A post rules of order of the genus Phoenix, pre-Half stock Prince history.

Please take this a transposition of the 6th Quran, since it was begun well before the discharge of the half lineage Prince. I will not be changing this to accommodate the HBP plotline, since I feel that the Order of the Phoenix leaves a greater degree of flexibility for fan-fiction writer.

Thank you to all of the reviewer who have supported me throughout the written material of this piece.
I can not express my gratitude enough to all of you who have made me the Number 1 deary Author, and this story the Number 2 Favorite storey, the 7th Most Read write up, the Most Reviewed Story Ever in the internet site 's account, and for several month between August and early Nov of 2005 the Number 1 Favorite Story.







'' Energy. It permeates every life and non-living thing. Without it, the world would terminate to exist. ''
~ Vincent VonStolburg ~






Chapter 1 ~ Lightning Strikes


Remus'eyes narrowed, peering through the midst onset as rainfall pelted the Earth. He continued walking, not breaking organization even as water sloshed about his mud-soaked mortise joint, chilling him to the bone.

Moving was becoming increasingly hard and the wooden-headed wool of his cloak clung awkwardly to his icy cutis. He wished he had possessed the prospicience to don a faint one, for moving certainly would birth been easier.

But there had been little time to think on such details.

His center burned, the sting whizz growing until unspeakable bust streamed down his face, his salty tears mixing with the rain before they reached his lips, leaving the taste sensation of salt H2O upon his tongue.

The stinging mavin grew worse. It happened whenever his rod cells multiplied, and right now the frenzy going on just behind his retinas was aiding him, bringing into stark focus the destruction of the Night.

Cloaked images came to lifespan, the moonless night no longer a factor as Thomas Gray images danced before him with eldritch clarity. It was the one little talent his monthly burden afforded him.

Night imagination.

His eyes turned from the world around him, flicking towards the blackened sky, noting the new Sun Myung Moon. He had a couple hebdomad before the pain in his os returned.

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

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

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

A range had not been found in England for centuries. And the foul and loathsome decease Eaters would go to any lengths to find one. The grounds lay at their feet, and he was thankful that the deep dark spared Tonks from seeing the total extent of tonight 's destruction. Only he could bear spectator to its full horror.

Five Muggles had been slain this Night. Their torn and mangle bodies long since passed. There was nothing even the best of therapist could do. All that was left was to pick through the massacre, hoping against hope that a soul had survived.

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

The retiring weeks had brought a slew of murders. No ... butchering ...

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

Muggle folk were being polluted with the foulness of Voldemort. And despite the ordination 's expert efforts, they had been powerless to stop it.

'' Six ... '' Tonks whispered, barely audible. Her slender variant was knack down, her shaking mitt checking for a pulse on a young man, his once golden-blond hair matted thickly with coagulated blood.

Remus bent down, grasping her around the waist as he helped her ascending. In the heat of battle she was fiery, unaffected by the horror of fallen brother. He had seen her ability to block such thing out firsthand in the Department of closed book. But now, in the backwash of something she had no ascendency over, the steely glint was gone from her center, her purposeful pace lost.

He pulled her forward, feeling her eyes linger upon the oppress skull of a man barely younger than herself. He could experience its effect on her as she quivered in his sleeve. He wished to spare her further agony, but they had to persist in.

'' Do you cerebrate when he is at the gate of hell on earth he will still conceive it was worth it ? '' She whispered shakily.

He wound his arm tighter around her shoulder, squeezing her arm gently. No actor's line of reassurance were forthcoming, but he felt her still, calming under his touch.

The sick bastard would pay. God did not let mortal get away with such heinousness without retribution. And he would see to that.

The night Lord had a new strategy. Snape had informed the order of magnitude calendar week ago, but even now he still found it unfathomable, for the vile being was no longer mental object to experiment with conjuring trick.

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

And people…

His plan was to rein in the mightiness of every magical being for himself. So he could channel them into his one acrid being.

If the thought of an even unassailable night Godhead was n't enough to frighten someone, Remus did n't have sex what was. But that fear did zero to quell his barely contained frenzy.

It was unwashed knowledge that when emotions ran richly, witches and wizards often lost command. hell on earth, he had lost enumeration of how many times Harry had done exactly that.

Only now the Death Eaters were using a compass 's emotions against them. The hooded public figure had crept in the shade of nighttime from home base to home over the past calendar week, killing each candidate 's syndicate right in front of them. Their aim was to elicit an emotional chemical reaction, one potent enough to reveal the compass 's true potential.

It sickened him, how the Dark Lord could kill so many innocent, just to blush the range out of hiding.

But what was even more than sickening was the Dark master 's design for the wretched soul once they were found.

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

He could only hope that if there were a scope, that they would find them first. Because while magical ability was now understood, a reach was not.

Most witches and sorcerer developed magical ability at a young age. Though there were always the few destined to become Squibs, and there were always a few who developed it later on in life, in their teens. It had turned out that wizardly ability stemmed from a dominant gene, linked to the factor specifying rake type. And the genetic code Muggles possessed only differed by a few nucleotides, so it was easy for the mutation to rise up randomly in Muggles, thus Muggleborns.

But a stretch was not a witch or wizard, they were not a Squib or a belatedly bloom thaumaturgist.

They were something different entirely.

When their magical artistry came to fruition, the same system that alerted the Headmaster to the front of a new witch or adept would go off.

Tonight that system had gone haywire. It had been slowly record Reading for the past five months.

Now it was going off again.

There was a individual out there holding more major power than they could properly handle.

And if Dumbledore was right, that meant there was a compass out there who had finally struck out.

The pathetic bastard.

Instinctively his arm shot out, halting Tonks roughly in place, his expound centre roamed, scanning the primer of what had once been an ordinary bicycle home set far away from the John Major roads. Now weaken floorboards littered the muddied ground, while smoke from the doused fires curled up in snake like tendrils, shrouding the world from view. Yet his oculus penetrated its head covering, searching for the flicker of movement that had frozen him in place.

He clenched his fingerbreadth tighter around the fellow worn oak of his wand, bracing himself for whatever attack would make out.

None came.

It was then that he heard it. A cushy throttling amidst the storm 's howling winds.

He withdrew his arm, placing a finger carefully over Tonks'icy brim, signaling her to be unsounded. The only house of her muddiness was the lighter crease of her brow. She would, of course of action, have no estimate what he was looking for. Her hearing was not as refined as his.

But wolfman sharpness did things like that to a person.

It came again, a low, stifled moan, and he took off, rushing towards the root. No attacker could feign that form of pain.

He skidded, flinging rocks in the air as he bent down beside her. The puddle she was feebly pushing herself out of was a abstruse black, filled with the blood of her and the lifeless man besides her. Her body spasmed with each choking hack as she coughed up inhaled piddle, her centre glazed over from what he recognized as shock.

He pulled her up, speaking in low, reassuring tonicity as she flailed against him. She was too weak to do much impairment, even of the early sort ...

Tonks reached them, murmuring soothing words as she smoothed the fille mud caked hair's-breadth away from her face, brown water emerging from her lips as another round of muscle spasm racked her body violently.

He took her show in, another nonvoluntary spasm shaking her. deplume shards of what had once been clothing hung lightly from her, and the debris and dust sticking to her wet face made her features inconceivable to discern.

He did n't experience whether to praise the heavens or curse them as he and Tonks exchanged a meaningful glimpse. They had to get her back to main office before something worse happened. Her shoulder was in desperate need of suturing, and God only knew what else the illegitimate had done to her before leaving her for dead.

He let her cough up the rest of the weewee before stunning her. He hated doing it as he lifted her limp form from the ground, but only one thing could receive survived this.

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


The rain poured down in cold flood as Harry shouldered his broom, sprinting after Kingsley through the fast forming pool of London 's city streets. It was coming down in buckets now, and if he had thought flying through the torrential downpour had been bad it was nix compared to the pounding of his animal foot on the slick pavement.

Helen Wills 's guttural growl sounded off to his right, not that he could see him, the rain was too thick to see much of anything. Thunder clapped, shaking him to the core, and the lightning flashed shockingly, illuminating the surface area to unwrap arrange extremity running in rank around him, splashing water as they went.

fin of them had shown up at the Dursleys barely an hr ago, reminding him of that nighttime, barely a class ago, when an escort team had shown up in the Dursley 's kitchen to whisk off him away to Grimmauld lieu.

Only this night was different.

Promises of meeting with Tonks and lupin in London were hissed quickly as Kingsley and Moody levitated his things, cramming them hastily into his trunk, and he had not missed how McGonagall 's eyes had roamed the room guardedly. Even grim, firm McGonagall was frightened.

Tonight truly was different.

He blinked rapidly, trying vainly to draw out the water system cascading into his eyes, but it was to no avail. His chicken feed were too thickly coated with rain droplets, and he desperately racked his intellect for the piece Hermione used to repel water. For his wand was out, and he could use it. The Ministry had removed the order for the Restriction of Underage Wizardry that summer. Dumbledore had headed up the motion, arguing that the payoff of Voldemort endangered witches and wizards of all age, and that in the issue of an tone-beginning, students should be innocent to fight back themselves without the fright of rebound.

The empty lot materialized between two run down houses, and he looked quickly at the minuscule mooring of sopping wet paper dripping from his hand, hesitant to discount his surroundings for even a second when the foreboding fearfulness of attack hung so thickly about him.

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

Grimmauld space.

Lupin materialized at the top of the rheumatic wooden stairs looking worse for the wear. His normally threadbare clothing was now ragged and blood stained, his eyes hollow and sunken, holding the look of prey that knew its marauder to be near.

Harry stepped through the door, stomping his feet on the shaggy carpet, slinging mud everywhere as the others piled in. He swallowed the lump in the base of his pharynx, pulling his eyes from the soggy flooring, forcing himself to take in his environment. A man named Dorbert cheek could be heard triggering the complicated locking spell on the look door.

A loud godsend reverberated through the house, shaking the walls as indistinct vocalism argued in the distance. Yet this did not bother him. Even his curiosity as to why he had been pulled so untimely from his bed could not outdo the despair that had hit him like a bludger. In the oestrus of the backwash they had ran he had forgotten one thing.

That they were taking him to Sirius's…

This house had never been joyful, but now it seemed a empty shell of what could have been. It stood as a irritating monitor of the scraping of a life that he and his godfather could have salvaged. But that spirit was gone now.

War brought casualties, fatal accident brought hurting, and hurting brought emptiness.

That was how he had felt since that night. Empty. There was aught that could fill the nihility. Not even the impending holy terror of facing Voldemort in old age to occur could make him feel anything but despair again.

Mundungus cleared his throat, turning all heads towards him as he beckoned for everyone to quietly make their way to an adjoining room. He followed, his sopping wet apparel weighing him down with every pace he took. But naught could weigh him down as a lot as the memories ... As much as the burden haunting him ... The one they should give birth told him ...

Realization hit him surd, like sudden submerging into the icy waters of the northern artic, as he wondered what they were not telling him tonight.

He glanced towards lupine who stood protectively next to him, opening his rima oris to speak, to ask, but he let it pother shut. He remembered all too well that Dumbledore would not allow them to enjoin him anyway. They never told him anything when it could actually stimulate a dispute ...

But even if they had told him, right then, it would n't have mattered. There was no way any of them could possess known what would take place from that night 's upshot. At least not yet ... None of them were seeing past their need to get him to a prophylactic fix, so they could not suffer known that the night marked a turning power point in his life, as well as in the life of the only if survivor of Voldemort 's showtime wave of approach.

The war had begun.
* * * * *


throbbing pain in the ass ... Blood ... call of pain ....

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

Dim spokesperson filtered into her thoughts, her sleep befuddled mind protesting strongly as it failed to perceive a single word.

'' ... has a probability. ''

Flashes of lighter ... .flame ... Coughing smoke ... squeal of tires ... .Sean ....

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

Voices that were oblivious to her wakening. Voices oblivious to the way her body recoiled in hurting. Voices oblivious to how her eyes teared from the bright sun pouring in from the Windows of the destine room. interpreter oblivious to how she clawed like a frightened brute at the chummy comforter wrapped around her clobber and bruised body.

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

What she had done ...

A new despair hit her like a thousand hot tongue, slicing her skin in a way the worst of the pink-slipped while could not feature.

She had done the unthinkable ....

New waving of pain in the ass pelt Forth River, her vision swimming dangerously with each pulsating pain her consistency dealt. She would have cried out, but the sweat would have been too much for her fallible chassis. Instead she drew in ragged breaths until her dead body gave out, the strait of a door creaking and a large, dark word form standing over her vaguely registered before she once again slipped into merciful oblivion.
* * * * *


The dreams were always the like ....

For nearly a calendar month she had refused to yield to the nightly torments. She was secure than that. She would not lose herself to the domain of nightmares, even if the ledger she had read on such things deemed that a more merciful fate than the one the wizarding humans would lend upon her.

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

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

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

She drew in a shallow breathing time, letting her sobbing subside slowly before Hagrid could hear. She had dreamt about it again. About that night. visual sense of origin and shrill screams had filled her mind 's eye each Night since as she dreamt about their works ...

Her deeds ...

She wiped the lingering tears that clung to her lash, swallowing her own self-loathing. She would not fight it, for she deserved every bit of nuisance bestowed upon her. She would stew in it until it had permeated every fiber of her being. That practically was the to the lowest degree of what she deserved.

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

And the 1 who had started it all ...

They deserved so a good deal worse.

Everything effective and pure in her spirit had been gone for weeks. It was with a cold clarity that she realized this. For now she lived for one purpose, and one purpose alone.

revenge.
* * * * *


Harry lay on the top guff staring at the roof, watching the way shadows played across it as light from passing car headlights shone in through the window. Ron 's gaudy snores drifted up, breaking the silence like a bullhorn with every breath, and it was taking every inch of the willpower he possessed, to not lean over and smack his friend senseless with his pillow.

He sighed loudly, wondering when it was all going to end. Each day the Daily prophet brought newsworthiness of more killings, more unexplained disappearances, and of more war. For several weeks he and Ron had been catching tidbits of information, slip ups by the adults in Grimmauld billet, and right now it sounded like the Ministry was in sheer havoc. Not that he minded that fact. Anything that made Fudge 's job harder amused him immensely. What he did judgement was the reason for the mayhem, and that was Voldemort.

Voldemort. It was odd really, how one someone could be the lawsuit of so much death and death. No one should cause that practically world power, he thought bitterly, thinking of the toll that the Muggle deaths were taking on Mr. Weasley, Ron 's founder.

