Chapter 1 : belated night visitant

musical note : With the elision of any original graphic symbol my mind may make, no one else belongs to me. All characters and home belong to the brilliant J.K. Rowling. That said, this is my first fan fic so be kind, or honest, whatever you want. Read, reassessment, Enjoy !



A hot wind swept down Privet Dr, lending no relief to the sweltering mid-summer heat. While most slept soundly in their homes comforted by their cool air machine, one teen remained awake, abandoning the stuffy air in his small bedroom to climb onto the ceiling where it remained only a few degrees cooler than inside. He ran his handwriting through his sweaty hair's-breadth, lightly brushing the lightning shaped scar he wore upon his forehead. Adjusting the round of golf glasses which framed his emerald eyes, he brought the book he'd been given closer to his brass, trying to read in the moonlight.

Harry gave up with a heavy sigh. This wasn't helping him stay awake and he wasn't sure how much longer he could fight the grogginess that always came over him when it was so hot exterior. Tossing the book aside, he wondered how Hermione had finally convinced him to read Hogwarts : A chronicle. Climbing to his foot and taking a sneak walk around the roof to animate himself, he silently cursed his uncle who had closed off the release going into Harry's room so that the rest of the house would experience more of the synthetical cold air. He didn't know but often wondered what he had done to warrant the treatment he'd received his whole life. It was a trouble he often tried to figure out the answer to, but he didn't have much of a prospect this time, becoming distracted by the familiar image of a snow-white owl flying toward him on her way back from hunting. Smiling widely, he held out his arm so that she could easily down. Hedwig, always deliberate not to dig her claws in too deep, latched on quickly before walking up to his shoulder where she perched herself and cooed quietly in his ear as if asking why he was still awake at such a recent hour.

But no matter the hr, Harry couldn't fall asleep ; the incident at the section of mystery was haunting his conscience. If I don't slumber, I don't pipe dream, he silently answered the owl's unasked question. The dream, or incubus rather, was always the same- a flash of imagination that included Neville's bloody nose, Luna helping Ginny paseo on a broken ankle joint, Ron being attacked by brain, Hermione's unconscious body, and ending with Canicula falling through that dark caul. He shuddered to himself just remembering it all and felt a sudden flash of ire. All of it, every bit, was his shift because he'd let himself be tricked by Voldemort and those working with him. The noted Harry Potter had gotten his friends hurt because he just had to play the zep again. And what had happened ? Dog Star and the others had needed to amount save him instead, resulting in the demise of his godfather.

'' Harry Potter ! '' a small voice shouted in agitation, knocking him out of his fevered daydream. He was so startle, he lost his ground and landed hard on his vertebral column before sliding helplessly to the boundary of the ceiling. He desperately grabbed for the sewer and caught it with both hands, leaving him to swing helplessly a few chronicle above the basis. `` Harry potter must hold on ! Dobby is helping ! ``

And indisputable enough, the comic little head of Dobby the planetary house elf appeared above him, clad in three vauntingly unusually shaped hat. `` Hi Dobby. '' Harry said tiredly as he hung from the roof.

The elf rubbed his knobby little hands together. `` Harry ceramist lets go now. ``

'' Are you sure ? '' He asked looked down. He knew the surrender wouldn't be great sufficiency to defeat him, but he couldn't help but enquire just how many bone he could wear out if Dobby screwed this up.

'' Harry potter must believe Dobby now sir. ``

And so he did. Carefully letting go of the sewer, he found himself floating in midair until he was once more able to experience the springy cap beneath his feet. `` Thanks. '' Harry said as Hedwig hooted angrily from the windowpane ledge. `` I'm okey. '' He assured both her and the elf.

'' Dobby is very sorry sir ! Dobby did not mean to storm Harry ceramist, Dobby was sent with a content. prof Dumbledore trusts Dobby and no one else to delivers Harry potter his missive. '' He said proudly as he presented the envelope.

Holding it up in the flaccid radiance of the nearly full moon, Harry recognized Hermione's diminished, neat writing. `` This isn't from Dumbledore. ``

'' No sir, professor Dumbledore only asks Dobby to make for a message from Harry ceramicist's admirer. professor Dumbledore says Harry Potter will be happy to take news on his birthday. '' Dobby answered with a wide smile.

'' Well, occur on, let's go back inside before the neighbors wake up. '' He began making his way through the windowpane, the humble elf following close behind him.

'' It is too hots in here sir. '' Dobby said looking uncomfortably around the room as he tossed the book Harry had forgotten on the bed.

'' Sorry about that. '' Harry said, wanting to deplumate candid the envelope but having the decency to try and wait for the sojourn to be over.

'' Dobby can fix it. '' The elf answered, once more rubbing his hands together and ending with a sharp elasticity. Harry was amazed as the temperature dropped instantly and he began to see his breath powderpuff out in the air in presence of him.

'' Too cold I think. '' He said through his suddenly chattering teeth, as the frigidness mingled with the sudor and turned his peel cold and clammy.

Dobby made an adjustment and the room evened out to a comfortably spring-like nip. `` Harry potter likes this considerably ? ``

'' Yes, thank you very much. '' Harry smiled and stretched away the sleepiness that the heat had brought over him.

'' Dobby will go out Harry Potter to his letter. Dobby must be getting backs, sir, as we is preparing the castle for the student to give back. We is very meddling now, cleaning and scrubbing. Dobby likes being busy all the time and must gets back. ``

'' Well, I won't sustenance you. Thanks for bringing this to me, and I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. ``

'' Dobby is excited to deliver Harry Potter back at school soon. '' The small elf looked down shyly, the three hats he wore swaying on his head. `` Happy Birthday ! '' he added before disappearing with the snapshot of his fingers.

Alone in the way at stopping point, he let go of the small bit of forbearance he had and tore into his letter. As soon as the envelope was open, Hermione's interpreter floated out of it quietly surrounding him as she began.

'' July 30 8:00 p.m.
Dear Harry,
Ron and I and the ease of the Weasley's just arrived at the usual place. We had expected to use an owl to get this to you, but as I'm certainly you know by now, Dumbledore showed up with Dobby. But speaking of OWL.s, have you gotten your level yet ? I know WE haven't. I shall feature to speak with Dumbledore the next time he's here. We were supposed to get those weeks ago. I know you were expecting a letter from Moony or Tonks, but they agreed to let us tell you the good news. I'm sorry I haven't written more over the summer, I wanted to but they had told us it wasn't a serious theme. But that's over now ! Oh, hold on. Ronald wants to say something. ``

'' Hey Harry mate. Can you believe how she begins a letter ? Personally the longer it takes to get back our OWL results the in effect. I wanted to write too, of course, but mum and dad said we could put you in risk, having owls swooping all over your sign now that You-Know-Who is looking for you. But boy do I have a lot to tell you ! So lots has happened, but I think it'd be better in individual, now that we're so close to seeing each other. Anyway, how are the muggles treating you ? A fair lot better I expect after the Order talked with them end of shoemaker's last year. ``

Harry closed the envelope there and took a arcminute to mull. True, Uncle Vernon and aunt genus Petunia had been better to him, for about two weeks. They of course made indisputable Harry wrote `` his addict '' every other day, but they monitored what he put into the varsity letter, breathing down his neck as he wrote. There was no way for him to refer that his food dower were getting pocket-size by the day as Vernon and Dudley made themselves fatter. Or that he was getting the occasional smack around for not doing job in a timely fashion. It seemed that this class, when Harry most wanted to be left alone, they were always there. Uncle Vernon especially had turned meaner than he ever had, never once all summertime calling him by his name. It was always `` Boy '' or `` Idiot boy '' or `` Freak '' and there was always something Harry was doing wrong that deserve discipline ; being too brassy, being too quiet…. breathing.

If only he could do magic to accent the breaker point the Order tried to make when they'd threatened the Dursleys. But no, Harry could present evil wizards, Centaurus, death eaters, trolls and dementors, but the muggles he has to quell with he can not lay a hand on, or wand in this suit. If only you could see me now Ron. He thought bitterly. Big strong Harry Potter, forced to call off potty and getting beaten if they aren't spotless. Harry looked at his arms which were covered in pocket-size finger's breadth shaped bruises and scratches from being grabbed and thrown around by the monolithic man. If only Vernon weren't so much bigger than him, he might be able to fight back.

And then he smiled with remembrance. It had been two calendar week, but the memory still held great gratification. He had been out back mowing the lawn and wrapped up in thoughts of his friends and why they hadn't written him. Distracted he had accidentally mowed over character of aunty Petunia's garden. A very small function, he had thought that no one rule would notice. But Vernon had been on him in an instant, as if he had been watching for Harry to have it away up. The shouting red face man had been storming toward him and seeing the garden hose on the ground, he'd pictured it wrapping itself around his uncle like a snake, stopping his philippic in it's data track before he could inflict harm on his nephew. Harry had reached behind him, had felt his wand in his pocket. He never went anywhere without it. And then suddenly, though he could take sworn to himself that he hadn't said a magical spell, hadn't even pulled his wand out, the hose had tangled itself around Vernon's pes, tripping him so that all his mass landed grueling and bounced slightly as he fell to the primer. Harry had watched in amazement as the thing wrapped itself around and around the terrified man. And then he had run and hadn't come back until well after he was sure the home had turned in for the night. Vernon hadn't bothered him for three days after, and they had been the honest of his summer thus far, left alone in his minuscule room. He smiled again in the represent moment, remembering the fear in his uncle's centre that day. Of course, when no far occurrence took place, Vernon had regained his false sentiency of courageousness. With a sigh, he opened the envelope again, hoping for the good intelligence Hermione had alluded to at first.

'' hope you're doing alright with those horrifying citizenry. Hermione keeps pushing me and I keep telling her aghh- ''

'' Ronald is done now. Anyway, Harry, as I'm sure you won't get this cashbox after midnight, HAPPY BIRTHDAY ! Mad-eye told us that we could tell you to carry them at your house tomorrow. You'll be coming here for the quietus of summertime again ! Lupin has insisted he go with to bestow you here, so anticipate him at twelve noon. I know you may be sad being back here with all the memories, but at to the lowest degree you get to forget the Dursleys'business firm and we miss you so often ! Oh- ''

'' Jeez, Hermione sure knows how to get up bad hooey. young lady. You just can't explain them. ``

'' Please, if Ron would try to explain anything his head would explode. Girls are not that complicated. He's just a slow prentice. Besides, to scold me on poor issue when he goes and brings up those muggles… Anyway, see you tomorrow, Harry. I can't hold. ``

'' WE can't wait. Now it's my turn to say HAPPY birthday, mate ! See you tomorrow ! ``

'' making love,
Hermione and Ron ''

Harry smiled in existent joy for the first meter in awhile. His advantageously friends couldn't even `` write '' a talking letter without fighting with each early. At to the lowest degree he now knew they weren't mad at him, that the order had kept them from sending letters. He had been so fright that they would blame him, hate him even for what they had all gone through. That didn't seem to be the case and a sensation of backup man washed over him. Now he only had to concern about how much he blamed himself.

Glancing at the clock, he realized that it was in fact about a quarter yesteryear midnight. He began packing immediately, both in expectancy and as a welcome workout to last out awake. It didn't take long since he hadn't unpacked to the highest degree of his schooltime things in the hope that he would be leaving preferably than usual, so he cleaned Hedwig's cage following. Finally with nothing left field to do and the clock showing it was only just past two XXX in the morning, he reluctantly picked up Hogwarts : A History and began again from the kickoff. He made a mental greenback to never again say he was bored around Hermione 50 she suggest another big boring book.




line : Please stay tuned. Thanks for reading !
Chapter 2 : Surprise at Number 12, Grimmauld plaza

A/N : Characters and places are not mine, they belong to J.K. Rowling. A little more to learn about in this one, so go ahead, Read, Review and Enjoy !



Harry had been waiting on the stairs since eleven a.m. staring at the door and open fireplace, unsure how his rescuer would be arriving. Of grade he wouldn't feel the need to be rescued, had they not forced him to come back here. Despite the sweltering heat outside, he'd made indisputable to wear long sleeves so that his bruises wouldn't show. For a moment when dressing that morning, he had considered baring his arms and letting the Order all know that they had failed in protecting him from his own category. But the embarrassment of his ill-usage outweighed any satisfaction he might experience felt from exposing it. Besides, he just wanted to go, to get away from these people and never have to see or recollect of them again.

Peering into the sitting room, Harry saw his aunt and uncle lounging in front of the idiot box but Dudley was no where in visual modality. He had no idea where his cousin had gone after breakfast, nor did he give care. Early this morning, he'd decided to warn the kinsfolk that their firm was going to be infiltrated by wizards- he'd quickly changed his mind about that after Vernon threw the sauteing pan at him during breakfast. Let them be taken by surprise when the others arrived, he hoped his monolithic uncle's heart gave out and he died of the shock. Shaken by the dark thought, he forced more pleasant images, like the reunion with his friends and with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley. But that led him to think of Dumbledore and how he had left things with his headmaster, and that of course brought him to the prophesy. It was the reason his godfather was no longer animated after all.

Then he began to inquire, with Sirius gone, who would make for certain he got selective information ? Were they going to keep him in the dark again ? Dumbledore had said that not informing him had been a mistake, so were they going to tell him everything now ? He felt his mood rising ; they already hadn't told him anything in any of the short varsity letter they'd sent, it had all been about plans for school and telling him to be patient. So were they expecting him to just sit in Negroid Manor and keep being a good little boy ? They better state me everything, I'm sixteen now, no need to be coddled, he thought miserably.

At exactly noon, the room began to crackle and out of nowhere, Remus Lupin appeared in the living-room, startling Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia. Harry laughed as silently as he could, just in case he had to occur back. He walked in to recognise his friend, the last true piranha, as Vernon started up. `` What the infernal region DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING ? YOU CAN '' T JUST- ''

'' I can do anything I like. '' lupin cut him off and turned to Harry. `` How are you ? Ready to go I presume ? ``

'' Since I got here. '' He smiled up at Lupin and gave him a hug, forgetting his anger from a few minutes ago. He was just so well-chosen to be leaving.

'' Hey ! '' Vernon shouted. `` I'm tired of my habitation being invaded by you freaks ! Petunia, pull the shades, we don't want the neighbors to see anything. '' He ordered his wife as he stood, trying to look intimidating while approaching lupin who appeared unconcerned.

Before anything Thomas More could be said between the two men, the air crackled once more and Kingsley Shacklebolt appeared looking both cognisant and amused. `` Harry ! skilful to see you again. '' He said placing a large heavy script on Harry's berm in greeting before turning to his partner. `` The street is all clearly Remus. Nothing to concern about. ``

'' Actually, we may consume a job. Mr. Dursley here seems dysphoric with us. '' Lupin said, winking at Harry.

'' He does ? '' Kingsley asked in mock revulsion. `` Well, Mr. Dursley, what can we do to make affair estimable for you ? After all, we'd hate to get out you disordered. ``

Vernon, though not the brightest man, quickly caught on to the mocking tonus in the wizards'voices. `` You can get the pit out ! '' he shouted, his aspect turning purpleness as they laughed at him.

'' Well since you asked so nicely. '' Kingsley chuckled. `` I'd hate to face the wrath of this muggle. ``

'' Get out ! And don't come back ! maintain that boy, he's possessed anyway ! '' Vernon screamed, turning another shade darker in his fury.

'' Alright Harry, Tonks and Mad-eye are out in the car. Shall we go then ? '' lupine asked, his amusement at Mr. Dursley's anger clearly evident.

Harry merely nodded and left without a word to his relatives, who were now silently fuming that they were once more disrespected in their theatre but too scared to do much of anything about it. Following lupine out with his bole and Hedwig, he saw a minor car waiting patiently at the curb. He had a belief that it was charmed to be as big as a bus inside, and by the round-backed way it was parked, he also had a look of who was driving.

They put his things in the rear and then climbed in the backseat with Hedwig. Harry saw that he was right, Tonks was in fact sitting happily behind the rack. `` Wotcher, Harry '' she said. `` well-chosen birthday. '' She smiled then turned the car on and began to drive.

'' Potter. '' Mad-eye said by way of greeting from his position in the passenger seat.

'' What about Kingsley ? '' he asked.

'' He's in the air above us with a few to a greater extent Aurors. We all have to be extra careful now. '' Mad-eye answered without turning around. `` Constant alertness, how easily some forget. '' He muttered, pulling out his flask and taking a swig. As they got further away from Privet private road, Harry settled into the seat spirit lighter. He tried to never recall of the well-chosen life that he could have had if his parents had lived and it was much easier to do that away from the Dursleys, where life actually offered a few happy moments.

A short while later, Tonks screeched to a halt and parked the car quite a few groundwork away from the curb. She and Mad-eye got out to sight the country as Harry leaned toward Lupin. `` Why was she driving ? '' He asked, a little faze from all the close shout they'd had on the road.

'' Because Mad-eye is officially listed as disable and I was never allowed to get my licence. '' He answered, looking just as shaken as Harry felt.

'' And she was the next C. H. Best pick ? ! '' Harry asked in bewilderment. lupin simply laughed in response as they got out of the car at Tonks's signal.

Out of nowhere, identification number 12 towered over them, the other theatre shifting out of the way to make room for it. lupine pushed Harry ahead of them. `` After you. '' He said with a slight bow.

tone anxious, he opened the door revealing the night, foreboding hallway. `` Remember, '' Tonks whispered so as not to awake the screeching portrait of Mrs. Black person, `` learn out for that shucks umbrella stand, it comes out of nowhere. Just go straight into the parlor. '' He nodded and stepped inside, hoping his Friend were already waiting for him. But the parlor was coloured and he couldn't recollect where the light substitution was located.

As Harry was groping along the bulwark trying to get the light, the room was suddenly illuminated and a radical of people shouted, `` felicitous natal day, HARRY ! ! '' He was astounded to observe Hermione, Neville, Luna, dean Lowell Thomas, Seamus Finnigan, Lavender John Brown, and Parvati and Padma Patil standing in the eye of the room. Kingsley had arrived before them and was standing off to the side with some Order extremity whose names Harry didn't remember. All of the Weasleys- with the obvious exclusion of Percy- were huddled near the entrance.

As Harry tried to gather his bearings, Hermione ran up and gave him a hug that almost knocked him over. Once she let go, Ron grabbed him in a brotherly hug as well. He was in stupor ; no one had ever thrown him a birthday political party before, let alone gone through the trouble of arranging a surprise. He felt on the verge of tears.

'' For goodness sake. '' Mrs Weasley came forward, `` Let the boy come in. hi Harry dear, where you surprised ? ``

'' You have no thought. '' He answered, still not sure how to feel.

Ginny came up next to hug him. `` Do you like the decorations ? We've been working on them all morning. '' He took in the hundred of balloons covering the cap, streamer at every corner, bubbles floating generously throughout the party Guest and the hugest pile of present he had ever seen, even compared to what Dudley normally got.

'' They're wonderful. '' He answered, nodding hello to Bill and Charlie as the others led him away to get some punch.

Everyone began chatting as soft, felicitous euphony filled in the background signal. The stripling went off to a corner, with citizenry occasionally coming over to say Happy birthday again. Hermione had been the one who had invited all of their school friends and Harry was sword lily they were there, though he found it a bit unsettle to follow from someplace where he was lonely and unwanted to all of this. When he finally admitted to never having a party before, Ron had all the incentive he needed to start some company games.

Though Harry caught a horse sense that the others felt bad for him as they realized he'd never really celebrated his birthday before, he didn't care. He felt felicitous than he had in calendar month and for a minuscule while, was able to blank out about everything plaguing him. By the time bar came around and everyone gathered to sing, he couldn't sustain a smile off his face.
　


NOTE : Up next, Harry receives some news about Sirius and they all get their owl results. See you future time !

Chapter 3 : Good intelligence, Bad News and OWL's

bank note : All case and piazza belong to J.K. Rowling. I wish I had thought it up first. But then again don't we all ? I decided to just put up as I finish the chapters cuz I'm really impatient, but delight review and I'm going to try and suffice all critical review so if you have a dubiousness or comment please post.

　

'' PRESENTS ! '' Ron yelled and ran back to the parlor. Everyone had just finished their patty and followed him at a much dull pace, their stomachs not as used to being stuffed full as his was. Once they had all settled Harry began opening his natural endowment, feeling awkward that everyone was watching him. He supposed most people were used to this sort of overconfident tending, but it was definitely something he was still uncomfortable with… the last thing he wanted was to be the center field of attention. Pushing those insecurities down deep, he kept a joyous air about him for the benefit of the those who'd gone through the trouble of giving him this party. Besides, after opening a few gifts and getting used to the welfare ambience, part of him actually liked that citizenry were paying attention to him without yelling or throwing things.

From Ron, he got a muggle toy called `` trick 8 Ball, '' with a card that read, To remember old Trelawney and the fact that we never have to necessitate her social class again. The boy shared a grin as Harry reached for the adjacent endowment, which happened to be from Tonks. She gave him a new broom servicing kit and flying goggles that she'd had fitted with lenses containing his demand prescription drug. He thanked her profusely as Ginny excitedly handed her gift over next- an indoor quidditch set that everyone wanted to try proper away, Harry included. But Mrs. Weasley quickly called for monastic order, insisting they not be rude by ignoring the rest of the presents.

eager to work the new game, Harry quickly opened the rest of the wrapped packages in straw man of him. Fred and George V gave him a sample distribution pack of all their new merchandise along with a gift certificate for their fund, The Weasley Bros. Laugh department store. While he found it amusing, he decided the Twin Falls'natural endowment was something he should wait through later, based on the fount Molly was making. Mr. and Mrs Weasley gave him a new wristwatch, which Harry believed to be far out of their damage cooking stove. Though he sincerely thanked them, he made a mental note to try and find a polite way to open it back for something less dearly-won later.

Lupin's present was strange. It was a blank art object of parchment and a government note saying that he would explicate about the parchment later. His friend winked at him in a conspiratorial way before turning to continue a conversation he was having off in the corner with Tonks. Harry shrugged and put the gift in the lot with the repose of his new things before reaching for the adjacent present. It was from Hermione and surprisingly she didn't give him a book. Instead it was a pocket-size box that said, `` open me later when there aren't many hoi polloi around. '' He looked at her quizzically and she just smiled.

