ARBITRIUM

(Latin)

Decision, Will, Intrusion, Control

CHAPTER 1: THE UNPREDICTABLE NIGHT

23rd June, Thursday

7:25 pm

It was quite a beautiful evening. The night had fallen and the castle was quiet. Students were enjoying the end of exams. Even though the Dementors have been banished from the grounds, none were ready to risk coming to the grounds, not after seeing Harry Potter's fall. So, almost everyone was inside the castle relaxing and the ground was left relatively empty. Everything was fairly normal for most residents of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, as normal as possible in a magical school. The Weasley twins were on their way back to the Gryffindor Common Room, from the kitchen where they spent the past hour celebrating, not the end of OWLs but the success formation of their 35th product. The Head boy, Percy Weasley was going through the Ministry job forms. The youngest Weasley son was lying on the ground near a very violent tree, named the Whomping Willow, moaning in pain due to his broken leg while his two best friends were out in the forest. But unknown to the majority of the castle, it was a fate changing night. One person was flying very fast around the tallest of towers of this large castle, on a broom, unknown from everyone. The said person was the youngest and only daughter (after 7 generations) of the Weasley family, Ginevra Weasley.

Go back. Go back. Her mind screamed at her as Ginny Weasley did her favorite aerial spin around the grounds on the 'borrowed' broom of her brother, George. But some part of her mind was constantly cursing the gossiping hussies of Hogwarts, using a few words she heard from her second eldest and foul-mouthed brother, Charlie. Honestly the sneaking-out-at-night-and-flying was becoming a habit now. This is what she has been doing ever since her family refused to 'allow' her to fly because 'she is just a little girl'. It is also a great way to calm herself down, ever since her favorite brother, Bill was no longer there to comfort her. For a teenage girl, life is usually a cocktail of frustration, irritation and hormones. But it was far, far worse for Ginny. Firstly, the Hogwarts Rumor Mill was on full blow about the 'incidents' of last year. On top of that she hardly gets any sleep all year, without Tom gloating in her nightmares. She had learned to work through them, but today turned out to be one of the worst and she felt as if every power in universe was out to get her. Then it was Buckbeak's appeal, more like execution day; Poor Hagrid.

She flew towards the tallest tower - The Astronomy Tower and sat on its roof, her favorite place. None can find her here, not even the Twins, whom she knew could track each and every one in the castle as well as at the Burrow. As she balanced herself on the steep roof keeping her broom in her hands, her mind went back to flashback, to where it all started.

When she arrived at Hogwarts, {finally, she added with a mental snort} it was enchanting. Everything about Hogwarts had its own allure. But she didn't have the awesome start rest of the students had. She couldn't start up a conversation. It wasn't that she was shy but she never had friends, excluding her family and cousins. Even in a castle full of people, she was lonely. School owls wouldn't go all the way to Egypt or Romania, Percy was too busy as Head Boy, twins were planning for their dream shop {she overheard them talking about it, that also in a serious voice, for the first and only time} and Ron, well, and he was too cool to hang out with his ickle-little sister.

When she found the diary in her cauldron and in it her first 'friend', Tom. He was sweet, understanding, charming, so polite, and well-mannered. Huh! Only if she knew then that it was his entire plan to make her trust him like a fool, which she was. She didn't dare admit that she missed his fake friendship. He was exceptionally well-planned and patient about the whole thing, as if he had a mind of his own. He started keeping her awake at night since the first week so as to excuse for her sudden tiredness amidst classes. The tiredness turned into small blackouts for a few seconds, and slowly into an hour long. It took him almost 2 months for that. Two weeks before Halloween, he decided to 'test' his control over his pawn and started to make her kill Hagrid's roosters.

Mission accomplished.

Imagine the fright, when one day she woke up almost covered in mud and blood. She screamed out loud and was thankful that Tom had got her to silence her bed. He reasoned it out with a- it is for your own privacy, sweet Ginny. Tom convinced her that maybe the Twins pranked her, which she had to admit was possible. Then the attacks started. The way Tom pacified her, deflecting her questions and the coinciding of the timings of the attacks and her black-outs made her worry and alert. But the question was how, he wasn't real or living, just an animated diary. Nothing made sense. It was almost January when she decided to flush it away. Not the best idea out of the pot but it wouldn't get torn away or burned and after not writing in it for weeks, she felt an unnatural compulsion to write in it. After the mortifying episode at Valentine's Day, her heart stopped at the thought Harry Potter having the diary.

What if it told him everything? What if it wrote back? What if he tells others or Ron or her parents or the Headmaster? What if it tries to possess him too?

Only one way was left- to steal it back, the Diary, and the secrets.

Tom wasn't happy, not that she cared at that moment. Apparently, Mr. Potter was way more interesting pen-pal than silly, crying, poor Ginny. That was when he started showing her his real face. She had nightmares every night from the memories of that vicious, sadist 16-year-old. He also decided that she deserves a punishment for flushing his precious diary. As her punishment, Tom petrified Hermione, Ron's best friend and Penelope, Percy's girlfriend. With the constant nightmares, Tom's terror and loneliness, she lost all her power to fight back. Tom felt particularly giddy for finally breaking her. He, somehow, kept her conscious as he made her write her own farewell. It was a feeling Ginny loathed. She could feel her hand moving but wasn't able to control it. She doesn't remember much about the way back; Madam Pomphrey said she was in shock but her closed memories would come back in form of nightmares.

Her insistent nightmares and insomnia proved to be a temporary blessing when she overheard her parents one night about their plan of home-schooling her. So the next day, she put on a mask, a façade of a happy, cheerful, innocent girl that she wasn't. It hurt that how easily everyone forgot everything, acted as if nothing happened. Try as she might, she couldn't negate the fact that Tom was right after all; no one did care. The only nice thing that happened to her since last year was the Egypt trip. She hadn't realized how much he missed her brother and their open talks.

