In the Crosshairs

by Dragon Voldemort

WIP Death Eaters strike BACK! Order becomes a terrorist organization. Can Harry and his friends survive the viscious onslaught of slander, frameups, death, and destruction? Can they even hope to fight it? Post-GoF 6&7yr RHr, Rated R for LSNVD.

36. (old) Hunted, II

WARNING: This is old material that I will be revising. I'm leaving it up for those wishing to read on.

[A/N: Sep 15, 2018, splitting up the chapter, was at 107k!]

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Chapter A-7b: Hunted, II

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Friday morning, they returned to the Pitch at Puddlemere United.

"He thought I gained a quarter pound," Harry said.

"Progress is progress," Ron said, "We'll keep you from going too far."

Kline came out.

"Good," Kline said, "You're certainly eager to play."

"We're suspended," Harry said, "Choices are to study or practice."

Kline grinned. He showed his wand and the nets appeared as the roof retracted.

"Falling again?" Ron asked.

"Yes," Kline said, "You're going to learn to control your fall."

"Meaning?" Harry asked.

With a wave of his wand, a large bullseye appeared flat on the grass.

"Go up to roof level and fall," Kline said, "Try for that."

"See why you're so insistent on the examinations," Ron said.

Kline's eyes looked at Ron.

"Yes," Kline said.

Harry climbed onto the Nimbus 1000, felt the rush of air across his bare chest across his blue shorts; he flew up in the windy stadium to the roof level. Harry rolled over, fell, fell close to the edge of the nets near one of the posts. Ron climbed onto his borrowed Nimbus 1000, flew upward and fell; he landed a few feet from Harry. They both saw Kline fly up to the same spot and fall, instead he fell a bit off center but clearly above the bulls eye. They watched Kline come over, but they laid there on the net letting the sunshine soak into their bare chests. Harry and Ron waited until Kline loomed over them.

"As you saw," Kline said, "You can control much of how you fall. We'll work until you've mastered it."

"Lots of emphasis on falling," Harry said.

"Ease up," Ron said, "It'll come in useful when those lemmings of that EM push us off the cliff."

"I wouldn't put it quite like that," Kline said, "You can affect how you fall by interacting with the wind and self-protection magic. Wind stuff is studied extensively by muggles, aerogymnastics I think."

"You mean aerodynamics," Harry said, "Richard droned on for hours some times."

Harry and Ron got up, they climbed upward and fell. They repeated again and again with Kline's tips until they were able to get the bullseye. Kline varied the wind strength and had them continue. A bit after noon, Kline stopped the practice and they went to the cafeteria. Kline came over along with Notley and Meyers, sat at the table Ron and Harry were starting in on lunch.

"Falling over yourselves today?" Meyers asked.

Harry groaned, then reached for a sandwich.

"I know it may seem strange," Meyers said, "However, it comes in useful. Most teams have you practice on your game brooms-bad karma. You should be able to take any broom and make it fly, make it perform. A really good flier can fly a Shooting Star against a Cleansweep or a Firebolt."

"Shooting Stars have a hard time against a butterfly," Ron said.

"In the hands of an inexperienced or a poor flier," Meyers said, "I would agree."

After lunch, Kline came out with them.

"Oh," Harry said, "Have an obligation at three."

"Want to be done by when?" Kline asked.

"Just an intermission," Harry said, "Have an errand at that time."

"Admit it's her," Ron said, "He's escorting his girl from school-security."

"Breaks are needed anyways," Kline said, "Now, back to flying."

Harry and Ron each grabbed a Nimbus 1000. Kline got out a magic carpet, then stood in the middle of it. Harry looked at him.

"Come," Kline said.

Harry and Ron stepped on, stood in the middle. The carpet flew upward gently which allowed them to keep their balance as it rose higher above the stadium and the net below.

"This time," Kline said, "dive head first, broom to your side, then mount at five hundred feet. If done right, you won't hit the net."

"Crazy," Ron said, "but sure."

"Seems fine by me," Harry said.

Ron rolled his eyes.

"We're at height," Kline said.

Harry dived off first, broom to his side.

"There's a reason we don't like family accompanying players on practices," Kline said.

"Mum'd freak out if she were alive," Ron said.

Ron dropped to his knees, tumbled over the edge of the carpet. Ron passed Harry on the broom at six hundred feet, he started mounting at five, but the net approached too quickly and he landed in it. Ron got onto his Nimbus, flew back up and repeated, this time managing to miss the net by five feet. They quickly moved to balancing and then aerobatics on the brooms.

At three, Harry and Ron crashed into the net, not for the last time.

"My, my. We were wondering who was monopolizing the stadium."

Harry and Ron both looked, they saw Fred and George standing there with brooms.

"We had the stadium reserved," Ron said.

"Coach Meyers agreed to let us get in some flying," Fred said, "Besides, looks like we need to teach our brother a sense of survival."

"You're actually going through with that program?" George blurted.

Harry and Ron flew over, then down to Fred and George on the pitch.

"Seemed reasonable," Harry said.

Kline came down as they edged next to the door into the locker room. Harry went into the room.

"Your first sucker?" Fred pointed to Ron.

"It is a very fine program," Kline said, "You could benefit from it tremendously."

"There's a reason why nobody's bitten before," George said, "We're not crazy-congratulations on finding a pair of nuts."

Ron grabbed and pulled out a lock of George's hair. George glared, ears turned green.

"Perhaps I should swap this into the mines I have at home," Ron said, "The first one I met severed my arm at a hospital."

"Dad wants a lock of your hair," Fred said, "He's gotten himself a new clock."

"Tell him no thanks," Ron said, "It'd only serve to give him an ulcer."

Ron stuck his tongue out at Fred, then took off fast on the Nimbus, Fred was in hot pursuit. Ron flipped Fred off as he flew even higher.

"I'll get you Runt!" Fred yelled.

Ron slowed, let Fred get close to grabbing the broom. Ron rolled and fell from five hundred feet. Ron looked up, saw Fred zooming rapidly on a broom downward. Ron mounted and pulled at the last moment, Fred went into the net. Ron saw George laughing from the sidelines.

Harry landed in the janitorial closet at school, crept out, and saw Gia following a man in a suit. Harry quickly walked up behind Gia.

"What's happening?" Harry asked Gia.

"Dunno," Gia muttered.

They passed through a door marked "Headmaster Nolan Lydum." The man closed the door after them, he took a seat behind the desk. Harry stood besides Gia.

"I will be frank about this Miss. Prescott," Lydum said, "Your scholarship and your behavior is excellent, a compliment to this fine institution. However, my first concern has to be the safety and welfare of those students attending this institution. I and the school board agree this will be unfair to you, however, it must be done. You are being expelled."

"What?" Gia exclaimed.

"I am truly sorry that this measure had to be taken with a promising student," Lydum said, "Evidence before the board strongly hinted at the security risk your presence imposed upon the school, not from you, but those apparently out to kill you. Anonymous tips hinted that the original building was leveled last spring due to your attendance. Currently, there exists some sort of bounty on your head in excess of two million pounds, this makes your presence a magnet for assassins and killers; the risk to the other students is simply too high to be tolerated. This decision is final."

"But-" Harry stammered.

Gia gave him a sharp look, then returned her eyes to Lydum.

"I will file an appeal," Gia said.

"I would expect nothing less," Lydum said, "However, that appeal would be heard by the board. So unless you can refute the bounties and the threats against you, any appeal will be denied. With the construction and other expenses, this school simply cannot afford the extra security measures required to protect one student. Every member, every teacher, concurs this was a heart wrenching decision, but we feel it is in the best interests of everyone."

Gia stood, mouth still open.

"A stipulation was added," Lydum said, "You will still be permitted to take your A-level examinations and attend the subsequent graduation as you would have otherwise been able to do. To help you prepare, a consortium of your teachers volunteered to help you home study for the A-levels next year."

"She is but isn't expelled?" Harry asked.

"She is being expelled," Lydum said, "I do wish both of you luck in your future endeavors. You need to leave."

"Wha..what about my stuff?" Gia asked.

"You are permitted to empty your lockers, but then leave," Lydum said, "I expect a post from you containing any school items you may have at your home. After that is all cleared, I will gather and post the materials you need for home study. I will be issuing a press release that you have been expelled, may that stem the flood of incidents around the school."

Harry tugged on Gia, they left the office. Harry lifted the hem of his T-shirt, wiped the tears from Gia's face. They stood in front of her now empty locker.

"It sucks," Harry said, "It really does. Suppose Hermione could help your studies though."

Richard and Jen came up to them in the hall.

"Hi," Richard said.

Harry glared.

"Alright?" Richard asked.

They left the school, another tear came down Gia's cheeks.

"What's wrong?" Jen asked.

"Expelled," Gia said.

"For what?" Richard stammered.

"For being a target," Harry said, "You know, me."

"Cited security concerns," Gia said, "It's not fair."

Richard exhaled then inhaled.

"It is," Richard said, "But we do have people dying at the school from those maniacs after you."

Harry stopped them along the sidewalk of Smeltings Drive, in front of some thick shrubbery. Harry faced Richard.

"I'm not certain when we'll see you next," Harry said, "Take care."

A tear came to Gia's eye, she gave Jen a hug, shook Richard's hand.

"It feels like goodbye," Richard said.

"It might be," Harry said, "We have enough people trying-one may succeed."

Harry and Gia went into the shrubs, Harry activated his Portkey.

That evening, Harry and Ron left the community center.

"Strange," Harry said, "We're actually certified to defuse Muggle bombs now."

"Dad will definitely be jealous," Ron said, "I mean, this?"

Ron read over his certificate another time.

"There's a difference between practice and reality," Harry said.

Harry activated his Portkey.

---

Saturday, Harry started on breakfast when he slammed the Daily Prophet onto the table.

"What?" Ron asked.

"Read," Harry said, "It gives a detailed description of Snuffles, also caught on to him loitering around Lupin as a werewolf."

Harry shoved the paper at Ron.

"Eat," Ron said.

Harry glared at Ron. At ten, they waited in living room to see Percy landing, gripping the Daily Sport that Ron had sent.

"We have to be quick," Percy stated.

"This way," Harry said.

They climbed the stairs and entered Harry's bedroom. Harry cast an Imperturbment Charm on the door.

"You are cautious," Percy said.

"You should be too," Harry said.

"Don't remind me," Percy said, "My movements are being watched."

"By who?" Harry asked.

"Not yet certain, but your Portkey will throw them off for some while," Percy said, "Still need to be quick."

"Wards surround the house," Harry said, "Dumbledore was impressed by them. You said you had an update."

"I have been examining the books, the employments, of many people there," Percy said, "It is clear that things are fishy. Take the Aurors, most have finances that are too clean, if you get my drift. Examine their habits, their houses, and it's very evident that they're spending more than they're officially making; some claim moonlighting, but the figures do not substantiate it, nor do the rewards I mentioned earlier. They are getting supplementary income."

"Suggesting something illegal," Harry said.

"Possible," Percy said, "Also, I've looked at the personal histories of recent recruits. Some are listed as reformed Death Eaters having taken some evangelical path toward enlightenment. For a Minister who's scared of the Dark Arts, someone is pulling the wool over his eyes."

Harry shook his head.

"Reformed Death Eaters as Aurors?" Harry said, "They'd know their Dark Arts, but you don't want the fox guarding the chickens. There's no such thing as true reform to a Death Eater."

"Dumbledore managed one," Ron said.

"We're never certain of his true loyalties," Harry said, "Double agents are useful for Dumbledore and Voldemort to communicate when they want to. Percy, any luck on the money thing for buying the SDWCA?"

Percy sighed.

"That was a big and messy transaction," Percy said, "Money changed hands frequently and all over the books, both at the Ministry and at Gringotts. Whoever did it, they were skillful at altering accounts to mask it. I may have an answer, it can be any one of dozens of people."

"Let us know as soon as you find anything out," Harry said, "Our lives may depend on it."

"Suppose you already have something planned," Percy said.

"Not yet," Harry said, "Though I can tell you, it'd likely involve the Daily Prophet, Veritaserum, and the Minister of Magic. Inviting some EM lemmings would be nice."

"I will let you know as soon as I have news," Percy said, "This Portkey of yours-"

Harry grabbed the Daily Sport, motioned and they returned to the living room.

"This'll take you back," Harry said, "It'll self-destruct as a Portkey, but you'll still be able to peruse this fine literature."

Harry handed it back to Percy who vanished.

"This gives us stuff to ponder with Hermione," Harry said.

At a half past noon, Harry and Ron arrived at Puddlemere United stadium. They went from the office to the club room where people were carrying brooms including Ginny, Colin Creevy, and the rest of the Gryffindor Quidditch team.

"If we wanted to risk our necks," Brenner said, "We could've stayed at Hogwarts where it's safer."

"Hey," Ron said, "We want to win that Quidditch Cup. Irrespective of your opinion, you're safe with us today."

"Likely said the same to MacDonald," Abercrombie snapped.

Harry looked toward Colin Creevy.

"Ginny," Colin asked, "How did you score this place for practice?"

"Fred and George are on the team," Ginny said, "A deal was cut with the coaches permitting play."

They left the club room, and went for the pitch. Where Harry and Ron got out their Whitehorns.

"Weird," Harry said to Ron, "Almost got used to the Nimbus."

"And would be a tip off to them," Ron said.

Ron lugged over the box set to the side of the pitch to the middle. He opened it up to show four Quaffles, eight Bludgers, and a pair of Snitches.

"Training set," Ron said.

Ron threw out a set of balls, they practiced. At the end of the practice, most of the players quickly followed Colin out of the stadium back up to the club room. Ginny, however, accompanied Ron and Harry into the Puddlemere locker room. Her eyes traveled the name plates of the lockers, she went along one row, then she went across Fred, then George, then-

"Ron!" Ginny said, "You never said a thing!"

"It's meant to stay secret," Ron said.

"Security reasons," Harry said, "Mitigates troubles for a while."

"Both of you!" Ginny said.

Ron grinned a bit.

"Yep," Ron said, "I mean, we have a cup to defend, Harry and I need practice."

"You did seem a bit more agile on the broom," Ginny said.

"One little thing to show you sis," Ron said.

Ron lead the way back onto the pitch. Ron mounted his Whitehorn, flew to the ceiling, and fell. Ginny froze, watched.

"Oh my!" Ginny said.

They watched as Ron mounted the broom and flew with ten feet to spare, he came over to them.

"A death drop," Ginny said, "You ought to be ashamed of yourself!"

"Strangely, I'm not," Ron said, "Must get it from my family."

Ginny slapped Ron.

"Hermione was wondering," Harry said.

Ginny glared at Harry.

"Better get her going," Ron said, "She's likely got an early shift."

"All I am is a clerk to you?" Ginny asked.

They left the pitch.

---

Sunday, Harry and Ron returned to 66 Pickering Place.

"That was close," Ron said, "Lucky we tried that zone thing."

"A bit tiring?" Harry said, "Felt it myself."

They made their way up the spiral staircase. Looking up, they saw steam rising from the bathroom. Harry and Ron found both girls in an expanded tub and relaxing.

"Ron!"

Ron looked around, saw that the others were equally puzzled.

"Ron!"

Ron reached into his pocket, removed his flat black stone. From the dip in the middle, a green ghostly image of Percy's head rose.

"Yes?" Ron asked.

"It took much effort," Percy said, "I figured it out, both of them. In the Ministry it's-"

Percy choked as hands wrapped themselves about the throat. Gasping for breath, Percy's head fell and vanished.

Ron bolted first, Harry followed. They apparated into into Percy's apartment and looked around at the papers strewn about. Harry laid his wand in his hand. Ron searched around the fireplace.

"Point me Percy Weasley," Harry said.

The wand laid still in his hand.

"Point me Ronald Weasley," Harry said.

The wand moved to point to Ron.

"Point me Percy Weasley," Harry said.

The wand laid still in his hand.

"Blimey!" Ron exclaimed, "I'll get something stronger."

