we going to tell him ? '' John asked.

`` I dunno, '' Albus had n't gotten that far. There were still parts of him that wanted to keep the map a mysterious from Kaden, but he obviously could n't do that if Kaden was supposed to be the new Wormtail. `` I 'm not sure how to narrate him. I 'm not sure he 'll be that beatify about being Wormtail. ``

`` Oh, I do n't know, '' rose said, `` I think he wo n't bear in mind as long as he gets to be a theatrical role of this. ``

`` The map 's not the only when thing we 're going to throw to tell him, is it ? '' Matt said quietly, `` He 's going to find out what I am. ``

This was the part that Albus had tried to debar thinking about ever since he first realized what they had to do to make the new map. Whoever was going to represent Wormtail was going to find out out that Matt was a werewolf, there was no avoiding it. It was office of the reason that Albus had n't really thought about who would be Wormtail. Albus knew Matt did n't need anyone else to find out. He never even really order Albus and the others. They had found out on their own. Albus knew Kaden would never find out on his own ; he was just too unmindful. He needed to know, though, if he was going to be a division of this. Otherwise, he could n't really be one of the new Marauders. Albus just had a gut touch about that. But was it worth it to tell him ? Especially when he already told Malfoy everything Albus had told him to keep on secret ? Albus sighed, `` I think so. If we 're going to do this, Kaden will birth to know. ``

`` We ca n't do it then, '' Matt said adamantly, `` I ca n't tell him. I just ca n't. He 'll severalize Malfoy and then the unit of Slytherin will live and then soon the whole shoal will eff and they 'll recount their parents and they 'll complain and Kendrick will throw to kick back me out. But then it wo n't matter anyway because all of Wizarding U.K. will cognise and no one will desire to be around me or my family again and it will be just like Australia- ''

`` matt, '' Albus cut him off. He was getting hysteric. `` composure down, that 's not going to happen. ``

`` How do you have intercourse ? '' matt whispered in a precarious voice.

`` Because Kaden wo n't assure anyone, '' rosebush interjected.

`` Not if I do n't tell him, '' Matt replied, `` And I 'm not going to recite him. You lot ca n't either, you promised. ``

`` We wo n't, '' Albus reassured him, `` Not unless you want us to. ``

`` I do n't, '' lusterlessness said in a slightly brassy voice.

`` Just listen to me for a minute, '' Rose said loudly. `` Remember what Amanda said about a turn to keep Kaden from giving away anymore secrets ? '' Everyone nodded. `` wellspring, I 'm reasonably sure there is a enchantment like that, '' rosiness grinned.

`` Really ? '' Amanda stared at her, `` thaumaturgy just gets better and better. ``

`` Yes. I vaguely remember reading about it in a Holy Scripture. I 'm certainly if I went to the library I could find it, '' Rose explained. `` I 'll just count for it when I 'm researching the transference charm. ``

Albus 's hopes soared high again, `` Excellent ! Would you be uncoerced to tell him if Rose found this patch ? ``

Albus held his breath as he watched lustrelessness think about it. `` I, '' Matt paused, `` Suppose that could forge .... But, only if we try out the magic spell with a less significant arcanum first. ``

rosebush nodded, `` Yeah, I could do that. ``

Albus grinned. They were onto something, he could experience it. They would unlock the secrets of this new parchment. Albus was so thrilled with the aspect of finally discovering what the new map held, he could hardly sleep that Night. He was n't the simply one, either. Albus heard Matt and John tossing and turning all night, over the sounds of Ethan and Bilius 's snoring. Although, Albus suspected Matt 's sleepless nighttime was more due to spunk than excitement. Judging by the flavor on his typeface as they went back to the common room that evening, he was still reluctant to let Kaden in on his biggest secret.



A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight. Thanks as well to Denas, XDNLxtlz99, Luke, Moonylupin, Lily meet Ginny, and drownzer for their reviews !



Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



When Albus woke up the following morning, he found that he was overcome with nerves about stealing his forefather 's invisibleness Cloak. Albus had been so caught up in the excitement about the map the dark before that he had n't really given it a second cerebration. But now that the estimate had simmered overnight, he realized that the plan might go horribly wrong. What had he been thinking ? Stealing the Invisibility Cloak ? That was exactly what Washburn had been trying to do the previous class. Of course, Albus was technically only borrowing the Cloak, as he intended to sneak it back right after he was done with his late dark stroll to the Shrieking Shack, but still. What if his dad discovered it missing ? Was that even likely ? Albus had no idea how often Harry used his cloak nowadays. He probably did n't have practically use for it at Hogwarts because teachers could drift around wherever and whenever they wanted.

Albus did n't even know where his forefather kept the cloak. He was planning on just trying a summoning charm as James had done to recover the predator 's Map. Albus just hoped that the cloak endeavor would go just as smoothly. Harry still had n't noticed that the Map was missing. Either that or he knew James took it and was just letting him save it. As Albus 's opinion went to the original predator 's Map, he remembered that he still had n't given it back to James.

Albus remained distracted throughout his morning classes and by the sentence lunch came, he was almost as uneasy as he had been for the first Quidditch match. Nobody said much as Albus picked at his food, well nobody except Kaden. Kaden rambled on about his morning classes until he had to depart for Potions a myopic while later. Once he was gone, Albus was liberate to utter about their architectural plan. `` I 'm not sure if this is going to work. ``

`` It worked for the Marauder 's Map, '' rosiness reminded him.

`` I know, but still .... ''

`` It 's got to sour, '' John insisted, `` How else will we sneak down to, '' he lowered his voice, `` you know, without being caught ? ``

`` There is n't any other way, '' mat replied, `` We 'll get catch if we do n't get the cloak. ``

`` We might get caught when we 're trying to slip it, '' Albus commented.

`` No we wo n't, '' St. John assured him, `` And even if we do, we 'll just be caught by your dad. It 's not like we 'll get in trouble with Filch or anything. ``

`` But we 'll get caught by Filch if we try to cabbage out at night without the cloak, '' matt whispered.

`` right hand, '' John agreed, `` So we 're off to steal the cloak. ``

Albus groaned, `` Does n't anyone else think this might not ferment ? ``

`` reliance me, Albus, '' blush wine said, `` It 'll put to work. We 'll sneak the cloak back before Uncle Harry even knows it 's gone. ``

`` He 's leaving now, '' Amanda pointed to the stave tabular array, `` We 'll just expect a couple more than minutes. ``

`` I do n't consider we should all go, '' blush wine announced, `` It 'll look leery if we all go into his office. I think just me and Albus should go. ``

`` Good idea, '' lusterlessness agreed, `` No one will think anything of it if the two of you go into his function. ``

Albus nodded. That was probably the well way to do it. If all five of them went, luck are they would make sufficiency noise to appeal another teacher. Albus was relieved that Rose was going to go, though. She was much in effect at summoning magic spell than Albus was.

`` We 'll wait for you in the elbow room, '' Matt stood up. bathroom and Amanda followed suit. `` See you in a bit. ``

`` Bye, '' pink wine grinned at them. She and Albus loitered a few minutes longer at the Gryffindor mesa before rose gestured that it was clip to go.

Albus and Rose had lingered long enough at the table that the corridors were practically empty, save for a few straggling students who were much more intent on making it to class than giving Albus and Rose a second base glance. They quietly made their way to Harry 's federal agency, narrowly avoiding Peeves near Moaning Vinca minor 's bathroom. Judging from the loud cries that were emitted from the bathroom, Peeves had just finished making fun of poor Myrtle.

The corridor that Harry 's office was in was entirely deserted when Albus and Rose descended upon it. Albus was very well-chosen about this. Maybe they would get away with it. Albus tried to spread out the threshold, but it was locked. `` Merlin ! '' he shouted and looked at Rose.

rosebush did n't look in phased in the least. `` Just use Alohamora. ``

Albus looked at her skeptically. Why would chivy bother to shut away his door with a appeal that anyone could spread ?

`` Just do it, '' rose insisted, `` He 's got a charm on there that recognizes his sorcerous signature. Yours will be close enough to his that it 'll unfold for you, too. It worked with St. James last twelvemonth. It wo n't operate with me, though. I tried. James thought it was incredibly funny. ``

`` All right, '' Albus replied and pointed his wand at the lock. `` Alohomora. '' The ringlet clicked and Albus turned the handgrip. It opened. The cousins quietly crept inside, carefully shutting the door behind them.

Harry 's place looked much like it had the last time Albus had been in it. Parchment, books, and other multifaceted aim were strewn around all over the piazza, cluttering up the desk, couch, and president. The bedroom room access had been left capable and Albus could see that that way was just as messy, with robes laying on the bed and transcript of the Prophet on the floor.

`` Does he ever scavenge up ? '' Rose asked disgustedly, `` I mean, really. This is sorry than Henry James 's room. ``

`` James gets it from Dad, '' Albus laughed, `` Mum makes both of them clean up but Mum 's not here, so Dad can just do what he wants. ``

`` I 'll bet it 's somewhere in there, '' Albus pointed to the chamber and started walking towards it. rosiness followed and soon they were in the tiny bedchamber. Albus guessed that the cloak was either in Harry 's trunk or the wardrobe.

pink wine must have been thinking the Saame thing. She wrenched the body assailable and pointed her wand at it. `` Accio invisibleness Cloak, '' she shouted. Nothing happened.

`` Great, '' Albus groaned, `` It 's not here. ``

`` delay, '' Rose said as she crept closer to Harry 's trunk, `` I 'm pretty sure Uncle Harry mentioned that you ca n't use a come up charm on the cloak. ``

Albus thought for a moment and then remembered his dad telling him that once. `` Oh, yeah. wellspring, now what are we going to do ? ``

`` We 'll do it the hard way, '' pink wine sighed, `` You take the wardrobe, I 'll strike the trunk. ''

Albus shook his headway as he stepped over to his dad 's wardrobe. This was going to take forever. They would certainly get caught before they found it. Albus carefully weeded through his dad 's clobber, being careful to put it all back exactly as he found it.

`` Got it ! '' rose wine announced, `` rump of the trunk ! ``

Albus felt an immense respite as rose held up the cloak. They did it ! They actually found the cloak ! Nothing was stopping them now. They were going to incur out the secrets of the second map.

`` There. Told you we 'd get it, '' Rose grinned, `` Now let 's get out of here. ``

Albus nodded, happy to do as Rose said. He certainly did n't want to get caught in his dad 's federal agency with the invisibleness Cloak. rosebush handed him the cloak and he stuffed it into his robe. Once Albus and Rose were certain that the room looked just as it had when they got there, they quietly left. Neither of them said a Holy Scripture as they walked quickly to the Room of Requirement.

stand-in washed over Albus when he made it into the Room a few minutes later. They had n't been caught ! Albus 's substance still beat fast with adrenaline as he ran into the Room and grinned at his Friend. The thrill of what he and Rose had done was starting to hit him. He had taken the Invisibility Cloak. It was the first Marauder-like matter he had done. He knew this was exactly what the Marauders had wanted him to do. To break rules and not get caught.

`` Did you get it ? '' John ran over with a gleaming of upheaval in his middle. flatness and Amanda were right behind him sporting monovular grins on their faces.

`` Sure did, '' Albus smiled and pulled the silvery cloak out of his robes.

