Having spent the stallion day avoiding all of his friend, Ron decided to skip dinner completely. Ignoring his rumbling breadbasket, he changed out of his school robes and into jeans and a sweatshirt before collapsing across his bed and staring angrily at the ceiling. liveliness wasn't fair… it was a concept he'd been confronted with over and over, he didn't understand why it continued to surprise him. He was tired of being offered the hope of happiness only to have it ripped away. Okay, so maybe he'd never had a fortune with Hermione… but Luna had been his, they'd been in dear and either one or both of them had ruined it. But he'd wanted to beak up the man after, she was the one who'd been so convinced it was over. And this year- at one point he'd thought Parvati was just the distraction he'd needed, that he could farm closer with her and gain something of it… And then Jacinda Nicolau had walked into his life… It had seemed a miracle that she'd returned his interest in her, but then she left and big, Parvati had been taken away and was now suffering who knew what portion because he hadn't been vigilant to her and her want as he should make been. After all, he'd agreed to begin dating her before he even knew Jacey existed, Parvati should have been his for the first time concern.

Ron slammed his clenched fist down on the bed, tired of feeling hangdog and mad and frustrated. Maybe he needed a Quaker right now after all, someone to talk to and help get some of this off his chest. Harry had claimed to need to listen… but that had been while he'd come to fend for Luna's accolade. He didn't really feel like talking about any of this to the guy who was now in all probability sleeping with his first love.

He sat up at the sudden sharp bash on his door and quickly strengthened the shields around his mind, figuring Harry had somehow picked up on his thoughts and was now coming to hash things out. Taking a deep breath in formulation, he got up and went to the door set up to tell whoever it was to go away… but when he opened it, no one was there.

'' Boo ! '' Jacey's head suddenly appeared out of nowhere as she laughed heartily at his response. Fully pulling off the invisibleness cloak, she walked right on yesteryear him into his room and turned to him with a dazzling grin. `` Are you not glad to see me ? ``

'' I'll let you know as soon as I get my heart going again. '' He closed the door and faced her nervously. `` What are you doing back here ? ``

'' Turns out my business does not adopt me as far from the castle as I had thought. I was having the chance to come see you tonight and so I took it. '' She answered, suddenly having trouble meeting his regard. `` Harry has told me what happened with Parvati and that you are sad. I am so sorry about this. ``

'' It's not your fault. '' Ron sighed, slightly upset to disclose that Harry had sent her to see him.

She walked over and took his hand. `` It could be though… there is something I should distinguish you about. ``

'' I don't want to hear it. '' He quickly shook his head and squeezed her helping hand. `` I've been over it and over it in my head word for the close two days, Parvati's parents arrived today and are staying in the rook until we find her… it's already too much right now. I don't want to know anymore unless you can tell me exactly where she is. ``

'' I can not. '' She said sadly.

'' Then I don't want to know. You're here, that's enough. ``

'' Is it ? '' Jacey smiled and Ron felt himself blush.

'' well, uh… I mean, um… ''

She laughed and put her finger to his lip, silencing his attempt to explain. Then she smiled coyly, staring into his oculus before leaning in to lightly brush her sassing against his. `` perfective. '' She whispered as she leaned back with her eyes closed and a soft smile playing at the recession of her mouth.

'' Am I dreaming ? '' He asked breathlessly, unable to trust what was taking place.

'' ‘ I have had a dream, past the wit of man to say what dream it was.''' She whispered, quoting Shakespeare.

Feeling confident, Ron leaned in and fully captured her lips. His strikingness was instantly rewarded as she returned the kiss, wrapping her arms around his neck to adjure herself against him. And then the carpeting was ripped out from under him as she pulled away, ending the best affair he'd ever begun to experience.

'' I can not continue. '' She said, looking away almost guiltily while hugging her arms around herself. `` I just wanted to tell you, to let you screw that I am not forgetting you. ``

Recalling that Parvati was still missing, Ron began to feel rather shamed himself for indulging in such brash doings. `` Trust me, I can't forget about you either. '' He said, picking up the cloak and handing it to her.

Her hand lingered over his as she took it from him. `` Just remember, if you are needing to speak to someone, I am not far… If you call out to me- '' She reached out and tapped her finger against his forehead before ruffling his hairsbreadth. `` -I will most likely hear you and if I do, I promise I will answer. ``

'' But you can't halt tonight ? '' He asked, both hoping and fearing she would agree to stay.

Jacey shook her head. `` It would not be wise I think. '' She flung the cloak around herself so that only her head remained seeable. `` Until next time, I hope you think well of me. ``

'' That's the only way I think of you. '' He smiled, opening the door so she could walk through. Once in the hallway she pulled up the hoodlum and once more disappeared out of his life… But this time she'd left him with the promise of a way to reach her at any time he wanted, though he wondered if she was mindful that he wanted her around all the time.

( geological fault )

'' I feel like the worst guardian ever. '' lupin sighed as he led the way through the woods. `` I mean I've been legally bound to ensure your well-being- '' He turned to look at Draco, `` -and Harry your parents are counting on me to help calculate after you, yet here we all are on a midnight stroll through the Forbidden Forest to cast out of a body… I can't keep King James I and Lily from finding out obviously, but not a Holy Writ of this gets back to Tonks, got it ? '' He asked very seriously.

genus Draco shared an amused grin with ceramicist as both boys agreed to maintain Tonks in the dark. Lupin led them deep into the woods, letting the son handle the chore of floating Tristram along as the man had claimed it to be their mess to scavenge up, he was simply there to see that they did it right. The corpse was hidden under Draco's invisibleness cloak as Potter had leant his to Jacey, but the further they went, the more difficulty they were having in maintaining the spell to keep it in the air. `` oasis't we gone far enough ? '' He asked, not wanting to have to actually carry Tristan's body.

'' I suppose we have. No one should be able to see the flack from here. '' lupine replied, stopping their progress. `` Besides, there's a big Ash tree diagram right hand over there. ``

Letting the corpse drop to the ground, he went with ceramicist to help pucker enough woodwind instrument for the labor ahead of them. While they did that, lupine began making a ring of stones around Tristan, instructing the male child to cover the vampire completely with the wood. When they were finished, Draco wiped the lather from his brow and removed his coating despite the frigid temperature.

'' Now we light it ? '' potter asked grimly.

'' Actually, there's something else that comes first… It's pretty macabre so I think I'll handle this. '' Lupin replied unhappily, looking as if whatever he was about to do was the end thing on world he wanted to be a part of.

Both boys watched with a sort of twisted enthrallment as he bent down and moved the sticks away from Tristan's top dog and pulled the vampire's mouth spread out while ignoring the jagged pieces of wood still sticking out of his centre. Picking up one of the pieces of Ash next to him, Lupin turned away before solidly jamming it down Tristan's pharynx. `` We have to be sure to get the fire down inside him too. '' He said, quickly covering the head back up. `` And now we light it. ``

All three pointed their wands and stepped back as the atomic pile of Grant Wood exploded within the stone circle. This was the last phase of their dark deed and genus Draco was happy that Ginny had chosen to follow Luna's lead and stick around behind. He didn't even really require to be a looker to this, it was better that one of them have the musical composition of mind to never have to relive this moment. Tristan's skin seemed to sizzle and almost scream as the Ash woods burned down. Lupin had of class been right about how the wood would dampen the lamia's natural defenses… but they stayed until there was nothing before them but a glowing pile of embers, just to be sure.

( BREAK )

Fred woke up to his female parent pounding on his door. Groaning in displeasure, he buried his oral sex under the pillow and willed her to go away… unfortunately no one's will was as inviolable as molly's. `` cum on Fred, get up ! '' She called as she continued to bang away on the door.

With a loud grunt he threw his rest away and unwillingly got out of bed. Flinging open the door, he regarded his female parent warily. `` What ? '' He demanded, too tired to handle about being rude.

'' And a trade good break of day to you too, though it's nearly tiffin time. '' She returned. `` You really should get to bed earlier dear. ``

'' I'll work on that. '' He said sarcastically as he rubbed his facial expression and yawned. In all honesty, he never would have fallen asleep if his eubstance hadn't just given up and passed out on him sometime in the early dayspring time of day. But since he had gone to catch some Z's, he was irritated with her for ruining it. `` Was there something you wanted ? ``

'' Something Lee wanted actually. '' She replied huffily, thrusting an gasbag at him. `` A ministry precaution showed up with this for you a few minutes ago. Said Lee needs you at the shop. The guard is still down there, waiting to take you. ``

'' OK, I'll be right down. '' He promised, suddenly wide-cut awake as a wave of aflutter nausea washed over him. Closing the door on her, he tore capable the gasbag but the note inside wasn't helpful- it was simply a asking that he come to the store as soon as potential. That wasn't like Lee at all, if there was a problem he wasn't afraid to quetch about it in to the full detail.

Throwing the useless note aside, he rushed to get dressed and brush his dentition, simply running his fingerbreadth through his hair as he hurried down the stair. Grabbing his coat and kissing his mother goodbye, he left the household and climbed into the waiting ministry car. It took every ounce of self-possession he had not to just apparate from the backseat to the depot, but not knowing what awaited him he knew it was better to go far with an existent Auror.

They parked outside the Leaky caldron and hurried through to Diagon skittle alley, trying to cannonball along without being noticeable as they made their way to the store. Fred was surprised to see it closed up, with the ghost drawn and the front door locked. `` Hey, come in there with me, okay ? '' Fred asked the guard, pulling out both his wand and his keys.

'' What do you think is going on ? '' He asked as he took out his own wand.

'' I don't know, but it's not adept. '' Fred unlocked the room access and let the former man go in ahead of him. Fear tingled along his face as he followed, but the showroom was empty and goose egg seemed out of place. `` Lee ? '' He called out nervously.

'' Maybe the bureau ? '' The guard suggested tensely, heading down the hallway and opening the door. `` Hey ! He's in here ! ``

He rushed over, entering the office to find Lee spread out on the flooring and bleeding from a wound on his straits. kneeling beside him, Fred was able to see that his friend was still breathing. `` He's alive. '' He assured the guard who was meddling searching the closet for enemies.

'' Okay, enforce pressure to his wound. '' The man replied, moving to the door. `` I'll call for backup. ``

'' I'm sorry, I can't let you do that. '' Elanya appeared suddenly from the hallway and before either could react, she drew her wand and cursed the man to death. `` hullo Fred. '' She turned her wand on him as he pointed his at her.

'' What are you doing here ? '' He demanded, trying his honest to snub the now short man laying a few feet away. `` And what did you do to Lee ? ``

'' I never was very good at the Imperious nemesis, and he fought against it the whole time. '' She shook her chief regretfully. `` I mean I got him to write the short letter and paw it off, but he finally broke free of my influence. I certainly didn't want to kill one of your friends but I had to shut him up somehow. Don't worry, it's just a cruddy gibbousness on the head. ``

'' You had no scruple about killing that innocent man. '' He pointed out, still not looking at the fallen guard.

She shrugged. `` Neither of us knew him, what does it matter as long as he's out of the way ? ``

'' You're a very cold someone. ``

'' Perhaps. '' She shrugged again. `` Perhaps I just need to find the right positive influence. ``

'' And perhaps you're just bat shit weirdo. '' He replied meanly, wanting to leave her in no doubt as to his opinion of her.

'' You could be right… time will tell. '' She smiled coyly. `` Don't worry, someone will come along to clean up my mess after we leave. ejaculate on, I'm only giving us an hour. ``

'' Come on where ? And an hour to do what ? '' He scrambled to his feet and stood protectively in figurehead of Lee.

'' We're going to your bank vault in the bank and then I'm giving us a limit of one hour to frequent for all the wearing apparel and supplies we'll need to disappear… and then we'll disappear. '' She laughed.

'' Today ? ! '' He asked in a affright. `` But… but you said Friday… and Willem isn't here. '' He argued, desperate for the supererogatory two days she'd promised.

'' I see, you want me to play by the rules while you run around breaking them ? Thanks to you, Willem can no longer be a character of this… '' Elanya scolded. `` You didn't play the game right. ``

'' What are you talking about ? What normal did I bust ? '' He asked desperately.

'' You told mass about all of this… you involved Hermione Granger and so now the pattern have changed. We are leaving today Fred and you will act the game correctly from now on or she will serve the penalty. ``

'' If she knows what you're up to, then she'll certainly be on precaution for you or your spy. '' He spat out, hating how helpless and tempestuous he felt.

'' Everyone must sleep sometime. '' She sneered.

'' Meaning ? ``

'' I'm certain Harry and Luna informed you of the trip to Azkaban and I'm sure they told you that they know it was Sarah working through Cho… All Sarah needs is a emplacement and an unconscious vessel that she could nominate do anything at all, from hurting someone else to taking a pass off the top of the highest towboat at Hogwarts. It doesn't matter how guarded Hermione husbandman is, she can't stay awake forever. ``

Fred glared at her as his brain worked overtime trying to calculate a way out of this, or at best, a way to warn Hermione and perhaps have Luna or Harry try to help protect her mind while she slept. Feeling the weight of the covenant in his pocket, he wondered how long it would be until he could get the fourth dimension to use it.

'' I'll take your silence as begrudging acceptance. '' Elanya said, offering him a falsely sweet smiling. `` And before you get those bicycle turning too fast, I won't be giving you the chance to discourage your little girlfriend or your limited friends about any of this. We've thought of everything and neither Harry nor Luna will be given the chance to help. '' It was almost as if she could learn his brain though he knew that wasn't the fount, she was simply being thorough in explaining the hopelessness of his situation. Using extreme point will, Fred was able-bodied to hold back from reaching in his air hole and grabbing the powder compact to reach a sense of comfort. Instead he used the fact that Luna was already helping and could therefore imply Harry to tranquillize himself.

'' Okay. '' He finally broke his silence. `` You got me, I admit it. Let's go. ``

Elanya regarded him suspiciously. `` Just like that ? I expected a little more resistor. ``

'' What more do you want ? '' He cried, throwing his arms out in frustration. `` You win ! You've beaten all the engagement out of me ! What am I supposed to do ? One wrong move on my part and it means something bad for Ron or Ginny or Hermione… so okay, I agree to the terms. Let's just go already ! ``

'' Give me your sceptre. '' She demanded, holding out her handwriting. In the only lowly act of defiance he could manage, Fred threw it at her foundation instead. She smirked with amusement as she bent to recollect it, putting both baton in her purse. `` There's just one Sir Thomas More matter. '' She pulled out a unusual looking device with tons of illumination and gauges.

'' What is that matter ? '' He asked as she approached him.

'' Just relax and pedestal still. '' She ordered, waving the thing over him from his nous to his pes. It suddenly started lighting up and beeping like crazy as she moved it over his sac. `` You have a communication device. '' She grinned.

'' No I don't. '' He lied unconvincingly, even in his own ears.

Elanya nodded. `` Put it on the desk. ``

Fred hesitated. The compact was the exclusively grounds he'd so readily agreed to go with her, figuring he'd be able to use it at some point and alert the others to his predicament.

'' Come on, you don't want to start breaking ruler already, do you ? '' She taunted.

She really had won, without giving him a way to warn Hermione, Ron and Ginny, she had his over obedience and she knew it. Reluctantly he pulled the powder compact from his pocket and placed it on the desk. Elanya picked up the glass paperweight, leaving Fred to see as she smashed the compact into pieces. `` That's seven class bad luck. '' He said numbly.

'' Really ? Because I feel my fate is starting to alter for the considerably. '' She laughed as she brushed the pieces to the flooring and stepped on them for dependable touchstone. `` There was no way you were walking out of here with that anyway. I told you, we thought of everything. ``

　

　

note of hand : Uh oh… now what's Fred going to do ? abide tuned for more chapters to feel out ...
Chapter 50 : Searching for the doomed

A/N : Well, so much for my hope to suffer the part out of Hogwarts by chapter 50 J So much to deal with here so go ahead, Read, review and Enjoy !

　

Hermione had woken with an ill at ease feel in the pit of her stomach. By the end of her last class the flavor had tripled and she was now sick of with headache, having been ineffective to reach Fred all day. `` Hey, are you okay ? '' Harry asked quietly as they walked back to their hall together.

'' I'm fine. '' She answered tensely.

'' Really ? Because I can't palpate my hired hand anymore… '' He lightly joked, making her realize she'd had his hand in a last grip.

'' Sorry. '' She loosened her wait and felt him twist his finger's breadth. They'd been at each other's side all day whenever they were in public, Harry had apparently decided to once more break in to her and Luna with few to no questions. Admittedly his bearing at her slope was the only matter to give her quilt all day and she was grateful for it.

'' Something's wrong. '' He pushed as they entered the uncouth room.

'' Well- '' Fear and fear overwhelmed her and she suddenly felt the pauperism to confess everything if it would help Fred. But just as she was about to splatter it all, she felt her pocket mature warm and nearly collapsed in relief. `` I'll severalize you about it later. '' She said quickly before rushing off to her room to be alone.

Nearly dropping the compact as she fumbled to pull it out of her air hole, she eagerly flipped it open only to deliver her sum drop painfully to her stomach. `` Hermione ? '' Lee stared back at her, though his mirror image was fragmented as if the mirror had been broken. `` Oh skillful, I fixed it ! '' He sighed in relief as he caught sight of her on his side.

'' What's going on, where's Fred ? '' She demanded.

'' I don't know ! '' Lee cried out in frustration. `` I don't think back anything about today before waking up with a splitting headache. '' He pointed to where his principal was now bandaged. `` No one was here, nothing was missing… but I found the compact on the floor and smashed to pieces. ``

'' And Fred ? '' She asked again with more urgency.

'' I contacted Molly… ''

'' You're killing me here, Lee ! spitting it out ! '' Hermione yelled.

'' She said I had sent a note of hand earlier asking him to come to the store and that the ministry guard was supposed to have brought him… I don't recall any of that. '' Lee seemed beyond distressed and conclusion to tears.

'' someone must have used a spell and wiped your memory. '' She shook her mind, not knowing how to soothe him when she was so close to panicking herself.

'' Probably, it's what I figured as well. But I didn't want Molly to start worrying and meander up having Arthur send the completely Auror squad out. It took everything I had to convince her that Fred stopped to pick something up and would be here any minute… So then I tried for the in conclusion hour to fix this stupid person powder compact to see if maybe Fred went up there to see you again, but that's obviously not the caseful ... ''

'' It's because she found out he came to see me on Sunday… '' Hermione closed her oculus as a mother wit of dread consumed her. `` Elanya must have upped the stakes… she's made him leave early… ''

'' What are you talking about ? '' Lee demanded.

'' I don't have time to explain now, we have to move quickly. '' Her idea was racing a million miles a minute. `` Arthur and Molly can't know yet… that will only help the girls'architectural plan. I need you to convert them that Fred went away for some kind of business trip for the computer memory, tell them you're going with him so maybe they'll worry less. ``

'' Well, I guess I could disguise my voice and drop a line a talking letter to them pretending to be Fred. '' He suggested, always eager to go region of their dangerous risky venture just like the former boy. `` He's O.K., isn't he ? ``

'' For now… I don't think hurting him is currently part of their plan. '' She said grimly. `` I'm going to utter to Luna, see if she can shed any light on this and depending on what she can or can't see we'll figure out what to do. ``

'' And when do I get to have it off what's actually going on ? '' Lee asked.

'' After you find a way to contact Willem Fritz and get him there to the memory with you. We'll be needing to talk to him about his niece. '' She replied darkly.

'' How am I supposed to do that ? '' He asked incredulously. `` No one's supposed to fuck the guy's out of prison house. ``

'' I don't know. You're the maniacal conceiver who hung around Fred and George I all those years, I'm sure you'll find a way. '' Hermione brushed him off. `` I have to go, the Oklahoman I talk to Luna, the sooner we can hopefully forecast all this out. ``

( BREAK )

'' I can't abide it anymore ! '' Ginny shouted, throwing her History of illusion Holy Scripture across the room. `` It's just sooo very boring. '' She flung herself back on the bed and grabbed the pillow to underwrite her brass as she screamed her frustration into it.

'' Is this a normal office of your prep unconscious process ? Because we may have to lead off studying alone. '' Draco teased, ignoring her dramaturgy and returning to his Potions essay.

She got up and kneeling in front of him, grabbed his text edition and threw it over her shoulder with a sly smile. `` We aren't alone now, so why spend our time studying anyway ? ``

'' Can't argue with that logic, I guess. '' He grinned, grabbing her around the waist and pulling her into his lap before kissing her passionately.

knocking at the doorway interrupted their impromptu fun before it could really get started and Ginny pulled away in disgust. `` You see ? This is why I dislike former people… '' She groaned.

'' I surely hope you have better reasons. '' He laughed, getting up to suffice. He was utterly surprised to come up Drake standing there.

'' hi, sorry to interrupt but I'm here on schoolhouse business. As acting capitulum of Slytherin star sign I've come to request your presence in the Headmaster's office. '' Drake smiled apologetically.

'' Some advice in dealing with other Slytherins… Snape wouldn't have been so gracious as to request anything. '' Draco smiled back. `` What's going on ? ``

'' I have no mind. I was just told to come get you. '' Drake shrugged.

He felt Ginny coming up behind him and reached for her hand. `` Do I receive to go alone ? ``

Drake grinned wider. `` I'm certainly whatever's going on, there would be no remonstration to Miss Weasley coming along for supporting. ``

'' Very busy. '' Ginny approved teasingly.

'' Yes, I do believe after a few months I've begun to get the hang of this unharmed job. '' Drake joked back as he began to chair them to Dumbledore's office.

As they walked, Draco began to experience nervous… what could they possibly want to see him about ? Had the schoolmaster somehow found out about Tristan ? Was Troy trying to frame him for Parvati's disappearance ? several estimation floated around in his head, none of which were well. In fact, he'd never in his life been called to up there to be given unspoiled intelligence. At the gargoyle, drake gestured for them to go up first and as they climbed onto the steps Draco squeezed Ginny's mitt in tense anticipation.

Dumbledore was in the process of handing a missive off to Fawkes as they entered the post and he turned to them with a grim smile. `` wellspring, none of you ever seem to be alone anymore. Hello Draco, Ginny, why don't you both have a seat. '' He spoke informally as he tended to do when he was in common soldier with his favored students. genus Draco felt almost honored to now be considered one of them. `` Roscoe, I need you to take prof Trelawney here as she is rather skilled at scrying. ``

'' Who are you trying to find ? '' Draco blurted out. He knew all about the accomplishment of scrying… it was something Narcissa had mastered and was proud to display. In fact, he knew she had been the one to assist Lucius locate various people including Julian the Apostate Heath.

Dumbledore nodded to Drake who quickly left to carry out the asking made of him. With a sigh, the headmaster seated himself before them and looked intently at Dragon. `` We've received intelligence that Lucius has disappeared. ``

He could feel Ginny staring at him out of the corner of her eye, but Draco couldn't make his brain work his backtalk to organize words. `` What do you mean he's disappeared ? '' She finally asked for him.

'' Since the quibbler clause was released, Lucius has been turned away from the dying eater and President Arthur has had several multitude watching him. Yesterday morning he managed to slip away from them all and he hasn't been spotted since. ``

'' Well he certainly hasn't contacted me ! '' Draco said, leaping to his feet.

'' I wasn't implying that he had. '' Dumbledore calmly replied. `` I was just wondering if perhaps you knew of somewhere he would go. ``

So this was it, the moment that he knew would eventually come. He had to adjudicate whether or not to completely change by reversal his back on his father in rules of order to help the people who had so helped him. Now he had to image out just how much he'd changed, what his morals are from what they were, and whether he could fully hold himself over and cut all ties to the two people who had given him life. `` I don't know. '' He said at last, sinking back down into the chair and opinion horribly confused.

'' I see. '' Dumbledore nodded. `` I'm aware of what I'm asking of you and how unfair it is to ask a child to completely wrench on their parents. I am sorry for it and only my and Arthur's desperation drove us to adjudicate to fare to you ... But you by no means have to respond and I assure you we won't think less of you for it. I want you to be fully cognizant that you have a choice here, one that shouldn't have had to be presented to you and therefore you won't be judged either way. ``

'' Won't I ? '' He asked miserably. How could they not judge him if he chose to persist mute when he could deliver helped ? And how could he not be judged for completely turning on his family ? There was no easy way out of this.

'' You don't have to do anything you don't want to do. '' Ginny said quietly as she reached out to supportively rub his arm.

And he didn't… not with these people. Recalling his former way of life, he knew Dumbledore and the others weren't aware of the truth deepness of his father's evil ruthlessness. Draco had seen Lucius commit many sine without any preindication of remorse, what could he be doing out there now that he'd been outcast by the Death Eaters and left on his own ? Knowing what the man was open of when he was in control, Draco hated to think what he was capable of when desperate. `` OK, founder me a quill and lambskin and I'll write down the locations of every safe house I know about and any early place he might go. ``

Dumbledore made no move to occupy his request, instead continuing to look on in business concern. `` Are you sure ? ``

'' If he's left out there alone, who knows what he'd do or who he'd hurt to assure his own survival… I can't have that hanging over my question, if I don't try to stop him then I can only portion the guilt of his actions. ``

'' And with that sentiment, I would like you to sleep with how proud I am of your continued outgrowth. '' The headmaster smiled with sad boost. `` But I want you to be assured that not only are you not to blame for your Church Father's actions, no one would take hold it against you if you did palpate the need to maintain some sort of dedication to him as your parent. ``

Draco shook his headway. `` No, I've decided. '' He firmly insisted. It took a few moments to write down everything he knew and by the clip he finished Drake was back with Professor Trelawney. Having no desire to see them attempt to locate Lucius, he made his wish well to be dismissed back to his dorm apparent. Thankfully Dumbledore heartily agreed, letting him and Ginny leave the office.

'' You okay ? '' She asked, linking her arm through his and leaning her head word on his articulatio humeri as they walked.

'' Sometimes I wish I were the orphan instead of Potter. '' He muttered.

'' I'm surely given the circumstances, Harry would agree to that. ``

'' Of course he would, James I and Lily are aught like Lucius and Narcissa. ``

'' And Ted and andromeda are nothing like Mr. and Mrs. Dursley. '' She smiled, reminding him that he did bear some folk that was worthwhile. `` And Tonks is nothing like Dudley. ``

'' With my fortune, I would receive gone to be raised by Bellatrix. '' He joked. `` I guess Potter and I really are inverse ... him rather having been raised by his parents and me wishing I had been with my aunt, uncle and first cousin. ``

'' But things happened the way they did and that has brought you to the mo when you had to turn on your begetter completely… So, are you okay ? '' She asked again, bringing the conversation back to her original question.

'' You'd work a good newsperson. ``

'' And you'd make a very difficult interview. '' She returned. `` Quit deflecting. ``

'' I don't know how I am. '' He finally answered with a punishing sigh. `` Part of me is relieved to lap my hands of Lucius and part of me spirit like the forged son ever. ``

'' He's not exactly father of the class. '' Ginny squeezed his arm and kissed his berm. `` There's no genuine way to be a secure nipper to a bad parent. ``

'' You don't have to distinguish me that. I spent years trying to impress him. '' He answered glumly.

'' And yet he never tried to impress you, never tried to depict why he was desirable of your love and regard. '' She argued against his self-distrust. `` You're going to find whatever you feel, but just don't forget- you've only turned on mortal who turned on you first. He tried to kill you already, he doesn't deserve your trade protection. ``

'' You tried to kill me too. '' Draco pointed out, feeling the sudden irrational demand to fight back his father.

'' The departure being I haven't tried since. '' She said stiffly. `` And I probably won't again… '' She added the dark menace, letting him roll in the hay she didn't appreciate his comment.

'' Yeah, okay it was a dazed thing to say. '' He admitted, stopping in the hall outside the commons room and pulling her in for a hug. `` I'm sorry, the two things were completely unlike situations… I just… I don't know. ``

Ginny pulled away and smiled, reaching up to locate her hands on either face of his grimace. `` You're just a little messed up in here right now. '' She playfully shook his head. `` It'll mightily itself out. ``

He leaned his forehead against hers and sighed. `` I certainly hope so. ``

( BREAK )

'' find anything interesting yet ? '' Luna asked as she pushed the files to the end of the bed and got to her feet, stretching away the stiffness caused from sitting too long.

'' A few odd things here and there. But I'm just now getting into the nineteenth century. '' Harry took off his specs and rubbed his eyes, shoving his files away as well. `` I had foolishly thought all the file from the draftsman marked ‘ Harry Potter'would be about me, but they actually go all the way back to Lyraline Elderwood… though I will accommodate, there's more detail to these file than the fixture ministry records. ``

'' They probably started compiling it the minute they figured out that prophesy was about you. '' She smiled. `` It's a good thing, we should instruct everything we can about our antecedent so we don't wind up repeating their mistakes. ``

'' Oh, and my bloodline was creditworthy for quite a few big mistakes apparently. '' He picked up the file cabinet, laughing as he shoved them towards her. `` Not all of us were the big of the great unwashed. ``

'' fountainhead, no one's rake is all pure, right ? Coven descendent or not, we are all still human. '' She grinned. And then a sudden wash of panic flooded her, forcing her to once Sir Thomas More sit or risk falling over from the force.

'' What's incorrectly ? '' Harry asked, instantly feeling what she felt.

Luna shook her head. `` It's not me, it's Hermione… something's wrong and now she's looking for me. She already tried my elbow room, now she's coming here. ``

Sure enough, Hermione began to frantically pink at the door and Harry rushed over to let her in. She entered in a daze, her heart all-embracing with concern and desperation. Not caring whether Harry was in the elbow room, she rushed over to Luna and quickly told her everything about Lee contacting her and her concern that Elanya had forced Fred to result early.

'' So wait, you're saying Fred's been kidnapped ? '' Harry asked incredulously.

'' Not exactly. It's more like he's been blackmailed into leaving. '' Luna replied, attempting to remain calm. Knowing what Hermione wanted from her, she prepared her thinker and left it to the early lady friend to fully fill Harry in on what's been happening.

'' So now we have to cypher out where they've gone. '' He said when she was done, clearly upset to have been left in the nighttime about this. But Luna could see that he was fighting the urge to express his choler, knowing Hermione still had no theme about Tristram and therefore he had no room to judge.

'' Which I was hoping Luna could help with. '' Hermione replied. They both turned to look at her.

'' I don't know… I've been sitting here trying and I think I strained something the last-place few days because my mind feels so wear upon. '' She watched Hermione's face decline and quickly turned to Harry. `` Maybe you could help me ? ``

'' Are you sure that's a well idea ? I've drained myself completely before and it doesn't look just. '' He asked uncertainly, as worried as she was that she could damage herself.

'' We have to try. Fred's out there somewhere and if I can't find Annapurna we can at least try to incur him. '' She argued back.

Harry took a deep breath and let it out. `` Okay, let's do this then. ``

Luna reached out to take his hired man as he and Hermione sat with her on the bed. Closing her eyes, she cleared her mind of everything but Fred and attempted to impel the association. She could find Harry with her, wrapping his consciousness protectively around hers and adding his own strength, which had completely regenerated since his combat with Tristan.

Again it hit her unlike anything she'd ever experienced before, a blasting of images that came on so quickly they knocked her back with their force out. There was no white-hot elbow room, no tantrum playing out, cipher of any coherence or distinction. Concentrating she slowed them down, displaying each in order as they swirled around her.

kickoff came an image of Hermione, growing larger as it zoomed toward her, focusing in on the lady friend's center until they became mirrors displaying Sarah staring back at her and wearing an wickedness grin. Luna shivered in concern, watching as Sarah's face melted away and began showering down bead of flesh that turned to rain…

Fred was in the rain, quickly trying to erect a rather ordinary tent as Elanya looked on, tapping her base impatiently as she stood under an umbrella and waited for him to complete their protection as a flash of lightning tore assailable the sky…

An explosion of color salvo before her eyes, blinding Luna and forcing her to appear away. Blinking away the soreness, she turned back and watched with trance awe as several strange, colorful heyday budded and bloomed in strawman of her.

The pain was swift and sudden and seemed to total from deep inside her head. The following thing Luna knew, she could feel Harry shaking her as he and Hermione called out, telling her to awake up. Letting her centre flutter surface, she stared up at them as they looked down at her in business concern. `` What happened ? '' She asked Harry.

'' I don't know. Something felt off and then there was bother so I stopped the imaginativeness. '' He answered nervously.

'' Are you okay ? '' Hermione asked as they helped her sit up.

'' My forefront hurts. '' She answered honestly, turning to Harry. `` You saw everything I saw ? ``

'' I think so… ''

'' Well, what did you see ? '' Hermione asked anxiously, once more center on helping Fred now that she was assured that Luna was somewhat alright. kind of than set about to explain, Luna told Harry to play back it all for Hermione to see. She would have done it herself, but she was too tired and her judgment literally felt fried out. Putting a hand to her head word, she could palpate that her temperature had risen alarmingly. `` Okay, so Fred is definitely with Elanya then. '' She seemed grimly hopeful.

'' The flowers came after, maybe they give some clue to their location. '' Harry suggested, getting up to pour a glass of urine from the pitcher on his dresser. He came back and handed it to Luna though she hadn't mentioned how parched her throat suddenly was. But as he went back to swarm a glass for himself, she realized he knew because her ailments were affecting him… This wasn't good, they had to figure out a way to restrain themselves divided when necessary.

'' Hold on, I think Lee is calling. '' Hermione said, standing to pass into her pocket.

'' Ah yes, the compact you and Fred used behind my backrest. '' Harry teased.

'' Let not begin comparing who did what behind each other's back, '' Hermione suggested wryly, `` I'm middling certain I'll be the one to come in out ahead. ``

She flipped open the compact and Lee's articulation immediately floated out of it. `` Hey ! Turns out I'm amend than I thought. Willem's here already. ``

'' I'm with Harry and Luna. ``

'' What's going on ? ! '' Willem's unrestrained voice demanded.

Hermione gave him a legal brief adaptation of current outcome up to describing the short imaginativeness Luna just had. `` Well, what sort of efflorescence were they ? '' Lee asked when she was finished.

'' How are we supposed to know ? '' Harry replied. `` They're clearly exotic or why else would they be a clew. ``

'' Well, what about the first share then ? '' Willem pressed.

Luna saw Hermione chill and knew the former young woman had probably come to the same conclusion she had. `` I'm pretty sure that's telling us how they got Fred to cooperate… '' She said quietly.

'' Yeah, they threatened to make Sarah do her stupid astral projection thing to encroach upon me and fix me do who knows what. '' Hermione added bitterly.

'' We won't let that happen. '' Harry assured her.

'' Oh yeah ? What, is everyone going to sleep in work shift to ensure it doesn't ? '' She asked despondently.

'' If that's what it takes. '' He insisted. `` In the mean value clip we can look up the flowers, maybe even ask Professor Sprout. ``

'' Or Neville. '' Luna suggested out of nowhere. She didn't know why she'd suggested their lost friend, it had come to her suddenly and she had spoken before she even realized it… And now they were staring at her. Well, she'd come up this far, she might as well cease her thought. `` Or George… maybe he knows where Fred is. ``

Harry nodded and went to his desk to retrieve the ring. `` We can call them both at the same time. '' He said excitedly.

'' Well we have to do something. And the dissipated the substantially. '' Lee agreed through the compact. `` What do you want us to do while you three are doing that ? ``

'' Willem, Fred told me you two snuck into the ministry to cancel those recordings… do you remember how he got you guys in ? '' Hermione stared at Luna as she spoke, silently asking if she had any common sense that this was a speculative thought than it seemed and to stop her if she did. Luna shook her head, zilch was poking at her intuition.

'' Yes. Why ? '' He demanded.

'' Tonight, you and Lee need to go back and encounter the archives. Get everything you can on Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' Hermione instructed. `` They know all about us, we need to know everything about them. ``

'' But King Arthur has Mad-eye looking after all the record and Indian file. '' Harry reminded her.

'' Don't worry about that. All we need is a misdirection to ensure everyone's attention is away from the ministry. '' Lee answered mischievously.

'' Just don't get yourselves arrested. '' Hermione said, rolling her eyes. `` I'll phone call you back if we learn anything. ``

'' And I'll call you after the heist. '' He returned before they both ended the call.

'' Well, should we contact Saint George and Neville now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly as Harry came back over to sit with them.

He reached out and placed a hand over Luna's forehead. `` Maybe you should just sit back and let us call them up. '' He suggested in fear, clearly feeling that she had a fevered headache.

'' You do await rather pale. '' Hermione agreed, leaning in to look at her wagerer. `` Maybe we should go to another room, let you rest for a bit… ''

'' I'm fine to just sit here and look out. '' Luna insisted, just as anxiously funny to experience what had happened to Fred as they were.

Harry seemed unsealed but she made it open that he wouldn't be able to change her mind. `` Okay, let's hope they can tell apart us something. '' He put on the closed chain and closed his heart to concentrate as Hermione reached out to feed her own free energy into the ring. Luna attempted to close herself off from them, not wanting her own special shop of vigour to be accidentally tapped. She could feel Harry also attempting to shield off from her and she hoped his split focusing wouldn't affect his power to use the ring.

( rupture )

Fred watched the ocean waves crash against the sauceboat as it sliced through the weewee toward the sun setting on the apparent horizon. It would cause been an amazing experience had he been there under dissimilar circumstances, but when he'd woken that morning he had no idea a boat ride into the Atlantic was in his hereafter. He sighed and leaned on the railing, debating what chances he and his friends would take if he just flung himself overboard.

'' You don't have to look so sad and defeated. '' Elanya remarked from beside him. She hadn't let him out of her sight since they'd gone to void his money box history and proceed on a frenetic shopping fling. He hadn't chosen to mouth to her since they'd secured passage on this gravy holder. `` You could just delight your environment. It is quite peaceful out here. '' She went on, trying to goad him into conversation.

Instead he continued to ignore her and moved further along the deck of cards, but she followed wherever he went. `` cum on Fred… I half agreed with your plan. Castellumshire is no place for us, but there are quite a little of little uncharted islands there that will suit us just fine. ``

'' There is no us ! '' He finally exploded. `` There you and me, your hostage. We aren't in this together, this isn't some holiday for us to get away from our spirit for a bit ! So quit acting like this is anything former than what it is, you forcing me to come along with you. ``

'' I was just trying to name the experience a bit friendlier, less hostile. '' She pouted. But he wasn't fooled for a hour, he knew exactly what kind of snake she was.

'' Now that you've completely lop my communicating to my protagonist, how can I trust that you'll keep your word and not let Sarah or your spy or anyone else hurt them ? '' He asked.

'' My word isn't good enough ? '' Elanya smiled, leaning her backrest against the railing so she could face him. He had the sudden desire to lunge forward and thrust her, to puddle her disappear beneath the Wave and end this nightmare… of course he had no musical theme what kind of communication she had set up with her friends and he couldn't take the chance. Surely they would consume planned for him attempting to get rid of her.

'' Of course it isn't. Nothing you've said has been true. ``

She smiled and crossed her arms. `` Of course some of it was true. I know you're well aware that the most convincing prevarication are rooted in money plant. ``

'' okey, I'll bite… what was true ? '' He dared her.

'' That I don't want to ache anyone now that Edmund is gone. Of course I will if I have to… I'd just really rather the situation didn't come up, which is why I'm relieved that you've decided to play so nicely. '' She smiled again, this time with a bit of teasing coyness. `` You must really love your blood brother and sister… and this Hermione must be pretty important too. ``

'' What else were you being honest about ? '' He pressed, ignoring her attack to goad him into revealing anything.

'' That I want goose egg to do with Voldemort or his program to turn us god, and that Sarah and Elise were actually interested… not in Voldemort mind you, but in the vampire curse. ``

'' We'll be dropping lynchpin in five minutes. '' One of the gravy holder's crew members came over to foretell. `` As you are the only two being let off at the incoming islands, we'll row you in. Do you already give birth your paying back plans booked ? ``

'' Our stay will be indefinite. '' Elanya answered him while still looking at Fred.

'' But miss, it's mighty severely to flag soul down if you haven't already arranged a pick up. '' The crew member protested.

'' We'll withdraw our probability. '' She finally turned her tending to the man, reaching out to run her finger up his arm. `` Why don't you go start loading our things into the rowboat ? '' She suggested, lowered her voice and drawing the man in. `` You look strong enough to action the task… and many others I'm sure. '' She added with a twinkling laugh.

'' Right away miss. '' The man smiled and hurried off to do as he asked.

'' Now why couldn't you have been that easy ? '' Elanya turned back to Fred.

'' I'm better at sensing a skirt chaser in sheep's wear. '' He replied, turning to travel along the bunch member she'd so easily bewitched.

Within a half an minute, they had been rowed ashore and left all alone with the many things she had made him buy for this little excursion. `` Great, it looks like rainwater. '' Fred muttered as the nighttime clouds rolled in with the coming Night. legal brief flash bulb of lighting tore through the sky as ripples of thunder roared overhead.

Elanya casually reached down and pulled out an umbrella. `` wellspring, I guess that just gives you more incentive to get the tent up quickly then, doesn't it ? ``

( break of serve )

'' Believe me, I wish I could aid you. '' George said miserably as he and Neville floated before them. `` It's not exactly like we can actually see you laugh at up here, it's more like we have a sense of what you're doing. '' He added glumly.

'' What did the blossom look like ? '' Neville asked.

Harry tried to opine the image to him, but apparently his power was unable to bridge the gap between the living and the dead. He, Luna and Hermione attempted to distinguish the exact flowers from Luna's vision. `` DOE any of that audio intimate ? '' He asked when they were done.

Neville appeared thoughtful. `` You might want to double check, but they sound like Colorsplosions… they're flowers that variety of explode in color during the day when they bloom and then shrivel away at nighttime. I know they're rare, I just can't remember where they're found… mostly islands I think. ``

'' That's okay. As long as we know what they are, we can look up where to find them. '' Hermione assured him. `` You've been very helpful. ``

'' Just make sure you find Fred as soon as potential, okay ? '' George V pleaded with them. `` I still can't believe he got himself into something like this. ``

'' He didn't have a alternative. Elanya was threatening Ron and Ginny. '' Luna argued, her voice infirm and strained. Harry turned to her in vexation, ignoring the discomfort of wearing the band to focus in on her. Inside her headway was shadow and wraithlike, as if mortal had turned off the lights… though he could still see Spark in the back, letting him know she hadn't fried herself out completely.

'' Just, find a way for me to talk to him when you help him straighten all this out OK ? '' George VI insisted, clearly worried for his twin.

'' We will. '' Harry promised. They said their good day and the two ghostly digit of their lost friends disappeared. He went over to his desk to put the ring away, already disliking the familiar pull it had on him and his zip vibrations.

'' Are you okay ? '' He heard Hermione once to a greater extent ask Luna and turned to see what had her so concern. Luna seemed even more wan than she had before… except for the febrile pink spreading across her impudence and forehead.

'' I just palpate a little dizzy. I think I just need to eat something. '' She answered in a fog as she carefully got up. Even as Harry made his way over to aid, he watched her attempt to learn a dance step before her branch buckled, forcing Hermione to gain out and catch her. He rushed over to help get Luna back onto the bed, sitting beside her and running his much cooler hand over her heated forehead.

'' How about if I bring something up for you from dinner party ? '' Hermione suggested.

'' Maybe that's a better approximation. '' She replied with a deliquium smile.

'' I'm sorry for pushing you to have those imaginativeness. '' She said quietly, clearly feeling shamefaced for the situation Luna was now in.

'' You don't have to be, we needed to see Fred. ``

'' I'll be in good order back with something to eat. '' Hermione promised, hurrying out of the way to do what she could to try and make matter better.

'' You going to make it ? '' Harry asked gently once they were alone, smiling to veil the vauntingly amount of concern he felt.

'' I think the chances are good. '' Luna joked back as she took his manus in hers. `` I guess I pushed too far too fast… but I had too. ``

'' I know the feeling. '' He sympathized, kissing her fingers. `` I just bid you hadn't let what Ron said get to you so much… many the great unwashed have warned me about pushing myself too far too fast, yourself included. You didn't have to glow yourself out to prove to anyone that you're ‘ utilitarian ’. ``

'' I had to bear witness it to myself. '' She protested with a faint smile. `` I hate being at the whim of my visual modality, it's about time they worked for me. ``

'' Yeah, sanction. Too bad they worked a little too firmly. Some intellectual nourishment and slumber will do marvel though. ``

'' I hope so… you aren't feeling it, are you ? '' Luna asked in concern.

'' Don't worry about what I'm feeling. '' He told her, not wanting her to know that he was in fact going through a lot of the Saami symptoms she was… to the point where it almost felt as if he'd been the one to drain his office and overextend his push output.

'' This isn't good… we have to find a way to be separate sometimes. '' She said through a flash yawn.

'' Yes we do. '' He agreed. Harry knew he did grievous thing far more often than she did and that due to his desire for triumph, he got hurt a lot. The cobbler's last thing he wanted was for Luna to suffer every metre mortal challenged him, to share his infliction every time he did something poor fish. There had to be a way, they just had to forecast it out.

( BREAK )

Jacey looked into the mirror carefully to control the potion had entirely worn away. Once assured she was herself with no suggestion of Tristan, she took a rich hint and picked up Harry's invisibility cloak, nervously settling it around herself. Ron had called out and asked her to come see him just before dinner, and she was uneasy about what she would say. The guilt was eating her alive, she knew she had to tell him about Parvati… and how she had not warned anyone in clip to stop the daughter's fate. It would not be easy, but it had to be done and Harry had agreed to let her be the one to tell Ron everything about his missing girlfriend.

She crept through the common room, careful not to get too close to any of the pupil still milling around. Her belly clenched painfully as she entered the Gryffindor wing and she only hoped Ron would not detest her after tonight. Standing outside his door, she took a mo to forgather herself before knocking. As soon as he opened up, she brushed past him and waited until he closed the doorway again before flinging off the cloak. `` You really came ! '' He seemed surprised.

'' I had told you that I would if I was able. '' She smiled, sitting awkwardly at his desk. `` There are some things we need to lecture about. ``

'' Yes there are. '' He agreed. `` volition you go out into the woods with me tonight ? ``

'' Excuse me ? The woods ? ``

'' I want to go looking for Parvati. '' Ron sighed and went to look out his window. `` I know Dumbledore has sent a lot of people out there, all with beast and contrivance meant to find hoi polloi. But it's been three Clarence Shepard Day Jr. and they still haven't found her. ``

'' And you think we will be more successful ? '' She asked gently. `` I know Dumbledore is doing everything he can, nil is working. He has sent hoi polloi to expect, he has had people scrying, he has the beasts of the forest keeping an eye out… there is aught more that can be done. ``

'' Well I have to do something ! '' He cried, turning to front her. `` I can't stand worrying like this anymore, I can't handle not knowing what's happened to her, or the guilt that it's my fault. ``

'' I know why their endeavor to place her wealthy person failed. '' Jacey looked away, unable to meet his regard. `` It is because all of their effort are spent attempting to locate a human, which Parvati no longer is. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' He asked quietly, his representative tense with emotion.

'' She has been turned, we are sure enough of it. Parvati is a lamia and unless they alter their devices and coordinate their search accordingly, they will never find her. Especially if she does not desire to be found. '' She blurted out in one swift breath.

'' What do you mean you're sure ? What's going on ? '' He demanded, coming over so that she had to look at him.

She shook her head and began her fib, telling him everything that involved Parvati while leaving out the theatrical role that gave away that they had killed Tristan. When she was done, Ron simply grunted and walked back over to the window, leaning heavily on the sill. `` So why didn't you tell anyone what you thought ? '' He asked.

'' I told you, I was not sure… '' She swallowed hard, waiting to see what would happen.

'' Better safe than sorry ! '' He shouted, turning to face her again. `` I'm so hackneyed of all this secrecy ! depend what's happened now because of it ! ``

'' I did not want to criminate without proof ! '' She argued in her defense.

'' So you had to wait until she disappeared and Luna saw her as a vampire ? ! When was there going to be plenty proof… when she showed up bearing her fangs in your typeface ? ``

'' Hey ! You knew there was something unseasonable with her, you could accept just as easily tried to figure it out instead of letting the daughter convince you it was just a cold. '' She said in anger. She already knew she shared some inculpation in this, but she would not take over it all.

Ron seemed to deflate before her as he turned and slumped down on the sharpness of his bed. `` You're justly. '' He said quietly. `` I wasn't paying attention… but what now ? What can anyone possibly tell Padma, or their parents ? ``

'' It will not be easy. '' She got up and went to sit beside him, placing a hand on his stifle in consolation. `` But just because she is a vampire does not mean she is like Tristram or Troy. As long as she is away from the will of her creator, there is nothing to say she will be bad. ``

'' And what if they are around ? ``

'' Then if her will to fight them is stronger, she will be able-bodied to overcome… just like genus Draco and his Jehovah. ``

Ron shook his head. `` Yeah, Harland- he's as bad as Tristan. ``

Jacey wished she could recite him that Tristram was one being he no longer had to fear, but anyone that was apart of the vampire's Death could be in risk and there were enough of her new friends already in that position. She could not let Ron be put at peril as well.

'' I guess the first thing we have to do is find her… until then it's probably secure that we continue to let her syndicate think she's only missing. '' He lamented.

'' Probably. '' She agreed, moving closer and putting her arm around his shoulders, wanting to make him finger better.

'' Do you think she hates me now ? '' He whispered.

'' What ? ``

Ron shrugged her off and stood uncertainly before her. `` Parvati, do you suppose she blames me for not protecting her ? Do you think she hates me ? ``

'' No one can know what she is thinking. '' Jacey replied uneasily as sealed view of his became clearer in her mind. `` But I can see what you are thinking and you are blaming me… you think I distracted you from her ! '' She stood and crossed her arms, waiting for an explanation.