Ron went for Percy's bedroom while Harry looked around in the living room. Harry went for the table strewn with parchment and leafed through invoices. Ron came back out with a small cauldron and ingredients, set them on the table. Harry felt something tingle the hair on his back, grabbed Ron, and apparated across the room. They saw a curser sphere on the coffee table unleash a curse to their former position. Smoke billowed into the room from the bathroom.

"As quick as we can," Harry said.

Ron ran for the fireplace, grabbed the black stone from the mantle; Harry stuffed as much of the parchment on the table into Percy's black courier bag. Ron came back to Harry, smoke was getting thicker.

"We should leave," Ron said.

"I agree," Harry said.

Flames emerged from the bathroom, the rug was on fire. Harry grabbed Ron, they disapparated. They apparated into the living room of Fred and George. Arthur was reading next to the fireplace.

"Dad!" Ron exclaimed.

Arthur looked up.

"Percy's missing," Ron said, "Kidnapped is our best guess."

"When?" Arthur asked, "How?"

"A few minutes ago," Harry said.

Harry explained the conversation, the fire. A saddened expression came across Arthur's face.

"It is suspicious," Arthur asked, "He knew who?"

"Said he did," Harry said, "Cut off as he was about to say."

Fred came down the stairs, looked at them.

"Percy's missing," Ron said, "In trouble."

"Soulless git of a-" Fred said.

"Who was about to get Ronald out of a big mess," Arthur said, "I'll contact Dumbledore immediately. You should sort through that parchment you collected, see if you can duplicate Percy's work."

Harry dumped the parchment from the bag onto the coffee table, Arthur summoned Dumbledore in the fireplace.

"Invoices, receipts," Harry asked, "How does he stand it?"

Fred sat down, helped poke through the pile.

"He had his laundry done last week," Fred said looking at one slip of paper.

Dumbledore stepped through the fireplace and into the living room.

"Evening," Dumbledore said.

"Percy was nabbed before he could spill the beans," Ron said.

"He was one word away!" Harry said, "He knew he had watchers as of yesterday-damn! We should've had him stay."

"Too late now," Dumbledore said, "I will contact the Ministry. Percy is an employee of theirs, certainly they will take an interest to look."

Dumbledore stuck his head into the fireplace. Harry looked up on the wall, saw a clock hanging there, like the old one in the burrow; it had hands for Arthur, Bill, Charlie, Percy, Fred, George, Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Edward, Harry, and Gia.

"New clock?" Harry asked, "Why am I-?"

"We consider you family," Arthur said, "As you can see, some hands still need hairs; Bill, Charlie, Percy, Gia, and Hermione."

"How'd you get mine?" Ron asked.

"This family? How could expect us not to?" Arthur said, "Besides, we are now aware of the two mortal peril alerts tonight for the both of you."

"As I told you Fred," Ron said, "Dad'd get an ulcer!"

"We were under no obligation to listen," Fred said.

Dumbledore turned out of the fireplace and faced them.

"Ministry has launched a search and rescue," Dumbledore said, "In this matter, I do trust them Mr. Potter, for this is a Ministry employee they are looking for."

"The Ministry is exceptionally good at looking after their own," Arthur said.

"Except Percy figured out who the plant was," Harry said, "He had to of."

"Ministry involvement does not preclude us from looking," Dumbledore said, "Which we will."

Harry slumped back in the chair, explained their conversation with Percy the previous day.

"Reformed Death Eaters?" Arthur exclaimed, "Such rubbish!"

"It has been done before," Dumbledore said, "However, never entrusted to such a position."

Fred threw down his stack of papers.

"I can't make heads or tails out of any of this," Fred said.

"We didn't have time to grab everything," Harry said, "That's assuming the critical paperwork was even in his apartment."

"Let's go help Harry," Ron said.

"Are you kidding?" Arthur said, "The moment you show up, their investigation will change. Stay away, and let them concentrate on finding Percy, not the slaying of you."

"You did do the important thing Ronald," Dumbledore said, "You alerted us, everyone, to his being kidnapped."

"Sitting around feels so useless," Ron said.

"If you'll excuse me," Dumbledore said, "I will be off to assist."

Dumbledore disapparated, so did Arthur.

"Anyone wondering how much our brother spent on groceries, feel free," Fred said.

"Whose groceries?"

They turned, saw George entering the living room from the stairs.

"You said you wanted to turn in early," George said.

George looked at the pile of receipts littering the living room, read one, his eyebrows went up.

"You spent ten galleons on a lunch last week?" George asked.

"You know, the Minister and all," Fred mocked in an imitation of Percy.

Ron laughed.

"Which doesn't explain the new red head in the room," George said.

"Percy's missing," Harry said.

"He's always been missing," George said, "To all 'cept Runt there."

"He's been spending months trying to track down our troubles in the Ministry," Harry said, "He figured it out, but was cut short."

Harry explained.

"Who ever thought the rules could be so useful?" George muttered.

"Likely had the time of his life," Fred said.

"Dumbledore's searching," Harry said, "the Ministry's supposedly searching, to keep that from being true. See you two tomorrow."

Harry and Ron got up, left. They then landed back in Noigate.

"Wish we could've-" Ron exclaimed.

Ron's eyes caught the glint in Harry's eyes.

"We don't know anything yet!" Ron said, "There are many possibilities besides the one you're thinking of."

"Percy could be-" Harry said.

Ron gripped both of Harry's shoulders, looked into his eyes.

"Stop thinking like that," Ron said, "Even if that remote possibility is correct, then it was in battle, honorable."

"I don't get your acceptance," Harry said.

"If you thought any conflict with Voldemort would be bloodless, think again," Ron said, "There will be casualties, there will be. Just being a Weasley guarantees me a chance to join that list."

Ron moved a bit, hand still on Harry's shoulder, and went for the stairs.

"I don't like it," Harry said, "Deaths revolving around me."

"I know," Ron said, "Just remember, Dumbledore's trying to turn you into a weapon against Voldemort; it's in Voldemort's best interest to stop that. It's unfair to you."

Ron looked up, saw the steam drifting out of the windows from the bathroom above.

"Try the girls," Ron said, "They'll help."

"Not with deaths," Harry snapped.

"With you," Ron said.

Harry groaned, but slipped up the stairs to where the girls were still soaking.

---

Monday morning, Harry laid the Daily Prophet down onto the table.

"I think they liked the bats," Harry said.

"Why do they think seven hundred thousand would accomplish what a hundred thousand wouldn't?" Ron asked.

At Puddlemere United, Harry and Ron saw a net deployed much lower than before, Kline came over to them.

"Interesting," Harry muttered.

Kline held up two strips of cloth to them.

"Blindfolds gentlemen," Kline said.

"What?" Harry exclaimed.

"You need to learn to use your other senses to fly," Kline said, "Your vision may be on the Snitch, or it could be dark, in any case, we'll work on you flying blind. For integrity, I suggest you curse yourselves for the moment in addition to these."

Harry grabbed his cloth, put it on.

Early that evening, Ron, Hermione, Harry, and Gia returned to the house after a quick errand. Ron and Gia were carrying several pizzas each, Hermione was carrying the soda, while Harry had his gloves on holding a mine and a mace.

"Ordering pizza gets interesting," Harry said as he set the devices down, "If we ordered lighter, could've brought those other two rather than destroying them."

"Nice collection we're accumulating," Ron said.

---

Tuesday morning, Ron read a letter on the way into the dining room, slammed it down on the table.

Ronald Weasley

Percy failed to show up for work for the second day in a row; this is highly unusual in light of his otherwise perfect attendance. He has listed yourself as his designated contact in case of emergencies. I am wondering if there are circumstances that I should be aware of, otherwise, please check into his status.
David Xavier

"What-?" Harry asked.

"Percy didn't show for work," Ron said, "It only worsens things."

Harry sighed.

"Nothing yet from them," Harry said, "You were there last night. Total loss on the apartment-sickening."

Late in the afternoon, Harry showed up at Puddlemere United, changed, and went out onto the pitch. Only Gerber was there, who came up to him.

"You wanted to break me and Ron up?" Harry asked.

"Specialized training," Gerber said, "Kline said you can fly blind."

"Did that yesterday," Harry said.

"At least you weren't crashing by the end of the day," Gerber said, "That brings us to the next phase of your training, the Snitch."

"I've can see it fine," Harry said.

"See, yes," Gerber asked, "Can you hear it?"

Harry looked at him.

"Knew that'd attract your attention," Gerber said, "If you can hear it buzzing nearby, you'd look and then fly in a game. The stadium is empty and otherwise quiet so you can train on what to listen for."

Gerber gave Harry a pat on the shoulder.

"If you can do this...my, my," Gerber said, "You'll be good. We did the same for your friend and the Quaffle. We'll repeat with the Bludgers, there you'll want to avoid."

"Standard training?" Harry asked.

"No, not by a long shot," Gerber said, "This is new, an idea us coaches hashed out for you, more intensive and more focused than before."

"Others have said-" Harry said.

"That we've tried portions of this on them," Gerber said, "You're getting it all, an attempt to build up your talents, your instincts, before they get entrenched at camp. It was the main advantage to bring you on early, we can start correctly."

Harry took the blindfold, Gerber released the Snitch.

Meanwhile, Kline glanced at Meyer looking out the window at Harry and Gerber.

"If only we could get the others to do this-" Meyers said, "-next season we may have a good shot at the cup."

"Potter is learning," Kline said, "So is Weasley."

"To Potter, the broom is a limb," Meyer said, "It's talent and we've got a chance to hone it!"

---

Friday morning, Gia watched as Harry finished his run in the Room of Requirement. She closed the door and then pinned him against the wall. She wrapped her arms around him.

"With me expelled," Gia said, "Kids could happen if it weren't for your no-dependents rule."

Harry took a moment.

"Don't feel ready—not yet," Harry said.

"Who ever is?" Gia said, "Yet it happens."

"Are you saying-?" Harry said, "I mean with Voldemort—another Potter to murder-"

"Plan to have a life ahead," Gia said, "Your skin feels-" she felt it "-better."

"Really?" Harry asked.

Gia felt his ribs.

"Takes time," Gia said, "But then I'll have more of you."

Harry rolled his eyes.

"Want to practice?" Harry asked.

"That's like, the worse line you've tried," Gia said, "so far."

After a bit, Harry eventually came down the stairs, he paused at the pile of devices accumulating.

"We should get rid of some," Harry said as he sat down at the dining table, "Never know exactly how stable Voldemort's gadgets are."

Harry lifted several cauldron cakes off the stack and then glanced at the Daily Prophet. He dropped the spatulas and the cakes flopped onto the floor.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Friday, April 4, 1997

More Missing Hogwarts Students

Two students attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry have gone missing this week. Ernie Macmillan and Padma Patil have disappeared without a trace, the Ministry is investigating. Currently, most students are away from Hogwarts for their Easter holiday to return next Monday.

Padma Patil, a sixth year Ravenclaw, was kidnapped from her Hampshire home Wednesday evening. Her twin sister, Parvati Patil, was brutally raped three months ago by Harry Potter, one might speculate that this disappearance is somehow a retaliatory strike against the Patils. Clarence Patil, the father and understandably upset, held Potter responsible for his actions three months ago and intends to do so again.

Ernie Macmillan, a sixth year Hufflepuff, was kidnapped from his Surrey home Tuesday evening. Macmillan has been an outspoken critic of Potter at Hogwarts and has encouraged his fellow school mates to express their displeasure about the Dark Potter continuing his education to further his explorations into the Dark Arts. Reasonable speculation draws the conclusion that Potter could be attempting to silence his critics.

Minister of Magic, Victor Fallerschain, has assured the public that the Aurors are investigating and that the aforementioned students are being looked for as quickly as possible.

Properties of the Potter Trust

The following is a listing of all known properties being held by the Potter Family Trust. The infamous Harry Potter is slated to inherit these in the near future.

Harry scanned the list and one stood out.

66 Pickering Place, Noigate

Harry's eyes scanned down the rest of the list taking in places like Glasgow, Godrics Hollow, London, Cardiff, Catchpole, Blackpool, Aberdeen, Fort William, Hogsmeade, and many others.

"Yuck indeed," Ron said.

Late that evening Harry paced in the Room of Requirement.

"You seem uneasy," Hermione said.

"Really?" Harry snapped.

"Given you haven't stripped yet-" Hermione said.

Harry left the room and went to his bedroom. They looked outside and saw stuff moving up the lane.

"Wards-" Hermione said.

"Not against this—quick," Harry said.

Harry roused Gia while Hermione roused Ron. They went to the other bedroom, saw even more figures.

"We have to-" Harry muttered.

They climbed out onto the awning of the dining room below, and mounted their Whitehorns.

"We need to-"

"Harry Potter is not-" Dobby yelled from inside the house.

Winky's screams were cut short.

"Oh no-" Harry muttered.

Pop, Pop, Pop...

"Fly!" Ron snapped.

They jumped off as hooded and dark robed figures closed onto the house. They both flew.

"There!" one figure yelled.

Curses fired toward them, and brick flew. Harry rolled, Gia gripped for her life, as he pushed past the creek. He turned and followed it to the lake—curses following them. Harry plunged and Ron mimicked, both went under the surface. Ron gripped onto Harry who disapparated.

---

Ron woke first Saturday morning; he moved himself along the sticks and dirt out from under their conjured blanket. He banged his head against the small tree trunk and rubbed it. He got out and stood up, he brushed the dirt off of his dragon hide trousers, adjusted his jacket. He then looked at the pitch of his hands.

"Ew," Ron muttered.

He tried wiping the sticky mess off, but couldn't. He instead walked across the needles and sat on the crest of a tall river bank. Below him was a flowing river about ten yard across, beyond that was a grove of alders below a tall hill covered with various evergreen trees. Ron looked to the right and left, saw they were in a valley of some kind. Harry came up from behind, sat next to Ron, then pointed at a creature with black fur.

"Bears?" Harry asked.

"Looks like one," Ron asked, "Where are we?"

"Dunno yet," Harry said, "Given what was after us, anywhere was better."

Ron glanced at his watch, tapped it twice.

"This ain't right," Ron said, "According to this, it's two in the afternoon."

Harry pointed to the growing line of light from the sun starting to illuminate the top of the hill in front of them.

"Has to be morning," Harry said.

"Vegetation's all wrong," Hermione complained.

Harry turned his head, saw Hermione still under the blanket with Gia. Both were shivering a bit.

"Huh?" Harry muttered.

"Doubt it's England," Hermione said, "I mean, that hill in front of us."

"Dunno," Ron said, "A thousand feet or so."

Harry turned, looked.

"More," Harry said.

"I mean the plants," Hermione said.

"Um..." Harry muttered.

"They're not all native to England or Scotland," Hermione said.

"Given there's snow at the top," Harry said, "Suppose it's thawing here."

An owl swooped down, delivered a letter.

"It's got post," Harry said.

Harry opened the letter addressed to him.

Harry Potter

Tonks and Snuffles sorted through the rubble of your former house. Dobby, Winky, Hedwig, Pigwidgeon, and Crookshanks perished.
Dumbledore

"Untrackable, now," Hermione said, "If that owl can get to us, so can anyone else."

Harry, Ron, and Hermione bared their wands for the moment required.

"What do we do now?" Gia asked from underneath the blanket.

"We're homeless now," Harry said.

"No we're not," Ron said, "Bunk with my brothers or something. Maybe Dumbledore'll give you another property."

The blanket vanished, Gia sat up. Both Whitehorns were laying on the ground beside her. She brushed dirt off her jacket, then shook it out of the brooms.

"We're out of those options," Harry said, "EM seemed thorough in their listing yesterday, any that were missed will be found. Who do we stay with? Last Muggles we did that with lost their house. Our relatives are known and likely being watched. Our best chance of survival, right now, is for us to move constantly. Stay in one place for a night or two, then move on."

"I want a spot to call home," Gia said, "I've always wanted that."

Harry turned his head, looked at her.

"You value your life?" Harry said, "It's quite clear by now that nowhere is safe-I no longer care what Dumbledore says about that. We're going to make it as damn hard as we can for them to track us. We're being hunted, get used to that."