Mr. Weasley was the psyche employee in the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Department, and recently, with the tenor on resource in the Ministry, it had come to reduplicate as the department of Muggle Relations. Now Mr. Weasley spent half his meter performing retention charm on Muggle law enforcement, to cover up the demise of Muggles who had been murdered by Death feeder. Now every time Harry saw Mr. Weasley, all the man could talk about were different possible strategies for protecting the Muggle universe.

Now if only a good strategy actually existed.

He rolled restlessly, spying Hedwig 's gleaming eyes in the wickedness. She hooted softly in acknowledgment, and he smiled in the dark despite his dark thought process.

Memories plagued him every time he closed his eyes now. The department of enigma ... It was why he now lay awake.

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

Hermione had nearly been killed.

Sirius had ... ..

He shoved the sentiment aside, re-vowing that it would never happen again.

The fast one was in figuring out how.

To protect them, he had tried to blatantly campaign them away, but they had seen right through that. He had refused to write, and his self-induced isolation ended when both of them showed up at the Dursleys while his relatives were on holiday. The two of them set up hall there the total week, regularise penis circling the premises like hawk for security system, while his protagonist had infuriated him to no end. However, he had finally realized that they were n't going to go away. If he was going to distance himself he 'd have to do it slowly.

Yes. A gradual drifting would be best.

It was with these sentiment in nous, that he drifted off into another Night of spasmodic sleep. If only he could have known then what the next few years would bring.





Disclaimer : The characters, places, names, and outcome mentioned in this story, that coincide with the characters, places, name, and outcome mentioned in J.K. Rowling 's Harry thrower series, do not go to me, but to that literary genuis, JKR. Thank you so much for allowing so many of us to pursue writing through fanfiction JKR, we really prize it.

The fabulous banner is by SticksN'Stones.

Artwork of Kalliandra by agirlnamedbob87.





'' One may never know how long their candle of life 's wick is. What they can know, is how well it burns. ''
~ A.K. Sir Bernard Lovell



Chapter 2 - First belief


Her center flickered over the lake 's glassy surface, taking in the shimmering reflections of the early morning dawn. The sun was barely risen and the birds still slumbered, but this had become the norm for her over the past calendar week. She simply no longer saw the use in sleeping when guilt plagued her even there.

A visible radiation breeze ruffled the water, tousling her hairsbreadth gently in its Wake. She casually brushed her whispy strands back, tucking them carelessly behind her ears.

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

Kind of like me ...

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

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

Not that she was allowed to present gloominess. Emotions were no longer a privilege she had.

She had been warned of the dangers of such things.

Her bare feet crunched upon the dewy grass, but the other morn chill did not problem her. She reached into her sac, fingering the cherry wooden surface of her wand before pulling it out, studying it appraisingly as she traversed her way across the evidence.

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

It would not alter anything, except her mood, but even that could not be improved measurably by the snapping of her symbolic hell.

Of course, seeing Hagrid 's face when he found the snapped remains might be rather amusing. Especially with the vast deal he had made over how favourable she was, getting a specially made verge from Ollivander. It was n't like she had wanted one, and the entirely intellect the quirky man had fabricated it thus was because none of the veridical wand that he had brought to the school had so much as actuate.

So in what the odd man had called a accident of inspiration, he had usage designed the one she now bore, forming the core with a lock chamber of her own hair and a pinprick of her own origin. She could n't even recall how many spells had to be woven into it.

It was funny, for her wand was the only affair she could cajole into working at least somewhat decently, and still she hated it.

Probably because it shares the same fortune as you, she thought bitterly, glancing at the ever rising sun.

Jacob 's ladders now streamed down from the swarm, forming pools of light on the vibrant sens, giving evidence to the warmth the day would convey.

It was a warmth that would never reach her.

A slightly solid breeze bore the sound of approaching hooves, and she turned towards the Forbidden Forest, the outline of wings folding into a horse cavalry 's cadaverous body signaled Silverthorne 's comer.

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

She stopped and waited, his gallop growing louder with his rapid overture, and a minor grinning graced her passive back talk. Hagrid and Dumbledore had been as terrific as they could be, but there was much they kept hidden from her. Intuition informed her of this with every fleeting aspect they exchanged around her.

Perhaps that noesis could explain her hostility as of belatedly. Hagrid was a good man and had not deserved the brunt of her wrath the former day. They had been arguing as of of late. But then again, she deserved to be informed of everything regarding herself. Keeping her in the dark could only cause further harm. This she was convinced of.

Silverthorne let out a low, guttural oink as he slowed to a canter, stopping to nestle her with his nose.

A creature of the dead. It was one of the more unseemly names Thestrals were referred to by, but it explained why she had felt an instant draw to them while the other animals screeched and howled in her bearing.

His teeth glinted in the red hues of the morning and she smiled, pleased with the sight. It should birth concerned her, but instinct again told her there was nil to fear with him.

At to the lowest degree so long as he gets his morning snack, she reminded herself with some amusement, picturing how he would tear through the small creature 's bones so eagerly.

She smiled again, letting the concerns of yesterday go. She would apologise to Hagrid later before they reached Diagon skittle alley to get her 'school'supplies. She used the word of honor fleetingly for while she was to attend Hogwarts, she was too far behind to be expected to actually flex in assigning with the rest of the sixth class. Instead she was to put up a suitable façade until she gained the noesis that could help her.

Then there was the small broker of her being completely unable to incant in the low position.

No one would be the wiser to why she was really there. Dumbledore 's concocted stories would not only chink out, but they were even believable to an extent. He would back her if anyone questioned them. That was her only relief in this entire hell.

The Hell that had become her aliveness.

Kalliandra pulled herself onto Silverthorne and squeezed her bare cad around him, his bony ribs protruding into her skin in the outgrowth. He took off quickly, carrying them both towards Hagrid 's hut at a step unfathomable to any man, but not to them.

* * * * *



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

Harry laughed as he watched Ron squirm uncomfortably, the wizardly magnetic tape measure flying vertically around his friend 's no longer gangly torso, magically recording the length of his arms, wooden leg, height, and for some odd reasonableness, the distance between his ears.

He knew exactly why Ron 's buddy were getting him dress robes, but he was n't about to plowshare that opus of information. Not when he was actually enjoying himself for the low gear sentence in week.

'' fountainhead we did n't need them last year, '' He pointed out truthfully. `` And we do this class. So maybe they just felt bad since your ontogeny spurt rendered your other I unwearable. ''

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

'' Blimey ! Watch it ! '' Ron exclaimed, ducking another near hit, his invertebrate foot entangling in the prospicient garb gown trailing past his feet.

'' Ron… '' Harry warned, but it was too tardily. Ron had already tumbled over backwards, weapon flailing as he took a rack of robes with him, plummeting tumultuously to the dry land.

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

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

Of grade, he thought lightly, his dear mate might not be muttering the colorful metaphors if he could see the look on the sales agreement clerk 's face ... Or the fact that she was storming over from where she had been attempting to size a first year for his Hogwarts robe, grimace alit, manpower on hip, eyes narrowed vindictively at the muckle Ron lay in.

right field then, with the impeccably bad timing that only Ron could overcome, his friend 's red head emerged from the ruffle, a bright pink sheet wrapped around it like a shawl, and a sheepish formulation on his face as he stammered apologies. The sight must have been too much for the clerk, because her sassing twitched, her sober grammatical construction faltered, and all pretext of anger vanished as she failed to be discerning about her own amusement.

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

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

'' You know twin, I think lady Maulkin 's got it all wrong. I think that 's an excellent look for you. Imagine what Hermione would think ... ''

Suddenly he was finding it impossible to tell apart Ron 's ear from the ease of his tangled matt of hair.

'' Oh shut it Harry ! ''

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

A bright pink satin blur flew across the way, and he caught it deftly, holding it out in figurehead of him as he looked at it in mock appraisal. `` Ron, I 'm disturb. But it 's really not my color. You however looked absolutely spiffing in it. ''

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

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

It was possibly due to this, that he whorled around in his keister so fast that he nearly slid off, earning several loud snicker from a sealed chuckling redhead tangled in material.

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

They really should earn computer storage more approachable for people his size ... He thought, making a mental note to mention the approximation to Hermione as Hagrid opened his gravid backtalk.

'' About five arcminute ago Harry. And I stand by what I said. '' A puckish smiling formed under Hagrid 's seedy brownness beard as his middle landed on Ron. `` Hot pink would be clashin'horribly with Ron 's haircloth. ''

A loud tearing sound tore his attention back to Ron, and he stifled yet another laugh at the horrified expression on Ron 's face. By all appearances, Ron had attempted to walk from the fitting program to where he and Hagrid sat by the window, only now Ron was staring down at the pull cloth hanging raggedly from the hem of his new dress robes.

'' Now that's why you 're supposed to stay put ! '' Madam Maulkin snipped, spying the new destruction and waving her wand. The cloth flipped up like a Snake River, a large acerate leaf zooming to mend it. Ron attempted to jump back away from it.

'' It wo n't burn you know ! '' lady Maulkin yelled, huffily storming over. `` prick maybe ... ''

Ron did not face relieved at the mentation. Of course, the agonized expression might have been from how lady Maulkin grabbed him by the scruff of his collar and yanked him back to the trying on platform, where she immediately began to fret over the dread state of his robes.

'' Better finish you first since you ca n't place upright still. '' She quipped in her heights pitched part. `` And to remember that this aurora I would have sworn it was the younger pupil who gave me the most problem ... ''

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

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

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

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

He nodded, oddity driving him as he wondered who this Kalliandra theatrical role was. Must be a first twelvemonth or really young. He was for sure he would have remembered that figure at least.

But in the rear of his mind he felt a twinge of pathos.

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

At least Hagrid will show them a honorable time, he mused, remembering his first off trip to Diagon skittle alley. He opened his mouth to ask if they were from a wizarding or Muggle kinfolk, concluding that it must be a low gear year from the way Hagrid was still babbling on about them.

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

He followed Hagrid 's gaze towards the try-on room, taking in the relatively busy storehouse when a not unfamiliar sensation hit him like a bludger, his stomach twisting oddly as his heart landed on a reduce number, glancing around the memory board hesitantly.

And I thought Hermione looked good in dress gown, he thought, swallowing unvoiced, berating himself for being distracted. But this girl was stunning, in an kinky form of way. While her features were rather field, her long, golden garb robes clung loosely to her slender legs, with her delicate hands lifting the hem, revealing tanned ankles as she moved towards them.

The Inferno of it was, she was n't stopping. Ron 's grunt was the only if affair that kept him from outright gaping as she came to abide right by him, biting her lip nervously, eyes directed at Hagrid.

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

The girl nodded slowly, her optic glancing at him appraisingly for a second gear before flickering away. `` If you could telephone it finding ... '' She said, a suggestion of caustic remark mix in into her otherwise pleasant speaking voice. `` It was more like being attacked with this ... '' She lifted the hem of the gown for emphasis.

'' And my assistant did a fine job young noblewoman. That color suits you, '' Madam Maulkin chimed out, shocking him back to his weed. He silently thanked her, and glanced over to see that she was still indeed, judging by his friend 's hurt reflexion, torturing Ron.

He shook his head whimsically at the sight, glancing back at the missy in front of him, thinking that Madam Maulkin had a point about the color suiting her. Her night golden hair cascaded loosely past her shoulders, various little strands framing her expression, lightly brushing her collar ivory. All of it was barely discernible from the sleek robe material clinging to her gracile figure.

Briefly he wondered if it were a blessing or a crime to allow young lady out like that.

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

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

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

'' Youffa meanuh uh transforra ? '' Ron 's muffled vocalisation called out from under the cotton sheath Maulkin was vigorously forcing over his school principal. `` Weff neffa haf uh transsfuh befuh. ''

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

'' You have a very ... large ... head ... '' Maulkin muttered with each subsequent yank, and Hagrid 's guffaw of laughter drowned out Ron 's indignant retort. Harry glanced back at Kalliandra to see her watching the spectacle, a hint of a smile tracing its way across her lips.

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

Harry turned back to Kalliandra, to see the slight smile that had seconds ago graced her features fly.

The face she now bore shake something within him ... But what ? He could not put his digit on it, but he now found himself staring at the top of her head, for she had begun pointedly looking down at the story.

Maybe she had found Ron'question offensive, though he could n't conceive of why. He shot Hagrid a quizzical tone, hoping he 'd clarify things since Kalliandra did n't seem about to do so.

'' Yev 're had transferral, jerst fer other family. ``

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

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

Hagrid eyed Ron with no small amount of amusement. `` Well that 'd be crusade they came in the midsection of the yer. Ca n't experience erm sorted at the sortin'when they 've missed it already. ``

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

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

Like a full grown behemoth in the wood ...

Or a three headed dog ....

Or a pet dragon ...

Seeing a half giant squirm beneath one 's gaze would normally be quite a suspicious occurrence, but it simply made Harry neural as Hagrid continued shuffling his feet, mumbling about proper introductions, while the miss remained extremely quiet.

Harry feigned a polite smile, extending his hand to the little girl at Hagrid 's insistency. `` Nice to forgather you. ''

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

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

It was a cushion he had been ill prepared for, for her oculus held a trace of the familiar… So closely akin to the haunted look of Sirius'that he felt himself shaken to the marrow at the familiarity.

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

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

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

It was a wonderment Hagrid had even asked, because he was already waving goodbye to all three of them, not waiting for a response. And from the malevolent glare that Kalliandra shot him, he really could n't fault him.

'' Like he gave me a choice ? '' She muttered, deflating, her eyes no longer holding the haunted calibre of before. Maybe it had never been there. He really ought to suffer slept longer ... With all his turbulent thought as of tardily track through his head he simply was n't thinking straight.

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

'' Yes, you 're probably correct ... '' She said faintly, her voice so soft he scarcely heard her. Though her surprisingly blue-blooded intonations did nothing to kibosh the abrasive timber of her spotlight as her pin down eyes followed Hagrid 's retreating form. In fact, she was still shooting dagger out the room access as the assistant yanked her over to the spread adjustment platform besides Ron seconds later.

Harry decided not to lie on the look he had seen, the one so painfully associate to Canicula. It had probably been his imagination, so he contented himself with trying to decide which of the two looked more disgruntled. Kalliandra kept shutting her middle, as if frightened by the enchanted mag tape beat flicking around her head, while Ron kept shooting scowls at gentlewoman Maulkin.

'' You know we 've never had a transfer before. At least not one that I can commend, right Harry ? '' Ron stated, glaring down at Maulkin as she marked his manacle with methamphetamine hydrochloride, determining the distance of his arm.

He was about to fit in when Kalliandra cut him off.

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

The assistant flicked her wand, shortening Kalliandra 's gown slightly. It was all Harry could do to avoid cursing the assistant. Girl 's gown should get no shorter ...

