A/N: I'm sorry * 100! I know you have been waiting for this chapter for a long time. Unfortunately with it comes bad news. I found myself bogged down with real life yet again. So I'm going to have to take a break from this. This will be the last chapter for a while.

But here Dumbledore finds out about the engagement! Hope you enjoy it. Sorry again. Will update again when I can. I will not give up on this story!!

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Chapter 45: Wrong Announcement

"Why couldn't you have waited another couple of minutes for us?" Draco asked angrily.

"I already told you." Daphne stood firm, not giving in. "I was hungry."

"Enough you two!" Harry spoke up and they started, not having noticed his entrance. "Draco sit there and Daphne over there."

With the two of them seated on opposite sides of the room Harry sat in the middle and looked at Daphne first. "You want to start?" Harry asked both verbally and mentally, giving her the choice of how she wanted to answer.

I…Daphne hesitated and then bowed her head when she met Harry's glaze. It's just seeing Blaise and Luna…I…

No! Harry was surprised, which didn't happen often. You still like Neville? I thought…

I know. Daphne looked at Draco, shamefaced. I tried to like him, really I did. But if anything, the feelings I have for Neville have grown. I don't know how I'm to tell Draco though.

And avoiding him is your solution is it? Harry asked.

Draco was starting to get impatient at their silent conversation but he trusted Harry enough to keep quiet.

I don't know! Daphne cried mentally. Help me!

No, Harry shook his head. It's time you told him the truth. I'll be here, but it's you that must do it. Be strong. He encouraged silently.

Daphne took a deep breath to keep from crying and nodded. "Draco, there's something I should tell you. I've been hiding this from you from the start and it's time I told you." She bit her lip nervously.

Draco's face had paled and he was worried about what she would say next. He hoped she wasn't going to break up with him and say she is engaged or something.

Stop stalling! Harry ordered as Daphne continued to bite her lip. It's not going to get any easier.

With another deep breath Daphne said quickly. "I've liked Neville for ages and I agreed to go out with you hoping to get over him but I like him even more now and I'm really sorry! He doesn't know so don't tell him!" She started crying at the end and Harry moved to give her some support.

It took a minute or two for Draco to decipher what she had said. When he worked it out he slumped in defeat. He thought they would be together for good. And he couldn't even take it out on Neville; his friend didn't know and certainly hadn't done anything to encourage Daphne.

"I need some time." Draco said dazedly and walked out. This brought on another wave of tears from Daphne and Harry sighed. He was never really good at comforting crying girls and this was even worse as there was nothing he could say that would make her feel better.

Arianna, Ginny, Luna. Harry called. I need you guys now. I'm in the second empty classroom after the common room. Hurry!

Coming!

He waved the door to keep it open for the girls as he called out to Theo and Blaise. Hey guys can you distract Neville for me, keep him occupied.

Okay! Theo and Blaise responded.

Not long after he closed the connection did Harry spot a blue hummingbird flying into the room. The bird landed in front of him and transformed into Arianna. She took one look at the crying Daphne and nodded. "I'll look after her."

"Thanks." Harry said gratefully, leaning down to give her a quick kiss as Luna and Ginny came running in. "Take care of her. I have one other person I have to find."

Harry handed Daphne to Arianna and ran off transforming into his falcon form. Irene! Do you know where Draco is?

Yes Harry. He's in the indoor court.

Thank you.

Harry flew through the secret passageways heading for the indoor court where Draco was.

Did you want us to take Draco's bag to Charms? Theo asked.

Yeah, thanks and if we're not back in time tell Professor Flitwick that we'll be a little late. Harry said.

No problems.

Arriving in the indoor court Harry found Draco kicking their football into the wall repeatedly, a look of utmost furry on his face. Harry could feel Draco's magic as he landed and transformed.

"I'd prefer it if you didn't take your frustration out on the football. We need that." Harry said wryly crossing his arms and getting ready for Draco to attack him.

And, as expected, Draco turned to face him, fury etched into his face. "What would you know? You've never been rejected before! Arianna's head over heels in love with you!"

