Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus spent almost of the days preceding Christmastide at rose 's sign. King James I was determined to use all of his spare prison term for Quidditch practice, and he had to go to Rose 's sign of the zodiac for that. Albus usually went with him and he and Hugo would help James practice while pink wine read.

Harry had to practically separate James from his broom by legerdemain on Christmas Eve so they could go to Godric 's Hollow. James wanted to stay at Rose 's firm and preserve practicing, but Harry refused to let him. The misstep was serenity since Jesse James was rather sullen the entire time.

"prof Patil says I 'm a natural at Transfiguration,"Lily bragged to Albus as they walked towards the burrow afterwards.

"That 's good,"Albus replied.

"Yeah, so I 'm going to become an Animagus eventually. I want to be a cat."

"You do n't get to opt what kind of animal you transform into,"Albus told her.

"Oh,"Lily said,"But I think I 'll become a cat."

Albus nodded as Lily began to describe in great detail what kind of cat she would transform into.

Everyone else was already at the Burrow and Albus felt an straightaway warmth come over him as he stepped inside. It had nothing to do with the fact that it was so frigid and snow-covered exterior, either. There was something so comforting about being at the Burrow surrounded by all his syndicate. He was able to forget all the issues with the Quidditch tournament and Professor Killigan. All he could think about was how ravenous he was and how good some of his grandmother 's preparation would be right about then.

Rose sat down next to Albus as he tucked into a boastfully bowl of Allium cepa soup with a side of homemade bread.

"Uncle Charlie and Aunt Katherine are going back to Romania this summertime,"Rose announced.

"To tame to a greater extent dragons ?"Albus asked. His uncle and aunt had n't done that since Sir Henry Morton Stanley started Hogwarts, but they often talked about how they wanted to go back.

"Yeah,"rose nodded,"They might last out even after the summer 's over, but Scots heather and Mark will come back to go to Hogwarts."

"They get to go, too ?"

"Yup. Henry M. Stanley and Eddie are going, too. Francis Edgar Stanley 's quitting his job for it. He 's definitely staying in Romania after the summertime 's over. He wants to get into dragon training."

"Wow,"Albus replied,"They 're lucky. I guess it 's near that Stanley decided what he wants to do."

Stanley had been working at the Magical Menagerie since he finished Hogwarts, but knew he did n't want to do that his whole living. He just did n't know what he did require to do.

"I wish our parents would rent us to some former country,"Albus sighed.

"Me, too,"rosebush agreed,"Imagine the history we could learn."

Albus personally had enough of account from prof Binns, but he supposed learning history by traveling would be fun.

"Christmas Quidditch tomorrow ?"shift asked as he sat down next to Rose.

"Definitely,"Albus grinned.

"I would n't count on it, teddy bear,"mollie said as she handed Albus another hunk of clams,"We 're supposed to get the snowstorm of the decade tomorrow. The Muggle electricity is already out in town."

"Is it really ?"Chester A. Arthur popped his head into the way,"Fascinating ! I may have to go see it tomorrow !"

"You 'll do no such affair !"Molly shouted,"It 's near impossible to Appparate during such a storm. Not to mention the fact that it 's Christmas and you should be here."

"We do n't need electrical energy to roleplay Quidditch !"Teddy exclaimed,"It 'll be everlasting training conditions ! If you can catch a stoolpigeon in the middle of a blizzard, you can enamour one in any weather. It 's not like Kendrick ever calls off Quidditch because of snow."

"We 'll see tomorrow, shimmy,"mollie sighed.

Albus finished his soup and he and climb up went into the den, where they were greeted by a forte refrain of 'Odo the submarine sandwich', Song dynasty by St. George, Alicia, Charlie, and Ron. poster and Fleur were laughing while Hermione shook her question. Albus had a feeling the only reason why Fleur approved was because the telling was drowning out Celestina Warbeck.

"So then I said, I 'm not paying seven reap hook for that !"Percy said to Katherine, who was only sort of paying attention,"And the bloke looked at me like I was mad. I say he 's mad, charging that much for a tour of a questionably historic old construction. There really should be regulations on such things. It 's one thing I 'll change if I 'm ever Minister."

Albus stifled a laugh. His Uncle Hotspur had been talking about running for Minister for the past times ten years, but still had n't done it. nigh of his uncles and aunts got sick of hearing him talk about what he would and would not change.

"Hey, Albus, rosiness,"Victoire waved at him from across the room.

"Hi Victoire,"Albus made his way over to her,"How is Healer preparation ?"

"Exhausting,"Victoire sighed,"And I have to figure out which part of the hospital I want to do the relief of my training in by September. We 've been rotating throughout all the flooring, but now we have to plunk one. I 'm nowhere near decided."

"You have until Sept,"Albus shrugged. It seemed like a long time to him.

"I know,"Victoire replied,"But Amy 's known where she wants to terminate training since we were in fourth year."

"You 're not in Amy 's situation,"chemise appeared and put his arm around her,"And I think you 'll do great anyplace you decide."

"Thanks, chemise,"Victoire smiled,"I 'm thinking either the motherhood ward or while Damage."

"There 's a officious ward,"Teddy grinned,"enchantment Damage. You 'll get all the funny injuries there."

"That 's not a good reason to pick a differentiation,"Victoire groaned.

"Good a rationality as any,"Teddy shrugged.

The clip grew later and after Albus played numerous unit of ammunition of Exploding centering with his cousin, his grandmother announced that it was meter for bed. Everyone argued, but there was really no degree. Everyone, including the other adult, knew that arguing with molly Weasley was useless.

Albus trudged up the stair to the gamey bedroom that he shared with James II, Ben, and Cedric. He climbed into bed and then realized just how big this impending blizzard was. The wind was howling louder than he 'd ever heard before.

The wind was so powerful that Albus could feel it through the col in the window. Every once in a piece, the house would screech and shake. Albus sighed and put his pillow over his ears to try and overwhelm out the howling.

Albus did n't oversee to drift off to catch some Z's until after Cedric got out of bed, swore loudly, and disregarded the no magic outside of school pattern to put a silencing charm on the room.

******

Albus was awoken by his one-year Christmastime wake-up call, Lily. She breezed through the door shouting about how they all needed to inflame up and open their present.

"And there 's three pes of snow outside,"Lily said as she left the room,"I checked."

"pigeon hawk !"James jumped off the top buncombe and looked out the windowpane,"There is ! And it 's still coming !"

"Whoa, you ca n't see anything !"Cedric added.

"We could ramp up the populace 's biggest C sorcerer later,"Ben suggested.

"We could build an entire snow mavin army,"Albus said.

"present first,"James IV said as he located his atomic reactor of presents.

Albus descended upon his own pile of presents and began opening them. There were the common Sweet and Weasleys'products from his aunts and uncles. Another Weasley perspirer, this one scarlet and gold striped. He pulled it on over his pyjama and opened the rest of the present tense from his aunts and uncles. His aunt Hermione had gotten him a few Book he 'd probably never read, including one about the chronicle of house pixy at Hogwarts.

Albus saved his parents'present for terminal, although he doubted they could top last year 's. There really was n't anything in the world that was better than the invisibleness Cloak.

"Al, did you spread Mum and Dad 's yet ?"James IV shouted.

"I 'm opening it now,"Albus said as he ripped the paper off the small box.

"You 'll never guess what they got us !"

Albus opened the box and saw two tag. Two slate for the Quidditch World Cup that was taking place this summer !

"Whoa !"Albus shouted,"World Cup tickets !"

"I did n't even have sex they were on sale this betimes !"James said.

"You two get the best present tense,"Cedric said.

"Hey, I got two tag,"King James I replied.

"Yeah, two,"Ben sighed,"You can only foot one of us to go."

Albus suddenly realized he had the same problem. Two tickets. Five acquaintance he would want to take. Who was he going to choose ? Not Rose. They may have been friends since they were babies, but she just did n't have a passion for Quidditch. Neither did Kaden. He was another to cross off the leaning. St. John the Apostle and Matt were the Quidditch fans. He 'd have to choose between them. Amanda liked Quidditch well enough, but she did n't adopt a squad or anything.

"Those are modified edition ticket,"Ben said,"They do n't do it who 's playing yet, so they do n't sell very many tickets ahead of time."

"They 're for the top box, too,"James said in awe.

Lily burst into the room with a big grin on her face. She was holding two slate as well."Did you get Quidditch slate ?"

"Yeah,"Albus and James said at the like time.

"This is going to be bright,"Lily said and then ran out of the room.

Albus 's parents were already in the kitchen by the metre Albus went downstairs. They were sitting at the table eating breakfast. Albus gave them each a immense hug and then sat down.

"How did you get the slate ?"he asked.

"They were a gift from the government minister,"Harry replied,"The Cup is in Canada this twelvemonth and he 's secure booster with their minister. Got him a lot of free tickets."

Albus grinned as he began to eat breakfast. Somehow his parents had come close to topping last year 's demo. Now not only was he going to get to see the earth Cup, he would get to travel to a different country.

rosiness came downstairs a little while later and was impressed with the slate. She had no desire to go to the Cup and had no suggestions on how Albus was going to choose between St. John the Apostle and Matt.

"Anyone up for Quidditch later ?"Teddy announced as he sauntered into the kitchen.

"Not under my watch !"Molly shouted,"You ca n't see a foundation in front of you out there ! And it must be close to 15 below !"

"Maybe after lunch, then,"teddy bear shrugged.

Molly shook her head and sighed as she set a few Sir Thomas More disc of eggs and toast onto the table.

There was a bang on the door that could only just be heard over the howling malarkey. Molly glanced at Arthur, who shrugged and got up to see who it was. Albus followed, very curious to see who would visit on Yule morning in the midriff of a Brobdingnagian blizzard.

"Xeno, is that you ?"Arthur shouted outside.

"Yes !"Xenophilius Lovegood shouted back. Chester Alan Arthur stood aside as the man walked in and then shut the door behind him."Quite the violent storm we 're having ! Just thought I 'd halt by and see if this spot was still standing."

"Quite the storm, yes,"Chester A. Arthur agreed,"I heard the Muggles lost electricity. Fascinating. I wonder what they do without it. But yes, the home is still standing."

"commodity, but if you feel it 's too feeble, just let me have it away and I 'll go get some of my Jutispy Plants. The leaves do curiosity on old edifice. take in them like new. I just put a gang into my office and it 's a beneficial thing, too. Of track, they tend to draw Nargles ..."Xenophilius 's voice trailed off.

"I 'll keep that in mind,"Chester Alan Arthur smiled,"Are you spending the vacation alone ?"

"Yes, yes,"he replied,"Luna and Rolf are with his home this Christmas."

"Then you must remain here a while. molly 's cooked far too much food for thought, like usual,"King Arthur star Xeno into the kitchen.

Albus followed them. He always found Xenophilius Lovegood to be an matter to whiz, if not a small mad. Always going on about Nargles or Nom-Noms or something.

molly was more than happy to allow Xenophilius with a large platter of breakfast and he settled down to discuss the storm with the adults.

Albus spent virtually of the break of the day playing Exploding cracking, Wizard 's chess game, and Gobstones with his first cousin. They tried to wager hide and go seek, but the home was too crowded to play it properly.

teddy and Henry James kept looking out the window, willing it to stop snowing. Both of them were just itching to go maneuver Quidditch. Albus would birth gladly gone and played if it would block up snowing so much. He was dedicated to the game, but not enough to play in this violent storm.

Lunchtime came and the C. P. Snow was still falling. George went outside to measure it and came back with the news that it was three and a half base.

shift went upstairs after tiffin and came back decked out in three jumper, a buddy-buddy cloak, and a brace of boots. Under one arm was his broom and under the other was a box of Quidditch orchis. James was right-hand behind him, dressed the same.

"Theodore Remus lupine !"mollie shouted,"I suppose I ca n't stop you from going out there and catching dying of a cold, but I will not let you get behind Henry James with you !"

"He 's not dragging me, granny,"William James rolled his centre,"I want to go !"

"Just let them, Molly,"Harry said,"They 'll get cold soon enough and come back inside."

"Fine,"Molly replied and went back into the kitchen.

"Excellent,"chemise grinned,"Anyone tending to join us ?"

Georgia, Fred, and Heather suited up in warmly clothes and joined Teddy and King James I. Albus decided against it. Quidditch was fun, but he did n't want to stop dead when he could persist inside and be warm.

The Yuletide Quidditch lasted a half an hour. Teddy, James, Georgia, Calluna vulgaris, and Fred all stumbled back into the house shivering with their faces red and covered in blow and ice. Molly immediately descended upon them with mugs of hot hot chocolate and dry clothes.

"Told you, Molly,"Harry grinned.

"C-ca n't find the Sn-Snitch,"shift muttered.

Harry laughed."That does n't surprise me. You 'll find it when the violent storm calms down. You put the magic spell on it to abide in the curtilage, right ?"

"Y-yeah,"shimmy replied.

Dec 25 dinner party came and went in its usual chaos. Xenophilius stayed for it and Saint James snuck sneezing powder into his soup, which he found incredibly funny. mollie was not as impressed and gave James IV quite the scolding. How she found out it was King James was beyond Albus.

The storm continued throughout the dark and Cedric had to put the silencing charm back on their way in orderliness for any of them to get any sleep.

******

nonentity left the Burrow until two Day after Christmas. That was when the C finally let up. It topped out at around four and a half feet, which was a new record for Albus 's lifespan. The Burrow 's grounds had been decorated by dozens of bamboozle beldame and wizards, along with hippogriffs, owls, and a form of other magical creatures.

When Albus found out what his crime syndicate was doing after they left the Burrow, he wished the Snow would have kept coming. They were going shopping for dress robes for the New Year 's party.

"Why ca n't I just wear my old dress robes ?"King James I whined as they walked down Diagon Alley towards Madam Malkin's.

"Because they 're five column inch too short,"Ginny replied,"They 're even too modest for Al."

"Yeah, Hugo 's the favorable one,"Epistle of James muttered. Victor Hugo was wearing James 's old wearing apparel robes to the party and therefore did not have to go shopping.

"Mummy, I want majestic robes,"Lily announced.

"If they have any,"Ginny replied.

Albus wanted to buy the first pair of dress robes he found, so long as they were n't pink or purple. The sooner they were done gown shopping the better.

rosebush and Lily made a beeline for the girls clothes robe as soon as they walked in the door. Albus stood awkwardly next to Henry James while their mother found various robes for them.

"Here, try these on, Al,"Ginny handed him a yoke of emerald greens robes.

"Very Slytherin,"Jesse James snickered.

"Shut it, James,"Albus muttered.

"They 'll bring out your eyes, Al,"Ginny told him,"Now go try them on."

Albus reluctantly tried on the Slytherin colored robes and then left the fertilization room for his mother to see.

"Too forgetful,"she announced,"But the color is perfect. I 'll find a bigger size."

William James wound up with a United States Navy blue pair of robes, which Albus would have preferred. Lily found her royal gown and rosiness got a sky blue sky pair.

"Next time you 're getting green robes,"Albus muttered to James, who was still making fun of the color of Albus 's robes.

"No I wo n't. I do n't have light-green eyes,"James grinned.

"Then we 'll get you a nice red set,"Ginny said,"They 'll clash horribly with your hair."

"I do n't care. They 'd be Gryffindor colored,"James II laughed.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome the great unwashed who have read and reviewed this ! Also, for anyone who read In moonshine 's shadow, the outset chapter of the continuation, Beyond the trace, is now up !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The party was at the Minister 's manse, the house where all the Ministers of legerdemain had lived. Albus had been there a few times before, but not in a span years. Usually all the political party the Minister held were while Albus was at Hogwarts.

A few hours before the political party, Ginny made Albus, King James, and Lily all take showers and comb their tomentum properly. She spent a honest fifteen minutes trying to get James 's hair to lie plane and another 15 minutes putting Lily 's up in some kind of refine bun eccentric thing. Albus was very happy his own fuzz was far too scant for that sort of thing.

Before they left, Albus 's parents sat him, James I, and Lily down on the couch and proceeded to tell them the rules for the evening.

"Absolutely no making difficulty !"Ginny stared at Epistle of James as she said this,"None at all ! This is the Minister 's house ! I will not induce you wreaking havoc in it."

"We 're trusting you to proceed yourselves occupied during this. I 'm going to cause to jumble with everyone and we wo n't be able to watch you every second,"Harry added,"You 're all at Hogwarts now. You 're old enough to not be glued to us for the evening."

"Do n't concern,"James said,"I know when balefulness is n't appropriate."

"Let 's Leslie Townes Hope so,"Ginny sighed.

Albus and his class Apparated to the Minister 's house, which meant side-along Apparition for Albus. He hated side-along phantom. It felt like he could n't breath. It was worse when the mortal who was Apparating him was also Apparating another person, which was always the case in his sept. It was the curse of being the middle tyke. He was either with William James or Lily. This clock time it was with Lily and Harry was Apparating them.

When Albus had regained his ability to breath properly, he looked around at where they had landed. He was standing on the forepart lawn of what was the most profligate mansion he had ever seen. It could n't be considered a house ; it was just too monstrous.

A long and winding pavement, framed with shrub and lights on either side, lead up to the front doorway. Albus 's parents started walking up and Albus followed.

The mansion seemed to get bigger as they got closer. It was painted brown with a black roof and reminded Albus of a castling. It was n't nearly as big as Hogwarts, of course, but it was still huge.

Harry rang the campana when they arrived at the door and it was answered by the Minister himself."Harry !"he shouted,"come in !"

Minister Langston Hartwell was the third minister since the declivity of Lord Voldemort. He was a marvellous, weighty man with very piffling hair left on his head. He did sport a rather large mustache, which caused Albus to think of him as a much grandiloquent reading of Professor Slughorn.

Hartwell was one of those very educated wizards who spoke using very boastfully words that Albus could n't really understand. He was verbose and most of his speech could be condensed down into a few sentences, according to Harry, that is. He was a very overnice man, though.

"Right this way,"Hartwell motioned for them to follow him.

Hartwell lead them through the household, which was just as immaculate as Albus remembered, and into what could only be described as a grand dance palace. It was the Saame dance hall all the parties Albus had been to were held.

The room was decorated with silver and black and was already filling up with people. Albus spotted rose and Matt in the backbone of the way and left his family in the door to go see them.

"Some place, huh ?"Albus said once he reached them.

"This is the liberal house I 've ever seen,"Rose agreed,"I see you 're wearing your Slytherin robes."

Albus rolled his eye."Shut it."

"What do you call back, matt ?"Rose turned to Matt,"His mum says they match his eyes, but James IV says they 're Slytherin robes."

"Slytherin,"matte said immediately.

"Then yours are Ravenclaw,"Albus pointed out, gesturing to flatness 's aristocratic robes.

"I do n't care,"Matt shrugged,"So, did you just get here ?"

"Yeah,"Albus replied.

"I 've been here for two hours already,"Matt said,"We were the first ones here. Dad keeps introducing me to people and they all think I 'm a first year."

"Bet that 's fun,"Albus laughed,"Do you recognise well-nigh of these the great unwashed ?"

"Some,"matt said,"That 's the cuss Dad 's taking over for,"he gestured to a very declamatory mavin,"McVicar."

"rightfield,"Albus said,"I 've heard of him. Dad 's always said he would never retire."

"Dad never thought he would either,"matt laughed,"Then we 've got your Uncle Percy, I think you probably know him. Those citizenry are a few of Dad 's fellow,"Matt gestured to a few more Wiccan and wizards,"Then there 's a gang of hoi polloi from early departments, but I do n't remember any of their names."

"Looks like it 's going to be a fun night,"Albus said sarcastically.

"Oh, it will be,"Matt grinned,"When I was really minuscule, we went to parties like this a few times a month. You make your own fun."

"Like what ?"Albus asked.

"Charming alcohol out of the wine and champagne. It 'll still taste exactly the Saami,"lustrelessness grinned mischievously,"By the meter midnight rolls around, everyone will be wondering why they 're not drunk. It 'll be funny."

"You 've done this before ?"Rose raised an eyebrow.

"Amy has,"lusterlessness said,"She 's here somewhere and she 's going to do it soon."

"I have to admit, that 's really creative,"Rose giggled,"What else ?"

"Mostly stuff with the food. tempt the umber to taste like vanilla, charm the serving utensils to displace every time you go to pick them up, that variety of clobber,"mat explained.

"My parents gave us this speech about how we ca n't play pranks here,"Albus said,"She was saying it mostly for St. James the Apostle, but I think she should 've given it to you."

"My parents never say that material to me,"flatness laughed,"They never suspect me of anything. The second they find out the alcohol 's been charmed out of the drinks, they 'll get Amy."

"She is the one who 's going to do it,"Rose pointed out.

"It was my thought, though. She was n't originally going to do it at this party,"flatness explained.

"alcohol 's gone,"Amy said quietly as she came up behind matt,"This is going to be interesting."

"What exactly happens when you use this magic spell ?"Rose asked.

"Oh, it 's great,"Amy grinned,"First, only a match people notice and they make a very quiet acknowledgment to another person and then that person agrees that there 's something wrongfulness with the boozing. Then it just snowballs from there until it 's all they 're talking about. Then soul will test the deglutition, discover the alcohol 's been charmed away, replace it, and then everyone will cheer. But some of them will act drunk because they think there 's alcohol in the drinks."

"Are n't your parents going to be upset ?"Rose asked.

"They might evidence me they wish I had n't done it, but there 's not much they can do,"Amy shrugged,"That 's why I 'm doing it and not Matt."

"I could n't see your parents yelling at you anyway,"Albus laughed.

"You never know,"lusterlessness shrugged.

"I bet James River and Cedric are going to do something,"Albus said as he scanned the gang. Saint James and Cedric were sitting at one of the tables, head teacher close together like they were plotting something.

"I 'd be shocked if they did n't,"Rose smirked,"aunt Ginny has no hope of stopping James."

"And I 'd bet my hold up Galleon that Empire State of the South and Bradley are talking about Quidditch,"Albus gestured to his other two cousin, who were standing near the buffet.

"That 's all they talk about,"Rose said,"And Lily looks bored. Five Sickles says she 's over here in about ten minutes or so."

"I would n't bet against that,"Albus said,"And Samantha and Lindy will sneak out of the way the next time aunt Corrine looks away."

Albus 's auntie Corrine was talking with two enchantress Albus did n't bang and his Twin cousins were chasing each other around the room.

"Are any of your other cousins coming ?"Amy asked.

"Nope,"Albus shook his mind,"None of my other aunt and uncles work for the Ministry."

"Let 's go get something to eat,"lusterlessness said.

Albus and blush wine agreed. Amy left to go talk of the town to soul else and the three friend walked over to the buffet. There was already a small queue in front end of it.

"There go Samantha and Lindy,"Rose said as they waited. The Gemini ran out one of the threshold and Corrine quickly followed.

The waiting line moved quickly and soon Albus was in figurehead. He grabbed a plate and piled it high with just about everything. There was always the in effect intellectual nourishment at this sort of political party.

They found an empty table far enough away from James and Cedric. Albus did n't desire to be anywhere near them when they did whatever they were planning on doing.

"I do n't even know what half this stuff is,"matt said as he began eating,"But it 's good."

More and to a greater extent people arrived as Albus ate his dinner. He recognized a few of them, but did n't commend any name. He also noticed that nobody was acting strangely due to Amy 's charm. They were all acting perfectly rule for adults who had had a few drinks.

Albus, Matt, and Rose wandered around the room once they finished their food. A few grownup stopped to call out how big they 'd gotten and to inquire what twelvemonth they were at Hogwarts. Lily joined them because she did n't need to be associated with James IV and Cedric 's mischief.

"Hello, everyone !"Minister Hartwell shouted from the podium at the front of the room.

Everyone quieted down and turned to watch him. Albus, Rose, and Matt were somewhat skinny to the podium.

"Thank you,"he smiled,"I assume you all know why I 've thrown this party, and it 's not just to unload the turgid amount of vino I was given for Yuletide !"

The grownup all chuckled at Hartwell 's attempt at a joke and then quieted down once again.

"Yes, yes, well, this party is in honor of none former than Walter Eckerton, whom I have appointed to the berth of drumhead of the section of Regulation and dominance of Magical brute. There is no one else whom I would trust with such a job ...."

Hartwell 's delivery soon descended into one of his usual manner of speaking, which Albus could not read. It was long, drawn-out, and Albus could 've sworn he saw his dad yawn at one point.

Albus clapped loudly when Hartwell finally finished and turned the podium over to McVicar.

"Thank you, diplomatic minister,"McVicar began,"That was quite an interesting speech. I, too, would wish to congratulate Walter Eckerton on his promotion.

"I am sure at least half of you were quite surprised to take heed that I was retiring. I myself was surprised. In fact, I probably would n't own done it if it were n't for the fact that my wife has been begging me to for the preceding ten years.

"However, the main reason for my lack of an earlier retreat was because there was not a single person employed in the Ministry whom I would deliver trusted with this job. Nobody had the capabilities to extend out this spatial relation in the way I would like. Like they always say, if you want something done right, do it yourself. That was my motto up until five yr ago, that is.

"A little over five geezerhood ago, a man came into the Ministry looking for a job in the department of the Regulation and restraint of Magical Creatures. He applied for a job in Werewolf Support Services, a position that had been open for well over a year. I was ready to hire anyone who walked through the door at that point, but I had no idea what was to descend when I hired Bruno Walter Eckerton.

"Some of you may know that Walter has experience in this field. He was the Head of the section of Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures in Commonwealth of Australia for three years before leaving the position in monastic order to make a motion to England.

"Walter revolutionized lycanthrope Support inspection and repair as soon as he started. The ideas he had were 1 that even I had n't thought of. In five short circuit years, he has bettered life for those plagued with lycanthropy more than anyone else in the department have in their total careers.

"It took only six months for me to realise that I wanted Bruno Walter to take over for me when I retired. Not only does he have the experience and intelligence service for the job, but he also has dedication that I have never seen before. I even have to take on that his loyalty surpasses my own. I have never seen anyone competitiveness as knockout for werewolf right field as he has.

"The only when thing left for me to do was convince myself it was clock time to bed,"McVicar chuckled,"And yes, it did consider the better part of five years to do that. But now, I feel very confident as I hand the reins over to Walter."

Everyone clapped as McVicar stepped away and Matt 's dad took the podium."That was quite the speech,"Albus muttered to Matt.

"I 'll say,"Matt agreed,"And McVicar does n't usually kudos people like that."

"fountainhead,"Matt 's dad began,"Thanks for your balloting of confidence, Rob. I certainly hope I can live up to your expectations.

"I have to begin by saying how unexpected this was. I really had no intentions of becoming the head of the total department again, no matter which rural area I was living in. lycanthrope Support serving has been such a great place to ferment these past few years. It truly is my passion.

"However, when Langston and Rob approached me about taking over when Rob retired, I found it unmanageable to say no. In the end, I said yes because I want to make more of a divergence.

"Of form, I could not have gotten to this post without the assist of my married woman, Julie,"he gestured to Matt 's mum, who was standing near the podium,"And my girl, Amy, and my son, Matt.

"I 'm not one for long actor's line, so I 'll just say that I look forward to starting the job and I truly desire I can be at to the lowest degree half of the head teacher of the department Rob has been."

"I just hope none of them find out why my dad 's so give,"Matt whispered.

"They 're too drink to think much on it,"Rose smirked.

"They 're not really drunk,"Albus reminded her.

"They 're certainly acting like they are,"Rose pointed out.

A good fate of the adults were acting very drunk. In fact, if Albus had n't known about Amy 's charm, he would say they all really were wino. The weird matter was that everybody was acting sot. There did n't look to be anyone who was thinking there was something amiss with the drinks.

"Let 's go ask Amy about it,"matt suggested.

Amy was standing nearby, so Albus, mat, and Rose squeezed their way through the crowd to get to her.

"Amy,"matt whispered,"Why 's everyone acting normal ?

"I do n't know,"she whispered back,"Let 's go expression at the drinks."

James and Cedric were also standing near the drink table, looking nearly as confused as Albus felt about this charm. That was kind of strange.

Amy grabbed a glass of wine and tried it."Well, it tastes ok, but it 's supposed to."

"You 'll have to fuddle a lot More than that to get properly drunk,"Matt grinned.

"I 'm not doing that,"Amy rolled her eyes.

"Actually,"Epistle of James grinned mischievously,"That might get you drunk."

"What did you do ?"Albus groaned.

"Cedric and I added some spare intoxicant to that wine,"James I whispered.

Albus, Rose, lustrelessness, and Amy burst out laughing. Albus could not think it. All of their japery had backfired. The wine was now perfectly normal.

"What 's so funny ?"Cedric asked.

"Amy pulled a japery, too,"Albus said.

"I put a charm on all the wine-colored to remove the intoxicant, while keeping the appreciation,"Amy explained,"I did it right wing when the party started."

"So much for that prank,"James groaned.

"Now you wo n't get in hassle,"Albus pointed out,"Mum 's been watching you two."

"I know,"James muttered,"That 's why we ca n't do it again."

"What do you want to do now ?"Albus asked as James, Cedric, and Amy left.

"want to explore the Minister 's star sign ?"Matt suggested.

"Is that allowed ?"rose wine asked skeptically.

"I do n't see why not, I mean, this is my dad 's party,"mat pointed out,"Plus, we 'd just be walking around."

"Let 's go,"Albus said and lead them out of the ballroom.

It was much quieter in the rest of the business firm. They started wandering through any rooms that had out-of-doors doors.

"This place is so all-fired phantasy,"Albus said.

"It reminds me of my grandparents'home,"lustrelessness said.

"Their sign is this big ?"blush wine asked.

"Nearly,"matt replied,"They 've got a ballroom and everything."

The three friends wound up in a very vauntingly living way filled with old-fashioned furniture. There was an oriental carpet on the ground and oak table and bookshelves around the circumference. Atop the board were project vas of heyday and crystal sculptures.

"We 'd better be careful in here,"Rose said as she walked into the elbow room,"If we break any of this stuff, our parents would mutilate us."

"Cinda 's got one of these,"matte pointed to a lechatelierite swan.

"Do n't touch on it !"rosiness hissed.

"I was n't,"lustrelessness assured her,"I broke Cinda 's once, but Mum fixed it."

"Look at all these books,"Albus gazed up at one of the bookcases,"gentlewoman Pince would love to get her bridge player on these."

"They 're all about politics, though,"mat pointed out,"Pretty boring."

"Mum would wish them,"pink wine said

"I wonder how old this piece of furniture is,"Matt said as he looked at a rather uncomfortable looking armchair.

"Probably senior than Aberforth Dumbledore,"Albus replied.

"Hey, Albus, matt, come here,"rosebush said as she looked out the window.

Albus and Matt walked over to the window and leaned over the table that was in battlefront of it.

"What is it ?"Albus asked.

"Look, there's-"

lusterlessness leaned farther over the board and knocked one of the crystal sculptures off. rose wine gasped and managed to catch it before it crashed onto the floor.

"Merlin,"Rose whispered as she set it back on the table,"Be careful."

"Sorry,"Matt replied,"What were you saying ?"

"There 's somebody sneaking around out there,"rose said.

Albus peered out the window into the duskiness. He could just barely make out a shadow lurking around the bushes. It did n't take care like the someone was walking up towards the family to go to the party. Plus, why would he evince up three hr late ?

"There 's definitely someone out there,"lusterlessness said.

"Let 's go find out who it is,"Albus said. He did n't have a clue as to who it was, but he wanted to happen out. There was no cause for someone to be sneaking around the Minister 's Mansion at this clip of night.

"Albus Severus Potter, are you blinking insane ?"rose exclaimed,"I think you are !"

"tone, I just want to go see if we can find out who it is. I 'm not saying we should go duel them. Plus, there 's a unit room full of Ministry functionary in case whoever is out there is individual bad,"Albus said.

"That 's a good point,"Matt replied,"Why would someone abstract around a house that 's wide-cut of Ministry official, especially when the two top Aurors are inside ?"

"I do n't know,"Albus said,"But I want to find out who it is."

Rose reluctantly agreed and followed Albus and Matt, muttering under her breathing spell. They found the skinny threshold and went out into the coldness night, drawing their scepter as they did so.

"If we are n't killed, we 'll freeze to end,"rose wine muttered.

Albus ignored her and started looking around. He stayed close to the sign of the zodiac and tried to keep himself concealed in the bushes as he looked for the figure of speech. However, he could n't see or see anything.

"Do you hear anything ?"he whispered to Matt.

"No,"matte replied,"It 's like they disapparated or something."

"Good,"Rose muttered,"Now let 's go back inside."

"They could 've just moved,"Albus pointed out,"Let 's keep going."

Albus continued creeping around the star sign, with his verge out in front of him. His tenderness was beating fast and his deal were sweaty despite the cold. He did n't want to stop, though. Figuring out who this cuss was was exciting and brass wracking at the same time.

"Do n't incite !"someone shouted and all of a sudden there was a promising light in Albus 's eyes. Wand light.

Rose screamed and grabbed hold of Albus 's arm. Albus held up his own baton, his hand shaking.

"Who are you ?"the person shouted.

"Wh-who are y-you ?"Albus stammered.

"He sounds familiar,"flatness whispered,"knack on. Bloody Scheol, that 's Professor Balladanis !"

Albus thought for a second base and the spokesperson did sound a lot like Balladanis. But why would he be sneaking around the Minister 's Mansion ?

"Albus ceramicist, is that you ?"the man shouted.

"Er, yes,"Albus replied.

The wand Christ Within lowered and Albus heard the man footprint through the snow towards him. Albus saw that he was indeed Professor Balladanis. He breathed a sigh of sculptural relief as Rose let go of his arm.

"Mr. ceramicist,"Balladanis said and then waved his wand around,"And Miss Weasley, Mr. Eckerton. Oh, I suppose this party is for your male parent, Mr. Eckerton ?"

"Y-yes, sir,"flatness replied.

"What are the three of you doing sneaking around outside in the dead of night ? I thought I 'd taught you skillful than that. You 're just asking for hassle,"Balladanis said sternly.

"Told you,"Rose whispered to Albus.

"Er,"Albus began,"We saw someone lurking around out here and went to investigate. I guess that individual was you ...."

"And you 're lucky it was me,"Balladanis barked,"The three of you could have been dead if that mortal had been a dark champion. Now, I 'm taking all three of you back inside."

Albus nodded and followed Balladanis through the snow and towards the door."Sir,"Albus said,"If you do n't mind my asking, what were you doing outside ?"

"If you must be intimate, the Minister asked me to condition the grounds in rules of order to shit certain nobody was lurking around,"Balladanis replied.

That did nothing but sparkle Albus 's curiosity even more. He knew better than to press further, though. Balladanis was not one to explain his motives.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


It was nearing midnight when Albus, Matt, and Rose re-entered the building, escorted by Professor Balladanis. Albus had been hoping the prof would just see them to the door and then proceed his search of the perimeter, but instead he went back to the dance palace with them and marched them right up to Harry.

"potter,"Balladanis interrupted the conversation Harry had been having with some genius Albus did n't make out,"I found your son, your niece, and their friend wandering around outside."

"Albus,"Harry groaned,"I thought we made it clear that you were to stay inside."

"I 'll leave them with you,"Balldanis said,"Happy New Year."

"Happy New Year,"Harry replied,"And thanks."

Balladanis disappeared into the crowd and Albus shifted uncomfortably as his dad stared at him for a few moments.

"charge to explicate ?"Harry raised an eyebrow.

"We were just, er, exploring,"Albus muttered.

"Do n't do it again,"Harry sighed.

"We wo n't,"Albus assured him.

Harry went back to his conversation and Albus lead his friend back to the buffet.

"I hope you 've learned your lesson,"rose wine muttered,"I am not doing that again."

"We wo n't do it again. Not tonight, that is,"Albus grinned.

"10 !"soul shouted.

Albus looked at the skinny clock and saw that it was almost midnight. Everyone else joined in the countdown, holding their glasses of champagne in the air. Amy joined Albus, blush wine, and Matt.

"3, 2, 1, Happy New twelvemonth !"Albus shouted along with everyone else.

The bunch began to thin out a little while later. almost of the people Albus did n't bonk left, along with his Uncle Percy, Aunt Corrine, and his cousins. Albus 's parents did n't look like they were in any hurry to go out, so he got a scale of the leftover sweet and at them with his friends.

rose wine 's kinsperson and Amy left, and then it was just the ceramicist, Matt, his parents, the Minister, and his wife left. All the grownup were talking, James was teasing Lily about something, and Albus and Matt were finishing off the hold up of the desserts.

"Do you conceive there 's any way for Hogwarts to win the Quidditch tournament ?"flatness asked as he polished off a piece of chocolate cake.

"Only if Linda 's sick the day of one of the compeer,"Albus sighed.

"Maybe that 'll fall out,"mat said,"You never know."

"Al, we 've got to go,"Ginny tapped him on the shoulder.

"Ok, Mum,"Albus replied and then turned back to Matt,"I 'll see you soon."

"Yeah, see you on the train,"flatness said.

Albus waved au revoir and then joined his mum, dad, James, and Lily. They all said felicitation to mat 's dad and then left the Minister 's manse. Albus peered into the George W. Bush as he left, but there was no sign of professor Balladanis.

******

The remnant of the Xmas vacation went by very dim for Albus. He did all his preparation, which was quite tire, and there was nada to do after that. rosiness was visiting her other grandparents and King James I was at Nathan 's star sign. Even Kaden was officious visiting his grandparents ( Vernon and Petunia ). He sent Albus a letter complaining about it, since the sojourn was also with Aunt Marge. Albus was very grateful that he did n't have to go. Neither of his parents had mentioned anything about visiting with Vernon and Petunia again.

Finally the day to return to school arrived and the Potters made it to Platform 9 ¾ just in sentence. Albus found all his supporter in one of the compartments and once they kicked Lily, Ashtyn, and Victor Hugo out, they told each other about their holidays.

"aunty Marge has got to be the most horrible aunty in the total world,"Kaden fumed,"My dad told her about magic a few months ago and she 's been awesome ever since. I mean, she was always sort of atrocious, but now she 's worse. She just hates conjuration so much. She 's worse than my grandparents."

"Wow,"Albus replied,"Glad I 've never met her."

"Consider yourself favourable,"Kaden muttered,"I 'm guessing you lot had in effect holiday ?"

"We found prof Balladanis lurking around the Minister 's Mansion,"Albus announced.

"What ?"John, Kaden, and Amanda shouted at the same time.

"I saw person sneaking around outside and Albus insisted we go investigate,"Rose said,"Turns out it was Balladanis and the Minister had apparently asked him to check the grounds for trouble."

"Did he observe you ?"can asked.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"He was n't to glad either."

"Told us we could 've been killed,"Matt explained.

"Well, we could 've,"Rose muttered.