'' You know that wo n't seize with teeth ? ''

Harry found that oddly risible, considering that Ron had been ducking the really affair himself, but at least his acquaintance had not been standing glass still like a deer in headlights.

Kalliandra had though.

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

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

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

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

Several minutes passed, the awkward silence broken only be Ron 's random outbursts of displeasure, and Kalliandra 's quiet response to the help 's dubiousness. Unsurprisingly she was the first off one done, and he found himself having a hard time not staring at her now that the wearing apparel robes were completely fitted around her form. The matter was swish, graceful, and practically take form fitting ...

'' Hey how seed she got done so quick ? '' Ron asked indignantly, as Kalliandra made her way back to the changing way, the hindquarters of her dress robe gathered in her hands as she walked carefully. She seemed idle to walking in something of the sort.

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

She flashed Harry an inconspicuous winking, and he barely caught it, smiling slightly at her before glancing back to see Kalliandra disappear behind a changing room curtain. He could n't serve but feel slightly relieved. Between his curiosity about this girl and Ron 's glower, he did not desire to be caught staring at her. And he knew he 'd be a lot less prone to doing that once she was out of that damnable gown.

Of course he was wrong, because when she re-emerged he found the short sleeved top she wore to be no honorable than the low cut pedigree the robe had dullard.

'' ahem. ''

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

ejaculate to think of it, Ron seemed to be making churn up faces as well.

Harry failed to have the chance to so practically as shrug in answer to Ron 's repulsive like gesture in the girlfriend 's direction, before a lull clatter broke the proportional secrecy of the way. He turned to see Kalliandra squatting down on the level, picking up tiny pins in her hands.

The mazed assistant stood behind the counter, bearing a flimsy smile. `` Oh honey, thank you, but do n't worry about that. I 'm as clumsy as can be ... '' The help flicked her scepter and the little PIN number scattered all over the situation disappeared, reappearing into the pin cushion held in Kalliandra 's paw.

'' See, I 'm knocking material over all the fourth dimension, '' The assistant continued, while the little girl stared at the now filled pin shock, biting her lower lip, mix-up etched into each of her lineament.

He did n't run out to note it.

It 's like she 's never seen magic before ...

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

'' Was n't she supposed to wait for Hagrid ? '' Ron asked after a mo 's intermission, brow wrinkled confusedly.

Ron was right, she was supposed to hold back for Hagrid. Harry hesitated a moment, an internal debate waging until wonder got the better of him. Wasting no more time he jumped from his fundament and went after her.

He wanted to see where she was going.











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







Chapter 3 ~ Entangled Webs



Traversing her way through the swarming, cobblestone streets of Diagon Alley, she let out an unfirm breath.

To the core she had been undeniably, inexplicably, shaken. And all because of a scattered pile of tholepin upon the flooring of a garment shop, and her own miserable attempts to rectify a salesclerk 's clumsiness.

Magic.

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

The sooner she became accustomed the proficient.

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

Butchered for who she was… The possibility was nothing less than she deserved, for one such as herself should not be allowed to walk upon the bustling streets, the tone of the most luminescent of the Shangri-la'orbs warming her skin, the light clatter of pebbles being kicked askew and the laugh of children ringing within the niche of her auditory senses.

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

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

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

She was going to recover out.

It was why she had left, fleeing in hope of traversing her way through the densely load down streets, making her way towards the looming marble building, the gilt Word Gringotts Bank emblazoned across its ivory surface.

After barely a hundred paces the pillar of the wizarding commercial lodge emerged over the heads of the gang. Its supporting tower leaning in various directions, their haphazard support for the upper berth degree of the building strengthened with the sorcery filling the streets.

Though it was not there that she wished to go.

It was there, directly across from the goblin filled depository. That was where she desired to go to seek out her answers. Turning down the darkness alley she noted a rickety mark suspended above it 's entryway bearing the jaggedly carved Holy Writ Knockturn Alley.

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

She was an object of the outlawed variety, and if there was anywhere to incur acceptation within the company that demanded Jonathan Swift execution for those of her nature, it would be here.

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

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



'' You know Kinglsey loosening up could do you wonderment. I mean really, when was the last-place clock time you took an honorable vacation ? ``

Kingsley Shacklebolt let out an incensed seeing red, raucously shoving his way through the midst gang grunting about rebelliousness. Tonks only recourse was to roll her optic, further darkening the reddened hue that her genus Bos'typeface was beginning to take on.

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

'' Kingsley, Harry is perfectly adequate to of taking care of himself for more than five minutes, '' She said amicably. `` And besides, how was I supposed to break up up Remus'birthday gift for hi.. ''

'' Tonks…

Casting a sidelong glance at the senior Order member she came to a stay in the center of traffic, ignoring the protestations of the witches and ace around them, who were now being forced to take the air a full two substructure to the side to quash them. For all their complaining one would think she was inciting a riot, not stopping for a confab with her slightly formidable political boss.

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

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

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

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

A rather large hand clamped over her backtalk, and she found herself being roughly drug away from the cobblestone streets into a plunk for alley, away from the auricle of passersby.

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

'' Than to what ? '' She shot back in foiling. `` Than to discuss what Harry has been through in the opened ? ''

She did not even expect for his nod of affirmation before continuing on her tirade. `` Why should we be tacit Kingsley ? Lord knows these ignorant people need a wake up shout, not that the Ministry is giving them one with their security review of the report and… ''

With an hearable crinkling Kingsley shoved a copy of the Daily vaticinator into her hands, watching her closely as she unfolded it, discovering it to be the latest proceeds that she had not yet read.

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

Her mouth fell candid, forming a small'O'of understanding.

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

'' That night, '' She whispered, knowing entire well to what he referred. The scratch tissue across her thorax would forever serve well as a striking monitor to her carelessness in dueling with her aunty. It had taken half of the summer, laid up in St. Mungos, for her to draw a total recuperation from the snow she had been dealt.

Remus had been her exclusively reference of sanity during that time, as he had been on the night they had combed through the grotesquely scorch yard of an isolated Muggle home, searching for survivors.

The month old picture of that terrible scene was now burned beneath the front end Page 's blinking headline, the body of water pooling upon the pavement darkened with what she knew to be blood.

The inadequate somebody had never had a chance.

Clenching the tab between her manus she met her Bos'regard. `` flavor, '' She whispered, forcing her part equanimity. `` I know the club is concerned about Harry. But he has proven more than competent in state of affairs that most Aurors have yet to brass, and he 's come out alive an… ''

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

'' legal action, '' She supplied, ignoring how his eye twitched. `` But how does the ordering expect him to con to make decisions if we are always hovering over him ? ``

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

'' Who said he was making them ? ``

Kingsley began pacing up and down the pill roller 's side alley. `` No one, but you have to admit the tike is… ''

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

'' Is it possible, '' He said through gritted tooth. `` For you to not break up me ? ``

'' I 'll train it under consideration, '' She replied, leaning against the dirty brick wall, content to bask in its shade for a consequence of respite from the August heat.

Kingsley 's next tirade was unintelligible, though she did enchant the watchword 'irresponsibility', 'insubordinate', and 'dam n't girl'.

Slowly she began banging her head against the brick siding.

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

'' It is not just a Snitch ! '' She interjected, halting the assault on her skull. `` It 's a collector 's edition ! And Remus ordered it a calendar month ago for Harry, peculiar gild ! They had to take it to Remus'take specifications, and we thought it would be a nice surprisal to pick it up while out toda… ''

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

She groaned, resuming the thumping of her nous. `` Kingsley the Order would do well to realize that Harry is nearly of age. He 's nearly an grownup and nada is going to bump while he and Ron are being fitted for gown. ``

Kingsley stopped pacing abruptly, `` And what of the female child ? ``

'' You mean Ginny ? ``

The man let out a sound oddly reminiscent of a hippogriff in warmth, stomping the ground and sending a mass of dust scattering into the air. `` Who do you think I mean ! ? What early girl were you to chaperon today ? ! focal point for just a moment would you Nympha… ''

'' We ran into her boyfriend, '' Tonks hastened to inform, unwilling to discover that beshrew epithet again. `` So she is spending the quietus of the afternoon with the Finnigans. ''

'' And the son ? ``

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

Despite his craze Kingsley gave an involuntary shudder. It was a well known fact in his department that he hated all things related to dinner dress attire, with a particular aversion to those who made such things their profession.

Tonks smile only widened further, her pupils narrowing into pocket-size ovular slits, centre yellowing like a kat. `` See Kingsley ? They 're perfectly dependable. No self-respecting destruction Eater would speculation into there. ``

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

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

'' Speechless are we ? Well hell has indeed frozen over, either that or your nose of the day prevents proper breathing. ``

Her manus flew to her crooked nose, pondering what was amiss with it. She had spied a copy of enchantress Weekly earlier that day, and while she was not one for style she had seen this weeks headline : Crooked Nose Curses, In or Out of Season ?

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

The boys had at to the lowest degree found it entertaining.

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

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

Eyeing his pry she nodded. `` Yup, you 've got a crooked nose too. I hear those Muggle nutter have some great proficiency for remedying tho… ''

Kingsley stomped his human foot again. `` See ? This is exactly what I mean ! Your attention bridge is bordering on the non-existent and you 're always usurping authority in favor of whatever your whim of the moment is ! In this casing it 's the, 'the kids can take forethought of themselves'whim ! That 's precisely why I ca n't hit the sack early ! You 're nowhere near ready for such a position and there is no one else with enough combat experience to commend ! ``

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

'' Are you even listening ? ``

'' Yes gaffer. ``

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

'' Your domination ? ``

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

'' I 'm just taking your advice. I thought potency name liked to be addressed… ''

'' One Sir Thomas More word and a 'Nympadora'sign is going to wind up with a permanent sticking appealingness on your front door. ``

She sobered immediately.

'' And stop banging your point. ``

She stopped that to.

'' And do n't squirm. ``

Suppressing a groan she resisted the temptation, her uncomfortableness level rising exponentially. bowel movement was the only thing sufficient for quelling her often frazzle nerves in Shaklebolt 's presence. He knew this, and was intentionally depriving her of it.

good God, if he was this bad with her she would hate to be a suspect for some repugnant law-breaking. No wonder they normally came out of questioning twitching.

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

'' I 'm going with you. ``

With an indrawn moan she turned, carefully stepping over the trash that had been carelessly tossed, missing the alleyway 's garbage bin, and stopped dead.

Passing the opening where the side alley converged with Diagon Alley 's bustling independent boulevard was a familiar headspring of dark tomentum, and Harry was sprinting along at a healthy gait.

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

Without a word she ignored the sarcastic jibe, taking off after Harry with murderous intention. Of all the ill fated timing that one could have, she had the worst. Harry just had to nibble now to run off, and she had every intention of strangling him once she got a handgrip of him.

Of course she may deliver to stun him first, considering he had grown considerably to tower respective column inch above her, making him significantly faster.

Aw inferno, she 'd always been thoroughly at stunning.

As they shoved their way through the street, Kingley 's golden loop earring glinting in the temperateness, she began ticking off the diverse ways to vote down or excruciate him. For out of all the Order members she was his unattackable proponent when it came to the level of Independence he should be afforded. After all, she had attested to Harry 's ability to recognise when it was or was not appropriate to wander off in public places. However, with Kingsley standing behind her, Harry was proving her wrong yet again. She could only suppose the smug smiling crossing Kingsley 's human face, and after he mentioned this to the Order…

Her prayer to let Harry in on more of the Orders'activeness would probably be rejected, yet again.

This picayune stunt of his was going to cost him Thomas More than he knew.

'' I 'm going to kill him when I get a hold of him, '' Kingsley grumbled behind her, wrinkling his nose at the mix scent stemming from the apothecary.

'' Not if I get a hold of him first, '' Tonks grumbled, thinking on how this little stroll of his would probably cost Harry his valuation account into the Order, and he would never even know it.

She began muttering in dangerous undercurrent, for she 'd get goddam sure he found out.

fixing her center to the back of his head, she shortened her hairsbreadth up her neck, and began experimenting with noses. It was n't until she spotted the old char calmly perusing the choice of fleshly food on display outside of Eeylops Owl Emporium that she was struck with an excellent idea.

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



It was a marvel that he had managed to prevent her in sight, considering the drove swarming around him, children screaming off detail that would be needed for the start of term to frazzle parents, well-nigh of whom were doing admirable balancing act with newly purchased caldron, account book, and potions supplies. Though her hair color helped, for it was neither nighttime nor light, falling somewhere between bronze and gold, yet far from blonde. He had seen the people of colour rarely, and he doubted ever naturally, before now. Regardless, it made her easier to hold on track of her.

Thus it was that he was ineffective to miss her purposeful Master of Architecture into Knockturn Alley, his stomach churning uncomfortably at the thought.

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

He knew the consequences of such errors far too well.

Pulling his wand out he cast a glamor charm upon his principal, watching the unruly strand of pilus hanging on his forehead lighten to a muted brown. Quickly he brushed as much of it over his forehead as possible, not keen to be recognized within the disreputable domain he was now traversing through.

The blue entrance was rather twist around, the infinite narrow and curving every few animal foot, thus she easily fell out of his wrinkle of batch. And it was not without incident that he made it through this, having to grunt at a Haggard looking charwoman to labor place his degree that he indeed did not want to buy the corpse toes she was selling.

'' Maybe future time young lad, next time… '' She hawked after him, driving his gait to increase.

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

Making a hasty decision, and silently praising Fred and George for their generousness that day when they had visited the Weasley twin 's establishment, Harry crept past the shaded windowpane displaying Borgin & Burke on 'special'particular, casting a surreptitious glance through the turd covered panes.

The range of a function was faint, distorted by the thick stratum of grime coating the windowpane, but Kalliandra 's advance stirred the man knelt behind the counter, his hands rummaging through his glass exhibit typeface like a rat in a hole.

An indistinct word fell from the girl 's lips, and with a sudden jolt of effort the man stood, mouth spluttering indistinct words in a hoarse fashion.

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

Neither prospect boded well.

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

Making a conclusion as the man began pacing, Harry dropped to the filthy ground, allowing an overturned cart to conceal him from the legal age of the short traffic upon the alleyway.

This was not a conversation he was keen to break, nor was it one he would like to be caught up in. Not in this place, not when the participant were so engrossed. The stirring in him though, the warning that her behavior was like Malfoy - coming into Knockturn alleyway to get chummy with its owner - he could not brush aside though.

Of all the metre he 'd thought to spy on Malfoy, he 'd been right every prison term. And his gut was telling him the same now.