`` It was incredibly easily, '' blush wine laughed. `` I found it right in Uncle Harry 's luggage compartment. ``

`` Can I hold it ? '' lustrelessness asked in awe. Albus handed him the cloak. `` This is incredible, '' matte whispered. `` I 'm holding one of the Hallows. I wish I could tell my dad about this. ``

`` You 'll be able to eventually. My dad just wants to get to know him first. ``

matte put the cloak on and disappeared from aspect. He reappeared a few second base later. `` That is so chill. ``

`` Let me try, '' lav took the cloak and wrapped it around himself. They spent the side by side few moment passing the cloak around and trying it on.

`` You three ought to see if you fit, '' Rose announced.

Albus nodded and took the cloak back from Amanda. John and Matt stood next to him as he threw the cloak over their heads. Albus had been under the cloak with James, Lily, and his first cousin before, so he was used to how cramped it was, but his friends weren't.

`` Watch it, '' John snapped as Matt stepped on his foot.

`` Sorry, '' Matt muttered. `` This is going to be unmanageable. ``

`` Can you see us ? '' Albus asked.

`` Nope, '' rosebush said, `` Walk around the room a few clip. ``

The son walked slowly around the room, making for sure not to break any of their limbs. John and Matt started to get the hang of it after a few moment of practice and they were soon able to go a piffling faster.

`` Perfect, '' Amanda announced after the fourthly meter they circled the room. `` I 'm still amazed by that cloak. ``

`` What night should we do this ? '' john asked after they took the cloak off.

`` I say Saturday because I 've got Quidditch practice that daybreak and I 'm going to experience to get some sleep Fri Nox or Georgia will spend the altogether fourth dimension yelling at me to waken up, '' Albus explained, `` That serious with you two ? ``

`` Sure, '' Gospel According to John agreed. matte nodded.

`` Then we 're set, '' Albus replied, `` Sabbatum night, we sneak into the Shrieking hovel. ``

`` You 're turning into quite the trouble maker, Albus, '' rosiness laughed, `` The Marauders would be proud. ``

******

The next day Rose decided to bulge her inquiry on the transfer magic spell. Albus and the others went with her and it did n't take long to find the aright Word. rosiness found it in a copy of Advanced Charms and after she read a bit about the charm she decided that it was going to be difficult but not unimaginable for her to do. She decided to get the hang that charm before trying to find the charm to celebrate Kaden quiet. That one was going to be harder to find since they did n't even know the name of it. originate checked out the Advanced Charms book under the menacing glower of gentlewoman Pince. It looked to Albus like she was just burning to demand what they were up to and abnegate them the book. But, she could n't since the Christian Bible was n't in the Restricted Section.

pink wine spent the next few days trying to figure the charm out. There was n't often Albus could do to help her, so he just did his prep and watched her. Albus thought the charm looked incredibly complicated and he was glad that pink wine had volunteered to learn it. rosiness was having a bit of difficulty mastering the charm, though. By the time Saturday night rolled around, she still had n't managed to reproduce much of anything. Albus kept reassuring her that she would eventually get it. The magical spell was well beyond the O.W.L. level and it stood to grounds that it would be hard for her. This did not suit Rose well and she was quite frustrated by it. If there was one thing that drove Rose mad, it was having trouble learning something.

`` Why do n't you take a break ? '' Albus suggested while they were in the unwashed room on Saturday night. `` You 've been at it for days. ``

`` Maybe you 're proper, '' rosebush sighed. She had been trying for the past hour to procreate her gens onto another art object of parchment. `` I 'll just unbend for a while. '' She pulled out her Transfiguration book and opened it to one of the later chapters.

`` I do n't do it how you can consider that relaxing, '' John screwed up his face in disgust.

`` What are you doing anyway ? '' Kaden asked loudly, looking up from his Herbology essay.

`` supernumerary deferred payment appealingness preparation, '' Rose lied.

`` Oh, '' Kaden looked vaguely shocked that Rose would need extra credit.

`` I 'm doing it for the fun of it, '' rose explained.

`` You 'll get it eventually, '' Kaden told her, `` You 're smart. ``

`` Thanks, Kaden, '' rosiness smiled at him.

Albus had no question that rosiness would visualize the spell out eventually. It was just taking her long than she expected. Albus was in no kick because the charm would be useless until they got all the paw mark they needed. That would n't happen until after Christmas. whoremonger had n't managed to find a rat in Potions on Friday, but he was keeping his eyes peeled.

The chemical group stayed in the coarse room for another couple hours, waiting until it was completely empty. Albus thought Kaden would never go to bed, but shortly after eleven he finally gave in to his weariness and went up to his dormitory. Eventually, Albus and his champion were the only ones left.

`` Ready ? '' Albus asked. John and matt nodded. Albus rummaged in his bag and pulled out the cloak. `` I 've got the parchment in my robe. I think we 're set. ``

`` Let 's do it, '' John stood up.

`` trade good luck, '' Amanda said as the three son pulled the cloak around themselves. `` We 'll be waiting. ``

`` See you in a bit, '' rosiness told them as she held the portrayal open for them to leave. `` Do n't get caught. ``

`` We wo n't, '' Albus assured her. `` I 've got the Map. '' Albus was n't nearly as nervous about sneaking out of the palace as he had been about stealing the cloak. And clearly he was breaking more linguistic rule this evening than he had the other day. He figured it had something to do with the fact that stealing the cloak was something his Fatherhood would be disappointed in, whereas sneaking out would just get him in difficulty with another teacher.

Whatever the reason, Albus felt almost excited about this evening. The only clock time he had really snuck out after curfew was when he had his offset Occlumency pipe dream the former year. Tonight 's lark was a much better setting. Besides, Albus was a bit excited about following the tunnel to the Whomping willow and seeing the inside of the screech Shack. He felt kind of guilty about this because he knew flatness did n't want them to and was only agreeing to this for the saki of the new map.

Albus motioned for them to break before they started down the stairs. He took out the Map and scanned it for a yoke minutes. Filch was currently striding along the third floor corridor. They would get to be careful about that. They could easily run right into him. Peeves was flitting around a classroom on the fourth floor, no incertitude wreaking havoc for one of the teachers to fix in the daybreak. Luckily, all of the teacher were in their position. All they had to worry about were Filch and Peeves. Albus wondered when Filch slept. It seemed that he was always patrolling the corridors.

Albus, John, and matte continued their cautious trek down to the Entrance lobby, with Albus glancing at the Map every few minutes. The boys made it down to the third floor corridor without trouble, but Albus immediately noticed Filch creeping along the corridor, muttering about brazen-faced baby. Albus gave his Quaker a occupy look as they quietly moved towards the nearest step sheath. Albus held his breath as Filch passed them. Filch continued on his way without even noticing the three inconspicuous boy. Albus was very happy when they made it onto the endorse floor and even happier when they got to the figurehead room access and found that Filch left them unlocked. That was the one thing that could have gone wrong with their plan. heighten had tried to teach him a few more than coordination compound unlocking spells but he was n't very practiced at them and was hoping he would n't need to use them.

`` Made it ! '' St. John let out a huge breath once the rook doors were shut.

`` Not quite, '' Matt replied.

`` Yeah, but at least we can speak now. I wish this cloak would cover up noise, too. Reckon we can take away the cloak off ? ``

`` No, '' Albus answered immediately. `` What if one of the teachers is looking out the window ? Or if Hagrid is wandering around ? '' Albus loved Hagrid, but he would n't want to have to explain why he was sneaking down to the Whomping willow in the dead of Night if the lovable half-giant caught them.

The three son continued along the path that lead them through the grounds. There was about six inches of C. P. Snow on the ground and the air was bitingly frigidness. Albus was glad he remembered his cloak, but was still a bit chilly. He continued to hold the Map every brace of mo, but so far the grounds were deserted. Albus had hoped they would be able-bodied to take the air debauched once they were on the grounds, but he had been wrong. It was still awkward for the three of them to stay concealed under the cloak and it was even harder now because lustrelessness was slowing down. `` Are you all right ? '' Albus asked after the cloak almost slipped off of him.

`` Fine, '' he panted. `` Just the moon. Let 's keep going. ``

Albus looked from his friend 's tired face to the sky. The almost wax synodic month was shining down on the ground, illuminating it sufficiency that Albus had n't bothered to light his wand. `` We should take in done this earlier in the week, '' Albus commented, remembering the disastrous detention with Filch the other month.

`` No, I 'm fine, '' lusterlessness assured him, `` It wo n't be total until Tuesday. ``

Albus looked at him skeptically but did n't say anything else. He and John slowed down their tempo to match flatness 's, although Albus thought it would be salutary for them to rush along up in order to give the Tree faster. Eventually, they reached the Whomping willow tree. The three boy paused just beyond the reach of the outgrowth and Albus and can looked to Matt for instructions.

`` We 're not going to be able to get into the hole wearing the cloak, '' Matt explained. Albus nodded and took it off, stuffing it into his robes. `` All right, '' Matt continued, pulling out his wand. `` I 'll just disable the hospital ward. '' He muttered something quietly and pointed his wand at the tree. Albus strained to hear to the spell but he could n't hear it.

`` Now what ? '' John asked, jumping out of the way of one of the branches.

mat walked around to the former side of the tree with Albus and Saint John following. matte bent over, searched through the snow, and picked up a long pin, stumbling and shivering a fiddling as he stood up. He pressed his hand to his top dog, wincing a little. `` Headache, '' he answered to Albus and toilet 's questioning stares. He dodged one of the tree diagram 's ramification and stuck the prospicient stick into the Tree 's trunks. The branches immediately immobilize and the Whomping Willow looked just as naturalize as any of the other trees on the grounds. `` Quick, before they start again, '' mat stumbled towards the tree and disappeared down the passageway.

Albus, who had already been in the tunnel once, gestured for Saint John to go first. Albus followed his friends and made it into the hole just as the limb started flailing again. Albus and Gospel According to John lit their baton and looked around the hamper tunnel while lustrelessness put the Mrs. Humphrey Ward back up.

`` Let 's go, '' Matt announced once he was done.

`` This is honestly pretty poise, '' John said in awe as they started down the passageway, `` Kinda spooky, but cool. '' flatness sent him a dirty looking. `` I mean, besides the whole werewolf matter, '' John replied quickly.

Albus could see what john meant. It was sort of a neat tunnel, although very dark and variety of damp. The beneficial matter was that it was slightly ardent than outside. The ceiling was low and Albus had to crouch down a petty in order to take the air. There were careen and antecedent along the path, but the whole atmosphere was quite exciting. Albus loved wandering through secret passage and this one was n't any different. He was excited about finally being capable to stick to it. His dad had told him about this tunnel and the Shrieking hut numerous times, but always said no when Albus asked if he could go explore it. Now he was finally getting to do it. Granted, he was breaking about a dozen school rules to do it, but it was deserving it.

They followed the tunnel for what felt like at to the lowest degree a one-half hour. The quiver of it was beginning to wear off as Albus got colder. The month of December was not a convenient meter to be doing this. By the time they reached the Shrieking Shack, Albus was ready to cringe into his tender four-poster bed and go to sleep. lav 's exhilaration had waned as well and he was looking disgruntled from the recollective, chilly walk. matte, despite the fact that they were no longer being pelted by the moonshine, did n't look much better than he had earlier. He looked incredibly exhausted and was breathing as heavily as if he 'd just run a marathon.

