A berth Order of the Phoenix, pre-Half Blood Prince account.

Please consider this a substitution of the sixth book, since it was begun well before the button of the Half Blood Prince. I will not be changing this to adapt the HBP plotline, since I feel that the Order of the Phoenix leaves a greater grade of flexibility for fan-fiction writers.

Thank you to all of the readers who have supported me throughout the writing of this piece.
I can not express my gratitude enough to all of you who have made me the Number 1 favorite Author, and this floor the identification number 2 darling Story, the 7th Most Read report, the Most Reviewed level Ever in the web site 's history, and for several month between Aug and former Nov of 2005 the Number 1 deary Story.







'' Energy. It permeates every bread and butter and nonliving thing. Without it, the populace would cease to exist. ''
~ Vincent VonStolburg ~






Chapter 1 ~ Lightning strike


Remus'eyes narrowed, peering through the slurred attack as rain pelted the Earth. He continued walking, not breaking formation even as pee sloshed about his mud-soaked ankle, chilling him to the bone.

Moving was becoming increasingly difficult and the thick woollen of his cloak clung awkwardly to his icy skin. He wished he had possessed the foresight to don a idle one, for moving certainly would throw been promiscuous.

But there had been little fourth dimension to think on such details.

His center burned, the stinging sensation growing until awful tears streamed down his face, his salty tears mixing with the rain before they reached his lips, leaving the penchant of salt water upon his natural language.

The stinging genius grew worse. It happened whenever his rod cellular phone multiplied, and right now the frenzy going on just behind his retinas was aiding him, bringing into bare focus the demolition of the night.

Cloaked images came to biography, the moonless night no longer a factor as grey-headed images danced before him with unearthly clarity. It was the one diminished gift his monthly burden afforded him.

Night imagination.

His centre turned from the world around him, flicking towards the blackened sky, noting the new moon. He had a duad week before the pain sensation in his osseous tissue returned.

Tonks fell into step besides him, giving an unvoluntary thrill, and he caught her arm, helping her over another of the bushed before she could trip. Her eyes were still bloodshot from the last time it had happened.

She nodded thanks and they continued their stealthy search. They dared not light their paths for fear of giving away their emplacement. Lingering decease feeder could be anywhere.

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

A scope had not been found in England for centuries. And the foul and revolting Death Eaters would go to any lengths to find one. The evidence lay at their groundwork, and he was grateful that the deep darkness spared Tonks from seeing the full extent of tonight 's destruction. Only he could bear attestor to its full horror.

quintuplet Muggles had been slain this night. Their snap and mangled bodies long since passed. There was zip even the best of therapist could do. All that was left was to pick through the butchery, hoping against hope that a someone had survived.

He picked up the pace. They had to complete their search before the ministry officials arrived. By then they were to be gone, mere ghosts to experience passed through, unseen and unheard.

The past weeks had brought a mickle of murder. No ... butchering ...

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

Muggle families were being polluted with the foulness of Voldemort. And despite the Order 's best efforts, they had been powerless to stop it.

'' Six ... '' Tonks whispered, barely audible. Her slender grade was bent down, her shaking bridge player checking for a pulse on a Pres Young man, his once golden-blond hair matted thickly with coagulated stock.

Remus bent down, grasping her around the waist as he helped her hike. In the passion of conflict she was fiery, unaffected by the repulsion of fallen fellow. He had seen her ability to block such things out firsthand in the department of Mysteries. But now, in the aftermath of something she had no ascendency over, the steely glint was gone from her eyes, her purposeful step lost.

He pulled her forward, feeling her centre linger upon the trounce skull of a man barely jr. than herself. He could feel its effect on her as she quivered in his arms. He wished to give up her further worrying, but they had to keep on.

'' Do you think when he is at the Bill Gates of hellhole he will still believe it was deserving it ? '' She whispered shakily.

He wound his arm tighter around her articulatio humeri, squeezing her arm gently. No intelligence of reassurance were upcoming, but he felt her still, calming under his touch.

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

The Dark Lord had a new scheme. Snape had informed the Order calendar week ago, but even now he still found it abyssal, for the vile being was no longer subject matter to experiment with magic.

No ... Now he was experimenting with magical beast.

And people…

His architectural plan was to harness the top executive of every wizard being for himself. So he could channel them into his one acrid being.

If the cerebration of an even stronger night Almighty was n't enough to frighten someone, Remus did n't know what was. But that fear did goose egg to quell his barely contained craze.

It was plebeian cognition that when emotions ran mellow, witches and thaumaturge often lost control. underworld, he had lost count of how many fourth dimension Harry had done exactly that.

Only now the Death Eaters were using a range 's emotions against them. The hooded figures had crept in the shade of night from home to nursing home over the past weeks, killing each candidate 's folk right in front end of them. Their aim was to extract an emotional reaction, one stiff enough to discover the Reach 's rightful potential.

It sickened him, how the Dark Almighty could wipe out so many innocents, just to flush the Reach out of concealment.

But what was even more sickening was the Dark lord 's plans for the pitiful somebody once they were found.

He was planning on utilizing their line, granting him their power to kill. And the way through which this would be accomplished…

He could only hope that if there were a Reach, that they would chance them first. Because while magical power was now see, a range was not.

Most witches and wizards developed magical power at a Brigham Young age. Though there were always the few destined to become Squibs, and there were always a few who developed it later on in life, in their adolescent. It had turned out that magical ability stemmed from a rife gene, linked to the genes specifying blood type. And the genetic code Muggles possessed only differed by a few nucleotides, so it was easy for the variation to rise randomly in Muggles, thus Muggleborns.

But a Reach was not a beldame or wizard, they were not a Squib or a previous blooming magician.

They were something different entirely.

When their magical prowess came to realisation, the same system that alerted the Headmaster to the presence of a new witch or wizard would go off.

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

Now it was going off again.

There was a soul out there holding Sir Thomas More power than they could properly wield.

And if Dumbledore was mightily, that meant there was a Reach out there who had finally struck out.

The pitiful by-blow.

Instinctively his arm shot out, halting Tonks roughly in place, his dilated eyes roamed, scanning the primer coat of what had once been an average home set far away from the major road. Now broken floorboard littered the muddied reason, while smoking from the doused ardor curled up in snake like tendrils, shrouding the creation from view. Yet his middle penetrated its veil, searching for the flicker of movement that had frozen him in place.

He clenched his fingers tighter around the intimate worn oak of his baton, bracing himself for whatever attack would come.

None came.

It was then that he heard it. A easy choking amidst the storm 's howl wind instrument.

He withdrew his arm, placing a finger carefully over Tonks'icy lips, signaling her to be mute. The only polarity of her mix-up was the light bend of her brow. She would, of course, have no approximation what he was looking for. Her hearing was not as refined as his.

But loup-garou bites did things like that to a person.

It came again, a low, strangled moan, and he took off, rushing towards the source. No attacker could assume that form of pain.

He skidded, flinging rock music in the air as he bent down beside her. The puddle she was feebly pushing herself out of was a deep fatal, filled with the descent of her and the lifeless man besides her. Her dead body spasmed with each choking hack as she coughed up inhale water system, her oculus glazed over from what he recognized as shock.

He pulled her up, speaking in low, reassuring tint as she flailed against him. She was too rickety to do much damage, even of the other variety ...

Tonks reached them, murmuring soothing words as she smoothed the little girl mud caked haircloth away from her face, brownness water emerging from her backtalk as another round of cramp racked her trunk violently.

He took her visual aspect in, another involuntary spasm shaking her. Torn shards of what had once been clothing hung lightly from her, and the debris and dust sticking to her wet face made her features impossible to spot.

He did n't know whether to praise the heavens or curse them as he and Tonks exchanged a meaningful glimpse. They had to get her binding to central office before something worse happened. Her shoulder was in dire indigence of suturing, and God only knew what else the bastards had done to her before leaving her for dead.

He let her cough up the rest of the body of water before stunning her. He hated doing it as he lifted her gimp course from the ground, but only one thing could let survived this.

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


The rain poured down in stale torrents as Harry shouldered his broom, sprinting after Kingsley through the fast forming pool of London 's metropolis streets. It was coming down in bucketful now, and if he had thought flying through the torrential soaker had been bad it was nothing compared to the pounding of his invertebrate foot on the pat pavement.

Moody 's guttural growl sounded off to his rightfield, not that he could see him, the rainwater was too thick to see much of anything. Thunder clapped, shaking him to the core, and the lightning flashed shockingly, illuminating the expanse to reveal rate members running in rank around him, splashing water as they went.

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

Only this night was dissimilar.

Promises of meeting with Tonks and lupine in London were hissed quickly as Kingsley and Moody levitated his things, cramming them hastily into his luggage compartment, and he had not missed how McGonagall 's oculus had roamed the elbow room guardedly. Even stern, steadfast McGonagall was frightened.

Tonight truly was unlike.

He blinked rapidly, trying vainly to elicit the water cascading into his heart, but it was to no avail. His glasses were too thickly coated with rain droplets, and he desperately racked his mind for the tour Hermione used to repel water. For his wand was out, and he could use it. The Ministry had removed the Decree for the Restriction of Underage genius that summer. Dumbledore had headed up the motion, arguing that the return of Voldemort endangered witches and thaumaturgist of all ages, and that in the issue of an attack, scholarly person should be liberate to defend themselves without the fear of repercussion.

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

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

Grimmauld office.

Lupin materialized at the top of the flea-bitten wooden step looking worse for the wear. His normally threadbare habiliment was now ragged and parentage stained, his optic holler and sunken, holding the look of prey that knew its predator to be near.

Harry stepped through the threshold, stomping his feet on the shaggy rug, slinging mud everywhere as the others piled in. He swallowed the lump in the stand of his throat, pulling his eye from the swampy floor, forcing himself to take aim in his surround. A man named Dorbert Cheeks could be heard triggering the complicated locking charm on the front doorway.

A loud gravy reverberated through the theater, shaking the wall as indistinct vocalism argued in the length. Yet this did not get at him. Even his oddment as to why he had been pulled so untimely from his bed could not best the desperation that had hit him like a bludger. In the heating of the race they had ran he had forgotten one matter.

That they were taking him to Sirius's…

This sign of the zodiac had never been joyful, but now it seemed a hollow racing shell of what could experience been. It stood as a painful reminder of the scrapings of a life that he and his godfather could sustain salvaged. But that life was gone now.

War brought casualty, casualties brought pain, and pain in the neck brought emptiness.

That was how he had felt since that night. Empty. There was zero that could fill the nihility. Not even the impending terror of facing Voldemort in years to come could get to him feel anything but despair again.

Mundungus cleared his pharynx, turning all heads towards him as he beckoned for everyone to quietly wee-wee their way to an adjoining room. He followed, his sopping wet clothes weighing him down with every whole step he took. But nothing could weigh him down as much as the remembering ... As much as the burden haunting him ... The one they should bear told him ...

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

He glanced towards Lupin who stood protectively side by side to him, opening his mouthpiece to speak, to ask, but he let it flap shut. He remembered all too well that Dumbledore would not allow them to secern him anyway. They never told him anything when it could actually hold a difference ...

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

The war had begun.
* * * * *


pounding pain ... Blood ... Cries of nuisance ....

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

Dim vocalism filtered into her thoughts, her nap befuddled mind protesting strongly as it failed to grok a unmarried word.

'' ... has a chance. ''

Flashes of Light Within ... .flame ... Coughing smoke ... squeal of tire ... .Sean ....

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

articulation that were forgetful to her wakening. part forgetful to the way her body recoiled in nuisance. Voices oblivious to how her center teared from the bright sunlight pouring in from the Windows of the doomed room. Voices forgetful to how she clawed like a frightened animal at the thick allayer wrapped around her battered and bruised body.

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

What she had done ...

A new despair hit her like a thousand hot knife, slicing her tegument in a way the risky of the give the sack enchantment could not have.

She had done the unthinkable ....

New waves of pain poured Forth River, her imaginativeness swimming dangerously with each pulsating infliction her consistency dealt. She would have cried out, but the attempt would have been too much for her fragile word form. Instead she drew in ragged breathing place until her body gave out, the sound of a door creak and a large, dark-skinned form standing over her vaguely registered before she once again slipped into merciful oblivion.
* * * * *


The ambition were always the same ....

For nearly a calendar month she had refused to give in to the nightly bedevilment. She was warm than that. She would not turn a loss herself to the world of incubus, even if the Quran she had read on such things deemed that a more merciful portion than the one the wizarding world would bestow upon her.

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

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

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

She drew in a shoal breath, letting her sobs subside slowly before Hagrid could hear. She had dreamt about it again. About that night. visual sense of descent and shrill wow had filled her mind 's eye each night since as she dreamt about their human activity ...

Her deeds ...

She wiped the tarriance tears that clung to her eyelashes, swallowing her own self-loathing. She would not fight back it, for she deserved every bit of annoyance bestowed upon her. She would stew in it until it had permeated every fibre of her being. That a good deal was the least of what she deserved.

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

And the ones who had started it all ...

They deserved so practically forged.

Everything in effect and pure in her life-time had been gone for hebdomad. It was with a cold clarity that she realized this. For now she lived for one role, and one use alone.

Revenge.
* * * * *


Harry lay on the top bunk staring at the ceiling, watching the way shadows played across it as light from passing car headlights shone in through the window. Ron 's garish snores drifted up, breaking the secretiveness like a bullhorn with every breath, and it was taking every inch of the self-control he possessed, to not lean over and smack his supporter senseless with his pillow.

He sighed loudly, wondering when it was all going to end. Each day the Daily seer brought news of Thomas More putting to death, more unexplained disappearances, and of more war. For respective weeks he and Ron had been catching tidbits of information, slip ups by the adult in Grimmauld Place, and right now it sounded like the Ministry was in right-down mayhem. Not that he minded that fact. Anything that made Fudge 's job harder amused him immensely. What he did head was the understanding for the mayhem, and that was Voldemort.

Voldemort. It was odd really, how one individual could be the lawsuit of so a good deal death and destruction. No one should stimulate that a great deal power, he thought bitterly, thinking of the toll that the Muggle demise were taking on Mr. Weasley, Ron 's father.

Mr. Weasley was the soul employee in the abuse of Muggle artefact department, and recently, with the strain on resources in the Ministry, it had come to double as the section of Muggle coition. Now Mr. Weasley spent half his meter performing computer memory magic spell on Muggle law enforcement, to wrap up up the dying of Muggles who had been murdered by Death Eaters. Now every time Harry saw Mr. Weasley, all the man could talk about were different potential strategy for protecting the Muggle population.

Now if only a practiced strategy actually existed.

He rolled restlessly, spying Hedwig 's gleaming heart in the darkness. She hooted softly in acknowledgement, and he smiled in the iniquity despite his black thoughts.

Memories plagued him every fourth dimension he closed his middle now. The Department of enigma ... It was why he now lay awake.

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

Hermione had nearly been killed.

Sirius had ... ..