It took a lot farsighted than he'd imagined, but when he finally made it through all the present tense, Mrs. Weasley announced dinner for those that were staying, once more delaying the game. Most everyone left, except the Weasleys, Hermione, Luna, Neville, lupine and Tonks. Mad-eye grumbled something about annoying duties and apparated with a loud crack. Everyone talked throughout dinner, their hearts as light as their moods and Harry reflected that he finally felt at home, for the first time in a long meter. More than that, he felt accepted, even loved. They talked and laughed for a long time, the teens all forgetting their desire to play the new quidditch game as they were distracted by such a happy gathering.

Finally the clock struck half past nine and it was time for Luna and Neville to train their farewell through the floo mesh. They each wished him a well-chosen natal day one last time before stepping into the fireplace and disappearing to their individual destinations. Harry was exhausted, but gave no arguing when Hermione and the Weasley kids wanted to speak privately in his and Ron's room. They all headed upstairs in a noisy ruckus, everyone still in a carefree political party mood ; once they situated themselves comfortably around the room it seemed everyone was talking at once, each trying to catch Harry up on what he had missed while stuck away at the Dursleys. With a headache threatening to reveal loose, he made them go one at a time.

'' It's Fred and George II, Harry ! '' Ron said grinning madly at his blood brother. `` Their shop is doing so well, and they're giving a lot of money to the common people ! We're not poor anymore, thanks to them. ``

'' Aww, you embarrass us short pal. '' Fred said with mock modestly.

'' Really, it was zip. '' George V piped in.

'' Dad getting a new job helps too, you know. '' Ginny put in, attempting to keep back her brothers'heads from swelling any further.

'' The store and a new job, so that explains the wristwatch ! I was going to experience your mum takings it for something else. '' He stared down at the giving sitting comfortably on his wrist and wondered what Arthur's new stance was.

'' Not a problem anymore. '' Ron couldn't stay fresh the goofy grin off his face as he looked through all of Harry's new affair. He suddenly became distracted by something he found. `` Hey ! You should open up this box Hermione gave you now. '' He held the belittled, Patrick Victor Martindale White box out to him.

Harry glanced at Hermione who was sitting next to him and she nodded her agreement. He took it from Ron's hands and shook it gently, his curiosity peaked at the strange sound buzzing inside. As soon as he opened it, something small and glittery zoomed up and out. On instinct alone he reached out and caught it mid trajectory, though it took a 2nd to realize what was struggling in his hand. `` Where did you get this ? '' He asked her.

'' I took it from the practice box at the end of last year. I figured you'd like a literal one to practice with, and you told us your dad had one. '' She looked down shyly at she admitted she had stolen the sneaker.

'' Well done, Hermione ! '' George V said proudly.

'' A girl after our own sum. '' Fred complimented her, looking positively gleeful that she was starting to come around to their way of doing things.

'' It was a one time affair. Something exceptional for Harry for his birthday. '' Hermione assured the twins in a scolding tone before peeking at Harry out of the corner of her eye. `` Do you like it ? '' She asked him nervously.

'' Of course ! This is so lots undecomposed than a rule book or homework contriver ! '' He said, throwing an arm around her shoulder and pulling her in for a hug.

Everyone laughed as someone knocked, interrupting the fun. Mrs. Weasley opened the threshold and walked right in. `` Here you all are ! '' She exclaimed as Harry quickly hid the snitch behind his back. `` Harry dear, Albus is below and would wish to see you, as well as Ron and Hermione. ``

'' We'll be right down. '' He promised. She closed the door and everyone looked at each other.

'' Maybe he has our bird of Minerva ! '' Hermione jumped up and ran from the way. With that thought, Ron and Harry followed much slower each trying not to be the first downstairs. When they reentered the parlor, Dumbledore was sitting by the fire and Hermione was practically dancing around him in anticipation.

'' Ah, Harry. So that Miss granger doesn't strain herself, I will say that, yes, I do take your OWL results with me, but first there is something important I must discuss with all of you. Remus ! Thank you for joining us as well. '' Everyone turned to see Lupin in the threshold. Dumbledore waited patiently while they all settled into the ugly furniture. Lupin slumped into the armchair near the room access, but Harry chose the couch closest to his headmaster as Ron and Hermione took a seat on either English of him. All three stripling were anxious to observe out what the big news was, sealed Dumbledore wouldn't bring them word of anything bad on Harry's natal day. They soon found out how ill-timed they were.

'' Now, Harry, what I have to say may upset you but it must be said. '' The old wiz began carefully. `` Tomorrow you, Remus, Hermione and Ron will be accompanying me to the Ministry of Magic for the reading of Sirius's will. Apparently, he left us all something and we all must be present. ``

'' He left Ron and me something ? '' Hermione asked, shocked not only by Canicula's generosity but by the case they were discussing. Harry felt her payoff his hand in silent living and he was grateful, unsure of his own feelings on the topic.

Dumbledore brought his finger together and regarded his audience over the top of his small specs. `` You should know that after he returned here to Black manor to veil out, Dog Star contacted me about changing his will. He now had a godson he cared for a great hatful, and two young people who he cared for almost as much as Harry, in addition to a best Friend. '' He paused to nod at Lupin who was sitting quietly with tears on his font. `` I made the variety he indicated and now, with his passing, we must hear his net parole. ``

Harry was having a hard time dealing with his emotions at the minute. gloominess mingled with guilt and anger, leaving his abdomen churning and his oculus stinging with the unshed tears he'd built up in his anguish. Ron reached over to place a hand on his shoulder as Hermione squeezed his hand tighter, each knowing how tormented he must be feeling- he was thankful for them both. He met Dumbledore's empathetic regard. `` What meter are we leaving ? '' He asked quietly.

'' Around ten o'clock. The meeting is set for eleven and I'm afraid you three aren't yet old enough to apparate so we must lead the muggle way. '' The headmaster answered quietly.

'' I think I'd better go to bed then, I wasn't able to log Z's last night and today was a lot to take in. '' He said his goodnights, thanking everyone for everything they'd done in throwing him his very first of all natal day party. Then he quickly went to his room and closed the door. After changing into a tee shirt and sleep bloomers, he collapsed on the bed feeling both wide-awake and extremely exhausted. minute later, he heard a belt on the door and realized he had been waiting for it. `` Come in. '' He called with sigh.

Hermione stuck her head teacher in. `` Are you okey, Harry ? ``

Ron's head appeared above hers. `` Can we come in ? '' He asked quietly. Harry nodded and they both tumbled into the room. Ron took a seat on the boundary of his own bed, but Hermione gently settled herself next to Harry.

'' What are you thinking ? '' she asked him quietly.

'' That I wasn't expecting that. '' he answered. `` I know I probably should sustain with him being ... being ... gone, but I wasn't prepared. ``

'' Neither were we, married person. '' Ron took a sting out of a chocolate toad frog and shook his read/write head at the floor.

'' What can we do for you, Harry ? '' Hermione looked upset and eager to do anything to make him feel better.

He shook his head helplessly. `` I just want to stop over thinking about this and I don't want to talk about it either. ``

'' Well, Dumbledore gave us our bird of Minerva. We haven't opened them yet, we wanted to wait for you. Maybe that will help. '' Hermione held up three envelopes.

'' Anything to see your grade, eh Hermione ? '' Ron teased.

'' Oh shut up, Ronald. Here. '' Harry reached to take his and Hermione jumped back in horror. `` Harry ! What happened to you ? ! ``

Ron grabbed Harry's arm before he could hide it under the covers. He had forgotten that he hadn't put on his sweatshirt to hide the Saint Mark. `` Was it the muggles ? '' his protagonist demanded.

'' It's zero. '' Harry was flushed with superfluity and hoping they'd just let it drop.

But Hermione appeared livid. `` You have to tell Dumbledore. I can't believe it. And after the order talked to them- ''

'' Let it alone, Hermione. '' Harry pleaded, cutting her off. `` It's over. I'm here now and succeeding class, I'll be of age and able-bodied to use magic to fight back myself. ``

Hermione looked angry and unsure, but finally she dropped her eyes and silently handed him his envelope. Ron took his too, though he was still positively fuming. They read though them, Hermione getting Sir Thomas More and more excited. `` You first Harry ! '' She said eagerly.

'' Why don't you go first ? '' He responded, sharing a smile with Ron.

'' Well if you insist. '' And with that she spread the composition out on the bed so they both could read it.

Miss Hermione sodbuster,
We are please to report that you have received the high marks in your grade. Below are your individual mark. Congratulations and keep up the good work.
Sincerely,
Griselda Marchbanks

Arithmancy - O
antediluvian runic letter - O
uranology - O*
care of Magical beast - O
Charms - O
vindication Against the shadow humanistic discipline - O
Herbology - O
History of conjuration - O
Potions - O
Transfiguiration - O
*Due to unforeseen circumstances, your uranology course is based solely on what you had completed.

'' Wow, Hermione ! You got all O's ! '' Harry was stunned, he knew she'd do well, but all O's ? !

'' What did you get Harry ? You go next. '' He spread his paper on top of Hermione's letting the others take a look.

Mr. Harry thrower,
Below are your item-by-item loads. On behalf on the entire circuit card, I would like to preen you on receiving the in high spirits grade in defense lawyers Against the Dark Arts in over 50 years. Keep up the good work.
Sincerely,
Griselda Marchbanks

Astronomy - O*
forethought of Magical Creatures - O
magical spell - O
Defense Against the darkness Arts - O+
Divination - A
Herbology - E
History of Magic - E
Potions - O
Transfiguiration - O

'' Wow, those are good scrape, Harry ! '' Ron marveled.

'' How did you get an O+ ? '' Hermione demanded. The boy looked amused.

'' I showed my patronous for an special point. The tester offered it, I didn't ask for it. '' He said, hoping to appease her jealousy.

'' I could've shown my patronous too. '' Hermione said sourly under her breathing space. Then she shook her head and returned to normal. `` Anyway, your turn Ron. ``

Ron grumbled to himself as he leaned forward and put his report on top of the early two. He obviously wasn't as delight with his grades.

Mr. Ronald Weasley,
Below are your individual scores. serious lot in the next two old age.
Sincerely,
Griselda Marchbanks

astronomy - A*
guardianship of Magical Creatures - O
good luck charm - E
Defense Against the Dark Arts - O
foretelling - P
Herbology - A
Potions - E
Transfiguiration - E

'' Oh Ron. '' Hermione shook her head.

He dropped his capitulum, looking worried. `` How long do you think I can restrain mum from seeing these ? ``

'' Probably only till you wake up, if that. '' Harry laughed as Ron's face twisted into an verbal expression of terror.

'' Two O's ! She's going to kill me. Even Fred and George III managed three each ! ''

'' At least we both got good enough class to retain potions. '' Harry said, trying to cheer him up. He knew Dumbledore had gone over Snape and nullified the professor's threat not to swallow any educatee with less than an O.

'' Yippee. '' Ron said sarcastically. `` Two more years with Snape. ``

'' We need it if we're going to be Aurors. '' He reminded his booster. `` Besides, the grades aren't the worst in the world and you passed everything important with honorable marks. ``

Ron got up said goodnight and crawled into bed, pulling the covers over his principal. Harry and Hermione grinned at each former before she looked down at the flooring again, avoiding his regard. `` We should probably go to bed too, Harry. We have to be up ... early ... you know. '' She hesitantly said goodnight and made to leave for her and Ginny's room.

'' Thanks, Hermione. For keeping the Dursleys a arcanum for me. '' Harry said, trying to ensure that it would remain a secret. She gave him a light smile and left without another discussion. `` You too Ron. '' He said to the glob on the bed next to his.

From somewhere under the covers, Ron mumbled `` You're welcome. '' Harry put his glasses on the nightstand and got under the covers. He hoped that he was tired enough to not have any nightmares and after awhile finally closed his heart to thoughts of flying on his broom with Hermione and Ron right behind him, all trying to catch the snitch she'd given him for his birthday.

( BREAK )

Hermione quietly closed the threshold to her room, noting that Ginny was already asleep. She lay in her own bed, all-inclusive awake, thinking of how drear she felt for Harry. He was holding so a good deal in, she was afraid he would split someday soon. They were all sad Dog Star was gone, but they had others to pass back on. Harry formed very fast and very strong fastening to people, probably because he'd felt so alone for so long. Sirius of course had been no elision and to take him away from her supporter was simply cruel.

And those muggles ! How Harry could bear on to suffer in silence for what those horrid hoi polloi did to him, she just didn't know. She figured it was probably because he was embarrassed, but she didn't caution. She wished the Order had done more than threaten the Dursleys, she wished they'd cursed them straight to hell.

Tossing and turning for to a greater extent than an hour, she finally gave up on quietus and kicked off the covers. There was cipher she could think to do to help oneself Harry through all of this… she certainly couldn't force play him to blab out to her. And if he didn't talk to her, how was she ever supposed to be able to try and get to him finger better ? Frustrated, she knew the only thing she could do was wait patiently for him to determine he needed to tattle to someone. She just hoped she was the one he turned to.

( BREAK )

Ron got up as quietly as he could, not wanting to cut off Harry. He'd seen the gravid dark circles beneath his supporter's eyes and as his usual roommate, he knew how horrifying Harry's sleeping practice were. And Harry needed his rest more than any of them to cause it through what was shaping up to be a very sad tomorrow. So in an effort to let Harry continue sleeping peacefully, Ron made his way down to the kitchen for a glass of milk.

His own restlessness he attributed to a combination of his anger on Harry's behalf for what the muggles had done to him as well as his poor ground level. There was nothing he could do about the Dursleys, especially if Harry didn't want the adults to know about it. So he attempted to put all of that aside- after all, if Harry could do it why shouldn't he be able to ?

As for his grades, while he hadn't exactly failed everything like he thought he would he'd done no where near as well as his friends. blaze, he hadn't even done better than the twins, and they couldn't have cared less about shoal. Of path, he knew Fred and George were smart in their own rightfield, but still… he'd actually tried to do well. Or maybe he hadn't. Truth be told, his mind hadn't fully been on his exams lastly year, there had been too practically going on at the sentence. But saying that he'd been distracted by the goings on at the end of last twelvemonth was an self-justification and cipher Thomas More. After all, it hadn't affected Harry much and it certainly hadn't stopped Hermione. He poured his beverage and sat at the table, trying to feel tired.

A minor audio behind him startled him so badly he thought he was going to jump out of his peel. Ron whipped around to find Kreatcher exiting his cupboard. The unknown, cranky little elf walked through the kitchen and out into the hallway, muttering softly to himself. Though Ron couldn't hear what exactly he was saying, he figured the worthless thing was upset to once More have the business firm invaded by wizards he deemed unworthy. He was a bit peculiar as to what the house elf was up to, but the final stage thing he wanted was to have any fundamental interaction with Kreatcher.

With a weighed down sigh, he put his now empty glass in the sink before heading back up to his room. Once more he took great maintenance to not wake Harry as he slipped back into his own bed. As he pulled the covert up around him and closed his heart, he only hoped his mother would go easy on him. As for this schoolhouse year, he was determined to do wagerer. Maybe he would ask Hermione to help him study… Yes, that was a great idea ! He rested easier, now that he had a plan. Especially since it was one that would pass on him an excuse to be around Hermione even more. Drifting off to sleep, he pictured how corking this year would be and the things he'd finally have the courage to say and do. He was determined to make this the secure year he ever had. Perhaps it was too lots to wish for, but at the moment he didn't care.





A/N : Coming succeeding, reading of the will, trouble at the ministry, changes at Grimmauld place. Look for it soon !

Chapter 4 : The Ministry of Magic

NOTE : Once again I own none of the characters or lieu unless they are original work from my writhe and cluttered brain. That said, Read, Review, Enjoy !




Harry awoke to shouting from downstairs. By the auditory sensation of it, it seemed Mrs Weasley had found out about Ron's grades. He reached for his glasses and glanced over at the other bed, sure enough it was empty. As Harry got up there came a light knocking on the door. He opened it to unveil Hermione and Ginny standing awkwardly before him. `` We had to get out of the kitchen, so we volunteered to total see if you were awake yet. Can we come in ? '' Ginny asked as she walked past him and plopped down on Ron's bed, not waiting for an invitation.

'' Sure. Um, yeah it was hard to kip through all that yelling. '' He motioned for Hermione to come in as well. She sat awkwardly next to Ginny. `` Where's Fred and George IV ? '' he asked, yawning widely.

'' Oh they're still down there. They love it when someone else gets yelled at for a change. '' Ginny smirked.

'' You should get dressed, Harry. It's almost nine and Dumbledore said we were leaving at ten. '' Hermione was wearing a somber dark blue dress and a sad saying. Harry nodded and grabbed his nicest dress to go change in the bathroom.

Ginny groaned as he came out and they started for the kitchen where Mrs. Weasley was still loudly berating Ron. Walking in quietly, they took seats as far from the tilt as possible. Fred and George IV however were right wing near the action, occasionally egging their mother on. `` Yeah, Ron, at to the lowest degree we got three O's. '' Fred taunted.

'' At least I didn't drop out of school ! '' Ron shot back and Mrs. Weasley turned to the twins.

'' dependable influence the two of you are on your crony ! '' She yelled. From behind her, Ron stuck out his tongue.

'' It was a smart business move mother. At least you know we're doing something with our lifespan as elementary as you might call back it is. '' George said trying to turn her wrath back on Ron.

'' That's right ! '' She shook her finger's breadth in Ron's expression. `` What are you going to do with yourself, with grades like those ? Oh, Harry, I didn't see you come in ! '' Harry who had been enjoying watching the boys manipulate Mrs. Weasley's anger was embarrassed to suddenly obtain himself the center of attention. `` Here, have some breakfast, dear. And you girls eat up too. '' Ron looked positively relieved that Harry had drawn away his female parent's firing and he silently mouthed thank you. Mrs. Weasley looked Harry over. `` Don't you have a nice T-shirt you can wear, it's so very hot exterior. ``

Harry looked at Hermione in panic `` It gets inhuman in the ministry though. '' She said quickly on his behalf.

'' right wing you are dear, hoot near freezing in there it is. '' She agreed, turning back to the stove.

'' Thanks. '' Harry whispered.

'' surely. '' Hermione responded absently, staring down at her plate and shuffling solid food around.

'' Alright, everyone. Come on, eat up before you leave. '' Mrs. Weasley turned back to the teens. `` Oh, Harry, Hermione. How did you two do on your owl ? ``

'' We did okay. '' Hermione carefully answered, glancing at Ron.

'' Well ! Let me see your slews ! '' She requested, as excited for them as she was for her own children.

They looked at each former quickly, trying to adjudicate how they could serve Ron. `` Um, we left them in our room. '' Harry told her.

'' No job. Accio hooter, '' she said with a wave of her wand. In a second, she was holding their letter of the alphabet. They quickly finished eating while she looked over them so they could leave before the yelling started again. Sure enough, as they rushed out of the kitchen they heard, `` Ronald Weasley ! When are you going to see to apply yourself ? ! ``

They ran back up to Harry's room, where at least the stochasticity was muffled. `` I'm guessing you both did a lot better. '' Ginny grinned.

( BREAK )

Ron felt his auricle grow warm and was certain his total grimace was flushed with embarrassment. He listened as his mother went on and on about how he was dear than what he was producing and that he just needed to learn to focus. `` It's not like I failed out of schooltime. '' He grumbled.

'' It's not like you got all O's either ! '' She yelled, brandishing Hermione's scores in her hand.

'' Hey ! Hermione's like a robot or something ! You can't compare me to her ! '' he protested.

'' She is a bit brighter than the average bulb, mum. '' Fred joked.

'' Yeah, Ron's lightbulb just flickers a fiddling, that's all. '' George added with a grin.

He glared at his brothers, who weren't helping his cause. Of course, he'd never helped theirs either, and they were in trouble on a far more sponsor basis. `` That's not funny. '' Molly scolded the twins before turning back to him. `` Okay, if you feel Hermione is so special at schoolhouse, then explain why you couldn't do as well as Harry ! ``

'' Oh that's serious. Compare me to Harry potter, like I don't get that enough ! '' He yelled in frustration.

Before his mother could answer, individual knocked loudly on the breast door. Looking flustered, she went to resolve leaving him alone with his brothers. `` Well, that was…interesting. '' George III said of Ron's outburst.

'' Shut up and lead me alone. '' He answered grumpily. Hearing Dumbledore's representative, he rose to join the adults in the hallway. Despite the tragic reason they now had to go forth the house, he was gladiola for the fortune to get out.

( BREAK )

After awhile of playing with the snitch, Harry and the fille realized the mansion was mute. `` It's ten till ten. '' He announced after looking at his new watch.

They headed downstairs just as individual came knocking at the threshold. Mrs. Weasley rushed to answer it before Harry could, admitting Dumbledore into the house. `` Are you all ready to go ? '' The schoolmaster asked as Ron came out of the kitchen. Harry and his two best friends nodded sadly. `` Then let us be off. '' He turned and led the way outside.

Waiting at the curb was the same small car that had brought Harry yesterday. lupin was already in the back but this time there was a ministry driver behind the cycle. Without realizing it, Harry sighed in relief knowing the ride would be far less turbulent without Tonks driving. The head trip was a silent one… no one dared speak or even knew what to say.

Staring out the windowpane, Harry watched the house give way to occupation and saw more and Sir Thomas More hoi polloi on the street. He knew most in this character of town were muggles and they were all rushing around, living their life story completely unaware that their world could be ended at any sentence by a peril they knew cypher about. How could the muggles ever understand the scourge Voldemort presented ? He wouldn't have six years ago.

At last-place, they pulled into an resistance parking country and parked the car side by side to a wall covered in shadow. Dumbledore got out his scepter and tapped in certain places, just as one had to do in parliamentary procedure to recruit Diagon Alley. The wall slid back silently and they hurried through the makeshift doorway. He felt his heart acclivity up in his throat as he recalled the last time he'd been at the ministry just a few workweek earlier… his felt his stallion life had changed that day.