`` How do you possibly make it here before the full moonlight ? '' John the Evangelist asked, out of breath. `` You 're practically falling asleep by the time you go down here. ``

`` I 'm ... not really ... sure, '' Matt replied in between breaths, `` Madam Pomfrey ... helps. ``

`` Well, future time I ca n't sleep I 'll just walk up and down this a few time, '' King John joked.

`` In. Here, '' Matt panted as he opened an old looking door that creaked as he opened it. Albus and Saint John the Apostle quietly followed him through it, into a very feeble looking room.

Albus was shocked at what he saw. Broken furniture lay everywhere, a lot of it covered in dried blood. There was n't anything that remained kept. Pieces of table, chairs, and couches were all over the plaza with pungency marks on them. There was a staircase nearby that looked like it had been gnawed on numerous times. Albus swallowed as he realized that his friend was the one who caused all the damage.

`` What did all this ? '' John asked slowly.

Matt glared at him. `` Use your brain, '' he snapped.

John looked from him to the broken furniture and back again. `` Oh, '' he said quietly, `` Sorry. ``

`` It 's all right wing, '' lusterlessness sighed and sat down on the trading floor near the open fireplace. He leaned his headspring against the wall. `` See why I did n't really want you to come here ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus and John nodded.

`` It 's one thing for you to know what I am, '' matt continued, `` But another to see what I actually do, what I could do ... '' his articulation trailed off.

Albus knew what he wanted to say, but could n't. What he could do if he was n't in the screech Shack during the fully moonshine. `` But you 're not really you then. You 're the Wolf. ``

`` I guess, '' Matt said quietly.

`` You know what we could do, though, '' John replied, `` Become Animagi. ``

`` What ? ! '' Albus and mat shouted at the like time.

`` Become Animagi, '' John repeated, `` If we 're trying to become the next Marauders, we might as well do it properly. ``



A/N : Bit of a cliffy ! But I had to get a new chapter somewhere. Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight. Thanks as well to XDNLxtlz99, potterfan89, Moonylupin, smirkyhaha, Denas, myself, and Luke for their reviews !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus had to admit the thinking did cross his mind every once in a while. But really, it was n't very naturalistic. Yes, the predator had done it, but they were lucky it had worked out all right. There was a ground that hardly anyone could become an Animagus and why you had to be registered with the Ministry. Plus, they were only second years. The marauder had n't done it until their fifth year. They were exceptionally smart, too. fountainhead, three of them were. Albus did n't recall he was anywhere near good enough at Transfiguration Day to draw out it off. pink wine was probably the exclusively one of them who had a chance at succeeding. And even though rose did not hesitate to break rules when she needed to, there was no way she would check to this. `` Oh cum on, John, we ca n't be Animagi. ``

`` Why not ? '' King John asked, `` The marauder did it. ``

`` They were really ache, '' Albus explained, `` I 'm definitely not that smarting. And what did you get on your last Transfiguration Day psychometric test ? A 50 or something ? ``

`` 55, thank you, '' John corrected him, `` And we 'd visualise it out. prove could help us. ``

`` But this is n't as simple as figuring out a piece for grade ! '' Albus shouted, `` It 's dangerous. What if we ca n't change back ? What if we get stuck halfway ? Rose does n't know everything. Even she would have difficulty with this. ``

`` It 's worth the endangerment, '' John the Divine said adamantly, `` I do n't care if I mess up a few times. I 'll just try again. ``

`` That 's the thing. Sometimes when you mess up, you do n't get the prospect to try again. My dad explained this all to me over the summertime. He talked to me about becoming an Animagus as soon as shoal was over live year because he knew the sentiment would get over my mind. He 'll know if I try and he wo n't let me do it. I 'd consider trying when we 're older, but definitely not right now. ``

toilet sighed, `` It would be outstanding if we could, though. I mean, we would be the ultimate new Marauders then. Imagine if we could even change into the same animals the vulture were. I fancy myself as a dog. ``

`` I could see that, '' Albus agreed, relieved that John seemed to assume the fact that Albus was n't going to budge on the event. `` I do n't know if I 'd be a stag, though. Maybe a fox or something, I dunno. ``

`` Can you see Kaden as a rat ? '' King John asked, grinning.

Albus smirked, `` Not really. He 'd probably be one of those yappy dogs, not a big cool dog like you 'd be, but a tiny chihuahua or something that 's always skin and jumping. ``

`` Definitely, '' john laughed, `` It could n't hurt to enquiry Animagi, though. I mean, if anyone asks we could say it 's for redundant credit. ``

`` My dad would see right through that one, '' Albus told him.

`` Does n't matter, '' Matt said quietly. He had been exceptionally quiet ever since John had first mentioned the idea. `` You ca n't go Animagi with me on the to the full moon. ``

`` Why ? '' whoremaster asked. `` We know it 's unsafe. I do n't care. ``

`` It 's not that. You think I have n't thought about you lot becoming Animagi ? That my parents have n't thought about doing it ? Amy ? They have. My parents have ever since we found out Aconitum lycoctonum did n't work for me. Amy has ever since she first saw me after a transformation. My parents actually started working on it. But then they decided to have me do the Aconitum lycoctonum work instead. You see, if anyone is with me as an Animagus on the wax Sun Myung Moon, I wo n't bruise myself and it 'll look like the potion actually worked. It 'll mess up the bailiwick big clock time. My parents decided it would be honest for me to find a potion that would work than to take to rely on early the great unwashed 's Animagus abilities. They even forbade Amy from trying it ; she was n't very well-chosen. ``

Albus had n't thought about that. He was actually a lilliputian sticking. He did n't need to turn an Animagus behind his dad 's backrest. It was one thing to slip the invisibility Cloak for a couple days, but to sneak around as an beast every entire moon ? That was just too secretive for Albus 's liking. He hoped that whoremaster would present up on the musical theme now.

`` But if the study ever ends without finding me a potion that works, I wo n't end you from trying. ``

`` Sounds fair, '' Saint John the Apostle replied, `` How long does the field go ? ``

`` No approximation. Probably at least another two age. It all depends on how many different forms of Wolfsbane people come up with, '' Matt closed his optic and leaned his promontory against the wall again.

`` Headache still there ? '' Albus asked. Matt nodded without opening his eyes. `` Let 's hurry up, then. Where should we put the parchment ? ``

`` way behind the stairs, '' matte shakily stood up. `` That way Madam Pomfrey does n't see it. ``

`` We 'll do it. You stay here, '' John gently pushed his friend back onto the base. `` How much parchment should we put down ? ``

`` How much did you wreak ? ``

`` About a one-half roll, '' Albus pulled a partially used roster of parchment out of his cloak.

`` All of it, then. opportunity are nigh of it will get ripped. ``

Albus nodded and stood up. He walked over to the stairs with John following and saw the small room Matt was talking about. It was also filled with several break off pieces of furniture. `` We should n't have done this tonight. I did n't even think about the moon. ``

`` Me neither, '' John shook his head as he bent down to move some of the furniture aside. `` But it 's not as bad as the sentence with the detention. I think he 'll be ok. ''

`` Yeah. He can sleep all tomorrow if he wants, '' Albus commented as he ripped small-arm off the roll of parchment.

`` Him and me both, '' John yawned. `` Was n't expecting the tunnel to be that long. ``

`` Me neither, but it is a long way from the priming to Hogsmeade, so it makes sense. ``

Albus finished ripping the lambskin and the two boy each took a heap to affix to the floor. It took them a few minutes and once they were done, the elbow room was covered in slice of sheepskin.

`` I can see why he did n't need ma'am Pomfrey to see, '' John laughed as he re-lit his wand.

`` It would definitely raise some interrogative sentence, '' Albus lit his own wand. `` Let 's just desire this deeds. I ca n't see any other way to safely get a wolfman 's paw photographic print. ``

The two boys took one more flavor at the lambskin coated elbow room and then went back to the large main way. matt was right on where they left him, leaning against a partially die chair. Albus nudged him awake.

`` Finished ? '' matte yawned.

`` Yup, let 's get back to the castle, '' Albus helped his acquaintance up and the three of them left the shack.

The stumble back through the tunnel took a lot foresighted than when they were going to the shack. All three boy were incredibly tired and the quiver had worn off for Albus and John. Albus glanced at his watch as they neared the end of the tunnel and saw that it was nearly 1:30. He was very gladiola they had done this on a weekend.

`` It 's surd getting out than getting in, '' flatness said tiredly as he removed the wards. `` Whoever goes first has to dodge the branch and then tug the knot on the trunk for the other two. ``

Albus and John looked at each other, for both of them knew Matt was too exhausted to be able to put off the outgrowth properly. `` I 'll do it, '' Albus told him, `` I 'm making you get the rat. '' Albus climbed up the wall and crawled out of the yap. He was immediately hit in the shoulder with one of the flailing branches. `` Ouch ! '' he shouted as he groped the torso for the Calidris canutus. His hand made physical contact with it and the offshoot immediately froze. `` You can occur out now, '' he whispered through the passageway.

Albus stood aside and pulled the invisibility Cloak out of his cloak. Matt appeared out of the hole first and shuddered as the moonshine hit him. John was right behind him and the two of them got under the cloak with Albus once matte re-set the wards.

`` You ok ? '' King John asked Albus once they were back on the track leading to the castle.

`` Yeah. Just got me in the shoulder, '' Albus replied. His berm stung and he could feel some blood dripping down his arm, but he could n't go see Madam Pomfrey. She would know immediately what gave him the wound and would no doubt insist on knowing what they were up to.

The boys trudged along through the dusty Nox air. Albus looked up to the sky and saw that thick-skulled clouds were moving in. It would probably snow soon. Of course, Albus would be much too tired the next day to enjoy it, so it did n't often matter. It was worth it, though. Within a few days they would have one of the four paw mark needed to unlock the closed book of the new map.

A little while later they reached the palace room access. Albus glanced quickly at the Map and saw that Filch was up on the sixth base and Peeves was in Moaning Myrtle 's bathroom. No one else was wandering around. Albus grasped the hold of the door and pushed. It did not budge. He tried again, but no luck. `` Filch must 've remembered to lock away it ! '' Albus muttered.

`` Try one of those spells Rose taught you, '' bathroom suggested.

Albus nodded and pointed his wand at the handle. He muttered a spell but the threshold remained locked. He tried a few More, but none of them worked. `` I think we 're locked out ! '' Albus said in a terrified tone.

`` We 're locked out ? '' John questioned and pushed the door himself, `` What do we do now ? ``

`` What do you mean we 're locked out ? '' Matt groaned, `` It was just unlocked a couple hours ago ! ``

`` I know it was, '' Albus replied anxiously, `` Filch must 've locked it ! ``

`` We ca n't appease out here all night ! '' Matt 's voice cracked, `` We 'll immobilise ! ``

Albus swallowed hard as panic filled his consistency. What were they going to do now ? Albus had been worrying mostly about getting out of the castle and into the tunnel without getting caught that the thought of being locked out had n't even crossed his judgement. I mean, what were the fortune of the door being unlocked when they left and locked when they came back ? But what would they do ? They could n't stay out here, it was freezing and would snow soon. All three of them were shivering. `` Any fortune either of you knows how to conjure a Patronus ? '' Albus asked, thinking of the simply way he knew to contact rosiness and Amanda.