Hogwarts wasn't easy too. She hoped to apologize and thank Harry but it wasn't possible thanks to her thick-headed, immature brother. On top of that, she was welcomed by a Dementor on the train and would have joined Harry on the floor, if Professor Lupin hadn't interfere. Mysteriously Neville looked as bad as her; she then resolved to get to know the shy, chubby boy more. She also wanted to make friends as she was unable to do so with Harry. The Rumor mill, due to lack of other topics of discussion, had decided to choose the events of end of last year. That slightly dampened her plans. But she was determined for the damage control. This also helped her choose the right friends like Hagrid, Colin, Neville, Demelza, and Luna. She had also apologized to every student she petrified and was relieved to know that they didn't have any grudges against her, may be it was because they received extra classes and some amount of money as repayment. The school has sold the parts of basilisk and gave some percent of the money to each casualty, even her family, which was a news to her. Still the whisperings and wariness continued and it hurt. That is usually one of the reasons of her being in here, in her favorite escaping place.

She had liked the Astronomy Tower since her first class as much as she hated the subject; and she loved flying around this tower since the Quidditch pitch was too easy to be seen by anyone. The best part about this place was that you can look all across the grounds, mountains, Hagrid's hut, the Whomping Willow and the Black Lake. It's like the entire Hogwarts in one glance. Closing her eyes, she relished the cold air, the silence, the peace; hoping to stay here forever.

But she can't. Now it was getting darker, colder, enough to make her shiver even in June, the wind sped up, making sounds like whispers in her ear that sounded like him.

'Ginny'

She opened her eyes with a gasp, only to administer a horrifying sight.

Dementors

Cold

Memories

Dursley

Riddle

Save

Green-Light

Charm

Expecto

Scream

'HARRY'

And darkness surrounded him.

7:31 pm

She had seen Dementors before but not this many. On the train and during the match, but this was nothing like that.

Hundreds of Dementors were gliding above the beautiful lake. From that far, it looked as if some swirling dark, evil mist was surrounding the glassy lake. Struck with fear, she sat unable to move, to run or hide, anything but sit there and gaze on. Suddenly there was a burst of silver light, something silvery shot after the Dementors scaring them away. Though from this far nothing was that clear but it looked like the same way when at the Gryffindor v/s Ravenclaw match, Harry produced a silver mist that scared the Dementors.

Wait.

Harry. No, it's not him. Why would he be here? But the silvery animal… Maybe it is him. But, how did he … he shouldn't be out, not with Dementors around? Then why…?

No idea how but she knew it had to be him. Also, Hagrid told her and Hermione about Buckbeak's appeal which was about an hour ago. He must have been off to see Hagrid. Merlin, what was he doing there? The Dementors affect him so badly. Stupid, idiotic … hero.

Without confirming her thought or doing something sane like calling a teacher, she chose the insane option. She sat on the broom and sped off toward him and the Dementors. All she wanted then was anyhow Harry to be safe. Even the broom could understand her desperation as the Cleansweep shot off like a Nimbus and flew over the lake towards him. As she closed by, she saw the rest of the dementors were gone, thanks to Harry's silver stag. All but one left. Harry alone at a side of lake being 'kissed' by that Dementor. If flying towards Dementors with no protection was not crazy enough, what she next did certainly was.

It seemed as if all the ability of making a conscious decision had left her mind completely leaving no sane thought but the will to save Harry. She absently wondered if he felt the same way when he jumped into a dark hole in ground to save her, a girl he didn't even knew. She angled her broom towards the Dementor and jumped off towards Harry as the broom hit the Dementor. But momentum wasn't accepting that as she fell along her semi-conscious hero on the ground, hitting her head.

'Well at least Harry's away from that Dementor.'

With that she lost herself in darkness.

7:36 pm

Normally when something fly over just in time to knock you down to the ground, you get hurt or even go unconscious. But, Harry Potter is neither a normal person, nor his brain work is like relatively normal. Normal people were relaxing in their common room or were hanging out, but Harry Potter was using a magical time machine to save his innocent convicted murderer godfather but was attacked guards of the Wizarding prison. Oh how he wishes he were normal.

Of course, he isn't. How many people travel back in to time save a winged horse and a convicted murderer fighting soul-sucking monsters?

Great now I'm talking to myself.

He opened his eyes and groaned slightly. He had no idea how he got here on the ground, unconscious but his entire back hurt from the collision. Merlin, his head felt weirdly light and clear. That's not how one feels when knocked out, Harry had more than enough experience of that. He tried to sit up but there was some kind of weight above him. He groped around the ground, to find his glasses, which thank Merlin, were alright. He peered over, groping the weight and felt… hairs. Crap, it's someone not something. It had to be a girl, he can understand that from the long hairs and her … chest pressed against him. But it isn't Hermione. She has bushy hair. This mysterious person's hair was soft and smooth and…

Snap out of Harry. You are here to save your godfather not feel some unknown girl's hair. He berated himself. Then a thought came. She saw me. Someone saw me. Oh no! Hermione's going to kill me.

He moved his hands downwards trying to shake her shoulder. She seemed to have fainted above him, but how, he wasn't sure. He shook her shoulders slightly, making sure she doesn't fall off to the ground. It would be rude. With some difficulty, he got a clear view of the person lying above him. It's Ginny.

Suddenly the silence of the night broke by a haunting thought. He remembered Snape rescuing the others from an escaped convict like some hero. If he saw Harry or even Ginny, everything will be ruined. Damn, he didn't have his cloak with him. He couldn't move himself or Ginny out of sight in time, not with her on top of him. Any sudden movement may attract his attention.

Think fast, Potter. You don't have any freaking time.

TIME

He previously took the time turner from Hermione as she was handling Buckbeak and his dead food. Seeing no other option, Harry hastily put the time turner around Ginny's neck, groped the broom lying nearby and revolved the hourglass once. They faded away in time just as Snape came into clear view.

7:35 pm

'Argh; my head is pounding.' He groaned as he tried to open his eyes. He bore a nasty bump in his head and his toes were sore.

"Professor, are you okay?" Finally succeeding in the task, he found Weasley leaning down at his face.

"Get off me", he spat, remembering his 'attackers' and the whole evening which lead to the attack.

Severus Snape was already in a bad mood at the thought of seeing that werewolf or aiding him in any way. But the Headmaster has ordered him to do so. He had told the headmaster about his suspicion about Lupin helping Black inside the castle. He merely nodded, and Snape knew he didn't believe him. That man was way too trusting. Though he should really be thankful for that, or he would have been in some cell in Azkaban. But for once he was glad of the job assigned to him. Because there, lying spread on his desk, was a map of Hogwarts. It was showing the area near Hogsmeade, specifically The Shrieking Shack. It was occupied by Potter, Lupin and … Black.

