I could hardly keep from screeching at the sight of him. He came roaring through the flames, a blood-curdling scream leaving his mouth as he dropped to the floor and rolled around on my carpet. I knew he was in serious pain.
“Fr—Freddy?” I called softly.

“What… is wrong… with your fireplace, woman?!”

“D’ Magic is sentient! It requires a heavy sacrifice be made!” she cried, squeezing my hands. “Flesh must be paid if d’ Magic is to do his bidding exactly as he sees fit.”

“What do you mean by that,” Uncle Ron rasped. The room was silent, all eyes on Aunt Scarlette as she slowly circled me. Uncle Severus looked as grave as she did. Uncles Harry and Ron’s, and Ted’s face looked ill at the possible thoughts that were occurring to them.

“Dementors..!” Goyle gasped, gritting his teeth as he sought to hold in what was being devoured.

“Expecto Patronum!” Nott bellowed, a silver-white falcon tearing through the darkness.

The falcon made one round about the former living-space before a great black hand erupted from the wall Nott leaned on, smothering it like a flame.

“Teddy!” I heard her before I saw her, and I could already feel the dull headache coming on. Somehow the sound of the door opening and closing seemed to escape me. Then again, Gretel was there to play the part of gracious hostess, and I was immediately seized with guilt. Now I realized why Teddy had gone through the stress of buying me the pretty Muggle sundress that I donned.