"Weird though,"John said,"Why would the diplomatic minister think someone would be hiding around his business firm ?"

"Does n't he give safeguard around anyway ?"Amanda asked,"The Muggle minister of religion does."

"Again, that 's why it 's weird,"John Lackland replied,"He does have guards."

"Why would he ask Balladanis anyway ?"matte asked,"Why not ask an Auror ? Balladanis is a professor."

"He has n't always been,"Albus pointed out,"He had some sort of mystifying job before."

"Again, Wyrd,"whoremonger said.

"Yeah, there were a bunch of Aurors at the party, not to mention Albus 's dad,"lusterlessness pointed out.

"That settles it,"John announced,"Albus, you 've got to find out what he did before he started teaching defense lawyers ?"

"Why me ?"Albus asked.

"Because you 've got those peculiar dueling lessons with him. He likes you for some ground. Of form, he also likes Malfoy. But that 's probably just because Malfoy 's a good dueler, too,"can explained.

"I 'll try,"Albus sighed,"But I really do n't believe he 'll enjoin me."

"You never know,"John said.

******

"repose, quiet down !"Balladanis shouted the pursuit Tuesday, their kickoff day of defensive measure after the holiday.

Albus immediately stopped talking to Matt and Saint John the Apostle and turned to face Balladanis. He was really hoping that the professor would say nothing about what happened at the party and so far Balladanis was showing no recollection of it.

"I trust you all had superb holiday,"Balladanis said,"But the holiday are over and although I am indisputable none of you thought a bit about defensive legerdemain during said vacation, it is now time to commence that thinking once again.

"first, I 'll say that there is no meter to not be thinking about defensive attitude thaumaturgy, as the nighttime artistic creation do not take breaks for superficial things such as holidays.

"Second, in this term we will begin to search creatures far more dangerous than hinkypunks and kappas. In this term we shall learn about those terrifying creature such as acromantulas, basilisks, werewolves, dragons, and vampires."

Albus could n't help but glance at Linda when Balladanis said vampires. Balladanis had glanced at her as well, and he also glanced at Matt when he said werewolves. Of track, he had looked at Albus when he said basilisks, so it did n't necessarily signify anything, but Albus had a feeling it did.

"As the master would find it highly inappropriate for a dragon to certify itself in this schoolroom, we shall not be using the anamatek as often this condition,"Balladanis continued,"But we will be using it a few multiplication. You will find that there are more lectures in this term, much to my dislike. There is nothing I would wish comfortably than to teach you about acromantulas and lycanthrope with practical lessons, but there are both laws and school pattern that prevent such lessons."

Albus and matt glanced at each early. It was official. Professor Balladanis was insane. What kind of teacher would want to instruct about dragons with experience dragon ? fountainhead, Hagrid would, but he was n't the same as Balladanis.

"yield out some parchment,"Balladanis said,"We 're going to begin learning about acromantulas today ...."

The eternal rest of the day went by relatively quickly. Albus actually did not suffer Quiditch practice session that dark, so everyone went to the Marauder 's Den after dinner.

"Divination is such a antic,"John said as he tossed his bag onto the flooring and collapsed onto a redact,"We started crystal ball gazing today. All I saw was a load of fog."

"I told you not to guide it,"Rose said as she pulled a spate of al-Qur'an out of her own bag.

"I did n't think it would be this bad,"john groaned,"There is no way anyone could see anything in a crystal ball."

"Palmistry was better,"Amanda said,"And Trelawney makes the whole matter worse."

"Trelawney could nominate Defense bad,"Albus replied.

"Balladanis told us that he wished he could learn us about dark creatures using the anamatek,"rosebush said,"Seriously, he wanted a basilisk to look in the middle of the classroom."

"That would be stupid,"Kaden said as he unwrapped a Chocolate Gaul,"Those can kill you with their eyes."

"I know,"blush wine said,"Balladanis is insane."

"Do you recollect that anamatek could turn into a werewolf if the moon was n't full ?"John asked.

"Probably not,"Matt answered,"It would just be a beast. I think it would just be a beast any other time of the month, too, because there 's no way it could turn person into a werewolf by biting them."

"That 's ripe,"Albus said,"Because he did say that he 'd use the anamatek a few meter this full term. Wonder if he 'll have it turn into a vampire."

"No need,"John laughed,"We 've got Linda."

"If you think of it that way, there 's no point to have it turn into a fake loup-garou either,"pink wine pointed out.

"Good point, I guess,"john muttered.

******

The relief of the week went by quickly. Albus had Quidditch practice Thursday evening, and woods informed the hale team that they 'd suffer rusty over the holiday. He also told them that the next match was in two weeks and they 'd be playing New House of York. If they won, they 'd be in bit place.

Albus had a dueling lesson with Balladanis the following eve and he had absolutely no approximation how he was going to ask what Balladanis 's former job had been.

Albus arrived at Balladanis 's room before Malfoy and entered to find Balladanis clearing all of the desks from the center of the room.

"Mr. Potter,"Balladanis turned around and greeted Albus,"Is it safety to feign that you did not go wandering about late at night alone after New yr 's ?"

"Yes, sir,"Albus muttered as he felt his case turn red. He was quite glad Malfoy was n't there yet.

"Mr. Malfoy,"Balladanis said as Malfoy walked into the room,"Now we may start out. I have decided that your reason of the Protego charm is satisfactory so we are going to move on to something else.

"This particular charm, when performed correctly, manages to disarm and disorient a person at the same clip. The sense is often described as dizziness. Can either of you tell me what why this charm would be more useful than a received disarming magic spell ?"

"Because it 's easier to duel someone who 's dizzy than someone who is n't,"Malfoy said.

"More specifically than that,"Balladanis said,"Mr. ceramist ?"

"Er, because you can get the person tied up while they 're disoriented ? If they 're a saturnine virtuoso you 're trying to catch,"Albus replied.

"Another good reasonableness, but not the one I was thinking of,"Balladanis began to walk slowly around the way,"sorcerer who are expecting to have to duel other champion often keep multiple wands on their person. There are tour that can be performed on these scepter to celebrate them attached to your gown or your genuine body, spells that Expelliarmus wo n't surmount easily. However, these spells require invariant denseness.

"If a star is hit with the charm I am about to teach you, they will drop off the tightness necessary to keep on their extra baton affixed. Then, you can use Expelliarmus to get the supernumerary wands."

"Can you teach us that charm to stay fresh supererogatory verge in our robe ?"Malfoy asked.

"Perhaps towards the end of the year. It takes immense tightness and magical energy to simultaneously perform that charm while dueling mortal,"Balladanis explained,"For now, you will learn the charm to disarm and disorient a somebody at the Lapp time.

"The incantation is 'Confundo-Expelliarmus'. A compounding of Confundus and Expelliarmus. Mr. Malfoy, you will go first. When I say so, execute the charm against Mr. Potter. Mr. potter, you may try and stop him using the Protego charm I taught you earlier."

Albus nodded, wishing he had been chosen to execute the new appealingness first, and faced Malfoy. He held his verge up and muttered 'Protego'under his breathing time. He focused all of his concentration on holding the shield up.

"Now, Mr. Malfoy,"Balladanis muttered.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Malfoy shouted.

Albus felt the charm hit his shield, but it did n't get around through. He gripped his wand harder and stared at Malfoy.

"Keep going,"Balladanis said to Malfoy.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Malfoy shouted again.

The magical spell hit Albus 's shield a little harder this time. Albus could feel beads of sweat forming on his forehead.

Malfoy kept going and it took him five multiplication to snap off through Albus 's shield. When it happened, Albus felt his scepter leave behind his hired man and was overcome by a moving ridge of giddiness at the Lapplander time. He felt exactly like he had when he had gotten the flu the previous twelvemonth, only without the fever.

Albus did n't pay any attention to what Malfoy and Balladanis were doing. He felt like he was going to take place out and he had to sit down. He sat down right on the floor and was vaguely aware of Balladanis standing over him.

Then, all of a sudden, the dizziness was gone. Albus shook his nous and then looked up and saw Balladanis and Malfoy standing in front of him. Malfoy looked impressed and Balladanis looked like he always did.

"You did quite well with that shield,"Balladanis said as Albus stood up,"And I think it 's secure to arrogate that you could n't throw held concentration for any spells after Mr. Malfoy succeeded in breaking your shield."

"No, sir,"Albus shook his head.

"Normally the charm 's effects would experience lasted longer, but I performed the counter-curse because it looked like you were gear up to pass out,"Balladanis explained,"When you 're ready, you can try the charm."

"I 'm gear up,"Albus said as he took his wand back from Malfoy.

Balladanis gave Malfoy a few indorsement to get his shield up and then nodded at Albus to perform the charm.

"Confundo-Expelliarmus !"Albus shouted. As he expected, the magical spell did not offend Malfoy 's shield.

Much to Albus 's delight, he managed to break the shield on the fourth try. One less try than Malfoy had needed for Albus.

The charm hit Malfoy in the chest of drawers and his baton soared towards Albus. Albus caught it and watched as Malfoy bent grass over and fell to the dry land, much like Albus himself had done.

Balladanis gave Albus one of his rarefied smile and then pulled out his own verge. He waved it at Malfoy and Malfoy looked up.

"That was Weird,"Malfoy muttered.

"It 's supposed to be,"Balladanis said,"Now get up and we 'll do it again."

Balladanis kept them at it for the better office of an 60 minutes, past times when Albus would experience liked to drop by the wayside. It was exhausting to be hit with that spell time after time while trying to support up a shield charm. Malfoy did n't seem to be faring a lot better and Albus thought he was even going to ask Balladanis to stop over after a half hour, but Malfoy closed his backtalk, obviously thinking better of it.

The praxis was n't for zippo, though. Albus managed to have Malfoy off prospicient and longer each metre and although Malfoy was getting better at the shield charm as well, Albus broke through it a few more times.

"That 's sufficiency for tonight,"Balladanis finally said after he performed the countercurse on Albus for what must bear been the tenth time that night,"I 'll see you in class on Tuesday."

Malfoy made a beeline for the doorway, but Albus turned to Balladanis instead. He might as well just get it over with. There was no good way to ask Balladanis what his previous job had been. He just had to do it.

"Er, Sir,"Albus began,"I was just wondering, what did you do before you began teaching here ?"

Balladanis gave Albus the strangest flavour he had ever seen. It was a admixture of anger, lugubriousness, and even repent. For a present moment, Albus wished he had n't asked. It was too personal. He should hold just told Gospel According to John they would n't be able to find out.

"Now is not the sentence,"Balladanis said quietly,"All in good time, I will tell apart you."

Albus was taken aback. That was more than than he had expected. He had thought Balladanis would have told him to heed his own business and get back to Gryffindor pillar before curfew. Albus was going to find out, he was just going to accept to be patient.

Albus left the room as quickly as he could in his consume State, before Balladanis could change his mind about eventually telling Albus about his former calling. The paseo back to Gryffindor tugboat seemed yearner than common and all Albus wanted to do was crash into bed when he finally got there.

Instead, he was ambushed by all of his booster. All five of them looked floor and Amanda looked like she was going to be sick. He looked around the common way and saw that most people looked shocked and everyone was subdued. There was no joking around going on. Even James was quietly sitting at one of the tables.

"What happened ?"Albus whispered as he followed them back to their common board.

Rose opened her back talk to speak and then closed her eyes, unable to do so. Albus turned to John Lackland and raised his eyebrows.

"You know that chap who owns Dervish and Banges ?"King John asked quietly.

Albus nodded, having seen the man on numerous occasions when he was in Hogsmeade. He was slightly older than Albus 's parents, with greying hair and a very intense personality. He never hesitated to make his opinions known

"someone killed him,"trick said in barely more than a whisper.

"Wh-what ?"Albus turned to look at all his Quaker in turn of events. flatness nodded ever so slightly and then put his head on his hands.

"must 've just happened,"John Lackland said,"They just found him. Madam Rosmerta heard a commotion and Flooed here, to get the Auror on obligation. By the time they got back, his workshop was a complete kettle of fish inside and he was laying dead on the trading floor. Avada Kedavra. They 're searching Hogsmeade, the forest, the grounds, and the school. nobody 's allowed out of their rough-cut room and dormitories."

"We thought Balladanis would bring you back here when it happened,"rose said.

"nonentity even came in to tell us,"Albus replied, still in shock.

People were n't just randomly killed in Hogsmeade. That sort of thing just did n't happen anymore. Not since Voldemort had been defeated. Well, Professor Torro had been killed back before his first class and then that one witch from the Ministry had been killed over Christmas Day, but their killer whale had never been found and nothing had happened since.

"Why would anyone kill him ?"flatness wondered aloud.

"Why would anyone kill anyone ?"pink wine replied.

The portrait golf hole opened and all the whisper stopped. Everyone looked to see who came in. It was prof Longbottom, looking worse for the wear. His gown were disheveled and his tie was askew.

"Aurors are still searching the castle and the primer,"he told them,"I suggest you all try and get some sleep. The search will be long over by sunrise, so you will be unloosen to leave the mutual room then."

Albus and his supporter looked at each other after Longbottom left. They wordlessly went up to their dormitories, Kaden going with Albus instead of to the mo years'dorm. cipher said anything as he curled up on the floor with one of Albus 's give up blankets. Albus got into bed and stared at the ceiling. He had been so exhausted earlier, but now there was no way he 'd get a great deal rest that night.


A/N : Thanks to my Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awing lecturer and referee !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


tiffin was very subdued the adjacent day. Most people had slept quite lately since it was a Saturday. Every bookman of Hogwarts had their nozzle in a copy of the Prophet, be it their own or a ally 's. The stave table looked the same, with every professor either reading the Prophet or whispering with another professor, no question about what they 'd read.

Albus was reading Georgia 's Prophet as she had finished with it and made a mental short letter to start subscribing himself. All of his friends were peering over his shoulders. Even Linda was hovering around them, a foot or so away.

HOGSMEADE market keeper MURDERED

A disturbance in Dervish and Banges late
yesterday evening that sent one Hogsmeade
occupier to Hogwarts to find the Auror on
duty lead to the discovery of the death
of a shopkeeper.

Leroy Wisander, 42, the ten-year owner of
Dervish and Banges was pronounced dead
on the scene by Ministry Aurors yesterday
eve. His shop class had been broken into
and it showed star sign of a struggle.
Wisander was discovered in the center of
destroyed merchandise with his wand
laying a few animal foot away. Aurors confirmed
that he was killed with the killing curse.

An extensive search of Hogsmeade, the
forest, Hogwarts, and its terra firma turned
up null despite the 60 minutes Aurors spent
searching. No fingerprint were found on
the scene.

Aurors will be devoting prison term to finding
Wisander 's killer and a potential motive.

Leroy Wisander had owned Dervish and Banges
for a little over ten years, when he
purchased the shop from its previous owner
who retired. However, Wisander is more
known for the scathing newspaper column he writes
for this very newspaper.

Anyone who knew Wisander knew he was a man
of very substantial opinion and did not hesitate
to let others know his sentiment. His most
recent editorials have explored the discipline
of lycanthrope, vampire, and former so called
'half-breeds'right hand. Aurors have declined
remark on whether they believe Wisander 's
editorial are a possible motive for his
murder. Wisander 's obit can be found
on page five.

Albus set the paper down and his friends all resumed their rear. cypher said a word for a few minutes. Albus did n't know what to think. The clause certainly made it seem like Wisander was killed because of his beliefs. However, it did n't exactly say what his beliefs were. Albus had n't ever scan any of his editorials, so he could n't say either.

"What kind of newspaper column did he write ?"matte asked quietly.

"I have no idea,"Albus replied, looking at his supporter whose face was quite pallid,"Want to go to the room ?"

"Yeah,"matt nodded,"I 'm not really hungry."

Albus got up and was followed by all of his friends. John and Kaden each grabbed a wad of toast before leaving. Even Rose and Amanda went with them instead of going off to study with Linda.

"Have any of you show his editorial ?"Matt asked as soon as they were in the piranha 's Den.

Nobody had read them. Not even Rose. matt sighed and collapsed onto one of the couches."I 've got to discover out what they were about. I do n't even experience which would be dear, him being for or against werewolf rights. If he 's for them, that means some fella is on the loose killing masses for wanting werewolf rights."

lusterlessness did n't even hold to continue for Albus to know why that worried him. Matt 's dad was possibly the biggest proponent of wolfman rights in all of Britain and everyone knew it. If mortal had been killed just for writing about werewolf rights, what would happen to someone who was actually passing laws for them ?

"That might not be why Wisander was killed,"Rose pointed out.

"Why else would someone throw killed him ?"Matt asked,"He was just a shop owner in Hogsmeade."

"Why did person kill prof Torro ?"privy replied,"He was n't even writing any column or anything."

"To frighten away people,"Albus said quietly,"The Defense teacher position used to be cursed, back when our parents were in school."

"Well, I do n't conceive you should care until you find out what the editorials are about,"Rose said to Matt.

"The other option is n't very much better,"lustrelessness muttered,"If he did n't write column for wolfman rightfulness, then he wrote them against them."

Albus thought lustrelessness had a stage, but he kept his rima oris shut. Any way you looked at it, this murder pointed to the fact that thing were changing. Aurors had been patrolling Hogwarts for months, but Albus had quickly adjusted to that and did n't really think much about it, but maybe there was more happening outside of Hogwarts than Albus was cognisant of.

"Let 's go to the program library,"pink wine said as she stood up,"They 'll hold old transcript of the prophet there."

Everyone agreed with this and they set off to the program library. When they arrived, they were surprised to find how crowded it was. Usually Saturdays were the twenty-four hours everyone put off their preparation and then William Ashley Sunday were spent in the library.

Once they stepped inside, Albus saw that everyone was looking through old copies of the prophet. Nearly every table had a few newspapers on it and a few students poring over them. madam Pince was bustling about, no uncertainty worrying about whether the students would rip her precious newspapers.

"mightiness not be any left-hand,"bathroom muttered.

"This is unspoiled,"Albus replied,"Now it wo n't look shady for us to be investigating."

whoremaster was almost right. There was a very small pile of newspapers left. Albus grabbed them all and then they went to a secluded mesa towards the spinal column of the library. Albus, Matt, and Rose each took a newsprint while John, Kaden, and Amanda played tit-tat-toe on a spare bit of parchment.

Albus leafed through his newspaper, which was about two eld old, until he got to the column section. In the very middle, in the braggy typeface, was an editorial by Leroy Wisander.

HEALERS, brewer TO inculpation, NOT MINISTRY OFFICIALS

As I was locking up my shop net Night,
I noticed that it was a full moon. I
could not help but consider of the poor
people plagued with lycanthropy
currently shut up while attacking
themselves.

Now, I know what you all are thinking.
wolfsbane. The stuff works miracles
if taken correctly. However, it does
no good if it 's sitting in St. Mungo 's
and not being used by Wiccan and
thaumaturgist with lycanthropy.

The stuff is expensive. I myself did
the calculations and discovered that
it would be extremely difficult for
anyone with a low income to afford it.

And what variety of occupation are lycanthropes
often stuck with ? Menial, low-paying
one. The chore where they make hardly
decent money to pay the rent and buy
intellectual nourishment, let alone buy a potion that
could alter their living for the better.

I am absolutely appalled that Healers
and potion brewers charge for this
of import potion. They must be making
a nice profit. They can use the profits
to drive extravagant holiday while the
poor witches and wizards who buy it
struggle to afford it.

There is only so much Ministry officials
can do. headspring of lycanthrope sustenance divine service,
Walter Eckerton, says he would make love to
give away free Wolfsbane, but there just
is n't room for it in the budget.

What do I purport ? I propose that therapist
and potion brewers give it away for free.
They have the abilities to brew it, not
the Ministry. about healer claim to love
helping people, but often it is those who
need it most, such as those with lycanthropy,
are often forced to go without, all because
those with the power to brew it like
to have a slight extra disbursement money.

"Nothing in this one,"Rose said as she shoved hers aside.

"This one 's got one about vampires,"Matt said as he set his paper on top of Rose's.

"Read this,"Albus handed Matt his composition,"Wisander even mentions your dad."

Matt took the theme and he and rose began to read it. john, Amanda, and Kaden peered over as well. Albus sat and waited while they read.

"Let 's go back to the room,"mat said as soon as he 'd finished indication it.

Albus nodded and they returned the newspapers and walked as fast as they could support to the piranha 's Den.

"Bloody infernal region, that bloke must get had so many foeman !"Gospel According to John shouted as soon as they were back.

"I know,"Albus agreed,"And that one 's from two years ago. opine what he 's written recently."

"Why did he receive to mention my dad ?"flatness groaned,"He made it sound like my dad agrees with that editorial and he definitely doesn't."

"He was just trying to stir something up,"Rose replied,"And look where it got him."

"therapist are n't like that. Most of the ace I 've met would give away free Wolfsbane, but it 's more complicated that that. The ingredients are expensive and it takes forever to brew. Not to mention how hard it is. There are n't many Healers who can brew it and even most beer maker ca n't brew it,"Matt explained.

"That bloke did n't know the half of it,"John agreed,"My dad 's a therapist and he 'd love to give away disengage potions. It just does n't work that way."

"My dad 's linked with that bloke,"lusterlessness said quietly,"And now that he 's headspring of the intact department, he 'll be passing more law of nature. Whoever killed Wisander 's not going to be happy."

"Your dad 's a really good wizard, though,"Albus pointed out to his upset protagonist,"Plus he works at the Ministry, where there are loads of Aurors milling about. And your house is more protected than any early house I 've seen, well, except the Minister 's Mansion."

"I know, but it 's still not soundly,"mat sighed.

Albus could n't argue with that. Something was going on outside of Hogwarts. Something far more important than the Quidditch tournament and the dueling tournament.

******

Albus and his friends scoured the Daily seer every morning the following week. Every day there was an article about Wisander, the investigation, or both. So far the investigation had turned up goose egg. The Aurors had questioned quite a few the great unwashed, namely those very blunt against loup-garou and vampire rights, but the lookup had proved fruitless.

The article about Wisander were far more interesting. It seemed that his editorial about Wolfsbane Potion was one of the tamer 1. Each day little patch of his various editorials were being published. In one, he stated the reason why werewolves should n't be locked up on full moonshine. The cause were quite absurd, but the prophet had printed it anyway. Another editorial talked about why vampire should be allowed accession to humans to bite. He suggested using prisoner and allowing vampires to wet-nurse them dry. Thus helping vampires and reducing prison cost at the Lapp time.

"I reckon this bloke was off his rocking chair,"John announced at breakfast the keep abreast Billy Sunday. He had just finished reading an article about how Wisander spent a year bread and butter with a vampire kin group in Turkey when he was unseasoned. They were some of the few people actually up at an early time of day, as Albus had Quidditch practice session and John had a morning detention with Filch for putting dungbombs in the commode in Moaning Vinca minor 's bath the old day.

"That 's a nice way of putting it,"Albus said as he served himself more eggs.

"What are you doing after Quidditch practice session ?"John asked.

"After Quidditch ?"Albus laughed,"You mean, I 'm going to get to leave eventually ? Wood wo n't induce us practice for the succeeding week ? I thought he was going to hold on going until the real match on Saturday."

"He 's got to let you out for social class,"toilet grinned.

"What a shame,"Albus rolled his eyes,"Anyway, I 'll probably induce to do preparation, since practice will go until late. How about you ? Any plans for after detention ?"

"Thought I might gain another detention,"John grinned,"But Kaden 's busy with Bromus secalinus gild this afternoon-"

"postponement,"Albus nearly choked on his juice,"Kaden joined the chess game golf-club ? Kaden ? Kaden Dursley ?"

"Know any other Kadens ?"John the Evangelist laughed,"Rose said they want to teach him how to toy properly, you know, like a challenge of sorts."

"I 'll recite Rose commodity fortune with that,"Albus said.

"Yeah, so both Kaden and Rose will be busy with that. Not that Rose would want to earn hold with me anyway. And Amanda 's doing something with Linda today, prep, I think. And I doubt Matt will be up for doing anything,"whoremaster continued.

"Right,"Albus said, remembering that the full-of-the-moon lunar month was that nighttime,"But you did the dungbombs on your own."

"But it 's not as fun,"Gospel According to John sighed,"I guess I 'll just hang around the den with matt. I can stimulate a nice one-sided conversation."

"You can do your homework,"Albus told him.

"Nope, I 'm waiting until you get back for that,"Saint John said.

"Well, have fun in your detention. I 've got to get to practice,"Albus said as he got up.

There were a few choice words Albus had for practice that day. Long, grueling, and vivid. Wood was in his finest form as he ordered the team to do exercise 60 minutes after hour. He seemed to get more and more stressed as the day wore on.

James did a lot of one-on-one preparation with teddy bear and Albus was Thomas More than a little envious. shimmy was a much more affected role captain than Ellen Price Wood was and yelled a whole lot less. Tyler motorway mostly helped Wood.

Wood let them have got a short-change open frame for tiffin, making certain they knew to come up back afterwards. Albus heard the Slytherins on the team talking about skipping out of the rest of practice, but they were back on the pitch at the meter Wood told them to be.

The good afternoon was very similar to the break of day and Albus found that he could tune up out forest 's yelling quite easily. It was standardized to tuning out his mum 's yelling.

Practice finally ended at three, when the New House of York team walked onto the tar and demanded they leave, because they had booked the pitch for three o'clock that day.

"Remember, practice Tuesday eve !"Wood shouted as the whole team rushed to get off the pitch.

Albus trudged back to the castle tired and shivering. He went straight to Gryffindor pillar and took a very long, hot cascade and then set off to find his protagonist.

Rose, Amanda, and Linda were in the common room, but the boy were n't. Albus figured they were in the predator 's Den and set off to calculate for them after saying a quick hello to the girls.

St. John the Apostle and Kaden were in the midsection of a inflame game of Exploding Snap when Albus walked into the Marauder 's Den a few minutes later. St. John 's face was entire of ash, but Kaden 's was quite clean-living. There was also a big grinning on his human face which contrasted the scowl on John 's face. mat was laying on the sofa facing them, like he had been watching the game, but he was sound asleep.

"Albus !"Kaden shouted,"How was practice ?"

"Grueling. Wood 's ten multiplication worse than Georgia. Five hours we were out there. Five bloody hours in the coldness !"Albus groaned as he collapsed onto the other couch.

"Better than scrubbing Moaning Myrtle 's bathroom with a toothbrush,"trick muttered,"I do n't jazz what was worse, the scrubbing or listening to Myrtle."

"All three of you are so cheery today,"Kaden said,"So many complaints."

"Can you blame us ?"Albus muttered.

"No, not really,"Kaden shrugged.

"How was chess ?"Albus asked.

"I got beaten by every single person in the chess game club,"Kaden shook his mind,"But they think I have potential."

"Albus,"privy said as the identity card blew up in his face again,"Have you done that defence mechanism essay ?

"No,"Albus groaned.

"I need your help,"John said as he got up and started digging around in his bag.

Albus groaned again and fished around in his own bag for his Defense book. Balladanis wanted a infantry long essay about basilisks, which were the current dark brute of the hebdomad.

Gospel According to John sat down at the mesa while Albus lay on the sofa. He just could n't bring himself to get up and do his essay. Instead, he mumbled response to John whenever he asked a question.

"Do you think of the chicken egg under a frog or a toad frog ?"King John asked.

"toad frog,"Albus mumbled.

"You know, I could take out a Rose and differentiate you to do your essay,"John replied.

"Do n't even incommode,"Albus said. Even blush wine would n't be able to get him off the couch.

"Quidditch seems less grueling than football,"Kaden commented,"I mean, you fly, you do n't run."

Albus lifted his forefront up and glared at Kaden."Wood had us doing push-ups and running laps."

"Really ?"Kaden sounded surprised,"Why ?"

"To get us into anatomy after the vacation,"Albus answered,"So yes, Quidditch is a lot of work."

"Ok, ok,"Kaden muttered as he located some of his own homework.

Albus managed to get in a somewhat comfortable post on the sofa and wrote his essay with his book and parchment perched on his knees. It beat sitting at the table ; at to the lowest degree he was able to sort of lie down.

A few hours later both Albus and John had their essays completed. Kaden was still scribbling furiously on whatever homework he was working on.

"We should probably waken him up,"Albus gestured to flatness, who had not moved one muscleman since Albus had came back from practice.

John got up and began to poke lustrelessness 's arm. It took a serious two min for mat to give his eyes.

"It 's nearly six,"Saint John told him.

"Then I should probably go,"lusterlessness mumbled,"Oh, Albus, you 're back from practice."

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"It was really long, though."

"I 'll go with you to the infirmary wing,"John said and Matt did not object. Albus assured him they 'd chitchat him the next day and then they left, leaving Albus and Kaden alone in the room.

John returned a little while later and the three of them went down to dinner. They returned to the piranha 's Den afterwards and trick and Kaden continued working on their homework while Albus slept on the couch.

******

"Albus, get up !"

Albus mumbled something incoherently and rolled over in his bed. It felt far too other to awake up.

"Albus !"Whoever was shouting was now prodding him in the side.

Albus opened his eyes and saw Teddy standing over his bed. A glance at the clock told him that, yes, it was far too early to come alive up. It was six in the morning. On a Saturday. Yes, it was the day of the Quidditch match against New York, but that was n't until one o'clock and Albus was only a reserve player anyway.

"Albus, you 'd better get up now. Sir Henry Joseph Wood 's in the common room,"Teddy whispered.

That got Albus 's attention. His oculus shot back clear and he sat up."What ?"

"fielding 's sick,"Teddy told him,"You 're playing today."

Now Albus was wide-eyed awake."Seriously ? What about O'delle ?"Hailey O'delle was the former reserve chaser, a seventh year Slytherin.

"She 's mad, too,"teddy bear explained,"The two of them are going out, so it does n't surprise me."

Albus took that to think of that teddy thought they were snogging and one got the early sick.

"I 'll be down in two minutes,"Albus muttered.

Teddy nodded and left. Albus threw on a tee shirt and a pair of jeans before running down to the green room, where he found Oliver Natalie Wood pacing in presence of the empty fire.

"Albus,"he said as soon as Albus stepped into the common elbow room,"You 're playing Chaser today."

Albus nodded and sat down for what was sure to be a very long talking to. Wood paused and then launched into an account of tactics, which Albus had already heard during practices that week. He could n't visualize out why he had to be woken up at six to be told he was playing. Wood could make accomplished the same thing at ten.

Wood and Teddy left after Wood finished lecturing Albus and Albus considered going back to bed, but as he was wide awake, it would be pointless.

office of Wood 's speech had been on the weather, which was stale and slightly snowy. Could be worse, Albus thought. At to the lowest degree there was n't a rash. The weather were very standardized to those they had been practicing in all week.

Albus sat in the commons way reading a book he found laying around until his acquaintance got up around ten.

"There you are,"Matt, who was looking significantly better than he had a few daytime ago, said,"What time did you get up ?"

"Six,"Albus muttered,"Teddy got me up. Natalie Wood had to enjoin me I 'm playing Chaser today."

"What ?"Matt shouted,"That 's superb !"

"This is great, Albus !"John grinned,"But why ?"

"Fielding 's sick and so is the other backlog chaser,"Albus explained,"I 'm just gladiolus we 're playing New York and not Australia."

Albus went to the Great Hall to eat lunch with his friends, but he was n't really hungry. He did n't recollect he had ever been more nervous for a Quidditch match. This was a really crucial match, as woodwind instrument had pointed out numerous times. If they won by a astray enough gross profit margin, they 'd be in second place.

Christian Bible had gotten around that Albus was playing in the friction match and legion people came over to the Gryffindor board to wish Albus fate.

"Al,"Harry sat down following to Albus.

"Dad,"Albus smiled. He had n't been sure if his dad was coming to the peer or not.

"I 'll be watching the hale fourth dimension. I 'm sure you 're going to do great. Just think of it as a match against another house. Ravenclaw, I guess, since their robes are blue,"Harry grinned,"trade good luck."

"Thanks,"Albus replied.

Albus left with the rest of the Hogwarts squad a few minutes later. All his friends wished him good luck as he left the Hall.

cipher talked much as they changed into their robes. Everyone sat down afterwards, ready for Sir Henry Wood 's pre-match speech.

However, woodwind instrument seemed to be all speeched out. He merely said that they 'd trained well and to leave it their all. Albus was a little shocked by the gruffness of the speech, but quickly got over it as he walked out onto the pitch.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awe-inspiring people who have read and reviewed this !

Also, I wrote a new Sung fic ! It 's from Snape 's gunpoint of view, as I wanted to try something different. It 's on my writer varlet if you want to assure it out !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Ten minutes into the match, Albus decided there were four types of Quidditch in the human race. perfunctory Quidditch, like what he played with his cousin-german ; school Quidditch ; professional Quidditch ; and then there was the case of Quidditch he was playing now.

It was a combination of shoal Quidditch and pro Quidditch. The crowd was louder, the role player more watch, and the stake were mellow than a normal school Quidditch match.

Albus dodged one of the New York chaser and flew up to catch the Quaffle, which had been dropped by Waverly as he had been hit by a bludger. As soon as Albus had the Quaffle, he was flanked by the other two New York Chasers.

Albus pushed his broom to fly faster and held the Quaffle tighter to his chest. Then he plunged down to the priming coat, where cypher else was flying. He was back up high two second later when he had reached the New House of York finish posts. After dodging a Bludger, he threw the Quaffle into the left destination post. The Keeper was too slow and the Quaffle soared through.

"Potter of Hogwarts has scored !"Lord Todd Smith shouted,"40-30 Hogwarts !"

James grinned at Albus as he flew yesteryear. Albus smiled to himself and joined Waverly and Reilly, who were waiting for New York 's Keeper to confuse the Quaffle out. That had been his firstly goal of the match.

The Quaffle continued to exchange hands quickly as the mate went on. An minute later there was still no sign of the fink and both teams were neck in neck as far as points went. New York was up by ten.

Albus scored a few Sir Thomas More goals and he began to make relaxed a little. The equal began to feel more like a school match and less like a professional lucifer, even though the stakes were still high.

Sir Henry Joseph Wood had repeated over and over again that they had to be up by at to the lowest degree 50 points when James caught the Snitch, or they would n't be able to pass New York as far as overall gunpoint went.

"New House of York 's quester has seen the Snitch !"Smith announced.

Albus, who had been following one of New York 's chaser ( the one who had the Quaffle ), turned around and saw that their Seeker was making a beeline for the top of Hogwarts'center goal.

James noticed as well and flew straight at the basketball hoop. He had been significantly closer than New York 's quester and flew away from the hoop with the struggling Snitch in his hand.

The gang roared and James IV held the sneak high above his nous. Both squad flew to the reason and Albus saw the trouble look on Grant Wood 's case. They had n't won by sufficiency to be in second place overall.

"I had no choice !"King James shouted to him,"She was going to get it !"

Wood nodded in understanding, but he still looked thwarted. Albus chose to brush aside this and helped the remainder of the team to hoist James onto all of their shoulders.

"To update everyone on the level, the Australian School of Sorcery is in maiden position. New House of York and Hogwarts are currently tied for instant. The next match will take property at the end of February !"Julia Evelina Smith told the crowd.

Albus did n't suffer up with his ally until they were back in the common way. Teddy had gone to Hogsmeade and a company was currently underway in the Gryffindor unwashed way. Teddy informed everyone that the three former houses were hosting party as well. The bookman from New House of York who had been sorted into Gryffindor, including their Seeker, were sulking in a corner.

"I think that was your best catch yet,"John the Evangelist said to Albus as they settled down at their common table.

"I think so, too,"Albus agreed,"I kind of wish I could play in the following match."

"Maybe fielding will still be retch,"Saint John the Apostle said.

"Doubt it,"Albus replied,"Plus, I 'm certainly O'delle will get low gear dibs on the next match if any of the other Chasers get sick."

"At to the lowest degree you got to spiel in one match,"Rose pointed out.

"Anyway, the next match you 'll probably be playing Australia,"Matt said.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"If we win that one, it 'll be a miracle. But we 're not even playing in the next one. Next match is New House of York versus Australia."

The political party continued until dinner time, when hoi polloi began to leave as nobody had snuck down to the kitchens to get food. Harry came in to congratulate Albus and James shortly before Albus and his friends left for dinner party. He was also scheduled to patrol the school for the residuum of the weekend and wanted to let his Thomas Kyd know.

******

Life at Hogwarts returned to formula shortly after the Quidditch match. The Prophet printed few and fewer articles about Wisander until there were none at all. Everyone seemed to bury about his Death. Everyone except Matt, that is, who was still worried about his dad.

However, the students at Hogwarts were reminded again of the unsolved execution when the next Hogsmeade trip arrived two twenty-four hours after Valentine 's Day. A destiny of the bookman were too lovesick to note the boarded up shop of Dervish and Banges as they made their way to gentlewoman Puddifoot's.

Neither Albus, John, or lusterlessness were too preoccupied to notice the desolate building, though. The three of them stopped to calculate at it for a patch despite the biting air current. rose and Amanda were spending the day with Linda.

"Who owns it now ?"toilet asked as they looked at the empty building.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged,"The oracle never mentioned any family."

"It 's probably still part of the investigation,"Matt pointed out,"summation, who would want a building that person was killed in ? I do n't even want to go in it."

Albus did n't think it was a good time to remind matt that Severus Snape had been murdered inside of the screaming Shack.

"Good decimal point,"Albus said,"But so far they have n't found anything."

"They wo n't find who it was,"John said quietly,"They never found out who killed Torro."

"I really hope they find who it was,"Matt replied.

"They will,"Albus said,"They 're still focused on it."

Albus, Matt, and Saint John went to the Three Broomsticks a little while later because all three of them were frozen. They warmed up with Butterbeer and were just thinking about heading back to the castle when Albus heard someone whisper his name behind him.

"Albus,"they said again.

Albus turned around, but no one was there. The vox sounded familiar, though. Albus slowly reached his deal out and it touched something solid, but it looked like no one was there.

"Kaden,"Albus groaned,"Is that you ?"

"Yeah,"Kaden whispered back,"I stole your cloak."

Albus immediately stood up and motioned for lusterlessness and John, who were both looking confused, to follow him. He assumed Kaden would abide by as well. Albus lead them up High Street until they reached the Shrieking hut. Nobody was hanging around it that day.

"Kaden !"Albus seethed,"You do realize how stupid this was."

"Yes,"Kaden replied as he took off the cloak.

"Bloody hellhole !"John shouted.

"You stole the cloak ?"Matt asked.

"Kaden, you idiot !"Albus shouted,"I know I first told you this would be a good time, but there was a cause I changed my head and told you not to sneak in today. most of the teachers come to Hogsmeade for the February head trip. My cousin told me. They want to piss sure enough no one does anything stunned because they 're in beloved or whatever."