"Doesn't mean I can't be sympathetic." Harry shrugged waving off a bout of excess magic that Draco had sent at him. "Take it out on me instead if you have to."

Draco scowled and whipped out his wand, firing as many lethal hexes at Harry as he could before he collapsed exhausted. Harry waited and then sighed. He looked around the room noting the damage that Draco had done. Sorry Irene.

It's okay. Just lend me some magic to fix this. Irene forgave him quickly. Harry had the feeling that no matter what he did, she couldn't be angry at him because of his heritage.

Of course. Harry opened up to her and let her draw on his excess magic. Soon enough the walls were good as new, Irene had stopped the flow and Draco had recovered.

"Feeling better?" Harry asked. It was his turn to be slightly tired. Of course, he would replenish the lost magic the next time he ate.

"Yeah, thanks." Draco stood and looked around. "What should I do now?" He asked uncertainly.

"I'm not sure." Harry admitted. "Let's talk about it on the way back. We're going to be late for Charms if we don't hurry."

"Right. Draco nodded.

They transformed and communicated silently as ferret and snake hurried towards their Charms classroom.

First of all, Harry started. Are you going to tell Neville?

No, Daphne asked me not to. Draco sighed, still willing to do whatever she asked of him.

Good. What do you want to do next? Harry asked the critical question.

I'm not sure. If she still likes Neville after all this time, that's not likely to change is it? Draco asked, defeat in his voice.

No, it's not. Harry agreed.

Then, I don't have a choice do I. I have to let her go. I can't let her suffer like this. Draco sighed, showing how much he cared about Daphne. I just hope Neville can give her what she wants.

I don't think you'll have to worry about that for a while. Harry re-assured him. I don't think Neville's ready to admit that he's starting to like her.

Really? What about Ginny? Draco asked curiously as they reached the Charms corridor and turned back to normal.

As far as I know, Neville's just keeping her company so that she doesn't feel left out. He tried to like her but he couldn't manage it.

They rushed to join the others just as Professor Flitwick opened the door. "Come on in, then." He squeaked in his usual cheery tone.

Okay. That sounds like Neville. Draco agreed; he was starting to feel better about the whole thing now. Knowing that there's a chance for Daphne to be happy made him happy. Theo handed him his book bag and they filed in.

Knowing Draco wasn't ready to talk to Daphne about what had just happened Harry let him sit with Neville taking his usual seat next to Daphne instead. No one said anything about what had happened that morning and once the class was done Draco waited for Daphne. Harry decided to leave them to it and dragged Neville along with him to Arithmancy.

As they waited for the class to start Harry distracted Neville with questions on the book he was reading. Draco and Daphne joined them in time. Draco sat down next to Harry smiling whilst Daphne settled down in her usual seat with the girls looking much happier then she had been before.

So, how did it go? Harry asked curiously.

Good, Draco nodded getting out his books. I mean, we've decided to break up but I think we're both going to be okay.

That's good to know. Harry nodded with relief turning to the front as Professor Vector started the class.

Yeah, I just don't know what I'm supposed to do next? Draco wondered, answering Professor Vector, who was marking the role, at the same time. Should I make a move for Ginny?

Why? Harry asked, pausing to answer Professor Vector as well. What does Ginny have to do with all of this?

Well, if it's like you say, then Neville's just spending time with Ginny to make sure she isn't left out right? Draco thought as they handed their homework to Hannah, who had been appointed as the collector for that lesson. Then, if I spent time with Ginny instead, wouldn't Neville be able to make a move on Daphne?

That's assuming he wants to. Harry said, accepting the logic behind Draco's plan.

Yeah, but you said he likes her…

I said he wasn't ready to admit that he does. If he won't admit it to himself how's he going to admit it to Daphne?

Oh…I see. Hmm, oh well, I'll just see what happens.

Professor Vector asked Harry a question about the homework and the two of them returned their attention to their studies. Classes for the rest of the day were pretty standard. Draco and Daphne announced their breakup when the group was gathered in the library after lessons. Aside from some expressions of shock, no one really reacted to the news.