`` Are you mad ? '' trick asked. `` We 're only arcsecond days. ``

`` well, have you got any bright ideas on how to recite Rose and Amanda we 're locked out ? ``

John the Divine thought for a hour before answering, `` You could better into the Calluna vulgaris shed and steal a broom. Then fly it up to Gryffindor pillar. ``

`` Now you 're mad. I 'll get seen by someone. What if one of the professors is looking out their window ? Or one of the scholarly person ? ``

`` Wear the invisibility Cloak, '' John replied.

`` Then you two will get seen. And if I 'm wearing the Cloak then blush wine and Amanda wo n't see me. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Gospel According to John sighed. `` How about Hagrid ? ``

`` Then we 'll get in trouble, '' Albus reminded him, although unless they did n't think of something else soon, they would take to go to Hagrid's.

`` fountainhead, we 've got to call up of something soon. He 's got to get away from the moonshine, '' toilet gestured to lusterlessness who was leaning against the door and breathing heavily.

`` The moon 's almost covered by clouds, '' Albus pointed out, `` But then we 'll have to worry about being snowed on. ``

`` Wonderful, '' John groaned. `` Maybe we can curl up in piles of snow like wolves do and keep warm that way. ``

`` Very funny, '' Albus said flatly. He was really starting to get worried now. What would take place if they did go to Hagrid 's ? They 'd surely get in worry, but how practically ? Would they just get detention or would it be worse ? Points would be taken away for certain, and that would not go over well with the other Gryffindors.

`` Hey, wait ! '' john 's cheek brightened a bit, `` What about the shriek Shack ? We could just go back there and drop the night. Then we 'll lift back in tomorrow daybreak after Filch has unlocked the doors again. ``

`` That 's ... that 's, '' Albus thought about this for a moment. `` Not actually a bad estimation. We 'll be inside and we wo n't get caught. ``

lav grinned. `` Let 's go, '' he poked Matt in the side.

`` What ? '' lustrelessness opened his eyes.

`` We 're going back to the hut, '' whoremaster explained.

`` Great, '' lusterlessness said sarcastically, `` I get to pass another night there. You two could n't come up with a different idea ? ``

`` Nope, '' John answered, `` I 'd say it was pretty brilliant myself, so unless you 've got a better one, we 're going. ``

matte sighed, `` Oh, fine. But we 're not making a habit of this. ``

`` Me and Albus are n't, '' can laughed, `` But you already do. ``

`` Oh, shut it, '' mat groaned, `` Let 's just go. ``

Albus could n't help but feel a midget bit excited about spending the dark in the hovel. It would definitely be the worst thing he had ever done, as far as breaking rules was concerned. He also felt nervous about it. What if they did get caught ? What if pink wine and Amanda started to get vex and told someone about their design ? Albus pushed that thought out of his brain. rose wine would n't do that, would she ? She would if she thought they were in trouble. But they were n't in that big of fuss. The three of them would spend the Night in the shack and that would be that. When morning came they would sneak back into the castling and no one would be the wiser. This might actually be kind of fun ; it was thrilling and a tad bit severe. Something the predator would have done. Who knows, maybe they even had done it on occasion.

The trip back to the shack, though exhausting, was uneventful. John, like Albus, had a look of excitement in his eyes when the three of them entered the shack once more. mat looked like he did n't care where they were, as long as there was some piazza he could sleep.

`` This is pretty assuredness, '' John grinned, `` Spending the Night in Hogsmeade. ``

`` It 's going to be moth-eaten, though, '' Matt shivered, `` There are n't any heating charms in here. ``

`` Warmer than outside, '' Albus commented as he stowed the cloak back in his robes. `` Are there any lights in here ? ``

`` Nope, '' Matt replied. `` We 'll just have to sustain our wands lit. ``

`` What do you require to do now ? '' John asked with a look of mischievousness on his face, `` So many possibilities in this place .... ''

`` How about we go to bed ? '' matte suggested sarcastically.

Albus, although excited about spending the night in the shack, was extremely tired and all he wanted to do was sleep. `` Are there any bottom here ? ``

`` One, '' matt answered. He led Albus and John up the stairs and into the solitary bedroom. There was one large bed and a closet, both surprisingly still intact. `` They 're charmed to be perdurable, '' Matt answered Albus 's questioning look.

whoremonger hopped onto the bed and started jumping on it. `` Now we 're talking ! This bed is excellent for jumping. ``

`` Ca n't say I 've ever tried it before, '' Matt joined him on the bed and started jumping as well. `` You 're right, it is quite a nice for jumping. ``

Albus jumped up with them and agreed. The bed was good for jumping. Even skilful than James 's. James IV, Albus, and Lily had spent many hours jumping on Saint James 's bed, always to be interrupted and yelled at by their female parent. The male child continued jumping on the bed and goofing off for a duo transactions. Albus smirked to himself as he remembered a story his Aunt Hermione had told him about monkeys jumping on a bed.

`` What 's so funny ? '' bathroom asked.

`` Just wondering who 'll be the start to fall off and break his straits, '' Albus laughed.

`` What ? '' privy asked and mat started to laugh as well.

`` It 's a Muggle history, '' Albus explained and proceeded to tell John Lackland the tale of the monkeys.

`` It 's amazing what Muggles come up with for report, '' John shook his head and jumped off the bed, landing on his pes like a cat. `` I do n't think any of us are going to founder our heads. ``

`` Mine spirit like it 's broken, '' lusterlessness announced as he jumped off the bed. He did n't land as gracefully as privy and fell on his arm. `` Ow ! ``

Albus jumped down next to him. `` You ok ? ``

`` Yeah, '' lustrelessness pointed his lit wand at his arm. `` No line. ``

`` Good, '' John replied.

`` We should probably go to bed now, '' Albus suggested, `` We 've got to be up early so we can sneak back in before a lot of hoi polloi wake up. ``

`` There 's Sir Thomas More blankets in the press, '' Matt yawned as he got back on the bed and curled up beneath the blanket that was already on the bed.

Albus and John each grabbed a couple cover and got into the bed alongside Matt. It was a good thing the bed was so big, Albus thought. It was much bad than the four-poster beds in Gryffindor.

`` He 's already benumbed, '' John commented as he lay down.

`` Good, '' Albus replied, `` Maybe his headache will go away. Good dark. ``

`` 'Night. ``

******

Albus woke up the adjacent morning to sliver of Christ Within shining through the boarded up windowpane. Boarded up Windows ? There were n't boarded up windows in the student residence. Albus 's middle shot open and he glanced around at his environs. Oh, good. The computer storage of the previous dark flooded Albus as he realized that he was in the shrieking Shack. Albus sat up and yawned. He felt more fatigue this forenoon than he had the previous night. One expression at his spotter told him why. It was only seven o'clock, he had only gotten about four hr of quietus. Just as well, Albus thought. They had to get back to the castle quickly anyway, if they wanted to sneak back in without anyone noticing.

Albus nudged John awake and winced. He pulled up the sleeve of his robe and saw that the cut from the Whomping Willow looked thoroughly disgusting. It was probably infected and would take a misstep to the hospital annexe. Albus shook John with his uninjured arm. `` John, wake up ! ``

`` No, lem me catch some Z's, '' John Lackland groaned and turned away from Albus.

`` Get up or we 'll get caught, '' Albus pushed him again.

`` Do n't worry, '' john murmured.

`` I 'll agitate you out of bed, '' Albus warned. St. John muttered something incoherent and did n't move. `` You asked for it, '' Albus muttered and rolled toilet over to the edge of the bed. He gave him one concluding nudge and John fell off the edge of the bed with a garish thump.

`` What the snake pit ? '' John shouted, sitting up with a dazzle look on his face.

`` I told you to get up, '' Albus leaned over the bed and laughed. `` We 've got to get back to the castle or someone 's going to see us come out of the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. ``

`` Oh, fine, '' John grumbled, `` But I 'm going back to bed once we get back. ``

`` You and me both, '' Albus agreed and got out of bed. He picked up the redundant blanket and stowed them back in the wardrobe so Madam Pomfrey would n't get suspicious.

`` You going to agitate him off the bed too ? '' John pointed to Matt 's sleeping soma as he stood up.

`` No, '' Albus replied simply.

`` Where 's the justice ? '' John muttered.

Albus grinned and shook Matt awake. `` We 've got to get back to the castle. We 'll sleep more there. ``

matt groaned and got out of bed. `` I think I 'd rather just stay here. ``

`` I would n't hint it, '' John responded, `` Albus pushed me off the bed when I did n't get up. Can you trust that ? ``

matt laughed and looked from Saint John the Apostle to Albus and back again. `` Yes. ``

The male child left the shack quickly and started the retentive journey back to the Whomping willow. All three of them were dragging and Albus was very gladiola that he did n't feature any classes today. He had preparation, but he was n't even going to remember about that until he got at least another six 60 minutes of rest. One prompt checkout of the map told him that the coast was realise before they emerged from the tree.

The three of them donned the invisibleness Cloak as soon as Matt was finished warding the tree and they set off for the castling. Since it was still early, the lone one on the grounds was Hagrid. There were several more column inch of Baron Snow of Leicester and by the clip they boys were back at the rook room access, their robes were wet and they were shivering. Halfway to the palace, it had started sowing again.

`` Rose and Amanda are in the Great Hall, '' Albus pointed to their two dots on the map. `` But hardly anyone else is, and no one 's in the Entrance Hall, so I think we 're honest. '' Albus pushed the door overt and the three invisible boys slipped inside. Albus immediately pulled the wet cloak off of them and hid it in his robes. `` We should probably go talk to Rose and Amanda. ``

`` I 've got to go see gentlewoman Pomfrey sometime, '' matte told them, `` My arm still hurts, smell. '' He pulled the sleeve of his gown up and showed them his black and blue arm. `` I do n't think it 's broken, but it still hurts. ``

`` My articulatio humeri still hurts, '' Albus replied, `` I guess I 'll bear to go, too. ``

At that moment, Rose and Amanda left the Great Asaph Hall and stopped a couple feet away from the son. John the Divine pointed to where they were and Albus turned around. Both girl had a combination of relief and anger on their faces. Rose was fuming by the time she stomped over to Albus. `` Where. Were. You, '' she demanded.

`` Er, '' Albus mumbled. He never liked being on the receiving end of his cousin 's anger.

`` elbow room, now, '' rose wine seethed and stalked off towards the steps with Amanda at her side.

Albus, John, and flatness followed wordlessly. All ideas of going to the infirmary annexe were driven from Albus 's judgment. Of course, after seeing rose wine, he would much rather have been bombarded with enquiry about his shoulder joint than going to the room with his cousin.

Nobody said a Son until they were in the elbow room. Albus, can, and mat sat side by incline on the sofa, but Rose and Amanda remained standing in front of them. `` excuse yourselves ! '' rose shouted.