"Er,"Kaden muttered.

"How did you get in ?"matt asked.

"One-eyed beldam statue,"Kaden replied,"Leads right into Honeyduke's."

"Kaden, do you do it how hard it 's going to be to get you back unnoticed ?"

Kaden 's fount turned Stanford White and his oral cavity dropped open. Albus turned around to see what he was looking at and was met font to face with prof Balladanis.

"Quite difficult, I 'd expect,"Balladanis replied,"cum with me, all of you."

Albus groaned inwardly as he followed Balladanis down the street. They had gone all yr without Kaden getting them into hassle, but Albus should have known better than to think they could go the whole year.

nonentity spoke until they were shut in Balladanis 's field. Balladanis sat down in his chairperson and looked at Kaden.

"Explain,"Balladanis said.

"They had nothing to do with it,"Kaden said quickly,"Albus was just telling me how stupid I was."

"Then it would seem that Mr. thrower and I agree on something,"Balladanis replied,"Where 'd you get that cloak ?"

"It 's Albus 's,"Kaden said quietly,"I took it. He did n't cave in it to me to swipe in or anything."

"Very well,"Balladanis said,"Mr. Potter, Mr. Eckerton, and Mr. Brickston, you may fall to your usual room. Mr. Dursley will link up you after I arrange his detention."

Albus, lustrelessness, and King John could not get out of there flying enough. They walked straight back to the common room, talking about how lucky they had been. It must have looked like all three of them had helped Kaden sneak into Hogsmeade. Good thing Balladanis believed Kaden.

Kaden returned fifteen moment later, looking quite infelicitous. He collapsed onto a electric chair and stared mutinously at the table.

"Detention every Saturday for the next month,"Kaden muttered,"Plus he gave me a talk about how dangerous it was for me to sneak out and if I did it again I 'd get a worse punishment than detention. Did n't lucubrate on that, though."

"He 'd probably get you kicked out,"John commented.

"Did he say what you have to do for detention ?"Albus asked.

"No,"Kaden said,"Guess it 'll be a surprise."

******

Kaden discovered what his detention was that night. Balladanis decided to induce him alphabetize his secret subroutine library, which was quite all-encompassing. Kaden returned to the piranha 's Den ranting about the quantity of books Balladanis had.

"He 's got more books on dark brute than your dad 's got,"Kaden said to Matt.

"That 's impressive,"Matt replied.

"compliments he had less,"Kaden muttered.

Kaden spent all four of his detainment alphabetizing those books. He almost did n't manage to finish and if that had been the case, Balladanis would have given him a fifth detention.

The next full moonshine came and went, as did the next Quidditch peer. Albus was beginning to surmise that the fully moons were becoming worse for Matt, although he did n't bed why.

New House of York lost miserably to Australia in the Quidditch match. They had been doing pretty well until Linda caught the stool pigeon a half time of day in. Natalie Wood insisted that this was a good thing, though. It meant that if Hogwarts managed to hit a honorable total of goals before Linda caught the stoolpigeon in their adjacent match, they would have more boilers suit points than New York. Sir Henry Wood seemed to have lost any Bob Hope that James could puzzle Linda in quest, something James fumed about on a near daily basis.

March arrived and with it a three day rain storm that left the grounds completely flooded. Both Herbology and Care of Magical creature had to take place inside, which resulted in incredibly boring lessons. woodwind instrument continued to hold Quiditch practice and Albus returned to the castling completely soaked and covered in mud after each one.

All of the instructor were piling on the homework and Professor Patil had even gone so far as to mention the O.W.L.s even though they were a whole two years away. The but teacher who was n't talking about the end of term exams was Professor Balladanis.

Balladanis conducted his deterrent example as if end of term exams did not live. He changed cypher about his object lesson except the dark creature they were learning about.

"We 're starting vampire next week,"Balladanis announced at the end of class on Thursday,"Please read the chapter on them by Monday."

Albus could n't assist but see at Linda before he began packing up his things. He wondered if Balladanis would be teaching them enough about identifying vampires for anyone to envision out that Linda was one.

"So,"bathroom said as he flipped through his Defense book the following even. Albus, Matt, John, and Kaden were in the vulture 's Den and whoremaster was just finishing the chapter on vampires."feeling what 's after vampires.

Albus looked through his own book."loup-garou,"he said quietly and then looked at Matt.

"Yeah,"lusterlessness muttered,"It was bound to happen eventually."

"I wonder if Balladanis is going to make you go in for special aid during that unit of measurement,"John grinned,"I 'm trusted you 'll demand loads of extra service in identifying werewolves."

Matt rolled his center."He better. It 'll look mistrustful if I do n't go in for spear carrier help. speech production of extra service, we 're due to go in for it in xv minutes."

"We 'd better go then,"whoremonger said,"See you two later."

Albus managed to cease his Herbology prep while trick and lustrelessness were gone. Then it was meter for him to go in for his dueling lessons.

The desks were n't pushed to the slope of the schoolroom when Albus entered. Balladanis was seated behind his desk and there was a Harlan F. Stone river basin sitting on it. Balladanis was pulling argent strings of something out of his head and placing them in the basin.

It was a pensieve and the strings were retentiveness, Albus realized. For a second, he thought that maybe Balladanis had cancelled dueling and neglected to narrate him.

"Sir ?"Albus asked hesitantly.

"Mr. ceramist,"Balladanis said quietly,"Come in."

Albus stood awkwardly next to one of the front table while he waited for Malfoy. Balladanis stared into the pensieve and acted like Albus was n't there. When Malfoy arrived, he looked up and stared at the two male child for a few instant before speaking.

"We 're not dueling today,"he said,"Instead, I am going to exhibit you something."He motioned for them to join him at his desk.

Albus glanced nervously at Malfoy. Balladanis was n't one for account, but Albus would have appreciated one ripe then.

"This is a pensieve,"Balladanis said,"It is used to explore computer memory. That is exactly what we 're going to do. Albus, be given forward and put your chief into the pensieve. Your body will follow. Scorpius, you will follow. I will follow after you."

Albus 's pulse sped up a trivial bit as he leaned over the pensieve. Was this a poor fish musical theme ? He did n't even know what he was getting into. But it was just a remembering. Nothing could suffer him in a retentivity, right ?

Albus took a deep breath and plunged his face into the pensieve. He had never been in one before. He landed on the hard forage and looked around.

It was gloam and very tranquil. There was a small-scale house in the space, atop of a rocky hill. In fact, the wholly field was mostly rocky. Albus had landed on the one lone piece of weed in the altogether place. It did n't look like any post in Britain.

He stood up as Malfoy landed next to him, followed quickly by Balladanis. Balladanis landed on his foundation and they waited for Malfoy to get up.

"Follow me,"Balladanis said quietly.

Albus did so, but he still felt like he deserved an explanation. Where were they ? Why were they there ? Whose memory was this ? What did it have to do with dueling ?

"Excuse me, Sir,"Malfoy said,"Where are we ?"

"Greece,"Balladanis replied.

This did zippo but increase Albus 's curiosity. Why were they in Greece of all places ? But he did n't ask. It did n't look like Balladanis was in an explaining mood, judgement by his short, one word response to Malfoy.

They walked quietly towards the pocket-size menage. The only haphazardness was their footsteps. There were n't even any owls hooting or heel barking. It struck Albus as very odd.

The family must have been their destination. Balladanis stopped when they arrived at the broken down wooden fence surrounding it. The house reminded Albus of the Shrieking Shack, only minor. It was kind of break dance pour down and did n't look like a place that would be good to dwell in.

person lived there, though. A Light Within was on upstairs. It remained on for a few more minutes and then someone turned it off.

Balladanis made no movement towards the sign of the zodiac. Instead, he seemed focused on the forest that lay just beyond it. Albus decided the forest was as good a place as any to watch.

They watched the wood for a half an hour before anything happened. Then five hooded figures practically flew out of the timber. They were at the home before Albus even realized it. He looked at Balladanis. His face was hardened.

All was quiet for two minutes. The figures entered the house, but did not turn on any lights. Then the screaming started. Albus jumped at the sound of the first one.

They were agonizing, long riot. Albus wanted zero more than to go in and aid whoever was screaming, but he knew he could n't. It was cipher more than a memory. Instead, he looked again at Balladanis.

His professor 's face showed nothing. Nothing but the Saame hardened look he had seen on it so many times. Malfoy on the other hired man, looked horrified. He looked exactly how Albus felt.

The screech was coming from two different people. There was a high-pitched one that must hold been coming from a woman, and a scummy one that must have been coming from a man.

Then, they stopped. First the woman, then the man. The hooded material body left the theatre as quickly as they had entered and returned to the forest.

Balladanis, however, made no relocation to lead. Instead he stared at the household. Two minutes later, someone fled from it.

They ran from the home, towards Albus, Malfoy, and Balladanis. As they drew closer, Albus could see that the mortal was a boy who looked no older than Albus himself. His cheek was etched with a sadness Albus had never seen before. It was too black to assure, but Albus was sure there were split running down his face.

The boy obviously did n't notice the three hoi polloi watching him. He ran right past them, up the rocky J. J. Hill in the length. It occurred to Albus after he passed that the boy looked somewhat familiar. There was something about his nerve that Albus recognized, but he could n't quite place it.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all of the awe-inspiring people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Professor Balladanis did n't say anything for a long sentence after he, Albus, and Malfoy returned to the defence classroom. Albus landed next to Malfoy, still confused as to how he managed to get out of the pensieve, in front of Balladanis 's desk. Balladanis landed behind his desk, facing the bulwark, and did n't turn around for a few minutes.

Albus glanced nervously at his professor as he thought of enquiry he was just burning to ask. In fact, there was nothing about the scene he had just witnessed that did n't have Albus curious. Everything about it had been confusing.

Malfoy looked just as confused. They kept looking at each early and it was kind of strange. They were on the same side. Both of them wanted Balladanis to excuse.

Balladanis finally turned around and looked at them. He put his hands on his desk and leaned forward, looking both Albus and Malfoy in the eye.

It happened in a dissever arcsecond. Albus looked at his prof and immediately thought back to the face of the boy in the scenery. That was why he looked familiar spirit. The boy was Balladanis. Then, Balladanis shifted slightly and the semblance was gone. But Albus knew it. That scene had been from Balladanis 's childhood.

"Sit down,"Balladanis said.

Albus and Malfoy sat down quickly at the tabular array in front of Balladanis 's desk. They were sitting right next to each other and Albus did n't care. At the here and now, finding out what that shot was was more important than staying away from Malfoy.

"A few weeks ago you asked me what I did before I started teaching here, Mr. thrower,"Balladanis began,"I have always had the aim of telling you, of telling both of you. I was merely waiting for the redress moment. I feel that that import is now."

Balladanis paused and walked around to the strawman of his desk. He began to pace in presence of it.

"There is a reason why I am telling you this now. Why I am not explaining to all of my classes what I did before teaching. The reason is that you two are incredible duelers. Both of you have attainment beyond your days that I have never seen before, and believe me, I have seen pile of exceptional duelist in my time. This may be a near metre to assure you how rare it is to have two such skilled duelers in the same year at Hogwarts."

Albus turned to look at Malfoy. What was Balladanis getting at ? It sounded like the outset of some sort of house unity spoken language or something.

"I know the two of you are n't the best of Friend,"Balladanis continued,"But I must say how impressed I am that you seem to put the animosity behind you when you step into my classroom for your lessons."

The sole ground for that, at least for Albus, was because of Balladanis himself. Albus doubted he would tolerate Albus and Malfoy bickering with each other during lessons.

"Back to what I was going to tell you,"Balladanis said,"That fit that I just showed you, in case you have not figured it out yet, took space while I was a boy of only thirteen. It was the summertime before my tierce yr at school.

"I grew up in Greece, in that very house we just saw. My parents, although they loved me deeply, were very poor and could barely afford to put intellectual nourishment on the table. I think they were grateful when I went away to school, the sole reason being that they would n't have to worry about me getting enough to eat.

"I had two blissfully innocent and fun long time at the Grecian school day of trick. I returned home during summers full phase of the moon of narration about my friends and all the balefulness we 'd fetch into."

Albus found it difficult to envisage Balladanis getting into trouble at school or doing anything fun in general.

"Everything changed the summer before my third yr. It changed on the dark you just witnessed. A coven of vampire entered my theatre that dark. They attacked my parents and drink them dry. I hid in a water closet, too scared to do anything. Then, once the vampire left, I fled. I ran until I could not run anymore. I wound up at the house of one of my Quaker. His parents took me in, but things were obviously never the same. I changed on that night."

Balladanis stopped talking and Albus sat in complete seismic disturbance. Balladanis 's parents had been murdered by vampires ? That was one thing that had never crossed Albus 's mind.

"I returned to school that September hardened. cypher was fun anymore. null was funny. It was then that I decided to consecrate my life story to ridding the universe of such evil. lamia, drab wizards, loup-garou, anyone and anything that slaying viciously."

Albus could n't help but glower at Balladanis when he mentioned werewolves. Balladanis seemed to observe this and gave Albus the svelte of smiles.

"However, I did earn that not all lamia, wolfman, giants, and early beingness are inherently evil. Not all of them want to vote down. It was for this reason that I did not wish to be employed by the Hellenic Ministry. The Greek Ministry prefers to deal with magical creatures as a unit and not distinguish between them. Perhaps this is because Greece has a very magnanimous universe of vampires.

"Thus, becoming an Auror was out of the dubiousness. Instead, I chose to go into a more secretive profession. One that you will not find pamphlets on when you get calling advice from your head teacher of sign of the zodiac. One that no one except me is going to suggest to you. Yet it is one that I believe the two of you are quite suited for."

Albus 's heart sped up at this. Balladanis was going to give them career advice ? They were only thirteen. But at the Lapp time, Albus felt excited. Balladanis thought he was a good enough dueler for this career, whatever it was.

"I am a Presuler,"Balladanis said,"I am sure neither of you have heard of one. A Presuler is somewhat like an Auror, in that we seek out dark wizards and dark magic. However, we not only seek out dark genius and dark deception, we seek out wickedness and dangerous beast as well.

"The biggest difference is that Presulers are not employed by the Ministry. There are very few Presulers in the world and we are often sought out by various Ministries and hired on an as-needed basis. We travel from country to country, whenever we are needed. It is quite secretive. I suppose Presulers are a combination of Aurors and buck private investigators."

Balladanis was right in that Albus had never heard of a Presuler before. The mind intrigued him, though. A closemouthed sort of Auror who did not crop for the Ministry.

"I never caught the vampires who killed my parents. I have met one vampire who knew them, but she is not like them. I am still searching for them, however."

Balladanis stopped pacing and leaned up against the front line of his desk. He looked at Albus and Malfoy, but did not say anything else.

"Why are you teaching here, then ?"Malfoy asked.

"That is one thing that is between myself and Professor Kendrick,"Balladanis replied.

"Are you coming back adjacent year ?"Malfoy asked.

"As of right now, I have no idea,"Balladanis answered,"It is getting late. I 've kept you here much long than rule. If you think of anymore questions, do not hesitate to see me. I 'll take the air you back to your common rooms."

Albus walked alongside Balladanis in quiet on his way back to the Gryffindor Tower. His judgment was racing with what he just learned. He did n't get it on what to make of it. It was just so much information at once.

The common way was nearly empty when Albus climbed through the portrait hole. It must have been really previous, since it was Friday night. Albus really did n't know what time it was.

"There you are !"Rose shouted,"Merlin, you 've been gone for hr !"

"What did he throw you doing ?"lusterlessness asked.

"I 'll evidence you tomorrow,"Albus muttered, realizing that all he wanted to do was lay in his bed and think about what Balladanis had just said.

Albus was vaguely aware of his ally sighs of disappointment as he went up to his student residence, but he did n't feel like talking about it right then. He was tired and his mind was racing at the same metre.

Albus tossed and turned the entire Night. He alternated thinking about what he had seen in the pensieve and about becoming a Presuler himself. Then he wound up thinking about Linda and what Balladanis persuasion of her. He had said he did n't concur a grudge against vampire that did n't kill people, but who knew what he really thought.

Was Linda the vampire he had met who knew the lamia who killed his parents ? It was possible since lamia never aged. Or maybe she was a completely different lamia. Albus wondered how many vampires Balladanis knew.

Eventually Albus fell into a restless sleep, but his dreams were plagued by what he had seen in the pensieve.

******

"Merlin, Albus, get up !"

Albus rolled over in his bed and put his pillow over his promontory. After waking up drenched in sweat at four in the morning after a nightmare in which his altogether family had been killed by vampires, he had finally drifted off into a somewhat decent eternal sleep. One that he wished he was still in.

"It 's nearly one o'clock."

"He 's like you are after full moons."

"Shut it. Seriously, Albus, get up."

"Yeah, we want to fuck what happened last night."

Someone pulled the curtain open and took the pillow off Albus 's promontory. He looked up and saw trick and Matt.

"Did you lose to Malfoy or something ?"John asked,"Because that would make me want to hole up in bed for the day."

"No, it 's not that,"Albus muttered,"I 'll distinguish you, but I 'm only explaining it once, so one of you better find rose wine, Amanda, and Kaden. And I 'll tell you in the Marauder 's Den because there is no way Linda can be around to get wind this."

The young lady and Kaden met them in the predator 's Den after Albus, lav, and Matt had luncheon. John kept pestering Albus all through lunch, wanting to know why Linda could n't get a line about it, but Albus said cipher. He was n't even certain if he was allowed to secern his friends about this, but Balladanis had n't really nix him.

"Albus, what in the name of merlin happened last night ?"rose asked as soon as they were all in the predator 's Den.

"Balladanis told us what he did before he started teaching at Hogwarts,"Albus said quietly.

"And you neglected to narrate us until now ?"John gaped,"I 've been wanting to do it for the entire class !"

"I know, Gospel According to John,"Albus snapped,"But it 's not anything what you 'd think."

"Sorry,"John muttered.

"Balladanis took us into a pensieve end nighttime,"Albus began.

"Really ?"Rose looked impressed,"What was that like ?"

"Not that great, to be dependable,"Albus said,"Probably would experience been ameliorate if it was a better memory.

"Anyway, he took us without any account of what we were going to see. He took us to this really old broken down house in Hellenic Republic. sort of looked like a littler more derelict edition of the Shrieking Shack."

"In Hellenic Republic ?"Kaden asked.

"Yeah,"Albus nodded,"We watched the house for what seemed like hours and then these figures broke into it and we heard this dire screaming. Then the shape left. Then this bloke who was about our age came running out with this horrible scare look on his case. Then we left."

"What does that have anything to do with what Balladanis does for a support ?"John asked.

"Everything,"Albus sighed,"That had been his firm. The screech were his parents. The boy was him. He told us this after. His parents were killed by a coven of vampires."

cipher said anything for a long sentence. Albus looked at his friends and they all wore equal expression of shock.

"And you watched it ?"matte asked.

"From a distance,"Albus replied.

"merlin, no wonder Balladanis is so bloody insane,"St. John the Apostle let out a low whistle.

"He decided to devote his liveliness to ridding the world of evilness, whether it be vampire, benighted wizards, or other wickedness creatures,"Albus continued.

"So he 's an Auror ?"pink wine asked.

"No,"Albus shook his oral sex,"He 's a Presuler."

"What is that ?"Kaden asked.

"It 's like an Auror, only they go after wickedness tool, too. And they are n't employed by the Ministry. They 're hired by Ministries all around the existence. They 're investigators as well. Apparently it 's all very closelipped,"Albus explained.

"Wow,"whoremaster said,"I thought he was an Auror or something."

"Me, too,"Matt agreed,"Instead he just hunts down vampires. And, werewolves."

"Only ones that kill the great unwashed,"Albus assured his lycanthropic friend.

"All werewolves have the potentiality of killing people, Albus,"Matt said quietly.

"So does everyone,"Albus replied.

"Whatever his thought on lamia and werewolf truly is, it 's going to be interesting to see how he teaches us about them,"Rose mused.

"Guess this is why you did n't require Linda to hear about this,"John said.

"Yeah,"Albus replied,"Apparently he still has n't found the lamia who killed his parents, but he knows a vampire who knows them. That vampire does n't kill people. I wonder if it 's Linda."

"Who knows ?"Rose shrugged,"I doubt we 'll ever find out."

"Oh, I 've got to tell you what he said after he told us all of this,"Albus took a oceanic abyss breath,"He thinks Malfoy and I should become Presulers."

"Seriously ?"Matt asked.

"Yeah, because we 're sound duelers,"Albus explained,"But I do n't know."

"You do n't have to hump. You 're only thirteen. And Albus, do n't decide anything until you 've read about this. Do n't just go on what Balladanis is saying. I think we 've finally discovered why he 's so passionate about fighting the Dark artistic creation, but it might cloud his judgement sometimes,"Rose warned.

"I know, that 's what I do n't get,"Albus said,"Why is he telling us this now ?"

"Maybe because he does n't plan on staying,"matte replied,"Why would he stop over searching for the vampires who killed his parents to teach here anyway ?"

"Malfoy asked,"Albus told him,"But he would n't tell us. He said it 's between him and Kendrick."

"Because that 's not fishy or anything,"John rolled his oculus,"There 's still something funny about Balladanis."

"What are you going to do, Albus ?"Matt asked.

"I 'm not deciding anything now,"Albus replied,"I 'm just not going to think about it."

******

Not thinking about Presulers and what happened to Balladanis 's parents proved to be easier said than done, especially since defense mechanism class was soon devoted to learning about vampires. Balladanis seemed to teach that particular unit with often more than ebullience than common, a feat that cipher thought possible. Everyone speculated as to why Balladanis was more enthusiastic than usual, but to the highest degree just attributed it to the fact that he was blooming insane.

A lot of what Balladanis taught about lamia was stuff Albus already knew due to what Matt had told them earlier in the school twelvemonth. It was still fairly concern, though. Albus found that the more serious the fauna they were learning about, the more interesting it was. Not to mention the fact that they did n't use the anamatek anymore, a fact that nearly every student was grateful for.

However, partway through their indorse week devoted to vampires, the anamatek 's luggage compartment reappeared in the denial classroom. There was an audible groan from every student who stepped into the room.

"If that thing turns into a vampire, I think I 'm going to get up and bequeath,"privy seethed as they took their seats.

"Maybe we 're moving onto another brute,"Albus suggested even though he knew the opportunity were slim to none.

"That would n't be any dependable. We 're doing lycanthrope next,"trick reminded him,"And Matt said that affair could n't move around into an actual wolfman. speech production of mat, he 's favourable he 's missing this."

"I think he 'd say otherwise,"Albus replied. The full lunation had been the former night.

"Quiet,"Balladanis said,"We 'll be continuing our lamia lesson today. Today I wish to depict you what a vampire looks like, which is why I have brought back the anamatek. However, you will not be fighting it. None of you have the accomplishment necessary to fight a vampire."

"He 's mental,"John muttered.

Balladanis drew his wand and pointed it at the trunk. It snapped unresolved and out stepped a very pale man with chiseled feature article. He did n't move, but merely stared out at all the students.

"Vampires are the perfect predator,"Balladanis announced,"They 're incredibly fast,"he pointed his verge at the vampire and it disappeared.

It reappeared in the binding of the classroom, but it had not Apparated. The vampire had moved so fasting that Albus had missed it in the blink of an eye.

"They 're agile,"Balladanis continued,"They 're unspoilt looking. They attract you in. Then they kill, they suck you dry until you are utter. The choice is not neat, either. From the bit their teeth break your cutis, you begin to translate into a vampire as well. You will get one if they do not go down on you dry. There is no way to block off it, no potion to antagonise it.

"Vampires Hunt at dark when their vision is still excellent, but when man visual modality is compromised. However, that is not the solely reason. Does anyone know the other ?"

Rose raised her manus. Linda did not.

"Yes, young lady Weasley ?"Balladanis said.

"lamia are in meat allergic to the sun,"Rose explained,"When the sunlight hits them, it hurts them. The sun gives them head ache and makes them find sick."

"Precisely,"Balladanis gave her a rare smile,"There is no potion to counteract the consequence of the sun on vampires. Therefore they tend to inhabit areas that see less sun and surface area of dense forest, such as the Northwestern and Northeastern United country, function of Canada, and parts of Russia. However there is also a significant vampire population in Greece."

Balladanis pointed his wand at the lamia again and it retreated back into the trunk. Everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief. The moral continued until the bell rang. Balladanis made no acknowledgment of moving onto the adjacent social unit, nor had he assigned the common end of the unit essay.

Albus and his friends went to visit flatness late that night after Albus got out of Quidditch praxis. They only had a half 60 minutes or so until curfew, but they had n't visited at all yet.

"You missed an splendid Defense deterrent example today,"John said once lady Pomfrey had gone back into her study after leaving to see who had entered her ward.

"Was it any unlike from the usual one ?"lustrelessness asked tiredly. He looked ready to go down asleep at any moment.

"Balladanis brought back the anamatek,"Albus told him.

"He what ?"flatness shouted, although since his voice was husky it was n't very loud,"We 're still doing lamia, are n't we ?"

"Yeah, he had it turn into a vampire,"John said,"We did n't have to fight it. He just used it to testify how flying vampires were and what they looked like."

"That is weird,"Matt replied,"He assign the vampire essay yet ?"

"Nope,"John shook his head,"I think we 're in for a few more Clarence Day of vampires."

"fountainhead, the yearner we spend on vampires, the more clock time we have before we start werewolves,"matt said quietly,"I really hope he does n't spend as much time on them as he has on vampires."

"I do n't think he will,"Albus said,"His parents were n't killed by werewolves."

"Thank Merlin for that,"matt yawned.

"You 're tired,"rosiness said,"We should leave."

"We 'll be back tomorrow after lunch,"Albus told him,"Good night."

"'Night,"flatness said.

They left the ward just as Madam Pomfrey was coming out of her study, presumably to separate them to leave and commit Matt more potions. Albus and his friends headed straight for the mutual room, where they got started on all the homework that had been piled on them that day.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as all the awesome people who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.



A few of Albus 's cousin had begun to take up bet on how farsighted Balladanis was going to spend teaching the third years about vampire. Fred was sure he 'd expend the remainder of term, but Thomas Bradley was convinced he 'd move onto the side by side whole partway through April. None of the one-third class were actually participating in these stake because they were all afraid Balladanis would find oneself out.

The vampire whole was still well underway when the adjacent Quidditch lucifer came along. This one was the minute Hogwarts versus Aussie School of black art match, which meant Ellen Price Wood was in his prime when it came to practice. Albus considered just moving his bed to the changing rooms since he spent More of his prison term on the Quidditch lurch than in the Gryffindor common room.

Albus awoke the day of the match to John 's forte swearing instead of Teddy, which told him that he did not birth to play during that match. He could n't aid but finger slightly foiled. Figuring there was no power point in going back to catch some Z's, he got up and asked John what happened.

"Tripped over matte 's bloody cauldron,"John muttered, holding onto his rightfield foot,"Why ca n't he just put that stupid thing away ?"

"Like you always do ?"Albus smirked and gestured to Saint John the Apostle 's own cauldron, which was sitting only a few feet away from Matt's.

John the Divine muttered something indistinguishable and shoved his caldron under his bed. He went into the bathroom while Albus woke Matt up. The three of them met Kaden in the usual room a little while later and then went down to the Great lobby to get something to eat.

A few hours later the boys were in the Quidditch stands, waiting for the match to get. Rose and Amanda were with them.

"Wonder how prospicient it 'll lead Linda to find the snitch this time,"Albus mused.

"I 'm betting on ten minutes,"John said,"Hey, commend that time we eavesdropped on Killigan ?"

"Yeah,"Albus replied,"Was n't Linda supposed to go flying dense after that ?"

"That 's what I thought,"John shrugged,"But she did n't during the final stage match."

"She probably wo n't this prison term, either,"Matt put in,"I mean, think about it, if Saint James could fly that fast, would he really slow down to a pattern speeding ?"

"Definitely not,"Albus sighed.

matte 's prediction proved adjust. Linda did not slow up down in the slightest. She flew at her usual abnormally fast speed, beating James to the stool pigeon by a few thou. Luckily for Hogwarts, they had been ahead of Australia at that item and only wound up losing by forty distributor point.

This put Hogwarts quite a bit ahead of New York as far as Quidditch points went. Commonwealth of Australia was still in the tip, but they were not faring so well in the dueling tournaments. As of the most Recent tournament, Hogwarts was winning. Commonwealth of Australia was in last station and New York was somewhere in between. Albus was pretty sure that if the Quidditch and dueling tourney points were added up, Hogwarts and Australia would be neck in neck. Whatever the resultant of the remaining qualifying tourney and couple, the finals for both were going to determine the succeeder of the contender. The item were just too close.

Although there was obviously no festivity in the Gryffindor unwashed room after the match, cypher was particularly down either. Albus figured this was because cypher had really expected Hogwarts to win anyway.

******

Two week into April, Bradley along with quite a few other honest-to-god Gryffindors, were able to hard currency in on their bet about Balladanis. Fred and a few others grumbled loudly about it as they handed over Galleons to the winners.

Balladanis had assigned the long anticipated essay on vampires on Thursday, officially making the lamia unit the longest unit they had done. They had spent an entire month and a half on it. The essay seemed to pit this length, as Balladanis wanted it to be two and a one-half feet.

Albus, Matt, and John saved their essays for the final stage possible minute of arc, settling down to work on them the day before they were due. It was n't a particularly heavy essay because Balladanis had given them so practically data on the subject. It was just a very long essay to write. Rose and Amanda had done theirs over the weekend, presumably with Linda. Albus could n't help but be slightly envious of them because doing the essay with an factual vampire would wee it the easiest essay ever.

"Bet Linda 's glad this social unit 's over,"Albus said as they worked on their essays in the Marauder 's Den Monday evening.

"She is,"Rose answered,"She hated every minute of those moral. Ca n't say I blame her."

"How long is your essay, pink wine ?"John asked as he measured his own essay.

"Three human foot,"rose answered.

St. John the Apostle groaned."Do you recall Balladanis will notice if mine 's three inches short ?"

"Yes,"rose said,"If there 's any essay he 'll be extremely finicky about, it 'll be this one."

"Maybe if we do n't finish it we can just pass over class tomorrow,"matte muttered,"After all, I would n't want to picture up in year without the essay done."

"But it 'll be worse when you finally do go to category,"Rose pointed out.

"I still do n't particularly want to go to class tomorrow,"Matt said,"Whether I 've finished the essay or not."

"You 're going to finish it,"rose told him,"You 've got two in left."

"Finished,"Albus announced.

"Excellent,"John said as he grabbed Albus 's essay,"I 'll copy fleck of yours."

"You know,"Albus said quietly,"Nobody found out about Linda being a vampire even after we 've spent a month and a one-half on them. I do n't retrieve anyone 's going to find out you 're a wolfman just because we 're learning about them."

"I know, I 've just got a bad touch sensation about it,"matt sighed.

"Look on the bright side,"Kaden put in,"When you get assigned the werewolf essay, you 're sure enough to get a 100."

"I do n't really care about the essay,"lusterlessness said flatly.

Both Matt and John managed to terminate their essays before curfew and they returned to Gryffindor tower, and they soon went to bed. Albus did n't conceive Matt slept much, though. He heard him tossing and turning all night.

Albus, flatness, and John got a late jump since John had misplaced his vampire essay. After finding it under his bed ( no one was certainly how it go there ), the three male child rushed down to the Great antechamber to grab slice of pledge before running to Defense.

They walked into the room right on time and barely had a chance to catch their breather before Balladanis asked for everyone to hired man in their vampire essays. Albus passed his essay up and pulled out lambskin and a quill.

"well, our unit on vampires is over,"Balladanis said once everyone had handed in their essays,"I trust you have all read the chapter on lycanthrope for today ? If you had for some intellect decided not to do that, I highly suggest doing it tonight."

Balladanis began his common tempo in presence of the schoolroom. He stopped in front of rosiness and Linda 's mesa and then stared out at the class.

"I thought I would begin with werewolf history,"he announced,"Nobody is trusted when the first loup-garou came about, but they have existed in nearly every wizarding acculturation. Not only that, but even ancient Muggle cultures have lycanthropy in their histories.

"100 of years ago, before the Muggle field of psychology came about and recollective before Muggles had any understanding of the human mind, they tried to make gumption of people whom they deemed 'insane'.

"One way they did this was to attribute the insanity to the moon. Over the years, the myth of werewolves came about. Thus, werewolf have had a substantial role in Muggle tarradiddle. In reality, the people Muggles accused of having lycanthropy were merely suffering from dementia praecox or bouts of insanity."

Albus frantically tried to spell everything down. He knew absolutely nothing about the Muggle persuasion of lycanthropy. He glanced at mat and saw that he was n't writing anything down, but his hand was shaking.

"Muggles of course of study know null about veridical loup-garou,"Balladanis continued,"And their Hollywood created lycanthrope have lilliputian in common with the real thing.

"werewolf are plagued with the illness lycanthropy. Does anyone know what that means ?"

Rose was the only one who raised her hand. Balladanis nodded to her."It comes from the Greek words 'lykos'and 'anthropos',"rosebush explained,"Lykos means woman chaser and anthropos means man."

"Very ripe,"Balladanis replied,"Lycanthropy refers to the disease and those who have it are called lycanthropes.

"Lycanthropes have been shunned by wizarding society for as prospicient as history has told us about them. In Recent epoch years, there has been much meditation about whether this is necessary or even a good idea. However, it is difficult to change the judgment of the majority when we have been taught to avoid lycanthropes and shun them from wizarding club for so long.

"It has not been for no ground that this general preconception has came about. When in wolf pattern, loup-garou can not hold in their military action and thus attack helpless masses. This has long been construed as lycanthrope wanting to snipe people, wanting to taint them with the horrible disease.

"This can not be farther from the pillow slip when it comes to most werewolves. Most do not like to aggress others. Within the past hundred class, lycanthrope have begun locking themselves up on the full Sun Myung Moon in order to stave off attacking others. However, there is one meaning drawback to this for the lycanthrope. Does anyone do it this ?"Balladanis 's eye rested on matte, but he continued staring down at his vacuous parchment.

Rose and Linda raised their hands. This prison term Balladanis called on Linda."When werewolves do n't have anybody to attack, they attack themselves,"Linda said,"They do n't experience a pick and they often wind up really injure because of it."

Balladanis took Linda 's thought further, but Albus did n't hear what he said because lusterlessness had knocked over Albus 's ink. He looked incredibly anxious and Albus was happy that the class was almost over. He quickly cleaned up the ink and tried to pay attention to the rest of the lecture.

"We 'll foot up future year with what happens before, during, and after fully Sun Myung Moon for a someone with lycanthropy,"Balladanis announced shortly before the bell rang,"If you have not interpret the wolfman chapter, please do so for next meter. Mr. Eckerton, if you could please come see me."

lustrelessness looked, if it was possible, even more anxious at this vista. The rest of the form left and Albus tried to put away his things as slowly as potential, but Balladanis shooed him, along with bathroom, out of the room.

Malfoy was standing outside the classroom when Albus and St. John left. He had a slight smirk on his face.

"Interesting lesson, ceramicist,"Malfoy said quietly,"Very interesting indeed."

"What do you want, Malfoy ?"Albus asked, knowing perfectly well what he wanted.

"Oh, nothing. Just a very illuminating example. I 've learned so much,"Malfoy replied and then sauntered off down the corridor.

"Merlin,"John muttered,"He knows."

"If he does n't yet, he 'll know after future object lesson. He 's onto it, that 's for surely,"Albus said.

"Onto it ?"John replied,"That 's a prissy way of putting it. The unscathed school 's going to cognise in two days, after the next class."

"What are we going to do ?"Albus groaned,"If we tell him what Malfoy said, he 's going to be too scared to do anything. I mean, did you see him during this deterrent example ?"

"Yeah,"trick nodded,"We ca n't assure him. Whatever Malfoy 's going to do, he 's going to do it whether lusterlessness knows about it or not."

"I agree,"Albus nodded,"We wo n't tell."

"What are you two talking about ?"Matt appeared behind them, looking no better than he had before.

"Nothing,"John said,"What did Balladanis want ?"

"Told me I did n't have to go to the additional help during this unit unless I wanted to,"Matt told them.

"What are you going to do ?"John Lackland asked.

"I do n't experience,"Matt said as they began walking to Herbology,"I know it 'll look wary if I do n't, but I really ca n't take many more lessons like that. Merlin, Thursday 's deterrent example is going to be awful."

Albus saw no point in denying that. flatness did n't have a clue as to how tremendous it would be. They said nothing more about it the altogether way to Herbology.

******

Albus had never been so glad about having ridiculously long Quidditch practices as he was Tues and Wed evenings. He was perfectly well-chosen to spend all his liberal time on the Quidditch tar and then be too commonplace to do much of anything else afterwards.

It was just so unmanageable for him to keep what Malfoy said away from matte. He wanted zero more than to monish his friend about it, even though he knew that would fulfil nothing. All it would do was give Matt care even more and then act even more dying during Defense.

Quidditch also kept Albus 's intellect off of what would happen after Malfoy 's hunch were confirmed. It would n't be anything like when Albus found out or even when Kaden found out. No, Malfoy was going to use this to his reward. Albus was nearly one hundred percent indisputable Malfoy would declare it to all of Slytherin. Then, watchword would spread and the entire schooling would find out. Merlin only knew what would pass when students'parents found out.

Albus knew that loup-garou right wing had come a long way since teddy 's dad was in school, but he also knew that most people would not be happy if their fry were going to shoal with a loup-garou, especially one that did not take Wolfsbane. Not to mention the field of battle day the crush would get with it. matte 's dad had just become principal of the section for the Regulation and ascendance of Magical Creatures for Merlin 's interest. It would be a repeat of what had happened when flatness and his family had lived in Australia.

Not to mention what it would do to Matt himself. Albus remembered when there had been a fragile chance that Malfoy found out about the transit under the Whomping willow tree. He had nearly had a panic attack. What would materialize if Malfoy found out he was a loup-garou ?

It did not aid that the full synodic month was that Friday. mat barely spoke during the brief times that Albus was not occupied on the Quidditch pitch. He sat in the Marauder 's Den with everyone else, but he stared off into space or slept.

Yes, Wood 's long Quidditch practices took Albus 's mind off of all of that, but they did not stop Th from arriving and sooner than Albus would take in liked he found himself sitting in Balladanis 's classroom.

Albus and whoremaster exchanged nervous glimpse as Malfoy walked in with a very smug look on his face. Albus was so focalize on Malfoy that he nearly missed the fact that the anamatek 's body was back in front of Balladanis 's desk. Once he noticed it, he poked whoremaster in the side.