It was at dinner that things reached a climax. Dumbledore stood and cleared his throat. "I have the pleasure of making an announcement tonight."

Harry started and looked up the table to Remus who smirked and nodded back. Breathing a sigh of relief Harry contacted Draco. Did you talk to Hermione and Snape?

Yeah, Hermione's got one that we think will work. It'll take a couple of days, which is much shorter than the usual ones. Although it's one of Salazar's ones so we're going to need your help. Draco answered, outwardly pretending to be interested as Dumbledore called Luna and Ronald up the front.

Whatever you need. Harry agreed.

Harry! What's happening? Luna asked, panicked.

Relax, just go with it for now. Remus has a plan. Harry answered.

He had better. Blaise scowled as Theo restrained him.

The entire Great Hall broke out in whispers as Luna followed Ron up the front reluctantly. When they were both standing in front of the head table Dumbledore spoke again. "I'm most pleased to announce that Ronald Weasley and Luna Lovegood have been engaged."

The whispers grew louder and most of the order looked at Harry in surprise. In fact, Blaise was glaring at him. Ignoring them and their mental exclamations Harry turned to his guardian. Remus was still calm and nodded at Harry patiently, as though to say; 'wait for it'.

Trusting his 'father' Harry passed the message on. Calm down guys, just wait.

No sooner had he finished reassuring his friends that there was a plan in place did the doors bang open to reveal Mr. Lovegood, Mr. Weasley and Gary Wilkes. The room fell silent. Surprised, the order turned to Remus who was smiling smugly. Harry bowed his head in appreciation for his wonderful timing.

"Wait a minute!" Gary called.

"We never agreed to this, so called 'engagement'" Mr. Lovegood said as the three men made their way up the front.

"So, it's true!" Mr. Weasley said looking at Dumbledore with surprise before turning to the rest of the room. "Mr. Lovegood's right. I, in no way agreed for this engagement to take place."

The whispers were back and even louder than before. Professor McGonagall stood, her stern death glare directed at Dumbledore. "What in Godric's name is going on here?" She asked softly. All of the students shivered, even the order; they all knew that voice. It usually meant life-long detention for anyone unlucky to be present. Dumbledore was frozen where he stood. He had not seen this coming and was unable to cover his tracks this time.

"I think we might be able to clear a few things up." Mr. Lovegood spoke up. "Professor Dumbledore, neglected to inform either of us," he gestured to Mr. Weasley as well as himself, "about this engagement."

"This type of formal engagement is one that my family dislikes and is completely against." Mr. Weasley said. "I would never force any of my children into his sort of situation."

Gary gestured for Blaise to join them in the front. "On the other hand, my son, Blaise Wilkes, and Luna, here, have asked us for permission to be engaged to one another." Gary said with a smile as Blaise reached the front, holding Luna's hand and glaring at Ronald Weasley who was shifting his weight nervously.

"We have formalized the agreement and are pleased to announce that Blaise and Luna are engaged by their own choice." Mr. Lovegood took out a roll of parchment that shone brightly in Harry's vision and was covered in legal seals.

Professor McGonagall joined them on the other side of the head table and examined the documents. "It's legal and binding." She agreed. Having been an Auror when she was younger McGonagall still retained the right to act as one.

"Then why did Professor Dumbledore announce that Ron was engaged to the Lovegood girl?" Percy asked, having been appointed spokesperson for the Gryffindor table.

"That's a good question Mr. Weasley." Professor McGonagall turned to the headmaster questioningly.

"I seem to have been mistaken." Professor Dumbledore said regretfully although no one was fooled. "I must have heard wrong."

"These are serious matters though." Professor Flitwick spoke up, standing on his chair to take part. "Surely it would have been prudent to check the facts before making such an announcement?"

The other teachers all nodded their agreement except for Hagrid, who was looking a little lost.

"I shall be more careful in the future." He agreed before turning to the three men and bowing apologetically. "My apologies. I had spoken to soon."

"It's okay." Mr. Weasley spoke first. "Just be more careful in the future."