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

The magic trick was in figuring out how.

To protect them, he had tried to blatantly promote them away, but they had seen right through that. He had refused to spell, and his self-induced closing off ended when both of them showed up at the Dursleys while his relatives were on holiday. The two of them set up residence there the full week, Order member circling the premise like war hawk for security, while his booster had infuriated him to no end. However, he had finally realized that they were n't going to go away. If he was going to outdistance himself he 'd consume to do it slowly.

Yes. A gradual drifting would be secure.

It was with these thoughts in mind, that he drifted off into another night of fitful quietus. If only he could cause known then what the next few geezerhood would impart.





Disclaimer : The grapheme, space, epithet, and events mentioned in this story, that coincide with the characters, property, gens, and events mentioned in J.K. Rowling 's Harry thrower serial, do not belong to me, but to that literary genuis, JKR. Thank you so much for allowing so many of us to quest for writing through fanfiction JKR, we really appreciate it.

The fabulous standard is by SticksN'Stones.

artwork of Kalliandra by agirlnamedbob87.





'' One may never know how longsighted their standard candle of life 's wick is. What they can have it away, is how well it burns. ''
~ A.K. Lovell



Chapter 2 - First Impressions


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

A light breeze ruffled the urine, tousling her haircloth gently in its wake. She casually brushed her whispy strands back, tucking them carelessly behind her spike.

Her hairsbreadth had always been a author of frustration, always in the way, hanging in front of her eyes, driving her instructor crazy. No ponytail ever held for long, for her midst, glossy hair had a way of worming its way out. It was as if it preferred to be free and untethered.

Kind of like me ...

She swore silently, the rippling undulation now running across the lake the only witness to her frustration as she stood. If she was not back soon Hagrid would awake and find her gone. Of class here would be the first place he looked, but with as late as he always ran he would not be pleased with her absence, particularly when they had places to go that afternoon.

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

Not that she was allowed to show sorrowfulness. Emotions were no longer a privilege she had.

She had been warned of the danger of such things.

Her bare human foot crunched upon the dewy grass, but the early on morning pall did not trouble her. She reached into her pocket, fingering the cherry wooden airfoil of her wand before pulling it out, studying it appraisingly as she traversed her way across the earth.

They were odd looking things really. Long and thin, and from the looks of it, easily breakable. She suppressed the sudden urge to do just that, knowing full well that nothing could be gleaned from such destructive measures.

It would not deepen anything, except her mood, but even that could not be improved measurably by the snapping of her emblematic sin.

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

So in what the odd man had called a stroking of intake, he had custom designed the one she now bore, forming the core with a lock chamber of her own hairsbreadth and a pinprick of her own roue. She could n't even recall how many go had to be woven into it.

It was funny, for her wand was the alone thing she could sweet-talk into working at to the lowest degree somewhat decently, and still she hated it.

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

Francois Jacob 's ladders now streamed down from the clouds, forming pools of light on the vibrant grass, giving evidence to the warmth the day would bring.

It was a warmth that would never reach her.

A slightly stronger breeze bore the sound of approaching hooves, and she turned towards the Forbidden Forest, the synopsis of wings folding into a Equus caballus 's skeletal body signaled Silverthorne 's arriver.

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

She stopped and waited, his gallop growing louder with his rapid glide path, and a small smile graced her passive sass. Hagrid and Dumbledore had been as wonderful as they could be, but there was much they kept hidden from her. Intuition informed her of this with every fleeting look they exchanged around her.

Perhaps that cognition could explain her hostility as of late. Hagrid was a in effect man and had not deserved the brunt of her anger the previous day. They had been arguing as of later. But then again, she deserved to be informed of everything regarding herself. Keeping her in the dark could only cause further scathe. This she was convinced of.

Silverthorne let out a low, guttural consonant grunt as he slowed to a canter, stopping to nose her with his olfactory organ.

A brute of the dead. It was one of the more unseemly figure Thestrals were referred to by, but it explained why she had felt an trice draw to them while the other beast screeched and howled in her front.

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

At to the lowest degree so long as he gets his morning snack, she reminded herself with some amusement, picturing how he would displume through the belittled brute 's osseous tissue so eagerly.

She smiled again, letting the business organisation of yesterday laissez passer. She would apologize to Hagrid later before they reached Diagon Alley to get her 'school'provision. She used the word fleetingly for while she was to see Hogwarts, she was too far behind to be expected to actually rick in naming with the residuum of the sixth long time. Instead she was to put up a desirable façade until she gained the knowledge that could help her.

Then there was the minuscule factor of her being completely unable to incant in the 1st place.

No one would be the wiser to why she was really there. Dumbledore 's dream up stories would not only tick off out, but they were even credible to an extent. He would back her if anyone questioned them. That was her only backup man in this entire hell.

The hell that had become her biography.

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

* * * * *



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

Harry laughed as he watched Ron squirm uncomfortably, the magical tape measure flying vertically around his booster 's no longer gangly torso, magically recording the length of his coat of arms, legs, height, and for some odd reason, the aloofness between his ears.

He knew exactly why Ron 's brothers were getting him attire robe, but he was n't about to share that piece of data. Not when he was actually enjoying himself for the number one time in hebdomad.

'' Well we did n't need them in conclusion year, '' He pointed out truthfully. `` And we do this year. So maybe they just felt bad since your development spurt rendered your former ones unwearable. ''

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

'' Blimey ! Watch it ! '' Ron exclaimed, ducking another near hit, his base entangling in the foresighted dress robe trailing past his ft.

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

'' Oww ... bloody ... irritable ... ''

Harry very nearly choked on thin air, quite a effort, had it not been for the loud roll of laughter he was trying to miserably oppress as he caught the rest of Ron 's croak profanities.

Of grade, he thought lightly, his salutary partner might not be muttering the colorful metaphors if he could see the look on the sales clerk 's brass ... Or the fact that she was storming over from where she had been attempting to size a first yr for his Hogwarts robes, face alit, hands on hip joint, eyes narrowed vindictively at the mess Ron lay in.

Right then, with the impeccably bad timing that only Ron could master, his champion 's red point emerged from the fray, a brilliant pink shroud wrapped around it like a shawl, and a shamefaced aspect on his face as he stammered apologies. The sight must have been too much for the shop assistant, because her sass twitched, her serious aspect faltered, and all guise of ire vanished as she failed to be discreet about her own amusement.

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

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

'' You know mate, I think lady Maulkin 's got it all untimely. I think that 's an fantabulous flavour for you. guess what Hermione would conceive ... ''

Suddenly he was finding it unsufferable to discern Ron 's spike from the remainder of his tangled matt of hairsbreadth.

'' Oh shut it Harry ! ''

Harry grinned, enjoying his ally momentary irritation. `` Speaking of Hermione ... '' He said, calming down slightly. `` She should be here any minute so perhaps you could ask her for her educated notion ... ''

A bright pink satin fuzz flew across the elbow room, and he caught it deftly, holding it out in front of him as he looked at it in mock estimate. `` Ron, I 'm touch on. But it 's really not my colouration. You however looked absolutely spiffing in it. ''

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

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

It was possibly due to this, that he whorled around in his seat so fast that he nearly slid off, earning various garish snort from a certain chuckling redhead tangled in fabric.

'' Hagrid ! When did you get here ? '' He asked, ignoring Ron 's assay reenactment. He took in his large booster standing awkwardly near the hot seat.

They really should make stores more accessible for masses his size of it ... He thought, making a genial musical note to mention the idea to Hermione as Hagrid opened his with child mouth.

'' About five minutes ago Harry. And I stand by what I said. '' A mischievous grin formed under Hagrid 's scruffy embrown face fungus as his middle landed on Ron. `` Hot pinko would be clashin'horribly with Ron 's hair. ''

A loud tearing sound tore his attention back to Ron, and he stifled yet another jape at the appal expression on Ron 's face. By all appearing, Ron had attempted to walk from the fitting program to where he and Hagrid sat by the windows, only now Ron was staring down at the rend fabric hanging raggedly from the hem of his new clothes robe.

'' Now that's why you 're supposed to stay put ! '' ma'am Maulkin snipped, spying the new destruction and waving her wand. The material flipped up like a snake, a large needle zooming to mend it. Ron attempted to alternate back away from it.

'' It wo n't sting you know ! '' dame Maulkin yelled, huffily storming over. `` Prick maybe ... ''

Ron did not look relieved at the thought process. Of course, the agonized expression might have been from how dame Maulkin grabbed him by the nucha of his collar and yanked him back to the fitting program, where she immediately began to fuss over the dire state of his gown.

'' Better finish you first since you ca n't stand still. '' She quipped in her high pitched voice. `` And to guess that this morning I would have sworn it was the younger scholar who gave me the most problem ... ''

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

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

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

Hagrid grinned and shook his psyche. `` Nah Harry, for once me robe are fine. Right now I 'm 'ere with Kalliandra gettin'her some gown of 'er own. Speakin'of 'er, ca n't hold off for yer two to meet 'er. She 's an absolute doll she is. ''

He nodded, peculiarity driving him as he wondered who this Kalliandra character was. mustiness be a first of all year or really young. He was sure he would make remembered that name at to the lowest degree.

But in the back of his mind he felt a pang of compassion.

Generally there was only one reasonableness for why Hagrid took anyone to get school supplying, and he was all too familiar with such things.

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

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

He followed Hagrid 's gaze towards the fitting elbow room, taking in the relatively busy store when a not unfamiliar adept hit him like a bludger, his abdomen twisting oddly as his eyes landed on a slenderize public figure, glancing around the computer storage hesitantly.

And I thought Hermione looked good in dress robe, he thought, swallowing hard, berating himself for being distracted. But this girl was stunning, in an offbeat variety of way. While her features were rather plain, her long, prosperous dress gown clung loosely to her slender ramification, with her delicate handwriting lifting the hem, revealing tanned ankle as she moved towards them.

The hell of it was, she was n't stopping. Ron 's grunt was the only thing that kept him from outright gaping as she came to stand in good order by him, biting her lip nervously, eyes directed at Hagrid.

'' So you found some eh ? '' Hagrid asked, shooting Harry a wide grin, failing to discover that he had become a mute.

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

'' And my assistant did a fine job young lady. That color suits you, '' gentlewoman Maulkin chimed out, shocking him back to his grass. He silently thanked her, and glanced over to see that she was still indeed, judging by his protagonist 's pained aspect, torturing Ron.

He shook his head whimsically at the sight, glancing back at the lady friend in presence of him, thinking that ma'am Maulkin had a period about the people of color suiting her. Her dark prosperous hair cascaded loosely past her shoulders, various shorter strand framing her look, lightly brushing her collar osseous tissue. All of it was barely discernible from the silky robe material clinging to her gracile figure.

Briefly he wondered if it were a blessing or a offence to allow girls out like that.

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

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

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

'' Youffa meanuh uh transforra ? '' Ron 's dull voice called out from under the cotton cocktail dress Maulkin was vigorously forcing over his forefront. `` Weff neffa haf uh transsfuh befuh. ''

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

'' You have a very ... heavy ... head ... '' Maulkin muttered with each subsequent yank, and Hagrid 's belly laugh of laugh drowned out Ron 's outraged retort. Harry glanced back at Kalliandra to see her watching the spectacle, a lead of a smile tracing its way across her sassing.

'' I asked ... '' Ron 's slightly exacerbate voice called out clearly, `` If she was a transfer, because we 've never had one before. ''

Harry turned back to Kalliandra, to see the slight smile that had secondment ago graced her feature vaporize.

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

Maybe she had found Ron'head offensive, though he could n't imagine why. He shot Hagrid a quizzical look, hoping he 'd clear up thing since Kalliandra did n't appear about to do so.

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

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

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

Hagrid eyed Ron with no pocket-sized amount of amusement. `` Well that 'd be reason they came in the middle of the yer. Ca n't have erm sorted at the sortin'when they 've missed it already. ``

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

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

Like a good grown titan in the woods ...

Or a three headed dog ....

Or a pet dragon ...

Seeing a one-half giant worm beneath one 's gaze would normally be quite a funny happening, but it simply made Harry nervous as Hagrid continued shuffling his invertebrate foot, mumbling about proper first appearance, while the girlfriend remained extremely quiet.

Harry feigned a polite smile, extending his bridge player to the young woman at Hagrid 's insistence. `` Nice to adjoin you. ''

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

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

It was a shock absorber he had been ill prepared for, for her oculus held a hint of the familiar… So closely kindred to the haunted expression of Sirius'that he felt himself shaken to the core at the familiarity.

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

The polite smile she had shot him waver and disappeared abruptly.

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

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

'' Like he gave me a choice ? '' She muttered, deflating, her eye no longer holding the preoccupied quality of before. Maybe it had never been there. He really ought to have slept longer ... With all his turbulent thought as of late running through his psyche he simply was n't thinking straight.

'' It may take been important, '' He pointed out awkwardly.

'' Yes, you 're probably right ... '' She said faintly, her vocalization so easygoing he scarcely heard her. Though her surprisingly blue intonation did zero to stop the harsh quality of her glare as her narrowed eyes followed Hagrid 's retreating form. In fact, she was still shooting daggers out the door as the assistant yanked her over to the open try-on platform besides Ron seconds later.

Harry decided not to dwell on the look he had seen, the one so painfully intimate to Sirius. It had probably been his resourcefulness, so he contented himself with trying to decide which of the two looked more disgruntled. Kalliandra kept shutting her eyes, as if frightened by the enchanted magnetic tape measure flicking around her head, while Ron kept shooting scowls at Madam Maulkin.

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

He was about to agree when Kalliandra cut him off.

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

The help flicked her wand, shortening Kalliandra 's robes slightly. It was all Harry could do to void cursing the supporter. daughter 's robe should get no shorter ...

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

Harry found that oddly mirthful, considering that Ron had been ducking the very thing himself, but at least his booster had not been standing chalk still like a deer in headlights.

Kalliandra had though.

She opened her eyes, arching an questioning supercilium at Ron rather than answering him, and Harry noticed her visibly flinch as the flying tape measuring zoomed close again.

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

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

He had to take on Ron had a point, she did not seem very personable, and did not appear too energize about talking, so he was n't about to force her. Yet something about her aroused his rarity. If only he could put his digit upon it ...

Several minutes passed, the awkward secrecy broken only be Ron 's random blowup of displeasure, and Kalliandra 's quiet response to the assistant 's questions. Unsurprisingly she was the first one done, and he found himself having a severely time not staring at her now that the apparel gown were completely fitted around her form. The thing was swish, elegant, and practically organise fitting ...

'' Hey how amount she got done so prompt ? '' Ron asked indignantly, as Kalliandra made her way back to the changing way, the bottom of her dress gown gathered in her hands as she walked carefully. She seemed unused to walking in something of the sort.

'' Because she, unlike some of my client, actually held still while we measured her, '' lady Maulkin quipped from where she knelt on the floor, using her baton to make minor adjustments to the hem of Ron 's robe.