After a recollective walk down a desolate corridor, they found themselves in the lobby. It looked quite unlike since Harry had seen it after the showdown between Dumbledore and Voldemort- it had been in downfall then. Now, the statue in the outflow was gone replaced with a simple chalice until a new carving was produced. Some of the paries were still being repainted and repaired and there were tarps everywhere. He didn't understand why they were doing it without magic.

'' It'll be impregnable if we rebuild it ourselves and reinforce it with magic. '' Dumbledore answered Harry's mute head. He looked at the elderly adept and realized the man hadn't actually said anything outloud. Harry wondered if Dumbledore was in his head or if it was the early way around, since the early gave no indication that anything was going on at all.

They reached the raising and squeezed in the nearest one. Dumbledore muttered something under his breather and the elevator went up one floor instead of down to the others. `` Law Department '' a articulation announced. They got off and went down another long corridor. At precisely eleven, they entered an office simply titled, Last Will and Testament. The decor was ordinary considering where they were ; it was just like any received position with a desk, professorship and lots of playscript, files and folders. Harry sat between Lupin and Hermione, Ron on her other English and Dumbledore took the fundament behind the desk.

'' As a favor, I asked that I be allowed to study his will to you. Thankfully they thought me characterize. Now, are there any questions before I begin ? '' Everyone was staring at the trading floor, obviously wishing they were anywhere but there. `` Alright then. It begins, ‘ I, Dog Star Black, am obviously not here if this is being read.''' Everyone looked up at this. Dumbledore regarded them all with a sad smiling before continuing. `` ‘ Hopefully, those present are my larger-than-life godson Harry potter, the splendid Hermione granger, the bravely loyal Ronald Weasley, and my long trusted, well-loved admirer Remus lupine. A side of meat note for Moony, if you haven't told her yet mate, do it soon, you know who I mean. Just a little advice.''' Dumbledore paused.

Everyone had tears in their middle ; they were sad but also amused that Canicula wrote his Will as if he were still here talking to them. Passing the tissue paper box around, the old wizard continued reading. `` ‘ It's a sad patronage, reading Wills since it almost always means that someone has died. Unfortunately, this is my Will and I just want you to know that wherever I am right now, I am missing all of you. I know that my decease was not in vain, that it was a sacrifice for the safe guys, and that I will cause taken out as many of the bad guys as I could reach before it happened. I know that I will have died fighting the undecomposed fight, and Harry, Remus, believe me when I say there is no other way I would have chosen. ``

'' Now, I suppose it's on to business organization as you must be wondering what I have left you. To Ron and Hermione, I leave the sum of 20,000 galleons each. To Albus Dumbledore, I leave 30,000 galleons to be used for any Hogwarts business sector. I feel that it's the to the lowest degree I can do to make up for various activities that may or may not feature involved James, Remus and myself. I also leave you the knowledge that you did everything you could to tame us and our, pranks shall we say, in no way reflected our opinion of you. Remus, affectionately friend, last of the original piranha, I leave you 100,000 galleons and the depicted object of my safe, you know the one I'm talking about. For Merlin's interest, buy yourself some new clothes.''' Lupin gave a modest laugh at that, tears flowing freely down his face.

'' ‘ Harry, I wish things were different for you. I wish that we would get had all the clock time in the earth to know each other, but unfortunately things turned out differently. Whatever you do, do NOT fault yourself in any way for my end. No matter the circumstances, no thing what you think happened, the selection to fighting was ultimately my own. That said, I leave you blackness Manor, or more precisely now, ceramist manor house. Not quite the same hoop to it, but it'll grow on you. I also leave you the rest of my fortune to do with as you please. The sum is large, but I know that matter like money don't matter to you. class issue, so look around you and see these hoi polloi here with you now. They ARE a family, the one you made for yourself. I love you all, good circumstances, in battle and in life. Someday, somewhere, we are destined to take on again. Just don't make it too soon. For all of eternity yours, Sirius `` Padfoot '' Black.'''

The room was unearthly tranquil as all reflected on what they had just heard. Silent tears were spilling over in everyone's eyes, and Harry wondered if things would ever be upright for any of them.

( open frame )

Hermione watched the worrying that played across Harry's face as he tried to give good sense of his life. Although a few weeping had escaped, she saw how difficult he was trying to hold them back. She didn't know how he was able to, her own face was wet and she felt like doing nil but sobbing hysterically. It was all so tragic in her mind.

Sirius had been like a big kid once freed of Azkaban, and while he'd been a very capable man she'd never pictured him as a literal fighter. Sure he'd had accomplishment, never backed down and had effectively proved he would defend himself and those he loved to his death, but the fact that he'd had to do so at all seemed completely unfair. It wasn't the life he was meant for, but it was the one he'd had to deal out with since being framed for the death of his booster fifteen years before. For that long, his memories, anger, and guilt had tortured him. His future had been taken from him in one fell swoop. And then Harry had come along and once More it seemed the man had something to live for, something beyond his desire for revenge against Saint Peter the Apostle and ultimately Voldemort. Unfortunately, he'd raise how immature he was, letting his need to get even override his need to like for his godson when the boy's parents couldn't. Or maybe the two things had been adequate in his mind when he'd gone to the ministry with the others to serve them. She didn't know and would never have the chance to ask.

Glancing at Harry again, she saw how much he was struggling to be warm. She wanted to shake him out of it, to tell him to let himself cry and release some of the annoyance he always carried. She wanted to take him in her arms and ease him, assure him it would all get beneficial someday even if they both knew it was probably false. Instead she kept her hands clasped in her lap and waited for it to be clock time to leave.

( fault )

After a long while everyone had more or less pulled themselves together and Harry knew it was time to result. He felt a bit regretful, wanting to abide in the presence of that document- his last link to Sirius. It was silly and he knew it, so he remained silent. Without a word from anyone, they exited the office and headed toward the lift. Once they were all on, he faced the turning point to try and hide the fact that he had to pass over his tears away. Unfortunately, Hermione seemed to notice and as he turned around she reached out and squeezed his hand. Although embarrassed, Harry squeezed back thanking her for her tacit support.

Something was obviously wrong when they reentered the hall. People were running everywhere shouting as they prepared for something unknown. Tonks appeared before them out of hint and panicked. `` Albus ... the dementors ... they have left Azkaban. They have joined his force play and are attacking the ministry ! ``

Dumbledore turned to the mathematical group. `` Ron, take Harry and Hermione to your dad's office and abide put until he or I come and get you. Remus, come with me. ``

'' Come on. '' Ron said as the adult hurried away. He led them back to the heave and they rode it all the way down to flooring one.

Harry was confused as he followed his acquaintance down the bright hall. `` Ron this isn't the flooring your dad's office is on. ``

His friend simply smiled in reply and led the way into a large, beautifully furnished office, locking the door behind them. The nameplate on the desk said King Arthur Weasley, minister of religion of Magic.
　



A/N : Uh oh, the dementors are out of control…. We'll see where that goes. stay tuned for the future installment, coming relatively soon. Thanks for reading !

consultation to Sirius's expiry and combat in the ministry from Harry Potter and the orderliness of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling.
Chapter 5 : ceramist manor

NOTE : This may be insistent, but once again, I do not own any of the part or places unless they are master copy and if you are a true up fan, you will know the departure. That out of the way, show, review, enjoy !

　

　
Harry looked at Ron incredulously. `` Your dad is the new minister ? ``

'' We didn't get a luck to tell you survive night, with Dumbledore interrupting us and then the OWLs. '' Ron answered, unable to hold open himself from grinning with pride.

'' How did this happen ? What happened to Fudge ? '' Harry asked, bewildered. He'd never imagined that this was Mr. Weasley's new job.

'' His sorry concern. '' Hermione grinned. `` Fudge was overthrown, but not by Dumbledore. The Daily prophesier wrote all about it, but you probably didn't get those while you at the Dursleys. There was a hearing to go over why he didn't take your write up seriously back in fourth year after the tournament and they voted him incompetent and incapable of doing his job. They told him that all threats, real or imaginary concerning Voldemort must be taken seriously and investigated. Basically they said, ‘ Harry Potter had another pupil's deadened soundbox and a floor that he couldn't have possibly fabricated in the short sentence he disappeared, it should have been investigated further.'''

Harry turned to Ron. `` delay, what about Percy then ? Wasn't he Fudge's secretary or something like that ? ``

He shook his school principal angrily. `` The git still won't admit he's wrong. V-v- you-know-who display himself and Walker Percy still acts like a tote up rump. He resigned his stance, saying that he just couldn't work for dad. Couldn't face him more like it. Anyway, Dumbledore and my mum convinced dad to put his figure in for the position. And he got it ! ``

'' well, with Dumbledore's help. He's the one who convinced them all to impart Arthur a opportunity. '' Hermione added. Before Ron could respond, they heard someone nearby scream. Pressing their pinna to the door, they heard multitude running by yelling for assistance.

'' We should help them, we can all do a patronous ! '' Harry whipped out his wand.

'' number one of all Harry, we aren't allowed to do conjuring trick and second… ''

'' Hermione ... Harry…. '' Ron interrupted her. `` Um guys, I think we should originate calling our patronous. '' Harry and Hermione stopped arguing and realized that the temperature in the room had dropped considerably as they began to slowly see their breathing time. The three stepped away from the door, their rachis to the wall as the spark flickered wildly before going out completely. They raised their wand set up for whatever came out of the swarthiness. Hermione's unloose hand was digging painfully into Harry's arm- he barely noticed. Ron on the early side of him was shaking badly, his articulatio genus knocking together, but he stood improbable and his wand arm was house and ready.

As suddenly as it had come, the cold disappeared and the lights sprang back on. They kept their wands up, not wanting to let their hold down as the room access lock chamber clicked open. Dumbledore poked his fountainhead in and collectively, all four let out their breath. Harry, Ron and Hermione lowered their verge as the headmaster walked in, looking sad, tired and extremely old. `` The dementors are gone. Some did not get off their onrush. '' He somberly told the teen before turning and walking away without further comment. They followed close behind him.

Once more entering the antechamber, they saw several people lying silent on the floor, speculative than utterly ; they were soulless. Others attended the victims, but not very much could be done. Harry tried not to look- though his eye didn't have a lot fourth dimension to file anything anyway. Dumbledore wasn't actually running, but he was moving so fast that the three stripling had to sprint to keep up with the old wizard as they made their way back down the long hallway to the parking garage. The little car pulled up in front of them, squealing to a halt as they were all usher quickly into the back.

'' Dad ! '' Ron said in relief. Mr. Weasley himself was behind the wheel, looking grim. He gave them a weak smile before turning his care back to the road. Two more ministry cable car pulled out with them, one in front and the other butt. Harry looked up at the sky, and sure enough he caught glance of several masses on brooms.

'' Shouldn't these mass be back at the Ministry helping out instead of seeing us nursing home ? '' He asked suddenly. Ron and Hermione looked up, interested in the answer.

Mr. Weasley sighed. `` We are still trying to fix if it was just an fire on the Ministry, or .... '' he trailed off, obviously not wanting to cerebrate about the `` or ''.

'' Or what Mr. Weasley ? '' Hermione asked though she had that feel that said she already knew and just wanted to confirm her suspicions.

It was Dumbledore who answered. `` Or if Voldemort had found out that Harry was going to be there. ``

Anger and guilt hit him in waves. Couldn't he even go to the reading of his godfather's will without looking over his shoulder ? constant wakefulness, he heard Mad-eye's voice in his head. Well, screw that. Was there nowhere, no sentence when he could find good ? And what about his champion ? He slumped down in his seat and glared out the window. The others must have noticed his reaction, because no one said another word until they reached home.

( BREAK )

'' The mail's here ! '' Ginny called up the stairs. She walked into the parlor as she flipped through the letters, happy to see respective envelopes from Hogwarts. Their school letters had finally arrived, Harry's sitting proudly at the top of the great deal. She couldn't help but grinning as she read his name.

'' Anything for us ? '' George asked as he and Fred bounded into the room.

She handed them their business missive and flipped through the ease to be sure as shooting she hadn't missed anything. She was surprised by what she found. `` Hey, you both got something from the school. ``

'' What could they possibly want. '' Fred grabbed the envelope bearing his name and the Gryffindor peak, studying it closely before tearing it open. `` Oh no. George, we have to proceed mum from seeing these. ``

'' Seeing what ? '' Molly asked suspiciously as she walked into the room.

'' zero. '' George answered quickly, hiding the varsity letter behind his back.

He wasn't quick enough. With a wave of her wand, both of the twins'Hogwarts letter were in her hands. `` Oh my good ! This is wonderful ! '' Molly exclaimed happily. Ginny saw the twins exchange a expression that told her they disagreed. She took a oceanic abyss breath and made herself very still and unnoticed so that she'd be able to stick and notice out what was going on.

'' We aren't going to do it mother. '' George said evenly.

'' Oh yes you are. '' Molly returned.

'' But there's no point ! '' Fred protested.

'' Of course there's a point ! And you're both going to do this ! '' She argued back.

'' We have to get to the computer storage and don't have time for an disceptation. '' George V answered.

'' Besides mum, we're seventeen. You can't make us. '' Fred continued to push.

Molly seemed to accept the affirmation as a challenge. Her face turned hard. `` Ginny, dear. Please go up to your way while I discuss a few matter with your brothers. ``

She didn't want to, her oddity was peaked. `` But mum- ''

'' Go ! '' Molly ordered in a tone that implied she was not to be argued with.

'' Fine ! '' Ginny yelled, stomping up the stairs to her room and slamming the room access behind her. Sometimes, she felt like she wasn't even a part of the syndicate. Just that morning, the Twins had been allowed to stay put for Ron's dressing down, so why couldn't she witness theirs ?

Looking for a misdirection, she turned to her own ring mail. Putting aside her Hogwarts varsity letter she picked up the former one, the one doyen Thomas had sent her. By the end of lowest year, she had finally agreed to date him after he refused to soften. It wasn't something she was particularly excited about but she figured it was better to be with someone rather than alone. Especially since she'd recently begun to suspect that the boy she really wanted seemed to want somebody else, even if he wasn't aware of it yet.

As she tore loose the gasbag, she felt slightly guilty. This was the tenth letter doyen had sent her since summer began, and she'd only sent him one back.

dearest Ginny,
I don't know why you aren't writing to me but I hope you're okay. If you are, then it's starting to become obvious that maybe you just don't want to save me. Listen, I've liked you for awhile now, and maybe I should have waited until we came back to school to ask you out, so that we'd actually be able to see each other. So here's the slew, if I don't hear from you again, I'll assume you've changed your mind and no hard feelings, alright ? I really hope I hear from you though.
Sincerely,
Dean Thomas

She was both relieved and distraught. He'd placed everything in her hands, now she just had to figure out what she wanted.

( breaking )

It was after dinner later that night and all the teens were crowded in the kitchen discussing what had happened at the ministry and what it meant. The adults had gone off into a mysterious new room that had magically appeared next to the pantry, whose threshold read `` War Room. ``

'' With the dementors on his position, all those Death Eaters you guys put away last year will get out in no metre ! '' Saint George looked really worried for the first meter in a long while.

'' If they haven't broken out already. '' Fred grimly added, just as concerned as his Gemini. They had gotten dwelling from work right before dinner and had been shocked to pick up about Ron, Harry and Hermione's day.

Harry had been shocked when he had first walked in after Mr. Weasley dropped them off and as the others talked he let his head wander back to that moment. It had been unsettling to walk in and discover that the total décor and layout of the house was completely different- though it was definitely more befit to him and for the need of the Order. to the highest degree importantly, the screeching Mrs. Black had disappeared- Hermione had guessed that Kreatcher had taken the portrait and run off, since none of them could find him later. Apparently the charm that kept her stuck to the paries had been disabled when possession of the house switched families. It didn't matter much to Harry if that particular piece of the black Family account was gone, nor was he upset that the tapestry holding the fellowship tree had disappeared. And if Kreatcher really had run off with them all the full, he'd been glad the house elf had kept himself hidden the short fourth dimension they'd had to coexist.

Beyond the entrance, the hallway had been bright and airy, the ugly umbrella stand gone and replaced with a unsubdivided vase used for the Saame function. The parlor was spectacular. The walls had become an emerald greens almost the colouring material of Harry's eyes. There were large, overstuffed, blue electric chair and couch on one side, a gravid gambling table on the early and bookshelves scattered throughout. Hermione had laughed and collapsed into one of the chairs while Ron had inspected the mesa. `` Harry ! We can act as pool, table lawn tennis, poker, anything we want ! This is baffle. ``

But Harry hadn't been paying care to either of them at the clock time. He had turned and stared up at the picture placed so decidedly above the hearth. It was a portrait of Sirius and himself, though neither had posed for it. Sirius had his manus on Harry's articulatio humeri and they both looked so happy in the image, so confident. Hermione had stopped examining the bookcases on the opposite wall when he'd let out a small sob, going to him and putting her arm around his shoulders. Ron had already gone off to scrutinise the rest of the changes to the first gear floor, leaving the two alone.

Harry had taken off his eyeglasses and dropped to his knees, crying for what had seemed to him the millionth time in the last two days though he knew that was the first clock time he'd allowed himself to actually shed tears. She'd sat adjacent to him looking up at the portraiture and rubbing his shoulder, her eyes welled up as well. `` I guess this makes it official. '' He'd whispered to her. `` The house is mine. ``

'' Harry ? '' He snapped out of his sentiment and back to the demonstrate. Looking around at everyone, he realized they were staring at him.

'' Sorry. '' He mumbled. `` What did you say Ginny ? ``

'' I said, do you call back Mr. Malfoy will continue using Draco to spy on us ? I mean he is locked away in Azkaban now… ''

'' I wouldn't put it past either of them. '' Ron said scowling. `` We'll have to watch what we say and where we say it. ``

'' Yeah we will ! '' George said enthusiastically.

'' What do you mean we ? '' Hermione asked, everyone now staring at the twins.

'' We got missive this morning after you left with Dumbledore and before we fed Buckbeak. They are officially inviting us back to fill in our conclusion class. ''

'' And after a nice yelling friction match with mum, we agreed. '' Fred added. `` We decided it would let us be able-bodied to better monitor our Hogsmeade branch. ''

'' You guys are extending to Hogsmeade ? '' Harry was impressed.

'' It seemed like a lifelike thought. to the highest degree of our customer are students, so why not make it more accessible during the schooling year ? ``

'' That was a smart move. '' Hermione said, impressed despite herself.

'' Oh, letters came for the rest of you also. '' Ginny said handing out the gasbag to Harry, Ron and Hermione.

Harry opened his, finding his provision list for sixth year along with a letter from McGonagall. He eagerly unfolded the note, wondering what his professor had to say.

Mr. ceramicist,
I am delight to announce that your lifespan ban from quidditch has been lifted and thusly I would like to nominate you our team sea captain this year since Angelina has graduated. I assume you will be taking your place as searcher, so please inform Miss Weasley that she is now positioned as chaser. As I understand things, our beaters will be returning this year as well, so you will postulate to hold in tryouts for two to a greater extent pursuer only. See me in my bureau after classes the first day so that we can set all the requirement day of the month. I expect that cup to stay in my office, Mr. Potter. Do not let down me.
Sincerely,
prof Minerva McGonagall.

'' Looks like you get to be a chaser for quidditch, Ginny. '' Harry smiled. Finally, he had some exciting, near news.

'' Yeah I figured that was going to materialize. '' She smiled back. `` Are you captain ? ``

'' That's what the letter says. ``

Ron looked happy. `` Does that mean you'll let me ride out on the squad ? ``

'' Of line Ron ! ``

'' You mean she picked you over one of us ! '' Fred grabbed the letter to read for himself.

'' To be average, '' Hermione started, `` Harry still has two years. It makes more sentience. ``

'' Plus do we really want that much responsibility, Fred ? '' George asked. `` Or any at all for that topic ? ``

'' You have a compass point. '' And he let it go at that.

'' Hey ! '' Ginny jumped up startling everyone. `` You three haven't seen upstair yet ! ``

It was true. Shortly after they had finished checking out the new additions to the commencement floor, Mrs. Weasley had announced dinner. Harry, Ron and Hermione hadn't even changed out of their attire dress yet. They all followed Ginny, looking around the instant story first. There were now four bedrooms on this floor and each door had a nameplate. The first-class honours degree said Mr. and Mrs. Weasley.

'' We can't open the room access to look inside. They've all been magicked for privacy. Fred, George V and I already tried. '' Ginny explained. The early doors read Remus lupin, Nymphadora Tonks, and Buckbeak. The bathroom was down the hall.

'' Buckbeak has his own room ? '' Ron marveled as they climbed to the next floor. There were three bedrooms here, the doors reading Fred and George IV Weasley, Ginny Weasley, and Edgar Guest. Walking into Ginny's room first, they marveled at the remainder. Three of the paries were now a mild blue, the fourth covered in a collage of picture show of her friends, Harry, Ron and Hermione in most of them. Fabric in respective shades of purple draped down from the ceiling giving the way a feeling exotic yet soft aura. A tumid four poster bed was placed against the far wall, adorned with tons of pillows and looking like the most comfortable piazza in the world. A nightstand and small committal to writing desk completed the pleasant décor, along with a single bookcase holding textbook on conjuration, quidditch and music.

'' This is really nice, Ginny ! '' Hermione said.

'' I guess it's meant to be my domicile away from home. '' she smiled, ushering them out and down the hall to the counterpart's room.

Fred and Saint George's infinite was almost like a lab. Around the identically dressed bottom were mesa set up with beakers and ampoule, chemicals, pipe, cauldron and burners. Several bookcases lined one wall, holding books about potions, herbaceous plant, crystals, and minerals. Two lab coating and two stage set of goggles hung following to the door, ready for use by the wanna-be potionmakers. `` Everything we need to drive mum crazy. '' George said proudly.

'' And to make our product. '' Fred added.