'' First of all, stay out of my head ! '' He shouted. `` And secondly, just because I think that doesn't mean I blame you. I blame myself ! I let myself be distracted by you when I should accept either paid attention to Parvati or been honest with her about how I really felt. ``

'' And how do you really feel ? '' She pushed, taking a step closer to him.

'' Like you don't know. '' He answered bitterly. `` As if I could even help it after seeing you. ``

Without warning, she grabbed his face and pressed her back talk to his, giving into what they both wanted. At first he was astonished, but he quickly overcame it and wrapped his arms tightly around her to recall the buss with an equal depth of passion. He walked forward until she felt the edge of the bed against her legs. Letting her knees prostration she fell back, pulling him along with her. It had been so long since she had experienced any kind of involvement and even longer since she had done so with soul who craved her as lots as she craved them. And oh how she wanted Ron… She had no explanation as to why he had so captivated her but he had, and to now palpate his mouth on her pelt, the weight of him as he hovered over her, and the heat of his desire… it was everything she'd thought it would be and to a greater extent. She had wanted this ever since she'd laid eyes on him and had come close to giving in last night. Her own guilt had stopped her then, as his seemed to barricade him now.

'' Wait. '' Ron said in a choke vocalism as he pulled away. `` I'm sorry I can't do this. '' He gently rolled away from her and sat up, anxiously running his hands through his hair. `` I just can't let myself be well-chosen while Parvati is out there. ``

She sat up and reached out to rub his back. `` I understand. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you do. '' He smiled sadly.

'' I am going to forget. It will be easier for us both I think. '' Jacey suggested, moving to mount off the bed.

'' Will you ride out ? '' He asked, his eyes wide and hopeful. `` volition you just lay here and nap future to me so I won't tone so alone ? ``

She studied him carefully before giving in. `` okeh, I do not require to be alone either. But I must leave very early in the morn. ``

'' I don't fear. Some fourth dimension with you is better than none. '' He agreed, climbing under the covers and motioning her to join him.

He turned out the visible light and lay back, both of them left staring at the ceiling as aflutter tension descended on them. Taking the initiative, she turned to Ron and wrapped her arm around him, resting her question on his shoulder. She smiled in the dark as he responded, placing his own weapons system securely around her and pulling her close. For the first sentence in her life, Jacey felt safe… that there was somebody who could care for her more than they cared for themselves. It was a impression he was bringing out in her that she was beginning to appreciate and as she snuggled in closer to him, she knew she would do anything to proceed it.

( BREAK )

After more than than a week had passed, Hermione felt like she was at the end of her forget me drug. After a disappointing conversation with professor Sprout, she'd learned that Colorsplosions were so rare they were thought to be out. But Luna was sure of what she'd seen and Neville had been moderately sure of what they'd described. Hermione had spent every free instant in the subroutine library trying to find out anything about the alien flowers but so far her search had yielded nothing. Just as she thought she was going to fall behind her thinker, she decided to shift her focus… but she needed to use one of the invisibleness cloaks in parliamentary procedure to get into the restrain expanse of the library where she knew the information she wanted was being kept.

Harry had been her first stop but Jacey was still in possession of his cloak and so Hermione had gone to genus Draco who had gladly handed his over with no questions. Now all she had to do was wait for the castling to keep out down for the night. Locked away in her room, she pulled out the powder compact to agree in with Lee for the millionth meter. `` No, we haven't found anything interesting yet ! '' He said rightfield away, clearly agitated with her unvarying nagging.

She'd been glad to discover he and Willem had been able-bodied to sneak into the ministry and abscond with the necessity file cabinet. But that had been several Clarence Shepard Day Jr. ago and she knew had she been the one in self-control of those text file, she would have been able to sustain gone through them quite a few times by now. `` Why not ? '' She demanded.

'' I don't know, maybe because I also have to keep forging letters to Molly pretending they're from Fred… Maybe because there's a million things to take in these stupid files… and maybe it's because you keep calling every five proceedings to cark me ! '' He said loudly. `` What about you ? Have you figured out where those prime grow yet ? ``

'' No, but I have programme to get into the restricted part of the library tonight… while I'm there I'll look to see if there's anything about Colorsplosions. ``

'' fountainhead what else are you going there for ? ``

Hermione shook her head. `` Don't concern about it. How's Willem coming along in finding Elanya's grandmother ? ``

'' Not so unspoiled. Turns out the ministry didn't actually know too a good deal about Jayalina Delamora… we can't even bump her parents names. '' Lee answered in frustration. `` But he's having Arthur see what he can do about helping enlarge the search past our ministry's selective information. Willem told him that he wants to try and find out any family he may induce and thankfully Arthur hasn't questioned his motives too much. ``

'' We have to get hold them. '' She insisted. `` If Jayalina really did hold her parents keeping Elanya safe, then they may be able to chip in Willem sixth sense into their granddaughter. ``

'' As soon as he knows who and where, he intends to go see them. '' Lee assured her. `` In the interim, give me a few hours of peace and I might actually make headway into all of this information… trust me, if there was a way I could send out it all to you without anyone finding out I would. ``

'' Sorry I'm being pushful. '' She sighed and fought back the furious weeping threatening to fall. `` It's just that it's been a hebdomad and none of us have heard from him… ''

'' I know, Hermione. I'm worried too. '' He said gently. `` How's Luna ? Is she able to have visions yet ? ``

'' She's been trying but every prison term she does, she gets a terrible headache… I hope I didn't erupt her or anything by pushing her so much last week. '' Hermione was actually quite worried about Luna and feeling very guilty for letting the girl personnel herself that last time when she'd already looked so exhausted. And worse, they still hadn't been capable to figure out the imagination she'd clearly hurt herself to receive for them. `` She has said she's been having dream about Fred and that so far she believes he's okay. ``

'' fountainhead, I guess if it's coming from Luna I can accept it as fact… I'm glad he's okeh, but I wonder how he's doing otherwise, you know ? ``

'' I try not to guess about it. '' She muttered. `` name me back if you or Willem find anything okay ? Otherwise I'll just talk to you again in the forenoon. ``

'' Will do. '' He promised.

They ended their communication, leaving her with cipher to do except time lag. When she finally felt it was metre, the clock had already struck midnight. Carefully wrapping Draco's cloak around herself, Hermione crept through the common room and out into the hallway. She tried not to make a I noise as she made her way to the library, not wanting to alarm Filtch, his cat Mrs. Benjamin Franklin Norris Jr., the ghosts or anyone else who may be awake and also wandering the Hall. She'd never felt so nervous before, sneaking out with one of her friends was one thing but she rarely did it on her own for the sheer fact that she just wasn't as comfortable being sneaky like the others. But she had to advertize aside her discomfort… being furtive seemed to be the only way to carry out anything these days, it had certainly worked for Elanya, Sarah and Elise.

At finis she came to the depository library threshold and she hoped Madame Pince hadn't locked them for the night. She let out a huge sigh of rest when she reached out and pulled, finding the door had easily opened. Moving over to the librarian's desk, Hermione grabbed the winder and a small lantern before rushing over to the restricted section. She unlocked the logic gate and with as lilliputian disturbance as possible, began making her way through the gobs in hunting of what she wanted. Stopping to grab a text on lost and uncharted islands, she quickly moved on to the metaphysical section.

The Advanced Art of Astral Projection. It was the low title to grab her eye and she instantly grabbed the Book, figuring she could figure out the basics of something she had little time to instruct. Besides, she'd always found it easier to learn things from a harder perspective than to be talked down to during the leisurely stair. Banned Acts of Astral Projection. Hermione grabbed that Word of God too, figuring a few of the magic Sarah had mastered would be covered there.

Hearing a randomness, she quickly extinguished the lantern and stood as still as a statue, not daring to even breathe. Even though she was able to see that she was still alone, her furiously beating philia could no longer stand the paranoia that comes from breaking so many rules. Tucking all three books under her arm, she hurried to shut up the gate and reelect the key before rushing back to her room. She had a lot of reading to do and she wanted to learn as fast as possible… She wanted to be able to do everything Sarah was capable of doing and while it may experience taken the woman years to subdue her science, Hermione was sure she could achieve a certain layer of command within days. Maybe she was being overconfident in her intelligence but she didn't tutelage. They were always saying she was the chic one, in Luna's vision even Elanya and Sarah had said so… Now it was meter she prove it.

Thomas More than learning how to protect her own mind from Sarah's invasion, she wanted to discover how to lead her body and traveling to early spot so that she could finally cause a way to communicate with Fred once more. She knew it was different than apparating, but since she had picked that up so quickly and astral forcing out was a persona of it, she had high Bob Hope that she could pull it off. Now it was just a affair of how quickly she could get through and give the material covered in those al-Qur'an. Putting aside the one on islands until tomorrow, Hermione picked up The Advanced Art of Astral protrusion and began reading, eager to commence learning the desired skill.

( pause )

'' I don't want to go. '' Harry turned and buried his drumhead under his pillow. He and Luna had been up belatedly last night going through the ministry documents as they were the only matter able to perturb her from the fact that she hadn't been capable to have a vision since draining herself out live on week. Despite the fact that they'd figured out two of the three remaining coven members, he'd barely been able to keep his heart open by the end and the last thing he wanted to do so very early the next morning was get up and get ready to go to Hogsmeade.

'' It's your last misstep there as a bookman. '' Luna tried as she sat up and began going through the papers they'd read stopping point night.

'' And there's zippo there I want. '' He emerged from under the pillows to put his straits in her lap and look up at her with a devilish grinning. `` In fact everything I want is right here and if I have to be arouse I'd rather spend my clock time doing something I want to do. ``

'' I'm sure you would. '' She rolled her middle. `` But if Hermione and Ron can go and act normally then there's no reason for you not to. Besides, I'm going so you'd be left here all alone anyway. '' She bent over to kiss him before rudely moving out from under him to commence dressing for the day. `` You wagerer get going before anyone is awake enough to see you leaving my way. '' She teased.

'' You're mean. '' He said simply as he forced himself to get up.

'' I prefer tough love. '' Luna smiled.

Reluctantly Harry left to go to his own room, which felt very cold and lonely. But that's just how he felt about everywhere now whenever he and Luna were not in each other's sight. As he dressed, he realized it was a feeling he'd just experience to get used to… after all, they couldn't be next to each other all of the time.

He had just finished tying his shoes when mortal came knocking on his threshold. `` Harry ? '' He heard Ron call through the room access. While they'd all just sort of decided to get along, no one had yet attempted to make things right after the matter he'd said and the way he'd been acting… And Harry was of the mind that they wouldn't be able to sort matter out while Anapurna was still missing. Ron had been going out of his way to annul his friends- except for Jacey who said she was spending most dark with him, apparently just sleeping. Harry was confused as to why Ron was coming to him now.

'' Hey. '' He said, opening the door and remaining passive until he could figure out his friend's motives.

'' You remember when you said you were volition to do whatever I wanted to help obtain Parvati ? '' Ron asked immediately as he pushed his way into the room.

'' Yes… '' He answered cautiously.

'' Well, according to what Jacey overheard Troy say, the concluding place he saw her was by Hogsmeade, right ? He thought she was heading into the mountains… ? ``

Harry hesitated. He knew that Jacey hadn't overheard anything, that she'd been the one to actually get that information out of Ilium. But Ron still didn't know about Tristan or Jacey having to become him. He knew what his friend was about to ask of him and he worried what could happen if he refused such a ridiculous idea. `` We can't just sneak out of the village. '' He tried.

'' Why not ? We sneak out of and into everywhere else. '' Ron crossed his arms. `` I can't find any public security of judgment until we find her Harry. I don't care if she's a vampire, I just want to make for her book binding to her family unit ! ``

'' And what if she doesn't want to come back ? '' He countered.

'' Then at least I'll know it's her choice… and at least I'll have had a hazard to let the cat out of the bag her out of it. '' He was snug to begging. `` I just call for to at least talk to her… ''

Harry didn't know what to do… he had a feeling that if he didn't agree to go assistance discover Parvati then Ron would simply attempt it on his own. He supposed it would be sound if they could find Anapurna before Luna's imaginativeness came true, after all, Troy would surely be looking for her and the last-place thing they needed was two newborn vampire out scuffling in the woods… especially if troy weight came out the victor. `` Okay. '' He agreed, having talked himself into it. At least now he had a grounds to go to Hogsmeade, though he knew Luna probably wouldn't be thrilled with the idea.

'' Really ? '' Ron seemed surprised, as if he'd expected to have to put up to a greater extent of an argument.

'' Really, but we're asking lupine to get along with us. '' He insisted, figuring that would lenify both Luna and his own mistrust about the architectural plan. `` And everyone else stays behind inside the hamlet bulwark. The last thing we need is someone else getting bitten, even by accident. ``

'' Do you think Jacey will be able to meet us out there ? '' He asked hopefully.

Harry knew she had already taken the potion and had to go into the village as Tristan. Being reminded of that, he felt a sudden pang of guilt. With inaugural Parvati's fade then Fred's, with Luna frying herself out, with genus Draco dealing with his begetter, none of them had focused on releasing Jacey from the debt instrument of playing their dead foe. Whether or not they found Parvati today, he knew the next thing he had to do was center on how to take a crap Tristan disappear for good.

( BREAK )

Jacey climbed into one of the waiting carriages, feeling immensely uncomfortable with having to dissemble to be someone else outside of Hogwarts. She had never been to this Hogsmeade village, but Tristan had and he would be familiar spirit with the places and the thing he had done there… she was not. Harry and Luna had tried to satiate her in during breakfast, thinking her all kind of retentivity from their own time spent there. It was overwhelming and as Troy climbed in behind her, she suddenly felt very alone. A sense of foreboding washed over her when Troy turned to Pansy and the others who had been about to also get in their posture. `` You guys do find another one. Tristan and I need to talk. ``

They all looked to her and she simple nodded in correspondence, sending them scattering to discover an vacate carriage. She and Ilium sat in silence until the caravan of students began moving. `` I don't appreciate being cornered like this. '' She said sternly, hoping to maintain her grip on Tristan's tone.

'' And I don't appreciate being lied to. Something is different about you. '' He accused, turning to seem at her. There wasn't a drop of awe in his eye and Jacey realized he was somehow on to her.

Not knowing what else to do, she quickly reached out and grabbed the boy by the throat, violently shoving him back against his seat. She brought her face close to his and allowed her tooth to grow. `` How dare you question me ? '' She demanded angrily. `` I made you, I can just as easily unmake you. ``

'' And Parvati Patil ? '' Ilium choked out. Thankfully he did not try to damp away from her as she knew her intensity level was nothing compared to Tristan's. Her performance seemed to hold rattled him, making him to a lesser extent certain that he had figured her out.

'' What about her ? '' She asked harshly, releasing her hold on the boy and once More settling comfortably in her seat as if nothing had happened.

'' What are your architectural plan for finding her ? Surely you are going to find her ? '' He pressed.

'' I don't have to explicate myself or my actions to you or anyone else. '' She answered nonchalantly as she gazed out the window, trying to pretend to be disinterested.

'' No, but you are supposed to be telling me what to do, think back ? '' Troy sneered. `` So I am I going looking for Parvati on my own today ? ``

'' You do nothing without me ! '' She roared.

'' And what of the plan to get Luna ? '' He went on, ignoring her fierceness. Jacey felt shaken, certain he didn't believe her to be Tristan because if he did, he would never have dared act so boldly. `` The others are all waiting for your instructions, I've told them you intend to go through with it today no topic what and they're all wetting themselves in their turmoil to leaven themselves to you. Unless you give them a specific plan, right now it's going to be a brawl once we get to the Greenwich Village to see which Slytherin will get Luna for you first. '' He was so clearly setting a trap, testing her to see what she would do as Tristan.

Forcing herself to continue tranquillise, Jacey shrugged. `` Good, let them. That will leave you and I free to go look for Parvati. ``

troy weight raised an eyebrow. `` Really ? ``

Again she shrugged. `` I don't hold out much Bob Hope for them, but if one does find success then all the right. If not, then I'll simply take care of Luna myself once we've set things right with our new short vampire. ``

'' okay then. I guess you and I will be taking a fiddling trip through the Natalie Wood alone. '' He grinned viciously.

Hiding the shiver of fear that went through her, Jacey silently called out to Harry, Luna and Dragon. Hey, I think we have a big problem.

( break )

Okay, new design. Harry linked his thinker to Luna, Jacey, Draco and Ginny so that all of the conspirators could be in on the conversation. Luna, you're going to amount with me, Ron and Lupin… there's no way in hell you're staying in Hogsmeade today. Dragon, can you travel along Jacey and troy weight and avail her out if she needs it ?

'' Why is everyone so placid ? '' Padma asked, having chosen to hinge upon to the small town with them. `` I feel like I'm losing my mind in the silence in here. ``

Ron took her paw and squeezed it in comfort. `` What is there to say ? '' He asked.

'' Don't trouble, we'll be there soon enough. '' lupine sighed. He'd agreed to come assistance attend for Annapurna, but he wasn't pleased with the approximation or the secrecy.

Yeah, I can surveil them. Draco replied once they all descended into muteness again.

Are you sure you and Jacey could necessitate on Ilion alone ? Ginny asked in concern.

Do not worry, he is much weaker than Tristram was. Jacey reminded her.

Harry wondered how she was managing to restrain herself together riding alone with Troy while knowing he suspected she wasn't who she claimed to be. For all their interest, the coaches couldn't get to the hamlet soon enough. Ginny, I need you to get to for certain you and Hermione celebrate out in the open, preferably near the Aurors… lupine said Kingsley is supposed to be there today. He suggested.

Ginny nodded slightly before glancing at Padma. We should probably keep an eye on her too… Padma looks a wreck. I can't imagine what she must be feeling not knowing where her sister is.

Harry felt a slight shudder of guilt run through him and Luna at the same metre. Neither Ginny nor Ron were yet aware of Fred's quandary as they hadn't wanted to alarm them until they knew exactly where their brother was being forced to stay. Plus Ron was already overwhelmed with Annapurna's disappearance, both he and Hermione had worried what telling him about Fred might make him do.

'' Finally… We're here. '' Hermione announced from her topographic point beside the windowpane. She took Harry's hand as they exited the baby carriage, both still wary of the fact that should Elanya's spy be watching they had to come out as a twain. She was sealed Fred was going to maintain her insignificance to him while he was away and Harry was sure that the less of a target she seemed, the better off they'd be when they were finally capable to go looking for Fred.

Together, they led the way behind the nearest construction attempting to not pass too lots tending to themselves. `` Well, are we all ready ? '' lupine asked nervously.

'' You guys be heedful. '' Hermione told them, having only been informed that they intended to look for Parvati. `` Ginny and I will do our best to cover the fact that you aren't here. ``

'' We'll try not to go out of mountain range. If you need us, phone out and we'll come right back. '' Harry squeezed her hand as she nodded in agreement.

Indicating that it was time, Luna took Draco's handwriting as Harry grabbed Ron and Lupin. As one they all apparated away with Harry and Luna pushing through the barrier attempting to hold them back. They landed about a half a mile outside the village wall. `` Is everyone okeh ? '' Harry asked, wanting to be sure they'd all made it through in one piece.

'' There was so a good deal insistency that at one point I thought I was going to burst. '' lupin answered, shaking himself off and ensuring his amulet still hung around his neck. Ron and Draco agreed but Harry and Luna remained unaffected by the trip.

'' Well, I better be off. '' Draco said.

'' Where ? '' Lupin asked in confusedness as he and Ron had no approximation Jacey was out there with Troy.

leaving Luna to silently fill him in, Harry ignored the question and turned to Draco who was absently clutching his talisman as it hung around his cervix. `` Are you for certain you can regain them ? ``

'' This stopping point to the full moon, I'll catch their fragrance in no time… well hers anyway. '' He amended, clearly timid whether even his rise good sense could detect Ilion if he didn't want to be found. He'd already said as a lot about Parvati a week ago when Harry had asked if he thought he'd be able to rule her.

'' Who are you talking about ? '' Ron asked in total confusion, having no clue as to anything involving Tristan, Jacey or Troy… other than Ilium had admitted to being the one to turn Parvati. Ignoring him, Dragon merely turned and ran off with More velocity than a pattern human was capable of.

'' Well, let's try to find Parvati. '' Luna suggested, trying to get Ron's centre back onto their own mission.

Allowing lupin to lead the way just in cause he was able-bodied to catch the girl's scent, Harry and Luna both sent their minds out in search of any signs of consciousness. Even as it began to snow, no one suggested the group turn back. They were all determined… they would not end the day without finding Parvati.

( BREAK )

'' Well, let's go see where Padma went. '' Ginny suggested right after the others left.

'' I suppose… do you suppose at some point we could quickly duck into the bookstall ? '' Hermione asked as they walked out from behind the building and surveyed the street before them. pupil and villagers milled around as storekeeper shouted out their holiday sales event, attempting to bring in customers. `` There she is ! '' She pointed out Padma, walking toward the Three Broomsticks with Susan, doyen, Seamus and Hannah.

'' Well, I guess she's in salutary hands. '' Ginny remarked. `` So, to the bookshop then ? ``

'' I'll be quick, I promise. '' She insisted as they began walking together down the road. An clumsy silence descended over them and Hermione knew Ginny was as cognisant as she was that this was the first time the two girl had been left alone together since they'd had that fight at Harry's theater during the summer. She also knew they were both aware that they were dissimilar masses from who they were then… but it didn't make things any less tense between them.

'' Great, and now it's starting to snow. '' Ginny muttered before turning her attitude around and attempting to get along. `` So, what are you looking for ? ``

'' Anything about exotic flowers or stellar expulsion. '' She answered simply as they entered the shop and began browsing the shelves.

'' Jeez, are they giving something away in here or what ? '' Ginny grumbled as they pushed their way through the large crowd.

'' More likely this is a just a good place for them to break off and get ardent before heading back out into the snow. '' She muttered while she scoured the title of respect before her. Ginny walked off a bit, trying to facilitate cannonball along things along by searching out a different aisle. Just as she was about to give up and try another aisle herself, Hermione felt her pouch grow warm. Lee must have found something….

Quickly making sure Ginny wouldn't observance, Hermione ducked out of the entrepot and around the back away from prying eyes and ears. She didn't want to deliver to excuse to any of Fred's home that he was missing and so the last person she needed overhearing her was his Sister. To her dismay it began to snow harder… she felt her heart clench as her thoughts returned to Allhallows Eve night, when she and Fred had shared their first kiss in the snow covered courtyard. She shook her head, ready to focus on bringing him home. `` Lee ? '' She asked as soon as she opened the compact.

'' Yeah, I think I may have figured something out from these filing cabinet. '' He answered uncertainly.

'' What ? '' She demanded eagerly.

'' Well, I think I know who they're using as a spy… and it's definitely not Marvin Neil Simon McKinney. '' Lee hesitated, clearly uncomfortable as he furrowed his brow in her crushed range of a function of him in the mirror. `` You're not going to believe this… I'm not sure enough I believe it and I'm looking at the proof in front end of me. ``

'' So, who is it ? '' Hermione was on edge, ineffective to brook the expectancy any longer.

'' Well… It seems Elise knows one of the prof up there at Hogwarts very well. '' He answered breathlessly.

( BREAK )

It didn't take long for Dragon to entrance Jacey's odorize despite the falling snowfall, she had promised to stir as many trees as possible to assist lead him to her… Troy he was ineffective to detect at all. I think I'm close. He thought out, hoping she would respond.

Come quick, I think he's working up the nervus to make a move. Jacey's upset spokesperson came back to him.

Pulling off his talisman, he shoved it in his pocket and stopped to conclude his eyes and concentrate. Draco focused on her olfaction while eliminating all the others. His pinna picked up something to the Cicily Isabel Fairfield and he immediately set off, careful to fix as little noise as possible. At last he saw them walking and purloin up as close as he could to make up one's mind what the situation was.

'' Somehow, I have a feeling Parvati is nowhere near here… I thought you said you'd be more open to ascertain her. '' Troy was saying.

genus Draco waited for Jacey to shine out at the boy as Tristan would have had his word been questioned. But she didn't, instead attempting to keep him in melody with menace alone. He began to see why Troy had become suspect, apparently the only if matter Jacey wasn't capable to properly imitate was Tristram's ruthlessness.

Sure enough, troy stopped and violently grabbed Jacey's arm. `` You aren't Tristan Macnair, are you ? ! '' He demanded. `` What Parvati said on Halloween was dead on target wasn't it ? Potter and Malfoy somehow managed to vote out Tristan and you must be that underhand trivial girl they've been hiding up at the palace ! '' He bared his teeth, his canine growing to sharp points. While not nearly as scary as Tristan's, Ilium's fangs looked just as dangerous.

Draco was moving in an instant, rushing the vampire and tackling him to the ground as Jacey pulled herself absolve. The two boy snarled at each other, each very much wanting to fare out the prevalent force as they began taking swings at each other. Just as Draco was sure he'd hit intemperately enough to shatter the former's nose, troy weight managed to connect as well, hitting with enough force to bump Dragon back. Rising to his feet with his poke dripping blood, Troy was greeted by the sight of Jacey with her hands up and cupping orchis of flame. `` What the hell are you ? '' He marveled.

Sensing Draco getting up behind him, Troy must get figured his right chance was to run. They quickly took off after him, determined to go along him from telling anyone what he'd figured out about Tristan. Jacey, being quite properly human being, fell behind quickly as the two boys raced through the Natalie Wood as fast as their hybrid upper allowed. While troy wasn't exactly able to fly, he seemed to vibrate over the ground as he went and was therefore able to move a bit faster and with to a lesser extent care than genus Draco who had to be wary of the multitude of obstacles covering the forest floor. But never once did he let the vampire out of his sight… the hunting was on and not only did he not know how to turn it off, he didn't want to.

( jailbreak )

'' Hey, here's one on astral ejection. '' Ginny grabbed the account book and turned to find Hermione but the former girl wasn't where she'd been a second ago. Quickly scanning the store, she caught sight of her just as she was ducking out the door. What is she up to ? Ginny thought to herself. She debated whether or not to follow, knowing if alone it was safer to be here in this crowded memory. But Hermione knew that too, so what had drawn her to do something as dangerous as walk the streets alone ?

Curious and slightly worried, she made her way towards the room access before she could mouth herself out of it. Besides, if she was quick she'd be capable to catch up to Hermione in no time. Stepping out of doors, she looked up and down the now derelict streets, but the other little girl was nowhere to be seen. Trying to remain calm and logical, she figured Hermione must have ducked into another store as it had begun to lead by the nose even harder. And then she saw footprints leading around to the rear of the bookstore. They were quickly being filled in with new snowfall and pulling her hood lower over her case, she set out to follow them, suddenly certain they were Hermione's. But by the clock time she had made her way around the building she realized the other young woman had moved on. The footmark seemed to bar and then pop out again as she must have decided to get out of the Charles Percy Snow after all.

With a sigh of frustration, Ginny began to give her way back to the front. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught some bm and turning to look, she was able to make out a figure in the distance walking toward the orchard. Maybe she'd read the footmark wrong… after all the snow was now practically coming down in thick, heavy sheets.

'' Hey ! Hermione ! '' She took off after the bod, moving as fast as possible as she slipped and slid through the snow. But as she got closer she saw that she had made a error. The somebody ahead of her was far too tall to be her friend, and from the way they moved, she was certain it was a man. care washed over her out of nowhere and she tried to turn around before he noticed her.

But it was too later, he had heard her calling. He turned, revealing himself to be Lucius Malfoy. `` You ! '' He narrowed his oculus and sneered at her as he raised his wand. Hers was tucked away in her coating pocket, he would see any movement she made to recollect it. affright flooded through her. `` I know who you are, you're the trivial female child who bedded and bewitched my son into turning on us, on me ! ``

'' And you're the one who tried to defeat him and allowed Harland to be sent after him. '' She returned, determined not to let him see that she was afraid.

'' Two failed attempts to end his life, but I've come to finish things today. Where is he ? '' He demanded, taking several long stride closer to her.

Unable to stop herself she tried to stake away but he lunged and grabbed her arm, waving his verge in her aspect. `` Where's Draco ? '' He asked harshly, leering at her.

'' I don't know. '' She answered honestly.

'' well you better figure it out soon because if I can't detect him, you're just as good a catch… pit I might even be able-bodied to buy my way back in by bringing the minister's only daughter to the Dark Lord… '' Lucius grinned.

'' I doubt it. '' She kept her vocalisation even, determined to be brave. `` Nothing you do will change who your parents are, as Draco had the misfortune to learn. ``

His eyes darkened and he gripped her arm tighter. `` If I have to drag you through the streets as hook, I will see my son today. '' He threatened. `` Now, do you have sex where he is or not ? ``

( time out )

'' There are augury that mortal has come this way very recently. '' lupin said, bringing them to a stop a he examined the land. `` Since I can't pick up on any scent early than decaying globe, I can only take for granted it must be Annapurna. ``

Ron shivered at the words the man used to describe what he smelled… it reminded him that Parvati was in all actuality perfectly, that what she was now something entirely former than human.

'' Why wouldn't the Aurors have picked up on it ? '' Luna pondered dreamily though her gaze was sharp and focused.

'' Because they don't know what they're looking for. '' Lupin answered grimly. `` There are slipway for them to find a vampire, but they believe they are searching for a student… and as we don't know how Parvati has taken to it, it's much better that we find her before they do. ``

'' Meaning what ? That she could round ? '' Harry asked.

lupine shrugged. `` She's a newborn infant that has been left to wander on her own through nature for close to two hebdomad. Environment can absolutely affect the way someone can come out of this. For example, had Draco been bitten and left on his own in the woods there's no telling whether he would sustain retained as much of his humans as he had. The same goes for me, Annapurna and any other human infected by a humanoid. ``

Determining she'd been there less than half an hr before, they quickly moved on. Ron's stomach was tied in knots as they all started calling out for Anapurna hoping the girl would exhibit herself. `` Over there ! '' Luna pointed as her attention was suddenly drawn to a small grove of trees.

'' Parvati ! '' Ron cried out desperately, taking a few steps in that direction.

And then he saw her. She peeked her head out foremost before fully stepping away from the Tree she'd been hiding behind, still wearing the long frock she used as a costume for the dance. It was in tag now, her hair was hanging in tangle around her shoulders and her skin, normally a dark creamy caramel brown, was now ash-grey and pale. She dropped to her knees in the snowfall in figurehead of them and pay heed her head. `` I'm sorry. '' She whispered. `` I never wanted this. ``

Ron took off his pelage and moved to wrap it around her shoulders but she held out a paw to stop him. `` Don't come near me ! '' She shouted fearfully before once more falling into despair. `` It wouldn't help anyway. I don't really find the cold. ``

'' Parvati ? '' Lupin tentatively stepped forward, tightly gripping his talisman. Ron, Harry and Luna all stepped to the position, letting their professor attempt to handle things. `` We have to drive you back, Dumbledore, your family, Arthur and the ministry… they can all help you. ``

'' NO ! '' She leapt to her feet. `` I don't want to go back, I can't ! Not like this ! ``

'' Please understand Annapurna, this doesn't have to mean- '' Lupin stopped and whipped his school principal to the side at the same time Annapurna did, both obviously picking up on something the others couldn't.

Harry and Luna must have caught whatever it was following because they both instantly had their baton out and had taken a few stair in front of Ron as if to protect him… Though Harry had been sure to place himself at the movement, keeping both Ron and Luna corralled behind him. Seconds later Troy salvo into their little clarification, his eyes quickly washing over them all as he took in the situation. `` I've been looking for you ! '' He said, zeroing in on Parvati. `` I'll take care of you if it's the last thing I do ! '' He screamed, rushing at her faster than Ron could perceive.

Parvati was ready but before he could even achieve her, Draco came out of nowhere, tackling Troy mid-strike. Ron watched in stun revulsion along with the others as the two male child tumbled to the priming coat, both quickly getting back on their ft and crouching low as they circled each other, waiting for the chance to attack.

'' Whoa, look out ! '' Ron yelled, catching sight of Tristram running through the Tree towards them. He raised his verge and took aim.

'' Ron, no ! That's not Tristan ! '' Luna shouted, knocking his arm just as he released his spell. Not quite understanding what she meant, he turned back in repulsion to determine out whether she had stopped him in time.





banknote : Who's the professor spy ? What will Lucius do ? What will pass off with vampires Troy and Parvati ? Did Ron mistakenly hit Jacey with a spell ? What's going on with Fred ? Find out future chapter !


Chapter 51 : A serious Day in Hogsmeade

A/N : So in this chapter I name a professor as a potential spy… just to let you make love, I am changing things up from how they were in the substantial books yet again by using an OC in place of an semi-established fictional character. Let's all go with the flow on this : ) Read, Review and Enjoy !



Hermione entered the gardening shed next to the flower shop and sat on the floor among the efflorescence pots before once Sir Thomas More eagerly pulling out the covenant. `` Lee ? ``

'' What happened ? Why'd you cut me off ? '' He demanded.

'' I heard someone coming and had to incite. '' She explained. Just as the snow had begun to strike harder, she'd heard the patent audio of footsteps crunching around the bookshop to where she'd originally gone to verbalise to him. She'd had to fill up the compact car and quickly hide herself behind the woodpile before the improbable trope of a man walked past her toward the orchard. She hadn't bothered to interrogative sentence who he was or where he was going, she'd been too uneasy to summarize talking to Lee. Instead she'd waited until the man was a few thousand from her before dashing out and around the other side of the building toward the now abandoned streets. Figuring the shed was her in effect bet not to run into anyone else while still getting out of the snow, she'd rushed there and closed herself in. `` You were saying the spy might be a professor ? '' She asked incredulously.

'' Yeah, I'm passably sure. Seems Elanya had a secret fling that the ministry actually knew all about… According to the data file, she and the professor involved had to give ear corrective sense of hearing years ago before she graduated but they were able to convince everyone that they were mistaken… or at least no one could rise the affair. '' He answered, flipping through the document to be sure of what he was telling her.

'' None of that was in her Hogwarts file. '' Hermione argued.

'' Maybe not in so many countersign, but if you go back and interpret it now, you might see that they alluded to it… What I have here seems to indicate that Dumbledore had wanted the prof to be banned from teaching but as they were ineffectual to examine anything beyond a doubt, he had to hold the guy in employment and keep both their records clean. ``

'' So, who is it ? ``

'' Dolos Erebos. '' He grimly announced.

'' The Arithmancy professor ? Are you sure ? '' Hermione had always enjoyed his class, had been the merely one in her firm to attempt an OWL in the subject field. She couldn't believe he would possess an thing with a pupil let alone offer to spy on and down one.

'' That's what it says. And from what I'm visual perception of her recent locomotion, I'm somewhat sure they're still in touch- there was a paper of them being seen together this summer in Commonwealth of Australia. Let's see… she had entered the country to reportedly attend a family funeral. I have no idea why he was there obviously. You might want to count into the guy's files up at school because I'm sure as sin not breaking back into the ministry… nearly had pump failure the survive time, I was so uneasy someone would grab us. '' He shuddered as he recalled the experience.

'' I'll do that. Let me know if you manage to find anything else. '' She answered distractedly as her mind whirled, trying to call back everything she knew of Professor Erebos. While serious with a very no-nonsense position in his course of study, he was also very approachable and exhausted metre ensuring each of his bookman completely understood the textile, even if he did issue mile long essays every week. He always offered a favorable grin in the hallways and was will to heed when a student had a job. Hermione had always considered Erebos to be a very good teacher and nothing she could think of now reconciled him with the image of a murderous spy. But then… it was right there in his public figure, wasn't it ? Dolos Erebos, a name full of guile ... at to the lowest degree according to the Ancient Greeks.

( BREAK )

Luna watched in horror as her previous vision of this case came to liveliness before her eyes with a few new change now that they had attempted to interfere with the future and people were making their own decisions. No one seemed to have a go at it what to do as Draco and Ilion circled each other waiting for the opportune sentence to run into. And then Jacey, still disguised as Tristan had come running up and Ron perceiving the peril had mistakenly taken aim to try and help. She shouted and tried to stuff his arm in time before quickly whippng around to see whether she'd saved Jacey… she had, the early female child was still coming towards them.

'' What do you think of that's not Tristan ? '' Ron demanded. Luna realized everyone had stopped what they were doing and were tensely waiting to see what would unfold.

'' Now is not the time to explain. '' Harry said quickly.

'' I think it's the perfect time to explain ! '' Troy yelled, taking a step closer to Draco. Harry and Ron instantly pointed their baton, almost daring the vampire to spend a penny a move.

At last remembering that these were scholarly person and he was a professor, Lupin came to his senses and stepped forward. `` Everyone stop ! '' He shouted. Draco bristled at the command but troy gave no indication that he heard.

Instead he turned to Annapurna. `` come on, lose it out of it ! Do what you were made to do and help me avenge what they did to Tristan. ``

Parvati seemed unsure, her face showed she was concentrating hard. `` No. '' She said at last. `` There's zippo to avenge. He's not my master. ``

'' But I am ! '' Troy hissed. `` Now do as I say ! ``

'' Maybe you should receive learned how to do this amend before forcing it on me ! '' She screamed. `` I'll do nothing you say ! ``

And then they were both in motion before anyone could even perceive that they had moved. Parvati and Troy clashed together, a tangle of dentition and hook. `` stop over ! '' Luna shouted, knowing neither had heard her.

'' Harry ! supporter me separate them ! '' lupin yelled, waving his verge. Harry stepped forward and focused, using his own tycoon to grab hold of Ilium and rip him from Parvati's grasp as lupin pulled her away. Harry pinned Troy to the priming coat, allowing Luna to hurl and bandage him in place.

'' Hey ! '' Dragon shouted. Luna spun around in meter to see Parvati lunge and plan of attack him. She was on top of him on the footing and he was trying desperately not to offend her while still keeping her nails and snapping Fang away from him.

Harry, Ron and lupine rushed over to help but the lady friend was in a feral state and any time anyone got too closemouthed, she'd snap at them as well. `` arrest now ! '' Jacey shouted. Still bearing Tristan's appearance, she stepped forward and allowed the flames to burst from her custody in warning.

Unlike Tristan, Parvati's skin wasn't dense and could easily be burned. Her eyes were on Jacey's work force, transfixed by the attack. At last she seemed to come back to her senses, giving up her attack on Draco and rolling to the slope to leave him to fend. He quickly pulled his amulet from his pocket and put it on as he backed away from her, holding it firmly in his deal. Luna knew they were lucky that he'd managed to string up on to himself, it had to bear been difficult for him to separate Annapurna from the vampire she now was. It was brighten she'd lost herself and attacked him simply for what he was, her raw enemy… thankfully genus Draco had been given more time to get used to his werewolf self.

'' I'm sorry. '' Parvati said sadly as she sat before them in the snow.

'' It wasn't your fault. '' Lupin reasoned, though he was sure to keep his distance from her as he also clutched his amulet.

seeing that the situation was under control, Jacey released the fire she'd been holding, her hands now hanging at her sides and smoking slightly. Luna held her breath along with the rest of her supporter as Ron approached her.

'' Jacey ? '' He asked hesitantly, clearly unsure as the individual before him looked everything like Tristan. `` What the hell is going on ? ``

( BREAK )

Ginny tried to pull her arm free, but Lucius dug his fingers in, refusing to let her fly the coop so easily. `` This is your death probability, where's Draco ? '' He growled.

'' He's out in the woods somewhere, he's not here in the village ! '' She shouted at him before turning and screaming at the top of her lungs, hoping to alert someone to the fact that she was in trouble. But they were so far from the buildings, and the thickly falling snow muffled her voice even more.

'' Stupid young lady ! '' He shook her and once more pointed his wand in her grimace. `` Do that again and I'll cut your tongue right out. '' He threatened.

And not doubting that he would, she kept her oral cavity shut. Panic was quickly settling in as she realized her silent calls for assistant were going as unanswered as her actual screams. Harry, Luna and Jacey must be too far into the wood and had gone out of range… at least that's what she hoped. Not wanting to clear herself feel even high-risk, she refused to think that they weren't answering because something had happened to them out there.

'' So, he's out in the wood. '' Lucius stared off thoughtfully, gripping her arm even loaded. `` That's right, the replete moonlight is only two days away… they probably don't want him mixing with the scholarly person too much. Let me guess, he's out there with Remus lupin. '' He sneered. Ginny remained silent, neither wanting to affirm nor deny anything he thought. He had no musical theme that Fred had found a way to help with those amulets so she was perfectly volition to let Lucius trust Draco was more out of ascendance than he was. `` Alright, we're going to swipe out of the village and go looking for them. It's better we go out into the woods anyway, less chance of being seen. '' He licked his lips, eager to suffer this face-off with his son.

She didn't fight as he pulled her along to whatever divulge in the fence he'd snuck in through. Ginny very much wanted him to take her out there and closer to Harry and Luna… she had to tell them to monish Draco. The last thing she was going to do was let Lucius have the component of surprise.

( BREAK )

Having finished talking to Lee, Hermione slowly made her way back out into the small snowstorm. She instantly headed towards the bookstall, feeling hangdog for leaving Ginny there alone for so long. As she walked, she began preparing her exculpation for the early girl, trying to adjudicate what to say to her and still not alert her to the fact that her brother was missing. It was cold and wet out, and Hermione was eager to get inside and warm up despite having to lie to one of her friends once she got there ... But just as she was approaching the room access, she could consume sworn she heard person screech for help. What's more, she thought it sounded like Ginny.

The snowfall was growing mysterious, making it intemperately for her to point her way around to the back of the building once more. She fell twice as she tried to run, and she shivered as her pant where now completely soaked. Even though she hadn't heard another scream, she was suddenly certain that it was Ginny and she kept moving forward in sentence to see two figures far ahead of her, one dragging the other into the orchard. Hermione forced herself not to call out, waiting until they were completely in the trees before going to follow, pulling out her sceptre as she went.

'' Hey ! '' She heard someone song from behind her.

turning, she found Crabbe and Goyle standing together. `` What do you two want ? '' She asked impatiently, gripping her wand tighter.

'' That's not Lovegood ! It's Granger. '' Goyle shoved Crabbe.

'' How was I supposed to be able to tell through the snow ? '' He argued.

'' I really don't have meter for an act from Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum. '' She called over the wind. `` Why don't you two just run along ? ``

'' Where's Luna ? We need to babble out to her. '' Crabbe took a few menacing steps towards her, forcing her to raise her wand.

'' Do you see her anywhere ? I have no thought where she is. '' Hermione answered nervously. `` And I doubt you have any reason to talk to her since neither of you are supposed to be in the village. You're supposed to be under family arrest back at schooling. ``

'' And you're supposed to be with your friends… yet here you are, claiming to be all alone. '' Goyle taunted.

'' You really require us to believe the others aren't close by ? '' Crabbe leered.

'' I have always expected very little from either of you. And yet you still have the ability to disappoint. '' She shot back, refusing to show veneration in forepart of these two idiots. `` And I don't need anybody's help to be able to fill fear of you. '' To examine her point, she shot a magic spell at their feet, causing the snow to violently explode up into their faces.

It was straighten out they would have liked to retaliate, but their doubtfulness that they could really strike her on was too much. After all, they'd had years to see what she was capable of in course of instruction. `` seed on, let's go back to the Greenwich Village and look for Lovegood. '' Crabbe suggested. `` Granger's useless to us at the second anyway since thrower's not around. '' He added, as if they were leaving only because she wasn't worth their time.

She let them go simply because she knew Luna was nowhere near the Village, though she did think to discourage both her and Harry that the Slytherins were looking for her. She tried calling out but soon realized they must have moved far out of range. Waving her baton, she dried her dress as best she could before turning and continuing on to the orchard, following the deep impressions Ginny and her captor had left in the coke. At lowest, with her teeth chattering and her legs all but benumbed, she came to a small cluster of shrub that was hiding a newly made hole in the wall surrounding the village.

Hermione didn't know what to do. The thought of going out into the Natalie Wood alone while Anapurna and Troy were out there wasn't too appealing, not to mention she wasn't sure just how dangerous this mystery man was who had taken Ginny. But looking behind her, the thought of going back to the village alone while the Slytherins were out on the hunt club for Luna didn't seem like the greatest plan either. She had no theme where any of her friend were or how long it would take before she was in mountain range to get hold of them… and even if she did go after them, she was already so low temperature, how long would it be until she actually caught pneumonia or frostbite ? But going back to the village to warm herself would signify giving up on Ginny and would take her feel like the big someone ever.

Tears of frustration slid down her cheeks, instantly freezing to her skin… she felt so well-worn, so make to gift up. She didn't know what to do. She sat down in the snow, giving into the apathy spreading over her. Pulling out the compact, she held it in her gloved hired hand wishing she could just open up it and see Fred's face… to babble to him and have him recount her it was alright and that she had to get up and go on. But that wasn't going to happen, only Lee waited at the other end and he had zilch comforting to volunteer. Never had she felt so alone.

( breakout )

Harry had been off with lupine trying to determine what to do next when they heard Luna scream. He turned to see Draco pull her out of the way as Anapurna tore yesteryear them to attack Troy, sinking both her claws and teeth into his neck. He and Lupin rushed over at the same time Dragon did and they all grabbed an arm to tear one vampire off the other. Troy, still bound in lupine's spell, could only writhe in pain as rake spewed from his neck ... she'd torn his throat out. Parvati was fighting them, trying to get back to her prey but they held on tight… though Harry could clearly see they'd been too late.

As soon as Troy stopped moving, his eyes glazing over with end, Annapurna went gimp and gave up her conflict to get away. `` I was so hungry… '' She said quietly, both sad and determined as the boy's blood dripped down her Kuki and stained her finger's breadth. `` undecomposed it was him than any of you. ``

Harry shook his head… Luna hadn't described any of this in her vision. Apparently Parvati was making her own selection right along with everyone else and changing the future- hopefully for the better.

lupine appeared dazed. I've never known of a newborn infant to plow so quickly on their creator. He thought to Harry, trying to make water logic of what he'd just witnessed. I suppose he did abandon her out here… and he was a newborn himself. He took out his hankey and handed it to Luna to give to Parvati so she could attempt to clean herself up.

'' Now what ? '' Ron asked as he and Jacey rushed over. The potion had worn off as she hadn't had the chance to acquire another sexually transmitted disease and so she was once more looking like herself… which only seemed to make Ron Thomas More worried, as if being confronted with evidence of everything they'd told him suddenly made it all dependable to him.

'' Just still down. '' Harry said, his brain whirling as he attempted to name sense of the affair he'd just seen. `` Let's all think about this rationally. ``

Ron shook his head angrily. `` O.K., how do we rationally explain Ilium not coming back to the castle with everyone else ? ``

'' Why would we have to ? The last somebody he was seen with was Tristan. '' Draco argued.

'' Exactly. '' Harry said grimly as it clicked together, how they could use this tragedy to their reward. `` Tristan will be the one to have to answer for Troy, if Jacey plays it right, she could give Dumbledore a way to finally exhaust him for just cause. ``

'' And me ? '' Anapurna asked miserably. `` How are you going to tie up this loose end ? ``

'' You must do back with us. '' Lupin once more insisted. `` There are many who live almost completely normal life sentence with the vampire curse, there's no intellect you can't do the Saame. ``

Parvati shook her head. `` I can't, and I won't let you make me. Tell my parents, Dumbledore and everyone else I'm dead ... I may as well be anyway. ``

'' What about Padma ? '' Ron asked quietly as he slowly approached the girl.

She turned to expect up at him with snag in her eyes. `` Yes, I do want to see her one more time before I disappear… ''

'' I can't in good conscience let you just run off on your own. '' lupin sighed. `` There is a billet I know of where you can go… a colony that takes in new vampires and helps them accommodate to a normal life. I will not tell your family you are suddenly, but I am willing to let them continue to imagine you are missing until you are in a better anatomy of mind to settle how you would like to proceed. ``

'' Where is this stead ? And how do you know about it ? '' Ron asked doubtfully.

'' I don't know where it is, for obvious reason my form would never be told no thing how in ascendency we are. But it is my business to make out these matter exist and I know exactly who to meet to need her there. '' lupine replied defensively before turning back to Anapurna. `` I can sustain them run into you outside Hogsmeade by morning. ``

She nodded slowly, clearly having no advantageously architectural plan. `` Okay. ``

Harry sighed in embossment before realizing they still had the thing of disposing of yet another consistence. `` What about him ? '' He gestured to Troy.

'' Well, I suppose we spread out and find an Ash Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. '' lupin said slowly. `` Any wood could work for him, but let's get Ash just to be sure enough. ``

Draco was the beginning to make out the group of tree they needed and they quickly went to help gather enough Mrs. Henry Wood to pass over Troy's body. Once they'd accomplished the project, Jacey stepped up and pointed her finger, emitting a flow of fire that instantly lit their sick bonfire.

Harry ? Luna ? He vaguely heard Ginny's articulation whisper through his mind. Turning to Luna he saw her nod to indicate she had heard it too. Reaching out to rank a hand on her berm, he was nearly knocked off his feet as their merge energy amplified Ginny's removed margin call. HARRY ? LUNA ? Can you listen me yet ?

Ginny ? What's wrong ? Luna answered anxiously.

Lucius Malfoy found me while he was in the village looking for Draco. I told him he was out in the woods so now we are too. I can't get away from him ! She desperately reported.

Where's Hermione ? Harry asked.

I have no mind. Ginny said quickly. She walked out of the bookstall and I haven't seen her since.

Can you get Ron and Jacey back to Hogsmeade by yourself ? Harry asked Luna.

I believe so. She replied uncertainly, not well-chosen with the idea of splitting up their group even more.

okay, when you get there stay near Jacey if you can and try to stave off the space you know the Slytherins might be. Try and find Hermione and Kingsley and stick with them. He was unquiet about Luna going back to the village without him but he couldn't exactly have her and the others stand out here in the woods with a lamia who was barely in mastery of herself. Hey, guy rope ? We have a svelte problem. He thought out to everyone but Ron, bracing himself for Dragon's reaction to the news.

( BREAK )

Jacey watched as Ron walked away from the others and knew he was beyond angry… there may not even be a intelligence stiff enough for what he was feeling. It was a dark mixture of fury, treason, disgust, guilt and outrage. He knew as everyone prepared to leave that there was now something else he was not being told… but seeing how he was reacting, she felt Harry had made the right decision in not telling him that his sister was in the clutches of her boyfriend's father. For all they knew, Ron would plough his emotional broadside on Draco and pick him for what Lucius had chosen to do. And seeing how badly Draco himself had taken the tidings, Jacey knew it would be bad if Ron tried to part anything. `` Hey, I am sorry I did not say you I was pretending to be Tristram. '' She said softly as she approached him.

Ron shook his head. `` All those nights you came to see me as yourself… and I had no idea that I was still with you everyday… how could I have not known it was you ? How could you have lied to me so easily ? ``

'' It was not easy. And I did not lie exactly. ``

'' You said you were leaving the castle ! '' He angrily turned on her. `` That you were doing matter for the coven ! And really you were taking over the life of the vampire you helped kill ! ``

'' I said I had to go away but that I would be close by ... that was entirely confessedly was it not ? '' She argued. `` Once I was Tristram I was not myself and therefore I was gone, but I was never farther than a few hall from you. And I did do this for the coven… Harry and Luna are coven appendage are they not ? Tristan wanted to turn Luna and hand her over to Voldemort- not only would that have been bad for the coven, it would get destroyed Harry, how could I not have tried to help stop it ? ``

He let out a bitter laugh. `` Yeah, Harry, Luna, Hermione, Fred, Ginny… you're just like everyone else, always able to find justification. I'm tired of being on the exterior ! ``

'' We wanted to keep you safe… I wanted to keep you safe. This is why we did not recount you ! '' She said, knowing he did not remember it a good enough reason.

'' And what's everyone not telling me now ? Why are Harry, Malfoy and lupin really staying out here ? '' He countered.

'' They already told you, they're staying to help me. '' Parvati said quietly from behind them. They spun around to present her, both surprised by how easily she had crept up on them… Jacey to a greater extent than Ron as she had not sensed the vampire to be anywhere near them. `` Sorry to interrupt, I couldn't help but catch. ``

Thank you for keeping the secret about Ginny. She thought out.

He's already dealing with enough right wing now. Parvati thought back, her voice tense and wax of venom. Jacey was quick to clear the other girlfriend did not like her at all, and it was directly as a result of the familiarity she seemed to parcel with Ron… A green-eyed vampire… She did not know what to think, though she was struck by the idiotic idea that Parvati had laid claim to him first. And seeing how he instantly softened his position, it was clear the guilt trip he felt over the girl's fate was solid, bonding him to her in an obligatory alliance.

'' I can delay too. '' Ron offered.

Parvati shook her head. `` No, you go aid find oneself Hermione. She and Luna are going to need you to depend after them… but will you do me a party favor ? will you please meet me outside Hogwarts tonight with Padma so I can talk to her before I leave ? ``

'' Yes. '' He instantly agreed. `` Whatever you want. ``

Jacey felt uneasy knowing he would probably do anything Anapurna asked now… that his own conflict would make it nearly unsufferable to deny her. And she could understand- driven by a desire to please rather than by guilt, she would do anything for Harry or Luna… and she would do anything for Ron as well. But what she could not and would not do, was tolerate herself to be bested by a vampire. As soon as she was done being Tristan she intended to build matter right with Ron and impatient to defecate that happen, she was prepared to begin ruining the Macnair reputation the bit they returned to school.

( rift )

'' Be deliberate. '' Harry warned one final time, reaching out to grok Luna's paw. They were standing alone, lupine had pulled Draco aside and they were talking quietly to each former while Ron, Jacey and Parvati conversed off in the distance. Taking the opportunity, Luna wrapped her arms around Harry's shank and held herself close against him, already hating that they were about to be separated. He ran his hand up her back, taking her facial expression in his hands and leaning down to buss her deeply.

'' We will. '' She promised quietly as they broke apart and rested their heads together. Wanting to blot out her own uncomfortableness, she offered a belittled smile to try and allay his trouble. After all she wanted him focused on himself while out looking for Lucius, not on her.

'' wellspring, I drank the potion, I guess it's time to steer back. '' Jacey announced as she, Ron, and Anapurna returned. `` I will do my honest to talk to the Slytherins. '' She promised.

Parvati stood near Ron though she didn't allow herself to get too close. `` Don't blank out what you promised. '' She said quietly.

He nodded and shuffled his feet. `` I won't. We'll be there tonight. ``

Luna felt bad that they hadn't told him exactly what was going on, having not wanted to alarm him with the fact that Ginny could be in hassle. In fact, he'd only been told that Harry, Draco and Lupin were staying behind to guarantee Annapurna could witness her way back to the rook and she couldn't assistance but feel it was a bad idea not to differentiate Ron. But at the same prison term she didn't want him to tag along and possibly get hurt in his despair to help his sister… It was bad enough Harry and Lupin would have to be keeping Draco in check.

Luna quickly leaned up to kiss Harry again and assured that Jacey had completely turned back into Tristan, she reached out to grab her and Ron and whisk them back to the Greenwich Village before she could change her mind. They arrived outside the Shrieking shanty, the but shoes she was certain there would be no students. for sure enough the place was deserted, and even though the snow began to let up as they walked they soon saw the streets of Hogsmeade were pretty very much open of people.

The first gear thing Luna wanted to do was find Hermione, she was worried about what had happened to her protagonist and she knew Harry was too. Closing her eyes, she tried to focus in on her while Ron and Jacey stood watch. `` Well ? '' Ron asked after a few moments. `` We can't outdoor stage here all day and let people see us hanging out with ‘ Tristan ’. '' He added, clearly still acerb about being kept in the dark.

'' She's in the grove and we'd advantageously hurry. Something's really wrong. '' She told them, coming back to herself after a shadow and unfrequented trip through Hermione's head.

They ran off, letting her call for the lead as she followed the daughter's dim stream of consciousness. Running through the tree diagram and right up to the bulwark, Luna frantically pushed the bushes aside to expose Hermione huddled into herself as she sat in a hole. Her teeth were chattering and her lips were low-spirited, her face red and raw from the cold. The minuscule attack she'd made for herself was dying out and she had clearly been prepared to let it. `` Hermione ! '' Ron rushed to pull out her to her human foot, wrapping his arms around her in an attempt to offer warmth.

I couldn't make up one's mind what to do, bequeath or stay. Hermione looked at Luna, unable to pull in her mouth form Son as she shivered. Her eyes were so despondent, so lost and unsure.

It's okay, you aren't alone anymore. Luna assured her, stepping up to throw her arms around the girl as well. Jacey quickly broke off several limb, laying them down and lighting them in a giant star blaze, her witching fervour yet again rendering the snow inconsequential and therefore making her fire stronger than the unity Hermione had attempted to use to keep herself warm. Luna and Ron moved her closer, wanting to help their friend thaw out.

Why is Tristan here and lighting things on fire ? Hermione asked, her heart broad with fear while her voice maintained a benumbed indifference.

It is me, Jacey. She answered for herself.

It's a farsighted story I'll tell you about later. Luna added.

Again Hermione looked to her and her alone. Please don't leave again. She begged. Her idea was a jumble of a fix, even she didn't know what she was thinking anymore other than that she was scared, coldness and alone.

I won't. She promised, holding her friend tighter as they edged her even closer to the fire for more warmth.

Once sealed her flame were properly contained, Jacey turned to them. `` I will go gather as many Slytherins as I can and try to get them to ease up up their lookup for you. '' She told Luna. `` Once I have I will let you know that it is dependable to come back into the village. ``

'' Well be spry about it. '' Ron said angrily. `` Hermione needs to get indoors. ``

'' F-feet f-fr-frozen. C-can-n't w-walk. '' Hermione stammered out through her chattering tooth. Jacey took off in a rush with more than her concern driving her. It was clear that she didn't want to be around Ron while he was displeased with her.

'' What were you doing out here anyway ? And where's Ginny ? '' Ron demanded as he fed more Sir Henry Joseph Wood to the flaming. Luna and Hermione looked away from each other, neither wanting to amount up with an answer to that. But he caught on anyway, realizing they were both keeping something from him. Luna watched as a shadow passed over his fount and she knew he had reached his breaking point with secrecy, that this was the net drinking straw. He balled his hands into clenched fist at his sides and strode up to tower menacingly over her. `` I said, where's my sister ? '' He said in a silence yet threatening tone.

( BREAK )

The minute Potter had told him what Ginny had said, Draco saw red. He had to take the air away from the group to gain himself, to come to full term with the fact that today may just be the day he had to pour down his father… And it would sure as perdition come to that before he'd let Ginny get hurt. Taking several thick breathing space, he urged the others to plan faster, wanting nothing Thomas More than to receive Lucius and let him know what a mistake it was to put anyone, especially Ginny, in the middle of their genetic feud.

He felt lupine come up behind him and turned to face him. `` Just remember to try and prevent yourself in mastery. '' lupine said gently as he reached out to reassuringly squeeze Draco's shoulder. `` And commend, Harry and I are going to be with you… aught is going to happen to Ginny and we won't let you or Lucius do anything either of you will regret. ``

'' Why is he here ? '' Draco asked miserably. `` I gave Dumbledore all the ways I knew how to find him, why haven't they caught him yet ? Why is he still free to get along here and torture me ? ``

He shook his point. `` I have no idea. But when we catch him, we'll hand him over to the Aurors in the village. ``

'' That's if everything goes well. Lucius isn't one to encounter by the rules. ``

'' Neither are you and Harry. '' He reminded him. `` There's a lot about you that your father won't be expecting Draco, and that's his own fault because he placed limits on you in his own brain. I'm just glad you've managed to prove to yourself that you're more than than he ever thought you could be. Don't let him prick you just because he doesn't think you're dangerous to him. ``

'' I just want him to leave Ginny alone and disappear out of my animation. '' He said, shrugging him off and crossing his arms defiantly.

'' And we will make believe that materialize, but in a way that doesn't end with anyone else dying today. '' lupine insisted.

'' Hey, they left for Hogsmeade. '' ceramist said as he and Parvati cautiously approached them. `` I'm pretty sure as shooting I've caught Ginny's consciousness… if you're fix. ``

'' Of course I'm ready, she's already been with him too long. '' Dragon took a cryptic breathing place and fain himself.

'' And you're sure you can get back to Hogwarts ? '' Lupin asked Parvati.

She nodded eagerly. `` Yes, just go so that I can be alone to get ready. '' Draco knew what she meant… she was going to get something to eat before coming face to face with humans again.

Potter reached out and grabbed hold of him and lupin, apparating them away and to where he sensed Ginny to be. Within sec they were miles away back near the Village, but no one was there. `` We must bear just missed them. '' lupine pointed out the deep footmark in the snow.

genus Draco sniffed the air and instantly picked up the syncope scent of the coconut application Ginny used. He raced ahead of the other two, grimly bore to once More face his sire. Seeing them ahead in the distance he slowed and waited for Lupin. Leaving ceramicist to extend them, the two werewolf removed their amulets and placed them carefully in their pockets where they wouldn't make liaison with their skin. Draco could still feel the effects of it and longed to throw the affair far away from him… but he knew better. Without the Wolfsbane, the amulet were the only affair keeping them sane in these utmost two days before the moon and he needed that in order to ensure he kept his wits and didn't accidentally hurt the wrong person.

Without a Holy Writ to each other, they allowed the wolf to waken within them, heightening their senses and setting out to do what they were meant to- William Holman Hunt. Breaking off from each other they noiselessly moved over the C. P. Snow in contrary charge before running parallel, looking to encircle their prey and leave no outflow. Ginny, we're here. Draco heard thrower silently call out to assure her as Lucius continued to drop back her unwillingly along behind him.

As soon as he was assured they were all properly situated, Dragon gave the signal and he and Lupin leapt from behind their Tree with their scepter out, trapping Lucius from either side and the front. He leapt back in surprise, clutching Ginny closer to him and spinning around to find oneself Potter behind him brandishing his wand with various heavy branches circling in the air around him. Backing up against a tree as they all three closed ranks, Lucius swung Ginny into his body and crushed his arm against her throat to keep back her from escaping while using her as a sort of human shell. He waved his verge at all of them threateningly though his eyes were locked on Draco. `` I've been looking for you, son. '' He said as a dangerous smile spread across his face.

genus Draco could see Ginny shivering and knew it was more than the cold, she was clearly scared about what was going to bechance. He wanted to keep himself together, to hold open her worried about herself and not him… but facing Lucius, seeing the hatred his father now had for him, he couldn't blockage himself. Pulling the amulet from his pocket, he angrily tossed both it and his wand in the Baron Snow of Leicester and threw his arms out tauntingly. `` I'm right here. ``

( BREAK )

Crabbe and Goyle were the first two Jacey found, which made sense seeing as how they were forced to wander the streets in social club to not be seen and thus reported for breaking their house arrest. As Tristan, she ordered them to gather as many of the others as they could and let them meet her in the Shrieking Shack. Quickly going from building to building, she found the residuum of the Slytherins and gave them all her orders before heading up to the deserted home herself.

When she entered the cold parlor, she saw that almost everyone was already there. A few stragglers came in after her and she was for certain to stare sticker at them to let them know she was displease. `` Everyone pay unaired attention because I've already had a bad day and I'd hate to have to stool it worse by repeating myself. '' She looked around to see all attending was on her. `` troy and I ran into some problem while out looking for Anapurna Patil. Suffice to say, neither of them will be joining us and it is best that you all forget they even existed. '' A low murmur of blur articulation rang out and she knew she'd have to give them more. `` All you need to have it away about the office is that they became boisterous and I was forced to deal with them. ``

'' None of us can find Lovegood. '' Pansy said cautiously. She was clearly as bore as the others to ask about troy, but thankfully they weren't as perceptive as the vampire had been and her scourge were enough to harbor them in check… for now.

'' It's just as well. '' Jacey waved her off. `` I had arranged a meeting in club to hand her off only to learn that my missionary work has changed. ``

'' The Dark Creator doesn't want Lovegood anymore ? '' Millicent asked doubtfully.

'' I didn't say that. '' She snapped, startling the other girl into muteness. `` There are a lot of thing going on that none of you can even begin to savvy. I suggest you halt trying and simply hear and watch orders, lest you wind up like Troy and Parvati. '' No one dared speak and she nodded in approval. `` That's more like it. Now, our main objective is no longer Luna Lovegood… instead it is being left to us to figure out who the secret girl is that Potter and Dumbledore are hiding at the castling. It seems the shadow Lord has taken a particular interest in her. ``

Jacey knew Harry and Luna were going to be upset that she was turning their attention on herself… but she figured this was the adept way to keep everyone dependable until they could pass on shoal at last. After all, how could the Slytherins possibly find her when she was busy hiding right in front of them ?

( BREAK )

Luna was stunned into taking a step back, away from Ron. She'd never seen him so tempestuous before. `` I don't know where Ginny is. '' She answered honestly.

'' You honest not be lying to me. '' He said, stepping forward and forcing her to take another dance step back.

'' I'm not ! '' She yelled, upset to be so scared of one of her friends… of person she'd once loved. `` I don't know where she is, but Harry, Draco and lupine are with her. '' She admitted, hoping that would be enough to appease him. But of course it wasn't.

'' So wait, they lied about why they were staying out there ? '' He roared, shouting in her face. `` What the bloody hell is going on ? ! And how does my Sister fit into it ? ``

'' St-stop yell-yelling ! '' Hermione shouted out of nowhere. Having been so involved in their argument, they'd forgotten she was still there, hunched over the fervor with her hands spread out over it. `` W-w-whatever's hap-happened to G-Ginny isn't Luna's f-fault and th-the others are out th-there looking f-for her, s-so you sh-sh-should be grateful. If you w-want to b-bl-blame s-someone f-for something hap-happening to Ginny, th-then bl-blame m-me. I'm th-the one w-who ab-b-bandoned her in th-the bookstore. '' She stammered out as she shivered.

Ron was nearly shaking as he attempted to control his rage. `` And why did you do that ? '' He asked through clenched teeth.

'' T-to t-talk t-to Lee. '' Hermione looked directly at him. `` Fred s-sent him up h-here w-with s-some quest-t-tions ab-about th-the quickcures and I st-st-stepped exterior t-to service f-figure it out. '' She lied smoothly, her anger helping drive her into remaining calm and believable. After all, now that Ron knew Ginny was missing, there was no reason to alert him to the fact that Fred was as well. He'd been exposed to enough accuracy today… one too many actually, if his rapidly reddening look and darkening eyes were any indication.

'' Don't talking to me, either of you. Not unless it's to let me sleep together Jacey has given the all clear to go back to the village. And after, I don't want to blab to any of you at all. '' He said, turning his back on them to go sit alone on a Tree stump a few yards away. Clearly he still cared enough not to abandon them, but the air of his anger was suffocating.

Luna carefully sat beside Hermione in the surface area Jacey had cleared away of nose candy. `` Are you okay ? '' She asked the other girl who's teeth were still chattering as puffs of air passed through her blue lips.

'' J-just re-really c-c-cold. '' She answered. Lee figured out who the spy is. She thought, not wanting to spend energy talking.

And ? Luna prompted.

It's Professor Erebos. He had an affair with Elise while she was here at schooltime though no one can prove it. Lee believes there's evidence that they've continued to stay in tangency. Hermione quickly explained.

well, I could certainly see him more subject of killing mortal than Herb Simon. Luna answered. aught came to her saying they were legal injury and so she had no cause not to accept Lee's research as a plausibleness. But Simon is working for them somehow… That she was sealed of. suspicion had been poking at her since she'd agreed to dance with him at the Costume Ball, now it was downright shoving her in it's insisting that there was something off about that boy.

After awhile, Jacey finally called out to silently tell Luna that it was as safe to get in the village as it was going to get. She helped Hermione to her feet and left it to her to tell Ron that it was sentence to go. Despite his continued vehemence, he silently stomped over to help oneself Hermione walk. Together they guided her between them, bore to finally get her out of the frigidity. Glancing behind her past the wall, Luna hoped Harry was alright out in the woods though she was more than positive that she would recognize instantly if he weren't.

( BREAK )

Ginny tried not to look directly at genus Draco as Lucius pressed his arm against her throat, not wanting him to see just how scare away she was. After all, she wasn't being hurt, Lucius seemed more worry in using her as a hostage or cuticle than hurting her. But seeing Draco get rid of his amulet and shed it away, seeing the fury in his eyes that had built up after years of dealing with his father… she had no theme what was about to find but she was horribly afraid that this wasn't going to end well.

'' I'm right here. '' Draco taunted his Fatherhood, clearly trying to get him to occupy the bait and release Ginny.

But Lucius was no idiot, he'd been surviving for a long time and knew that she was the only thing keeping Draco, Harry and Lupin at bay. He wouldn't let go of what was currently keeping him safe and the others at his whim. `` Yes you are, wandering in the woods like an animal. '' He sneered at his son. `` I'd have thought Potter would birth put you out of your wretchedness by now… Apparently he's no different that his foolish father and your mother's moronic first cousin, keeping around a untamed beast because they're too namby-pamby to do the right thing. ``

Ginny couldn't help the tiny shriek that escaped her as Lucius dragged her along to the side to circumvent away from the thick branch Harry had sent flying at him as he insulted James, Sirius and Lupin. Looking up, she saw several More outgrowth still dancing in the air around Harry as he glared down Lucius, almost daring the man with his gaze to say something else derogatory about the the great unwashed he loved. `` heedful ! '' Draco shouted, upset that Ginny could have been hit as well.

'' It was just a warning. '' Harry said with simulated composure. `` It didn't even get near them. ``

'' It is my understanding that you allowed Harland Myers to reside secretly in your house for a decade. '' Lupin said stiffly, stepping slightly between the boy and Lucius to keep anything else from happening. He appeared equanimity, only his center indicated the detestation he had for the other man. `` Where was your spine then ? Why would you have let someone so dangerous to you and your family infiltrate your life ? ``

'' Make no error, if I had a choice in the matter, Myers would receive never come near my household. '' Lucius answered bitterly. `` As it is, he proved utile all these years later… except none of you did what you were supposed to ! I should possess figured they'd let Draco live, after all, they kept you around all these year. Quite outlived all your acquaintance, haven't you ? '' He taunted. Lupin remained silent but Ginny could see the fury written in every line of his face. Draco and Harry were holding their breathing place as they stood alert, waiting… they were all waiting for their probability. Lucius went on, his own anger slowly leaving his restraint. `` Of course there always more to still take away- your friend's son and his friends, your blushing bride… your new make-shift son. You think I don't know that you signed your figure to papers claiming charge of Draco ? ``

'' What do you deal ? '' Draco snapped.

'' I care ! '' Lucius shouted violently, squeezing down his hold on Ginny without realizing it. She reached up to pull at his arm and repay her fully flow of oxygen, but his grip was tight and all she could do was struggle to continue breathing as the others closed social station further. `` stay back ! '' Lucius warned them as he turned his scepter on her. `` Two words and her spirit is over before any of you can break off me. '' He turned his attention back on Draco. `` Whatever happens, you are a percentage of me, my figure and bones, my genes. And now not only have you willingly allowed another family to be creditworthy for you, you've completed your treason by telling the parson where to find me ! I may ingest tried to kill you Draco, but I expected to a greater extent of you. You should birth come and found me yourself if you wanted revenge, but I see spending so practically metre with these the great unwashed has made you frail. ``

'' No, you were right. I am still your son and here we are face to face… but you're the one who's still hiding behind someone else. Are you that scared of me now ? '' Draco yet again taunted his Father, wanting him to release Ginny and come after his existent target. She shivered, scared that he'll lose and even more scar about the more in all likelihood outcome- that he'll win. Either way, after today, she knew Draco was going to be different.

( recess )

Ron sat opposite Luna and Hermione in front of the fire in the trio broomstick. Despite the revel and tacky voices all around them, they three remained soundless each lost in their own thoughts. Again he wished he could have been the one to read minds, that he could rip open those girls capitulum and learn all the secret they were still keeping from him. He felt torn in a million dissimilar pieces and didn't know what to feel first, which resulted in a continuous shift of anger, sadness, guilty conscience, obligation, jealousy, betrayal, and confusion.

His brain still couldn't fully comprehend what had happened to Parvati or what he'd seen her do to Troy. He'd never stopped blaming himself since she'd disappeared, and then finding out Jacey had been to blame as well… that she had known what was possibly improper with Parvati and hadn't said anything… it had been overwhelming. Today had sufficiently blown his psyche. How could Jacey have slept beside him each night knowing that she was lying to him everyday ? And her reason for keeping him in the wickedness was the Sami bull Harry and Dumbledore had been feeding them for years- to hold him safe. But he didn't find very protected.

Worse than his ira and confusion over Jacey, it felt there would never come a time when he'd come up peace of mind over Parvati's fate… how was he supposed to live his spirit knowing he'd allowed hers to be destroyed. She'd seemed so hopeless out there in the woods, so resigned to an ageless living of loneliness. How could he forgive himself or Jacey for any of it ? Tristan and Ilium, the two really responsible for were utterly and the only ones left to pick were the living who had allowed it to pass off. Ron dropped his question in his manpower, unsure of everything except that he was tired of thinking.

'' Hey, have you guys seen James Dean and Padma ? '' Seamus asked, walking up to their silent deuce-ace and taking in their somber faces. `` Whoa, who died ? ``

'' I haven't seen them, but I think they're at Honeydukes. '' Luna answered softly, never raising her gaze from the floor.

'' I'll go with you to look for them. '' Ron offered, needing a second away from the lady friend. After all, one had left his babe and let who knows what happen to her and the other was Luna, who he just couldn't make heads or arse of anymore… he was torn, wondering if perhaps he was actually starting to hate her. After all she was the loose to pick for everything going ill-timed, from her imagination or lack of them to her unaffected power to restrain a secret to her swooping in on Harry and shaking up their whole group. It didn't matter if Hermione claimed that without Luna she and Harry would receive still broken up because he knew it wouldn't have happened. Fred nor anyone else could have turned her principal if she wasn't certain Harry no longer wanted her and Ron didn't deal how practically they protested to the reverse. And now because Hermione was in use chasing Fred's approval, she'd left Ginny to an uncertain fate… He turned to await at both lady friend, trying to cover some of what he was feeling about them. `` You two are planning on staying here in these exact spots, right ? ``

'' I'm certainly not going back outside until it's time to go back to school. '' Hermione muttered, sinking further into her seat to get her fundament closer to the fervidness. She was examining her digit, which were the same bright pink as her cheeks, wind and frontal bone. Ron found he was relieved to not to see any obvious signs of frostbite… hopefully she'd warm up and at worst, come out of this with a bad cold.

Satisfied that they were prophylactic in the crowded inn until the others came back, Ron left without another Scripture to either of them. He walked past Jacey who was sitting as Tristan at a mesa by the door with Pansy and Millicent. It was clear she'd come there to help keep an eye on him, Luna and Hermione should anything go wrong. He ignored her completely as he went out, finding it didn't much bother him that he had to pretend to dislike her ... after all, there wasn't much pretending at the moment. Lost in his own head, he followed Seamus down the route to the candy store.

The snowfall had stopped and Ron looked around, hoping to see sight of his sister as people once more began filling the streets. But of course she wasn't here safety in the village. She was out there in the woods in some kind of untold peril and his friends had decided he didn't need to know about it. He took a few mystifying breaths to try and calm himself, not wanting to alert anyone to the fact that Harry and Ginny weren't where they were supposed to be unless he had to. As mad as he was, Ron trusted Harry to convey concern of Ginny… and fight ejaculate to shove, he trusted Draco to as well. With Lupin completing the trio, he knew his sister's welfare was in unspoiled hands- he just wished he knew what was going on.

'' There they are… '' Seamus said as they entered Honeydukes, pointing to a back wall where Dean and Padma were standing and talking very close together. Ron let out an involuntary shiver as he recalled the finish time he'd been in this depot. They'd avoided it the finale few clip they'd come to Hogsmeade for a reason after all, none of them wanted to recall what had happened there last year or anything else about that fight. Ron straightened himself up and prepared what he was going to say to convert Padma to leave the castle with him tonight without rightfulness out telling her about Parvati…

( BREAK )

Harry held his breath as Draco continued to taunt his don but again Lucius refused to consume the bait. All any of them needed was one prospect, one moment where Ginny could break down rid but it was plain he wasn't going to make it to them. For all his hard talk, it was cleared Lucius was the one who was most scared as none of them were hiding behind anyone else… Draco had even thrown his wand away, though Harry wished he had held onto the talisman. After all they wanted to capture Lucius, not pour down him.

'' I'm not scared of you. '' Lucius sneered.

'' Prove it ! '' Draco shouted. `` blockage hiding behind a girl and come try to end my spirit if that's what you want ! I'm not scared of you either ! ``

'' I suppose that's why you told them about the safety houses ? ! '' He yelled back. `` Imagine my surprise when the one I'm at is surrounded and I'm forced to fight my way out ! And then every single place I go to after is already swarming with Aurors. Your mother would never dare, but you ! You're just spineless enough to send person else to strip up for you. So I came here to show you what it's like to be a man and present your demons… I came here looking for you Draco. Send your new friends away and I'll let the Minister's girl go with them. ``

'' That's not going to happen. '' lupin said quickly. Neither he nor Harry was going to exit Draco alone with Lucius. `` You have no relocation to make here, think about it. You can't apparate without leaving a trace and these woods are already swarming with Aurors looking for a neglect student. It won't take a good deal for them to ascertain you wherever you go. No one is going to let you hurt Ginny or try to hurt your son. And no one is going to let genus Draco smart you either, that's something he shouldn't have to mete out with. ``

'' As if he could hurt me. '' Lucius spat out. `` I know my son better than you ever could. I find it cockeyed that within a few months you seem to think you can just waltz around in and surrogate parent the fiddling ophidian. prevent one thing in thinker, he may now be a swan dog like you, but you are not his phratry. I am. ``

'' And so is Nymphadora Tonks-Lupin. '' Draco shot back. `` For better or regretful, he married into this family… in fact, he's your nephew by marriage which makes him my first cousin and a member of the solitary section of this family I wish to belong to to. I don't even know you, and I don't tutelage to any retentive. ``

Harry watched a dark shadow flip over Lucius's case. He knew that despite whatever the man felt towards his son, he believed him to be his to deal with. `` You've disappointed me your all life, I don't know why I expected today to be any unlike. await at how weak you've let yourself grow… Tell me, if I ended all of their lives right now what would you do ? Would you violently avenge them or would you just sit down in the nose candy and cry ? '' It was pull in he was upset to instruct that there were people Draco was willing to put before him. Even more, he was upset to check that there were people who actually cared about what happened to Draco while he was left completely alone and on the run.

'' That's an impossibility and there's no need to chew over the out of the question. '' Harry said. His psyche was growing tired with keeping the branches in the air and though he could finger Luna sending him her strength and energy, he knew something had to be done soon. Okay, we need this to end. He thought out to his friends.

I couldn't agree more. Draco's strangled reply reached him. He was clearly having trouble holding himself in check and Harry could almost see the more than primal and instinctual persuasion of the skirt chaser inside him as it prepared for it's chance.

'' I've lived long enough to jazz that there is no such thing as the impossible. '' Lucius said aloud, ignorant of the fact they were all conversing around him.

'' So then the doubt is, how much longer you'll be living. '' Dragon returned.

When I give the signal, I'll throw another branch. When he ducks, Ginny, I want you to sound off, prick whatever you have to do to get him to loosen his grip if not let go completely. Harry told her.

I have absolutely no problem with that. She replied though her cognizance seemed dimmer.

Draco instantly picked up on the distraint in her voice. So let's do this then !

hold ! I want to be sure we cover all the slant so no one gets hurt by accident. Harry insisted, trying to remain calm himself. lupine, as soon as he moves, disarm him. And Draco… just don't kill him, okay ?

We'll see what happens. He thought back darkly.

I'm ready when you are. lupine said, either unaware or dismissive of the crimson feelings Draco was experiencing.

'' The same question could be posed to you. '' Lucius replied to Draco's spoken speech. `` Whether I end you today or someone else comes for you tomorrow, you will not be around long. There are too many looking to destroy you my son. You've made far too many of the untimely sort of enemy. Clearly you were better off when it was only Potter's hollow threats you had to care with. ``

'' I'm still breathing. '' Draco replied coolly as an plosion of revenge swirled within him. `` Clearly I'm not as bad off as you might retrieve. ``

Now ! Harry shouted in his mind, whipping the adult tree outgrowth directly at Lucius so he could see it coming. Like before the man tried to evade out of the way, dragging Ginny with him. But this metre she was ready for it. As soon as Lupin shouted `` Expelliarmus ! '' she bit down on Lucius's arm. Moving with the grace of a dancer, she swung her cubitus back at the like time she kicked her leg, catching him in both the gut and kneecap and sending the man sprawling. Luckily she managed to flap out from under him and before he'd fully touched the background, Dragon was on him and wrapping his hands tightly around his Father-God's throat.

'' No ! '' Harry raced forward with Lupin, both desperately pulling at Dragon's Fe grip. Nothing they were saying could hand him, he was in his own world now. Glancing behind him, Harry saw Ginny furiously digging in the blow and knew she was trying to find the talisman they'd all foolishly let Dragon throw away.

pull Lupin away, Harry wrapped Draco protectively in his mind before pulling with everything he had, sending the boy flying through the air to down gently a few yards away. Then he quickly turned to bind Lucius in place. Lupin rushed over to Draco, pulling off his talisman and kneeling to place it over the boy's promontory before leaning down to quietly talk to him. Harry reached out to lay off Ginny from going over. `` I don't care how sure we both are that he won't harm you, this is something lupine needs to help him with. '' Harry said gently, wrapping his arms around her as they both watched their Friend attempt to institute Draco back from the edge.

'' They should let drank the wolf's bane before coming out here. '' She shook her top dog angrily. `` Drake should let had it ready. ``

'' genus Draco wasn't supposed to take the amulet off, they didn't think they'd need it until tomorrow and we weren't exactly expecting Lucius. '' Harry answered. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' Yeah, my arm hurts a bit from being dragged around but I don't think he was very interested in hurting me, it was clearly Draco he wanted. I just let him believe he was out here alone. '' She said with a small smile.

Something poked at Harry's intuition and he turned to see Lucius had rolled himself several understructure to grab clutches of Draco's discarded scepter and liberate himself of the binding placed on him. `` Petrificus Totalus ! '' Harry shouted but Lucius shielded just in time, whipping his own spell back at Harry. He shielded, protecting both him and Ginny as she pulled her wand out and shot a stunner. Again Lucius shielded before pointing the scepter at the tree next to them. Harry grabbed Ginny's hand and pulled her out of the way, shoving her to the ground and throwing himself over her before casting a shield as a exhibitor of wood and snow rained down from the explosion.

lupine rushed forward with his own sceptre out sending go so fast Lucius could only shield himself. Draco came up and took his father's wand from Lupin, joining in the casting as Harry and Ginny unburied themselves from the heavy debris. Harry caught the glint of light from the corner of his eye and turned to see Lucius pull out and confuse two humble dagger with great upper and accuracy from behind his shield.

Harry couldn't pursue both and was only able to wiretap the one that had been flying straight at Draco's heart, using his mind to push it off course where it buried its intact duration harmlessly in a tree. The minute hit its target, embedding itself in Draco's leg. He fell to the position with a oink of botheration. Once again, Harry kept Ginny from rushing over, keeping her carefully behind him as he focused on Lucius who was obviously upset that he'd once more been stopped from killing his son. The man waved his sceptre with a fly high while shouting an unfamiliar incantation.

'' Harry ! '' Ginny shrieked. He turned to see her fighting off the tree that had suddenly come to life and reached down to snaffle her. He tried to facilitate but by this clock time he was now fighting off the branches himself. Lucius had bewitched the tree diagram to help oneself him, keeping Harry and Ginny occupy while he quickly turned back to Draco.

'' bet out ! '' Harry shouted a warning to Lupin who was crouched over genus Draco trying to make sure he was okay. Hearing him, they both looked up to see Lucius pointing his scepter at them.

'' I will not appropriate you to have my son. He is mine to let unrecorded or die. '' Lucius sneered down at Lupin before waving his wand. `` Avada- ''

'' NO ! '' Draco roared, shoving Lupin away and ripping the dagger from his own leg while ripping the amulet from his neck and hurling it far away. Fuelled by hazardous homo Eumenides and calculating animal inherent aptitude, he leapt to his understructure and lunged at his father, driving the steel deep into the man's belly.

Everything and everyone stopped moving including the bewitched Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. Harry saw Lucius's eyes grow wide with jar and something almost like pridefulness. Draco still had his paw on the handgrip of the dagger as he glared his father down. `` Guess I'm adequate to after all. '' He said quietly.

Harry felt Ginny drop to the ground and once more look for the amulet and he let her, figuring it was best both werewolves had them back. Besides, it kept her busy. He certainly wasn't going to try going near Draco at the moment and he wasn't going to let her either. lupine picked himself up off the soil and being the simply one in the spot to reach out to Draco he did. `` Come on. '' He said gently. `` Now we can ask him to Albus. ``

'' You'll occupy me nowhere ! '' Lucius burbled out. `` Now my son and I will finish this ! '' Before anyone could stop him, he grabbed Draco's shoulder and they were gone in a flash as he apparated them both away.

'' Dragon ! '' Ginny leapt to her feet and ran to the empty spot where they'd just been standing.

'' That was stupid. '' lupine muttered. `` We have to find them before the Aurors do. And they'll be sure to be heading this way now that they'll have an Energy tracing to investigate. ``

'' Why not let them find Lucius and Draco ? '' Harry asked. `` They'll be capable to take Lucius into detention and we'll be done with it. ``

lupin shook his nous. `` No, they'll take on genus Draco too. He has no control right now, there's no telling what he'll do if someone unfamiliar to him tried to come between them. They won't flavor at him like we do, all they'll see is a humanoid out of control… trust me, I've been arrested several times for a great deal less in my younger years. ``

'' Dumbledore wouldn't let that fall out. '' Ginny said, Sir Thomas More to promise herself than them.

'' He won't have a choice. '' Harry answered grimly.

'' Exactly. And if they find genus Draco out of control so close to both Hogsmeade and the schoolhouse, they'll charge me and revoke mine and Tonks guardianship… I won't be able to help him and he'll be lost in the endless red tape of bureaucratism. ``

'' So, where did they go then ? '' Harry asked. `` I mean, Lucius was hurt, he couldn't have gone far. '' He sent out his creative thinker and caught a faint trace of Draco.

lupine sniffed the air and pointed south toward the village and the hatful. `` That way. I can faintly smell Lucius's pedigree. ``

( rupture )

And that's it, there's nothing else you're leaving out ? Hermione asked.

After Ron had left with Seamus, Luna had taken it upon herself to silently secern Hermione everything that had been happening. After all, if Ron now knew there was no understanding she couldn't… especially if they were planning to hold Tristan disappear as soon as possible. She could tell the former female child wasn't mad, that she knew she was guilty of keeping secrets just as orotund involving the whole thing with Fred and Elanya. But she was hurt that they hadn't trusted her and there was zippo Luna could do to arrive at that better.

That's it. So now Jacey just has to carry the blame as Tristan for troy weight's disappearance and hopefully we can end this… until or unless someone connects it to us. She answered, absently staring at the students around them, jealous of their simpler lives.

Poor Parvati… no wonder Ron feels so terrible. Hermione took another sip of her hot chocolate.

There are a lot of reason for why he's so overturned, she is one of them. She said glumly before turning affair around and focusing on her acquaintance. `` So, are you okay ? '' She asked aloud.

'' Finally starting to feel quick and I can wiggle all my fingerbreadth and toes so I think I'm okay. '' She answered, staring off into the fire. `` I don't roll in the hay what happened to me… it was like I couldn't make a decision so I just pick out to do nothing at all. ``

'' We all lose ourselves for a picayune patch and we're all dealing with so much… even you had to unwrap eventually. '' Luna reached out to rub Hermione's shoulder joint in comfort.

'' Do you think Ginny's okey ? '' She asked quietly, her guilt over leaving the other girl alone quite apparent.

'' I have no rationality to think otherwise- '' She cut herself off as the bellowing started in her ears.

'' I guess you spoke too soon. '' Hermione said, having recognized the signs of a coming vision.

Her eyesight blurred, whatever it was, it was coming fast no matter how hard she tried to hold it off. I can't do this out here in front of everyone. She thought out desperately. Hermione took her arm and guided her through the building and down a long hall to the binding bathrooms, settling her down on the small waiting sofa before locking the door.

Luna let herself go, giving into the vision… her initiatory since she'd fried out her mind. She was excited in a way, as this had to have in mind she hadn't broken herself. It was the white elbow room, a sharper, brighter version than ever before. Harry was beside her and instantly Sarah, Elise and Elanya were there, reaching out their arms and beckoning them to do over. She felt a twist, a desire to go and see what they had to propose. Simon suddenly walked by, much finisher than the others and grinning at her menacingly as he too reached out a hand to her and her alone. Harry disappeared from her side and she recoiled, once More aware of herself and the fact that she wanted nothing they had to offer. But that moment of uncertainty, she knew that was a clue as very much as anything she was being shown… This entire warning was clearly for her alone and she had to pay close down attention to everything.

Coming out of it, she felt dizzy and extremely thirsty. `` detention on, just delay here and get your bearings. '' Hermione said, looking at her in business concern. `` I'll go get you some juice or something equally sweet, I think your descent sugar might have dropped… you're awfully pale. ``

Luna lay back down and gratefully let her go, trying to respire through the soreness she was feeling. But Hermione had only been gone a few moments when a cryptic sentience of foreboding washed over her. Forcing herself to her feet and ignoring the dizziness, she suddenly felt the indigence to be back in the chief room with spate of people. Opening the door she peeked her head word out and instantly felt individual else nearby. She rushed to close the doorway, but someone collided against it and began trying to push their way in. `` Come on Luna ! I just want to spill to you ! ``

She recognized Simon's voice and shoved harder against the door to keep him out. `` Go away ! '' She pleaded.

He managed to get his invertebrate foot in the door, ensuring she wouldn't be able to lock in him out. `` Just a simple conversation, that's it, I promise. ``

Not knowing what else to do, Luna closed her centre and apparated herself away to the for the first time place she thought of- the orchard. It was unclouded right away that she'd made the wrong alternative as her pelage was still sitting on the couch by the dainty warm fire at the III Broomsticks… but she'd wanted to get as far from Simon the Canaanite as potential and this was where she'd wound up. Shivering, she wrapped her arms around herself and began to quickly make her way back to the inn. No one was supposed to be able to apparate around the settlement and luckily she'd figured out that the traces she and Harry left when they did so went unnoticed by the Aurors… But still, she couldn't just appear back at the inn, anyone could see her do it and she knew it was always best to shroud your strengths as well as your weaknesses. Quickly linking intellect with Hermione, she told the girl what had happened so that she wouldn't be caught unawares by Simon. Jacey, keep an eye on Hermione. I had to circumvent out but I'm on my way back. She thought out, wanting as many people to hump the situation as possible.

She had just reached the bookshop when two mass jumped out in front of her. She leapt back, startled to find Crabbe and Goyle, both looking one-half quick-frozen as they'd clearly spent all of their time outside. `` Hey look, we finally found Lovegood ! '' Goyle nudged Crabbe.

'' Yeah, when we aren't supposed to be looking for her anymore. '' He grumbled. Luna remained unsounded, not wanting to draw in their care as she reached in her back sack for her wand… but it wasn't there. Either she'd left it with her coat or she'd dropped it in the bathroom while struggling to celebrate St. Simon out.

'' Aren't we ? '' Goyle countered. `` Tristan said she's not the primary precedency, but she's still a target isn't she ? ``

'' I don't know… I suppose. '' Crabbe scratched his head.

Letting them figure out whether or not they were supposed to nab her, she slowly backed away before turning and full out running back toward the orchard. `` Hey ! Get her ! '' She heard one of them outcry, not stopping to search back and see which one or whether they were gaining on her. Panic set in and with the cramp in her incline, her frozen arm and her bucket along eye, she knew she wouldn't be capable to outrun them no matter how lightly her slight stature let her fly across the snow. She could discover them barreling after her, it was only a thing of time before they caught her. Seeing the wall ahead, she closed her eyes and thought herself on the former position of it. Within here and now she was back outside the village and running through the woods with no musical theme where she was or how far she'd sent herself.

Sudden suspicion flooded through her and she knew she was going the wrong way. Her metrical unit toppled out from under her as she tried to stop them and she slid forward down mound through the trees. She raised her subdivision to protect her look, wildly trying to grab onto a branch to slack her progression. They all broke in her manpower and she let out a loud scream as she felt the ground fall out from beneath her as she slid right over a large cliff. Turning she made a heroic catch and caught the end of a jagged tree solution sticking out from the face of the drop-off. Staring down, she felt her tum leapt into her throat as she perceived the ground a few one C feet below her. She screamed again, outloud and in her mind, hoping Harry or anyone else was near.

Taking a few deep, trembling breathing time, she tried to calm herself and apparate away but the panic wouldn't let her focus. Looking up, she saw the top of the cliff only about six animal foot above her with a few early smaller radical poking through the freeze filth. Fixing her hairgrip, she swung her legs up, trying to see onto the offset she currently dangled from. After four attempts she managed it, scratching herself horribly as she righted herself. Not daring to stop now, she carefully stood and flexed her benumbed fingers before reaching up for the future ramification, ensuring she also found a stout foothold to help hoist herself up. It seemed to take away forever but at shoemaker's last she was eye-level with the ground and was surprised to see two large the boot standing before her. Looking up, she felt the last of her military strength leave her as she took in Lucius Malfoy's evil grin, his face marred with toothed scratches.

'' I know who you are. '' He said quietly, his smile widening even as he was slightly doubled over holding his bleeding stomach. `` Oh how funny fate can be… You're Lovegood's daughter aren't you ? You don't have to answer, I know that you are. I already had his offices burned down for that clause but I had no idea just how much a few words would ruin my aliveness. I think it's only fair now that I completely ruin his… say with the loss of his former nestling. ``

'' Don't. '' Was all she could say, her fright and loathing of this man overwhelming her.

'' Why not ? I already killed your brother, and in a very like fashion might I add. '' He laughed cruelly before lifting his ft and bringing it down on her icy fingers. She screamed feeling her already fragile clench loosen even more.

( BREAK )

As soon as they arrived wherever it was in the Ellen Price Wood that his Father-God had brought him, Dragon viciously pulled the dagger from Lucius's body. The man staggered back, a disturbed smile across his look that couldn't mask the pain in his center. `` You think I haven't had worse. '' He spat out.

'' I think I'm about to give you risky. '' genus Draco threatened, throwing the sticker away and crouching in preparedness of the attack. Now they were both completely weaponless, both wounded by the former and both on equalize earth. Except they weren't and he smiled as he thought of all the path he knew he was going to trump Lucius.

'' If you think you can. '' Lucius challenged, reaching in his pocket and pulling out a one-third dagger… apparently they weren't both weaponless, well it didn't bother Draco as he was still certain he would amount out on top. `` I was saving this one just for you son. '' He lunged forward and swung, forcing Dragon to jump back.

dousing low and ignoring the infliction in his leg, he tackled Lucius at the knee, bringing them both down into the blow. He shouted in agony as he felt the sticker pierce his berm blade, his father had stabbed him as they fell. Slashing out, his fingernails violently ripped across Lucius's case, tearing his flesh. Stumbling to his infantry, Draco reached behind him and pulled out the dagger. The human in him wanted to jam it down Lucius's throat… the wolf in him had no mind what the weapon was for and wanted to throw it away simply so it wouldn't be used on him again. He tossed it aside… there were no amulets here, no potions to manipulate him. The humanity grew dimmer and he let it, already feeling the stream of profligate from his wounds slow as he began healing himself.

He could smell the fear from the man as he climbed to his substructure, vaguely he had a good sense that this man was kin to him… but genus Draco also knew that the man had been cast out, banned from the pack and was therefore an enemy. A low word of advice growl escaped him as the man faced him down. `` That's it Draco, act like the brute you now are. '' He smiled.

The words meant nothing. He could barely interpret their meaning any longer, all he knew was that he had to end this threat to his pack. There was blood in the air, and it wasn't all his own. Baring his teeth, he crouched low and enjoyed the wide smell of panic in the man's heart. Draco was about to fall when a sudden scream tore through the air.

He perked up instantly, recognizing the representative as one belonging to him, mortal he cared for. It was a hard fighting, but Draco managed to bring a small piece of himself back and was almost startled to see his father before him. A moment ago, he'd been unrecognizable as anything former than prey. `` Well, let's go see what that's about, shall we ? '' Lucius said, becoming more confident as he realized his son was distracted.

He rushed forward but he was too late. Lucius had apparated away. Another scream tore through the silence, forcing genus Draco to prompt. He ran faster than he ever had before, hoping whichever of the young lady were in trouble he got there in prison term to help. As he went he forced his judgment to get control over itself but that was insufferable. Without the talisman, it was just too close to the total moon to change by reversal off the wolf completely. So putting it to his advantage, he used his weed to draw him, at last catching Luna's scent. Carefully making his way down the exorbitant side she'd clearly slid down, he arrived in time to see Lucius hovering over her as she struggled to hang on to the side of the cliff. `` Don't. '' Draco heard her plead.

'' Why not ? I already killed your brother, and in a very similar mode might I add. '' Lucius laughed, throwing his premature evil against her family in her face as he lifted his foot and stomped down on her fingers.

'' No ! '' He ran forward. Turning and seeing him coming, Lucius dove out of the way… but it wasn't him Dragon was after. Lunging down to the ground, he reached over the side of the cliff and caught Luna just as she lost her grip completely. Her hand was icy cold, her finger's breadth too firm to properly hold onto him. Feeling himself begin to slide over as well, he quickly kicked out and hooked his human foot on one of the tree before reaching down to firmly grab her wrist.

'' well, well. What a compromising site. '' Lucius sneered as he walked over to leer down at them. `` Looks like now I get two for the price of one. retaliate on Xeno and the final end of my treacherous son. '' He laughed and cruelly lashed out, kicking genus Draco in the side and knocking the breath out of him. Luna screamed again as his handle on her slipped and he struggled to observe his clasp. `` As practically as I would know to draw this out, unfortunately I don't have all day. Your new guardian was compensate, I can let the Aurors trace me… especially not before I pay a visit to the Tonks and lupine family and personally give them my thanks for their involvement in turning my son so thoroughly against me. ``

Draco looked down into Luna's terrorise face. He tried to apparate them away from this, but he couldn't find that part of his humanity that knew how. The skirt chaser was too awake and at the same metre he had too much of himself in him to do anything useful. His instinct was to free up one deal and lash out at Lucius to hopefully criticise him over, but he also knew he couldn't hold onto Luna with one hand… he couldn't justify her decease for his Church Father's. Lucius kicked him again and he felt his pes Begin to steal. If something didn't happen soon, he and Luna were both going over… but if that happened, he sure as hell was going to fetch Lucius down with them.

( prison-breaking )

'' How much farther ? '' Ginny asked anxiously as Harry suddenly stopped.

So many things didn't experience right to him at the here and now, he was inexplicably panicked, scare and very cold. `` I think I sense them over this way. '' He answered distractedly, letting lupine get over the hunt now that they were closer. Before they'd left in search of Draco, they'd been sure to recover both amulets… he hoped they were in time for them to establish useful.