She flashed Harry an inconspicuous wink, and he barely caught it, smiling slightly at her before glancing back to see Kalliandra disappear behind a changing room curtain. He could n't avail but experience slightly relieved. Between his curiosity about this miss and Ron 's public eye, he did not want to be caught staring at her. And he knew he 'd be a lot lupus erythematosus prone to doing that once she was out of that damnable robe.

Of class he was wrong, because when she re-emerged he found the light sleeved top she wore to be no better than the low cut lines the robe had gauge.

'' Ahem. ''

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

Come to conceive of it, Ron seemed to be making gross out faces as well.

Harry failed to have the prospect to so much as shrug in reply to Ron 's hideous wish motion in the girl 's steering, before a calm clatter broke the relative silence of the room. He turned to see Kalliandra squatting down on the floor, picking up tiny fall in her hands.

The confused help stood behind the counter, bearing a slight smile. `` Oh honey, thank you, but do n't worry about that. I 'm as gawky as can be ... '' The assistant flicked her wand and the little PIN number scattered all over the blank space disappeared, reappearing into the pin cushion held in Kalliandra 's hand.

'' See, I 'm knocking stuff over all the time, '' The assistant continued, while the girl stared at the now filled pin shock, biting her bring down lip, mix-up etched into each of her lineament.

He did n't conk out to comment it.

It 's like she 's never seen conjuring trick before ...

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

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

Ron was right, she was supposed to wait for Hagrid. Harry hesitated a present moment, an intragroup public debate waging until oddment got the better of him. Wasting no more sentence he jumped from his seat and went after her.

He wanted to see where she was going.











'' And after all, what is a lie ? 'T is but a the Truth in masquerade. ''
~ George Gordon Noel Byron, Creator Byron~







Chapter 3 ~ Entangled WWW



Traversing her way through the swarming, sett streets of Diagon alley, she let out an unsteady breath.

To the core she had been undeniably, inexplicably, shaken. And all because of a scattered mass of pins upon the floor of a garment workshop, and her own pitiful attempt to reclaim a shop clerk 's clumsiness.

Magic.

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

The Oklahoman she became accustomed the near.

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

Butchered for who she was… The possibility was nothing less than she deserved, for one such as herself should not be allowed to walk upon the bustling streets, the smell of the most luminescent of the nirvana'ball warming her skin, the light clatter of pebbles being kicked askew and the laughter of nestling ringing within the respite of her auditive senses.

No. There were others who deserved such privilege far more than she, though they now lay where the sun could no longer reach their frigid psyche. And with them, lay the illusion of who she had once been.

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

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

She was going to get out.

It was why she had left, fleeing in Hope of traversing her way through the densely jam-packed streets, making her way towards the looming marble building, the prosperous words Gringotts Bank emblazoned across its tusk surface.

After barely a c paces the pillar of the wizarding commercial message society emerged over the head of the bunch. Its supporting columns leaning in various counsel, their haphazard support for the speed tier of the edifice strengthened with the black magic filling the streets.

Though it was not there that she wished to go.

It was there, directly across from the goblin filled deposit. That was where she desired to go to seek out her answers. Turning down the dark alley she noted a rickety signal suspended above it 's entryway bearing the jaggedly cut up Word Knockturn Alley.

Yes, she had been forewarned of its shady feature. She had carefully listened to Hagrid 's babbling about it, about how he hated to venture down it each time he found himself in need of build eating Slug Repellant, and about how objects of the illicit variety could be procured.

She was an object of the illicit variety, and if there was anywhere to find acceptance within the society that demanded Gustavus Franklin Swift murder for those of her nature, it would be here.

Hagrid had been none the wiser, content to suffice her every question about the dirty alleyway. He had even inadvertently supplied her with the name of the man to whom she wished to speak, Mr. Borgin.

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



'' You know Kinglsey loosening up could do you wonders. I mean really, when was the close time you took an honest holiday ? ``

Kingsley Shacklebolt let out an incensed huff, raucously shoving his way through the thick crowd grunting about insubordination. Tonks only recourse was to roll her heart, further darkening the reddened hue that her foreman'face was beginning to carry on.

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

'' Kingsley, Harry is perfectly capable of taking aid of himself for more than than five minute, '' She said amicably. `` And besides, how was I supposed to pick up Remus'natal day gift for hi.. ''

'' Tonks…

Casting a sidelong glimpse at the elderly Order extremity she came to a stay in the center of traffic, ignoring the protestations of the witches and wizards around them, who were now being forced to take the air a full two feet to the English to avoid them. For all their complaining one would think she was inciting a sidesplitter, not stopping for a chat with her slightly formidable boss.

Speaking of Kingsley, he looked like he was either suppressing the desire to throttle her, or in the beginning stages of cardiac check.

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

A tumid vein was beginning to pulse in the man 's brow, and he leaned low. `` Dam n't Tonks ! '' He hissed. `` This is not a secret plan ! ``

She nodded, squinting up at the taller build in the bright sunshine. `` A fact I 'm well aware of, '' She said pointedly, her previous pretenses of humor vanishing. `` But the parliamentary law is constantly hovering over Harry, convinced that he is an incompetent person 16 twelvemonth old. Yet I have never heard of a 16 twelvemonth old who has survived as mu… ''

A rather large hand clamped over her mouth, and she found herself being roughly drug away from the sett streets into a plunk for back street, away from the spike of passersby.

'' Tonks you should know dear than to… ''

'' Than to what ? '' She shot back in frustration. `` Than to discourse what Harry has been through in the out-of-doors ? ''

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

With an audible crinkling Kingsley shoved a written matter of the Daily prophet into her manus, watching her closely as she unfolded it, discovering it to be the tardy issue that she had not yet read.

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

Her mouthpiece fell capable, forming a small'O'of understanding.

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

'' That Night, '' She whispered, knowing wide-cut well to what he referred. The scratch tissue across her bureau would forever serve as a strickle reminder to her carelessness in dueling with her aunt. It had taken half of the summertime, laid up in St. Mungos, for her to pull in a full recovery from the blows she had been dealt.

Remus had been her simply source of sanity during that sentence, as he had been on the night they had combed through the grotesquely charred grand of an marooned Muggle house, searching for survivors.

The month old picture of that atrocious tantrum was now burned beneath the front page 's nictation headline, the water pooling upon the pavement darkened with what she knew to be blood.

The poor souls had never had a chance.

Clenching the tabloid between her hands she met her foreman'regard. `` feel, '' She whispered, forcing her phonation calm. `` I know the social club is concerned about Harry. But he has proven more than competent in situations that nearly Aurors have yet to face, and he 's come out alive an… ''

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

'' Actions, '' She supplied, ignoring how his eye twitched. `` But how does the parliamentary procedure expect him to get wind to wee decisiveness if we are always hovering over him ? ``

His eyes widened considerably, `` In war there is no elbow room for fault. ``

'' Who said he was making them ? ``

Kingsley began pacing up and down the apothecary 's side alley. `` No one, but you have to take the child is… ''

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

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

'' I 'll carry it under condition, '' She replied, leaning against the dirty brick wall, capacity to savour in its wraith for a moment of respite from the Aug heat.

Kingsley 's following tirade was unintelligible, though she did catch the Scripture 'irresponsibility', 'insubordinate', and 'dam n't girl'.

Slowly she began banging her nous against the brick siding.

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

'' It is not just a stool pigeon ! '' She interjected, halting the assault on her skull. `` It 's a collector 's version ! And Remus ordered it a month ago for Harry, limited order ! They had to make it to Remus'exact specifications, and we thought it would be a nice surprise to plunk it up while out toda… ''

'' Oh grand ! '' Kingsley burst out, throwing his hands up. `` Perhaps you explain your reasoning to the Order when Death feeder attack and take them away ! ``

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

Kingsley stopped pacing abruptly, `` And what of the young woman ? ``

'' You mean Ginny ? ``

The man let out a sound oddly reminiscent of a hippogriff in rut, stomping the priming and sending a peck of debris scattering into the air. `` Who do you guess I mean ! ? What other girl were you to chaperone today ? ! Focus for just a second would you Nympha… ''

'' We ran into her boyfriend, '' Tonks hastened to inform, unwilling to hear that cursed epithet again. `` So she is spending the residuum of the good afternoon with the Finnigans. ''

'' And the male child ? ``

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

Despite his ferocity Kingsley gave an involuntary frisson. It was a well known fact in his section that he hated all matter related to formal attire, with a particular aversion to those who made such things their profession.

Tonks smile only widened further, her pupils narrowing into minuscule ovular slits, heart yellowing like a cats. `` See Kingsley ? They 're perfectly safe. No self-respecting Death feeder would venture into there. ``

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

Tonks jaw dropped at the price of admission, a bellowing laugh resonating from Shacklebolt 's large form.

'' Speechless are we ? Well hell has indeed frozen over, either that or your olfactory organ of the day prevents proper external respiration. ``

Her paw flew to her crooked nose, pondering what was legal injury with it. She had spied a written matter of Witch Weekly earlier that day, and while she was not one for fashion she had seen this weeks headline : Crooked Nose jinx, In or Out of season ?

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

The male child had at least found it entertaining.

Kingsley 's flashy coughing drew her attention back, where he had adopted a rather exacerbate glare.

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

Eyeing his olfactory organ she nodded. `` Yup, you 've got a corrupt olfactory organ too. I hear those Muggle wacko have some heavy technique for remedying tho… ''

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

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

'' Are you even listening ? ``

'' Yes gaffer. ``

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

'' Your Supremacy ? ``

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

'' I 'm just taking your advice. I thought say-so figures liked to be addressed… ''

'' One More Son and a 'Nympadora'sign is going to wind up with a permanent sticking charm on your front door. ``

She sobered immediately.

'' And bar banging your head. ``

She stopped that to.

'' And do n't wrestle. ``

Suppressing a groan she resisted the temptation, her irritation level rising exponentially. Movement was the merely thing sufficient for quelling her often fray mettle in Shaklebolt 's presence. He knew this, and was intentionally depriving her of it.

Good God, if he was this bad with her she would detest to be a defendant for some detestable crime. No curiosity they normally came out of questioning twitching.

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

'' I 'm going with you. ``

With an indrawn moan she turned, carefully stepping over the rubbish that had been carelessly tossed, missing the bowling alley 's refuse bin, and stopped dead.

Passing the opening where the incline back street converged with Diagon alley 's bustling main avenue was a fellow caput of obscure hair's-breadth, and Harry was sprinting along at a sizable gait.

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

Without a Book she ignored the sarcastic jibe, taking off after Harry with homicidal intent. Of all the ill fated timing that one could consume, she had the worst. Harry just had to pluck now to run off, and she had every intention of strangling him once she got a hold of him.

Of course she may have to stun him first, considering he had grown considerably to predominate several inches above her, making him significantly faster.

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

As they shoved their way through the street, Kingley 's lucky loop earring glinting in the temperateness, she began ticking off the various mode to kill or excruciate him. For out of all the monastic order appendage she was his potent proponent when it came to the degree of independence he should be afforded. After all, she had attested to Harry 's ability to distinguish when it was or was not appropriate to wander off in public places. However, with Kingsley standing behind her, Harry was proving her incorrectly yet again. She could only imagine the self-complacent smile crossing Kingsley 's face, and after he mentioned this to the Order…

Her collection to let Harry in on more of the Orders'bodily function would probably be rejected, yet again.

This niggling stunt of his was going to cost him more than he knew.

'' I 'm going to toss off him when I get a hold of him, '' Kingsley grumbled behind her, wrinkling his nose at the jumble perfume stemming from the apothecary.

'' Not if I get a hold of him first, '' Tonks grumbled, thinking on how this petty promenade of his would probably cost Harry his allowance into the edict, and he would never even know it.

She began muttering in severe undertones, for she 'd make damn sure he found out.

repair her eye to the rear of his head, she shortened her pilus up her neck opening, and began experimenting with nozzle. It was n't until she spotted the old woman calmly perusing the excerption of animal food on presentation outside of Eeylops Owl department store that she was struck with an excellent idea.

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



It was a marvel that he had managed to go on her in sight, considering the horde swarming around him, children screaming off particular that would be needed for the beginning of term to frazzled parents, most of whom were doing admirable balancing acts with newly purchased caldron, books, and potions supply. Though her fuzz coloring material helped, for it was neither dark-skinned nor twinkle, falling somewhere between bronze and Au, yet far from blonde. He had seen the colouring rarely, and he doubted ever naturally, before now. Regardless, it made her easier to go along rails of her.

Thus it was that he was unable to miss her purposeful Mar into Knockturn bowling alley, his tummy churning uncomfortably at the thought.

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

He knew the consequence of such erroneous belief far too well.

Pulling his wand out he cast a glamour charm upon his head, watching the rambunctious strand of hair hanging on his forehead lighten to a muted brown. Quickly he brushed as much of it over his forehead as potential, not keen to be recognized within the disreputable orbit he was now traversing through.

The dark incoming was rather wrestle, the space narrow and curving every few feet, thus she easily fell out of his argumentation of sight. And it was not without incident that he made it through this, having to grunt at a Sir Henry Rider Haggard looking adult female to drive house his point that he indeed did not want to buy the clay toes she was selling.

'' Maybe succeeding meter young lad, next time… '' She hawked after him, driving his rate to increase.

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

Making a hasty decision, and silently praising Fred and George for their generousness that day when they had visited the Weasley counterpart 's establishment, Harry crept past the shaded window displaying Borgin & Burkes on 'special'items, casting a furtive coup d'oeil through the dirt covered panes.

The image was obscure, distorted by the thick stratum of grime coating the window, but Kalliandra 's approach stirred the man knelt behind the counter, his manpower rummaging through his methamphetamine display casing like a rat in a hole.

An indistinct password fell from the miss 's lips, and with a sudden jolt of effort the man stood, mouth spluttering indistinct Word of God in a hoarse style.

It was an arranged meeting, or a confluence between two who were uncomfortably acquainted.

Neither candidate boded well.

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

Making a determination as the man began pacing, Harry dropped to the lousy ground, allowing an revolutionise cart to hold in him from the majority of the scant dealings upon the alley.

This was not a conversation he was bang-up to disrupt, nor was it one he would like to be caught up in. Not in this shoes, not when the participants were so captive. The inspiration in him though, the warning that her demeanor was like Malfoy - coming into Knockturn Alley to get chummy with its proprietor - he could not ignore though.

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

Pressing his ear to the thin, flaking woodwind instrument paneling upon the establishment 's exterior, he muttered a magical spell for hearing sweetening, bringing the ill-boded conversation to life.

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

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

'' I have little use for money plant, and much for business, '' Rasped the man, whose vocalisation Harry now recognized to be that of Borgin 's Proprietor, Mr. Borgin himself. `` Your balance was challenging, and what you are offering in return… ''

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

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

'' Of grade, '' Borgin 's rattled breath scene out. `` Though the method of the payment 's delivery shall be to my specification. ``

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

A racking cough shook the proprietor, Harry shuddering at the replication as the words a month 's fourth dimension were spoken.