Hermione leaned back against the trunk of a wide tree.

"I agree," Ron said, "Glad you're feeling better Harry."

"Dunno," Harry said, "The air here, it's fresh, just does something. I mean, I know we lost there, things killed, but it's uplifting, the smells, the birds chirping, and I can't explain it."

Harry glanced at the eagle soaring along the trees.

"Hogwarts?" Hermione said, "That's predictable, so is Puddlemere once that's inevitably leaked."

"Hogwarts, we still have to go," Harry said, "One, I don't want to cave in. Second, that plant is there, the real culprit. Catch him red handed-we can clear our names there."

"Puddlemere, we'll still go," Ron said, "I mean, we need to keep practicing."

"We'll randomize our schedule," Harry said, "I mean, the same time on the same day of the week-that'd be rather obvious after a bit of spying."

Ron's stomach growled loud, it drowned out the rush of the water of the river below.

"First," Harry said.

Harry grabbed the patch of his Portkey from his wand holster, removed his wand. He transfigured it, then messed around.

"Clearing it of all save Hogwarts and Puddlemere," Harry said, "and, adding the outside point to be more or less random. Yours too Ron."

"You won't know where-?" Ron asked.

"Correct," Harry said, "Look, it helps when we don't know where we're headed. You'll be able to narrow it by saying a preference, Canada for instance, or an English speaking country, or French."

Harry stored his Portkey back into his wand holster, then reached for Ron's, fiddled, and returned it. Harry then dug through his pockets, only to pull out his wallet and passport. Ron pulled out a wallet, and his two stones. Hermione reached in, but found nothing. Gia shook her head.

"We'll get the girls wallets-purses are too bulky," Harry said, "Ron, I'll grab a stone for-"

"Percy!" Ron said, "I mean, he'll want it back."

"Face it," Harry said, "There's a good chance he's gone. I mean, recall the conversation he was interrupted in? Eureka! I fear he's been silenced."

"That's mean to say," Ron said.

"Look at the reality, the facts," Harry said, "He knew he was being watched, he figured out who the plant was. It wouldn't be a long stretch for the plant to know that Percy was onto him. I mean, what we'd do next? We'd have grabbed the fellow and forced a confession, under Veritaserum, for printing in the Daily Prophet. Likely in front of the Minister's nose if at all possible. Percy's next words were going to be a name."

"It's still cruel and cold hearted!" Ron snapped.

"I'm being pragmatic," Harry said, "We have those stones now and we may need to split up-we need them."

Hermione returned from her jaunt into the woods behind them.

"I think he's right," Hermione said, "It makes sense."

Ron frowned.

"Until we know one way or the other," Harry said, "You keep one, I'll keep the other."

"I hate diving up his things," Ron said, "I hate it before we know."

Harry moved one stone over to Ron.

"I hate it too," Harry said, "We are being hunted, we don't have the time to wait."

Harry moved the other stone toward him.

"I do agree it's strategic for us to split," Ron said, "A group of four does get noticed, these will help us. You can't talk me out of my glum though."

Harry picked up both wallets, pinched a wad of money and moved it over to Ron's.

"You're paying-?" Ron stammered.

"No," Harry said, "I'm sharing. You can't afford to be stuck short. We need to set those up, muggle accounts, many of them."

"Swiss accounts," Gia said, "We need those."

"We go there on Monday," Harry said, "I'll see if Dumbledore can open up my family trust."

"You will?" Ron asked.

"If we have to, yes," Harry said, "Suppose we should figure out where we are."

Harry looked over, saw the gleaming white of the snow caps, the sun light sweeping across the deep green of the trees. He looked down to the river, saw the cascading of the water rushing around the boulders.

"It's nice here," Harry said, "Sorry to have to leave it."

He then summoned his Whitehorn to fly the twenty feet to him. Ron grabbed his broom.

"I'd like a shower first," Hermione said, "Perhaps that river has a nook for a bath, then some clean clothes."

Ron scrambled down the bank.

"I'd like it too," Gia said.

Ron felt the water of the river, came back up.

"No," Ron said, "Way too cold for that."

"We need to keep moving," Harry said, "This valley looks too big to walk to anywhere sensible."

Harry got up, mounted his Whitehorn. They flew their brooms miles down the river of where they camped. They passed many trees, saw hikers along the trail following the river. They crossed over a lake, passed a dam, and followed a highway.

"Elwha," Harry shouted to Ron, "That's the river we were along according to those signs."

"Where are we?" Ron asked.

They looked, saw the body of water toward their left, it spanned some distance to a low range on the other side.

"Port Angeles is four miles away," Harry said, "Some place call Bremerton is a bit further."

"United States," Hermione said, "I think we went across the pond."

"We passed many ponds," Ron said.

"I meant the Atlantic Ocean," Hermione said.

They passed over houses, a strip mall, other commercial buildings, then landed in some shrubs of a small park in the middle. They released their Disillusionment Charms. Harry and Ron stowed their Whitehorns in their pockets.

"I know these aren't great," Harry said, "but we can't go carrying slings now, can we?"

They left the park, saw the signs marking the street as 2nd St. Harry spotted an ATM, went for it.

"You already have-" Ron said.

"Not this currency," Harry said.

Harry stuck his debit card into the ATM, conversed with the goblin.

"He's got a point," Hermione said, "Unlike galleons, muggles use different monies for different countries."

"So these British pounds he gave me-" Ron said.

"Are only good in Britain," Hermione said.

"Sounds rather limited," Ron said.

"It is," Hermione said, "Of course, muggles have figured ways around that, there are places that offer to exchange the different monies."

"For a take," Gia said.

"Damn it!"

Ron turned toward the ATM, saw some man yelling at the machine, Harry returned to them.

"Cleaned it out," Harry said, "Here."

Harry handed a stack of bills to Ron. Ron's ears tinged a bit green as he took the stack.

"Let's put it a different way," Harry said, "How soon until the Minister finds a way to confiscate my vaults?"

"You're being cynical," Gia said.

"Am I?" Harry said, "We're listed as suspected. How better to cobble us than to drain my vault? They've wiped out that house, likely many other properties. You could fund the Ministry for some while with the contents and tax cuts are pretty popular."

Harry pointed out a restaurant, they went for it. Harry sat on the bench around the table sandwiched between Ron and Gia. They glanced over the menus.

"Your pills?" Ron asked.

"Likely in the debris," Harry said, "We'll need to go back in a bit, see what we can recover."

Harry looked over the menu; they ordered.

"Sorry to seem soulless earlier," Harry said, "I sure hope I'm wrong about Percy, I hope he's just toying with us or something, but I can't ignore the clues though, it did seem suspicious in the least and his skipping work proved that."

"It's not easy," Ron said, "Talking about a brother being dead when I don't know."

"Never said it would," Harry said, "We need to be prepared, either way."

"Our plans?" Hermine asked.

They accepted the breakfast from the waitress and started eating.

"Shouldn't we be worried about poison?" Gia asked in a whisper.

"We're how far from where we started?" Harry asked.

"Eight hours according to Ron's watch and the clock on the wall," Hermione said, "A few thousand miles perhaps."

"Which means we need an opportunist who recognizes us here," Harry said, "We were staying in a small city for months, made it easy for hitmen to figure out. Now, it's anywhere in the world. However, we need a simple test besides eating it."

Harry forked another bite.

"Or carry a generic antidote," Hermione said.

"I prefer to keep carrying requirements to a minimum," Harry said, "Should easily fit in my pockets, or I don't carry it."

"If you can get brooms into them," Hermione said, "Anything-"

Harry rolled his eyes.

"Smart Aleck," Harry said.

Ron gave Harry a shove.

"Hey," Harry said, "I'm anorexic."

"Doesn't stop me from defending Hermione," Ron said.

Harry returned the shove.

"Stop it!" Hermione snapped, eyes flashing.

"Let them act their age," Gia said.

"I'm not in the mood to baby sit," Hermione said.

Harry grabbed the check, set down a twenty dollar note.

"Green," Harry said, "These notes are all green."

"Yes," Gia said.

They got up, left the restaurant.

"We'll need to go back," Harry said, "Eight hours you said Hermione?"

"Yes," Hermione said, "It's ten here, so, it's six in the evening there."

They ducked behind a dumpster, Harry grabbed on, and they disapparated. They apparated in the field behind the ruins. They walked over, peered at the pile where a two story house used to be

"Everything that could be salvaged has been salvaged."

They turned around, saw Dumbledore standing behind them.

"I was wondering when you would show up," Dumbledore said.

"You said the wards would protect," Harry said.

"You, of all people, should be aware that any ward can be penetrated," Dumbledore said, "With sufficient magical power, they can be toppled."

"You also said you'd keep the transaction secret," Harry said.

"Reread the article," Dumbledore said, "I kept the transfer from the trust to you secret. However, the fact this place was in your family trust was not a secret but has been public information for decades. As to other the other holdings, I will be conducting an survey of their condition tomorrow."

Harry looked at the pit.

"What has been recovered?" Harry asked.

"All things are currently located in 64 Pickering Place," Dumbledore said, "However, it will not take long for the EM to think about listing my holdings."

"No it won't," Harry said, "We may need auxiliary storage for what did survive."

"Have you made arrangements for a place to stay?" Dumbledore asked.

"We have that figured out," Harry said, "No, you won't know where."

"This level of animosity-" Dumbledore said.

"It's justified!" Harry said, "Look at the last place you suggested, it's a wreck! My owl, Hedwig, is dead, my first gift ever! Ron's owl, Hermione's cat, Dobby, and Winky, dead! So, pardon me if I'm reluctant to take any advice from you."

Dumbledore paused for a moment.

"Your items and a delegation of well wishers are in 64 Pickering Place," Dumbledore said, "You are welcome to visit. I have also made provisions for replacing the cauldrons for mail, as I said on the house, you are welcome to accept or decline."

Harry kicked a broken timber.

"Suppose there's even worse news," Harry said.

"Nothing as urgent," Dumbledore said, "The goblins, in their infinite wisdom, canceled the insurance policies yesterday morning against the holdings citing unacceptable risk."

"Knew there was something," Harry grumbled.

"I will be over there," Dumbledore said, "You are welcome to come or not."

Dumbledore disapparated.

"I feel like-" Harry drew his wand, cursed, and vaporized the burnt stump of where a tree was.

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia stood around looking at the debris until dusk approached. They also took notice of the five freshly dug graves bearing the markings of their dead servants and pets.

Harry approached the door of 64 Pickering Place.

"Wait," Hermione said.

They stopped, she cast a fog of glowing smoke. Harry assisted in destroying a fast approaching mine along with a mace. The door opened, Moody came out.

"Who's firing curses?" Moody demanded.

"We were," Harry said.

They approached the door and entered.

"Ron!" Arthur approached.

"Hi Dad," Ron said, "Like, our stuff, is like, here."

"Only one trunk survived," Sirius said, "Some books did survive, Tonks was surprised by a thirty five book series that did."

"Where are the others?" Ron said, "Dumbledore made it sound like many."

"I volunteered to wait," Arthur said, "Your things are this way."

They followed Arthur into a small drawing room.

"We need to store most of it at your place Dad," Ron said.

"Certainly," Arthur said, "Doubt Fred or George would mind."

Harry approached the table, on it was his trunk. He opened it, sorted through the items.

"Invisibility cloak?" Harry asked.

"If it's not there," Arthur said, "Then it was destroyed beyond any use. EM seemed intent on destruction and they achieved their goal. I'll leave you to sort it out."

Arthur left the room. Harry dumped out the meagerly contents.

"My journal survived," Ron said.

"Mine didn't," Harry said.

Harry grabbed an old piece of parchment, grinned, then folded it gently and placed it into his pocket.

"My diary isn't here," Hermione said.

"Our pills are." Gia retrieved a pair of bottles, handed one to Hermione.

"I see none of our essays," Hermione said, "None, nor school books."

Harry retrieved his photo scrapbook given to him by Hagrid.

"My pictures are gone," Gia said.

Harry bumped the photo album.

"No," Harry said, "Looks like someone added them to the photo album. Based upon the notation, Tonks saw some pictures I was promised wouldn't slip."

"Without a camera," Gia said, "There's no hope of any more like that."

"Buy one," Ron said, "It's what Harry always does."

"Let's not get into that," Harry said, "I was robbed yesterday, we all were."

They continued sorting with most of everything going into Harry's trunk.

"Well," Harry said, "That's that. Suggest we get back and have some lunch."

Ron nodded.

"What are these?" Hermione asked holding what looked like pocket protectors with notes.

Harry grabbed one, read the note.

Harry

This is the mail courier, equivalent to the cauldron. Insert this into a pocket you wish to have letters and newspapers delivered into. Packages will be retained at Hogwarts until delivery can be arranged for. Acceptance of this arrangement is signaled by placing this into your pocket, otherwise, leave it on the table and I will collect it later.
Dumbledore

"Actually," Hermione said, "It's a good idea, keep the owls down."

Harry nodded, inserted his into the inside pocket of his jacket. Ron, Hermione, and Gia did likewise. Harry carried the trunk out of the study and back to the living room.

"Dad," Ron said, "Store that." He pointed to the trunk Harry set down.

"What are you taking with you?" Arthur asked.

"Nothing much beyond our wands," Ron said.

Arthur stared at him.

"Where can I find you?" Arthur said, "Surely, we can take you in, the spare guest room."

"No and no," Ron asked, "Anything new on Percy?"

Arthur shook his head.

"Off to lunch," Harry said.

They left a puzzled Arthur behind.

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia apparated behind a dumpster around the back of a strip mall in Port Angeles, Washington, in the United States.

"Well," Ron said, "Here we are, again."

They went to the front of the strip mall, entered a drug store, then perused the aisles; after that, they left the store, crossed the parking lot, and entered a fast food restaurant.

Later, they flew back up the Elwha river, settled down on the shelf to the west forested side of the river. With scrutiny, they could see people hiking on the across on east side.

"While you might not mind spending forever," Hermione said, "I'm going to want to shower or a bath."

"We'll go for a hostel tomorrow then," Harry said, "In the meanwhile, we have that-" Harry pointed to a small cove from the water in the rocks of a pool of water. "We'll do it when it goes dark."

"It is an issue," Gia said, "Clothes, that sort."

Harry exhaled then inhaled, the birds tweeted.

"We can clean what we have," Harry said, "Replace when it wears. It's in the only book I brought along, that Auror Handbook. When in doubt, travel light. We can conjure lots of what we need for as long as we really need it for."

Ron looked at them sitting on a pair of logs.

"So," Ron asked, "We just sit around and chat all day?"

"Or hike, or tour, or read," Harry said, "If you want to run off to Cairo and visit a pyramid, do so."

"Realize at this rate we're going to run afoul of international treaties," Hermione said, "We have legally conjurable objects, we have transportation restrictions, and many others."

"Those rules are stupid if we can't live," Harry said, "I'm tired of getting my arse kicked, I'm tired of sitting around doing nothing, I want to act, I want to topple the conspiracy against us, I want to topple Voldemort, it's the only way to get him to stop attacking, to leave me alone."

They saw a hawk fly up the river, a fish jump in the rushing water.

"What do you suggest?" Ron asked.

"Reexamine all of our suspects," Harry said, "Take a second look. If they were seen at an event, don't worry about that. I mean, if they're Polyjuicing us, then it's not difficult for them to fabricate an alibis."

Hermione adjusted her jacket.

"And catch Malfoy in the act-" Ron said.

"We don't know it is or isn't Malfoy," Hermione said, "We've had this discussion before."

"He certainly wouldn't stop anything," Harry said, "We should check his trunk and see if we can't find something of interest in it."

"And we'd be expelled if caught," Hermione said.

"Then we won't get caught," Harry said.

Ron coughed.

"A Slytherin?" Ron said, "Likely booby trapped."

"We need to check every trunk at the school," Harry said.

"They've been searched since this started," Hermione said.

"Doesn't mean the culprits don't hide beforehand," Harry said, "They'd know of an impending search, now wouldn't they?"