Pressing his ear to the thin out, flaking Sir Henry Joseph Wood paneling upon the establishment 's outside, he muttered a charm for hearing enhancement, bringing the ill-boded conversation to life.

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

'' …ank you. I appreciate your money plant. ``

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

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

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

'' Of course, '' Borgin 's rattled intimation shot out. `` Though the method acting of the payment 's obstetrical delivery shall be to my specifications. ``

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

A racking cough shook the proprietor, Harry shuddering at the reverberations as the run-in a calendar month 's time were spoken.

Then there was silence, enticing him to slowly slide up the splintery siding, his eyes reaching the sill to peer inwards, just in clock time for the dilapidated doorway to be thrown open.

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







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



Chapter 4 ~ Seed of Distrust


Perhaps it was the shuddering helplessness that had plagued her body so oft as of late, but seeing the messy haired potter upon the ground was a heap for which she had been ill prepared, the sheer shock sending her interior reeling and curling into abnormal knots as she blinked at him, his own face adverted as if stalling for time.

draftsmanship breath between her teeth the pieces fell into place, forming an unpleasing pattern.

throttling back the retch sensation threatening to crawl from her throat, she spun on her cad, strewing grimy dust in her wake and hell bent on distancing herself from the meddling fool as much as potential.

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

Tucking a lock of darkened gold behind her ear, effectively removing the wayward strand from her typeface, she rounded the first spin in the crooked alley, passing a street seller selling ears of something that sounded suspiciously like 'house elves'. It was in this moment of distraction that a business firm bobby pin fell upon her upper arm, the calluses on the hand evident as she reflexively yanked her arm away, stepping away to distance herself from the prat bold enough to make believe such a gesture.

Unsurprisingly she was unable to even sprain around before ceramicist was again upon her, ushering her to the early position of the sully country, away from the street vendor. She wasted no time in distancing herself from the Potter prat, fishing around for his first name, which she could not remember.

Casting a leery coup d'oeil at the crinkled vendor she felt distinctly nervous, even with the man 's crazy eyes 10 yards off, for he was clearly out of earshot. Dismissing the fleeting business organization that wizard could possibly cause superior auditory sense she felt her eyes narrowing into darkened slits.

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

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

His jaw clamped shut, an uncertain look overtaking his features, as if he had no clue on how to answer her question.

Another moment passed between them in silence, the vestige cast by the looming brick walls of the alley traveling such a scant distance that their movement would have been indiscernible to the homo eye, had either present paid the darkness any mind, though they did not.

Still the messy haired man before her did not speak, his silence allowing her the prison term she needed to pick up her harshly shaken demeanor.

No one had been meant to eff of her liaison with Borgin. No one.

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

'' Listen, '' she whispered, being heedful to keep her articulation low. `` I want you to delay away from me, and my conversations. ``

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

'' Why do you reckon ? '' she hissed scathingly.

'' Could n't say, but you 're awfully concerned about that conversation remaining private, '' he stated pointedly, apparently having no qualms about keeping his interpreter down. `` Why the business organisation if you have nix to enshroud ? ``

She visibly bristled.

'' Correct me if I 'm haywire, '' she stated slowly, taking the time to enunciate each syllable. `` But most mass do not take well to having their buck private conversations listened in on. ''

'' most people do n't wander down Knockturn bowling alley to speak in code with shady proprietors, '' he countered challengingly.

'' I 'm failing to hark back any codification, '' she refuted, her brow furrowing. `` Though I 'm also failing to think back how this is any of a complete unknown 's business. ``

His dark, forest-like eyes met her staid gaze levelly, without apology, while a woman with a torn, tattered Asa Gray shawl limped around the corner, leaning heavily on a claw footed cane. Neither spoke as the fair sex shambled along, quietly croaking out a melody of sorts about bat annex and who-ding-its.

As soon as the cleaning woman neared the weave of the alley, becoming occupy in street vendor 's ware, Potter closed the length between them, his brake shoe disturbing the deep hook grade that the senior 's cane had left indented in the begrime ground.

'' Look, '' he began, sounding much calmer, `` I did n't keep up you to overhear anything, I just… ''

'' You just happened to watch over me, '' she cut in unapologetically, `` And then you must have randomly make up one's mind to crouch down and eavesdrop ? ``

Potter took another step forward, eyes intimidating.

'' Yes. ``

Sucking in a half frustrated, half furious breath she suppressed the urge to kick something, him in particular proposition. `` Alright thrower, if that's the pillowcase, then why did you come me ? ``

His face was nothing short-change of derisive, the looking at of one trying to explicate a simple conception to a small child incapable of grasping it.

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

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

In the dark shade of the alley, his centre took on a suspect, disapproving glint. `` Why should n't he get laid ? ``

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

His centre narrowed immediately. `` You 're avoiding the inquiry. ``

'' And you 're being a complete… ''

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

'' Look, '' he finally said, `` If your job here was harmless why risk venturing here alone ? Why not tell Hagrid and have him descend with you ? ``

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

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

'' Oh I think it 's very much the item, '' she snapped acidly, noticing his hands curling into crocked clenched fist within his pockets.

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

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

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

'' Sure sounds like it. ''

'' Well I would n't have even been there if you had n't walked out in the first gear seat ! '' he shot out defensively.

'' Do n't you dare… ''

'' Now really, what discussion was so authoritative that it required you to trek into Knockturn Alley to verbalise in shut up tones behind a conclude door ? Because seriously Kalliandra, I 'd love to know, '' he snapped with mock sincerity, yanking his hands from his pockets and crossing his arms.

She glared harshly. `` That is none of your business you miserable blo ... ''

'' Miserable fellow ? '' he cut in. `` You 've got ... ''

Turning on her heel she shoved past him, brushing off his arm that attempted to halt her advancement as she stalked away. Purposely dragging her groundwork enough to send a strew of grimy dust in his counseling, she felt a set-apart sense of expiation at his indignant coughing.

'' volition you… '' he grunted. `` barely stop… '' She rounded a crooked twist, the light of Diagon Alley seeping into the dimly lit corridor. `` Because… ''

Continuing to ignore him she stepped out into the bright light, allowing the bustling, shoving, chattering crowd to withdraw her whole.
* * * * *


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

'' Out of me way ! '' she snapped in a scratchy articulation, effectively clearing the arena as people scattered in every direction. Anything to nullify getting whacked upside the oral sex by the old lady with the acuate cane.

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

Kingsley yanked out his ear patch, the one that had allowed him to pick up everything she had.

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

She threw her head back and cackled, sending a small group of children, first days by the look of them, scattering.

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

Kingsley now appeared to be thumping himself in the head with the rolled up sports section.

Maintaining their ambling hobby, she was having trouble grasping Harry 's conversation due to the disturbance of the crowd. Knockturn Alley had been deserted in comparability, but fortunately they were able to stay relatively close due to her disposition to knock anyone ill-starred enough to walk in strawman of them in the rear of the knee with the nipper footed cane.

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

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

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

'' Details ! '' she shot back. `` Besides, if I 'm going to throttle him I at least pauperization to hear that I have a just reason. ``

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

Smiling cheekily she ignored him. `` Watch and get a line from the master Kingsley. Watch and get wind. ``

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

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

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

'' You would n't. ``

'' What makes you call back not ? ``

Smirking she did her best to keep Harry 's foreland in passel, walloping her procured cane against a man too busy posturing for a Veela look alike to discover the bustling crowd swarming around him.

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

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

She frowned. `` Someday I might. ``

'' Not if you keep this up. ``

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

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

He groaned.

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

Right then Kingsley looked very much like he would love to drown himself in the water washstand outside of Eeylops Owl Emporium. It was a shame the owls boozing from it looked murderous.

It took another second for the data to mental process within her nous, for it was a relatively clear area, and Harry had just drug the girl over there.

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


As she traversed her way amongst the moving sea of bodies, the intoxicating pressure level of commercial commerce hung heavily in the air. The mixing odor from the chemist, ice cream parlor, and owl emporium blended with that of the trick workshop 's scented locoweed bomb calorimeter, while cd burned mid-wick in every shopfront window, lending the area a singular flavor.

In Kalliandra 's frustration she noticed little of this. So settle on upon distancing herself from the messy haired man behind her was she, that she missed taking in the few wad that she had deemed worthy of a second glance when she had traversed in the opposite management scarcely a quarter of an minute before hand.

Now it was taking all her militia to avoid pulling violently away from the rough, calloused hand that had just shot through the gang, grasping her firmly by the upper arm.

She knew to the full well who it was.

Hardly aware of the open pebbling overlaying the cobblestone avenue, or of the continuous influx of patrons pouring from the shop into the street, pressing in around them on all sides in a way that encouraged one to not deter from the speed that the gang had reached a world-wide, non-verbal consensus regarding, she found herself whirling around to face up him, halting.

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

'' I wasn't… ''

A voluminous man shoved past, cutting thrower off as he failed to involve heed of the two individuals speaking a foot below his rather freakish height. In the cognitive operation he smacked against them brusquely, their heads banging together hard, and she found herself kicking a spray of pebbles in the man 's focal point, oddly satisfied as the man halted, swore, and turned in place looking for the perpetrator of the fire on his calves.

'' Making friends everywhere I see, '' Potter commented dryly, tugging her along after him until they had abandoned the street altogether. And the present moment their feet reached the cement replacement Potter released her, eye hard and serious.

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

'' well I was. ``

'' Perhaps you would n't have been, '' he argued annoyingly as they set off, walking along their new path, which lay along the haphazardly constructed sidewalk that had a tendency to move, bend, and snap on a whim. `` I tried to apologise, but you were too argumentative to let me end up. ''

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

'' Well you were acting suspicious ! '' he cut in, her unfinished vilification hanging in the air.

'' How in the hell was I acti… ''

Her exclamation was cut off by his gibelike bird, and her face contorted into an furious scowl.

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

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

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

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

'' Let. Go. ``

He smirked as if amused. `` Well decline me if I 'm faulty, but if you 're trying to fit up with Hagrid this would be a secure place to bide. ``

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

ceramicist let out an exhausted sigh, dragging her to retrace their last few steps until they stood in front of a small drink trough, a foresightful stick extending over it, various owls perched upon it, and he gestured inside the storefront window.

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

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

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

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

Potter 's supercilium crinkled oddly, the owls territorial behaviors not ceasing until Kalliandra had backed away, her dog teetering off the boundary of the sidewalk into the street.
* * * * *


He was still frowning when Hagrid came outside, fang 's food for thought sack slung over his widely shoulder.

The professor spotted them immediately.

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

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

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

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

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

It was clear that Hagrid was hardly paying tending, to him at least. To Kalliandra however…well, the half giant was observing her as if she were a regorge hippogriff about to go off. Not that he could blame him, with the way she stood teetering on the curb away from them both, rubbing her shoulder, a slender face gracing her mouth.

The tranquillity, almost pained case-by-case before him appeared to the be the polar inverse of the girl he had bickered with along the streets.

Something was extremely wrong.

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

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

'' Are you sure ? ``

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

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

'' Ready to leave ? ``

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

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

'' I do n't think that 's a very good musical theme, '' she muttered, her eyes still avoiding anything save for the paving material, her mannerisms bordering on frightened.

'' fountainhead ye 'ave to cover with it eventually. ``

Biting her lour lip she nodded, several long tress falling to cloud the leave behind side of her grimace. `` I know, '' she whispered, eyes lowered to the ground.

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

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

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

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

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

He turned an incredulous flavor to the side of her oral sex, the lonesome part of her look still visible. `` A thestral is your pet ? ``

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

Now he had to admit that they had been useful at the end of close term, but to make a particular liking to one ? What the hell did that mean ?

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

Turning her head word towards them again, her eyes still avoiding the owls like a plague, she shot him an odd flavor. `` Yeah, why could n't I ? I 'm not blind. ''

Hagrid 's sudden aspect of panic did n't escape him, nor did it Kalliandra as she shot him a questioning look, to which the Care of Magical Creatures professor cowered slightly.

He decided to carry through him the problem of answering. `` fountainhead not everyone can see the ... ''

'' Why not ? '' she asked sharply.

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

Her brow crinkled in annoyance, and Hagrid 's articulation came out, suddenly pacifying.

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

This manoeuvre only elicited a humble noise of displeasure from her.

Frustrated, Harry supplied the information for her.

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

damage choice.

There was no verbal exchange, but her centre darkened, speaking volumes.

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

'' Yes, '' she whispered.

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

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

Hagrid let out a defeated sigh, rubbing his frontal bone with a turgid hand wearily, and the realization of what he had just done struck Harry like a lightning bolt.

She had n't known, and he had probably just brought back whatever horrifying memory her yesteryear had held.

* * * * *

Kalliandra quickly walked through the musty, noisy store, avoiding all the springy animate being displays, and she disappeared behind a large ledge stocked with rat provender, relief sweeping through her that no one was back there as her infringe emotions threatened to rise to the open. She had spent the past three weeks carefully building a wall of apathy around herself, and she could n't afford to let it down now.

Not over such a trivial fact coming to visible radiation. Not when she had just spoken to the soul who could give her the response she needed.

Yet still…why had n't they told her ?

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

A rebuff tremor coursed through her, and sighing sadly she listened to the soft hooting amidst the balk. She would not calculate at them, for she had seen the reaction that elicited enough.

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

veneer obstacles was apparently a healthy thing, even when it generally resulted in having irate owls attempting to bite oneself.

With a nifty academic degree of trepidation she found herself tilting her head up to peer through the darkness, cluttered atmosphere of the shop, her eyes slowly adjusting, pupils widening in the dim inflammation as the scurvy raftman slowly came into view.

Owl upon owl rested upon them, some peacefully sleeping, their straits carefully nestled into the folds of their feathers, while the residuum had trained their alarm, shining eyes upon her.

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

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

Cringing, though almost glad for the misdirection, she turned her attention slowly to ceramist, who now stood in front end of her. To his credit, he at least had the mutual sense to reckon apprehensive.

'' Look, Kalliandra, I 'm pitiful. I did n't pull in ... ''

'' It 's fine, '' she muttered, forcing her interpreter layer. She did not need his pity. She did not need it.

Despite this, she could not help but keep a furtive eye on him, as she pretended to peruse the owl selection, her eyes carefully avoiding all of the hooter, and she was a bit surprised to see a downcast, yet determined, expression upon his face.

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

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

Do not piddle eye contact… Keep your head lowered… No loudly noises or sudden movements…

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

His expression had faltered at her hold up parole. `` In event it 's escaped your notice, I 'm trying to be dainty here. I 'm at to the lowest degree making an drive. ``

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

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

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

'' You know ... '' A raucous fizzle cut him off as an owl nipped at his call down workforce. Potter jerked away hastily, nearly taking a wooden shelf with him.