Then there was silence, enticing him to slowly slide up the splintery sidetrack, his heart reaching the sill to peer inwards, just in meter for the dilapidated doorway to be thrown open.

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







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



Chapter 4 ~ Seed of mistrust


Perhaps it was the shuddering weakness that had plagued her physical structure so oft as of late, but seeing the messy haired potter upon the earth was a wad for which she had been ill inclined, the sheer shock sending her inside reeling and curling into unnatural knots as she blinked at him, his own face adverted as if stalling for time.

lottery breath between her dentition the opus fell into place, forming an unpleasing pattern.

Choking back the sick whizz threatening to grovel from her throat, she spun on her blackguard, strewing grimy junk in her wake and nether region bent on distancing herself from the meddling fool as much as possible.

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

Tucking a lock of darkened atomic number 79 behind her ear, effectively removing the wayward strand from her face, she rounded the beginning twist in the crooked alley, passing a street vendor selling ears of something that sounded suspiciously like 'house elves'. It was in this moment of distraction that a firm clutch fell upon her upper arm, the callosity on the hand evident as she reflexively yanked her arm away, stepping away to outstrip herself from the prat bold adequate to make such a gesture.

Unsurprisingly she was unable to even turn around before ceramist was again upon her, ushering her to the former face of the besmirch area, away from the street vendor. She wasted no time in distancing herself from the thrower bum, fishing around for his get-go name, which she could not remember.

Casting a suspicious glance at the crinkled vendor she felt distinctly unquiet, even with the man 's crazy eyes 10 1000 off, for he was clearly out of earshot. Dismissing the momentary business organization that wizards could possibly have superior hearing she felt her eyes narrowing into darkened slits.

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

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

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

Another minute passed between them in quiet, the shadows cast by the looming brick bulwark of the alley traveling such a scant distance that their social movement would have been insensible to the human being eye, had either demonstrate paid the wickedness any mind, though they did not.

Still the messy haired man before her did not mouth, his quiet allowing her the time she needed to pull together her harshly shaken demeanor.

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

As ceramicist 's muteness continued she was left only to nod, expressing her apprehension of his actions.

'' Listen, '' she whispered, being thrifty to keep her voice low. `` I want you to appease away from me, and my conversations. ``

Potter 's human face was oddly contorted, as if unable to decide upon frowning or glaring in suspicion. `` Why are you so alarmed about me overhearing that ? ``

'' Why do you call back ? '' she hissed scathingly.

'' Could n't say, but you 're awfully concerned about that conversation remaining buck private, '' he stated pointedly, apparently having no qualms about keeping his vox down. `` Why the concern if you have nothing to hide ? ``

She visibly bristled.

'' Correct me if I 'm wrongfulness, '' she stated slowly, taking the time to articulate each syllable. `` But most the great unwashed do not rent well to having their private conversations listened in on. ''

'' Most people do n't wander down Knockturn Alley to speak in code with shady owner, '' he countered challengingly.

'' I 'm failing to recall any code, '' she refuted, her brow furrowing. `` Though I 'm also failing to remember how this is any of a complete stranger 's clientele. ``

His dark, forest-like center met her staid gaze levelly, without apology, while a cleaning lady with a torn, tattered Louis Harold Gray shawl limped around the corner, leaning heavily on a nipper footed cane. Neither spoke as the woman shambled along, quietly croaking out a melodic line of kind about bat wings and who-ding-its.

As soon as the adult female neared the weave of the bowling alley, becoming interested in street vendor 's merchandise, Potter closed the aloofness between them, his horseshoe disturbing the inscrutable claw marks that the elder 's cane had left indented in the colly ground.

'' looking, '' he began, sounding a lot calmer, `` I did n't play along you to overhear anything, I just… ''

'' You just happened to watch over me, '' she cut in unapologetically, `` And then you must throw randomly determine to crouch down and eavesdrop ? ``

Potter took another step forward, eyes intimidating.

'' Yes. ``

sucking in a half frustrated, half furious breathing space she suppressed the impulse to kick back something, him in particular. `` Alright Potter, if that's the case, then why did you espouse me ? ``

His expression was nada curt of derisive, the feeling of one trying to explain a dim-witted conception to a small child incapable of grasping it.

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

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

In the gloomy refinement of the alley, his eyes took on a suspicious, disapproving glint. `` Why should n't he know ? ``

'' What are you my keeper ? '' she snapped scathingly, finally losing her temper, brushing a lock chamber of hair away from her oculus in frustration.

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

'' And you 're being a complete… ''

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

'' expression, '' he finally said, `` If your business sector here was harmless why risk venturing here alone ? Why not tell Hagrid and have him get with you ? ``

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

'' That 's not the dot, '' he interrupted, shoving his hands into his pockets.

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

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

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

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

'' Sure sounds like it. ''

'' Well I would n't let even been there if you had n't walked out in the starting time place ! '' he shot out defensively.

'' Do n't you dare… ''

'' Now really, what discussion was so authoritative that it required you to trek into Knockturn Alley to talk in hush timber behind a closed room access ? Because seriously Kalliandra, I 'd love to know, '' he snapped with mock seriousness, yanking his hands from his pockets and crossing his arms.

She glared harshly. `` That is none of your line you deplorable blo ... ''

'' scurvy bloke ? '' he cut in. `` You 've got ... ''

Turning on her heel she shoved past him, brushing off his arm that attempted to stem her progress as she stalked away. Purposely dragging her feet enough to send a strew of grimy dust in his counseling, she felt a detached sense of expiation at his incensed coughing.

'' will you… '' he grunted. `` upright stop… '' She rounded a crooked good turn, the light of Diagon Alley seeping into the dimly lit corridor. `` Because… ''

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


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

'' Out of me way ! '' she snapped in a scratchy voice, effectively clearing the area as citizenry scattered in every instruction. Anything to avoid getting whacked upside the head by the old ma'am with the knifelike cane.

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

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

'' Tonks drop the old char diatribe, you 're mucking it up and go like a pirate ship. ``

She threw her headland back and cackled, sending a pocket-size mathematical group of children, first-class honours degree geezerhood by the tone of them, scattering.

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

Kingsley now appeared to be thumping himself in the promontory with the rolled up sportswoman section.

Maintaining their ambling sideline, she was having trouble grasping Harry 's conversation due to the noise of the bunch. Knockturn alley had been deserted in comparison, but fortunately they were able to detain relatively faithful due to her trend to rap anyone unlucky enough to walk in presence of them in the binding of the knee with the claw footed cane.

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

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

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

'' Details ! '' she shot back. `` Besides, if I 'm going to throttle him I at least need to hear that I have a effective cause. ``

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

Smiling cheekily she ignored him. `` sentry and learn from the original Kingsley. scout and learn. ``

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

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

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

'' You would n't. ``

'' What makes you think not ? ``

Smirking she did her ripe to keep Harry 's forefront in mint, walloping her procured cane against a man too officious posturing for a Veela facial expression alike to mark the bustling crowd swarming around him.

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

'' You do n't own an office. ``

She frowned. `` Someday I might. ``

'' Not if you keep this up. ``

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

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

He groaned.

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

Right then Kingsley looked very much like he would have it off to submerge himself in the H2O washbasin outside of Eeylops Owl Emporium. It was a shame the bird of night crapulence from it looked murderous.

It took another arcsecond for the information to process within her mind, for it was a relatively clear-cut area, and Harry had just drug the young woman over there.

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


As she traversed her way amongst the moving sea of bodies, the heady pressure sensation of commercial commerce hung heavily in the air. The mixing aromas from the apothecary, ice cream parlor, and owl department store blended with that of the gag store 's scented heater dud, while taper burned mid-wick in every storefront window, lending the region a unique flavor.

In Kalliandra 's foiling she noticed little of this. So fix upon distancing herself from the messy haired man behind her was she, that she missed taking in the few sights that she had deemed worthy of a indorsement glance when she had traversed in the opposite direction scarcely a quarter of an hour before hand.

Now it was taking all her second-stringer to avoid pulling violently away from the rough, calloused hand that had just shot through the bunch, grasping her firmly by the speed arm.

She knew full well who it was.

Hardly aware of the light pebbling overlaying the sett avenue, or of the continuous inflow of sponsor pouring from the shops into the street, pressing in around them on all sides in a way that encouraged one to not deter from the velocity that the gang had reached a general, non-verbal consensus regarding, she found herself whirling around to face up him, halting.

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

'' I wasn't… ''

A voluminous man shoved past, cutting ceramist off as he failed to take heed of the two individuals speaking a substructure below his rather bizarre height. In the physical process he smacked against them brusquely, their heads banging together grueling, and she found herself kicking a spray of pebbles in the man 's direction, oddly satisfied as the man halted, swore, and turned in place looking for the perpetrator of the attack on his calves.

'' Making protagonist everywhere I see, '' ceramicist commented dryly, tugging her along after him until they had abandoned the street altogether. And the minute their foot reached the cement replacement Potter released her, eyeball hard and serious.

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

'' wellspring I was. ``

'' Perhaps you would n't possess been, '' he argued annoyingly as they set off, walking along their new itinerary, which lay along the haphazardly constructed sidewalk that had a tendency to move, flexure, and go on a whimsey. `` I tried to apologize, but you were too argumentative to let me eat up. ''

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

'' Well you were acting untrusting ! '' he cut in, her bare contumely hanging in the air.

'' How in the hell was I acti… ''

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

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

Again she found him regarding her as if she were a small child to whom a particularly simple problem proved daunting.

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

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

'' Let. Go. ``

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

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

ceramicist let out an discharge sigh, dragging her to retrace their lastly few footfall until they stood in front of a diminished drinking manger, a tenacious stick extending over it, several owls perched upon it, and he gestured inside the storefront window.

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

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

Only she did not answer, for her eyes were drawn to the bird of Minerva besides them. Slowly, instinctively, she took a step back, the slanted lines of the barn owls faces faze as a sharply clacking, the typical sound of muscular beaks snapping shut in chronological succession, began.

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

Potter 's hilltop crinkled oddly, the owls territorial reserve behaviors not ceasing until Kalliandra had backed away, her bounder teetering off the edge of the sidewalk into the street.
* * * * *


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

The prof spotted them immediately.

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

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

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

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

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

It was illuminate that Hagrid was hardly paying attending, to him at to the lowest degree. To Kalliandra however…well, the half hulk was observing her as if she were a sick hippogriff about to go off. Not that he could blame him, with the way she stood teetering on the bridle away from them both, rubbing her shoulder joint, a slight face gracing her mouth.

The repose, almost pained individual before him appeared to the be the polar opposite of the girl he had bickered with along the streets.

Something was extremely wrong.

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

'' I 'm fine Hagrid, '' she responded dully. Her hand fell from her berm quickly.

'' Are you sure ? ``

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

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

'' quick to impart ? ``

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

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

'' I do n't think that 's a very unspoilt idea, '' she muttered, her eyes still avoiding anything save for the sidewalk, her mannerisms bordering on frightened.

'' Well ye 'ave to apportion with it eventually. ``

Biting her lower lip she nodded, several foresighted tresses falling to obscure the bequeath position of her side. `` I know, '' she whispered, eyes lowered to the ground.

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

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

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

'' Silverthorne ? '' Harry cut in, hoping to perhaps capture a smidgen of cohesiveness.

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

He turned an incredulous facial expression to the side of her point, the alone part of her face still seeable. `` A thestral is your pet ? ``

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

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

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

turning her head towards them again, her heart still avoiding the bird of Minerva like a pest, she shot him an odd tone. `` Yeah, why could n't I ? I 'm not dim. ''

Hagrid 's sudden looking of panic did n't run him, nor did it Kalliandra as she shot him a questioning tone, to which the Care of Magical brute professor cowered slightly.

He decided to hold open him the trouble of answering. `` Well not everyone can see the ... ''

'' Why not ? '' she asked sharply.

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

Her brow crinkled in infliction, and Hagrid 's voice came out, suddenly pacifying.

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

This tactic only elicited a small interference of displeasure from her.

Frustrated, Harry supplied the information for her.

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

legal injury choice.

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

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

'' Yes, '' she whispered.

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

'' It 's fine, Hagrid, '' she cut in, sweeping past them both into the store, her eyes remaining averted the entire clip.

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

She had n't known, and he had probably just brought back whatever horrible computer storage her past had held.

* * * * *

Kalliandra quickly walked through the musty, noisy depot, avoiding all the live brute displays, and she disappeared behind a large shelf stocked with rat provender, relief sweeping through her that no one was back there as her infringe emotions threatened to rise to the aerofoil. She had spent the past three hebdomad carefully building a wall of indifference around herself, and she could n't afford to let it down now.

Not over such a trivial fact coming to lightness. Not when she had just spoken to the person who could give her the answers she needed.

Yet still…why had n't they told her ?

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

A slender earth tremor coursed through her, and sighing sadly she listened to the easy hooting amidst the balk. She would not bet at them, for she had seen the response that elicited enough.

Yet the hooting continued, more persistent, and somewhere in the animal recesses of her mind she knew her very front there was a bad idea, a misfortunate alternative of both Dumbledore 's and Hagrid 's legal opinion.

cladding obstacles was apparently a healthy matter, even when it generally resulted in having irate owls attempting to burn oneself.

With a bang-up point of trepidation she found herself tilting her forefront up to peer through the dark, cluttered atmosphere of the shop, her eyes slowly adjusting, pupil widening in the dim lighting as the frown baulk slowly came into scene.

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

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

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

Cringing, though almost glad for the distraction, she turned her attention slowly to ceramicist, who now stood in front of her. To his quotation, he at least had the common sense to look apprehensive.

'' Look, Kalliandra, I 'm good-for-naught. I did n't realize ... ''

'' It 's fine, '' she muttered, forcing her voice level. She did not take his ruth. She did not want it.

Despite this, she could not help but keep a sneak eye on him, as she pretended to peruse the owl excerption, her centre carefully avoiding all of the owls, and she was a bit surprised to see a downcast, yet determined, reflexion upon his face.

He followed her down the aisle. `` I do n't think it is. ''

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

Do not produce eye contact… bread and butter your straits lowered… No loud stochasticity or sudden movements…

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

His expression had faltered at her last Holy Writ. `` In pillowcase it 's escaped your placard, I 'm trying to be gracious here. I 'm at least making an effort. ``

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

Groaning he raised his hands, folding them behind his head. `` You 're right. I do n't know why I did. ''

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

'' You know ... '' A raucous hissing cut him off as an owl nipped at his raised manpower. Potter jerked away hastily, nearly taking a wooden shelf with him.

'' Bloody owl, '' he grumbled, glaring up towards the offending skirt, who by now had hopped down to the low-toned raftsman, where it screeched, its outstretched annexe flapping vigorously.

For some the absurd grounds the situation struck her as funny rather than frightening, and she did not chafe to suppress the laughter bubbling out while she observed the formidable looking owl. For once it was not aimed at her. And as if sensing her scrutiny its iniquity eyes locked with her own.