He wasn't so concentrated on watching his childhood enemy; he might have seen another name of a supposed to be dead person. But he wasn't paying attention. Eager to catch Black, he just turned and left, his robes billowing after him. He was once again cursing the Anti-apparation wards around Hogwarts. When he reached there, he saw Potter, Weasley and Granger along with Black and Lupin. He was right; the werewolf did help Black into the castle. They tried to feed him some cock-and-bull story about Pettigrew being alive, hiding in his 'animagus' form. As if he would believe that crap. Pettigrew was worse as a wizard than Longbottom as a potioneer. He had others convinced but the way Potter came to argue; he suspected they were even confunded. Still he was an insolent brat and had no right to speak to him that way. Like father-like son. He doesn't remember much before being hit by 3 spells. It was dark, by the time he woke up and no one except Weasley was in sight.

NO. He will capture Black today. His mind was roaring

"WHERE IS BLACK? WHERE IS HE?" he raged at the boy whose face was now slightly green at the pain of a broken leg AND encountering the wrath of Severus Snape.

"I... I don't ... They rushed out that side." he croaked out, pointing towards the lake.

Severus straightened up. He will not lose Black. He finally got the opportunity to get his vengeance for all the pranks, all the humiliation and mostly, the betrayal that got Lily killed. He won't get away, not this time.

A low moan caught his attention back to the youngest Weasley whose leg was clearly broken. He waved his wand, sending message to Dumbledore and the Minister, both he knew were right now in the Headmaster's office.

"I have informed the headmaster. Stay here and help will come. Just wait and pray to all the deities out there to save you from expulsion", he sneered down at the boy. He might have been more sympathetic if that brat and his friends hadn't cursed him. With that he turned, and sprinted towards the lake.

As he was nearing the lake, he felt chilling cold in his spine. Dementors were around and have left recently. Walking closer, he saw some kind of golden light emitting from one side of the bank. He stilled in shock and then silently and carefully moved forward.

What the hell was that? He moved closer, but saw nothing. Even he casted Lumos Maxima but found nothing. He was just being paranoid. He shook his head and looked over to the other side, towards his price.

A stirring caused his attention shift back to his purpose. Black. Not just he, but also Granger and Potter, lying on the ground. He rushed out towards them. He knew how Potter was affected by Dementors. Leaning down towards the boy, he was glad to see he wasn't kissed. He almost pitied the boy, who was clearly confounded to support the person who betrayed his parents to the Dark Lord. Almost

He turned his attention back to Black. He was waking up. It seems like the Dementors missed him. Good. He saw his grey eyes flutter and open his mouth to say something, but Snape was faster.

"Stupefy"

7:45 pm

Hermione was worried. Okay, she was terrified. Harry left some time ago to see his dead father? Why did she let him go at the first place? Oh Merlin! Sirius will be caught anytime now. They need to move. Where was he? Her mind was shooting the possibilities as she was pacing outside Hagrid's hut.

What if someone saw him?

What if he was caught by Professor Lupin?

What if he decided to run after Pettigrew?

No, that will ruin everything. Dumbledore's orders were specific. Only save lives. Harry knew it and she trusted him. But, honestly he mentioned capturing Pettigrew at least three times. Why couldn't he understand the delicacy of using a time-turner? He was spending way too much time with Ron. Boys. Understanding little things seemed impossible for them. Whole year she told Ron about Scabbers and Crookshanks, but that boy has his brain in his knees.

Argh! Harry. Where are you?

Enough; I'll go and check on him myself. But what do I do about Buckbeak? She couldn't leave him here in case Hagrid see him, nor can she take him down the lake, he makes way too much disturbance. Deciding soon, she walked over to the hippogriff.

"Okay. Come on Buckbeak. You want this. Come on, boy." She yanked his chain, throwing him another dead ferret, leading him towards the forest. Outside the view of others, she tied him to a tree and walked off to find Harry.

6:36 pm

Harry gave a sigh of relief. He wasn't spotted, at least not yet. It was twilight and the moon was yet to be out. They were safe for now but needed to move before anyone got out of the Shrieking Shack. He and Hermione would be leaving for Hagrid's place anytime now. He turned his attention to the girl lying on the ground. Her hair was now loose, fanned around her. She looked so calm, peaceful and beautiful.

'Wait, where did that come from? Doesn't matter'

He shifted slightly, dumping her on the ground as lightly as he could. He got up and moved towards the lake. Gathering some water in his hands, he walked back towards Ginny and sprayed the water in her face. As soon as the water touched her face, she stirred. Her eyes shot open to catch the sight of a pair of emerald eyes.

Harry.

Merlin, his eyes are beautiful. Shaking her head, she berated herself. Now is certainly not the time to ogle him, or his eyes, or his hair, or… dammit Ginny, control yourself.

Groaning slightly, she sat up stretching her stiff neck and shoulders, trying to ignore the butterflies in her stomach. This was the second time Harry was this close to her. That was when she noticed her surroundings.

What the ... It was night time when flew over towards Harry and the Dementor. But now it's twilight. How is that possible?

Seeing the confusion itched at her face, Harry asked, "Ginny, are you okay? Are you hurt?"

"OH… yeah. I'm 'Kay. But, you… The Dementor. What happened? Wasn't it night-time, but now it's... "

"Hold on. I'll explain everything. But firstly, what were you doing here anyway?"

That was the question, Ginny had no idea how she might answer. How do you say you saved your brother's best friend from a soul-sucking monster by knocking him on your other brother's stolen broom which you were riding to sit on the roof of the tallest tower, when no one in the world knew you can even fly? She somehow looked at him in his eyes and all the hesitation faded knew he would understand, that he won't judge, though she had no idea how but she just knew.

So she told him. Leaving out the rumors and the staring, she spilled out from broom stealing to flying at night and the horrific sight she witnessed. The entire episode was out in almost a single breath.