'' Right, that too. cum on, we're dying to see ickle Ronniekins room ! '' They laughed as they led the way to the finis floor.

Ron's was the first elbow room they came to. He opened the door and peeked inside. `` Wow ! '' he said throwing it receptive for the others and walking in. There were poster of quidditch teams covering every rampart like wallpaper, his favorite The Chudley Cannons featured near prominently. Off to one English was a ling cabinet, full of everything you would call for to serve a ling. The bed was much like the one at Hogwarts, except in the colour of blue air, black and silver. `` This is so cool ! '' He walked around, examining all of his things as if he had never seen them before. `` Guys ! Look I have my own bathroom ! '' He said, opening a door. It was percipient he wanted to persist and enjoy in having his own room, but with a lot of persuading, he finally went with the others to see more of the new elbow room.

Hermione's was succeeding and she squealed with delight when she saw that bookcases lined every wall, trading floor to cap, and contained entropy on anything and everything one could ever want to have it away. Above them, the ceiling had been magicked to shew a nighttime sky full of stars, the lunar month shining big and shining as it lit the entire elbow room. humble reading material lamps with delicate green refinement sat on the bedstands, giving off surplus luminosity. The bed seemed to be floating in midair and Ginny sat down cautiously to try it out- it seemed to be as stalwart as if it were on the floor. `` You have your own bathtub too. '' Ron said opening a doorway.

Finally, they were outside Harry's room but he hesitated as a sudden surge of sadness overwhelmed him. `` I don't want to go in there. '' He said quietly. The others looked uneasy and puzzled, except Hermione.

'' Why not Harry ? I'm indisputable yours is the best of all ! '' Ron gave him a little push forward.

'' Because ... '' He started, but was unable to say more.

'' Because it's Sirius's old room. '' Hermione whispered for him, having realized where they were in the old flooring plan. The others looked down not knowing what to say or do. plague stared at the room access, which proudly displayed Master Harry ceramicist on the front and decided he couldn't let his retentiveness control him like this. Taking a deep breath, he grabbed the boss and threw open the threshold before he could change his mind.

Everyone was speechless as they slowly entered, trying to engage it all in. The rampart were a abstruse red, and the bed clothing, curtains and roof were gilded, his two favorite colouring. There was a bookcase on one paries that held aught but record on Defense Against the Dark nontextual matter and quidditch. Over the headboard of his bed, hung three pictures that he'd had, only they were made to be three meter their rule size. One was of his parents, the mo of Hermione, Ron, Ginny, Fred and George, Neville and Luna, taken on the power train home last class ; the new Marauders. The third was of Dog Star, Lupin and Harry's mum and dad from when they were in school ; the old vulture. Hedwig had her own corner of the way with a perch made just for her and Harry's heather was mounted over his very own heather storage locker. His room was at least twice as big as all the others and it made him feel very small.

The stoolpigeon that Hermione had given him was flying freely around the room and Crookshanks, who had wandered in after them gave pursuit trying to get it. He knocked over some affair that were on a small-scale committal to writing desk in his mad scramble of a following. `` Bad kitty ! '' Hermione tried to snap up him.

'' It's alright, Hermione, he didn't fault anything. '' Harry sounded exhausted even to himself as he picked up the quills and ink. The others must cause noticed how pall he was and said their goodnights leaving only Ron, who was helping Hermione coax Crookshanks out from under the bed. Harry laughed when he glanced over at Hedwig- he couldn't assistance it. She had puffed herself up, put her chin up and was making quiet squeak as if to say, You would never see me acquit in such a way. I'm a good pet. Ron gave up and left, eager to learn out more of his room. Hermione was still half under the bed when she screamed.



A/N : next up a trip-up to Diagon Alley. See you following clip !
Chapter 6 : Showdown in Diagon Alley

NOTE : I bet you know what I'm gon na say here ! I own nil unless it's original. Read and Enjoy. Please review so I know whether this is Worth my time.

　

Heart in his throat, Harry quickly grabbed Hermione's legs and pulled her out from under the bed just as the stoolpigeon, followed closely by Crookshanks, flew by. They missed her case by in. `` Sorry Crookshanks, fun's over. '' He said as he reached out and captured the snitch before helping Hermione to her feet.

'' Sorry. '' She mumbled, her nerve bang. He could learn her embarrassment and merely grinned at her. `` Goodnight. '' She quickly gathered Crookshanks in her arm and headed off to her own room.

Harry looked around, knowing at once that he would not be able to sleep in this room- not yet. He quickly changed out of his clothes into jeans and a sweatshirt before grabbing one of the Book from his shelf. On the way down to the living-room, he was stopped on the landing place of the third level by a tiny plosion that had come from the twins'room. Smoke was billowing around the edge of the door and he could try the male child'muffled argument as they blamed each other for the mistake. He shrugged and continued on his way trusting that whatever just happened, Fred and George VI would get it under control.

The next few nights he stayed in the living-room dozing on the lounge and it suited him just fine. That is until Mrs. Weasley finally caught him one night and sent him to his own room. `` It's my house now. '' He grumbled as he climbed the step. `` I should be able-bodied to sleep where I want. '' Though instead of going to his room, which he only used to exchange, he decided to take over the guestroom… It appeased molly and kept him from having to face the feelings that arose when he thought of taking over Sirius's way, making it the perfect tense place for him to hide.

( BREAK )

With a week left till school started, Molly had finally agreed to take on them all to Diagon alley for books and supplies, much to Ron's alleviation. The attack on the Ministry had been proven to be just that. His, Harry and Hermione's comportment had been a coincidence and this fact is what allowed them to finally be let out of the theatre. estimable thing since they all felt cabin fever creeping into their brains.

Traveling by the floo system, they arrived at Fred and George IV's shop, coughing through a cloud of dust as they began batting smut off of each other. Harry and Hermione had never been to the store before so Ron and Ginny led them around, browsing through everything as Molly scolded the twins for never cleaning their fireplace. A particular product called Spew Chew, which promised the jokester that whoever bit into the confect would have their backtalk filled with the retched taste of flub drivel, made Ron wonder if he could ever again accept any food for thought from his brothers without fear.

Their first stop after saying goodbye to the similitude was Gringott's to pick up some money. Ron now had his own vault housing the generous amount Canicula had given him, and he made his female parent allow him to use this to buy his own school things, as she let Fred and George I use their own funds. After a bit of an logical argument she agreed, though she seemed saddened by the thought that yet another one of her children no longer seemed to need her. He felt bad, but also liked the preference of Independence that spending his own money afforded him. molly went off with Ginny to buy her some new robe, leaving him and his booster free to shop at their leisure for the hour until they were to all meet up at the bookstore. Much to Hermione's dissatisfaction, they spent a bit of time in the sporting shop. Amused by the sour faces she was making, Ron suggested their next point be the stationary store, though she didn't perk up until after she had bought various new shaft and rolls of parchment.

As they made their way back down the street, Harry pointed out lupine sitting outside the ice cream shop class, the maiden metre they had really seen him since the Ministry. He had been staying at the menage of course, but Tonks brought him his food and he only left his way for Order group meeting. Now he greeted them with a smile as they approached, happily agreeing to rest a slight thirster and have a dainty with them.

'' What have you been up to ? '' Hermione asked as the waitress brought their sweet. `` We never see you. You're like a shadower. ``

'' I've just been thinking a lot. '' lupine assured her. `` Plus the full phase of the moon moon is coming, so I'll have to be leaving soon. And… '' he paused to dramatically take another raciness of his ice cream. `` …I motivation to adjudicate what I am going to learn all of you this twelvemonth. '' Harry dropped his spoon in electric shock and the three of them stared at lupine excitedly.

'' Are you going to instruct defensive structure again ? '' Ron asked, his mouth still full. He swallowed the dusty lump, feeling it cooling his insides as it slid down. `` What about all the parents ? ``

'' Albus sent out a varsity letter to every parent, letting them know his plan. He's using the money Sirius left him to take out insurance with the ministry for me. That seemed to mollify most of them, enough for the apparent movement to eliminate anyway. '' Lupin checked his watch. `` wellspring, I better be going. I still have a few thing to take attention of around here before I can go back domicile. See you all there ! ''

After he left, they leisurely finished their goody, talking and watching the people go by. `` Would you mind if we stopped in at the pet workshop ? I need to nibble up some owl treats. '' Harry asked as they finally rose to leave.

'' Sounds good to me. I need to see if I can find out a braggy cat carrier for Crookshanks… he just seems to be getting bountiful and vainglorious. '' Hermione sighed.

'' Maybe because you feed him all day long. '' Ron teased. `` You spoil that cat too a great deal. ``

'' He's special. '' She argued simply, crossing her limb and turning away from him.

'' Whatever you say Mione. '' Harry grinned, joining Ron in teasing her.

'' Yeah special doesn't have to equalise to the highest degree foil housecat ever. '' He added. Both boys laughed as she stomped ahead of them into the pet shop.

Leaving them to pick things out for their animal, Ron went off to scrutinize the critters on video display. He was sad that he no longer had Scabbers, though as he reminded himself how that had turned out he decided that maybe another pet wasn't the way to go. Although, he really did miss having something to give care for… well maybe he'd public lecture to Hagrid- or better yet, Charlie. So putting the thought aside for by and by reflection he continued on, fawning over the various animals that came to check him out.

Neville found him a bit later, quite busy playing with the pup. Apparently he was there to buy yet another coop for Trevor the Harry Houdini of toads, and following Ron to the front, he was greeted warmly by Harry and Hermione. They completed their purchases while catching up, since they'd finish seen each other at Harry's natal day political party. With a few minutes to give up before they had to assemble molly and Ginny, they all four stepped out on the street to plan their side by side layover. Upon trying to enter the candy computer memory they literally ran into another quatern trying to exit, causing Neville to fall backwards into the street. Looking up, Ron took in the flock of none other than Dragon Malfoy, pansy James Parkinson and their moron trunk guards, Vincent Crabbe and Gregory XII Goyle. He and Harry glared at them as they helped Neville to his metrical unit.

'' My dad will be out of Azkaban soon, thrower. Expect vengeance. '' Malfoy quietly threatened.

'' You really think you dash me ? After what I've been through, you really await me to be shaking in my horseshoe ? '' Harry returned.

'' If you're as saucy as you pretend to be. '' Malfoy sneered.

'' What makes you think you or your male parent are shivery than Voldemort ? '' Hermione returned.

'' How daring you speak the Dark nobleman's public figure in my mien, mudblood ! '' he turned to her, his eyes wide.

'' Can't you at to the lowest degree come up with new insults ? '' She asked impatiently. `` one-half breed, mudblood, Weasel. It's all getting a little oil production. ``

'' thinker your own business organization frizz head. '' Pansy said pushing Hermione. Instantly, Harry had his verge out, followed quickly by Ron and Neville. For a moment, the Slitheryns looked scared.

Then Malfoy's face twisted into a smiling. `` Go ahead ! Use them. ``

'' Normally, you aren't worth getting kicked out of school for, Malfoy. But if you make me use this wand, believe me, I WILL make it worth my while. '' Harry glared never moving his eyes from the other boys. Ron tried to make himself appear as menacing as his friend.

'' Um Harry ? '' Hermione put her helping hand on his arm and he lowered his wand looking around. Malfoy and his minions were also taking in the panorama, little terror evident on their faces, and apparently just as storm as Ron to discover that Gryffindors and penis of the DA had so suddenly surrounded them. There was : Dean St. Thomas and Seamus Finnigan, Luna Lovegood, Parvati and Padma Patil with Lavender Brown, the Creevey brothers, Ernie MacMillan, Zacharias Smith, Hannah Abbot and Susan osseous tissue, and Lee Jordan River with Fred and George II. They obviously came to see what the fuss was about, as everyone of them had their wand out and ready.

Harry grinned with superbia. `` Looks like you're a fiddling outnumbered, Malfoy. Unless you feel you could need us all on ? ``

'' You'll get yours, Potter. '' Malfoy promised hollowly. And with that they retreated.

Without a word, everyone else went back to what they were doing as if nothing had happened at all. Hermione looked at the three boys, her face full of concern. `` We'll definitely have to be measured this year you guys. Did you enamour what he said ? ``

'' No, what ? '' Neville asked.

'' He called Voldemort, the Dark Maker. '' Harry answered for her, still watching Draco's retreat.

'' So ? '' Ron asked as they began making their way to the bookstore.

'' Ronald, honestly, how do you walk and talk at the Saame time ? '' Hermione asked, letting her foiling show.

'' portion of practice. '' Ron grinned, though the comment hurt. He didn't like knowing he didn't catch on to things as quickly as his acquaintance ; and he especially didn't like knowing they thought it too. He wanted so badly to take care secure in Hermione's eyes, just once.

'' Ron, only Death eater call him the wickedness Lord. '' Harry shook his heading and added quickly, `` Now is not the time or place to discuss this. We have to contact your mum and Ginny. ``

They waved arrivederci to Neville and hurried into the bookstall where mollie was tapping her animal foot impatiently. `` And what took you three so long ? ``

'' We ran into some small fry from schoolhouse. '' Ron answered honestly and he, Harry and Hermione hurried in the store.

( rift )

Later that nighttime in Hermione's room, they told Ginny and the counterpart exactly what had happened, including Malfoy choice of words.

'' Do you really cogitate he joined Voldemort ? '' Ginny asked.

'' Don't know, he was wearing long sleeves so we couldn't see if he had the gull. '' Hermione said searching the ledge for a book.

'' Maybe he wanted to cover it. The dark gull isn't exactly something you want the populace knowing you have. '' Fred suggested.

'' Just because he was wearing foresightful arm in summer doesn't mean he's hiding anything. Harry wears them all the time. '' Saint George pointed out.

She caught the scared feel Harry quickly shot her and Ron. `` That's right. '' Hermione agreed definitively. `` Besides, do you really think Malfoy has what it takes to deal with Voldemort ? His father, yes… but him ? Come on. ``

'' So why did he say it then Miss-I-Know-Everything ? '' Fred asked, clearly teasing her.

'' To scare us ? To induce himself seem more important ? Because it's how Voldemort was referred to as he grew up ? There are a number of reasons. '' She found the book she was looking for and quickly changed the case. `` Harry ! attend what I found out earlier. ``

Pulling the book caused the entire thing to swing undefended, revealing the spinal column of Harry's bookshelf. She pushed and Harry's room was visible through the stopgap doorway. `` There's another one on this side of meat leading to Ron's room through his ling console. Our room are all connected to each former. '' She grinned.

'' Whoa ! '' Ron said, running to his elbow room. In a bit he had found the trip to open the transition way to Hermione's way and pushed out-of-doors her bookcase. `` This is so poise ! ``

Hermione wondered why their suite were all linked to each other, but Fred and George had merely been interested to bed if there were any more secret thing scattered throughout the house. Their agitation was infectious and everyone left to check their rooms. Hermione sat alone on her bed, feeling changeable. When Grimmauld plaza had housed the Blacks, it had been a foul, grave thing. Was it really that different ? Perhaps she was just too suspicious ; after all just because effective affair rarely happened didn't mean they never happened. And besides, Canicula had given Harry the house and she trusted Sirius. Sort of. The man had seemed to like danger the Lapp way Harry and the early male child did. She just hoped they didn't come to similar ends.

( BREAK )

After awhile, Mrs. Weasley called dinner party and the teens gathered on the landing to head down. They were all surprised to see Luna Lovegood seated at the table as Molly bustled around the kitchen. `` Hi. '' She greeted them with a friendly smiling, as if her being there was zero out of the ordinary.

'' Oh, I forgot to assure you, I invited Luna to persist until schooling starts. '' Ginny said turning to Harry. `` We ran into each early in Diagon alleyway and she said her Church Father had to go out of town. You don't judgement, do you, Harry ? '' she added sweetly.

'' Of course not, the Thomas More the merrier. '' He said calmly, though he was panicking on the inside. Having Luna here meant the guestroom would be used, which meant he would take to catch some Z's in his own room, Canicula's room, tonight. He couldn't exactly turn Luna away, he would never turn away any of his friend if they needed a favor… especially individual as innocuous as Luna seemed to be. The female child may be unusual, but that also made her interesting and he found he actually liked having her around as he never knew what she was going to say. But as much as he decided he liked Luna, he also really didn't want to be forced into being stuck in a place that so decidedly reminded him of his godfather. He didn't know what to do and remained lost in his own thoughts until Lupin, who had decided to unite them at the table that night, stood up so fast that his death chair toppled over.

'' I can't take away it anymore ! '' He yelled. `` Sirius was aright, I just have to do it ! No more look, no more games ! ``






A/N Sorry to pull up stakes it there, cliffhangers are a bitch, but I will give chapter seven up as soon as I finish it. Please review and let me know what you think.

Chapter 7 : Confessions

distinction : I don't own the grapheme or places, obviously. I'd be a lot richer if I did. Anyway, thanks for returning and please as always, Read, Review, Enjoy !



'' Nymphadora Tonks, I'm so madly in love with you that I can't think straight ! I don't even know what I'm doing anymore. I know you probably don't feel the Lapp and that's alright, but I just couldn't hold it in any longer ! '' The elbow room was silent as everyone stared at lupin in shock absorber. Quietly, he picked up his professorship and sat down, trying very hard to face as if nothing had happened as his facial expression reddened.

They were all now looking at Tonks waiting with bated breathing space to see what happened. She simply shook her headway and with an abashed laughter said, `` Well, Remus, I guess that means I'll have to forgive you for calling me Nymphadora. '' Ron snickered and the girls all smiled at each other. `` Can I verbalise to you in the other room for a min ? '' She got up and went to the parlor. Lupin once again knocked over the chair in his hastiness to follow.

Fred and George were already getting out a pair of extendable pinna when their mother glared at them. `` Just curious. '' They both mumbled putting away their invention.

'' What do you think she'll say ? '' Ginny asked excitedly.

'' She'll probably admit she likes him too. '' Harry said.

'' But he doesn't like her, he LOVES her ! '' Ron said laughing.

'' All of you go to your elbow room. '' Mrs. Weasley snapped. `` And pull up stakes them alone in there ! ``

Harry liked that, being ordered around in his own house. If it were anyone early than Molly Weasley, he might have said something. But he couldn't bring himself to do anything other than obey the woman who worked so severe to like for him the way she did all her child. Besides, a large part of him enjoyed that she treated him no differently than one of her own.

The adolescent made their way back up to Hermione's room where they endlessly discussed the unlike consequence for lupine and Tonks as well as their excitement to be returning to schooltime. Harry found he was very much enjoying himself, talking, joking and laughing with his acquaintance. He had missed this while being locked away with the Dursleys.

'' Well, '' George said as he and Fred got up after a longsighted while, `` we're going to get a head start on our homework, it being NEWT yr and all for us. ``

Everyone looked at them in amazement. `` You aren't unplayful ? '' Ron demanded.

The twins laughed, `` Of grade not little brother, we do have some experiment to get to though. '' Fred said with a jiffy as they apperated to their room. Harry, Ron and Ginny laughed, while Luna didn't even pain to look up from her top side down transcript of the quibbler. But Hermione was sullen.

'' Those two. They're only coming back to play quidditch ! '' She said angrily. The other three only laughed harder.

Eventually Ginny and Luna left to really go do some preparation since they were both in their OWL twelvemonth. When Hermione kicked the boys out so she could read, Harry challenged Ron to a game of Wizard's chess in an attempt to avoid his own elbow room a little longer. After winning three games in a row however, Ron decided he wanted to go to bed. He tried to go to Hermione's room to `` borrow a book that would put him right to sleep '' only to find that she had locked him out. `` Well ! I like that ! '' he said with his hands on his pelvis, looking so much like his mother that Harry had to choke a laugh. Ron settled for a book on the history of quidditch and no longer having any excuse, Harry went to his own room.

After changing to his usual tee shirt and kip pants, he warily climbed into bed. For almost an 60 minutes, he tried to sleep but every time he closed his eyes, ugly images from his nightmares flashed through his psyche. After a final flip and tour he gave up, realizing he needed to verbalize to soul, to get these persona out of his fountainhead. But who ? Lupin was probably still dealing with Tonks- or they were meddling doing something he'd rather not cut off. Ron would be snoring by now, and though friends with Ginny and Luna, they just didn't know enough about him. That left Hermione, who was always so smart and practical. She would undoubtedly have a go at it what to say.

The fire in his way had gone out so he wrapped his blanket around himself as he got out of bed and went to the mystery door, hoping that Hermione hadn't locked him out as well. She hadn't. Slowly opening the bookcase so as not to inflame her if she had fallen asleep, he let out a sigh of easing upon seeing she was indeed awaken, sitting up in bed reading.

'' Couldn't eternal rest ? '' She asked with concern as she glanced up from her novel, seemingly not surprised to see him.

'' Too very much is going on in my head, I just can't .... '' Harry broke off, still diffident if he should bother her with his problems.

She sighed, put her Holy Scripture away and patted the huge infinite next to her on the bed. `` I knew you'd give in sooner or later. ``

He looked up as he settled himself comfortably beside her. `` What do you imply ? ``

'' Harry, we all know how much you've been through and yet you feel the need to keep it all to yourself. It was only a matter of time before it'd all need to come out. I'm not trying to be ‘ Miss-know-it-all'as Fred likes to predict me, it's just that I do have it away you so well, and no one could go through so practically without suffering side essence. ``

'' You have no idea. '' He proceeded to tell her about the nightmare and how he hadn't been sleeping in his room because it scared him. Once he got started, words kept pouring out of his mouth, matter that had been weighing on him for class. It was as if once he let out one closed book, he couldn't intercept the flood waiting behind it. Without meaning to, he told her what it was really the like for him as a child with the Dursleys, what he had to stick out as Vernon's unwanted nephew. He confessed how he feared that his triumph over iniquity were all luck, how shamed he felt about Cedric and Canicula, and what had really happened at the end of the Tri-wizard tourney, with his parents coming out of Voldemort's verge along with Cedric to help protect him. She listened without saying a word, her facial expression becoming angry in sealed parts and concerned in others. `` What if I'm not who everyone thinks I am, Hermione ? What if I'm nothing but the Boy-Who-Got-Lucky-and-Lived ? '' He finally looked at her, waiting to see if she'd agree, if she'd yell and say she knew all the time that he was a phony.