"Can't you ask Dumbledore to search?" Gia asked.

Hermione shook her head.

"He needs to have cause," Harry said, "And such a search would involve the Aurors."

Harry took out his Auror Handbook, handed it to Hermione.

"Have fun," Harry said.

Harry got up, brought Gia on a stroll along the river. Hermione looked at Ron.

"What do you think?" Hermione asked.

"If he's doing what I think he's doing," Ron said, "He's about ready to give that depression of his the boot. Either that, or he's so angry he's thirsting for revenge."

"That's dangerous," Hermione said.

"I know," Ron said, "He's fed up, I'm fed up, we're all fed up."

Hermione sighed, leafed through the handbook.

---

Sunday, they flew down to Port Angeles, went into a different restaurant.

"Sucks being homeless," Run muttered as they sat down at the table.

"And if you're dead?" Harry asked.

Ron glared at Harry.

"Who do you want to be their next victim?" Harry said, "Gia and I discussed it heavily yesterday afternoon, we have a golden opportunity."

Ron raised his eyebrows. The waitress came over, they ordered.

"We do," Harry said, "Forced to being nomadic, we can see the world, and I intend to. Gia's requested Athens for a day, she and I will be doing that soon."

"Interesting spin," Ron said.

"Now you're getting depressed," Harry said, "I know Percy's missing, but-"

Harry's Daily Prophet slipped, the front page fell open.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Sunday, April 6, 1997

Setback for Potter

EM has acknowledged leading raids designed to strip Dark Potter of resources needed to continue his experimentation and practicing of the Dark Arts. EM successfully removed all buildings and safe havens from all properties held by the Potter Family Trust. Solicitors for the EM and the Daily Prophet have confirmed that such actions are permissible under the SDWCA.

EM was vindicated in its actions by the discovery that Potter had indeed taken up residence in the holding at 66 Pickering Place in Noigate, a building strewn with wards, an indication that there were Dark Arts to be hidden. With the assistance of a special consultant (who wished to remain anonymous and hidden), the wards were removed and Potter was evicted.

EM has assured us that Potter can no longer take refuge there to continue his experimentation. Muggle residents of Noigate can now sleep securely knowing that a terrorist has been removed from their community.

EM is a world wide organization boasting 340,000 members in Britain and Ireland, this organization is dedicated to eliminating the threat of Harry Potter, the Boy Who Shouldn't have Lived.

"Did they bother to see who their special consultant was?" Harry said, "It was Voldemort in flesh and blood who took down the wards. Blimey! They're the worst set of hypocrites this world has seen."

"You're certain?" Hermione asked.

"Absolutely," Harry said, "I saw that curse from both sides if you get my drift."

The food arrived, they started eating. Harry popped his multivitamin, then worked on his fried eggs.

"Still think we could use Bill or Charlie or something," Ron said.

"Your family is known!" Harry said, "Gia, it does remind me, make for Fred and George's should we get separated. Should make you a Portkey for that."

Ron looked at Harry.

"We do need a base of operation," Harry said, "They are known to be a bit cozy with us, so it won't harm them to be there from time to time. Staying full time wouldn't be good."

Ron shoved a scoop of hash browns into his mouth.

"You insisted on us sticking together, so fine," Harry said, "Survival is important and the rules have changed. Keep them guessing—they can't anticipate our next location as even we don't know."

"So where to today?" Gia asked.

Harry looked at the map, pointed.

"Seattle looks interesting," Harry said, "Take a look, then move on."

"Could go up their space needle," Gia said.

Harry shrugged. "Sure, why not?"

"We should be studying," Hermione said.

"I'm sorry," Harry said, "The one drawback of this is we can't lug many books around. You've got that one I lent you, otherwise you'll need to use a library. Seattle looks big enough that it's likely to have one."

"A magical one?" Hermione asked.

"Maybe," Harry said, "However, be very cautious if you go for that."

Harry paid the tab, they left the restaurant.

"Long ways," Ron grumbled as they landed.

They had just crossed Puget Sound and were in the shrubbery on Capitol Hill overlooking downtown Seattle. They stepped out of their disillusion and stowed their brooms. Gia looked around, saw Lake Union to their right, then the Space Needle, then the skyscrapers of downtown Seattle.

"Majestic," Gia said.

"And confused weather," Ron said as it started raining, not for the first or last time.

They left the park, walked along the street.

"Straight roads," Hermione said, "Much straighter."

Gia held up a camera, snapped a picture of Harry.

"Can't believe you talked me into buying that," Harry muttered.

"World traveling?" Gia said, "A camera is warranted."

"Four?" Harry asked.

"Need pictures of us," Gia said.

Around ten that evening (in Seattle), Harry and Ron were prohibited from entering a bar in Pioneer Square.

"Twenty one?" Ron said, "I have to be twenty one here? Blimey! I can hold my liquor."

"Told you," Hermione said.

Ron rolled his eyes. Harry reached for his inside pocked, pulled out the Daily Prophet. His eyebrows raised as he read it over in the lamp light, his arms struggled to keep it from being blown away by the wind.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Monday, April 7, 1997

Problem Solver

Potter, Harry : 865,000 galleons

Weasley, Ron : 684,000 galleons

Granger, Hermione : 451,000 galleons

Prescott, Gia : 297,000 galleons

Skeeter, Rita : 4,100 galleons

Removal of these problems would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be sent to "Bye Bye". To claim a reward, submit relevant documentation. (Values are now rounded.) 10,000 galleon bonus for each relation severed.

Dumbledore Impedes Investigation

Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is impeding an official Ministry investigation by refusing to disclose the current whereabouts of Harry Potter, needed for questioning in several recent unexplained disappearances. Dumbledore has refused the many requests over the past weekend to disclose the whereabouts of Mr. Potter or to produce him for questioning. Potter remains the primary suspect in the disappearances of Ernie Macmillan and Padma Patil.

Skeeter Removed from HPGC

Rita Skeeter, a known collaborator of Harry Potter, has been removed from the Harry Potter Guidance Committee (HPGC). This committee is not searching for a replacement, but has instead elected to allow a reduction to four members to curb the expenditures that Potter is refusing to cover as required.

In a statement, Dolores Umbridge, Chairperson of the committee, said, "Skeeter has been removed because she now buys into the excuse making of Potter, the same problem that has plagued the wizarding community for many years. Skeeter now readily accepts that Potter is above all the rules and laws that bind us together. This committed had no choice but to remove her for that reason and the fact that she has failed to show up to regularly scheduled meetings."

The committee has expressed displeasure at the cold shoulder offered by Albus Dumbledore. Numerous times, Dumbledore has refused to transfer control of the Potter family trust to the committee for better safe keeping. Numerous times, Dumbledore has refused to permit any access to Harry Potter for routine questioning. Numerous times, Dumbledore has refused to cooperate in urging Potter to pay his debts.

Trial Date Set

Rubeus Hagrid, the former Keeper of the Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, will be tried on charges of illegal breeding of dangerous creatures starting on May 5, 1997. These charges are stemming from the release of dangerous creatures at Hogwarts that resulted in the mercy killing of Owen Cauldwell, a third year Hufflepuff. These creatures, half bats, half demeantors, present an extreme danger to all who cross their paths.

Hagrid has elected to retain Albus Dumbledore as a solicitor on his behalf. Both are advised that the best chances for court mercy is to iterate how it was Potter who obviously masterminded this dark scheme to terrorize his fellow students at Hogwarts.

"It's Sunday!" Harry exclaimed.

"At least Hagrid gets a trial," Ron said, "More than we'll be offered."

"Must remember the time differences Harry," Hermione said, "Here, it's Sunday, there, it's Monday. If you're looking to open a Swiss account, they're likely opening about now. Then, you two have practice at Puddlemere in a couple of hours."

"Time flies," Harry said.

They perused the rest of the paper, then shoved it into a nearby recycling bin. Harry grabbed onto Ron, Hermione, and Gia; they disapparated in front of a plastered drunk. The drunk man, sitting on the sidewalk, took a big swig out of his bottle.

---

Tuesday, Harry woke along side of Gia, Ron, and Hermione; they were in a private room of a hostel in Madrid, Spain. Harry shook the others awake.

"I'm tired," Ron snapped.

"Skipping a night of sleep does that," Hermione said.

"We've also got school," Harry said.

"That's right," Ron said, "Too bad we weren't expelled, then I'd sleep all day."

"No you wouldn't," Hermione said, "I'd see to that."

Harry groaned as he got up, then went for the shower. He returned to see Ron sitting on the edge of the bed, Hermione comforting.

"Did I miss something?" Harry asked.

"No!" Ron barked.

Harry reached for the letter to the side, read it.

Ron

It's Percy, sorry I couldn't tell you in person.
Dad

Harry shuffled to the clipped article.

THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

Tuesday, April 8, 1997

Body Washes up Along Thames

Monday morning, a mutilated body was found along the Thames River just east of London. Identity is being withheld pending notification of family. This person is described as a man in his early twenties with red hair. Persons knowing information regarding this are requested to contact Scotland Yard.

Harry moved over, slid his hand onto Ron's bare shoulder.

"Wish I could do something," Harry said, "Perhaps you should skip Hogwarts-"

"I want to get the bastards who did this," Ron growled.

Harry got up and dressed. A bit later, they landed in McGonagall's office.

"My goodness!" McGonagall exclaimed. She was looking at the four of them from behind her desk.

"Sorry Professor," Harry said, "We no longer feel our dormitories to be safe."

"And why are you not in your school uniform Potter?" Snape sneered from besides McGonagall's desk.

"I-" Harry started.

"You thought you could flout even more rules?" Snape said, "You will explain to the Headmaster along with why you brought your pet muggle."

Harry glared at Snape, but followed him and McGonagall out of the office. Dumbledore peered over his half moon spectacles from behind his desk. Harry, Ron, and Hermione stood there, not in their school robes, but in their dragon hide trousers, white shirts, Gryffindor ties, and dragon hide jackets; Gia stood back near the door. Snape watched with anticipation, McGonagall was not looking pleased.

"Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry has a dress code," Dumbledore stated.

"I am aware of that-" Harry said.

"Yet you show up in spite of-" Snape sneered.

"If I had a choice I would!" Harry snapped.

"Get a grip Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, "School uniforms are required."

"Destroyed," Harry said, "I have no replacements, I can no longer walk into Madam Malkin's to get any, nor do I have a spot to store them."

Snape glared at Harry.

"Enough excuses for your failure," Snape sneered, "Potter, you will-"

"Silence Severus," Dumbledore said, "Unlike most students, Mr. Potter's situation is unique. Normally, he would have been expelled months ago for reasons of safety and welfare of the students. Also, such a measure would be warranted as being in the best interests of Hogwarts for the near term. However, I have been reluctant as I know such a maneuver would not be in the long term interests of Hogwarts or anyone one else save Mr. Riddle."

Dumbledore paused for a moment.

"Twice in the past weeks," Dumbledore said, "Mr. Potter has been chased out of his residence, twice it has been destroyed. As I'm aware, the incident last Friday incurred some heavy losses in life and property."

Dumbledore looked at Harry.

"Yes," Harry said, "It did."

"As you may or may not be aware," Dumbledore said, "The remainder of your properties have since suffered a similar fate."

"That was Potter's affair," Snape said.

"How is Voldemort destroying his property his fault?" Dumbledore said to Snape, "It is not his fault."

Dumbledore paused, long enough for Snape and Harry to get into a mutual glare.

"Where are you staying now Mr. Potter?" Dumbledore asked.

Harry returned his eyes to Dumbledore.

"Nowhere," Harry said.

"That is an unacceptable response," Dumbledore said.

"Your office for the moment," Harry said, "I no longer have a residence inside or outside of Hogwarts."

"That will have to be remedied," McGonagall said.

Harry looked at McGonagall.

"With all due respect, how?" Harry said, "I can't stay in the castle, I can't stay in any spot for long. I am a hunted man, I must act accordingly."

Harry looked at Snape.

"Yes, what you've always wanted to hear," Harry said, "I, Harry Potter, am homeless, permanently."

"That is not true," Dumbledore said.

Harry looked at Dumbledore.

"Where then?" Harry said, "Hogwarts where I can't sleep unless I want to be lynched. Weasley's? They're next on EM's search list. Your places, not too much of a stretch to look there. We already agreed that inhabiting muggle buildings would be bad. Then where?"

Harry's eyes fixated on Dumbledore's.

"I am being hunted," Harry said, "I no longer wish to take on a permanent residence anywhere, it's too vulnerable."

"Where have you stayed since Friday?" Dumbledore asked, "Where will you stay tonight?"

"We've spent the two nights in America, last night in Madrid," Harry said, "Tonight, I don't yet know and that's the point."

McGonagall looked at Dumbledore.

"Albus," McGonagall said, "You can't be thinking of endorsing this? We can certainly do something."

"At what cost Professor?" Harry said, "Who's neck do I put on the EM's list? That house, was toasted three weeks after I took up residence. Do I ask the twins to sacrifice themselves, their house, and their shop? How about Bill or Charlie?"

"We have discussed this," Ron said, "We are in agreement to give Voldemort a rather difficult time finding us."

Hermione nodded, Gia did too.

"Severus," Dumbledore said, "Get that potion I requested."

Snape went for the fireplace, stepped through, then came back a moment later. He set down a flask of a yellow chalky liquid goo. Dumbledore brought the flask toward him, looked at it through the glass toward a candle.

"The decision to use this is yours alone, I cannot in good faith force it upon any of you," Dumbledore said, "This potion should render all locater charms on you useless, permanently and for life. This will include owls, House Elfs, or any other magical device designed to find or record your location."

"Why not use this earlier?" Harry asked.

"It took almost a month to brew," Snape said.

"Also," Dumbledore said, "This is not something to take idly. Before these mines or the sniper, the safety of your residence was sufficient. One of the wards offered partial shielding sufficient for general security, but that will no longer suffice. I repeat, this potion, once taken, is permanent. You will forever be untrackable by anybody. You will be the only other people alive apart from Mr. Riddle who has consumed this."

"So those devices-?" Harry asked.

"Will not find you by locater methods," Dumbledore said, "That does not eliminate their using other means."

"It also precludes us from finding you," Snape said.

"Not a loss to you," Harry snapped.

Dumbledore conjured up four glasses, brought out four sheets of parchment along with a quill.

"The decision is yours," Dumbledore said, "There are other methods, but not as certain as this measure would be."

Harry looked over the form.

"Once taken," Dumbledore said, "You need to designate a mail drop point, to be recorded. I do recommend Hogwarts, here, however, you are free to change it now or at any other time."

Harry poured into one cup, held it up.

"Snape brewed it," Harry said, "Could be poisoned.

"If it is," Dumbledore said, "You would have sufficient time to execute Severus as a traitor."

McGonagall looked at Dumbledore, but was silenced by his look. Harry took the glass, drank it. Ron stepped forward, poured his cup, drank. Hermione and Gia did too.

"Now that we have that matter settled," Dumbledore said, "We return to the matter of your school uniforms and other arrangements. Severus, you may leave."

Snape let his robes billow as he left the office.

"If it's a matter of storage," McGonagall said, "We can certainly find a location in this castle for your uniforms."

"It's not just that," Harry said, "We suffered losses during the last encounter with EM, blood was spilt, books were burned, clothes were destroyed. We lost a lot."

"Given the situation," Dumbledore said, "I think we can spare some robes Minerva."

McGonagall went for the door.

"Wait," Harry said, "Percy was found dead."

Dumbledore looked at Harry. Ron nodded.

"Has Ginny-?" Harry asked.

"Minerva," Dumbledore said.

McGonagall left the office.

"Mr. Weasley," Dumbledore said, "I suggest you have other matters to attend to today in lieu of classes."

Ron opened his mouth, Harry looked at him. Green eyes met brown for a minute. Ron nodded. Ron returned his focus to Dumbledore.

"Harry suggested that this morning," Ron said, "Upon reconsideration, I believe it to be best."

Harry turned around.

"Gia," Harry said, "Go with them-I don't want you traveling in this castle."