"Actually I love flying but my brothers never included me in their 'boys' activity so I started flying on my own, using my brothers' broom obviously and I usually do this at night to avoid getting caught so it became a habit which is still continuing because flying makes me feel so good and light and…you know good which I am sure you understand since you love flying too and that's what I was doing when I saw dementors attacking you and probably the whole school knows how badly you react to them with what happened in the train and during the match so I had to do something and it was clear that I wasn't thinking rationally because next thing I knew was my broom, I.e., George's broom actually, hitting the Dementor while I fell on top of you. So, yeah. That's how I got here"

Out of breath and embarrassed at her rambling, she ducked her head, her face red.

Finally, he spoke," Ginny... Thanks, a lot. I don't know what to say. But, yeah, thanks." That was true. It was the longest sentence he had ever heard from Ginny ever.

After getting her blush in control she asked, "What were you doing out here? What on earth is happening?"

"Okay, what I'm about to tell you is pretty much crazy, but trust me it's true. Okay, you have to believe it." He was feeling quite desperate, don't know why, but her understanding the whole mess was very important. Especially with 2 Ginny Weasley, 2 Hermione Granger and 3 Harry Potter roaming around the forest in the very moment.

She saw that desperation on his face and voice. Even without him saying anything, she knew he will tell her the truth. No matter how weird it was, but she believed him. Truly. Weird.

Now it was his turn to tell the tale, while Ginny listened. She had to agree that she had listened to more realistic storybooks than what Harry was telling her, but she also knew he was telling the truth. It was as if she had a truth detector.

"And now we are back in time for about 50 minutes. I know it sounds like some cock-and-bull story but it IS true." he finished judging the expressions of the girl in front of him. Her face was completely blank as he waited for her response.

"Wow. I guess it's not that bad. After being possessed by a freaking diary and setting loose a gigantic snake which kills at sight and travels through pipes in a school , everything seems possible. Life is pretty much interesting for you, right Potter" she smirked slightly, hoping to lighten the mood.

"Yeah, pretty much" he smiled relieved and shocked by her response. His shoulders sagged in relief from her comment and was grateful at her acceptance. "We need to get out of here, the second me and Hermione will be here soon nearby."

"Yeah; the moon is almost up; I think the party is over at the Shrieking Shack."

"But where will we go. There's a werewolf on loose in the forest. Hermione and the second you will be in Hagrid's Hut. The second me will be outside soon. Where will we go?" Ginny hated to admit but she was panicking. About 10 minutes ago (or maybe 40 minutes later, that's so confusing ), she was flying around trying to calm down and now she got stuck in a messy…mess.

"I have an idea", Harry eyed the broom. Grabbing it, he mentally started plotting. Ginny saw him grab George's broom and his face formed a deep concentrating expression. He eyed the watch and the sky and then making a decision, climbed on the broom. He looked at Ginny and motioned her to climb on the broom with him. Ginny was fairly sure that her face showed a gob smacked expression as he rolled his eyes. Shaking her head, Ginny did as he said. She almost missed his muttered- "Hang on", as he flew them upwards almost vertically. Ginny has been flying for years and she didn't mind the speed or the height but she never shared broom with someone else. She knew Harry was an awesome flier and trusted him but she still had grabbed him tightly, absently pressing her body to his back. It was kind of a bonus.

Harry had real less time and too much to plan, but to his surprise an amazing plan has formed in his mind quite easily and without much effort. 'Maybe adrenaline' He climbed on the broom and motioned Ginny to do the same. He couldn't help but roll his eyes at her gob smacked expression. It was quite cute, actually. Merlin, what's wrong with me. He felt her climb behind him and was suddenly nervous. As he shot off towards the sky, he felt Ginny's arms encircle his waist and her body pressed up against his back. He concluded, sharing a broom wasn't a bad experience. Behave, Potter.

"What are you planning?"

"You were right. We had to leave without anyone catching us. So, we wait here amidst the clouds so that we can keep an eye on everyone yet no one would see us"

"That's… That's incredible, Harry. Looks like you'll be giving Hermione a run out of her money."

Harry felt shocked, embarrassed and a bit proud at her cheeky teasing comment. It was unbelievable to hear a girl tease him who used to blush at the sight of his shadow. Maybe he didn't know Ginny Weasley well enough. She is a human Bertie Blots' Every flavor bean. Every time, something new.

They flew through the clouds, hidden but could point out the Whomping Willow quite distinctly. Soon they saw everyone getting out, Remus transforming and Pettigrew escaping. The rat shot towards the lake, passing beneath the couple on broom with some distance. It took Harry every ounce of control to not go after him and he tried to recall every little thing Hermione said.

Ginny, whose eyes where following the same trail as Harry and didn't bear the danger of crossing Hermione, aimed and hit the rat with a perfect "Petrificus Totalus". Her chaser aim was spot on and the rat froze in its place.

"Ginny! What are you...? Wormtail. Gin, but... you...Hermione said... have you lost it?"

"I know what Hermione said, Harry. But think over it, the first time around you thought Buckbeak died, right? But you and Hermione saved him because no one actually knew what happened to him. It all happened behind the scenes. Same way, the other Harrys thought that Scabbers escaped, but no one saw what actually happened to him. Both of them had two fates, it's your choice that decides them. Don't worry, I have a cover plan, trust me on this. Now please lower us to the ground." As she explained quietly, she took out her handkerchief from her pocket and covered the rat in it, so he couldn't see its attackers.

"You're right and erm… thanks. But I'll have to now go back to Hermione and I can't take him with me, she'll kill me." He whispered, panicking slightly as they climbed back on the broom. He was grateful that Ginny understood the need to capture Pettigrew but he didn't think Hermione would understand the same way. In the background, Harry and Hermione started running towards the Lake after Sirius.

Ginny frowned at how he sounded. "Come on, they are moving. And about this, I'll take him back with me. It's not like I can go back with you." Finally, they reached there in time to see the second Harry rushing forward and casting the Patronus. It was a magnificent stag.

"It's beautiful. Can we look a little closer?", Ginny whispered in awe, unknowingly gripping Harry's robe.

"No, it's not safe with the so many Dementors gliding around. And that is Prongs", he stated proudly. He then briefed about his classes with Professor Lupin and the Patronus Charm.

They saw a rogue Dementor attacking Harry from behind, too late for Harry to do anything. Ginny tightened her grip in fright. Ten seconds later, Ginny and the broom collided with Harry and the Dementor respectively.