`` We- '' Albus began.

rosiness cut him off, `` You know what ? I think I 'll tell you about our night first ! We were plenty worried about the three of you sneaking off to the shanty in the middle of the night, but it had to be done. What other choice did we have ? It was safe than the alternative. How else were you going to get the paw print ? I thought the plan would lick. We had it all set. You three would nobble down there and put the parchment on the storey and then sneak back up. Simple. '' pink wine stopped and began to pace around the room.

`` There were all form of affair that could 've gone wrongfulness, '' Amanda picked up where Rose left off. `` Filch, for one. Or one of the teachers. Peeves, even. Or how about when you got onto the grounds ? There are all sort of fauna wandering around at night. Not to note the Whomping willow itself. ``

`` So what were we supposed to think when you three never showed up ? ! '' Rose raised her articulation even high-pitched, if that was possible. `` If you had been caught by Filch or a teacher, you would 've came back to Gryffindor eventually ! BUT YOU NEVER DID ! ``

`` But Rose- '' toilet pleaded. Albus sent him a warning look. He knew it was never sound to interrupt rose wine when she was on a rampage.

`` Shut up, John ! We thought some sort of brute had you ! Or even worse, that Washburn had come back for the Hallows and found you and snatch you or something ! Then you sneak back into the castle this dawning, looking like you 've just been at a party or something !

`` You kept us up all night worrying, when you probably just decided to have some fun utmost night. You know I was this fill up to telling Uncle Harry this first light. I wanted to last Night, but Amanda convinced me to hold back until morning. Of line now I wish I had n't waited. Maybe a couple detention would teach you not to remain out all night ! ``

`` pink wine, '' Albus said tentatively, `` Just let us explicate. ``

`` Go ahead, Albus, '' Rose glared at him. `` Convince me that what you did last night was n't just stupidity. ``

`` We got locked out, '' Albus explained, `` The doors to the palace were n't locked when we left, but Filch must 've locked them after we were out of the castle. I tried all the good luck charm you taught me, but none of them worked. So we decided to spend the dark in the Shrieking Shack. And you 're right, it was form of fun. ``

rose and Amanda stared at him, dumbstruck. Neither of them said a Christian Bible for the future minute of arc. Albus and the other boys did n't dare say a word either. `` Well, '' rosiness said quietly, `` Er, that does explain matter. I 'm, uh, regretful I yelled at you. ``

`` It 's all right, '' Albus assured her.

`` But Albus ? '' rosiness began, `` You could 've just gone to the Owlery and sent me a quick note telling me that you were locked out. Then we would 've at least known what was going on. ``

Albus, John, and lusterlessness turned to look at each other. Albus felt his brass turning red. Of course ! Why had n't he thought of that ? The only means of communication Albus had thought of was a Patronus. But the solution was there all along, a simple owl. He could have just made a speedy stumble to the owlery before they went back to the Shack.

`` We 're cretin, '' John muttered softly.

`` Yes, but you 're our half-wit, '' Rose laughed. `` Now, are you going to state us about your little adventure ? ``

Albus, john, and lusterlessness spent the next half hr relaying every item of their trip to the screaming hutch the premature night. Rose and Amanda both found it very entertaining, especially the part about Albus pushing bathroom off the bed.

After they were done telling the story, all five of them went to the infirmary wing so Albus and lustrelessness could get their wounding healed. brothel keeper Pomfrey was sitting at her desk when they arrived and the ward was completely deserted of other patients. She took one flavour at the Gryffindors and came bustling out from behind the desk. `` You lot again ? What have you gotten yourselves into this time ? ``

`` Just these two, '' John pointed at Albus and Matt.

Madam Pomfrey took one hard smell at Matt and announced, `` You were outside last nighttime. Was somebody giving you detention ? ``

`` Er, no. ``

Madam Pomfrey looked at him for a few seconds longer and sighed, `` Go sit down on a bed, both of you. ``

Albus and Matt sat down on one of the bottom and Madam Pomfrey returned a few moment later with a tray laden with potions. She told Matt to booze them all, which he did. `` My arm 's all bruised, too, '' matt pulled up his sleeve, `` I tripped over a ledger. ``

dame Pomfrey clucked her tongue and pulled out her wand. She had his arm healed in an instant. `` I trust you 'll get some quietus today ? Or do I have to make you stay here ? ``

`` I 'll slumber, I promise, '' matt replied quickly.

`` What about you ? '' the nurse turned to Albus.

`` Hurt my articulatio humeri, '' Albus answered, not elaborating on the depicted object. He pulled up his arm to reveal his injured shoulder.

Madam Pomfrey studied it for a moment, then she cleaned it. Albus winced as the potion she used on it stung. The nurse looked at the hurt for a trivial while longsighted and she looked from Albus to Matt and back again. `` I know how you got that, '' she replied.

`` Er, '' Albus stuttered. Great, after all that, they were still going to get in trouble.

`` Whatever you boys did go night, do n't do it again, '' madam Pomfrey said sternly, looking Albus and then matt in the eye, `` I wo n't severalise Professor Longbottom this clock time, or your father, '' she said to Albus, `` But next meter I will. ``

Albus breathed a suspiration of relief as madam Pomfrey healed his shoulder with one swift waving of her wand. He 'd accept no trouble keeping his discussion to the nurse. There was no way that he was going to reduplicate last night. Well, unless they needed to for the map. But he 'd try hard not to get hit by the Whomping willow tree next time.

`` You 're all set, '' ma'am Pomfrey announced, `` Now go get some sleep, both of you. ``

Albus nodded as he stood up. He would have no problem doing that. He was practically falling asleep as he walked. The group went back to the green room and the boy immediately headed for their dorm. Albus changed into his pj's and climbed into his ardent four-poster bed, feeling very satisfied that they had n't been caught at all.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to XDNLxtlz99, sinwillys822, Denas, Alex, Luke, smirkyhaha, Moonylupin, and hermionieforever for their reassessment !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


By the time Albus woke up it was already dinner metre, which was good because he was starving. John and matte woke up shortly after Albus did. All three of them were feeling much amend now that they 'd gotten a comely amount of money of sleep.

`` gear up to do that again ? '' John Lackland asked as he was putting on his skid.

Despite the fact that Albus did have fun on their escapade last Nox, he did not want to repeat it. `` Are you mental ? '' Albus glared at him.

`` Kidding, kidding, '' John laughed.

`` You do realize that we 'll stimulate to go get the paw print, '' Matt reminded them.

Albus and whoremaster looked at each other. The truth was, Albus really had n't thought about that. `` Er, ca n't you just contribute with you back to the castle ? ``

`` I 'm usually unconscious, '' Matt replied, `` But I can try. ``

Albus really hoped Matt would be able-bodied to get the paw print. What were the prospect that they 'd be able to sneak down to the shack again and not get caught ? Surely Filch would n't block to lock the doors twice. Plus, what would chance if they get locked out again ?

`` Albus ! '' a loud voice shouted as soon as Albus, Saint John, and Matt descended into the plebeian room. Kaden came running over to them with his common looking of excitement in his eyes.

`` Hey, Kaden, '' Albus greeted him. `` We 're just going to dinner. ``

`` Me, too. I 'll go with you, '' Kaden fell into step alongside Albus. `` Where have you lot been all day anyway ? ``

`` Uh, sleeping upstairs, '' Albus replied.

`` Really ? '' Kaden asked skeptically, `` Because I asked Rose if you were in your student residence and she said you were n't. ``

`` I assure you we were, '' Albus laughed.

`` Hmm, well, I wonder why she told me you were n't. ``

`` Who knows ? She 's a girl, they do strange things, '' John said.

`` Why were you sleeping, though. It 's the day. ``

`` We were tired, '' Matt answered simply.

`` Why ? ``

`` Stayed up latterly doing homework lowest dark, '' John lied, `` We 've got a ton of it and there 's still more to do tonight. It 's what happens after first of all class. They bombard you with even more preparation. ``

`` Guess I 've got that to see forward to, '' Kaden sighed, `` Oh, well. ``

The boys did drop their entire evening doing all the homework they had n't done the night before. Kaden stared at them the hale fourth dimension, no doubt cerebration of next year, when he would have to expend his unanimous weekend doing homework. Albus felt kind of bad that they told him that and he was now kind of dreading his secondly class, but he 'd find out soon enough that that was n't true. What else could they have told him, though ? They could n't say a word about the new map until rosiness found the appealingness to keep him silence about it.

******

The day of the full phase of the moon lunation came quickly and Albus could n't concentrate on any of his course of study. He could only think about the map, and how they would be one step closer to revealing it after tonight. He would also soon cognize if another tripper to the hut was going to be requisite. Of trend, it may be that more than one more head trip would be needed, if they did n't get the footprint tonight. There was the hypothesis that all the parchment would be destroyed. Albus did n't want to think about that, though. He just clung to the idea that they would be able-bodied to get a paw print tonight and that lustrelessness would be able-bodied to play it back the following morning.

Matt skipped his afternoon classes and spent the time sleeping in the Room of Requirement. Once Albus and the others had finished dinner party and snuck out of the Great Hall before Kaden noticed, they went up to the elbow room. They did n't induce lots time before mat had to go to the hospital fender and all four of them wound up taking him there.

`` Now that I know how tenacious that burrow is, I feel even sorrier for him, '' bathroom said quietly on their way to the common room.

`` I know what you mean, '' Albus replied, `` I do n't know how he does it. He could barely get to the hospital backstage. ``

`` Hi, cat ! '' Kaden shouted once they entered the uncouth way. Albus, John, pink wine, and Amanda went over to the table Kaden was sitting at, which was strewn with parchment and Christian Bible, and sat down. `` Where 's lustrelessness ? '' Kaden asked.

`` Sick in the hospital wing, '' Albus told him.

`` Oh, '' Kaden said, `` Because of that disease I was n't supposed to tell anyone about ? ``

`` Right, '' Albus confirmed. His cousin-german could be so dumb sometimes. Albus pulled out a few of his books and tried to concentrate on his homework. Kaden kept babbling on and on about some potion that he was going to be brewing the next day, which he was very activated about. Albus tried to tune up him out, but he could n't. Albus had a touch even if Kaden was n't running a streaming commentary about his potions class he still would n't be able-bodied to concentrate. His whole mind was consumed with thoughts about the map. He sighed and closed his Bible. None of his prep was due tomorrow anyway. `` I do n't really experience like doing homework tonight. ``

`` I never do, '' John muttered and continued writing his pappa essay that was due the next day.

`` Hey, Kaden ? '' Albus suddenly got an idea that would occupy both his and Kaden 's evening. `` Ever played cheat ? ``

`` Yeah. My mum teach me. ``

`` Ever played whizz 's cheat ? '' Albus grinned at him.

`` What ? '' Kaden 's face lit up, `` Wizards have their own chess ? ``

`` Sure do, '' Albus replied, `` I 'll instruct you. Be proper back. '' Albus ran up to his dormitory and rummaged around in his body until he found a chess circuit board, his chessmen, and an old set of chessmen for Kaden. When he got back, Kaden was looking even more excited than when Albus left him.

`` What are we going to do ? '' Kaden asked excitedly.