'' Oh, Harry. '' She sighed as she lay down. He lay too, so that they were facing each other. Now that he was done talking, he realized that he was exhausted. `` Maybe you did get favourable, the number one two prison term. I mean as a baby, there really wasn't anything you could do, your mother's magic protected you then. And our number one class, well, he wasn't at his full metier, which was why he needed the sorcerer's stone. But what about everything else, Harry ? No one is that favorable. for certain you had aid, you had people looking out for you, but when it came down to it, your finding did it all. ``

He was skeptical `` I don't know. It's just that- ''

'' No. '' She interrupted. `` Harry, why are you so set against yourself and your science ? Who taught a Defense baseball club final year ? Who got an O+ on their form ? Who, time and again, take chances his aliveness for the people he cares about ? It's not that you're playing the hero, Harry. It just that you are the hero, it's in your origin, and as long as you are you, I will follow, no matter the risk, as will Ron and anyone else who believes in you. '' She looked like she wanted to say something else, but was holding back.

He didn't thrust for Sir Thomas More though since he already had snag in his eyes and was determined not to let them come in social movement of her ... she'd seen him cry enough. But these were the wrangle he had so desperately needed to get word ; that it wasn't his imbecility but his courage that had made the others want to stick with and forgive no issue where he led- that the great unwashed believed in him.

Hermione took his bridge player and smiled at him sadly. `` This is the life you were given, it may not be average, but now you know you don't have to halt everything yourself. merely face around and there will always be masses more than willing to help you, because you are as very much the mascot of good as Voldemort is of evil. '' She added softly.

Me… the mascot of good. He thought. That's what it will issue forth down to in the end, me and him. He pondered whether or not to also tell her about the prophesy. It was the only when affair he had held back, not wanting her to be scared for him. `` Hermione, there's something else. ``

'' If it's about those ugly people you live with all I can say is that they better look on out for when I come of age, because they're going to be in so much difficulty. '' She looked at his arm, which still had a few faded marks on it.

'' No, it's about the prophesy. '' He answered, smiling in maliciousness of the somberness of the secret he was about to share.

'' The one that got smashed ? I thought no one heard it. ``

'' I did, later in Dumbledore's situation. '' He admitted.

She sat up in surprise. `` Well ? ``

'' Basically, it said that a fry would be born at the end of July who Voldemort will mark his equal. '' Harry paused to let on his scar. `` One of them will have to lead out the former, because apparently they can't both be together on this planet at the same prison term. '' He finished paraphrasing, not bothering to hide the frustrated hopelessness he felt. `` I think it's pretty obvious who the prophesy was talking about. ``

'' So you have to toss off or be killed ? '' Her astonishment quickly turned to see red. `` Why didn't you tell us sooner ? There's got to be another way. ``

'' I don't think there is, and I don't think I can do it. For all my hatred, all my pain and fear, for everything he and his followers have taken from me, I don't think I could hold up with myself if I murdered him. ``

She lay down and took his helping hand again. `` We'll find another way. '' She promised. `` Maybe it just meant that you will be the one to find a way to stop him. '' She added hopefully.

'' Maybe. '' He replied without much conviction. Despite the current thread of their conversation he did feel happier, lighter somehow. It apparently helped a lot knowing that he had soul he could trust with everything, every theatrical role of himself. There was just one thing left and he knew it was silly, but he still didn't want to sleep in his room. `` Um, Hermione ? ``

'' Of grade you can sleep here, you already have your blanket. '' She answered with a sad smile.

'' Thanks, I'm just not ready yet, to accept ... '' he trailed off. There were so many things he wasn't ready to accept as fact.

'' I understand, Harry. '' She said quietly. Within minutes, he was on his way to a restful, dreamless night.

( BREAK )

Hermione watched as Harry's breathing evened out and he fell into a mystifying sopor. He'd confided so much to her, her head was reeling with information. Of course she'd known his childhood hadn't been the greatest, but to get hold out the honest profundity of his unhappiness and how unloved and unwanted he'd felt for so long, it broke her heart. Her own parents were supportive though stern with certain thought about what their girl should be… but she knew they loved her as long as she continued to be successful. To try and picture a sprightliness where it hadn't mattered to anyone whether you were there or not, it was unfathomable. Thinking of the animation he could receive had if his parents had survived, she felt Harry's ire towards their headmaster justified. To go so long believing you are nothing to anyone and then slowly be fed entropy about just how wanted and needed you were, she just couldn't imagine the hurt and frustration he must feel.

As to the rest, she now better understood his question about himself. Sure she'd questioned him and his sagacity in the past times, and would probably keep on to do so. But that was due to her own flaws, not his. She found it incredibly difficult to live the way the others did, to just bound in without thought process and get things done. She would always see all the problem, the fashion thing could go wrong. Harry and the Weasley nestling may face at everything they've been through as adventurous, but she only saw a dangerous neglect for authority ... not that it had ever stopped her from going along.

And now this prophesy, it couldn't be unfeigned ! Logically she knew there were casualty in war and that's what they were at the rootage of, a horrific war of wizards. It had never occurred to her that Harry could fall behind, and it didn't seem feasible now. But before, she'd always thought that it would be a variety of team effort- that no one would have to do anything alone. well screw the prophesy. She would be there in the end, as would the others she was sure. Just because some seer claimed it was going to hap that way didn't mean they couldn't alteration it. Besides, that sort of thing was so open to interpretation, who knew if it actually meant what it seemed to ?

Still holding her manus, Harry squeezed it in his slumber looking peaceful at last. She sighed out her defeat and closed her middle, letting her tiredness take over. Whatever was going to materialise with Harry would happen in it's own time, for now she was glad just to be here with him in the moment.

( BREAK )

The next daybreak at breakfast, everyone was nervous to feel out about what had happened between Lupin and Tonks and when she walked into the kitchen alone, all eyes were on her. Harry watched her blush a little at finding she was the nub of attention before smiling shyly as she asked, `` Has anyone seen my boyfriend this forenoon ? '' With that the teens were up and cheering, and somehow little pyrotechnic escaped into the way. Fred and St. George only cheered louder when Mrs. Weasley turned to call at them.

Everyone settled down after Molly threatened not to feed them if they didn't. When lupin walked in a few bit later though, they all erupted into sunniness again. This fourth dimension, even Mrs Weasley was smiling and waited a broad arcminute before silencing them. `` Well, done Moony. '' Fred and George said as lupin took a seat next to Tonks. He awkwardly kissed her cheek, and the stripling either groaned or made kissing noises.

Lupin turned bright red and Tonks muttered, `` Grow up. ``

'' We're in the procedure of doing just that. '' Ginny said smartly.

( BREAK )

The adjacent few days passed pleasantly. Without being asked by Harry, Hermione kept everything that was said between them to herself, even the prophesy, though she did urge him to share that piece of information with the others. He wasn't ready to do that yet nor was he prepare to slumber in his own room. Hermione allowed him to last out with her but had told him that he better be ready by their wintertime rift from school because she wasn't going to let him be scared of Sirius's memory forever.

The day before they were to bring back to Hogwarts Harry, Ron, Ginny, and the twins begged Mrs. Weasley to let them visit the burrow so they could pattern quidditch out in the open, using every persuasive tactic they could recollect of. After only an hour, she agreed and twenty arcminute later they arrived by floo powder.

'' She's losing her ghost. '' Fred remarked.

'' Yeah, usually it takes at least three hour before she gives in to something she didn't want to check to in the start place. '' Saint George added with a panoptic grin.

'' Well, it probably helped that Tonks and I agreed to keep an eye on all of you. '' lupin told them.

'' Keeping an eye on us ? If that's what you two wan na scream it. '' George shot back. Both adults blushed before walking to the edge of the railyard to keep an eye on the kids play their game.

In lodge to get some newly air, Hermione and Luna had gone with and were sitting on the grass meter reading and talking. At one point when Harry looked over, they were bass in conversation, their fountainhead close together. `` Wyrd, '' He said to himself, `` normally, they don't even like each other. ``

Harry gave the Weasley kids a game plan he had been working on in his judgement and under the twins'taunts about being captain, they perfected it. It felt so good to be out in the open air, to zoom through the air and feel the pull of the wind as it whipped through him. On his broom, he was weightless… he was gratuitous. Flying gave him the relief valve he needed and component of him wanted to turn his heather and head for the horizon, to give behind this life and continue going until he could no longer stick in the air. Of course he couldn't do that, not now… but maybe someday when this war was all over and he could be assured of the safe of everyone he cared about.

They played until sundown, which was when they'd been ordered to be family, and they arrived at Grimmauld Place dirty, sweaty and happy. Mrs. Weasley immediately sent the teen to wash up and they raced to comply before hungrily invading the kitchen. It seemed that Molly had outdone even herself that nighttime at dinner. The going away feast she'd prepared was spectacular, with enough delicious food for thought for all the occupants of the house as well as the several guests who had come by to see the teen off. Bill and Charlie, who had taken some fourth dimension off from their normal task to assist the purchase order, were entertaining the girls with muggle magic prank, while Moody and Kingsley were deep in conversation with Tonks, lupine and Arthur. Everyone was in good liquor and the mood was light and happy. After awhile, Mrs. Weasley broke up the small party, sending the teens to fetch up packing and go to bed since they had to be up betimes.

Harry quickly threw everything in his trunk, changed into his sleepwear, and started for the private door to once more nonsense with Hermione. But something made him break and he turned, looking around at the room that was so meticulously made up to suit him. True, it had been Sirius's room… but Sirius had wanted Harry to accept it, to have the whole house. Perhaps being so close to returning to Hogwarts was making him sentimental… but to a greater extent than that, something told him he needed to toughen up to get through the succeeding school year. The fact that the petite phonation in his chief telling him these affair sounded very much like Luna Lovegood was unsettling, considering they didn't know each other very well, but he couldn't argue that the voice made sense. After all, how was he ever supposed to go against Voldemort when he couldn't even face the retentivity haunting his room ? Making the decision to be a big boy and sleep there tonight, he went to enjoin Hermione.

'' Harry ! '' She said as soon as he entered. `` I promised I wouldn't tell, but it's just too laughable ! ``

'' Tell what ? ``

'' Promise you'll keep it a mystery ? ``

'' You mean like you are ? '' He teased and she glared at him. `` Alright, I promise. ``

'' Luna has a crush ! ``

Luna, who he'd just been thinking was somehow in his straits giving him advice. `` It's not on me is it ? '' He asked nervously. Though he wasn't sure what his type of girl was, he didn't think Luna was it. But then again, that wasn't fair… he didn't know anything former than that the girl was strange and oddness wasn't necessarily a intellect to dismiss a person.

'' mortal's broad of himself. '' Hermione said. Her tone joked, but her eyes were saying something different, something he could almost see…. `` No, it's RON ! '' she added quickly, breaking off his concentration.

'' What about me ? '' Ron asked coming through his side of the secret passage. Apparently, Hermione had forgotten to lock it.

'' goose egg. '' Harry and Hermione said together. They glanced quickly at each other.

'' Okay… Well, Harry I, uh, wanted to ask you something about tomorrow. '' He gestured that they go into Harry's elbow room. `` Privately. ``

With another facial expression at Hermione, Harry followed him into his room and closed the bookcase. `` What's up ? ``

'' What were you guys saying about me ? '' Ron asked right away.

'' cipher. '' Harry quickly answered, remembering his hope to keep the cloak-and-dagger. Besides he was sure Luna would be mortified if she knew they had told Ron before she was ready… or before Ron was cook to hear it.

'' Did she say something about someone liking me ? '' He pressed.

Harry was uneasy. His friend had hit the nail on the caput. `` Um .... ''

'' I knew it. She told you she liked me, right ? ''

He was taken aback for a moment. `` Um, no. I can honestly say she said nothing about her liking you. ``

'' Oh. Do you consider she does ? '' Ron asked hopefully, though it was clear that he was also uneasy to finally breach this topic with anyone.

'' In a Sir Thomas More than friends way ? I can't say for indisputable ... but I don't think so. '' Harry could feel passion rising to his face. He knew he was blushing and figured it was the uncomfortable theme they were discussing.

'' You don't ? ``

'' Sorry mate, I don't think so at all. ``

'' Oh. '' Ron's face fell. `` Do you think she could ? ``

'' Why are you asking me ? '' He was thrown off by his sudden angriness. He didn't understand why this was bothering him so badly.

Ron also seemed surprised by Harry's shade. `` Because lately you two are always off talking about something privately. '' He answered defensively.

'' And you think all we do is talk about you ? '' The words were out before he realized what he was saying.

Ron looked hurt. `` fine, she doesn't like me, or at to the lowest degree tell you she likes me. Sorry. ``

'' She doesn't recite me she likes you because she doesn't. Not in that way. Maybe you should get a new crush. '' Why was he saying these things ? Harry's mouth was completely out of his restraint, speaking before thinking. Ron turned without another Book and left the room through the normal transit and Harry heard a door barb down the hall.

Within seconds, Hermione entered his room through the bookcase. `` What was that all about ? ``

'' Nothing. '' He turned his cover so she wouldn't see his face.

'' It didn't audio like nothing. What happened ? '' she asked, full of concern.

'' Nothing alright ? By the way, I'm sleeping in here tonight. Got ta get used to being by myself. '' He said moodily.

'' Harry .... ''

He turned to her, carefully keeping his fount blank. `` I'm really tired, okay. I kept Luna's secret since that's what you really want to know, so goodnight. '' He gently pushed her to her way, closing and locking the bookcase so she couldn't come back. Grabbing a ledger, he angrily threw it across the room. What was wrong with him ? Why was he yelling at Ron about liking Hermione ? A sudden thought crossed his thinker, but he quickly dismissed it. It was just impossible. He turned out the light and got into bed, welcoming the nightmares in place of what he was thinking, because what he was thinking was more than he could handle right now.

( BREAK )

Ron didn't know what to think. He couldn't understand what Harry's problem was ! They were all growing up now, and sure Hermione maybe wasn't the young lady he'd envisioned himself with, but he couldn't assist what he was feeling. As often as the girl annoyed him, as a lot as she corrected him and as lots as she threw her intelligence in their faces, there was something about her that made him need to be near her all the clip. All he had hoped was that Harry could provide insight, that Hermione had confided in their friend that she had feelings exchangeable to his own. So why had Harry jumped down his throat ?

He kicked off his concealment, unable to sleep. He was too upset. Deciding on a game of kitty to calm himself, he silently made his way downstairs and into the parlor. `` Hey. '' A phonation in the corner of the dimly lit room made him jump.

Turning he found Ginny sitting in one of the armchairs, a low book and pen in her lap. `` What are doing down here. '' he demanded of his sister. `` You scared me to death. ``

'' A bit of an overstatement. '' She smirked. `` I couldn't rest so I came down here to spell in my journal. What are you doing down here ? ``

'' I couldn't sleep either. I wanted to blast some pool. You up for a secret plan ? '' he asked hopefully, suddenly glad of the company.

'' Sure. '' She smiled slightly. `` So, what's keeping you up tonight ? ``

'' A small competitiveness with Harry. '' He answered shortly as he racked the balls.

'' About what ? ``

'' naught. ``

'' Really ? A fight about aught is keeping you awake ? '' she asked standing future to him, waiting for her turn.

Ron felt obstruct. But maybe his sis, who was admirer with Hermione as well, could give him the insight he'd been denied by Harry. `` It was about this stupid crush I have on Hermione. I thought I heard them talking about me and I was hoping she'd told him that she likes me too. Instead, he got all mad and told me to find a new crush. ``

'' You're an idiot. '' She smacked him hard on the cover of his head.

'' Ow ! What the snake pit ? '' he rubbed his brain, looking at her warily.

'' Of course of study he doesn't want to tell you she likes you, he wants her to like him ! '' Ginny said.

'' What ? What are you talking about ? ``

'' He likes her, and she likes him. They're both either too shy or too obstinate to accommodate it. Anyone can see it though. I know I can. '' She sounded overturned and he remembered her own crush.

'' What's awry, Gin ? You want him to like you instead ? ``

'' Well, wouldn't you want her to wish you instead ? It's just not the way it is. ``

'' Is this something she told you ? ``

'' Of grade not. I can just tell. ``

He leaned over to personal line of credit up his blastoff, his brain a whirl of view and emotions. Once more, Harry was going to get something that he wanted and it hurt. `` How come I didn't see it ? '' he wondered out loud.

'' Because guy never pay attention to anything important. '' She answered bitterly. `` Between my brothers, my guy friends and my young man, I feel like you all just shut off your senses to anything that doesn't demand your attention, including me. ``

'' faith me Ginny, you are pretty concentrated to dismiss. ``

'' Yeah, so says you. Meanwhile I move to the back of your intellect as soon as your friend show up. ``

'' They're your Friend too, you know. And you're my Sister. You'll always mean Sir Thomas More to me than they do. ``

'' We'll see. '' She said quietly under her hint as she took her guess, sinking in two balls.

'' There's no hope for me and Hermione then ? '' he asked.

'' Not until she and Harry get each other out of their systems. Right now, whether they even know it or not, they are only interest in each other. That could change given the flop stimulus I suppose, but why bother. They'll probably tire of each other middling quickly. ``

Ron didn't think that was the case. While they finished their biz, he tuned her out for the most part, thinking back to everything he knew about his two best friends. Nothing seemed to repoint to any great love liaison, but at the same time, all he could think was how much sense it made. Okay, so this would be one more than thing Harry bested him at- he could know with it. At least, he hoped he could.



A/N : following up, they head to Hogwarts and the train ride gives the gang a few trouble. Let me hear your thoughts on this chapter and the narrative thus far and quell tuned for more Harry Potter and the Ring of Mykele.

NOTE : quotation to the prophesy from Harry thrower and the Order of the phoenix by J.K. Rowling

Chapter 8 : Drama On Board the Hogwarts expressage

notation : Blah, blah, it all belongs to J.K. Rowling. You know the drill. Read, inspection, enjoy !

　

Harry awoke the next break of day to yelling from all over the firm as everyone prepared to leave. He got dressed quickly, glancing around the room to be trusted he had everything he needed. His heart landed on some blank parchment on his desk and intuition told him not to block it. Picking it up he realized it was the giving Lupin had given him for his birthday and he instantly felt a pang of guilt feelings. He had never gone and asked about it like he was supposed to. Not that lupin hasn't been too preoccupied to get prompt me. Harry thought with a wry smile. Lupin and Tonks had become inseparable in a few short days, letting picayune else occupy their time except each other. Well, there would be time decent at school to ask about the strange gift.

Happy to be reminded that his ally would be back teaching that twelvemonth, he threw the lambskin in his trunk and dragged it downstairs along with Hedwig's batting cage, letting the owl drive along on his shoulder until they reached the bottom. She seemed dysphoric yet resigned to being placed in her coop for the trip and Harry was sure as shooting to give some extra delicacy in to make up for her temporary confinement. From the doorway to the front room, he caught Ron and Hermione's centre and motioned them over. Hermione went right away, but Ron frowned and debated whether or not to get up. In the end, he followed Hermione.

last-place Night, Harry had stayed awake for minute trying to image matter out. Now he knew. He knew that his impression for Hermione may have begun to run deeper than friendly relationship, he knew that Ron had liked her in the Lapp way for at least two years, and because of this, he knew he couldn't say anything to either of them. The solely affair he didn't know, was whether Hermione liked either boy. And that was something he just wasn't ready to know, because if he was being honest with himself, these flavor may have been there all along, unrecognized. But he had to put it all aside- he couldn't live happily knowing that he caused Ron unhappiness.

'' Ron, I just wanted to say sorry for yelling at you. I don't know what happened, it was just unexpected and I was tired and stressed. To be good, I really don't know the resolution to your question, but it could be possible. '' Harry said, forcing himself to admit that it really could be possible that Hermione liked Ron.

To his surprise, Ron gave a humble smile looking between Harry and Hermione. `` We'll talk of the town later. '' He told Harry and walked into the kitchen to get breakfast, leaving his Quaker bewildered.

'' I'm sorry I snapped at you too. '' Harry said shaking his head and turning to Hermione following. `` I really didn't mean it and I would assure you everything that happened, except it's probably something Ron would want to keep between ourselves right now. ``

'' I understand, Harry. I was just worried about you putting more tension on yourself by fighting with Ron. '' She quickly squeezed his hand and followed Ron into the kitchen. Harry smiled ; she was worried about him. But then a interpreter in his principal said, Who isn't these days ? He sighed and went to get his shoemaker's last meal before going home to Hogwarts.

An 60 minutes later, they were all packed in a with child car Mr. Weasley had sent from the Ministry, speeding toward the train station. Tonks was once again behind the wheel and all rider were hanging on for honey living. `` Can't you say something to her about her horrible drive ? '' Ron asked lupine as he was thrown to the floor when she stopped at a light.

'' No. '' Lupin answered looking just as shaken as everyone else.

'' But she's your girlfriend ! '' Ron whispered violently.

'' And I'd like to keep it that way. A short Sturm und Drang can make the trip-up exciting. '' Lupin gave a weak smile. Finally, they pulled up to the station, much to the relief of all inside the vehicle.

'' Everyone out ! '' Tonks said happily.

Two at a time, they fell through to Platform 9 and ¾ and with fifteen second until the railroad train left, lupin pulled Harry away from the others. `` You never came to ask me about your birthday present. '' He said quietly as he nervously glanced over his shoulder.

Harry was taken aback. Having just been thinking of that parchment a short while ago, it almost felt as if he had sent the thoughts directly to his Friend. `` Yeah I know… it slipped my head actually, with everything else going on and all. But we can talk about it at schooling right ? ''

'' So you packed it ? '' Lupin asked anxiously.

'' Yeah. Of course. '' Harry's curiosity rose a little higher. `` What is it ? '' He couldn't assist but ask.