"What ?"whoremaster seethed. Albus gestured to the body."merlin 's beard,"John exclaimed,"I do n't even want to make out what he 's going to do with that."

"placidity down,"Balladanis said,"We 'll go forward our lycanthrope discussion today by talking about what happens to a werewolf when the moon waxes.

"Werewolves, in a standardized way to vampires, are somewhat supersensitive to the moonshine when the moon waxes. For the few Night before the actual full moon moon, when exposed to moonlight lycanthropes will feel ill. The moonlight gives them headaches and when exposed long enough, causes them to miss consciousness."

Albus did n't bother writing any of this down, as he knew first helping hand what happened when a werewolf was exposed to too much moonlight shortly before the full-of-the-moon moon. Instead he stole promptly glance at Malfoy and Matt. Malfoy was furiously writing down everything Balladanis said and stealing quick glances at Matt himself. Matt was staring down at his parchment and Albus was certain he was trying to ignore everything Balladanis said. He was blench and ill, but Albus was n't sure if that was because of the example or because the full moonlight was the next day.

"lycanthrope are often too ill to go about their daily activities the day of the broad moonlight and occasionally the day before as well. Before I describe the actual transmutation, I wish to show you what a somebody with lycanthropy looking at like the day of the full moon."

For a brief second, Albus thought Balladanis was going to call Matt to the battlefront of the room, but then realized that as a professor, Balladanis must have got promised Kendrick that he would n't do anything like that.

Balladanis pointed his scepter at the body and a small man stepped out of it. His pallor looked exactly like Matt 's and he looked just as ill. In fact, the two of them looked incredibly alike. Both of their faces bore scar and had a unwell tone to them.

Balladanis began to speak about what the anamatek looked like, but Albus paid no attention. Instead he looked to Malfoy. Malfoy stared at the anamatek for a minute or so with jar and then he glanced at Matt. Finally, he met Albus 's gaze and Albus saw the large smirk he had ever seen on the Slytherin 's case. That was it. Albus knew it. Malfoy had made the connection.

The remainder of the lesson passed by in a sort of fog for Albus. He and John had exchanged glances and the look on john 's face told him he had noticed Malfoy 's realization as well. Albus heard Balladanis 's talk, but he did n't treat it.

The object lesson seemed to drag on and speed by at the Lapplander time. Albus wanted it to be over so he could get out of there, but at the same clip he did not want to bang what was going to happen after.

"Next example will pore on Wolfsbane Potion and the effects it has had on lycanthrope right field,"Balladanis announced at the end of the deterrent example,"Class dismissed."

Albus and whoremaster looked at each other. Albus did n't bang what to do. Should he confront Malfoy ? Or should he evidence flatness what happened ? mat seemed forgetful to the whole thing.

They silently decided just to leave the schoolroom and decide what to do after. Rose and Amanda had left with Linda with absolutely no idea what had happened.

Malfoy was waiting for them outside the room and Albus was not surely if this was a expert or a bad thing. He had the sudden urge just to hex Malfoy right then and there.

"Another enlightening lesson,"Malfoy smirked,"Oh, Eckerton, feeling a bit ill ?"

"None of your line of work,"matt muttered. Albus and John both stepped a bit closer to him and Albus clenched his hand around his wand.

"Bet you 'll be feeling even sorry tomorrow,"Malfoy replied,"It 's about that clip of the month, is n't it ? Tomorrow night ?"

That got mat 's attention. His caput snapped up and he glared at Malfoy. Then he turned around and looked from Albus to John with the most panic look on his facial expression Albus had ever seen.

"It 's going to be a fun full phase of the moon moonlight, is n't it ?"Malfoy whispered, just loud enough for Matt, Albus and can to hear.

flatness did n't say anything. He shook his head and then ran. He pushed through the crowd, much to the dislike of the bookman who were trying to get to division, and disappeared in a affair of seconds.

Albus suddenly felt more hatred for Malfoy than ever. Not only had he worked out Matt 's secret, but he had used it to dash him. In essence, Malfoy had threatened him with it. That was one of the speculative things he could have done.

Ignoring all the other pupil who were going to family, Albus pulled out his wand and had it against Malfoy 's chest in two seconds.

"If you tell anyone,"Albus growled,"I will personally make sure you 're so indistinguishable that even your own parents wo n't acknowledge you."

"Is that a threat, Potter ?"Malfoy pulled out his own wand.

"You need me to spell out it out for you ?"Albus asked,"I think we 're about to bump out just how much better I am at dueling than you are."

"Rictumsempra !"Malfoy shouted.

"Protego !"Albus shouted at the same time.

"Expelliarmus !"John shouted.

The crowd moved away so that there was a rotary of onlookers surrounding the affaire d'honneur. Albus ignored them. It was just him, John, and Malfoy. And Malfoy was outnumbered.

Malfoy deflected John 's disarming spell and shot another spell at Albus. It bounced off Albus 's carapace and hit a nearby portraiture. The portraiture 's occupant shouted in disgust and moved into her neighbor 's frame.

Albus concentrated on his cuticle magical spell and glared at Malfoy."Petrificus Totalus !"he shouted through his shield.

Grateful for Balladanis 's dueling moral, Albus watched as his shell held up while the hex shot at Malfoy. Unfortunately, Malfoy dodged it and sent a tickle whammy at John.

This one hit John and he collapsed onto the story in a fit of giggles. Albus guessing another hex at Malfoy and this one collided with his expression. Malfoy 's olfactory organ started bleeding and he rounded on Albus.

"What is going on out here ?"Balladanis shouted.

Albus did n't take down his wand and neither did Malfoy, but they did n't enkindle off anymore hexes either. Albus let his shield down and noticed that the crowd had dispersed. John was still rolling around on the ground.

Balladanis pointed his wand at bathroom and lav immediately stopped giggling and stood up.

"Follow me,"Balladanis growled.

All three male child followed Balladanis into his survey. Albus looked nervously at John. Of all the professors to overhear them dueling, it had to be Balladanis. Of course, the one good thing about this was that Malfoy could n't announce Matt 's lycanthropy to the entire school while Balladanis was lecturing them.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John sat as far away as potential from Malfoy in Balladanis 's work. Balladanis just stared at them before speaking.

"I can not start out to tell you how disappointed I am in all of you,"Balladanis began,"Especially you, Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy. I am for sure I taught you better than this. The two of you especially should hump how uncalled for that was. You are well aware of your dueling skills and what sorting of responsibility lies with them. I have half a mind to discontinue our grooming sessions. However, I am willing to hear all sides of this story before laying out any sort of punishment. You may go first, Mr. Malfoy."

"I was just walking to class and Potter pulled out his wand and attacked me. Then Brickston joined in. I was outnumbered, sir. I had to represent myself,"Malfoy said.

Albus had to try hard not to snort. He and John looked at each other and John rolled his eyes.

"Very well,"Balladanis said,"Mr. Potter, if you please."

Albus took a deep breathing place. He was going to recite the level. The whole floor."Malfoy was threatening lustrelessness, sir,"Albus began.

"Mr. Eckerton ?"Balladanis asked,"I did not see him anywhere."

"He left after Malfoy threatened him,"Albus continued,"You see, Malfoy has figured something out about Matt, after listening to your lectures on werewolves."

Balladanis 's center widened and he looked at Malfoy."Is that rightful, Mr. Malfoy ?"

"Yes,"Malfoy muttered,"And I was n't threatening him. I was asking him about it. I think I have the right to know if I 'm in schoolhouse with a werewolf."

Malfoy said 'werewolf'with disgust and it made Albus want to hex him once more.

"Mr. Eckerton has the right hand to keep his medical issues to himself,"Balladanis replied,"His wellness is none of your business whatsoever. Please continue, Mr. Potter."

"After flatness left, I wanted to be sure Malfoy was n't going to go tell the whole school about Matt 's lycanthropy,"Albus explained,"And I guess we just wound up dueling."

"Just thread up dueling ?"Malfoy scoffed,"You had your sceptre on me."

"You sent the low gear hex,"Albus muttered.

"Do you have anything to add, Mr. Brickston ?"Balladanis asked.

"No,"St. John the Apostle replied,"Albus is telling the truth."

"Very well,"Balladanis replied,"I see this issue goes much far than a duel. All three of you will receive four nights'detention starting tonight at eight. Each of you have lost ten points from your respective houses.

"However, I am taking all three of you to see the schoolmaster. There are matter more authoritative to talk over than detentions,"Balladanis said as he stood up.

Albus knew full-of-the-moon well what Balladanis was insinuating. He and John said nothing as they followed Balladanis to Kendrick 's subject area. Malfoy walked a few base behind them.

Albus had n't been to Kendrick 's subject since his first class, when he went to talk to Dumbledore 's portrait. The place had n't changed in the slightest. Everything seemed to be in the exact same place. Both Dumbledore and Snape were awake and in their portraits.

Kendrick was behind his desk writing something when they entered. He looked up curiously at them. Albus, John, and Malfoy stood near the threshold while Balladanis strode forward.

"We have a problem,"Balladanis said,"These three have been dueling."

"I trust you to hand out detentions, Tethys,"Kendrick replied,"I am busy at the moment."

"It 's not the dueling,"Balladanis said,"It 's what they were dueling about."

"And what would that be ?"Kendrick asked.

"Mr. Malfoy has discovered that Matt Eckerton is a werewolf,"Balladanis answered,"And I believe Mr. ceramist and Mr. Brickston have known for quite some time."

Kendrick dropped his quill pen and looked up."I 'll contract this from here. I believe you have a deterrent example to teach."

"I believe I do,"Balladanis replied and left the room.

Kendrick conjured a few chairs and gestured for the three male child to conjoin him at his desk. Albus sat down in the midway chair and waited for Kendrick to get. He noticed that both Dumbledore and Snape were paying rapt attention.

"Well, well,"Snape said,"Deja vu."

"Not now, Severus,"Kendrick said,"Mr. potter, perhaps you can tell me if anyone else knows about flatness 's lycanthropy ?"

"Er, yes,"Albus replied,"rose wine Weasley, Amanda Tagger, and Kaden Dursley."

"I knew that Dursley kid knew something,"Malfoy muttered.

"Not now, Mr. Malfoy,"Kendrick said,"I 'll need to speak with them, as well as lusterlessness. I imagine they 're all in class."

"Sir,"Albus interrupted,"I do n't reckon mat 's in class."

"You may be right,"Kendrick sighed,"Do you have any idea where he might be ?"

"Yes,"Albus answered.

"Very well. Please go find him,"Kendrick said,"And Mr. Brickston, please go find the others."

Albus nodded and he and John left the bailiwick. Albus went straight to the Marauder 's Den while John went to the dungeon as rosiness and Amanda would be in potions.

mat was sitting on his bed in the Marauder 's Den, staring at the wall and not moving a muscle.

"I suppose Malfoy 's told everyone,"Matt said without turning to look at Albus. His vocalization was hollow.

"No,"Albus replied,"He has n't had the chance. John and I dueled him after you left. Balladanis gave us all four nights of hold and took points away."

"He 'll recite everyone soon,"mat replied,"I should probably go pack. You know, I really thought I 'd get to finish schooltime. That 's not even the speculative parting. It 's going to be all over the seer. My dad 's going to lose his job again. We 'll probably have to travel to New York."

He finally turned around and looked at Albus. He no longer looked anxious. He looked absolutely terrified, yet sad at the same time.

"Why did Balladanis have to be such a good teacher ?"Matt groaned and laid back on the bed,"If he had been some kind of frightening teacher then maybe Malfoy would n't take in found out. He 's just so thorough ! He left zippo out ! Even the way he described the transformation. It was so, it was just so, realistic.

"And that stupid anamatek !"mat sat up and looked at Albus,"That thing looked just like me, only older. No wonder Malfoy found out."

"You 're not going to get kicked out,"Albus assured him.

"How do you know ?"Matt shouted,"How do you really have it away ? I know Teddy 's dad got to delay after Snape found out, but this is different. That was when Dumbledore was here ! Everyone says Dumbledore was barking mad. Kendrick is n't. Kendrick 's perfectly sane and he 's not going to desire to deal with this."

Albus did n't really know what to say to that. Everything Matt said was true. Kendrick was not Dumbledore. Nobody could compare to Dumbledore.

"Kendrick wants to see you,"Albus said,"He 's got Malfoy up in his study. He wants to talk to all of us. Me, King John, rose wine, Amanda, and Kaden."

"I do n't want to go up there,"Matt said,"I never want to see Malfoy again. I just want to stay here. Merlin, my head is killing me."

"I think you have to go,"Albus said quietly.

"I know,"lustrelessness groaned and got up off the bed,"This just is n't mediocre. I hate it. I hate this solid affair. I do n't need to be a bloody lycanthrope anymore."

"I know,"Albus said, knowing just how miserable Matt was at that second. Albus had never once heard him kvetch about being a lycanthrope. Not when he was too tired to do anything because of the full lunation or when he was laid up in the hospital flank for Day afterwards.

They walked quietly back to Kendrick 's written report. Albus muttered the password, that he had overheard Balladanis say, to the gargoyle and they ascended into the study.

Everyone else was already there and they all turned to Albus and lusterlessness when they walked in. Matt froze in billet and Albus stopped and looked at him. He was staring directly at Malfoy.

"Take a keister,"Kendrick gestured to the two hollow chairperson, one of which was side by side to Malfoy's.

Albus took the rump next to Malfoy 's, but did n't await at him. Matt took the former one.

"First, I want to promise you that you do not take to leave Hogwarts,"Kendrick said to Matt,"Nobody else will be finding out about your lycanthropy."

Matt did n't look reassured by this. Malfoy looked mutinous.

"My Fatherhood wo n't check with that,"Malfoy muttered.

"Your father has no say whatsoever in which educatee I admit to this school,"Kendrick replied,"He works in the Ministry, and may I point out that his position is not very high."

"mat,"Kendrick turned away from Malfoy,"Energy anyone else know ?"matt shook his promontory."And did you tell the others, besides Mr. Malfoy, willingly ?"Kendrick continued. lusterlessness nodded.

"Very well,"Kendrick said,"And how long have they known ?"

Matt seemed unable to utter. After a few moments of quiet, Kendrick turned to Albus."How retentive have you known, Mr. Potter ?"

"Two geezerhood,"Albus answered.

Kendrick repeated this question with Rose, John, and Amanda, who all gave the same answer as Albus. Then he moved onto Kaden and Albus suddenly remembered the Sileo Altus charm. He shared one horrified glance with blush wine and waited for Kaden 's reply.

Kaden looked at Kendrick and then turned to Albus. His mouth was agape love and he looked a fiddling panicked.

"Are you all right, Mr. Dursley ?"Kendrick asked.

"fine,"Kaden answered,"It 's just, well ...."

"professor, Sir,"rosiness began,"We sort of put this charm on Kaden, so he would n't tell anyone. He can only sing about it with us. He wo n't be capable to say a thing about it around you or Malfoy."

Albus braced himself for Kendrick 's response, but before the headmaster could say a word, Dumbledore chuckled in his frame.

"The Sileo Altus magical spell,"Dumbledore smiled,"Ingenious. Who performed it ?"

"I did,"blush wine answered.

"Remarkable,"Dumbledore said,"You must be an unbelievable witch, missy Weasley."

"Too smart for her own good, more like it,"Snape muttered.

"That is indeed quite the amazing feat, Miss Weasley,"Kendrick said,"Can you tell me how long Mr. Dursley has known ?"

"About a year,"blush wine said.

"Thank you,"Kendrick replied,"Now I have some affair to talk over with Mr. Malfoy and Mr. Eckerton in private. The quietus of you may go to the Great Hall. I believe there is still a half hour or so left over of lunch."

Albus did n't really want to give without finding out what was going to bump to Malfoy, but he knew Matt would tell him.

Matt never showed up in the Great Hall for lunch, nor did he go to Ancient Runes or magical spell. Albus could not concentrate on either of those classes and was very happy when appeal was over and he was able to leave.

Sir Henry Wood was not very felicitous that Albus had acquired four detentions. In fact, he was livid. He spent twenty minutes telling Albus how he should n't be picking conflict with early educatee so close to the next Quidditch match, especially in presence of teachers'classrooms. The lecturing had only ended when Albus told him he was tardily for Charms. Albus had run into Mrs. Henry Wood in in between Ancient runic letter and Charms.

"What do you suppose Balladanis is going to shit us do ?"John asked as they walked towards the Marauder 's Den.

"Have n't a clue,"Albus replied,"But whatever it is, it 's going to be bad since we have to do it with Malfoy."

"True,"Gospel According to John agreed.

pink wine, Kaden, and Amanda were with them. Albus wanted to go line up Matt before they went to dinner. They had to await a spell for the corridor to pass out before they were actually able-bodied to get into the room, though.

lusterlessness was fast asleep on the sofa when they entered."dear thing he does n't have detention tonight,"Gospel According to John pointed out.

"Yeah,"Albus agreed.

St. John gently shook Matt 's berm until he cracked his eyes open."Wake up,"John said,"Or you 'll miss dinner."

"I 'm not hungry,"Matt muttered.

"What 's Kendrick doing about Malfoy ?"Albus asked as he sat down on the other end of the couch.

"He should put that magic spell on him,"Kaden announced,"The one you lot put on me."

"I wish he would,"Matt sighed,"All he did was recount Malfoy how important it was not to mention anything. He said telling his male parent would do nothing. Then he told him that if he ever did tell anyone, he would face expulsion for revealing another student 's medical examination info. But that 's it ! I mean, Malfoy did promise he would n't say anything, but who really knows ? certainly, if he tells, he 'll be expelled, but that wo n't take it back. I 'd still have to leave."

"As much as a git as he is,"Albus began,"I do n't conceive he 's going to tell anyone if it meant he 'd be expelled. That would be the ultimate disgrace in the Malfoy family, besides being a Squib or marrying a Muggle or something, getting expelled and not being a fully qualified wizard. Malfoy wo n't require that."

"I guess you 're right on,"Matt sighed,"It 's just so strange, knowing that he knows."

"I know,"Albus said,"Do you want to go eat dinner ?"

"No,"matt shook his head,"You guys go on ahead. I 've got to send an owl to my parents, let them know about this."

Albus nodded."We 'll see you later, then. St. John and I have got detainment tonight."

"Oh, right. Good luck with that,"Matt replied.

******

Balladanis 's detention was a bit anticlimactical. Albus had been expecting him to think up some really creative and taxing detainment, but instead he assigned them lines. parentage were possibly the most boring detention ever thought up, but they were preferred to cleaning the privy or something.

"Potter, Malfoy,"Balladanis said after they 'd been writing for ten minutes,"Your dueling lesson is canceled for tomorrow night due to your detainment. detention will be at nine, after my extra help academic session, something I 'll ask you to be attending, Brickston."

Balladanis said cypher more and began grading essays at his desk. He completely ignored the three son, which Albus did n't really take care. He just wanted to get his billet done and get out of there.

"Where does he go ?"Malfoy hissed at Albus.

"What ?"Albus whispered.

"You know, on replete synodic month, where does he go ?"Malfoy elaborated.

"I 'm not telling you that,"Albus muttered.

"My dad said a werewolf used to teach here, and he got fired when everyone found out,"Malfoy drawled.

"He quit,"Albus corrected him,"He was n't fired. He was the advantageously Defense teacher any of our parents ever had."

"tranquillity !"Balladanis shouted,"I did n't say you could talk."

Albus was grateful for Balladanis 's scolding. Malfoy stopped asking dubiousness and went back to his credit line. Albus sighed and went back to his own. How far was Malfoy going to go ? Why could n't he just be satisfied with having worked out mat 's closed book ?

A half hour into their crinkle writing, when Albus was contemplating switching hands despite the fact that he wrote horribly with his right hand, there was a knocking on the threshold. Albus looked up and saw prof Kendrick standing in the door, along with none other than lustrelessness 's dad. Albus set down his pinion and turned to can. John Lackland had set down his own quill.

"Who 's that ?"Malfoy asked.

"Shush !"Albus hissed. The final stage matter they needed was for Balladanis to think back they were there and tell them to get out so he could have whatever conversation he was about to give birth in private.

"Tethys,"Kendrick said quietly,"This is Walter Eckerton."

"We 've met,"Balladanis muttered.

Albus turned again to John. Matt 's dad knew Balladanis ? How ? Matt had never mentioned that before.

"That 's his dad ?"Malfoy whispered.

"Shush !"Albus said again.

"I wish to talk to you about what happened earlier today,"flatness 's dad said quietly.

"What about it, Eckerton ?"Balladanis asked.

"My son told me about your lessons,"Mr. Eckerton said,"How, informative they are."

"I teach my students what they 'll need to know in order to oppose themselves,"Balladanis replied.

"I think you go too far with that,"Mr. Eckerton disagreed,"Merlin, showing them exactly what a werewolf looks like before a transformation with an anamatek ? Do you see how severe those are ?"

"Of course,"Balladanis said, raising his vocalism a bit,"You 're not the only expert on sorcerous creature. I have perfect control over my anamatek."

"Nobody has perfect dominance over an anamatek !"Mr. Eckerton said.

"The headmaster has already told me I 'm not allowed to use it anymore, so you really do n't need to be lecturing me about this,"Balladanis seethed.

"Oh, it 's not only that,"Mr. Eckerton stepped a bit closer to Balladanis,"It 's how very much you taught the 3rd class about werewolves. The details about their transformations, how to pick one out of the oecumenical population, what happens before, during, and after transformations. Your example was far Sir Thomas More detailed than a tertiary year school text book."

"You 'd find that all my lesson are like that,"Balladanis replied,"schoolbook books do not give enough details."

"I think giving enough details about identifying a loup-garou so that a third twelvemonth would be able to process out that someone not even in their same house is one is going too far,"Mr. Eckerton seethed,"You knew about my son. You should possess been a bit more cautious with your lesson."

"Withholding data from an integral course of study because of one scholarly person is not a secure method of instruction,"Balladanis countered.

"It is when it could be unsafe for that one student,"Mr. Eckerton said,"Fan of the gravid commodity for the greatest figure, are we ?"

"There are times when that is a in effect philosophy,"Balladanis replied.

"We 'll agree to disagree, then,"Mr. Eckerton said,"But if I find that your example are putting my son in risk anymore, you may incur that the Ministry is inquiring into your teaching practices."

"I 'll teach however I like,"Balladanis muttered.

Mr. Eckerton ignored this and turned to the three male child, none of whom were writing agate line any longer."Is that him ?"he asked.

"The one who found out ?"Kendrick replied,"Yes."

Mr. Eckerton strode over to the table Albus, John, and Malfoy were working at. He nodded hello to Albus and John before turning to Malfoy.

"I realize the headmaster has already gone over this with you,"Mr. Eckerton began,"But I feel the pauperism to reprize that there will be consequences if you make populace my son 's condition."

Malfoy nodded."I know,"he muttered.

"goodness,"Mr. Eckerton replied and returned to where Kendrick was standing. He turned once again to Balladanis."I 'll be returning to the palace tomorrow to look your study and classroom for the anamatek. If it is still here, I will take it into custody."

Balladanis muttered something under his breathing time as Matt 's dad left the room with Professor Kendrick. Albus exchanged a glance with John. He wanted zip more than to leave, so he could mouth about what had just happened.

"That 's sufficiency for tonight,"Balladanis barked,"Get out. Be back here tomorrow night at nine."

Albus nearly spilled his ink in his haste to get up. He ran out of the elbow room as fast as he could with John following. Malfoy made no move to try and talk to them again, so they headed straight to the vulture 's Den.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus and John burst into the vulture 's Den a little while later to get hold that Matt and Kaden were the only 1 there. mat 's face was covered in ash and Kaden was grinning. They were in the eye of a biz of Exploding Snap.

"And that makes four wins for me and none for you,"Kaden announced as he collected the cards,"Oh, Albus, Saint John ! How was your detention ? Want to bet ?"

"Not now,"Albus said hurriedly as he sat down side by side to Matt,"matt, did you know your dad was just here ?"

"Yeah,"Matt nodded,"When he got my owl, he wanted to go talk to Kendrick. I went with him."

"well, do you know where he went after ?"John asked.

"dwelling house, I guess,"matt shrugged,"Why ?"

"He and Kendrick turned up in our detention,"John said.

"He what ?"mat replied.

"Yeah, it was really odd,"Albus said,"He came in with Kendrick and Kendrick introduced him to Balladanis. Only Balladanis said 'we 've met'. You never told us your dad knew Balladanis."

"I never knew,"Matt shrugged,"Then what happened ?"

"Your dad was really tempestuous,"Albus continued,"He thinks Balladanis taught us too much about how to figure out if soul 's a lycanthrope and that 's why Malfoy found out. Then he told him how dangerous it was for him to use that anamatek in class-"

"Oh, yeah,"Matt said,"I told my dad about the anamatek and that 's one of the cause he came here, to say Kendrick about it. Kendrick 's making him get rid of it."

"Yeah, that 's what your dad said,"Albus replied,"He 's coming back to inspect Balladanis 's room tomorrow to make sure as shooting he got rid of it. He also said that if any of Balladanis 's education puts you in danger again, the Ministry 's going to investigate him."

"It 's really not a honest idea to get on my dad 's bad side,"lustrelessness said,"What did Balladanis do during this ?"

"He kept saying that he was going to teach however he wanted,"Albus explained,"Honestly, he did not look glad that your dad was there. I think something happened between the two of them."

"But what ?"lusterlessness asked,"Dad 's never mentioned him before."

"Think he 'd separate you if you asked ?"privy wondered.

"Probably,"matt said,"I 'll owl him about it."

"Oh, and then your dad told Malfoy he 'd ameliorate not tell anyone you 're a lycanthrope,"whoremaster said,"He looked pretty shuddery, too. I do n't suppose Malfoy 's going to tell anyone."

******

It did not postulate very long for word to fan out that Balladanis had gotten in trouble for having an anamatek. Galleons exchanged hands the succeeding sunrise at breakfast, as a few older bookman had bet on how hanker he would have got it. Somehow everyone knew that Matt 's dad had showed up at Hogwarts the previous night and informed Kendrick about it.

Kaden had Defense that morning and reported to Albus at dejeuner that Balladanis was even hard-and-fast than usual and seemed incredibly angry. That did not bode well for Albus 's detention that evening.

"He 's downright shivery,"Kaden said as he piled steak and kidney pie onto his plate,"Yelled at one of the Ravenclaws in my division for spilling her ink. She was nearly in rip. But I 'd hate to be in your division, Albus, he 's going to be brutal. I mean, it 's pretty much because of Matt that he got in trouble."

lustrelessness had gone up to the Marauder 's Den after they got out of Herbology since he felt ill and was n't in dejeuner. Albus knew that Kaden was right. Balladanis was going to take this out on lustrelessness, and possibly Malfoy as well.

"I do n't eff why he cares so a good deal,"John shrugged,"I mean, the Ministry could have just taken that matter away. He 's lucky he just had to deal it back to his house or whatever."

"I do n't reckon he likes the government,"Albus said,"That 's the smell I got after listening to him tattle about what he did before didactics here. I think that 's why he did that, instead of becoming an Auror."

"well, I think it 's a good idea for the Ministry to make him drive that thing home,"John said.

"Me, too,"Albus agreed,"I mean, he could 've turned it into a manticore next."

Kaden went to social class after dejeuner while Albus and lav went up to the marauder 's Den with rosebush and Amanda.

"Think he 's owled his dad yet ?"trick asked as he gestured to lusterlessness, who was asleep in his bed.

"Doubt it,"Albus said,"He 's probably been asleep since he got up here."

"Merlin, I just want to hump what happened between his dad and Balladanis,"St. John the Apostle groaned.

"You 're so impatient,"Rose commented,"Just let him sleep."

"I was n't going to waken him up,"trick muttered.

The difference of the good afternoon passed by quickly. Albus was dreading his detainment later and Saint John the Apostle complained loudly about how he had to go to the extra help academic session about werewolves when he already knew so much about them.

Albus woke Matt up shortly before dinner and he looked much worse than he usually did the day of full moons. They all escorted him to the hospital backstage, where Madam Pomfrey rushed him into bed.

Just as they were about to leave the hospital wing, the doors opened and in walked lusterlessness 's dad. Albus assumed he was there to check if Balladanis had gotten rid of his anamatek.

trick nudged Albus."We should ask him about Balladanis,"toilet whispered.

"He 's not going to tell us now,"Albus muttered back,"looking at him."

Mr. Eckerton looked tired out and incredibly worried. He nodded to Albus and the others before rushing over to Matt 's bed and talking to madam Pomfrey in hushed whispers.

As it turned out, Albus had been worrying about the custody for aught. He entered the room before Malfoy and trick was already doing his business. Balladanis said absolutely nix to Albus as he handed him parchment. Malfoy arrived a piddling while later and still Balladanis said nothing.

Malfoy did not talk either. He did not ask anything about matte and did n't even comment that the full moon was that night.

Balladanis let them entrust at half past times ten. Albus and toilet found Kaden in the marauder 's Den and spent the remaining fourth dimension left until Astronomy playing Exploding snatch and thaumaturgist 's Chess.

"Why, why do we have to make this class with the Slytherins ?"John groaned as they made their way to the Astronomy towboat,"If Malfoy does n't make a single remark about the replete synodic month, I 'll eat an entire cauldron."

"I 'm going to guard you to that,"Albus laughed,"But I do n't reckon you 'll own to."

Malfoy went so far as to actually set his scope up succeeding to Albus 's. professor Polo spent ten minute of arc telling them that they were to diagram the place of Mars, Venus, the moon, and a handful of stars before turning them suffer to actually do so.

"The moonshine is so bright,"Malfoy whispered,"And big and ... full ...."

Albus looked at John the Evangelist."Looks like I wo n't be eating my caldron tonight,"John muttered.

"Just shut it, Malfoy,"Albus said.

"Is n't his dad the Head of the Department for the Regulation and restraint of Magical Creatures ? Yeah, he must be, because he 's the one who made Balladanis get rid of the anamatek. Ca n't say I 'm really upset about that,"Malfoy said quietly,"But how ironic."

"Just halt talking about it,"Albus muttered.

"Oh, hail on, thrower. Even you have to appreciate the irony,"Malfoy said.

"will you just shut up,"Albus seethed.

"Quiet over there,"Polo said.

Malfoy smirked at Albus one more than time before going back to his telescope. The rest of the example passed without anymore comment from Malfoy and Albus was quite happy when he was able to return to his dormitory.

******

"It 's like back in outset year,"Albus sighed,"Remember when Madam Pomfrey locked the hospital wing ?"

"That 's why this is bad !"Rose said.

"Well, she did n't lock us out this time,"John pointed out.

"She did n't exactly let us in either,"Kaden said.

Albus and his friends had slept late on Sat morning and after grabbing a quick bite to eat, had gone to gossip Matt in the hospital wing. Madam Pomfrey had n't let them in. They were currently in the piranha 's Den, trying to figure out why.

"She always lets us in,"John groaned.

"He obviously had a really bad Nox,"Albus said quietly.

"Yeah, but why ?"Rose wondered.

"Have n't you noticed that the full moons have been risky the past few calendar month ?"Albus asked,"He 's been taking longer to recover."

"I wish he 'd just let us get Animagi,"John muttered.

"John, I honestly do n't retrieve you could go an Animagus,"Rose replied,"You 'd curve up with a perm tail affixed to your arse."

"That would n't be that bad,"John the Evangelist grinned,"Always thought it would be cool to possess a tail."

"You 're not helping,"Albus sighed,"What are we going to do ?"

"I think all we can do is just keep going back to the hospital wing,"John shrugged,"Until lady Pomfrey lets us in."

Their efforts proved fruitless, though. They went to the hospital backstage twice that afternoon and then right before Albus and John had to go to detention. Madam Pomfrey told them 'no'each time.

Sunday, the cobbler's last day of Albus and John 's custody, was the same. brothel keeper Pomfrey was quite livid when they showed up for the thirdly time that day.

"Nothing 's changed !"she shouted,"Come back tomorrow evening ! I 'll reach the lot of you detention if you come back any earlier than that !"

With that, she strode back into the ward and slammed the room access."Can she even give detention ?"Kaden asked.

"I dunno,"Albus shrugged,"I would n't put it past her."

Albus and John broke away from the radical to fill in their last hold. Balladanis gave them lines, just like he had the past three nights. Albus sat quietly completing them, very thankful for the fact that Malfoy had n't said two words to him since Astronomy.

"You may end,"Balladanis said quietly after they 'd been writing for about an time of day and a half.

Albus threw his quill down and leaned back in his chairman. Finally, it was over.

"I hope you learned something,"Balladanis said, which shocked Albus. He had been expecting Balladanis to continue his silence."If I catch any of you dueling in the corridors again, the event will be much more severe than hold and lost points.

"Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy, I have given great thought to whether I should go on giving you extra object lesson. I have decided to kick in you one more fortune. moral will continue this Friday at their normal clip. However, if either of you disregard my regulation again, I will no longer hold them. You may go. I 'll see all three of you in class on Tuesday."

"Merlin, I 'm beaming that 's over,"whoremonger muttered to Albus once they were on their way to Gryffindor Tower.

"Me too,"Albus agreed,"He 's going to be amazing in family, though."

"Yeah, ca n't say I 'm looking forward to that,"John said.

Albus could n't digest at all in his course of instruction the following day. All he wanted to do was go to the infirmary annex and notice out how lusterlessness was, but Madam Pomfrey insisted that they wait until evening.

rose wine and Amanda ate dinner with Linda, but they met Albus, john, and Kaden near the hospital annexe afterwards. They had all eaten a very rushed dinner due to Albus 's Quidditch praxis at seven.

Albus cautiously opened the door to the hospital wing, half expecting lady Pomfrey to yell at them again. He walked quietly inside, followed the the others. madam Pomfrey was sitting at her desk and she visibly sighed when she noticed them.

"Go ahead,"she gestured to the but occupied bed, which had the curtain pulled around it.

Albus rushed over to the bed and yanked the curtains back. mat looked exhausted and there was a rather tumid patch wrapped around his head.

"I was wondering when you 'd fall visit me,"Matt gave them a half smile.

"We 've been trying !"whoremonger said,"gentlewoman Pomfrey has n't let us !"

"I know,"flatness smirked,"I 've heard her shout at you. It 's variety of amusing."

"Well, we 're here now,"Albus said,"How are you ? Why did n't Madam Pomfrey let us come in sojourn ?"

"Because I did n't wake up until yesterday afternoon,"Matt answered.

"But that was-"John began.

"Nearly two daytime later ?"Matt cut him off,"I know."

"But why ?"blush wine asked.

"A bunch of things, really,"lusterlessness sighed,"beginning, I was worried about Malfoy telling everyone and it 's always worse when I 'm worried about something. Second, I hit my chief really hard at some point that night. It still hurts. Third, the transformations in general are getting worse, because I 'm getting older."

That thought certainly had n't crossed Albus 's mind. Albus and all his friends were obviously getting older and that brought plenty of changes, but he had n't even thought about how the skirt chaser would change when Matt got older.

"So, are all of the full phase of the moon moons going to be this bad now ?"Kaden asked.

"No,"Matt shook his head and then winced,"I mean, I do n't really know what 'll happen in the futurity, but this one was just a combining of bad things."

"That 's good, I guess,"Albus shrugged,"When do you get to impart ?"

"Tomorrow nighttime at the earliest,"Matt sighed,"Although that means I 'll miss Defense."

"compliments I could overleap Defense,"John muttered,"Speaking of vindication, did you owl your dad yet ?"

"John, he just woke up yesterday,"blush wine pointed out.

"I did n't owl him,"matte said,"But he came to see me earlier and I asked him."

"Brilliant,"John grinned,"And ?"

"And,"lustrelessness said,"He told me all about it. He told me Balladanis was a Presuler and was really surprised that I already knew.

"Apparently, back when my dad had just been appointed mind of the Department for the regulation and control of Magical brute in Australia, he hired Balladanis to catch a band of vampires who were attacking Muggles on the outback. Balladanis caught them, but he thought Dad went too wanton on them."

"What did he do to them ?"John asked.

"Sent them to prison. I think they got 20 geezerhood. Balladanis thought they should own gotten life conviction. Dad and Balladanis got into this huge argument at the Ministry about it and Balladanis stormed out. The Aboriginal Australian Ministry did n't lease him after that,"Matt explained,"Although, I 'll bet Balladanis and Lubar would check on punishments. I wonder if he 's hired Balladanis."

"That explains a lot,"Albus said,"Did your dad say anything else about him ?"

"No, not really,"mat replied,"Just that he 's got a lot of issues. Oh, and he wanted me to monish you not to hear to everything Balladanis says during those dueling example you 've got."

"I 'm not going to,"Albus assured him,"I think we 've all seen a different incline of Balladanis during the past times week."

******

Tuesday sunup dawned quickly and Albus trudged to Defense with John. Neither of them really knew what form would be like, but judging from what he heard about late defense socio-economic class in the common room, it would n't be fun.

Malfoy was back to his smug self now that detention was over. He sat next to Goyle wearing a smirk on his face. Albus ignored him and went to his usual table.

Balladanis stormed into the elbow room a few minutes later. He waved his verge at the door and it slammed shut with a bang meretricious enough that it caused the Jordan-Bell Twins, who had been sitting skinny to it, to jump.

"laissez passer your preparation enquiry forward,"he growled.

Albus handed his prep to the table in presence of him and waited for Balladanis to take in it. He paused in front line of the table in figurehead of Albus's.

"thrower,"he began,"You can tell Eckerton that his preparation is later and therefore I will not take on it. If he wished to get credit for it, he could have graced us with his presence."

Malfoy snorted at this, earning him spotlight from both Albus and Balladanis. Balaldanis tossed the prep unceremoniously onto his desk and then turned back to his students.

"Wolfsbane potion,"he barked,"Was created by a man by the name of Oliver Belby. He finished the founding in 1991. For nearly wolfman, the potion was a life belt. Who can explain what it does ?"

Nobody, not even Rose and Linda, raised their hands. Albus stared down at his desk, hoping that Balladanis would n't call on him.

"Nobody ?"he said,"pity. Wolfsbane potion renders a werewolf harmless during wide moons. The lycanthrope turns into a wolf, but a harmless one. One that will just sleep until the moon sets and will not have the urge to burn and kill.

"The potion is a lifesaver to those plagued with lycanthropy. I had been hoping to show you what a loup-garou would look like on Aconitum lycoctonum potion, but my anamatek has been banned from the castle,"Balladanis said with maliciousness,"Therefore you will have to go without the optical. It seems that certain parents, Ministry official, and the headmaster do not approve of my methods of teaching. Unfortunately, it is all of you who are suffering for it."

"I would n't address it suffering,"john muttered.

"Quiet, Brickston !"Balladanis shouted,"Unless you have something to contribute to the class."

"No, sir,"John replied.