`` play chess game. It 's pretty often like Muggle chess, but with some dispute. You think of how to play Muggle cheat ? ``

`` Yeah. ``

`` Well, with Wizard 's Bromus secalinus everyone has their own chessman. These are mine, '' Albus held up his whiten chessmen. `` You 'll see why when we play. You can use this fifth wheel set. I think it used to belong to my Uncle Percy. '' Albus handed Kaden the set of black-market chessmen.

`` Are you any honorable at chess ? '' Kaden asked, `` Because I 'm not. ``

`` I 'm all right. Not as good as James, and not nearly as good as pink wine. My Uncle Ron, Rose 's dad, is the best at it. No one 's ever able to get him. ``

`` Do we just set them up like normal ? ``

`` Yeah, '' Albus replied as he set up his own pieces. `` White goes first. Oh, and you do n't incite your pieces. Just differentiate the spell which space to make a motion to. ``

`` recount them ? '' Kaden repeated, `` What do you mean, tell apart them ? ``

`` Just spotter, '' Albus put down his final composition and muttered instructions for his pawn to move two squares ahead.

`` Whoa ! '' Kaden stared in awe as the snowy cat's-paw moved by itself. `` They 'll do that if I tell them, too ? ``

`` They 're supposed to. But they might not require to since they 're not used to you. Try it. ``

Kaden told one of his pawns to move forward two lame and it did so without hesitation. Kaden was completely shocked by this. `` This is way better than unconstipated chess. ``

The plot continued for a few more minutes and then one of Kaden 's pawn wound up in the way of life of Albus 's castle. Albus commanded the castle forward and it completely smashed Kaden 's pawn.

`` Whoa ! '' Kaden shouted so loudly that half the common way turned around to look at him. `` Your palace killed my pawn ! That 's genial ! How do you use them again ? ``

`` There 's a trance to repair them, '' Albus explained.

`` volition my spell kill yours ? ``

`` Yup. ``

A few turns later, Kaden got the fortune to order one of his pieces to vote out one of Albus 's. Kaden 's nerve was full of glee as his bishop smashed one of Albus 's pawns. The game continued and Albus started to get the opinion that Kaden just liked watching the piece of music destroy each other. This became especially evident when Kaden only had his Billie Jean Moffitt King, a knight, his palace, and three instrument left. Albus was only missing one castle, both bishops, and five or so pawns. Kaden 's chess piece were not very happy about this and his B. B. King and knight actually got into what appeared to be a heated line of reasoning about whether or not they were going to go along to listen to Kaden. Eventually, his king unconditional out refused to travel and Albus won by default. Nevertheless, it was one of the most funny secret plan of cheat Ablus had ever played. John, Amanda, and even Rose gave up on their homework and watched the finally parting of the game.

`` I think you need your own chessmen, '' Albus told Kaden as he repaired the demote art object. `` I 'm not surely if these will be willing to heed to you anymore. ``

`` Well it 's no curiosity, '' rose commented, `` All he did was tell them to walk right into death hole. ``

`` It 's funny to see them get crushed, '' Kaden explained.

`` Maybe next time you 'll actually try and win, '' pink wine smirked.

`` Maybe, '' Kaden shrugged. `` I think I 'll ask for chess piece for Christmas. ``

`` That would be a good melodic theme, '' Albus replied. `` I only hope that you treat them salutary than these 1. ``

******

Albus did n't catch some Z's very well that dark and he was very tired the next morning. All he could think about was the paw print and whether or not their design worked. Luckily Albus only had two classes that day and then he would be able to go see Matt.

`` We 're going to the hospital wing after this, right ? '' privy whispered to Albus during a mind numbing History of Magic lesson. Binns was currently droning on about the history of the captivity of house Elves. Rose was the only one paying attention, although Albus had no idea why she bothered. Both of them already knew everything about the chronicle of business firm gremlin, having been lectured about it by rosiness 's mother.

`` Yeah, '' Albus said back, `` Do you want lunch first ? ``

`` Of trend I do. This is me you 're talking about. But let 's create it fast. ``

`` I should n't throw bothered request, '' Albus laughed.

`` How practically longer until this is over ? '' Amanda turned around and looked at Albus. She was sitting at the desk in front of him and John, with Rose.

Albus glanced at his watch. `` Fifteen minutes. But it 'll sense like XXX. ``

`` Why do we need to know about business firm Elves anyway ? '' John the Divine asked

`` They 're an important part of wizarding history ! '' rosebush replied impatiently and returned to her notes.

`` It 's oil production, though, '' lav responded and flicked a piece of sheepskin at the Hufflepuff sitting at the desk adjacent to him. `` We should learn about something more turn on. Like the Giant Wars. ``

`` Binns 'll make even that oil production, '' Albus pointed out.

`` Anything 's honorable than this. ``

`` Even the history of cauldrons and their issue on wizarding beau monde ? '' Amanda laughed. That example, which had taken place the late year, had been the mop up one yet. Albus was sure everyone, including rosebush, had fallen asleep during it.

`` Never mind, '' John groaned. `` I do n't even want to think about that one. Or the 14 in essay we had to indite on it. ``

`` Mr. Beeton, Mr. Pewter, and fille Torker, '' Binns said monotonously, `` Is there something you 'd like to contribution with the class ? ``

`` No, sir, '' John replied.

`` goodness, well, '' Binns continued, `` And in 1866, British sign Elves started to have middleman with the American House extremely low frequency, which resulted in a kind of House Elf unity .... ''

`` Kill me now, '' John muttered.

`` Five more moment ... '' Albus sighed.

`` I think Binns was around during all this House Elf hooey, '' Amanda whispered.

John snorted, `` That 's probably why he likes history. He was there when it happened. ``

`` This is worse than maths in Muggle school, '' Amanda told them.

`` I hate maths, '' John agreed, `` I 'm beaming we do n't have to take them here. Mum taught me some and it was atrocious. ``

`` I take it you two wo n't be doing Arithmancy next year, '' Albus grinned. He was not planning on taking that class either.

`` No way, '' St. John shook his head, `` I 'll bet Kaden would wish it, though. ``

`` He likes everything, '' Albus laughed, `` He probably even likes this year. ``

`` He does. He told me the other day, '' Amanda announced.

`` like everything except Quidditch, '' John sighed, `` There 's something haywire with that kid. ``

`` twelve inch essay about the company for the publicity of Elfish well-being for next class, '' Binns droned a minute before the course of instruction was over.

The second the Vanessa Bell rang, Albus and his friends shot up out of their chairs and ran out the threshold. `` This 'll be bar, '' Albus laughed, `` An essay on Spew ! ``

`` It 's S.P.E.W. ! '' Rose laughed as she caught up with him.

`` goodness, you can do mine ! '' St. John told him.

`` Sorry, one boring essay per night, yours would put me over my limitation, '' Albus faked an apologetic tone. `` Oh, come on, you know all about Spew. ``

`` I know, it 's just not how I 'd wish to drop my fourth dimension. ``

`` Mine either, '' Amanda agreed, `` But I 'll do it over the weekend, probably. ``

`` Let 's go eat, '' Albus suggested, `` Then we can go see Matt. ``

The Gryffindors joined the sea of bookman that were flooding into the Great hall. Luckily, Kaden was eating at one end of the Gryffindor table and Albus and the others were able to shovel down food for thought at the opposite end without him noticing them. Once they were done with their look sharp lunch, they ran up to the hospital fender. `` I hope he was capable to get the paw print, '' Albus whispered as they pushed open the doors.

`` Me, too. I do n't fancy walking through that tunnel again, '' John agreed.

The drape were pulled around lusterlessness 's common bed at the far end of the Mrs. Humphrey Ward. Nobody was in any of the other seam. Madam Pomfrey was fussy preparing potions when the group of Gryffindors walked in. She heard them enter and went over to greet them. `` Oh, it 's you lot. I figured you 'd be showing up soon. He 's sleeping right now, I 'm afraid you 'll have to wait. ``

`` Please, Madam Pomfrey ? '' Albus pleaded, `` We wo n't stay put long, I promise. ``

`` Yeah, we 'll be quiet, too, '' whoremaster commented, `` You can bemuse us out if we 're not. ``

`` You know the rules, '' the nursemaid replied sternly, `` If he 's sleeping you have to come back later. ``

`` I 'm not asleep ! '' a husky voice came from behind the curtains.

`` Now you 've woken him up ! '' gentlewoman Pomfrey walked briskly over to the bed and opened the curtains, `` You know he needs to rest ! ``

`` well, he 's awake now, so we can continue, '' Albus said as he walked over to the bed. Everyone else followed him.

`` Fine, '' lady Pomfrey reluctantly agreed, `` Only for a short while. '' She left them alone and went back to her potions.

`` Sorry for waking you up, '' Albus said as he closed the curtains again. `` How are you ? ``

`` I 'm all right field, '' Matt replied. He looked much like he usually did after a full synodic month, with various bandage all over. `` You did n't wake me up, though. I was pretending to be asleep. ``

`` Why ? '' rosiness asked.

`` You 'll never guess who was here. ``

`` Who ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Kaden. ``

`` What ? Did he make out to see you ? '' Albus told Kaden not to go visit lusterlessness unless he said it was ok, but with Kaden there was no telling what he 'd do.

`` Not intentionally, I do n't think. Felix Willinson 's potion exploded in social class and he and Kaden got covered in it. Willinson got the brunt of it and while Kaden was waiting for his go to get antidote, he kept asking who was in my bed. Madam Pomfrey would n't tell him, but I think he knew it was me. He knows I went here last night. Madam Pomfrey came to grant me potion while they were here and Kaden saw me. Then he asked if he could see me, so I pretended to be asleep. ``

`` So Willinson knew you were here ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Yeah, he 's going to tell Malfoy. ``

`` Malfoy already knows you 're here since you were n't in Transfiguration this forenoon, '' rosebush pointed out.

`` True. I guess it really does n't matter then. ``

Albus was just itching to know if Matt had managed to get the paw print. He had thought mat would bring in it up right away, but the Kaden thing must 've made him block about it. `` Did you get the mark ? '' Albus whispered.

`` You 're in luck, '' lusterlessness smiled, `` I did manage to get it and stow it in my cloak before I passed out. It 's right there, '' he gestured to the cloak sitting on the bedside table.

Albus grabbed the cloak and pulled out a rather tear art object of parchment. But in the middle was a very large paw photographic print consisting of a assortment of ink, mud, and profligate. `` Whoa, that 's pretty big. And form of consummate, too, '' Albus grinned and stuck it in his bag. `` perfect tense. ``

`` One Down, three to go, '' John commented. `` We 're almost there. ``

`` And the other three are a bit easier. '' Albus was feeling very good about their architectural plan now. The hardest paw print was done and soon they would stimulate the other three.

`` And the spell is working a lot better now, '' pink wine announced, `` I started to get the knack of it utmost night. I 'll probably have it done before Yule. ``

`` Excellent, '' Albus grinned, `` Then we can start looking for that charm to keep Kaden from blabbing. ``

`` When do you get to go out ? '' Amanda asked.

`` Either tomorrow eventide or Friday sunrise, probably, '' Matt told them, `` But if I leave tomorrow I have to skip Astronomy. ``

`` What a shame, '' John faked a look of sadness.

`` I know. I 'll definitely be suffering while you four spend an hour looking at stars. ''

`` We 'll be sure as shooting to get all the homework for you, '' Rose told him.