'' Bloody owl, '' he grumbled, glaring up towards the offending hoot, who by now had hopped down to the lowest rafter, where it screeched, its outstretched wings flapping vigorously.

For some the absurd reason the situation struck her as funny story rather than frightening, and she did not inconvenience to repress the laughter bubbling out while she observed the redoubtable looking owl. For once it was not aimed at her. And as if sensing her scrutiny its moody eyes locked with her own.

Its territorial reserve behavior ceased, drawing a smiling to her face, for she was n't the only one to lash out at those who came to close.

She traced the Great Horned owl 's outline, noting the Black coloration speckling its crimson brown annexe, its catlike face and highly pointed capitulum all swiveled curiously towards her.

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

Just ... like ... her.

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

'' You 'll require a cage for him, '' thrower pointed out.

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

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

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

potter turned in a baffle huff, storming out of the store. Watching his retreating figure she too late realized how incorrectly she had sounded.

And then Dumbledore 's words came floating back to her. His one 's about the need for her and the many, many others under his protection to keep some things quiet. Some things hush-hush.

Something low temperature, restricting, and indurate curled within her throat, for until this war, the one they all refused to enjoin her anything about, was over, she would be more alone than ever.

The wounds of a rain rob Nox were still far too fresh.

It was better to push everyone away.

For their own goodness, and for her own.

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

A frigidness shudder rippled through her. potter was also serious, of that she was sure. She 'd practically felt his suspicions rippling off of him, and he 'd overheard something he ought not to have. She only hoped it had n't been enough ...

She 'd lecture to Dumbledore. She 'd associate everything upon her return.

A light weight descended upon her arm, jarring her from her view as two dour eyes met hers. She smiled, her beginning true smile in weeks, reaching out a hesitant hand and ruffling the hooter plume. They were voiced, like those of a newborn hatchling, only she would n't know for sure.

She had never felt an owl before now.

A sense of peace filled her as it continued looking up at her, hooting softly. And for a second, just a brief mo she knew to be both fleeting and false, she could have sworn it silently understood.

* * * * *

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

He simply did not get it. During their entire argument Kalliandra had seemed so indifferent, almost Harijan. It was maddening how his snide remarks rolled off her, so he had kept at it, wanting to unconsciously air out some of his own frustrations into her and to recognize what her actual business in Knockturn bowling alley had been.

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

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

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

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

A cacophony of sounds emerged as the shop 's door opened, emitting Kalliandra and her horribly moody owl. He grimaced at the mickle, even as a chiding voice reminded him how an animal 's behavior could so oft deceive.

Buckbeat 's certainly had.

That was all forgotten though, for decently then she raised her forearm high gear, and grayish flank spread wide, feet and hook hopping from her arm as the owl took trajectory, circling in across-the-board electric discharge until it disappeared above the rooftops of Diagon Alley.

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

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

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









'' things alter for the big spontaneously, if they be not altered for the better designedly. ''
~ Francis Baron Verulam ~



Chapter 5 ~ A Professor of One


Remus yawned tiredly, his lighter Brown oculus skirted across the train program at Hogsmeade, searching for the familiar bod that was nowhere in sight. A light grin crossed his jade features and he chuckled. Hagrid was not someone he would easily overleap had he been there. No invisibility cloak was quite that large.

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

It was n't far, and Hagrid would undoubtedly tap him along the way, most likely in his own, phrenetic rush to stop him. Hagrid was a bit unmindful at time, and Remus could not fault him. He would be to if he took care of such a hazardous array of animals for a aliveness.

The railroad train platform was on the fringe of the small village, on the outer edge good Hogwarts, and a pebbled road led directly to the school 's movement room access. He would deform off it before he reached Hogwarts'monolithic, welcoming entrance, to deny his way across the lush, green cause to Hagrid 's hut.

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

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

He started walking, thinking how right-hand Hagrid was.

The sun beat down on his picket berm, warming more than his shirt. The sun was rejuvenating to him in a way few understood, because it was a full moon orb of sparkle for which he harbored no fear. It was funny, that the lightsome of nights filled him with presentiment and hurting, when usually it was the absence of light source that inspired fear. He sought consolation in the darkest of nights, that was when he felt his best, but for now, when the lunation was a quarter full, he would try comfort in the tender good afternoon sun.

It was because of this curse that he could sympathize with Hagrid. The chance to go a fully qualified superstar had been stolen from the gamekeeper turned prof, and it had nearly evaded even himself. Had it not been for Dumbledore 's kindness Remus would never get studied conjuring trick. No other school would cause taken him.

They had feared him.

The curse of being different, he thought bitterly. They were both labeled as dangerous by the wizarding residential district, and shunned. Their protagonist even suffered for their bare association.

A half-giant and a lycanthrope ... two of the most serious magical beings on the planet, both seen as murderous, blood-thirsty wildcat, and yet neither one of them possessed the lean to harm another.

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

No, he had to be shunned as well. Did n't they lie with he would change it if he could ? And Hagrid ... one of the most gentle, kindhearted citizenry he had ever met, yet the Ministry feared him and his titan heritage. They labeled him violent without even knowing him. He could at to the lowest degree translate why citizenry feared him, but Hagrid was harmless. He at least was truly dangerous.

Several nights in his past stood in dark testament to that.

Because of his forgetfulness, Wormtail had gotten away on one of those nights. If he had only taken his potion, perhaps Voldemort would not have returned, perhaps Canicula would not have died ...

Dam n't Sirius ! He had figured his friend 's stubborn nature would have made him voiceless to bolt down, but in the end, he, just like Jesse James, had been as vulnerable as the rest.

He was the concluding now.

Peter was as good as beat, and if he ever saw him again ... If he ever got the chance ...

He 'd give sure a digit really was all there was left of him.

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

'' Even in the darkest of times, there are shimmer of calorie-free Moony. It 's just a subject of finding them ... ''

It was something he had promised to show Harry. Harry was the only real family he had left, and he wanted the boy, who was quickly growing into a man, to get it on of the incredible long suit his parents had held. He needed to know that there were things worth fighting for.

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

We all have ...

The cerebration sobered him, reminding him of his purpose today. He squinted ahead, shielding his optic from the bright morning sun to look for any preindication of Hagrid.

Today he would truly suffer her.

He was n't indisputable whether to be queasy, or to simply be exhilarated that the break in little girl he had cradled had survived.

Kalliandra.

She had been thrust into their existence unwillingly. Dumbledore, in all his wisdom, had felt Hogwarts to be the good position for her. It would be a near way to help her adjust, by slowly exposing her to people her own age.

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

It would be his job to remediate that.

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

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

It was then that he had confided in him.

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

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

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

Not to name what she could do to those around her. The memory of the night they had found her was still burned into his brain 's eye. It was not something Remus would soon bury.

Doing his job right could imply the difference of opinion in this Whitney Moore Young Jr. woman 's survival. Dumbledore had been very decipherable on that.

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

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

By all rights he should be terrified and have run in the former charge.

Yet he could not bestow himself to do so. Not when the icon of her decrepit body lying there, clad in mud and the profligate of those she loved, kept coming back to him each night as he dreamt. He felt a notation of dissension at the thought of anything worsened befalling her.

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

And that was why, despite knowing all of this, that he had accepted the assigning. Dumbledore wanted her to give the same prospect as everyone, and he had full heartedly agreed.

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

'' The most worthwhile matter in life are never sluttish .... ''

Her Scripture came back, hitting him as fresh as if they had fallen from her back talk only yesterday, and never before had they been more appropriate.

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

Just like the pain sensation ...

Always so brisk, so sharply ...

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

Of course of instruction, the same masses had often spoken on how well he dealt with pain, but he did not feel very just at that. He was just consistent enough to know that there was no good in dwelling on what could take in been. Things happened…bad matter ... whether you wanted them to or not, and zip one said or did could exchange that.

If it did none of them would be gone…

And after all these years, she was still right. A grinning formed on his lips, the jubilant memories coming back, flooding his vision as he remembered Padfoot 's taunting about how she was 'always right hand', and they were 'always wrong'.

Her counter had been that it was about metre they saw it her way.

He chuckled slightly, catching peck of Dumbledore making his way leisurely down the sparsely used road. He raised a hand in greeting, catching the Headmaster 's care, and was pleased to see an diverted grin on the Headmaster 's mighty face.

'' Good Afternoon Remus. ''

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

Dumbledore removed his half-moon spectacles, polishing them on his summer gown. `` It 's awful, how the brilliant sun glower can make up even the most flyspeck of smudges stand out, almost like the dark daub where the sun is supposed to be when a solar eclipse shields it. ''

The Headmaster held his ice to the sun, studying them through his lightness, twinkling, currently squinted centre, searching for any left wing over imperfections.

'' But enough about the hot and bothered rumination of this grandfather clock 's inside workings. How have you been ? I trust the geartrain 's music director was n't too erratic with the upper for your Whitney Moore Young Jr. gist ? ''

Remus smiled broadly. Yes, in relaxed, mixer situations, Dumbledore was still the same.

'' The train was hunky-dory, and I 've been good. I was just thinking of some amusing debate Cassilyda and Sirius had before. ''

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

Remus smiled fondly, remembering the faces Jame 's the eel had made, pressing his slimy, snakelike torso against the chicken feed walls of the Fish tank. They had scooped him off the floor and conjured a tank quickly, filling it with pee as soon as they had seen him flopping around on the stone base.

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

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

He chuckled slightly. He still wanted to get laid how James had contorted himself into an R ... He shuddered intellection of how afflictive that spelling out 'You're a all in Man Sirius'must give birth been.

'' Quite an impressive bit of Transfiguration for fifth years ... I gave Gryffindor House 20 decimal point for that, '' Dumbledore mused aloud, turning his gaze on him, his eyes twinkling with entertainment over the rim of his ice. `` I was sourly tempted to give out an award for exceptional Services to the shoal, since the pastor of magic was visiting that day, and their `` stroke '' rendered James II incompetent of doing something drastic, like turning the rector 's hair neon pink, '' Dumbledore grinned slyly at this. `` semen to think of it I would n't entirely mind seeing that ... ''

Remus could only didder his principal, suppressing the laughter threatening to come out. It was well seeing Dumbledore.

'' Of trend, in the end, no one could determine whose wand actually had transfigured young Epistle of James at the time, so I could n't return anyone the award. I was sourly disappointed by that. ''

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

'' Why yes Remus. Do you really think I would pass up a chance to encourage the propagation of good behaviour when Ministry official are visiting ? ''

'' Not when Umbridge is the Ministry official, '' He replied, thinking of how Fred, Saint George, Harry, Ron, and Ginny had described that airy batrachian the year before.

'' Ah yes ... how is she doing in St. Mungos ? I believe the verdict was impermanent insanity ? ''

'' It should have been lasting insanity and a life sentence in Azkaban. The toad was about to use an inexcusable whammy on Harry ! ''

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

He nodded assent, finding the wellspring known cognition of Hagrid 's quirk of untimeliness amusing.

Dumbledore grinned, `` wellspring why do n't we go see him together than Remus. I was just going to pay Madam Rosemereta a sojourn but my butterbeer can wait. Besides, if I am guessing his reason for being late to greet you ... well ... I may just be in indigence of some good, old fashioned fire whisky. ''

He eyed Dumbledore curiously, `` I did n't know you drank fire whiskey. ''

'' But of row I do n't ... '' He replied, winking mischievously. `` I have n't had cause for such spendthrift celebration since the marauder graduation, granting me peace of mind and placidity again. Of course ... '' Dumbledore turned, waving for him to follow. `` I 'm not entirely sure I even have a thinker left, with which to relish the serenity with. ''

Remus opened his backtalk to reply, but no sound came forth. Instead he found himself following the schoolmaster across the lawn, Hagrid 's cabin quickly coming into lot as Dumbledore continued light chitchat.

'' ... .Now of course the key in those situations is managing the brewage in fairish amounts, a natural endowment my dear brother does not possess, '' Dumbledore said, referring to his Capricorn the Goat herdsman brother 's drinking habits.

'' Half my year did n't own that talent, '' He replied, thinking of the one meter he, Jesse James, Sirius, and Peter had gotten a grasp of a bottle of Firewhiskey their 7th year. That had not gone over well ... Fortunately Pomfrey had bought the exculpation that all of them had caught the flu from each former. His thoughts were abruptly cut off as a loud, deep booming noise, sounding oddly like a fire cracker going off, met his capitulum. His attending turned towards the source, which was immediately apparent upon seeing the wad in movement of him.

Hagrid and a young girl with golden fuzz were having a row. Only Hagrid seemed to be doing virtually of the yelling, while the girl just huffily picked up rock music after rock from the side of the hut, flinging them with unusual vigor and accuracy, at an unsuspecting tree trunk, which was taking the brunt of her very seeable frustration.

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

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

He found himself looking between the young lady at the edge of the Forbidden timber, Hagrid 's angry, red facial expression, and Dumbledore 's happy one.

'' Hello there Remus. How yer doing today ? '' Hagrid replied, sounding rather strained. He looked strained too, because at the second he would n't get been surprised to see steam coming out of the professor 's ears.

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

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

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

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

'' No use working yourself up about things that did not happen Hagrid, '' Dumbledore consoled, offering a reassuring smile.

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

One would never know how she had barely clung to liveliness only calendar week before.

He shook the picture away.

'' Hagrid what exactly is she doing ? '' He was having a severe time standing idly by with a thestral 's acute tooth nuzzling so close to his future schoolchild 's neck.

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

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

'' Doing ? '' Dumbledore supplied amusedly.

'' Yes, '' He replied embarrassedly. Sometimes the simplest word was what he was looking for.

'' She bloody well talks to him more than she fucking talks to me, '' Hagrid grumbled. `` Tell him everythin'from the looking of it and ye should see them, traversing'around at all hours of the day. rattling spitfire that one is ! Bloody well good luck teachin'her Remus ! Bin havin'enough fuss gettin'care of Magical Creatures down 'er throat and she actually likes that. Ca n't imagine how she 'll be with somethin'like Transfigurwhatsitcalled ... ''

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

'' To hell with it ! You 'd recall she actually understood what that one be sayin'half da time ! '' Hagrid muttered exasperatedly, a wounded flavour on his face. `` She 'll talk to that there animal and get to arguin'with me ! ``

Remus was thoughtful for a moment. `` So she likes animals of the nighttime ... '' He commented, turning to face both of them. `` Well, then I wo n't have too a good deal trouble then, now will I ? ''

Dumbledore nodded in arrangement, smiling to himself. He could n't bear picked a more perfect someone to tutor her. Now lets see if he can save her, he thought to himself, silently hoping for the adept.
* * * * *


'' She bloody set it free ! ? '' Ron exclaimed in disbelief.