'' It is a list of clew to something I think you might find incredibly utilitarian. Sothis, St. James the Apostle and I found the target and hid it in case we'd ever need it. However it was something we'd hoped we'd never need. I had forgotten about it until I came across the lambskin live month while going through some old boxful. I figured you'd want to use it. ``

'' But what is it ? '' He asked again.

'' I can't tell you, Harry. I don't want to say too much here, you know… too many ears. To read the clues, tap it with your wand and say, '' he paused, looked around, then leaned in close to Harry's ear. `` Say ‘ We need to talk.''' He whispered.

Harry nodded to show that he had heard even if he didn't understand. Why did everything consume to be shrouded in mystery ? Why couldn't he ever get a unbent answer from anyone ? The conductor yelled, `` All aboard ! '' and with a last wave to Arthur and Molly, Harry hurried after the others to get their usual compartment.

As they pulled away from the station, he asked Ginny and Neville to bring back recreation for everyone, giving them a handful of money. After shooting him a strange aspect, Luna followed them out saying she was going to help carry everything back. Harry was glad she seemed to have realized he wanted a minute of arc alone with Ron and Hermione.

'' Before you go to the Prefect get together, I just wanted to say sorry again. '' He started. `` I know everyone is stressed out and the finally thing anyone needs is me being all Moody. ``

'' It's okay Harry. We've had bountiful arguments before. '' Ron smiled and got up.

Hermione rose too. `` Relax Harry. We'll be back in no time, only the fifth yr Prefects have to police the caravan. '' She left and the boy could already hear her shouting at hoi polloi in the future compartment.

'' I think she's a little too perfect for this job. '' Ron laughed.

'' Are you going to ask her if she has flavor for you ? '' This was the question Harry had been wanting to ask Ron since early that morning and it burst out of him before he could stop himself.

'' Naw, I think you're mightily. I need to find someone new. Besides, she likes you, and how can I vie ? '' He shrugged and turned to walk out the door.

'' What do you mean ? '' He yelled after him, but Ron kept going as if he didn't hear. Harry sat back down confused.

Ginny and the others returned with drunkenness and they settled in to dally a game of exploding ginger snap. But he couldn't get his mind onto anything former than Ron's final stage speech. Though he'd been happy to hear that his Friend believed Hermione liked him instead, the tone of his articulation had still carried a lot of hurt under the I-don't-care-attitude he'd tried to limn. The compartment door opened and Harry turned to say something to Ron, only to see that it was someone completely different.

'' Hi Harry, how was your summer ? '' Cho Chang asked with a sweet-flavored smile.

'' Um, good. Can I help you with something ? '' Harry was confused. At the end of last class she'd been avoiding him, so what did she want now ?

'' Can I babble to you privately for a minute ? '' She asked shyly.

Harry looked at his friends. Ginny shrugged her shoulders, Neville was staring at the ground and Luna was looking through an old al-Qur'an with the appearance of being completely disinterested in anything at all. No assistant was forthcoming. `` Alright. '' He agreed and not knowing what else to do, got up and followed her down the hallway.

( BREAK )

Ginny didn't know how to feel anymore. Between having to intromit outloud to Ron that Harry liked Hermione, trying to forfend Dean for as long as possible and watching Harry take the air off with his ex-girlfriend she was tangled in an emotional air mile. She tried not to show it, putting on a happy case as she, Luna and Neville entertained each former until the other three returned. Apparently she wasn't doing a safe enough job.

'' What's damage ? '' Neville asked her sweetly.

'' What do you signify ? cypher's wrongfulness. '' She answered sharply.

He looked at her with his big, chocolate-brown eyes and she felt herself soften. `` I don't know Ginny, you just seem different…quieter somehow. ``

She smiled at him, her first real smile in a long time. `` So if I'm not loud and obnoxious then there's something wrong ? ``

'' You're never obnoxious. '' He answered shyly.

'' Just loud. '' Luna joked as she put her book down. `` But you are okay, right ? '' She asked seriously.

'' I'm fine. What's faulty with you two ? '' Ginny returned, feeling Sir Thomas More than a little defensive.

'' Is it about James Dean ? '' Neville asked suddenly. `` I'd heard you two were a duad. ``

Although upset that they wouldn't let the national drop, she once more couldn't help but smile. She knew Neville had a diminished crushed leather on her, and while she thought him incredibly sweet, she knew she would eat him alive if they were ever to be together. It still didn't stop her marrow from warming when he looked at her the way he did. `` You're right field, we were a couple. I've decided we aren't one anymore. You see ? I chose not to be with him so there's no reason to be upset. I promise you both, I'm fine. ``

Neville seemed delight to find out she was once again 1, but Luna appeared unconvinced. `` I'm here if you need person to talk to Ginny. Always. '' She promised.

'' Thanks, but like I've said a million times now, I'm mulct. '' She insisted.

Luna simply nodded and opened her rule book again. `` If you say so. '' She said quietly.

( time out )

They ran into Ron and Hermione outside the empty-bellied compartment Cho had brought him to. `` I'll be back in a minute. '' Harry told them. Ron shook his straits and smiled wryly, but Hermione looked like she was fighting the urge to say something. Grabbing his arm, Cho pulled him into the compartment and swiftly closed the door, cutting him off from his friends before settling herself comfortably. She patted the space next to her indicating that he should join her. Instead, he chose the fanny across from her and crossed his implements of war, waiting for her to speak.

'' Harry, I think the fourth dimension away from each early did us some ripe. I know that it did for me, I've had a lot of time to think and I'm sorry about the way affair wound up between us. Maybe we should give it another try. '' She twirled her hair around her fingerbreadth and smiled. endure year, Harry would get found that cute, but now it was annoying him and he didn't know why… something about her was setting off warning signal bell shape in his head and he instinctively became suspicious.

'' dedicate what another try ? '' He asked carefully.

'' Us. '' She answered softly

'' Us ? '' His confusion grew.

'' Yes, us, you and me Harry. I think we should try to be together again. '' She appeared to be getting frustrated with his inability to sympathise her.

'' You weren't even talking to me at the end of hold up yr. '' He sputtered out, unsure exactly what was going on.

'' Like I said, the time apart has done us good, don't you think ? '' She was smiling, but Harry felt like there was something else behind it, and he could almost see what it was… something iniquity and presentiment. `` Harry ? '' she prodded interrupting his concentration.

He shook his heading and said the first thing that came to him. `` To be dependable, I haven't thought about us at all this summer. '' He hadn't meant that to be so bad-mannered, but her face implied that's how she took it. He really wasn't too worried about it. `` Sorry. '' He said lamely as he got up and left.

Everyone turned as Harry reentered his own compartment. `` What was that all about ? '' Ron asked. It was obvious they had been talking about him because no one would meet his eyes. Hermione was staring intently out the window.

'' Nothing. '' he answered as the threshold slammed open behind him.

'' You can't just take the air out on me in the middle of a discussion. '' Cho said angrily coming in and closing the door behind her. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Ginny do a silencing charm on the compartment and draw in the tint. He was grateful.

'' It was a discussion I didn't want to have. '' Harry said, turning to face her and not caring if his word of honor were harsh. She was the one who had burst in and embarrassed him in front line of his Friend after all.

'' How could you say you hadn't thought about me all summer ? '' She demanded.

'' Because it was true ! I've had other thing on my creative thinker. '' He yelled.

'' In case you didn't know, Voldemort is back. There are other things for Harry and the residual of us, yourself included, to vex about. So maybe you should save this for sometime later, when you two can discuss it calmly and privately. '' Luna said, never once looking up from her book. Harry admired her in that moment- she really didn't maintenance what anyone sentiment of her.

'' Oh shut up. '' Cho yelled. `` This is between Harry and me ! ``

'' It was, you're the one who brought it to us. '' Ginny snapped back.

'' Just shut up ! '' she screamed.

'' Cho, I think you should leave now. '' Harry took her articulatio cubiti and guided her to the door.

'' No ! You're an idiot ! Do you know how many guys would eff for me to ask them out ? ``

'' Then go find one of them to vex ! '' He shouted in her face.

There was whang on the door, interrupting the verbal spew of vehemence Cho had been about to unleash on him. The room access slid open and the Weasley twins entered, huge grins plastered across their faces. `` Well, if it isn't our second favorite seeker ! '' Fred exclaimed.

'' We were just eavesdropping, '' George said holding up a pair of extendible pinna, `` and we thought maybe it was time to recrudesce up this lovely reunion. ``

'' A disgrace we have to intervene, considering there are two prefects in here. '' Fred added shaking his head.

Cho glared at them and turned to Harry. `` You'll be kicking yourself later. '' She warned.

'' He'll take that opportunity. '' Fred guided her out.

'' See you on the quidditch lurch ! '' George yelled after her. `` Well, with Lee gone, I guess we now know where to find our amusement. '' They looked around at their siblings and their friend. Harry slumped down in his rump between Hermione and Ginny.

'' Now, on to business. '' Fred started. `` What will we vulture do as our first act of rebellion. ``

'' first-class honours degree act of revolt ? '' Ginny raised an eyebrow. `` I seem to remember a swampland that still exists in a Hogwarts corridor. ``

'' We meant as a mathematical group. We all have had our petty squabbles with authority, haven't we, sis ? '' George II teased.

Before she could answer, the threshold slammed open again to reveal genus Draco Malfoy. This sentence, Hermione and Ron stood up to perform their prefect responsibility and make sure there was no trouble. `` Out, Malfoy. '' Hermione snapped.

'' I am a prefect, and have every right to enquire any disturbances on the railroad train. '' He sneered.

'' You're the only affair on this train that's disturbed. '' Ron shot back.

'' Really ? '' Malfoy said angrily. `` wellspring, I just passed a pretty girl crying about how much she hated ceramicist. Figured I'd come make sure you didn't do anything too unseemly to Cho Chang. ``

'' Go to hell. '' Harry snarled.

Malfoy was unfazed. `` Well, what is this ? The weirdo convention ? '' His gaze landing on Luna and he sneered again.

'' Get out of here, or I'll report you. '' Ron growled, taking a stair toward the other boy.

'' For what ? '' Malfoy didn't move, but his centre flashed concern.

'' Being an annoying ass. '' Ron said through gritted teeth.

'' Watch your backtalk, Weasley. That is not prefect words. I could lease your badge for that. ``

Fred and George stood up behind their brother. `` Try it. '' They said together.

'' Well seem at you three ! All new gown ! Did your mum resort to stealing ? '' Harry jumped between the Weasleys and Malfoy as the three redheads tried to reach their pit. Unfortunately, the immorality little taunting didn't stop there. `` It can't be because of that flyspeck entrepot of yours. Oh that's right, I heard that Black fellow left Ron here some money. Shame he's dead. Wish I could have seen that. '' He laughed.

Harry turned to punch Malfoy in the face, but Hermione and Ginny jumped in presence of him, now trying to hold back Harry, Ron and the twins from doing something that would get them thrown out of school. Dragon only laughed harder but was cut off suddenly as a insect crawled out of his nose.

'' What the ... '' The insect were coming from everywhere, his nose, rima oris and ears. `` Which one of you did that ? '' He demanded, more worms spilling from his lips as he spoke. Everyone else stepped back in disgust. `` You're all getting expelled ! '' Malfoy yelled, covering his oral fissure and running down the entrance hall.

'' Scourgify. '' Hermione said as she waved her wand and the worm disappeared. Everyone sat down and stared at each other.

'' Are we really going to be expelled ? '' Neville asked timidly.

'' I doubt it. '' Fred said. `` We'll just say it was Harry, he gets away with everything. ``

'' Who did do it ? '' Harry asked.

Neville slowly raised his hand. `` Sorry. '' He said quietly.

'' What for ? '' Ginny asked with a smile.

'' Yeah, that was bloody brilliant ! '' Ron said and patted Neville on the back.

'' Don't trouble Neville. I'll tell Dumbledore, McGonagall or Snape that it was me. That I got mad because of what he said about Sirius and they'll let me off. ``

'' They always do ! '' George IV said proudly.

'' Besides, they'll understand if Harry did it, since he's still struggling so hard to get over what happened at the ministry a few calendar month ago. '' Luna said, returning to her book. Harry looked over at Hermione accusingly, but she shook her head. Was it really that obvious to people ? So obvious that even Luna picked up on it. Harry began to distrust that maybe Luna's weirdness was at least in part an act. No one noticed her unless she wanted them to, and that allowed her to observe people at her leisure.

'' Plus they wouldn't let Harry be expelled and forced to provide one of the secure places he could be right now. '' Ginny was saying. Harry took puff in that logic. Did that mean value, no topic what he did, he couldn't receive the one punishment that scared him most ? Could he really never be sent away from Hogwarts ?

( good luck )

Hermione stared out the window as the scene rolled by. Now that the excitement had died down, her friends were all talking excitedly about schoolhouse and to her dismay, quidditch. Tuning them out, she let her mind wander but it kept coming back to the Saami thought- Harry and Cho. It shouldn't bother her, but she couldn't lie to herself. It bothered her a great quite a little that the other girl apparently wanted to worm her way back into Harry's life. Though she'd tried to be supportive close year and help Harry pilot a budding kinship with Cho, the other lady friend's repugnance and lack of convincing feelings for her friend had turned Hermione against her. Or maybe it was her own feelings that made her so dislike the girl. Either way, she was worried. Harry may not seem interested in rekindling a romance with Cho now, but that could interchange at any fourth dimension. She was his first jam, his first gear effort at having a girlfriend. But Hermione was convinced- Cho was not the right girl for her unspoiled friend.

'' You okay ? '' Harry asked her quietly while the others chatted. He leaned over and gently nudged her arm until she turned to attend at him.

'' Just thinking. '' She returned with a pocket-sized smile.

'' Can't wait to get to school for that ? '' He joked.

'' Not everything about me is academic you know. ``

'' I know. '' He whispered, his emerald eyes twinkling. `` You're smart about everything in liveliness. '' She grinned at the compliment, feeling warmth rising to her face.

'' What are you two whispering about over there ? '' Ginny interrupted.

'' Nothing. '' Harry answered quickly straightening himself. `` Anyone up for a biz ? ``

Everyone agreed, but Hermione begged off claiming a headache. In Sojourner Truth, her psyche did palpate warm and as she rested it against the cool glass she felt her mind grow numb. Ultimately, it didn't matter what she thought about Harry's choice in girlfriend. Although she'd long ago discovered her own spirit for him, the implications, even the very sentiment of being with him was out of the question. It didn't change the way she felt though, that was something she just couldn't help.




A/N This will probably be the close chapter until after Dec 25, since there's no electronic computer where I'm going. Please, let me have it away what you think so far. Happy holiday !



note of hand : References to the swampland and Harry and Cho dating from Harry Potter and the fiat of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling


Chapter 9 : effect

NOTE : Okay, THIS is the last chapter before Noel. I finished more quickly than I thought I would. please, let me know what you think, I appreciate all the inspection I have gotten so far and always welcome constructive unfavorable judgment as well as a ‘ proficient job'or even a ‘ you suck.'But be prepared, because I do try to respond to every review.

　

　
They got off the caravan to Hagrid's familiar spirit claim. `` true fir'years, this way ! '' The mob went over to greet him. `` Hello, Harry ! Sorry I could'na make it to yer company. Come an see me later for yer endowment. All o'you are welcome ter come too. '' He nodded at the others.

'' okay, Hagrid. '' Harry agreed quickly before he was usher along.

As they approached the tutor that would bring them to the school, he, Luna and Neville deliberately ignored the thestrals that were patiently waiting to root for them. The ride up was quiet for Harry as he simply listened to everyone else yack about their plans for genus Draco Malfoy, who had reportedly stopped coughing up worms about ten minute of arc before the geartrain pulled into the Hogsmeade station.

Upon arriving at the castling, they hurried to the Great Hall as Ron was `` famished. '' Even Hermione's admonisher that the fete wouldn't be served until after the sorting did zip to minify Ron's anxiousness to get to the table. Luna broke off to go to the Ravenclaw board and sit awkwardly by herself… Though she didn't seem to care, Harry felt sorry that she had to depart masses who actually did want her around to be forced to sit with those who refused to take up the time to get to know her. She glanced directly at him, wearing a wide grinning as if she knew what he was thinking and wanted to assure him she was okay and quite used to the way affair were.

When the first eld entered the Hall a short while later looking intimidated yet determined, a few pointed in Harry's focusing and whispered to each other. He lowered his oral sex and tried not to make for any to a greater extent attention to himself. He hated how recognizable he'd become ; even eleven year-olds knew his side. How was he ever supposed to go out into the world without drawing out his foe ?

'' Finally it's starting. '' Ron grumbled under his breathing spell. Harry turned his attention to the Head table, tidal bore to see who the new Gryffindors would be and even more concerned to see the new Slytherins.

prof Minerva McGonagall stood in battlefront of everyone with the Sorting Hat, looking marvelous and commanding. She loudly cleared her throat and the hallway immediately fell silent- it seemed even the new scholarly person realized she was not a fair sex who tolerated much. Without introduction, the hat began its song.

'' Many years ago, four friends together stood
And decided to establish a schoolhouse
Where all with power could,
Learn to use their tool.

Never were such great friends,
As Slytherin and Gryffindor.
Except for Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw,
Who perhaps loved each other more.

For a while, the school was strong within,
Much like these four friends.
Only to be pull apart, and
Contentment there conform to it's ends.

The ones whose ancestry was pure,
Slytherin chose.
The bravest of the brave,
Gryffindor took those

Ravenclaw decided,
intelligence activity was the best trait.
Good Hufflepuff took the rest,
those yet to encounter their fate.

I was then made smart
To throw a tough call offhand,
Placing students where I knew
They were destined to land.

I was good at my job and since then,
My song is heard every year.
But now listen closely,
For there is reason to fear.

A menace is hanging above our school.
And while all within are warm,
There are those among us
Who will ignore my warning song.

circle together,
The four mansion unite.
Only as one,
Can we hope to win this fight. ``

There was hesitant clapping after he finished his warning, and many student at the other table were looking at the Slytherins who had made themselves the predictable opponent. They had received a similar warning from the hat before, and Harry took it just as seriously this clock time. McGonagall loudly cleared her throat and the mansion once again fell silent, all care on her.

'' When I call your epithet come forward to be sorted into your family. Jennifer Applebloom. '' She called. Jennifer quickly walked up and sat under the hat.

'' Ravenclaw ! '' He called out as the Ravenclaw table burst into applause.

McGonagall went quickly through all the low years, and the sorting was soon over. Once the new students were all settled at their tabular array and the sometime scholar had quieted down, Dumbledore stood. `` There are the common outset of term announcement. All starting time years, and certain early students, should be aware that the Forbidden forest is always off limits. Our caretaker, Mr. Filtch, has asked me to let you know that the list of items and actions banned from the schooling is hanging outside his post. Thanks to a couple of practical joker, the list has grown immensely since in conclusion year. '' He paused to look at the Weasley Gemini who weren't even trying to hide out their proud grins. `` I would also apprise that you stay clear of the bit of swamp that became a part of our hall decor last twelvemonth. It has been roped off for your safety. '' The teachers all looked down to hide their laugh, remembering how and why the swamp was there ; except for Snape, who looked as grim as ever.

'' Lastly, I would care to introduce a new member of our staff. Some of you may remember, professor Remus Lupin. He will once again be taking up the stake as your demurrer Against the Dark Arts teacher. '' The hall burst into cheers as those who remembered lupine grew excited he had returned. Dumbledore waited until the stochasticity had died down at the Gryffindor table where the cheering was flashy. `` Now that's all out of the way, tuck in ! ''

As the headmaster sat, notes suddenly appeared in front of Harry, Ron, Hermione, Fred, George, Ginny and Neville. Harry read his then leaned over to register Hermione's. They were the same.

Please report to the headmaster's office after dinner.
prof McGonagall.

'' I think we're in trouble. '' He said.

'' Huh ? '' Ron looked up. He had been so wrapped on piling his dental plate with food that he hadn't even noticed the note. As he read it, his optic widened. `` Do you call up Luna got one too ? '' They all looked over to the Ravenclaw board where sure enough, Luna was holding up her short letter to show them. `` Uh oh. '' He gulped.

'' Relax, Ron. First of all, I did it, remember ? '' Harry folded the Federal Reserve note. `` Second of all, Malfoy's the one making the complaint. ``

'' Yeah, they'll definitely think that Harry was provoked into casting the spell. '' Hermione added.

'' But I'm the one who actually did it. Are you sure you want to ask this on yourself ? '' Neville asked.

'' Don't worry. The unfit I'll get is detention. It's cypher new. '' Harry shrugged, thinking detention with McGonagall or Snape would be an incredible improvement over the ones he'd served with Dolores Umbridge last year.

Neville looked relieved. But all through dinner, he kept making sure that Harry really wanted to direct the blame until Fred finally told him to keep out up as Ginny reached over and rubbed his shoulder in reassurance. Harry was sure-footed in his determination, after all how bad could the penalisation for worm be ? And why let Neville mark his criminal record when Harry's own was already so tarnished ?

After dinner, the others waited outside the Great manse while Ron and Hermione performed their Prefect duty. Once all together again, they went up to Dumbledore's office. `` Popple Snaps. '' Hermione said and the Gargoyle guarding the entryway sprang to life.

'' Hey ! That's one of our confect ! '' George said in surprise as they stepped onto the stairs.

'' They literally explode in your back talk. '' Fred explained proudly to the others.

The Headmaster's place was once again full-strength and tidy after Harry's rampage at the end of last year and despite the reason they were there now, he suddenly really did feel shamefaced. He wanted to believe he would never again fall behind his irritability in such a destructive way, but it was a promise to himself that he wasn't sure he could keep.

wait inside along with the headmaster were Professors McGonagall and Snape as well as Draco Malfoy. The last sneered as the teens approached the desk. `` Well- '' That's as far as Dumbledore got before being interrupted.

'' It was Harry ! '' Seven representative said at once. They all looked at each other and lowered their heads to hide their laugh. Dumbledore was smiling and for the briefest of irregular, Harry could have sworn he saw McGonagall grin. Snape however looked unamused that no one was taking this seriously.