`` Oh do n't worry about it, '' Matt laughed. `` What did I miss in course of study yesterday and today ? ``

`` Not lots, '' Albus began, `` We re-potted mandrakes again in Herbology. We started transfiguring spoon into forks in transfiguration. And we learned all about the history of planetary house pixie in account of magic trick. It was one of the most boring course of instruction yet. ``

`` Sounds like it, '' Matt agreed.

`` Was not, '' rosiness argued.

`` What are you lot going to do tonight while I 'm stuck here ? ``

`` Albus and I have dueling practice, '' Amanda said. `` The next duel is Saturday. ``

`` Oh, right, I 'd completely forgotten about that, '' Albus confessed. He had been so caught up in getting the wolfman print for the map that the dueling golf-club had slipped his mind.

`` Looks like it 'll just be you and me tonight, rose wine, '' John grinned at her.

`` And Kaden, '' blush wine smirked, `` Ca n't leave him. ``

`` You should challenge him to a chess match, '' John decided, `` It 'll be fun to watch. ``

`` I 'll beat him in two bit flat, '' rosebush laughed.

`` Kaden plays thaumaturgist 's chess ? '' Matt asked.

`` Albus taught him last night. You 've got to watch it sometime. It 's hilarious, '' Amanda grinned, `` He likes to watch out the pieces get smashed so by the end of the game, his pieces refused to listen to him. ``

`` You know what else we should do ? '' rose wine changed the subject, `` Take back Uncle Harry 's cloak now that you do n't have to abstract back into the shack. ``

Albus really did n't desire to pass on back the cloak. He liked it. But he knew he had to. `` I guess. ``

`` We 'll do it after we get kicked out of here, '' john suggested.

`` Which is in good order now, '' Madam Pomfrey pulled back the mantle and set a tray of potions down on the bedside mesa. `` clip for you four to go forth. He needs to sleep. ``

`` See you tomorrow, hopefully, '' Albus said.

`` Yeah, tomorrow, '' matt waved.

`` Let 's go put the cloak back, '' pink wine whispered as soon as they 'd shut the door to the hospital wing.

Albus nodded and started to walk to his dad 's post. The corridors were almost deserted. There were a few students wandering around, but no one paid much attention as Albus unlocked the doorway to Harry 's office and lead his friends inside.

`` facial expression like my house, '' lav, who had never been in Harry 's office before, announced, `` A discharge good deal. My unanimous family is messy. ``

`` My mum 's a neat junkie. She 'd have a cow if she saw this, '' Amanda laughed.

`` A cow ? '' John gave Amanda a Weird look.

`` Guess it 's a Muggle verbalism. Means she 'd go mad. ``

`` Oh, like 'have a hippogriff'. ``

`` I guess. ``

Albus carefully stepped over the various stuff and went over to the bedroom door. He pushed it open and went inside, with his friends following. The torso was just where it had been the calendar week before and Albus lifted the lid. He pulled the cloak out of his bag and looked at it one More time before folding it and placing it exactly where he 'd found it. `` Well, that 's it. We got away with it. ``

`` Sure did, '' John replied as he gazed around the room. `` wonder what else we could find in here ? ``

`` lav ... '' Albus warned. `` We 're not stealing anything else. ``

`` Look at this ! '' John leaped over a pile of books and picked up a painting that was sitting on top of the closet. `` Aww, it 's Albus when he was an ickle toddler. ``

Albus grabbed the depiction out of whoremaster 's deal and looked at it. Sure enough, it was a painting of Albus, St. James, and Lily, right after Lily was born. James, who must have been three or four, was holding a midget baby with a large quantity of red hair. Albus, who was two, was holding Lily 's manus and making her wave.

`` You were an adorable petty kid, Albus, '' John smirked. `` So was James River. ``

`` I 'm sure you were, too, '' Albus said as he put the pic back. `` Now let 's get out of here before my dad gets back. ``


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight. Thanks as well to Denas, XDNLxtlz99, sinwillys822, Luke, hermionieforever, Moonylupin, drownzer, and Aleks for the reviews !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Saturday was soon upon them and with it came a howling snow violent storm. Albus was very happy that there was a dueling tournament and not a Quidditch match. He had played Quidditch in Snow before, but never in precondition that prevented him from seeing his own hired hand in movement of him. Today 's storm was so bad that Kendrick forbade anyone from going outside, but he need n't feature bothered since no one wanted to go outside in the get-go place.

After tiffin, half the school migrated into the dueling room and waited for the tourney to begin. Albus and Amanda said au revoir to their friends and sat down at the board they had been at the previous tournament.

`` Hi Albus, hi Amanda ! '' Kate greeted them energetically.

`` Hi Kate ! '' Albus grinned. He sat down at the only remaining prat, which happened to be next to Malfoy. Amanda had managed to snag a tush next to Kate. `` Malfoy, '' Albus said politely.

`` Potter, '' Malfoy muttered.

The tournament commenced much as it had the previous prison term, only this clip everyone knew what they were doing and it went smoother. There was still a lot of sitting around time and Albus was very felicitous that Amanda was on his squad so he had mortal to verbalize to. So far, there were still latent hostility between the Slytherins and everybody else. Kendrick 's programme to cause everyone get along was not working.

After about a one-half hour, it was finally Albus 's turn to duel. Malfoy had just completed his first duel and beat his Ravenclaw resister. Albus congratulated him as he went up to the dueling orbit. He was up against a Hufflepuff third year. Albus and the other boy bowed and the two of them started dueling. The Hufflepuff sent two jinx at Albus, but Albus blocked them both. Albus hit the boy with a slip curse and then disarmed him. The wholly thing took about a minute.

`` Point to muck about ! '' Neville announced.

`` Good job, Albus ! '' Kate and Amanda said in unison once Albus returned to his seat.

`` Thanks. ``

`` Hardly counts, '' Malfoy commented, `` You dueled a blooming Hufflepuff. A world-class class could 've beat that one. ``

`` Shut up, Malfoy. You 'll duel a Hufflepuff eventually and I doubt you 'll say the same thing. ``

`` Your short friend is up, '' Malfoy pointed to the dueling area that Harry was presiding over.

Albus looked up and saw that Matt was about to duel one of the other Hufflepuffs.

`` I 'll bet that Hufflepuff beats him, '' Malfoy laughed, `` He does n't face that estimable. ``

Albus personally thought lustrelessness looked all right wing, considering he had just gotten out of the Hospital backstage the day before.

`` Where 's he been anyway ? ``

`` He was honk. ``

`` Oh, right, '' Malfoy grinned, `` With that disease he 's got. The one your dullard first cousin told me about. If there 's anyone who should 've been a Hufflepuff, it 's that cousin of yours. ``

`` Do n't predict him pudden-head. And the Hat knows better than you do about where to put him, '' Albus snapped. He did n't severalise Malfoy that he had thought Kaden would hold been a Hufflepuff.

`` Whatever you say. I wonder if your cousin 's got anymore entropy that I 'd like to know. ``

`` Do n't go near my cousin, '' Albus growled.

`` Cut it out, you two ! '' Kate interrupted. `` In case you have n't realized by now, you 're on the same team. ``

Albus glared at Malfoy and then turned to watch the rest of Matt 's duel. It took him a while, but mat did eventually beat the Hufflepuff. He looked wear out, but happy. `` Told you he could vex him, '' Albus muttered.

`` Lucky shot, '' Malfoy whispered back.

Albus and Malfoy did n't talk to each other for the rest of the tournament. Both boys won their next duels, Malfoy against a Slytherin and Albus against a Ravenclaw. Amanda lost her first duel and won her second. John won his inaugural and lost his second. Matt lost his second one and pink wine managed to win both of hers. But despite their best effort, none of their team won the tourney. It did n't really matter though because the stage were so closing. The final tournament was still very up in the air and any of the team had a chance of making it.

******

The remaining daylight until the end of full term went by very fast for Albus. Albus was especially excited about the Christmastide holiday this year because it meant that Albus and his friends would acquire two more of the paw prints needed for the map. Rose had just perfected the transfer appeal and had already started searching for the charm to keep Kaden silence. After Dec 25, the only thing left to do would be to get the rat print. Albus thought it was quite suspect that the smallest and theoretically easiest photographic print to get was taking the longest. Saint John the Apostle had yet to grapple to catch a rat during potions course of instruction and was getting frustrated about it.

`` Every time I see a rat, one of the bloody Slytherins is looking ! '' can vented the eventide before their go day of classes. The chemical group of Gryffindors were in the Room of requisite, enjoying some peace and unruffled while Kaden was being tutored by one of the Ravenclaws.

`` Try luring one over to your desk with tall mallow or something, '' Amanda suggested, `` Then just bedaze it below the desk. ``

`` Had n't thought of that, '' John muttered, `` I 'd been trying to stun them across the way. ``

`` I wonder why anyone would notice that ? '' Rose said sarcastically.

`` Shut it, rose. ``

`` Well, you 've got plenty of time to get it, '' Albus reminded him, `` We still have n't got the dog or the tell on print. ``

`` We 'll get them soon, '' Rose replied, `` Amanda will get the dog and we 'll get the stag, Albus. You can come over to my house after we leave the tunnel. ``

`` strait in force, '' Albus agreed, `` I 'm not staying at the Burrow the entirely holiday anyway. ``

`` Oh, yeah, '' Rose smirked, `` granny and grandad are going on holiday together. Alone. ``

`` That 's not something I really worry to mean about, rosebush, '' Albus groaned. His grandparents had decided to go to Scotland together a few days after Christmas Day and spend new year 's alone. `` Moving on. What are you lot doing for the vacation ? ``

`` The usual, '' St. John said immediately, `` All my cousin coming over at assorted times. Should be crazy as always. ``

`` I 've really got to go to your household sometime, '' Albus grinned, `` You always say your full cousin are mad, but I really do n't think your family is as harebrained as mine is. ``

`` I 'm sure it is. My great-great gramps is coming this year. He 's uproarious, especially after he 's had a duet firewhiskeys. ``

`` Your great-great granddaddy drunkenness firewhiskey ? '' matte laughed, `` That 's something I 've got to see. ``

`` He sure does. Then he starts telling ridiculous stories about 'back in my day'. ``

`` Sounds like we should cabbage him up with aunty Muriel, eh rosebush ? '' Albus winked at his cousin.

`` That would be the funniest thing ever, '' rosiness grinned.

`` Your great-great grandpa sounds like our Auntie Muriel. She 's 127 and honey to gossip, '' Albus explained.

`` I wish I had mad congenator, '' Amanda commented, `` My kinsfolk sounds pretty normal compared to yours. ``

`` But you celebrate Hannukah, so that makes up for it, '' John the Divine replied, `` I mean, who would n't like eight daylight of presents ? I wish I celebrated both, that would be the honest thing ever. ``

`` Amy has a Muggle booster who celebrates both. But she does n't get present on every Nox of Hanukkah, '' Matt told them.

`` I get small nowadays each night and then one big one on the finally night, '' Amanda explained.