Harry nodded, chucking his newly bought schooling Christian Bible onto his bed in Grimmauld Place. `` That's what I said was n't it ? ''

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

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

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

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

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

Hermione, forever insufferably logical, had insisted on having the intact afternoon recounted Christian Bible for word, and while she had admitted that the conversation had sounded wary, she felt that they were both over-reacting. He had even been forced to endure a long lecture about how legal injury of him it was to listen in as he had.

He had immediately pointed out that she had had no problem whatsoever when Malfoy was the one he was eavesdropping on, which had earned him a sharp tut and another tan about how he should sustain done more to make the little girl welcome.

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

Ron had kindly pointed out that Hagrid also trusted Aragog, all flying lizard including Hungarian Horntails, and that he considered his little brother to be 'tamed .'End of story.

It was right about then that Ron had made the mistake of calling Kalliandra several choice names, including a champaign, ugly witch, which earned an furious round from Hermione about how 'ridiculously superficial'they were being. He was unable to succeed her entire tirade, but it ended with her concluding that both of them seemed to be 'blatantly misjudging'the girl on flavour alone.

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

Fortunately Harry did not mention any of these intellection, got smart, and went quietly.

He wished he could say the Same for Ron though.

'' Still in a fine mood I see, '' Ron grumbled, shoving the bag with his new dress robes into the top bureau draftsman.

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

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

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

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

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

'' Oh nothing Hermione, '' Ron replied with enlarged formality. `` I was just saying what a endearing job you did defending that jittery, Slytherin bound .... ''

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

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

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

'' And I met her for only five mo and could tell she was .... ''

'' Was what Ronald ? ! You ca n't recite anything about a person after only meeting them for five instant ! ''

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

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

'' You are too ! Just because it happens to be a positive legal opinion does n't entail that it 's not a judgment ... ''

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

'' They did n't sound very friendly to me did they Harry ? '' Ron asked, directing his question at him.

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

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

'' See Hermione ! ''

'' Yes, I do see Ronald. I see a carrot-topped tush who 's way to eager to conk perspicacity on anyone but himself ! '' She stood abruptly. `` If that closed minded brain of yours is actually capable of intelligence then try to commemorate that you passed judgment on me our start yr and were wrong ! '' She spun on her bounder, stomping loudly. `` If you can recollect that is. But hopefully the try to retrieve is not too taxing, it 'd be a commiseration if your school principal exploded ! '' With that she stormed out, slamming the threshold behind her.

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

The door to their elbow room flew upon, revealing a bloodless looking Hermione.

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

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

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

Ron was right on her blackguard, like common. `` Mione seed on ... .I said I 'm disconsolate ... ''

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

'' well I just .... ''

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

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






'' We must die to one life-time, before we can get into another. ''
~ Anatole France ~



Chapter 6 ~ superpower of sentiment


'' You 'll let to be ready than that. ''

Kalliandra coughed loudly from her stance, apartment on her back.

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

Remus Lupin smiled, extending his hand to haul her roughly to her feet. `` On the contrary Ms. Kaylens. I do n't love rendering you unconscious mind at all. ''

She nodded, brushing the Gunter Wilhelm Grass off the binding of her denim.

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

She stopped what she was doing, pulling her pasturage covered, green-stained hands back in front of her. `` Do n't you know it 's not good to elicit someone who has been stunned nine sentence in a row ? ''

He shook his oral sex, an expression of stark sinlessness crossing his feature. `` I have to get you angry enough to attack me properly somehow do n't I ? ''

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

For the preceding three time of day Remus had been teaching her the not so elusive art of stunning. As it turned out, stunning was one of the few things she could actually do.

Unfortunately being able to do something, and being effective at it, were entirely different thing.

This probably explained why she had just woken up on the primer. Then again, the fact that Remus had become incontrovertibly determined to make sure that she could actually use stunning in a affaire d'honneur, if ever attacked, was also portion of the reason.

The Same paid instructor was not eyeing her critically. `` You know Kally, if you manage to parry my first attack you usually do quite nicely. Now just hold on diving to the in good order every time. It 's getting predictable. ''

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

Not that she would allow in that to Lupin.

He had only become her private instructor a fiddling over a week ago, yet she had come to respect him. He did not pity her, or walk on glass with his conversations like Dumbledore and the others did.

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

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

For some reason the mind that the man may actually like her was calming.

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

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

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

And somehow she did not think the whoreson, who had taken everything from her, would go easy on her simply because she had a concern.

She closed her eye, bracing herself as an outpouring of ash filled memories greeted her mind 's eye. Almost intuitively, Remus allowed her these few moments of collection, and when the anger boiled hot within her descent, she opened her heart, remembering what she had promised herself.

She would make the bastards pay.

But first of all she needed to learn to do a simple-minded stunning spell without passing out.

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

'' Why not ? ''

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

'' Two, '' she supplied back loudly.

'' Three ! Stupefy ! ''

She threw herself to the ground before the hot stripe reached her, mentally screaming the word.

The strange maven flew through her, burning through her blood as it moved, jolting the tour towards its target. Her vision swam before she saw him collapse, and she fell weakly upon the reason, shakily breathing in the dampness summer scent of mud and grass.

Slowly, painstakingly, the prickling tracing over her bland skin subsided. Her hand, that had unconsciously dug into the damp dry land, relaxed, allowing the glorious prosperous spot dancing before her eyes to fade.

Waiting for all of this to pass had gotten easier each fourth dimension, but it made the experience no less painful.

The trick, she had discovered, was to remain witting long enough for it to leave.

Several hazy present moment later, her favorable oculus flickered capable, and across the short surface area of grass she spotted Remus'fallen manakin.

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

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

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

The feeling on his facial expression was priceless. Only Remus could bring off to search analytical right field after being stunned.

'' Nice one, '' he muttered groggily.

She shook her head, offering him a deal which he shook off, shooting her a admonitory tone.

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

'' Army of the Righteous hope not too old, because you still have the ease of the yr with me. '' She allowed a rare smile to light up her feature.

'' And what a prospicient year it will be. ''

'' Any Sir Thomas More remark like that and I 'll do my best to piss it seem longer. ''

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

His question was answered by her secrecy.

This was the first time she had not passed out.

Hagrid 's absence alone should have told him that, because on the early two affair when she had stunned Remus, they had both dwell there until Hagrid found them on one of his periodical verification.

Understanding became seeable on Remus'face, and upon seeing his esurient smile, she could n't resist a small surge of pride.
* * * * *


Remus Lupin rewarded his student with a across-the-board grinning as he picked himself off the soil, ignoring his protesting bones.

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

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

Suppressing a groan, she walked back to her dueling billet in reaction.

It was amazing, he thought, but in so short a sentence, she had become comfortable, at to the lowest degree outwardly so, with the presence of magic. When he had first arrived she still looked storm each time it was used in her presence, but now…

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

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

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

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

It was n't healthy to pack around that much guilt.

His only consolation was that they would be able to continue their object lesson on the weekends. It would be a rather private musical arrangement, since her dorm-mates were to be kept in the nighttime about it.

She would accept enough trouble feigning competence in her three newt course of instruction, and sneaking out several times a calendar week would just be another difficult thing for her.

But perhaps the most unmanageable thing for her would be keeping her inadequacy under wraps. For appearing sake she would be placed in NEWT level defense lawyers Against the Dark humanistic discipline, Care of Magical Creatures, Herbology, and astronomy so as to be with people in her year, but she would be placed in third year Anicent Runes and Remedial Potions. The daddy professor had already been instructed to transport her on 'errands'whenever hardheaded lessons were held, so that her inability to do magic trick would not be called into query, so that at least was covered.

As for the former courses, Remus was being paid by Dumbledore, out of some miscellaneous schoolhouse stock, to tutor her in the other matter.

After all, there was very little legerdemain involved in dealing with charming creature and plant life. And the memorization of the meanings of Ancient runic letter and the drive of heavenly body had virtually no scepter magic associated with it.

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

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

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

The Marauders ... The persuasion brought a smile to his face, for his old group of friend had left behind something that just might carry through him from fretting like a nervous parent.
* * * * *


Silverthorne let out a low, guttural grunt to extract his displeasure at being tethered. The other thestrals were already following suit.

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

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

'' Yer look like the solely one within earshot that 'll facilitate me, '' Hagrid yelled.

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

'' You know ... '' she whispered conspiratorially, `` He might kill me if you all do n't calm down a bit. And then who would establish you Mustela nigripes ? ''

Silverthorne 's white, haunting optic stared back in retainer, before his redoubtable head nodded. He nudged the thestral tethered next to him, and a cacophony of grunts followed as the message was passed down the channel of carriages awaiting the students'reaching.

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

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

She shook her head ruefully, and with a final examination tug she snapped a belt into place on the thestral 's harness, stepping back to consider her W. C. Handy piece of work. She 'd never razz a horse in her life, but the harnesses the thestrals used were supposedly standardised.

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

Silverthorne merely blinked at her once, and she rubbed his top dog affectionately. `` Of course you are, '' she murmured into his nose, the trace of a smile tugging at her mouth.

Hagrid 's aloud yip of objection startled her, and both her and Silverthorne jumped slightly.

'' Problems Hagrid ? '' she yelled, slipping the thestral a quick-frozen regular hexahedron of raw nitty-gritty. His knife positively tickled her skin, leaving a sticky red residual upon her palm.

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

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

But as she rounded the posture obscuring Hagrid from view, all reprimand vanished the second she saw his predicament.

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

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

sweetness pigeon hawk ... What the pit was he doing with one of those ?

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

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

Several snick, contusion, protuberance, and twenty minutes later found her, and a rather ramshackle Hagrid, plopped upon the filth road leading up to the school, entirely out of breath.

It was a shame that the peaceable evening would end in less than an hour, when the Hogwarts Express arrived.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She smiled whimsically, thinking of the pillow she had thrown at the thestral this morning. For a change, her aim had been idle on. Of course, Hagrid had n't been exactly pleased when he get in to see feathers and fragment of framework all over the space. But hey, it was n't her demerit that Silverthorne thought it was a ferret and tried to rip it limb from tree branch. And besides, Remus had repaired it. Heck, at least Remus had found the whole situation amusing.

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

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

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

He shook his haired caput vigorously. `` No, ca n't give to have any of 'em miss me. Not one ! They 'll escape the sortin'if they do that. ''

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

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

She shook her head in entertainment. `` Nothing at all. I was just thinking about what a direful tragedy it would be to give a small, naive, and unsuspecting initiatory class stranded alone out here. ''

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

Her forehead instantly creased in geuine confusion. `` Why is it that every time I say something with even the slim trace of caustic remark, that you think I 'm planning something ? ''

'' Because you usually are. ''

She spun around to see Remus standing there, briefcase in hand, and a knowing smile across his pre-maturely age face.

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

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

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

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

'' I resent that ! '' she cried out, lunging again, eyeing his prompt apparent movement. `` And you 're pretty quick for an old man are n't you ? ''

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

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

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

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

Remus laughed deeply, years disappearing from his face as he smiled, shaking his head disapprovingly. `` Suddenly I find myself looking forward to my happy chance from you during the workweek. I 'll be spared your unprovoked tone-beginning ! ''

'' Oh Remus, you know that hurts me. Right here, '' she touched her warmness, doing her dear to look as pathetic as potential.

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

'' In a word ... ''

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

Her mischievous formulation was replaced by one of befuddlement as Remus held up a small, handbill, gray object. `` What is it ? '' she asked, walking over to count at it.

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

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

'' Right you are Miss Kaylens, '' he said, adopting a professor like step. `` Dumbledore 's musical theme. One of his more ingenious single from what he said, though somehow I doubt that. '' He winked, lapsing into his familiar tone again.

'' okey. So explain to me how pulverization is ... ''

'' It 's a two-way mirror Kally. See, anytime you want to talk to me. For any reason .... '' He shot her a meaningful look that she did n't miss. `` precisely facial expression directly into it and say my name clearly. If I have mine ... '' He fished around in his robe pocket, extracting a rather large pouch watch. `` Which I will always bear on me thanks to Dumbledore 's mind to hide it in this cover girl Muggle invention ... '' He snapped the pocket picket candid, revealing a mirror on the non-clock side as well. `` And once you do that I 'll do. If I call you, yours will glow on the inside slightly, so it 'll be obtrusive to you but to not to someone just passing a cursory glance by it. ''

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

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

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

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

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

'' Smart motility, '' she commented, looking into hers. `` Remus Lupin the Finicky WereWolf, '' she stated clearly, waiting to see if it worked.

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

She grinned triumphantly, `` Well I guess it works. Hey can I ask you something ? ''

'' Could I stop you ? ''

'' Probably not, '' she confirmed, noticing how Hagrid had moved farther down the platform to give them some secrecy. She made a mental note to thank him later. `` It 's just that you, and Dumbledore ... everyone keeps telling me how afraid everyone would be. And if that's true, well, then why are n't you ? ''

He paused a bit, his unhorse Brown centre flickering up to the sky as if considering her query. She did n't need to keep an eye on his gaze to know that it rested on the quarter moon, barely visible in the dying twilight. `` I think, Kalliandra, that to let one 's life be even remotely governed by concern is foolish. Your never fully live when your actions are limited by that. And reverence, it comes from not knowing what 's truly there. ''

She nodded, silently agreeing with him. It was uncanny, how alike he and her father could sound.

'' And perhaps ... Well, I know what it 's like. And I know how unfair it is. '' He spoke these last words bitterly, his centre hardening in an unfocused blaze at the moonlight. And it was only then that she understood why Dumbledore had chosen him as her mentor.

He was as hated by the reality as she was.
* * * * *


An hour later found her standing, smushed up next to Hagrid, as the slew of students pushed, shoved, and in truth, barreled their way over the platform towards the carriages that she and Hagrid had readied for their journey to Hogwarts. Why scholarly person needed the baby buggy in the first place was beyond her. The manner of walking was n't exactly protracted. No, she figured Dumbledore had arranged them because if he did n't, the ingrates would wonder off ungratefully, never getting to schooling at all.

In fact, that did n't entirely sound like a bad thought .... But right then she spied the half-wit that she least need to see, making his way with the carrot top through the crowd towards them.

cultivated carrot top waved vigorously, `` Hey Hagrid. It 's so secure to see you ! ''

'' And so arduous to overlook, '' she muttered, suppressing a laugh at the cold look Hagrid shot her.