Harry stepped forward. `` Headmaster, Professors, since I can only assume we are here because of the incident on the train, then they are powerful, I made louse descend out of Draco's head. '' Unable to make it in any longer, his Friend burst out laughing after he said this. One warning look from McGonagall quieted them all. Although she also seemed diverted, Harry knew she didn't like it when bookman cursed other students, even if it was Draco Malfoy.

Snape was savage. `` I don't believe him. '' He said turning to Dumbledore.

'' What reason would he cause to lie, Severus ? '' The old wizard asked.

'' He's protecting one of his friends. '' Snape turned and eyed them. `` My surmise would be Longbottom. He looks the most pit. ``

'' Sir, '' Harry stepped on Neville's foot to observe him still, `` I did it and I'm not sorry. All I can say is that I was provoked and lost my temper. It always seems to get away from me when Malfoy is around. ``

'' How were you provoked, Potter ? '' McGonagall asked.

Harry looked down at his shoes. `` He said things about the Weasley family and then he said something about Sirius. ``

'' Ah. '' Dumbledore sat back and put the crown of his finger together. He turned to Draco. `` May I ask, Mr. Malfoy, what it is that you said exactly, so as to evoke Mr. ceramist to make worm come out of your head ? ``

'' I didn't say anything, headmaster. '' Draco said sweetly. `` I heard a disturbance in the compartment and as a prefect, I went to check on it. I guess they didn't appreciate being told to quiet down and next thing I knew- '' He was cut off as the others began to protest. Harry could feel his choler building up. Dumbledore held up a hand to silence them and Malfoy continued. `` Honest, all I said was to continue it down a little- ''

'' You said you'd wished you had seen him die ! '' Harry yelled. McGonagall gasped and his Quaker all stared at the solid ground, aware of how such a argument would sham him. He took a deep breath and began again a little more calmly. `` You said something snotty about Ron, Ginny and the twin's new gown and accused Mrs Weasley of stealing. Then you said something about remembering that Sirius had left money to Ron and how it was a shame you hadn't been there to see him die. You're lucky it was just worm. '' He said darkly. Hermione and Ginny each had a hand on his berm and Ron, George I and Fred were glaring at Malfoy. Luna was inspecting something on one of the board looking as if she had accidentally walked into the haywire place, while Neville was staring at him. They all knew that had Harry really been the one to cast a spell on Malfoy at that moment on the railroad train, it would have turned out far worse.

After a moments pause, McGonagall started in. `` Mr. Malfoy ! How a person could be so inhuman hearted I have no melodic theme ! To say that- ''

By then Snape had regained his composure and cut her off. `` Minerva, if I may remind you, Draco is the victim here. I propose that ceramist be punished for such a earthy misuse of his magic trick. '' McGonagall looked livid. She was about to apply Snape a objet d'art of her mind when Dumbledore interrupted.

'' May I ask, out of personal peculiarity, Mr. Malfoy, how it is that you knew Ron Weasley was left money in Sirius's will ? '' Malfoy looked down, not meeting the master's center. `` I thought as much. '' Dumbledore continued. `` prof Snape, may I ask you what you feel the appropriate punishment would be for Mr. thrower ? ``

'' Well .... '' Snape looked positively gleeful. `` All the past hold have obviously not done any good, so I think we should do something that will get his attention and make him think twice before he loses his temper. Perhaps once again kicking him off the Gryffindor quidditch squad ? ``

At this, even McGonagall joined in the other's call of protest. `` I just got back on ! '' Harry yelled above them all.

Once again, Dumbledore raised his hand for silence. `` It seems, Severus, that there are two guilty company. Many metre, it is Mr. Malfoy's words or action at law that cause Mr. Potter to lose his pettishness. Would you intimate the same penalisation for him ? '' Snape looked away angrily. `` I didn't think so. Unfortunately, this position can not go on unnoticed. My decisiveness is this. Harry, while it is clear that you had been provoked enough to do this, I don't fully believe you are really the one responsible. However, since you are so regulate to protect the real number guilty party, I'm afraid you must get by with the result. You are hereby stripped of your championship as Gryffindor quidditch sea captain. '' He raised his hand against the objection and Harry again had to step on Neville's human foot so he would keep his mouth shut. `` Understand that I have not forbidden him to bring, I simply took away his title as team leader. ``

He then turned to Malfoy. `` Draco, this is not the first time I have heard of you abusing your privileges as a prefect. I hereby withdraw your deed as well. You are no longer a prefect and since this is an extreme display case, I will personally pick out your transposition. ``

'' But, Sir- '' Snape started.

'' Severus, your student has proven to be unreliable with the province bestowed upon him. The affair that he said today were hateful and it is my intellect that he has uttered standardized Scripture to various students for the past five year. It is time that something be done to correct this. I will not let anymore discord within these walls. If I again hear of anything mean directed to any student, my next move will be projection. Tread lightly Mr. Malfoy. ``

'' What about sodbuster and Weasley ? '' Snape growled.

'' What about them ? '' McGonagall asked just as fiercely, subconsciously taking a few steps in front of her student as if to protect them.

Snape glared at her. `` They are prefects as well and all of this took place right in front man of them. According to Draco they were a part of all this. ``

'' That's right hand schoolmaster. '' Malfoy piped up. `` Ron threatened me. And Hermione hit me ! ''

'' I did not ! '' Hermione yelled indignantly.

'' She was trying to let out it up ! '' Harry protested. `` And Ron only told him to pull up stakes ! ``

'' prevaricator ! '' Malfoy yelled.

'' I'm a prevaricator ? ! '' Harry yelled back. `` You just accused an honor student of hitting you ! ``

'' schoolmaster, I find it hard to believe that granger hit him. '' McGonagall said slowly obviously trying to keep on her own temper.

'' She did before ! '' Malfoy protested.

'' Only because you were being a complete saccade to me, and you were staked out to watch Buckbeak's execution. Which was your geological fault if I remember correctly. You and your sire ! '' Hermione yelled.

'' You see ? She just admitted it. '' Malfoy said excitedly.

'' She admitted to one fourth dimension in our 3rd twelvemonth, long before she was a prefect ! '' Harry shot back.

'' If she did it once, Headmaster, what's to say she didn't do it again ? '' Snape grinned.

'' Honestly, Severus. You are starting to sound like a shaver. '' McGonagall scolded.

'' enough. '' Dumbledore said quietly. It was almost a susurration, but the force he put behind his words left the elbow room deathly silent. `` Fred, George, Ginny, Neville and Luna, you may waitress for your friends outside. And I will know if you are listening in, either with your own ears or with manufactured ones. '' After they had left, Dumbledore produced enough chairs for all those left field. He sat behind his desk for a long while staring at each of them and Harry had the smell that he was reading their thoughts.

At last he spoke. `` I will not wish to echo myself so listen closely. This fight between Slytherin and Gryffindor has gone on long enough. Minerva, Severus, how can you honestly wait your scholar to get along when you are so openly airing your competition ? You are on the same team here. '' He looked at them meaningfully and Harry knew he meant the Lapplander team in terms of the ordering as opposed to as fellow teachers. Both professor looked down. `` Severus, can you honestly say that you don't tone Dragon's words were inappropriate ? ``

Snape took a deep intimation. `` Perhaps it was just a bit out of crinkle. '' He finally choked out. `` However, it was also inappropriate to enchant insect to come in out of his header. ``

'' I agree. '' Dumbledore paused. `` However, there is a struggle to deal out with raging outside these walls. I do not wish an instigator to possess a berth of power starting a war inside. Mr. Malfoy, your punishment stands and I meant it when I said I would expel you. My patience is wearing very melt off for you and a few of your comrades. continue that in judgment the next prison term you wish to do Mr. ceramicist or his friends a problem. ''

He took a bass breath and turned to McGonagall. `` Minerva, I know you don't believe Harry's punishment is warranted, and neither do I, since neither of us truly believes he is the responsible political party. But we both know that he is aught if not loyal to his ally and since he is taking the place of the real perpetrator, he must receive with a punishment adjustment to the offense. This was a patch that could have got seriously gone wrong. So I ask you now, not to take out your wrath on Severus or his students and keep in mind that I have allowed Mr. ceramist to stay fresh playing. ``

'' I understand. '' She nodded still looking unhappy.

'' And Severus, I don't want to hear one word about you taking out your frustration on the Gryffindors this year. In the past I have heard many charge that you favor your own house and this year, I expect that all be treated fairly. I want this eternal fight between these two houses to stop now. '' Both McGonagall and Snape looked at the storey wearing an unmistakable expression that said, ‘ yeah right.'

'' As for Dragon's charge against Hermione, they are dismissed. What fille sodbuster did in the past tense before she was a prefect has no bearing on whether or not to strip her of her deed of conveyance now. I don't believe for one minute that she struck you on the train, Mr. Malfoy and this is the last time I will allow you to blatantly lie to my look. Now on the other hired man, I completely believe that something Mr. Weasley said may sustain been viewed as a threat. However, when one's crime syndicate is under attack, verbally or otherwise, it becomes hard to keep back one's tongue. I understand this. But it was still unfitting and therefore I must release one night's custody with Professor McGonagall to be carried out tomorrow after course and dinner party. '' Snape rolled his middle.

Dumbledore looked them all over one more clock time. `` You are dismissed. ``

They all went down the stairs together, Snape and Malfoy breaking off and stalking down the hall toward the dungeons. No one made to stop them. `` potter, and all Weasley's come with me. farmer and Longbottom, I suppose you may add up as well though this will be quidditch business. '' McGonagall briskly started off down the hall.

'' What happened ? '' Luna asked Ron.

'' I'll tell you tomorrow. '' Ron called out as he hurried off after the ease. Harry smiled. Maybe Luna having a crush on Ron would be a practiced affair after all ... it would certainly make him find less guilty about his own feelings for Hermione if those two coupled up. And besides, both Ron and Luna needed someone in their lives to give them the attending they deserved.

McGonagall ushered them all into her office, closing the threshold before turning to them with a look of delight determination on her face. `` Ginny, you are acting senior pilot and thrower, you are co-captain as the master said nix about co-captaincy. ''

Harry and Ginny looked at each other in surprise before sharing a smile ... McGonagall was a tricksy old cat. Ron turned to his sister in a panic, knowing how she could be. `` Please let me stay put on the team. You saw how strong I practiced over the summer ! ``

'' I'll think about it. '' She answered slyly.

'' Relax Mr. Weasley, your position is safe for now. Alright, gather circle. We might as well set up try-out dates since the whole squad is here. '' McGonagall got out paper and a flight feather and for the next minute, they worked out all the details.

Around midnight they finally returned to the empty common room in Gryffindor pillar, where they stayed up for another hour filling Ginny, Neville and the Gemini in on what had happened after they left Dumbledore's office. Hermione finally stood up and announced that she was going to bed and reminded them that they all had family in a few time of day, expelling a groan from everyone. When Harry reached his way he realized just how exhausted he really was. Though he had wanted to look at lupine's lambskin, he couldn't keep his eyes focused. Deciding to save it for later when he could go over it with Hermione and Ron, he climbed into bed and immediately fell asleep.

( intermission )

Draco stormed into the Slytherin common elbow room, feeling a sort of defeated atonement. He had known it wouldn't be well-heeled to get Potter in fuss, especially since they'd seen through the lie and knew he hadn't actually been responsible for the magical spell. Hopefully his new orphic partner in law-breaking would deliver adept success, it was his job to see that they did.

'' Hey how'd it go ? '' fairy asked, startling him. She had apparently been waiting up for him, much to his annoyance.

'' As expected. ceramicist and his ragtag clump of scum can do no wrong here. Not with Dumbledore in charge. '' He answered. It was so unfair, and it always had been. But the god-like way Potter was treated definitely made it prosperous to detest him, because lately… he just didn't understand the obsession. Sure ceramicist could very possibly take down the Dark Lord someday. And genus Draco understood the reasoning that it was best to destroy him before he reached a more capable age, but here at school he was too well protected. Lately… well it just seemed that since the grownup had all failed miserably against ceramist and his helpers, they were pushing the side by side coevals to take action. He didn't want to be a lamb pushed out for sacrifice but that's exactly what he was in the flow plan that his father and the night Lord had him involved in. And tonight only proved that it would work.



A/N : HAPPY holiday ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

NOTE : Reference to Dolores Umbridge from Harry Potter and the order of the genus Phoenix by J.K. Rowling

Reference to Buckbeak's capital punishment from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

Chapter 10 : uncovering

government note : Anything not original= J.K. Rowling. Anything original= mine. promise everyone had a good holiday, read and enjoy. Oh, and please review if you like it or even if you don't.

　

Harry awoke the next morning feeling more exhausted than when he had gone to bed. All night he had been plagued with the same incubus as before and he couldn't understand why. Perhaps it was being back at school, where the whole sequence of issue leading to Canicula's death had begun. He decided not to guess too deeply on it as he attempted to debase away the sleep from his bones. With a lot of exploit he forced himself to get up, get dressed, and name his way down to breakfast.

The others were already in the Great Hall when he entered, dragging his book bag behind him. As he sat he realized they were excitedly filling the other Gryffindors in on the fact that Malfoy was no farseeing a prefect. He smiled with satisfaction at the store, for once Malfoy had suffered some sorting of genuine aftermath for all of his past utterances and misdeed against him and everyone else. It may have taken five years, but at least it had happened. He glanced over at the Slytherin tabular array and grinned wider when he saw how unhappy Malfoy was.

After breakfast, he, Ron and Hermione got up to start the fearsome walk to Potions. They passed Luna in the hallway and he was struck by the odd look she gave him, as if she were trying to intercommunicate with him. But before he could think about it at all, he once again suddenly remembered the parchment Lupin had given him. This time he would be for certain to do something about it.

'' Can you guys meet me by our study tree before lunch ? I have something to picture you. '' He whispered to his two best friends as they took their buttocks in the dungeon classroom.

'' Sure. '' They both agreed. He settled himself between them, a pocket-sized shiver of nervousness surging through him when he felt Hermione's elbow touch his as they both leaned on the desk.

A arcminute before grade was to take up Snape strode in and slammed the dungeon door. All chatter died away instantly as he eyed his class with disgust. `` It is my reason that some of you present have not gotten the O grade that I had required to go along. Lucky for you that you're here. '' He sneered at them all. `` Unfortunately, the Headmaster decided to make allowances and forced me to accept the sub par pupil whom received a grade of E. However, know that those of you with LE than satisfactory grades at the end of this semester will be kicked out of my stratum. '' He paused to sneer at Ron, Neville and James Dean who hadn't gotten an O. Harry wondered if any of the Slytherins had gotten a `` sub par '' E, and looking at Crabbe and Goyle, he couldn't believe they'd even managed that.

Snape took a instant to glare around the way before a sinister smile emerged. `` Now, I believe some seats changes are in order to reassure me that all receive the grade they truly deserve and not one based on how well they copy their friends. Weasley, you will be moved here to the front away from sodbuster and Potter. '' Ron got up and with a homicidal brilliance at Snape took a posterior succeeding to pantywaist Parkinson. `` Longbottom, you will be here side by side to Crabbe. Thomas, you will be here with Goyle. Malfoy, why don't you go sit between Potter and husbandman. '' He surveyed the elbow room with a delight air. `` There, that's so much intimately. Now, here are the instructions for our showtime potion. '' He pointed his verge at the add-in. `` You have one hour. ``

It was one of Harry's worst Potions classes. Malfoy constantly muddled his attempts by switching the ingredients. At the end of the hr, Harry turned in his sample sure that he had received a T thanks to Malfoy's sabotage. But he knew upright than to severalise Snape. He did however complain to Ron and Hermione the altogether way to transfiguration. `` It's not fair at all. He kept mixing up my stuff and I never knew what I was really putting in my cauldron. '' He whined.

'' Well, next form, I'll share with you so he can't mess with anything. '' Hermione offered as they all sat at a desk in the back.

'' You think you had it bad ? I had to listen to Pansy telling Millicent Bulstrode all hr how cute she thinks Malfoy is and how she thought they would establish the pure twain. '' Ron grumbled pulling out his wand. This division passed much more quickly and by the end, they had all turned their toad into footstool even Neville, though he'd predictably had the most trouble.

With an hour free before lunch, Harry, Ron and Hermione hurried out to the Tree at the edge of the lake. Once they had settled themselves comfortably, Harry pulled out the sheepskin and explained everything lupin had told him on the train platform about what it contained. `` Are you sure this is a good idea ? '' Hermione asked, inspecting the composition carefully.

'' If Moony gave it to him, then we know it isn't anything bad, right ? So it'll be fine. '' Ron eagerly grabbed it from her and pierce it in Harry's direction. `` Go on, do the spell and let's see what it says. ``

Harry shrugged at Hermione before placing the tip of his wand to the parchment and saying, `` We need to talk. '' They all leaned in to scan what it said.

To whomever it headache, the following is the first hint to retrieve a very important object hidden away for protection by us, The Marauders.
Good circumstances,
Masters : Mooney, Padfoot, Prongs and Wormtail with the help of Wildflower
clew 1 : first you must know what you are looking for, if you do not already. This is knowledge you won't find in the library, but in what the subroutine library menage. You can encounter this noesis in an expected place, guarded by a trusted protagonist. Here, I will only tell you that the cover object is questionable in the purpose of its existence.

'' wildflower ? '' Ron looked at Harry.

'' Probably my mum. ``

'' Oh yeah, ‘ Lily'I get it. '' He said quickly.

'' Well, we're looking for a book. '' Hermione said. She sighed in frustration at the blur looks she got from the boys. `` Think about the first contribution, ‘ you won't find it in the library, but in what the library houses.'It's a ledger that's not in the school library. ``

'' Oh, I knew that. '' Ron grinned.

'' The book must be in the schooling, where else would wait to find knowledge ? '' Harry pointed out.

Hermione thought for a minute then jumped up. `` I've got it ! It's in the Defense Against the Dark Arts schoolroom. ``

Harry reread the clue. `` That's what it appears to say. ``

'' How ? '' Ron said taking the clue and scanning it.

'' ‘ The hidden object is questionable in the purpose of its existence.'Where else would you find a book full of information on questionable object ? '' Harry smiled. He hoped that when they found the succeeding clue it would be as sluttish to figure out.

Ron threw down the parchment. `` I'm not good at riddles or clues or anything with run-in. ``

'' Oh Ron. '' Hermione shook her header.

'' I'm not ! ``

'' I don't have fourth dimension to reassure you of your cleverness, Ron. I have to go talk to McGonagall about something. We can meet with Lupin before Defense today. '' The boys nodded their agreement. `` See you guys at lunch. '' Hermione said as she hurried off.

'' Bye. '' Harry called after her, glad to be left alone with Ron. They hadn't had a chance to really speak in a foresighted time and there were sealed things he needed to discuss.

Ron sensed what was coming. `` You want to have it off why I said Hermione likes you right ? '' He asked right away.

'' well, I guess- I mean if you're sealed. I, well, are you certainly you're over her ? '' he managed to hit out.

'' I think so. It's hard to like someone knowing they're into you. '' Ron shook his head.

'' But how do you know she likes me in that way ? '' Harry asked calmly, though inside his mettle was beating fast in prevision.

'' I didn't, it was Ginny. She just flat out told me. '' He admitted.

'' Ginny ? She told you what ? ''

'' And I thought I was dense. She told me Hermione liked you. ``

'' When ? '' Harry asked desperately.

'' The night before we left for school. You know when we fought ? I couldn't sleep, so I went to spiel pocket billiards and Ginny was already down there. She asked what was unseasonable and I told her all about our argument. She smacked me on the mind. ``

'' She hit you ? ``

'' Really severe ! '' Ron rubbed his head with commemoration. `` Anyway, she said that I'd better get over Hermione fast because she liked you. ``

'' How did she know ? '' He pressed.

'' Hermione didn't tell her or anything. All she said was that girls were perceptive on this kind of thing. She also said something about how boys don't pay adequate attention, but I don't think exactly what she said. I guess I was proving her stage by not paying aid. '' He grinned.

'' Oh. '' Harry stared off, his mind as cloudy as the sky above him.

'' You like her back, right wing ? '' Ron grinned again as Harry looked down, nervously pulling up blades of grass. `` I knew it. Though to be fair, Ginny was the one who first thought you did. ``

'' I didn't even know until you started asking me about her. ''

'' Yeah, well, according to my sister that's normal for bozo. You know, I don't think she's handling her breakup with Dean very well. She doesn't have very many courteous matter to say about the male person gender lately. '' He replied with a scowl. Harry smiled in reply, knowing once she got past whatever happened with James Byron Dean, she'd have her pickax of cat. Ginny was a cute missy, made all the more attractive by her convinced and outgoing personality- regardless of how her brothers may experience about it.

When it came clock time for tiffin they headed in together, talking and joking like they used to. He saw Hermione's pleased grinning and knew she was happy they had taken steps to remedy their rift. Taking a backside following to her at the tabular array, Harry told his friends that they all needed to meet tonight in the program library. `` Why the library ? '' George asked.

'' Yeah, we have form of made a detail of avoiding it for the hold up six years. '' Fred added.

Harry stared at his plate as the conversation progressed, not knowing what to say around Hermione anymore. She noticed his secretiveness and repeatedly asked him what was faulty, but he couldn't tell her. Finally he looked at Ron for helper to maneuver the conversation elsewhere. `` What was so important with McGonagall that you ditched us earlier ? '' Ron asked between mouthfuls.

'' Oh, that. '' She was still looking at Harry with concern. `` I wanted to ask her about restarting the DA and making it a effectual nightspot. '' Ron, Harry, Ginny and the twins all stared at her.

'' You did what ? '' Harry asked bewildered.

'' wellspring, I thought- ''

'' You mean you didn't balk with Harry to see if he even wanted to do it again this year ? '' Ron asked, angry on Harry's behalf.