`` That 's still aplomb, '' John said, `` So, Matt, do you own to go visit your grandparents this twelvemonth ? ``

`` Ugh, do n't cue me, '' Matt groaned, `` Of course of instruction I do. But only for five sidereal day this year. We 're leaving right before new twelvemonth 's. Amy has to be back at St. Mungo 's a few days before term starts. ``

`` That 's honorable, '' Albus smiled. `` At least you do n't cause to be there as long. ``

`` It 'll still be boring. The but thing to do down there is preparation or read. It 's not like I can play Quidditch or anything. ``

`` What day are you coming back ? Maybe you can arrive over to rosebush 's house with me. Then we can playact Quidditch, '' Albus offered.

`` The 28th. I 'll ask my parents. ``

`` Great. You should come too, John and Amanda, '' Albus suggested.

`` I 'll ask, I 'm indisputable my parents will let me, '' John replied.

`` I can probably only continue a day or so, '' Amanda told them, `` Hannukah is late this year and starts on Yuletide, so it 'll still be going on on the 28th. I 'll have to be home by the evening. ``

`` That 'll work on. Maybe we can all get the stag mark together, '' Albus said.

`` Good idea, '' John grinned and everyone else nodded.

`` I should probably tell you now, just in cause I do n't get to go to blush wine 's family, '' Matt began quietly, `` I 'm not coming back to Hogwarts on the string with everyone else. ``

Albus stared at his admirer, who was looking a little forlorn. `` Why not ? Everything ok ? ``

`` I guess. It 's just that I 'm starting that new potion I told you about at the beginning of the terminal figure. The full moon 's on the 9th and individual has to celebrate me once I start taking it a few years before. Then I 've got to go to St. Mungo 's the morning after and appease a pair solar day. ``

`` Oh, '' Albus was n't really trusted what to say. He wished more than ever that someone would just come upon a potion that would work for him.

`` Look on the brilliant position, '' John said, `` At least you do n't have to transform at your grandparents sign of the zodiac again. ``

`` And if I have my way I 'll never let to do that again, '' Matt shook his head, `` But let 's talk about something else. Did you see in the Prophet that the Cannons almost won that biz against the Fitchburg Finches ? You know, that American English team they were playing for recitation. ``

`` Did n't the Finches beat them by 50 points ? '' Albus asked.

`` Yeah, but that 's close down ! '' matte grinned, `` They 're making a retort, I just know it ! ``

`` Well, with a name like 'Finches', what do you expect ? It would n't have surprised me if the Cannons beat them, '' lav laughed, `` Well, maybe a short. But seriously, who names a team the 'Finches'? ``

******

The term ended the side by side day with a bang, literally. James and a few of his friends thought it would be funny to put a few Weasley fireworks into the courting of armor and bewitch them to go off at certain sentence during the day. After the tenth explosion the teachers gave up trying to teach anything and just let their scholarly person do what they wanted during class, within reason of course. Unfortunately for James and his friends, Professor Cedonia spotted them refilling the armor on the second floor corridor with unused fireworks and gave them one of her rarefied detentions. For this one, they had to clean every single suit of armor on the second floor corridor that evening. James said it was worth it, though.

`` We really ought to arrive up with a few well japery, '' St. John the Apostle decided as they were traveling through the hill on the train. `` That 's what the vulture did, was caper people, so we should, too. ``

Albus shrugged. He really was n't very good at coming up with pranks. That was Saint James 's field of expertise. Plus, if the event of such pranks was cleaning suits of armor, Albus really did n't want to pull a whole lot of pranks. `` Maybe a few small-scale ones, that do n't get us in huge bother. ``

`` I 'm surely we could do some of those. There 's loads of stuff we could do to the Slytherins. ``

`` Yeah, like that one Saint James the Apostle did before the beginning dueling tourney, '' Matt laughed.

The respite of the gearing drive went quickly and soon Albus and his friends found themselves at King 's Cross. Albus climbed off the train and saw his parents standing with Rose 's parents and Lily and Hugo.

But before Albus could go over to see them, John grabbed his arm and steered him in another counseling. `` C'mon, you can meet my great-great granddaddy ! ``

Albus saw a very imperfect, completely bald, old man with a long white beard standing next to toilet 's parents. can lead their group over to the three adults.

`` Johnny-Boy ! '' the old man shouted and gave John a plastered hug, `` How 're things at that shoal ? How is prof Dippet ? ``

`` He died days ago, Grandpa, like I told you over the summer. Like I tell you every summer, '' john stifled a laugh.

`` Oh, right ! Probably all new teachers, a bunch of young'ins I bet ! book binding in my day none of the instructor were under 50, and now some of em are 30 ! What has gotten into these new headmasters .... ''

`` Grandpa, '' whoremonger shook his oral sex, `` The teachers are amercement. But I want you to fill my friends. This is matte Eckerton, Albus Potter- ''

`` Potter ! ? '' bathroom 's great-great gramps peered into Albus 's oculus and grinned, `` Albus thrower ? Well I 'll be. If it is n't Harry Potter 's son ! I remember back in the days of You-know-who and nobody thought he would ever be defeated, and then along comes slight Harry Potter and fairy ! You-know-who 's gone ! Then he comes back and what should happen again ? Harry Potter makes 'im disappear again and for effective this time ! ``

Albus, who was used to this kind of attention but not soul shouting it at the top of their lungs, blushed and tried to push aside the stares of everyone around him. `` Er, nice to receive you. ``

`` You, too, '' the old man smiled, `` And who are these girl ? Have you got yourself two girlfriends, Johnny-Boy ? I would n't commend it. I did it once and wound up with no lady friend after they found out ! ``

`` No, Grandpa, '' John laughed, `` They 're just booster. Amanda Tagger and rosiness Weasley. ``

`` Are you sure ? I could see you with the red-header. Just postponement till you 're erstwhile. ``

`` Just friends, Grandpa, '' John 's cheeks turned red.

`` He 's like the male variant of Muriel, '' Albus whispered to Rose.

`` Muriel ! ? '' John 's grandpa shouted. Albus jumped. He had n't expected that the elderly man would be able to learn him. `` I used to know a Muriel ! Went to school with her. Then she married some Weasley. I have n't seen her in decades ! ``

Albus looked at rosebush. What a coincidence. `` Er, Albus and I have an auntie Muriel Weasley, '' blush wine giggled.

`` wellspring I 'll be ! I should owl her sometime. ``

`` I 'm surely she 'd love that, '' rosebush smiled.

`` We 're going to have to go now, '' John 's mum announced.

`` See you later, '' John waved.

`` Bye, '' Albus grinned.

`` Tell your dad I said hi ! '' King John 's great-great grandpa shouted.

******

Albus spent the next few day hanging around Grimmauld situation with James and the rest of his family. Lily was thrilled to hold both her brothers and her dad home and she had been demanding to make out everything that had gone on the past terminus.

`` That way I 'll make love everything about Hogwarts before I 'm even there ! '' she said excitedly at breakfast the day before Christmas Eve. `` You still have n't told me how I 'll get sorted. ``

`` We 're not going to evidence you, Lily, '' Ginny smiled as she handed Lily a glass of juice, `` It 's a surprise. ``

`` That 's not sightly, '' Lily whined.

`` nobody told me or Al how we got sorted, so how is it not fair for you not to know ? '' James asked.

`` I 'm the vernal. I should bonk everything about Hogwarts because you two have been there for a few years ! And then all the Muggle-born kids will ask me dubiousness and I 'll be able to suffice them. ``

`` You 'll detect out soon enough, Lily, '' Ginny assured her.

`` How much longer ? '' Lily asked excitedly.

`` There 's still 9 month. ``

`` That 's forever ! ``

`` She 's going to be a nightmare this summertime, '' James whispered to Albus.

`` morn, everyone ! '' Harry descended the steps into the kitchen and pulled up a chair.

`` Hi, Dad, '' Albus greeted him.

`` Hey, Ginny ? '' Harry asked as he grabbed the Prophet, `` Have you seen the piranha 's Map ? ``

Henry James choked on his juice and sprayed it across the table at Albus, as he turned bright red.

`` Ew, watch it ! '' Albus jumped back.

`` You ok, Henry James ? '' Harry looked at him curiously.

`` Fine. The article on the presence of the paper, it 's, er, shocking, '' James River blushed some more and pointed to the front of the seer, which was facing him.

`` Witch endeavor to step-down sizing of Her capitulum, Charms Them Off Instead ? '' Harry read.

`` Yes, very shocking. people ought to be more measured ! '' Jesse James sputtered. He gave Albus a look that Albus interpreted to mean 'meet me up the stairs'. James IV excused himself and ran out of the room.

`` What 's with him ? '' Harry asked.

`` No idea, '' Ginny shrugged.

`` Er, I 've got to go change, '' Albus jumped up and followed James I. Harry had noticed that the map was gone ! Now he was going to cause to contribute it back. Albus was going to omit it, but it would only be a matter of time before he had the other one working.

`` Albus ! '' James pulled him into the drawing room and shut the door. `` He wants the map back ! ``

`` I kind of figured that, '' Albus smirked, `` We 're just going to deliver to sneak it back into his elbow room. Let 's do it now. ``

`` time lag, Albus ! '' Henry James grabbed his arm, `` The thing is, er, well, I ... '' He shuffled from pes to hoof looking very nervous.

`` What ? ''

`` I, er, ca n't find oneself it ! '' James whispered. `` What am I going to do ? I ca n't have lost it .... ''

Albus started laughing. `` It 's not suspect ! '' William James insisted.

`` You did n't misplace it ! '' Albus grinned, `` I 've got it. I took it from you months ago and did n't require to give it back. ``

`` You idiot ! '' James IV shouted, `` Here I thought I 'd fall back it and you stole it from me ! ``

`` It does n't matter now. We 've got to give it back anyway. ``

`` You 're giving it back. You 're the one who stole it from me. ``

`` wellspring you stole it from Dad in the first place, '' Albus reminded him.

`` Only to get you out of trouble ! ``

He had a point there. If Albus had n't throw been in Kendrick 's office the premature year, James River never would have got taken the map in the low gear place. `` All right. I 'll just go cabbage it into his room. Maybe he 'll cogitate he just forgot to lend it to Hogwarts. ``

`` Let 's hope so. Go do it now. ``

Albus nodded and ran up to his bedroom. He knew his dad would want the map back eventually, he just had n't given it very much thought. At least he had n't noticed it was missing at schooling. Albus threw open his trunk and rifled through his school stuff and nonsense. He still had n't unpacked everything or packed a bag for his halt at the burrow. The map was inside the photo record album Albus found over the summertime, along with the new map. Hopefully they would n't demand the piranha 's Map to decipher the new map. Albus pulled out the map and ran into his parents'room. He shoved the map under a pile of defensive illusion books and quickly left the room.

`` Done ? '' James asked anxiously when Albus ran back into the drawing room.

`` Yup. I put it under a raft of Bible, with one quoin sticking out. ``

`` Perfect. You might need to go exchange your shirt now. ``

`` Oh, rightfield, '' Albus looked down at his juice splattered jersey, `` Thanks for that, by the way. ``

`` No problem, '' James IV laughed, `` Come to me for all your juice spraying needs. ``

`` I 'll do that, '' Albus rolled his optic as he left the elbow room to change his shirt.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight ! Thanks as well to sinwillys822, Denas, Moonylupin, wolverine83, Luke, drownzer, smirkyhaha, and Miguel for their limited review !