HARRY ! Luna's vocalism tore through his mind at the same sentence her screech echoed through the trees. He was moving in an second, at last realizing everything he'd been feeling was because of her. He heard lupine and Ginny calling out as they chased after him, but he ignored them. His tenderness was in his throat as he heard her scream again and then again. He was an moron not to have paid aid to what he'd been feeling simply because he'd thought her to be safely back in the village… he should love by now that none of them were safe, ever.

He let his instinct guide him as her thigh-slapper once more echoed around him, seeming to come from all directions… and then he heard Draco too, shouting in pain. Coming to a immerse slope, Harry made his way down as quickly and carefully as possible. It was clear a few people had come this way and he knew he was in the the right way place.

Through the trees, he was able to see the edge of the drop before him. Lucius was standing there, staring down with a demented smile as he yet again kicked genus Draco in the side as he dangled headfirst over the border. Hearing Luna scream again, Harry nearly had a heart flak as he realized why Draco wasn't retaliating… Luna was dangling from his hands. `` Lucius ! '' Harry called out, slipping and sliding the rest of the way down while attempting to wave his wand.

'' Too late thrower ! '' He yelled. This time he kicked his son's leg, loosening his cargo hold on the tree and sending him and Luna over the slope. Draco whipped around to grab his Father's ankle, pulling the man over with them.





NOTE : Wow… adjacent chapter, the final result of the Hogsmeade visit and the search for Fred, flavor for it soon !


Chapter 52 : coping With Disappointment

A/N : Read, inspection and Enjoy !



Harry rushed to the edge of the cliff, nearly going over the side himself in his panic. He'd sent his psyche out in an effort to catch Luna and Draco as soon as he saw they were going over… the elder Malfoy was an after cerebration. Peering down, he sighed in sculptural relief to see that he'd caught them all, though as he felt the drainage on his energy, he was more than than willing to let Lucius go to deliver the other two. But using everything he had left in him and tapping into a bit of Luna's energy, he was capable to float them all up and back on substantial dry land, his wand instantly out and pointed at Lucius. He couldn't allow himself to be distracted with his business over Luna and genus Draco until the threat to them all was fully neutralized. `` It's over now. '' He said with authority.

'' It's never over potter. Let the Aurors trace me, I will survive to fight again ! '' He shouted. Draco lunged at the same time Harry cast in an attempt to keep the man there, but they were both too late. Lucius had apparated away.

'' Harry ! '' He heard Lupin and Ginny calling after him.

'' Over here ! '' He yelled back before turning to his two friends still on the ground. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' I've been better. '' Draco muttered, obviously upset that his father had escaped.

Luna simply nodded though she was huddled into herself, with no coat and her expression, subdivision and handwriting covered with small slit. Unzipping his coat, Harry helped her to her feet and pulled her into his torso, wrapping the crown around her small, shivering physical body. He could feel the iciness of her tegument through his apparel and hoped his own consistence heat and coating would help dethaw her out. He held her tightly, trying to make himself really trust she was alive so that his nerve would stop racing so painfully. `` What the hell happened ? What are you doing out here ? '' He asked quietly as lupine and Ginny crashed their way through the tree diagram and downhill to them. She shook her promontory and merely pulled herself closer against him.

Ginny ran up to Draco, kneeling and throwing her sleeve around him as her relief at finding him alive overwhelmed her. He held her back, his eyes at live softening as he reached to take the amulet lupin quickly held out to him. Pulling away to slip it over his neck gave Ginny the chance to have livestock of him and finding her script bloody she immediately inspected his shoulder. `` He stabbed you again ? '' She asked, her voice heavy with concern.

'' It was nada, I barely feel it anymore. '' He answered glumly, rising to his base and wrapping his good arm around her.

'' Where's Lucius ? '' lupine demanded as he looked them all over for life-threatening injury.

Harry and Draco both shrugged, each feeling dissimilar wafture of anger and disappointment. `` He disappeared, we tried to stop him but… '' Harry trailed off uncomfortably. They had been too distracted to focus on the enemy as they should get and as much as he hated that Lucius got away, he was also grateful that genus Draco had enough control over himself to put Luna's rubber above his mystifying desire for vengeance against his father.

Lupin shook his psyche. `` It's okay. I'd rather it end this way with you both breathing. '' He told both boys before looking at Luna who was still huddled inside Harry's coat with him. `` And what are you doing back out here ? ``

They all turned to Luna, occupy to recognise what Harry had been desperate to find out since he'd first heard her shrieking. `` I had a vision. '' She said quietly before letting it all come out in a hodgepodge of words, her relief pushing her into wax disclosure. `` Hermione, she brought me somewhere so no one else would see and when I came out of it I wasn't feeling well so she went to get me something… Almost as soon as she left I got a bad opinion and so I made myself get up and start back to the dining area but Herbert A. Simon was waiting in the vestibule. The vision had involved him so I panicked and tried to put away him out. But he kept forcing his way in and I knew I wasn't going to be strong enough to curb the door so I just apparated away and scent up in the orchard… probably because it was the last plaza I'd been. I didn't have my coat so I thought out what happened to Hermione and Jacey and headed back to the inn. But Crabbe and Goyle were there and I didn't have my verge so I ran and they were catching up so I saw the rampart and apparated past it to get away from them. And then I was just running, I didn't know where I was and then I just knew I was going the incorrect way but I tripped and fell down the hill anyway and lift up going all the way over and luckily was able-bodied to grab that root down there. I couldn't apparate anymore so I climbed up and Lucius was waiting at the top… he recognized who I was and he was so mad about the Quibbler article… '' Here she broke down, letting weeping slide freely down her face. `` …he admitted it… He admitted he killed Kane. '' She buried her head in Harry's shoulder joint and allowed herself to cry. He held her tightly, not knowing what to say or do to make anything better.

'' He admitted it because he planned on killing her too. '' Draco angrily told Harry. `` He threw it in her nerve that he killed her pal and then stomped on her fingers as she hung there. Then I'm trying to pull her back up and all he can do is plain me until I can't hold on anymore… You should have let him fall. '' He added in an almost accusive manner. Knowing Draco had been the one to see Lucius went over with them, Harry excused his tone, unable to imagine what the other boy was feeling and unwilling to occupy his head to find out. Besides, after hearing what he and Luna had to say, Harry also believed he should have let Lucius plummet to his death.

'' That wouldn't have solved anything and as much as you might like to think it would, it wouldn't make any of you feel any better. '' lupin said seriously.

'' We won't know until it happens. '' Draco shot back. `` I'm volition to carry the opportunity to see and I bet it would earn me experience a lot better to screw that I nor anyone else ever has to make out with him ever again. ``

'' And that's something we can discuss later. '' lupin answered quietly. `` Right now we have to get out of here before the Aurors cum and try to charge all the ruffle in the Mrs. Henry Wood on us. ``

( break of serve )

It was a miserably silent drive back to the castling and an insufferable time spent in the Headmaster's authority. Lupin had insisted they go to inform Dumbledore of Lucius's visual aspect in the village today if nothing else and so rather than closing himself into his room as he wanted, Draco put up with a million questions while Drake poked and prodded at his shoulder and leg. As soon as was possible, he escaped and hurried off back to the dorms. He didn't want to be around anyone at the moment, he wanted to find what he felt and not suffer to make alibi or explanations for it.

Locking the door to his room, he stripped off the now washed-up wearing apparel he'd been wearing and threw them in the corner before putting on the outset things in his draftsman. Collapsing back on his bed, he thought about his life, his decisions, his newly found kinsperson and his father. Lucius was the connecting cistron ruining everything else and Draco wished More than anything that potter had just let him fall. He'd come so close to getting rid of his father by pulling him over the sharpness with him and Luna… It wasn't carnival that potter's sense of decency got in the way, after all, it would own been the perfect time to pop the man as no one would have had to finger guilty after everything his father had done that day. As thankful as he was to give birth his own liveliness and Luna's saved, he couldn't help but blame potter for whatever Lucius was going to do next.

'' Draco ! '' He heard Ginny call option softly through the door. He sighed and thought about pretending he wasn't there. Even her party was more than than he could handle right now… They hadn't spoken since she and Lupin found them by the drop and while he'd remained protectively at her side until returning to the castle, he just wasn't ready to face her and the knowledge that he was the intellect she'd been in peril today.

But of line it wasn't in him to ignore her, she certainly hadn't done anything amiss and he didn't want her to cerebrate he was mad at her. `` Hey. '' He said as he opened the room access and walked back to correct down on his bed.

'' Hey. '' She returned gently, closing the doorway and coming to sit beside him. `` So Drake cleared you, huh ? '' She asked, clearly trying to trip the light fantastic toe around the subject she really wanted to bring up.

'' He didn't have to do much. I'd already healed myself over mostly… it's loose to do that the closer it is to the moonlight. '' He explained what he didn't really understand.

'' Well thank Merlin because seeing your blood on my hands… '' She shuddered as she held her script in nominal head of her and stared at them in remembrance.

'' Don't think about it. '' He said quietly, reaching out learn her hands in his.

'' Are you okay ? '' Ginny asked in concern, no longer capable to retain herself back. `` I mean I know that's the stunned question in the populace right now, but… '' She trailed off, not needing to say anything else.

'' You know, I think I'm so far from okay that I couldn't even tell you what that give-and-take means. '' He laughed bitterly. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath and got a hold of himself and his misery, remembering who was with him and how grateful he was that she was able to be there. `` I'm just glad you're okay. '' He turned to her and softened his tonicity. `` Nothing else subject right now and I really don't want to talk about it… Drake did clear you, didn't he ? ``

'' Yes he did. I'm perfectly OK, not even a scratch. '' She smiled tensely, as if she were trying to hide something. `` Of course, I'm not the one who was stabbed twice today… though I guess by this point it's something you're getting used to. '' She added, her smile turning genuine as she teased him.

'' Yeah, thanks for your help in getting me prepared by getting in the first strike. '' He teased back.

She reached out and caressed his cheek before grabbing his chin to pull his side down and lightly delineate his lip with hers. `` I was so interest about you out there. '' She whispered.

'' Right back at you. '' He returned, silencing her response by kissing her again. He didn't want to babble about Lucius or what today had meant. He just wanted to be grateful that his father hadn't taken away the one affair that currently meant more than his own life… he wanted to love her and be grateful for the privilege. There was always tomorrow to make out with his inner monster, new and old.

They both jumped as a sudden knock on the door interrupted them. `` Hey ! Is Ginny in there or what ? '' They heard Ron yell out.

Before Draco could move, Ginny leapt of the bed and strode over to answer the door herself. `` What ? '' She demanded of her brother.

'' What do you signify ‘ what'? '' Ron returned, walking himself into the room uninvited. `` It's not till we're all up in Dumbledore's office that I find out you were taken hostage by this creep's sire ? ! Are you okay ? ``

'' I was a lot comfortably off before you came in here with that attitude you've been sporting all day. '' She shot back, clearly trouble that he was doing this here in strawman of Draco.

'' And I'm sure I was a lot full off before you wiped my memory board ! '' He shouted accusatorily. `` That's right, they had to assure me everything out in the wood today. I know you helped them keep the programme about Tristan a secluded ! ``

'' So what ? '' She yelled back. `` You know now so get over it ! ``

'' I'm sure that's exactly what you would do if the billet were reversed. '' Ron said darkly.

'' Maybe, maybe not. But getting mad and yelling at everyone isn't going to solve anything. Everyone wants to walk on eggshells around you but I'm not going to do it anymore ! Didn't you tell me that once ? Why is OK for you to act out your painful sensation but when I do it I must be losing my creative thinker ? ! '' She yelled.

'' Because nothing I've done is stupidly dangerous, unlike the things you still continue to do. '' Ron returned.

'' Look, it's been a longsighted and difficult day for all of us, you aren't alone in feeling hurt and raging. You want me to say I'm sorry for wiping away your retentivity, well I won't. It was what needed to happen at that second. Let's cheek it, you weren't handling the news program well to begin with and this is a very delicate plot they've got going here. You running around yelling at us about it at the top of your lungs isn't very helpful ! '' Ginny tried to shove him back out towards the door but Ron remained immobile. Draco shifted uncomfortably, suddenly overcome with gladness that he was an only tike. This sibling squabbling was something he never wanted to possess to experience let alone be spectator to. He wished Ron would just leave already.

'' You really await me to feel bad for being upset that everyone was lying to me ? '' He asked incredulously.

'' I expect you to consider your headway out of your ass every once in awhile to see what's going on with early people ! '' She shouted. `` I had to learn that the human race doesn't revolve around me, it's time you do the same big Brother ! Didn't you hear the story up there in the office ? Lucius tried using the killing curse on lupine while genus Draco and Luna nearly died ! ``

'' Oh I see, so I'm supposed to palpate bad that his father is a psychopath ! '' Ron yelled, pointing at Draco. `` It's not my fault his father decided to sweep up everyone else into their fight ! It's not my fault you continued your sick family relationship with him and therefore made yourself a prey ! And it's not my fault Luna's dad put that story in the theme in the first station, remember ? That was Harry's brilliant thought and if Luna almost died because of it then he's the one to find fault ! You all knew the risk of exposure of exposing Lucius and you took it on ! Besides, it's Luna's defect she was even back out there today anyway ! ``

'' Get out. '' Ginny demanded darkly.

'' Excuse me ? ``

'' I said get out ! '' She repeated. `` You're talking about us all like we mean nothing to you, like we're your enemy. Whatever's amiss with you, I don't want to talk to you again until you've straightened out your head word. ``

'' Maybe I'm just thinking clearly for the kickoff fourth dimension. '' He said in a low spokesperson, puffing himself up and using his stature to tower over her. `` Harry, Hermione and I all became ally because we had no one else. That's not really dependable anymore is it, so maybe now I'm just starting to see everyone clearly for the first fourth dimension. ``

Ginny didn't back down, she rarely did so with anyone, let alone her own blood brother. `` Yeah ? Does that include me and Fred ? How about Bill and Charlie ? If you want to hate everybody right now then fine, do whatever you have to do. Just go away ! '' She once more reached out to shove him at the door.

'' I'll go when I'm secure and prepare ! '' Ron yelled. Draco could see he was quickly losing his ascendance and rose to his feet just in case this got too out of hand.

'' I said get out ! I don't want you in here ! '' She pushed him again, also losing herself in her anger.

'' And I said no ! '' He finally snapped, shoving her vertebral column without knowing his own strength.

She stumbled, losing her ground in her surprisal and genus Draco quickly reached out to grab her, steadying her on her foot before turning to Ron. `` She told you to pass on. '' He said with put on equanimity. `` I suggest you do so before I'm forced to take you. ``

'' stoppage out of this Malfoy. This is between me and my baby and unlike your family, we know how to observe our disputes to ourselves. '' Ron scene back.

He clutched his amulet, remembering his promise to Ginny from months before that he wouldn't fight with Ron again if he could help it. The early boy was making it very hard to go on that promise at the moment. `` Except this is my room and if you're going to throw your little family dispute here then I get to say how far it goes and I've certainly had enough of it. ``

'' You two deserve each former. '' Ron muttered, glaring at them both before stalking out, slamming the door behind him.

Taking a recondite breath to calm himself he turned to see how Ginny was dealing with this latest development of transmissible lunacy. `` I'm sorry. '' She said quietly as angry tears brimmed her eyes.

'' Don't be. By now I'm used to him having a conniption of some kind when things go wrong. '' He assured her, reaching out to draw in her in for a hug.

'' He really should have learned some better coping skills by now… '' She said, resting her head against his shoulder. `` Maybe it's fourth dimension dad forced him to go see Laurel. Either way I don't want to blab out about it anymore than you want to talk about today. ``

'' Okay then. '' He agreed fully. `` Let's just go to sleep and awake up tomorrow pretending nothing ever happened. ``

'' You really think we'll be capable to rend that off ? '' She looked up at him doubtfully.

'' No, but it might wee it comfortable to find comfort later if we fool ourselves now. ``

She smiled and leaned up to kiss his cheek, his Chin, his mouth. `` Just being able-bodied to lay adjacent to you is all the comfort I need. '' Taking his hired hand she led him back to the bed, pulling back the sheets to climb in and gesturing for him to unite her. He quickly got in, wrapping the blankets around them as they lay face to face.

'' I love you Ginny. '' He whispered, kissing the tip of her nose.

She smiled and brushed the hair's-breadth back from his eyes. `` Well then you're lucky because I love you too. ``

He caressed her cheek before leaning in to gently capture her backtalk. Running his hand down her articulatio humeri, he felt her wince though he had a sense she was trying to hide it. He pulled back and looked at her in concern. `` What's wrong ? ``

She shook her head and smiled uncomfortably. `` cipher. '' She assured him, reaching out to envelop her arms around him and pressing herself against him as a beguilement. genus Draco caught her arm and sat up. She tried to commit away but he maintained a gentle but firm cargo hold as he carefully rolled up her sleeve, ignoring her protest. various disconsolate finger-shaped bruises lined her arm from her cubital joint up to her shoulder. `` Francis Drake already put something on that, he said it'll all be gone by tomorrow. '' She said, trying to sound casual but betraying her jumpiness. It was obvious she hadn't wanted him to know that not only had his father nearly killed him and Luna, he'd left evidence of his cruelness with her. But there they were, the marks that showed him that Lucius had been none to gentle while pulling Ginny along as his intended surety. `` It's certainly not as bad as being stabbed. '' She added, as he remained angrily silent.

Draco took a deep breath and nodded. `` Okay. '' He climbed out of bed and turned back to her, leaning down to kiss her deeply and passionately. Then he grabbed his shoe, sitting down in the desk chair to put them on before rising to catch his coat.

'' Where are you going ? '' She asked anxiously, crawling to the sharpness of the bed and kneeling as she looked at him, her eyes wide and full of concern. `` You aren't mad at me for not telling you… are you ? ``

His heart pushed against his choler as she stared at him like that. Going back over, he wrapped his blazon around her waist and kissed her again. `` No, I'm not mad at you at all. '' He told her in a choke phonation as emotion overwhelmed him. He wasn't mad at her, but how could he possibly explain that her presence was making him want to shout in fury ? That being around her at that consequence made him want to pull everything apart ? That he couldn't handle the feelings of awe and business organisation that came with loving someone as much as he loved her ? That all he wanted was to go back in time and find out a way to drive ceramist to let Lucius shine ? He couldn't explain any of it, to her or himself.

'' I'm going to recover lupin. I think I need to go for a run in the Wood. '' He said at last, turning and walking out before she could protest. He had no intentions of finding the professor as Lupin was a whole other person he couldn't be around at the moment. After all, what could he say to the man who had acted more like a forefather to him out there than Lucius ever had in his stallion life ? But he'd lied and told Ginny that to keep her from worrying. He really did want a run through the woodwind instrument to sack up his head… but he needed to do it alone and though he didn't intend for any problem, Merlin help the man or beast that chose to get in his way out there.

( rupture )

Hermione had only enough forbearance to have Drake and Madame Pomfrey check her over for hypothermia before rushing back to her room. She'd told them her only ailment was a flimsy cephalalgia but she had lied and she had a feeling they knew it. They were healer after all. They'd given her several herbal tea supplements to postulate but she ignored it all, putting them on her desk and grabbing the invisibleness cloak she still had in her self-command. She felt like she was burning active with fever, but she did her best to put that at the spinal column of her mind as she threw the cloak around herself and hurried back out into the hallway and toward the records way. She felt there was no time to waste, she'd already let herself become overmaster once today by the beguilement of Fred's disappearance… she couldn't let it hap again. Thankfully Ginny was ok, but next meter her mistake could let fatal outcome and that thought process was decent to ram her forward into solving the puzzle. This time she disregarded the student Indian file and went to the door leading to the faculty record, knowing they detailed the lifespan of every professor who had ever taught in Hogwarts. She found Erebos's information in no time and tucking the file carefully under her arm she snuck back out, ensuring she locked the door behind her.

Hearing articulation, Hermione flattened herself against the wall and tried not to so lots as breathing place as the two seventh year Hufflepuff prefects came down the hallway, talking quietly to themselves as they made their final rounds of the palace for the night. As soon as she was sure they'd passed, she allowed herself to suspire, gulping in air to her burning at the stake lungs while trying not to cough. Once in controller she practically ran back to her room, slamming and locking the threshold behind her. Her throat was sore, her head was pounding and she was sweating from how hot she felt, but she ignored it all, immediately going to her bed and opening the file.

She knew what she was looking for and flipped right over to his checkup platter, aware that any clip a professor left the country they had to be examined by a healer upon their income tax return to Hogwarts. And there it was, in Madame Pomfrey's barely legible scribble. Did patient go away the land ? Yes. Places the patient visited ? Sydney, Australia. Reason for trip out of the body politic ? Family funeral. Has patient displayed symptoms of any disease contracted in travel ? No.

A kin funeral, the Lapplander reason Lee said Elise had given. Either one or both of them had lied… that left many options. The first was that there had been a funeral and they both attended the same one, which had it's own long listing of implications. The instant was that one of them had gone to the funeral and the other had lied simply so they could both be in the same place at the Lapplander time. The third of course of study was that there was no funeral at all and they'd both used that as their reason to go to Sydney, which begged the question- Why Sydney Commonwealth of Australia ?

But what did any of this mean ? Nothing with these fille was simple, so had they uncovered their spy or just another one of their many plots ? Feeling dizzy and vile, Hermione forced herself to put aside the papers and lay down. Tomorrow she'd try again, but her body was making it clear to her now that she needed to rest. After all, she wouldn't be any help to Fred if she pushed herself while sick and put herself out on her death bed.

( intermission )

Luna had been dismissed back to her way as soon as she was done giving her version of events regarding Lucius. It was the second time she'd had to secern it and Harry had to hear it and it wasn't any easier for either of them to realize yet again how close she'd ejaculate to being another of Lucius's victims. The fact that Draco had without hesitation backed up her claim that his father had admitted to murdering Kane meant a lot to her as she knew he was struggling deeply with what had occurred out in the woods that day. Dumbledore had agreed to instantly relay the info to Arthur and assured them all that this would also go a hanker way in helping to clear Willem's gens. After telling Drake that she was hunky-dory and that her own herbal remedy would clear up up the diminished slit she'd received, she returned to her elbow room feeling an odd sense of moderation. One secret that had been plaguing her for days was finally being set right, Kane's death would be cleared up and her kinfolk could find a bit of closure.

Quickly changing clothes and applying a acid of the herbal emollient, Luna was left feeling alone and dying. For more than an hour she paced her room, trying to expend her nervous energy as she waited. She wasn't quite sure what she was waiting for until at last she heard the insistent knocking on her door. She knew it was Harry, he'd been held up in Dumbledore's office much to both their foiling. They hadn't had a moment alone together since he'd saved their spirit and she rushed to let him in now.

As soon as she answered he reached out to snaffle her brass, desperately pressing his backtalk to hers as he kicked the doorway closed behind him. Their hired man quickly explored each other, checking for dangerous injury as they continued to buss with uncontrolled mania. Luna felt grounded, rooted to the earth in a way that made her smell that she belonged, that she finally had someplace she could be good in every mother wit of the Scripture. Once more cupping her human face, he pulled away to really get a serious spirit at her. `` I'm sorry I didn't get there sooner. '' Harry said breathlessly as his thumb traced the scratch on her cheek.

'' I'm sorry I panicked and put myself there in the first situation. '' She smiled, repressing the chill that wanted to run through her as she recalled what it had been like dangling precariously from Dragon's hands as her own remained glacial and useless. She flexed her fingers now and found they were fine, except the few that were bruised and hurting from where Lucius had stomped down on them. Sensing her discomfort, he took her hand and studied it while carefully hiding his emotions with a vacuous typeface. But there was no concealment from her. `` Letting him fall wouldn't have changed the thing he'd already done. '' She quietly responded to his darkness thoughts.

'' But it would take stopped all the things he's now out there detached to do. '' He said with a sigh, lightly kissing her fingers before going to sit on the bound of the bed. He hung his straits and stared at the floor. `` It should throw been easier… ''

'' Why, because you killed Tristram ? It's a good thing that you aren't becoming more well-to-do with taking biography. '' She insisted, sitting next to him and reaching out to rub his leg in reassurance.

'' And if he decides to come after you or Draco again ? Then what ? It'll be my geological fault, I could accept ended it… And Dragon thinks so to. '' He lay his read/write head down in her lap and looked up at her, imploring her to make common sense of it for him.

'' You can't trust anything Draco is thinking right now. '' She answered, running her fingers through his hair. `` We're all let down things couldn't be resolved with Lucius but I'm very happy that neither of you succeeded in killing the man. The Aurors are tracking him, that'll have to be enough… until or unless Lucius comes around again we have to focus on finishing this affair with Tristan and more importantly, finding Fred. ``

He sighed and nodded. `` You're right… I know you are. We have to find him before Arthur and mollie become even more suspect than I'm surely they already are of this patronage trip self-justification Lee dreamed up. I couldn't rack to see their faces if they found out one of their surviving tiddler was in so much danger… ''

'' Yeah, and if we think Ron's mad now, just cerebrate if he finds out we kept this from him as well. ``

'' Don't worry about Ron. '' Harry said, toying with the final stage of her hair as he ran the strands through his fingerbreadth. `` He'll equanimity down once we can all start acting like ourselves again… Jacey will institute him around. ``

'' Maybe. '' She wasn't so sure. He seemed just as mad at Jacey as he was at the residuum of them. But she didn't want to think about Ron or anything else. Without another Holy Writ to each other, she and Harry climbed under the covers, depicted object in the assurance of each other's rubber. Tomorrow would be there soon enough and they could worry about everything left hanging in the balance then. Tonight they simply held each early, regenerating their vim as they linked themselves together through their head, not wanting to be separated even by sleep. It was a more intimate act than any early Luna had ever experienced as they opened themselves up to each other and vulnerably bared everything that had ever passed through their heads, hoping to not only know each other completely, but to be able to dream together as well. She smiled as she drifted off, knowing it would only be a matter of here and now before she saw him again.

( respite )

'' okay, we're out here. Now what's this surprise you just had to register me in the center of the night ? '' Padma asked grumpily as she and Ron stood out in the Forbidden timberland a little ways past Hagrid's hut.

'' Relax. It'll be any min now. '' He replied, wondering if maybe Parvati had lost her nerve. He shifted from metrical unit to foot, hoping she'd come along soon… though this arranged encounter was the only thing keeping his brain off the rather intense fight he'd gotten into with Ginny.

'' Okay, you have exactly two minutes and then I'm going back in because I'm freezing. '' She insisted, wrapping her munition around herself while retreating further into her lens hood. `` I don't know why you brought me out here only to stand around waiting. What are we waiting for anyway ? ``

'' For me. '' Anapurna said quietly as she emerged from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree. She must birth stolen some wearing apparel in Hogsmeade because she was now dressed in pants and a light jersey. `` I'm sorry, I just wasn't sure if I could go through with this. '' She said, her eye tearing up.

Padma's lip was hanging unfastened in shock absorber. And then without a news she flung herself forward, wrapping her blazonry around her sister who stood with her own arms stiffly at her face as she stared in terror at Ron. `` No ! Don't get too penny-pinching ! '' Parvati cried, disentangling herself from her counterpart and taking various gradation back. `` You don't understand. ``

'' You're damn right hand I don't. Where have you been ? Mum and Dad are up at the castle, they've cum to stay on until you're found… they'll be thrilled to see you ! Come on, let's get you inside, you're skin is like ice. Where's your coat ? '' Padma let out in one breather, once more moving toward her Sister who only moved further away.

'' You didn't warn her ? '' Parvati asked Ron incredulously.

'' I didn't want to tell her anything about it. It would all be better coming from you. '' He insisted. He wanted to provide but knew he had to quell, that he couldn't danger leaving Padma alone with Parvati while she was still so out of control of herself.

'' I can't come back to the schooling with you. '' She sadly told her Twin. `` And you can't order our parents that you saw me… I just wanted the opportunity to narrate you… ''

Ron walked off to let them have a bit of privateness. He was sure to keep his wand out and both lady friend in his sight, but he already had his own reactions to Parvarti's predicament to manage with, he didn't want to stand there and abide witnesser to Padma's. There was no way to tell how the fille would take the news, but judging from his distant view it wasn't good.

Choosing to disregard them only let him dwell on his own misery. He hadn't intended to fight with Ginny, but finding her in genus Draco's room just after being kidnapped by the guy's father was a bit Sir Thomas More than he'd been ready to care. His concern for her had been quickly overshadowed by his anger with her. He was mad at everyone including himself… after all they wouldn't have been able to lie to him so easily if he hadn't been so willing to go along. After Jacey came to him and confessed to possibly knowing that Tristan and Troy were trying to turn Parvati, he should get insisted to know the rest- he'd known she was still holding back. Instead he'd let his indigence to find comforted outweigh his need for the Sojourner Truth. Perhaps he needed a break from everyone he knew. His tactile sensation for and about everyone were a scramble plenty, he knew he needed to have Ginny's advice and straighten himself out before he could clearly see his friend again. As it was proper now… maybe his sis had also been right about how he was beginning to feel about everyone, maybe he did regard them as the foe and that was something he wasn't happy about. Something needed to change.

So he decided, starting tomorrow he'd completely length himself from his friends as he'd already started with his sis. He was tired of feeling hurt, and pushing away everyone was the lonesome way he could see that would piddle it stop.

( BREAK )

It'll be okay. Jacey heard Lupin think out to her as she entered the Headmaster's
government agency, answering an too soon sunup summons that had arrived for Tristan. She had been trusted to take sufficiency of the Polyjuice potion, having been warned by Harry and Luna that the old wizard was a lot sharper than most wanted to render him credit entry for… Though, it had made her feeling better to learn that Dumbledore had been fooled by the potion before, and with someone he knew way better than Tristan. Harry had insisted that if the man hadn't been able to tell the difference between a fake and real number Auror Helen Wills Moody three years earlier, then it should be that much sluttish to arse around him now.

'' Mr. Macnair, please come in and birth a seat. '' Dumbledore said tensely, studying her a little too close for comfort.

Jacey forced herself to remain calm down and focused on keeping the shields up high around her mind. She could sense Harry and Luna helping her shield, as they were wide awake and aware of what she was doing… she had burst in on them in a scare as soon as she had received the promissory note, suddenly uncertain that she could pull this off. Remembering the pep talk they had given her, she offered an easy smile and walked confidently across the room to sit in the chair next to the one being offered, knowing Tristram would savour in even that small bit of defiance. `` You wanted to see me sir ? '' She asked with false innocence.

'' It has just this morning come to my care that troy weight Mason is yet again missing. It seems he didn't return from Hogsmeade with everyone else. I was wondering if you could tell me where he is. '' Dumbledore replied steadily.

'' And I'm wondering why it would take you all nighttime to find that one of your students has gone missing. '' Jacey shot back coolly as she maintained Tristan's attitude.

'' It seems a calculated movement was conducted by the entire Slytherin house to hatch up the fact that Mr. A. E. W. Mason never returned. They are all currently on probation while we investigate their possible involution. Of course none of them have pointed the finger at you. ``

'' Then why am I here ? '' She asked, keeping detainment of her daily grin. `` I don't stay in the Slytherin dorm and they haven't cited my affair in anything. So what makes you so sure enough that I can tell you anything about Troy ? ``

'' Ah, because professor lupin was in the settlement yesterday and it seems the shoemaker's last person he saw Mr. Mason with was you. '' Dumbledore said, looking back and Forth between her and lupin. `` Of course he could be mistaken as not everyone is always who they appear to be. ``

'' So what, you're automatically going to fault the lamia ? '' She was defensive, trying to focus the old wiz's tending on her as she reached out to help protect Lupin's mind from invasion as well, leaving Harry and Luna to protect hers. `` I'm not so indisputable that one rather biased witness is decent to guarantee accusations to… what exactly ? What is it you think may cause happened to troy ? After all, he's disappeared all on his own before. ``

'' I have no mind as to Mr. Mason's luck. Which is why I brought you here hoping to clear up a few things up. When did you last see him ? ``

'' In the village. '' She shrugged.

'' Can you be more specific ? ``

'' Hogsmeade Greenwich Village ? '' She laughed cruelly, fully embracing the part she had to play as it was the only way to get through this.

Dumbledore sat back and brought his helping hand together, staring at her over his fingertips. `` Okay Mr. Macnair. Where and what meter would you say you last saw Troy Mason yesterday in Hogsmeade ? ``

'' That's hard to say, there were so many masses there and we all had to split up and go indoors when that blizzard hit… '' She dragged on being purposely difficult.

A knock on the door interrupted them and Healer Drake entered. She'd only met the man once as herself and she knew nothing about him early than that the others seemed to trust him. `` I've brought the the true potion you asked for sir. '' He said, holding up a vial as he crossed the room.

'' You can't use that on a student. '' She said right away, trying to shroud her scare. There was no telling what the schoolmaster would ask if she were under the influence of that potion, and she certainly did not want to throw him the hazard of letting her find out.

'' Really ? The Headmistress who took my plaza here a couple of year ago found that using several unauthorized spell and potions against students served her better purpose. And I do conceive Dolores Umbridge was a member of your family's rather powerful Friend at one head. '' Dumbledore said, obviously testing her.

'' That was then and this is now. '' She had very little idea as to the soul he was referring to. She had seen blurred look-alike of an unworthy adult female in Harry's mind… after the horrid detentions he had served with the adult female, he had lumped her in with his aunty and uncle in his storage under the intimate bearing the great unwashed Who Have Wronged Me… Otherwise, she knew only that Umbridge had tried and failed to take over the school day. `` If you use that on me I'll report card you faster than you can throng your bags. I'm not Potter, I won't suffer in silence for the expectant good. ``

'' You can be made to drink this if you're no longer a student. '' Dumbledore returned. `` If I expel you- ''

'' Under what grounds ? So what if I was the last one seen with troy weight. He's a big boy and he makes his own decisions. '' Jacey sneered.

'' There's also the matter of prof lupin seeing both you and Mr. Mason outside the Greenwich Village demarcation line while he was investigating a rather serious disturbance with some other students and an loose destruction eater. '' Dumbledore smiled and leaned forward on his desk. `` This places you in manoeuvre violation of school day codes and as a student has come up missing as a result of your activity, this has been elevated to a very serious issue of safety. As this is a time of war, the disciplinary matter in which you are call for carries the testimonial of immediate expulsion and therefore I am allowed as master to use any non-violent means essential to secure the information I require as it relates to the possible welfare of another scholarly person. It's all right hand there in the Hogwarts computer code of behaviour under the provision for running the school while under hurt. Wartime is certainly sort out and defined as being under distraint and so I am granted more liberties than I would normally be willing to conduct vantage of. But I promise you Mr. Macnair, we can line up our way through and around as many legal loopholes as you and your ally have in the pursuit to keep you here. ``

The potion won't work. She heard Drake's unfamiliar representative movement through her head. Remus came to me this morning and with Harry's permission told me who you are Miss Nicolau. I fixed up a placebo, there is no truth serum in there. All you have to do it play along and contribute him what he wants to get a line so that he can legally and without question send Tristan away.

She was careful not to look at him as he stood at Dumbledore's side, keeping her gaze steady on the headmaster. `` Fine. '' She said at last, deciding to intrust the healer if everyone else did. After all, the man seemed to feel more loyalty to Harry and the others than he did to any of the grownup. `` Give me your stupid potion, but don't think for a endorse I won't be telling everyone about this. ``

'' Tell whoever you like. As I've explained we are perfectly within our right wing. '' Dumbledore answered simply as he watched her roughly take the vial from Drake and live with it down. She felt something start to pass off and hoped the healer knew what he was talking about. The older wizard was looking at her carefully, watching for some sign of the potion beginning to figure out. Apparently he saw what he was waiting for and stood to deliver the mental testing questions given to everyone who was subjected to truth potions. `` What is your name ? ``

'' Tristram Beauford Macnair. '' Jacey was sure to answer without hesitation, fighting hard to not smile as she said Beauford… after all, she doubted that Tristan would have found the name funny.

'' Now try to tell me that your name is Albus Dumbledore. '' He instructed.

'' My epithet is… '' She pretended to struggle before seeming to give into the potion. `` Tristan Macnair. ``

Dumbledore nodded happily. `` Where is Ilium Mason ? ``

Again she pretended to struggle. `` He's out in the woods where I left him. '' She said at last before indignantly rising to her foot. After all, Tristram would not return in easily and as a great deal as she wanted this to end, she knew she had to defecate it look tangible. She felt Harry sigh and then give his reluctant approval as he realized she was about to keep on playing her contribution. Both he and Luna understood the need to keep Dumbledore's hands plum of this. They had all hoped for a more definite end today ... but they all also knew that Tristram would never wrap over so easily and that alone could raise suspicion. `` And that's all I'll say as we are quickly surpassing the schooling's right hand and infringing on mine. Anything else you'd like to ask about Troy can be asked through my representation, should you resolve to follow up on a legal issue on Troy's behalf. Otherwise it's clear I've been as conjunctive as possible here, above and beyond what was required if I do say so myself. Now, is there anything else, sir ? '' She shot him a pleasant smile, as if they had been chatting like old Friend this whole time.

'' I guess not. You may return to your elbow room and begin packing your affair. I will be presenting my evidence to the Aurors who will then be seeking society to bring you into detainment. Until they procure these edict, you are confined to your dorm and the Great foyer for repast and banned from attending any classes. As head teacher of the Slytherin sign, professor Drake will be keeping a close eye on you. A monition, should you feel the need to essay revenge for your present quandary. '' Dumbledore answered sternly, clearly at the end of his patience.

'' well, I suppose I'll have to dish out with that as I live it up here these utmost few days. '' She said threateningly, hoping that any wrongdoing while she was still here was immediately blamed on Tristan. `` I assume I'm dismissed ? ``

'' Yes, professor Drake will see you back to your dorm. '' He gave an exhausted feel at the former man who simply nodded in answer and moved to extend out his undertaking, ushering Jacey along with him.

'' Boy I hope you Thomas Kyd know what you're doing. '' Sir Francis Drake said quietly as they walked the halls.

'' So do we. '' She answered seriously.

( happy chance )

Harry and Luna spent a adept half an hour assuring Jacey that she'd done just fine with Dumbledore, that they wouldn't have expected much different had Tristan himself been there. After she finally seemed to relax, Harry sent out a subject matter to all his Friend, asking them to meet in his elbow room so they could all discuss a few things. More than anything, he wanted to intimate to them all that they put the past times few calendar week behind them and seem only toward the future… And he and Luna planned to lead off by telling them all of the two early coven phallus they'd discovered before Hogsmeade happened and tore everything apart.

Hermione was the first to answer the yell as her room was the closest and she entered looking like death warmed over. Her nose was red, her cheeks pink and her eyes glazed over with a svelte pyrexia. She had wrapped her blanket around herself for the short walk over and instantly went to lay down on Harry's bed as fatigue duty overwhelmed her. `` You look well. '' He teased.

'' Shut up. '' She grumbled from beneath the slew of covers. `` Does Jacey get laid about Fred ? ``

'' That he is missing ? '' Jacey asked from her place on top of his proboscis, still looking very much like Tristan. `` I have seen a few things about it in your minds but I have not said anything to anyone… especially Ron. ``

'' well thank you for that. '' Hermione offered a lukewarm smile before instantly going into telling them of what she and Lee had pieced together, as if she had to get it out before she forgot.

'' Professor Erebos… '' Harry had seen something of this in Luna's recall of a conversation between her and Hermione the Night before, just as he had been able to see pieces of all of her memories. Thinking of Quierrell, the fictive Moody and Snape, he could see how a prof could go so long without anyone knowing what they were really up to. `` Do you think he knows where Elanya took Fred ? And why would Elanya call him her physical contact if Elise is the one who supposedly knows him so well ? ``

'' I have no idea if he knows where Fred is, but I think maybe these young woman are playing each other as well as everyone else. '' Hermione said as she propped herself up into a sitting position.

'' No, I get the sense Elise and Sarah are very much in it together… it's Elanya and Cho who are more on the outside. '' Luna replied thoughtfully. `` Maybe she was telling Fred the truth about some things… ''

'' Ginny and Draco are on their way here. '' Harry announced as a warning, silencing their discussion about Fred and his quandary with those young lady. He got up to let them in, noticing the clash between them. genus Draco was wearing his coat. `` Going somewhere ? ``

'' He just got back. '' Ginny answered unhappily as she went to sit with Luna and Hermione on the bed.

'' I needed to go for a run. '' Draco said simply, pulling off his coat and going to sit in the desk professorship away from everyone else. An all Night run. Ginny added in her head, her part carrying both hurt and concern.

'' Where's Ron ? '' Harry asked. `` He's the solitary one we're waiting for. ``

'' I doubt he'll be joining us. '' Ginny rolled her centre and told them of the combat they'd gotten into the Night before, leaving out virtually of the details in an try to give up their feel for what Ron had said and simply summing up the gist of the argument.

'' O.K. then, well I guess we'll just babble to him later. '' He replied, uncomfortable that his friend suddenly felt the pauperization to stave off them all. `` Listen, yesterday was a horrifying disaster of a day for everyone. But we need to do as we always do and go on going past it, right ? I know we all have our own affair to focus on… but we'll be leaving schooling in a few weeks and we need to seriously start up looking at searching for the coven as a reality. Luna and I went through some more of the documents and found two Sir Thomas More names, Adam Azibo and Ajala Kapoor. ``

'' So adding in you, Luna, Jacey, Gabby, Zachary mound, Hasani Jumoke, Jie Chen, Nanami Aoki and Kavita Singh that makes eleven. There's only one Sir Thomas More name. '' Hermione reasoned. `` Where are we going to find these two ? Who are they ? ``

'' Ajala is a XXX twelvemonth old woman who has recently moved from India to Ireland for her work, which happens to be as arm manufacturing business. Her company creates all the tools and artillery used by Aurors and with the upsurge of natural process in and around England, they've doubled their try in the closest factory, which happened to be in Dublin. Oh and she's a Levithon. '' Luna recited from memory.

'' A what ? '' Draco asked.

'' A Levithon, person with the baron of self-transport. Basically it's like being able-bodied to fly. '' Luna shrugged.

'' I seem to remember from my muggle religious cogitation socio-economic class that there was a ideal who had that power only they called it a miracle… St. Theresa of Avila, if I remember correctly, during the 16th century. '' Hermione looked at them all as they stared at her. She smiled and grabbed for a tissue to blow her nose. `` What ? I just remember it because it made me wonder- if proof of her ability was so well documented, then why were muggles so reluctant to believe in the things we can do ? ``

'' Okay, Ajala can fly, that's pretty poise. And the other guy ? '' Ginny prompted, moving them along from Hermione's abbreviated theological history lesson.

Harry's own memory was vaguer than Luna's and so he picked up the papers to be trusted he didn't leave anything out. `` The other one, Adam, he's twenty-three and originally from Egypt. His power is postcognition and he currently lives in Sydney, Commonwealth of Australia working as an investigative diary keeper. ``

Sydney ? Hermione perked up.

'' wellspring, I suppose it's handy to be capable to see the yesteryear when you're a newsman. '' Ginny said aloud as she rose to her metrical foot. `` Listen, I appreciate that you want to facilitate us all focus on early authoritative matter, but after last Night, I think I'd just rather have a few moment alone. '' She added pointedly as she breezed retiring Draco and walked out. He sighed heavily and got up, leaving without saying a Christian Bible as he presumably went to fix whatever he'd done wrong.

'' I have a thought. '' Hermione said as soon as she was indisputable she was alone with Harry, Luna and Jacey. `` When exactly did Elise find Elanya and take her into the fold ? ``

'' Sometime at the first of summer, before she torched Fred's store. '' Luna answered, remembering her and Harry's trip through Sarah's brain. `` Voldemort unknowingly brought her to Sarah after the girls were already plotting together. ``

'' And according to Erebos's records, he left for Sydney the like day school let out terminal year… what if he met up with Elise down there because they were looking for a postcognative to pull off whatever plan they have going ? What if they found cristal before Elanya and approached him first ? If he really is supposed to be a estimable guy then he would have of course turned them down, but Elanya had her own cause to link them, right ? '' Hermione's optic were wide as she tried to push aside her fever in an attack to make her creative thinker link thing together.

'' Even if that were all dead on target, how does it help us find out Fred ? '' Harry asked gently.

'' It doesn't, but it does offer more proof that Erebos is the spy, doesn't it ? '' She returned excitedly. `` Who knows what he and Elise could have told Elanya, they could have pretended not to even know each former in fiat to ensure they hooked the girlfriend. What if he even approached Elanya alone ? That would explain why she felt he was her contact and not Elise's, wouldn't it ? And in Luna's vision, Sarah had teased Elise about a former relationship, but not in a way that made it sack who she was talking about, right ? ``

'' I admit that it all seems to fit, but that does not mean it is true. '' Jacey said slowly. `` These girls you have been dealing with seem to be very foxy. It would be foolish to establish assumptions. ``

'' You don't know Hermione like we do. '' Harry was defensive on Hermione's behalf. `` I'm willing to bet she's right about nearly of it if not everything… and there's a way to find out. ``

Luna shook her promontory. `` If he is the spy, don't you think he'd be expecting that ? Simon is getting help keeping his mind closed against us and I'm trusted Erebos is much more proficient at it even if he's getting assist as well. Even if the three of us work together, there's nothing to say he won't feel us in there. ``

'' Edmund didn't. '' He argued.

'' And he wasn't aware that we would try to get in his headway. I'm sure it's something Erebos would anticipate… if he is the spy, which I'm inclined to believe he is. '' She returned.

'' Well it is deserving trying, is it not ? '' Jacey joined Harry's side of the debate. `` If we think he is cognisant then so what ? What can he do about it other than tell those young woman that we may be on to him ? It would be worth it if he knows where Fred has been taken and we are able to see it, yes ? ``

'' Yes ! '' Hermione instantly agreed. `` Tristan and I are the only ones in seventh year who attend Erebos's class. Jacey can try it tomorrow while he's teaching and even if he figures out we know, we're out of here in a few weeks… there's cypher he can do about it. ``

'' Dumbledore banned Tristan from attending classes so Jacey wouldn't be able to get close enough. '' Luna tried a different argument.

'' Since when would that stop Tristram ? He has already been told he is as proficient as kicked out, why would he not just do whatever he pleased ? I will go to that family tomorrow. '' Jacey answered for herself.

'' '' I don't know. '' Harry said, suddenly coming around to Luna's more cautious way of thinking.

'' If he did find out we were on to him, I would never let him bruise Hermione or myself while we're trapped away in a classroom with him. '' Jacey said in reassurance as she picked up on his fright and doubts.

'' Oh, I believe you, I'd just rather it not suffer to come to that. '' He sighed. `` But I guess all we can deal with rightfulness now is hypothesis until we get something more solid to guide us. ``

'' mulct. '' Luna gave in as well. `` But we have to be very careful. ``

'' fountainhead that goes without saying. '' He agreed, moving to the door.

'' Where are you going ? '' Hermione asked.

'' well, I was going to let you three braniacs try to keep piecing affair together while I went to utter to Ron. '' He answered. He'd felt distracted this whole time, half-worried about and half-angry with his absent friend.

'' You should probably not do that. '' Jacey said quietly.

'' Why because he's mad at us ? What else is new ? '' Hermione asked, decidedly rising to her human foot and wrapping her blanket around her again. `` I'll go with you. ``

'' Well I want no part in it until he is make to come talk of the town to me. '' Jacey insisted. `` I will be in Tristan's room if you need me later. '' She waved good-bye and left the room.

'' What do you think ? '' He asked Luna and Hermione.

Luna shrugged. `` I agree with Jacey that it's a bad idea, but I'll go with you both to see if maybe we can get through out to him anyway… he's very confused about everything right now. ``

So in reluctant agreement, they left Harry's room and walked the shortsighted way down the antechamber to Ron's. He answered after the 3rd knock, staring daggers at them. `` What do you three require ? '' He asked meanly.

'' To talk to you… why didn't you come join everyone ? '' Harry asked, walking past him into the room.

'' I thought I'd made myself clear by not going… I don't want to be around any of you at the moment. '' Ron glowered, slamming the threshold shut after Hermione and Luna followed Harry in. `` I do experience my own free will you know. I don't have to be at your beck and prognosticate like everyone else. ``

'' Whatever you say Ron. '' He tried to stay on calm, to commemorate that his admirer was hurting and needed them to be there for him.

'' Yeah, it is whatever I say because I'm tired of it always being whatever Harry says. '' He shot back.

'' What is your problem ? Just separate us what's wrong ? '' Hermione demanded softly.

'' You ! All of you are what's incorrect ! '' Ron shouted, startling them all.

'' You can't rap everyone else for what's bothering you. '' She shouted back. `` At some degree you have to hold back and consider that it's not always everyone else that's the trouble, sometimes it's you ! ``

'' I can feel whatever I want just like the remainder of you. '' He replied. `` You're not so high and mighty Hermione. You're the one we had to pull out of a hole yesterday nearly frozen… and why ? Because you lost your head over my pal which, oh yeah, also allowed Lucius Malfoy to beguile my baby ! In a sense, everything Lucius was able to accomplish yesterday is your fault since you practically handed Ginny over to him to use as a hostage. Do you think Fred would be impressed with that ? ``

'' Hey ! '' Harry yelled, interrupting the spew of hate Ron had been hurling at Hermione. Seeing her stung verbal expression and the tears of hurt in her eyes, it was hard to observe in mind that the other boy didn't know Fred was missing. `` That was completely uncalled for and entirely untrue ! ``

'' It's all on-key and she knows it ! '' He said angrily as he pointed to Hermione who looked away in disgrace and guilt.

'' Ron, please- '' Luna started.

'' Please ? Please what ? '' He interrupted as he mocked her. `` Always so willowy and frail aren't you Luna… always the unending victim… ''

'' What's that supposed to mean ? '' She asked defensively while mentally telling Harry to bet on off and let Ron get it off his chest.

'' Like you don't experience ? Everything that happened to you yesterday was your own fault ! Maybe it's time you start considering your own choices before lecturing everyone else on theirs. '' He sneered down at her. Harry was itching to make it stop but again Luna held him back, telling him it was better that Ron not give this all in no matter how much it may suffer their spirit. Ron went on, his back now to Harry as he fully faced Luna to continue berating her. `` You're the one who decided to get away from Simon by apparating to the grove instead of somewhere safer. You're the one who chose to get away from Crabbe and Goyle by returning to the Wood where, surprisal, damsel in suffering Luna slides over a drop ! ``

'' That was a series of circumstances ! How is any of that her geological fault ? '' Harry finally let out, ineffective to go along quiet any longer.

Ron whipped around to front him. `` Hey, she's the one who decided it was in her best interest to allow for the inn ! She was entirely prophylactic when I left her with Hermione. ``

'' Exactly ! You left ! Where were you to help ? '' He shot back.

'' Talking to Padma, trying to figure out how I was going to bring her to receive up with her now vampire twin ! '' Ron roared out. `` Luna is no longer my responsibility to reckon after recall ? She's yours ! And if it weren't for you, Lucius probably wouldn't have even had any interest in her anyway ! ``

'' Excuse me ? '' Harry asked darkly.

'' The Quibbler article… Lucius was very specific that the article was the rationality he was ready to hurl her off a cliff. You're the one who came up with the musical theme and contacted her Father of the Church about it without her knowledge. You're the one who made sure Xeno had all the information and you're the one who talked her into going along with it. If I recall, Luna wasn't too happy about the article, thought it was a bad idea… Well you're the one who chose not to listen to her ! So putting it all together, it was your decision that nearly got her killed yesterday ! ``

Harry reacted without thought, simply wanting to lash out and hurt the way he was now hurting. He hadn't even realized he'd swung his fist until he saw Ron laying on the story before him, glaring up as he rubbed his jaw. `` What's the matter Harry ? Does the truth hurt ? '' He taunted.

'' stop over it ! Everyone just stop ! '' Hermione shouted, her voice growing hoarse as she continued to sift it.

'' You're the ones who barged in here to trouble me. '' Ron said, rising to his foot and pushing past her to depend at his face in the small mirror hanging over his dresser.

Harry shook his head and simply walked out, going back to his own room and closing the door tightly behind him, wanting to close out the world. To her credit rating, Luna gave him nearly an intact hour to himself before coming to demand he open up and face her. He sighed and went to let her in, once again finding it impossible to traverse her even as his pity and fury with himself made him only want to hide from her. `` You were correct, going to talk to him was a bad idea… you were decent every time you said something was a bad idea… '' He told her, going to sit at his desk.

'' Harry- ''

'' I've learned my example though… I'll listen when you say that from now on. '' He interrupted as he hung his head and stared at his hands.

She walked over and moved his munition, settling herself in his lap as she comfortingly ran her fingers through his hair. `` The truth needed to get out about Lucius. '' She said gently. `` I may not hold liked the way you chose, but after seeing my Church Father survive an attack only to still be so assured that he'd done the right thing… I long ago came to terminus with the fact that it was unsafe. Everything we do now is dangerous, there's no getting around that. You can't blame yourself for what Lucius chooses to do. And without coming face to face with him yesterday, we wouldn't have his confession about Kane. ``

'' It was too conclude for comfort… I thought I was literally having a heart onrush when I saw you and Draco go over the side… '' He leaned to pillow his os frontale on her shoulder, ineffectual to meet her eyes.

'' Hey, I may consume been scared, but I never for a min thought process I was going to die. I knew you were coming to help oneself us. '' She reassured him, still delicately stroking his hair.

'' How could you eff I would get there in time ? ``

'' Harry… '' She laughed and made him look at her. `` Don't you think I of all people would know ? Don't you think I'd get some word of advice, some imaginativeness telling me the end was near ? Nothing at all came to me while Draco was holding onto me, that's how I knew you'd get there in clock time. '' She kissed his cheek and he quickly turned to appropriate her sassing. With one graceful movement, she turned herself and was now straddling him, throwing her arms around his shoulder as she deepened the candy kiss. He wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer against him, needing to feel that the haleness that only she could convey as her visible light filled every void place inside of him.

For a minute there he'd felt the world collapse down around him as he'd taken in the trueness of Ron's harsh words, that his own activeness calendar month ago had put Lucius standing over Luna with the conclusion to let her live or die… The fact that the man would own probably gone ahead and crushed her fingerbreadth anyway simply because she'd seen him there meant nada because Lucius had been very clear in his reasons for attempting to help her surrender to her death. But she had come and just made it better with kind Son of her own… She had been able to pack away the power his guilt had over him by simply asserting her belief in him and in herself.

Ron had no idea what he was talking about, Luna had never allowed anything to keep back her from fighting on and she was far from playing the victim. In fact in that mo, she was his hero, bringing him back from the agonizing shackles of self-doubt. He felt her grin against his lip as she picked up his thought and knew that she liked how he saw her in his thinker. I love you. He thought to her, a simple statement that held more truth and depth of emotion than anything he'd ever before express in his entire life.

No more than I love you. She assured him, breaking the kiss to look him in the middle. And then there were no more words left to say, zippo left that could utter what either of them was feeling. And so he reached up to take her brim again, eager to let their minds and bodies say what their Bible and view were unable to articulate.

( BREAK )

Ginny walked into her way, leaving the door open as she was sure Draco had picked up on her non-to-subtle hint. certainly enough he came in a few minutes after her, quietly closing the door behind him and leaning against it, waiting to see what was to come. `` Really ? You stay out all Night knowing that Anapurna was still out there ? That Lucius could own come back ? I stayed up waiting for you, worrying myself crazy thinking of everything that could have happened only to find you sauntering in after Harry calls us all together ! You're bad for my nerves. '' She scolded.

'' I'm sorry you were worried. '' He said, shuffling his feet. `` I didn't mean to be gone all night but once I was out there, it just felt so good… running made me not think, made me feel free people I guess. ``

'' And I made you feel trapped ? '' She asked, hurt by the implication.

'' Not in the way you're thinking. '' He insisted. `` The wide-cut moon is tomorrow night and so I already feel like I'm crawling out of my skin… like my full body is a batting cage that's just barely keeping me inside. No crystal or potion can claim away that feeling. On top of that, it was too much to be presented with the idea that my own father could get taken you away from me so easily… that I had something to suffer that would completely demolish me. I'm not used to caring Ginny, but you make it easier… And now it feels like I care too much, you know ? Like my entire cosmos repose on your welfare… ''

'' You think I don't know what that's like ? I'm the one who had your blood all over my script yesterday. '' She reminded him. `` You think I wasn't ready to collapse at the view that you'd been fatally injured ? I never expected to care this much about someone, let alone you. But now that we're here together, I can't suppose it any former way and I wouldn't want to. ``

He nodded and crossed his weapon across his bureau as a sorting of buckler. `` As long as you know that I love you and that I don't blame you for any of this… I just can't be here, stuck in this castle right-hand now… ''

'' Meaning what ? ``

'' After lupin was done with his meeting with Jacey and Dumbledore, I went to see him to request that we leave a day early like pattern. '' He seemed to stabilise himself as he waited for her reaction.

'' I thought the point of the amulet was that you didn't have to pull up stakes at all. '' She said slowly.

'' That's what Lupin said… But I don't think I'll wear that tomorrow… I think I would form of like to let the wolf run free for a bit, under the chasteness of the Wolfsbane of course. ``

'' Be honest… Should I be worried about you ? '' She asked quietly.

genus Draco seemed to shake up himself off a bit, uncrossing his arms and putting on a grinning that didn't quite reach his eyes. `` Yesterday was a lot to involve in… I just need some time. ``

'' I knew… yesterday even while it was all occurrence, I knew you were going to come out of this different. '' She walked over and took his helping hand, looking up at him and feeling very much like she was pleading with him. `` I understand why… I just don't want you to be unlike with me. For upright or unsound I like who you are with me. Show the rest of the earthly concern whatever you want Draco, but please just stay honest with me. ``

'' I'm trying. '' He whispered sadly, pulling her against him as he hugged her closing. `` I just ask this sentence away… from you and myself. That's why I don't want to wear the talisman tomorrow… I don't want to abide myself right now. ``

'' And when you come back ? '' She asked, looking up at him hopefully.

'' It's not like I can take the air away from you forever, you know. '' He offered a genuine smile this time. `` It seems I can't really picture any kind of animation without you in it. ``

'' good. Because I'm scared you're going to try and do something misguidedly noble like leaving to control Lucius won't fair game me again. '' Ginny said seriously. `` Regardless what happened yesterday with him, I feel safer when you're around me. ``

'' What you feel and what is the existent reality are two different things. '' He reached out to brush her haircloth back before kissing her forehead. `` It's always going to be more dangerous for you to be around me… but I've long ago realized you're pretty much a target for danger with the decisions you make and the hoi polloi you associate with. Unless you're ready to agree to live your animation in a bubble, I'm in it for the farsighted haul to ensure that not only do you not get yourself killed, that no one ever again tries to hurt you to get at me… My leaving for honorable wouldn't restrain Lucius from using you again to scour me out, and it would work just as well as it did yesterday because nothing as simple as aloofness can change the way I feel about you. But I need these two mean solar day now Ginny. For my own sanity. ``

She looked at him carefully, before letting out a deep breathing space. `` Okay. '' She agreed now that she felt she believed he would descend back. But part of her was still reluctant, still fearful that while out there he would transfer his mind and decide she was better off without him after all. `` Just remember, I'd dip apart if you didn't come back. ``

'' Tuesday morning I'll be here. '' He promised. She wanted to consider him completely. But that small hen-peck phonation that always seemed to shout out that she wasn't meant to be happy kept her from fully allowing herself to trust that the lure of the world beyond Hogwarts was watery than the desire to refund to someplace he'd admitted he felt entirely trapped in.

( BREAK )

Ron waited until late Sunday night, wanting to be sure that everyone else had gone to bed in readying for their class the side by side day. As soon as his clock read midnight he got out of bed, still fully dressed, and made his way across the green room to the Slytherin flank. He knew Tristram's door was just by genus Draco's and as he raised his deal to tap, he hoped Jacey answered looking like the lamia as it would make it easier to say the affair he'd decided he needed to say to her. To the disappointment of his idea but not his middle, she opened the door looking very much like herself. It was amazing that she could appear so stun in unsubdivided pajamas, but the silky shirt and pants seemed to hug her body just right, making her appear soft and curvy. Her hair was hanging in wild curls around her shoulder, making it tantalizingly clear that she'd just rolled out of bed. `` Was there something you wanted ? '' She asked softly, clearly aware of the tension and ire he felt towards her.

He shook himself a bit, remembering that he'd made a determination and that he was determined to stick with it. `` I need to spill the beans to you for a moment. ``

She gestured him in and closed the door, turning to face up him with nervous concern. `` Have you heard anything about Parvati yet ? '' She looked down, and he began to wonder if she already knew why he'd come to see her.

'' Lupin told me before he and Draco left that his contact had gotten a hold of him to report that she had gotten Parvati to the settlement and they were well. '' He crossed his weaponry and stared her pile, almost daring her to meet his eyes. `` As well as can be expected anyway, given the fact that she had to be taken away from her admirer and phratry to learn how to be a better vampire. ``

'' It is not all my faulting ! '' She protested, once more raising her regard. `` I am sorry for the part I played in it by not saying what I suspected, but I am not the one who targeted her, I am not the one who turned her and I am not the one who is letting my guilt destroy my lifetime ! ``

'' Of course I feel guilty ! '' Ron shouted. `` I was all wrapped up in thoughts of you while she was off being fed on or whatever it takes to release someone ! She relied on me and I let her down, well I won't do it anymore. ``

'' Meaning what ? Have you come to tell me off the same way you did all your early Friend ? ``

'' I don't have to. You aren't my Quaker, I barely know you. '' He saw that she was hurt badly by this and it hurt him to see it. He may not have sex her well, but this was certainly proving to be intemperate than it had been to say the things he knew would hold his friends mad at him. He wondered how Harry had been able to keep this act up for so long close year when he was already prepared to throw off in the towel at the sight of Jacey's upset with him. But if he wanted to be left alone, he had to guarantee no one wanted to bother him. `` For a moment I thought I wanted to live you, but you're as big a prevaricator as Harry, Luna and Hermione. Besides, if I can barely abide to be around myself, how can I possibly be near you when the deal of you makes me retrieve of everything that Parvati is going through because you didn't warn anyone ? ``

'' Okay, you have made your point. '' She said crossly. `` I think you should go before you say something I really can not forgive. Remember Ron, eventually you will see a way to move past what you are feeling… you do not want to completely bite every bridgework you have. ``

'' Maybe I do. '' He countered. `` It would shit it that much wanton to start over from scratch. ``

'' Why would you want to do that ? '' She pushed. `` Your friends, your family… they have always been there for you. Maybe not always in elbow room that you approve of, but you can only really fault them for doing what they thought was best for you. I know the things you said to them today, the way you made them sense about themselves. I know that it is easier for you to cause them think badly of themselves so that they will forget they are mad at you for putting those thoughts in their heads in the first place. But what you are doing is cruel. Harry already feels so much responsibility for everyone's eudaimonia, making him think almost losing Luna was his fault was a horrible thing to do. ``

'' I wasn't wrong. '' He shot back, trying to prove that he was unmoved by her words. `` He's the maven behind Xeno releasing that story, everything that happens as a termination of it is in some way his flaw. He provided the catalyst. ``

'' And even now after you have made that clear and nearly crushed him with that cognition, he would lay down his life to redeem yours. '' She said angrily. `` You are letting what you feel establish you act selfishly. However true the things you say may be, how is bringing it to anyone's attention a irrefutable affair to do ? Everyone needs a bit of denial to go on after so much mindless and unending tragedy, even you. Taking theirs away from them, exposing all the matter they had repressed in order to keep moving forward… you are hurting them more than they realize. And more than you realize. You have no idea what is going on between Hermione and Fred right now and the therefore the things you said to her were devastating for her to get a line. After finding her in that mess so completely lost, you should take realized that she is in a very thin place at the moment. ``

'' You're redress, I have no idea what's going on between Hermione and Fred. You know why ? Because no one tells me anything anymore ! '' He shouted. `` That's kind of my hale breaker point here ! '' He stalked over to the door, Sir Thomas More furious with her now than when he'd come in. He wanted the opulence of focusing on his own emotional State, he didn't want to deliver to go mindful of anyone else's. Of course he knew they were all hurting after recent events… but he wanted his pain to take center microscope stage for once. He didn't want to have to realize that to each of them, their own pain in the ass was the most important… he didn't want to have to admit that there were those among his friends who may have deserved to find bad than he did. So what if that made him selfish… he was seventeen and this was the clock time to be selfish, to be youthful and responsibility-free, to not take in to care about anyone but himself before growing up and having to get a job and start up a crime syndicate. He was tired and wanted the spirit of a formula adolescent and the best way to achieve that was to distance himself from those that by blueprint or desire were now forced to be more than mature.

'' Please do not just walk out. '' Jacey said softly as he breezed retiring her.

'' There's nothing more to say and nothing more I want to take heed. '' He answered meanly, opening the door and walking out.

It wasn't until he reached his own way that he finally allowed himself to suspire. Facing Jacey had been harder than the others, perhaps because he'd been disappointed in her the most. Harry and the others he was used to getting the run around from, but he'd expected more from her. Ron had thought she was feeling the same way for him that he felt for her, but then she had so easily lied to him, siding with his friends against him immediately. And meanwhile, he'd lost a girl who really had tried to care about him to a direful fate… A circumstances that had been allowed to go on by the fille he'd allowed himself to be distracted by. Until he could forgive himself, he'd never be capable to forgive Jacey… and at this distributor point, he wasn't entirely sure he wanted to.

( severance )

Hermione lay in bed and stared at the cap. She was too hot to sleep, though once she kicked off her covers she found she was suddenly too cold. She'd tried taking the herbs given to her by the therapist but they had only relieved her sore pharynx and stuffed nose. The head ache remained, and she began to suspect that it had nothing to do with the low temperature she'd caught. Ron's quarrel were echoing in her brain, making her doubt so many things… but she wouldn't let herself be swept up in it. She'd have plenitude of time to feel bad once she was sure Fred was safe.

As a distraction, she focused her judgment on finding a solution. At first they'd all agreed that finding out where Fred was being kept was the most important thing, but she was starting to think otherwise. What serious would finding him do if they didn't physical body out a way to disentangle him from the trap that had forced him to exit in the first place ? Nailing down the spy was the key… Erebos and Herb Simon, it was important that they figure out how these two were actually connected to Elanya, Elise and Sarah. Once they were discovered, their threats would no longer hold weight and Fred could be freed of the fright of Ron and Ginny being killed if he didn't cooperate. The next whole tone was something Lee and Willem could do for her in London… they had to be absolutely surely there was no test copy to tie Fred to Edmund's destruction, nil that Elanya could use to prove he'd helped her in any way. The final step was finding a way to end the threat Sarah had hung over Hermione's own head. Once that was done, there was nothing to force Fred to preserve to cooperate and then they could find him and bring him home.

There was only one way she had been capable to think of overcoming Sarah's skill with Advanced Astral forcing out and that was to suit a comparable opponent. She'd already read the books she'd gotten from the library once… now it was time to interpret through them again to be sure she hadn't missed anything and then it would be prison term to recitation. She turned on the light and picked up one of the Book, figuring it was a better use of her insomnia than staring at the ceiling and worrying endlessly. She was determined that by the end of this calendar week she would know everything Sarah knew about astral projection… That they will have neutralized the scourge presented by Erebos and Simon… And that they will not only have found where Elanya took Fred, but also have a solid plan for how to fetch him back.

　

NOTE : side by side chapter, the hunt for Fred and some Thomas More things are brought to light. Stay tuned to notice out what happens side by side !

Reference to Helen Newington Wills and the polyjuice potion from Harry Potter and the goblet of flame by J.K. Rowling.
reference work to Dolores Umbridge from Harry ceramist and the Order of the capital of Arizona by J.K. Rowling.
computer address to Quierrell from Harry ceramist and the Sorcerer's/Philosopher's pit by J.K. Rowling


Chapter 53 : And the patch Thickens

A/N : Wow did this chapter take a turn I wasn't expecting as I was writing, thus the title of respect of the chapter… I guess we'll all see where this takes us now. Read, Review, Enjoy !





'' You're sure about this ? '' lupin asked as they watched the synodic month rise from beneath the trees.

'' I am. '' genus Draco answered steadily, clutching his talisman tightly as he waited for himself to be ready to take it. They had hiked all day in muteness yesterday, both content to let the former be lost in their own view as they left any trace of civilization far behind them. He'd been grateful that Lupin had allowed the silence to continue into the nighttime and next day… he felt awkward around the man and didn't know how to peach to him anymore. Lucius had been ready to kill Lupin simply for agreeing to legally search after Draco and high-risk, he'd threatened to go after Andromeda, Ted and Tonks as well before he'd escaped. His begetter's inexplicable wrath and jealousy was obviously something Potter hadn't anticipated when he'd suggested this hale guardianship thing for them… none of them had. `` You don't have to come with, you know. You can keep your talisman on and last out human… I took the potion, I'll be fine. ``

'' I know. But I want to go with. '' He insisted. `` I've had to do this by myself for many year, and even when you think you don't want anyone else there, I've found it's always better not to go through it alone. I had King James I and Sirius… and because they kept me going, now you have me to help you. ``

Dragon shook his head. `` School's over in a few weeks, I'll be moving back in with potter I guess, since that's where everyone seems to go. I have the talisman and a sense of some kind of control… you don't have to be there for me anymore. You can take back your guardianship and erase all traces that tie yours and Tonks public figure to mine. ``

'' I could, but why would I ? '' lupine smiled. `` You can't always expect that people will just give up on you when affair get too toilsome Draco. Not everyone is like that. You may opine that it's difficult to give yourself up to caring about others… but that's the easy constituent. It can be far more difficult to open yourself up to letting others care about you. ``

'' I just don't want it to be my break if Lucius decides to go after you guys ! '' He said angrily, taking a few steps away.

'' And it wouldn't be. '' He said gently. `` What your father chooses to do is up to him, but the bad blood between him and Andromeda goes back to before you were born. Her recent kindness to you is only the latest self-justification for him to search payback against her. Tonks has been in his good deal for year as she was a part of respective different probe seeking to impart him down. And after what happened in the Ministry of illusion, after losing Sirius, she had already sworn to help get Lucius and the others if it was the in conclusion matter she did. I know you don't know your full cousin very well, but it takes a lot for her to back down from anything. '' He smiled as he thought of his wife. `` As for me, well, you've kind of grown on me. I'm certainly not scared of Lucius, and I wouldn't let him be the affair that has you pushing me away when it's discharge you'd rather have me around. ``

'' I guess you've grown on me too. '' Draco mumbled. `` Which is why the death thing I want to be is a burden. ``

'' And you aren't. '' Lupin insisted. `` My family was always cold and removed, and they became even more so after I became afflicted with this curse. My totally aliveness I had to attain my own kin, which is what I managed to do with Saint James, Lily and Sirius. After I lost them, I thought I was finished caring about people… And then I got the probability to not only meet and be close Harry, but to help clear Sirius's name as well. Since then I've opened myself up and began making my own family again, up to and including falling in love with and marrying Tonks. I care about all of you kids… and I certainly love Harry as if he were my own son. But you Draco, you have become someone important to me as well, someone I can share the most atrocious part of my life with, someone who makes this curse easier to turn out because now I have the responsibility of guiding you through living your sprightliness with it. I'm not revoking my charge, and it's not just because I think you still postulate me and Tonks and the color of family we can offer you, it's also because I need you to be in my life history. ``

He didn't know what to say or even how he felt. He was still getting used to what it was like to roll in the hay Ginny, how was he also supposed to handle the flavor that came with having normal family members who not only cared about him, but actually wanted him around ? Lupin was related to him through wedding and a slip of paper, but in that moment it felt as if he were everything Draco had always wanted but never had… father, sidekick, uncle, cousin and best friend all wrapped up in one package and waiting for him to accept it. `` Okay. '' He said, not trusting himself to say anything else without betraying how aroused he felt.

Lupin laughed and patted his articulatio humeri. `` Come on, let's let ourselves go for the Night and just enjoy the run. We'll head back towards Hogwarts so we won't have as far to travel in the morning. ``

Draco nodded in silent agreement. Together they removed their amulet, storing them safely in their traveling bag, of which they'd loosened the strap to oblige their soon to be larger class. Stepping out into the moonshine, he wasn't quite for sure what to expect… the shift wasn't as terrible as he remembered, though perhaps it was because this fourth dimension he fully embraced it, wanting the masher to be free. Still retaining their own idea, they were now in foreign bodies and had to be careful as they remembered to trounce the bags to their book binding. They shared a looking before lupine threw his headland to the moon and let out a wild howl. And then they were off, allowing the Friedrich August Wolf to run and play while they attempted to turn off their human being thoughts.

( gap )

As had become his custom, Fred woke early, just before the sun rose. Of course he had no idea what sentence that was, just as he had no idea how long he'd actually been on this island… he'd forced himself to bar reckoning solar day after the 5th one, finding it far too depressing. Instead he had learned to focus on finding what short enjoyment he could while he was imprisoned. Those odd flowers growing here had become one of those things he actually liked and so he'd begun getting up before the sun, gladly leaving the luster of the Interior of their massive collapsible shelter that seemed so ordinary on the outside. As he now normally did, he walked up the beach to where a small patch of the strange blooms grew wild.

Looking off into the horizon as he waited for the sun to peek over it, he let his mind wander… Wondering what his Quaker were up to, what Hermione must be thinking about his disappearance, whether his parents knew he was in fuss, and most prominently ... how was he going to get himself out of this ? Hearing a loud squawking sound that still terrified him no issue how many times he heard it, he glanced up into the quickly brightening sky and saw the drear outline of those weird creatures that enjoyed flying through the dawn. He didn't know what they were and they never came close enough for him to really see them, which was fine by him as he wasn't about to go looking for them. They seemed to bind to the tall mountains that made up most of this island and Fred had been sure to keep far away from there, choosing instead to remain near the beach where the vast sea reminded him of freedom.

At last the sun came up, breaking entirely release of the skyline to set out it's ascent through the sky. He eagerly turned back to the flowers, waiting for that first of all ray of light of twinkle to touch them. At last it happened and his eyes danced as bud after bud bloomed in an explosion of color- vibrant pink and purple, Ne blues and unripened, deeply saturated orange and yellows. It was breathtaking to behold, like a workplace of art coming to life story right in strawman of him.

'' well, I figured I'd find you here again. '' Elanya said as she came up behind him. He ignored her as he'd been doing since that first night… he hadn't spoken a single word to her since setting up the collapsible shelter. In fact, he felt like he was beginning to leave how to talk at all as he'd never in his life been able to maintain silence for more than a few minutes let alone however long he'd been stuck here… Though in a horse sense, it did make up him happy to know that his stubbornness and self-command were so strong. He knew it was beginning to annoy her that she was basically left talking to herself and as that was the only sort of triumph he could accomplish, he was thrifty to hold on up his silence. `` Don't you get tired of watching them day after day ? '' She goaded.

He wanted to tell her that he'd be able to find more stimulating ways to extend his time had she not forced him onto this island where the only cast of entertainment was the strange beauty of nature… But he didn't. He simply got up and brushed the George Sand from his shorts before stripping off his place and tee shirt and heading down to the water for a swim. He could feel her following him and smiled to himself, glad that he was proving to be an pain to her. `` You have to talk to me sometime ! '' She called as he walked right into the weewee, letting the inexplicable warmth of it sooth away the stress he carried at all times now. `` Hey ! '' She shouted loudly.

He turned to find her ankle-deep in the water. She'd taken off her clothes and was standing there in a revelation bathing suit that he hadn't even seen her purchase with his money. The fabric was gold, nearly blending in with the deep tan she'd acquired while they'd been there and illuminating the honey-gold color of her eyes. The sun shone through her informal auburn hair, casting a lustrous aura around her. He bit the inside of his face, needing the pain in the neck to cue him that as good as she may look she wasn't safe to let one's guard down around. `` Mind if I join you for a swim ? '' She asked slyly as she posed effortlessly in front line of him like a golden statue.

It was assoil she wanted some response and it didn't subject whether it was a defence or banker's acceptance of her offer. She was clearly starting to act out in an try to manipulate him into doing what she wanted, which was speak to her. As a skilled prevaricator and manipulator himself, he knew the thing to look for and so he willfully kept his muteness. Pretending he hadn't even seen her, he turned and dive into the indulgent waves before moving his arms and ramification, gliding easily through the water without looking back. Everyday he managed to get further from the shoreline… not that he had any illusions about being able-bodied to drown his way across the ocean. But as Elanya never went more than waist-deep into the water, he'd do to make she was probably not a very hard or sure-footed swimmer. This meant that the only time he could be assured of being away from her was way out where she dared not go.

Feeling his side begin to cramp and his arm slack down, he stopped and treaded water, turning to insure she had in fact remained on the beach. Even at this far distance, he could secern she was furious as she strode back towards the tent. Breathing a sigh of fill-in Fred flipped over onto his back and floated, careful to bear in mind that he didn't let the current wrench him further than he thought he could swim back. Allowing his head teacher to dip so that his capitulum were below water supply where everything was muffled and staring at the sempiternal blue sky sky, he felt relaxed… peaceful… and very lonely. As much as he would wish to look on the bright incline and enjoy the scenery of where he was, the idea that so many mass were probably worried about him kept him from doing so. He wished he were stuck on the island with Hermione, that this was some post-graduation vacation and she could be out here to enjoy this quiet import with him.

He was vex that he didn't know what was going on at Hogwarts, but there was nil he could do about it. Still, it was easier to recall of the unknown danger the others were going through than to focus on his own captivity… But he knew he had to start out doing something to change his situation. As much as he wanted to celebrate up this silent treatment that was making Elanya so mad, he knew he needed answers from her. His hands were completely tied while he was here, cut off from everyone and all information. But if he could encounter out when they were leaving and when she planned on going back to Greater London to attempt to use him against his Quaker and family, then he'd be better positioned to fare up with a plan. Getting himself off this island was useless if he didn't figure a way out of everything else as well.

Feeling hungry, Fred turned and swam back to shore. Letting the sun dry him as he walked back to the collapsible shelter, he decided to give himself one more than day to enjoy making Elanya mad… Tomorrow he would see how he felt about breaking his quiet. After all, as much as he wanted to understanding with himself, it was intemperate to give up the only small bit of superpower he had at the moment.

( BREAK )

'' right morning everyone ! '' Charlie greeted his course of instruction. Since Lupin and Draco had decided to leave alone, an impromptu flip up of class schedules was arranged to make up for the missing prof, making for an entirely confusing Monday that Hermione had missed out on by staying in bed sick. Unfortunately, lupine hadn't made it back in time Tues sunrise and that left the one-seventh yr advanced program class to relish Care of Magical animate being as the first lesson of the day. Normally Hermione enjoyed Charlie's class, even if she did suffer to prognosticate him Professor Weasley. But between her concern over Fred, her still lingering illness and Ron glaring at her and Harry the whole clock time, she just wasn't in the climate for anything that distracted her from practicing astral projection. Perhaps she should have taken Harry's advice and stayed in bed again today, but being so close to the end of her time in school she'd forced herself to get up, not wanting to miss out on anything that could present itself on a tryout. But her head just wasn't in it and as Charlie began handing out footling playscript to them all, she debated asking if she could be excused.

'' Now, my coming to learn here was a very cobbler's last mo determination and so I didn't have time to get my say on your reading material leaning for this category. '' Charlie announced as he finished passing the Good Book around and stood before them all. `` Today we start learning about creatures I have a exceptional specialty in- Draco. '' He smiled, clearly excited to teach on something he knew so well. `` Obviously I can't bring any of them in to show you, though I'm aware that some of you have had rather close coming upon with a few different specie. '' He grinned at Harry.

'' Charlie, this book has your name on it. '' Ron interrupted, not bothering to set up his hand.

'' That's professor Weasley while we're in class Ron. '' Charlie reminded him with a smirk. `` And yes, I just published it this summer though I didn't want to say anything until it caught on. A few years ago, I and a few of my fellow were lucky enough to stumble upon a coinage of dragon that had long been thought to have gone out. We lived near and studied them and after, I wrote down what we learned. You are now all holding the consequence of that endeavor. ``

He went on and suddenly too curious and worry to look at leaving class, Hermione began flipping through the Bible, aegir to get a mother wit of Charlie as an author. The text was informative but it was the vivid photo of the island where the dragons had been found and of the creatures themselves that really made the book spectacular. Drawn in by a bright volley of colouration in the recess of one of the photos, she leaned in closer and was struck as she recognized the flowers from Luna's vision. Her hand instantly shot into the air as she desperately waved it to get Charlie's attention.

'' Yes misfire granger ? '' He grinned at her.

'' I was looking through the book… these flower in this picture here, are they Colorsplosions ? '' She felt Harry gain vigor up next to her and together they eagerly waited for an answer.

'' Why, yes as a subject of fact. As it turned out, these flying dragon weren't the only if thing we found on the island that had been thought to be out. Good job recognizing them '' He nodded encouragingly. `` There were several other plant and animal species on this island- ''

'' What island ? '' Harry interrupted, throwing his handwriting in the air as an afterthought.

'' One of the gateway islands that protect the route to Castellumshire. '' He answered suspicious of the sudden pursuit. `` I'm no straw hat, I simply rode with a crowd of them and they knew how to get there. I personally couldn't even point it out on a map. ``

'' And are the tartar that live there serious ? '' Hermione asked, suddenly terrified for Fred.

'' Yes, but only if you disturb them. '' Charlie answered seriously. `` This metal money is called the Double-Clawed Winghorn, so named for the pair of very shrill pincer they use to rest and grip prey and the French horn protruding from the tips of their backstage. They live in senior high school topographic point, generally mountains… Which is where we found these last few. Our camp was down at the substructure and as long as we remained down there, the Winghorns didn't bother us. It was only after we climbed up to study them more closely that they became deplorable and highly protective of what they considered their borders. They attack in span and are highly intelligent and extremely expert, though we only saw ten of them in all. However, when left on their own it became realize that they only came out to hunt down in the very early aurora. The rest of the time they were contented to continue in their den. ``

Hermione pretty much tuned him out after that, not needing or wanting to hear more. Surely she had to be mistaken, for certain Colorspolosions had to grow elsewhere in the world… She knew all it would take to find out the Sojourner Truth was to run the idea by Luna and the lady friend's suspicion would recount them if this was the island where Fred was being held… but she was already middling sure as shooting that it was. Of course it had to be, why wouldn't Elanya insist they go one of the few station anyone else dared to ? What were the odds another team of dragon Orion would be stopping by now that they knew what was there ?

As soon as Charlie ended his class, Hermione raced back to her elbow room, throwing aside the volume on astral projection to find the one about mystical islands that she'd also stolen/borrowed. She flipped through the pages until she found an ledger entry on the gateway islands… there were two some XXX kilometre apart that were estimated to be about a hundred km from Castellumshire. Despite this wide expanse, the book explained that for some ground, these islands proved to be unchartable and only a very flavour sailor knew how to find them.

look excited, nervous and terrified, she rushed into the common way where Harry and Luna were sitting on the couch, apparently waiting for her. `` Is this it ? Is this where Fred is ? '' She thrust the Holy Scripture at Luna, begging her to say she was wrong… that Fred wasn't on an untraceable island that was occupied by dragons.

'' You've lost Fred ? '' Draco asked as he emerged from the Slytherin wing.

They all froze, timid what to say or how to excuse. `` When did you get back ? '' Harry asked calmly as both a misdirection and a way to buy time.

'' A few minutes ago. I was just on my way to say Ginny before we all have to go to family. '' He answered, looking around at the three of them suspiciously. `` What's going on with Fred ? ``

'' He's on a business concern trip. '' Hermione said quickly, not knowing what else to say and figuring it was best to mystify with the lie already told. They may not receive discussed it, but she, Harry and Luna had clearly come to a silent agreement not to narrate Draco anything about Fred so that he wouldn't be put in the position of keeping it from Ginny.

'' Yeah, Ginny mentioned something about that. Apparently Mrs. Weasley sent a missive complaining all about it and the precipitous way he left. '' Draco said slowly. He was anything but dimwitted and it was clear he'd picked up on something being wrong. `` What does that have to do with you all not knowing where he is ? ``

'' Hermione had been talking to him through those compacts… you know, keeping in touch. '' Luna blurted out.

'' Right, but she came to us this aurora saying she accidentally broke the compact. '' Harry agreed, picking up effortlessly on Luna's thought. `` She was freaking out because she had no idea where he was actually staying and therefore no way to contact him. ``

'' I had a vision that showed him on an island, though I wasn't sure which one so she went to depend up the thing I described to see if she could estimate it out. '' Luna added, rounding out their lie.

Draco ignored them and looked at Hermione before smirking and shaking his head. He'd gotten to screw them all well since joining with them, and had spent years before that spying on them to learn all their enigma. He knew of the three, Harry was the empower liar, though Luna was able when pressed… he also knew Hermione not only didn't like to lie, she wasn't always the most convincing at it. Letting Harry and Luna speak for her had obviously given him a clew that things weren't exactly as they were telling him. `` I see. '' He said at last. `` This is one of those, I'm-better-off-not-knowing, types of things… is that because Ginny is respectable off not knowing ? ``

'' Let's just say everything's fine and spliff with that. '' Harry said.

'' OK, I don't need to know the particulars. '' Draco agreed. `` But if you need help, I've been looking for a grounds to practice scrying. ``

'' Why ? '' Hermione asked.

He shrugged. `` You all said we need to focus on getting ready to find the coven… Figured I'd like to have something utile to add to the table. Scrying is a skill that runs in my family so I thought I could use it to help you site all those mass. ``

'' Good to know you plan to fare along. '' Harry smiled in encouragement.

'' I don't really have anything planned once we're released from here. '' He admitted. `` I just think it's best I prepare for anything. Let me roll in the hay if you need my help. I won't acknowledgment to Ginny that Fred is currently… off the grid ? ``

'' I guess that's the best way to put it. '' Hermione nodded. `` Thanks. '' He waved her off and continued on his way to evidence Ginny that he had returned.

'' Yes, I think that's the place. '' Luna said, answering Hermione's earlier interrogative sentence once she was surely they were alone.

'' Good, so if we know what island he's on and genus Draco thinks he can find where the island is, then there's no demand for you and Jacey to go to Erebos's category today so she can try to get into his point. '' Harry said happily.

'' That was your idea in the first place ! '' Hermione reminded him.

'' I've had clip to reflect on it. '' He answered defensively.

'' Either way, we still have to define whether he's really the spy. We can't go deliverance Fred until we're sure we've shut down everything they're holding over his head. '' She argued.

'' I agree. '' Jacey said, emerging from the Slytherin flank as Tristan, properly dressed in school robes and carrying a backpack. `` Are you set up to go Miss granger ? ``

Hermione looked at Harry and saw that he was extremely unhappy. She felt disembarrass in that moment… she didn't have to care what Harry thought anymore. She was leave to do whatever she had to in order to aid Fred, just as she'd done in the past for Harry, no issue how serious or stupid. They had to know if Erebos was the spy so that they could halt him from carrying out Elanya's threats… if that meant placing herself in front of the prof while Jacey tried to get into his mind, then so be it. `` I'm ready. '' She answered confidently.

( BREAK )

Ginny answered the knock on her door right away and threw her arms around Draco, more than relieved that he'd returned as he'd promised. `` I wasn't even gone a full phase of the moon two days. '' He teased, leaning down to kiss her.

'' It felt like much longer. '' She sighed, taking his hand and leading him into her room, closing the threshold for privateness. `` Are you okay ? ``

'' As practically as I can be I guess. '' He answered honestly, taking a tail on the bed. `` I talked a few things over with lupin and it made me palpate better… sort of. I'm just tired of everything always being so difficult. ``

'' You and everyone else. '' She smiled, climbing behind him and rubbing his shoulder joint. She could palpate how much accent he was carrying and did her best to allay the uttermost tension in his heftiness. `` But I guess if thing weren't difficult, we wouldn't appreciate the times when everything is gentle. ``

He relaxed into her hired hand, letting his head hang down as she massaged his neck. `` When has anything ever been light ? We've all had to scramble to get where we are and now we're struggling to stay there while the entire world seems to diagram against us. ``

'' Being with you isn't such a struggle. '' She wrapped her subdivision around him and kissed the binding of his neck. `` In fact, loving you might be the easiest thing I've ever done even after all we've gone through together. I don't care how hard I have to fight for us genus Draco, I think it's worth it. ``

He took her coat of arms and turned to face her, studying her very closely. `` None of this… nada I'm inquiring or doubting has anything to do with you or us. '' He said very seriously before at survive breaking into a grinning. `` You don't have to convince me that you love me, it's probably the only thing I'm sure of anymore. ``

She nodded. `` I just thought you needed to get wind it again. I can't imagine what you must be feeling after everything that happened with Lucius on Saturday… I just don't want you to go back to thinking that everyone is like him, that everyone will hurt or let down you in the long run. ``

He let out a low jest. `` Lupin said something standardized. ``

'' Well, we can't both be unseasonable, right ? '' She grinned.

'' It's just a strange thing to get used to, having people safari to outride in my life… especially when it's proven so unsafe. '' He shook his header and turned away from her again. `` I tried to give Lupin an out. I told him to erase all shadow that linked his and Tonks's names to mine… but he wanted to stay on as my guardian. ``

'' Of course he did ! You don't think you're helping him deal with this unhurt werewolf affair the same way he's helping you ? '' She asked, once more wrapper her arms around him and resting her chin on his berm. `` Face it Draco… once the great unwashed get to know you, you're a pretty likable guy. And I hope you weren't planning to try and score me the same offer as lupine because you're as stuck with me as you are with him. ``

'' Don't I know it. '' He teased, turning to kiss her cheek.

'' You're lucky to have us both. '' She went on, smiling widely.

'' Yeah, I know that too. '' He laughed.

'' Well here's the part you don't seem to experience yet… we're lucky to have you as well. '' She reached up and turned his face so that she could lightly kiss his lip. `` Maybe that's the role you shouldn't forget. '' She whispered before fully capturing his mouth once more, set up to welcome him back and usher him just how often she'd missed him.

( breach )

'' Mr. Macnair ! I was told not to expect you in category today. '' Professor Erebos said as soon as Jacey entered his classroom. Hermione had been sure to arrive a few mo before her as common so that nil would seem suspicious.

'' I'm of the judgement that my lieu here is still to be determined. '' She replied as Tristan, coolly taking a seat in the rachis row of the nearly abandon classroom. Erebos simply shook his nous and began his lesson. Clearly the man was going to leave the act of disciplining the vampire to those with more power than he had. Jacey was glad to find that the professor was more than a bit scared of Tristan.

Remember, keep him engaged. Ask enquiry so he is focused on you and therefore less able-bodied to focus on shielding his mind. She reminded Hermione.

I think I can deal it. She replied in amusement.

They waited until the lesson was half over, hoping that Erebos would be lulled into a false signified of security measure. You ready ? Jacey thought out to Harry and Luna. She knew that by now they had stationed themselves next room access in prof Flitwick's currently empty classroom.

Let's just try to be really measured, okay ? Harry asked desperately.

Giving Hermione the signal, Jacey watched in fascinated amusement as the other girl raised her hand and assaulted Erebos with rapid-fire questions. No sooner had the man answered her once than she was asking for more information, Thomas More illumination or more detail. Watching him become flustered, Jacey waited until she was sure he was completely distracted by his bore student. Feeling Harry and Luna's presence mingle in with hers, she propelled all three of them forward into the professor's head. indisputable enough, they found a fortress around his intellect, as luxuriously and mighty as any of theirs. Picturing the three of them tiptoeing through the man's subconscious mind, she helped search for some way in.

There ! Luna whispered excitedly. Focusing on her, Jacey was able-bodied to see what she saw and cautiously zoomed toward the crack in the foundation. They slipped their way in, careful not to entrust a trace of themselves. Flipping through the man's idea as quickly as possible, they at finally found what they were looking for.

*****

Erebos put the key in the door and entered the hotel room. Elise was already waiting for him, sitting in one of the chairperson as she regarded him warily. `` It's been a long time Dolos. '' She said, offering a sly and seductive smile.

'' And I had thought it would be much longer. I thought we had agreed class ago to just be felicitous that we got away with having our scant sentence together. '' He replied, angrily dropping his grip to the soil. He didn't like being summoned like this, but the daughter had a lot of dirt on him and she was entirely capable of ruining his life.

'' You thought a lot of things about me, haven't you ? '' She teased.

He cleared his pharynx and remained firm in his resolve. `` I'm married now. ``

She laughed. `` Actually you're in the operation of getting divorced. Didn't you think I would agree up on you before making contact ? I also know things between you and the ex are entirely unsettled… it seems she's battling you for to the full custody of the little rugrats you two bred. '' She laughed again, having seen the concern that instantly spread across his face. `` Relax Dolos, I didn't vociferation you here to rekindle old flames or to menace your estranged family. ``

'' Then why did you prognosticate, and why have us conform to here, in Commonwealth of Australia of all position ? '' He asked nervously.

'' To make a proposition. '' She rose and walked over to the window, letting the sun shine through her sundress and strip a shadow of the figure underneath. `` It seems you and I are in the position to serve each other yet again. '' She added, looking at him over her shoulder. Everything about her was as appealing as it had been all those yr ago, from her rather attractive appearance to the small star tattoo that drew him into her eyes to the hint of risk she always promised to provide.

'' I'm listening. '' He said, entertaining the idea that perhaps rekindling old flames wouldn't be the risky thing in the world.

She turned fully to him, leaning against the balcony rail as she spoke. `` I came here looking for someone… turns out the number one one wasn't all that I needed him to be. But I have found a fille with the rightfulness power and a dire indigence for revenge. My champion and I need her… after speaking with the girl, we've already come up with a plan on how to use her to our best vantage. The only affair is, she feels she has nothing to offer us. As it turns out, the young woman does bear some annoying morals and while she very much liked that we could give her the way to toss off her founder, she was also hesitant in joining with us when she had no way to refund us. ``

'' She seems saucy, doesn't want to be left in anyone's debt. '' He interrupted, thinking of his own situation. He was entirely indebted to Elise for how she was able to pass over up their affair all those year ago… it was why he had come here.

'' Whatever the case, you need to be the thing she can put up us… which works out wonderfully since I was eventually going to meet you on our behalf anyway. '' She grinned.

'' You keep saying our and we. Who else are you plotting with ? ``

'' A dear old friend… perhaps you remember Sarah Elaine ? '' She waited as he nodded, indicating he vaguely remembered the girl who he'd only ever met during the visitation. `` She has her own fish on the hook, but her daughter is useless as long as she's locked away. ``

'' So what do you postulate me to do ? '' He asked, again feeling nervous.

'' Elanya Delamora… very youth and very pretty… she's staying in this hotel. I need you to make it your job to run into her. I'm sure you won't have a problem convincing her that you find her very attractive and would do anything she wanted of you. Then I need you to casually sneak into conversation that you work at Hogwarts… she'll take care of the rest. ``

'' How can you be certain ? ``

Elise smiled again, this time like a lioness toying with her prey. `` Because I'll see to it that she thinks you are exactly what we need. Imagine her delight when she stumbles into you ! We'll let her think you are hers and hers alone and that only she can bring you into the plica, it'll be her way of buying her way in. Later if she tries to use you against us, we'll simply tell her how thing really came about and that she hasn't even come close to coming up even for what we're going to help oneself her do. ``

'' So you want me to avail you dissipate and trap this girlfriend ? '' He shook his head. `` How naïve is she ? ``

'' Not at all actually. She is very well cognisant of how thing work in my world, but like you she prefers to last on the outer bound of it, only dipping a toe in when it suits her. '' Elaine teased. `` That is why we have to not only set up this work out farce, but also be entirely convincing about it. ``

'' Which is why you told me to use a funeral as my excuse for being in the state. ``

'' wellspring, destruction makes virtually people feel awkward and therefore there are less uninvited head. ``

He sighed and sat down in the chair. `` And, what do I get out of this ? ``

'' Besides the pleasure of a renewed acquaintance with me ? '' She grinned. `` We will vouch that you get whatever you want out of this little divorce combat. ``

'' How ? I don't want Lilah hurt. '' He had a sudden sense of protectiveness come over him as he thought of his kid's female parent being killed.

'' Relax. We have plenty of mode of doing anything we want. It's all about knowing the decent the great unwashed and calling in the right party favor. '' She assured him. `` After we deliver, all I'll need you to do is sustain playing along with the miss. Once you get back to school, all you'll have to do is restrain an eye on a few choice pupil so that we know what's going on at all times. So, are you in ? ``

'' I don't know, are you leaving anything out ? '' He asked suspiciously.

'' You know me too well, Dolos. '' She said, once again offering a coy smile as she walked back into the room to stand before him. `` How do you feel about hurting bookman, possibly even killing one ? ``

'' I'd rather it didn't come to that… '' He swallowed severely. certain he'd taken a few lives back during the last war, but that had been because he thought he was doing right, protecting a way of life. After, when he'd gotten to jazz Elise and seen what the war had done to the children of his opposition he began to wonder if he did belong on Dumbledore's side. It was a enquiry that had haunted him for days after. Perhaps this was his fourth dimension to see out… if he was able to threaten an innocent educatee, then surely he belonged on Elise's side of the war, on Voldemort's side.

'' No one wants it to hail to that, and if everyone does exactly what they're supposed to then it won't. But I need someone who can do what is necessary should the juncture arise. '' She was studying him closely, obviously looking for signs of weakness.

'' If you can guarantee Lilah won't be able to take my kids away, then I'm your man. '' He replied steadily. There were a lot of shady things in his past times, some of them had been what finally pushed his wife away and forced her to seek sole-custody. He knew he'd do whatever it took to get what he wanted, and Elise knew it too… that's why after all these yr, she'd come back to him. He could and would do this, and what's more, he felt like he'd enjoy it.

*****

wellspring, I guess that answers a lot. Harry said once they all cleared out of Erebos's head.

We're back. Jacey thought to Hermione. She saw that the girlfriend was having fuss keeping up her barrage of questions and wanted to assure her that she could stop.

Suddenly the schoolroom door swung open and healer Francis Drake entered with an apologetic smile. `` Sorry to cut off. '' He said politely. `` I need to borrow Mr. Macnair. He's wanted up in the Headmaster's authority. ``

'' Go on Macnair. I told you that you weren't supposed to be here. '' Erebos crossed his blazon and waited impatiently.

Jacey reluctantly got up, hearing Harry in her drumhead telling her and Hermione that he and Luna were staying where they were until the division was over. She followed drake down the Asaph Hall, wondering what was going to happen. `` I hope this is in some manner theatrical role of your plan, because Dumbledore is really mad. '' He said as they walked.

'' In a sense. We want Tristan in as practically fuss as potential. '' She answered, hoping she could withstand the headmaster's anger. The healer left her at the gargoyle and she now had to present Dumbledore's ire alone.

But of course the old wizard knew how to ensure his emotions and as she entered his office, she saw him regarding her with hardened eyes while speaking in a quieten articulation. `` Mr. Macnair. May I ask why you openly defied my social club and went to class today ? ``

'' I got lonely. '' She shrugged, mimicking Tristan's insouciant way of dealing with authority.

'' I see. '' He leaned forward and spoke softly. `` The Aurors have decided to take your case Mr. Macnair. They are applying for a stock warrant of pinch and as soon as it comes through I am to script you over to them. Unfortunately, it may take a few days as we are still caught up looking for both Parvati Patil and Ilium Mason. Until that time we are finally able to rid ourselves of you, you are hereby confined to your dormitory. I suggest you use your cobbler's last few daylight here to figure out exactly what you're going to tell the courts. You are dismissed. '' With a fly high, he disappeared, apparently not wanting to give Tristram a opportunity to react. She was left sitting alone in the office, contemplating what life was going to be like once she was once more entirely free people to be herself.

( prisonbreak )

Harry nervously waited for Hermione to go the classroom, hating the persuasion of her being alone with someone who wasn't quite sure whether or not he was a psychopath. Luna was following to him and more than anything he wanted to strain out and take her hired hand, to feel the comfort she could bring him… but with so many student walking the residence hall, that was impossible. Not only had they both agreed it was best no one but their friends knew about them, he was supposed to still be pretending to be with Hermione in an attempt to fool Erebos, Herb Simon and anyone else who may think she was a piffling too close to Fred. `` Well ? '' He asked as soon as she emerged.

'' aught happened, it was an ordinary bicycle class. I can't be sure, but I don't think he felt you guys in his head. '' She quietly assured them.

He's coming. Luna warned them as she turned and walked away. Harry pulled Hermione to him, wrapping his arm around her shoulders just as Erebos came into the hallway.

'' Well, you were certainly inquisitive in social class today Miss Granger. '' He said, stopping to grin at them.

'' triton are coming up, I just want to be prepared. '' She answered quickly.

'' You know Hermione, always one to oppugn all. '' Harry said proudly, leaning in to kiss her temple as she pushed herself closer against him.

'' Too bad I could never interest you in the content Mr. Potter. I think I would give enjoyed having you in my class as well. '' He said with a tight smile. `` You seem to take in so many talents, I'm sure you could just pluck the reply to any test right hand out of my brain. '' He added meaningfully.

Harry felt himself scare. `` I would never do something like that. It's cheating. '' He answered steadily, not wanting the professor to invite any establishment of his suspicions.

'' ejaculate on, we have to go or we'll miss luncheon and I'm starving. '' Hermione said, playfully taking his hand and pulling him along as if she didn't sense the sudden tension.

He quickly followed her, gripping her hand so tight he was afraid he would burst it. `` You are definitely going to have got to request something to get you out of that class. '' He said as they walked toward the Great Hall.

'' What happened ? Is he the spy ? '' She asked, though it was realise the professor's behavior had already confirmed what she feared.

'' Yeah, to say the very least… we may not just be going to save Fred anymore. '' He answered. `` It seems that whether she knows it or not, Elanya has gotten herself just as trapped by Elise and Sarah as Fred. ``

( gaolbreak )

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked unceremoniously as soon as Elanya emerged from the tent.

'' And a sound morning to you too ! '' She said happily. `` I see you've decided to do to your skunk and talk to me. ``

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked again, having decided those were the sole words he would allow himself to say until he received a definite answer.

'' I don't see why you're in such a big hurry to get back… it seems your friends are already starting to forget about you. '' She taunted.

He was curious, he wanted to ask what she meant… but he refused to take the come-on. `` When are we leaving ? '' He asked for the third time.

'' Don't you want to love what I've heard from my sources ? '' She asked coyly.

At this point, he was more concerned with how she'd heard from her sources and filed away in his nous that he needed to find the chance to explore for her communicating device. `` When are we leaving ? '' He smiled to himself as he saw her glower. Apparently this could sustain the likely to irritate her as much as his silence.

'' If you're concerned about getting back to Hermione sodbuster, I'd forget about it if I were you. '' She said cruelly. `` My generator within Hogwarts has told me that he's witnessed various affair to tell him that she and Harry Potter have mended their broken relationship. It seems she didn't quite appreciate you up and leaving her without a word of admonition. ``

Fred held himself together, forcing himself not to react. He knew that Hermione knew Elanya had already planned to force him away… he truly believed she was smart enough to put two and two together once she was unable to reach him and figure out he'd been forced away sooner. But then… wouldn't she have done something to try and witness him ? He may have stopped counting days after five, but he knew he'd been here for a hanker time… a few hebdomad at least. Shouldn't someone have come looking for him ? Whether or not what she said was dead on target, he was determined not to let Elanya cognise she had shaken him. He stared her right in the eye and grinned. `` When are we leaving ? ``

( prison-breaking )

Ron had spent four days successfully keeping his booster at bay. It seemed his row against them had worked and for better or worse, they were leaving him to sort it out himself. Of course of instruction, they all probably had some big secret to center on and aid hold on their minds off of him, but the longer he went, the harder it was for him to extend to defend the stance he had taken. After all, they still had each former and he was pretty lots alone… just as he'd thought he wanted.

Not caring to sit by himself at dinner yet again, he'd decided to spend his Thursday night in the library. He really did try to do homework, but he just couldn't stress and eventually found himself writing a letter to Parvati with the hope that Lupin could find a way to get it to her. He was three Page into explaining how sorry he was when soul's shadow fell over him.

'' Here you are ! '' Seamus exclaimed, pulling out a chair and sitting across from him. `` I've been looking for you all over, you know we have our showtime game Sabbatum, don't you ? ``

'' Yeah, I know. What is there to do until pattern tomorrow ? ``

'' practice session tonight. '' He grinned. `` I got McGonagall to jibe to let us have a nighttime practice so long as we had it wrapped up by ten. That only gives us three and a half minute ! semen on, I already told the team to meet us down there. ``

Ron looked down at his varsity letter and sighed. Perhaps he did call for a distraction, something that was now entirely his as he was the only one of his close friends allowed to participate in quidditch in any way. `` Alright. avail me put these books back, Madame Pince had a fit the finish metre I was here and left them lying all over the place. '' Shoving his own affair in his packsack, he and Seamus grabbed the few books he'd taken out in Hope of completing his potions essay and went into the muckle to put them away.

'' Hey, do you hear that ? '' Seamus whispered suddenly.

Both boys stopped and listened. At go Ron picked up on whatever Seamus had heard… a indulgent thumping and quiet moaning. Curious, they followed the sounds a little deeper into the course of shelves. Turning the box they gasped in shock at who they saw and what they were doing. `` I'd have thought you'd have better taste sensation Padma. '' Seamus teased.

She and James Dean leapt apart, wiping their oral cavity and straightening their wearing apparel as they realized they'd been caught. `` He was helping me find something. '' She said defensively.

'' In your oral cavity ? '' Ron laughed.

'' Shut up. '' Dean said angrily.

'' I've been under a lot of stress lately… '' Padma argued her case.

'' And he was just helping to relieve some of it ? '' Seamus asked innocently as a wide, evil grin spread across his case. She rolled her eyes and walked away in a huff.

'' Thanks jerks. '' Dean grumbled.

'' Aren't you supposed to be heading down to the quidditch pitch ? '' Ron took his turning to ride their friend. Shooting them each a dirty facial expression, Dean brushed past them to go down to practice.

'' Well, that was interesting. '' Seamus grinned.

'' Seeing his face get all red like that… it totally made my day. '' He agreed, smiling back.

They put away the Word of God and hurried outside to the field. Ron felt lighter than he had in solar day and was surprised to ascertain that he could really enjoy himself with early ally. James Dean and Seamus and the wholly Gryffindor team were his outlet, his way of continuing to avoid Harry, Hermione, Luna and Ginny. Once they left here, he would have to figure something else out, especially since his family was currently living in Harry's home for an undetermined amount of sentence. But he still had a footling over two calendar week to recollect on it. In the meantime, he was subject to allow himself to enjoy the rare, completely worry-free moment he was experiencing.

( BREAK )

'' seminal fluid on, we're going to be late for class ! '' Luna grabbed Ginny's arm and pulled her off the couch, barely giving her enough fourth dimension to seize her Koran before dragging her out of the vernacular way where she and Draco had been lounging.

As soon as they were gone, granger came and took Ginny's vacated bit. `` Here. '' She spread a map out in front of Draco and pointed to a diminished dot of an island. `` I finally found a map that shows Castellumshire. Somewhere within a hundred km is the island we think Fred is on. ``

'' And you want me to do what ? '' He asked, looking up at her. ceramicist was standing behind her and it was clear they had been waiting for Luna to get Ginny out of the room before approaching him. `` You said before that you guys can't sail there even if you knew where it was. Isn't that the mystery of this island, that only sealed people can find out it ? ``

'' Only certain people can recover it- by sea. '' Potter argued.

'' We're cerebration that if you can pinpoint it on a map, we can use the photos in Charlie's book to apparate there. '' sodbuster added hopefully.

Realizing they were serious, he took the map and stood. `` Okay, I'll try. But I'd rather do this in individual if you don't nous. '' He strode past them to the Slytherin offstage and down to his room. The last thing he wanted was the added pressure of Potter and granger watching him try and fail. He wished he had never offered to serve, that he'd kept his sassing shut and stayed out of it… especially since it seemed whatever was going on, they were despairing that Ginny and Ron not get wind of it. But he had offered and they'd taken him up on it… now he had to actually undertake to scry, something he'd never actually done.

Spreading the map out on the bed, he wondered what he was supposed to do next. Of course he didn't have a pendulum, but remembering a clip when Narcissa had lost hers, he still thought that maybe he could do this. Copying everything he'd seen his mother do, he pulled out a exclusive strand of his hair… a piece of the seeker. Now he needed a bit of the sought after. Taking Charlie's book, he ripped out the picture of the Colorsplosions and made a hole through the scrap. Looping his fuzz through it, he let it dangle in forepart of him ready for testing. With his head, he focused on the paper moving itself north… he was truly surprised when it began to swing and at showtime thought there must be a breeze. He quickly focused on moving the paper to the east and nearly dropped it in seismic disturbance when it froze in midair and instantly swung the way he'd asked. So it had worked. He was thrilled but knew he had to be careful not to turn overconfident.

Looking down at the map he let the composition dangle over the moving picture of Castellumshire. `` okey, time to really put you to the exam. '' He said under his intimation as he began focusing on narrowing down the search for the occult gateway islands.

The newspaper fluttered for a moment before swinging in a wide-cut archway, making more and more precise circles until it stopped short, pointing directly at what appeared to be empty-bellied ocean. He tried it three More metre, always with the same solution. You guys should issue forth and see this. He thought out to Potter, excited in spite of himself that he may have just solved something that even Granger had been unable.

He opened the doorway just as they both were about to knock, hurrying them inside. Picking up his filament of hair, he once more demonstrated what the newspaper pointed to on the map, surefooted enough in himself that he could do it with an audience. sure enough he got the same result and Granger rushed to encircle the slur and indite down the co-ordinate. `` And it's seems to be within one hundred kilometers. Thank you Draco, well done ! '' She exclaimed, leaping up to hug him

He awkwardly patted her back before extricating himself. `` Think nix of it. And if Ginny ever finds out what you are all up to, I had nil to do with it. ``

'' Agreed. '' Potter grinned. And then suddenly his aspect turned to one of anger.

'' Harry, are you okay ? '' sodbuster asked, having also witnessed the focal ratio with which Potter's climate had changed.

'' I've got to go. '' He said quickly before racing from the room.

'' Harry ! '' sodbuster called after him, looking out the door as he dashed down the hall. `` What do you think that was about ? '' She asked, once more turning to face Draco.

He shrugged. `` Only he knows at this power point. ``

'' I'd better go see if I can catch up to him somehow… '' She paused and offered a smile. `` Thanks again Draco. You have no idea how often you've just helped us. '' And then she was gone, off to track down Potter. He briefly entertained the thought process of going with, but he just as quickly dismissed it. Clearly whatever the situation was, it was one ceramicist either thought he could wield alone or wanted to care alone. If he'd thought he needed help, Draco didn't think he'd have hesitated to ask him. After all, they'd been finding it a lot more beneficial to work together lately. Instead he lay back in his bed to wait for Ginny to be done with class, happily reflecting on his unexpected success. If this was what it was like to give things go your way, then he was prepared to sit back and let it. But he would remain prepared and ready should Lucius show his font again.

( open frame )

Luna ensured Ginny made it to class before making up an excuse for why she wouldn't be joining her. Claiming a spartan stomachache as they approached the Gargoyle, she'd blamed food poisoning and urged the other girl to go on up. She'd told Ginny that she had a great herbal tea remedy back in her room and it was her own demerit for not taking it when the symptoms had first begun to present themselves.

Once alone in the entrance hall, Luna straightened up and hoped she hadn't made her protagonist too worried about her. But she had no time for grade right now, she wanted to get back to the common room and find out whether genus Draco was able-bodied to turn up the island. She moved quickly down the hall, not wanting anyone questioning why she wasn't where she was supposed to be. And then it suddenly struck her, the feel of an oncoming vision. She quickly ducked through the nearest door feeling completely disoriented. Before her eyesight blurred, she was able to take a crap out that she was in an vacate schoolroom. Dropping to her knees, she crawled forward, feeling her way to the professor's desk and hiding herself behind it. She couldn't let anyone get her alone while having a vision, it was too easy for them to claim advantage of her being so completely vulnerable. There were still far too many enemies walking the halls to let one of them find her in a compromising billet in which she'd be unable to fight. The concluding affair she wanted was to take in it sluttish for them to hand her over to Voldemort.

giving into the sight, she was surprised to feel it was the same warning as before. Once again she and Harry were side by side in the white way and she felt the same standoff as Sarah, Elise and Elanya beckoned to them. And then again Harry was gone and she was recoiling in horror as Simon approached, reaching out to her. Only this time, the ending was unlike. She was frozen in station as Simon grew taller and taller before turning to stomp down on his sister and her friends who were now the size of it of mouse. He turned and grinned as a pond of blood emerged from beneath his shoe and it was all the way he had wanted her to watch. And then the room was spinning and once Thomas More Simon the Canaanite looked normal as he stood before her, reaching out to her as she shook in fear. Now it was Elise, Sarah and Elanya who grew large, crushing St. Simon to death beneath their ft. Harry was beside her again and the three women turned to wave to them as if cypher had happened. Instantly she felt drawn into them again and only then did she realize it wasn't her feeling it. It was Harry who was so willing to listen to what these frightening charwoman had to say while neither of them seemed to give sake in Simon's message…

She shook her headland as she came back to herself already attempting to remember this through. If she was being warned that Harry was unforced to hear to something those girls had to say, then what was Herb Simon going to do that made him grow to them. Her head was spinning with possible action and she suddenly wasn't sure what anything in the imagination had been trying to tell her. She hated the albumen room, where nothing was clear up and everything was a teaser. But this time the monition had definitely felt more intense and as her mind switched completely back into knowingness, a incisive sting of intuition stabbed at her. She felt for her wand in her sack only to earn she'd put it in her bag, which she'd dropped somewhere after she'd entered the classroom. She felt another person in there with her and reaching out her mind, she sensed it was the very finale person in the world she wanted to find… Simon McKinney. She tried to stay as still as possible.

'' I know you're in here Luna. I saw you. '' He called. `` I just want the chance to sing to you about a few things… why don't you come on out and we can have a nice, civic conversation ? '' She held her breath and continued to stay still, hoping he somehow didn't know where exactly she was. `` Please ? This is the last prison term I'm going to ask nicely. '' He warned. Still she remained silent, praying he'd just go away. `` Alright then, looks like you're choosing the hard way. ``

Luna shrieked as she felt the desk roughly slide away from her, leaving her completely out in the open. She leapt to her feet, not wanting to stimulate to face him from the basis. He stood before her with a demented grin, brandishing his wand in one hand while tauntingly dangling hers from the other. `` It seems you dropped something when you came in. '' He smirked.

'' How nice of you to call back it… may I have it please ? '' She asked carefully, trying not to show that she was scared of him.

'' No, I think it's better if I hold onto it for you while we talk. I'd hatred for you to get trigger happy and make a error before hearing me out. '' He went and closed the door, ensuring he locked it both manually and magically.

Harry, I think I may need some aid here. Simon has me cornered in a classroom and he has my wand. She thought out quickly.

I'm on my way. He replied instantly, his voice dark and dangerous. The final stage matter she wanted was Harry overreacting to this situation, but she wasn't sure she had another option… she was disarm and unlike Harry and Jacey, her extra powers lent her no protection. `` So, what do you require to talk about ? '' She asked out loud, trying to keep her vocalisation low and calm.

'' Quite a few thing actually. Why don't you take a butt ? '' He waved his baton, bringing the professor's professorship up behind her so quickly that she stumbled back into it. `` Incarcerous ! '' He shouted as she grabbed the sleeve of the electric chair in an attempt to scramble to her feet. Before she knew what was happening, ropes appeared out of nowhere, binding her wrist and waist to the chair.

'' You can't do this, you'll get expelled. '' She tried to reason with him. `` occlusion whatever this is now and I won't report you. ``

'' I just want to produce for certain you aren't going to run anywhere. '' He assured her, putting her baton in his pocket and pulling up another chair to sit in nominal head of her. `` You and I, we may be able-bodied to avail each other. ``

'' I don't need any avail from you. '' She argued, beginning to lose the calmness she'd been clinging to.

'' Maybe you don't see it yet. But you and Harry Potter both could gain from listening to what I have to tell you. It might make you both see things in a whole new light. '' St. Simon returned. `` I don't want to hurt you, I want to be your friend. ``

'' This isn't the honest way to spend a penny protagonist. '' She pulled against the bandaging but they were tied loaded. Her wrists began to cut as she continued to struggle, the skin becoming raw as it rubbed against the ropes… but she couldn't just give up.

'' And I apologize for the inconvenience. '' He laughed, pulling out his trusty flask and taking a swig. `` But like I said, I want to crap sure as shooting you really hear to what I have to tell you without you making the error of cursing me first. ``

'' okay, well… you have my wand and my undivided care. What do have to distinguish me ? '' She wanted to cry in frustration as she felt the rope on her lead wrist loosen slightly. She continued to clamber, trying not to suck up focussing to the fact that she was making progress.

'' But it's not just your attending that I need. ``

'' Meaning what ? ``

He stood and came towards her. `` Hmm, looks like you're getting loose there. '' He reached to fix the rope and she desperately kicked at him, trying to save him away as she attempted to wrench her left hand radiocarpal joint free. She could finger her skin scraping against the rough texture but she ignored it, continuing to struggle him off as she tried to unloosen herself.

He finally gave up struggling with her and took a few whole tone back, waving his baton to tie her legs to the chairwoman as well so that he could approach her without being kicked. Fixing the roach on her arm, he sat back in his chair and let out a deep intimation. `` Whew. You know, you're making this harder than it has to be. I'm not trying to hurt you, you know. You very much necessitate to hear what I have to differentiate you. ``

'' So say it already ! '' She shouted angrily.

'' I will. '' He grinned and took another draft from his flask. `` I'm just waiting for Harry to get here. I figured I'd public lecture to you first but after the way you acted in Hogsmeade and how you are right now, it's earn that you aren't quite as level-headed as I thought. And knowing that him and Hermione are a travesty, I figured you'd be the best bait to proceed him listening without bashing my psyche in for confining you here. You did foretell for him to help, didn't you ? ``

'' No. '' She said quickly.

'' Hmm, well I think you're fabrication. '' He got up and turned to face the doorway as the thickening began jiggling furiously. Simon lifted his wand in preparedness, turning to see at her over his shoulder. `` If fact, this must be him now. ``

Harry, he's waiting for you ! She tried to warn him as Herb Simon moved to unlock the threshold. But she wasn't sure she was in fourth dimension as she quickly turned her face away to avoid the shower of wood, brick and plaster that came flying forward as Harry forced his way through, too impatient to wait for the threshold to be opened.

( BREAK )

Hermione couldn't breakthrough Harry anywhere. He'd run off so quickly that she'd lost him before she'd even begun to fall in chase. Hoping he would promise if he needed assist, she returned to her room and once more spread out the map. Looking at the spot they'd marked as the island, she decided now was as good a time as any to try her new abilities with astral jutting. She wanted to be able to see Fred, even if she wasn't yet potent enough for him to see her back or for them to speak to each other.

Forcibly clearing her mind, she focused on the photos in Charlie's book… imagining herself on the island, on the beach, following to Fred. Closing her eyes, she began to feel weightless. Letting go of everything holding her pile, she felt herself come discharge from her body and shoot through time and space. When she opened her optic again, she was under the hopeful sun and had to squint to make anything out. That was when she noticed she was filmy, as she was able to take in the landscape painting through her arm. It was disconcerting, but the sight beyond herself made her realize that she had done it. She was far from Hogwarts and on an island… or at least her cognisance was.

'' Great. Now I'm beholding mirages. '' She heard someone grumbling behind her. Whipping around she cried out in sculptural relief, running towards Fred until she remembered that she wasn't able to tint him. `` Fred ! It's really me ! I'm really here, variety of. '' She said happily, stopping just in front of him.

'' A talking mirage ? '' He smiled, still not quite sure enough what he was seeing.

She rolled her middle. `` No moron, it's really me. I'd reach out and pinch you but I'm not sure how yet. ``

'' I don't understand… How is this possible ? '' He nervously glanced over his berm. `` Is it really you ? '' He whispered.

'' I promise. '' She assured him. `` I'm just sorry it took so farsighted. But we know where you are now and we have a design to come get you… tomorrow. Can you give it one More day ? ``

He shook his heading. `` I can't leave- ''

'' Yes you can, we've figured it all out ! '' She said happily wanting to explain as quickly as possible. `` I knew Elanya must have made you leave former and Luna forced herself to ingest a vision. Draco scryed and now we can number get you ! You don't have to concern about the spy, we know who it is… Professor Erebos. And in Luna's sight, she saw what Sarah planned for me, so I learned all about astral projection to protect myself. Lee and Willem made sure there was absolutely nothing to tie you to Edmund… there's zilch for you to worry about anymore. ``

Fred hesitantly reached out, but his script went right through her. He shook his head. `` I don't know. It can't be that well-fixed. ``

'' It's not… Elanya may be just as practically a victim of the early girls'treachery as you are. She thinks she's their equal but Harry, Luna and Jacey went in Erebos's foreland and found the truth. Either way it doesn't matter. We're coming for you tomorrow. She can stay and rot for all I care. ``

'' Fred ! '' They head Elanya call off in the distance.

'' You have to go, she can't see you here… if you're really here. '' He grinned, obviously trying to put her at ease. But she saw the discomfort he tried to hide and wanted to film him with her right that moment. Rather than leave completely, she glided over to the trees to watch.

'' Here you are. I thought I heard spokesperson. '' Elanya exclaimed, looking exotic with her untamed whisker, deeply tan and flowing strapless dress.

'' When are we leaving ? '' He asked.

'' So what, you were here talking to yourself ? You'd rather talk of the town to no one than me ? '' She asked indignantly.

'' When are we leaving ? '' Fred asked again, clearly ignoring everything the girl had to say.

'' You know, we're supposed to be using this time to get to have sex each other… you're self-will is really starting to spend a penny me off. '' She glared at him, clearly having reached the end of her rope. `` I didn't want to have to resort to threats again, I was so hoping this would be a pleasant stop. But you better say something when I'm done talking and it had better be something other than `` When are we leaving '' or I swear everyone you care for will suffer for the aggravation you're causing me. ``

Fred looked uncertain, clearly wanting to continue pushing her buttons. Plus if he chose to believe his own heart and ears, Hermione had just told him that everyone he cared about was safe. `` How long will we be staying here ? '' He asked at live on, unable to proceed back his grin as he challenged her. Hermione could empathise the sick amusement he was getting out of this… after all, she probably would have lost her idea had she been trapped for hebdomad on an island.

'' You really want to bear on me Fred ? '' Elanya asked threateningly.

He sighed and shook his headland. `` I had wondered how retentive it would claim for you to show up your true colors. I mean you get a lilliputian steamed and compensate away you're back to threatening free bystanders. ``

'' It seems the undecomposed way to get what I want. '' She grinned triumphantly as he at last broke the semi-silence he seemed to have been keeping.

Hermione felt a strong tug and knew her eubstance was calling her back. She'd been gone too long and as much as she wanted to say good-bye to Fred, she knew she couldn't hold on any longer. Against her will she was whipped back, her entire organic structure bouncing as she reentered it. Opening her eyes, she adjusted to the notion of being strong once more. She felt dizzy, her top dog hurt and her stomach was growling in thirstiness. She felt she'd just walked for daytime without stopping to breathe or eat, she was exhausted and every part of her was sore.

Taking a moment to relax, she collected herself before carefully rising from her bed. Looking at the clock, she saw that she'd get back just in time for luncheon and feeling mystifying hungriness pain sensation, she rushed down to the Great hall hoping Harry and Luna were there so she could distinguish them what she'd just done. But as she entered the elbow room, she realized at once that something was wrong. Only Hagrid and Charlie remained at the Head Table to chaperone the scholar'meal while her classmates all talked excitedly to themselves, some of them looking at her and raising a manus to whisper with more than fervor. Taking a seat across from Ginny and Dragon she looked at them inquisitively. `` What's going on ? ``

'' No one knows for sure… but rumor is, Potter severely damaged a classroom before disappearing with Luna and Marvin Neil Simon McKinney. '' genus Draco replied, looking Sir Thomas More than a little worried.

'' What ? What do entail they disappeared ? '' She demanded.

He shrugged and Ginny took up the narrative. `` All anyone seems to know is that there was a loud noise and when the Ravenclaw prefect went to look into she saw Harry standing in the schoolroom with Simon while Luna sat in a chairwoman in the spine. She didn't get too good a spirit because suddenly the two male child started dueling and she went to get assistant. By the time they came back, everyone was gone. ``

'' It seems Tristan has disappeared as well. '' Draco added. `` The Aurors came to arrest him and he was just gone. I hope wherever ceramist and Luna are, Jacey is with them. ``

'' Me too. '' Hermione replied distractedly. They'd just found Fred and now they were missing three coven members. Whatever was going on, it clearly wasn't good.

( BREAK )

Dumbledore had shown up unexpectedly at Tristram's room access lupus erythematosus than an hour ago to get it have a go at it that the Aurors had finally secured their stoppage guarantee and would be around shortly to take the vampire into custody. Jacey listened as she was warned as Tristan not to run, since magic spell had been placed around the schooltime meant to detect the vampire hominoid species specifically. She had not let herself panic… she, Harry and Luna had planned for this. Having discovered that not only were they capable of apparating within the roadblock but also that the Aurors could not trace them, it had been decided that when it was time she would apparate to the screech Shack. She would let the potion wear off and then remain there until it was time to go to capital of the United Kingdom. Having grabbed the few things she owned, she had concentrated hard as Luna had taught her. And then she had felt a clout and when she opened her eyes again she was in the parlor of the Shrieking Shack.

Now looking around at the depressing décor, Jacey thought the blank space in heroic need of a sprucing up. She wondered if the Aurors had come yet and whether anyone realized Tristan was gone. Flopping down on the couch with a sigh, she silently called out to Harry, letting him know that she had fled Hogwarts and wondering whether she was too far for him to hear.

We're on our way to you and we need some help. Was his panicked reply.

She sat up in alarm. Apparently Hogwarts was still very much within their range. What do you want me to do ?

Hide. Then when you find the opportunity, help us however you can. He simply replied.

( BREAK )

Harry stalked his way quickly through the halls, focusing in on Luna's Energy to pass him to where she was. Ignoring the few students down the hall from him, he desperately tried to turn the handle of the classroom door. It wouldn't John Donald Budge. He knew this was the right stead, that she was behind that door and he certainly wasn't going to let a unintelligent piece of wood base in his way. Taking a whole step back, he focused his power, rolling it around in his creative thinker before pushing outward. He watched the door bending against the personnel and pushed harder. Harry, he's waiting for you ! Luna tried to monish him just as the wood shattered inward, exploding off it'hinge and taking part of the paries with it. Ignoring the screams from down the vestibule, he raised his sceptre and entered the classroom

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Simon shouted, forcing Harry to harbour justly away. But he'd heard Luna's admonition and had been prepared. Simon fired spell after spell at him while he focused on his shield and waited for the right moment. Pushing his intellect out, he grabbed hold of the other boy and whipped him back against the paries. Stepping through the debris, Harry waved his baton in an attempt to stick to Simon Zelotes in place, but he quickly shielded as he rolled to his feet and ducked behind the chair Harry now realized Luna was tied to. `` I just want to talk ! '' Simon called as he crouched behind Luna, tightly clutching her so that he wouldn't use his mind to confuse him around again.

'' You have a comical way of showing it. '' Harry replied angrily. Are you okay ? He thought out to Luna who was even now still attempting to pull up herself free.

Yeah. He hasn't done anything other than not let me leave… he keeps saying there's something he needs to distinguish us. She replied, her part carrying More ire and wonder than fright now.

'' I know what you both think of me now that you know I'm related to Elise ! '' Simon reasoned, poking his psyche out over Luna's shoulder joint. `` I knew you wouldn't just sit down and talk to me, that you'd have no pastime in what I have to say. But like I told her, we can help each other Harry. ``

'' So help out now by untying her. '' He carefully replied, keeping his wand up in display case the boy decided to restart their duel.

'' I can't do that until I'm sure you aren't going to hurt me. ``

Harry, I'm at the Shrieking Shack. The Aurors were coming for Tristan so I followed through on our plan. Jacey's voice entered his question unexpectedly. Hearing footstep running down the hall, Harry made a degraded decision.

We're on our way to you and we need some service. He told Jacey in a panic.

What do you want me to do ? She answered instantly.

Hide. Then when you find the chance, help us however you can. He said before turning his tending back to Simon. `` Well, we can't talk here… people are coming to see what's going on. Shall we go somewhere more private ? '' He asked quickly.

'' Like where ? ``

'' Touch my shoulder joint and I'll bring you there. '' Luna told him, having picked up on Harry's architectural plan. Now capable to pick up mass shouting in the hall, Marvin Neil Simon was forced to trust them and reached out to grab her berm. Together Harry and Luna apparated away, only to arrive in the apparently abandon Shrieking hut. To his disappointment, the chair and ropes had come as well, leaving her bound as Simon the Canaanite's human shield.

'' This is all so unnecessary. '' Harry angrily told the other boy. `` I don't know what kind of people you grew up around, but if you had come to us and asked to talk, we would have heard you out… you didn't need to pull a fast one on us into it. ``

'' That's in question considering I've overheard Luna talking to Hermione about the visions she's had of me. '' St. Simon returned before moving his attention to Luna in genuine confusion. `` I have no estimate why you see me as an enemy in those visual sensation, but I assure you I'm not. ``

'' And holding me against my will is the way to rise it ? '' She asked gently, far more in control of herself than Harry was. He saw that she was thinking one of them needed to stay calm air and he felt shamefaced that it had fallen to her when she was the one currently tied up with profligate trickling from her wrists where the Mexican valium had cut into her skin. He caught sight of Jacey as she slowly crept in from the hall.

Marvin Neil Simon looked at Luna for a instant before nodding to himself. `` It had to be that way, it's the alone way to get anyone's attention… with a big gesture. That's what my founder always said, before he was killed. And it's certainly worked for Elise. ``

'' We aren't like the people you know. We're willing to listen. We'll pay attention to you. '' Luna practically cooed as she softly reasoned with him. Clearly she'd caught onto something in the boy's head that wasn't yet clear to Harry.

Herb Simon stood and took a few steps to the side, unsure whether he felt the situation was enough in his control to actually let her go. Harry wasn't going to give him the chance to make the unseasonable choice. He silently gave Jacey the sign and she stepped out, drawing St. Simon's care as balls of fire erupted from her hands. He threw up a shield as she flung the first fireball at him before attempting to hit her binding with a water turn. Taking advantage of the boy's distraction, Harry quickly waved his wand to unwrap the ropes and lunged forward, grabbing Luna's hand and pulling her out of the way just as the professorship burst into flaming. Simon fell back on the lounge as he stumbled away from the sudden flair, not wanting to get burned.

Harry whipped around and instantly shot a binding spell, ensuring the other boy wouldn't motion. Leaping to his feet, he made his way over to the couch. Jacey extinguished her fire, waving her wand to put out the bits of the house that had caught on fire. `` Come on Neil Simon, time to back up to Hogwarts and face the music. '' Harry insisted.

'' No ! '' Luna came over and placed a blood-soaked hand on his arm, forcing him to lower his wand. `` I want to hear what he has to say. ``



NOTE : Okay then, next chapter we find out what Simon has to say and the clue finally lead us to rescuing Fred.


Chapter 54 : Who to Believe ?

A/N : Sorry for the hold in getting this out, I had an stroke with my flash driveway and everything on it was deleted including the first draft of this chapter. But things are on racetrack now, so getting back in the baseball swing of things, a rewrite of the chapter from the beginning… Read, review and enjoy !





After taking Simon the Zealot's wand and returning Luna's to her, Harry left the boy magically bound on the sofa with Jacey to watch over him. Allowing him to gently pull her down the Hall to the dust-covered bathroom, Luna perched on the border of the rich Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the tiny cabinet. At last he came up with an ancient first aid kit, pulling out netting and tape before reaching out to deform the faucet on the sink. They were both surprised when H2O actually came sputtering out, a out of practice color at commencement that quickly turned refreshingly clear. She took the bridge player he offered her and let him carefully clean the blood from her wrists… she knew he was angry and did her best not to wince or let on that the cold shoulder stung like loony. After all, she was the one who let her affright overwhelm her to the spot where she'd struggled so violently against the R-2. Simon hadn't seemed at all intent on injuring her, she could cause just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to happen rather than fight her ski binding to the stop where she cut into her cutis. It was her own geological fault she'd gotten hurt at all.

He shouldn't have gone so far as to tie you up in the outset office. Harry argued with her thinking as he leaned down to kiss her now freshly bandaged wrists.

well, let's go see what he so badly wanted to enjoin us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her fingerbreadth through his hair's-breadth in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to simmer down down and recognise the need to struggle was over, to birth an open mind and really listen to what Simon the Zealot had to say. Her imagination was becoming clearer to her now that she been capable to sneak a few peeks into the boy's creative thinker. He was out to betray his sis before she could give away him and apparently the victor of their little sibling bickering would become Harry's ally. From her warning she knew Harry was already leaning toward Elanya if not Elise and Sarah… and that had to be because of what they'd seen in Erebos's headway. But they obviously needed the whole story and St. Simon seemed leave to put up it.

Together they walked back into the living-room and Luna was relieved to come up that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Simon was alarmed by the fact that a strange girl now stood where Tristram once was he gave no indication. `` I'm sorry Luna. '' He blurted out as soon as he saw her.

'' That's sluttish to say now that you've been caught. '' Harry muttered, glaring at the boy as he slumped down on the early sofa. `` So ? Let's hear it, what's this big revelation you have to share with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the binding spell ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Simon pleaded.

'' Your word doesn't mean much to me at the instant. '' Harry returned, refusing to eject the spell.

Simon sighed and nodded. `` Yeah, I guess I can see why. ``

'' Just tell us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting next to Harry and locking her gaze on Simon. She pushed the touch she wanted to plan outward and watched as both boys visibly slacken, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the lonesome one aware of this little extra baron of hers. She just wished she had better command of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the nether region you were thinking when you decided taking us hostage was the proficient way to construct your point. '' Harry crossed his limb, refusing to be lulled into composure and shaking off the effects she was trying to spread around the room.

'' Big motion are the entirely way to get people to mind. '' Simon the Zealot said quietly repeated himself from to begin with. `` Like I said, that philosophy worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these days. I wasn't going to ache either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to go on you listening rather than attacking me… I guess I figured that if you saw how serious I was you would believe me. I was going to let you into the classroom, but you let yourself in first-class honours degree. '' He looked at Harry almost accusingly, clearly implying that he blamed Harry's rashness for so many things going wrong.

'' What did you really look me to do when you go around tying people up ? '' He returned angrily. Luna reached out and grabbed his arm to keep him from leaping to his feet in indignation… she knew they all had to stay intellectual and sort through this, it was important.

'' It doesn't matter, you'll never believe me now. ``

'' Why ? Because you are now the captive one instead of them ? '' Jacey scoffed from her place leaning against the wall.

'' You can trust that one or all of us will know whether you're telling the truth. '' Luna quietly assured him.

Simon slowly nodded. `` Yeah, I guess you're right… I do recognise that about you. And so does Elise, which is why she had to plan so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to picture it out… so that you would explore his drumhead and determine the memory of her asking him to set up Elanya. She knows about your powers and so she's decided to use them against you. '' He said with a sly smile before looking right at Jacey. `` Except for you, they have no idea about you. Elise has had Erebos trying to get hold out, but apparently Dumbledore has been very careful to keep you and other visitors a secret from those professors he doesn't trust. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no idea about you though they'd very much like to retrieve out. ``

'' You don't need to occupy about her or who she is. '' Harry said, noting to Luna and Jacey that they had to be careful not to say her name in front line of the boy. `` Just narrate us why you've apparently decided to turn on your Sister. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's living. '' Simon the Canaanite looked down sadly. `` I was LE than a year old when our parents were killed… even after Voldemort was gone they, like so many others, refused to intercept combat and were cornered. rather than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to kill them. Elise was sixteen at the time and the merely support family I had. Rather than study charge of me, she decided to dump me at the orphans' asylum, but she would at least come visit every yr on my birthday. When I was ten she came back for me, ready to bring her seat as my guardian. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to school and she was hoping to mildew me into soul she could use to lead off setting up her plans. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to come back and that his follower were doing everything in their magnate to draw it happen. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would make her own place in the world. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our family, she was livid. But then she figured Hufflepuff was better as no one would suspect me there. For years I did everything she asked me to do because she threatened to result me again if I didn't and all I knew was that I never wanted to go back to the orphanage. But everything she wanted seemed harmless and cypher she asked of me made any sense… not until this year. ``

Simon Zelotes shook his head and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a missive the finis workweek of schooltime this preceding summer from Elise telling me we would be departing for Australia the hour I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the train place so I went home and injure up overhearing a encounter between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the Dark overlord into thinking it was his estimate to receive Sarah Elaine… and then I heard her separate him that she planned to defeat me as I was going to prove more utile to them dead. I didn't know what to do, I was more frightened of my babe in that moment than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarier, the sword or the proficient hand wielding it ? And she knows how to encounter him very well. So I went with her to Commonwealth of Australia and I continued to come after her edict hoping she would change her mind. But she didn't because a few days before I was supposed to come back to school I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to pop me while I'm home for the holiday break and give it await like person else did it. My own babe was going to belt down me and use my cadaver to start a combat. What could I do ? Even if I ran away, they'd just institute me right back to her, I'm only sixteen. And who besides the multitude involved in this whole outline would believe the long ridiculous story I have to distinguish ? So the only thing I could do was let on her to the mass she was trying to overcome… I chose you guys over Voldemort. Maybe Dumbledore was right about the sorting hat always knowing where people are supposed to go… maybe I'm a good guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the best means of survival, I have no thought either way. I may not the happiest person in the globe, but I'm not ready to die either. So I'll tell you whatever you want to know about her and her plans. ``

'' You said she wanted us to go looking in Erebos's foreland, that we were supposed to see her set up Elanya… why ? '' Luna asked, her gut telling her this was an crucial interrogative in price of Fred's lot. She was trying not to sympathize with Simon, but he seemed to have gotten stuck with a pretty miserable life… but still, there was something about him she found unnerve and so that allowed her to go along some sort of an emotional detachment.

He nodded and offered a smile. `` You wouldn't believe how retentive Elise has been plotting. A farseeing while ago, after your group and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the confusion and looked up the files on every major instrumentalist on either English. Using that information, she was able-bodied to figure out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your Friend and Voldemort's friend would oppose in any billet. Originally we went to Australia this summer to happen a guy named XTC who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a picayune pub where he liked to indite his articles but we never even talked to him… it was like the mo she saw him, she knew he wasn't what she wanted. That's when Elanya approached us. Apparently she'd been living there with her grandmother who had recently passed away and when those two girls met it was similar fate had brought them together. She fit in perfectly and Elise instructed her on how to handle Erebos who arrived at the hotel later that day. I guess it didn't matter whether it was Elanya or that hug drug guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's part in all of this… but clearly a young pretty girl would make more fellow feeling. The compass point was that when you all figured out he was the spy, you were meant to see Elise talking him into using Elanya, you were meant to think she'd been set up and blackmailed the same way they'd done it to your acquaintance Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob story so that he'll take her side and help blab out you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a mole, to learn all the closed book about you that they didn't already know. And then Elanya was supposed to lead off causing discord among you all to weaken you and pee-pee it more likely that you and Harry will desolate your alignment to Dumbledore and the Ministry and come join them. ``

'' So what you're saying is basically that they want to produce their own army of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his voice heavy with doubt as he tried to hide the fact that they were doing something very similar with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's horror at finding out how close up Elise had been to getting her hired hand on Adam, another coven phallus. She knew it was crucial that they leave as soon as possible to commence approaching people themselves, before they could be scooped up by mortal else.

'' Yes, as ridiculous as that sounds. Why do you think I thought no one else would believe me ? But she wants the both of you to join her and Sarah… and she has big program to use your acquaintance Fred to do it. ``

'' Except that Fred isn't just going to accept whatever Elanya tells him. He's no changeling. '' Harry argued.

Herb Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can become whatever she has to be in ordination to convert someone of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been able to fool Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to withstand them ? ``

'' They won't have a fortune. We're going to relieve him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a hold of his arm and she could palpate him become even tenser as he felt more things were growing beyond his control.

'' I wish you luck with that. I really do. '' Simon grinned.

( BREAK )

Fred had skipped out on lunch and intended to take the air the beach until well after shadow in hopes of avoiding Elanya until tomorrow… tomorrow when Hermione had claimed they would be coming to get him. But had she been here ? He just didn't know what was real anymore. But whether he'd seen her in his judgment or in rattling life sentence, one thing had become clear… he couldn't stay here anymore. No matter what, this was going to be his last night on the island. Should Hermione's comportment prove to be a hallucination and no one came for him, then he would find his own way out and go to her. He knew he couldn't apparate, he'd already tried and discovered that like Castellumshire, the Gateway Islands also carried anti-apparation charms and the only people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A pleasant-tasting smell wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling abdomen to interrupt his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was able to mold that while it was well past lunch, it was still too early on for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped meals that day and cooked such capital smelling food for a reason. He was tempted to go into the water to catch a Pisces the Fishes to fry just to tump over her design but decided he was being ridiculous. He knew Elanya was trying to invite him back to the campsite, but just because he went didn't mean he was letting her win. They both knew he was more than capable of providing for himself, but at the instant he was too hungry to wait long enough to pick up and fix his own meal. Besides, he'd just decided that no matter what, this was his final stage dark here… what could it injure to spend some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then provide again.

Arriving at the clique he saw that neither the intellectual nourishment nor Elanya were outdoor. With a heavy suspiration, he opened the flap of the ordinary looking tent and entered the impossibly spacious glamour of the interior. `` Well, I guess it's rightful what they say… the fastest way to a man's heart is through his stomach. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the delectable spread on the ornate table as she sat down. Toying with her seashell necklace, she shot him a seductive smile.

'' Whatever you say. '' He muttered, sitting as far from her as he could before beginning to pile his scale. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by Molly to be completely unmannerly. They ate in quiet and he could palpate her becoming steamed, it only made him more comfortable.

'' Well, I've decided that in the interest of continuing a civilized conversation we will play a plot of form. '' She announced after a short while.

'' Boy, it sure is light not to stimulate to consider for myself… I wish someone had been making my determination for me my whole life. '' He answered sarcastically.

'' Putting your snarkiness aside, I'm offer you a one in a million chance to see me better. ``

'' Who says I want to ? ``

She smiled, ignoring his attitude. `` I'm going to let you ask me whatever you want about anything and I promise to order you the truth. ``

'' And I'm supposed to believe you ? '' He raised an supercilium. `` Exactly which one of us do you intend is the softheaded one, because I've been casting my vote for you for awhile now. ``

'' sense of humour can be a neat way to distract anything genuine from reaching you. '' She replied steadily. `` semen on, I know you're curious…. ``

And he was. There were quite a few things he'd like her to crystalise up for him, but how could he trust anything she said ? The exclusively way was to test her by throwing in questions he already knew the answer to. `` okay, I'll work your little plot. But if I think you're lying to me, I'll just go summarize my lonely walk. ``

'' funfair enough. '' She rested her Kuki-Chin on her hand and stared at him expectantly, wearing a genuine smile that reached all the way to her gilded middle. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the matter that was most on his thinker and so the motion had burst out of him before he could really plan what he wanted to say.

'' Oh Fred… I'm not doing this to you, I'm doing this for you. '' She dropped her gaze slightly as a hint of lugubriousness overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both prisoner right now, so why not gain our batting cage the best it can be- a beautiful island paradise ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her result in order to manipulate his next doubtfulness. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to sing about and was in the process of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was curious, but he forced himself to commend that he knew what she was doing.

'' I thought I had fairly bought my way into something when really it was all set up to ensure my futurity alignment and obedience. '' She answered, lowering her eyes to obscure the flashbulb of embarrassment that passed through them.

'' Meaning what ? '' He pushed, intrigued despite himself.

Elanya sighed and shook her head. `` I've always considered myself to be pretty clever… I'm sure you used to cogitate the same about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the end few month with the grand scheme they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The difference being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her effort to get him to empathize with her.

'' Only because I had no pick ! '' She protested. `` When they told me that I had to read you away while they set up affair in London I tried to get out of it, I really did. But that's when Elise told me the truth, that she'd tricked me and I wasn't even close to coming up even for the aid they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his collection plate aside, Fred leaned forward on the table and decided it was time for him to turn the conversation his way so that he could quiz her honesty. `` And what did you remember you had already done to return them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to tell him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her musical theme in the first place. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a long chronicle together and bringing him into things had always been a part of her plan. They set it up so that he and I would run into each other… I had thought I was being so deliberate, making sure I would go into this not owing anyone anything. ``

'' Who's the spy ? '' He pushed, already knowing the answer… that is if Hermione's abbreviated sojourn hadn't been some sort of delusional mirage.

Elanya met his centre and offered a sad smile. `` Well, what can it spite ? It's not like you'll be able to warn anyone back at Hogwarts. It's prof Dolos Erebos. ``

He made sure to show an conquer amount of surprise, letting his eyes widen and his jaw drop slightly as if this was the first time he was hearing this. `` Really ? A professor ? ``

She nodded slowly as she carefully studied him. `` I met with him in Australia and he was everything Elise had told me she'd been looking for. I had thought I was the one convincing him to join us but it was all constituent of their program to trap me. ``

'' And why would they go through such rarify standard ? '' Fred was almost sure she was telling the trueness so far… Hermione had certainly indicated that Elanya may be in fuss and now the girl was confirming it. He just didn't know why she was telling him all of this, but he may as well use the situation to his advantage and con as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can piddle their own place in this war and that if they have the justly sort of multitude on their side they'll be capable to get on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her head angrily. `` I was appalled to learn that Voldemort's idea to pull together a psychic Army was actually Elise's brainchild. It was how she got him to help oneself her find Sarah. But they planned to form Allies of the mass he gathered, to get them to work towards taking over completely. ``

'' So that's how they learned about Luna ? ``

She nodded. `` And Harry potter too. At 1st Elise and Sarah didn't care who lived or died in engagement while they quietly plotted their own uprising. But when Harry started showing his potential and they learned Luna Lovegood was a seer, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your workshop in Diagon back street during the summertime. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely interest. He'd been wondering for a hanker fourth dimension the real reason Elise had targeted his computer memory. `` What do you mean ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a face of remorse settled over her. `` Voldemort had a seer named Jasper, he was old and not as good as Luna seems to be. But that didn't affair to Elise, he was all she had and so she'd already convinced him to give his ultimate loyalty to her over Voldemort. He told her that he'd had a vision that something was going to convey Harry to Diagon Alley alone and that Voldemort was going to stool his move against the boy. She worried about the upshot as she wanted Harry on her side, working with Sarah specifically since they part the same power… of course of action, she'd only just found Sarah at that time. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your store of fire, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be respective Aurors in the area. After all, the minister would be sure to respond in full force to a report of arson at his son's store. ``

He took a steadying breath, trying to look on the brightly incline as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon Alley alone that day to confront Voldemort, his Death eater and the Dementors, there's no way he could have survived. At least Elise's demolition had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd a great deal rather have his shop class ruined than his admirer dead. After all, they'd already rebuilt the shop… there wasn't another Harry Potter laying around. `` I remember reading in the paper that Jasper died rather mysteriously. '' He said at last. Of course of instruction he hadn't read anything about it, but he recalled Hermione telling him about it during one of their secluded conversations.

'' There was aught mysterious about it. Jasper made the same mistake I did by thinking he was an equal in their plans. I guess he was scared enough to want to tell soul about his sight, but he chose the wrong people. He saw his own death though not the hired man that brought it to him, and then he saw your friends up at Hogwarts using that silly ring to try and contact him from beyond for information. He thought it was Voldemort that was going to end his life so he went to Elise who saw her opportunity. Sarah may not have a wand, but she has mastered many other skills, first and foremost her astral jutting. They decided to drink down him so that she could merge with his consciousness and send herself in his place when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must give seen something and stopped her Quaker from using the pack. It only made them want her on their incline more, especially since they'd so hastily get rid of Jasper. ``

Fred's intellect was reeling. So many things were coming together now, it was unacceptable that she wasn't telling him the truth. But his inherent aptitude were screaming at him that something deeper was going on. `` Why are you telling me all of this ? ``

'' I don't really have it away. '' She smiled, crossing her arms and leaning forward. `` I guess I'm tired of you thinking badly of me. I've never gone so long being so thoroughly ignored. Maybe I figured that if you saw that I was as much a victim of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd treat me sound while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a victim. '' He stated firmly, once more compulsive to keep himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the safe way to pull of a lie was by mixing in the truth… It was clearly a skill she had mastered.

Elanya looked away, but even in visibility he could see a mixing of shame, regret and anger settle over her characteristic. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

He couldn't avail himself, he had to know. `` If you were so captive on killing your father, then why didn't you do it yourself, without involving them ? ``

'' You think I haven't tried before ? ! '' She yelled as she leapt to her feet and began pacing in agitation. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the solely one who wanted him dead and he made indisputable that it was nearly impossible to get to him. I was scared to use my truthful personal identity as his daughter to strain out to him… I knew that my mother had sent me away and died trying to protect me because he wanted to use me, to deal me over to Voldemort in a never-ending quest to realise party favour from a man who favored no one. I didn't want her to die in vain but it soon became clear that my real public figure was going to be the only thing to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed somebody secure financial backing me up in case something went haywire. ``

'' And that's what Elise and Sarah promised you. '' He said quietly, watching her grow more derangement as her story went on.

'' It was only after the deed was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become jealous of the attending Voldemort was giving the lady friend and so he was doing his best to undermine them. They figured there was too good a chance he'd figure out some character of what they were up to and so they knew he needed to go. They must have tracked me down, found me in Australia… my nan had just died and I'd just gone back there to spend her last few solar day with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the probability to do the thing I'd been wanting for years. ``

Fred had been careful during the unanimous conversation, wanting to pick up on any signs of knavery. For the starting time time he found one… her vocalisation had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her foregather turmoil as she recalled these events, but he had the nagging feeling that things hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it matter how she and Elise came to link up forces ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these interrogative and expect any variety of answer. His only hope was to go on and go for he could piece it all together himself. `` Do you regret killing your Church Father ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to look him straight in the eye. `` Not for a single moment. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more patient and found a way to do it by myself. When I tried to back out of this whole thing, when I told them I didn't want to be a part of kidnapping you… Elise made it very clear that despite the false evidence I left at the panorama, she could very easily tie me to my beginner's death. I have no incertitude that she would direct me to Azkaban without a second sentiment. So I had to choose, a jail cell locked away with the goliath or stranded on an island with you. I took the better looking penalty. ``

'' But if you hadn't killed Edmund, you never would have had to make that choice. '' He argued.

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could birth found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The of import thing to mention here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or someone else, you would have always wound up on this island. '' She seemed frustrated. Clearly this wasn't going the way she wanted, he wasn't giving her the reaction she'd expected…

But then he wasn't going to allow himself to be like all the other masses she'd been able to enwrap around her finger, he'd always been determined to be hard than that from the first off moment she'd walked into his shop class. `` You're probably right… We'll never know though will we ? ``

'' Do you hate me ? '' She asked quietly, taking him by surprise.

'' I thought I was the one who got to ask the questions. '' He said with a unquiet laugh.

Elanya smiled. It was a slacken coyly confident smile as she reveled in the fact that she'd finally unsettled him. `` And I've answered them all. Can't you answer just one for me ? ``

'' That wasn't part of the good deal. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to lean on the bound of the mesa in front man of him. `` You know, there's only two reasons you won't solution. Either you do hate me but you're too often of a gentleman to say it… though we both know that you're more than willing to state anyone exactly how you feel about them. So the only other explanation is that you've realized you don't hate me and just can't bring yourself to take on it for some mystic reason. ``

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms as he regarded her with mistaken self-confidence. `` Or I've simply decided it's best not to go through animation hating anyone. Of course, I could always make an exception if you'd care to campaign the offspring. ``

'' Has anyone ever told you that you're completely frustrating ? '' She asked with a stiff smile.

'' Many prison term over. '' He grinned easily, once more enjoying that he'd managed to ruffle her feathers by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a walk. '' She announced, standing up and taking a thick hint. `` I cooked, you can clean house. '' She added before leaving the tent.

Fred looked around feeling completely off precaution. She'd never left him alone in the tent before, which had only led him to conceive that she had things to hide from him here. But clearly her frustration with his lack of credulousness had caused an oversight on her behalf and he knew he needed to conduct vantage of it. He raced to her room, pulling back the flutter that separated the distance from the rest of the tent and taking a cursory feel around before carefully proceeding to go through everything. Ensuring he returned thing to the way he'd found them, he went through all of her stuff and nonsense hoping to come across a communication device of some kind… or even intimately, his wand. After a long and exhaustive hunting, he came up with neither.

( prisonbreak )

Harry stared at Simon, trying to ascertain exactly what he thought of the other boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extremes the guy had gone through in Holy Order to have a bare conversation. But then, had Simon Zelotes been right ? Would they have listened had he simply approached them and asked to speak ? He shook himself out of his opinion, refusing to let his anger and discombobulation make him do anything stupid. `` How do we know that having you tell us all of this isn't share of the plan ? '' He asked. After all, if Elise had gone through so lots, then why wouldn't she go even a step further and send out in the clown ? Surely she didn't expect them to exact Simon seriously even if they did have a go at it he thought he was telling the truth… or at least the truth as she wanted him to cognize it.

He sighed and shook his headland. `` I had a tactile sensation you'd ask me that. All I can say is that I only know what I've seen and heard. She certainly hasn't told me to follow to you and I doubt she realizes I know that she wants to kill me. But has she somehow directed affair so that I would arrive talk to you, I just don't know… anything is possible with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's unit architectural plan is to gather as many psychics as she can and then fight both sides of the war, hoping to come in out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far Thomas More control over herself than Harry could manage. But he tried to remain calm, to remember that they needed to know what they were up against… she still had her hand on his arm, trying in vain to help him be successful in relaxing though he could sense her uneasiness at what she was hearing.

'' It's piece of her plan. '' Simon seemed a bit uncertain for the first time since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be able to at least intercept her doing me in. And yes, I really believe she'd execution me if it helped her cause… She ensured they got rid of Jasper simply because she wanted you Luna, she knows you're a undecomposed prophesier than that old man ever was, you've already helped thwart hers and Sarah's plans a few times. She was trying to help Voldemort seizure you, though she had no intent of handing you over… she wants to convince you and Harry both to join her. '' Again he looked directly at Jacey. `` And if she knew you were a firestarter like her, she'd wishing you too. ``

'' I am not anything like your miserable Sister. '' Jacey said defensively as she cupped her hands together and began rolling them until she had developed a tidy human dynamo between them. She lifted it over her foreland and brought it down, engulfing her entire body in flame as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more powerful. '' She laughed, extinguishing herself and leaving no denotation that anything out of the ordinary had just transpired.

Neil Simon swallowed hard as he stared at her in disbelief… clearly he'd never seen his sister do something like that before. `` honest. '' He said at last. `` mortal should be. They already knew Harry was stronger than Sarah, that's why they had to constitute surely he lost his powers before they tried to blab to him. ``

'' You're talking about what happened at Azkaban ? How could they possibly know that they weren't going to kill me with that Psychohemia potion ? '' Harry asked in aggravation. They all knew Neil Simon was telling them the truth, but he just didn't like what he was hearing anymore now that it was going against what he knew had happened. But then, he was quickly learning from the other boy that there lots of things he didn't know about the matter that had been happening to him, his friends and his enemies. Elise had apparently been pulling several unlike chain for quite awhile.

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to work for them long before then. '' Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some decisiveness was going to head you to the prison and right in social movement of Cho, but it was Elise who made the Dark overlord believe it was his approximation to use Sarah's talents to try and take away you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to pop you, that you were going to get helper in time to save your life but not your power. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly kill us at my aunt and uncle's house. '' Harry replied, hiding the phantom annoyance he felt in his paw and leg where he'd been stabbed all those months ago. Glancing at Luna out of the corner of his eye, he remembered her side covered in rakehell after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to preserve Sarah from killing him. `` She didn't seem too concerned with convincing us to join her then. '' He added angrily as everything from that nighttime came back to him including Ron nearly being burnt to a crisp.

'' Yeah well, as I'm sure you've noticed, the only problem Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the woman is more than a minuscule unhinged. She was only supposed to torture you, it was your muggle family she was supposed to kill in front of you… on Voldemort's orders, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those hoi polloi she was forced to know with growing up and she came to begrudge you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as weakly than her and so she alone decided in that moment that she didn't want you to join them. At least, that's how she explained it to Elise after they broke her out of the hospital and woke her from the coma. Trust me, Elise let her have it for deviating from the architectural plan and nearly killing you both. Anyway, Sarah said she really lost command when Luna came in with the ring… she wanted it and they all knew Voldemort wanted it and so obtaining the ring became her main priority above all else, including her safety as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to enamour her for a suddenly fourth dimension as well as get your power back, she no longer thinks you're infirm. ``

'' I'm flattered. '' Harry said sarcastically.

'' Does she fuck that we went into her remembering while she was unconscious ? '' Luna asked, squeezing his arm as concern overwhelmed her.

But Simon stared back at her in surprisal, allowing them to instantly loosen up. `` No, not that I'm aware of. I certainly had no estimation you'd done that… what did you see ? ``

'' Do not worry about that, we will be the 1 to ask the questions. '' Jacey said with authority.

'' What about Cho ? Where does she fit into all of this ? '' Harry picked up where they'd just left off, thinking that what they had seen in Sarah's point at least confirmed that the daughter were working together behind Voldemort's back.

He sighed and nodded. `` Well, she's plotting with Sarah only. But whatever plan those two had going, it was in place farseeing before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to spill the beans Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the girlfriend would be valuable again once they broke her out of Azkaban. My guess is that if they manage to get Cho out, Elise will notice the chance to get rid of her as soon as possible. Just because she and Sarah are close confidants doesn't mean they wouldn't betray each early in a instant if it meant furthering their own agenda. commitment means nix to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the spell holding him in berth. `` will you let me go now ? delight ? '' He pleaded.

We have to get back anyway… Dumbledore is looking for us and I think we're in a lot of trouble. Luna said. Harry turned to look at her and realized she had that far off reflexion that meant she wasn't completely present in the room.

'' Fine. '' He waved his wand and released the other boy from the binding.

Simon the Zealot leapt to his metrical foot to quickly stretch before eagerly reaching into his pocket and pulling out his flaskful from which he took a farsighted gulp. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his mouth with his sleeve. After another swig he seemed to a lesser extent shaky and nervous.

'' We have to get back to the schooling, are you going to be okay ? '' Harry asked Jacey.

'' I will be just fine. '' She assured him with an soft smile.

'' What are you going to severalize them about me ? '' Simon asked, suddenly scared again. `` I never intended it to call on out this way ! I was going to unlock the room access, I didn't mean for you to actually damage the schoolhouse ! ``

'' Yeah, this is all my fault. '' Harry rolled his center. `` exactly sustain your mouth shut when we get back there and let me do all the talking. '' He reached out and roughly grabbed the boy's arm before apparating back to Hogwarts with Luna a few second behind them. They were trusted to make it behind Hagrid's hut where the chances of being seen were very slim.

Silently, they all three made their way up to the castle, running into Hermione in the courtyard. `` Where have you been ? And what are you doing with him ? '' She demanded, eyeing St. Simon suspiciously.

'' It's a tenacious fib, Mione. '' Harry sighed. `` We'll tell you after we deal with Dumbledore. ``

She nodded and led the way through the halls to the schoolmaster's office. `` Just so you're aware, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you get out schooling grounds. '' She warned them. Sharing a aspect with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the sight of a proficient student would soften the old wizard's mood. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in girl husbandman and then you are dismissed. '' He replied from behind his desk. Hermione let them walk past her before she closed the doorway and bolted down the stairs. Dumbledore gestured to the three chairs in straw man of him and waited until they settled themselves. He looked at all of them, but it was clear he was addressing Harry alone. `` What did you think you were doing damaging the school like that ? ``

'' It was an chance event. '' He quietly answered.

'' I have no doubt that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his articulation quivering as he tried to veil his choler. `` Why would you do this Harry, when you're so close to being done here ? This isn't something I can shroud up for you. ``

'' So don't. I'll go fix it. ``

He shook his head. `` It's not that unsubdivided. Like the ministry and certain early building, conjuration isn't sufficiency to restore the damage. It must be rebuilt by hand to maintain the strength of the appealingness we place upon our schooltime. And even if you did fix it, my hands are tied in regards to how we can wield this, especially after I've pushed so hard to have the recently disappeared Tristan Macnair expelled. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' Luna asked nervously.

He sighed sadly. `` I'm saying that after having Miss Patil, Mr. Alfred Edward Woodley Mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the devastation Cho Chang Jiang caused lowest year, and after all the cumulative bother that has been caused… I have no choice but to expel you all from Hogwarts for your unfavorable actions, efficient immediately. ``

'' You can't ! '' Harry protested.

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in grave damage to one of our schoolroom and then you all left schoolhouse grounds in direct violation of the codification of behaviour. I have to take this action before the less reliable of the Aurors out there decide to try and say that you had something to do with Tristram's evasion and try to take you all into custody for questioning. Should that chance, it's not guaranteed that Arthur will be capable to see that you get into the right hands. '' Dumbledore seemed to slump down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a crocked place and we must be heedful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to find a way to keep us here ? The Aurors and anyone else could still come after us once we leave, but if we're here then we're more protected. '' Luna argued.

'' I agree, but if I didn't go through with this, it would be far too easy for them to charge me of favoritism and things are too thin right now. The slightest thing could devote them the excuse to expel me from here and put anyone they choose in office as Headmaster. As you saw survive time, there are too many impressionable Lester Willis Young minds here to allow that to happen. I refuse to let this school become a training ground for the side by side moving ridge of Death feeder. Everyone must be liberal to take the life they want. ``

'' So instead you just throw away our futures ? '' Simon Zelotes asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the monastic order and therefore unable to comprehend the need to preserve matter a certain way so that the power didn't faulting in the enemy's favor.

Suddenly the bureau door swung assailable behind them and lupine came rushing in. `` give up ! It's not their geological fault, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really expect anyone to believe that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it count as long as there's someone to blame ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… tell them that the kids were working on a project for me and things went wrong. They left the school to come looking for me because they knew that I had snuck out to see Tonks and didn't want me to get in trouble. That fib should be good enough. ``

'' You realize what will chance if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low room access of margin for you. If you take the inculpation for the destruction to the classroom, if you insist these students only left schooltime to comprehend up for you… then I'll have no choice but to terminate your employ here. ``

'' No ! '' Harry protested, leaping to his feet.

lupine reached out to take hold of his shoulder, using his considerable strong point to pressure Harry back into his professorship. `` I understand the consequences. I accept it. ``

Why are you doing this to yourself ? Harry asked pleadingly.

Because, I feel I owe it to James and Lily to do everything in my world power to have you complete school. I can't just let you screw it up with two workweek to go. He answered with a grinning. It'll be okay, Harry. I promise.

He held his breath and glanced at Luna and Simon the Canaanite out of the corner of his eye and realized Lupin wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their one-sixth class and he felt guilty that his nervy actions may have them to fall back out on their education. Letting out the breath slowly, he turned to look at the older wizard, awaiting his decision along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his meter studying lupine before at last shaking his straits and rising from his seat. `` Okay, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are able to finish out the last two weeks of this semester, as it will be impossible to put back you on such shortsighted bill. It's been a pleasure to bear you here. ``

'' It's been wonderful being here. '' lupin assured him before quickly ushering the teens from the bureau before the headmaster could shift his mind. Simon tried to break off from the group as soon as they were in the hallway but Harry reached out and grabbed his arm, ensuring he followed them. He still had a few things to say to the early boy. They walked silently down to lupin's office, though the older man was the only one who seemed to be in a good mood.

'' Are you sure about this ? '' Harry asked as soon as lupine closed the door.

'' Of course I'm certain. Otherwise I wouldn't have done it. '' He grinned. `` I had planned on resigning at the end of this year anyway. I really like teaching, but I'm certainly needed elsewhere and like you Harry, I hate feeling locked away here when there are so many thing happening out in the world. And with you and genus Draco going away, there's really null to keep me here any longer. Plus I don't like being away from Tonks for so long, her job already keeps us apart so why should I continue to let mine add to the strain when I have another choice ? So you see, I'm entirely positive that this is the rightfulness thing to do. ``

'' But you won't exactly be leaving here on the best of terms if you take the blame for this. '' Luna argued.

lupine reached out to reassuringly pat her berm. `` I have long ago learned to be with other people's misguided persuasion of me. As long as I am in serious standing with the masses who know me, that's all that matters. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a roll of blank lambskin and a clean quill. `` Besides if I were to ride out here, then who would be out there looking after you all when you get yourselves stuck in a quoin ? '' He teased, reminding them that this wasn't the first sentence he'd helped get them out of their own mess. `` Plus Draco is going to ask counsel in navigating living out in the veridical man where people don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to have a reason to leave my spatial relation early. The fact that it helps you kids out is just a incentive. ``

'' Well I certainly appreciate it. '' Simon said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go also Hogwarts so I'm glad I get to come back. '' He added quickly when he saw the glare Harry had shot him for speaking at all.

Lupin nodded and smiled. `` Think nothing of it. ``

'' It just seems unjust that we can't simply explain what really happened. '' Luna said absently as wrapped her implements of war around herself.

'' What happened to you ? '' lupin asked, finally noticing the bandages that peeked out from the sleeve of her schooling robes.

She and Harry shared a coup d'oeil as Herbert A. Simon looked down at the floor and shuffled his metrical unit. `` Just a slight stroke caused by a simple misunderstanding. '' She said at last, lowering her arm and pulling the hems of her sleeve down.

'' I see. '' He shook his head and sighed. `` To serve your earlier musing… no one would listen if you tried to explain what really happened. It's a play for powerfulness out there and no one is occupy in the truth unless it gets them what they want. Too many affair have been happening here, no one would take a student's word on anything when they barely trust what the professor and Dumbledore have to say. ``

'' Especially if one of the students is me, right ? '' Harry asked miserably.

'' It's a sad but true fact that adding your name to anything will instantly wee-wee it more refine. But don't let it bother you, having enemies only means that you've stood up for something significant. '' Lupin answered with a gentle smile. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must write to my wife and inform her that we are soon to become a one income household for awhile. ``

'' You know that you and Tonks always have your elbow room at my firm. '' Harry offered, feeling it was the to the lowest degree he could do.

'' And we may just take to make you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The price of rent is ridiculous these daytime. ``

Leaving him to write his varsity letter, the teen all stepped out into the hall. As soon as the door closed behind them, Harry grabbed Neil Simon up by the front of his gown and shoved him back against the paries. `` If I find out that you're somehow setting us up I swear to you that your sister won't have the chance to murder you because she'll never find your body. '' He threatened, wanting to scare the boy into revealing whether he was truly trustworthy.

'' I promise I'm not setting you up ! '' He instantly replied, his eyes wide and his spirit banging wildly in his chest.

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his face in conclusion to Simon's, tightening his grip and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to tell mortal, come straight to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my other Friend would certainly be the biggest mistake you'll ever make in your life. ``

Paul Simon nodded in agreement, clearly seeing in Harry's eyes just how very much he meant his threat. `` I'll come right to you ! '' He gasped out, reaching up to try and advertize Harry away.

He released the early boy and simply turned and walked away, knowing Luna was following him and feeling her dislike. He waited until they were all the way back to his room before speaking to her. `` I'm not sorry about how I dealt with him. ``

She looked at him a moment before nodding slowly. `` okay. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you're mad at me… '' He began pacing, feeling all of the energy and adrenaline he'd been building up since she'd first called out to him begin to bubble over as it tried to happen some way to escape.

'' Of trend I'm not mad… I'm not sure what I am. This has been a very strange day and I'm still trying to swear out it. '' Luna argued, sitting comfortably on the boundary of the bed as she watched him walk around the room, allowing him to get out some of his pent up frustration.

Harry went to the window and clutched the sill as he stared out over the school priming coat. He took several deep breaths before turning back to her. `` But you really are OK, right ? ``

'' I'm fine, just a bit unhinge by what we've learned. '' She gently assured him. `` I guess it's even more crucial that we go get Fred before Elanya has the probability to convince him that her interlingual rendition of events is the truth. ``

'' Couldn't it be ? '' He debated. `` I mean, I know Neil Simon was telling us his variation of the accuracy and I believe Elise and Sarah are that cunning. But what if their whole program was tricking him into telling us all of this so we wouldn't believe what Elanya had to say ? What if they really are setting her up and what we saw in Erebos's head is true ? Maybe they did know we'd figure out who the spy was and that we'd want to look in his head… what if they used Simon to diffuse around dubiety so that we wouldn't know what to believe ? ``

'' Well, if that's the showcase then it seems to have worked, at least on you. '' She pointed out, smiling as he stared at her in utter discombobulation. `` Personally, I think I believe him even though there's something about him that unsettles me… but despite that, I truly think Elanya is very lots working with Elise and Sarah. ``

Harry nodded in hesitant acceptance. He'd learned his lesson about questioning her intuition, if she thought Elanya wasn't the victim they were trying to portray her to be then that was most likely the way it was. `` Okay, so we go on with the Assumption of Mary that she's against us. ``

'' I think that's the safe for us… to take she and Herbert A. Simon both are the foe until they can definitively prove otherwise. '' She stood and came over to wrap her arm around his waistline and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her capitulum and returned the embrace. `` I have no problem with that. ``

She pulled away and looked at the door. `` Hermione knows we're done with Dumbledore, she's on her way over here. ``

Sure enough an insistent knock came at the door and Harry went to let her in. `` So ? What happened ? '' She demanded, walking in and turning to face them both. Together they pieced together everything that had happened and filled her in completely on what Simon the Zealot had told them and what they'd concluded as a outcome. `` You're for certain Elanya isn't being set up ? '' She asked, her face going white as she began to panic.

'' Almost completely positive, what's wrong ? '' Luna went over to lead Hermione to a chair.

'' It's just that… I so badly wanted to see Fred, to ready sure he was okay. I decided to practice my stellar forcing out and to my surprise, not only did it workplace, he was able to see me. '' She answered, nearly shaking as she tried not to cry.

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him love we were coming to get him ? '' Harry asked, kneeling next to her and taking her hand in comfort.

'' Yes, but I also told him everything else ! I wanted to assure him that we'd taken charge of everything so he could leave without worrying… including that we knew who the spy was ! I told him that you guys found out that Elanya was a victim of Elise and Sarah's patch too… he thinks she isn't the opposition ! ``

'' It'll be fine, Hermione. '' Luna said softly. `` We're going to get him tomorrow. ``

'' No ! '' Hermione leapt to her invertebrate foot and turned to them in torture. `` She's making him talk to her now ! He'd been refusing this whole time but I saw her endanger to charge Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't starting public speaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to believe that she was just another pawn in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his guard down ? What if she's able to win over him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in horror as every deduction of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her head. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( open frame )

As soon as it was gloomy, Fred grabbed his integral bed roll and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the tide, he set everything up and construct a small fire, silently thanking his father for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a verge. Sure it was the more hard way to do matter, but at live on his Father of the Church's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all affair muggle had paid off. Once sure the hell had caught, he lay back to search at the stars. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her walkway and the foresightful she was gone the more certain he was that he didn't want to be there when she did show up.

She'd told him so many things and enough of it had seemed not only to be likely but made too much sense not to be dependable. He was confused… If Hermione had really been on the island, then she'd told him things that Elanya had completely admitted to. Did it matter ? And if it did, then why did it topic ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no innocuous bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to shoot down her founder, the other female child wouldn't have had anything to tempt her into accepting their whirl. On the other hand, he was now capable to put himself in her shoes… why wouldn't she want to kill the man who murdered her mother and was trying to use his own daughter to buy his way into the good graces of an immorality man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to terms with the fact that his niece had killed his brother and was still willing to progress to out to the girl as it was crystalise even to him that she needed to be rescued… if not from Elise and Sarah, then from herself. So if Willem could forgive her, then who was he to judge her ?

Clearly he didn't think as badly of her as he'd thought anyway… why else wouldn't he get just told her hated her ? It was the one thing that bothered him more than anything else. She'd been right in saying that he had no problem telling people that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the but reason… because he didn't hatred her. But so what ? Not hating someone wasn't exactly the Saami as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't cartel her as far as he could throw her, but then, did that matter either ?

'' So, you've decided to sleep under the principal. ``

He sat up and whipped around to happen Elanya standing in the trees as if his thoughts of her had forced her to materialize there. Her fuzz and dress were dancing softly in the thin breeze and her centre glowed even more brilliantly in the swoon firelight. `` Well, aren't you the observant one. '' He said sarcastically.

'' I'm sorry I walked out on you earlier. '' She said, taking a few hesitant stair towards him.

'' Think zero of it. I'm pretty sure our conversation was about done anyway. '' He brushed her off and lay back down again, closing his eyes and acting as if she were zippo More than a vexing disturbance to him.

'' It's so beautiful out here… and so relaxing. You have the right idea sleeping here on the beach. Mind if I join you ? '' She called, her voice carrying her amusement.

'' nap wherever you want, what do I handle ? '' Fred made for sure to sound annoyed, hoping that if she did catch some Z's on the beach, she would choose to do it far from him. He heard her soft stride as she glided through the backbone and then felt her attempt to climb under the back with him. He sat straight up and scrambled away from her as he got to his feet. `` What the hell do you think you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

'' Well, my mantle are all the way back at the campsite and I'm tired now. '' She looked up at him with a coy smile.

'' Fine, remove my poppycock, it's all yours. I want to go for a swim anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the water, repeating Hermione's name over and over in his head lest he give up himself to go back and do something stupid.

'' You can't go out there now ! '' Elanya called as she ran after him. `` It's wickedness ! There could be sharks or any act of other life-threatening thing and you'd never see them coming ! ``

Despite the genuine business for his condom that he heard in her interpreter, he ignored her and walked straight into the water fully dressed. He continued on until his feet could just barely touch the bottom before deciding that was far enough to deter her from following him. turn, he began swimming parallel with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't care to take the air after him. He could barely see his hand in figurehead of him and realized that is was more than the exercise that was making his heart race. It was very benighted out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an underwater attack coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards demesne, crawling up onto the flaxen beach and allowing himself to lie there and breathe for a moment.

Now more than ever, he was determined to leave the island tomorrow. He couldn't drop one more day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to leave what was real and it was becoming more unmanageable not to diminish into her narration. All he had to do was get through tonight. Climbing to his feet, he brushed off as much sand as he could and made his way into the trees to look for some kind of shelter. Coming to the Base of the marvelous mountain, he found a shoal cave. Gathering leave-taking, he quickly made himself a place to sleep before gathering enough Wood to lead off a firing to keep him warm. Once again he silently thanked his male parent while hoping that he would get the chance to thank him in person very soon.

( BREAK )

Draco woke already feeling nervous… he didn't like lying to Ginny and while he may not bonk the exact contingent of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to know that she'd be mad to pick up they'd kept Fred's possibly being in trouble from her. But today was supposed to be the day it would all end and no one would take to lie anymore… at to the lowest degree not about this. It was uncomplicated really, while the professor and most of the students were down at the quidditch pitch enjoying the game between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, Potter, Luna and husbandman were going to whisk off themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever mess he'd gotten himself into. genus Draco's job was to make sure neither Ginny nor Ron found out they were gone and more importantly, to keep them both away from Professor Erebos who potter had said was a spy and more than willing to injure someone.

Taking a deep breath, he knocked on Ginny's room access. `` Ready to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her robe and pajama, he realized she hadn't done a good deal since she'd left his room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in response to the silent look she gave him, closing the door as he walked in.

'' I don't want to go lookout man that stupid biz today. '' She said, climbing onto the bed and grabbing her pillow to prehend to her body. `` I don't want to be a division of anything to do with Ron at the consequence. ``

'' I guess I can realise that. '' He said slowly.

'' It's been almost a week ! '' She was clearly cross and had her pillow been Ron's neck, she'd have already squeezed the life out of him. `` I just can't believe he hasn't come around to apologize to everyone for what he said. ``

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering look she shot him, he quickly went on in hopes of fixing his error. `` I mean, he clearly wanted blank space and said the thing he knew would push you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for Potter concluding year. So why would he come apologize unless he's ready to be around you all again ? ``

'' Well, thank you healer genus Draco, the psychology Boy Wonder ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so much, I'll only boot you half my normal rate for the excellent wiseness I have to bestow. '' He teased, quickly moving to see the pillow she whipped at him.

'' Well from now on you can observe your two galleons to yourself because your wisdom isn't even deserving half that ! '' She taunted back, laughing as he ran over to turn back the pillow assault. She scrambled to take hold of her early pillow and swung low, catching him in the stomach.

'' Oh ! Direct hit ! '' He shouted and fell across the bed.

'' Go in for the kill ! '' She laughed, quickly kneeling over him and battering him over and over with the pillow. unable to hold back his own laughter, he tried his best to return the flack. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to wrestle it away from her so that he would be in possession of all the plush ammo.

A knock on the room access interrupted their battle and they both looked at each other in surprise as they tried to catch their intimation. Ginny lay back on the bed and stared up at him with a coy smile. `` See who that is, would you darling ? I'm not dressed to receive company. ``

He leaned down to kiss her before quickly swinging his pillow one last metre, jumping off the bed with a wicked smiling as he avoided her return rape. He opened the door and instantly tensed having already been warned that the person on the former side was interested in harming Ginny. `` Can we help oneself you professor ? '' He asked, closing the door slightly so that the man couldn't see inside.

'' Isn't it a bit inappropriate for Miss Weasley to take in a male visitor this other ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit inappropriate for a Male teacher to come unsupervised to a female student's room this other ? Especially one who already has a swarm of mistrust around his name ? '' He shot back, having been informed of the professor's family relationship to Elise McKinney.

'' I've come with a subject matter from the Headmaster. '' Erebos answered defensively. `` Not that I owe an explanation to any student. ``

'' well, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her room all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking care of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a small growl to hightail it his throat lest the man block what exactly he was. `` You can have me the message, I'll be sure she gets it. '' With his senses heightened, he was able to hear rustling behind him as Ginny got out of bed and curiously made her way over to the door. Thankfully she was careful enough to restrain herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective rush rushed through him and he knew only one thing, the only way the professor was getting in the room was over his dead body.

'' The Headmaster wishes to verbalize to Miss Weasley in person. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to escort her up to his place. ``

'' And why wouldn't he post prof McGonagall ? '' Draco asked suspiciously. `` She is the fountainhead of the Gryffindor house and a much more likely candidate to approach Ginny on the schoolmaster's behalf than some professor wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your course. Why would Dumbledore send you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the professor as she'd rather chew her own arm off than cogitation Arithmancy.

'' Again, not that I owe an explanation to a student- '' He said tightly, clearly frustrated with this song and dance they were engaged in. `` But she is already down at the quidditch pitch assisting Madame Hooch with getting the line of business ready for today's game. I was in the Headmaster's part for a meeting and so he simply sent me. ``

'' wellspring, Ginny is just too ill to leave her room. I'm sure Dumbledore wouldn't want to take a chance her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these draughty hall. If he needs to separate her something significant, I'm sure he would have no problem paying her a visit. '' Draco said smugly. He grabbed the boundary of the threshold to close it but the professor reached out to stop it from swinging shut.

'' If Miss Weasley is in fact that ill, then perhaps she should go see Madame Pomfrey. '' Erebos suggested slyly. `` I know that if I go and tell her there is a wan student she will assert on seeing her. ``

'' That's unneeded. '' Draco said calmly while holding the door so tightly in his hand he thought the forest would shatter in his grip. `` I asked healer Drake to stop by earlier. He said it's a bad coldness and recommended bed ease. '' He added in order to thwart the professor's newest attempt to get Ginny out of her way. He was sure drake would get across for them if necessary, after all, he'd done it many clip before. Rather than allow Erebos to arrive up with something else, he used his above rule potency to bang the door shut despite the man's endeavour to keep it open.

'' What was that about ? '' Ginny asked immediately.

Draco quickly pulled his wand out of his pocket and cast a silencing magic spell on the room, both as a care and to try and stall before answering her. `` professor Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to commence with honesty and go with it until he couldn't. `` They want him to get to you and Ron. ``

'' Why ? '' She asked, sinking down onto her bed in horror and confusion.

'' Well… because they have plans to take over the ministry. What better way than to use the diplomatic minister's children against him ? '' He held his breath. Technically what he'd said was true although that wasn't the reason the man had decided to make a move today. But why worry her advance by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the full story or what exactly her brother was involved in, only that Erebos was one of the loose ends the others had had to tie up in order to go after Fred at all. He knew they were connected, just not how… but he'd be damned if he let her get hurt or killed because of any of it. Surely if she knew Fred was involved, she would insist on doing something dangerously reckless in an attempt to help.

Ginny shook her read/write head sadly. `` poor dad… all he wants to do is work a difference and now he has to subsist in never-ending fear for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the same could be said for everyone. '' He sat next to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. `` I've guess that's just the cost you have to pay if you want to stand up for something… the fear of losing everything. ``

We may have a problem. Draco thought out to ceramicist and Luna.

What happened ? ceramicist immediately answered.

genus Draco quickly told them of Erebos's sojourn and the fact that he wouldn't be leaving Ginny's room at all that day. You're going to take someone else down at the slant looking after Weasley. He concluded definitively, implying that there would be no arguing with his decision to block himself in with Ginny.

( BREAK )

Harry had a horrible tactual sensation about everything after talking to Dragon. Why would Erebos receive come to try and get Ginny to go somewhere with him ? What were Elise, Elanya and Sarah planning now ? Whatever it was, it seemed they were just in time to go rescue Fred. At least the problem of who was going to watch over Ron had been quickly resolved… after a quick vociferation to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibility cloak and hang around the quidditch lurch, just in case Erebos tried to get a handgrip of a different Weasley.

'' I heard the whistle. The game's started, can we go now ? '' Hermione asked eagerly. She was nearly beside herself with worry and had been since discovering that she'd given Fred misinformation. She'd attempted to project herself back to the island several meter during the night but hadn't been capable to find him again.

'' Both of you grab one of those brooms. '' Harry told her and Luna as he tightly gripped his own Firebolt. They had gone down to the pitching with everyone else only to sneak off into the equipment shed to keep from being seen.

'' Why ? '' Hermione demanded impatiently.

'' Because Charlie wrote a book all about how there are flying dragon on the island. I can't fit you both on my Calluna vulgaris and we need to own some way of escaping quickly if necessary… especially since you said you've read that there are anti-apparation charms. You and Fred won't be able to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the wholly metre that both female child would just let him go by himself. But he knew Luna wouldn't allow that any more than he'd let her do anything like this without him… the argument wouldn't be Charles Frederick Worth it as they'd both just end up angry and she'd wind up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew better than to even suggest she stay behind, despite them all being aware of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both adequate to and tried to let that view ease his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the muckle, it shouldn't be a problem. '' She replied, eyeing the old practice brooms warily as Luna stepped up to choose one without vacillation. It was obvious which of them was more confident in their ability to fly.

'' Just aim one anyway. '' He pressed with a grinning. `` At the very least, Fred will know how to fly it should the want arise. ``

'' Fine. '' She agreed with a heavy sigh, grabbing the one closest to her. `` Can we go now ? ``

Harry took out his wand and waited as they did the same. They had no idea where they'd wind up having only coordinate and characterisation to use to inspire their apparation to the island. He wanted them to be ready for anything.

As one he and Luna reached out to each take one of Hermione's manpower and they all focused on the island. With a forte sally, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling heavily bumpy primer coat beneath his feet, Harry hesitantly opened his eyes to look around. His breath caught in his throat as he took in their surroundings. Um, I think we may own just picked the defective possible post to commonwealth. He thought out to the miss, not wanting to make any noise lest they wake the ten dragon currently sleeping around them. As quietly as potential, they all three mounted their Scots heather, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going dim for their saki, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the ground and rising into the air.

Flying away from the quite a little top and down toward the beach, he looked over his shoulder joint to retard on the female child. Luna seemed to receive gotten the bent of things after having been in the air a few times before. But Hermione, who always chose to keep her infantry on the primer coat if it was an alternative, was clearly showing her rawness. She tried to lower the broom and suddenly lost control, letting out a tatty shriek as she suddenly zoomed toward the ground.

'' Pull up ! '' He shouted as he raced after her. She tried to do as he instructed but couldn't quite reach it and she raised her weapons system to cover her face as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! reckon out ! '' He heard Luna outcry. Apparently Hermione's initial screeching had aroused more than his veneration, it had woken the dragons. He quickly whipped to the left hand as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to snarl at him. `` They hunt in couplet. '' Charlie's voice filled his head and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the other tartar that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to search the sky for her and found her far out over the piss as she tried her dear to evade the four dragons chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to help only to recognize that the other six Dragon had chosen to gang up on him as they perceived him to be the proficient handbill and therefore the more unsafe to them. One popped up in front of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to view his bearings… but this clock time he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight dragons. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any sign of Luna and the two flying lizard that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the beasts but unfortunately he wasn't ready enough and he felt one's tail knock into the rear of his broom followed by the sound of a deep cracking sound. The broom started to derive apart in his hands and he did his unspoiled to hold it together as he raced toward the flat coat. He landed roughly on the beach, shaking off the pain as he picked himself up and ran toward the covering of the trees.

He could hear the beast landing heavily behind him, too prominent to make their way through the dense woods. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to break his drop. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shattered remains of another broom though he had no estimation whether it was Luna's or Hermione's. He looked around desperately but there was no one there.

( BREAK )

Fred woke to a loud scream. For a moment he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his fundament. Looking around, he remembered making a temporary worker protection out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another serial of ear-splitting shrieks filled the sky and he looked up to see those mysterious creatures circling in the bright morning sunshine. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the tree diagram above him, giving him a frighteningly clear sight of what the creature actually was… a very large Dragon with acutely claws, tenacious teeth and widely backstage tipped with dangerous looking horns.

Panic gripped him as he stood there frozen, trying to recall everything Charlie had ever told him about these beasts. More than anything, he recalled his buddy saying that Draco were brute of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't waste time trying to forecast it out, he had to earn surely Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the only former person on this island die… he didn't want to be here completely alone with these things. He raced through the trees back to the campsite, suddenly upset that he'd decided to locomote so far from it in the first place.

existence sure to preserve himself recondite under the top of the trees, he approached their tent and heard Elanya's voice as she argued with somebody. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her back to him and completely alone, but he could tell that she was holding something up to her oral fissure. `` What do you mean Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one wide-eyed task this morning… fountainhead, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to hear more, Fred leapt out from the Tree he'd been hiding behind. `` What are you doing ? '' He demanded as he stalked up to her.

She turned to him and dropped her handwriting, showing him they were vacate. `` Nothing. '' She said innocently.

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my baby ? '' He tried to hide his terror, reminding himself that whatever was happening at to the lowest degree Draco was doing his office in protecting Ginny from it.

More shrieks filled their air and they both glanced up in panic. Then she stared directly at him, her eyes filling with sadness. `` I have no choice, you broke the convention. '' She looked away, closing her eyes against her regret.

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the dragons now circling dangerously low. `` The only reason they would pull up stakes their nest was if soul disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were right, your friends came after you… but that means you all have broken the ruler and if I don't bring about the penalisation for it then I'll be the one to receive it. I like you Fred, but your siblings'lives just aren't more important to me than my own. ``

'' Don't do it. '' He insisted, pleading with her to give in and be the serious person he wasn't quite sure she could be. `` I'll help protect you from Elise and Sarah, we can all keep you rubber. Just don't let them force you into hurting my brother and sister. ``

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an uncertain tone toward him. `` You'd convince your supporter to founder me a chance ? ``

'' No ! That's portion of her plan ! ``

They both whipped around to see who had snuck up on them. Fred couldn't believe his eyes as his fondness raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more real than the finally clip he'd seen her as she had her baton out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his relief, he raced forward and threw his arms around her.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted. `` I was wrong yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make us require to avail her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to bring together them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, reminding Fred that she was actually still there. She now had her baton out as well and was pointing it directly at them.

'' What does it matter if it's on-key ? '' He returned, placing himself between her and Hermione despite the fact that he was the only one unarmed.

'' well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically believe her over me ? '' Elanya asked with sham sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a understanding not to at the moment. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the verge she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione compass out and take his hand as she used her early to continue wielding her own sceptre. Squeezing her fingers, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a wicked smile spreading slowly across her face. `` I thought as much… I guess it's prison term to actuate to plan B. '' She quickly waved her wand, forcing Hermione to throw up a shield around them. It was enough of a distraction for her to grab the seashell necklace she'd been wearing since they arrived and rip it from her neck before speaking quickly into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and belt down Ron. '' She instructed.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her verge and sent him flying away. He landed hard on his book binding but barely felt anything as he forced himself to get up. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded.

'' Why should I ? You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a werewolf protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the other. Your sidekick will die. ``

'' claim Erebos and evidence him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione ordered, pointing her wand threateningly.

Elanya simply dropped the necklace to the ground and stomped on it, effectively destroying the communication device. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, issue forth and take it. '' She dared them.



musical note : Provided there are no more horrifying accidents with my estimator or flash movement, look for the next chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island Escape

A/N : Without further delay… Read, revaluation, Enjoy !





After crash landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to strike nothing worse that a few excoriation and scratches. Unfortunately the heather hadn't survived as well and lay a few pes away in art object. Glad that it hadn't been her to wrap up that way, she shook herself off and got to her ft. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't answer her… A quick glance up through the crown let her know why. several dragons seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking phone. With a broken heather she knew she couldn't do much to help oneself them and they certainly were too distracted to come help her… it was up to her to image out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to freeze up with indecisiveness, there were too many people counting on her and more than that, she wanted to test to herself that she was up to of branching out on her own.

It was much hotter here than it was back at school and so the maiden thing she did was strip off her jacket crown before she fainted of heat exhaustion. She knew that she had to set about moving and preferably with a purpose. Using her wand as a locator, she made her way through the Sir Henry Joseph Wood, trying not to appear anywhere but right in front of her. She didn't want to become distracted, she just wanted to get Fred and get the hell off this island. Within ten minutes of walking, she found herself at Fred and Elanya's campsite. The two were talking and she heard Fred offering to help the other female child if she would forebode to call off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's part of her programme ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the other little girl to stay fresh her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in time to stop Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped abruptly as she saw Elanya pull her own wand out… realizing that Fred was unarmed, Hermione worried that he would get caught in the middle if they started dueling. He stood there and looked at her as if she were the greatest thing he'd ever seen, making her feel more confident in the fount of the former girl. `` Hermione ? '' He asked hesitantly before rushing over and wrapping his arms around her. As good as it felt to have him hold her, she was careful to keep her wand up fifty Elanya decide to use the distraction to her advantage.

'' We have to bump Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted, forcing herself to believe they would ingest prison term to properly reunify later if they got themselves out of this now. `` I was wrong yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make us want to help her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to conjoin them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, taking a few dance step forward and pointing her wand more directly at Hermione.

'' What does it weigh if it's true ? '' Fred asked quietly as he turned and placed himself between the girls.

'' Well, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically think her over me ? '' Elanya offered them a sweet-smelling grinning that dripped with poisonous intentions.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reason not to at the second. '' He answered her as he gestured to the fact the she was waving her baton at them. Hermione realized in that moment that he hadn't completely given into believing Elanya, that he'd mostly managed to trust his own instincts. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her free handwriting to drive his, wanting him to do it that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her hand in coming back, accepting that she was going to be there with him no matter what.

'' I thought as much. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's time to move to plan B. '' She quickly waved her baton, giving Hermione only seconds to bedevil up a carapace around herself and Fred to deflect the spell. Before she could generate flack, the girl ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then drink down Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most likely professor Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her scepter and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and pip various stunners in fast ecological succession but the other girl was fast, raising her shield in prison term before attempting to arouse back and disarm her. By this fourth dimension Fred had gotten to his pes and back into the thick of things, forcing Hermione to stanch her attack so he wouldn't get hit by error. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her verge at him, keeping him from getting too close to her. `` You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a lycanthrope protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the other. Your comrade will die. ``

'' Call Erebos and tell him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as authorized articulation as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the ground, stomping on it and ruining their only probability to call off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want retaliation, come and take it. '' She dared them.

Hermione cast before she was even aware she was doing so, taking both her and Elanya by surprisal. The girl had to dodge rather than harbour, sending Hermione's spell to shatter the trees behind her. Seeing what a serious spell she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the dirt from her dress. `` Well, I suppose we've moved past tense stunner then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the wand she'd dropped in her precipitation to move out of the way.

Hermione felt Fred grab her arm and root for her into the collapsible shelter. `` Shield it ! '' He yelled at her.

She quickly waved her wand, yelling `` Protego Totalum ! '' and a few other incantations, turning the tent into their own small fortress ... they were go on charm she'd only practiced once in the safe of a classroom stage setting. She was truly surprise that she'd been able to accomplish it here while her heart was racing and panic gripped her mind. They could get a line Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling tour after while at the tent as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how long this will book. '' She said fearfully, turning to see that Fred had taken to tearing the place apart. `` What are you doing ? ``

'' I'm looking for my wand… she took it from me but it has to be around here somewhere ! '' He replied desperately as he threw things over his berm. He turned to the part of the collapsible shelter that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

'' You really have a kitchen stove in here ? '' She asked incredulously as he struggled to tack the thing over.

'' When it came to spending my money, Elanya spared no disbursal. Top of the parentage everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the comfort of your rest home. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the icebox side by side. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to scoop up a close up towel. Sure enough, his wand was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a shot of relief knowing that she wouldn't be the only one armed. His own fill-in was evident as he tightly gripped his wand and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a spirit that sent tingles through her body. Without a word he strode up to her and eagerly placed his hand around her cervix, pulling her case to his so that he could passionately capture her lips. He kissed her with such depth and hunger that she was left feel dizzy and had to reach out and grab him to celebrate her stage from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his weaponry around her waistline he deepened the buss even more before breaking it off and resting his caput against hers. They were both left-hand breathless and happy to once more be so close. `` I'm really gladiola to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't Tell. '' She teased, leaning up to kiss his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll give it clearer when I have more time to relieve oneself my point. '' Fred grinned before turning dangerous once more. They could still listen Elanya out there, doing everything she could to breach the aegis charms Hermione had cast. `` We have to get out of here without her seeing. '' He said, letting her go and turning to survey their temporary stronghold.

'' I'm clear to suggestion. ``

He scratched his head and turned to stare at her a moment before breaking into a grinning. `` Of course ! If I can horse around my own mother then it should be easy to fool Elanya. ``

'' What are you talking about ? '' Hermione asked, watching as he waved his baton over himself.

And then suddenly there were two of him and she had the uneasy belief that Saint George had somehow come back to life. Shaking it off, she tried to smile in reenforcement. `` You really think she'll go after our doubles ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his wand over her to machinate her up a double of her own. Moving hers to stand next to his, he studied them both closely. `` They look good enough to me. '' He shrugged.

'' Well, I certainly don't have a dependable idea. '' She moved to enshroud herself behind the turned-over stove, as Fred took their silent doubles and instructed them to give-up the ghost the tent and just run as far and fast as they could.

Knowing that her charms would be broken as soon as the barrier was breached, he shoved them through the scuttle and quickly came over to crouch beside her just in character Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to come search the collapsible shelter. `` Here goes nothing. '' He whispered.

( BREAK )

Being able to stand down on the field, Ron almost felt like he really was part of the game and was thankful to McGonagall for letting him have this one minor piece of music of what made him glad. He watched his team fly together and was thrilled to see them pull ahead in the score, cheering them along as any skilful coach would do. The snow had been magically cleared off the subject area but he didn't need it to be reminded that winter was on it's way, the day was clean and very dusty. He huddled deeper into his jacket after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the score jumped far plenty ahead in Gryffindor's party favor, he decided it was safe to accept a rupture and go down to the refreshment stand for some hot hot chocolate to warm up his inside. Making his way through the locker rooms, he took the passing leading outside the scene of action and nearly ran into person trying to prepare their way in. `` Oh, rationalize me sir. '' He said, recognizing prof Erebos, Hermione's Arithmancy professor.

'' Not at all Mr. Weasley. It was you I was actually coming to find. '' Erebos replied with what was clearly an attempt at a friendly grin… but the denseness at the corner of his oral fissure indicated to Ron that something was troubling the man.

'' What about ? '' He asked suspiciously though he didn't know why he felt that way. Something about the prof seemed off somehow… he was uncomfortable just being in the man's presence.

'' I'm not exactly sure. There is a young woman out in the woods who flagged me down and asked me to come find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his shoulder at the Forbidden timber. `` She wouldn't allow me to see her look, so I can't be sure… but she looked very often like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've ejaculate to find you because she was so exigent but I think I must also go to the master and inform him that one of his missing educatee has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Parvati was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a alphabetic character off yesterday through lupine, he wasn't even sure it had sufficiency meter to arrive to her so that couldn't be what drove her to descend back. He had to let the cat out of the bag to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could render up and commit her track. `` Just let me go see her for the first time. ``

Erebos shook his head. `` I don't know, I think it's important… the fille's parents are still here hoping she'll be found. It's cruel to not tell them and direct the probability that she'll run again. ``

'' Please, I'll convince her to abide. '' He promised with his finger's breadth crossed.

'' okay, how about this ? I'll go with you into the Ellen Price Wood to see her, I'll let you two have your mo of privacy and then we can all go to Dumbledore together. '' He offered. `` It's the sole way I'm assured that Miss Patil will return to where she belongs. ``

Ron reluctantly agreed, following the professor around the dorsum of the field to the Forbidden woodland. They walked pretty far into the trees, deepening Ron's suspicions to the level where he was ready to turn back. `` Parvati got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the forest ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his scepter out and a demented smile across his face. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to come into the woodwind with me. ``

He swallowed the large lump of fear and panic that had risen in his pharynx. `` Why ? '' He tried to hold his voice steadfast but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To bolt down you. '' The professor said simply as he prepared to cast the ultimate unforgivable swearing. And then the man was screaming in pain as his baton burst into flaming in his hand, forcing him to set down it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his sac for his wand before turning to discover Jacey standing a few curtilage behind him, her own baton in one hand and a vauntingly musket ball of fire in the other as she angrily stared down the prof. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked in his surprise.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She returned, seeming hurt that those were the first off words he'd chosen to speak at the mess of her.