'' Well, I figured with everyone knowing for sure enough that Voldemort is back that we'd .... ''

'' But we have Lupin this yr to instruct us ! '' Ginny cut her off. `` It's not like he's going to keep us from learning what we need to jazz. ``

'' I know, it's just that- ''

'' Plus, if we make it sound, the Slytherins will be able-bodied to connect. Wasn't it you who said we needed to be surplus careful this year ? '' Fred asked.

'' Yeah, with Malfoy there, he'll be able to cover all the advancement we're making. '' George IV said angrily. `` We'll lose the element of surprisal. ``

'' I already thought of that, so I suggested to McGonagall that- ''

'' You should sustain discussed this with the respite of us first Hermione. '' Ron cut her off again.

'' And especially with Harry. He'd be the one in guardianship. '' Ginny said in obvious frustration.

Harry had been listening to them attack Hermione as if he were in a fog. sure as shooting he had thought about restarting the DA, but it was only the first day of shoal. `` At least let her get out a full prison term you guys. '' He said at hold out coming to her defense mechanism, though he was still angry.

'' Thanks. '' She said quietly looking down at the mesa. `` I'm sorry I did this without talking to all of you, but I wanted to surprise you. ``

'' Well, you succeeded. '' Ron sneered. Harry shot him a warning glare.

'' As for the Slytherins, I asked McGonagall if we could consume the get together on Wednesday dark, because that's when they have their Quidditch practice. Malfoy wouldn't skip that just to give us a hard clip, and besides he's one footfall away from expulsion. Anyway, I didn't make anything definite. I told her that I needed to talk to Harry first. I just wanted to see if restarting the DA was even an option. ``

'' And is it ? '' Harry asked trying to keep his humor in control.

'' She said once we had something definite to get see her and she would defecate it pass. '' Hermione answered quietly, sensing that Harry's handle on control was very fragile right then.

Without a word to anyone, he got up and left, his lunch half eaten. He just needed to suppose, or to not intend, whichever was easier. Not even a week back here and he already felt flood out. He didn't like it. Harry walked the background for a while in a sort of half-asleep daze until his solitude could no longer provide a misdirection to hold his thoughts at bay. Not knowing what else to do for the next one-half an hour, he went down to Hagrid's since precaution of Magical Creatures was his next family anyway. He knocked loudly on the cottage door and offered a friendly grin when the behemoth answered. `` niggling early aren'ya, Harry ? '' Hagrid asked ushering him inside.

'' I just wanted to come by and catch up with up. I haven't talked to you all summertime. '' He said, taking a seat on one of the monolithic chairs.

'' Oh yeah. Sorry about tha ’. Been keepin'busy for the order of magnitude. Plus I had ter consider Grawp to his new home. exact a lot o'workplace ter get him cook. ``

'' Is he all settled now ? '' Harry tried hard not to believe of the unfortunate presentation he and Hermione had received when first meeting Hagrid's Brother and how little his regard for the massive being had grown. But he wanted to be polite so he feigned interest.

'' He's doin'great ! But tha's why I missed yer birthday, I had ter take him ter the village and get him all settled in. I have yer present for you though. '' He placed a big software program wrapped in a blanket in Harry's lap, ending any more question about his brother.

It shook a petty when he picked it up. `` Um, Hagrid ? This isn't anything alive is it ? ``

'' open it an'see. '' the giant answered, an turn on gleam in his eye.

Harry cautiously unwrapped the blanket. Inside was a diminished batting cage lodging what looked like a turtle, only it had two heads and it's hide was purple with a vivid cobalt blue shell. `` What is it ? ``

'' Tha's a Thegar. It's like a guard dog, only it sings when danger's near. Very fast creatures Thegar's are. They usually live for ‘ bout a hundred class, but this minuscule cuss's already fifty. His previous owner died so he's in demand o'a unspoilt dwelling house. ``

'' Um, thanks Hagrid. He's .... cute. '' Harry poked his finger in the John Cage to pet it, but Hagrid yelled, startling him so badly he almost dropped the cage.

'' Don'do tha'! You have ter let him get laid yer his new owner fir tree ’. They bite anyone they don'know. shuffle sure you tell tha'ter Ron and Hermione too. ``

'' Sure thing Hagrid. '' He said uncertainly. `` I guess I'll go away and bail bond with him until form beginning. ``

The giant regarded him with a encompassing, happy grinning. `` So you like him then ? ``

'' Yeah, he's not bad. Thanks. '' Harry answered, not wanting to bruise his friend's feelings. Besides, it was kind of cool despite the hassle that came with being given a living puppet. But Hagrid had also bought Hedwig for him and that had certainly turned out well.

Making his way outside, he sat on the fencing around Hagrid's garden and looked down at the Thegar. It stared back expectantly without blinking. `` Hello. My name's Harry ceramicist. I guess I'm the one who's going to strike care of you now. '' The creature's two point sighed in unison. Harry took that to mean it accepted him and cautiously reached in to pet it. It rubbed it's heads against his fingers in a gesture he took as warmness. It really was precious, once you got used to looking at it. `` I guess you'll need a name. '' He thought for a moment. `` How about, robin ? After Robin Hood. He protected masses too. It was my favorite matter to read when I was younger. Actually, it was the just thing I read, because it was the only book Dudley didn't want for himself. '' Robin made a voice almost like a cat purring. `` surmise you like it. '' He sat for awhile playing with his new pet. Hearing vox he looked up and saw people walking toward him. Ron and Hermione were at the front of the group.

Harry got up to run into them, and was taken off safety device when Old World robin started singing loudly. He quickly whipped around and with lightning reflexes, grabbed the stone that had been hurtling toward his straits. He looked down at it in shock.

'' Draco Malfoy ! You coward ! '' Hermione yelled as she and the relaxation of the Gryffindors hurried over. `` Just because you know you can't beat Harry in a fair fight doesn't mean you should try to get him with his dorsum turned ! ``

'' You think I'm scared of him ? '' Malfoy laughed.

'' Why else are you throwing rocks at the book binding of his head ? '' Ron growled.

'' Because it's fun. '' He laughed again a loud yet core out speech sound. Harry felt his temper flair and Malfoy was suddenly knocked over. He stepped back startled- he'd been picturing himself shoving Malfoy and to have him accrue over at the same here and now was unsettling.

'' Wha's goin'on out here ? '' Hagrid came over to his class as Crabbe was helping Draco to his feet.

'' Nothing. '' Harry said glancing at all his friends who were on the verge of telling what they had just witnessed.

'' Harry knocked me over with a spell ! '' Draco said.

'' How could he ? '' Hermione asked defensively. `` His sceptre is in his bag and his hands are full with that thing in the cage and the rock-and-roll. ``

'' Rock ? '' Hagrid looked at Harry in confusion.

'' I was bored so I was throwing rocks across the thousand seeing how far I could get them to go. '' Harry answered. He was sure Hagrid would see through his square lie.

'' Well, you should'na done tha'Harry. multitude could trip on ‘ em. Probably wha'knocked Draco down. '' With that, he turned to commence his class.

( BREAK )

Hagrid brought out a fire-eating hummingbird and after a scorching experience in which his entire garden almost see ardor, he took the high road and had everyone recess off into mathematical group to draw it. Hermione, Harry, and Ron sat together a piffling way of life from the residue of the class. She felt tense, anxious to hit matter right, to make it so Harry wasn't mad at her. As soon as Ron got up to go ask Hagrid a interrogation, she took her opportunity. `` I'm sorry that I didn't talk to you about the DA first before going to McGonagall. ``

'' I guess it's O.K.. You just kind of surprised me. I mean it's only the number 1 day of school and the last thing I wanted on my idea was sentiment of more duty. '' He said calmly though he wouldn't look at her.

'' Well, what I tried to say at tiffin was that no one needed to decide right away or anything. McGonagall gave us a month to visualize out if we want to bear on the DA. I wasn't trying to make anything official. I just wanted to know our options. '' She argued the item. `` It's a good mind to restart the defense baseball club, and even better for you to attach your name to it. What better way to give birth our fellow pupil take affair seriously ? Plus this way you'll feel like you're doing something to set, isn't it you who's been saying you're tired of waiting for things to happen ? I think DA would be the better possible distraction. ''

He sighed and put his lottery aside, finally looking up at her. `` I just thought that you of all masses would understand that I wanted a little clip to not imagine about Voldemort or any of the risk that constantly surrounds me. ``

'' I do sympathise that, but Harry, you always have to be on your safety device. It's horribly unfair but it's true. Especially now… ceaseless vigilance and all that. ``

'' You need to appease away from Mad-eye for awhile. '' He grinned. She smiled back, relieved that she had been forgiven. For a mo there, she thought she'd ruined herself. How could she not have guessed that it would so tump over him ? She knew that he hated being kept out of things- a left over take from not being able to deal control of his biography.

'' Oh Harry, '' Ron called for his attention as he returned. `` Fred and George decided to match in the Great Hall instead of the program library tonight. They said going in there would creep them out. As prefects, we was able-bodied to get permission for all of us to be out after nine. '' He said proudly as Harry shook his head in amusement. But Hermione felt annoyed with the twins- Fred and George would do anything to keep their illustrious claim of not even knowing what the library looks like.

At the end of division, everyone rolled up their unfinished drawings to be worked on for homework and hurried off to relish the hour and a one-half before refutation class. Hermione went with Harry and Ron back up to the Gryffindor usual elbow room to play with Robin who was a strangely diverting animal. Searching her maintenance of Magical tool ledger, she found a chapter on Thegars and pointed it out to Harry, going to sit side by side to him on the couch to show and shifting her weight so their sleeve were touching. She did this often, liking the shiver of upheaval that went through her when they touched.

Finally with fifteen minute of arc left before class, the three Friend entered Lupin's office. He was sitting behind his desk, looking very much like a professor and Hermione felt proud of him. He was certainly a shining deterrent example of overcoming hard knocks to determine achiever. She hoped the like would be straight for Harry, as she could secernate that he was very different from near everyone else and was already living a very different life.

Lupin looked up from his lecture billet, both surprised and proud of to see them. `` Hey hombre, was there something you needed ? ``

'' We figured out the first clue, so which book of account is it ? '' Harry asked quickly.

'' I don't know what you're talking about. '' lupin looked at him in confusion.

'' Come on. You guys made up the cue. Which Bible is the next one in ? '' Harry looked around at the bookshelves.

He shook his top dog sadly. `` Lily made the cue. We had no idea where they would leave. ``

Now it was Hermione who was confused. `` Why did she do it ? Didn't you tell Harry that it was you, Sirius, and James River that found whatever it is ? ``

'' We did feel it. '' lupine sighed. `` But when we decided to hide it, we needed somebody else to do it for us. That way none of us would be tempted to go after it. We trusted Lily more than than anyone else, so she made the clues and kept the 1st one with her. I recovered it with other report from their menage after ... '' he looked guiltily at Harry, `` well, anyway, I had forgotten all about it until I found the lambskin again a few months ago. Knowing what it is and what it does, I knew Harry would want it. ``

'' Can't you just tell us ? '' Ron asked, obviously annoyed.

'' I'd like to, but we all took a bickeross potion. ''

'' A what ? '' Harry and Ron asked together.

'' Bickeross potion. '' Hermione answered automatically. `` It keeps the drinker from revealing the matter they wish to keep arcanum, no matter what. It's one of the more powerful truth suppression potions. ``

'' Which is why I'm certain even Voldemort doesn't know about this object. Though if he did know about it, he would very much want to throw it. '' lupine sighed. `` But we made sure putz took the braggart sum. It was around then that Sirius and I became suspicious of him. James II just wouldn't listen to us. He wouldn't see what we saw. '' He stared off, his face contorted with anger and remembrance.

'' Professor ? '' Hermione touched his shoulder.

He shook himself out of his persuasion. `` right field, anyway, if you think the side by side clue is here, help yourselves to any or all of the ledger in the classroom. '' With that he left his billet to get by the conversation and get make for division. She hoped he knew what he was doing, handing this piddling unfinished adventure from his young person over to Harry.

'' Any suggestions ? '' Ron turned to her as the resident expert on books.

'' I think we should just bring them all to the Great mansion tonight. It could be any of these books and the more than of us there are to go through them, the quicker we'll find something. '' She suggested.

'' okey, until tonight then. We'd better get in there. Don't want to ready him look bad by being deep for form. '' Harry said, ushering them into the classroom, which was quickly filling with students.

( happy chance )

'' Hey, Ginny ! Ron ! '' Luna called out. It was just after dinner and they were talking to each other just outside the Great Hall. She approached them eagerly, knowing they were already involved in whatever amazing thing Harry was on the wand of discovering. She had to insure she was a part of it, since she also knew she was supposed to go on this journey with them- just as she'd known she was supposed to go with to the ministry a few month before. They were all at the beginning of… something.

'' Hey, Luna. What's going on ? '' Ron asked, flashing her a smile.

She couldn't help but grin back. `` What are you guys up to ? '' She asked, already knowing the answer.

They shared a look and a shrug before Ginny answered. `` We're supposed to be meeting up with everyone to jibe out some Koran. ``

'' Remember that parchment lupin gave Harry for his birthday ? '' Ron asked. She nodded enthusiastically and he continued. `` Well turns out it's some form of cue and it led us to a book in the defending team classroom. ``

'' In the vindication classroom ? '' She repeated in confusion. That wasn't where she thought the ledger they wanted was supposed to be, but she kept her oral fissure shut. To say anything now would only give away her secret and she wasn't ready for anyone to know. `` motive any help ? ``

'' certainly ! '' Ron clamped a hand on her shoulder. `` The more mass to seem through the stupid record the to a lesser extent I'll have to read. I'm on my way to converge Harry and Hermione in Lupin's office. ``

'' ejaculate on, you can come with me to the Great Hall. Neville's there alone with the twins and he's not unattackable enough to stay fresh them in contrast. '' Ginny grinned.

'' OK. '' She readily agreed, glad to see her friend in better spirits. She knew Ginny had been feeling down lately despite what she said and apparently the promise of mystery and dangerous undertaking was just the thing to revive her. She only hoped it lasted through the shadowy, unknown things yet to come for them all.

( BREAK )

'' Where is Ron ? What is it with you two finding it impossible to be on time ? '' Hermione grumbled, grabbing another stack of books to add to their already large pile.

'' He's talking to Luna. '' Harry answered without thinking. Stopping to marvel how he knew, he realized he wasn't sure. He'd thought about Ron and seen a newsflash in his mind of his friend standing in the hallway talking with Luna and Ginny.

'' Really ? You didn't say anything to him, did you ? '' She asked accusingly.

'' About her calf love on him ? Of track not, you asked me not to. '' He said quickly. He used his wand to float down another sight, but his delicacy wasn't as practiced as hers and as he attempted to add them to the pile, they instead toppled the whole affair over good where Hermione was standing. Letting out a low shriek of panic, she cast a cuticle around herself as Scripture rained down on her. `` Mione ! Are you okay ? I'm so sorry. '' He rushed over intuitive feeling anxious and embarrassed.

'' I'm fine. '' She answered shakily. `` Don't vexation about it, it's actually not the first prison term something like that has happened to me. '' She looked up with a reassure smile.

'' You need to obtain a safer hobby. '' He teased.

'' Look who's talking. '' She shot back as they both knelt down to start picking up books. He reached for a large volume at the Sami time she did, their manus brushing each other. Surprised by the unexpected contact, they pulled back and locked eyes- they were less than a substructure away from each other. This is it.Harry told himself. This was the moment he was waiting for to tell her.

'' I thought we were supposed to be getting books not making a mess. '' Ron declared, walking in before Harry had a chance to say anything at all to Hermione.

Although derangement, he was also relieved. Perhaps it wasn't the right prison term after all. `` We had a short accident. Maybe if soul had been here to help like he was supposed to… ''

'' Yeah, yeah. wellspring I'm here now, so let's get this show on the road. '' Ron helped gather everything together as neatly as possible to make the trip-up easier.

They entered the Great Asaph Hall with more than a hundred books magically floating behind them and found Fred, George, Ginny, Neville and surprisingly Luna, already waiting for them. Harry was glad to have another benefactor and merely nodded to her in greeting. She flashed him an odd smile before turning her attending to Hermione who was quickly dividing the books among them, taking the majority for herself since she was the nimble reader.

'' What exactly are we looking for ? '' Ginny asked.

'' Anything out of the ordinary, something underlined or a piece of paper stuck in. Basically anything that could be the next clew. '' Harry answered, opening his first book. For the next two hours, they silently looked through every single one. He kept glancing over at Hermione, who was scrunching up her olfactory organ in deep tightness for what she was reading. He knew she always did this spell studying, and liked that he did cognise these little things about her.

A long while later, Fred closed his last book and shoved it aside. `` I got goose egg. '' He groaned. `` Thanks to you guys I spent a whole Nox perusal, and I didn't even need to bang this stuff ! ``

'' I didn't find anything either. '' Luna said closing her record and shifting her system of weights so that she was leaning nearer to Ron. Harry was amused that Ron didn't seem to notice. Maybe Ginny was right wing about how a great deal we pay attention, he thought. Luna glanced over at him and smiled, as if she had heard what he was thinking.

'' Did anyone find anything ? '' Hermione asked closing her last book in frustration.

Everyone shook their heads. `` Maybe you guys missed something in the clue. Let me see it again. '' Ginny reached over and Harry handed her the parchment. After looking it over again she shrugged. `` Well, it seems to indicate a book in the Defense classroom. Are you sure enough you grabbed them all ? ``

'' Every single boring one. '' Ron said glumly putting his pass down.

'' Ok, so maybe it was hidden in a mystic place in there that we don't know about. '' Fred suggested.

'' I thought you guys know everything secret in the school. '' Hermione said slyly.

'' Well, we don't exactly spend a lot of clock time in classes. '' George VI admitted.

'' Maybe the Koran is somewhere else. I mean Harry's mum was obviously smart. She wouldn't have made it that comfortable. '' Ginny suggested.

'' Where else would you chance book on something weird ? '' Ron asked.

'' Hagrid's hut ? '' Luna suggested quietly.

'' lupine said it was an aim, not an animal. '' Hermione pointed out.

Harry thought for a minute then continued excitedly. `` Well, it wasn't Hagrid's hut when they went to school day here, think of. It was just the gamekeeper's sign of the zodiac ! Who was gamekeeper then ? ''

'' I don't know, but I'm certainly we can look it up. And I think I know where we might find it. I'll be right back. '' Hermione ran off.

'' This thing better be right. '' Ginny said. `` Luna and I are in our OWL yr and have lots of homework. ``

'' fountainhead, Fred and I are in NEWT yr and have a lot of work too. '' George said.

'' Yeah, but I actually care about my level unlike you slackers. '' Ginny shot back.

'' Too genuine. '' George IV conceded.

'' We do have products to construct though. '' Fred added.

'' If you guys don't want to help, that's fine. This is variety of my thing anyway. '' Harry looked around at everyone.

'' Of line I want to help you. '' Ginny said rightfulness away.

'' Us too ! '' Fred and George said together.

'' Then quit complaining. '' Ron scolded. `` Harry didn't have to include you in our little dangerous undertaking. ``

'' At least this should be a secure risky venture right wing ? '' Luna said. Everyone jumped having momentarily forgotten she was there. Harry made a genial note to pay Thomas More attention to her, she wasn't so terrible after all, just Wyrd and mysterious.

'' I assume so. '' He answered her, having no reasonableness to think otherwise.

'' But you did say that this thing was something Voldemort would also like to receive. '' She looked at Harry in neither fear nor worry, simply curious. He didn't remember actually telling her or anyone else that contribution, only Ron and Hermione had been with him in the function when they talked to Lupin.

'' Then if we find it first, we don't have to concern about him getting it. '' Ron said quietly. Apparently he was unconcerned with how Luna could screw something she wasn't told.

Hermione rushed back in with a large book in her hired man, interrupting Harry's bewilderment. Considering what she had found, it was a trade good distraction. `` I think Luna may be in good order about Hagrid's hut, Harry. '' Hermione laid the book on the board and displayed a page in what looked like a yearbook. Hagrid was standing proudly in front end of his Hut, a much younger fang at his side. `` See, Hagrid was game warden when your parents were in their seventh year. ``

'' But I thought we agreed that meant the Word of God wasn't in his hut ? '' Ginny asked confused.

'' feel in the background. '' She smiled. They all leaned in for a better look. Studying the picture they were able to see Sirius and James standing near the spinal column of the hut. They were making faces at the tv camera, while lupine and Lily stood off to the slope drinking out of enormous teacups. Lily was shaking her top dog at the immatureness displayed by her time to come husband. `` Apparently, they were friends with Hagrid as well. He has all sort of weird things in there- Lily may birth given him the book as a present or something. You know Hagrid. He never gets rid of anything, especially if it's a gift- even if he doesn't like it. ``

'' So tomorrow, we'll go down and ask him about it. '' Ginny said.

'' Why postponement ? '' Harry smiled.

'' We can't all fit under your cloak, mate. '' Ron pointed out.

'' Ron may not fit under it at all, as tall as he's gotten. '' Ginny teased.

'' Oh. '' He was disappointed and let it show. He wanted the next clue.

'' We won't need the cloak guys. '' Hermione looked at everyone. `` Ron and I got permission for us all to be out past nine o'clock remember. ``

'' That was only because we told McGonagall we were discussing DA business. '' Ron said.

'' You told her it was for DA, I just said we needed to do workplace. '' She answered huffily. `` But, seeing as how we'd need a post to oblige DA encounter, we wanted to ask Hagrid if we could use his garden on days when the weather is fair. He does deliver a lot of room and might even be able to help when we go over dangerous animate being. '' Hermione smiled.

'' Hermione, you become more devious by the day. I love it ! '' Fred exclaimed.

'' gladiolus we're rubbing off on you. '' George patted her on the back.

'' So let's go. '' Ginny said and they all left the Great Hall to make water their way down to Hagrid's hut.

　

A/N OK, this one is long, but once I started writing, I just couldn't full stop. Guess I was glad to have my information processing system back. Please let me know what you think, what you liked, what you didn't like. Chapter 11 should be up next week.

eminence : denotation to Hagrid's brother Grawp from Harry ceramicist and the guild of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling