Chapter 54 : Who to think ?

A/N : Sorry for the holdup in getting this out, I had an accident with my flash drive and everything on it was deleted including the outset draft copy of this chapter. But matter are on track now, so getting back in the swing of things, a rewrite of the chapter from the beginning… Read, review and enjoy !





After taking St. Simon's baton 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 deplume her down the hall to the cold bathroom, Luna perched on the border of the deeply Victorian-style tub and watched as he searched the flyspeck storage locker. At close he came up with an ancient first aid kit, pulling out gauze and tape before reaching out to turn the spigot on the cesspit. They were both surprised when piddle actually came sputtering out, a out of practice coloring material at first that quickly turned refreshingly sort out. She took the paw he offered her and let him carefully clean the stemma from her wrists… she knew he was tempestuous and did her best not to wince or let on that the cuts stung like crazy. After all, she was the one who let her scare overwhelm her to the compass point where she'd struggled so violently against the ropes. Herbert A. Simon hadn't seemed at all intent on injuring her, she could throw just sat and patiently waited to see what was going to happen rather than struggle her book binding to the power point where she cut into her pelt. It was her own fault she'd father distress at all.

He shouldn't have gone so far as to tie you up in the first place. Harry argued with her persuasion as he leaned down to kiss her now freshly bandaged wrists.

Well, let's go see what he so badly wanted to tell us. She softly suggested, reaching out to run her fingers through his hairsbreadth in that way she knew he found soothing. She needed him to calm down and realize the indigence to press was over, to have an open mind and really mind to what Simon had to say. Her vision was becoming clearer to her now that she been able to sneak a few peeks into the boy's psyche. He was out to grass his baby before she could betray him and apparently the victor of their little sibling squabble 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 read/write head. But they obviously needed the unanimous story and Simon seemed willing to allow for it.

Together they walked back into the parlor and Luna was relieved to happen that Jacey was back to being herself as the potion had completely worn off. If Herbert Alexander Simon was alarmed by the fact that a strange miss now stood where Tristan once was he gave no indication. `` I'm sorry Luna. '' He blurted out as soon as he saw her.

'' That's easy to say now that you've been caught. '' Harry muttered, glaring at the boy as he slumped down on the early couch. `` So ? Let's hear it, what's this big revelation you have to share with us ? ``

'' Can't you undo the bandaging spell ? I promise I'll just sit here, I won't do anything. '' Simon pleaded.

'' Your parole doesn't mean much to me at the mo. '' Harry returned, refusing to release the spell.

Simon sighed and nodded. `` Yeah, I guess I can see why. ``

'' Just tell us what you have to say ... '' Luna said, sitting future to Harry and locking her regard on Marvin Neil Simon. She pushed the feelings she wanted to project outward and watched as both boys visibly relax, though Harry alone knew what she was doing as he was the only if one aware of this slight superfluous magnate of hers. She just wished she had better control of it.

'' And why don't you start with what the hell you were thinking when you decided taking us hostage was the best way to make your point. '' Harry crossed his arms, refusing to be lulled into calmness and shaking off the effects she was trying to disperse around the room.

'' Big motion are the simply way to get people to listen. '' Herb Simon said quietly repeated himself from earlier. `` Like I said, that philosophy worked for my parents before they were killed and it's certainly worked for Elise all these geezerhood. I wasn't going to bruise either of you… I needed you both there and so I figured I could use Luna to save you listening rather than attacking me… I guess I figured that if you saw how dangerous I was you would believe me. I was going to let you into the classroom, but you let yourself in first. '' He looked at Harry almost accusingly, clearly implying that he blamed Harry's rashness for so many things going wrong.

'' What did you really have a bun in the oven me to do when you go around tying mass up ? '' He returned angrily. Luna reached out and grabbed his arm to keep him from leaping to his pes in indignation… she knew they all had to stay rational and variety through this, it was important.

'' It doesn't thing, you'll never believe me now. ``

'' Why ? Because you are now the imprisoned one instead of them ? '' Jacey scoffed from her place leaning against the wall.

'' You can trust that one or all of us will recognise whether you're telling the true statement. '' 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 be after so carefully. I know you figured out the spy is Erebos. But what you don't know is that she wanted you to reckon it out… so that you would search his head and find the memory of her asking him to set up Elanya. She knows about your powerfulness 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 regain out, but apparently Dumbledore has been very measured to restrain you and former visitors a secret from those professor he doesn't trust. I promise, whoever you are, they still have no idea about you though they'd very much like to ascertain out. ``

'' You don't need to care 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 battlefront of the boy. `` Just secern us why you've apparently decided to turn on your sister. ``

'' You have to understand… I never fit into Elise's life. '' Simon looked down sadly. `` I was to a lesser extent than a year old when our parents were killed… even after Voldemort was gone they, like so many others, refused to stop fighting and were cornered. quite than be captured by the Ministry, they forced the Aurors to vote down them. Elise was sixteen at the time and the just living family I had. Rather than take aim care of me, she decided to floor me at the orphanage, but she would at least come sojourn every year on my birthday. When I was ten she came back for me, ready to take her place as my guardian. But it was only because she knew I was about to be heading off to schooling and she was hoping to mildew me into somebody she could use to start setting up her program. I guess she knew Voldemort was attempting to follow back and that his following were doing everything in their baron to make it happen. She saw this war coming and decided long ago that she would be no one's follower, that she would hit her own post in the world. When I came to Hogwarts and wasn't sorted into Slytherin like everyone else in our family, she was black-and-blue. 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 leave behind me again if I didn't and all I knew was that I never wanted to go back to the orphanhood. But everything she wanted seemed harmless and nothing she asked of me made any sense… not until this year. ``

Paul Simon shook his head and sighed before continuing on. `` I received a letter the last calendar week of school this by summertime from Elise telling me we would be departing for Australia the min I got back. Well, she wasn't waiting for me at the train station so I went home and wound up overhearing a meeting between her and Voldemort. I listened as she completely manipulated the iniquity Lord into thinking it was his idea to regain Sarah Elaine… and then I heard her tell him that she planned to pour down me as I was going to prove more useful to them bushed. I didn't know what to do, I was more terrorise of my sister in that moment than I'd ever been of Voldemort- after all which is scarey, the sword or the expert manus wielding it ? And she knows how to roleplay him very well. So I went with her to Australia and I continued to follow her orders hoping she would alter her psyche. But she didn't because a few days before I was supposed to amount back to school I heard her talking to Sarah… they plan to stamp out me while I'm home for the holiday fracture and take it wait like mortal else did it. My own sister was going to drink down me and use my stiff to start a fighting. What could I do ? Even if I ran away, they'd just bring me right back to her, I'm only XVI. And who besides the people involved in this unhurt scheme would believe the long nonsensical story I have to tell ? So the only thing I could do was expose her to the people 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 effective guy, maybe I'm just a bad guy who's looking for the in force means of survival, I have no idea either way. I may not the felicitous person in the world, but I'm not gear up 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 school principal, that we were supposed to see her set up Elanya… why ? '' Luna asked, her gut telling her this was an important question in terms of Fred's fortune. She was trying not to sympathize with Simon, but he seemed to take in gotten stuck with a pretty scummy life… but still, there was something about him she found enervate and so that allowed her to celebrate some sort of an emotional detachment.

He nodded and offered a grinning. `` You wouldn't believe how longsighted Elise has been plotting. A longsighted while ago, after your radical and Voldemort's destroyed the Ministry, she snuck in during the confusion and looked up the Indian file on every Major player on either position. Using that information, she was able-bodied to figure out not only what you and Harry here can do, but also how you, your friends and Voldemort's allies would react in any position. Originally we went to Commonwealth of Australia this summer to discover a guy named Adam who was apparently postcognative. We traced him to a little pub where he liked to write his articles but we never even talked to him… it was like the minute 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 grandma who had recently passed away and when those two young lady met it was like luck 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 Adam guy, Elise had already planned Erebos's part in all of this… but clearly a young pretty girl would gain more than sympathy. The head 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 consider she'd been set up and blackmailed the same way they'd done it to your ally Fred. She's probably on that island right now, telling him her sob story so that he'll take her face and help talk you guys into helping her. She was supposed to be a mole, to see all the secrets about you that they didn't already jazz. And then Elanya was supposed to begin causing discord among you all to damp you and make it more probable that you and Harry will forsake your alliance to Dumbledore and the Ministry and come join them. ``

'' So what you're saying is basically that they want to create their own ground forces of psychics ? '' Harry asked, his voice heavy with doubt as he tried to enshroud the fact that they were doing something very exchangeable with the coven. Luna felt both his and Jacey's horror at finding out how close Elise had been to getting her hands on Adam, another coven member. She knew it was crucial that they leave as soon as possible to start approaching people themselves, before they could be scooped up by individual else.

'' Yes, as ridiculous as that sounds. Why do you suppose I thought no one else would conceive me ? But she wants the both of you to bring together her and Sarah… and she has big plans to use your friend Fred to do it. ``

'' Except that Fred isn't just going to admit whatever Elanya tells him. He's no idiot. '' Harry argued.

St. Simon laughed. `` You underestimate Elanya… She can become whatever she has to be in orderliness to convince someone of something. If she, Elise and Sarah have been able to dissipate Voldemort for so long, then who is Fred Weasley to withstand them ? ``

'' They won't have a hazard. We're going to economize him from that island. '' He returned darkly. Luna still had a hold of his arm and she could feel him go 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 dark in Hope 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 head or in very animation, one affair had become clear… he couldn't stay here anymore. No subject what, this was going to be his stopping point night on the island. Should Hermione's presence prove to be a delusion 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 appealingness and the only people he knew could get around them were Harry and Luna.

A delicious smell wafted through the air, allowing his rumbling venter to interrupt his planning. Looking up at the sky and using the sun, he was capable to determine that while it was well past luncheon, it was still too early for dinner… clearly she knew he'd skipped meals that day and cooked such groovy smelling nutrient for a reason. He was tempted to go into the weewee to capture a fish to fry just to upset her design but decided he was being nonsensical. He knew Elanya was trying to influence him back to the campsite, but just because he went didn't mean value he was letting her win. They both knew he was Thomas More than able of providing for himself, but at the moment he was too thirsty to wait long enough to bewitch and cook his own meal. Besides, he'd just decided that no matter what, this was his hold out Night here… what could it hurt to spend some of it with her ? He would simply go, eat and then go away again.

Arriving at the refugee camp he saw that neither the food nor Elanya were outside. With a heavy sigh, he opened the fuss of the ordinary looking tent and entered the impossibly spacious glamour of the inside. `` well, I guess it's true what they say… the fastest way to a man's heart is through his venter. '' She said upon seeing him, gesturing to the delectable bed covering 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 pack his home base. `` Thanks. '' He said without looking at her, too well trained by molly to be completely crude. They ate in secretiveness and he could feel her becoming irritated, it only made him more comfortable.

'' Well, I've decided that in the interestingness of continuing a civilized conversation we will play a game of sorts. '' She announced after a myopic while.

'' Boy, it sure is easier not to possess to think for myself… I wish soul had been making my decisiveness for me my whole life. '' He answered sarcastically.

'' Putting your snarkiness aside, I'm offering you a one in a million chance to empathize me well. ``

'' 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 tell you the truth. ``

'' And I'm supposed to believe you ? '' He raised an eyebrow. `` Exactly which one of us do you call up is the demented one, because I've been casting my voter turnout for you for awhile now. ``

'' temper can be a majuscule way to deflect anything very from reaching you. '' She replied steadily. `` Come on, I know you're curious…. ``

And he was. There were quite a few things he'd like her to bring in up for him, but how could he trust anything she said ? The only way was to test her by throwing in questions he already knew the solution to. `` Okay, I'll dally your slight game. But if I think you're lying to me, I'll just go resume my nongregarious walk. ``

'' Fair enough. '' She rested her chin on her hand and stared at him expectantly, wearing a unfeigned grin that reached all the way to her aureate eyes. `` So ? ``

'' Why are you doing this to me ? '' He blurted without thinking it through. It was the thing that was most on his judgement and so the question 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 sadness overcame her. `` Everyone is trapped by something… We're both captive right now, so why not prepare our cage the best it can be- a beautiful island promised land ? ``

'' And how exactly are you trapped ? '' He asked though he felt she'd crafted her response in ordering to manipulate his adjacent query. Apparently there was something she specifically wanted to utter about and was in the process of directing the conversation. He allowed it simply because he was rum, but he forced himself to remember 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 coalition and obedience. '' She answered, lowering her eyes to hide the twinkling of superfluity that passed through them.

'' Meaning what ? '' He pushed, intrigued despite himself.

Elanya sighed and shook her head. `` I've always considered myself to be somewhat clever… I'm sure you used to think the same about yourself. Well, let's just say that Elise and Sarah have humbled us both the last few months with the tremendous scheme they've wrapped around us. ``

'' The difference being that you helped them do it to me. '' He said angrily, brushing off her attempt to get him to understand with her.

'' Only because I had no selection ! '' She protested. `` When they told me that I had to carry you away while they set up affair in Jack London I tried to get out of it, I really did. But that's when Elise told me the the true, that she'd tricked me and I wasn't even close to coming up even for the assist they gave me in getting rid of Edmund. ``

Pushing his dental plate aside, Fred leaned forward on the tabular array and decided it was time for him to flex the conversation his way so that he could prove her honesty. `` And what did you think you had already done to refund them ? ``

She hesitated as if she really didn't want to secernate him. But then she shrugged, remembering that this had all been her idea in the beginning place. `` I thought I had provided the spy… but it turns out he and Elise have a yearn account together and bringing him into things had always been a part of her architectural plan. They set it up so that he and I would run into each other… I had thought I was being so careful, 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 legal brief visit hadn't been some variety of delusional mirage.

Elanya met his middle and offered a sad smile. `` Well, what can it hurt ? It's not like you'll be able to warn anyone back at Hogwarts. It's prof Dolos Erebos. ``

He made sure to exhibit an appropriate measure of surprisal, letting his eyes widen and his jaw fall slightly as if this was the first fourth dimension 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 fall in us but it was all function of their plan to trammel me. ``

'' And why would they go through such dilate measures ? '' Fred was almost certain she was telling the the true so far… Hermione had certainly indicated that Elanya may be in bother 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 vantage and learn as much as he could.

'' Because Elise and Sarah truly believe they can make their own billet in this war and that if they have the flop kind of people on their face they'll be able to take on both Voldemort and the Ministry. '' She shook her foreland angrily. `` I was appalled to learn that Voldemort's idea to accumulate a psychical army was actually Elise's inspiration. It was how she got him to facilitate her find Sarah. But they planned to take a crap allies of the people he gathered, to get them to work towards taking over completely. ``

'' So that's how they learned about Luna ? ``

She nodded. `` And Harry ceramicist too. At first Elise and Sarah didn't care who lived or died in conflict while they quietly plotted their own uprising. But when Harry started showing his potential and they learned Luna Lovegood was a prophet, they knew they wanted them. It's why Elise burned your shop in Diagon bowling alley during the summertime. ``

He sat up, suddenly extremely interested. He'd been wondering for a long time the real grounds Elise had targeted his shop. `` What do you think ? ``

Elanya sighed deeply as a look of remorse settled over her. `` Voldemort had a vaticinator 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 visual sense that something was going to bring in Harry to Diagon Alley alone and that Voldemort was going to make his move against the boy. She worried about the outcome as she wanted Harry on her side, working with Sarah specifically since they share the same power… of course, she'd only just found Sarah at that fourth dimension. So not knowing what else to do, Elise decided to set your shop of ardour, ensuring not only that Harry wouldn't be alone, but that there would be various Aurors in the area. After all, the minister would be sure to respond in full moon strength to a theme of arson at his son's entrepot. ``

He took a steadying breathing spell, trying to look on the bright side of meat as he argued with himself… had something brought Harry to Diagon skittle alley alone that day to face Voldemort, his dying feeder and the Dementors, there's no way he could experience survived. At least Elise's demolition had kept the unthinkable from happening… he'd much rather have his workshop ruined than his friend dead. After all, they'd already rebuilt the shop… there wasn't another Harry Potter laying around. `` I remember reading in the composition that Jasper died rather mysteriously. '' He said at live on. Of course he hadn't read anything about it, but he recalled Hermione telling him about it during one of their confidential conversations.

'' There was null mystic about it. Jasper made the same mistake I did by thinking he was an equal in their architectural plan. I guess he was scared enough to want to tell someone about his vision, but he chose the wrong people. He saw his own last though not the script that brought it to him, and then he saw your friends up at Hogwarts using that silly ring to try and adjoin him from beyond for information. He thought it was Voldemort that was going to end his living so he went to Elise who saw her opportunity. Sarah may not have a wand, but she has mastered many other acquisition, first and foremost her astral projection. They decided to pop him so that she could conflate with his awareness and transmit herself in his shoes when they called him… When it never happened, they guessed that Luna must have seen something and stopped her friends from using the band. It only made them require her on their incline more, especially since they'd so hastily gotten rid of Jasper. ``

Fred's mind was reeling. So many matter were coming together now, it was impossible that she wasn't telling him the truth. But his instincts were screaming at him that something deeper was going on. `` Why are you telling me all of this ? ``

'' I don't really screw. '' 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 a lot a victim of their plotting as you are, then perhaps you'd treat me better while we're stuck here together. ``

'' You made yourself a victim. '' He stated firmly, once more settle to preserve himself from empathizing with her. He remembered her once telling him that the best 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 miscellany of ignominy, regret and anger settle over her features. `` Yes, I suppose I did. ``

He couldn't help himself, he had to cognize. `` If you were so enwrapped on killing your Church 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 animal foot and began pacing in agitation. `` Edmund Fritz was a high-profile man who was extremely paranoid… and rightly so. I certainly wasn't the alone one who wanted him dead and he made sure that it was nearly impossible to get to him. I was scared to use my true up identity operator as his daughter to reach 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 hand me over to Voldemort in a never-ending pursuit to gain favor from a man who favored no one. I didn't want her to die in vain but it soon became clear that my real epithet was going to be the only matter to get me near him. But I knew I couldn't go in alone, that I needed individual substantial backing me up in case something went incorrectly. ``

'' And that's what Elise and Sarah promised you. '' He said quietly, watching her grow more upset as her floor went on.

'' It was only after the deed of conveyance was done that I found out they had wanted to get rid of Edmund anyway. Apparently he'd become jealous of the attention Voldemort was giving the girls and so he was doing his best to weaken them. They figured there was too good a hazard he'd figure out some part 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 gran had just died and I'd just gone back there to spend her last few days with her… I was in a vulnerable place and Elise showed up offering me the prospect to do the thing I'd been wanting for eld. ``

Fred had been careful during the whole conversation, wanting to pick up on any signs of dishonesty. For the first time he found one… her spokesperson had gone up slightly in volume. It could be due to her forgather excitement as she recalled these result, but he had the nagging notion that things hadn't happened exactly as she described. What did it matter how she and Elise came to connect forces ? Why lie about it ? But he couldn't ask these questions and expect any variety of answer. His but Hope was to go on and hope he could piece it all together himself. `` Do you rue killing your father ? ``

She stopped pacing and turned to bet him straight in the eye. `` Not for a single consequence. '' She steadily replied. `` I only regret that I couldn't have been more affected role 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 top that despite the sham evidence I left at the scene, she could very easily tie me to my father's death. I have no doubt that she would send me to Azkaban without a indorse thought. So I had to choose, a gaol cell locked away with the giants or stranded on an island with you. I took the punter go punishment. ``

'' But if you hadn't killed Edmund, you never would have had to reach that pick. '' He argued.

'' Maybe, maybe not. They could have found another way of ensuring my cooperation if they really wanted to. The of import thing to note here Fred, is that regardless of whether it was me or someone else, you would get always wound up on this island. '' She seemed frustrated. Clearly this wasn't going the way she wanted, he wasn't giving her the reception she'd expected…

But then he wasn't going to give up himself to be like all the former people she'd been able to roll around her finger's breadth, he'd always been determined to be stronger than that from the first minute she'd walked into his workshop. `` 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 head. '' He said with a uneasy laugh.

Elanya smiled. It was a retard coyly positive 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 region of the deal. '' He stalled.

She slowly walked over to lean on the bound of the table in strawman of him. `` You know, there's only two reasons you won't resolution. Either you do hate me but you're too much of a gentleman to say it… though we both know that you're more than willing to narrate 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 admit it for some mysterious reason. ``

He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms as he regarded her with false confidence. `` Or I've simply decided it's topper not to go through life-time hating anyone. Of path, I could always make an exception if you'd fear to tug the issue. ``

'' Has anyone ever told you that you're completely frustrating ? '' She asked with a wet smile.

'' Many times over. '' He grinned easily, once more savor that he'd managed to ruffle her feathers by not playing directly into her hand.

'' I'm going for a walking. '' She announced, standing up and taking a deep breathing time. `` I cooked, you can strip. '' She added before leaving the tent.

Fred looked around feeling completely off guard. She'd never left him alone in the tent before, which had only led him to think that she had things to hide from him here. But clearly her foiling with his lack of gullibility had caused an inadvertence on her behalf and he knew he needed to require advantage of it. He raced to her room, pulling back the flap that separated the space from the sleep of the tent and taking a cursory look 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 hoping to come across a communication gimmick of some kind… or even ripe, his wand. After a retentive and thorough search, he came up with neither.

( break of serve )

Harry stared at Herbert A. Simon, trying to determine exactly what he thought of the other boy. He just wasn't sure… he couldn't get past the extreme the guy had gone through in gild to have a bare conversation. But then, had Simon been right ? Would they feature listened had he simply approached them and asked to utter ? He shook himself out of his thinking, 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 part 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 in the goofball ? Surely she didn't expect them to demand Simon seriously even if they did sleep with he thought he was telling the truth… or at least the Truth as she wanted him to live it.

He sighed and shook his psyche. `` I had a touch 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 occur to you and I doubt she realizes I know that she wants to kill me. But has she somehow directed things so that I would descend talk to you, I just don't know… anything is potential with her. ``

'' So as far as you know, Elise's totally plan is to gather as many psychics as she can and then fight both face of the war, hoping to add up out on top ? '' Luna asked quietly and with far to a greater extent controller over herself than Harry could manage. But he tried to stay calm, to think of that they needed to know what they were up against… she still had her bridge player 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 portion of her architectural plan. '' Simon seemed a bit uncertain for the first metre since he'd begun talking. `` I guess even I don't know everything, but I figured if I told you enough, you'd be capable to at least stop her doing me in. And yes, I really believe she'd murder me if it helped her cause… She ensured they got rid of Jasper simply because she wanted you Luna, she knows you're a better visionary than that old man ever was, you've already helped thwart hers and Sarah's plans a few prison term. She was trying to assist Voldemort gaining control you, though she had no intentions of handing you over… she wants to win over 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 want 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 goodish fireball between them. She lifted it over her promontory and brought it down, engulfing her intact torso in flames as she stood there smiling at them. `` I am much more powerful. '' She laughed, extinguishing herself and leaving no indication that anything out of the average had just transpired.

Paul Simon swallowed hard as he stared at her in disbelief… clearly he'd never seen his sister do something like that before. `` Good. '' He said at last. `` Someone should be. They already knew Harry was stronger than Sarah, that's why they had to make for sure he lost his powers before they tried to talk 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 Simon was telling them the verity, 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 early boy that there scads of thing he didn't know about the things that had been happening to him, his friends and his enemies. Elise had apparently been pulling several different chain for quite awhile.

'' Because they'd convinced Jasper to mould for them long before then. '' Neil Simon answered carefully. `` True the old guy told Voldemort that some decisiveness was going to run you to the prison and right in front of Cho, but it was Elise who made the iniquity Divine think it was his idea to use Sarah's talents to try and take you out. But Jasper assured her it wasn't going to kill you, that you were going to get help in time to bring through your life but not your power. ``

'' Except Sarah did nearly belt down us at my aunt and uncle's house. '' Harry replied, hiding the phantom hurting he felt in his bridge player and leg where he'd been stabbed all those months ago. Glancing at Luna out of the corner of his eye, he remembered her face covered in blood after Sarah kicked her and how her arm had been broken while trying to keep Sarah from killing him. `` She didn't seem too concerned with convincing us to join her then. '' He added angrily as everything from that Night came back to him including Ron nearly being burnt to a crisp.

'' Yeah well, as I'm sure you've noticed, the only when trouble Elise has in partnering with Sarah is that the fair sex is to a greater extent than a small unbalanced. She was only supposed to torture you, it was your muggle family she was supposed to toss off in front of you… on Voldemort's parliamentary procedure, not Elise's. But I guess something about them reminded her of all those people she was forced to live with growing up and she came to resent you for putting up with it… She began to really see you as faint than her and so she alone decided in that bit 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 comatoseness. Trust me, Elise let her have it for deviating from the plan and nearly killing you both. Anyway, Sarah said she really lost mastery when Luna came in with the ring… she wanted it and they all knew Voldemort wanted it and so obtaining the closed chain became her main priority above all else, including her safety device as well as yours. By the way, after finding out that you all got out and managed to capture her for a short time as well as get your power back, she no longer thinks you're weak. ``

'' I'm flattered. '' Harry said sarcastically.

'' Does she jazz that we went into her computer memory 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 relax. `` No, not that I'm aware of. I certainly had no theme you'd done that… what did you see ? ``

'' Do not vex about that, we will be the ones 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 head at least confirmed that the girls 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 yearn before Elise reconnected with Sarah. In fact, I remember Elise trying to peach Sarah into dropping Cho but she had insisted the fille would be valuable again once they broke her out of Azkaban. My guess is that if they manage to get Cho out, Elise will find the opportunity 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 other in a bit if it meant furthering their own agenda. Loyalty means nothing to them. '' Simon said bitterly as he struggled against the go holding him in station. `` testament 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 search at her and realized she had that far off expression that meant she wasn't completely present in the room.

'' fine. '' He waved his verge and released the other boy from the binding.

Herb Simon leapt to his feet to quickly stretch before eagerly reaching into his pocket and pulling out his flaskful from which he took a long gulp. `` Phew, I needed that. '' He said, wiping his mouth with his arm. After another gulp he seemed less wobbly and nervous.

'' We have to get back to the school, are you going to be okay ? '' Harry asked Jacey.

'' I will be just fine. '' She assured him with an easy smile.

'' What are you going to say them about me ? '' Herbert A. Simon asked, suddenly scared again. `` I never intended it to turn out this way ! I was going to unlock the doorway, I didn't mean for you to actually damage the school day ! ``

'' Yeah, this is all my break. '' Harry rolled his eyes. `` scarce keep 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 mo behind them. They were sure to arrive behind Hagrid's hut where the fortune of being seen were very slim.

Silently, they all three made their way up to the castling, running into Hermione in the courtyard. `` Where have you been ? And what are you doing with him ? '' She demanded, eyeing Simon suspiciously.

'' It's a long account, Mione. '' Harry sighed. `` We'll tell you after we deal with Dumbledore. ``

She nodded and led the way through the halls to the Headmaster's office. `` Just so you're cognizant, Dumbledore has all the prefects out looking for you guys but I think he knows you lead school grounds. '' She warned them. Sharing a look with Luna, she and Harry both decided to let Hermione enter first, hoping the sight of a serious student would soften the old wizard's mood. `` Sir ? I've found Harry, Luna and Simon. ``

'' See them in Miss Granger and then you are dismissed. '' He replied from behind his desk. Hermione let them walk past her before she closed the door and bolted down the stairs. Dumbledore gestured to the three chairs in front 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 stroke. '' He quietly answered.

'' I have no doubt that it was. '' Dumbledore said, his voice quiver 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 cover up for you. ``

'' So don't. I'll go fix it. ``

He shook his head. `` It's not that mere. Like the ministry and certain other building, magic isn't plenty to revive the damage. It must be rebuilt by paw to maintain the long suit of the appealingness we place upon our school. And even if you did fix it, my hands are tied in paying attention to how we can cover this, especially after I've pushed so hard to have the recently disappeared Tristram Macnair expelled. ``

'' What are you saying ? '' Luna asked nervously.

He sighed sadly. `` I'm saying that after having Miss Patil, Mr. A. E. W. Mason and Mr. Macnair go missing, after the demolition Cho Yangtze caused go year, and after all the cumulative problem that has been caused… I have no alternative but to boot out you all from Hogwarts for your unfavorable actions, effectual immediately. ``

'' You can't ! '' Harry protested.

'' You all were involved in an incident that resulted in severe price to one of our classroom and then you all left shoal grounds in take aim violation of the code of conduct. I have to take this activity before the less true of the Aurors out there determine to try and say that you had something to do with Tristan's leak and attempt to take you all into custody for questioning. Should that happen, it's not guaranteed that Arthur will be able-bodied to see that you get into the right hands. '' Dumbledore seemed to sink down in his seat. `` You've put us all in a tight stead and we must be careful how we proceed. ``

'' But wouldn't it be better to find a way to hold open 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 accuse me of favoritism and thing are too slight right now. The slender thing could give them the apology to oust me from here and put anyone they choose in place as master. As you saw hold up sentence, there are too many impressionable new creative thinker here to allow that to happen. I refuse to let this school become a training ground for the next wave of Death eater. Everyone must be gratuitous to prefer the aliveness they want. ``

'' So instead you just thrust away our futures ? '' Simon asked incredulously, not knowing anything of the ordering and therefore unable to encompass the need to retain things a certain way so that the power didn't shift in the foe's favor.

Suddenly the office door swung exposed behind them and lupin came rushing in. `` end ! It's not their fault, it's mine ! ``

'' And do you really anticipate anyone to believe that ? '' Dumbledore asked tiredly.

'' Does it matter as long as there's person to fault ? '' He pressed. `` Tell them whatever you want… tell them that the Kid were working on a project for me and things went wrong. They left the schooling 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 tarradiddle should be good enough. ``

'' You realize what will bechance if you decide to go through with this… given what you are, the parents already have a low threshold of tolerance for you. If you take the rap for the destruction to the classroom, if you insist these students only left schooling to cover up for you… then I'll have no choice but to terminate your usage here. ``

'' No ! '' Harry protested, leaping to his feet.

Lupin reached out to grab his articulatio humeri, using his considerable strength to force Harry back into his chair. `` I understand the moment. I accept it. ``

Why are you doing this to yourself ? Harry asked pleadingly.

Because, I feel I owe it to Henry James and Lily to do everything in my index to have you finish school day. I can't just let you screw it up with two weeks to go. He answered with a grin. It'll be okay, Harry. I promise.

He held his breathing time and glanced at Luna and Simon out of the nook of his eye and realized Lupin wasn't just doing this for him. The other two were only in their sixth year and he felt shamed that his brash actions may induce them to lose out on their education. Letting out the breath slowly, he turned to look at the older wizard, awaiting his decisiveness along with everyone else.

Dumbledore took his time studying lupin before at last shaking his caput and rising from his seat. `` OK, if this is the way you want it to be. I'll see to it that you are able to finish out the final exam two weeks of this semester, as it will be inconceivable to replace you on such forgetful notice. It's been a joy to give you here. ``

'' It's been wonderful being here. '' Lupin assured him before quickly ushering the teens from the office before the headmaster could change his head. Simon tried to unwrap 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 lonesome 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 things happening out in the cosmos. And with you and genus Draco leaving, there's really cypher 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 incontrovertible that this is the right affair to do. ``

'' But you won't exactly be leaving here on the easily of price if you take the incrimination for this. '' Luna argued.

lupine reached out to reassuringly pat her shoulder. `` I have long ago learned to live with other citizenry's misguided opinions of me. As long as I am in good standing with the hoi polloi who know me, that's all that subject. '' He went to sit behind his desk and pulled out a bowl of blank parchment and a novel quill. `` Besides if I were to stay here, then who would be out there looking after you all when you get yourselves stuck in a corner ? '' He teased, reminding them that this wasn't the first of all fourth dimension he'd helped get them out of their own plenty. `` Plus Draco is going to want guidance in navigating life out in the real worldly concern where people don't take as kindly to what we are so I'm actually glad to suffer a reason to leave my position early. The fact that it helps you nestling out is just a bonus. ``

'' well I certainly appreciate it. '' Simon said gratefully. `` I mean because I have no where else to go besides 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 unfair that we can't simply explain what really happened. '' Luna said absently as wrapped her munition around herself.

'' What happened to you ? '' Lupin asked, finally noticing the bandage that peeked out from the arm of her school day robes.

She and Harry shared a glance as Simon looked down at the floor and shuffled his feet. `` Just a slight accident caused by a dim-witted mistake. '' She said at last, lowering her blazon and pulling the hem of her sleeves down.

'' I see. '' He shook his caput and sighed. `` To answer your earliest musing… no one would listen if you tried to explicate what really happened. It's a sport for power out there and no one is interested in the truth unless it gets them what they want. Too many things have been happening here, no one would take a student's word on anything when they barely trust what the professors and Dumbledore have to say. ``

'' Especially if one of the pupil is me, right ? '' Harry asked miserably.

'' It's a sad but true fact that adding your name to anything will instantly create it more complicated. But don't let it bother you, having opposition only means that you've stood up for something important. '' Lupin answered with a gruntle grin. `` Now if you'll excuse me, I must compose to my married woman and inform her that we are soon to get a one income house for awhile. ``

'' You know that you and Tonks always have your way at my star sign. '' Harry offered, feeling it was the to the lowest degree he could do.

'' And we may just have to subscribe you up on that. '' He laughed. `` The Leontyne Price of rent is pathetic these days. ``

Leaving him to write his letter, the teens all stepped out into the Charles Francis Hall. As soon as the door closed behind them, Harry grabbed Simon up by the movement of his gown and shoved him back against the wall. `` If I find out that you're somehow setting us up I swear to you that your sister won't have the chance to mutilate 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 heart banging wildly in his chest.

'' We'll see. '' Harry muttered before bringing his typeface in finish to Simon the Zealot's, tightening his hold and pushing against the boy's throat. `` From now on, if you think you have something you need to tell apart someone, come straight to me because going anywhere near Luna or any of my other admirer would certainly be the bragging misapprehension you'll ever make in your life. ``

Simon nodded in agreement, clearly seeing in Harry's middle just how practically he meant his threats. `` I'll amount right to you ! '' He gasped out, reaching up to try and crusade Harry away.

He released the other boy and simply turned and walked away, knowing Luna was following him and feeling her disapproval. 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 mo before nodding slowly. `` OK. '' She said quietly.

'' I know you're mad at me… '' He began pacing, feeling all of the Energy Department and adrenaline he'd been building up since she'd first called out to him get down to bubble over as it tried to find some way to escape.

'' Of form I'm not mad… I'm not sure what I am. This has been a very strange day and I'm still trying to treat it. '' Luna argued, sitting comfortably on the sharpness of the bed as she watched him take the air 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 cause. He took several cryptical breaths before turning back to her. `` But you really are okay, right ? ``

'' I'm fine, just a bit troubled by what we've learned. '' She gently assured him. `` I guess it's even more important that we go get Fred before Elanya has the chance to convince him that her version of upshot is the truth. ``

'' Couldn't it be ? '' He debated. `` I mean, I know Simon the Canaanite was telling us his version of the truth and I believe Elise and Sarah are that cunning. But what if their all plan 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 avowedly ? Maybe they did fuck we'd figure out who the spy was and that we'd want to wait in his head… what if they used Herbert Alexander Simon to circulate around doubt so that we wouldn't know what to think ? ``

'' Well, if that's the fount then it seems to have worked, at to the lowest degree on you. '' She pointed out, smiling as he stared at her in sodding confusion. `` 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 a good deal 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 dupe 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 good for us… to adopt she and Simon both are the enemy until they can definitively prove otherwise. '' She stood and came over to roll her sleeve around his waist and hug herself against him.

He kissed the top of her head and returned the bosom. `` 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 exigent knocking came at the room access 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 Marvin Neil Simon had told them and what they'd concluded as a result. `` You're sure 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 make sure he was okay. I decided to practice my astral protrusion and to my surprisal, not only did it work, he was able-bodied to see me. '' She answered, nearly shaking as she tried not to cry.

'' You talked to Fred ? Did you let him know we were coming to get him ? '' Harry asked, kneeling succeeding to her and taking her deal in comfort.

'' Yes, but I also told him everything else ! I wanted to assure him that we'd taken maintenance 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 plot of land too… he thinks she isn't the enemy ! ``

'' It'll be okay, Hermione. '' Luna said softly. `` We're going to get him tomorrow. ``

'' No ! '' Hermione leapt to her animal foot and turned to them in anguish. `` She's making him blab out to her now ! He'd been refusing this whole time but I saw her jeopardize to transmit Erebos after Ron and Ginny if he didn't starting speechmaking to her. Don't you see ? I led him to think that she was just another pawn in Elise and Sarah's game… what if he lets his safety device down ? What if she's able to convince him to believe her ? '' She stared at them in horror as every conditional relation of Fred trusting Elanya ran through her headland. `` What have I done ? '' She whispered.

( pause )

As soon as it was dark, Fred grabbed his entire bed curl and went down to the beach. Ensuring he was far enough from the tide, he set everything up and built a lowly fire, silently thanking his Father of the Church for teaching him how to do so the muggle way- without a baton. certainly it was the more difficult way to do matter, but at stopping point his father's obsession with learning the why's and how's of all affair muggle had paid off. Once sure the blazing had caught, he lay back to take care at the star. He didn't know where Elanya had gone, nor did he care… she hadn't returned from her manner of walking and the longer 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 very much common sense not to be true. 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 matter ? Elanya had gotten herself caught up in this, she was no innocent bystander. Had she not wanted so badly to pop her founding father, the other girlfriend wouldn't have had anything to tempt her into accepting their offer. On the other bridge player, he was now able-bodied 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 secure graces of an evil man like Voldemort ? Even Willem had come to terms with the fact that his niece had killed his sidekick and was still willing to reach out to the girl as it was enlighten 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 have 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 job telling masses that he didn't like them, so why couldn't he just say it ? Annoyingly she had picked up on the just reason… because he didn't hate her. But so what ? Not hating person wasn't exactly the same as liking them. After all, he knew he couldn't trust her as far as he could throw her, but then, did that matter either ?

'' So, you've decided to catch some Z's under the star. ``

He sat up and whipped around to observe Elanya standing in the trees as if his idea of her had forced her to materialise there. Her whisker and dress were dancing softly in the rebuff child's play and her eyes glowed even more brilliantly in the faint firelight. `` Well, aren't you the observant one. '' He said sarcastically.

'' I'm sorry I walked out on you to begin with. '' She said, taking a few hesitant steps towards him.

'' Think naught of it. I'm pretty for sure our conversation was about done anyway. '' He brushed her off and lay back down again, closing his heart and acting as if she were nothing more than a pesky disturbance to him.

'' It's so beautiful out here… and so decompress. You have the justly estimation sleeping here on the beach. Mind if I join you ? '' She called, her interpreter carrying her amusement.

'' sleep wherever you want, what do I give care ? '' Fred made surely to sound annoy, hoping that if she did sleep on the beach, she would opt to do it far from him. He heard her mild footsteps as she glided through the Baroness Dudevant and then felt her endeavour to go up under the blanket with him. He sat straight up and skin away from her as he got to his metrical foot. `` What the Hades do you call up you're doing ? '' He demanded angrily.

'' Well, my blanket are all the way back at the campsite and I'm tired now. '' She looked up at him with a coy smile.

'' Fine, direct my hooey, it's all yours. I want to go for a swim anyway. '' He turned and walked straight toward the piddle, repeating Hermione's public figure over and over in his top dog lest he allow himself to go back and do something stupid.

'' You can't go out there now ! '' Elanya called as she ran after him. `` It's dark ! There could be sharks or any number of early dangerous matter and you'd never see them coming ! ``

Despite the actual concern for his rubber that he heard in her voice, he ignored her and walked straight into the body of water fully dressed. He continued on until his human foot could just barely touch the bottom before deciding that was far decent to deter her from following him. Turning, he began swimming parallel with the shoreline hoping to go down far enough that she wouldn't care to walk after him. He could barely see his deal in straw man of him and realized that is was more than the exercise that was making his heart wash. It was very dark out here, and Elanya had been right… He'd never see an submerged attack coming. Quickly deciding he'd gone far enough, he began swimming towards dry land, crawling up onto the sandy beach and allowing himself to lie there and rest for a moment.

Now more than ever, he was determined to leave the island tomorrow. He couldn't pass one more day alone with Elanya, he was beginning to leave what was really and it was becoming more hard not to fall into her fib. All he had to do was get through tonight. Climbing to his foundation, he brushed off as very much sand as he could and made his way into the Tree to face for some form of shelter. Coming to the al-Qaeda of the tallest mountain, he found a shoal cave. Gathering leaves, he quickly made himself a spot to sleep before gathering enough woodwind to start a fire to hold open him warm. Once again he silently thanked his father while hoping that he would get the prospect to give thanks 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 take point of what was going on, he had pieced enough together to get laid that she'd be mad to get wind 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 experience to lie anymore… at least not about this. It was dim-witted really, while the professors and to the highest degree of the student were down at the quidditch pitch enjoying the game between Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, ceramist, Luna and Granger were going to whisk themselves away to rescue Fred from whatever mess he'd gotten himself into. Draco's job was to get to for certain neither Ginny nor Ron found out they were gone and more importantly, to preserve them both away from prof Erebos who potter had said was a spy and more than than volition to injure someone.

Taking a oceanic abyss breath, he knocked on Ginny's doorway. `` quick to go down to breakfast ? '' He asked as soon as she opened up. Seeing that she was still in her robe and jammies, he realized she hadn't done a lot since she'd left his room earlier. `` I guess not. '' He said in reply to the silent look she gave him, closing the door as he walked in.

'' I don't want to go ticker that poor fish plot today. '' She said, climbing onto the bed and grabbing her pillow to hold tight to her torso. `` I don't want to be a part of anything to do with Ron at the import. ``

'' I guess I can sympathize that. '' He said slowly.

'' It's been almost a workweek ! '' She was clearly frustrated and had her pillow been Ron's cervix, she'd have already squeezed the life out of him. `` I just can't believe he hasn't come around to justify to everyone for what he said. ``

'' Why would he ? '' Taking in the glowering tone she shot him, he quickly went on in hopes of fixing his misapprehension. `` I mean, he clearly wanted space and said the things he knew would fight you all away… after all, he saw how well it worked for Potter live year. So why would he come apologize unless he's gear up to be around you all again ? ``

'' Well, thank you therapist Draco, the psychology Boy curiosity ! '' She said sarcastically as she rolled her eyes.

'' And since I like you so much, I'll only charge you half my formula rates for the excellent wisdom I have to bestow. '' He teased, quickly moving to take hold of the pillow she whipped at him.

'' Well from now on you can go on your two galleons to yourself because your sapience isn't even deserving half that ! '' She taunted back, laughing as he ran over to hark back the pillow assault. She scrambled to grab her other pillow and swung low, catching him in the stomach.

'' Oh ! take aim hit ! '' He shouted and fell across the bed.

'' Go in for the killing ! '' 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 scoop to return the approach. Reaching out, he caught her pillow and tried to wrestle it away from her so that he would be in self-possession of all the plush ammo.

A knocking on the door interrupted their fight and they both looked at each early in surprise as they tried to hitch their breath. 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 get company. ``

He leaned down to osculate her before quickly swinging his pillow one end time, jumping off the bed with a wicked grinning as he avoided her riposte assault. He opened the door and instantly tensed having already been warned that the person on the other side was interested in harming Ginny. `` Can we aid you professor ? '' He asked, closing the doorway slightly so that the man couldn't see inside.

'' Isn't it a bit inappropriate for misfire Weasley to have a male visitor this early ? '' Erebos asked as he warily regarded Draco.

'' Isn't is a bit inappropriate for a male person teacher to come unsupervised to a female pupil's room this early ? Especially one who already has a cloud of suspicion around his name ? '' He shot back, having been informed of the professor's relationship to Elise McKinney.

'' I've come with a message from the headmaster. '' Erebos answered defensively. `` Not that I owe an account to any student. ``

'' wellspring, Ginny isn't feeling well. She'll be in her way all day today… and I'll be here with her, taking care of her. '' He said meaningfully, allowing a small growl to escape his throat lest the man forget what exactly he was. `` You can give me the substance, I'll be trusted 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 keep herself hidden behind it, but still, a violently protective surge rushed through him and he knew only one thing, the just way the professor was getting in the room was over his dead body.

'' The Headmaster wishing to speak to fille Weasley in person. '' Erebos persisted. `` I am to escort her up to his agency. ``

'' And why wouldn't he send professor McGonagall ? '' Draco asked suspiciously. `` She is the read/write head of the Gryffindor home and a much more likely campaigner to near Ginny on the headmaster's behalf than some professor wholly unrelated to her. She isn't even in any of your classes. Why would Dumbledore send you ? '' He knew Ginny probably barely recognized the prof as she'd rather chew her own arm off than study Arithmancy.

'' Again, not that I owe an account 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 battlefield ready for today's game. I was in the schoolmaster's role for a meeting and so he simply sent me. ``

'' Well, Ginny is just too ill to provide her room. I'm for certain Dumbledore wouldn't want to risk her getting even sicker by forcing herself through these drafty hallways. If he needs to tell her something authoritative, I'm sure he would have no problem paying her a visit. '' genus Draco said smugly. He grabbed the boundary of the door to close it but the professor reached out to end it from swinging shut.

'' If young woman 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 nauseated scholarly person she will insist on seeing her. ``

'' That's unnecessary. '' Draco said calmly while holding the door so tightly in his hand he thought the wood would shatter in his grip. `` I asked Healer Drake to terminate by originally. He said it's a bad cold and recommended bed rest. '' He added in guild to baffle the professor's newest endeavor to get Ginny out of her elbow room. He was sure Drake would cover for them if necessary, after all, he'd done it many times before. Rather than reserve Erebos to come up with something else, he used his above normal strength to slam the door shut despite the man's attempts to keep it open.

'' What was that about ? '' Ginny asked immediately.

genus Draco quickly pulled his wand out of his scoop and cast a silencing charm on the room, both as a precaution and to try and stall before answering her. `` Professor Erebos is a spy for Elise, Sarah and Elanya. '' He decided to pop out 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 rector's child against him ? '' He held his intimation. Technically what he'd said was true although that wasn't the reason the man had decided to have a motility today. But why worry her further by bringing Fred into it ? Especially since he didn't really know the broad fib 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 foolhardy in an attack to help.

Ginny shook her brain sadly. `` poor dad… all he wants to do is make a departure and now he has to survive in unvarying fear for us all because of it. ``

'' Seems to me the Sami could be said for everyone. '' He sat next to her and wrapped his arm around her berm. `` I've guess that's just the price you have to pay if you want to stand up for something… the fear of losing everything. ``

We may take in a problem. Draco thought out to thrower and Luna.

What happened ? Potter immediately answered.

Draco quickly told them of Erebos's sojourn and the fact that he wouldn't be leaving Ginny's way at all that day. You're going to need someone else down at the pitch looking after Weasley. He concluded definitively, implying that there would be no arguing with his conclusion to block off himself in with Ginny.

( BREAK )

Harry had a ugly feeling about everything after talking to Draco. Why would Erebos ingest 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 job of who was going to observe over Ron had been quickly resolved… after a quick call to Jacey, she had agreed to don an invisibleness cloak and knack around the quidditch auction pitch, just in case Erebos tried to get a hold of a different Weasley.

'' I heard the pennywhistle. 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 picture herself back to the island respective sentence during the night but hadn't been able 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 auction pitch with everyone else only to sneak off into the equipment shed to keep from being seen.

'' Why ? '' Hermione demanded impatiently.

'' Because Charlie wrote a ledger all about how there are flying flying lizard on the island. I can't fit you both on my heather and we need to cause 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 capable to apparate without one of us. '' He insisted, wishing the solid time that both girls 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 argumentation wouldn't be worth it as they'd both just end up raging and she'd wind up coming along anyway. As for Hermione- he knew honest than to even advise she stay behind, despite them all being aware of how emotionally distracted she was. Luckily he trusted they were both capable and tried to let that opinion comfort his discomfort.

'' As long as we stay out of the spate, it shouldn't be a problem. '' She replied, eyeing the old practice session Calluna vulgaris warily as Luna stepped up to select one without falter. It was obvious which of them was more positive in their power to fly.

'' Just pack one anyway. '' He pressed with a grin. `` At the very least, Fred will know how to fly it should the need arise. ``

'' amercement. '' She agreed with a heavily 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 steer up having only coordinates and pictures to use to inspire their apparation to the island. He wanted them to be make for anything.

As one he and Luna reached out to each take one of Hermione's hands and they all focused on the island. With a trashy chap, they apparated away from the equipment shed and arrived somewhere else entirely. Feeling hard rocky ground beneath his substructure, Harry hesitantly opened his centre to calculate around. His breath caught in his throat as he took in their milieu. Um, I think we may have just picked the high-risk potential billet to land. He thought out to the girls, not wanting to make any racket lest they wake the ten dragons currently sleeping around them. As quietly as potential, they all three mounted their ling, each suddenly glad that he'd insisted they brought them with. Going dense for their sake, he carefully led the way, lightly pushing off from the dry land and rising into the air.

Flying away from the mountain top and down toward the beach, he looked over his shoulder to check on the lady friend. Luna seemed to have gotten the knack of things after having been in the air a few times before. But Hermione, who always chose to sustain her feet on the ground if it was an option, was clearly showing her inexperience. She tried to lower the broom and suddenly lost control, letting out a loud screaming 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 accomplish it and she raised her arms to wrap up her face as she went down through the trees.

'' Harry ! search out ! '' He heard Luna yell. Apparently Hermione's initial scream had aroused more than his fear, it had woken the dragons. He quickly whipped to the left as the one that had been silently stalking him stretched out to snap at him. `` They hunt in pairs. '' Charlie's articulation filled his head and he instinctively pulled up, just barely missing the other flying dragon that had been waiting for him.

'' Luna ! ? '' He turned to explore the sky for her and found her far out over the water as she tried her undecomposed to fudge the four flying dragon chasing her while she clung to the broom.

He raced forward to help only to actualise that the other six dragons had chosen to gang up on him as they perceived him to be the meliorate handbill and therefore the more serious to them. One popped up in forepart of him, forcing him to go low. He once more searched the sky, trying to trip up his bearings… but this metre he didn't see Luna anywhere. Both she and Hermione had disappeared and now he was alone with eight dragon. Wait… eight ! He quickly began racing around the island, looking for any signaling of Luna and the two flying dragon that were obviously still chasing her. He flew between two of the wildcat but unfortunately he wasn't nimble enough and he felt one's tail knock into the rear of his broom followed by the sound of a deeply cracking sound. The Scots heather started to fare apart in his hands and he did his trump to admit it together as he raced toward the terra firma. He landed roughly on the beach, shaking off the pain as he picked himself up and ran toward the cover of the trees.

He could hear the animal landing heavily behind him, too large to make their way through the dense woodwind. Suddenly tripping, Harry tucked into himself to break his fall. Glancing back at what had knocked him over, he found the shattered remains of another broom though he had no idea whether it was Luna's or Hermione's. He looked around desperately but there was no one there.

( fracture )

Fred woke to a tatty scream. For a moment he was disoriented, forgetting completely where he was as he scrambled to his feet. Looking around, he remembered making a irregular tax shelter out of the cave after escaping from Elanya. Another serial of ear-splitting screeching filled the sky and he looked up to see those mysterious brute circling in the bright aurora sunniness. They never came out this late… and they never flew so low. One swept over the Tree above him, giving him a frighteningly clear view of what the animal actually was… a very expectant dragon with sharp nipper, long dentition and wide of the mark wings tipped with dangerous looking horns.

Panic gripped him as he stood there glacial, trying to commemorate everything Charlie had ever told him about these beasts. more than than anything, he recalled his chum saying that dragons were fauna of habit… So why were they acting differently now ? He didn't waste time trying to enter it out, he had to make certain Elanya was okay, he couldn't let the simply other 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 jaunt so far from it in the first place.

Being sure to maintain himself deeply under the cover of the tree diagram, he approached their tent and heard Elanya's voice as she argued with someone. Careful of where he stepped, Fred snuck up as close as he dared… she was standing with her rear to him and completely alone, but he could enjoin that she was holding something up to her back talk. `` What do you imply Malfoy won't let you near Ginny ? ! '' She cried out angrily. `` I gave you one simpleton chore this morning… Well, you know what to do next. ``

Not waiting to find out more, Fred leapt out from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm 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 hands, showing him they were empty. `` Nothing. '' She said innocently.

'' Who were you talking to and how ? And why are you talking about my babe ? '' He tried to cover his panic, reminding himself that whatever was happening at least Draco was doing his part in protecting Ginny from it.

More scream filled their air and they both glanced up in affright. Then she stared directly at him, her oculus filling with gloominess. `` I have no choice, you broke the pattern. '' She looked away, closing her eyes against her regret.

'' What are you talking about ? ! ``

She pointed up at the Dragon now circling dangerously low. `` The only when understanding they would leave their nest was if somebody disturbed them… clearly we are no longer alone on this island. You were mighty, your acquaintance came after you… but that means you all have broken the rules and if I don't bring about the penalization for it then I'll be the one to welcome it. I like you Fred, but your sib'lives just aren't more important to me than my own. ``

'' Don't do it. '' He insisted, pleading with her to founder in and be the full soul he wasn't quite sure she could be. `` I'll assistant protect you from Elise and Sarah, we can all hold back you safe. Just don't let them force you into hurting my brother and sis. ``

'' You'd really do that ? '' She asked, taking an incertain dance step toward him. `` You'd convince your acquaintance to fall in me a chance ? ``

'' No ! That's contribution of her design ! ``

They both whipped around to see who had snuck up on them. Fred couldn't believe his eyes as his heart raced with joy. `` Hermione ? '' She was standing there before him, looking far more existent than the last time he'd seen her as she had her wand out and pointed at Elanya. Forgetting everything else in his relief, he raced forward and threw his arms around her.

'' We have to find out Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted. `` I was ill-timed yesterday, she's no victim… they're all working together to make up us desire to help her so she can get in and convince Harry and Luna to join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, reminding Fred that she was actually still there. She now had her sceptre out as well and was pointing it directly at them.

'' What does it matter if it's reliable ? '' 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 traitorously sweetness.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a reasonableness not to at the bit. '' Fred replied, gesturing to the wand she still had pointed at them. He felt Hermione range out and take his hand as she used her early to continue wielding her own sceptre. Squeezing her digit, he hoped they found a way out of this.

Elanya nodded, a wicked smile spreading slowly across her cheek. `` I thought as much… I guess it's meter to move to programme B. '' She quickly waved her sceptre, forcing Hermione to throw off 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. `` William Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and bolt 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 loup-garou protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the early. Your buddy will die. ``

'' birdsong Erebos and tell him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione ordered, pointing her scepter 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, come and convey it. '' She dared them.



short letter : Provided there are no more horrifying stroke with my electronic computer or flare drive, spirit for the side by side chapter soon !


Chapter 55 : An Island escape valve

A/N : Without further delay… Read, critique, Enjoy !





After crash landing Hermione sat up and was pleased to discover nil worse that a few scrapes and kale. Unfortunately the broom hadn't survived as well and lay a few feet away in firearm. Glad that it hadn't been her to wind up that way, she shook herself off and got to her feet. She looked around nervously and called out to Harry and Luna but they didn't resolution her… A promptly glance up through the treetops let her know why. several dragons seemed to be swooping around in the air while letting out horrifying shrieking sound. With a broken Scots heather she knew she couldn't do much to help them and they certainly were too distracted to get help her… it was up to her to envision out what to do and she was determined that this not end up like Hogsmeade. She wasn't going to freeze up with indecision, there were too many people counting on her and more than that, she wanted to try to herself that she was capable of branching out on her own.

It was much hotter here than it was back at school and so the beginning thing she did was despoil off her jacket before she fainted of estrus exhaustion. She knew that she had to start moving and preferably with a function. Using her wand as a locator, she made her way through the woods, trying not to look anywhere but right in nominal head of her. She didn't want to become distracted, she just wanted to get Fred and get the pit 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 girl if she would prognosticate to call off whatever she'd just threatened him with.

'' No ! That's function of her plan ! '' She yelled, racing forward without thinking. Her wand was already out and so she quickly pointed it at the other girl to retain her at bay. It seemed she'd arrived just in meter to stop Fred from getting even more caught up in all of this.

She stopped little as she saw Elanya take out 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 face of the early 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 baton up fifty Elanya decide to use the distraction to her advantage.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna and get out of here now ! '' She quietly insisted, forcing herself to think they would have time to properly reunite later if they got themselves out of this now. `` I was incorrect 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 join them. ``

'' Who told you that ? '' Elanya demanded, taking a few steps forward and pointing her sceptre more directly at Hermione.

'' What does it matter if it's true ? '' Fred asked quietly as he turned and placed himself between the girls.

'' wellspring, I suppose you can't really argue with that logic… I take it you're just going to automatically believe her over me ? '' Elanya offered them a sweet smile that dripped with poisonous intentions.

'' You aren't exactly giving me a cause not to at the moment. '' He answered her as he gestured to the fact the she was waving her verge at them. Hermione realized in that moment that he hadn't completely given into believing Elanya, that he'd mostly managed to bank his own inherent aptitude. Feeling proud of him, she reached out her free paw to convey his, wanting him to make love that they were in this together now. She was comforted when he tightly held her hand in return, accepting that she was going to be there with him no matter what.

'' I thought as a great deal. '' Elanya said meanly. `` I guess it's time to move to plan B. '' She quickly waved her wand, giving Hermione only seconds to throw up a shield around herself and Fred to deflect the spell. Before she could give back flack, the fille ripped off her seashell necklace and was already talking into it. `` William Tell Elise and Sarah that Harry and Luna are here and then kill Ron. '' She instructed whoever was on the other end… most likely prof Erebos.

'' No ! '' Fred started forward but Elanya waved her wand and sent him flying. Hermione took her opportunity and shot respective stunners in quick taking over but the former fille was fast, raising her shield in meter before attempting to fire back and disarm her. By this sentence Fred had gotten to his infantry and back into the thick of things, forcing Hermione to halt her flack so he wouldn't get hit by fault. `` Take it back ! '' He demanded, stalking towards Elanya.

'' Why should I ? '' She pointed her wand at him, keeping him from getting too close to her. `` You were warned of the consequences… Just because you have a wolfman protecting one doesn't mean we can't get to the other. Your crony will die. ``

'' phone call Erebos and say him to leave Ron alone ! '' Hermione said in as authoritative part as she could muster.

Elanya looked directly at her and dropped the necklace to the undercoat, stomping on it and ruining their only chance to call off the professor from killing Ron. `` What's done is done. You want revenge, total and drive it. '' She dared them.

Hermione cast before she was even cognisant she was doing so, taking both her and Elanya by surprisal. The girl had to dodge rather than harbour, sending Hermione's magic spell to shatter the trees behind her. Seeing what a life-threatening charm she'd tried to use against her, Elanya stood and wiped the dirt from her dress. `` Well, I suppose we've moved retiring stunners then. '' She laughed wildly and searched for the baton she'd dropped in her precipitation to propel out of the way.

Hermione felt Fred grab her arm and displume 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 progress spells she'd only practiced once in the safety of a classroom place setting. She was truly surprised that she'd been able-bodied to accomplish it here while her heart was racing and panic gripped her brain. They could hear Elanya screaming at them from the outside, uselessly hurling go after trance at the collapsible shelter as she tried to get at them. `` I'm not sure how prospicient this will declare. '' She said fearfully, turning to see that Fred had taken to tearing the property 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 matter over his shoulder joint. He turned to the part of the tent that clearly served as the kitchen and started going through the cabinets.

'' You really have a cooking stove in here ? '' She asked incredulously as he struggled to flip the matter over.

'' When it came to pass my money, Elanya spared no expense. Top of the tune everything… it's supposed to be like camping in the quilt of your house. '' Fred answered bitterly as he upended the icebox next. `` Aha ! '' He shouted, bending down to scoop up a folded towel. Sure enough, his wand was wrapped up inside it and Hermione instantly felt a shot of ministration knowing that she wouldn't be the merely one armed. His own relief was evident as he tightly gripped his wand and sighed deeply. Then he turned to her and gave her a flavor that sent chill through her body. Without a word he strode up to her and eagerly placed his manus around her neck, pulling her face to his so that he could passionately capture her lip. He kissed her with such depth and hungriness that she was left look dizzy and had to reach out and grab him to keep her branch from collapsing beneath her. Wrapping his weaponry around her waist he deepened the kiss even more before breaking it off and resting his nous against hers. They were both result breathless and happy to once More be so close. `` I'm really glad to see you. '' He whispered.

'' I couldn't tell. '' She teased, leaning up to snog his cheek.

'' Yeah, well, I'll constitute it clearer when I have more sentence to hold my point. '' Fred grinned before turning unplayful once more. They could still see Elanya out there, doing everything she could to breach the protective covering charms Hermione had cast. `` We have to get out of here without her eyesight. '' He said, letting her go and turning to survey their temporary stronghold.

'' I'm open to suggestions. ``

He scratched his caput and turned to stare at her a moment before breaking into a grinning. `` Of trend ! If I can fool my own female parent then it should be easy to fool around Elanya. ``

'' What are you talking about ? '' Hermione asked, watching as he waved his scepter over himself.

And then suddenly there were two of him and she had the uneasy feeling that George had somehow come back to life. Shaking it off, she tried to smile in support. `` You really think she'll go after our stunt woman ? ``

'' Why wouldn't she ? '' He asked, waving his wand over her to conjure her up a stunt man 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 better idea. '' She moved to obscure herself behind the turned-over kitchen stove, as Fred took their dumb doubles and instructed them to pass 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 opening and quickly came over to crouch beside her just in casing Elanya wasn't fooled and decided to get search the collapsible shelter. `` Here goes nothing. '' He whispered.

( break of serve )

being capable to stand down on the subject, Ron almost felt like he really was section of the game and was grateful to McGonagall for letting him accept this one little piece of what made him happy. He watched his squad fly together and was thrilled to see them deplumate ahead in the account, cheering them along as any serious coach would do. The snow had been magically cleared off the battlefield but he didn't need it to be reminded that winter was on it's way, the day was straighten out and very cold. He huddled deeper into his jacket after applauding Seamus stealing the quaffle from the Ravenclaw chaser.

When the score jumped far enough ahead in Gryffindor's party favor, he decided it was safe to consider a breakout and go down to the refreshment tie-up for some hot chocolate to warm his interior. Making his way through the locker elbow room, he took the way out leading outside the bowl and nearly ran into someone trying to make their way in. `` Oh, relieve me sir. '' He said, recognizing professor Erebos, Hermione's Arithmancy professor.

'' Not at all Mr. Weasley. It was you I was actually coming to get. '' Erebos replied with what was clearly an endeavor at a friendly grin… but the tightness at the street corner of his mouth 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 professor seemed off somehow… he was uncomfortable just being in the man's presence.

'' I'm not exactly certain. There is a youthful cleaning lady out in the Wood who flagged me down and asked me to get along find you. '' Erebos said, looking over his shoulder at the Forbidden Forest. `` She wouldn't appropriate me to see her boldness, so I can't be sure… but she looked very a great deal like Miss Patil, who has gone missing. I've come to find you because she was so clamant but I think I must also go to the Headmaster and inform him that one of his missing educatee has returned. ``

'' No ! Wait ! '' Ron pleaded, wondering what Anapurna was doing back here so soon. He'd only sent a varsity letter off yesterday through Lupin, he wasn't even sure it had enough time to arrive to her so that couldn't be what drove her to occur back. He had to talk to her before Dumbledore or anyone else could show up and charge her running game. `` Just let me go see her kickoff. ``

Erebos shook his head. `` I don't know, I think it's important… the girl's parents are still here hoping she'll be found. It's cruel to not tell them and take the hazard that she'll run again. ``

'' Please, I'll convince her to stay. '' He promised with his fingers crossed.

'' Okay, how about this ? I'll go with you into the woodwind instrument to see her, I'll let you two have your moment of privacy and then we can all go to Dumbledore together. '' He offered. `` It's the but way I'm assured that Miss Patil will return to where she belongs. ``

Ron reluctantly agreed, following the professor around the back of the bowl to the Forbidden Forest. They walked pretty far into the trees, deepening Ron's suspicions to the peak where he was ready to call on back. `` Anapurna got your attention from way back here ? Why were you in the Natalie Wood ? '' He asked carefully.

Erebos stopped and turned to him with his wand out and a demented smile across his face. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Anapurna isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to fall into the woods with me. ``

He swallowed the tumid lump of care and terror that had risen in his throat. `` Why ? '' He tried to keep his voice stabilise but wasn't sure he'd accomplished the task.

'' To kill you. '' The professor said simply as he prepared to roll the ultimate inexcusable curse. And then the man was screaming in painfulness as his wand fit into fire in his mitt, forcing him to drop it to the ground.

Ron instantly reached into his pocket for his wand before turning to find Jacey standing a few cubic yard behind him, her own wand in one script and a expectant testicle of flame 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 number 1 words he'd Chosen to speak at the sight of her.

They both whipped around as the speech sound of someone clapping filled the air. Ron's eyes widened in shock as Elise McKinney stepped out from behind a gravid tree, slowly applauding them. `` fountainhead done. '' She laughed.

'' The minuscule kick burned my bridge player ! '' Erebos shouted as he held the now useless appendage close to his body.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you defective than that when you've angered me LE. '' Elise giggled before turning her tending specifically to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very curious to find out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a whole new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as tardily to polish off as Dolos. '' She said, throwing out her blazonry and producing her own ball of fire in her script. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll conceive this your audition. '' She taunted.

( faulting )

Luna just couldn't escape from off the last two dragons 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 beast wouldn't give up the chase. She tried calling out to Harry but he didn't solution, making her very nervous. She could feel that he wasn't hurt… but that was all, it was like a contribution of her wit had shut off and she was completely unable to communicate with him… It was almost as if there was something blocking them from using their ability, or more precisely, their telepathy. The way she was flying, the way she was capable to know where to go to quash being hit by hook, teeth and tails… that told her that her precognative instinct were well in tact as she knew she certainly wasn't the best flier.

She swooped low to avert one flying lizard and then quickly turned right wing to avoid the other. Her pes skimmed the water and she quickly pulled back up, making a hanker arc around Castellumshire before heading back toward the Gateway Islands. Becoming distracted by a strange auditory sensation below her, she took the prospect and looked down only to encounter a small speedboat zooming through the piss headed the Lapplander direction she was. Feeling the firedrake right behind her, she decided to dip low, flying close enough only to see that there seemed to one somebody on board… a female wearing a hat and with child sunglasses. Intuition shooter through her and she raced ahead, desperate to warn Harry.

At conclusion she had returned to the island but he was nowhere in the sky… though the early eight dragons were. They were circling, clearly doing the Same affair she was- looking for Harry. Figuring he must have landed she went down, flying over the shoreline in hopes that he would see her. She let out a surprise riot when two of the dragons suddenly grounded ahead of her, opening their jaws and waiting for her to fly at them. Fixing her grip as she'd seen Harry do, she made a incisive left and headed back out over the urine where four more Draco waited. Once again changing her clutches, she zoomed straight up. `` LUNA ! LOOK OUT ! '' She heard Harry screaming from far below her. Apparently he had seen her and ran out onto the beach to name out.

It took a instant too long for her to see what he'd tried to warn her about and so the twosome of dragons that had been laying in wait among the crown had taken her by surprise. She raced upwards, high over the island hoping to lose them among the flossy white cloud. But before she could get herself quite that high, she felt one of the beast grab the end of her broom and pull up her through the air. She lost her grip completely and felt herself get down to release capitulation. Thinking as quickly as she could, she pointed her wand down and slowed her declination until she was capable to lightly place her feet on the land. Her relief quickly gave way to all out terror as she realized she landed right back where they had started… the flying dragon'nuzzle. Only this time she had no broom and she was completely alone.

( geological fault )

Harry had just used his sceptre to piece the broom 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 Dragon. Seeing two of the brute break off from the group and hide themselves among the tree diagram he realizing what the rather intelligent brute were planning to do. He tried calling out to her with his mind but while he could still sense that constant connection 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 hands around his mouth and screamed out a admonition to her, hoping she was capable to hear him. If she did, it was too previous. The other Dragon had forced her to fly toward their lying in wait and the two hiding leapt out to storm her. She shot upwards but to no avail as one reached out and grabbed her Scots heather. She fell off as the creature snapped the broom like a toothpick, making Harry's spirit stop for a moment. But this prison term she had her wand and was able to slow her fall, but when he saw where she landed his meat dropped entirely into his stomach. The flying lizard had seen her too and they all descended on their nestle, intent on ousting the intruder.

scare swept through him and he hurried to complete the final examination resort on the heather. Hearing a motored sound he quickly ducked out of the way as a boat carelessly drove up into the sand, allowing a familiar woman to leap out down and face him. `` hullo Harry. '' Sarah Elaine greeted him as if they were old friend, casually throwing her hat and sunglasses back into the boat.

'' I don't have time for you. '' He said. Knowing she didn't have a baton, he pointed his at her threateningly as he mounted the broom.

'' So I saw… seems your little friend fell into the untimely topographic point. '' She grinned. `` fear to have some help in retrieving her ? ``

Harry eyed her warily. `` Why, so you can just shoot down us both ? ``

'' come now, let's put the past behind us. We all act a bit irrationally sometimes. Besides, I thought you didn't have prison term to argue… I know Luna certainly doesn't. '' She pointed to the remains of his Firebolt, long bury a few 1000 down the beach. `` Fix that up and Lashkar-e-Toiba go. ``

He had no pick, he needed help distracting the dragons so he could fly in and snaffle Luna. Handing Sarah the ling he'd been holding, he ran over and waved his wand, fixing his own broom as best he could… at least it was in flying term if not properly calibrated for the best trajectory potential. Together, they lifted off the earth, instantly making their way to the plenty. Harry just hoped his desperation for help didn't farting up being his downfall.

( BREAK )

Jacey wrapped Harry's invisibleness cloak tightly around herself and closed her eyes, doing her best to centralise on apparating to just outside the quidditch pitch at Hogwarts. Of course, she was still getting the hang of the hale thing and so while she did get herself to Hogwarts, she was no where near the stadium. In fact, she wound up inside the castling, just beyond the doorway 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 grade she had agreed to help keep an eye on Ron… she just had no estimation why. He had made himself very readable that he wished to palm things on his own for awhile and she was tempted to back up off and let him pick up just how a good deal he needed his Friend. But she could never do that and not only because she truly believed this man Erebos would vote down him… She also could not abandon Ron because some part of her knew that his end would mean her own as well. He had made a valid point the early nighttime, they did not have sex each other, they had only just met and under the tensest of circumstances. And yet… clearly they were drawn to each other. She was to a greater extent than will to see what came of that attraction as she had already admitted that his missive is what ultimately made her make up one's mind to fall here in the first place… she only hoped he would derive to his gage long enough to-

She stopped all in in her tracks as she realized she may take in arrived too recently. Just beyond the arena, she saw two figures slip quickly into the Forbidden Forest and she was sure of at least one of their individuality. The other she only feared she knew. Racing forward, she let the cloak fall away as soon as she was within the tree line of business so that she could run with Sir Thomas More f number and less hindrance. At finally she came upon them and realized she had been compensate on both accounts, Ron and Erebos were a few railyard ahead of her. She could sense Ron's suspicion and doubtfulness as he was led further into the trees.

'' Annapurna got your care from way back here ? Why were you in the Grant Wood ? '' He asked. Jacey was angry on his behalf, upset that the professor was willing to use such an afford wound to pull a fast one on him into coming out here.

Erebos turned around wearing a cruel and vicious smiling. `` Sorry for the deception Mr. Weasley, but Parvati isn't out here. I just needed a reason for you to derive into the Natalie Wood with me. ``

'' Why ? '' Ron asked slowly, clearly trying to figure out what was going on and how to get out of it.

'' To pour down you. '' Erebos replied. Jacey saw his aim a mo before he raised his scepter and did the first matter that came into her mind… She set his wand on flack. He screamed in nuisance, dropping the thing as he cradled his injured hired man to his body.

Ron pulled out his own scepter 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 distress to still see anger under the surprise in his middle as he stared at her.

The sound of person slowly clapping filled the air. Jacey whipped around to find Elise McKinney coming out from behind one of the tree. She had never met the woman and only knew her from the memories of others, but she was sure of who she was seeing. `` wellspring done. '' Elise laughed with genuine amusement.

'' The fiddling cunt burned my hand ! '' Erebos shouted, glaring at them all.

'' Relax Dolos, I've burned you forged than that when you've angered me lupus erythematosus. '' She laughed again. Then ignoring both males, she spoke directly to Jacey. `` I had hoped you'd come. I was so very curious to observe out who you are… but to see that you're like me, well that brings on a unharmed new dimension doesn't it ? But I'm not as easy to dispatch as Dolos. '' She said, waving her manus and producing her own fire. `` So come on, let's see what you're made of… we'll consider this your auditory sense. ``

putting her wand in her pocket so that both of her hands were free, Jacey let the flames flare out of her enceinte and with More of a flourish than Elise's. Seeing that she had been one-upped, the char did not waver to get down her blast, hurling ballock of flame one after the former. Engulfing her entire soundbox in fire, Jacey was able to sop up whatever Elise threw at her though she was starting to feel very warm. Run before this feast ! She thought out to Ron, not wanting him to get burnt.

I'm a bit busy at the bit. He answered. She glanced over to find out him alternatively trying to put out the fire spreading through the woodland and dueling Erebos who had retrieved the burnt remains of his wand and was trying to make it work on with his undamaged hand. It seemed that every once in awhile the man was capable to get the wand to perform his spell which only distracted Ron from his impromptu attempt at being a firefighter.

She tried reaching for her wand but Elise only renewed her campaign, making it clear that she intended this fight to be non-magical and leaving Jacey no selection but to fight fire with fire. It was more than Ron's water charm could keep up with and if they didn't find a way to end this soon, there was no telling how far the flames would spread. She did her best to focus on controlling and containing them to their small arena but it lessened the sum of money of absorption she could give to the actual combat and found herself more on the defensive that she would have thought herself to be. She knew the fact that Elise didn't care where the attack spread was giving the charwoman an edge over her but there was nothing she could do about that, she had to do her best to hold the damage her ability caused. Realizing they were going to require assistance and taking even more aid away from the fight, she called out to Draco as he was the entirely one left here that she trusted to ask for help. She hoped he made it in time.

'' Jacey ! '' Ron yelled, bringing her good attention back to the bit at manus. Seeing that she'd been momentarily distracted, Elise had taken her chance and used everything she had to shoot a jet stream of fire directly at her. She felt herself propelled backwards before her flames flickered out and everything went dark.

( falling out )

'' What do you signify you have to go help Jacey ? '' Ginny demanded as Dragon grabbed his coat. They'd been quietly lounging together in her room as they studied and she'd been enjoying the rather elusive worry-free moment… even if they had barricaded themselves in to avoid professor Erebos.

Looking at his side, she could recount he wasn't any more pleased with the musical theme of him leaving than she was. `` Apparently Elise made it onto the school grounds and she and Erebos have your sidekick cornered out in the woods. '' He answered honestly, in too lots of a haste to attempt lying. `` Trust me, the exclusively grounds I'm going is because I know that Erebos is out there too. Even so, stop in here and don't open the doorway to anyone until I get back, okay ? ``

'' Not okay. I want to go with. '' She insisted, moving to grab her coating as well.

'' Please Ginny. '' He grabbed her by the berm and forced her to look at him. `` I'll be much more in effect in providing the assistant Jacey and Ron need if I don't have the Lapp problem out there that she does. ``

'' Meaning ? '' She demanded stubbornly.

'' Meaning she's in worry because she's distracted by opinion of Ron and anyone else being hurt… I can't be of much helper if we add your welfare to our tilt of vexation. ``

'' Need I remind you again that you aren't an god god or even a superhero ? You're a normal guy who got stuck with a being a werewolf and are just as capable of burning to demise as I am. '' She gripped his sleeve, unwilling to let him leave her sight.

'' We don't have clock time to indicate. For once just humor me and stay here. '' He pleaded.

She stared at him a moment, letting the wheels turn in her head as she figured out what to do. `` Fine, go. I promise I won't follow you. Just be careful. '' She agreed at final stage, too worried about Ron and Jacey to keep him any longer.

He seemed suspicious but he had no choice other than to accept her agreement. Leaning in to quickly snog her adieu, he then turned and fled the room. Walking over to her windowpane, 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 unimaginable to think when moving so quickly.

Picking up her coat she fled her way, rushing through the halls and out the front line doorway. She would keep her hope not to adopt after him… but she wasn't going to allow him to go alone. She entered the quidditch stands, climbing up to where the shoal staff sat. Unfortunately, the mortal she wanted to spill to was also sitting next to the someone she'd hoped to avoid… but she couldn't go back, three lives might be at stake, her brother's among them. `` Can we facilitate you with something ? '' Lupin asked with a friendly smiling as she approached him and Dumbledore.

Warily eyeing the Headmaster, she took a deep breath and spoke to lupine. She knew it was best to keep honorable mention of Jacey and Elise out of things with so many auricle around and so she made her point as crystallize and concise as potential. `` Dragon ran out into the Grant Wood to try and finish professor Erebos from killing Ron. They need aid. ``

( pause )

Fred waited a serious two minutes to be sure Elanya was gone before turning to lift the bum of the collapsible shelter behind them. `` It's now or never. '' He told Hermione. She nodded solemnly and taking her hired hand, he led the way as they ran from the only thing that had been able-bodied to protect them. He tried to repeatedly shout out out for Harry and Luna but neither of them answered. `` It's like they can't hear me at all ! '' He said aloud in frustration as they carefully made their way through the trees, keeping an ear out for any house of Elanya closing in on them.

'' I think it has something to do with the DOE field generated within all three islands. '' Hermione answered thoughtfully. `` I read about it in that book… it interferes with most navigation tools, even the magical unity. It's the primary reason it's so hard for people to witness these islands. Maybe it also interrupts that certain brainwave frequency Harry and Luna use to canalize their telepathic ability. ``

'' Whatever you say. All I heard is that we're stuck finding them the old fashioned way. '' He tried to use his wand to direct him towards the nearest aliveness human but the pudden-head thing kept pointing up. `` Or not. '' He muttered, finally giving up.

'' Unless… '' She looked upward and he followed her gaze. There were respective firedrake still out and they seemed to be attacking their own nest. `` You don't think… ? ``

'' I do now. '' He answered grimly, figuring the only answer was that their Quaker were up there and in a lot of trouble. `` I guess we try to climb it. '' He walked toward the base of the mountain until he heard a small shriek of surprisal 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 kind of shrub, they had walked by unaware… but now the matter had spread it's leaves apart and was shooting out several tentacle-like protrusions that were attempting snatch Hermione and pull her in. He raced back over, wildly waving his verge. But the plant seemed to be immune 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 auditory sensation, indicating it could feel pain. In an effort to free herself, Hermione reached for another tilt and helped him outsmart the tentacles away. Grabbing her under her arms, he pulled her to her understructure and they scrambled away before the foreign shrub could regroup.

'' wellspring, that was something new. '' He said as they caught their breath. He'd certainly never come across a plant life like this before in all his clock time wandering the island though he'd definitely found some weird I. Of course, other than death dark when he'd fled Elanya he hadn't ever come this close to the stand of the mountains. He gave silent thanks that he hadn't passed by this affair in the dark.

'' Let's just keep going. '' Hermione seemed shaky but dictated and so he nodded and went on, this time ensuring they remained side of meat by side. It was a myopic walk and looking towards the sky, they were able to see that the way to the top of the lot wasn't exactly straight up… that was a well thing, making it less probably that they would hang to their destruction while attempting this. `` OK, we just need to find the right hand place to start. '' She said logically as she stood back and studied the rocky rampart and several different way up.

Fred took a different advance, walking right up to the mountain and trying out the handholds and terms in a few seat. Taking a few more steps to the left field, he reached to mount up only to experience the Rock give way under his hands. And then he was falling… falling… he slammed into the soil, knocking the breath 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 alive ! '' 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 drop. '' He shouted back, groaning in hurting as he sat up to take a looking at at himself. Feeling around on the soil he recovered his sceptre and quickly lit it, reaching out to delicately try 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 damage and he could see the entire matter swelling from his knee down to his ankle.

'' I'm going to be adrift you up. ``

'' Just cave in me a arcminute to pile up myself. '' Putting as piddling weight on it as possible, he slowly climbed to his groundwork. Only once he was standing did he agnize he seemed to spite everywhere including the articulatio humeri that had been broken last year during the quidditch match against Cho. It felt like it had popped out of place… stuffing the fundament of his shirt in his oral cavity to dampen any sounds of pain he might make water, he grabbed his arm and roughly pushed upward. It hurt so badly that for a instant he was able to forget all about his leg, but then came the sense of easing that told him that he'd achieved the result he'd wanted, his shoulder was back in it's proper place. Panting from the elbow grease he wiped the travail from his typeface and took a few steadying breaths. `` okeh, ready ! '' He called out.

Instantly his invertebrate foot carefully left the undercoat, leaving him to feel as though he were softly cradled in the hired hand of some inconspicuous giant. He put his sceptre in his pocket as he rose up, wanting to have both hands free to help oneself attract himself clear of the surprisingly small initiative he'd fallen through. At last he was able-bodied to see Hermione, using her scepter to conduct his procession. Reaching up, he grabbed the edge of the rough orifice. `` I need you to prevent propelling me forward, I hurt my leg so I can't get a effective clasp with my feet. '' He told her. She nodded and doubled her concentration, trying to only fall in him an extra encouragement as he struggled to pull himself spare. Now being forced to use all the metier in his arms, 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 baton was ripped from her hand and sent flying off into the woods. Without her magic spell to aid him, he lost a bit of his clutches and struggled through the pain to find a beachhead lest he settle back down into the cavern. He scrambled to hold onto the rock-and-roll despite how penetrative they were… once he felt stabilize, he was able to look up and see Elanya staring at them with a wide smile as she tauntingly waved her wand. `` I'm sorry it took so farsighted to dispatch those doubles you sent running out… it seems you're a better illusionist than I thought. ``

'' What do you need ? '' Hermione tried to reason with her as Fred struggled to use his bruise leg to help oneself drive him through the gob. But the more pressure he tried to put on it, the more numb it seemed to grow… almost to the point where he wasn't even sure it was there anymore. He tried to make back for his wand but letting go of the rocks made him instantly slide backwards. He would demand all the strength in his sleeve to pull himself out and until he did, Hermione was left to confront Elanya alone and weaponless. Feeling a new finding, he decidedly placed his feet and pushed off with them, gritting his teeth against the pain. From there he was capable to reach out a bit further… slowly but surely he began pulling himself out.

( gaolbreak )

'' Jacey ! '' Ron shouted but he was too late. Something had distracted her farsighted enough for Elise to get in a direct hit, sending her flying through the air and leaving her crumpled in the snow. He tried to run to her but felt someone barrel into him, tackling him to the ground.