Gia came over, looked at Harry, puzzled.

"I don't," Harry said, "See you tomorrow."

Harry gave her a quick kiss. Dumbledore looked at Gia.

"I can not guarantee your safety in this castle Miss. Prescott," Dumbledore said, "Nor can I guarantee it for any of you."

Ginny came into the office, followed by McGonagall. Ginny's eyes darted between Ron looking at her and Dumbledore.

"Miss. Weasley," Dumbledore said, "You are excused for the day for matters of family importance."

"Wha-Why?" Ginny stammered.

Her eyes met Ron's saddened eyes.

"Percy's dead," Ron said.

Ginny kept quiet, followed Ron and Gia to the fireplace; they stepped in.

"Did you mean what you said earlier?" Harry asked, "Short term interests and all?"

Dumbledore gave McGonagall a look, she hung two black cloaks on the coat rack, then left the office.

"You already know the important answers to that question, otherwise, you would not be here at this time," Dumbledore said, "Please have a seat."

Dumbledore got up, escorted them over to the armchairs to the side of the office. They sat.

"Have you ate breakfast?" Dumbledore asked.

Harry nodded.

"I checked through the debris a final time," Dumbledore said, "I found one item that may be of interest to you, it certainly insisted upon being returned."

Dumbledore pulled a light brown outback hat from his pocket, fluffed it open, and handed it over to Harry.

"I will wish to borrow it come September first," Dumbledore said, eyes twinkling.

Harry put it on.

"Now," Dumbledore said, "I wish to speak with you about your education."

"What about it?" Harry asked.

"I have pulled you from all of your classes," Dumbledore said.

Hermione's jaw dropped, her arm twittered.

"Expelled?" Harry stammered.

"No," Dumbledore said, "You have been reassigned. While you are at Hogwarts, your training, your education, will be personally supervised by myself. It is clear that your requirements are different from your classmates. If you wish, we can maintain the pace during suspensions."

Harry and Hermione stepped into Disillusionment as they stepped off the spiral stairs, past the Stone Gargoyle, and onto the second floor corridor. Harry kept his wand drawn in his hand, pointed it along the corridor ahead. Coming out of disillusion was a thin wire laid across the floor attached to a taught elastic cord. Harry cursed, the trip wire vaporized.

"Magic in the corridor?" Hermione whispered.

"I do not care," Harry said, "These traps are dangers to us and everyone else-inherent safety laying in the quality of the workmanship into them."

They saw a jug come out of disillusion near the corridor, Harry fired a curse, the jug and contents vaporized. Slowly, they marched down the corridor, vaporizing one booby trap after another.

"Stop!"

They turned, saw Auror Archer trying to scan the corridor for them. Harry and Hermione stepped to the side, but Archer's curses shot through their old location. Harry and Hermione slipped onto a set of stairs, they cautiously stepped downward. One by one, they removed the traps; a snare here, a sword there.

"Glad we took that potion already," Hermione whispered.

"Yeah," Harry said, "All these things we obsoleted in one swig."

They walked along the first floor, removing a trap here, a snare there, a threatening sword laying flat on a window sill. They turned the corner, saw their dolls in use by a fourth year Ravenclaw boy. Harry and Hermione waited in the corners, refreshed their disillusions, and waited until the boy was done on Harry's doll. With a curse, the dolls disintegrated into a pile of ash.

"That felt good," Harry whispered.

"All this corridor magic," Hermione said, "Should count your stars that I'm not a Prefect."

Harry and Hermione retreated, went back and down a different corridor; they disabled the many more snares and traps. Harry halted about twenty feet away from Wood's office. He reached up and removed another small flat cylinder, opened it up, and saw it was empty save the black hair in the pearly white marble. Harry set it onto the floor, cursed, and destroyed the hair trap.

"Another down," Harry said.

"It's going to take weeks to clean the entire castle," Hermione said, "Even then, we're assuming people aren't going to adapt and make changes."

"Don't burst my bubble!" Harry snapped.

"Just pointing-" Hermione said.

"I know," Harry said, "We do have Dumbledore to Wood cleared."

Harry gave Hermione a smile, they knocked on Wood's office door.

Harry and Hermione stepped into illusion as they entered Wood's office. Wood took a moment to look at their dragon hide as he closed the office door.

"My, my," Wood said, "New uniforms-"

"Dumbledore felt this safer-under the table," Harry said.

Wood looked under the table.

"I meant," Harry said, "Crawl under, now."

Hermione did so, Wood hesitated then crouched. Harry pointed his wand at the corner of Wood's desk, cursed, and ducked. A curser appeared, exploded, and left a small raging fire on the corner of the desk. Harry cursed again, extinguished the flames.

"Harry!" Wood said as he rose, "I wish you would've warned-teachers are-"

"Incapable," Harry said, "Sorry, but I've had enough-I'm in charge of my own safety, not you, not anybody else."

Hermione's eyes darted quickly.

"You offered lunch," Hermione said.

Wood escorted them to his inner office, platters were laid about. Wood took a bite of a sandwich, then sat.

"Coach Kline has been impressed with your willingness to entertain that training regiment," Wood said, "All previous players have protested at some point, then they resort to traditional training."

"Let's see," Harry said in a pompous manner, "The evening after I played blind chicken with Bludgers, I was flying and dodging Killing curses-the training came in useful. Therefore, one can imagine that their training might not seem so dangerous."

Wood sipped his pumpkin juice.

"Does put things in perspective," Wood said.

After Harry and Hermione left Wood's office, they stepped into their disillusion, and walked along the corridor; they paused as Finnigan and Thomas came up the marble stairs, both sporting "Freed Noigate April 4" badges pinned to their robes.

"Hey the dolls!" Finnigan ran to the location of the ashen ruins.

Thomas caught up. "Potter!"

Harry stepped out of his disillusion, wand drawn.

"Worried Death Eater?" Harry asked.

"Uncalled for," Thomas said, "Ten points."

Harry flexed his eyebrows.

"You assisted Voldemort," Harry said, "Did you bother to look at who your special consultant was? You fought along side of him, you aided him in destroying my house. You aided in the murder of my owl, my friends. It is an act I will never forget."

Harry stepped into disillusion.

"You Know Who is dead," Thomas said into the air, "You liar, you..."

Harry ushered Hermione down the stairs, they waited behind several statues for the corridors to clear and the class bell to ring. Harry and Hermione slipped down the stairs toward the dungeons.

"Can't believe Dumbledore-" Hermione whispered.

"He was neutral," Harry said, "Which means we need to be careful."

They renewed their disillusion, then came to the stone wall. Harry removed his worn parchment from his pocket, looked at it.

"Clear," Harry said, "Look, we're merely unnamed fading dots." Harry straightened himself out, whispered "muggles are beasts" to the door.

The stone wall moved, they cautiously stepped into the Slytherin common room. Several first years came by, Harry and Hermione ducked to the side. The stone wall closed. Harry went for the corridor to the boys dormitories, Hermione followed; Harry hopped stones that Hermione then hopped. Harry stopped in front of the sixth years dormitory, then reached to the sign and stuck his fingers down it. The door opened.

"Could search the others first," Hermione whispered.

"Malfoy first," Harry whispered.

They entered the empty dormitory, Harry had his wand drawn and verified that. Harry's eyes darted from trunk to trunk, landing on the one marked "Malfoy". Harry donned some latex gloves, fidgeted on the lock. Harry popped the lock using his wand, Hermione assisted searching. They poked through Malfoy's trunk, then Crabbe's, then Goyles, and then the rest of the trunks in the sixth years. They moved to the seventh years, then the fifths, then the fourths, then-they heard footsteps. Harry and Hermione renewed their Disillusion, snuck out of the dormitory, slipped by the crowd in the common room, and slipped out the door as two second years were leaving. Harry and Hermione backed into an alcove, stepped out of their disillusion.

"Thought Malfoy'd have something," Harry said, "Takes so long to search."

"Wonder why it takes the teachers ages?" Hermione asked.

"It's a day," Harry said.

Harry got out his Portkey, activated it. Hermione held on.

---

Wednesday morning, Harry and Hermione came to a sidewalk cafe overlooking one of the canals of Venice. Harry and Hermione pointed, paid for the entrees. Harry carried Hermione's selection over to a canal side table.

"Different city every day," Hermione said, "Weird to get used to it."

Harry popped a multivitamin, and took a bite. Hermione reached into her dragon hide jacket, removed her Daily Prophet, and a letter. Hermione took a look at the front page, her jaw dropped, then she went for the letter.

"Um..." Harry muttered.

"Read," Hermione said.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione

Padma Patil's remains were discovered yesterday evening in Noigate, Kristen Osborn wants to talk with you.
Dumbledore

Harry reached for the Daily Prophet, but Hermione kept it. She moved over the "Potter's Victim Remains Found" headline to the inner pages.

"You really don't want to read about that, do you?" Hermione said, "This other article is much more interesting."

Hermione laid the Daily Prophet open, Harry read the article titled "Summary of Potter's Activities."

"All this in a week?" Harry said, "Botswana, Australia, Canada, Japan, Russia, Finland, Denmark, Bulgaria, India, South Africa, Egypt, Mexico, Iceland, and Libya; that's supposedly in addition to whatever I was doing here."

Hermione nodded.

"All having reported cases of Potter Marks and finding victims underneath them," Hermione said, "It's two attacks a night."

"Why?" Harry said, "He already has the legislation to kill me on a whim, what more could they be after? It doesn't make sense."

"Since when did their methods truly make sense?" Hermione asked.

"Never said they do," Harry said, "You, of all people, should recognize what I'm trying to do."

Harry paused, sipped his coffee.

"Continue," Hermione said, "I'm listening."

Harry rolled his eyes.

"Does Voldemort want me dead in the short future?" Harry asked.

"Seemed obvious Friday," Hermione said.

"Did it?" Harry said, "He drove me away, killed those close, but not me. It's like they're trying to convince people I'm a menace, but who's left? The Minister could toss us into Azkaban today, who'd protest? Few would."

Hermione sipped her juice.

"Dumbledore," Hermione said.

"Why go international?" Harry said, "Just use a liberal dose of Polyjuice and go about Hogwarts until the Board of Governors expel. I can't make sense of their plan. Ron's going to be disappointed about our findings."

Hermione sighed.

"Ready?" Harry said, "Go see what Kristen wants."

They got up, went for a restroom, then disapparated. Harry and Hermione joined Ron and Gia in Kristen's office.

"Have a seat," Kristen said.

Hermione and Gia sat in two chairs; Harry conjured up two more, then sat.

"Convenient," Kristen said, "I am certain your Headmaster gave you some indication as to why I asked you here."

"Padma Patil," Harry said.

Kristen looked at Harry, nodded.

"I am getting pressured to consider you suspects," Kristen said, "In order to clarify or refute this, I need answers from you. I have to do this formally in this instance-that means standard interviews."

Harry's jaw dropped.

"I made four investigators aware of magic," Kristen said, "However, anything of that sort-you'll need to explain. Follow."

Kristen got up, they followed.

Harry entered a small grey room, a mirror on the other side stretched the width of the room. He sat at the chair to one side of the single table furnishing the room. A man in his forties in a shirt and tie came in after Harry, he closed the door and sat down on the other side of the table. Harry fidgeted for a moment, then looked over the man, the white shirt, the dull red tie, the wire running up his ear to an earpiece.

"I'm Greg McAshton," McAshton said, "You can call me Ashton."

McAshton held out a hand to Harry, who shook.

Ron entered a small grey room, of the same design as Harry's. A man in his late thirties came in behind wearing a jumper over a light T-shirt. Ron sat in one chair, the man in the other.

Hermione entered a small grey room, she sat in one chair; a lady in her late thirties sat to the other side.

Gia entered a small grey room, she sat in one chair; a lady in her early forties entered and sat to the other side of the table.

Late that afternoon, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia reentered Kristen's office.

"I'm sorry for having to put you through that," Kristen said, "I hope you can understand. I'm getting pressured to file charges with no proof to substantiate the claims-ridiculous. With these investigations, I can justify not doing so-I was watching. If you have nothing, then enjoy the remainder of the day."

Harry sighed, got out his Portkey and activated it. A short while later, they sat down at a private table in a restaurant in Oslo Norway. Ron laid two small fish on the table.

"Worth it," Ron said, "These are babelfish, they translate any language into what you understand, English. Gia and I have already put some into our ears, suggest you do the same."

Harry and Hermione took theirs, inserted them into their ear canals; felt them vanish.

"Takes some getting used," Ron said, "Percy's body's being held for examination, likely next weekend before we can do anything."

Harry remained silent for a moment, Gia gripped Ron's shoulder.

"We inspected Malfoy's trunk," Harry said, "Nothing."

"You did?" Ron asked, "Nothing? Are you sure?"

"We both looked," Hermione said, "We also searched those likely to conspire-nothing."

Ron kept his frown.

"You'd think he'd know," Ron said, "Something-"

"We haven't eliminated that," Harry said, "What we do know is that he does not have any Polyjuice laying around."

"It's been a while since any impostors," Ron said, "Perhaps he ran out."

"Nothing in his trunk incriminates him," Harry said, "Nor around his dormitory."

Ron's ears tinged green.

"We've concluded Malfoy's not the mastermind," Hermione said, "Devilish, maybe, but not conniving enough to pull it off."

"Of course," Harry said, "He wouldn't be above holding the door as the culprits walked into Hogwarts."

"Should interrogate him," Ron said.

"How?" Harry said, "We can't kidnap him then lob questions at him, we lack Veritaserum, or Polyjuice, or sufficient evidence to accuse him. We need proof before accusations or we sink to their level-something I refuse to do."

"Let us consider another possibility, not a student, but Wormtail-he can slip in and out of Hogwarts without being noticed."

"Malfoy?" Ron asked.

"Malfoy is Malfoy," Harry said.

"It's plausible," Hermione said.

"Where's Hagrid when you need him?" Harry said, "Need a Basilisk to guard the sewers, enhance the forest, that sort."

Ron snorted.

"Perhaps a dragon," Ron said.

They chuckled.

"Where tomorrow?" Gia asked.

"Dunno," Harry said, "Depends if we're suspended or not."

"It does?" Ron asked.

"Slight change in plans," Harry said, "If we have school the next day, want something a time zone or two at most away from Hogwarts, otherwise, anywhere."

Ron stared for a moment out the window at a car passing the restaurant, his eyes then came back to Harry.

"Unless you like jet lag while trying to concentrate on schoolwork," Harry said, "Now, Dumbledore talked to us about the education for the rest of our stay, it affects you."

---

Friday morning, they sat down at a small cafe in Lisbon, Portugal. They ate for a bit, then dived into the post within the pockets of their dragon hide jackets. Harry removed two letters addressed to him, one bearing a familiar seal.

Harry Potter

This is the bill for the services rendered by this committee.

Starting Balance : 20,000 galleons

Interest (6%) : 1,200

Late penalty : 500

Bat Cleanup : 300

Murder Penalty : 1,500

Donation, Victims : 5,000

Services Rendered : 1,500

Current Balance : 30,000 galleons

Please remit 30,000 galleons immediately; this is reflecting bad upon yourself to let your debts become so mismanaged.

Also, I remind you that as a convicted sex offender, you are required to register your address with the local authorities. You are also requested to furnish the address of your residence to this committee so we can register it appropriately at the Ministry of Magic.
Dolores Umbridge, Chair of the Harry Potter Guidance Committee

"Register my address?" Harry exclaimed, "Is she crazy?"

Harry hissed, the letter disintegrated. Harry turned to the next letter.

Harry

I'm currently staying in the care of a certain police chief we know and love-I'm now blond at her suggestion.

Thought you ought to know, she's now getting threats from the EM pressuring her to file charges. Stern and firm woman, she's not caving in, but she is getting political pressure.
Snuffles

"Blond?" Ron said, "Like to see that."

"He's being serious," Harry said, "This pressure, it's not right. Have to do something nice for her."

"No bribing now," Hermione said.

"She's risking her neck to do the right thing," Harry said, "That needs some recognition."

Ron reread his letter.

"Good news," Ron said, "Fred claims revenues are up, thanks us for encouraging sales."

"At least they're happy," Harry said, "Well, school."

"Tomorrow is Slytherin vs Ravenclaw," Ron said.

Hermione shot her flashing eyes at Ron.

"We know, we know," Hermione said.

"We're not going," Harry said, "At least I'm not."

"I am," Ron said.

Harry and Hermione glared at him, a frown came across his face.

---

Monday, Harry unfolded the Daily Prophet, ignored the canoe floating by on the waterway in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

"Well," Harry said, "Our bounties have gone up-suppose the Patil murder did that."

Hermione rolled her eyes.

"It's curious," Ron said.

"Wonder at what point we're affecting the economy?" Gia said, "I mean, three million galleons-somebody's going to notice."

"Some families have much more than that," Ron said, glaring at Harry.

Harry glared at Ron.

"It could easily be affected," Hermione said.

Hermione opened the letter for Harry.

Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, Hermione Granger

Your Minister of Magic caved into strong political pressure, he has suspended you for a period of two weeks for the death of Padma Patil and kidnapping of Ernie Macmillan.

You may return no sooner than the morning of Monday, April 28, 1997.
Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster.

P.S. If you insert this letter back into your pockets, it will become a Portkey that I can use to arrive at your location to continue lessons.

Harry looked at them, read the letter.

"We do need lessons," Harry said, "Voldemort isn't stalling for nothing, but we'll take advantage of it."

Harry shoved the letter back into his pocket.

---

A week and a day later, a Tuesday, Harry sat down for a midday meal in Bombay, India. He took out the Daily Prophet and glanced at the title, his water cup shattered.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Tuesday, April 22, 1997

Riot in Azkaban

Yesterday, a severe riot broke out among the prisoners in Azkaban. Most of the injuries sustained were minor, however, one prisoner was killed during this incident. The Minister of Magic has assured that a full investigation will commence into the circumstances surrounding this outbreak; he has also used this as an example of why Demeantors should be allowed to return and guard this notorious institution.

Killed in the riot was the former Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts, Rubeus Hagrid.

"Hagrid's dead," Harry said.

Ron and Hermione glanced at him. Harry opened the letter addressed to him.

Harry

Hagrid is dead, the Daily Prophet should have delayed publication, but it is correct. I have been officially notified as his solicitor.
Dumbledore

Harry left the room, the building, and hurled to the side of the street. Ron came up.

"You're not supposed to-" Ron said.

"Bug off!" Harry snapped.

Harry recovered himself.

"Was it the food?" Ron asked.

"Haven't touched anything," Harry said, "Just felt sick after reading-"

"Hermione wants to talk too," Ron said, "Please come back in."

Harry came one step at a time, he returned to the table.

---

Friday, Harry and Gia sat on the sand under a small tree of an oasis, gazed at the pyramids in Egypt. Gia took out the Daily Prophet, read the front page article to Harry.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Friday, April 25, 1997

Skeeter Murdered

Rita Skeeter, the once respectable journalist, was found murdered yesterday on the outskirts of Hogsmeade. No investigation will occur as her death falls under the SDWCA, any investigation would therefore be squandering precious Ministry resources. Speculation is that Potter decided to show what happens to all who ally themselves with him; beware and heed the signs Albus Dumbledore.

"I wasn't there!" Harry exclaimed, "Argh!"

"You have a Ministry, a populace, who seem to forget about silly things like proof or evidence," Gia said, "Not a surprise they'd jump to conclusions."

Harry exhaled, hard, sighed.

---

Monday morning, Harry helped Gia along a road in the Republic of the Congo.

"Good thing we saw that doctor yesterday," Harry asked, "Still sore?"

Gia nodded.

"Have Pomfrey take a look at your sprained ankle today," Harry said.

"I'll live," Gia said.

"Yes," Harry asked, "But will you be comfortable?"

They approached a cafe and entered.

Gia stumbled as she and Harry landed in McGonagall's office; Harry reached down, helped her up. Ron and Hermione landed, mud dripping from Ron's clothes, he was covered from head to toe. Hermione retracted then went for the sink to wash the mud off her hands.

"Don't ask," Ron said.

"He's going to the dormitory to clean," Hermione said with a grin.

Hermione dragged Ron out the door.

"Get you to Pomfrey," Harry said to Gia.

Harry helped Gia out the door and down the corridor to the Hospital Wing.

---

Around noon Tuesday, Harry carried the picnic basket from the kitchens, Gia followed, and they walked out of the castle. They heard screams coming from the lake, so Harry and Ron ran to the edge of the cliff, they froze taking in the view.

Below, along the edges of the cliff over the lake, to the other side of the castle, there was a flat board sticking a ways over the water. On the edge were three people they recognized, a black haired and green eyed boy, a red haired and brown eyed boy, and a brown haired brown eyed girl; wands aimed at a gaggle of bound students, one second year being forced to walk on the plank.

Harry and Ron exchanged glances, the basket bounced as it fell down the cliff. Harry and Ron mounted their Whitehorns and flew, charging the impostors, wands drawn. With a curse from Harry, the second year girl on the plank found herself on land, ropes vanished, she ran. A curse from Ron, the ropes on the other soon-to-be victims vanished, they fled, but Thomas drew back and watched along with Finnigan. Harry and Ron circled the three impostors, glaring.

"Stop them!" Harry yelled to Finnigan.

The impostors backed up, curses from Harry fired toward the impostors, binding the three in ropes. Both of them felt curses to their backs, turned and saw two Aurors fast approaching.

"STOP!" the Aurors yelled.

Harry ignored, continued to encroach on the impostors. A killing curse singed the grass under him, Harry turned around, looked at Archer with wand ready to fire.

"Ignore me another time Potter," Archer warned, "and it becomes fatal."

Harry landed; Ron stood behind Harry.

"Get those impostors!" Harry demanded, pointing backward.

"Who?" Archer asked, eyes darting over then back.

Harry turned his head, the impostors were gone.

"They were just there!" Harry protested, "If you had done your job-"

Archer approached Harry, a pace away, and glared; Gairloch kept to the distance, wand drawn. Finnigan and Thomas sulked back.

"Don't tell me how to do my job boy," Archer said, "You are coming with me, we'll sort out what Dark Arts you performed today and who your assistants were."

"But-" Harry said.

Archer glared at Harry.

"Don't talk back," Archer said.

"Arsehole!" Harry snapped.

A curse from Archer, Harry's cheek bled. Archer's wand shattered. Harry gave Archer a shove; Archer fell down to the ground.

"Where'd they find you?" Harry said, "Rent a Death Eater?"

Archer got up, Harry and Archer circled each other.

"You've signed your death warrant Potter," Archer growled.

Harry bared his wand; Gairloch fired a killing curse, missed Harry, but struck Archer. Archer fell down to the ground.

"STOP!"

Harry, Ron, and Gairloch stopped; they saw Dumbledore fast approaching, his face full of fury with wand drawn.

"My office, now," Dumbledore said, "Mr. Thomas, get Madam Pomfrey here immediately."

Dumbledore led them into his office, his face of fury was looking at them.

"Please explain why I have a dead Auror on the premises," Dumbledore said.

"May we start from the beginning?" Harry asked.

"If that helps," Dumbledore said.

Harry explained.

Ron explained.

"Interesting trick, conjuring up doubles to take the heat," Finnigan said, "Saw these two fly over, tried to deflect the blame by supposedly rescuing us, then picked a fight with the Aurors."

"Potter was being unruly and a nuisance," Gairloch said, "Standing orders are to give a warning first."

"Did you send a killing curse towards Mr. Potter?" Dumbledore asked.

"In accordance with policy, yes," Gairloch said.

Dumbledore's eyes remained fixed on Gairloch.

"You are to leave Hogwarts immediately and are banned upon further visits," Dumbledore said, "Killing curses are unacceptable at Hogwarts, that policy has to be modified. Other means do exist for regaining control, even of Mr. Potter."

"Minister's going to have something to say about this," Gairloch said.

"I am certain he will," Dumbledore said, "School rules are quite clear in this matter, leave now."

Gairloch went for the fireplace. Dumbledore's eyes glanced onto Harry and Ron.

"You let your temper get the better of you Mr. Potter," Dumbledore said, "Picking a fight with the Auror is unacceptable, even if he threw the first curse. Mr. Weasley, you should have done something to stop it, yet you stood by and watched, thereby condoning the action. You are both suspended, on my authority, for a week-to return no sooner than next Tuesday."

"We have to collect the girls," Ron said.

"Miss. Prescott must leave," Dumbledore said, "Miss. Granger has not been suspended."

"Without an escort," Harry said, "She leaves with us."

"That is her choice," Dumbledore said, "Fetch if you wish, then leave."

Harry and Ron left the Headmaster's office. All four entered the cafeteria at Puddlemere United; they placed their trays on a table then sat.

"Annoying!" Harry said, "We almost had them! So damn close!"

A salt shaker shattered, the pepper shaker did somersaults.

"Did they look-?" Hermione asked.

"Yes," Ron snapped.

Hermione glared.

"Did you get a chance to do the eye thing?" Hermione asked.

"Glances," Harry said, "We definitely put fear into them-genuinely panicked. We could have searched the laundry for soaked clothing if we weren't suspended."

"Anything more?" Hermione asked.

"You're-nothing of use," Harry said.

"I caught a glimpse as the Aurors approached," Ron said, "They felt relieved."

Harry looked at Ron, green eyes met brown, locked for a moment.

"Archer was in on it," Harry said, "Come to think of it, his motive for the confrontation was to stall me, stall us from nabbing-damn. I'd have killed him myself if I'd known."

"Gairloch?" Hermione said, "We also have motive."

"Could've been anything," Harry said, "Too late to ask-money, a Death Eater, in the EM, anything. Come to think of it, those might not've been our normal doubles."

"In what way?" Gia asked.

Harry swallowed a bite of food, took his multivitamin, then took a swig of his beer.

"We know the EM is trying to get us booted from Hogwarts," Harry said, "At a third of the UK population and most of Hogwarts, it's not a far stretch to say that some wouldn't be willing to stage something to get us expelled. Of course, that'd make the Death Eaters happy, so hairs would be easy to come by."

"Realize," Ron said, "You just named every other student as a suspect including Wormtail."

"Polyjuice-" Hermione said.

"It wouldn't be hard to get that, now would it?" Harry said, "We have to consider everything."

Harry huffed, shoved his half eaten lunch to the side, and got up.

"I'll be practicing," Harry said.

Harry left the cafeteria.

"He's upset-" Hermione said.

"We both are!" Ron said, "Realize what Dumbledore suspended over top of? The Quidditch Final!"

Ron left the cafeteria. Hermione looked at Gia.

"Suppose we should find a seat," Hermione said.

"Not yet," Gia said, "I want to find that Healer of theirs."

"Something wrong?" Hermione asked.

"Dunno," Gia said, "I feel lousy."

Gia entered the health room, her jacket billowed as she came to a stop.

"Hello," Notley said.

Gia closed the door.

"Hi," Gia said, "I...um..."

"Have a seat," Notley said pointing to a chair.

Gia sat.

"Mind telling me what's on your mind?" Notley asked, "Does it concern Potter?"

"No," Gia said, "I noticed it this morning, the headaches, then my throat didn't feel well. Since then, my back is now sore-muscles, I think. Generally, I don't feel well."

Gia reached for her blouse, Notley stopped her.

"Just sit on the table," Notley said.

Gia got up, went over.

"Harry complains-" Gia said.

"About what I require the players to do," Notley said, "It's about attitude mostly. With them, if they come in dressed, they treat me poorly and unprofessionally. Strip them down, they become attentive and willing to participate, certainly not dawdle at all."

Notley got his wand out, but paused first, looked at a rash starting to break out under Gia's chin.

"How long?" Notley asked.

"Didn't realize-" Gia said.

"We'll find out," Notley said.

Notley aimed his wand at Gia, started his checks. He then tapped his wand twice, tried again.

"Just a minute," Notley said.

Notley went over to his shelf of books, pulled out Comprehensive Compendium of Pathology; he flipped page after page, occasionally using his wand on Gia. Notley scratched his head.

"Can't be right," Notley said, "You haven't been to central Africa, have you?"

Gia's face grinned a bit from guilt.

"Congo," Gia said.

"That would qualify," Notley asked, "When?"

"This past weekend," Gia said.

Notley flipped the pages.

"I have eliminated all the other possibilities," Notley said, "According to this, you have Ebola-untreatable by muggle medicine, but mediwizards in Africa have devised a treatment."

"Ebola?" Gia asked.

"Affirmative," Notley said, "With the close contact, I'll have to check Potter as well."

Gia stared as Notley went to his formulary of medicines and potions, watched mix some together. Notley poured a dose into a glass, handed it to Gia.

"This should work," Notley said, "You'll feel sore, stiff, for a week. If things do not recover by, say, next Tuesday, see me."

Gia consumed the bitter murky brown concoction.

Harry was flying in the stadium, he was standing on the handle of his Nimbus 1000, blindfolded, and trying to chase the Snitch across the pitch. Notley came out, looked up.

"Potter!" Notley yelled.

Harry wobbled, his balance faltered, and he fell. He fell, slowed by Kline's curse who was watching from the sidelines, but Harry did roll as he contacted the grass, then stood up. Harry removed his blindfold, saw Notley coming over.

"Darrell!" Notley yelled.

Meyers came running over, joined up with Harry and Notley.

"Ben?" Meyers asked.

"Potter," Notley said, "Need to check you in the health room."

"What?" Harry exclaimed.

"You heard him," Meyers said.

"I also need to check everyone else," Notley said.

Harry went for the locker room, then into the health room.

---

Wednesday morning, Ron woke up on the sand of the beach, saw the sun rising across the water. Waves lapped up to their feet. Ron felt Hermione against his skin, felt the air and his exposure, their clothes laid in a pile as pillows on this incredibly small south Caribbean island. Ron laid there, stroked Hermione's skin, let her rub onto his. He waited until Hermione lazily woke, his eyes saw her eyelids flicker open.

"Morning," Ron muttered.

"Hmm," Hermione uttered.

Hermione moved, let Ron sit up; Ron scooted back onto the grass under one of the few trees of the island. Ron grabbed his jacket, reached into the pocket, removed the things. He focused on the letter addressed to him.

Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, Hermione Granger.

The Minister of Magic was not pleased about yesterday's incident. He has issued a two week suspension, which I will consider concurrent to the one I already issued. You may not return until Wednesday, May 14.
Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster

"Figures," Ron said, "We're suspended 'Mione."

Hermione moved, sat next to Ron; both read over the next one, complete with a picture of the second year on the plank.

THE HOGWARTS CORPSE

Wednesday, April 30, 1997

Potter Fools Nobody

by Seamus Finnigan

In a daring attempt to provide proof to his outlandish claims, Potter staged an interesting yet feeble attempt to fool us all. Using Dark Arts of the worse kind, Potter created himself a set of doubles to do his dirty work yesterday, this permitted himself to appear to be coming to our rescue. Potter and Weasley were stopped in their tracks by the Aurors who were not fooled, unfortunately, Auror Archer did not survive the confrontation. All the students of Hogwarts proudly salute Archer for his sacrifice in the line of duty.

"Yellow," Ron muttered, "Quite yellow."

Hermione picked up the Daily Prophet, looked at the same photograph then read the article.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Wednesday, April 30, 1997

Dangerous Pirate Potter

Yesterday, Dark Potter struck again at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in a unique fashion reminiscent of the the old seafaring ways of muggles. In a cruel act, Potter manufactured himself some doubles using Dark Arts, then proceeded to act like a pirate and force his fellow students to walk a plank-presumably to their deaths. This madness came to an end when the Aurors stationed at the school confronted Potter, a confrontation that resulted in the brutal killing of an Auror.

Ministry officials confirm that Auror Archer died in the line of duty and that Auror Gairloch was reprimanded by Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster, for taking reasonable measures to stop Potter's brutal rampage. Being shielded by Dumbledore, Potter incurred the only punishment that Minister Fallerschain could dole out, a two week suspension which will surely comfort the grieving relatives of Archer.