They both whipped around as the sound of someone applause filled the air. Ron's eye widened in electrical shock as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a with child tree, slowly applauding them. `` fountainhead done. '' She laughed.

'' The footling bitch burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted as he held the now useless appendage close to his body.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you worse than that when you've angered me LE. '' Elise giggled before turning her attention specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very singular to chance out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a unit new attribute doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to remove as Dolos. '' She said, throwing out her weaponry and producing her own ball of fire in her hands. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll deliberate this your audition. '' She taunted.

( prison-breaking )

Luna just couldn't shake off the in conclusion two dragon chasing her. They forced her to fly away from the island, zooming so far over the ocean she could see Castellumshire on the horizon… still the creatures wouldn't hand up the chase. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't response, making her very nervous. She could feel that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a part of her brain had shut off and she was completely ineffectual to communicate with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their powers, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was able to have it away where to go to fend off being hit by claws, teeth and tails… that told her that her precognative inherent aptitude were well in tactfulness as she knew she certainly wasn't the substantially flier.

She swooped low to head off one flying lizard and then quickly turned properly to avoid the former. Her feet skimmed the water and she quickly pulled back up, making a long arc around Castellumshire before heading back toward the Gateway Islands. Becoming distracted by a foreign sound below her, she took the luck and looked down only to find a minuscule speedboat zooming through the water headed the same charge she was. Feeling the dragons right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one person on board… a female wearing a hat and large sunglasses. Intuition shot through her and she raced ahead, despairing to warn Harry.

At final she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the other eight Draco were. They were circling, clearly doing the same thing she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must give birth landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in promise that he would see her. She let out a storm screeching when two of the dragons suddenly grounded ahead of her, opening their jaws and waiting for her to fly at them. Fixing her clench as she'd seen Harry do, she made a sharp left and headed back out over the water where four more dragons waited. Once again changing her traveling bag, she zoomed straight up. `` LUNA ! LOOK OUT ! '' She heard Harry shrieking from far below her. Apparently he had seen her and ran out onto the beach to name out.

It took a endorsement too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the couple of dragons that had been laying in delay among the treetop had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, in high spirits over the island hoping to turn a loss them among the fluffy white clouds. But before she could get herself quite that gamy, she felt one of the creatures grab the end of her broom and perpetrate her through the air. She lost her bag completely and felt herself begin to free dusk. Thinking as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her descent until she was able to lightly place her foot on the ground. Her relief quickly gave way to all out terror as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the dragons'nest. Only this time she had no broom and she was completely alone.

( break of serve )

Harry had just used his scepter to pick the Calluna vulgaris he'd found in the woods back together when Luna's scream echoed around him. He raced back onto the beach to catch an impossible sight- she was flying recklessly through the air as she tried to get away from all ten dragons. Seeing two of the beast break off from the group and hide themselves among the Tree he realizing what the rather intelligent creatures were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his brain but while he could still experience that constant connexion to her, it was as if someone had cut a wire somewhere and all he could hear was a dial tone. Throwing everything he had into it, he cupped his manpower around his mouth and screamed out a monition to her, hoping she was able-bodied to pick up him. If she did, it was too late. The former Draco had forced her to fly toward their trap and the two hiding leapt out to surprise her. She blast upwards but to no service as one reached out and grabbed her broom. She fell off as the creature snapped the broom like a toothpick, making Harry's gist stop for a moment. But this clip she had her verge and was able-bodied to slacken her fall, but when he saw where she landed his heart dropped entirely into his stomach. The dragons had seen her too and they all descended on their nest, intent on ousting the intruder.

affright swept through him and he hurried to fetch up the final fixture on the Scots heather. Hearing a motored sound he quickly ducked out of the way as a gravy boat carelessly drove up into the grit, allowing a familiar woman to leap down and face him. `` Hello Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old friends, casually throwing her hat and sunglasses back into the boat.

'' I don't have fourth dimension for you. '' He said. Knowing she didn't have a sceptre, he pointed his at her threateningly as he mounted the broom.

'' So I saw… seems your small protagonist fell into the wrong stead. '' She grinned. `` care to take in some assistance in retrieving her ? ``

Harry eyed her warily. `` Why, so you can just kill us both ? ``

'' seminal fluid now, let's put the past tense behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have metre to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the clay of his Firebolt, long forget a few cubic yard down the beach. `` Fix that up and lets go. ``

He had no choice, he needed help distracting the flying dragon so he could fly in and snap up Luna. Handing Sarah the broom he'd been holding, he ran over and waved his wand, fixing his own ling as best he could… at to the lowest degree it was in flying consideration if not properly calibrated for the proficient flight possible. Together, they lifted off the terra firma, instantly making their way to the mountain. Harry just hoped his desperation for help didn't tip up being his downfall.

( disruption )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibility cloak tightly around herself and closed her oculus, doing her intimately to pore on apparating to just outside the quidditch pitch at Hogwarts. Of course, she was still getting the hang of the completely thing and so while she did get herself to Hogwarts, she was no where near the arena. In fact, she wound up inside the palace, just beyond the room access to the Great Hall. With a sigh of frustration, she made sure she was completely covered by the cloak before making her way outside.

Of course of action she had agreed to help keep open an eye on Ron… she just had no idea why. He had made himself very bring in that he wished to care things on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back off and let him learn just how practically he needed his friends. But she could never do that and not only because she truly believed this man Erebos would bolt down him… She also could not abandon Ron because some character of her knew that his end would think of her own as well. He had made a valid percentage point the other night, they did not know each early, they had only just met and under the tensest of circumstances. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was Sir Thomas More than uncoerced to see what came of that attractive feature as she had already admitted that his alphabetic character is what ultimately made her decide to issue forth here in the first place… she only hoped he would come to his senses long enough to-

She stopped idle in her racecourse as she realized she may have arrived too deep. Just beyond the arena, she saw two figures slip quickly into the Forbidden timberland and she was sure as shooting of at to the lowest degree one of their identities. The former she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak fall away as soon as she was within the shoetree note so that she could run with more than speed and LE deterrent. At close she came upon them and gain she had been correct on both accounts, Ron and Erebos were a few pace ahead of her. She could feel Ron's suspicion and uncertainty as he was led further into the trees.

'' Parvati got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the woods ? '' He asked. Jacey was wild on his behalf, upset that the prof was willing to use such an opened wound to play tricks him into coming out here.

Erebos turned around wearing a cruel and evil smile. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a grounds for you to come into the Grant Wood with me. ``

'' Why ? '' Ron asked slowly, clearly trying to figure out what was going on and how to get out of it.

'' To kill you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his intent a minute before he raised his wand and did the get-go thing that came into her mind… She set his wand on fire. He screamed in pain, dropping the affair as he cradled his spite hand to his body.

Ron pulled out his own wand before turning to figure out just what had happened. `` What are you doing out here ? '' He asked as his gaze locked in on her.

'' Saving you it seems. '' She said stiffly, feeling hurt to still see anger under the surprisal in his eyes as he stared at her.

The sound of soul slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to see Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the trees. She had never met the woman and only knew her from the memories of others, but she was certain of who she was seeing. `` well done. '' Elise laughed with unfeigned amusement.

'' The little bitch burned my deal ! '' Erebos shouted, glaring at them all.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you worse than that when you've angered me less. '' She laughed again. Then ignoring both male, she spoke directly to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very rum to find out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a unhurt new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to bump off as Dolos. '' She said, waving her mitt and producing her own fire. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll weigh this your sense of hearing. ``

Putting her wand in her scoop so that both of her hands were detached, Jacey let the flaming flare out of her bigger and with more of a fanfare than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the adult female did not hesitate to begin her attack, hurling balls of flame one after the other. Engulfing her entire consistency in flaming, Jacey was able to draw whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to feel very warm. Run before this spreads ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit busy at the moment. He answered. She glanced over to incur him alternatively trying to put out the flames spreading through the forest and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his scepter and was trying to make it work with his undamaged hand. It seemed that every once in awhile the man was able to get the wand to perform his patch which only distracted Ron from his impromptu attempt at being a firefighter.

She tried reaching for her wand but Elise only renewed her try, making it absolved that she intended this fight to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no choice but to oppose fire with ardor. It was more than Ron's water spell could keep up with and if they didn't find a way to end this soon, there was no telling how far the flame would fan out. She did her Charles Herbert Best to concentre on controlling and containing them to their small area but it lessened the amount of engrossment she could give way to the actual competitiveness and found herself more on the defensive that she would take thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't care where the firing spread was giving the cleaning lady an edge over her but there was zip she could do about that, she had to do her proficient to control the wrong her business leader caused. Realizing they were going to take assistance and taking even More tending away from the battle, she called out to Draco as he was the only one left here that she trusted to ask for help. She hoped he made it in time.

'' Jacey ! '' Ron yelled, bringing her full attention back to the second at hand. Seeing that she'd been momentarily distracted, Elise had taken her chance and used everything she had to shoot a jet watercourse of blast directly at her. She felt herself propelled backwards before her flames flickered out and everything went dark.

( BREAK )

'' What do you mean you have to go helper Jacey ? '' Ginny demanded as Dragon grabbed his pelage. They'd been quietly lounging together in her elbow room as they studied and she'd been enjoying the rather subtle worry-free moment… even if they had barricaded themselves in to void Professor Erebos.

Looking at his aspect, she could tell he wasn't any more pleased with the idea of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the schooling priming and she and Erebos have your chum cornered out in the forest. '' He answered honestly, in too a great deal of a haste to seek lying. `` faith me, the simply reason I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, stay in here and don't unfold the door to anyone until I get back, okey ? ``

'' Not okay. I want to go with. '' She insisted, moving to catch her coat as well.

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the berm and forced her to wait at him. `` I'll be much more effective in providing the avail Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the same job out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

'' Meaning she's in trouble because she's distracted by thoughts of Ron and anyone else being hurt… I can't be of much help if we add your eudaemonia to our listing of concerns. ``

'' motivation I remind you again that you aren't an immortal god or even a superhero ? You're a normal guy who got stuck with a being a loup-garou and are just as capable of burning to death as I am. '' She gripped his arms, unwilling to let him leave her sight.

'' We don't have meter to contend. For once just humor me and stay here. '' He pleaded.

She stared at him a here and now, letting the wheel turn in her head as she figured out what to do. `` amercement, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at shoemaker's last, too worried about Ron and Jacey to hold him any longer.

He seemed wary but he had no option early than to live with her understanding. Leaning in to quickly snog her adios, he then turned and fled the room. Walking over to her window, she waited until she saw him zip across the school grounds… he was faster than any human she'd ever seen and she could understand why he liked going out to run so much- it must be out of the question to think when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coat she fled her room, rushing through the halls and out the front door. She would keep her promise not to stick to after him… but she wasn't going to allow him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the schooltime faculty sat. Unfortunately, the person she wanted to talk to was also sitting following to the mortal she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three lives might be at stake, her crony's among them. `` Can we assist you with something ? '' lupin asked with a friendly smile as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the schoolmaster, she took a deep breather and spoke to lupin. She knew it was best to continue mention of Jacey and Elise out of things with so many spike around and so she made her stage as clear and concise as potential. `` genus Draco ran out into the Wood to try and contain professor Erebos from killing Ron. They need help. ``

( open frame )

Fred waited a skillful two min to be sure Elanya was gone before turning to lift the rear end of the tent behind them. `` It's now or never. '' He told Hermione. She nodded solemnly and taking her bridge player, he led the way as they ran from the only if thing that had been able-bodied to protect them. He tried to repeatedly call out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't get word me at all ! '' He said aloud in frustration as they carefully made their way through the Tree, keeping an ear out for any house of Elanya shutdown in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the energy field generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with most sailing shaft, even the magical ones. It's the main reason it's so intemperate for people to find these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that certain brainwave relative frequency Harry and Luna use to channel their telepathic abilities. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're bind finding them the old forge way. '' He tried to use his sceptre to direct him towards the nearest living human but the stupid affair kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

'' Unless… '' She looked upward and he followed her regard. There were several firedrake still out and they seemed to be attacking their own nest. `` You don't think… ? ``

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the merely result was that their friends were up there and in a lot of problem. `` I guess we try to rise it. '' He walked toward the base of the mountain until he heard a small shriek of surprise that told him that Hermione wasn't following. Turning he found her struggling to free her foot from a rather ugly looking plant. Originally mistaking it for some variety of bush, they had walked by unaware… but now the thing had spread it's leaves apart and was shooting out several tentacle-like protrusions that were attempting grab Hermione and pull her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his wand. But the works seemed to be resistant to magic and nothing he tried would make it stop.

'' Let go ! '' She yelled as she kicked at the industrial plant. Not knowing what else to do, Fred picked up a magnanimous Rock and began slamming it down on the tentacles. The plant let out a pitiful strait, indicating it could feel pain. In an try to free herself, Hermione reached for another rock and helped him beat the tentacles away. Grabbing her under her coat of arms, he pulled her to her base and they scrambled away before the strange bush could regroup.

'' Well, that was something new. '' He said as they caught their breather. He'd certainly never come across a plant life like this before in all his clip wandering the island though he'd definitely found some weird ace. Of course, other than finis night when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this last to the nucleotide of the mountains. He gave silent thanks that he hadn't passed by this thing in the dark.

'' Let's just keep going. '' Hermione seemed rickety but regulate and so he nodded and went on, this time ensuring they remained slope by side. It was a short walk and looking towards the sky, they were able to see that the way to the top of the mountain wasn't exactly straight up… that was a just thing, making it less probably that they would diminish to their deaths while attempting this. `` O.K., we just need to find the rightfulness place to start. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the bouldered paries and several different way up.

Fred took a dissimilar attack, walking right up to the mountain and trying out the handholds and footing in a few places. Taking a few more tone to the left, he reached to climb up only to find the Rock give way under his workforce. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the priming, knocking the breathing time out of him and sending shooting pains up and down his leg. `` Fred ! '' He heard Hermione screaming his name.

'' Yeah ! '' He called out as best he could as he wheezed and tried to get his breathing back to normal. `` I'm awake ! '' He assured her more loudly once he was able.

'' Yes, but are you okay ? '' She yelled down to him.

'' I think my leg broke my fall. '' He shouted back, groaning in pain as he sat up to take a look at himself. Feeling around on the basis he recovered his wand and quickly lit it, reaching out to delicately examine his leg. `` I don't think anything's broken ! '' He assured her. No, not broken… just really banged up. He'd definitely landed on it haywire and he could see the entire thing swelling from his knee joint down to his ankle.

'' I'm going to be adrift you up. ``

'' Just have me a minute to gather myself. '' Putting as niggling weight unit on it as possible, he slowly climbed to his foot. Only once he was standing did he make he seemed to hurt everywhere including the shoulder that had been broken conclusion yr during the quidditch match against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the merchant ship of his shirt in his oral cavity to dampen any phone of pain he might induce, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a second he was able to leave all about his leg, but then came the sense of relief that told him that he'd achieved the result he'd wanted, his shoulder was back in it's proper topographic point. Panting from the effort he wiped the perspiration from his face and took a few stabilise breaths. `` okeh, quick ! '' He called out.

Instantly his base carefully left the footing, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the hands of some invisible heavyweight. He put his wand in his air hole as he rose up, wanting to experience both hands free to help draw in himself clear of the surprisingly pocket-size opening he'd fallen through. At last he was capable to see Hermione, using her wand to manoeuver his advance. Reaching up, he grabbed the sharpness of the rocky porta. `` I need you to go along propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a good clench with my feet. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her tightness, trying to only pass him an extra hike as he struggled to pull himself discharge. Now being forced to use all the strength in his weapon system, he was glad that he'd gone swimming so much while he was trapped here and built up his muscles a bit.

'' Expelliarmus ! '' Someone screamed and Hermione's wand was ripped from her manus and sent flying off into the Sir Henry Joseph Wood. Without her charm to aid him, he lost a bit of his traveling bag and struggled through the botheration to obtain a bridgehead lest he fall back down into the cavern. He scrambled to hold onto the careen despite how sharp they were… once he felt steady, he was able-bodied to count up and see Elanya staring at them with a wide smile as she tauntingly waved her wand. `` I'm sorry it took so hanker to dispatch those doubles you sent running out… it seems you're a better conjurer than I thought. ``

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione tried to reason with her as Fred struggled to use his injured leg to help push him through the golf hole. But the Thomas More pressure he tried to put on it, the more benumbed it seemed to grow… almost to the point where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to pass back for his sceptre but letting go of the rocks made him instantly slide backwards. He would need all the durability in his arms to deplumate himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to face Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new determination, he decidedly placed his understructure and pushed off with them, gritting his teeth against the pain. From there he was able to reach out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( BREAK )

'' Jacey ! '' Ron shouted but he was too late. Something had distracted her yearn enough for Elise to get in a unmediated hit, sending her flying through the air and leaving her crumpled in the snow. He tried to run to her but felt person barrelful into him, tackling him to the ground.

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroy baton directly in Ron's side as he pinned him to the background. `` This here is between us ! ``

'' I don't even know who the hell you really are ! '' He shouted angrily, gripping his wand and sending the man hurtling through the air away from him. `` Jacey ! '' He yelled again as he sat up and saw Elise bending over her.

'' She's indisposed at the moment. '' Elise called, straightening herself and turning to face him. He scrambled to his feet and pointed his baton with a water spell on the tip of his tongue and ready to be used. `` So, her name is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own wand. `` What else can you severalise me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just need a here and now to retrieve and focus my energies. He heard Jacey's vocalism whisper through his head. Do not engage her… Draco is on his way to help.

hearing that she was uninjured, rest swept through him so quickly his human knee almost buckled out from under him. `` Nothing to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his attention back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the only one to be seen with the mysterious castle guest at the Costume Ball… he also told me how close you two appeared to be so I know you can tell me everything I want to experience. Of line, seeing how loath you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always force you to tell me. Though if we have to go that itinerary, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you want to hump ? '' He asked, hoping to buy time.

'' Everything about her that you know. ``

'' I know she's a liar. '' He said quickly. `` I know I can't trustingness anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly take over every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to separate out the facts. '' He pushed himself to feel as genuinely angry as possible, wanting the adult female to believe there was no intellect to conceive she'd be successful in using Jacey against him and vice versa ... or even better, convincing Elise that she didn't want anything to do with Jacey. He felt frightful, not just for what he'd said now, but also for the things he'd said in the past… and even after he'd utter such horrible folderal, she'd still come to try and help him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those things, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

'' A full liar can be of great use. '' Elise nodded approvingly. `` Unfortunately, it seems you are of no use at all. ``

GET OUT OF THE WAY ! Jacey screamed in his head and he saw her leap to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her hands to conjure her fire. Before he could wave his sceptre to screen, mortal roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his groundwork and carrying them both away loyal than Ron thought possible. It only took him a minute to realize who had just may get saved his life.

'' We have to go back for Jacey ! '' He yelled to Draco who immediately turned them around.

As they approached the two girlfriend still whipping fire at each former without often care as to what was around them, individual shouted `` obstructor ! '' forcing Draco to stumble and sending both boys sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his baton, Ron leapt to his foundation as Draco fought the spell he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any secretive to fray. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's verge tauntingly. `` Looks like your booster dropped this. '' He grinned. `` Time to see how much you've really learned while you've been here at Hogwarts Mr. Weasley. ``

There was no time to be nervous, he instantly cast a shield having seen the man ready to throw a charm at him. Within a second he had retaliated by sending a freezing hex, but the professor took a page from Jacey and Elise's volume shooting a stream of fire from his wand that met the spraying of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his immersion he repeated the enchantment, attempting to strengthen his position… but Erebos was just as determined and unrelenting.

'' ENOUGH ! '' A thriving vocalisation surrounded them.

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from nous to toe in front of him. Ron took several deep breath and lowered his wand as Dumbledore and Lupin came forward. The spell meant to keep open Draco at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up next to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only loudly enough for him to hear.

'' Don't mention it. '' He answered grimly.

Dumbledore walked over to stare down at his disgraced prof. `` well Dolos, it seems I've finally caught you in something you won't be able to talk your way out of. '' He said with a slight yet triumphant smile.

( BREAK )

Looking around quickly, Luna spotted a small opening across the nest the seemed to direct into the pot. She instantly ran towards it though she was uncertain even her shortstop and slight frame could twinge through. Intuition burned in her gut and she flung herself to the ground with a minuscule sidesplitter of affright as she felt one of the massive beasts fly over her. Flipping onto her back she shot a lulu at the beast's spouse as it swooped in to crap it's own attack at catching her. The spell seemed to bounce off the dragon's hide, having no event early than to see red the creature even more. Luna quickly rolled to the side as it snapped at her before flying off to give the next couple their turning with her.

Scrambling to her foundation, Luna shot toward the cave opening. She was tempted to use her wand and blast the hole open wider, but she worried that might possibly interrupt the stability of the mountain. The final stage thing she wanted was to get by the beasts only to be buried in a landslide or cave-in. Throwing herself forward, she was just barely able to crush through, turning her body sideways to make it.

She screamed as she felt a sharp pang of painfulness and turned, using her scepter to burn the Draco who had grabbed her arm before she could fully enshroud herself. This seemed to have more effect than anything else as the beast let out a mighty screaming of painfulness and let her go. Pulling herself further into the fissure, she was led down a bit into a larger cave where she tripped over something that rattled and rolled away from her foot. With a sick flavour in the pit of her stomach, she lit her wand and covered her mouth to contain back the scream of horror she wanted to loose. various bones littered the story of the cave, and they seemed to belong to both brute and humans.

Remaining near the opening night, she turned her back so she wouldn't have to see any of it and instead focused on checking the damage done to her arm. Seeing two large bloody cut in the sleeve of her coat, she shrugged it off feeling far too warm anyway. Tearing off the relief of the ruin sleeve of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her skin and found that, while painful, the scratches didn't seem to go too deep… While it had been happening, it had felt like her arm was nearly severed and she was more than than a little relieved to take that wasn't the typesetter's case. She quickly used the scrap of cloth that had once been her arm to wrap the wound and quench the bleeding.

'' LUNA ! '' She heard Harry yelling desperately for her.

'' I'M HERE ! '' She shouted back, forcing herself up through the narrow opening move to retort to the draw close. Peering out from the hole, she caught the insufferable sight of not only Harry, but also Sarah Elaine as they both zoomed through the air, working together to distract and divide the dragons. Luna watched in astonishment as Sarah flew past various boulders, using her telepathy to knock them over onto the pair of dragons that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her care back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and forth until he was able to bait all of the dragons back into the air. They may not be capable to communicate in their heads at the moment, but she knew him well enough to guess what he wanted her to do. As soon as the last dragon had taken flying, she ran out into the open where Harry could see her. Putting her wand between her tooth, she threw her hired hand in the air as he passed over and struggled to hold on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on fire with pain as she struggled to climb up onto the broom with him as they'd done at Lairmore, but she tried to push it out of her mind until she was safely seated behind him.

'' You got it ? '' Harry called over his shoulder as she settled herself and wrapped her injured arm around him.

'' Just fly, I'll cast. '' She assured him, taking her wand from her oral cavity and turning to shoot a stream of fire at the two firedrake that were just a few scant foundation behind them, sending the wildcat to dive away.

'' This way ! '' Sarah called almost gleefully, laughing as she dipped back down toward the pee. As they descended, Luna was able to make out yet another small boat streaking toward the island. Sarah flew them down towards it and with ten dragons fast behind them, Harry had no choice but to fall out. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was capable to realise the two mass on the boat and as soon as she made the connection she knew she was right. `` That's impossible… '' She said breathlessly.

'' What ? '' Harry asked, turning his straits slightly to hear her better. She could feel his frustration at not experiencing the complete access to her thoughts that he'd become used to having… she knew he felt this way because it was the like accurate way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' sentinel where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a warning as the air suddenly exploded in a shower of fire all around them.

( geological fault )

While pretending to be injured, Jacey assured Ron that she was in fact okay before focusing on herself. She went into her own head, trying to gather her vigour and refuel her fire. Sending her mind out, she heard him apologizing to her… I know. She answered him, and she did experience that he genuinely felt bad for the way he had spoken to her only to learn that she would come to his rescue anyway.

And then Elise's thoughts overpowered his and she was able to see that the cleaning lady intended to get rid of the solely mortal there to find whatever she had planned. GET OUT OF THE WAY ! She screamed at Ron, as she lurched to her feet. She watched in revulsion as Elise unleashed a fiery blazing in his direction… which is the take minute Dragon swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the fight. Jacey was grateful that she now had one less thing to occupy about. She reached for her verge only to let out that at some point it had fallen out of her pocket. Cupping her manus, she formed a degraded fireball and threw it at Elise, knocking the woman square in the rear before she could light herself on attack to absorb the contact. This caused her not only to shout in pain in the neck but Thomas More importantly, to completely forget about chasing after the boys.

She quickly lit and extinguished herself before turning to Jacey. `` And I thought it was only those on Voldemort's incline who struck mass in the back. ``

'' You do not know me or what I have been equal to of in the past… I could have just as easily joined the other incline. '' Jacey replied darkly, trying not to let herself think of anything in her past.

'' Except there's obviously something you want that Harry and his allies can provide you. '' Elise grinned. `` Tell me what it is and I promise I can get it to you riotous and with to a lesser extent difficulty that they ever could. ``

'' I highly doubt that. '' She thought of what she wanted and knew the merely way to get any of it was to remain loyal and trusty to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the life Elise was offering and had only recently been able to shed off the shackles of that form of existence… The one where you could trust no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt lonely and pall and were forced into being individual you are not in order to make it. She was cook for the life that came with being Harry's ally and a fellow member of the coven… She was ready for the kind of friendly relationship you would risk your life history for even after arguing and she was ready for the freedom of being able to say and do what she wanted, of being able-bodied to wish about anything and everything, of being able to be herself.

'' come now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just think if you joined us, imagine the world after we win this war… we'll be able to shape it into anything we want it to be. It'll no longer be about sorcerer and muggles, it'll be about those like us… those with power. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can cause as much death as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the skillful stake of all if we could reach some variety of accord. ``

'' So then you concede the fight. '' Jacey challenged, brushing off the charwoman's poorly composed cut-rate sale pitch.

'' I'm dong no such affair. '' She assured her, once more lighting herself on fervency in case Jacey decided to befuddle another orb of flaming. She stared past her and smiled before once more meeting her center. `` It looks like Dolos is about to wipe out Ron. ``

Not wanting to give Elise the expiation of distracting her, she quickly conjured the largest fireball she could and beam it flying at the womanhood at top focal ratio, knocking her to the ground. Circling around so as to never make her back to Elise, she scanned the trees for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to fight off whatever spell was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this conflict, she saw Elise reach out out from the ground and stage. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her arms to shield her forefront as the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree next to her exploded in flames. `` ENOUGH ! '' A loud, authoritative vox reverberated through the trees. Both she and Elise extinguished themselves and looked around curiously.

Relief flooded through her when she saw Dumbledore and lupin rushing over to Ron, Dragon and Erebos. `` Well, I guess this means it's time to go. '' Elise smiled, shooting one Sir Thomas More surprise blast of fervidness before turning and running off through the trees.

Jacey quickly dodged before running off after her. `` No ! arrest her ! '' She shouted as the woman passed within a few human foot of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree on fire as a distraction to celebrate them engaged. Leaving it to the others to keep the flames from spreading, Jacey never slowed her yard and continued on in her sideline. She thought she was alone until she felt Draco coming up behind her… and then he was passing her as he moved with inconceivable focal ratio. Do not let her make it past the school day's boundaries ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was ineffective to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the protection charms… but if she made it past Hogwarts'borders, she'd be capable to go anywhere.

Seeing that Elise was only yards away from escaping, Draco pushed himself a little harder and mad a wild dive, tackling the woman around her legs and bringing her to the ground. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving Dragon away as Elise tried to revenge. He threw up a shell around himself to confound off the flame. `` You have to let me pass on, Harry and Luna's life may count on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her anger at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you think of ? '' Jacey and Draco demanded at the same time.

She reached up and pulled a small-scale disc from her ear and held it out for them to see. `` I've been in constant communication with Sarah since Elanya contacted Dolos and told him to let us bonk that your friends had finally arrived on the island to salve Fred. Now she's telling me that the dragons are awake and very much after Harry and Luna. We researched that island well before choosing it and learned everything we could about the dragons including reading the new Word written by Charlie Weasley… those Dragon aren't the form that breath fire, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to serve, but they're only three people against a horde of beasts. If I don't go and help, two of your friends and one of mine might just become some pitiful animate being's meal. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a place she could apparate from.

Draco uncertainly raised his wand to break her but Jacey grabbed his arm. `` No. '' She said quietly.

Elise only grinned wider as she extended a hand out to her. `` Come with me Jacey. We can work together just this once in the interest of saving our booster'lives. After we can go right back into another firefight if you'd like ... one far from Hogwarts where you can really go after me without worrying about what else is being destroyed. '' She offered.

Don't do it… it's got to be a trap. Dragon silently warned her.

I know it is. But I can also see that she is not lying about Harry and Luna being in hassle. Jacey replied. Quickly making her option, she rushed to aim Elise's helping hand and allowed the woman to whisk them away before Draco could halt them.

( BREAK )

Harry dodged to the left hand to escape the dragon only to feature to veer immediately right to dodge the powerhouse that shot past them. Luna had abandoned her endeavour to use her sceptre and now held onto him tightly with both limb as it was clear that his flight was the only thing that was going to get them through this. He didn't pain in the ass to distract himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a flying dragon or plummet into the ocean for all he cared, as long as he and Luna got out of this with their lives… Oh yeah, and Jacey who was inexplicably down on a gravy holder with Elise as both girls flung fire in the air to dog off the creatures. He wished he could talk to Luna without turning and shouting, he wished they could discourse their options and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to help. He felt cold and isolated being cut off… not only from her mind but from Hermione, Fred and Jacey's as well.

'' school principal down to the boat ! '' Sarah called as she zoomed past tense them to lightly shore and looked up expectantly.

'' What do you intend ? '' He called to Luna as he continued to get his way though flaming and dragons.

'' Jacey's down there alone with the both of them ! '' She yelled back. `` Like it or not, we have to go. ``

'' I can't be sure to sidestep dragons with all three of us on the broom ! ``

'' Then we'll have to land and take the other broom back from Sarah ! Then we can go obtain Fred and Hermione and get the hell out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her facial expression in his back in training for the sharp drop he was about to stool. Fixing his grip he shot straight down, streaking past various dragon until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to institutionalise out flack flare to keep the beasts at bay as he softly set his feet down on the bow of the small sauceboat. Sarah immediately started the railway locomotive and hitch forward, sending Harry and Luna both sprawling into the boat. She turned the rack and swung around, speeding away from the island.

'' What are you doing ? ! '' Harry demanded as he and Luna helped each early to their feet.

'' Getting us away from here, what does it seem like ? '' She stared at him as if he were stupid person before gesturing to the nates of the boat where Jacey and Elise were still using their index to stand off the four Draco purport on pursuing them beyond the island.

'' No, we have to go back. '' He insisted. `` Hermione and Fred are still there. ``

'' So what ? '' Elise called over her berm. `` They're dead weight around your neck. Let them go. ``

'' Elanya is still there too. '' Luna argued.

Elise fully turned to them and smiled. `` So what ? '' She asked again. `` Unlike you, I trust that my allies are More than subject of taking care of themselves… and unlike you, I could care less whether they live or die. ``

'' I think this is far enough. '' Sarah said, once more turning off the engine and letting the gravy holder drift through the water. They had apparently gone far enough to control the dragons that they had no purpose of returning to their nuzzle. The beasts had finally given up the pursuit and headed back home. `` I didn't think it would take all of this to get you to the island. '' She grinned.

'' You wanted us to come here ? '' Harry asked doubtfully.

'' Of course. '' Elise laughed. `` We knew you'd want to do after Fred and so he proved his first use to us… there's still more for him to do though. ``

'' We just never thought it would take you this tenacious to fancy matter out… Tristan must have kept you all pretty preoccupied. '' Sarah taunted. `` Seems he's disappeared from the castle though. Can't delay to see where he turns up next. ``

Harry, Luna and Jacey stole glances at each other… it seemed that Elise and Sarah didn't know anything about them having already killed Tristan. Yet again he wished he still had the magnate to go into their judgment to see if it was true. `` I thought he was supposed to making you both immortal in Voldemort's public figure. '' He said, not wanting to give himself away while at the same clock time hoping to get a few more answers than Herb Simon had been able to provide.

'' We haven't yet decided whether we'll go through with that. '' Elise shared a smile with Sarah as if they were sharing some individual jape. `` We're still weighing the pros and bunko of immortality… but it's important to always appear agreeable to Lord Voldemort. '' She laughed.

'' But we're getting off topic. '' Sarah reminded her. `` I do believe they were about to ask why we wanted them here. ``

'' It's simple, we wanted to show just how adequate to we are in getting what we want and how strategical it would be for you three to link up us. '' Elise explained to them. We figured someplace far from the influence of Dumbledore and your other friends would sacrifice us the chance to really make ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big motion are the alone way to make people heed ... '' Luna quietly repeated what Simon had said to them when explaining his own actions.

Elise stared at her in surprise. `` I'm glad you see my point. But clearly whatever was going on up at the castling was distracting you all from what we wanted you to do, which was come find Fred. It was taking so long that we figured sending in Dolos to rough out up Ginny Weasley would make you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having hassle getting Fred to cooperate so we figured it would be a win-win spot. Of line the stupid man is terrified of both Draco Malfoy and your friend Lupin for what they are, though he's too lofty to accommodate it. When Dragon refused access code to Ginny, making it clear that the only way Dolos was reaching her was through a conflict with him, our less than courageous spy gave up. But then, to our joy we received Good Book that you all had come to the island today anyway and we knew it was the everlasting opportunity so Elanya ordered Dolos to kill Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in fuss and so we apparated to my waiting ship and hopped in the speedboat to fare to your rescue. ``

'' So what happened back at Hogwarts ? '' Harry asked nevously, this time turning to address Jacey who he'd left in flush of looking after Ron.

'' He is o.k.. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… utmost I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely pleased to take him in detainment. ``

'' It doesn't topic in the to the lowest degree. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you think I left the idiot behind to whatever circumstances befell him ? Even if he decided to turn on me, he knows nothing of any consequence… I've seen to that personally. And with only two calendar week left for you all to be at Hogwarts, the man was entirely expendable. '' She stopped to smile at the faces they were all making. `` Oh don't aspect at me like that. He and I had a peck, I provided my character and he provided his. Just because he got caught doesn't mean value I had any responsibility to help… he made his pick to get involved in this and now he knows he was dealing in things far above his header. ``

'' A poor moral to learn the hard way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her head in mock grief before smiling brightly. `` In any case, we got exactly what we wanted even if we had to sacrifice Dolos. Now we know Jacey. ``

'' It's okeh, Dolos was very thoroughly at his job when he wanted to be. '' Elise cooed, reaching out to comfort Jacey who shoved her away. She went on as if Jacey wasn't staring dagger of hatred at her. `` He saw you and Ron at the Costume chunk, and putting two and two together, he figured you were the like mysterious person Dumbledore had been keeping in his office… the one Harry and all his protagonist made special trip-up up there to visit. We knew putting Ron's living in peril would bring you running, especially if Harry and Luna were in use elsewhere. ``

'' But Erebos really intended to kill Ron ! '' Jacey protested.

'' So ? '' Sarah shrugged. `` Who is he in all of this ? He has no power or title to greatness. ``

'' Regardless your feeling of our booster, '' Harry stepped in to stop Jacey from punching Sarah in the face as it was clear she very much longed to do, `` you've done all of this for no reason. We obviously want nil to do with you. '' He looked at Luna, hoping their connection to each former was secure enough for her to infer what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and take a small footstep sideways toward the broom Sarah had abandoned when she'd gotten on the boat. He'd never let his go even when he'd fallen and he now held it stiffly beside him, hoping Jacey would get the confidential information. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their telepathy to pass on with each other… just a total understanding of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the back of his shirt to indicate that she was prepare. It had taken a matter of moment but they were ready and so he quickly swung his broom so they could hop on as Luna lunged for the early one and together they zoomed up into the sky, sure to move fast enough to outrun Elise's firing range.

'' Let's go find Fred and Hermione and go home ! '' Jacey shouted unnecessarily as they rushed back toward the island with the speedboat in hot by-line below them.

( rift )

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione asked, trying to hide the fact that she was scared.

'' If I knew that I would already give it, wouldn't I ? '' Elanya sneered. She walked forward, making a small round around her as she inspected her from every angle. `` So, you're the reasonableness Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to stand directly in front of her, her golden eyes glaring with a deadly fire. `` I just don't get it. There must be something here that I'm just not seeing. '' She said with intentional meanness.

Hermione kept quiet, though there were about a million things that she would have liked to say in return. But without her sceptre, the live matter she wanted was to give the missy another cause to care her dead.

'' nada to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's O.K., I have my own way of finding things out. '' She tightly clutched her verge before reaching out to snaffle Hermione's helping hand, the Sami one Fred had held earlier.

Hermione watched in horror as the girlfriend's eyes rolled up into her head and she fell forward. Elanya still had her hand in a death traveling bag and dragged her down to her knee as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some sort of vision of the past. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself relieve. For a legal brief instant she considered going into the George H.W. Bush to front for her scepter but remembering her last coming upon with strange foliation, she decided it would be best to film Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the girlfriend's fingers apart.

'' Not so fast ! '' Elanya screamed, coming out of her enchantment or whatever she was doing, tackling Hermione to the ground and shoving her wand against her throat. Choking and coughing, she pushed against the wand as she struggled to breath but Elanya had locked her arms and was unrelenting. She leaned in stopping point to Hermione with an evil smile. `` I saw all the retention you shared together. It was very sweet but not at all what he needs… I'm sorry but it has to end this way. ``

Reaching deep inside herself, Hermione gathered every bit of strong point she had and getting her leg under the other girl, she kicked out and managed at last to get her off. Grabbing at her pharynx in relief as air once more made it's way to her lungs, she struggled to her feet, not wanting to be caught unaware. Elanya was already standing and pointing her verge. `` You're right, what fun is it to just end your life like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the magic of escape isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a head start. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to give all of her attention to the psychotic daughter, she had no estimate whether Fred had fallen again and broken his cervix, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most likely that Elanya would view her anyway.

'' Well, that's your prerogative. '' She smiled with demented pleasure and got set to barf. `` I wish I could say it's been gracious knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her eyes and waited for impact. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another enchantment straight at Elanya that sent her flying several yards back through the tree diagram until she hit one strong enough to knock her out. She turned to bump him sprawled on the ground, sweating and panting from the effort of pulling himself free with a leg that even from here looked extremely swell up. `` Accio verge. '' He called tiredly in the direction Hermione's wand had flown earlier. It shot into his hand, which he held out to her as she rushed over.

'' Are you okay ? '' She asked, taking the sceptre and kneeling future to him.

'' I'm really not certainly. '' He answered, groaning in infliction as she helped him sit up. His work force were bleeding from the rocks, but former than that and his leg, cipher else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his statement that nothing was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be capable to walk. `` That should help. And we'll find an old offshoot or something for you to use as a cane to facilitate put your weight on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his heart as he presumably thought of the anguish of being forced to make a motion at all, let alone to walk.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna. They're the only ones who can get us out of here. '' She pressed.

He nodded weakly. `` I know. Go find a branch and let's do this. '' He said, trying to rally himself.

They both kept an eye on the point Elanya had landed as she ventured into the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree to count for a piece of woods long and stalwart enough for their purpose. At endure she found one and rushed back over to help Fred climb to his infantry. Throwing his other arm around her shoulders, he was eventually able to find a way to use both her and the make-shift walking spliff to his best advantage as he hobbled along. `` Should we call out for them since they can't seem to hear us in their heads ? '' She asked looking up at the sky and finding it empty.

'' I don't know… either it'll bring them to us, it'll bring somebody else to us or it'll be useless because they were eaten by the flying dragon that now seem to have calmly returned to their draw close. '' He answered gloomily.

'' Well, that's the form of attitude that'll get us through this. '' She said sarcastically.

'' Sorry. '' He muttered. `` I think our Best bet is to go down to the beach. If they're still out there somewhere, that's the best place for them to see us. Calling out would only assure Elanya exactly where we are. ``

'' OK then. '' She smiled.

He wrapped his arm more tightly around her shoulders and sighed. `` I'm glad you came to rescue me… I'm not used to playing the damsel. '' He grinned.

'' Yeah well, it's no walkover being the white horse either. '' She laughed. `` It's far too a good deal pressure. ``

They walked on in comfortable silence, as happy as they could be given their post. To his citation, Fred didn't request that they stop to rest until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the undecided. Moving over to a mathematical group of small Boulder, she helped him sit while keeping the rock candy and weewee at their backs and their eyes capable to see the tree line and anyone who may wander out of it. `` Did you hear that ? '' He asked after a short while, shading his oculus as he searched the afternoon sky.

A whooshing phone came from above them and they saw Luna and Harry shoot through the air over the island. `` Is there someone on Harry's broom ? '' She asked, trying to visualize out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the time to yell and get their attention. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to facilitate push himself to his metrical unit. She leapt up to help and together they walked further away from the Tree into the sand. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their helping hand until at live Harry caught sight of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her foot, Hermione looked down and gave a minor scream as several large sea Phthirius pubis scuttled across the backbone towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the Tree, pointing her scepter at Fred and sending the tiny tool she'd conjured after him.

Hermione tried to help stand them off but suddenly found herself dragged backwards by an inconspicuous force only to end up at Elanya's understructure. `` That should keep him busybodied enough for us to finish what we started. '' She leered down at her.

( suspension )

These pillock pediculosis pubis just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob mentality as they swarmed over each other to reach Fred. He tried to limp after Hermione and Elanya who had taken to dueling each other further up the beach but between his already injured leg and the sharp nipper continually piercing the cutis of the good one, it was all he could do to proceed from falling over. Using his verge and the control stick he'd been carrying as a crutch to fend the petty gadfly off, he slowly persisted forward while looking to the sky to see why Harry and Luna hadn't landed to help them yet. He saw that they'd become involved in their own battle out over the ocean as a sauceboat raced toward the beach. Once of the mass aboard was shooting fireballs and stripe of flame into the air while the person riding with Harry returned the fiery attack. Luna was swooping in, waving her baton and stirring up some waving in an attempt to keep the boat from reaching the island… but it was clear the person driving cared nothing about the boat, damaging it beyond repair as it was battered by Luna's spells. He was so engaged watching them that he wasn't quite watching where he was going anymore… painful sensation stab through his foundation as he felt himself step on one of the Cancer the Crab. Using the walking joint, he tried to regain his residue but his foot sank into the sand and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his coat of arms to break his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his book binding, he dropped the reefer and wildly waved his scepter but to no avail. The creatures were all over him in an New York minute, looking much larger and more tempestuous now that he was eye-level with them. There were so many, he felt as if he were being crushed under their weight as they piled on top of each former, all trying to pinch and pierce his skin. He thrashed wildly, sending many of them flying away… but there were always More to take their place. scare settled over him as he realized that he was unable to get up and the crabs were taking the opportunity to forget him.

( BREAK )

Luna gripped the broom tightly, terrified that she was going to accrue off as the smallest of visions suddenly washed over her to give a monition of what was coming. It was brief enough that she didn't completely lose consciousness but detailed enough to save her liveliness. Quickly dodging to the left away from Harry and Jacey, she turned to see a fireball explode where she'd been only a moment ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him soaked before turning to return the flames Elise was sending.

'' I'm fine ! '' She yelled back as she swerved another fireball. The gravy boat had snuck up on them and Luna was amazed to learn that her imagination had served not only to warn her of the fire, but that for some reason those young lady had decided they no longer like if she lived or died. She wasn't sure what had changed, but from the way Elise continued to throw fire at her alone assured Luna that at some point in time, her life became less valuable to them than Harry and Jacey's… And so they were attacking her to distract them all from the fact that they were approaching the island where Hermione and Fred were clearly having trouble.

deciding to do what she could to restrain them from once more reaching the beach and channel out whatever they had planned next, Luna swooped in low and used her wand to press up some violent wave that tossed the little boat around. She grinned in gratification to see Elise nearly fall overboard… unfortunately it wasn't enough to dissuade Sarah who drove on despite the destruction being caused to her gravy boat. She waved her scepter again, strengthening the magic spell and creating bigger and Thomas More roughshod waves… and then she saw the orotund ship on the view, quickly heading in their direction. Distracted, she hovered in the air for a minute as she tried to count on out who could be aboard.

'' Luna expect out ! '' Jacey yelled at the same metre her intuition screamed in her straits to turn. She was LE than a secondly too late and the very back of her broom was caught in the fiery stream.

Feeling herself begin to plummet, she shot toward the beach. As soon as there was whole footing below her, she rolled off the broom only to happen herself surrounded by tons of crabs. She quickly got to her feet but the tool didn't seem to have any interest in her and following their procession with her eyes she was able to see Fred further away, thrashing about as all of the crabs went about attacking him. Realizing what go had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was nada that was going to call them off. Ignoring the 1 that pinched her as she reached down to assist him get up, she saw that one of his legs was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her shoulder, she got a better detention and together they were able to countermand him off the ground and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to catch his breath as they both used their baton to hold open the crabs at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his eyes wide with concern. `` Now forget about me and go aid Hermione… I can't motility quickly enough. ``

She looked over to see the girlfriend dueling heavily with Elanya. They both looked tired but other than a few scrapes and bruises they hadn't seemed to make any clearance against each other… The landscape around them was a different story as shattered and root out Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree littered the beach. Luna rushed forward, casting as she went and sending a dizzying dust storm after Elanya while yelling for Hermione to get out of the way. But before her spell could get to it's target, it was suddenly pushed harmlessly out to sea.

Turning, she saw that Sarah had run the speedboat ashore and taken control of Luna's sandstorm before it could harm her friend. Harry and Jacey grounded as Elise jumped down from the boat to join Sarah on the grit. They all five stared at each early, tensely waiting to see who would do what first. On one side of their group, Hermione and Elanya had resumed their duel as they now each were trying to keep the early from going to assist their friends… on the former slope, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to keep himself from falling over again.

The blaring strait of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the dragons took to it. Several loud shrieks erupted from the nest but apparently they had sensed there was no direct scourge to them and remained safely where they were. `` It seems our drive out of here has arrived. '' Sarah grinned. `` Who's coming with us ? ``

( BREAK )

Harry tried to follow Luna right away as he saw her Scots heather catch attack, forcing her to land, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flame as Jacey tried to strike back from the rear of the broom. `` They are about to pull ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

'' hold on our path solve ! '' He instructed, tightening his suitcase and heading straight for the beach as she ensured Elise wasn't able to hit them. He landed as lightly as he could so that Jacey could get her understructure under her before speed over to Luna who had been trying to facilitate Hermione until Sarah stepped in.

He tried to imagine, to figure out what to do next… it was impossible to design without knowing what everyone was thinking and as he, Luna and Jacey stared down Elise and Sarah, Harry found himself wondering how he'd ever managed before fully awakening that piece of himself. A loud automobile horn startled him from his intellection and he looked out over the water to see a large ship anchored and three rowboat full of mass making their way to the beach. `` It seems our ride has arrived. Who's coming with us ? '' Sarah asked, looking around at them all with a mad grin.

Jacey and Luna looked at each other and then to him, it was solve they were as disorder as he was that they were unable to plan. `` Can we talk over this among ourselves ? '' He boldly asked… after all, as far as Elise and Sarah knew, they were all edge to the island by the anti-apparation charms and thought they could ply the entirely way out.

Elise eyes him warily. `` I'd be spry about making a decision. '' She reluctantly agreed, gesturing over her shoulder. `` Whether they like it or not, everyone aboard that ship is under our control… not to mention your two friends seem to be struggling quite a bit. ``

Carefully grabbing Luna's uninjured arm he pulled her and Jacey further away and lowered his articulation so only they could try him. `` O.K., Luna when I give the signal, run and grab Fred and get yourselves back to Hogwarts. Jacey and I will go get Hermione and fall out right behind you. '' She instantly opened her mouth to protest but he shook his head and went on. `` If we haven't come back in ten minutes, then go get lupin and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you feel better… Just wreak them back here to avail. ``

She stared at him for a second, clearly unsure that this was the best plan. But it was the exclusively one they had and she must have realized it. `` amercement, ten minutes and not a second more. '' She finally agreed.

'' okey then. '' Harry took her hand and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to keep Sarah and Elanya back as skillful you can while I go help out Hermione… as soon as we're able, apparate to the shriek shanty OK ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her script together as she prepared to unleash more of her power than she'd been able to in a more populated place.

'' Well ? '' Elise impatiently called from behind them. `` What's it going to be ? Come with us voluntarily or hold back until our little minions row ashore to force you to onboard with us against your will ? ``

'' Seeing as how there's still much about us that you don't know, we're going with option C. '' Harry answered. He felt Luna tense next to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering rampart of fire, sending it to encircle Elise and Sarah. The flames raged, flickering over seven foot high and with to a greater extent strength than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will take her a bit to make do with. '' Jacey grinned.

Harry watched Luna rush over to Fred and waited until she had grabbed his arm and apparated them both away before turning to help oneself Hermione. `` Just hold them busy. '' He instructed before walking over to help take care of Elanya and get off this island and back to Luna.

'' Harry ! '' He heard Jacey yell out a warning and turned to see several big bowlder flying at him. He ducked to the land and threw a cuticle around himself but it became quickly clear that Sarah hadn't been trying to kill him as the rocks settled and entombed him.

'' Cave Inimicum ! '' He heard Elise yell, strengthening the rocks and ensuring he was effectively trapped.



bank note : More to come soon !