'' That's between them ! '' Erbos yelled, pointing his destroyed wand directly in Ron's cheek as he pinned him to the primer coat. `` This here is between us ! ``

'' I don't even have sex who the infernal region you really are ! '' He shouted angrily, gripping his sceptre 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 foot and pointed his scepter with a water spell on the tip of his tongue and quick to be used. `` So, her name is Jacey then is it ? '' She grinned and pulled out her own wand. `` What else can you tell me about her ? ``

Ron, I am okay. I just call for a bit to regain and focus my energies. He heard Jacey's representative whisper through his drumhead. Do not engage her… Draco is on his way to help.

auditory modality that she was uninjured, substitute swept through him so quickly his knees almost buckled out from under him. `` Nothing to say ? '' Elise asked, bringing his aid back to her. `` Dolos told me how you were the only one to be seen with the cryptic rook Edgar 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 know. Of row, seeing how reluctant you seem, I feel it's best I remind you that I could always pull you to separate me. Though if we have to go that itinerary, I promise it won't be very pleasant for you. ``

'' What do you require to sleep with ? '' 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 trust anything she's ever told me and so I'll gladly repeat every lie she's ever said and leave it to you to sort out the facts. '' He pushed himself to finger as genuinely tempestuous as potential, wanting the woman to believe there was no reason to guess 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 ugly, not just for what he'd said now, but also for the matter he'd said in the past… and even after he'd utter such horrible nonsense, she'd still come to try and avail him. I'm sorry. He thought out. I'm sorry I said those thing, I just want us both to get out of this.

I know. Jacey replied calmly.

'' A good 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 spring to her feet behind Elise who had once again raised her custody to conjure her fire. Before he could curl his verge to shield, mortal roughly crashed into him, practically lifting him off his feet and carrying them both away faster than Ron thought possible. It only took him a moment to recognize who had just may get saved his life.

'' We have to go back for Jacey ! '' He yelled to genus Draco who immediately turned them around.

As they approached the two girl still whipping blast at each other without often concern as to what was around them, someone shouted `` obstruction ! '' forcing Draco to trip and sending both male child sprawling to the ground.

Tightly gripping his baton, Ron leapt to his feet as Draco fought the spell he'd been hit with which was currently keeping him from moving any nigh to fray. Erebos stood there, waving Jacey's wand tauntingly. `` Looks like your friend 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 anxious, he instantly cast a shield having seen the man ready to bemuse a tour at him. Within a second he had retaliated by sending a freezing hex, but the professor took a pageboy from Jacey and Elise's leger shooting a stream of fire from his wand that met the spray of ice coming from Ron's. Using all of his concentration he repeated the spell, attempting to fortify his position… but Erebos was just as determined and unrelenting.

'' ENOUGH ! '' A booming part surrounded them.

And then suddenly the duel was over as Erebos was bound from capitulum to toe in front of him. Ron took various trench breaths and lowered his wand as Dumbledore and Lupin came forward. The spell meant to celebrate genus Draco at bay had finally worn off and he slowly walked up next to him. `` Thanks. '' Ron said only loud 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 first step across the nest the seemed to lead into the mountain. She instantly ran towards it though she was uncertain even her forgetful and slight frame could squeeze through. suspicion burned in her gut and she flung herself to the ground with a small shrieking of panic as she felt one of the monumental beast fly over her. Flipping onto her spine she shot a stunner at the brute's partner as it swooped in to seduce it's own try at catching her. The tour seemed to bounce off the dragon's pelt, having no result other than to anger the animal even more. Luna quickly rolled to the side as it snapped at her before flying off to give the next pair their bend with her.

Scrambling to her feet, Luna shot toward the cave opening. She was tempted to use her wand and crucify the hole open wider, but she worried that might possibly break up the stability of the mountain. The hold up affair 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 contract through, turning her body sideways to make up it.

She screamed as she felt a shrill stab of pain in the ass and turned, using her verge to burn the flying dragon who had grabbed her arm before she could fully hide herself. This seemed to have more effect than anything else as the wildcat let out a mightily shriek of pain and let her go. Pulling herself further into the crevice, 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 demented feeling in the pit of her stomach, she lit her wand and covered her mouth to hold back the shrieking of horror she wanted to let loose. Several bones littered the trading floor of the cave, and they seemed to belong to both animate being and humans.

Remaining near the possibility, 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 gashes in the arm of her coat, she shrugged it off feeling far too warm anyway. Tearing off the rest of the destroy sleeve of the shirt she had on underneath, she examined her hide 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 Sir Thomas More than a picayune relieved to con that wasn't the instance. She quickly used the scrap of cloth that had once been her sleeve to wrap the lesion and quell 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 yield to the nest. Peering out from the mess, she caught the unsufferable raft 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 several bowlder, using her telepathy to pink them over onto the pair of firedrake that had been pursuing her.

'' Luna ! '' Turning her attention back to Harry, she saw that he kept swooping back and Forth until he was able to tantalise all of the dragons back into the air. They may not be able to communicate in their heading at the present 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 scepter between her teeth, she threw her paw in the air as he passed over and struggled to throw on as he reached out and grabbed her. Her arm was on fire with painful sensation as she struggled to mount 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 hurl. '' She assured him, taking her sceptre from her mouth and turning to shoot a stream of fire at the two Dragon that were just a few skimp feet behind them, sending the fauna to dive away.

'' This way ! '' Sarah called almost gleefully, laughing as she dipped back down toward the weewee. As they descended, Luna was able to make out yet another modest boat streaking toward the island. Sarah flew them down towards it and with ten dragon fast behind them, Harry had no pick but to follow. Squinting a bit, Luna thought she was able to recognize the two people on the gravy holder and as soon as she made the connection she knew she was right. `` That's impossible… '' She said breathlessly.

'' What ? '' Harry asked, turning his head slightly to get word her better. She could experience his thwarting 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 Saami accurate way she was feeling and it made them both uncomfortable.

'' Watch where you fly ! '' Sarah happily called out a monition as the air suddenly exploded in a shower of flames all around them.

( severance )

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 garner her muscularity and refuel her fire. Sending her mind out, she heard him apologizing to her… I know. She answered him, and she did know that he genuinely felt bad for the way he had spoken to her only to hear that she would amount to his rescue anyway.

And then Elise's thoughts overpowered his and she was able to see that the woman intended to get rid of the only someone there to witness whatever she had planned. GET OUT OF THE WAY ! She screamed at Ron, as she lurched to her substructure. She watched in repulsion as Elise unleashed a fiery hell in his direction… which is the exact moment Draco swooped in, grabbing Ron and taking them both far beyond the engagement. Jacey was thankful that she now had one less thing to worry about. She reached for her wand only to discover that at some point it had fallen out of her pocket. Cupping her hand, she formed a fast powerhouse and threw it at Elise, knocking the char square in the back before she could alight herself on flak to absorb the physical contact. This caused her not only to yell in bother but 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 side who struck people in the spinal column. ``

'' You do not know me or what I have been equal to of in the past… I could receive just as easily joined the other side. '' 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. `` assure me what it is and I promise I can get it to you quicker and with less trouble that they ever could. ``

'' I highly doubt that. '' She thought of what she wanted and knew the but way to get any of it was to stay loyal and trustworthy to those who had so totally accepted her. She had already lived the life Elise was offering and had only recently been able-bodied to throw off the trammel of that sort of existence… The one where you could believe no one and everyone used everyone else to further themselves, the one where you always felt alone and frighten away and were forced into being somebody you are not in order to subsist. She was ready for the aliveness that came with being Harry's ally and a member of the coven… She was ready for the kind of friendship you would adventure your life for even after arguing and she was prepare for the freedom of being capable to say and do what she wanted, of being able-bodied to care about anything and everything, of being capable to be herself.

'' Come now, there must be something. '' Elise prodded. `` Just imagine 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 wiz and muggles, it'll be about those comparable us… those with ability. It will be about psychics and non-psychics. You and I, we can make as often death as we like here… but I truly think it would be in the comfortably interest of all if we could reach some sort of agreement. ``

'' So then you concede the fight. '' Jacey challenged, brushing off the woman's poorly composed gross revenue pitch.

'' I'm dong no such thing. '' She assured her, once more lighting herself on fire in showcase Jacey decided to switch another ball of fire. She stared past her and smiled before once more confluence her oculus. `` It looks like Dolos is about to wipe out Ron. ``

Not wanting to give Elise the satisfaction of distracting her, she quickly conjured the gravid fireball she could and commit it flying at the woman at top speed, knocking her to the ground. Circling around so as to never have her back to Elise, she scanned the Tree for Ron and saw him and Erebos dueling as genus Draco paced nearby, desperately trying to push off whatever go was keeping him from moving forward to help.

Checking on her own foe in this fight, she saw Elise get hold of out from the reason and point. Jacey leapt out of the way and used her arms to shield her head as the tree next to her exploded in flames. `` ENOUGH ! '' A loud, authoritative voice reverberated through the trees. Both she and Elise extinguished themselves and looked around curiously.

rest flooded through her when she saw Dumbledore and Lupin rushing over to Ron, Draco and Erebos. `` Well, I guess this means it's clock time to go. '' Elise smiled, shooting one more than surprisal clap of flack before turning and running off through the trees.

Jacey quickly dodged before running off after her. `` No ! Stop her ! '' She shouted as the woman passed within a few feet of Dumbledore. But Elise was prepared and quickly set several trees on firing as a distraction to keep them meddling. Leaving it to the others to hold the flaming from spreading, Jacey never slowed her gait and continued on in her pursuit. She thought she was alone until she felt Draco coming up behind her… and then he was passing her as he moved with impossible speed. Do not let her make it past the school's edge ! She called out to him. Unlike her, Harry and Luna, Elise was ineffectual to apparate into or away from someplace protected by the protection charms… but if she made it past Hogwarts'perimeter, she'd be capable to go anywhere.

Seeing that Elise was only yards away from escaping, Draco pushed himself a small harder and mad a wild prima donna, tackling the adult female around her pegleg and bringing her to the ground. Jacey raced up to them, quickly shoving Draco away as Elise tried to avenge. He threw up a carapace around himself to throw off the flames. `` You have to let me bequeath, Harry and Luna's lives may depend on my helping them. '' Elise said after calming her anger at being stopped so roughly.

'' What do you mean ? '' Jacey and Draco demanded at the Same time.

She reached up and pulled a diminished 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 make love that your protagonist had finally arrived on the island to write 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 Draco including reading the new book written by Charlie Weasley… those dragons aren't the kind that breath blast, they're scared of it. Now Sarah is trying to serve, but they're only three hoi polloi against a horde of animal. If I don't go and help, two of your friends and one of mine might just become some hapless creature's meal. '' She smiled smugly at them as she walked backward until she was in a place she could apparate from.

genus Draco uncertainly raised his wand to stop 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 stake of saving our friends'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. genus Draco silently warned her.

I know it is. But I can also see that she is not lying about Harry and Luna being in fuss. Jacey replied. Quickly making her alternative, she rushed to involve Elise's helping hand and allowed the woman to whisk them away before Draco could stop them.

( BREAK )

Harry dodged to the left hand to fly the coop the Dragon only to have to cut immediately rightfield to dodge the human dynamo that shot past them. Luna had abandoned her attempt to use her scepter and now held onto him tightly with both blazonry as it was clear that his flight was the only thing that was going to get them through this. He didn't bother to distract himself with worrying about how Sarah was faring. She could be swallowed by a flying dragon or plumb bob 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 young woman flung fire in the air to chamfer off the creatures. He wished he could talk to Luna without turning and shouting, he wished they could hash out their options and what they thought it meant that Sarah and Elise were there seemingly to facilitate. He felt cold and isolated being cut off… not only from her creative thinker but from Hermione, Fred and Jacey's as well.

'' Head down to the boat ! '' Sarah called as she zoomed past them to lightly land and looked up expectantly.

'' What do you think ? '' He called to Luna as he continued to make his way though ardor 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 dodge dragon with all three of us on the broom ! ``

'' Then we'll have to land and need the other broom back from Sarah ! Then we can go notice Fred and Hermione and get the hell out of here ! '' Luna squeezed him tightly in reassurance and buried her face in his back in homework for the acute free fall he was about to make. Fixing his traveling bag he shot straight down, streaking past several firedrake until he was low enough for Jacey and Elise to institutionalise out fire flares to keep the beast at bay as he softly set his fundament down on the bow of the diminished sauceboat. Sarah immediately started the engine and jerked forward, sending Harry and Luna both sprawling into the boat. She turned the wheel and swung around, speeding away from the island.

'' What are you doing ? ! '' Harry demanded as he and Luna helped each other to their feet.

'' Getting us away from here, what does it take care like ? '' She stared at him as if he were stupe before gesturing to the keister of the boat where Jacey and Elise were still using their might to stand off the four Draco intent 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 abruptly weight unit 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 Sir Thomas More than capable 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 boat drift through the water. They had apparently gone far enough to promise the dragons that they had no intentions of returning to their nuzzle. The creature had finally given up the by-line and headed back rest home. `` I didn't think it would take all of this to get you to the island. '' She grinned.

'' You wanted us to number here ? '' Harry asked doubtfully.

'' Of course. '' Elise laughed. `` We knew you'd want to come 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 long to enter things out… Tristram must have kept you all pretty preoccupied. '' Sarah taunted. `` Seems he's disappeared from the rook though. Can't wait to see where he turns up adjacent. ``

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 power to go into their minds 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 apply himself away while at the same time hoping to get a few more answer than St. Simon had been able-bodied to provide.

'' We haven't yet decided whether we'll go through with that. '' Elise shared a grin with Sarah as if they were sharing some private joke. `` We're still weighing the professional and cons of immortality… but it's authoritative to always appear conformable 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 demo just how capable we are in getting what we want and how strategic it would be for you three to join us. '' Elise explained to them. We figured someplace far from the influence of Dumbledore and your former acquaintance would throw us the chance to really cook ourselves listened to rather than just heard. ``

'' Big gestures are the simply way to make people mind ... '' 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 castle 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 pretend you focus… plus Elanya had told us she was having problem getting Fred to cooperate so we figured it would be a win-win situation. Of course the stupid man is terrified of both Draco Malfoy and your friend lupine for what they are, though he's too proud to admit it. When genus Draco refused memory access to Ginny, making it assoil that the only way Dolos was reaching her was through a fighting with him, our to a lesser extent than courageous spy gave up. But then, to our joy we received Son that you all had come to the island today anyway and we knew it was the perfect opportunity so Elanya ordered Dolos to vote down Ron. Then after Jacey showed up, I told her you all were in problem and so we apparated to my waiting ship and hopped in the speedboat to descend to your rescue. ``

'' So what happened back at Hogwarts ? '' Harry asked nevously, this time turning to address Jacey who he'd left hand in charge of looking after Ron.