"Never said once about Gairloch being the one who killed, not Harry," Ron said, "Absolute spin."

"Auror died due to incompetence-lousy press," Hermione said.

"Small comfort when the inquisition continues upon our return," Ron said, "Madness, pure madness."

Ron placed the two papers into a stack, stood; Hermione rescued the Daily Prophet, but Ron peed onto the Hogwarts Corpse. Hermione perused the rest of the Daily Prophet.

"I wanted-" Ron protested.

"I know," Hermione said, "In a bit."

---

Thursday, Gia and Harry sat down for lunch in St. Petersburg, Russia. Harry took a look at the small article on the front page of the Daily Prophet toward the bottom of the page.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Thursday, May 01, 1997

Ebola Strikes Hogwarts

An epidemic of Ebola has struck Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Ebola, a disease native to central Africa, is a relatively harmless virus when properly treated by a mediwizard (muggles are confounded by this). Both the Headmaster and Minister have assured the Daily Prophet that the school nurse Madam Poppy Pomfrey is handling the situation with due diligence. Speculation that Potter could be linked to this outbreak has been refuted by the Minister of Magic.

Harry sunk in the chair, his face went red.

"At least the Minister refuted it."

Harry looked up, saw Dumbledore there.

"How?" Harry muttered.

"You may want to consider who placed that newspaper into your cauldron," Dumbledore said, "May I sit?"

Harry waved to the seat across from them, Dumbledore sat.

"I apologize for my harshness Tuesday," Dumbledore said, "I was not completely myself at that time. Words were exchanged, but Archer should have shown more restraint. I have canceled the suspension I issued. However, you should reflect upon it, your actions should not have been motivated by anger or hatred."

Harry exhaled.

"We were responsible for the Ebola," Harry said, "We picked it up over the weekend-not intentionally."

Dumbledore chuckled for a moment, his eyes twinkled.

"That will keep Voldemort guessing," Dumbledore said, "This is a different location than yesterday."

Harry nodded, then explained the Portkeys.

"For a while, your safety lies in the fact that Voldemort is unaware of your situation," Dumbledore said, "However, it is inevitable that it will change. I should not have been able to sneak up on you like I did."

"And?" Harry said.

"Patience Harry," Dumbledore said, "We need to discuss your summer schedule."

---

Harry apparated into the living room of Fred and George. Harry balanced a platter of food in his hand, Gia

"Ronald!" Arthur said, "You can at least say hi to your Dad."

"Or not," Ron said.

Ron left the room.

"Dumbledore should be along in a few moments," Arthur said, "What's that you're carrying?"

"Some appetizers," Harry said.

Harry set down his platter, pulled the top to show it to be sushi. Gia set down her bag, removed the bottles of vodka. Arthur spat out his tea.

"Wha-?" Arthur exclaimed.

"It was legal," Gia said.

Hermione set down a platter and a bowl, lifted the foil to let the aroma of the burritos fill the room; she moved the plastic from the bowl to reveal the cucumber, onion, and tomato salad.

"Interesting selection." McGonagall approached the table, looked at the new arrivals.

Hermione glanced at the mashed potatoes then looked at the sushi.

"Suppose it is," Hermione said.

McGonagall took a plate, helped herself. Dumbledore entered the house, along some others. Dumbledore peered over the selections, added his contribution, then helped himself to a plate. They mingled for a bit.

"Potter isn't helping our recruitment," Snape sneered, "His stunt-"

"It wasn't-" Harry protested.

"Children!" Dumbledore snapped.

Harry and Snape went silent, but Harry kept his dagger look at Snape.

"I am curious," Bones said, "Above and beyond the rubbish in the Daily Rag."

Dumbledore glanced at Snape.

"Severus," Dumbledore said, "Let Harry have the floor."

Harry explained the incident.

"Gairloch sent a killing curse at you?" Bones asked.

Harry nodded.

"I was wondering why the Minister didn't arrest you on the spot," Bones said, "Killing an Auror is not taken lightly-in this case it was due to incompetence. Gairloch should have been charged for the killing curse at a school."

"It involved Harry," Arthur said, "Therefore, the matter is officially closed."

"Wouldn't want to uncover their role in the matter," Ron said.

Dumbledore looked at him, then Harry.

"Mind sharing?" Dumbledore asked.

"We think Archer was in on the act," Harry said.

"More excuse making Potter?" Snape sneered.

"Severus," Dumbledore said, "Leave, await for my return."

Snape stood, left the room, glaring at Harry.

"What evidence do you have Mr. Potter?" McGonagall asked.

"Just in their reactions," Harry said, "It seemed like the impostors were grateful the Aurors arrived, it seemed like Archer wanted to let them escape. It's not enough to act upon."

Dumbledore thought for a moment.

"Even raising the suspicion helps us to look for more clues," Arthur said, "If one can collaborate, more can."

"With everyone hating us," Hermione said, "We do have the possibility of copycat crimes designed to get us expelled or executed."

"Any student caught at Hogwarts engaging in these activities are to be punished," McGonagall said, "I caught Mr. Finnigan trying to set up some more booby traps this past weekend, he received detention assigned to help remove traps."

"However," Tonks said, "Few teachers are paying notice. I do, McGonagall, Dumbledore, and Wood do, however, I've caught Sprout letting many slide."

"I gave her a lecture the other day," Dumbledore said.

"You were close?" McGonagall asked.

"Another minute more and we'd have had the impostors marching into the Great Hall," Harry said.

Arthur shook his head.

---

Early Sunday morning, Ron rolled out of his bed in Melbourne Australia, walked over into the bathroom. He rubbed his eyes and returned several moments later. He looked down in the dim light, saw a letter half way out of his dragon hide jacket on the floor. His eyes darted between that and the bed with Hermione sleeping on it. Ron bent over, picked up the letter, opened it.

Ron

Gryffindor won the match! The new players did work out, we managed to squeak by Ravenclaw. Point wise, this put us in the lead of Slytherin by twenty points. We should have won the cup then and there; however, numerous protests have been raised, the Minister interfered, then the only way we could actually get the cup was to agree to a runoff match-the many varied protests ranged from Dark Arts to blaming the Ebola. Professor Dumbledore did try to award the cup, but was overruled.

In short, we play in two weeks. If you're suspended, the match will be deferred until you're not. (So, unless Slytherin protests again, you will get to play in the Quidditch Final.)
Ginny

"Blimey!" Ron exclaimed.

Hermione rolled over on the bed until her face was buried in the pillow. Ron stared for a moment at her bare back and butt, the green drained from his ears. He then reached for his jacket, removed the black stone, and laid it in his hand.

"Harry," Ron whispered to the stone.

Nothing.

"Harry," Ron repeated.

A green ghostly image of Harry's head rose from the stone.

"Yes?" Harry asked.

"Ginny wrote about the Quidditch game," Ron said.

"Gryffindor won," Harry asked, "Right?"

"That's not all," Ron said.

Ron read the letter.

"At least we get to play," Harry said, "Interfering Minister though."

"Unprecedented," Ron said, "Likely just to irritate us."

"Can't talk for long," Harry said, "Have a pig roasting on the beach, Gia and I intend to spend the evening."

Harry's image shifted, showed his neck along with a necklace of flowers.

"Where are you?" Ron asked.

"Hawaii," Harry said, "Have to run."

Harry's image vanished.

"Cooking Dudley?" Ron muttered.

Ron crawled onto the bed, brought his skin into contact with Hermione's, then tried to go back to sleep.

---

Midday Monday, Harry met up with Ron in the locker room.

"Hi," Ron said.

Harry got out his Whitehorn broom, winked at Ron. They carried them out onto the Quidditch Pitch. Kline came over to them, a puzzled look on his face.

"We've got a game in a couple weeks," Harry said, "We need to practice on our brooms."

Kline smiled.

"Was wondering how long it'd take you," Kline said, "Many features on those Firebolts-"

"Not Firebolts," Ron said, "Better."

Harry and Ron mounted, they kicked off for a few minutes before practicing the other techniques on them.

---

A week later, Hermione took a look at the Daily Prophet while sitting on the ground on Melasta Island of Outer Herbridges of the Western Isles of Scotland. She sputtered a the weekly bounty totals.

"We shouldn't stay here too long," Ron said, "Even though it's desolate, it's still Britain."

"I don't like getting chased away." Hermione read the rest of the paper.

"It's not pleasant," Ron said, "but we're safer, nobody's getting hurt."

"Nobody's getting hurt?" Hermione's eyes flashed. "Read the paper-many still are all over the planet! A third of the countries have experienced so-called Potter attacks!"

Ron sighed.

"We're not getting hurt," Ron said, "It's helping Harry, I think. I mean, we haven't been under real attack in like a month. Yes, we've lost people, but those would've happened under the mine-a-day plan."

"Voldemort will catch on at some point," Hermione said, "We may be untrackable, our bodies, but there might be other ways we haven't thought of."

"At least Harry will be refreshed and not depressed nor suicidal," Ron said, "That will be a great advantage. Wonder if Harry's getting anything from his link-"

"Been puzzling over that," Hermione said, "Voldemort is shielding, but why not lead Harry into a trap? I mean, nothing would speak volumes more than tricking Harry into arriving-like that first Hogsmeade incident. I'm thinking there may be some autonomous activity going on away from Voldemort-of course, he's aware of it occurring, but the planning, the execution, of the plan being done by Death Eaters. Voldemort concentrating on what he needs most, numbers, and the others carrying out their plans."

Ron shivered for a moment.

"Whatever is next," Ron said, "Don't want to think about it."

"Whoever is carrying those out haven't given a thought to their own survival," Hermione said, "With them pulling this stuff off, they could be a real threat to Voldemort himself."

"Small peanuts," Ron said.

Hermione perused the paper, handed one article in the sports section to him.

Puddlemere United Bolsters Security

Puddlemere United has announced an increase in security to be implemented for their matches. Coach Darrell Meyers maintains that these measures are precautions in light of the current atmosphere, they are designed to make both the players and fans safe at every match. Precautions include searches of all incoming people, confiscation and storage of non-game necessary wands, and hired security patrols. Meyers would not confirm any rumors circulating about an eminent shakeup in their players.

"It'll leak at some point," Hermione said.

"Just like our random destination will fail us at some point," Ron said, "Until then, exploit it."

Hermione prodded to Ron.

"Talk to Harry," Hermione said, "Need to know where we're meeting Dumbledore today."

Ron reached into his pocket, removed his black stone.

---

Two days later, on Wednesday, the fourteenth, Ron and Hermione landed in McGonagall's office, Harry and Gia were already there. Harry had his hands in the pockets of his dragon hide jacket. Harry passed McGonagall's desk, went for the door.

"About time," Harry said.

Ron, Hermione, and Gia followed Harry; they left the office, passed McGonagall in the corridor.

They went down to the end of the corridor where it formed a T with the corridor above the courtyard, some students could be seen enjoying the pleasant early morning weather while eating their breakfast. Harry turned left. They approached the end of the portion overlooking the courtyard, with a corridor off to their right. Harry felt a curse impact the back of his dragon hide jacket. Harry spun, ahead he saw Pavarti and Lavender spinning around toward them, to his right he saw Goldstein and MacDougal with wands aimed, from behind he saw Thomas and Finnigan advancing with wands aimed. Harry backed against Gia, faced Thomas and Finnigan. Ron backed against Gia, faced Goldstein and MacDougal. Hermione backed against Gia, faced Lavender and Pavarti. Footsteps echoed in the corridor as more students approached, Longbottom, the Creevys, Susan Bones, Pansy Parkinson, Josh Brenner, and many others.

"Five million galleons!" Parkinson shouted.

Curses fired from the dozens of drawn wands. Harry, Ron, and Hermione cast textured shield charms, reflecting the nasty curses back to the one who cast them. A skin slicer rebounded to Thomas. A leg locker rebounded to Brenner. A stunning curse rebounded onto Goldstein. A Cruciatus curse rebounded onto Pavarti, she screamed. Jelly Legs rebounded onto Longbottom. What missed the shield charms hit their dragon hide jackets and was repelled. Harry heard the shattering of the bones in Hopkin's right arm from the rebounding curse.

"We want you dead!" Thomas yelled.

More chants, but no more curses flew as the wands flew to the feet of Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia. Thomas glared.

"We want you gone!" Finnigan yelled, "You're unfit for Hogwarts!"

"Murderers!" Parvati yelled, "Leave!"

"We have a right to be here!" Ron replied.

"Tell that to Ernie!" Hopkins snapped.

Thomas took a step forward, toward Harry. Harry waved his wand, Thomas fell backward onto the floor.

"I will take whatever measures are needed to protect myself Thomas," Harry growled.

Wards went up fifteen feet away from Harry, a light purple film. Finnigan pressed against the barrier, the hairs on the back of his hand singed and he pulled back rapidly.

"Ow!" Finnigan exclaimed.

"I warned you," Harry growled, "It gets worse with each attempt."

The ten minute warning bell for classes rang. Three red curses rebounded off the wards; they saw the approaching Aurors Seabrook, Seagrave, and Buckland fall onto their faces slamming into the cold stone floor behind Finnigan and Thomas.

"You!" Hopkins exclaimed, "You Dark Wiz-"

"Are you in the EM?" Harry demanded.

"Who isn't?" Thomas exclaimed.

"We aren't," Ron said.

"Doh!" Finnigan slapped his forehead.

"You're doing the Death Eater's dirty work," Harry said, "Remember that! You're absolutely right to be worried, there are people who've murdered your friends, my friends, but it's not us!"

Hopkins glared.

"Tell that Finch-Fletchley or Patil," Hopkins said, "Found in your favorite community!"

Thomas stepped back, stooped next to the unconscious Buckland.

"Does the word framed mean anything to you dolts?" Harry said, "This is a school of Witchcraft and Wizardry-hence magic. Floo Network, Portkeys, and other techniques exist for transporting corpses-even Muggles can figure out how to frame! I've had enemies for decades-and you're willing to conveniently forget that! You are aiding and abetting the Dark Wizards, you're letting them continue their Dark Arts against all of us. We should be uniting, not dividing."

"Stop your Dark-" Thomas yelled, "Avada Kedavra!"

A green curse shot out of Buckland's wand in Thomas' hand, it went forward, penetrated the ward, but hit a freshly appearing animated silver shield in mid air; the shield fractured into pieces as it absorbed the curse.

"The only Dark Art I have witnessed today has come from you Mr. Thomas." Dumbledore stepped into illusion five feet away from Harry, wand drawn, with a wave, all the wands on the floor and in the other students possession gathered themselves into a tight bundle in the new purse Dumbledore was carrying. "This way."

Dumbledore looked at Harry who then dropped the ward. They all followed into an empty classroom. Neither Dumbledore nor McGonagall were happy, both of whom were looking at the classroom of students who had partaken in the attempted lynching. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia were standing to the side, the rest were sitting on the chairs lined in a semicircle. Their wands laid in a pile on the table in front; Buckland was nursing the back of his head. Pomfrey was tending to Hopkins at the moment. It wasn't Dumbledore that broke the silence.

"Going to expel them for their Dark curses?" Thomas asked, "Aren't you?"

"We did not-" Harry protested.

"Did too!" Thomas exclaimed at Harry, "We wouldn't have gotten hurt if you hadn't!"

Dumbledore looked at Thomas.

"Shield Charms are not Dark-" Dumbledore said.

"Potter's are," Buckland sneered.

"I saw the entire confrontation," Dumbledore said, "The only Dark Curse I witnessed was your Killing Curse, Mr. Thomas. You have a minute to persuade me not to expel you."

"I...um..." Thomas muttered under the gaze of Dumbledore.

Thomas went silent as he studied the look of cold fury.

"Your Prefect Badge," Dumbledore said.

Thomas reached for it, his hands shook, he slowly unclasped the badge from his collar, handed it over to Dumbledore.