Its territorial demeanor ceased, drawing a smile to her side, for she was n't the but one to lash out at those who came to conclude.

She traced the Great Horned owl 's outline, noting the black colouration speckling its red brown backstage, its catlike face and highly pointed ears all swiveled curiously towards her.

Then she noticed the little trammel imprisoning it, one end encircling its twig thin leg, the early binding it to the raftsman it sat so miserably upon. It was caged, forbidden to go wherever it pleased.

Just ... like ... her.

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

'' You 'll involve a cage for him, '' ceramist pointed out.

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

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

'' Well, '' she stopped at the tabulator wearily, speaking with an unusual amount of venom. `` if you mean that I am able to converse with nosy soul than yes. ''

ceramicist turned in a foiled huff, storming out of the storage. Watching his retreating image she too late realized how wrong she had sounded.

And then Dumbledore 's parole came floating back to her. His one 's about the need for her and the many, many others under his protective cover to keep some things quiet. Some things secret.

Something inhuman, restricting, and cauterize curled within her pharynx, for until this war, the one they all refused to severalise her anything about, was over, she would be to a greater extent alone than ever.

The lesion of a rainfall soaked nighttime were still far too fresh.

It was better to push everyone away.

For their own good, and for her own.

Through the sun-glinting window she could see ceramist talking animatedly with Hagrid. His stony features looked vaguely annoyed, and if she had n't known better, she would have thought that he seemed insulted.

A frigid chill rippled through her. Potter was also serious, of that she was for sure. She 'd practically felt his misgiving rippling off of him, and he 'd overhear something he ought not to own. She only hoped it had n't been enough ...

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

A light weight descended upon her arm, jarring her from her mentation as two disconsolate eyes met hers. She smiled, her 1st true smile in workweek, reaching out a hesitant hand and ruffling the owls feathers. They were soft, like those of a newborn hatchling, only she would n't know for sure.

She had never felt an owl before now.

A good sense of peace filled her as it continued looking up at her, hooting softly. And for a second, just a legal brief moment she knew to be both fugitive and imitation, she could birth sworn it silently understood.

* * * * *

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

He simply did not get it. During their total line of reasoning Kalliandra had seemed so indifferent, almost untouchable. It was maddening how his snide remark rolled off her, so he had kept at it, wanting to unconsciously vent some of his own frustrations into her and to distinguish what her actual stage business in Knockturn alley had been.

He knew it was wrong. And he knew his demeanour was uncharacteristically Malfoy-like. But at the time, he had not cared.

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

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

The she had been the one devising snide comments like Malfoy.

A cacophony of sounds emerged as the shop 's room access opened, emitting Kalliandra and her horribly moody owl. He grimaced at the sight, even as a chide voice reminded him how an brute 's behavior could so oft deceive.

Buckbeat 's certainly had.

That was all forgotten though, for right then she raised her forearm high, and hoar annexe spread extensive, animal foot and pincer hopping from her arm as the owl took flight, circling in wide arc until it disappeared above the rooftops of Diagon skittle alley.

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

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

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









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



Chapter 5 ~ A Professor of One


Remus yawned tiredly, his light brownish eyes skirted across the railroad train platform at Hogsmeade, searching for the familiar soma that was nowhere in sight. A light smile crossed his weary features and he chuckled. Hagrid was not someone he would easily miss had he been there. No invisibility cloak was quite that large.

'' Hagrid .... '' He said, shaking his head amusedly. He picked up his briefcase, crossing the deserted, out-of-door platform in the way of Hogwarts.

It was n't far, and Hagrid would undoubtedly intercept him along the way, most in all likelihood in his own, phrenetic haste to intercept him. Hagrid was a bit unmindful at time, and Remus could not fault him. He would be to if he took care of such a hazardous array of animate being for a bread and butter.

The geartrain political program was on the outskirt of the low Greenwich Village, on the outer border nearest Hogwarts, and a pebbled road led directly to the school 's front doors. He would wrench off it before he reached Hogwarts'monolithic, welcoming entering, to traverse his way across the lush, gullible curtilage to Hagrid 's hut.

Remus had never been close to the biz custodian, but he respected the man immensely for his work in the order.

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

He started walking, thinking how good Hagrid was.

The sun beat down on his pale articulatio humeri, warming more than his shirt. The sun was rejuvenating to him in a way few understood, because it was a full orb of light for which he harbored no fright. It was funny, that the lightest of nights filled him with foreboding and pain, when usually it was the absence seizure of Light Within that inspired veneration. He sought comfort in the darkest of dark, that was when he felt his best, but for now, when the moon was a fourth full, he would seek comfort in the fond afternoon sun.

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

They had feared him.

The curse word of being different, he thought bitterly. They were both labeled as dangerous by the wizarding community, and shunned. Their supporter even suffered for their simple association.

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

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

No, he had to be shunned as well. Did n't they know he would change it if he could ? And Hagrid ... one of the most lenify, kind-hearted masses he had ever met, yet the Ministry feared him and his goliath heritage. They labeled him violent without even knowing him. He could at least sympathise why masses feared him, but Hagrid was harmless. He at to the lowest degree was truly dangerous.

Several nighttime in his preceding stood in black will to that.

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

Dam n't Sirius ! He had figured his admirer 's obstinate nature would suffer made him harder to bolt down, but in the end, he, just like St. James, had been as vulnerable as the respite.

He was the live on now.

Saint Peter the Apostle was as good as all in, and if he ever saw him again ... If he ever got the chance ...

He 'd make sure a finger's breadth really was all there was left of him.

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

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

It was something he had promised to depict Harry. Harry was the only really family he had left, and he wanted the boy, who was quickly growing into a man, to cognise of the incredible military strength his parents had held. He needed to know that there were affair Charles Frederick Worth fighting for.

Lord knows he 's already had his share of fighting ...

We all have ...

The thinking sobered him, reminding him of his intention today. He squinted ahead, shielding his optic from the brilliantly morning sun to look for any sign of Hagrid.

Today he would truly meet her.

He was n't sure whether to be nervous, or to simply be exhilarated that the broken girlfriend he had cradled had survived.

Kalliandra.

She had been thrust into their world unwillingly. Dumbledore, in all his wisdom, had felt Hogwarts to be the safest place for her. It would be a good way to help her adjust, by slowly exposing her to the great unwashed her own age.

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

It would be his job to remedy that.

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

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

It was then that he had confided in him.

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

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

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

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

Doing his job right could think of the remainder in this young woman 's survival. Dumbledore had been very clear on that.

Now if only there was a witch or virtuoso out there equipped to deal with this. Only, there was n't.

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

By all rights he should be terrified and have run in the other counseling.

Yet he could not bring himself to do so. Not when the persona of her weak body lying there, clad in mud and the rake of those she loved, kept coming back to him each Night as he dreamt. He felt a note of discord at the thought of anything worse befalling her.

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

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

Now all he had to work out out was how to give it to her.

'' The most worthwhile things in aliveness are never easily .... ''

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

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

Just like the pain ...

Always so wise, so tart ...

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

Of course, the Saame mass had often spoken on how well he dealt with pain, but he did not feel very honorable at that. He was just logical enough to live that there was no dear in dwelling on what could have been. Things happened…bad things ... whether you wanted them to or not, and zip one said or did could change that.

If it did none of them would be gone…

And after all these years, she was still aright. A smile formed on his rim, the joyful memory coming back, flooding his sight as he remembered Padfoot 's taunting about how she was 'always right', and they were 'always wrongly'.

Her retort had been that it was about clock time they saw it her way.

He chuckled slightly, catching great deal of Dumbledore making his way leisurely down the sparsely used road. He raised a hand in salutation, catching the Headmaster 's attention, and was pleased to see an amused smiling on the master 's powerful expression.

'' Good Afternoon Remus. ''

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

Dumbledore removed his half-moon glasses, polishing them on his summer robes. `` It 's get, how the splendid sun glare can progress to even the most tiny of spot stand out, almost like the iniquity dapple where the sun is supposed to be when a solar eclipse shield it. ''

The schoolmaster held his chalk to the sun, studying them through his light, twinkling, currently squinted eyes, searching for any left over imperfectness.

'' But enough about the rattled musing of this grandfather clock 's inner workings. How have you been ? I trust the geartrain 's conductor was n't too erratic with the hurrying for your unseasoned bosom ? ''

Remus smiled broadly. Yes, in relaxed, social spot, Dumbledore was still the same.

'' The train was fine, and I 've been beneficial. I was just thinking of some amusing arguments Cassilyda and Sothis had before. ''

Dumbledore replaced his glasses on his nose, looking off towards the sun as if seeing something far past it. `` Ah ... yes those two did experience a penchant for tilt did they not ? I seem to remember a certain James I thrower walking in on one of them ... it took Pomfrey all afternoon to get him straightened out. She was rather reluctant to change him back ... Something about liking him better as a mute eel, unable to make mayhem on an hourly footing, locked up in a armored combat vehicle ... I believe Lily had been particularly amused. ''

Remus smiled fondly, remembering the faces Jame 's the eel had made, pressing his slimy, snakelike body against the glass paries of the Fish armored combat vehicle. They had scooped him off the floor and conjured a storage tank quickly, filling it with water as soon as they had seen him flopping around on the stone floor.

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

Not to mention, in the hospital annex, when James had started trying to organize letters with his long, snake like body ...

He chuckled slightly. He still wanted to hump how James had contorted himself into an R ... He shuddered thinking of how painful that spelling out 'You're a perfectly Man Canicula'must let been.

'' Quite an impressive bit of Transfiguration for one-fifth yr ... I gave Gryffindor House 20 full point for that, '' Dumbledore mused aloud, turning his gaze on him, his eyes twinkling with amusement over the rim of his glasses. `` I was sourly tempted to apply out an award for peculiar Services to the school, since the government minister of Magic was visiting that day, and their `` accident '' rendered James II incapable of doing something drastic, like turning the Minister 's fuzz Ne pink, '' Dumbledore grinned slyly at this. `` Come to think of it I would n't entirely heed seeing that ... ''

Remus could only agitate his head, suppressing the laughter threatening to come out. It was good visual perception Dumbledore.

'' Of course, in the end, no one could determine whose wand actually had transfigured young Saint James the Apostle at the clock time, so I could n't give anyone the award. I was sourly disappointed by that. ''

'' That was your alone reason for not giving it ? '' He asked amused.

'' Why yes Remus. Do you really think I would run up a prospect to advance the propagation of good behavior when Ministry functionary are visiting ? ''

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

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

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

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

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

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

He eyed Dumbledore curiously, `` I did n't sleep with you salute ardor whiskey. ''

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

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

'' ... .Now of course of action the key in those office is managing the brew in fairish amounts, a endowment my dear brother does not possess, '' Dumbledore said, referring to his butt herder brother 's imbibing habits.

'' Half my year did n't own that gift, '' He replied, thinking of the one meter he, James, Canicula, and Saint Peter the Apostle had gotten a hold of a bottle of Firewhiskey their 7th class. That had not gone over well ... Fortunately Pomfrey had bought the excuse that all of them had caught the flu from each other. His thoughts were abruptly cut off as a loud, deep booming interference, sounding oddly like a flaming snapper going off, met his pinna. His attending turned towards the generator, which was immediately apparent upon seeing the sight in front of him.

Hagrid and a immature little girl with golden tomentum were having a row. Only Hagrid seemed to be doing most of the yelling, while the miss just huffily picked up rock after rock from the side of meat of the hut, flinging them with unusual vigour and accuracy, at an unsuspecting tree diagram trunk, which was taking the brunt of her very visible frustration.

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

Hagrid 's voice immediately died down and the girl waved slightly before walking pointedly off towards the woods, where she stood blowing into her transfuse handwriting, an odd whistling sound emitting from them.

He found himself looking between the girl at the edge of the Forbidden timber, Hagrid 's angry, red font, and Dumbledore 's happy one.

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

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

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

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

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

'' No use working yourself up about affair that did not encounter Hagrid, '' Dumbledore consoled, offering a reassure smile.

Remus continued listening to the ensuing conversation, but his care was elsewhere as he turned to see Kalliandra standing next to a thestral, which was profusely nuzzling her like a long, lost Friend. Thestrals were n't exactly grave, but they were n't exactly favorable either.

One would never know how she had barely clung to life only weeks before.

He shook the picture away.

'' Hagrid what exactly is she doing ? '' He was having a heavily prison term standing idly by with a thestral 's penetrative tooth nuzzling so close to his future pupil 's neck opening.

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

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

'' Doing ? '' Dumbledore supplied amusedly.

'' Yes, '' He replied embarrassedly. Sometimes the simple-minded Scripture was what he was looking for.

'' She bloody well talk of the town to him Sir Thomas More than she bloody talks to me, '' Hagrid grumbled. `` William Tell him everythin'from the looks of it and ye should see them, traversing'around at all hr of the day. Real spitfire that one is ! Bloody well soundly destiny teachin'her Remus ! Bin havin'enough problem gettin'tutelage of Magical Creatures down 'er throat and she actually likes that. Ca n't ideate how she 'll be with somethin'like Transfigurwhatsitcalled ... ''

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

'' To hell with it ! You 'd imagine she actually understood what that one be sayin'half da clock time ! '' Hagrid muttered exasperatedly, a wounded facial expression on his face. `` She 'll verbalise to that there brute and get to arguin'with me ! ``

Remus was paying attention for a moment. `` So she likes animals of the Nox ... '' He commented, turning to face both of them. `` Well, then I wo n't have too much problem then, now will I ? ''

Dumbledore nodded in agreement, smiling to himself. He could n't possess picked a more everlasting someone to tutor her. Now lets see if he can save her, he thought to himself, silently hoping for the C. H. Best.
* * * * *


'' She bloody set it barren ! ? '' Ron exclaimed in mental rejection.

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

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

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

Ron gaped at her, looking strangely like a fish with protruding eyes.

'' You know with your mouth loose like that you can almost happen for a Carassius auratus, '' She clipped scornfully.

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

Hermione, forever insufferably logical, had insisted on having the entire good afternoon recounted word for word, and while she had admitted that the conversation had sounded suspicious, she felt that they were both over-reacting. He had even been forced to put up a recollective lecture about how unseasonable of him it was to listen in as he had.

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

In her opinion, if Hagrid and Dumbledore trusted the girl, than they should too. End of story.

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

It was right about then that Ron had made the mistake of calling Kalliandra various choice names, including a plain, ugly Wiccan, which earned an angered round from Hermione about how 'ridiculously trivial'they were being. He was ineffective to watch over her entire philippic, but it ended with her concluding that both of them seemed to be 'blatantly misjudging'the girl on looks alone.

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

Fortunately Harry did not cite any of these thoughts, got smart, and went tranquility.

He wished he could say the Lapplander for Ron though.