"Yes, we wouldn't want any misunderstandings to occur." Gary nodded.

"It doesn't hurt to be cautious." Mr. Lovegood agreed.

With a couple of words to Luna and Blaise, Gary and Mr. Lovegood left the Great Hall. The whispers had grown in volume and both Ravenclaw and Slytherin congratulated Luna and Blaise when they sat down. As for Ronald, Mr. Weasley had taken him outside and it didn't look good.

Sure enough Mr. Weasley's voice could be heard through the closed doors as he berated his youngest son. The order looked to the other Weasleys in surprise. They had been told that Mr. Weasley never yelled by the three siblings, who looked just as surprised.

I never knew dad could yell like that! Ginny addressed the entire order.

Tell me about it! Fred went next.

I thought it was only mum who could yell like that. George said.

And Ginny…Fred winced as his sister turned and wacked him on the head.

Why is he that mad anyway? Hannah asked curiously.

She has a point; it was all Dumbledore's fault wasn't it? Anthony seemed uncertain.

Daphne? Harry asked as she usually knew things no one else did.

Well, yeah, he did know. Daphne admitted. Dumbledore talked to him about it and Olivia happened to be present. She just told me not long ago.

With that she made the entire order angry. Not at her though. No, they were all angry at Dumbledore.

Theo. How goes your plans? Harry looked down the table.

Very good. I have a long campaign in mind. If there is one thing Weasley hates more than anything, it's being made a fool of in public. Theo smirked evilly.

If you need any help just say the word. Mia said angrily.

Yes, we have some surprises for this little idiot. Cara was glaring at her pumpkin juice and scaring a nearby first-year.

No! Harry shook his head. We will deal with this. The four of you need to focus on your studies and Cedric you too. Your O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s are more important.

He's right. Luna agreed. We will deal with the little…person. Don't mess up your future for me.

As you wish Luna. Cedric nodded. He knew it was her call and that they were both right. There were enough of them to help Theo with his plot.

It had finally gone quiet outside. The entire student body waited with anticipation as the doors opened. Unfortunately it wasn't Ron that stood there but it was Mr. Weasley. And it was easy to see why the Weasleys were known for their magical tempers. He still looked angry as he calmly asked to speak to Luna and Blaise.

The two stepped outside with him, holding hands for support. Blaise kept his mental link with the group open so that they could listen in on the conversation, much in the same way that Harry listened in on the twins' classes.

Luna and…Mr. Wilkes was it? Mr. Weasley spoke first.

Yes, but please call me Blaise.

As you wish. Luna, Blaise. I owe you both an apology on behalf of my son. I assure you he has been appropriately punished for this incident.

Thank you, Mr. Weasley. Luna said smiling.

We are just glad that the misunderstanding has been cleared up. And we don't blame Ron; it was Professor Dumbledore who had made the mistake, not him. Blaise tried to be polite.

Ah, but that's the point. As my son tells me, it was no mistake. Dumbledore sought him out, told him that he was to be engaged to Luna for the 'greater good' and he told Ron that there was money in it for him.

Well…Professor Dumbledore can be persuasive when he wants to be…Blaise hesitated.

As I've noticed. This incident makes me question my trust in the headmaster. Through Blaise's eyes, the order could see Mr. Weasley looking around nervously.

You don't have to worry, Mr. Weasley. Luna said reassuringly. Nothing you say will get back to the headmaster. The castle no longer trusts him as she once did.

Very well. I want to apologize once again nonetheless. I'm glad to see the two of you together though. You make a nice couple.

Thank you, sir. Harry, Draco, Theo, the twins and Terry couldn't help but snicker at how formal Blaise was being.

Look after each other. Mr. Weasley advised them. Well, I must be on my way home.

Blaise closed the connection and the order returned to their dinner which was growing cold. Blaise and Luna returned soon after and they discussed Remus' brilliance as the plates changed. Not only did the incident show the entire school Dumbledore's manipulative side they had also managed to get one of Dumbledore's oldest supporters questioning that allegiance.