'' I see the past tense week has done goose egg to meliorate your fashion. ''

She turned, eyeing the guy 's messy pitch blackness hair and greens middle, which were presently narrowed and shining determinedly. Her initiatory skirmish with him had been far from pleasant, and judging from his greeting, it seemed the smell had been mutual. `` Nor yours. I still do n't know your name. ''

The guy 's jaw nearly dropped, but Ron interjected for him. `` Well we were introduced. It 's not his fault you do n't remember. ''

She shrugged carelessly. It was n't like she cared what his name was, she just wanted to put a name with his eavesdropping facial expression. `` My excuse. Not all of us are as upright with name calling as you apparently are. But by all mean value do n't re-introduce me, I just thought it might be overnice to refer to him as something other than the nosy prat Potter. ''

'' What ! ? '' Both of the guy cable exclaimed. Hagrid, however, shot her a murderous look that stopped her simper dead in its tracks.

Seeing that his glare had the intended effect on her, Hagrid stepped in, attempting to diffuse the situation further.

'' That 's enough all three of ya. Now again, this here be Kalliandra Kaylens, and that there be Ronald Weasly and Harry Potter. ''

She cocked her head to the side, wondering if the carrot top knew how easily his close name could be distorted to Weasel. She suppressed the sudden urge to ask just that, instead turning to Hagrid with a forced grin. `` Thank you Hagrid. It 's nice to know that some of us are polite. ''

'' I hope you were n't referring to yourself as well, '' ceramicist stated pointedly.

'' Why no, unlike you I harbor no head game about my impoliteness. '' She nearly laughed out loud at the white formulation that crossed the guy 's look. `` Now if you excuse me I do intend Hagrid has better things to do than listen to his friends combat. ''

'' Friends ! ? Hagrid would never be booster with someone like you ! '' The weasel stroke out, thrower smirking amusedly. Her mouth opened in angry protest, but Hagrid 's booming voice cut them both off.

'' Ronald Weasley how dare ye make Assumption of Mary 'bout me ! '' Hagrid boomed, making all three of them jump.

She glanced up, seeing his face redder than it had been after their row about her Knockturn back street mis-adventure. She really would not want to be the weasel right now ...

'' Kalliandra is my ally, and you 'd do yer outflank to stay out of her patronage. The both of ya ! '' He said angrily, his loud interpreter drawing the stares of various students sandwiched around them. `` If I hear anythin''bout either one of ya nosin'aroun'in her line of work again ... '' He stopped, seemingly too angry to stay.

Hagrid drew in a deep, shaky breath, looking very close to exploding. `` Now rationalize to her Ron. And I mean now ! ''

Ron looked at her, his jaw agape, while ceramicist looked surprisingly abashed.

Despite herself, a sudden stab of guilt overcame her. Perhaps she was taking her uncongenial frontage a bit too far.

'' Do n't interest about it, '' She spoke up quietly, avoiding the stares of potter and Weasley. `` I was just as underbred anyhow. I 'll see you later approve ? ''

She did n't await for Hagrid 's answer as she spun on her heel, carefully making her way through the gang to find an hollow carriage. If she were favourable, then maybe Silverthorne had been particularly clever and scared everyone else away from his.
* * * * *


Harry stood there, one-half tempestuous, half shocked at the sudden change in Kalliandra 's demeanor. He hardly heard Hagrid still going off at them, considering that he was still staring after her.

That changed pretty quick though, because when Hermione husbandman is mad about something, she makes it better known than Hagrid.

And Hermione sodbuster unfortunately thought they had pigeon holed the girl.

And Hermione farmer had overheard his and Ron 's rally with her.

Add in that she had seen Hagrid 's explosion, and Kalliandra 's sudden modality swing to normalcy, and he and Ron certainly did calculate like the bad bozo.

Which was exactly how he found himself, amidst a crowd of onlookers, staring down a slight brunette, receiving the brunt of her fury.

'' Harry I ca n't believe you ! I 'd gestate conduct like that from Ron but you ? '' Hermione yelled, her voice shaking with angry mental rejection.

'' Hey ! '' Ron protested, clearly offended.

'' Ronald if you know what 's skillful for you you 'll keep your mouth shut, '' Hermione snapped in a very McGonagall like tonus.

Unlike Ron, Harry had no ulterior need for keeping Hermione happy with him besides their friendship. So at that demand New York minute he did n't much manage if Hermione was annoyed with him or not. She had n't seen and heard everything, and if she had she would have realized how shoddy Kalliandra really was. Which was probably why he suddenly found himself taking a gradation forward to go after that insufferable psyche of aureate hairsbreadth, with every intention of giving her a art object of his mind, rather than paying tending to Hermione 's verbal berating.

Too bad a rather tumid hand on the cover of his robe stopped him from progressing any farther forward.

'' You better be going to rationalize Harry, '' Hagrid said menacingly.

He shot an incredulous look up at his admirer. `` Hagrid you 've got to be kidding me ! She insulted you ! She ... ''

'' She did no so thing Harry. And you 'd do yer best to remain outta her business enterprise and spirit if yer understand me. ''

'' Hagrid what are you deaf ? ! She did to insult you ! '' Ron twirped, for a change not cowering under Hermione 's fierce glare.

'' Oh really, an'how so ? '' Hagrid asked, still looking between him and Ron as if he could n't believe what was before his eyes.

'' She was making fun of you because you're a giant ! '' Ron shot out indignantly.

'' No she were n't Ronald Weasley. We were jokin'originally 'bout the serious spot for the fers years to see me. If that 's what you be referrin'to. ''

'' But what about'Knockturn bowling alley ? '' He chimed in, coming to Ron 's defence reaction. `` There 's something suspicious about that Hagrid ! ''

Hagrid opened his lip, but it was Hermione who answered. `` I ca n't consider you two ! You both know that Hagrid frequents that area of ... '' She paused, looking as if she were saying this against her better nature.

'' Department of Commerce, '' She finally ground out. `` Frankly it sounds like she was annoyed that you had eavsdropped while talking to someone she knew. If the same had happened to me I 'd probably be just as annoyed. ``

Harry stared at her contorted feature film in shock. Talking to mortal she knew was certainly not all she had been doing. Hermione had n't overheard the conversation he had.

'' Hermione, you do n't have it away what your talking about. You should have heard her ... ''

'' Overhear ! ? What 'd ya catch ? '' Hagrid shot out suddenly, his voice low, a quiet line of panic in it.

He wrinkled his supercilium confused. `` Well zippo that made sense but ... ''

'' Then you best be keepin'that poppycock that did n't be making no sentience to yerself. Yer hear me ? '' Hagrid muttered, shaking his foreland. `` I 'm so disappointed in you two I do n't know ... Yer know I need to get the first yers. You lot get off to the castle, and so help oneself me if any one of yer bothers her .... ''

The brilliance he shot them was More than enough to convince Harry. The shoemaker's last thing he needed was to be fed to Grawp.

Then again, feeding Kalliandra to Grawp could figure out the whole job ...

'' Harry ! semen on ! '' Hermione hissed, grabbing him roughly by the arm to drag him to the skinny pusher. Most of the others were already rolling up towards the castle.

'' So help me you two ! I 've never seen such rudeness ... ''

He knew better than to disturb her at this point. After all, this was Hermione, and any argumentation with her was a losing battle. He had just managed to regain ascendance of his tongue, which was threatening to snap at her for the reprehension worthy of a toddler that he was receiving, when he stepped into the last carriage, and suddenly re-lost controller of it.

'' I 'm walking, '' He stated bluntly, turning to do just that.

'' Harry you will do no such thing, '' Hermione grunted, grabbing his arm with surprising strength for a girl her size of it. He glanced down at the awful grip she had on him, and pondered how tempestuous she would be if he broke relinquish.

Before he had clip to decide she had already drug him into the posture behind her.

'' Hermione ... '' He protested, refusing to sit as he stood, hunched over in the low compartment.

'' Nice to know I 'm not the just one displeased with this, '' Kalliandra muttered from the far side of the carriage, right as one of the thestrals let out an odd sounding grunt.

She then muttered something beneath her breathing space. Something that sounded strangely like, `` Even the thestrals think you 're a nates. ``

'' I 'm a what ? '' He hissed dangerously.

Her oculus darted up quickly, looking almost abashed. Her voice, however, was filled with patronage.

'' earshot thing, Potter ? ``

He felt as if he had just been slapped, so contradictory were the emotions her face and vocalization conveyed. Shaking his head, he shoved the sudden waver to argue aside.

'' I do n't generally urinate a use out of hearing things, '' He finally ground out, taking a bum next to Ron grudgingly.

She inclined an eyebrow disbelievingly. `` Sure you do n't, '' She responded, not bothering to mask her sarcasm.

He practically growled, knowing full-of-the-moon well what she was referring to.

'' You 're having a really hard time letting that go, are n't you ? '' He spat out scathingly.

'' I 'll let it go when I get an excuse. ``

He visibly bristled. `` For what ! ? ``

Kalliandra 's manifestation instantly soured. `` For eavesdropping on me, that 's what. ``

He suppressed the sudden urge to shove her out of the carriage. In fact, the only thing stopping him was the fact that he 'd have to get hold of over Hermione to attain it.

'' well forgive me, '' He hissed acidly. `` succeeding time I see you wandering down an alley full of non-white wizards I 'll just go out you to them. I did n't see how well acquainted you already were with ... ''

'' So your name 's Kalliandra ? '' Hermione cut in.

Harry gaped at her.

Hermione ignored this, apparently intent on starting a civil conversation.

Kalliandra just looked at her oddly, before nodding slightly.

'' Yes, '' She replied evenly, turning to see out the window.

Hermione 's brow creased, her lips forming into a find frown at the girl 's apparent lack of interest.

Harry smirked, leaned back, and crossed his arms, preparing for the show.

'' Well Kalliandra, how was your last hebdomad of summertime ? '' Hermione pressed.

'' Rigorous. ''

Hermione shot him a spirit, to which he smirked like a jackal. Ron was far to a lesser extent subtle, and simply mouthed, So what now, brainiac ?

Hermione 's aspect hardened into one of unappeasable determination.

'' So what classes are you taking ? ``

The girl heaved a large sigh. `` Too many. ``

Hermione 's mouth opened, as if appalled at the young woman 's lack of interest in schooling. And just as Harry began an interior triumph jig, flashing a celebratory smirk at Ron, the fille surprised them.

'' One of them is antediluvian Runes. I have n't had that before so I 'm going to be getting tutoring for it. '' Kalliandra paused, sounding incertain. `` At to the lowest degree, that 's what the Headmaster mentioned. ``

Hermione 's agape mouthpiece slowly closed, a slow smile creeping across her face.

Flashing them a smug flavor, she started talking. `` Ancient Runes is actually pretty fascinating. It 's a lot like learning to read another speech. In fact, it 's my deary subject. ''

At this proclamation Kaylens actually looked thoughtful. `` I think mine will be Care of Magical Creatures. Hagrid 's been showing me a lot of the creature he works with over the past few weeks. The thestrals are my dearie so far ... ''

'' Thestrals ? '' Ron snorted derisively, earning a reproving facial expression from Hermione. `` What are you, a sadist ? ''

Hermione 's mouthpiece opened in protest, apparently too shocked for Good Book as her inevitable retort failed to come Forth River.

Kalliandra 's expression immediately grew stony. `` Perhaps you should ascertain a thing or two about them before you start flinging insults. ``

'' And how exactly did I diss them ? '' Ron asked shortly.

Kaylens was now looking at Ron as if he had sprouted antlers. `` Generally when one implies that you have to be a sadist in order to like something, I 'm pretty certain that 's derogatory to the something in question. ``

Ron waved a hand dismissively. `` As if thestrals would like. ``

'' You 'd be surprised. They hate being insulted. ''

'' That 's Hippogriffs you idiot. ''

Hermione made a strangling noise.

'' No, it 's Hippogriffs that react violently, '' Kalliandra said placidly, flipping the lid of a stocky shut. `` Though I would n't put it past a thestral to do so. ''

'' Thestrals are not violent, '' Harry cut in with annoyance. Why in the hell did Hermione throw to pick this carriage ...

He gazed longingly out the exposed door hachure. He knew perfectly well that if he got out and walked, that he would miss the categorisation, and he had already learned the punishing way what happened to people when they walked into that late.

Too bad. The drive up to Hogwarts was usually so enjoyable. `` So who on Earth taught you that rubbish ? ''

'' Hagrid, '' She hissed dangerously.

'' piece of tail this, '' Ron suddenly announced. `` I refuse to remain in the go-cart with her. ''

He stood, only for Hermione to yank him down. Ron opened his sassing, an tempestuous protest already forming, when Kaylens cut him off.

'' Do you honestly think that I 'm any happier about being stuck here with you and your eavesdropping friend ? ''

'' Just. Let. It. Go. '' Harry growled, hating the discomfited flavor Hermione shot him each prison term the incident was brought up.

She glared at him. `` Gladly. ''

'' mulct. ''

'' mulct ! ''

Right then the carriage moved with a mighty lurch, and not another word was spoken by any of the carriage 's dweller.

Harry stared out the window, contemplating. No one would get as angry as Kaylens had over the incident. Not if it had just been a conversation about something trivial ...

What was she hiding ?

Not soon enough for his liking, the convoy came to a halt outside the rook 's enormous entrance. And without a word, he and Ron jumped out, dry dirt stirring around their footmark as they met the crowd of students rushing to the Great manse.
* * * * *


'' wellspring, that certainly could have gone full, '' Hermione stated, rueful gaze following her two champion out the posture door.

Letting out a tense breath she had not even realized she was holding, Kally felt herself nodding in assent. `` No kidding, '' she remarked dryly. Still, she could n't help but feel a tiny, justified spate of indignation. That miss 's friends had jumped into the posture right as she had been trying to contact Remus.

Being in the sorcerous world, knowing following to zippo about it, had felt overwhelming before. But now, on her way to being surrounded by competent crone and wizards twenty four - seven, that overwhelming smell was beginning to erupt into something far closer to panic.

She was n't sure as shooting she could perpetrate this off. She was n't sure at all.

Hermione released an exhausted sounding huff, breaking her from her thoughts. `` Please be intimate, I 'm not trying to criticise you, '' she said carefully, `` but you could have made things a little well-situated. Particularly since this unit misunderstanding seems to be over something extremely trivial. ''

Rising from her fundament and stepping out of the pram, her foot sinking into the loose dirt, Kally heard herself saying very quietly, `` You 're right. ``

And even though she was not looking at Hermione, she could practically find the eye rolling going on behind her.

Silently they joined the multitude of students making their way up the castle 's ingress. That was until Hermione began asking questions again.