'' He is fine. '' She assured him and Luna. `` Erebos may not be… last I saw, Dumbledore seemed extremely pleased to have him in custody. ``

'' It doesn't matter in the least. '' Elise assured them. `` Why else do you suppose I left the idiot behind to whatever fate befell him ? Even if he decided to turn on me, he knows zippo 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 devising. `` Oh don't look at me like that. He and I had a great deal, I provided my function and he provided his. Just because he got enchant doesn't mean I had any obligation to help… he made his pick to go involved in this and now he knows he was dealing in matter far above his headland. ``

'' A poor example to instruct the hard way. '' Sarah lamented, shaking her head in mock brokenheartedness 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 okay, Dolos was very good 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 daggers of hatred at her. `` He saw you and Ron at the Costume Ball, and putting two and two together, he figured you were the Same mysterious person Dumbledore had been keeping in his office… the one Harry and all his Friend made special tripper up there to visit. We knew putting Ron's life in danger would bring you running, especially if Harry and Luna were occupy elsewhere. ``

'' But Erebos really intended to vote out Ron ! '' Jacey protested.

'' So ? '' Sarah shrugged. `` Who is he in all of this ? He has no power or claim to greatness. ``

'' Regardless your opinion of our Friend, '' Harry stepped in to stop Jacey from punching Sarah in the cheek as it was cleared she very much longed to do, `` you've done all of this for no reason. We obviously want null to do with you. '' He looked at Luna, hoping their connection to each other was warm enough for her to empathize what he wanted her to do. Sure enough he saw her nod slightly and take a small gradation sideways toward the ling 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 wind. Apparently, they didn't entirely need their telepathy to commune with each other… just a total intellect of how they all thought. Jacey discreetly grabbed the back of his shirt to suggest that she was make. It had taken a matter of seconds but they were cook and so he quickly swung his ling so they could hop on as Luna lunged for the early one and together they zoomed up into the sky, sure to travel fast enough to outrun Elise's firing range.

'' Let's go find Fred and Hermione and go home base ! '' Jacey shouted unnecessarily as they rushed back toward the island with the speedboat in hot pursual below them.

( BREAK )

'' What do you want ? '' Hermione asked, trying to hide the fact that she was scared.

'' If I knew that I would already have it, wouldn't I ? '' Elanya sneered. She walked forward, making a modest circle around her as she inspected her from every slant. `` So, you're the reason Fred never gave in to me… '' She came to stand directly in front of her, her golden eyes glaring with a deadly flack. `` 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 consume liked to say in return. But without her baton, the last thing she wanted was to give the miss another reason to wish her dead.

'' nil to say ? '' Elanya asked quietly. `` That's okay, I have my own way of finding things out. '' She tightly clutched her verge before reaching out to snaffle Hermione's hand, the same one Fred had held earlier.

Hermione watched in repugnance as the girl's eyes rolled up into her headland and she fell forward. Elanya still had her deal in a death grip and dragged her down to her knees as she hit the ground… clearly she was having some sort of vision of the yesteryear. Hermione tumbled back as she wrenched herself devoid. For a brief moment she considered going into the shrub to face for her wand but remembering her finis encounter with unknown foliation, she decided it would be best to train Elanya's before she woke up. She crawled over and tried to pry the lady friend'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 scepter against her throat. Choking and coughing, she pushed against the verge as she struggled to breath but Elanya had locked her blazon and was unrelenting. She leaned in closing to Hermione with an malevolent smile. `` I saw all the memories 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 strength she had and getting her leg under the former girl, she kicked out and managed at final stage to get her off. Grabbing at her throat 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 wand. `` You're right, what fun is it to just end your aliveness like that ? '' She sneered as she dusted herself off. `` It's much more fun if you have the illusion of leakage isn't it… go ahead, I'll give you a head first. Run. ``

'' No. '' She coughed out. Being forced to give all of her attention to the psychotic young lady, she had no musical theme whether Fred had fallen again and pause his neck, but she couldn't just leave… especially when it was most probably that Elanya would pick up her anyway.

'' well, that's your exclusive right. '' She smiled with unhinged delight and got ready to chuck. `` I wish I could say it's been nice knowing you. ``

Hermione closed her eyes and waited for impact. `` Protego ! '' Fred shouted suddenly from behind her before shooting another while straight at Elanya that sent her flying various thousand back through the trees until she hit one hard enough to criticize her out. She turned to chance him sprawled on the ground, sweating and panting from the try of pulling himself free with a leg that even from here looked extremely swollen. `` Accio wand. '' 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 wand and kneeling next to him.

'' I'm really not sure. '' He answered, groaning in infliction as she helped him sit up. His hands were bleeding from the rock 'n' roll, but early than that and his leg, nothing else seemed too serious.

'' Ferula. '' She quickly created a splint despite his assertion that nil was broken. After all she couldn't exactly carry him, she needed him to be able-bodied to walk. `` That should facilitate. And we'll find an old branch or something for you to use as a cane to help oneself put your exercising weight on it. ``

'' Wonderful. '' He agreed, tightly closing his centre as he presumably thought of the torment of being forced to travel at all, let alone to walk.

'' We have to find Harry and Luna. They're the lonesome ones who can get us out of here. '' She pressed.

He nodded weakly. `` I know. Go find a arm and let's do this. '' He said, trying to rally himself.

They both kept an eye on the spot Elanya had landed as she ventured into the trees to look for a small-arm of wood long and sturdy enough for their purpose. At last she found one and rushed back over to assist Fred ascent to his foot. Throwing his early arm around her shoulders, he was eventually able-bodied to ascertain a way to use both her and the make-shift walking stick to his unspoiled reward as he hobbled along. `` Should we call out for them since they can't seem to hear us in their psyche ? '' 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 someone else to us or it'll be useless because they were eaten by the firedrake that now seem to have calmly returned to their nest. '' He answered gloomily.

'' Well, that's the kind of attitude that'll get us through this. '' She said sarcastically.

'' Sorry. '' He muttered. `` I think our Charles Herbert Best bet is to go down to the beach. If they're still out there somewhere, that's the best plaza for them to see us. Calling out would only tell Elanya exactly where we are. ``

'' okeh then. '' She smiled.

He wrapped his arm more tightly around her shoulder 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 picnic being the white knight either. '' She laughed. `` It's far too much pressure. ``

They walked on in comfortable muteness, as happy as they could be given their situation. To his course credit, Fred didn't asking that they stop to breathe until they'd actually made it all the way down to the beach and out in the surface. Moving over to a grouping of small bowlder, she helped him sit while keeping the rocks and water at their backs and their eyes able to see the Tree line and anyone who may wander out of it. `` Did you hear that ? '' He asked after a myopic patch, shading his centre as he searched the afternoon sky.

A whooshing sound came from above them and they saw Luna and Harry shoot through the air over the island. `` Is there somebody on Harry's broom ? '' She asked, trying to estimate out who it could be.

'' Who cares ? Now is the time to yell and get their attending. '' He said, struggling to use the rock to help crowd himself to his feet. She leapt up to help and together they walked further away from the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree into the backbone. `` Here they come again ! ``

They yelled and waved their handwriting until at last Harry caught view of them and began flying towards them. Feeling something moving over her animal foot, Hermione looked down and gave a small-scale shriek as various declamatory sea crabs scuttled across the gumption towards them. `` Oppugno ! '' Elanya yelled from the trees, pointing her wand at Fred and sending the bantam creatures she'd conjured after him.

Hermione tried to help fend them off but suddenly found herself dragged backwards by an invisible force only to end up at Elanya's feet. `` That should keep him busy enough for us to wind up what we started. '' She leered down at her.

( BREAK )

These stupid Cancer the Crab just weren't behaving normally, acquiring a mob mentality as they swarmed over each former 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 sharply nipper continually piercing the peel of the honest one, it was all he could do to keep from falling over. Using his wand and the stick he'd been carrying as a crutch to fend the slight blighter 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 sea as a gravy holder raced toward the beach. Once of the people aboard was shooting fireballs and bar of flame into the air while the person riding with Harry returned the fiery attack. Luna was swooping in, waving her wand and stirring up some waves in an attempt to keep the boat from reaching the island… but it was clear the someone driving cared nothing about the sauceboat, damaging it beyond fix as it was battered by Luna's magic spell. He was so busy watching them that he wasn't quite watching where he was going anymore… painful sensation injection through his foot as he felt himself step on one of the crabs. Using the walking joint, he tried to find his residue but his invertebrate foot sank into the sand and feeling himself going down, he stretched out his arm to break his fall.

Quickly flipping over on his back, he dropped the reefer and wildly waved his wand but to no avail. The fauna were all over him in an twinkling, looking lots big and more raging 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 other, 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. panic settled over him as he realized that he was ineffective to get up and the crabs were taking the opportunity to lay to rest him.

( breaking )

Luna gripped the broom tightly, terrified that she was going to fall off as the smallest of visions suddenly washed over her to give a warning of what was coming. It was legal brief enough that she didn't completely lose cognizance but elaborate 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 minute ago.

'' You okay ? '' Harry called as Jacey gripped him cockeyed before turning to bring back the fire Elise was sending.

'' I'm fine ! '' She yelled back as she swerved another fireball. The boat had snuck up on them and Luna was amazed to discover that her vision had served not only to warn her of the fire, but that for some ground those girls had decided they no longer care 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, 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.

decision making to do what she could to keep open them from once more reaching the beach and carry out whatever they had planned next, Luna swooped in low and used her wand to call forth up some violent waves that tossed the slight gravy boat around. She grinned in satisfaction to see Elise nearly fall overboard… unfortunately it wasn't enough to deter Sarah who drove on despite the demolition being caused to her boat. She waved her sceptre again, strengthening the charm and creating bigger and more brutish waves… and then she saw the large ship on the horizon, quickly heading in their counselling. Distracted, she hovered in the air for a minute as she tried to compute out who could be aboard.

'' Luna look out ! '' Jacey yelled at the Same time her hunch screamed in her chief to change state. She was less than a second too recently 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 solid ground below her, she rolled off the broom only to find herself surrounded by slews of crab louse. She quickly got to her metrical unit but the creatures didn't seem to have any interest in her and following their advancement with her oculus she was able-bodied to see Fred further away, thrashing about as all of the crabs went about attacking him. Realizing what spell had been used, she rushed forward knowing there was nothing that was going to call them off. Ignoring the unity that pinched her as she reached down to assist him get up, she saw that one of his pegleg was in a makeshift splint. Throwing his arm over her shoulder, she got a better appreciation and together they were able to lift him off the priming coat and get him standing.

'' Thanks. '' He panted out, trying to entrance his breathing space as they both used their wands to keep the pubic louse at bay. He pointed ahead of them, his eyes wide with headache. `` Now leave about me and go help Hermione… I can't move quickly enough. ``

She looked over to see the little girl dueling heavily with Elanya. They both looked tired but other than a few scrape and contusion they hadn't seemed to make any headway against each other… The landscape around them was a different story as shattered and uprooted trees littered the beach. Luna rushed forward, casting as she went and sending a dizzying sandstorm after Elanya while yelling for Hermione to get out of the way. But before her magical spell could reach it's quarry, 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 sand. They all five stared at each other, tensely waiting to see who would do what first. On one English of their group, Hermione and Elanya had resumed their duel as they now each were trying to proceed the former from going to assist their friends… on the other position, Fred was still stuck fighting with nature while struggling to keep himself from falling over again.

The blaring phone of a ship's horn shattered the air and Luna nervously looked up to see how the tartar took to it. respective loud shrieks erupted from the nest but apparently they had sensed there was no direct threat to them and remained safely where they were. `` It seems our ride out of here has arrived. '' Sarah grinned. `` Who's coming with us ? ``

( suspension )

Harry tried to succeed Luna right away as he saw her broom haul attack, forcing her to domain, but clearly Elise was having her fun and kept him dodging flames as Jacey tried to retaliate from the back of the broom. `` They are about to extract ashore ! '' Jacey pointed out, yelling in his ear.

'' Keep our path make ! '' He instructed, tightening his grip and heading heterosexual for the beach as she ensured Elise wasn't capable to hit them. He landed as lightly as he could so that Jacey could get her feet under her before speeding over to Luna who had been trying to help Hermione until Sarah stepped in.

He tried to conceive, to see out what to do next… it was impossible to plan 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 part of himself. A meretricious saddle horn startled him from his sentiment and he looked out over the water to see a orotund ship anchored and three dory full of people 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 early and then to him, it was clear they were as worried as he was that they were unable to contrive. `` Can we discuss this among ourselves ? '' He boldly asked… after all, as far as Elise and Sarah knew, they were all bounce to the island by the anti-apparation appeal and thought they could supply the entirely way out.

Elise eyes him warily. `` I'd be straightaway 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 advert 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 voice so only they could hear him. `` Okay, Luna when I give the signaling, run and seize Fred and get yourselves back to Hogwarts. Jacey and I will go get Hermione and follow 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 moment, then go get Lupin and Draco… go get Dumbledore if it makes you feel better… Just fetch them back here to help. ``

She stared at him for a present moment, clearly unsure that this was the well plan. But it was the only one they had and she must bear realized it. `` Fine, ten proceedings and not a second more. '' She finally agreed.

'' okey then. '' Harry took her paw and held it tightly before turning to Jacey. `` I need you to keep Sarah and Elanya back as effective you can while I go help out Hermione… as soon as we're capable, apparate to the Shrieking Shack okay ? '' Jacey nodded and rubbed her hands together as she prepared to unleash Thomas More of her big businessman than she'd been able-bodied 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 off until our small 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 selection C. '' Harry answered. He felt Luna tense next to him as she prepared to run. `` Now ! '' He shouted. Jacey unleashed a towering paries of fire, sending it to circle Elise and Sarah. The flame raged, flickering over seven ft high and with more strength than anything he'd seen her conjure before.

'' That will take her a minute to sell 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 Hermione. `` Just keep 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 word of advice and turned to see several bombastic boulders flying at him. He ducked to the terra firma and threw a shield around himself but it became quickly gain that Sarah hadn't been trying to drink down him as the rock candy settled and entombed him.

'' Cave Inimicum ! '' He heard Elise cry, strengthening the rocks and ensuring he was effectively trapped.



billet : More to come soon !