"goodness,"Balladanis muttered,"Anyway, the anamatek will not be making anymore appearances in this classroom and your didactics is going to suffer for it. Nothing, and I repeat nothing can replace handwriting on training."

Albus usually agreed with that, but he drew the line at having what was in essence a live mantiger in front of him. There were some time when reading sufficed.

The lesson continued with Balladanis talking about wolfbane. He spoke about how the potion does n't exercise for all werewolves and Albus found his mind drifting. All in all, the object lesson had n't been as bad as he 'd been expecting. Besides his brief claptrap about his anamatek being banned from the rook, he had been pretty rule. Normal for Balladanis, that is.

"Next lesson will be the finish on werewolves,"Balladanis announced at the end of class,"We will learn about lycanthropy 's effect on children."

Albus groaned inwardly. flatness would be out of the hospital annexe by then. Why could n't Balladanis just finish the wolfman building block already ?

"He wo n't be back next year,"privy muttered as they walked to Herbology.

"I do n't doubt that,"Albus replied,"I just marvel who we 're going to get instead."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all the lovely hoi polloi who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


"office your bets here !"Fred shouted the next day as he walked around the park room.

Albus had just climbed through the portrait hole with Georgia and James after a particularly difficult Quidditch exercise. wood was getting them prepared for the match against New York, which was to take place in a little over a week.

"Georgia, Epistle of James, Albus !"Fred greeted them,"caution to position a bet ?"

"What are you taking bets about ?"GA asked tiredly,"And if you keep betting on hooey, your mum is bound to ascertain out."

"She wo n't care,"Fred shrugged. He was probably right. Albus 's Aunt Alicia was the least rigorous out of all of his aunts. She 'd probably invest a bet with Fred.

"You 'd just better promise granny does n't find out,"Georgia smirked.

Fred looked momentarily horrorstruck and Albus could n't blame him. Molly Weasley would probably air him a scream if she knew he was gambling.

"She wo n't unless you tell her,"Fred muttered,"And Heather and I are taking stake on how much recollective Balladanis is going to stopping point. Care to take a hypothesis ?"

"I suppose,"Georgia said as she pulled out some atomic number 79,"Two Galleons says he 's gone in a week. I heard he had three first years in tears today."

"He nearly had one-half of my class in split,"Fred said as he took Georgia 's gold,"James, Al ?"

"Three Galleons says he 's gone in two weeks,"Saint James the Apostle said as he tossed Fred some gold and then left to go find his friends.

"Nope,"Albus shook his head.

"suit of clothes yourself,"Fred shrugged and continued his walk of life around the common room,"stake here, place your bets !"

Albus found his friends crowded around their usual mesa in the green room. Linda was with them. All three lady friend were working on homework. John and Kaden were trading cocoa Frog cards.

"Fred 's going to get himself in bother,"rose wine muttered as Albus sat down,"You did n't bet anything, did you ?"

"No,"Albus shook his head,"How about you lot ?"

"I bet ten Sickles he wo n't net the year,"lavatory said.

"You should know exactly when he 'll get out, what with your taking soothsaying,"Rose smirked.

"Divination 's a joke,"John muttered,"I ca n't wait to shake off it after twenty percent year."

"Told you so,"rosiness grinned,"Sick of making up stuff ?"

"It 's just so pointless,"John groaned,"We 're still doing crystal testicle. I just say her that I see myself dying anytime she asks and it keeps her happy."

"That 's why I 'm not taking Divination,"Kaden announced,"Bloody barren of a class."

Kaden had chosen his division for next twelvemonth a few twenty-four hours prior. He decided on Care of Magical Creatures, Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy.

"Easy preparation, though,"John sighed,"I just maintain reminding myself about that."

"What 's got easy preparation ?"Matt asked as he sat down in the professorship succeeding to John 's. He looked a bit better than he had the premature day, but still wear out out.

"Pomfrey finally let you out ?"John asked,"And we 're talking about Divination."

"Yeah, just in sentence for Defense tomorrow,"lustrelessness groaned,"I 'm tempted to use a Fainting Fancy to get out of it."

"I think half the firstly years are going to do that on Fri,"Kaden said,"I overheard them talking. Apparently Balladanis completely flipped out on one of them today, all over one incomplete prep question. Made her cry."

"That 's what Peach State was saying,"Albus replied,"shuffle me want to use a Fainting Fancy. Two weeks. I know I did n't bet on it, but that 's really all I 'd give way him."

******

John filled his air pocket with Puking cough drop before he set off to Defense the next morning. Albus did n't bother. His oddity always trumped his dislike for certain socio-economic class. He 'd rather be there and do it exactly what Balladanis was doing.

"Werewolves,"Balladanis said as soon as the bell rang,"When the terminal figure is used, most hoi polloi conjure up effigy of lonely adults, condemned to a hapless life that revolves around the moon.

"However, there is a hale group of loup-garou that are mostly overlooked. kid. Ah, yes, nestling do get attacked by loup-garou. Very few survive. Found by their parents when it is too late. Even fewer survive the initial shift. werewolf transformations, as you have learned, are incredibly taxing, both physically and emotionally. Very few children are unattackable enough to make it through."

Balladanis paused and began to stride the room."Parents are faced with a decision after their child is bitten. They have three alternative. act one, they can plow with it. Deal with the monthly transmutation and try and arrive at life as normal as potential for the child. figure two, they can abandon their child. military unit them to live with a angry battalion of werewolves, to rise up to vote out. However, there is a 3rd option. Does anyone caution to guess as to what it is ?"

nonentity raised their hand. Balladanis looked at his class until his eyes rested on Matt. A very creepy smirk appeared on his face.

"Mr. Eckerton, care to tell us ?"Balladanis asked.

Albus, who had been trying hard not to look at Matt throughout the lesson, stole a speedy glance at him. He was staring at the desk, pinion in handwriting, shaking slightly.

"N-no,"matt stuttered.

"Very well,"Balladanis smirked,"The third alternative is to put the shaver down. Not a pleasant option, but one that a few parents select anyway. This option used to be readily suggested by healer, but has now become quite controversial. It is not suggested very often anymore.

"Parents who choose the first alternative, to continue to raise their child, are in for a very hood life story. loup-garou small fry are hard to raise. It is a Brobdingnagian readjustment for parents and sibling if there are any. The bite affects the unhurt family. It changes liveliness, it can rip menage apart."

Balladanis continued droning on and on about how lycanthropy affects children and Albus looked again at Matt. His hand was shaking even harder and his boldness was as white as it had been when he had dressed up as a ghost.

Albus shared a look with John and John reached into his pocket. He slid a regurgitation troche across the board towards Albus and then slid one to matte. Albus quietly unwrapped it and then waited until Balladanis had looked away to shove it into his mouth. John and Matt did the same. Albus clutched his stomach as the sweet began to take affect.

"Lycanthropic minor rarely, if ever, get to attend school,"Balladanis droned.

"Sir !"John the Divine shouted,"I do n't feel so well. May I go to the Hospital Wing ?"

"I do n't sense too well either,"Albus added.

"Shut it, you two,"Balladanis shouted,"And no you may not go to the-"

Balladanis was cut off by the audio of all three boys vomiting at the same clip. Albus leaned over his table and vomited right onto the floor. The social class erupted into outcry and Balladanis tried to keep order.

"fine !"he seethed,"Get to the Hospital annexe, all three of you !"

Albus resisted the impulse to vomit again as he ran for the door. flatness and John followed. All three of them shoved the orange end of the sweets into their mouths as soon as they shut the door behind them. The affect was instantaneous. Albus immediately felt better.

"The man 's evilness !"John shouted,"How could he learn that ?"

"Not here,"Matt muttered and took off down the corridor.

None of them said anything else until they reached the marauder 's Den."As I was saying,"lav began,"What is ill-timed with that bloke ?"

"I think a lot of thing,"Albus muttered,"He 's a raving lunatic."

"He 's only doing it because you 're in the social class,"John said to Matt as he paced around the room,"None of what he said today is actually in the book. I mean, did you read the book ? There 's not much in there that Balladanis has actually taught !"

"He hates me because my dad made him get rid of his dazed anamatek,"lustrelessness muttered.

"But it started before that,"Albus pointed out,"He wants to make you miserable because of what your dad did with those lamia years ago."

"It 's just not fairly,"lusterlessness groaned,"I mean, did you listen to what he was talking about ?"

"It was hard not to,"Albus sighed,"Is it true ?"

"Yes,"lustrelessness said quietly,"And before you ask, one of the therapist did suggest that to my parents."

Albus suddenly felt more sick than he had when he ate the Puking Pastille. How could a Healer, someone whose job it was to make people healthy, actually suggest that to a child 's parents ?

"Seriously ?"John asked,"What happened after they asked ?"

"My dad and my Uncle labourer hexed him at the Lapplander meter,"lustrelessness gave them a half-smile,"Put him in his own hospital bed for two days."

"You know, I 'd really like to run into your Uncle Jack,"Saint John the Apostle grinned,"He sounds like a great bloke."

"He is,"flatness smiled,"He would 've hexed Balladanis quite a piece ago if he were here."

"But he 's not,"John sighed,"So what are we going to do about this ?"

"I 'm sending an owl to my dad,"Matt said as he stood up,"You two are n't going to have to do anything."

"Three days,"trick said after matt left,"I give Balladanis three more days."

******

"Your dad certainly does n't lay waste to any time,"Rose said to Matt as she unfolded her transcript of the seer the following morning at breakfast.

Albus leaned over and read the paper over Rose 's shoulder.

HOGWARTS prof TO BE INVESTIGATED BY MINISTRY
The Department of Magical Education received an inquiry
late yesterday good afternoon, requesting an investigating
of Hogwarts defending team Against the Dark artistic creation professor,
genus Aplysia Balladanis. The inquiry was submitted by none
former than the newly appointed psyche of the section
for the Regulation and Control of Magical fauna,
Walter Eckerton, whose fourteen-year-old son currently
attends Hogwarts.

professor Tethys Balladanis has been teaching Department of Defense at
the schooling since September, when he replaced Head Auror
Harry Potter. Potter had taught the subject for two
geezerhood and wished to focus solely on his Auror calling,
resulting in his resignation at the end of hold up school
year.

The impending investigation comes as hardly a surprise.
Earlier this week Walter Eckerton visited Hogwarts
after receiving a tip that Balladanis was holding an
anamatek in his classroom. This proved to be true and
Eckerton ordered him to remove it. The anamatek was
legally in Balladanis 's possession, so all he had to
do was slay it from school premises. Eckerton told
reporter that Balladanis complied.

However, Eckerton has claimed that the prof
repeatedly put student in danger and humiliated them
in battlefront of their classmates.

'It 's not just the anamatek ,'Eckerton told newsperson,
'I 'm filing this inquiry as a parent, not as a Ministry
official. first and foremost, I wish to protect my son .'

The investigation will get down today and be carried out
by official from the department of Magical Department of Education,
a department that was set up for this purpose after
the downfall of Lord Voldemort. Officials will visit
the shoal and consultation both students and staff as
a part of their investigation.

genus Tethus Balladanis will continue to learn Defense Against
the Dark fine art during this time.

"He 's still going to instruct ?"John said incredulously after he finished reading the article.

"I 'm not going to Defense anymore,"Matt said,"Not until he 's gone."

"They ca n't stop him from teaching until they do the investigation,"Rose explained,"Only Kendrick can halt him from teaching at the moment."

"Then why does n't Kendrick do that ?"Albus asked as he looked up at the stave table.

Kendrick was talking with Neville and there was a copy of the oracle laying between them. Balladanis was not present.

"I do n't know,"Rose said quietly,"But Defense is just going to get worse."

"Which is why I 'm not going,"flatness said adamantly.

For once, Rose did not correct him about skipping class. Albus could n't pick him. He himself was half tempted to skip, but he knew his peculiarity would get the proficient of him.

"Somehow, I do n't retrieve you 'll have the chance to skip over,"pink wine muttered,"We do n't accept denial until Tuesday."

"Excellent,"John grinned,"Now I wo n't take to do that loup-garou essay."

"I never said that,"Rose replied,"You still ought to do it, just in case."

"feel, Kendrick 's getting up,"Kaden pointed to the stave table.

"May I have your care !"Kendrick shouted and the yak in the Marguerite Radclyffe Hall immediately ceased,"Thank you. I trust by now that you 've all either read or get word about the article on the front Page of the Prophet.

"Ministry official will be visiting the school today and tomorrow to deal their investigation. They will be selecting scholarly person to interview. If you are selected, I advise you to answer their questions truthfully.

"As of right now, Professor Balladanis is still your teacher, therefore you need to treat him with respect and attend his course. This is, at the minute, an probe and naught more. Now, you 'd best be off to class."

"Albus,"Rose whispered as they made their way out of the Great Hall to History of Magic,"You 're not going to that dueling lesson tonight, are you ?"

"I dunno,"Albus shrugged. He had n't really thought about it until then.

"I do n't think you should,"Rose told him.

Albus nodded. He did n't want to go, but he also did n't want to regain out what Balladanis would do when Albus did n't prove up that evening.

Nobody fell asleep during chronicle of legerdemain. It must accept been a new disc, one that was previously set back when Binns was still alert. However, the lack of fatigue was not due to Binns 's lecture. No, that was just as boring as usual. The scholarly person remained awake because they were talking about Balladanis. The classroom was filled with the muted whisper of the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw tierce years and Binns droned on without seeming to notice.

There were only six student in the rook who knew the particular cause why Matt 's dad had submitted that inquiry. Albus, Rose, Saint John the Apostle, Amanda, Kaden, and Matt himself. Seven, if you counted Malfoy, but even Malfoy did not know that it had been Balladanis 's lecture on lycanthropic children that pushed Mr. Eckerton to submit the inquiry.

Everyone else speculated. About half the schoolhouse put the blame on the anamatek, even though flatness 's dad had come out and said that was n't the real reason. The prophesier had only glazed over the reasons, not getting into particular. The Hogwarts students wanted particular. They wanted to know what had pushed Matt 's dad to bow an question when none of their parents seemed fazed.

The understanding the students fabricated ranged from plausible to usurious. A few one-seventh years, mainly Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws, speculated that Balladanis had gotten a bit overenthusiastic with his excess help academic term and perhaps utilize lustrelessness as an exercise of individual who did not possess the skills to defeat dark wizards. Combine that with an overprotective parent ( what the seventh long time claimed Matt 's dad to be, which was not actually an overstatement ), and the investigation was born. They believed that the investigating would blow over and within two weeks everything would be back to normal, with Balladanis still teaching.

A few overexcited low years were the on the opposite side of the spectrum. They believed that Balladanis had let a chimaera loose in his classroom while teaching the Gryffindor and Slytherin third year. Apparently they overlooked the fact that nobody had turned up wound after course and the fact that Balladanis would have been sacked immediately if that had actually been the case.

Matt had become somewhat of a celebrity inside the Hogwarts walls. There was n't a single person, living, ghost, or portraiture, who did n't live it was his dad who launched the inquiry. He was stopped no LE than six times on the way from History of Magic to Herbology by people wanting to make out the particular of the inquiry. It was something Albus could assure lustrelessness was extremely uncomfortable with.

"merlin, when will they hear that I do n't need to blab about it !"Matt groaned as they made their way back to the castling after Herbology. Two Ravenclaw second class had just run up to Matt, demanding to have it away why his dad wanted to get Balladanis sacked. Apparently they actually liked him.

"You should just stand up on the Gryffindor board and piss an annunciation during dejeuner,"John the Evangelist suggested.

"Definitely not,"Matt said,"I 'm just glad we do n't have course this afternoon."

"Me, too,"Albus agreed,"Hey, face, I bet those are the investigators."Albus pointed to three functionary looking people striding up towards the castle. There were two witches and a wizard.

"Probably,"privy said,"I wonder who they 're going to interview ?"

"Ten Galleons says they interview me,"Matt replied,"And probably Albus since he 's had all those private lessons."

"Let 's just Hope they do n't audience those two Ravenclaws,"toilet said.

Albus, Matt, and John continued their trek to the Great Hall, where they ate a very firm lunch. None of them wanted to stay very long since everyone was still asking flatness about the inquiry. After they finished, the boy went to Gryffindor towboat to wedge their pocketbook before going to the marauder 's Den to put off their homework.

The common room was mostly empty when they arrived, but Albus spotted Lily, Hugo, and Ashtyn sitting around one of the mesa.

"Do n't you three have form now ?"Albus asked, feeling very much like Rose.

"Yes,"Lily muttered,"We 've got defense and we 're skipping. Do n't say anything about it. There 's zip you can do to make me go, so do n't even try."

"I was n't going to,"Albus assured her,"Was n't it your class where Balladanis made someone cry ?"

"That 's why we 're not going,"Ashtyn replied,"And we do n't wish if we get detention either. Oh, and John, you 'd ameliorate not differentiate Mum."

"I wo n't,"john said,"The three of us used Puking Pastilles to get out of Defense yesterday."

"You should have just skipped from the beginning,"Ashtyn told them.

"fountainhead, you three enjoy your skipping,"Albus said as he continued to his dormitory.

"Oh, consider me, we will,"Lily grinned.

The male child quickly stowed their travelling bag in their dormitory and set off for the Maruader 's Den. Albus climbed out of the portraiture gob and ran straight into Gabriella.

"There you are, Al !"Gabriella exclaimed,"I 've been looking for you. Kendrick wants to see you in his study. Oh, hang on."Gabriella consulted the piece of lambskin she was holding."He wants to see lusterlessness, too."

"tone like you two are getting interviewed,"John said as Gabriella went into the common room.

"Guess so,"Albus shrugged. He really was n't surprised. Even if he had n't been receiving private lesson with Balladanis, he probably would own been interviewed. It was one of those things that happened when your father was the most famous wizard in Britain.

"I 'll see you two later, then,"John the Divine replied,"Have fun."

"Oh, yeah,"Albus rolled his center,"Loads."

Albus and matte left for Kendrick 's study while John continued towards the Marauder 's Den. Albus had no melodic theme what he was going to do while they were gone, but he would bet that bathroom would be bored within xv minutes.


A/N : I hope you all enjoyed HPFF 's Apr Fool 's Day buffoonery ! The staff really outdo themselves this yr. Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight, and everyone who has read and reviewed this tarradiddle !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


There was another Prefect standing adjacent to the gargoyle that concealed the entrance to Kendrick 's study. It was apparently his job to murmur the password to the gargoyle to allow all the pupil being interviewed in. He looked incredibly bored.

Albus and lusterlessness ascended into the study and found three other bookman waiting in front of Kendrick 's come together door. A very bored looking Hufflepuff, who was probably in sixth or seventh year, Scorpio Malfoy, and much to Albus 's alarm, one of those Ravenclaws they had encountered on the reason earlier.

Albus was not at all surprised to see Scorpius Malfoy there. After all, he had private moral with Balladanis as well. However, he chose to ignore Malfoy 's presence and leaned against the bulwark to commence the long wait.

What had been the point in sending them all to Kendrick 's subject area at the Saame prison term ? They were obviously only interviewing one person at a clip. Why could n't they throw just summoned Albus later, when there were less people waiting ?

Kendrick 's door opened and a pale-faced Gryffindor firstly year walked out. She hurried out of the study and one of the Ministry officials motioned for the Ravenclaw to enter.

The Ravenclaw was in Kendrick 's bailiwick for about fifteen minutes. Then it was Malfoy 's number. He took a bit more metre, but finally came out and left without so much as a glance towards Albus and Matt.

In the mean time, two more pupil had entered. One Albus recognized as Peyton Haines, one of the Chasers from the Slytherin Quidditch team. The other was a young Hufflepuff Albus did n't recognize.

Finally, after what must let been at least an hour, Albus was finally called into the room.

Kendrick was not in his study. Only the three investigators were. Albus was now able to see them up close. The one who had called him into the room was quite tall and wore a menacing limelight. Her robe were perfectly pressed, without a single crinkle, and her hairsbreadth was pulled into a cockeyed bun. She reminded Albus of Minerva McGonagall.

The other enchantress was the accomplished antonym. She was forgetful and quite a bit overweight. Her frizzy brown whisker stuck up at all sort of odd angles and she had a small pair of eyeglasses perched on her nose.

The remaining investigator was a wizard and he was seated behind Kendrick 's desk, a quill in hand. He looked a bit bored by the entire affair. He was gazing about the way and had the flavor of someone who was n't quite paying attention.

Two people who were paying rhapsodic aid, or should he say portrayal, were Dumbledore and Snape. Both were sitting straight up and looking straight at the investigators.

The tall beldame gestured for Albus to take in a seat in front of the desk. Albus did so.

"My name is Katherine Torenzo and this is Lorraine Smyth,"the tall Wiccan gestured to the short witch,"And that is herbaceous plant Cletus. He 'll be transcribing our interview."

No marvel he was so bored, Albus thought. He did n't even get to ask any of the questions.

"Please state your full phase of the moon name, age, year, and house for the record,"Torenzo said briskly.

Albus raised his eyebrows. Would n't they already know all of that information ?

"It 's protocol, dearest,"Smyth told him.

"Albus Severus ceramicist, thirteen, third year, Gryffindor,"Albus answered.

"Excellent,"Torenzo replied,"Now, perhaps you can tell us what goes on in an mean lesson with Professor Balladanis, in your own words."

"Er, all right,"Albus said,"well, he comes in and Tell us all to stop talking. Then he 'll collect the homework. Oh, and you have to get the preparation in on time, no thing what. He does n't train late work, even if you 've got a honorable exculpation. You could be sick in the infirmary fender and he would n't take in late homework.

"Then he 'll teach us a new while or about some new creature. Then we 'll sustain to perform the spell."

"What happens if you do n't perform it properly ?"Smyth asked.

"He makes you do it again, and again, until you get it,"Albus answered,"If you do n't get it, he makes you go to extra assist sessions."

"Has this caused suffering to any of the students in your year ?"Smyth asked.

"Not in my course of instruction, but I 've heard of other pupil crying because of it,"Albus answered.

"rich person you attended any superfluous help academic term ?"Torenzo asked.

"No,"Albus shook his school principal,"professor Balladanis has never told me I had to."

"I understand you have been given dueling lesson by him, however,"Torenzo said,"Can you tell apart us a bit about them ? What do they consist of ?"

"Most times he just teach me new spells, spells that are harder than the ones we learn in class. Scorpius Malfoy is there, too, and we duel each former with the magical spell,"Albus explained.

"You said 'most'times,"Smyth said,"What else does he have you do ?"

"Er,"Albus shifted uncomfortably in his professorship,"One time he had us go into his pensieve."

"Did he,"Torenzo muttered,"Please elaborate."

"We watched his parents be murdered by vampire,"Albus said after a brief vacillation. He doubted Balladanis would be happy about this, but Kendrick had said to be truthful.

Both Torenzo and Smyth looked horrified. Cletus was writing away furiously on the sheepskin. Snape was smirking and Dumbledore 's face had seemed to harden.

"We did n't actually see it,"Albus said quickly,"We stood outside the house as it happened. Balladanis 's parents were in the house. Then we watched Balladanis, in the memory, run away from the house. He was thirteen."

"And then what ?"Torenzo prodded.

"We left the pensieve. Balladanis explained what we had seen-"

"He did n't recount you ahead of time ?"Smyth asked.

"No,"Albus shook his fountainhead,"He just told us to go in the pensieve."

"Did he explain why he wanted you to see this ?"Torenzo asked.

"Yeah. He wanted to demonstrate us why he became a Presuler,"Albus said.

"He told you he 's a Presuler ?"Torenzo raised her eyebrow.

"Yes, he thinks me and Malfoy should become Presulers,"Albus explained.

"Very well,"Torenzo said as she walked towards Albus,"I have one last question. Would you experience comfortable if prof Balladanis continued to teach here ?"

Albus thought about it for a moment. Balladanis was certainly a motivated teacher and one Albus could learn a lot from. But on the other hand, he was n't the sort of adept Albus felt easy around.

"No,"Albus said quietly,"I guess not."

Torenzo nodded."Please riposte to your common way. You are not to verbalise of this audience to anyone until after the probe is completed."

Albus got up from the chair and Torenzo followed him out of the room. She called Matt in as Albus left. Albus muttered a quiet 'good lot'to him before descending from the room.

******

"Why ca n't you just enjoin us ?"John lamented as the boys sat around the Marauder 's Den after dinner. Rose and Amanda were currently in the girls'dormitory with Linda, who had recently been interviewed.

"I 've told you a million times,"Albus said,"The Ministry crone said we could n't sing about the interview."

"But how would they know ?"John asked,"It 's not like I 'm going to go telling the whole schoolhouse about it."

"Neither will I,"Kaden added.

Albus snorted."I 'll secern you about it after Balladanis is sacked, or is n't sacked. I do n't think it 's going to guide long for them to decide."

"He 's going to be sacked,"lustrelessness said adamantly and then turned to King John,"You 're not going to his extra service seance tonight, are you ?"

"Not if I was paid twenty dollar bill Galleons,"toilet replied,"fountainhead, ok, maybe if I was paid twenty Galleons, but not for LE than ten. What about you, Albus ? Going to go to your dueling lesson ?"

Albus shrugged. He still had n't decided. What he really wanted to know was whether Malfoy was going, but he could n't very well waltz down to the dungeons, barge into the Slytherin common room, and ask.

"No idea,"Albus sighed.

"Do n't go,"mat said,"If you go, I 'm going to originate worrying about your sanity."

"Why would you desire to go ?"privy gave Albus a foreign look.

"I might find out something about how the investigation is going, or something,"Albus muttered.

John opened his mouth to reply, but instead turned to the door. A aloud squawking noise had seemed to give out from it.

"Did you hear that ?"privy asked.

Albus nodded and got up from his seat. He walked over to the door and paused future to it. The squawking noise was repeated.

One thing Albus loved about the Marauder 's Den was that it was always very quiet down. No disturbance could be heard from the corridor while he was inside. Albus rarely ever heard haphazardness from the corridor, let alone squawking noises.

Albus cautiously opened the door and instead of the outlandish razz he had expected to see, Rose was standing there with her baton out.

"Finally !"she groaned,"I thought you 'd never come to the door."

"Rose ?"Albus asked,"What is it ? Was that squawking you ?"

"Yes,"Rose said hurriedly,"I had to get you to come out of there. Uncle Harry 's looking for you. He 's waiting in the coarse room. I told him I 'd bump you."

Albus turned around and told Matt, John, and Kaden, all of whom had followed him out of the room, that he would be back soon. He had no musical theme what his dad wanted, but it must have been important for him to go to the rook on a day he did n't take in to patrol it.

Harry was sitting in one of the squishy armchairs in figurehead of the fervour when Albus arrived. Georgia and Fred were both talking with him, well-nigh likely about Quidditch judging by their excessive use of paw gestures, but stopped abruptly when Albus entered. Harry got up and met Albus near the portrayal hole.

"Let 's talk outside,"Harry said. Albus followed him out of the portrait hole and down the corridor a short ways.

"What were you up to just now ?"Harry asked, grinning a bit.

"Nothing,"Albus shrugged truthfully.

"well, I 'm no longer a teacher here, so I wo n't say a parole about you causing trouble, if that 's what you were doing,"Harry told him,"But anyway, what I wanted to ask you is whether you were planning on going to professor Balladanis 's dueling object lesson tonight ?"

That seemed to be the interrogation of the eve, Albus thought."I dunno,"Albus shrugged.

"I realize that the decision is completely up to you,"Harry said quietly,"But I would send word you not to go. prof Balladanis is under a considerable sum of stress, of which you do n't know the one-half of. I 'd say the chances are in high spirits that he may demand out this strain on you and Scorpius."

"Do you know if Malfoy 's going ?"Albus asked.

"I really have no idea,"Harry answered,"But I tend to believe he won't."

"I do n't mean I will either,"Albus said.

"A Wise determination,"Harry smiled.

Harry said good nighttime to Albus and then Albus went back to the marauder 's Den. Kaden was in the middle of showing Matt and John how to make a proper paper airplane.

"What did your dad want ?"whoremonger asked without looking up from the parchment he was folding.

"To tell me it was n't a good idea to go to Balladanis 's lesson tonight,"Albus said as he flopped down onto the abandon couch.

"And ?"mat asked.

"I 'm not going,"Albus answered.

"good,"mat replied.

"You know what was weird, though ?"Albus began,"My dad said Balladanis was under a lot of tenseness, near of which I do n't bonk about. So I 'm guessing it 's not only the investigation."

"Weird,"Kaden shook his headway,"I 'll be well-chosen when he 's sacked."

"We do n't roll in the hay for sure that he 'll be sacked,"Albus pointed out,"I just wish I knew what else he was stressed about."

"Maybe he 's got to battle a beautiful fair sex,"whoremonger smirked,"Remember his boggart ?"

"His boggart !"Albus shouted,"I ca n't think I did n't put that together sooner. It was n't a beautiful fair sex ; it was a vampire. It 's so obvious now that we know what happened to his parents, too."

"Yeah, that does seem fairly obvious,"Matt agreed,"But what 's that got to do with his tenseness ?"

"Probably nothing,"Albus shrugged,"I just realized it."

"You know,"trick began,"This is the starting time Friday we 've had to ourselves."

"You 're right,"Albus said,"What should we do ?"

"Let 's go down to the kitchens,"Kaden said.

"And spend the Night here,"matte added,"We hardly ever do that."

They did just that. The male child snuck down to the kitchens and were given as many sweets and puddings as they could impart by the mansion elves. Then they stayed up belatedly eating all of it and playing various games. Albus was even able to forget about Balladanis for a while, something that had not happened in quite a while.

******

The Ministry official remained a perm repair at Hogwarts throughout the remainder of the weekend. Albus overheard a lot of students mentioning that they 'd been interviewed, including whoremaster 's cousin Isabelle, one of the chaser on the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, and Gabriella.

prof Balladanis did not express up at a single repast. In fact, he was n't seen at all throughout the weekend. cypher saw him, which raised the question of whether he was even still in the castling.

Albus was hoping he ran for it. Got out before the Ministry had a chance to make their conclusion. Albus was to a greater extent than a little unquiet about going to Defense on Tues and hearing what Balladanis had to say about Albus 's absence from their dueling lesson.

It was on Monday break of day that all the Hogwarts students knew a verdict had been reached. professor Kendrick rose partway through the meal, something that only happened when something important happened. He was flanked by the two beldam from the Ministry. The wizard was no longer there.

The Hall immediately quieted, without Kendrick even having to ask. Albus was slightly taken aback by Kendrick 's impend announcement, since there had not been a 1 mention of Balladanis in that morning 's Prophet.

"A decision has been reached about Professor Balladanis,"Kendrick announced,"lady Torenzo will inform you of it. The Prophet has kindly agreed not to publish the article about it just yet, as I wished to inform you of it first."

"He 's sacked,"St. John the Apostle muttered,"Otherwise he 'd be at breakfast."

"good point,"Albus said.

Torenzo stood up and gazed out at the bookman with a electroneutral look on her side."Upon all-embracing probe of Professor Balladanis 's teaching method and thorough interviews of selected students, the Ministry has seen it fit to off him from his teaching position here at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Professor Balladanis packed his things late last night and no foresighted resides in the castle. Professor Kendrick will inform you about what will go on with refutation stratum for the oddment of the twelvemonth. I would care to give thanks all of you for your cooperation during this time."

Torenzo sat back down and continued eating her breakfast like cypher had happened. The Great hall immediately erupted into voicelessness, but they were quickly stopped by Kendrick.

"Defense Against the dark Arts stratum will not take place until promote notice. I will try and procure a suitable replacement for Professor Balladanis as quickly as possible. Until then, delight use the prison term to study for your forthcoming exams,"Kendrick said and then resumed his seat. He began to spill the beans with Torenzo and the educatee voices rose in the Hall.

"I knew it !"mat exclaimed,"best newsworthiness I 've heard this calendar month !"

"Yes !"Georgia shouted and then turned to Fred,"Pay up !"

"Merlin !"James groaned,"Why 'd they feature to do that investigation so quickly ?"

Money began to exchange hired man throughout the Gryffindor mesa as Fred collected and handed out Galleons.

"Do you remember Kendrick 'll find a replacing ?"John Lackland asked.

"Dunno,"Albus shrugged,"No one really wanted that job to begin with."

"Glad I did n't do that loup-garou essay,"Gospel According to John grinned.

"Maybe Kendrick wo n't find a refilling,"Kaden said,"Then we 'd stimulate one to a lesser extent exam."

"That would be brilliant,"John the Evangelist replied.

The atmosphere in the castle for the balance of the day was incredibly upbeat. Hardly anyone seemed at all sad that Balladanis had left. Quite a few students asked Matt to thank his dad for them. It seemed that the only students upset by it were those who had lost bets because of it.

Argus Filch was another who was unhappy. The universal excitement of the castle caused him more work. Peeves destroyed the Defense schoolroom in celebration ( Balladanis never liked Peeves ), King James I and his champion set off a few Weasley firework, and then there was the general good deal that was associated with educatee celebrating by playing outside in the muddy locoweed. Plus, Moaning Myrtle flooded her bathroom when a few students told her that even she ought to be excited about it. Apparently she did not harmonize. For some odd intellect it reminded her of her death.

One individual who seemed incredibly excited was Linda. Linda who rarely showed any emotion whatsoever walked around the castle with a big smiling on her nerve. Albus could only attribute this to the fact that Balladanis had taught so extensively about vampires. But he never taunted her the way he 'd taunted Matt. Perhaps that was because his full-grown awe was vampires.

There was even a company in the Gryffindor common room that night. rose thought it was a little ridiculous, to celebrate the release of a teacher, but everyone else, including Linda, thought it was an excellent thing to celebrate.

"Just think,"John said,"We do n't ever give to take heed to him go on and on about how bad the shadow fine art are. I mean, we all know they 're bad. We all know about Voldemort and what he did."

"And that bloody anamatek,"Matt added,"I could 've gone my whole life without seeing one of those."

"What do you mean he 's doing now ?"blush wine mused.

"Maybe some Ministry hired him,"Albus said quietly,"I hope it 's some place far, like Madagascar or somewhere."

"Yeah,"Matt agreed,"I bet he 's not even in United Kingdom anymore."

"I do n't see why he 'd discommode to stick around,"Albus replied,"I mean, he snuck out in the night to avoid anyone seeing him."

"Wish we could 've seen him leave,"lavatory grinned mischievously,"Would 've been nice to impart him a proper send off."

"I 'm just glad it 's over,"Rose muttered,"Maybe now you lot can concentrate on test. And maybe the rook will get back to normal."

"Normal ?"Albus raised his brow,"This piazza will never be formula. Plus, we 've got Quidditch on Saturday. It 's the last mate before the final."

"When 's the final ?"rosebush asked.

"Beginning of June, I think,"Albus answered,"Commonwealth of Australia 's already so far ahead that they 'll be in it."

Albus, John, Matt, and Kaden all sent scathing smell at Linda, who looked down at the table.

"But if we beat New York in this friction match,"Albus continued,"We 'll be in it, too. So Wood is in full form this workweek. I 'm practicing every dark starting tomorrow."

"Oliver Wood is insane,"Rose muttered.

"Insane, but brilliant on the Quidditch pitch,"John grinned,"I would love to get yelled at by him during a Quidditch practice."

"Excellent,"Albus said,"You can engage my place."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight and everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Despite the fact that he did not have defense Against the Dark arts the next morn, Albus was down in the Great Hall bright and early because he wanted to register rose wine 's Daily seer. Having Kendrick announce Balladanis 's sack was one matter, reading it in the Prophet was entirely different.

Rose was already there when Albus, Matt, and can sat down at the Gryffindor table. Amanda and Linda were on either side of her and all three girls were reading the clause. Albus drummed his fingerbreadth impatiently on the tabular array while he waited for them to be finished. Finally, rose wine handed him the paper without saying a word and Albus read it, with lustrelessness and John the Evangelist looking over his shoulder.

HOGWARATS teacher REMOVED FROM status BY MINISTRY

In an event that causes much of the wizarding public to commend
back to Voldemort 's reign, Hogwarts Defense Department Against the nighttime
humanities instructor, Tethys Balladanis, has been removed from his
position by the Ministry of illusion 's department of Magical
Education.

During Voldemort 's reign, Department of Defense teachers rarely lasted more
than a yr at the school, a mystery that abruptly ended when
Voldemort was defeated on May 2, 1998. Up until two eld
ago, Hogwarts had had only one defense lawyers teacher since that
fateful May day.

prof Torro taught at Hogwarts for years until he was
mysteriously murdered nearly three years ago. He was
replaced by Head Auror, Harry Potter, who is rumored to
have only taken the situation after nobody else agreed to
fill it.

Harry ceramicist left the emplacement this past fall and it was filled
by Balladanis.

Balladanis taught until two daytime ago, when he was removed
from his billet. Approximately a week and a half ago, a
complaint was lodged by Head of the section for the
regulation and dominance of Magical animate being, Walter Eckerton,
whose fourteen-year-old son currently attends Hogwarts.

The ailment included harsh teaching method acting, the use of an
anamatek as a teaching tool, singling educatee out for lack of
skill, and embarrassing students in front of their peer.

An probe by Ministry official ensued and included
the interviewing of choice student and faculty. The department
concluded their investigation late Sunday even and inform
both Balladanis and Headmaster Fabius Kendrick of their determination.
Balladanis left the castling willingly and will not be appealing the
determination. When asked for a argument on the proceeds, both Kendrick
and Balladanis declined.

Upon hearing the news, Walter Eckerton said ,'I am very well-chosen
with the decision and that the investigating was concluded in
a timely manner. I am not happy that it came to this, but I
feel that cypher should be put ahead of children 's safety .'

Hogwarts students will not advert Defense classes until a replacement
is found. As of right now, one has not been found.

"I knew they 'd lodge your dad in there somehow,"John announced once they 'd finished reading.

"There was n't anything in there that we did n't already know,"Albus muttered,"I was hoping Balladanis would 've said something or we 'd find out what happened when he left the castle."

"Maybe he really did go quietly,"mat shrugged,"Maybe he wanted to get back to his anamatek."

"I wonder where he lives,"Amanda mused,"Think he lives in England ?"

"Doubt it,"rose answered,"Even if he did before I doubt he does now."

******

life-time soon returned to formula for the Hogwarts bookman, as it often does after something exciting happens. Everyone talked about Balladanis the day the article was published, but soon there was nothing left to say and the student focused on the approaching Quidditch match, which was bare years away.

Albus had an easy sentence forgetting about Balladanis due to Quidditch practice. He was out on the pitch every eve and was soon hearing Wood 's instruction in his head as he fell asleep, which was something that certainly could n't be deemed rule. Albus was almost glad that the twelvemonth was drawing to an end because once the tournament was over, he would n't have to contend with woodwind anymore. Thinking about that made Albus actualize that Gryffindor would have a new captain the next yr since GA was graduating. Albus was trusted it would be either Fred or heather mixture, but he was n't indisputable which.

Albus trudged into the Great anteroom on Thursday morning sorely wishing that John had n't woken him up. They did n't have a class outset thing, so why 'd he bother doing that ? Albus was already running on piddling sleep.

"I 'm going to wake you up at five in the dawning this Sat,"Albus muttered to whoremaster as he poured himself some pumpkin juice.

"No you wo n't, you 'll still be asleep,"John the Divine grinned,"I need you to assist me land up that Herbology essay that 's due today."

"That 's the grounds for you waking me up ?"Albus groaned,"Why ca n't develop aid you ?"

"She 's a bit sore with me right now,"John muttered.

"What did you do ?"Albus asked.

"I may or may not ingest accidentally set fire to her Potions notation finis Nox,"john said.

"And I should have to get because of that ?"Albus replied,"How did you care that anyway ?"

"It was n't an fortuity,"matte put in,"John and Kaden were tinkering with those super strength dung bombs final stage night in the Marauder 's Den. They stupidly decided to do this at the mesa rightfulness where Rose 's notation were. The dung bombs exploded and Rose 's notes caught fire."

"See, an chance event !"can exclaimed.

"No, stupidity,"lustrelessness said,"You should 've done it somewhere else. Oh, Albus, I would n't suggest going in the Marauder 's Den anytime soon. It smells."

"I would n't give birth time to anyway,"Albus muttered,"Quidditch exercise again tonight."

"Oi, Albus !"James shouted.

"What ?"Albus said.

"Is Dad patrolling here this hebdomad ?"James asked.

"I do n't know, why ?"Albus replied.

"He 's here,"James pointed to the staff table.

Albus looked up and saw that his dad was talking with Neville. Except he was n't wearing his Auror robe, he was just wearing normal gown. Albus glanced back at James I who shrugged.

"May I have your care ?"Kendrick announced,"Thank you. I just wish to inform you all that Harry ceramist has kindly agreed to take over Defense classes for the difference of term. Because of this, Defense year will resume today."

"goodness thing I woke you up,"Gospel According to John grinned.

"Guess you wo n't be able-bodied to stop that essay,"Albus shot back.

"Merlin,"lav muttered.

Albus was n't that surprise, nor did he care that much. He 'd already had his dad Edward Teach for two old age and it had n't been bad at all. Plus, his dad was a far better teacher than Balladanis.

Albus walked with matt and John to Defense. Rose was still not speaking to privy and she walked with Amanda and Linda a footling room ahead. Albus seriously hoped that this would n't turn into what happened earlier in the year.

The entire category erupted in hand clapping as soon as Harry entered the room and Albus noticed that this caused him to blush. Even Malfoy was clapping, albeit half-heartedly, but he was clapping nonetheless.

"Thanks,"Harry muttered,"Well, I did not think I 'd be back here. I do consume to carry on with the curriculum, so I must ask that you complete the loup-garou essay for next Thursday. However, it only has to be one metrical unit of parchment."

There was a collective moan from the full class."Great,"John muttered,"I was hoping to get out of it."

"It wo n't be that hard,"flatness rolled his eyes.

"But it 'll be time consuming,"John replied.

"I know, I know,"Harry smirked,"But there is a calendar month and a half of term left and I ca n't just let you have this time to mess around."

The social class was the most enjoyable defence force class the third years had had in quite a while. Harry lectured for the integrality of the class, but it was n't tire. Albus did not mind in the slightest that his dad was going to be finishing out the term.

******

By the sentence Sabbatum arrived, virtually no one in the castle was talking about prof Balladanis. Quidditch was on the vanguard of everybody 's minds and the tensity ran eminent than they had all year. The outcome of this match would limit who played Australia in the final.

Albus himself was not particularly upset. Hogwarts had already beaten New York once and they could easily do it again. The entire team was in safe health and none of the alternates were needed. Albus was perfectly content to sit in the pedestal with his admirer and just watch the friction match, rather than have to spiel in it.

It was a warm spring day with a slight confidential information and cloud cover charge, perfect playing condition. Wood had spoke of the conditions during the previous night 's practice, telling the team that a prominent tempest had been predicted for that day. Luckily it had not appeared yet.

The match commenced with a lot of shouting and cheering from the bunch. Hogwarts scored five destination within the showtime xv hour of the match and New House of York scored two. The teams remained neck in neck for the remainder of the match, until James pulled out of a diva clutching the golden stool pigeon in his left hand.

The crew erupted into cheers and Saint James the Apostle was soon hoisted onto the shoulders of some of the older students.

"I have an announcement to take a crap !"Professor Kendrick shouted over the crowd,"Due to Hogwarts 's win, they will be competing against Australia in the final exam Quidditch match, scheduled to hire place on the first of June !"

The usual after Quidditch party ensued in the common elbow room and everyone rehashed their favorite theatrical role of the match. No one talked about the final match, although Albus was sure it was in the rachis of everyone 's mind. Australia seemed unsufferable to beat.

Once the excitement from another Quidditch win abated, the Hogwarts scholarly person seemed to recognise that examination were quite near. The library soon became a democratic place to be and fifth and seventh years in specific could be seen there all minute of the day.

As the center of May arrived, Gabriella demanded a muted common room in the eventide, much like her sister had two years prior. Albus and his booster spent more time in the Marauder 's Den after that, usually without Rose, Amanda, and Linda. The three girls seemed to like the quietness of the common room.

Rose did forgive lav for messing up her notes, but she became more strain and snappy as examination drew nearer. It was n't something that surprised Albus or anyone else because it had become a form of end of term tradition with Rose.

defense team example took a drastic act for the honorable. Albus and all of his booster got perfect marks on their werewolf essays, to the surprise of no one. After that, the classes bared no resemblance to Balladanis 's.

"Aw, Merlin !"privy shouted at breakfast one Friday in the middle of May. He had been reading the Prophet.

"What is it ?"Albus asked, thinking Balladanis had been reinstated as vindication teacher or something.

"England did n't draw it into the humankind Cup final,"Saint John the Apostle sighed,"They were so close."

"Who did make it ?"Albus grabbed the paper from whoremaster, suddenly remembering the tickets he 'd gotten for Christmas. He had n't picked who he was going to invite to go with him. Actually, he had n't even secern his admirer about the tickets.

"Portuguese Republic and Russia,"trick groaned,"Russia ! They 've got a codswallop Quidditch team !"

"Obviously not,"rosiness smirked,"Albus, did you pick who you 're going to pack when you go to the Cup ?"

"hold, what ?"John gaped at Albus,"You got tickets ?"

"Er, yeah, for Yule,"Albus said.

"And you did n't state me !"John exclaimed.

"fountainhead, I only got one extra and I did n't know how to foot. I had it narrowed down to you and Matt. Mind you, if you hate Russia, I 'll just pick Matt,"Albus smirked.

"No, no, I did n't say I hate Russia,"John the Evangelist said quickly,"They 've just got a bad team."

"How am I supposed to break up then ?"Albus asked.

"You do n't have to,"Matt said as he sat down next to Albus.

"Nice to see you awake,"privy grinned. Albus and John had attempted to ignite matte up before they went down to the Great Hall and had no luck. The good lunation was the following day, so Albus had n't even been sure if Matt was going to go to class.

"Why, is the Cup a bad time of the month ?"Albus whispered.

"No,"Matt shook his question,"It 's just that my dad got tickets, so you can just turn over your additional one to John."

"Oh,"Albus grinned,"That makes matter easy."

"Where is the Cup ?"Amanda asked.

"Canada,"Rose replied.

"How are we getting there, Albus ?"John asked,"Are we going to take a Muggle plane ?"John looked excited at that prospect.

"No thought,"Albus shrugged,"Dad might get a Portkey."

"That 's oil production,"John said.

"Wish I could go,"Kaden sighed.

"Why, do n't you not like Quidditch ?"King John asked.

"It 's ok,"Kaden shrugged,"I just want to try out a Portkey."

"You 're Weird, Kaden,"John laughed.

"So are you. Airplanes are boring,"Kaden argued.

"I 'm with Kaden on this one,"lustrelessness said,"I 'd take a Portkey any day."

******

Between studying for exams and Quidditch practice, Albus had no time for anything else. He managed to squeeze in sentence to chaffer lusterlessness in the hospital wing on William Ashley Sunday, but only briefly before he went to woodwind instrument 's day long Quidditch practice.

The following weekend was the final match of the Jnr 's Dueling Club, something Albus had been forced to neglect due to Quidditch practice. After begging Sir Henry Wood and a bit of help from Teddy, Albus was able to attend the final. Albus 's team won, much to the delectation of both Albus and Malfoy.

Albus had not spoken to Malfoy since the incident with professor Balladanis. Nor had Malfoy said a give-and-take to Albus, or any of his acquaintance. Malfoy remained mysteriously quiet around the full moon, not saying anything about it to either Albus or Matt. It was unusual, but not something any of the boys were going to complain about it.

ternion days before the Quidditch last, the Great Hall was filled with whispering spokesperson that reminded Albus of the day Balladanis had been sacked. Copies of the seer were being passed back and forth and quite a few scholarly person looked extremely scared.

"What 's happened ?"Albus asked blush wine as he sat down.

"Willinson has broken out of Azkaban,"Rose whispered, her face completely white.

"What ? !"Albus shouted as he grabbed the closest copy of the vaticinator. Matt and John crowded around him as he read it.

AZKABAN BREAKOUT

Officials have reported that three prisoner
broke out of Azkaban recently last nighttime. It is
still unknown how it happened. Azkaban guard
have refused to speak with newsperson, and the
Ministry does not wish to reveal information
at this time.

The gens of the escaped prisoners have been
released and anyone with data reguarding
any of them are asked to touch the Ministry.

The Prophet then gave detailed information about all three of the fly the coop captive. Albus only recognized Willinson. The early two had been imprisoned for more than petty crimes.

"How did he get out ?"Albus wondered,"He 's an idiot !"

"I think everyone 's confused about that,"rose said.

Any promise Albus had of getting preparation done that workweek was gone. He was prosperous he was able to centralise on Quidditch practice. Willinson was out of Azkaban. He was galavanting about England, doing whatever he pleased. That in itself was not necessarily that bad, due to Willinson 's foolishness. If he somehow met up with his father and Washburn, then it could be quite bad.

What worried Albus the most was the fact that he would be after the Hallows, all of which still resided somewhere in or around Hogwarts. Willinson was bound to fare back, especially now that he was out of prison.

******

Before Albus knew it, the night before the Quidditch final arrived and Wood called the squad into the changing room after ending recitation.

"It has been incredibly rewarding to manage this team,"Wood said as he began to yard in front of them,"There were difficulties in the beginning,"he paused and looked at the two Slytherins on the team,"But I am majestic to say that you came together as a team wonderfully.

"It still amazes me that a grouping of bookman from all four theater can number together and play together on the same team. I am not sure enough this could feature been done when I was in Hogwarts.

"You have all come a long way over the year. You 've all made vast improvements in your accomplishment. Quite a few of you are one-seventh years and I am very happy to tell you that there will be picket from a couple Quidditch team watching tomorrow 's match. I have high hopes for the lot of you, when it comes to Quidditch.

"I can not say whether we will win tomorrow. Australia is good, there is no denying that. However, I have faith in all of you. Tomorrow, go out there and give it your near. Now, I think you should all deform in early and eat a proper breakfast tomorrow before the mates. Teddy, Tyler, anything to add ?"Wood turned to the boys.

Teddy and Tyler both shook their nous and woods turned back to the team."I 'll see you all down here tomorrow. upright night."

Mrs. Henry Wood, Teddy, and Tyler stayed behind to talk about maneuver while the team left. Albus and James were the last two to leave. Empire State of the South had left with the other one-seventh year, excitedly discussing the expectation of scouts.

"You think Empire State of the South 's going to signalise with one of the professional squad ?"Albus asked James as they walked back to the castle.

"I 'd be surprised if she did n't,"King James I said,"I just hope it does n't injure her chances when we lose."

"We might not lose,"Albus pointed out.

"We 're going to miss,"James muttered,"Linda 's too good of a Seeker."

Albus said goose egg. He wished he could just state St. James that Linda was a vampire. It would be so much easier.

They kept walking, each lost in their own idea. Albus stopped abruptly when he heard a garish fissure in the forest.

"What was that ?"he asked anxiously.

"Probably just a branch break,"James answered.

"It was too loud,"Albus said as he looked into the timber,"It sounded like individual Apparating in there."

"I do n't reckon you can Apparate in the forest,"James pointed out,"And it did n't vocalise that loud. You 're just tired from all the Quidditch practice."

"I guess,"Albus said as he and Epistle of James kept walking,"But what if it was someone Apparating ? What if it was Willinson ?"

"You worry too much, Al,"James groaned,"This post is filled with Aurors and Dad 's here to the full meter now. You 'd have to be mad to Apparate here if you 're wanted by the Ministry."

"But Willinson is stupid enough to do that,"Albus replied.

"That 's just it,"James laughed,"If he 's stunned enough to do that, he 's going to get trip up and sent back to Azkaban."

Albus nodded but he was n't reassured. Willinson may be stupid, but he did bring off to kidnap Kaden the premature give, and he had been on the run for a class prior to that. He may be a tripe dueler, but he was certainly trade good at not getting caught for the most part.


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the wonderfully awesome masses who have read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


The atmosphere in the Great Marguerite Radclyffe Hall the next morning was unlike anything Albus had seen before. The Hogwarts team was sitting together at the Ravenclaw mesa, surrounded by students from all four house. Teddy and Tyler seemed to be in the thick of it and were loudly discussing tactics.

The Australian team was sitting together at the Hufflepuff table, with a large aloofness between them and the Hufflepuffs. A diminished crew of Australians had congregated around them.

Albus decided not to join the rest of the Hogwarts team at the Ravenclaw table. cipher was unable to represent that day, so Albus 's days on the squad were pretty much over. To be honest, he was form of relieved. There was just so often pressure.

"I think this tournament has been good for Hogwarts,"rosebush mused,"looking at at everyone. cypher seems to give care who 's in what house."

"It 'll all go back to normal once the match is over,"Albus pointed out.

"Maybe not,"Rose shrugged,"You never know."

"I do n't make out, blush wine,"lusterlessness said,"I do n't consider one year can change centuries of tradition."

"It 's worth a try,"Rose said,"I think we should all try and get along."

"I do n't recall this has helped external witching cooperation,"toilet gestured to the Australian squad. The Hufflepuffs sitting nearby were glaring at them.

"Competition rarely does that,"blush wine muttered.

"Well, they 'll all be going home soon,"lusterlessness said cheerfully.

rose shot him a dirty look and then looked up at the staff board. Albus 's gaze followed. The faculty table was quite overcrowded that morning. There were lookout from Quidditch squad, Ministry officials including Albus 's Uncle Sir Henry Percy, and a variety of people from Australia and New York.

"facial expression at that witch,"can pointed to a very tall, beautiful Wiccan with pale white skin and recollective dark hair.

"She 's Linda 's mother,"pink wine told them.

"Is she-"privy began.

"Yes,"Rose whispered,"She 's one, too."

"I thought so,"Saint John said without taking his eye off the witch.

There was a loud sunshine from the Ravenclaw board and the Hogwarts team began to leave the lobby. Their cortege followed until they reached the threshold and then they went to sit back down at several tables.

The Aboriginal Australian team followed shortly. The excitation only seemed to increase now that the team had gone down to the changing rooms.

A few hour later people began to entrust for the pitch. The crowd at the staff table left first and the pupil followed.

"Albus,"trick said as they got up from the board,"I 've got a few duet of omnioculars in my bole. I want to see it up close when Linda catches that Snitch."

"Let 's go get them, then,"Albus replied.

Rose rolled her eyes."Meet us down at the pitch."She and Amanda turned towards the threshold as the boys ran up the expansive staircase.

"Why did n't you just bring them to breakfast ?"Matt asked.

"Forgot,"John said.

The castle was absolutely deserted as they made their way back to Gryffindor Tower. Albus had n't seen it that empty during the day. It was almost disconcerting.

John had to empty out his integral luggage compartment in order to discover the omnioculars. He had four twosome and handed one to each of the boys.

"Let 's go,"Albus said,"We 're going to miss the starting time of the match."

Albus completely ignored the no track in the corridors rule as he made his way through the castling. There was n't anyone to have words him anyway. The step behind him told him his friends were n't far behind.

Albus turned a corner and ran smack into something. He fell down onto his back and looked up, only to see that it was someone. Not just anyone either. Albus had collided with mat 's boggart.

Only, it could n't be a boggart because if it had been a boggart, it would have manifested itself into what Albus was virtually afraid of. At that moment, it probably would possess been Willinson.

The man sneered down at Albus and then smiled creepily. Albus scrambled up and turned back to look at his friends.

matt had turned white and looked far Thomas More afraid than Albus had ever seen him before, including when he had faced the boggart and when Malfoy had found out about his lycanthropy. King John was looking from Matt to the man, an obvious horror on his typeface. Kaden was looking extremely confused.

Albus turned and grabbed all three of his friends, pulling them into the close schoolroom. He slammed the door and pulled out his verge, putting every lockup charm he knew onto the knob.

Matt collapsed onto the closest president and put his head in his hands."Th-th-that's-"

"We know,"Albus whispered.

"What the hell is he doing here ?"King John ranted,"He 's got no business concern here !"

"Why 's he in the castle anyway ?"Albus began to pace around the way,"If he 's here to watch the Quidditch match, then why is n't he down there ?"

"What if he 's not here to watch the Quidditch ?"John said darkly.

"Who the bloody hell is he ?"Kaden asked loudly.

Albus glanced at Matt before looking at Kaden. lusterlessness did n't look to induce heard Kaden 's question.

"His name 's Lubar. He 's the chief of the section for the Regulation and Control of Magical wight in Commonwealth of Australia,"Albus explained,"He 's the reason why Matt had to displace here, amongst other things."

"He 's a crazy and twist evil git,"toilet muttered,"What are we going to do ?"

Albus walked over to the door and peered out the little window at the top. Lubar was no longer in sight.

"I 've g-got to go to the Ministry,"Matt said,"I 've got to t-tell my dad. L-Lubar, he ca n't be here."

Albus paced back and forth in front of the doorway. The Ministry. How would they get there ? Brooms ? No, that would take aim too long. They 'd have to use the Floo network, but none of the fireplace at Hogwarts were hooked up, as far as Albus knew.

"We 're going to cause to get to Hogsmeade,"Albus said,"You wait here. I 'll get my Cloak and the map. Then we 'll sneak into Hogsmeade and Floo to the Ministry."

Matt nodded."You guys do n't have to come. You can go to the match."

"Are you genial ?"bathroom exclaimed,"That bloke out there is probably worse than Willinson. We 're not letting you do this alone."

Albus nodded in agreement before waving his scepter and undoing the lockup appealingness. He cautiously looked out into the corridor before leaving. It was empty.

Much to Albus 's relief, both the Cloak and the map were right where he 'd provide them. He shoved them into his gown and ran back to the classroom. flatness, John, and Kaden were all talking quietly. Matt did n't look any less scared, but at least he did n't seem to be in shock anymore.

"We 're not all going to fit underneath it,"Albus said as he unfolded the cloak.

"You three get under it,"John said immediately,"I 'm tall so I 'll take up the most room anyway. Plus, if we meet up with Lubar again, I 'm the near liar."

Albus could n't argue there. Both he and mat were horrible prevaricator and Kaden still had n't gotten over his unfitness to keep secrets.

"You take the map, then,"Albus handed the map to Gospel According to John,"We 've got to get to the one-eyed witch statue on the third floor.

Albus threw the Cloak over himself, Matt, and Kaden, and the three of them followed John out of the elbow room. The corridor was still empty, much to Albus 's relief.

Saint John set a very fast step and he was soon quite a bit ahead of Albus and the others. Albus could n't say anything, though, as it would give away his bearing. Instead he tried to run as fast as he could while making the least amount of dissonance possible.

The boys made it down the two flights of steps necessity to get to the third floor and arrived at the statue without seeing anyone. Albus pulled the Cloak off of them and squeeze it into his air pocket. With a speedy tap of his scepter, he statue 's hump opened and the male child climbed inside.

Albus lit his wand and took off down the small passageway. Matt, John, and Kaden followed suit.

"Why did Kendrick let him in ?"lav asked as they ran,"Does n't he know what he did ?"

"Yes,"lusterlessness answered,"I do n't think Kendrick knows he 's here."

"What did he do ?"Kaden asked.

"You do n't think he came here to see you ?"Albus asked mat,"I mean, remember when Killigan saw us that one time and he seemed so concern in finding you ?"

"Of course I do,"matte muttered,"And it really would n't storm me if that 's why he 's here. But I 'm betting there 's another reason."

"What did he do ?"Kaden repeated, a bit louder.

"Why else would he be here ?"Albus asked,"The match ?"

"Maybe, but I 'm betting it 's got something to do with Linda,"lusterlessness replied,"I do n't know for sure enough, but it seems too concurrent for him to be here just to see me."

"What did he do ?"Kaden shouted,"Why would he want to see you ?"

Matt stopped running and wheeled around to look at Kaden."It 's a long story. Lubar 's got a grievance against my dad, one that he obviously still has even though we have n't lived in Commonwealth of Australia for six years,"lusterlessness paused,"He passed a bunch of legal philosophy against lycanthrope and I wound up having to transform with a bunch of other lycanthrope. It was bad."

Matt resumed walking and did n't elaborate on the theme. Kaden did n't ask him to.

"What 's your dad going to do about it ?"Kaden asked.

"I dunno,"flatness shrugged,"Maybe talk to Kendrick or something."

There was no dubiety in Albus 's mind that lustrelessness 's dad would be able to get Lubar to leave Hogwarts, possibly even leave the nation. Albus had known little about Mr. Eckerton prior to this twelvemonth, but now he knew that you did not want to be on his bad side. When it came down to it, Mr. Eckerton was the one who had Balladanis sacked.

The passage finally began to rise until it came to an precipitous stop at a knotty wooden door. Albus pressed his ear to the threshold, but heard zip. He carefully pushed it subject, wincing as it creaked.

Seeing nobody in the store elbow room beyond, Albus beckoned his champion forward. The room was dimly lit, enough for Albus to see a Brobdingnagian amount of loge littering the floor. On the far wall he could see a fireplace.

The boys climbed over the various boxful and stood in social movement of the hearth. Albus located a minuscule shift of Floo pulverization and then lit a blast. He turned to his friends.

"You ca n't Floo directly into someone 's report at the Ministry. We 're going to stimulate to go to the Atrium,"Albus told them,"I 'll go first, you follow."Albus took a smattering of gunpowder and then handed the bag to Matt.

He tossed the gunpowder into the fire and stepped inside, shouting"The Ministry of trick !"

Albus stumbled out of a different hearth seconds later. The Atrium was nearly deserted, save for a few wizards striding towards the rise, clearly too meddlesome to notice Albus.

flatness landed rather ungracefully on the floor. He picked himself up, brushing digress ash off his robes.

"Place is deserted,"lustrelessness said as he looked around.

"It 's a Saturday,"Albus pointed out,"Does your dad oeuvre Saturdays ?"

"Yeah,"Matt nodded,"At least mornings."

King John was next to step out of the fervidness, doing so more elegantly than Matt had. He stood in battlefront of the fire, staring around at the Atrium. His eyes rested on the outpouring of Magical Brethren.

"This is more than envision than I imagined,"toilet said.

"Bloody perdition !"Kaden shouted as he fell out of the blast,"This is the Ministry ?"

"Yes,"Matt said quickly,"But we have n't got time to research. Let 's go."

Albus followed lustrelessness towards the desk in the presence of the Atrium. There was an old wizard leafing through a copy of the pettifogger, oblivious to his surroundings. Albus almost thought they 'd be able to sneak around him, but he looked up just as they were about to pass.

"Where do you reckon you 're going ?"he asked and then his eyes rested on Albus,"Albus Severus potter. Why are n't you in school ?"

"Er,"Albus began, a little unsettle that the man knew who he was.

Matt stepped in front of Albus."We need to go see my dad. He 's the chief of the section for the regularisation and Control of Magical Creatures. It 's kind of an emergency."

"Very well,"the man looked at them oddly,"Put your wands up here."

Albus did as he was told and the others followed suit. They waited impatiently as the old wizard tested their baton and then handed them back. He waved them on towards the lifts.

"What 's the point of that ?"Kaden asked as they waited for a lift.

"So if you murder anyone, they can tell whose baton did it,"Albus said bluntly.

"That 's cheerful,"Kaden replied.

Once the lift arrived, the boys piled in and lusterlessness pushed the numeral four. cypher said anything as the airlift creaked its way to the twenty-five percent floor.

Matt took off at a run down the corridor after they left the lift. Albus had never been to this especial floor. It looked rather interchangeable to the Magical Law Enforcement 's floor, with nondescript sets of double doors on one side.

matte skidded to a halt in front of the only room access that was ace and banged his hand loudly on it. When there was no answer after a few seconds, he banged again.

"Hold your hippogriffs !"called a part from the inside,"I 'm coming, I'm-"Matt 's dad said as he opened the door.

Mr. Eckerton seemed to freeze at the great deal of his son and the other three boys. He gaped at them for a arcsecond before shaking his head.

"Matt ?"he asked and rubbed his middle, as if he thought he was seeing a hallucination,"But, why are n't you in school ? How did you get here ? Why are you here ? Albus ? What are you- and John, Kaden ?"

His eyes rested on Matt again."lustrelessness ? What 's faulty ?"

Mr. Eckerton stepped aside and let the boys into his study. He shut the room access quietly behind them.

The subject field reminded Albus of his dad 's. There were large Windows on the side opposite the door, although the picture outside was not actual, nor was the entitle rain that was pattering onto it.

There was a heavy leather covered chairman behind the huge oak desk and a few smaller professorship in front of it. Along the former two walls were shelves with stacks of book of account. Most of them were about various wizardly creatures.

Albus, matte, and St. John the Apostle took the hind end that were in presence of the desk while Kaden wandered around the study looking at matter. Mr. Eckerton leaned against the front end of his desk and looked at his son.

"What 's happened ?"he asked quietly.

"L-Lubar,"matt said in barely more than a voicelessness,"He-he 's at Hogwarts."

"What ? !"Mr. Eckerton exclaimed.

"We were on our way to the Quidditch final,"Matt said,"A-and we saw him."

"Bloody hell !"Mr. Eckerton stood up and slammed his fist loudly against his desk,"Did Professor Kendrick allow this ?"

"I do n't bed,"Matt replied,"B-but everyone else was at the match and he was just lurking about the castle."

Mr. Eckerton 's fount hardened. He looked just like he had when he talked with Professor Balladanis earlier in the term."Let 's go, boys,"he said darkly,"I 've got to have a word with Professor Kendrick."

Albus followed Mr. Eckerton out of his study and down towards the face lifting. John 's walking speed was nothing compared to Matt 's dad 's. The boys had to run to keep up.

"Where did you Floo from ?"Mr. Eckerton asked once they were in the lift.

"Honeyduke 's,"Albus answered.

"We 'll Floo there now,"Mr. Eckerton replied.

The magician at the welcome desk looked at them curiously as they rushed towards the fireplace, but did n't say anything.

Mr. Eckerton handed Albus a bit of Floo Powder and gestured for him to go first. Albus stepped into the fire and shouted,"Honeyduke 's !"

Albus began to spin out faster and faster. He saw glimpse of people 's houses, workshop in Diagon Alley, and a variety of early places he did not agnize. Then, out of one of the fireplaces, came a hired man. Everything seemed to decelerate down, but Albus was n't sure if it actually did or not.

The hand grabbed him. Albus fought against it, but it was too strong. All of a sudden he was laying on a dusty wooden floor, one that was not at all like the one in Honeyduke's.

Albus coughed and stood up. His heart was beating fast. What had happened ? Why was n't he in Honeyduke 's ? Where was he ? Whose hand was that ?

Albus grappled for his wand and shakily held it up. He lit it and looked around the room, seeing no one.

"Nice to see you, thrower,"a cold vox said from behind him.

Albus jumped and turned around. There, crouching succeeding to the fireplace with his paw inside of it, was Lubar. He looked even more creepy in the dank room than he did in Hogwarts.

The fireplace glowed green and Lubar yanked his arm out of it. whoremaster came tumbling out of the fire and scrambled too his feet, looking about.

Lubar muttered something underneath his breath and stuck his deal in the ardor again.

"What the ?"privy whispered to Albus,"Where are we ? Is that ? Bloody pit !"

"Shut up !"Lubar shouted.

Albus gazed around the room. It looked vaguely fellow, but Albus could n't put his finger on it. The windowpane were boarded up, but it was definitely not the Shrieking Shack. Albus doubted that was connected to the Floo Network anyway.

The fireplace glowed green yet again, this time sending Kaden onto the floor. This earned another shout from Lubar, who stuck his hand in the fire again.

Kaden gaped and then got to his invertebrate foot and stood next to Albus. He looked absolutely terrified, even before he laid eye on Lubar.

Albus wanted nothing more than to run from the room, but he did not know where the building was even located. Plus, Lubar would probably stun him or something.

Green light filled the room as the fireplace glowed once more. Albus knew even before it happened that Matt would be the one to next gloaming out of the flaming. Mere seconds later, that suspiciousness was confirmed.

Matt coughed and scrambled to his feet. He gasped when he saw Lubar and ran over to Albus.

Lubar, finally satisfied, doused the fire and lit his wand, which illuminated his sinister side. He began to pace slowly in front line of them.

"Well, well, you went crying to Daddy just as I expected,"Lubar grinned manically,"I do have a go at it when affair work out the way I expect them to."

Albus could find lustrelessness shaking adjacent to him. He gripped his wand hard, debating whether to try and demilitarize Lubar.

"Any musical theme where you are ?"Lubar asked,"Dervish and Banges. Lovely workshop, shame about the proprietor. Yes, a real shame."

Lubar did n't appear at all disorder about what happened to the shop owner. Albus looked around the store again and now he recognized it.

"Well, let 's not squander our prison term here,"Lubar said,"There 's a few people who 've been dying to see you."Lubar snapped his digit three fourth dimension and Albus heard footstep on the stairs.

Three wizards descended the stairs and strode into the room. They lit their verge at the Same time and Albus gasped when the light showed their faces. Jarrett and Quinton Willinson, along with Washburn. Three people Albus hoped never to see again.

Albus swallowed hard. He could see no way out of this. As good a dueller he was, he was up against four fully qualified ace. Three of them did not possess the attainment to duel, but Albus had no idea what Lubar was open of.

"Ah, yes,"Lubar smirked,"What a lovely reunion. Unfortunately we have n't got meter to chat."

Before Albus knew it, Washburn had him in a headlock with his wand pointed at his cervix. Quinton Willinson had Kaden and his father had toilet. matt, seeing his friends restrained, made a run for the nighest window.

"Not so fast, young loup-garou,"Lubar caught him by the cover of his robes and wrapped one of his subdivision around his middle.

Lubar reached into his robe with his dislodge hand and pulled out an old tea kettle. He held it out to the former three men and each one put a free paw on it. Albus knew what was going to pass off right before it did. He shared a affright coup d'oeil with Matt before feeling a saccade behind his belly button.


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight, as well as everyone who has read and reviewed this !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry potter.
A/N : I decided to do office of this chapter from Harry 's breaker point of view. It begins in his stop of horizon and then switches back to Albus 's. Asterisks indicate where the decimal point of sentiment switches.


"Spectacular relieve by Georgia Weasley !"the commentator shouted.

Harry grinned as his niece threw the Quaffle back into play. It was immediately taken into will power by Hogwarts, and all three chaser threw it back and Forth River as they flew to the Aussie end of the pitch.

"musical score ! Hogwarts has scored against Australia, bringing the summate to 50-20 Hogwarts !"

Harry stood up and shouted as forte as the educatee. One thing he loved about the Quidditch tourney was that he did n't hold to try and hold in his excitement when Hogwarts scored. During mansion matches, he had to try and pretend he was neutral, even though he obviously supported Gryffindor.

As happy as Harry was about the Hogwarts Chasers being very skilled, he did not possess hope that Hogwarts would actually win. Commonwealth of Australia 's Seeker, Linda team spirit, was the best searcher Harry had ever seen outside of professional Quidditch. He knew that his son, James, was good, but he was n't delusional. Linda was brilliant.

There was something odd about her, though, and Harry could n't put his digit on it. Her fastness on a broom just did n't seem rude. Professional Quidditch players would kill for her speed.

"I 'm surprise she has n't found the Snitch yet,"Neville muttered to Harry.

"Yeah,"Harry nodded as he watched Linda slowly circling above the tar. James was doing the same,"It 'll be soon, though."

Harry turned his regard to the residuum of the staff who were sitting around him. to the highest degree of them were quite reserved. Nobody seemed to be showing the enthusiasm Harry was. He did n't care. Harry did n't share their belief that instructor could n't get overly excited about Quidditch.

A few professors stood up and then sat back down again as someone squeezed their way past them. Harry craned his chief and was surprised to see Walter Eckerton.

Harry did n't have it off the man well. They 'd met on juncture at the Ministry, although Harry had a touch sensation he 'd be seeing more of him now that he was headland of the Department for the regulating and ascendence of Magical Creatures.

What Harry mostly knew about Walter Eckerton was more on a personal than master spirit level. Harry had never met a father who was more protective of his son than Walter Eckerton, although he did have trade good intellect. Never a more commit father, either.

Walter continued his way past the early professors until he stopped in battlefront of Harry. Harry was even more shocked to see the formula on his font. vexation was etched in every division of his face, bringing out the wrinkles, but there was anger in his eyes.

"Walter,"Harry shook his helping hand as he stood up,"What 's going on ?"

"Not here,"Walter muttered,"I need a word in private."

Harry told Neville he 'd be right back and he followed Walter out of the base. They continued walking until they were a short length away from the pitch and then Bruno Walter stopped.

"The boy have just been to see me at the Ministry,"Walter said as soon as he 'd stopped.

"postponement, what ?"Harry asked,"You mean Albus and Matt ?"

"Yes, and the early two as well,"Walter said quickly,"You 've heard of Ralph Lubar, the headway of the Department for the Regulation and dominance of Magical puppet in Australia ?"

Harry nodded, slightly confused at the change of national."Yes, not a very tolerant blighter, is he ?"

Walter 's face hardened."That 's a overnice way of putting it. The bloke is be sick and wrench and he 's got a grievance against me. Very farseeing storey and I have n't got time to narrate it. Short version is that when Matt was eight, Lubar passed a law that required him to transubstantiate in a building with other wolfman, one-time loup-garou. Nearly killed him. It was right before we moved. For whatever rationality, Lubar decided to jaw Hogwarts today, possibly under the pretense of attending the Quidditch match.

"The son saw him and Flooed to the Ministry from Honeyduke 's. matt 's absolutely terrified of him, which is why they came to me. I came back with them. They Flooed before I did, but when I arrived at Honeyduke 's they were n't there. I 've already spoken with the owners of the store as well as a few other Hogsmeade residents. No one 's seen them. We 've got to find them."

Harry 's nub sank."You do n't think Lubar 's got them, do you ? He 's not grave, is he ?"

"To mat, yes, but I have n't the slightest idea as to why he 'd need the other boys,"Walter said.

"Even if he did only want matte, he 'd have to get Albus as well because I know Albus would n't let him submit mat sitting down,"Harry replied, and started walking briskly towards Hogsmeade,"Let 's go. I 'll get every usable Auror on this."

******

Albus tried as hard as he could to free himself from Washburn 's compass as he was Portkeying to who knows where. All Albus knew about the location was that it must be far away. Portkeying is usually mostly instantaneous, but this time there was a significant lag. Albus had clip to try and get away, not that it did anything.

The second clew that their destination was far away was the fact that it was very sullen when Albus finally landed on the dry land. Not dark like an impending storm either. Dark as in night.

Washburn had let go of Albus as they landed and Albus hastened to get to his feet. Loud thumping around him told him that his Quaker had landed as well.

The ground was damp and gruelling and the leaf around them was dense. Albus assumed they were in some sort of woods. He gazed around and saw a lot of unfamiliar trees that seemed to adulterate towards the starry sky.

There was no moonlight to enlighten the timber. Lubar, the Willinsons, and Washburn had walked a few curtilage away from the boy and were whispering to each other. All four had lit their wands, but it was n't enough wand twinkle to grant Albus a commodity view of his surroundings.

Matt, John Lackland, and Kaden had all scrambled over to where Albus was and were standing quite close to him, their wand out. Albus pulled his own out as well, but did n't dare brightness level it.

"Why is it dark ?"Kaden whispered.

"Where the Inferno are we ?"can asked.

"We 're in Australia,"matt said in awe, as if he was just coming to terms with that fact.

"We Portkeyed across an ocean ?"Kaden gasped.

When Albus thought about it, it made signified. Lubar was from Australia, so why should n't he take them there ? It was quite far away from anyone who would be looking for them.

What did n't make sense was why Lubar was with Washburn and the Willinsons. As far as he could evidence, the four wizards seemed to be working together, but why ? Lubar lived halfway across the worldly concern. How had he met the Willinsons ?

"Is this anywhere near your old house ?"St. John the Apostle asked.

"How should I live ?"Matt snapped,"Australia 's a Brobdingnagian res publica !"

"I just thought if we were near it, we could hide out there,"John muttered.

"You would n't require to,"Matt said,"My stupid cousin owns it now."

"You have a cousin ?"Albus asked.

"Not important,"Matt said quickly.

Albus nodded."How are we going to get out of this ?"

"They 're not paying attention,"John whispered, gesturing to where the four wizards stood huddled in a rope,"Maybe if we run for it."

"The Portkey 's right there,"Matt pointed to the tea kettledrum, which was a few human foot away,"If we can just get to it."

"All right,"Albus whispered,"On the enumeration of three. One ... two ... three."

Albus ran as quietly as he could towards the Porkey. He was about to pick it up when it soared up into the air. Albus looked up and saw Lubar sneering at him, with the Portkey in his hand.

"That wo n't do,"Lubar said as he stowed the Porkey in his cloak. He turned to the other three men."They 're trying to get away."

"What do you expect ?"Jarrett said rudely,"There 's four of them ! Do you actualise how practically more difficult this is going to be now ? We only needed Potter ! But no, you had to go and insist on bringing that loup-garou kid as well."

"You would n't even consume managed this if it were n't for me !"Lubar growled,"So do n't go telling me what I should and should n't receive done."

"wellspring, now we 've wound up with two superfluous ones as well,"Jarret muttered.

"They 're kid, how often trouble can they be ?"Lubar smirked.