'' Do you know if you are being sorted with the respite of the initiatory years ? ``

Nearly tripping over a kid humble enough to have been a first off year, Kally nodded mechanically. `` Unfortunately. ``

A contemplative frown crossed the brunette 's nerve. `` You do n't go excited. ``

Throwing a wayward glance the miss 's way, Kally asked, `` Would you be ? I 'm going to stick out. ``

Mounting the entryway stairs simultaneously, she saw the corner of Hermione 's rima oris crook up in her peripheral vision, as if enshroud mum amusement. `` You are twice their altitude, so I suppose that is an accurate assessment. ``

Instead of responding, Kally began grumbling something undecipherable under her hint.

Hermione responded by allowing what may have been a smiling to crossbreed her lineament. `` They really are skillful if you give them the probability. ``

Somehow she felt severely in question about that, but something of her thoughts must take shown on her feature article, because Hermione was interjecting before she could even formulate a response.

'' We did n't get along at starting time either, '' Hermione said, their substructure reaching the top. `` To be blunt, it took a round trying to get hold of my oral sex off for us to set out getting along. ''

Kally stumbled, her hazel oculus darting over to the daughter with something akin to horror dancing with them. `` What ? ''

Now there was no mistaking it. Hermione really did look amused. The miss smiled at her, chuckling slightly. `` Like I said, establish them a chance. ``

She could n't facilitate it. Despite all her try to the contrary, a throttle choking sound emerged from her throat.

Hermione simply grinned severe, shaking her head. `` Honestly, '' she laughed, glancing around the rapidly emptying entrance hall, `` do you want me to wait with you until the first years get here so you 're not ... ''

'' Ms. Kaylens is quite open of waiting alone Ms. husbandman. And if you delay any longer it will be 20 points from Gryffindor. ``

The vocalism had come from directly behind them, the strength of it muted by the echoing of shake up chatter from scholarly person trying to swot up through the Great residence hall 's looming doorways.

Instantly Kalliandra recognized it. She had met the man on a few occasions, and he had seized the fortune to remind her how absolutely unacceptable it would be for her to ever gain competence in Potions.

As such, she stopped immediately, spinning on her hound. Hermione simply quirked an eyebrow before continuing off to conjoin the rest of the student.

Snape 's sullen centre lowered, eyeing her appraisingly. `` I trust you are remembering discretion. Particularly where students like Ms. Granger are concerned. Some tend to be too nosy for their own good. ``

Heaving a suspiration, Kally nodded. `` I 'll remember. ''

He glowered at her for another moment, before nodding curtly. `` Remember, I 'll be seeing you in detention all this week. ''

She heaved another sigh. Upon their initial meeting she had had the unfortunate person circumstances to inadvertently affront the man, by asking if he were a vampire. In fact, all she has said was that he looked like one of the creatures of the night from her defending team Against the darkness Art 's text edition they had given her to register. And considering that Hagrid was a giant, another mintage mentioned in the book, she had n't thought it too inordinate to seize that a lamia could be teaching at Hogwarts as well.

Unfortunately Snape had n't taken her question lightly, and had immediately began ranting and raving about how he most certainly did not hold a deep-seeded blood lust for the living.

And for some unfortunate, and self-destructive reason, she had found his anger ridiculously funny.

Which probably explained why she had wound up in detention.

'' Ms. Kaylens ? ``

'' I 'll be looking forward to it, '' She replied quickly, finding herself suddenly surrounded by respective twelve fry, all twittering loudly with no house of stopping.

She groaned, barely hearing prof McGonagall 's words. Somehow she found herself following the Deputy Mistress through freshly polished oak room access into the Great Hall.

The centre of every initiatory class immediately turned upwards, to the left, to the right hand, and in every other plausible direction, unable to resist taking in their new milieu.

The press of a 100 duo of eyes burrowed into her, and she stared pointedly forward, looking over the crowd of midgets to where Hagrid sat, flashing a warm grin in her counsel.

Maybe he can facilitate me escape afterwards, she thought hopefully, coming to a halt at the presence of the tremendous room. respective of the midgets around her tensed up, scattered whispering passing through the crowd about fighting a troll ...

What on solid ground is that about, she wondered curiously, spotting the hat Remus had told her about.

McGonagall turned to face the entire room.

'' When I call your name, step forward, place the hat upon your head, and the classification will begin. ''

With that, she sat the hat upon a battered old can, the sorting hat 's lip opened spacious, and the vocalizing began.
* * * * *


'' Slytherin ... ''

'' Ron if you say that one more clip ... ''

'' Hermione you saw how unworthy she was ! ''

'' She is not vile ! '' Hermione hissed back dangerously, being careful to keep her phonation lowered. `` aflutter, yes. Vile, no. ``

'' You can not tell me that there is not something inherently sinister about her, '' Ron challenged. `` Something 's not right there. She 's going to nose up an evilness Slytherin, probably waiting to ... ''

Before Ron could enter further along his psychological road trip, Hermione cut him off tiredly. `` Just because someone is in Slytherin does not make them inherently evil, Ronald. ''

'' Hermione how can you say that ! '' He bristled, clearly having bother keeping his voice down as the first geezerhood and the bailiwick of their argument walked past.

Hermione 's face visibly tensed, and Harry could narrate she did n't fully think what she was saying. `` You ca n't pidgeon hole out an entire mansion. Besides, Slytherins are finish oriented and impregnable willed. They might be a bit abrasive, but it 's because they wo n't let anything get in their way of getting what they want. ''

'' Which makes you a slimy git like Snape ! '' Ron exclaimed triumphantly.

At least Ron 's exclamation were hushed enough so no one not in the near vicinity could hear, Harry thought, suppressing a groan. He should possess known the peace between those two could n't close longer than the caravan ride there. It was astonishing enough that they had n't killed each other in their compartment as it was. Had he really expected that peace to hold up ?

'' Mione ... ''

'' Ronald ... ''

'' testament you two knock it off ! The chapeau about to sing and I actually want to hear what it says. '' Ginny cut in. Harry made a mental note to thank her for distracting their disputing friends later, and quickly turned his attention to the hat. He had always enjoyed the sorting, but after close twelvemonth ... fountainhead, knowing that the hat was sworn to forewarn the students and teachers of danger made him a bit more attentive this year.

The had opened it 's brim wide.

Divided, but once united,
That's how our tale begins,
quatern houses founded by four admirer
Yet I fear that such division shall add about our end.

In ancient times the best of booster
Came knocking on the door,
Of Ravenclaw and Slytherin,
Then Hufflepuff went to Gryffindor.

Lets build a school of learning,
For all those of magic to take care,
Yet somehow the approached three could not concord,
On what qualities to defend.

Lets teach only those of wit and learnedness,
Possessing the most ready creative thinker of all.
Those had been the touching words,
Of once fair Ravenclaw.

Proud Slytherin prized aspiration,
Possessing honor of descent and cunning,
His pupils would stop at null,
Until they got what they saw fit to their coming.

And then were the bravest,
Those nervy with imposing daring,
boldface Gryffindor chose them,
As most worthy of wizardly learning.

Hufflepuff loved her friends,
And accepted them as they were.
She let them each create a house,
In which their prized were taught and nurtured.

And as for odorous Hufflepuff,
She agreed to have the rest,
Yet somehow division did not set well,
unity to her, seemed secure.

So when the founders sewed me,
And left me on my potty,
She stole me in the dead of night,
And bestowed me with a tool,
Of knowing when the time was right,
For the sorting ritual to end.
She said one day division may cause strife,
And she feared for the witching world.
For all her life,
She had feared the partitioning in sight,
But never more,
Than when the friendships failed,
Of the Founding Four.

Slytherin was the first to provide,
innocence of blood his selection,
I 'm disgraced by teaching Muggle borns !
He yelled, sentence in his vocalization.

Next left bold Gryffindor,
He felt the calling of adventure,
Rather than the do-or-die plea,
Of failing loyalty in want of suture.

Last left once-fair Ravenclaw,
Who once prized justice and learnedness,
She left because she said,
That teaching the former pupils had got too boring.

And alone stood sweet Hufflepuff,
The wisest of them all,
Because she never would heed,
Alluring temptations call.

I see the soundness of her choice,
Why she chose to accept them all,
And now understand,
That its fruitless to divide you at all.

So while it deeply saddens me,
To see my end in sight,
The sorting ceremony ends,
right wing now, right wing here, This Nox.


Harry stared at the pot, trying vainly to process what he had just heard. At least he had been right in thinking it was crucial to pay care this year, because apparently that was the last birdcall the sort hat would ever sing.

He cast a cursory glance towards Hermione, sitting adjacent to him on the bench, but her Brown University oculus were wide and fixated up front. He could just imagine what was going through her oral sex right then, because chances were she was going through each pageboy of Hogwarts a History, trying to discover any other incident even remotely like this one. He had a sneaking mistrust that she had the whole record book committed to computer memory.

The unnatural silence filled the Great Hall like a thick fog, so thick he could almost feel it closing around him.

McGonagall seemed caught between slapping the hat and looking to Dumbledore for pedagogy, and her hand moved cautiously towards the hat 's lip, only for it to quickly recoil as if the hat had grown fang. This odd, twitching gesture was punctuated by crisp turns of her straits as she looked right at Dumbledore, who to Harry 's surprisal, looking genuinely amused.

Snape on the early hand looked quite inconvienced, his mouth had puckered so tightly that his lips seemed more translucent than Nearly Headless Nick 's.

Apparently, they had not been expecting this.

Snape however, did n't seem to require to accept it, and he had already stood and started storming from his blank space at the teacher 's tabular array, clearly headed for the sorting hat 's potty itself.

'' Excuse me Minerva. '' Snape muttered, his low tone clearly hearable in the unearthly silence. His long finger's breadth snatched the hat up and onto his fountainhead in a single fluid apparent movement, his face contorted in tightness as if conducting some clever argument.

Clever argument from Snape ? No ... inconceivable, he thought, watching his Potions teacher with interest for the first time in five geezerhood.

Apparently he was right about Snape 's unfitness to conduct an in force argument, because a present moment later Snape had flung the hat back onto it 's stool, muttering about how it was a dirty, trash-ridden slice of fading fabric destined for a Muggle garbage trash dump.

It was a mark of how severe the situation was, that not a soul at the Gyffindor table laughed.

Harry could n't help but observe how Snape was testingly running his fingers through his oily black fuzz, looking at his hands after each swipe, as if searching for proof of something.

Every Gryffindor had a mouse suspicion that the hat had just called him a greasy slime nut.

Ron Weasley was just the first to say it.

'' Chalk one up for the sorting hat for insulting Snape ! '' Ron whispered triumphantly, all brain within earshot turning towards him.

Apparently that was the signalise everyone had been waiting for, because suddenly a hysteria of activeness broke out at the Gryffindor table, and a range of mountains reaction of randomness spread until the nose grade was almost deafening. The uncategorized first long time looked positively terrified, as if frightened of being sent home if unsortable, and they alone seemed the sole unity still rendered speechless.

'' I mean did I just hear that right ? '' Ron asked, eyes alight with excitement he did not share.

Harry just nodded, watching the Professor 's re-group.

Professor Flitwick slid from his prat, and every so often Harry could pick up a glimpse of the top of his caput over the teacher 's table, as the minor man jumped up and down, vying for Dumbledore 's attention.

'' Oh my God did the sorting hat just quit ? '' Squealed Parvarti. One would think she had just realized what had happened.

'' Brilliant that one ... '' Ron muttered sarcastically.

'' Think it has anything to do with the war going on ? '' Seamus asked excitedly. `` Do n't you think ? How it warned us last twelvemonth ? ''

'' It did n't warn us that it might go on strike Republic of Ireland man ! ''

'' Who you calling Ireland man ? ''

'' shivering Seamus, Dean 's just kidding, are n't you Dean ? '' Ginny 's calm voice somehow filtered through the ruckus.

'' I ca n't believe this ! Never, in all of Hogwarts a account did it ever report the Sorting Hat doing anything even remotely snug to this ... '' Hermione was in her element, and he silently congratulated himself on how well he knew his friend. `` I mean do n't you recall Harry ? This is monumental !

But Hermione was too worked up to notice whether he responded or not, and she was so engrossed in her dictation to hear what he heard.

'' Do you conceive we should just try sorting them anyway, Albus ? '' Professor McGonagall asked, casting an almost pleading glance at the mathematical group of kickoff days, who seemed to contract away from her regard.

Professor Dumbledore, looking vaguely amused, patted Professor Flitwick on the head as he mulled this over. For his part the spell 's prof stopped bouncing around like a Pyrophorus noctiluca on speeding, and his small psyche disappeared beneath the staff table.

'' We 'll be needing a volunteer though ... '' McGonagall stated rhetorically, scanning the lean of student names with an uncharacteristic looking at of uncertainness, talking out forte but absently. `` If any of the first years would like to try to get sorted ... ''

His Head of star sign was too preoccupied, and she missed what he did not flunk to point out.

A sealed gilded haired girl had overhead the Professor 's question, and after casting a coup d'oeil at the distraught children around her, had woven her way through the cowering first geezerhood. She now stood besides the stool, her delicate deal grasping the top of the hat as she lifted it from its chair, plopping it upon her point. The instructor around her were completely oblivious to her actions.

Her flabby, angular features relaxed, as if immersed in tranquillize conversation. And as she sat there, immersed in a soundless conversation to which only she was earth-closet to, Dumbledore pointed a wand to his pharynx, murmuring, `` Sonorous ''.

A irregular later the schoolmaster 's magically expand voice echoed throughout the Great anteroom, as it had on only one other occasion.

'' SIIIILLLLEEEENNNCCCE ! ''

Every somebody who had been excitedly talking, including several of the unquiet looking first geezerhood, who had started to cry, stopped and turned their attention to the front of the hall.

So of course, that was when everyone 's attention suddenly became drawn to the rather ordinary girlfriend, standing by the toilet, the offending hat placed atop her head.

'' Apparently the sorting hat has decided that it is no longer able to, in in force witting, occasion as a house sorter. However, we shall have this sorted out. '' Dumbledore winked, the pun on Holy Scripture sounding almost natural coming from him. Yet Harry just stared in fascination at Kaylens, who seemed to be nodding quietly to herself. `` Now I would wish the upper age to remain here for dinner, and I would like the showtime years to number with .... ''

Dumbledore stopped mid-sentence, apparently just catching sight of Kaylens, even though she had been right in social movement of him all along.

Kaylens nodded one last metre, her hazel oculus flickering open as she removed the hat, placing it back upon the stool. All eyes were upon the hat except his, so he was the entirely one to see the rarefied smile hybrid her feature film as the sorting hat opened its brim for the instant time that night.

'' Let the sorting now begin. ''



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