"Ouch. Sorry for that" She winced at the collision. The whole thing looked even stupider from here, but Harry just shuddered, grateful to be away from the Dementor.

But then they saw something weird that neither knew happened. Their bodies were enveloped by a golden glowing dome, but of different types. While Harry was glowing golden with shimmers and a dark shadow on it, Ginny was sparkling bronze. The domes weaved into each other, emitting a golden flash wiping out any shadow, and merged together and formed an enlarged dome, surrounding them completely. It was golden with bronze shimmers. The Dementor, who was knocked away slightly from the broom, was destroyed when it touched that dome and all that remained was a poof of smoke. The dome vanished as soon as Harry awakened.

It all happened in mere 6 seconds, and both Harry and Ginny had same thought: What was that?

Harry saw Snape approaching. He landed the broom in the forest, he sighed, he has to go back to save Sirius.

"Ginny, you okay?"

"Yeah, just shocked, I guess. Forget it." She shook herself and took the broom from Harry's hand. Now it she had to prove Pettigrew guilty, but she already had a plan for that.

"Be careful, okay. We probably need to talk about that. And don't tell anyone anything. I have to go now or Hermione might come. We'll talk later okay."

"Of course, I know. Go, save Sirius. And don't tell Hermione or Ron about me. Or about the golden glow thingy, please. I need to go now, before George notices his broom stolen. Take care, Harry."

"I will." He promised and was a bit stunned when she hugged him before climbing the broom. Harry watched as she flew away to the Gryffindor Tower until he lost sight of her. Being away from Harry felt weirdly awful but right now Ginny had a mission.

Sneaking inside her now empty dorm, she put her wand on one side of the bed and the frozen rat on the other while pretending to be tired. Let the game begin.

8:02 pm

Minerva McGonagall was tired. Three of her students were in the Hospital Wing, while one of her former student was caught to be sentenced for Dementor's Kiss. She knew Black was dangerous and probably deserved it but her heart clenched remembering, one of her most brilliant student. Never, she thought, this would happen to the charming pranksters of Hogwarts. She sighed wondering what was becoming of Hogwarts. Series of accidents, injuries were occurring. Most of them happened to or around Mr. Potter. She wondered if that boy may have any peaceful time in the Wizarding world.

She was now moving to the Gryffindor Common Room to find the rest of the Weasley siblings, to inform them about their second youngest. As soon as the portrait hole opened, she heard an ear-splitting scream.

She rushed inside, seeing the startled expression from the almost full Common room when another scream erupted from the girls' staircase. She knew the voice belonging to one of her student- Ginevra Weasley.

She climbed up the stairs as fast as she can; her animagus form provided stability and agility even in her human state and blasted open the door, only to meet with a sight that froze her completely

"Hello Professor. Now, please step aside or I blast her pretty little head", spat Peter Pettigrew holding Ginevra hostage with an arm around her throat, choking her while the other hand kept a wand steady on the side of her head.

7:59 pm

A part of her mind was screaming- Am I an idiot? He blasted 13 people in a single curse while cutting off his finger and transforming into a rat. He will kill you before you can even scream 'rat'. I'm crossing every limit of craziness. Flying alone, knocking a Dementor, using time turners, provoking a mass murderer. Merlin's great grey beard…

While other part of mind was chanting - I'm a Gryffindor. I'm a Gryffindor. I'm a Gryffindor. I'm a Gryffindor. ...

From the corner of her eyes she could see its tail moving slightly. The curse was wearing off, and her heart was beating so hard and fast, to shake the whole Tower but she was trying to look calm and nonchalant sitting on her dorm-mate's bed, which was quite a feat for a person who kept a murderer in her room. She closed her eyes, trying to calm herself. She can't back out, not now.

Think of justice, of her poor muggles he killed, of the innocent man paying for someone else's sins, of Harry. He might lose his only magical family. He deserves this. He needs this.

Within a few moments, a thumping sound came. She turned to see a pathetic looking man holding her wand, pointing it at her, starting to wave it.

Acting aside, Ginny found herself so frightened and stunned, that she screamed and screamed loud for her life. The man growled slightly at her for making a noise before shooting a spell at her, which missed her slightly by an inch and hit Demelza's bed, which blasted into small splinters. Horrified, she screamed again and ducked towards the door as he shot another curse which hit bed curtains, setting them in fire.

Ginny tried to escape towards the door, but Pettigrew caught her hair with his arm around her neck, keeping her own wand at her head. That was how Professor McGonagall found them.

Good, McGonagall is way better witness than the rest of Gryffindor's. Maybe I will live through this. Merlin, just let it be over soon.

In all honesty, this was more difficult and frightening than she initially thought. Breathing was now becoming very hard for her as Pettigrew tightened his grip on her. Her head started spinning from lack of oxygen, so she missed Pettigrew's taunting. The vision in her head was starting to blacken as she was dragged towards the stairs.

Please don't let him escape. Please. Harry will never forgive me. This thought and the dizziness brought tears to her eyes.

As soon as she and her captor stepped on the stairs, a loud alarm rang through the walls and the stairs transformed into a slide. But Ginny lost her momentum as Pettigrew's hand slipped and she fell down the slide, rolling.

Mischief Managed was her last thought as she hit the floor.

7:56 pm

Percy Weasley was sitting at one of the corner of the Common Room. Although the NEWTs ended the day before, he couldn't waste time like other students are doing now. He had to fill up the letters of application to the Ministry. He was positive that he had done the best. Just to cover his options, he filled forms of more than one department, like his father and Bill suggested.

To be honest, starting up a new life was an exciting yet terrifying idea. Last year, the family's visit to Egypt was very productive even though he earlier thought it was a waste of money. He had a long talk with his brother and father regarding his goals. While he disliked Bill's dressing, and his earring, and his hair, he also respected his brother. He had a cool and sharp head on his shoulders. His father was great help too, while his position and salary may not be enough, but was a respected member of the Ministry. Percy was shameful of the surprise he felt at his father's knowledge and useful suggestions.