"You do n't hump this lot,"Washburn replied,"They 're the reason we have n't had luck before."

"I thought that was because of your incredible stupidity,"Lubar said.

Albus was very intrigue. Lubar was arguing with them as if he knew them well. Had Lubar really been working with them all along ?

What did they need him for anyway ? What had Willinson meant when he said 'we only needed Potter'?

"Shut it, Lubar,"Jarrett said.

"I 'll say what I like,"Lubar replied,"This is my bush, not yours."

"You own the woods now ?"Jarrett asked.

"As a matter of fact, I do,"Lubar snapped.

"Ministry must be paying you well."

"Indeed they are,"Lubar said and turned to matte,"So many class have passed. Tell me, what is it like pretending to be something you 're not ?"

To Albus 's surprise, it was John and not mat who went flying at Lubar. Lubar disarmed toilet with a otiose wafture of his wand, leaving John stunned in front of him. It appeared that Lubar was a significantly better dueler than either of the Willinsons or Washburn.

Pocketing John 's wand, Lubar turned back to mat, who was shakily holding his scepter up.

"It does n't weigh what country you 're in,"Lubar seethed,"You 're the same matter no matter where you live. The laws do n't interchange what you are. Pretend as much as you like, but it wo n't change a thing."

Now Albus wanted to go after Lubar. The anger was boiling up inside of him and he did n't think he had ever felt more angry in his intact lifetime, and that included every encounter he had had with Scorpio Malfoy. Malfoy was like a fluffy kitty compared to Lubar.

However, Albus held himself back. John was already wandless. It would do them no in force if Albus got disarmed as well. Something told him to hold back, to wait until he could pick up them off guard.

"What about your Father ? I hear he 's the head of the department in Britain now,"Lubar smirked,"conjecture it 's just a matter of time until the Saami affair happens. You 'll take in to take flight again."

Matt was visibly trembling now. Albus wracked his brain, trying to fancy out what to do. What could they do ?

"Oh, for pigeon hawk 's sake !"Jarrett strode forward,"How is this helping things ? Did we really risk Portkeying a crew of kids to Australia just to devastate time taunting one of them ?"

"silence !"Lubar shouted,"I 'll do what I like !"

"exculpation me !"Kaden said loudly, turning to Lubar,"But how in the name of merlin do you acknowledge them ?"He gestured to the Willinsons and Washburn.

Albus held his breathing space, waiting for Lubar to put some variety of jinx or curse on Kaden. Sometimes his full cousin was quite dense. It seemed obvious to Albus that this was a clock time not to ask questions.

To Albus 's surprise, Lubar smiled. It was a sprain form of smile, but a smile nonetheless.

"I think that 's a fair question,"Lubar said."My cousin married this idiot,"Lubar pointed at Jarrett.

"You 're married ?"Kaden gaped at Jarrett, causing Albus to groan. Why would n't Kaden just shut up ?

"Not for much longer,"Jarrett muttered,"Can we please just get on with this ?"

"Patience, cousin,"Lubar said as he began to walk slowly around the other three,"We mus n't do this hastily. precipitation is the understanding you three have failed prior to tonight."

Fail at what ? What were they going to do ? The simply thing Albus could mean of was getting the Hallows, but all three Hallows were in England. If that was their plan, they would n't have taken them to Australia.

Albus glanced nervously at lusterlessness, who still looked scared out of his judgement. Something was still telling Albus not to try and duel the men. Lubar seemed fresh, very much chic than the early three, and that scared Albus more than anything else. There was a big difference between dueling someone who was smart and dueling someone who was an idiot.

******

The Ministry seemed deserted when Harry and Walter Flooed there a short while later. Harry had briefly questioned the proprietor of Honeyduke 's, but they had not seen any of the boys.

Harry and Walter ran towards the facelift at top pep pill, not pausing to answering the questioning stare of the cuss at the welcome desk. The lifts could not go fast enough for the two men. Harry nearly pulled the doors open when they finally arrived at Magical Law Enforcement 's floor.

The Auror berth was slightly more lively than the repose of the Ministry, but not much. Three Aurors were inside, two of whom hastily shoved away a good deal of Exploding snap bean cards and stood up upon seeing Harry arrive. The other Auror, a rather short but heavyset hag, shoved the book she was reading in the drawer, and joined the other two.

"ceramicist, sir !"the witch said,"We thought you were at Hogwarts today !"

"I was,"Harry said darkly and explained the situation.

The three Aurors looked forbidding as they waited for Harry to feed them instructions.

"Dabney,"Harry turned to the taller of the wizard,"Brighton,"he looked at the witch,"Get started with an extensive search of Hogsmeade. I 'm calling in everyone who is n't busy with anything else. Tiburon and Oswald are on tariff in Hogsmeade today, inform them of the situation."

Dabney and Brighton nodded before dashing out of the room. Harry turned to the remaining Auror."Lewster, you will be searching the Forbidden timberland as soon as soul else arrives."

Harry pulled out his wand and muttered a spell. An enormous silvery stag flew out of his sceptre and Harry whispered to it. The Patronus glided out of the room and Harry leaned against the nearest desk.

It was n't long before Harry heard footsteps in the corridor. He looked up at the door just as Ron was running through, followed by half a dozen other Aurors.

"Harry, what 's going on ?"Ron said in a worried tone.

Harry rehashed the entire billet again. Ron 's expression paled."What about rosiness, was she with them ?"

"No,"Walter shook his head,"It was just the boys."

"Thank Merlin,"Ron whispered,"But Harry, what about Willinson ? D'you think he 's got anything to do with this ?"

"It 's crossed my mind,"Harry muttered,"But I have n't got a cue as to how Lubar would bang him."

"With colored wizards, you just never know,"Ron pointed out.

"I know,"Harry nodded,"Ron, lead the hunting of the Forbidden Forest. Lewster 's going with you. And study Daniels and Joseph Smith with you."

Ron nodded and left the elbow room, followed by Lewster and two early whiz. The remaining four Aurors looked to Harry.

"The balance of you can search the castle and earth. Be discrete. I do not wish to interrupt the Quidditch match unless it is absolutely necessary,"Harry instructed.

The Aurors left the room and Harry turned to Walter. He slowly shook his head teacher. Why was it always Albus ? This was the thirdly year he had gotten into bother. Albus 's geezerhood at Hogwarts were reminding Harry dangerously of his own.

"I 'd improve go Floo home base and tell Julie what 's going on,"Walter sighed,"She 's going to settle apart."

Harry nodded as Walter left the room. Ginny. Harry snapped his head up. She was going to be watching the mate, but was going to be late. She 's probably there now, Harry thought. She 'd be looking for him.

Harry slowly left the room. How was he going to tell his married woman that Albus had been kidnapped and he did n't make a clue as to where he was ?

******

"You 're just too afraid to do it !"Jarrett shouted at Lubar,"What could possibly go wrong ? We 're halfway across the globe from the Aurors that are looking for this lot !"

"Once again you have proved your stupidity,"Lubar replied,"Do you agnise who we 've taken halfway across the world ? Harry potter 's son ! You have n't a cue as to how things work in the Ministry !

"I can assure you that at this very present moment, the integral Auror department is looking for them. Harry Potter 's probably got every Auror on this suit. It wo n't convey them long to recognize that we 're not in England.

"And this one,"Lubar gestured to Matt,"He 's got the most meddling parents in the world. They 'd sooner kill everyone in the reality before letting something materialise to him. Very irritating. They wo n't rest until they find him. Not to advert the fact that he 's the son of a Ministry functionary. We 've got two kids of two of the most big Ministry functionary of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Think, Jarrett, think ! We 've got to be heedful !"

"well, you 're the one who wanted to take the lycanthrope, too,"Jarrett growled.

"And you 're the one who insisted we take Potter 's son !"Lubar shouted,"Why do we even need him ?"

"We just do !"Jarrett shouted back.

"If both of you idiots had n't wanted to bring the youngster, we could 've done this unscathed matter without the Ministry finding out,"Washburn cut in.

"Shut up !"Lubar and Jarrett said at the Same time.

Maybe if they kept arguing, they would n't consume a hazard to do whatever it was they wanted to do before the Aurors found them, Albus thought. He could only hope that the sorcerer would have enough to argue about.

"Are we going to do it here ?"Jarrett asked,"Or go to the house ?"

"rich person you learned nothing ?"Lubar shouted,"When they find out that we 're here, the first place they 'll look is the house."

"Got any better idea ?"Jarrett seethed,"Have you got a undercover little shack somewhere in this area ?"

"No,"Lubar snapped,"We 're taking them to the outback. plentifulness of places to hide, not very inhabited. perfective place."

Before Albus could even contemplate running away, Jarrett had his arm in a frailty clutches again. Matt was once again in the clutches of Lubar, and John and Kaden were both caught by the Willinsons.

Albus knew very little about the Australian outback, just that it was n't suitable for much human inhabitancy. However, the one piece of information he did know about it was that it was where well-nigh of the dementors that used to hold Azkaban had gone. That, and it was a somewhat popular place for vampires.

Lubar and Jarrett had stopped bickering. Albus had two seconds to realize what was happening before he felt the familiar but unpleasant star of side-along Apparition.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
A/N : Like the previous chapter, this one goes back and forth between Albus 's and Harry 's perspectives.


Albus stumbled as he landed, breaking unblock of Jarrett 's compass. He tripped over a tilt and landed boldness first in the sand. Spitting the grittiness out of his mouth, he stood up and glanced around.

It was still far too dour to see anything but the outlines of mountains in the space. The outback seemed very void and very quiet. There was a very small clump of bushes and tree diagram nearby, but besides that, Albus did not see a good deal else in the way of flora life.

Albus immediately knew why Lubar had taken them there. He had never been in such a deserted piazza in his sprightliness. There was absolutely nothing around them. Even if Albus had decided to run away, he would n't feature gotten very far. As serious as staying with Lubar was, Albus knew he would possess no opportunity of surviving if he ran off into the outback.

Lubar seemed to lie with that Albus and the others would n't run away. He neglected to use any sort of ropes to tie them up or put any spells around them. Instead, he walked a short distance in the direction of the mass and gestured for the Willinsons and Washburn to follow them.

"What are we going to do ?"King John seethed,"Has anyone got any idea where we are ?"

"The outback 's Brobdingnagian,"flatness replied,"I bet we 're right in the middle of it. The nearest civilization 's probably statute mile away."

"So we 're done for,"John groaned,"What do they even want with us anyway ?"

"No idea,"Albus said,"But if they keep arguing, we might not have to find out."

"Do you really cogitate your dads are going to be able to find us ?"toilet asked skeptically.

"Lubar 's right wing,"Albus said,"The whole Ministry 's going to be looking. I think they 'll rule us."

"Does pig out like this happen every year ?"Kaden asked,"I mean, last year I got kidnapped by Willinson and now we all were. What 'll find succeeding twelvemonth ?"

"Hopefully nothing,"Albus said.

"If there is a next year,"trick muttered.

"Shut up over there !"Lubar shouted as he walked back over to the boys,"I did n't enjoin you to spill !"

"Lubar !"Jarrett seethed as he pointed to someplace in the aloofness,"There 's mass gathering over there ! We 've got to go somewhere else !"

Albus looked towards where Jarrett was pointing and his center leapt a bit. There was a small gathering of figures a few railway yard away. Could his dad have found them already ?

"Calm down,"Lubar said,"They 're just lamia. They wo n't bother us. I know that coven. They know better than to mess with me. I 'll make up spirit pretty suffering for them if they do."

"Cutting tidy sum with vampire now ?"Jarrett asked.

"Proving to be helpful, is n't it ?"Lubar answered.

Albus 's hopes sank once again. Lubar seemed more confusing than ever. He cut lot for vampires but passed restrictive Laws on werewolf ? It did n't seduce sense.

The men lowered their voices again and Albus wished he had a few Extendable Ears with him. He did n't defy talk to his friend, just sent them nervous glimpse every now and then.

A frigidness steer blew over them and Albus shivered. It was the kind of cold that chilled him to the bone. Hoping that it was n't going to rain, or snow ( was n't it winter in Australia ? ), he looked to the sky. There were no clouds, but what Albus saw was a great deal defective than clouds.

Five or six cloaked shape were slowly circling above them. Although he had never before seen one, Albus recognized them as dementors immediately. Despite the dark, Albus could clearly make out their forms. As they got closer, he could even hear their rattling breath.

The world in front of him began to drown. He felt like he was going to go through out, but he knew it was just the dementors sucking all the happiness out of him. Albus was left with all his unhappy thoughts.

His dad was n't going to find them. They would be stuck on the Australian outback until Lubar and the others did what they were going to do. Then who knew what would happen ?

"No, no, no !"lustrelessness shouted.

Albus squeezed his eyes shut and then opened them, forcing himself to look towards his friend. Matt was kneeling on the ground, shaking violently. Both John and Kaden were looking at him anxiously, neither seeming to be that affected by the dementors.

Of track the dementors would touch Matt the worst. He had gone through things that Albus, John the Divine, and Kaden could n't even opine. It probably did n't help that Lubar was actually present, either.

Without even thinking, Albus pulled his wand out of his robes. He 'd try the incantation for the Patronus charm before and figured it was worth a injection. What else could he do besides try ?

"Expecto Patronum !"Albus shouted, pointing his wand at the sky. Nothing happened.

A well-chosen thinking ! How could he have forgotten that ? It was difficult to cogitate of one with dementors flying over heard and listening to matt shouting on the ground.

When the categorization Hat put him in Gryffindor ! Albus pointed his verge to the sky again."Expecto Patronum ! Expecto Patronum !"

Albus kept shouting the incantation while using various happy memory board. zilch was happening, but matt 's shouting was decreasing. Then it stopped. Albus stopped and looked towards the undercoat. It looked like mat had passed out.

Thinking of the day Balladanis had been sacked, Albus pointed his wand at the dementors once again."Expecto Patronum !"he shouted.

A silvery blob exploded from his wand and went after the dementors. Albus stood shocked for a few indorsement. He had sort of done a Patronus charm !

"Bloody hell,"toilet whispered.

"Expecto Patronum !"someone shouted from the distance.

Albus looked up and saw Lubar running at them with his scepter pointed at the dementors. A silvery squirrel was floating ahead of him and the dementors scattered as it reached them.

Albus 's blurred brain immediately cleared and the happiness returned. He quickly stowed his wand in his robes before Lubar thought to disarm him.

"Leave him,"Lubar growled at Saint John the Apostle and Kaden, who were bent grass to the ground trying to get lustrelessness to wake up.

"Dementors !"Washburn shouted sarcastically,"This was a bloody brilliant place to come."

Lubar paid no attention to Washburn 's commentary. His eyes were focused on Albus and he was giving him a very curious look. Albus took a uneasy step back, but Lubar did not ward off his gaze. Albus immediately closed his mind.

******

"ceramist, sir !"

Harry, who had been walking up high Street in Hogsmeade with Ginny, turned around and saw Lewster striding towards him. Harry stopped, hoping he had some good news.

"What is it, Lewster ?"Harry asked.

"Just talked to a few of the centaurs,"Lewster said,"They saw three wiz in the forest a few hr ago. They recognized one of them as Washburn."

"I 'd bet my last Galleon the other two were the Willinsons,"Harry replied,"Did the centaurs know anything else ?"

"Just that Washburn and the others were looking for something. Apparently they were scouring the forest floor for something,"Lewster answered.

Harry nodded. That did n't surprise him. The Resurrection Harlan Stone was someplace in the forest."Did you see anything ?"

"No,"Lewster shook his head,"And the centaurs are pretty sure they 've left."

"Very well,"Harry said,"See what else you can find out."

Lewster left and Harry turned to Ginny, who looked afraid.

"Harry, you do n't intend that Washburn is with Lubar, do you ?"Ginny asked.

"There 's no doubt in my mind,"Harry answered,"It 's just a topic of finding them. Listen, I 've got to go hunt Dervish and Banges. I 've got this hunch about the place. Seems like the thoroughgoing stead for Washburn to make them."

Ginny nodded."I 'll go entrance the end of the match. I wo n't bring up anything to James II and Lily yet."

"Good,"Harry said,"I 'll be in touch soon."He kissed her lightly on the brow."We 're going to retrieve him."

"I know,"Ginny replied softly,"Stay safe."

Ginny turned around to walk back to the Hogwarts grounds while Harry picked up the pace and walked the scant distance to Dervish and Banges.

The building looked utterly abandoned. The Windows were still boarded up, the pasturage overgrown around it. It certainly did n't look like anyone was hiding inside, but Harry had to check.

Pulling out his baton, he crept cautiously to the door. He carefully pulled the boards off of it and quietly wrenched the door outdoors. Without lighting his verge, he walked inside.

The place had the smell of a Holocene fire in the fireplace. soul had been there. However, there was not a sound from anywhere in the edifice. Harry lit his wand and saw that it was deserted.

After a thorough stop of the entire building, in which Harry found no living creatures, he returned to the main room. The fireplace was filled with nearly dead embers and there was a small pile of Floo powder spilled out onto the floor.

The Floo had been used recently. Harry bent down and muttered an incantation that would tell him where the concluding mortal to use the fireplace had Flooed from. He waited for the incantation to work, his heart throb.

Soft red smoke emitted from his verge, curling together to take form the give-and-take 'Ministry of Magic .'Harry breathed a sigh of relief. He was getting somewhere. Without hardly a dubiety, Harry knew that Albus and the other boy had wound up in Dervish and Banges after going to the Ministry. The only question was, where had they gone after that ?

******

"How old are you, thrower ?"Lubar asked.

"Thirteen,"Albus replied, still a bit nervous as to why Lubar was looking at him like that. It reminded him of how Balladanis had looked at him during the second dueling tournament.

"And they teach the Patronus Charm to thirteen-year-olds at Hogwarts ?"Lubar replied.

"No,"Albus shook his head, although when he thought about it, Balladanis may receive taught him and Malfoy Patronuses if he had n't gotten sacked."That was the get-go metre I 'd tried it."

"Very intriguing,"Lubar said as he turned to the other three men,"This lot did n't enjoin me you were skilled at Defensive magic."

"You never asked,"Jarrett muttered,"But is ceramicist 's aptitude for Patronuses really relevant to what we 're doing ?"

"It matters if they decide to try and hex us !"Lubar snapped,"I think it might be best if they 're all wandless."

Albus gulped and clenched his sceptre harder. He glanced at Matt, who was still unconscious. John did n't have his wand. Kaden was n't very just at dueling. It would be up to him, to Albus, if this came to a duel.

"The just one who 's got any skill is Potter,"Jarrett said,"The former three are n't going to be difficult."

"amercement,"Lubar muttered,"We 'll get started, but I need to mouth to you three away from them first."

Jarrett nodded and the men walked a few thousand away and began whispering too quietly for Albus to hear.

Albus bent down to where mat had collapsed, wishing he knew a healing piece or two."Matt, matt,"he whispered,"aftermath up."

After a minute or two, Matt 's eyes fluttered open and he sat up."What happened ?"he asked, looking around confusedly.

"You passed out,"Albus told him,"When the dementors were here."

"But Albus cast a Patronus !"John said excitedly.

"You what ?"Matt gaped at him.

"It was just silverish mist,"Albus told him,"Lubar 's actually the one who got rid of them."

"Probably just for his sake,"Matt shuddered,"Did anyone else pass out ?"The other three boys shook their oral sex."Figures,"mat muttered.

"You need some drinking chocolate or something,"Albus said,"Anyone got some ?"

"mightiness,"Kaden began fishing around in his pockets. He produced a deep brown frog and handed it to Matt, who took it without saying a word.

"Listen,"Albus said,"Whatever it is that they want to do here, they 're doing it soon. Do you call up you can get up ?"

Matt nodded and Albus helped him to his infantry. Lubar and the others were walking towards them again. Albus slowly pulled his wand out of his robes and held it to his side, hiding it partially behind his back.

Lubar conjured a agglomerate of Natalie Wood and set fire to it, illuminating himself, Washburn, the Willinsons, and the male child. Albus was now clearly able to see the twine look on Lubar 's typeface.

"Are you mad ?"Jarrett seethed,"Fire 's going to attract tending !"

Lubar laughed."Fire 's going to ensure that those vampire stay away and we 've got to see what we 're doing !"

Albus glanced towards where the vampire had been congregating. They were currently walking farther away from Albus and the others. Thinking back to Linda 's boggart, he remembered that vampires are destroyed by fire. Albus turned back to the men.

Jarrett was holding something out in his bridge player, but Albus could n't make out what it was. Jarrett, along with Quinton and Washburn, looked quite excited. Lubar looked mildly annoyed and impatient.

"Do you know what this is, potter ?"Jarrett asked gleefully.

"No,"Albus said, trying not to sound too nervous.

"It 's the Resurrection Harlan Stone,"Jarrett answered.

Albus could hardly hold back his gasp as he peered nigh at Jarrett 's outstretched hand. There was a very pocket-sized Edward Durell Stone sitting in it. The Resurrection of Christ I. F. Stone. One of the Deathly Hallows. Jarrett had finally succeeded in getting one of the three objects he had been after for years. But how ?

"How ?"Albus asked, trying to sound confident.

"antediluvian illusion is a beautiful thing, Potter,"Jarrett answered,"There are long forgotten spells, magic spell that work very nicely with hanker forgotten magical physical object such as this Stone. It was merely a matter of finding the correct charm, getting to the Forbidden Forest, and putting it to use. Quite unproblematic now that I look back on it."

"Only because you did n't do any of the work,"Lubar muttered,"It was I who found the spell !"

"The other Hallows will raise to be easy to obtain with the help of this,"Jarrett went on, ignoring Lubar 's mutterings.

Albus did not like the sound of that. The pit itself did one thing and that was bring back the feeling of people who had passed on. How would that facilitate Jarrett get the other Hallows ?

The invisibility Cloak. Albus 's stomach plummeted. It was still in his robe. He really hoped Jarrett would n't clear that.

"Another affair that I thought of !"Lubar seethed.

"You think this lot care who did what ?"Jarrett laughed.

"Oh, just get on with it,"Washburn rolled his eyes.

Jarrett sidestepped past the fire and strode closer to Albus. Albus took a dance step back as his heart started beating faster. He had a very bad feeling about what Jarrett was going to do with that Stone.

"Ah, yes, ceramicist. You should be afraid,"Jarrett 's gaze swept over all four male child,"You should all be afraid."

"Quit taunting them and just do it,"Washburn said impatiently.

"With this stone,"Jarrett said a bit louder,"I will fetch back master Voldemort."

******

Harry burst out of Dervish and Banges, not caring that he had blasted the door completely off its hinges as he did so. He had to find Walter. He had to find Bruno Walter and then go to the Ministry. The fireplace did not show signs that it had been used to Floo away from the abandoned store. That left either phantasm or a Portkey, both of which would have left traces that he 'd involve the Department of Magical Transportation for.

Harry rounded a nook as he ran towards Honeyduke 's and nearly ran headlong into a hag. He stepped back and saw it was Ginny. She wore a strange look of muddiness and jolt, mixed with mingle fear.

"Ginny,"Harry said,"Sorry."

"Not a problem,"she said quickly,"Have you found anything ?"

"Yes,"Harry answered,"Is the match over ? How badly did we lose by ?"

"Only a hundred points,"Ginny said,"But we might not have actually lost. Listen, did you know Commonwealth of Australia 's Seeker is a vampire ?"

"waiting, what ?"Harry gaped at her, trying to twine his mind around that fact while still focusing his intellect on Albus.

"I 'll explain after we 've found Albus,"Ginny said.

"Right,"Harry agreed,"I 've got a wind. Someone was in Dervish and Banges. They Flooed there from the Ministry ; I 'm sure enough it was Al and the others. I 've got to get hold Walter and go to the Ministry. I 'm not sure where that will pass us, but I might not be back for a while."

"Just be measured,"Ginny said as she gave him a kiss,"And bring in him back."

"I will,"Harry said as he kissed her back,"I 'll see you soon."

"Harry !"

Harry turned and saw Bruno Walter striding out of Honeyduke 's. With one lastly look at Ginny, Harry met Walter half-way.

"We 've got to get to the Ministry,"Harry said immediately, and explained about what he had found at Dervish and Banges and what Lewster had learned from the centaurs.

Walter nodded and the two men Disapparated on the spot. They reappeared a lilliputian while later in a modest spectre chamber in the Ministry.

Passing the bewildered looking security guard for the third fourth dimension that day, Harry and Walter ran to the heave. Neither of them said a word as the lift clattered to the department of Magical Transportation.

The department was nearly deserted, relieve for one very bored looking witch sitting at a desk.

"Mr. Potter, Mr. Eckerton !"she exclaimed as she took her groundwork off the desk,"Something I can do for you ?"

"Yes,"Harry answered,"I need to cognise if anyone 's Disapparated from Dervish and Banges in Hogsmeade. Or used a Portkey from that same location. And if you 're able to, I need to have a go at it where they went."

"Of path, Mr. Potter, of course of instruction,"the witch said as she got up. She disappeared into another room, shutting the room access behind her.

Harry sighed and sat down on the nearest chair. Walter sat down in the adjacent one, looking thoroughly miserable.

"We 'll come up them,"Harry said quietly.

"I do n't doubt that,"Walter replied,"However, that is not the only thing I am worried about. The last fourth dimension matte had an altercation with Ralph Lubar, he wound up in therapy for months afterwards."

Harry was not expecting that. He did not bang much about therapy, except that wizards did not normally use it. Whatever had happened, it must have been bad.

"Do you mind if I ask what happened ?"Harry asked, not sure if he was overstepping some sort of boundary.

Walter did not speak for several indorsement."It 's ok,"Harry said,"You do n't have to explain."

"I will,"Bruno Walter said quietly,"Shortly after flatness was bitten, I became the school principal of the section for the Regulation and Control of Magical brute in Australia. Nobody outside of the section knew about his condition, of course. Ralph Lubar was given my former position of point of the wolfman dominance Unit, and was quite green-eyed that I was given the Head position. He could not get over the fact that I was given it, even when my own son had lycanthropy.

"It was a grudge he held against me for many years, until the day finally came when he cracked and let it slip that Matt was a werewolf. A bit of legislation had been passed that required all lieu of shift be inspected by the Ministry. Lubar inspected matte 's and it failed on a technicality. Ministry heart and soul were set up for werewolves to transubstantiate in, together. matt was required by law to transform there since his dependable elbow room did not bye. I refused to have him transform there. The newspaper publisher were all over it. I lost my job. Lubar was appointed to the forefront position.

"more than lawmaking was passed. A law that stated that Ministry functionary could physically force loup-garou into the transformation centers. On the day of the full lunation, Lubar Flooed into our family and took Matt to the center. By the time I figured out which center it was, the lunar month had risen. It was too late.

"Matt spent weeks in St. Mungo 's. By that fourth dimension we were nearly fix to prompt here. He was so shock, it took months for him to get over it. To be honest, I do n't think he 's fully over it.

"The only rationality Lubar did it was to try and get to me. That 's why he 's so disturbed and twisted,"Walter finished as he put his head in his hands,"I swore I 'd never let him near mat again. Swore I 'd down him if he went near Matt again.

Walter gave an odd kind of laugh."Listen to me, I 'm telling the Head of the Auror department that I 'd devote murder."

"Just so long as you do n't actually do it when we go keep open the boys,"Harry said, still processing what Walter had told him. It certainly explained a lot- why they were so reluctant to let Matt out of their mint, why they were n't on the Floo Network.

One thing that Harry could tell was that Walter blamed himself for everything that had happened. Honestly, Harry was n't surprised. If something like that had happened to King James, Albus, or Lily, he would 've blamed himself, too.

"That was n't your defect,"Harry said quietly,"And this is n't either."

"If I had just Flooed ahead of the boys-"

"It would n't have mattered,"Harry interrupted,"And it 'll do no good to dwell on it now. It 's in the past."

"That 's exactly what my brother said when Matt was in St. Mungo 's,"Bruno Walter said wryly.

"Mr. Potter !"the enchantress came bustling out of the room she had gone into, brandishing a bit of parchment, which she handed to Harry.

Harry stood up as she handed them the parchment. His eyes scanned the lambskin. Portkeys. Four Portkeys had left Dervish and Banges a few short 60 minutes ago. That in itself did not shock Harry, especially compared to where the Portkeys had gone.

"Australia,"Harry read as he turned to Walter, who had visibly paled at the word,"They 're in Australia."


A/N : Thanks to my genus Beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the awesome people who have read and left such lovely reviews !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.
A/N : Like the former chapters, this one is also split between Albus and Harry 's perspectives.


Never had Albus wished so backbreaking that he could Apparate. Why did you throw to be 17 to get your apparition permit anyway ? If he ever worked in the department of Magical Transportation, he would exchange that law. phantasm would 've enabled him to get out of Australia, away from Jarrett Willinson, who was trying to bring back God Almighty Voldemort with the Christ's Resurrection Stone.

Albus could not retrieve being more scared in his life. This was far spoilt than when he had dueled Washburn on the Hogwarts grounds two years ago, far tough than when Quinton kidnapped Kaden the previous year. Lord Voldemort was far scarier than Lubar, Washburn, and the Willinsons combined.

What would Voldemort expression like when Jarrett brought him back ? Harry had said the Stone could n't actually bring people back to life. Albus guessed he 'd be more like a ghost. But would he be able to do magic, to perform the swearword and whammy he did when he was alive ?

Albus held his breath as he watched Jarrett plough the Harlan Fiske Stone over in his hands. Albus had no estimate how it worked, but judging by how quiet all of the adults were, Jarrett was trying to use it.

Over and over again Jarrett turned the Harlan Fiske Stone. He did it for so long that Albus had to let out his breath. The rouse gleam on Jarrett 's face slowly dissipated until it was replaced by frustration.

"Why wo n't it work ?"Jarrett shouted,"Are you electropositive this is the right Edward Durell Stone ?"

"Of trend I am !"Lubar shouted as he grabbed the Stone,"The spell said it was !"

"Well, it 's not working now, is it ?"Jarrett mocked.

Albus breathed a sigh of rest period. Either they had the ill-timed stone or for whatever reason, Voldemort could n't be brought back with it. Albus was hoping for the former.

Lubar turned the stone over in his hands. On the tierce turn, a unusual sort of mist appeared in front of him. Albus 's heart sped up. It had worked.

The mist began to pull in and a figure was standing in presence of Lubar. The figure was not Lord Voldemort, though. Albus had no estimate who had been resurrected, but it certainly was not Voldemort. This person was a woman, and a short-circuit one at that.

Washburn and the Willinsons were exchanging curious glimpse. Lubar, however, was staring directly at the figure, his look contorted with something Albus could only assume was sadness.

"M-mother ?"Lubar said as he stepped closer to the woman.

"You idiot !"Jarrett shouted,"That 's not Voldemort !"

"I know that !"Lubar snapped and the looked back to the woman, who was apparently his mother,"Mum."

"Ralphy,"the char replied.

"I-it 's been so long,"Lubar whispered.

Albus turned to his admirer, who were all staring in mix-up at Lubar. Matt in particular was giving Lubar a very strange look. Apparently the stone was the Christ's Resurrection Stone and it did indeed oeuvre, just not in the way Jarrett had been planning.

"Very long,"Lubar 's female parent agreed,"But you 've done well. I 'm very proud of you, son."

Albus had to cover his mouth to conceal his snort. What sort of mother could be proud of what Lubar had done ?

"I 've tried,"Lubar said,"I swore I would after, after what happened."

"You have,"Lubar 's mum replied,"You 've done me proud."

"Oh for pigeon hawk 's sake !"Jarrett shouted as he ran towards Lubar.

Lubar seemed to induce forgotten that there were other people around. He jumped as Jarrett advanced and Jarrett grabbed the Stone out of his hand.

Lubar 's mother began to fade as soon as Jarrett took the stone. Running towards her, Lubar held out his hands trying to keep open her there.

"No !"he shouted,"Mum !"

Mere seconds after Lubar 's mother completely disappeared, Lubar had his sceptre out and was holding it up at Jarrett. Jarrett had taken out his own wand, but neither man was hurling jinxes. Washburn and Quinton had taken a few tone back.

"You arse !"Lubar shouted,"That was my mother !"

"I know !"Jarrett replied,"That 's why I did it ! We 're trying to bring back Voldemort here, not your messed up mum !"

"Do not insult my mother,"Lubar seethed and flicked his sceptre.

Jarrett fell to the ground, completely unable to motivate. Lubar stood over him with his wand directed at his chest.

"My female parent was a lovely someone,"Lubar growled,"You 're sick to be speaking ill of the dead like that."

Albus did n't really opine Lubar should be talking about who is crazy and who is n't. Nor did he conceive his female parent was particularly lovely. Never before had Albus thought he 'd jibe with Jarrett Willinson on anything, but when it came to Lubar 's mother, he did.

"Better they hex each other than us, right ?"lav muttered.

"Good item,"Albus replied.

"Can we please just get back to bringing back Voldemort ?"Washburn drawled loudly,"I was under the mental picture that that 's what we were here for, not to insult each other 's mothers."

Lubar turned his wand on Washburn."Have you anything to say about my mother ? wellspring, do you ?"

Washburn hastily pulled out his own verge."Er, no, she seemed quite lovely."

"Good,"Lubar said manically,"Keep it that way, or you 'll end up like him."Lubar gestured to Jarrett, who was still laying paralyzed on the undercoat, his eyes darting about nervously.

******

"Australia,"Bruno Walter said weakly,"Bloody hell."

"I 'll need you to replicate that Portkey,"Harry said to the witch, who nodded and left the room again.

"Walter,"Harry began,"I am nearly one hundred pct sure that Jarrett and Quinton Willinson, as well as Jameson Washburn are working with Lubar. I am nearly positive that they are with the boys in Australia."

"right hand,"Walter agreed,"The evidence surely points that way."

"There is something about that investigation that hardly anyone in the Ministry knows,"Harry lowered his spokesperson,"Nearly a year ago, after Quinton was sent to Azkaban, the Ministry decided that the Auror Department needed some supporter with capturing the early two. The Minister hired a Presuler."

Walter let out a low whistle and then fruition dawned on his face."Wait, you do n't mean-"

"Tethys Balladanis,"Harry said quietly,"Yes, he was the Presuler the Ministry hired. Stationed at Hogwarts under the dissembling of teaching Defense Against the night Arts."

"Bad idea on the Minister 's office,"Bruno Walter muttered.

"It was my approximation to post him at Hogwarts,"Harry replied,"But I did not know that he would be such an awful teacher."

"I wo n't hold it against you,"Bruno Walter said.

"I appreciate that,"Harry said,"However, since Balladanis is a part of this probe, I have to touch him and he will induce to go with us to Australia. I understand that you have had your divergence, but-"

"If he helps to find Matt, I will forgive him for everything he 's done,"Walter interrupted.

"Here you are, Mr. Potter, Mr. Eckerton,"the witch returned holding a malformed charge card container, which she handed to Harry."If I can be of anymore aid, let me know."

"That 's it for now,"Harry said as he took the container,"Thanks."

******

Albus stood frozen as the four men dueled each other. wholly unsure of what to do, yet very happy that they seemed to have momentarily forgotten about the male child, Albus just stood there watching. lusterlessness, John, and Kaden did the Same, although John looked Thomas More than a bit discerning, to the highest degree likely due to his lack of a wand.

Washburn had attempted to take the gem from Lubar, who had taken it back from Jarrett, shortly after Lubar had stunned Jarrett. Apparently Lubar did not consider kindly to this and witch Washburn. In the average fourth dimension, the Stunner had worn off Jarrett and he attempted to hex Lubar.

All four men were running around, throwing hex at each other while dodging the blast. Albus was sort of hoping one of them would trip and burn their blazonry or something. Or even better, maybe one or More of them would miss their wand into the fire.

Washburn and the Willinsons were definitely bad for wearable. All three of them were sporting wound. Both Willinsons were limping and Washburn 's unexpended arm was being held at an odd Angle.

Lubar seemed fine and even though it appeared that the other three were siding against him, he was coming off better. Albus had to admit that he was very skilled at dueling.

Lubar shot a jet of red light at Washburn, who went flying over the fervency and landed with a sickening thud in front of the boys. He did not run. Albus looked down and saw a small stone succeeding to Washburn 's head. He bent and picked it up. It was the Resurrection of Christ Stone.

Albus stood up and jumped back. Lubar, Jarrett, and Quinton had all advanced towards him. Three wands were pointed at his pectus, being held by three masses with maniacal glimmer in their eyes.

Albus gulped and held up his own wand, his arm shaking slightly. Matt and Kaden had done the Lapplander. St. John tried to hide behind Matt, but was unsuccessful since he was a estimable head taller than him.

"Hand it over, thrower,"Lubar growled.

With a defiant spirit at Lubar, Albus hastily shoved the gemstone into the air hole of his robes and held his wand up gamey.

******

"Balladanis."

"Eckerton."

Harry watched as the two men stared at each other. Balladanis had Flooed to the Ministry shortly after receiving Harry 's Patronus. Harry had filled him in on what was going on, but the man had n't taken his eyes off of Walter the total time.

"We have n't got time for this,"Harry muttered and held out the credit card container,"Let 's just go."

Walter agreed immediately and laid his mitt on the Portkey. Balladanis did so as well, with a piddling hesitation.

With a companion jerk behind his naval, Harry disappeared from the Ministry. The Portkey trip was a bit longer than ace Harry was used to, but it did n't surprise him since he knew they were going to Australia.

Harry landed softly on his feet and held out his wand as he adjusted to the environs. It was pitch black and after he lit his wand, Harry knew they were in the middle of a forest.

The forest was disappointingly quiet. The only phone were those of creature and the occasional whispering of trees, brought about by the wind. Not a I sound caused Harry to believe that there were citizenry about, let alone his son.

"Spread out and search,"Harry announced. The berth may seem deserted, but Albus and the others had been there at some point. They had Portkeyed there.

None of the wizards said a word as they combed the area. Harry left no Harlan Fiske Stone unturned as he looked for the pocket-sized trace of evidence of where his son had gone. If only it was n't night. baton did n't bring home the bacon nearly enough light.

There seemed to be not a trace of anything that showed anyone had been in that surface area of the forest, let alone where they had gone afterwards. Ralph Lubar was skilful at this, that was for surely. Harry swore as he returned to the same place he had started from.

Walter returned a few minutes later, looking even more anxious than he did before."zippo,"he muttered,"Not a ripped piece of cloak or a undivided Cnut. They did n't stay here long."

Harry groaned and scuffed the priming with his brake shoe. He and Bruno Walter stood quietly as they waited for Balladanis to return.

Balladanis came running towards Harry holding a modest metal instrument in his hand and an strange kind of arouse smirk on his face. He skidded to a halt in front end of Harry, holding out the instrument. Harry recognized it as an Apparition detector. They were quite rare. The British Ministry only owned one, for the entire Ministry.