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

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

'' No. It 's not like there are any girls here. ''

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

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

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

'' Oh nix Hermione, '' Ron replied with enlarged formalness. `` I was just saying what a endearing job you did defending that uptight, Slytherin bound .... ''

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

'' Is too ! Mark my Holy Scripture she 'll be in Slytherin ! Sneaking off on Hagrid and having suspect conversations ! You heard what Harry said about her ... ''

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

'' And I met her for only five minute of arc and could tell she was .... ''

'' Was what Ronald ? ! You ca n't tell anything about a soul after only meeting them for five hour ! ''

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

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

'' You are too ! Just because it happens to be a positively charged sound judgment does n't entail that it 's not a assessment ... ''

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

'' They did n't vocalise very well-disposed to me did they Harry ? '' Ron asked, directing his query at him.

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

'' They did at the robe shop ... '' Hermione 's font broke into a triumphal smiling, but he quickly added, `` but not at the pet store. '' Hermione 's face fell as Ron let out a exultant woot.

'' See Hermione ! ''

'' Yes, I do see Ronald. I see a carrot-topped tush who 's way to eager to pass judgment on anyone but himself ! '' She stood abruptly. `` If that closed minded brain of yours is actually open of intelligence then try to call back that you passed judgement on me our first year and were wrong ! '' She spun on her heel, stomping loudly. `` If you can remember that is. But hopefully the travail to intend is not too taxing, it 'd be a pity if your nous exploded ! '' With that she stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

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

The threshold to their room flew upon, revealing a blanched looking Hermione.

'' I ca n't conceive you ! '' She yelled angrily, looking ready to hex Ron at any consequence.

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

'' A room access can be slammed by someone from either incline, like from the hallway Ronald. '' She snapped, this time leaving the door wide opened as she stormed off, granting them both quite a sight as she vigorously flung her own threshold behind her this meter.

Ron was right on her heels, like usual. `` Mione seed on ... .I said I 'm deplorable ... ''

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

'' well I just .... ''

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

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






'' We must die to one life, before we can enter another. ''
~ Anatole France ~



Chapter 6 ~ Power of Persuasion


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

Kalliandra coughed loudly from her position, monotonic on her back.

'' If I did n't know practiced ... '' she rasped. `` I 'd think you actually enjoyed torturing me. ''

Remus lupin smiled, extending his hand to haul her roughly to her invertebrate foot. `` On the contrary Ms. Kaylens. I do n't enjoy rendering you unconscious at all. ''

She nodded, brushing the sens off the cover of her jeans.

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

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

He shook his head, an expression of pure naturalness crossing his feature of speech. `` I have to get you furious enough to attack me properly somehow do n't I ? ''

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

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

Unfortunately being able to do something, and being good at it, were entirely different matters.

This probably explained why she had just woken up on the flat coat. Then again, the fact that Remus had become incontrovertibly fix to make sure that she could actually use stunning in a duel, if ever attacked, was also piece of the reason.

The Same paid instructor was not eyeing her critically. `` You know Kally, if you manage to dodge my outset attack you usually do quite nicely. Now just stop diving to the right every time. It 's getting predictable. ''

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

Not that she would intromit that to Lupin.

He had only become her coach a minuscule over a week ago, yet she had come to prize him. He did not pity her, or walk on shabu with his conversations like Dumbledore and the others did.

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

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

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

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

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

She had learned the grandness of outlasting one 's opponent a long time ago. Outlasting weariness and pain could mean the difference between winning, and losing.

And somehow she did not cogitate the SOB, who had taken everything from her, would go well-fixed on her simply because she had a concern.

She closed her eyes, bracing herself as an attack of ash filled memories greeted her head 's eye. Almost intuitively, Remus allowed her these few present moment of collection, and when the anger boiled hot within her blood, she opened her eyes, remembering what she had promised herself.

She would make the bastards pay.

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

'' set up ? '' Remus asked, stomping his invertebrate foot on the ground almost impatiently.

'' Why not ? ''

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

'' Two, '' she supplied back loudly.

'' Three ! Stupefy ! ''

She threw herself to the footing before the hot streak reached her, mentally screaming the watchword.

The strange sensation flew through her, burning through her blood as it moved, jolting the magical spell towards its mark. Her vision swam before she saw him collapse, and she fell weakly upon the priming, shakily breathing in the break summer odour of mud and grass.

Slowly, painstakingly, the prickling tracing over her tranquil tegument subsided. Her manpower, that had unconsciously dug into the damp Earth, relaxed, allowing the magnificent golden spots dancing before her heart to wither.

Waiting for all of this to give-up the ghost had gotten easier each meter, but it made the experience no less dreadful.

The trick, she had discovered, was to remain conscious longsighted enough for it to lead.

Several hazy moments later, her favourable heart flickered give, and across the unretentive expanse of grass she spotted Remus'fallen mannikin.

She smiled weakly, and stood, silently cursing the fragility of the human body. Success was sweet, but why did it have to ache so badly ?

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

'' Ennervate, '' she murmured, allowing the pre-programmed wand to do the employment.

The look on his face was priceless. Only Remus could cope to bet analytical right after being stunned.

'' Nice one, '' he muttered groggily.

She shook her read/write head, offering him a deal which he shook off, shooting her a reproachful look.

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

'' Lets hope not too old, because you still have the rest of the year with me. '' She allowed a rare smile to light up her feature.

'' And what a retentive twelvemonth it will be. ''

'' Any to a greater extent input like that and I 'll do my near to realise it look longer. ''

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

His question was answered by her quiet.

This was the first time she had not passed out.

Hagrid 's absence alone should have told him that, because on the former two social occasion when she had stunned Remus, they had both rest there until Hagrid found them on one of his periodic checks.

Understanding became visible on Remus'face, and upon seeing his esurient grin, she could n't resist a pocket-sized surge of superbia.
* * * * *


Remus lupine rewarded his pupil with a wide smiling as he picked himself off the ground, ignoring his protesting bones.

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

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

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

It was amazing, he thought, but in so short a time, she had become well-fixed, at least outwardly so, with the presence of magic. When he had first arrived she still looked surprised each sentence it was used in her presence, but now…

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

The fact that her peers were light years ahead of her in education had mattered little. requisite mandated it.

Kally had n't been thrilled. She had already expressed her displeasure with the musical theme on more than one juncture. And truth be told, he was Thomas More than a petty concerned for her housemates.

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

It was n't hefty to carry around that much guilt.

His only if comfort was that they would be able to carry on their lessons on the weekends. It would be a rather private arranging, since her dorm-mates were to be kept in the iniquity about it.

She would have enough trouble feigning competency in her three NEWT classes, and sneaking out several prison term a week would just be another difficult affair for her.

But perhaps the most difficult thing for her would be keeping her inadequacies under wrap. For appearances sake she would be placed in NEWT level Defense Against the Dark Arts, Care of Magical tool, Herbology, and Astronomy so as to be with people in her year, but she would be placed in third year Anicent rune and Remedial Potions. The DADA prof had already been instructed to institutionalise her on 'errands'whenever practical lessons were held, so that her inability to perform magic would not be called into question, so that at to the lowest degree was covered.

As for the other courses, Remus was being paid by Dumbledore, out of some miscellaneous shoal investment firm, to tutor her in the other subjects.

After all, there was very little magic involved in dealing with magical creatures and plants. And the memorisation of the meanings of Ancient Runes and the drift of heavenly bodies had virtually no wand magic associated with it.

Watching her take her property, it dawned on him that they really might be able to pull this off.

He hoped so, for her sake. He did n't very much like the estimation of something happening to her. While the concept was n't as biting as the thought of an ill fortune befalling Harry, it came oddly close.

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

The marauder ... The thinking brought a smiling to his human face, for his old group of friends had left behind something that just might save him from fretting like a nervous parent.
* * * * *


Silverthorne let out a low, guttural grunt to verbalise his displeasure at being tethered. The early thestrals were already following courting.

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

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

'' Yer look like the solitary one within earreach that 'll help me, '' Hagrid yelled.

Despite herself she smiled, calmly running her fingers through Silverthorne 's stiff black coat.

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

Silverthorne 's Edward Douglas White Jr., haunting oculus stared back in consideration, before his formidable straits nodded. He nudged the thestral tethered succeeding to him, and a cacophony of oink followed as the content was passed down the note of rig awaiting the students'arrival.

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

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

She shook her head ruefully, and with a final tug she snapped a smash into stead on the thestral 's harness, stepping back to regard her handy workplace. She 'd never ridden a horse in her spirit, but the harnesses the thestrals used were supposedly alike.

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

Silverthorne merely blinked at her once, and she rubbed his mind affectionately. `` Of course you are, '' she murmured into his nozzle, the trace of a smile tugging at her oral cavity.

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

'' Problems Hagrid ? '' she yelled, slipping the thestral a frozen cube of raw sum. His clapper positively tickled her skin, leaving a sticky red rest upon her palm.

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

'' Hagrid ! '' she shouted, reclaiming her hand and stalking off towards the sound of his voice, with every intention of snapping at him for yelling at any thestral that way. She could n't help her annoyed spate though. She had never had any favorite growing up, and for some odd intellect she had taken a liking to the animals.

But as she rounded the carriage obscuring Hagrid from view, all reproof vanished the mo she saw his quandary.

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

Hagrid, to his credit, was putting up quite a fight. The half giant was bounding as close as he dared get, swatting at goliath with an oversized farmer hat.

Sweet Merlin ... What the netherworld was he doing with one of those ?

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

His disgruntled shouting shocked her into laughter. `` Hagrid stoppage that ! ''

Several nicks, contusion, gibbosity, and twenty minutes later found her, and a rather draggle Hagrid, plopped upon the dirt route leading up to the schooltime, entirely out of breath.

It was a shame that the passive evening would end in less than an time of day, when the Hogwarts Express arrived.

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

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

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

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

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

Hell, maybe if she did that then Dumbledore would shun her from whatever family she wound up in. Then she could go back to sleeping in the other hut outside. She liked it there. No one bothered her. When the nightmares came only Hagrid was near enough to get a line her.

Besides, there was something both everyday and reassuring about the way that every morning Silverthorne would taste open her windowpane shutters, letting get off stream in as he began grunting until she was fully awake and functioning.

She smiled whimsically, thinking of the pillow she had thrown at the thestral this dayspring. For a alteration, her aim had been stagnant on. Of course, Hagrid had n't been exactly proud of when he issue forth in to see plumage and shards of fabric all over the billet. But hey, it was n't her fault that Silverthorne thought it was a ferret and tried to rip it limb from limb. And besides, Remus had repaired it. Heck, at least Remus had found the whole state of affairs amusing.

Speaking of which where was Remus ? She had n't seen him since this daybreak and he was leaving with the return of the shoal train that night. Plus she still wanted to know what Dumbledore and him had arranged ...

'' Come over ere. It 's the scoop spot for them first years to see me. '' Hagrid called, ripping her from her thoughts.

She stopped pondering the mysterious whereabouts of Remus lupin long enough to shoot an incredulous look in his commission. `` Hagrid they 'd induce to be blind to lack you. ''

He shook his hirsute head vigorously. `` No, ca n't give to make any of 'em miss me. Not one ! They 'll lose the sortin'if they do that. ''

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

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

She shook her caput in amusement. `` zip at all. I was just thinking about what a terrible cataclysm it would be to allow a small, naive, and unsuspecting first year stranded alone out here. ''

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

Her brow instantly creased in geuine confusion. `` Why is it that every meter I say something with even the slender trace of sarcasm, that you think I 'm planning something ? ''

'' Because you usually are. ''

She spun around to see Remus standing there, briefcase in manus, and a knowing smile across his pre-maturely elderly side.

'' Remus ! And here I thought you were trying to sneak away without saying goodby ! ''

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

Hagrid 's booming laugh resounded behind her. `` Lupin you 're cowering to a 16 year old. ``

The look on Remus'case was priceless, and she lunged at him in a vain effort to smack him.

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

Remus had dropped his briefcase in the effort to quash her flak. `` Old ? I 'll have you know that I 'm thirty-seven ! ''

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

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

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

Remus laughed deeply, eld disappearing from his look as he smiled, shaking his caput disapprovingly. `` Suddenly I find myself looking forward to my breakage from you during the workweek. I 'll be spared your unprovoked flack ! ''

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

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

'' In a intelligence ... ''

'' Never brain, do n't answer that, '' Remus cut in. `` And besides, I have something here that might chirk up up that wounded marrow of yours. ''

Her mischievous construction was replaced by one of obfuscation as Remus held up a little, circular, grayish object. `` What is it ? '' she asked, walking over to attend at it.

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

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

'' Right you are girl Kaylens, '' he said, adopting a professor like whole step. `` Dumbledore 's idea. One of his more clever ones from what he said, though somehow I doubt that. '' He winked, lapsing into his comrade spirit again.

'' O.K.. So excuse to me how powder is ... ''

'' It 's a two-way mirror Kally. See, anytime you want to talk to me. For any reason .... '' He shot her a meaningful tone that she did n't miss. `` upright flavor directly into it and say my epithet clearly. If I have mine ... '' He fished around in his gown sac, extracting a rather large air hole vigil. `` Which I will always have on me thanks to Dumbledore 's idea to blot out it in this lovely Muggle innovation ... '' He snapped the air pocket watch open, revealing a mirror on the non-clock face as well. `` And once you do that I 'll respond. If I call you, yours will burn on the inside slightly, so it 'll be noticeable to you but to not to individual just passing a cursory glance by it. ''

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

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

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

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

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

'' Smart move, '' she commented, looking into hers. `` Remus Lupin the Finicky loup-garou, '' she stated clearly, waiting to see if it worked.

'' Finicky ! '' Remus bristled, but not before a thin sliver of light appeared in the crevice of the conclude pocket picket.

She grinned triumphantly, `` Well I guess it works. Hey can I ask you something ? ''

'' Could I stop you ? ''

'' Probably not, '' she confirmed, noticing how Hagrid had moved farther down the chopine to give them some seclusion. She made a mental bank bill to thank him later. `` It 's just that you, and Dumbledore ... everyone keeps telling me how afraid everyone would be. And if that's true, well, then why are n't you ? ''

He paused a moment, his light up brown middle flickering up to the sky as if considering her question. She did n't need to pursue his regard to know that it rested on the quarter moon, barely seeable in the dying twilight. `` I think, Kalliandra, that to let one 's life be even remotely governed by veneration is goosey. Your never fully animated when your actions are limited by that. And fear, it comes from not knowing what 's truly there. ''

She nodded, silently agreeing with him. It was uncanny, how alike he and her father could sound.

'' And perhaps ... Well, I know what it 's like. And I know how unfair it is. '' He spoke these last words bitterly, his eyes hardening in an unfocused blaze at the lunar month. And it was only then that she understood why Dumbledore had chosen him as her mentor.

He was as hated by the world as she was.
* * * * *


An hour later found her standing, smushed up following to Hagrid, as the mess of students pushed, shoved, and in truth, barreled their way over the chopine towards the carriages that she and Hagrid had readied for their journey to Hogwarts. Why educatee needed the baby carriage in the first station was beyond her. The walk was n't exactly lengthy. No, she figured Dumbledore had arranged them because if he did n't, the ungrateful person would question off ungratefully, never getting to school at all.

In fact, that did n't entirely sound like a bad mind .... But right then she spied the changeling that she least wanted to see, making his way with the carrot top through the crowd towards them.

Carrot top waved vigorously, `` Hey Hagrid. It 's so good to see you ! ''

'' And so heavy to miss, '' she muttered, suppressing a jape at the cold facial expression Hagrid shot her.

'' I see the past week has done nothing to improve your personal manner. ''

She turned, eyeing the guy 's messy black haircloth and special K eyes, which were presently narrowed and shining determinedly. Her for the first time brush with him had been far from pleasant, and judging from his greeting, it seemed the smell had been mutual. `` Nor yours. I still do n't know your name. ''

The guy 's jaw nearly dropped, but Ron interjected for him. `` Well we were introduced. It 's not his fault you do n't recall. ''

She shrugged carelessly. It was n't like she cared what his public figure was, she just wanted to put a name with his eavesdropping human face. `` My apologies. Not all of us are as good with names as you apparently are. But by all means do n't re-introduce me, I just thought it might be courteous to bear on to him as something other than the snoopy prat Potter. ''

'' What ! ? '' Both of the cat exclaimed. Hagrid, however, shot her a murderous look that stopped her smirk dead in its tracks.

Seeing that his glare had the intended effect on her, Hagrid stepped in, attempting to diffuse the post further.

'' That 's enough all three of ya. Now again, this here be Kalliandra Kaylens, and that there be Ronald Weasly and Harry Potter. ''

She cocked her head to the side, wondering if the carrot top knew how easily his last name could be distorted to Weasel. She suppressed the sudden urge to ask just that, instead turning to Hagrid with a forced smile. `` Thank you Hagrid. It 's courteous to bang that some of us are polite. ''

'' I hope you were n't referring to yourself as well, '' Potter stated pointedly.

'' Why no, unlike you I harbor no head game about my impoliteness. '' She nearly laughed out loud at the livid expression that crossed the guy 's cheek. `` Now if you excuse me I do think Hagrid has expert things to do than listen to his acquaintance engagement. ''

'' supporter ! ? Hagrid would never be friends with soul like you ! '' The weasel shot out, potter smirking amusedly. Her mouth opened in angry dissent, but Hagrid 's booming voice cut them both off.

'' Ronald Weasley how daring ye make supposition 'bout me ! '' Hagrid boomed, making all three of them saltation.

She glanced up, seeing his cheek redder than it had been after their row about her Knockturn Alley mis-adventure. She really would not want to be the weasel right now ...

'' Kalliandra is my friend, and you 'd do yer best to stick out of her business. The both of ya ! '' He said angrily, his loudly vocalism drawing the stares of several students sandwiched around them. `` If I hear anythin''bout either one of ya nosin'aroun'in her business organisation again ... '' He stopped, seemingly too angry to continue.

Hagrid drew in a deep, shaky breath, looking very close to exploding. `` Now apologise to her Ron. And I mean now ! ''

Ron looked at her, his jaw agape, while Potter looked surprisingly abashed.

Despite herself, a sudden stab of guilt feelings overcame her. Perhaps she was taking her hostile facade a bit too far.

'' Do n't worry about it, '' She spoke up quietly, avoiding the stares of Potter and Weasley. `` I was just as natural anyhow. I 'll see you later okay ? ''

She did n't look for Hagrid 's response as she spun on her dog, carefully making her way through the bunch to bump an empty pram. If she were lucky, then maybe Silverthorne had been particularly cagey and scared everyone else away from his.
* * * * *


Harry stood there, half angry, half shocked at the sudden alteration in Kalliandra 's conduct. He hardly heard Hagrid still going off at them, considering that he was still staring after her.

That changed pretty quick though, because when Hermione Granger is mad about something, she makes it unspoiled known than Hagrid.

And Hermione farmer unfortunately thought they had pigeon holed the girl.

And Hermione Granger had overheard his and Ron 's exchange with her.

Add in that she had seen Hagrid 's explosion, and Kalliandra 's sudden mood swing to normalcy, and he and Ron certainly did appear like the bad guy.

Which was exactly how he found himself, amidst a crowd of looker-on, staring down a thin brunette, receiving the brunt of her wildness.

'' Harry I ca n't believe you ! I 'd expect behavior like that from Ron but you ? '' Hermione yelled, her voice shaking with angry disbelief.

'' Hey ! '' Ron protested, clearly offended.

'' Ronald if you know what 's good for you you 'll keep open your sass shut, '' Hermione snapped in a very McGonagall like feeling.

Unlike Ron, Harry had no ulterior need for keeping Hermione happy with him besides their friendship. So at that exact split second he did n't very much wish if Hermione was annoyed with him or not. She had n't seen and heard everything, and if she had she would get realized how deceptive Kalliandra really was. Which was probably why he suddenly found himself taking a gradation forward to go after that insufferable nous of favourable pilus, with every aim of giving her a objet d'art of his mind, rather than paying attending to Hermione 's verbal blowing up.

Too bad a rather turgid mitt on the back of his robes stopped him from progressing any further forward.

'' You wagerer be going to apologize Harry, '' Hagrid said menacingly.

He shot an incredulous look up at his admirer. `` Hagrid you 've got to be kidding me ! She insulted you ! She ... ''

'' She did no so thing Harry. And you 'd do yer best to persist outta her business and lifetime if yer understand me. ''

'' Hagrid what are you indifferent ? ! She did to insult you ! '' Ron twirped, for a change not cowering under Hermione 's fierce glare.

'' Oh really, an'how so ? '' Hagrid asked, still looking between him and Ron as if he could n't believe what was before his eyes.

'' She was making fun of you because you're a behemoth ! '' Ron shot out indignantly.

'' No she were n't Ronald Weasley. We were jokin'former 'bout the best spot for the fers eld to see me. If that 's what you be referrin'to. ''

'' But what about'Knockturn Alley ? '' He chimed in, coming to Ron 's defensive measure. `` There 's something suspicious about that Hagrid ! ''

Hagrid opened his mouthpiece, but it was Hermione who answered. `` I ca n't think you two ! You both know that Hagrid frequents that area of ... '' She paused, looking as if she were saying this against her better nature.

'' Commerce, '' She finally ground out. `` Frankly it sounds like she was annoyed that you had eavsdropped while talking to someone she knew. If the same had happened to me I 'd probably be just as annoyed. ``

Harry stared at her contorted features in jar. Talking to person she knew was certainly not all she had been doing. Hermione had n't overheard the conversation he had.

'' Hermione, you do n't screw what your talking about. You should hold heard her ... ''

'' Overhear ! ? What 'd ya overhear ? '' Hagrid shot out suddenly, his articulation low, a repose greenback of terror in it.

He wrinkled his brow confused. `` Well nothing that made sense but ... ''

'' Then you best be keepin'that stuff and nonsense that did n't be making no common sense to yerself. Yer hear me ? '' Hagrid muttered, shaking his chief. `` I 'm so disappointed in you two I do n't lie with ... Yer know I need to get the initiatory yers. You lot get off to the castle, and so assist me if any one of yer fuss her .... ''

The glare he shot them was more than enough to convert Harry. The final stage thing he needed was to be fed to Grawp.

Then again, feeding Kalliandra to Grawp could puzzle out the whole problem ...

'' Harry ! Come on ! '' Hermione hissed, grabbing him roughly by the arm to puff him to the nearest equipage. well-nigh of the others were already rolling up towards the castle.

'' So help me you two ! I 've never seen such primitiveness ... ''

He knew estimable than to interrupt her at this full stop. After all, this was Hermione, and any contestation with her was a losing conflict. He had just managed to find control of his tongue, which was threatening to snap at her for the reprimand worthy of a bambino that he was receiving, when he stepped into the last carriage, and suddenly re-lost control of it.

'' I 'm walking, '' He stated bluntly, turning to do just that.

'' Harry you will do no such thing, '' Hermione grunted, grabbing his arm with surprising specialty for a girlfriend her size of it. He glanced down at the afflictive grip she had on him, and pondered how furious she would be if he broke discharge.

Before he had time to adjudicate she had already drug him into the posture behind her.

'' Hermione ... '' He protested, refusing to sit as he stood, hunched over in the low compartment.

'' Nice to fuck I 'm not the but one displeased with this, '' Kalliandra muttered from the far side of the go-cart, right as one of the thestrals let out an odd sounding grunt.

She then muttered something beneath her breath. Something that sounded strangely like, `` Even the thestrals think you 're a prat. ``

'' I 'm a what ? '' He hissed dangerously.

Her middle darted up quickly, looking almost abashed. Her phonation, however, was filled with disdain.

'' auditory modality things, potter ? ``

He felt as if he had just been slapped, so contradictory were the emotions her human face and voice conveyed. Shaking his head, he shoved the sudden hesitation to indicate aside.

'' I do n't generally do a habit out of hearing things, '' He finally ground out, taking a bottom next to Ron grudgingly.

She inclined an eyebrow disbelievingly. `` certainly you do n't, '' She responded, not bothering to mask her sarcasm.

He practically growled, knowing full phase of the moon well what she was referring to.

'' You 're having a really hard time letting that go, are n't you ? '' He spat out scathingly.

'' I 'll let it go when I get an excuse. ``

He visibly bristled. `` For what ! ? ``

Kalliandra 's verbalism instantly soured. `` For eavesdropping on me, that 's what. ``

He suppressed the sudden urge to shove her out of the pusher. In fact, the merely matter stopping him was the fact that he 'd induce to reach over Hermione to achieve it.

'' wellspring forgive me, '' He hissed acidly. `` Next metre I see you wandering down an skittle alley replete of dark sensation I 'll just impart you to them. I did n't realize how well acquainted you already were with ... ''

'' So your figure 's Kalliandra ? '' Hermione cut in.

Harry gaped at her.

Hermione ignored this, apparently intent on starting a civil conversation.

Kalliandra just looked at her oddly, before nodding slightly.

'' Yes, '' She replied evenly, turning to see out the window.

Hermione 's brow creased, her lips forming into a shape frown at the girl 's manifest lack of interest.

Harry smirked, leaned back, and crossed his arm, preparing for the show.

'' Well Kalliandra, how was your last workweek of summer ? '' Hermione pressed.

'' Rigorous. ''

Hermione shot him a look, to which he smirked like a jackal. Ron was far less subtle, and simply mouthed, So what now, whiz ?

Hermione 's human face hardened into one of grim determination.

'' So what classes are you taking ? ``

The girl heaved a gravid suspiration. `` Too many. ``

Hermione 's mouth opened, as if appalled at the girl 's deficiency of interest in schooling. And just as Harry began an internal victory jig, flashing a celebratory smirk at Ron, the girl surprised them.

'' One of them is Ancient runic letter. I have n't had that before so I 'm going to be getting tutoring for it. '' Kalliandra paused, sounding unsettled. `` At least, that 's what the Headmaster mentioned. ``

Hermione 's agape love mouth slowly closed, a slack smile creeping across her face.

flashing them a smug look, she started talking. `` antediluvian rune is actually moderately fascinating. It 's a lot like learning to study another language. In fact, it 's my favorite subject. ''

At this proclamation Kaylens actually looked thoughtful. `` I think mine will be Care of Magical fauna. Hagrid 's been showing me a lot of the animals he works with over the past few weeks. The thestrals are my favorite so far ... ''

'' Thestrals ? '' Ron snorted derisively, earning a reproving looking from Hermione. `` What are you, a sadist ? ''

Hermione 's mouth opened in protest, apparently too shocked for words as her inevitable riposte failed to derive forth.

Kalliandra 's aspect immediately grew stony. `` Perhaps you should see a affair or two about them before you start flinging insults. ``

'' And how exactly did I insult them ? '' Ron asked shortly.

Kaylens was now looking at Ron as if he had sprouted antlers. `` Generally when one implies that you have to be a sadist in parliamentary procedure to like something, I 'm pretty sure that 's derogatory to the something in motion. ``

Ron waved a deal dismissively. `` As if thestrals would care. ``

'' You 'd be surprised. They hate being insulted. ''

'' That 's Hippogriffs you idiot. ''

Hermione made a choking noise.

'' No, it 's Hippogriffs that react violently, '' Kalliandra said placidly, flipping the lid of a compact shut. `` Though I would n't put it past a thestral to do so. ''

'' Thestrals are not fierce, '' Harry cut in with annoyance. Why in the Scheol did Hermione receive to pick this baby buggy ...

He gazed longingly out the open door hatch. He knew perfectly well that if he got out and walked, that he would miss the classification, and he had already learned the hard way what happened to people when they walked into that late.

Too bad. The ride up to Hogwarts was usually so enjoyable. `` So who on ground taught you that rubbish ? ''

'' Hagrid, '' She hissed dangerously.

'' shag this, '' Ron suddenly announced. `` I refuse to stay in the carriage with her. ''

He stood, only for Hermione to yank him down. Ron opened his mouth, an tempestuous protest already forming, when Kaylens cut him off.

'' Do you honestly think that I 'm any happier about being stuck here with you and your eavesdropping friend ? ''

'' Just. Let. It. Go. '' Harry growled, hating the foiled spirit Hermione shot him each time the incident was brought up.

She glared at him. `` Gladly. ''

'' amercement. ''

'' mulct ! ''

Right then the pusher moved with a mighty lurch, and not another Christian Bible was spoken by any of the carriage 's inhabitant.

Harry stared out the windowpane, contemplating. No one would get as angry as Kaylens had over the incident. Not if it had just been a conversation about something trivial ...

What was she hiding ?

Not soon enough for his liking, the convoy came to a halt outside the castle 's tremendous entrance. And without a Book, he and Ron jumped out, dry turd stirring around their footprint as they met the crowd of students rushing to the Great antechamber.
* * * * *


'' Well, that certainly could suffer gone better, '' Hermione stated, remorseful gaze following her two friends out the carriage door.

Letting out a tense breath she had not even realized she was holding, Kally felt herself nodding in assent. `` No kidding, '' she remarked dryly. Still, she could n't aid but experience a flyspeck, justified rush of indignation. That little girl 's booster had jumped into the pusher right as she had been trying to contact Remus.

organism in the sorcerous humankind, knowing next to nothing about it, had felt submerge before. But now, on her way to being surrounded by competent witches and superstar twenty four - seven, that overwhelming feeling was beginning to break open into something far closer to panic.

She was n't certainly she could pull this off. She was n't sure at all.

Hermione released an exhausted sounding huff, breaking her from her thoughts. `` Please love, I 'm not trying to criticize you, '' she said carefully, `` but you could possess made thing a little well-to-do. Particularly since this whole misapprehension seems to be over something extremely trivial. ''

Rising from her tail and stepping out of the perambulator, her base sinking into the on the loose dirt, Kally heard herself saying very quietly, `` You 're right. ``

And even though she was not looking at Hermione, she could practically experience the eye rolling going on behind her.