This year was turning out certainly better. He is a Head Boy; he performed well-enough in his exams. Also he felt very pleased when last week his sister, Ginny came to him for his opinion on the school electives. He knew Bill was her most favorite brother and she would ask for his opinion is she could, but she came for Percy. He knew she wouldn't make same stupidity as Ronald. She listened carefully everything he said and asked many questions, from the courses to the teachers. With each answer he could see her confusion clearing and decision making up. When done, she smiled brightly, pecked him in cheek and said "Thank you, Perce" before dashing to her classes, leaving Percy in a classic Weasley blush.

He was very proud of his sister. Though usually he wouldn't show favoritism between his siblings but if given a choice, his preferred would be William and Ginevra. William as he is the most intelligent and knowledgeable person and Ginevra because of her sweet and understanding nature. He was ashamed of his behavior last year. He just assumed she would fit in and make friends as soon as Ron and the Twins did. It was no excuse but the truth. She had grown up a lot after that incident. Sometimes she seems years older than she is. Also, Bill and Charlie had encouraged her to do some physical exercises like jogging in account of her sudden growth sprout.

Sighing, he pulled himself out of his thoughts and started the form of Department of International Magical Cooperation, when he heard a familiar voice shriek. Ginny. He left his work on the table, wand in hand and rushed forward towards the stairs. Before he could reach, Professor McGonagall crossed him and climbed up the stairs with the agility and grace of a cat.

Soon, the alarm of the girls' staircase rang out while Percy ordered everyone to back off away from the staircase. All too soon, Ginny rolled out of the stairs clearly unconscious, followed by a man with rat-like face with Ginny's wand in his hand. After them was McGonagall who slid out gracefully pointing her wand at that man?

Meanwhile Ginny lay there, her forehead slightly swollen and her hand bent in a weird way, broken.

The man kicked Professor in the knees making her fall and Percy saw red. He shot a stunning curse at him and was surprised to see more than half of the population hexing that man. No matter how strict she is every Gryffindor likes Professor McGonagall. Professor stood up limping slightly and bound the man, whose hair was now smoking slightly at the combination of curses and hexes.

Fred and George ran in front and picked Ginny up in their arms and were rushing out towards the portrait hole. Confirming that McGonagall was fine, he too ran out after them.

8:07 pm

"IT IS ALL POTTER'S FAULT. HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A ..." Harry tuned the greasy professor out and concentrated to the chocolate frog which tried to hop out of his hand. Out of the corner of his eye he saw the Headmaster and the Minister doing the same and started talking in low voices about some match. Madam Pomphrey was in her office fussing over something. Ron was, as usual, snoring. The only person who paying some attention to the ranting of the mad professor was Hermione, whose pale face indicated that she was wondering about the marks Snape is going to cut off from them.

Suddenly, a cat Patronus stopped in front of Dumbledore and to Harry's surprise it spoke- Situation in Gryffindor common Room. Get some Aurors and some Veritaserum. And prepare a bed in Hospital Wing- in McGonagall's voice and dissolved. The matron, hearing the message handed a small vial to Dumbledore and went to get the bed next to Harry arranged. Dumbledore, Minister and Snape moved towards the door to leave, Dumbledore looking calm, Minister curious, and Snape hopeful.

The hopeful look on Snape and Fudge's face made Harry worry. He wondered what this situation was. He hoped it wasn't Sirius.

The door of the Hospital Wing opened before they could open it, the Twins and Percy rushed in. Percy stopped short at the sight of Headmaster and Minister, straightened his glasses, and greeted them and started talking but in a very low voice. Harry couldn't understand what they were talking about or what the freaking situation was.

But all the interest in that situation vanished when he saw what Fred and George were bringing, rather who- Ginny.

She was lying on the bed, eyes closed, expressionless, like she was sleeping. But her face was so pale that it reminded him of last year, when he found her on the floor of the Chambers of Secret. He shuddered and rushed over to her bed, fast enough to make his head spin. Madam Pomphrey was hovering over her, waving her wand madly. Percy and Hermione have also joined her side as soon as the adults left. But Harry didn't notice it all.

'Why wasn't she responding? What happened? Did Pettigrew do something to her? Or was it because she hit her head earlier? It's all my fault.'

A volcano of questions erupted in Harry's head but with no answer. A sad despair and hurt spread over him at the thought of something bad happening to her. It was weird; he never talked to her until today but just being together for an hour made him feel so close to her. After Ron and Hermione, she was his only friend, or he considered as friend. Whether it was because they both saved each other's life or something, but she felt just as close to her, if not more. Weird, indeed.

During Harry's musings, Madam Pomphrey had mended her hand and had awakened her. Her eyes fluttered open and groaned slightly. She blushed when she saw everyone staring at her. Her eyes widened at remembrance but composed her face instantly to innocent confusion. Looking around, Harry was the only one who noticed the expression changes.

"Back off, everyone; let her breathe. Here take these." Madam Pomphrey barked at them shoving George aside and handed 3 vials of potion to Ginny who stared at them confusingly. "For your concussion, dehydration, pain and weakness. Take them right away". Ginny nodded her head at took them all without even making a face.

"You're fine. But need to stay here tonight for observation. You may leave" she said to the Weasley brothers. "Please move to your bed, Ms. Granger and Potter, bed now before I strap you to it." With that she left for her office.

"Okay. What happened?"

"Who was that man?"

"How did he get to your dorms?"

"What are you two doing here?"

Fred and George asked in their usual tennis-match-way, though the last question was for Harry and Hermione. Percy was quite but looked at the three for answers.

"Long story." Hermione said dismissively, which unfortunately the twins noticed. "What happened to Ginny? Is this the situation McGonagall was talking about?"

Now everyone stared at Ginny who blushed. "Umm. I was outside, to see Hagrid, you know about Buckbeak." Everyone nodded. The case of Lucius Malfoy against Hagrid and Buckbeak was quite sensational news at Hogwarts. "Well Hagrid wasn't in there but I found Scabbers." Harry heard Hermione's sharp intake of breath but none of the Weasley brothers noticed. "I caught him before he could run away. I thought maybe that would stop your fighting" She looked at Hermione who smiled gratefully and murmured "Oh, Ginny".

Harry had an idea where this was going but waited patiently trying to keep a straight face. Bertie Blots indeed.