"They 've Disapparated,"Balladanis said hurriedly.

"Obviously,"Walter muttered,"Any idea where ?"

"A general idea, yes,"Balladanis replied, ignoring Walter 's sarcastic whole step,"They 're on the outback."

"The outback ?"Walter gasped,"Dammit, there 's dementors out there !"

"I am cognisant,"Balladanis said.

"Let 's go, then,"Harry said, placing one of his work force on the metal official document. It would be able to guide them to the relation area they needed to go.

Bruno Walter put his hand on the instrument as well and with an exceptionally meretricious crack, all three men Disapparated.

They landed on terrain that was very unfamiliar to Harry. The ground was dusty and sandy and there was hardly any industrial plant aliveness in deal. In the distance there were magniloquent raft and clothe pattern floated above them. Harry suppressed a shudder and gripped his sceptre tighter. Dementors.

What looked like a hollo bonfire blazed in the distance. Harry glanced at it suspiciously and then looked back to Walter and Balladanis, both of whom were more than associate with the area.

"Only lamia and dementors ever venture out here,"Balladanis said quietly,"Neither of whom would set a fire."

"Let 's go, then,"Harry said and began to run the pocket-sized group towards the flickering lights in the distance.

******

"Hand it over, Potter,"Lubar repeated.

Albus gulped and tried to hold his verge more unfaltering. His wand arm was shaking uncontrollably and Albus did n't seem to be able to nurse it steady. His heart was thumping hard in his chest. Albus was sure everyone was able to get wind it. However, he did not want to reach up the stone. That was one affair he was sure of. The exclusively way Lubar would be getting it is if he killed Albus first. Which actually, was n't something Albus would put past him.

"Maybe you should just give it to him,"John whispered,"I mean, it did n't work to get Voldemort back."

"No,"Albus seethed, surprised that John had suggested it. He probably would n't let if he still had his wand.

"Do you really want to have to duel me, ceramicist ?"Lubar stepped a bit closer,"There 's three of us and four of you, one of which does n't take a wand. Not good odds, if you ask me."

"And do you make that those two are horrible duelers ?"Albus replied.

"I have noticed,"Lubar smirked,"But they 're fully qualified ; you are not. I 'm going to get that Stone, one way or another."

Lubar flicked his wand and sent a jet of orange lighter at Albus. Albus jumped back and threw up a shell appealingness, concentrating on making it big enough to shield him and his admirer. It worked and the orange light bounced harmlessly off the shield and hit the ground.

"stay behind me, St. John,"Albus muttered,"Matt and Kaden, spread out and hit them with whatever tour you know."

Albus concentrated on keeping his shield up while casting other spells, like he had done in Balladanis 's dueling lessons. So far it was working, but Albus never managed to retain the shield up very long.

Lubar was momentarily stunned when he saw Albus 's shield, but he quickly recovered and began sending hex after hex, nonverbally, at Albus and John. Concentrating heavily, Albus sent a Stunner at Lubar, but he flicked his wand and it shot off into the distance, hitting one of the lone George Bush, which promptly caught fire.

Albus chanced a glance at flatness and Kaden. lusterlessness was dueling with Jarrett and it looked like they were pretty equally matched, which was form of pathetic as far as Jarrett was concerned. It made Albus find better though. Quinton and Kaden just seemed to be sending Expelliarmus spell at each early and missing every time.

The shield emitting from Albus 's wand faltered and faded a bit. Albus renewed his concentration, but the shield was still weaker than it had been before. There was no way he 'd be able to institutionalise any go through the shell now.

"Your shield is weakening, thrower,"Lubar smirked as he sent another Stunner at Albus, which shook the shell.

"pigeon hawk !"Quinton shouted to the right of them. He was hopping on one ft and Kaden was laughing hysterically. Albus grinned. Kaden had actually managed to do some sort of hex, although Albus was n't surely what one it was.

Lubar turned to Quinton and flicked his scepter at Kaden. Kaden promptly froze and fell to the ground. Albus gasped and his shield disappeared.

"Albus !"John shouted.

Albus turned back to Lubar, but did n't get the shell back up before Lubar shot a hex at toilet, who fell to the ground like Kaden had.

"Would n't it be prosperous just to give way me the pit ?"Lubar asked as he sent a Stunner at Albus.

Albus deflected it."Not really."

Jarrett and lusterlessness were still dueling. Both were sporting a few accidental injury, but nothing too serious. Neither seemed to bear noticed that john and Kaden were Stunned.

Albus managed to hit Lubar with a trip jinx, which gave him a few second base to catch his breath while Lubar righted himself. Unfortunately this only angered him and he was now sporting a gash across his left cheek.

"Expelliarmus !"Lubar shouted.

Albus jumped to the position and the go hit a nearby careen. Lubar resumed his nonverbal spells and Albus continued deflecting them and dodging them, too exhausted to try and hit Lubar with any early jinxes.

"You ca n't keep dodging them forever, Potter !"Lubar grinned manically.

"lookout man me,"Albus said defiantly.

Albus of course of action knew that Lubar was right. The odds had not really changed. John and Kaden were both out of the battle and while whoremaster was easily the dear dueler after Albus, his absence did not put Albus greatly behind. Washburn was out as well and both Willinsons were injured. Quinton was currently on his knees panting, not in any anatomy to cover dueling. mat was holding his own against Jarrett, something Albus was both amazed and beguiled by.

No, Albus was not trying to overcome Lubar. He knew that would n't be possible. Albus was merely biding for prison term. He tried to work out out how long they 'd been gone as he dodged magical spell. It must have been at least three or four 60 minutes, although the dark Australian sky had not changed a bit. Albus wished the moon had been out so he could have monitored its trip across the sky.

How long would it take his dad to come up them ? Longer than normal, Albus thought. They were in the heart of a extraneous state, nowhere near anyplace Harry would be looking.

"I 'm getting annoyed, ceramicist, and you do n't want to see me when I 'm rile !"Lubar shouted, sending another jet of red light at Albus.

Before Albus even had time to register what sort of hex it was, flatness gave a scream of pain to Albus 's rightfield and collapsed to the reason. Jarrett wasted no time and pointed his wand at Albus.

Albus took a fraction of a second to digest the fact that he was now utterly alone, facing two fully full-grown mavin. The two wizards shot identical jet plane of blue light at Albus and he managed to pull in up a feeble shield.

The force hit him like a dozen Bludgers to the stomach. He lost his footing and landed monotonous on his book binding, his point hitting a particularly piercing rock and roll.

"I told you not to fight, Potter,"Lubar sneered as he loomed over Albus.

"You 're not getting the stone,"Albus said, forcing away the dizziness. He reached into his gown and pulled out the Stone.

"I disagree,"Lubar said as he made to snaffle the Stone.

With all the force Albus could muster, he threw the Stone as far as he could to the right. In the darkness, it disappeared in a stock split indorsement and Albus did n't even take heed it land.

"No !"Lubar shouted,"You 'll pay for that !"

"Wands where I can see them !"mortal shouted from behind Lubar.

Lubar and Jarrett whipped around as fast as they could. Albus lifted his mind slightly and caught a glimpse of his dad, along with a few other wizards. He breathed a sigh of substitute. They were saved.


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


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Albus managed to sit up right on before the jinx started flying. Realizing that he dropped his wand when Lubar and Jarrett hexed him, he groped about for it on the basis. Not finding it, he crawled behind a nearby bush and watched.

Jarrett did n't cleave around long. He sent one pathetic Stunner at Harry, who easily deflected it, and disappeared on the touch. Harry immediately disarmed Lubar before he could do the Lapp.

Once Lubar was defenseless, Albus left the safe of the George Walker Bush and shakily stood up. He reached the ardour and was capable to see who the early two thaumaturgist next to Harry were. What he saw made him dizzy with daze all over again.

The shorter of the two was Matt 's dad. He was staring stony faced at Lubar. Albus had never seen anyone glare at anyone else with such hatred and loathing as Matt 's dad glared at Lubar. And that included when his Uncle Ron talked about the Malfoys, or his mum when somebody mentioned Vernon and Petunia Dursley.

It was the other wizard that nearly caused Albus to pass on out in blow. He was none other than prof Balladanis. What in the epithet of pigeon hawk was he doing there ? It looked like he was actually with Harry and Matt 's dad. But why ? Did n't flatness 's dad hate Balladanis ?

"Eckerton, what a pleasant surprisal,"Lubar smirked.

"Lubar, if we were n't in the presence of an Auror and a Presuler I 'd rip you limb from limb, Muggle style,"Mr. Eckerton growled.

Albus was slightly stunned by Mr. Eckerton 's choice of Book, but remembering what Matt had told him at the beginning of the yr, all surprise left him.

"Lucky for me ceramicist and Balladanis are here, then,"Lubar replied and snatched Washburn 's verge off the ground.

Harry, Mr. Eckerton, and Balladanis all sent different spells at Lubar at the like time, but it was too late. He was already gone. Mr. Eckerton swore loudly.

"Two ai n't bad,"Balladanis muttered as he gestured to Washburn and Quinton, the latter of whom was still conscious but not completely aware of his surroundings.

"That 's the glaring difference between you and I,"Mr. Eckerton muttered as he moved swiftly past tense Quinton and Washburn to reach Matt.

"Dad !"Albus shouted.

Harry looked up from Kaden 's unconscious form and raced towards Albus. Albus threw his implements of war around his dad and the two of them hugged each other tightly.

"Al, thank Merlin,"Harry said.

"Dad, what 's Balladanis doing here ?"Albus asked immediately,"And Lubar, what 's going to happen to him ? And Willinson ?"

"I 'll excuse it all once we get you back to Hogwarts,"Harry assured him.

Balladanis had a firm postponement on both Washburn and Quinton and was fiddling with a broken credit card cup. A few second later, all three of them disappeared.

Harry turned to Mr. Eckerton, who was standing up with Matt in his arms."Can you take John Lackland, too ? I 'll get Kaden and Al will derive with me."

Mr. Eckerton nodded and grabbed custody of toilet 's arm before pulling his own broken in plastic cup out of his pocket. They disappeared.

Harry pulled Kaden up and took Albus 's arm. Albus was still thoroughly obnubilate, but did not have time to ask his dad anymore questions before feeling the familiar dork behind his naval that signified he was traveling by Portkey.

Albus landed with a thud in the centre of the hospital Wing. The question of how they managed to Portkey inside the Hogwarts grounds was the least pressing interrogation on his mind.

Looking around, Albus saw that the others had arrived as well. Mr. Eckerton was laying both mat and John on the near beds while Madam Pomfrey was shouting and gathering potions.

"Look at the state of matter of them !"the nurse exclaimed,"Always this lot, too ! You 're a bad influence on them, Harry, I swear !"

Harry looked slightly sheepish as he set Kaden down on the bed next to lustrelessness 's and then turned to Albus.

"I 've got to speak with professor Kendrick and go to the Ministry-"he began.

"But Dad !"Albus interrupted,"What was Balladanis doing there ?"

"I promise I 'll recite you all of that and more than,"Harry replied,"But I need to narrate everyone you and the others are ok. When I get back, I 'm going to need you to tell me everything that happened."

"But-"

"No buts !"Madam Pomfrey cut in,"Bed, Albus, bed ! You need rest !"

Albus, who had barely registered the fact that his head was bleeding and he was still quite woozy, felt that the last thing he needed was rest. He needed to know what was going on.

"I 'll explain once you 've gotten some sleep,"Harry assured him.

Albus muttered under his breath and got into bed. Once Madam Pomfrey had given him a Sleeping swig, Harry left, leaving Albus to unsuccessfully try to agitate off the sleep he knew was coming.

******

The ward was quiet when Albus woke up. It was completely dark outside, although Albus did n't have the tenuous clue as to what day it was. John, Matt, and Kaden were either still unconscious or sound asleep. Albus was betting on the latter since Madam Pomfrey was no where to be seen.

Mr. Eckerton was still there and he had been joined by his married woman. Both of them were nodding off in chairs next to matte 's bed. It did n't look like Mr. Eckerton had even left. He was wearing the Sami Ministry gown he had been wearing before.

Albus sat up and put his hand to his head. There was a bandage on the back of it. Another patch was wrapped around his powerful arm, although he could n't come back when he had injured it. Besides that, he just felt exhausted.

The door to the ward opened, letting in a small-scale deluge of light from the corridor. A fig stepped inside and began walking towards Albus 's bed.

"Hey, Al,"they said.

"Dad,"Albus replied, recognizing his father,"Are you going to tell apart me about Balladanis now ?"

"Yes,"Harry chuckled,"Perhaps we ought to go to the elbow room of Requirement."

Albus shook his fountainhead, remembering something he had been debating for the past year. He had waited long enough. It was time.

"No,"Albus said,"I know someplace better."

Without saying a intelligence, Albus got out of bed and result his dad out the door and up to the fifth storey corridor. Harry did not ask a single question as Albus pulled the arm down on the appropriate knight and turned to face the opposite wall.

Albus located the paw prints and touched his hand to them, turning it into a doorknob. He opened the door and stepped inside. Harry followed, letting out a gasp as he did.

"Remember that map from last year ?"Albus asked as he shut the door.

Harry nodded, apparently at a loss for words.

"There was more to it. education on how to get into this way. It was theirs, the predator'. Their secret common room,"Albus said quietly.

Harry did n't respond. Instead he walked slowly around the elbow room. Albus stood near the room access and waited. He was n't sure how long he stood there, watching as his dad investigated the room that had once belonged to his grandfather.

"This,"Harry began,"This is just incredible, Al. How long have you known about it ?"

"About a year,"Albus said quietly.

"And you spend time here ?"Harry asked.

"Probably more than we do in the uncouth room,"Albus answered.

"Then it is the gross blank space to talk,"Harry said as he sat down on one of the couches.

Albus sat down future to him."So why was Balladanis there ?"

"I 'll severalise you that,"Harry said,"But firstly I want you to explain to me what happened."

Albus took a late breath and told his dad everything. Starting with when they saw Lubar in the castling and ending with throwing the Resurrection of Christ gemstone into the Outback. He explained how they had first gone to a wood in Australia, how they had Portkeyed to the Outback, the dementors, the almost Patronus he had managed to make, the duel, the fact that the Resurrection Stone did n't do work to bring Voldemort back.

"Why did n't it work ?"Albus asked,"I mean, I 'm sword lily it did n't, but why ?"

Harry thought for a few minutes and then looked at Albus."There are a few reasons that might excuse it. The Resurrection Stone brings back people we love, but it does not get them back completely. It 's almost as if their soul is coming back."

"Like a ghost ?"

"Not exactly,"Harry said,"But alike. It 's possible that since Voldemort split his somebody so many times, he ca n't be brought back with the gem. The Stone may need the soul to be intact to work."

Albus nodded."That makes sense."

"It could also be that only loved 1 can be brought back with the Stone. Washburn and the Willinsons did not love Voldemort ; they did not know him. They wanted to bring him back for their own agenda,"Harry explained.

"Is there any way to find out which it is ?"Albus asked.

"No, I do n't think so,"Harry said,"Especially now that the Stone is once again gone. Which is something I 'm very grateful that you did."

"Well, I figured you left it out in the Forbidden woodland for a reason,"Albus shrugged.

"Yes, yes I did,"Harry replied,"I think it estimable if cypher had that Stone."

Albus nodded."Yeah, that makes sense. But what was Balladanis doing there ?"

Harry laughed."You 're not going to let that go, are you ?"

"Nope, you said you 'd tell me,"Albus said.

"I will,"Harry replied,"Albus, do you know what a Presuler is ?"

"Yes,"Albus nodded,"And I know that Balladanis is one."

"You do ?"Harry looked impressed.

"He told me during one of those dueling lessons he gave me,"Albus explained.

"Well, that makes my explanation easier,"Harry said,"A slight over a year ago, shortly after Quinton kidnapped Kaden, the Ministry decided to hire a Presuler to help witness Washburn and Jarrett Willinson."

"Seriously ?"Albus gaped at him.

"Yes,"Harry muttered,"The government minister believed the Aurors needed some help."

Albus thought he heard bit of scorn in his dad 's voice.

"When I realized that Washburn and the Willinsons were most likely working with Ralph Lubar, I had to contact Balladanis and let him know. He came with us, and I have to hold that he was very helpful. We would not have found you as fast if he was n't there,"Harry explained.

"But why was he teaching here ?"Albus asked.

"The pastor, prof Kendrick, and I believed it would be ripe scheme to have him stationed at Hogwarts, where we all believed Washburn and the Willinsons would return to. Balladanis agreed,"Harry said,"Of trend, none of us realized that Balladanis would not be able-bodied to handle teaching.

"This is all quite close, Al. I 'd favour you did n't tell anyone. I will be telling Matt, John, and Kaden, because I feel they have the right to know, but I do n't want anyone else knowing about it."

"What about rose wine and Amanda ?"Albus asked.

"I suppose I 'll tell apart them as well, otherwise Kaden is sure enough to narrate them,"Harry said.

"What 's going to happen to Lubar ?"Albus asked,"Is Balladanis going to be after him now ?"

"No,"Harry shook his oral sex,"That 's going to be tricky situation. Lubar is n't a British citizen. We ca n't do a matter while he 's in Commonwealth of Australia. It 's up to the Aboriginal Australian Ministry to either put him on visitation or gift him to us to put on trial. And since he 's one of their official, we 're not for sure they 'll do either."

"But that 's not bonnie !"Albus stood up angrily,"spirit what he did ! wait what he 's done !"

"I know,"Harry sighed,"I 'd like nothing more than to hold him a life-long stint in Azkaban, but unfortunately the laws do n't make that way."

"He and Balladanis get along anyway,"Albus said,"Balladanis probably would n't need to go after him."

"I do n't get it on about that,"Harry said,"Balladanis likes multitude to pay for what they 've done. However, being a Presuler and having no Ministry affiliation, he does not have to bring a example if he 's offered it."

"He told me I 'd make a good Presuler,"Albus said quietly as I sat back down,"Malfoy, too."

Harry sighed."What do you think about that ?"

"I do n't know,"Albus shrugged,"I mean, I like dueling, but I do n't really want to decide what I want to do right now."

"You do n't induce to,"Harry replied,"And I do n't want to recount you what to do, but I am going to recount you something.

"Being a Presuler is a strong job and often a lonely one. You have no coworkers. You work with various Ministries, but rarely get to know anyone. You travel a lot, which can bring in it difficult to have a phratry. It 's not an easy course to go down. Not one I 'd choose for myself."

Albus had n't even thought about that. He did n't think he 'd want to rarely ever see his acquaintance and family.

"There 's lot of other things you could do that would put your dueling skills to use,"Harry told him,"And you 're only 13 so no indigence to decide now."

"I know, I do n't plan to,"Albus replied.

"wellspring, you should probably get back to the hospital backstage before madam Pomfrey notices you 're gone,"Harry smirked,"And thanks again for showing me the room."

Harry stood up and gave his son a hug. They left the room and walked back to the Hospital Wing, both lost in their thoughts.

******

As it turned out, Madam Pomfrey had already noticed that Albus was missing. When he returned to the Hospital annex with his dad, she was running about the Mrs. Humphrey Ward shouting at the top of her lungs. flatness, King John, and Kaden were all awake, staring at her.

"There you are !"she shrieked,"Where have you been ?"

"Er,"Albus began.

"I had to talk to him in individual,"Harry answered for him.

"You should have asked me first !"lady Pomfrey exclaimed as she ushered Albus back into bed,"He needs rest !"

"I 'm his founder,"Harry said incredulously.

"I do n't care if you 're the Minister of trick !"Madam Pomfrey replied,"I 'm the one with the nursing point !"

"How long has she been shouting ?"Albus whispered to Matt as he got back in bed.

"fifteen minutes or so,"mat answered.

brothel keeper Pomfrey returned to her desk and Harry strode over to where the Eckertons were sitting.

"Could I have a countersign in private ?"Harry asked Mr. Eckerton and then turned to lady Pomfrey."Do I take your permission for that ?"he grinned.

"Very amusing,"Madam Pomfrey muttered.

Albus drifted back to kip a little while later and when he next woke up it was light out and Madam Pomfrey was bringing them all breakfast trays.

"Er, what day is it ?"Albus asked as Madam Pomfrey set his tray down.

"It 's Sunday, dear, but it 's good afternoon,"lady Pomfrey replied,"I figured you 'd prefer to throw breakfast."

"Only Billy Sunday ?"Albus asked. It felt like it had been far more than twenty-four hours since he had met up with Lubar before the Quidditch match.

"Time zona modification are difficult to adapt to,"Madam Pomfrey explained,"Australia 's quite a few hours ahead of us."

Albus nodded and dug into his breakfast. Suddenly he was ravenous. When he thought about it, it must have been at to the lowest degree a day since he 'd eaten anything.

"I wonder how the Quidditch mate went,"Kaden mused as he shoved toast in his mouth.

Albus choked on his ball. He 'd forgotten about the match !"I doubt we won,"he sighed.

"Is your dad going to tell us why Balladanis was with him when he came to save us ?"John asked,"I mean, he 's had plenty of time."

"He will,"Albus said,"He already told me. You lot were asleep."

The room access to the infirmary annexe banged undecided and rosiness and Amanda came running in. Madam Pomfrey made a relocation to get up from her desk, but then sat back down, shaking her head.

"Tell us what happened !"Rose demanded as she skidded to a halt in front of Albus 's bed,"When did you get back ? Where did you go ?"

"Who won the Quidditch catch ?"Albus asked.

"Quidditch ? Quidditch ?"Rose groaned,"I 'm not saying a Good Book about Quidditch until the four of you tell me what in the name of merlin 's saggy left-"

"Miss Weasley !"lady Pomfrey shouted,"If you do n't lower your articulation, you 'll cause to leave !"

"Sorry,"pink wine turned back to Albus,"But you lot have got to differentiate us what happened !"

Albus launched into the total story, which took the better parting of a half hour to tell. Neither rosiness or Amanda interrupted once during the whole thing. Both of them looked absolutely shocked by the time Albus concluded.

"But, but why was Balladanis there ?"blush wine asked.

"My dad 's going to tell you,"Albus said,"He 's already told me. He 'll probably evidence the rest period of you today."

"pigeon hawk, Albus,"Rose sighed,"How much trouble can you get into ?"

"It 's not my fault,"Albus shrugged,"Now can you assure us about the match ?"

Rose exchanged coup d'oeil with Amanda, who sighed."It was quite the match, let me distinguish you,"Amanda said.

"cipher won, Al,"Rose said.

"What ?"John interrupted,"How can nobody win ?"

"About forty-five minutes into the match, Fred and Scots heather ran onto the pitch-"

"The equal lasted that long ?"lusterlessness asked.

"Yes,"blush wine said,"I do n't know why. Anyway, Fred and heather mixture ran right up to Ludo commercial traveler and started talking to him. Nobody could get wind what they were saying. Then Bagman blew his whistle and they went into a time-out.

"bagman left the pitch and had a really prospicient talk of the town with all the headmasters and captains. Then Kendrick announced that the peer was called off and told everyone to refund to their uncouth rooms.

"Everyone was really raging of course. Amanda and I were already worried because you lot had n't shown up yet. We thought something bad had happened and that was why they called it off."

"Why did they call it off ?"John asked.

"I 'm getting to that,"Rose said,"We got back up to Gryffindor and everyone was gathered around Fred and Heather. Linda was n't there, and neither were any of her teammates who were Gryffindors.

"We pushed our way to the social movement of the gang and see what Fred and Calluna vulgaris were talking about. They were claiming that Australia had been cheating the whole time-"

"well, they were,"flatness muttered.

"I know,"Rose agreed,"And apparently so did Fred and Heather. I 'm sure they figured it out just recently or else they would 've told someone Sooner. They found out Linda 's a vampire and now the stallion shoal knows."

"How did they image it out ?"Albus asked, completely shocked. Linda hid her enigma quite well. Fred and heather were sixth years, they would n't have heard Balladanis 's vampire lecture."

"They 've been trying to fancy it out all year,"rosebush explained,"And since they 're overbold, they figured it out."

"But what about the catch ?"Albus asked.

"I think they 're going to cancel the tournament, Albus,"Rose said quietly.

"cancel the tournament ?"Albus gasped,"cancel the tournament ? ! They ca n't do that ! We 've spent the unit year on that tourney ! Do you live how much time I 've spent on the Quidditch lurch this yr ? More time than I 've spent in class, probably ! And now they 're going to cancel the bloody tournament ?"

"I do n't know, Al,"Rose said shortly,"And if they do it 's not my fault."

"Sorry,"Albus mumbled,"It 's just a little aggravating."

"I know,"Rose replied.

"Where 's Linda ?"Matt asked.

"Gone,"rosiness sighed,"Without a parole. I have n't seen her or any of the Aboriginal Australian since the friction match. Killigan 's gone, too."

"Wow,"Matt replied,"Ca n't say I blame her, though."

"I guess,"Rose said,"Anyway, they 'll probably construct an promulgation about the tournament at dinner."


A/N : Thanks to my beta, Dancer of Starlight as well as all of the amazing citizenry who have read and reviewed this ! There is only one more chapter left !


Disclaimer- I do n't own Harry Potter.


Harry returned to tell everyone else about Balladanis later on in the afternoon. Madam Pomfrey level out refused to let any of them leave the hospital Wing, so she agreed to interlace the door and go to her written report while Harry explained. Matt 's dad was there as well.

Harry told them everything he had told Albus, although he left out the percentage about why it was not all that advisable to become a Presuler. Everyone was completely shocked to learn that Balladanis had been hired to help oneself enamor Washburn and the Willinsons.

Unfortunately, Harry also brought news of Lubar. news program that was not all that welcome.

"As of rightfulness now, he 's completely disengage and in the authorise,"Harry sighed,"The Aboriginal Australian Ministry refuses to extradite him, and they wo n't prosecute him in Australia either. To them, it 's like nothing 's happened."

Albus noticed that Mr. Eckerton looked positively furious with this. Harry looked quite angry as well, but it did not come close to how Mr. Eckerton looked.

"We 're not going to present up,"Harry said,"We 'll keep negotiating with them."

Mr. Eckerton had also apparently been told about the Hallows. When Harry had spoken with him the premature Nox, it had been about the Hallows. Albus remembered back to his inaugural year, when Matt had told them about his dad 's Pres Young adult dream of locating the Hallows. Harry must 've trusted him now.

Albus reached over to his bedside table, where dame Pomfrey had placed the Invisibility Cloak the previous night. He wordlessly handed it to Mr. Eckerton, who carefully took it with a look of awe on his face.

"merlin 's beard,"he muttered,"It 's the Cloak."

"That it is,"Harry said quietly.

"Unbelievable,"Mr. Eckerton whispered as he fingered it.

He spent a few min trying the Cloak on before handing it back to Albus."I can not consider I 've finally solved the eccentric of the Hallows,"he said to Harry,"This is awesome. I would hump to portion the story with my blood brother. Perhaps I could introduce you to him at the mankind Cup this summer."

Harry nodded."That would be fine. Perhaps I will eventually distinguish him as well."

******

Albus wanted nothing more than to be allowed out of the Hospital Wing in clip to go to dinner that Nox. He was sure Professor Kendrick would build some sorting of promulgation about the tournament and he did not want to pretermit it.

After a full ten minutes of begging on his section ( helped out by matt, John, and Kaden ), Madam Pomfrey told him he was in no fit state to leave the ward. Albus thought this was laughable because he felt amercement. So what if his arm was still bandaged and in a sling ? That should n't stop over him from eating dinner with the residue of the school.

Instead, Albus was forced to eat a tranquillize meal in the Hospital wing and wait anxiously for rosebush and Amanda to recite him what Kendrick said.

The girls showed up right after dinner ended. Albus immediately asked them what Kendrick had said.

"tourney 's canceled,"Rose sighed as she sat down on the end of Albus 's bed,"The kids from New York are staying to finish out the year, but the tournament 's canceled. I expect it 'll be in the seer tomorrow."

"Merlin !"Albus shouted,"Why 'd they have to cancel it ? Could n't they just indispose Australia ?"

"No,"Rose shook her fountainhead,"To do that Hogwarts would have to play New York in another final."

"Why do n't they do that ?"whoremonger asked.

"Too close to exams,"Rose shrugged,"It 'll mess up everyone 's studying."

"That 's stupid,"Albus fumed.

"If it makes you sense better, I 'm pretty sure Hogwarts would 've won if Australia had n't have been here,"blush wine pointed out,"And Kendrick gave one hundred house points to everyone who was on the Quidditch and dueling teams."

"Yeah, well, all the business firm had hoi polloi on the teams, so that does n't really help,"Albus muttered.

"fountainhead,"blush wine grinned,"I know one thing that 'll cheer you up."

"What ?"Albus asked, even though there was goose egg that could cheer him up.

"There were Quidditch scouts at that match,"rose wine told him,"And even though the match was fatal, they did determine someone they wanted to draft."

"Who ?"Albus asked, slightly intrigued.

"Georgia !"Rose exclaimed,"She 's been drafted to play for Kenmare Kestrals as soon as she graduates !"

"That 's brilliant !"Albus replied. blush wine had been right, that did cheer up him up. There was no one he thought who belonged on a professional Quidditch squad more than than Georgia.

"Yup, she 's their raw reserve Keeper,"rose said,"She says Uncle Percy 's not impressed. He wanted her to forge at the Ministry. She does n't care what he thinks, though."

"Uncle Percy 's got plenty of other kids to do work at the Ministry,"Albus shrugged. He could never see GA working in government.

"Kenmare ?"John said incredulously.

"Yeah, seriously ?"Matt grimaced.

"They 're nearly as bad as the carom,"John groaned.

"She 's just happy to be on a team,"Rose shrugged,"She 's always supported Puddlemere, but she thinks if she 's on any team, she 'll be able to shape her way up to a comfortably one."

"Merlin, I hope so,"John shrugged.

"Is she the only one who got drafted ?"Albus asked.

"Only one I know for sure of,"blush wine said,"I heard a rumor that Anna Reilly got taken on by the Balycastle Bats, but I do n't know for sure."

Albus nodded, feeling slightly better about the tournament. It was n't pointless now that he knew his first cousin had been taken on by a professional Quidditch team because of it. However, that did n't take all the letdown away.

******

Madam Pomfrey reluctantly let the boys leave the next day after breakfast. She did n't really sustain a alternative since exams began that day. Albus felt perfectly okay and was quite happy to leave the place.

Rose handed him a transcript of the Prophet as soon as he and the other boys reached the common room. Albus took it, happy that he had a few moment before his number 1 exam to read the article that was inevitably there.

AUSTRALIAN school CHEATS- TOURNAMENT CANCELED

After a jump find made by two Hogwarts
students, the Quidditch and Dueling tournament
involving Hogwarts, the Adirondack Academy of
Magic, and the Australian shoal of Sorcery
has been canceled.

The tournament 's net Quidditch catch was
interrupted this past Saturday by two Hogwarts
one-sixth years, Fred Weasley and Heather Weasley,
both 17, who claimed that the Australian squad
had been cheating throughout the entire
tournament.

A few calendar month ago, allegation were brought upon
the Australian team after their Seeker, Linda
Morales, 14, flew at an exceptionally fast speed.
An investigation found nothing. The tourney
continued.

Fred and Calluna vulgaris Weasley accused Linda Morales
of being a vampire. Vampires are outlawed
from playing on professional Quidditch teams due
to the unjust advantage they have.

The catch was immediately stopped while all three
schoolmaster questioned the Weasleys and Morales.

Headmaster Addiar Killigan of the Aussie
School of necromancy admitted to allowing Morales
to be the Seeker of his squad in order to win the
tournament. The Australian team was immediately
disqualified from the tournament.

Killigan, Morales, and the rest of the Australians
participating in the tournament left Hogwarts belatedly
on Sabbatum, declining to talk with any of our
reporters.

tournament functionary as well as the other two
headmasters have decided to offset the tournament,
and not declaring a winner.

'It is regrettable that the tournament turned out
this way ,'Fabius Kendrick told reporter, 'Perhaps
we can try it again in a few yr .'

"Killigan is an idiot,"Albus said.

"Look at the future article,"Rose replied.

QUINTON WILLINSON spine IN AZKABAN, JOINED BY WASHBURN

While the final Quidditch match was ending in disaster
at Hogwarts schooling of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry
thrower 's heart child, Albus, 13, was dealing with his
own battle.

Albus thrower, as well as cousin-german Kaden Dursley, 12, and
friends Matthew Eckerton and John Brickston, both 14,
were kidnapped by Quinton and Jarrett Willinson, and
Jameson Washburn. The three convict were helped by
Ralph Lubar, drumhead of the Department of the regulation
and ascendancy of Magical brute in Australia.

The four Hogwarts students were taken to Commonwealth of Australia
where Harry potter and Walter Eckerton found them.
It is unreadable what the convicts were after, as well as
why Lubar was involved.

Quinton Willinson and Jameson Washburn were caught and
sent to Azkaban. Lubar and Jarrett Willinson escaped.
Aurors are currently looking for Willinson and the
Ministry is negotiating with the Australian Ministry
about what to do with Lubar.

All four boys have recovered from the ordeal and are
currently taking their end of the year examinations
at Hogwarts. Harry Potter has declined comment.

"Well, that 's not a very informative article,"Albus said as he tossed the report onto a nearby table.

"I do n't recall they can report much,"pink wine said,"The Aussie Ministry may be asking them to keep quietly about Lubar in return for giving him some sort of punishment.

"It wo n't matter,"Matt said,"They 're not going to do anything to him."

Albus was forced to labor Lubar into the back of his mind as exams began. They were all significantly harder than the previous yr 's had been, but he was sure he at to the lowest degree passed all of them.

There were short clause in the Prophet about Lubar everyday, but they all said the Lapplander thing. Australia refused to deport him. lustrelessness was not at all surprised by this, but it infuriated Albus to no end.

The workweek after exams was a strange one for Albus. There was nothing left for them to do. No studying, no homework, no Quidditch. Rose and Amanda went back to spending all their fourth dimension with the boys, like it had been before Linda had arrived.

Things were unlike, though. Both Rose and Amanda were a lot smooth than they used to be. Albus was sure they missed Linda, and he had no idea whether she had said goodbye to them, or even if she 'd had the prospect.

Matt was lost in his own persuasion almost of the clip, rendering him quieter than ever. He often went intact evenings without saying two words to anyone, something that usually only happened around full lunation. However, the next full Moon was n't until after they left Hogwarts.

Albus was trusted this was because of what had happened in Australia. He never talked about it, but Albus knew that getting kidnapped by Lubar again had scared the daylight out of him.

King John and Kaden remained as boisterous as ever and did not seem to be fazed by what had happened in Australia. They spent their week pulling japery and playing endless games of Exploding Snap that Albus occasionally joined in on.

Albus himself was quieter. His idea was racing with thought of Lubar and Balladanis. None of the articles ever mentioned Balladanis, but he knew that was because Balladanis 's job had to rest a undercover. He wished more than anything that Lubar would get thrown in prison, whether it was Azkaban or Australia 's prison.

******

The wagon train ride back to British capital was subdued, the only racket being John and Kaden 's Exploding snap fastener add-in. Albus and Matt both gazed out the window, mesmerized by the passing play landscape.

"Linda sent me a varsity letter last nighttime,"rosiness said, breaking the silence.

Albus lifted his headspring up and looked at her."What about ?"

"She told us she was sorry, and wanted me to tell you that she was sorry about the tournament,"Rose told him,"She 's on the run with her mum now. They 're thinking of moving to a different country."

"To go to schooltime ?"Albus asked.

"No,"Rose shook her fountainhead,"She 's been through shoal a match times already. She was n't even a student at the Aussie shoal. Killigan pretty much forced her into playing Seeker for them. He 's a really nasty cuss. They have to get out now, though, because everyone knows."

"Where will they go ?"Albus asked, surprised that he was actually intuitive feeling sorry for Linda.

"No idea,"blush wine shrugged,"She said she 'd owl me when they find out."

"This all twelvemonth has been so messed up,"lav sighed,"I hope next year 's better."

"Me, too,"Matt agreed.

"We 've got the human race Cup to look forward to, though,"Albus smiled.

"Oh, yeah !"lavatory grinned,"Owl me as soon as you find out when we 're leaving for it."

"Definitely,"Albus said,"Your sister 's going, too. Lily told me she 'd invited her. Hugo 's not really happy about that."

"Neither am I,"John muttered,"I do n't want Ashtyn going."

"Well, I 'd prefer Lily not go, but it 's the Cup ! nada can really ruin it,"Albus said.

"good point,"Saint John the Apostle agreed.

"Let me roll in the hay when the Cup is,"Kaden said.

"Why ? So you can convince your parents to take you ?"John Lackland smirked.

"No,"Kaden laughed,"So I can have it away when to bid you lot to my star sign. My dad said he 'd take us camping."

"Excellent !"St. John the Apostle grinned,"Camping like Muggles ?"

"Yep,"Kaden replied,"bread and butter in tent, no electrical energy, no magic either since we 're all underage."

"There is no way my parents will let me go,"flatness said quietly.

"Why not ?"Kaden asked.

"I went camping when I was five,"Matt answered,"That was the fourth dimension I got bitten."

"Oh,"Kaden looked a picayune taken aback,"Sorry."

"It 's ok,"lusterlessness shrugged,"Just do n't go during a full-of-the-moon moon. I do n't need any of you having to unite me in the Shrieking Shack next year."

"I 'll go,"Albus said. He 'd never been camping before, let alone camping like a Muggle. He did feel bad that mat would n't get to go, but he kind of thought mat would n't desire to go anyway.

The difference of the tripper was spent arguing about Quidditch and Albus felt like things were sort of returning to normal. It was almost squeamish to pick up John and Matt arguing about the Cannons again and Kaden arguing about football.

The train arrived in London and Albus found his parents waiting for him on the platform. After saying goodbye to his friends, Albus left the station with his sept feeling that just maybe life would be normal from then on. Well, maybe the summer would be at least be normal. Albus could n't get his Hope up too high.


A/N : Hard to believe it 's finished ! Thanks to Dancer of Starlight for betaing and thanks to all of the awe-inspiring hoi polloi who have read and reviewed this ! You guys are so lovely and amazing !

I am working on the fourth part chronicle but it 'll be a while before the first-class honours degree chapter is up. I 'm thinking I 'll update every other week at number one, alternating workweek with Beyond the shadower. In the bastardly sentence, if you want something new to scan, I suggest checking out Remember the carom, which is a collab I worked on last year and is now currently being updated. It 's all about the Chudley Cannons and their ruin. It 's under the username The Golden canary and is also in my favorite stories so you can line up it that way.