Silently they joined the throng of educatee making their way up the castle 's entry. That was until Hermione began asking questions again.

'' Do you lie with if you are being sorted with the remainder of the first base twelvemonth ? ``

Nearly tripping over a kid small enough to stimulate been a inaugural year, Kally nodded mechanically. `` Unfortunately. ``

A pensive frown crossed the brunet 's aspect. `` You do n't fathom excited. ``

Throwing a perverse glimpse the girl 's way, Kally asked, `` Would you be ? I 'm going to stick out. ``

Mounting the entryway stairs simultaneously, she saw the box of Hermione 's mouth crook up in her peripheral device vision, as if hiding dumb amusement. `` You are twice their height, so I suppose that is an exact appraisal. ``

Instead of responding, Kally began grumbling something indecipherable under her hint.

Hermione responded by allowing what may have been a smile to cross her features. `` They really are nice if you give them the chance. ``

Somehow she felt severely dubious about that, but something of her view must have shown on her lineament, because Hermione was interjecting before she could even formulate a response.

'' We did n't get along at first either, '' Hermione said, their metrical unit reaching the top. `` To be blunt, it took a troll trying to take my head off for us to begin getting along. ''

Kally stumbled, her hazel eyes darting over to the daughter with something akin to horror dancing with them. `` What ? ''

Now there was no mistaking it. Hermione really did appear amused. The girl smiled at her, chuckling slightly. `` Like I said, move over them a chance. ``

She could n't serve it. Despite all her endeavor to the contrary, a stifle throttling sound emerged from her throat.

Hermione simply grinned harder, shaking her capitulum. `` Honestly, '' she laughed, glancing around the rapidly emptying entry foyer, `` do you desire me to wait with you until the first years get here so you 're not ... ''

'' Ms. Kaylens is quite able of waiting alone Ms. farmer. And if you delay any longer it will be 20 degree from Gryffindor. ``

The vocalisation had come from directly behind them, the force of it muted by the echoing of excited yak from students trying to cram through the Great Hall 's looming doorways.

Instantly Kalliandra recognized it. She had met the man on a few juncture, and he had seized the chance to prompt her how absolutely impossible it would be for her to ever gain competency in Potions.

As such, she stopped immediately, spinning on her blackguard. Hermione simply quirked an eyebrow before continuing off to get together the relaxation of the educatee.

Snape 's dark eyes lowered, eyeing her appraisingly. `` I trust you are remembering discretion. Particularly where students like Ms. farmer are concerned. Some tend to be too nosy for their own good. ``

Heaving a suspiration, Kally nodded. `` I 'll think. ''

He glowered at her for another moment, before nodding curtly. `` Remember, I 'll be seeing you in detention all this hebdomad. ''

She heaved another suspiration. Upon their initial meeting she had had the unfortunate luck to inadvertently affront the man, by asking if he were a vampire. In fact, all she has said was that he looked like one of the wight of the dark from her defence reaction Against the dark Art 's textbook they had given her to read. And considering that Hagrid was a giant star, another species mentioned in the book, she had n't thought it too unreasonable to assume that a vampire could be teaching at Hogwarts as well.

Unfortunately Snape had n't taken her question lightly, and had immediately began ranting and raving about how he most certainly did not harbor a deep-seeded stemma lust for the living.

And for some unfortunate, and self-destructive reason, she had found his angriness ridiculously funny.

Which probably explained why she had wound up in detention.

'' Ms. Kaylens ? ``

'' I 'll be looking forward to it, '' She replied quickly, finding herself suddenly surrounded by respective dozen child, all twittering loudly with no house of stopping.

She groaned, barely hearing Professor McGonagall 's words. Somehow she found herself following the lieutenant Mistress through freshly polished oak room access into the Great Hall.

The eyes of every first year immediately turned upwards, to the left, to the right wing, and in every other plausible way, unable to resist taking in their new surroundings.

The pressure of a hundred pairs of eyes burrowed into her, and she stared pointedly forward, looking over the crowd of midgets to where Hagrid sat, flashing a warm smile in her direction.

Maybe he can help me escape afterwards, she thought hopefully, coming to a freeze at the front of the enormous room. Several of the nanus around her tensed up, scattered whispering passing through the crowd about fighting a troll ...

What on Earth is that about, she wondered curiously, spotting the hat Remus had told her about.

McGonagall turned to face the intact room.

'' When I call your name, step forward, place the hat upon your head, and the sort will begin. ''

With that, she sat the hat upon a battered old stool, the sorting hat 's brim opened spacious, and the singing began.
* * * * *


'' Slytherin ... ''

'' Ron if you say that one to a greater extent time ... ''

'' Hermione you saw how vile she was ! ''

'' She is not vile ! '' Hermione hissed back dangerously, being careful to hold on her vocalization lowered. `` Nervous, yes. Vile, no. ``

'' You can not narrate me that there is not something inherently sinister about her, '' Ron challenged. `` Something 's not right there. She 's going to wind up an iniquity Slytherin, probably waiting to ... ''

Before Ron could embark further along his psychological road slip, Hermione cut him off tiredly. `` Just because soul is in Slytherin does not lay down them inherently evil, Ronald. ''

'' Hermione how can you say that ! '' He bristled, clearly having trouble keeping his articulation down as the first days and the subject of their line of reasoning walked past.

Hermione 's face visibly tensed, and Harry could tell she did n't fully believe what she was saying. `` You ca n't pidgeon hole out an entire house. Besides, Slytherins are end oriented and strong willed. They might be a bit harsh, but it 's because they wo n't let anything get in their way of getting what they want. ''

'' Which makes you a slimy git like Snape ! '' Ron exclaimed triumphantly.

At least Ron 's exclamation were hushed enough so no one not in the near vicinity could hear, Harry thought, suppressing a groan. He should have known the peace between those two could n't live on longer than the train drive there. It was astonishing enough that they had n't killed each early in their compartment as it was. Had he really expected that peace to survive ?

'' Mione ... ''

'' Ronald ... ''

'' will you two ping it off ! The chapeau about to sing and I actually want to hear what it says. '' Ginny cut in. Harry made a mental note to thank her for distracting their disputing Quaker later, and quickly turned his attention to the hat. He had always enjoyed the sorting, but after last year ... wellspring, knowing that the hat was sworn to forewarn the scholar and instructor of danger made him a bit more attentive this year.

The had opened it 's lip spacious.

Divided, but once combine,
That's how our history begins,
quaternity houses founded by four friends
Yet I fear that such segmentation shall bring about our end.

In ancient times the best of friend
Came knocking on the door,
Of Ravenclaw and Slytherin,
Then Hufflepuff went to Gryffindor.

Lashkar-e-Tayyiba make a schooltime of learning,
For all those of magic to assist,
Yet somehow the approached three could not agree,
On what qualities to guard.

Army of the Pure teach only those of wit and learning,
Possessing the most ready minds of all.
Those had been the affecting run-in,
Of once fair Ravenclaw.

Proud Slytherin prize ambition,
Possessing honor of rake and foxiness,
His pupils would block up at nothing,
Until they got what they saw fit to their coming.

And then were the audacious,
Those nervy with nobleman hardihood,
Bold Gryffindor chose them,
As nearly worthy of wizard learning.

Hufflepuff loved her supporter,
And accepted them as they were.
She let them each create a home,
In which their prized were taught and foster.

And as for sweet Hufflepuff,
She agreed to take the rest,
Yet somehow variance did not set well,
Unity to her, seemed best.

So when the founders sewed me,
And left me on my stool,
She stole me in the dead of Nox,
And bestowed me with a putz,
Of knowing when the clip was right,
For the sorting ritual to end.
She said one day division may have strife,
And she feared for the magic world.
For all her life,
She had feared the division in view,
But never to a greater extent,
Than when the friendships failed,
Of the Founding Four.

Slytherin was the 1st to leave,
honour of blood his pick,
I 'm disgraced by teaching Muggle borns !
He yelled, conviction in his voice.

Next left boldface Gryffindor,
He felt the calling of adventure,
Rather than the desperate plea,
Of failing loyalties in want of suture.

Last left once-fair Ravenclaw,
Who once prized justness and encyclopedism,
She left because she said,
That teaching the other pupils had got too boring.

And alone stood sweet Hufflepuff,
The wisest of them all,
Because she never would heed,
Alluring temptations telephone call.

I see the Wisdom of Solomon of her alternative,
Why she chose to accept them all,
And now understand,
That its fruitless to fraction you at all.

So while it deeply saddens me,
To see my end in sight,
The sorting ceremonial ends,
rightfulness now, rightfulness here, This night.


Harry stared at the stool, trying vainly to process what he had just heard. At to the lowest degree he had been right in thinking it was important to pay attention this year, because apparently that was the last song the sort hat would ever sing.

He cast a cursory glance towards Hermione, sitting next to him on the bench, but her Brown eyes were panoptic and fixated up front. He could just imagine what was going through her headland rightfulness then, because chance were she was going through each Sir Frederick Handley Page of Hogwarts a History, trying to find any former incident even remotely like this one. He had a sneaking suspicion that she had the whole record committed to memory.

The unnatural silence filled the Great residence like a thick fog, so chummy he could almost feel it closing around him.

McGonagall seemed caught between slapping the hat and looking to Dumbledore for instructions, and her bridge player moved cautiously towards the hat 's lip, only for it to quickly recoil as if the hat had grown Fang. This odd, twitching motility was punctuated by sharp turns of her head as she looked right at Dumbledore, who to Harry 's surprise, looking genuinely amused.

Snape on the other hand looked quite inconvienced, his sass had puckered so tightly that his lips seemed more translucent than Nearly Headless Nick 's.

Apparently, they had not been expecting this.

Snape however, did n't seem to require to live with it, and he had already stood and started storming from his place at the teacher 's table, clearly headed for the sorting hat 's stool itself.

'' Excuse me Minerva. '' Snape muttered, his low timbre clearly audible in the unearthly silence. His long finger snatched the hat up and onto his head in a single fluid apparent movement, his face contorted in assiduousness as if conducting some clever argument.

Clever argument from Snape ? No ... impossible, he thought, watching his Potions teacher with pastime for the first prison term in five twelvemonth.

Apparently he was right about Snape 's inability to comport an effectual contestation, because a moment later Snape had flung the hat back onto it 's stool, muttering about how it was a dirty, trash-ridden piece of music of fading fabric destined for a Muggle garbage shit.

It was a mark of how life-threatening the office was, that not a soul at the Gyffindor table laughed.

Harry could n't help but notice how Snape was testingly running his finger's breadth through his oily Joseph Black hair, looking at his hired hand after each swipe, as if searching for proof of something.

Every Gryffindor had a sneaking distrust that the hat had just called him a greasy gook clod.

Ron Weasley was just the initiatory to say it.

'' Chalk one up for the sort hat for insulting Snape ! '' Ron whispered triumphantly, all psyche within earreach turning towards him.

Apparently that was the betoken everyone had been waiting for, because suddenly a fury of activeness broke out at the Gryffindor table, and a chain reaction of disturbance facing pages until the horn in point was almost deafening. The uncategorised start years looked positively terrified, as if frightened of being sent home if unsortable, and they alone seemed the only 1 still rendered speechless.

'' I mean did I just hear that right ? '' Ron asked, eyes alight with hullabaloo he did not share.

Harry just nodded, watching the Professor 's re-group.

prof Flitwick slid from his seat, and every so often Harry could catch a glimpse of the top of his fountainhead over the teacher 's table, as the small man jumped up and down, vying for Dumbledore 's attention.

'' Oh my God did the sorting hat just quit ? '' Squealed Parvarti. One would think she had just realized what had happened.

'' Brilliant that one ... '' Ron muttered sarcastically.

'' Think it has anything to do with the war going on ? '' Seamus asked excitedly. `` Do n't you remember ? How it warned us last yr ? ''

'' It did n't discourage us that it might go on strike Ireland man ! ''

'' Who you calling Ireland man ? ''

'' shudder Seamus, Dean 's just kidding, are n't you Dean ? '' Ginny 's calm articulation somehow filtered through the ruckus.

'' I ca n't believe this ! Never, in all of Hogwarts a History did it ever report the Sorting Hat doing anything even remotely secretive to this ... '' Hermione was in her factor, and he silently congratulated himself on how well he knew his booster. `` I mean do n't you mean Harry ? This is monumental !

But Hermione was too worked up to notice whether he responded or not, and she was so absorb in her dictation to hear what he heard.

'' Do you believe we should just try sorting them anyway, Albus ? '' professor McGonagall asked, casting an almost imploring glance at the group of first eld, who seemed to shrink away from her gaze.

prof Dumbledore, looking vaguely amused, patted Professor Flitwick on the read/write head as he mulled this over. For his character the Charm 's Professor stopped bouncing around like a fire beetle on focal ratio, and his small-scale brain disappeared beneath the staff table.

'' We 'll be needing a volunteer though ... '' McGonagall stated rhetorically, scanning the list of educatee public figure with an uncharacteristic feel of uncertainty, talking out brassy but absently. `` If any of the start years would like to try to get sorted ... ''

His fountainhead of house was too preoccupied, and she missed what he did not fail to point out.

A certain golden haired girl had overhead the prof 's question, and after casting a glimpse at the overwrought fry around her, had woven her way through the cowering first year. She now stood besides the stool, her delicate hand grasping the top of the hat as she lifted it from its chair, plopping it upon her foreland. The teachers around her were completely oblivious to her activity.

Her soft, angular features relaxed, as if immersed in quiet conversation. And as she sat there, immersed in a mum conversation to which only she was privy to, Dumbledore pointed a wand to his pharynx, muttering, `` sonorous ''.

A second later the Headmaster 's magically overdraw voice echoed throughout the Great Hall, as it had on only one other occasion.

'' SIIIILLLLEEEENNNCCCE ! ''

Every person who had been excitedly talking, including several of the nervous looking first years, who had started to cry, stopped and turned their attention to the front of the hall.

So of course of action, that was when everyone 's care suddenly became drawn to the rather ordinary bicycle girl, standing by the stool, the offending hat placed atop her promontory.

'' Apparently the sorting hat has decided that it is no longer able to, in honest conscious, social function as a house sorter. However, we shall have this sorted out. '' Dumbledore winked, the pun on words sounding almost cancel coming from him. Yet Harry just stared in fascination at Kaylens, who seemed to be nodding quietly to herself. `` Now I would like the upper berth years to remain here for dinner, and I would care the low days to amount with .... ''

Dumbledore stopped mid-sentence, apparently just catching sight of Kaylens, even though she had been right in nominal head of him all along.

Kaylens nodded one finish clip, her hazelnut eyes flickering open as she removed the hat, placing it back upon the pot. All eyes were upon the hat except his, so he was the only one to see the rarefied grinning interbreeding her feature film as the sorting hat opened its brim for the instant meter that dark.

'' Let the categorisation now begin. ''



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