"But it was getting late and none of the three were in the common room, so I took it with to the girls' dormitory, but Hermione wasn't there. I decided I'll return him tomorrow. I left him on the desk and suddenly there was a man instead of a rat there and he got my wand and attacked me with it and McGonagall found us." She finished. To say the rest were shocked would be an understatement.

He didn't know what to feel. He was amused at her sweet, innocent child act. She was definitely a prankster but was subtler and sneaky than the twins. He was mad because she put herself in danger but also grateful she did all of this for him. It certainly warmed him from inside.

"Everyone leave, NOW. Ms. Weasley has you have had your dinner?" Madam Pomphrey returned with a tray of vials.

"No. I might have missed it." Ginny admitted meekly. Percy and the twins took it as a sign to leave. "It's all right. I can have one of the hot chocolate." Pointing towards the table between her and Harry's bed."

"Okay, then if Mr. Potter doesn't have a problem, sharing", to which Harry shook his head quite violently. He had more than enough dose of chocolate. "Well then. Off to your beds."

"Goodnight, Ginny, Harry."

"Goodnight Hermione"

Ginny turned to face Harry while he did the same and grinned at each other.

"Want to tell me the real story"

"Sure" and they talked and talked…

8:01 pm

Albus Dumbledore was quite pleased. Now walking out of the Hospital Wing and confirming the timely arrival of Harry and Ms. Granger, it was indeed interesting to see how the events of the evening unfolded. He was saddened by the grief of his friend. But there wasn't anything that could have been done by him to save the innocent hippogriff. He was no doubt shocked to see the hippogriff escape, though didn't believe it was because of loose ties. His mind was full of possible guesses, yet kept his face calm. 5 minutes ago, when he heard Sirius confess everything, his mind started to form an idea of what happened and what could happen. He gave his instructions to Ms. Granger who understood them and applied them perfectly. He is proud of his students who managed to deal with a task better than an adult. Walking on the way towards the direction of Astronomy Tower where Sirius was kept, he saw a confused Cornelius and fuming Severus, advancing towards him. They stopped in front of him.

Snape practically screamed "He escaped". He then strode inside the Hospital Wing and started screaming at Harry, who was least concerned about it. Ms. Granger was looking quite pale, while Madam Pomphrey was trying to ignore the screaming. Mr. Weasley somehow slept throughout this, though he was sure that he wasn't given a sleeping potion.

Turning to Cornelius, he managed to coerce him into removing Dementors from Hogwarts. Once done, they discussed about the arrangements of the Quidditch World Cup. It was when; Minerva's Patronus gave him a message: Situation in Gryffindor Common Room. Get some Aurors and some Veritaserum. And prepare a bed in Hospital Wing. She sounded serious but also worried, which didn't happen quite often. Madam Pomphrey handed him a vial of Veritaserum and turned to prepare a bed. They turned to leave and by the door there were Messrs. Weasley with young Ginevra in their arms. Percy gave us brief summary that some unknown man was keeping Ginny hostage and tried to attack Minerva but the students hexed him. Without wasting a moment, he thanked Percival and left towards the Gryffindor Common Room.

Inside the Common room, the scene made his eyebrows rise. The students were huddled to one side while Peter Pettigrew was kept bounded to a chair. Minerva was standing beside him limping slightly. He turned and smiled towards the students and 'suggested' them to take some rest in their dormitories.

As the students left, he walked towards Pettigrew and revived him with his Elder wand. He opened the vial and dropped 3 drops of the truth potion. He knew the Minister and Severus were right behind him.

"State your name"

"Peter Pettigrew"

"What is your purpose here?"

"I was trying to escape."

"How did you survive on Halloween twelve years ago?"

"I was never attacked."

"Then what did Sirius Black do?"

"He cornered me."

"Why would he be after you?"

"Because I betrayed James and Lily Potter"

Minerva let out a gasp and Severus clenched his fists. Cornelius looked quite green.

"How did you betray them?"

"I told my master the secret to their location"

"So, you were their secret keeper?"
"Yes"

"Did you cast the curse which killed 13 muggles?"

"Yes"

"How did you enter Hogwarts?

"I disguised as Ron Weasley's pet."

"Are you an animagus?"

"Yes"

"What is your form?"

"A rat"

"Is that how you escaped that night?"

"Yes"

"Are you a Death Eater?"

"Yes"

Snape tore away his sleeve and found the inked Dark mark in his arm. He staggered back and left the Common room. The younger man needed some time to calm himself, though a chat between them was due soon.

"You lived in the Weasley household for 12 years as a rat. Why didn't anyone found that suspicious?"

"I confunded all of them using the wand of Molly Weasley. I wiped Arthur Weasley's memory, once."

Dumbledore summoned Fawkes and conjured a parchment. He wrote a message and handed it to his familiar. He understood him without words and flashed away.

"Albus, what about Sirius? Did they…"

"Fortunately not, Minerva. Mr. Black has somehow again managed to escape."

Dumbledore couldn't help but wonder was this capture of Peter Pettigrew was merely a coincidence or something else.

8:35 pm

Amelia Bones was usually a calm, polite and patient person. Being the head of one of the most important departments in the ministry, these traits are severely needed. But right now her temper was at the peak just by the presence of another creature sitting right in front of her- Dolores Umbridge. This creature is biologically a human, had appearance of a toad, and actions of a bitch and possessed a certain quality of bringing out the worst out of everyone.

A cough followed by a high pitched giggle broke her musings. Taking a deep breath, she faced the person in front. But before the toad could open her mouth, a phoenix flamed by her side bearing a message, which earned a squeak from Umbridge. It was Dumbledore's. Thank Merlin.

Madam Bones,

We need assistance of yourself and your Aurors at Hogwarts. It's quite urgent matter. Fawkes will be aiding in your arrival.

Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore

Amelia was alerted. Dumbledore use his phoenix at emergencies, also refrained to get Ministry involved in the matters of Hogwarts. Whatever it might be, it was definitely serious. Calling for her secretary, Amelia asked her to summon Shacklebolt since Rufus was out for a case, and give him the message. The phoenix was still here, so walked towards him.

"Are you to take me to Hogwarts?" The phoenix let out a slow calming music, in affirmation. She was about to leave when another cough startled her. She forgot about Umbridge completely. Why couldn't she just…

"Ohm. Amelia you wouldn't mind me coming along with you. The Minister is too at Hogwarts; he might need his Under-Secretary." Another giggle.

Bones didn't bother answering her. She had no patience to deal with her right now, though was doubtful that she might be anywhere near helpful. Not waiting for her, she grabbed the phoenix's tail and was surrounded by flames.

The flames subsided and she found herself in the Gryffindor Common Room which was vacant except for Dumbledore looking solemn, Minerva holding her knee and Minister looking nauseous. She stepped in front to see the center of sight, which was a man tied up in a chair. It was Peter Pettigrew who had a Dark Mark on his left arm. Amelia managed to keep her face neutral, just raising an eyebrow.

"Are you sure, Albus?"

"Tested it with Veritaserum myself, Madam Bones."

"Who caught him and where?"

"Minerva did. He was holding a student hostage in the Gryffindor Common Room." Then the whole evening was disclosed to her.

"But how did a man entered the castle let alone inside the Common Room?" She frowned, looks like isn't Hogwarts now as safe as it used to be. She noted it for future.

"He is an illegal animagus, a rat. He lived on last 3 years as a pet to Ronald Weasley, and earlier belonged to his brother, Percy Weasley. The student he held hostage was their sister, Ginevra Weasley. Looks like Black weren't all guilty." Fudge looked even sicker at that thought.

"I would require your and Minerva's statement."

"Ohm. Headmaster, pardon me but that doesn't prove..." Unfortunately, Umbridge did caught the phoenix's tail in time. Damn.

"Excuse me, Headmaster, Dolores, but now it falls under the DMLE and me." Amelia cut Umbridge off before she said something inappropriate. This matter was more sensitive than her toady head could decipher. As she earlier stated, she could hardly be any help.

"Then we should let you do your job. Headmaster and I need to allow the Aurors in. Shall we, Albus?" Minerva stated in her firm voice that no one disobeys, and nodded in her direction in a subtle manner. Her demeanor expressed that she mirrored my concerns.

Soon, there was only Minister, Amelia and Umbridge in the dungeon with the prisoner. Fudge finally got the guts to speak.

"This is not good. Not good indeed. If the news comes out, I'll be ruined. I was the one to capture Black. I'll be kicked out of my office faster than I can say Azkaban."

"Oh! Cornelius. Do not worry. Pettigrew being alive doesn't prove Black's innocence" Umbridge cooed at him, trying to get into his better light. Fudge was a clear ladder for her at the Ministry of Magic. She will not let her hard work wash away because of a nuisance.

This time Amelia rolled her eyes. "A whole room full of students saw him attack a student. A trial is inevitable. The more we try to hide, the more will come out."

"Who will be believe a handful of mere children"

"The Headmaster, Deputy Headmistress and a ROOM full of children including the Head Boy, the victim Ginevra Weasley and Harry Potter"

"He can avoid standing up a trial"

"Do pray tell, how?

"He can escape out. He can be attacked. He could be kissed by a Dementor. Anything can happen"

"Are you telling me that he can escape or be harmed in any way in presence of two officials of Ministry of highest order, and later in the scrutiny of the Auror office? That will just put Minister in worse light." She could tell Fudge was by now convinced. Umbridge's face had gone pink like her dress.

"Amelia is right, Dolores. But, what to do about Black? What if he tries to undermine the Ministry? What about then?"

"Do not worry about Black, Minister. Leave me to it. I'm sure I can convince him. Also with the upcoming Quidditch World Cup, this will be out of news in no time."

"And how will you do it, Amelia" Umbridge sneered at her, positively seething at her being showed down.

"Never have you minded, Dolores. It indeed is above your expertise".

Umbridge looked even madder, if possible while Fudge was obvious to the interaction of the ladies.

"All right, good. Amelia, we'll leave you to it. I have to get back at the Ministry soon."

"Sure, Minister"

By now, Headmaster and Minerva were back with the Aurors. It was Kingsley and Nymphadora. Good. Minerva observed the surrounding and smiled at her. The Ministry and his Undersecretary took their leave while the Aurors handled their prisoner. Amelia ignored the peeping students who watched the scene from the staircase, trying their best to hear each bit of news.

"I believe both of you and some of your student will be needed in the Ministry soon for the trail. I hope Mr. Black will be officially announced non-guilty."

Minerva looked pleased but it was Albus' look which was quite different. It was calculating. She dismissed it, for now.

She was too tired to figure Dumbledore out. Dealing with Umbridge and Minister was enough for one day. She would have preferred to have Fudge out of the Minister's Office but the time was not correct. With the upcoming World Cup and Triwizard Tournament, the Ministry cannot afford such a serious change now. Besides this gave enough spark for the right time later. Till then, she'll wait and maybe form an alliance with Black.

Good. Another servant of the Dark Lord is held captive. What an unpredictable night. Maybe I could see Susan on the way out.

11:59 pm

Miles away, in a silent, dark house, a man opened his eyes. His caretaker and keeper elf wasn't here. It made things easy for him. Finally, finally he was free; out of the control of the voice in his head. Walking inside the next room, he saw someone sleeping, unaware of his presence, his father. The man who enslaved him, kept him like a prisoner in his own house. Now he will learn his lesson.

Taking the wand kept at the bedside table, he felt the familiar rush of magic, of energy, of power. Pointing his wand at his captor turned victim, he casted "Imperio"

And he laughed; and laughed; and laughed.

Behind him, the clock stuck 12 and rang out 12 times.

Hello and I'm back. This is the first chapter of the re-edited Arbitrium. There are some minute changes. For the first-timers:

This is a Soul-bond fic.

I'll be avoiding stuff like unnecessary ancestors and hundreds of vaults.

There will be no particular bashing of any character (except Voldemort, Bellatrix and Umbridge). Everyone has good and bad sides and it will be shown for each character.

To better understanding you can look at the map of ground I referred to:- hp - lexicon images / maps / hogwarts-map-cm . jpg

The polls and quizzes will be updated on my bio along with the chapters. The answers to the quizzes will be hidden among the chapter.

Does the time reference confuse you? Is it better? or worse?

Any suggestion, comment or query, please review. Hope you like it.

Next chapter: A Walk to Remember

Echo