"You will not be expelled, not today at least," Dumbledore said, "However, you are now suspended through next Friday, you will receive two weeks of detention. Until further notice, you are on probation Mr. Thomas. Any more acts on your part will lead to expulsion."

Dumbledore looked over at the gloating Pavarti Patil.

"You should not be so smug with yourself Ms. Patil," Dumbledore said, "Your Prefect badge, that goes for the rest of you."

Dumbledore collected the remaining Prefect badges from those gathered.

"They get off?" Finnigan demanded, pointing to Harry.

"You attacked them," Dumbledore said, "They tried to go from one office to another-you attacked them, you tried to lynch them, to murder them."

"We'd be safer," Goldstein sneered.

Dumbledore looked at Goldstein.

"Would you?" Dumbledore asked, "Are you sure of that? Are you sure you have the right people?"

"Of course we are," Hopkins said, "You saw what they did, they broke my arm."

Dumbledore looked at Hopkins.

"Your curse broke your arm," Dumbledore said, "Their response was quite tempered if you ask me-for if they were Dark Wizards, you would have been dead before you had finished that assault onto them. With that attack, they would have been within their traditional rights to kill you for it."

Hopkins opened his mouth, to speak, but was silenced by a penetrating look from Dumbledore.

"Everyone here played a role," Dumbledore said, "With the exception of the victims, the rest of you have been assigned three and a half weeks of detention, save Mr. Thomas who has already been punished. Points have been lost from all houses, you will find the totals currently standing at zero. You are dismissed."

With a wave of Dumbledore's wand, the ones on the table flew to their respective owners. Dumbledore rested his hand on Harry's shoulder, kept him from departing. Ron, Hermione, and Gia stood around, watched the others leave.

After all the attackers had left along with the displeased Aurors, Dumbledore waved his wand at the door and sealed it. He then turned to the inquisitive eyes of Harry studying him.

"We will review that from your point of view," Dumbledore said.

"You watched the whole thing?" Harry asked.

"Yes," Dumbledore said, "I saw the first stunning curse hit your jacket. I stayed out of it as I noticed you were adequately handling the situation from a survival point of view."

"The Killing Curse-" Harry said.

"I never fool around with one of those," Dumbledore said, "My actions with those should never be viewed as a statement. Until that point, I considered the conflict as an adequate test of what we have been learning-your shield and ward were interesting."

"Borrowed the idea from the muggles," Harry said, "They can make reflectors and mirrors that shine back at you."

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled for a moment.

"I am not saying it was the first time," Dumbledore said, "However, the continued improvising and improving are keys to success."

They sat on some of the chairs.

"I would like to cover how you could improve based upon today's experience," Dumbledore said.

Harry and Ron walked out onto the Quidditch Pitch that afternoon. Harry carried his Whitehorn, started to mount, but took a look at the other players.

"Firebolts?" Harry asked, "All of them?"

"You're slow," Ginny said, "Fred and George bought them for the team."

"They're just floating," Ron muttered.

"How many?" Harry asked.

"Ten," Ginny said, "That's for team brooms. I still have mine, you still have yours, and it's all coming from the same source."

Harry's ears blushed pink.

"Have you seen their books?" Ginny said, "One peek and you'd understand exactly how much your problems are bringing in-they're coming out way ahead."

"Good chances at the cup I guess," Ron said.

Colin came over.

"That's the idea," Ginny said, "They bought these last weekend, debut on Slytherin."

"See their new Nimbus 2200s?" Colin said, "Draco Malfoy made an investment."

Ron chuckled. "When will he ever learn?"

"He also bought himself a Firebolt," Colin said.

Harry shrugged. "He'll just be faster at not finding the Snitch."

Some laughed.

After practice, Harry and Ron returned to the castle, went for Wood's office on the first floor. They entered, saw Hermione working diligently at a table, Gia reading a book nearby.

"Hi," Hermione said, "Professor Dumbledore wants to speak with you two."

"What about?" Harry laid his Whitehorn on his dragon hide jacket on the nearby shelf.

"Didn't say," Hermione said, "It wasn't urgent."

Harry removed his wrist guards, shrugged.

"We'll talk to him now," Harry said.

"Any progress?" Ron looked over Hermione's shoulder at her essay.

"Trying to cheat?" Hermione asked.

"Never." Ron set his Whitehorn down along with his wrist guards.

Hermione rolled her eyes. "I've heard that before."

"We'll be back in a bit." Harry gave Gia a quick kiss.

Ron followed Harry, both moved for the door, their Gryffindor Quidditch robes billowed; they stepped into disillusion and left the office. Gia raised her eyebrows when she glanced over to the Whitehorns resting on the piled dragon hide, the pair of wand holsters laying on top.

"Shouldn't they-?" Gia asked.

"Yes." Hermione dropped her quill, got up.

Hermione grabbed the wand holsters and ran for the door; Gia two paces behind. Hermione navigated the corridors, rushing. They both skidded to a stop as they saw McGonagall levitating two stretchers floating past them down the corridor. On top of the stretchers were Harry and Ron, both covered in burns.

"Wha-?" Hermione stammered.

"Follow," McGonagall said.

Hermione and Gia followed the stretchers, Pomfrey besides them, Moody in front. Pomfrey caught Hermione's glance at the fluid packs feeding into their arms.

"Alastor inserted those," Pomfrey said, "No, I did not violate that blasted oath they made me swear."

"Will they-?" Gia asked.

"Likely yes," Pomfrey said, "Depends on Notley's skill, Albus is fetching him now."

They approached the doors to the Hospital Wing.

"Stop!" Moody growled.

They did, a few feet behind, twenty feet from the door.

"Guard here," Moody growled to Pomfrey.

They saw Notley fast approaching with Dumbledore from within the Hospital Wing.

"Stop Albus," Moody growled, "There's another trap on the door, three feet up."

Notley and Dumbledore stooped as low as they could, scuttled out of the door and over.

"I know of a location," Dumbledore said.

Dumbledore waved his wand, they all disillusioned. McGonagall started Harry and Ron's docile bodies into motion.

"I stunned them," Moody said, "Makes this easier on them."

They moved down the marble stairs, then to the front oak doors. Dumbledore led them in the darkness across the grass to Hagrid's Hut. He unsealed the front door, then opened it. McGonagall set the stretchers down gently onto the round table. Notley immediately started in with his wand.

"What exactly happened?" Hermione asked.

"If you'll excuse me." Moody went out the door.

Dumbledore took one of the chairs and sat down in it.

"They were lucky Alastor and I were coming out of my office when we did," Dumbledore said, "We did not see them coming along the corridor for the Stone Gargoyle-presumably you had given them my message. They were halfway down the corridor when an inferno broke out, filling the corridor around them with hot fire and flame. I extinguished the flames, I summoned Minerva and Pomfrey then returned to my office to call Mr. Notley."

They saw Notley work gingerly at the burns.

"With their level of burns," McGonagall said, "Stunning was the best given the pain."

"I am curious why they were not wearing certain garments," Dumbledore said, "Those could have offered some protection."

"Guess they were a bit too fast for themselves," Hermione said, "That stuff is still in Wood's office."

"I will get your things." McGonagall left.

Notley handed a vial of a potion to Gia. "Administer, alternate drops between them." Gia uncorked the cap, started a drip with Harry then with Ron.

"This may seem grisly, however I doubt Hagrid would have minded," Dumbledore said, "When you are not suspended, you will be permitted to use this hut. I will personally see to security."

"Harry wouldn't-" Hermione protested.

"They are not going anywhere tonight," Notley said, "This will take time for them to recover."

"Quidditch?" Gia asked.

Notley rolled his eyes.

"I will see them on Friday for an examination," Notley said, "I will not make any premature judgments for their fitness for that."

"I assume the fire was targeted," Hermione said, "However, we are untrackable-"

"As I told you at the time, other techniques exist," Dumbledore said, "Any muggle technique from spying to stalking."

With a creak, the door opened, through which came McGonagall carrying an armful and Moody carrying a sleek black box. McGonagall placed the bags, the Whitehorns, and the other clothes onto the bed, then left. Moody showed Dumbledore sleek black box, opened it.

"Fascinating," Dumbledore said.

Hermione leaned over, looked into the box containing a laser at the top, then two portals inline below. Below the laser was a red ruby for the middle portal, the bottom containing a sapphire attached to a pearly white sphere. She raised her eyebrows at the lead rectangular slab under the laser to the side of the gems; wires from all three lead into the box.

"We obviously have the interaction of muggle and magic technology," Dumbledore said, "The ruby beam, it appears to detect if anything passes regardless of invisibility."

"Like my eye," Moody said.

"The light would pass through anything invisible," Dumbledore said, "The bottom would be some sort of identifier for you."

"It would trip for us?" Gia asked.

"Yes," Moody said, "Angle mirrors on the other side reflect the beams back."

"We're untrackable," Hermione said.

Dumbledore's eyes lifted from the box to Hermione.

"Your appearance can still be judged from the hairs," Dumbledore said, "This device would conceivably compare then act when it matched you."

"It would release and spark the inferno," Moody said.

"To burn them alive," Gia said.

"That would be the intention." Dumbledore sighed. "We seem to be in an arms race with the Death Eaters. We counter one device or technique only to get another dealt at us. However, we will find a way to cope. Placing these in the school is dangerous and my wrath will fall upon the person responsible. Minerva is starting a search now of the castle for any clues to the culprits."

Dumbledore stood.

"I wish you a peaceful evening," Dumbledore said, "I have matters to attend to."

Dumbledore left the hut with Moody. Hermione turned and watched Notley work, easing a burn at a time.

---

Thursday, Hermione woke in the wide bed of Hagrid's, Gia still sleeping beside her. She looked over to Harry and Ron still laying on the scrubbed wood table, Notley slumped in a chair to the side. Discretely, Hermione slipped on her clothes under the covers, then stepped out letting the covers fall back down onto Gia. Hermione took the several steps over to the table and looked down on the faces of Harry and Ron, still out. Hermione then looked at the package laying on another chair under two papers. She picked them up, read under the picture of them with wands drawn in the corridors.

The Daily Prophet

Thursday, 15 May 1997

Potter Accosts Students

by Ryan Elcot

Yesterday, Potter and his accomplices pummeled Dark Curses at their students in the corridors at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Despite witnessing the despicable display of Dark Wizardry, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore saw fit to punish the students cowering for their lives dealing out suspensions, detentions, and docking of points, to all save Potter and his cohorts thereby revealing once again Dumbledore's true intentions.

After consulting with the top Auror on the scene and the Board of Governors, the Minister of Magic overturned the punishments being dealt out as unfair to punish the victims of the crime. The Minister did stipulate that since no students had been seriously injured in the incident, the matter of punishment of Potter would be left in the hands of the Headmaster.

This incident only stems to confirm that Potter is a deadly nuisance to the wizarding world and that stronger measures are needed. This is in addition to the growing number of deaths attributed to Potter in the recent weeks; last night, three people were savagely murdered in Kiribati along with four later in Syria.

Hogwarts Corpse

Thursday, 15 May 1997

Potter Strikes!

by Seamus Finnigan

Viciously, Potter stalked in the halls yesterday morning choosing for the right moment to spring, and he launched his voracious attack upon the innocents only worried about making their first lessons in time. Dark curse after Dark curse shot forth, breaking limbs, knocking people out, threatening to kill any who dares to stop his moment of fury. Intervention by our infamous Headmaster only goes to show who Potter has been practicing upon. Fortunately, the Minister of Magic saw the truth of the situation and yanked the unfair punishments dealt out on Potter's behalf.

Potter Explodes Upon Himself

In a dazzling display of Dark Wizardry, a student witnessed Potter engulfing himself into a ball of flame last evening on the second floor corridor. This student, who understandably wishes to remain anonymous, recounted the flames erupting from Potter's feet and spreading onto Weasley. The intention of this wizardry can only be guessed as the goal was not self-evident to the witness. In response to this fiery display, the teachers felt fit to order the lockdown and search of us last night-Potter should have been searched instead!

Hermione set the paper down, sighed. Notley stirred, looked up at Hermione. She handed him the papers.

"Read the latest slander," Hermione said.

Notley raised his eyebrows as he read.

"Any progress?" Gia got out of the bed, came over, wrapping a bathrobe around herself.

"I will be waking them shortly," Notley said, "Keeping them stunned seemed easier."

Hermione grinned for a moment. Gia went for the door, opened it, to be met by the dawn.

"Not so fast!" Moody growled.

Gia looked at the person stepping into illusion.

"But-" Gia protested.

"If you value your neck," Moody growled, "You'll stay inside."

"I need a shower-" Gia protested.

"It'd be your last," Moody growled, "With a school full of assassins, think girl, think."

Gia shut the door, turned to Hermione.

"We'll find something later," Hermione said.

Notley put the paper down, then stood up next to the table. He peeled back the purple blankets over Ron and Harry revealing their bare chests. Notley poked around in a couple of spots on Ron.

"They'll have the ideal patient experience," Notley said, "Wake up healed."

"Can we add in some pain?" Hermione said, "They'd not take things-"

Notley shook his head, then aimed his wand. "Enervate, Enervate."

Ron opened his eyes first, peeked under his blanket to see it being the only thing shrouding his body and Harry's. His eyes then darted to Hermione and Gia standing there.

"What were you two up to?" Ron said, "Something naughty-"

"Hagrid's Hut?" Harry said, "Should've gone elsewhere."

Hermione rolled her eyes. Harry moved his right arm, to lift the blanket, then stalled with a slight moan, his left hand moved to his shoulder.

"Much damage had to be repaired," Notley said, "You'll find things sore for some while."

Hermione reached down for the packages on the chair, sorted through the three of them.

"You can practice today," Notley said, "I will want to examine you midday tomorrow. If you'll excuse me."

Notley went for the door, left. They heard voices.

"Benjamin?" the voice of Dumbledore said.

"They'll live," Notley said, "Give them a few moments to smarten up."

Dumbledore sighed.

Ron pushed the blanket off to the side, then sat on the edge of the table. Harry ripped the wrapping off his package, pulled out some dragon hide underwear along with a normal pair, then read the attached note.

Harry

Fred and George Weasley were finally able to replace what was destroyed two months ago-you should wear this at all times for obvious reasons.
Dumbledore

Ron opened his package, found the same thing. Hermione found just the pair of dragon hide underwear in hers. Hermione then handed Harry and Ron their wand holsters with their wands.

"You shouldn't leave these idly about," Hermione said.

"We-" Ron protested.

"You did too," Gia said.

Hermione explained the fire as they dressed.

Dumbledore came into the hut a few minutes later, his eyes twinkled for a moment at the sight of Harry and Ron standing there, pretty much covered in dragon hide. Dumbledore sat them around the table, looked at Harry and Ron. Gia flipped the page of a book she was reading while seated on the bed.

"You had a failure yesterday," Dumbledore said, "Yes, you have had a number of successes as of late. If this were a mere class, you would be the top students of Defense Against the Dark Arts, however-"

"This isn't a class," Harry said, "It's our necks. If they tried a hundred times, they only have to get one success to succeed, whereas one failure on our part-disaster."

"Correct Harry," Dumbledore said, "I assume you can at least guess your failure yesterday."

"We accidentally left our wands behind," Harry said.

"I was unaware of that failure," Dumbledore said, "There are a couple of others that I am aware of."

Harry scratched his head.

"I don't know Professor," Harry said.

"What did you last remember?" Dumbledore asked.

"Flames," Harry said, "Flames wicking up and burning our Quidditch Robes, burn easily unlike our-we should have changed into our dragon hide first before going off."

"Hermione?" Ron asked.

Hermione rolled her eyes. "Can't you think for yourself?"

"It's nicer when I can borrow-" Ron said.

"Use your own or you'll lose it," Hermione said.

Harry however, looked at Dumbledore.

"You implied multiple failures," Harry said, "We walked forward, flame erupted from something. I can't see anything else."

"You stepped into the trap unaware that something was amiss," Dumbledore said, "Do not get me wrong here-the fact that it was a surprise to you was a failure in your own defenses."

"You should've been using the zone," Hermione said to Harry.

"Affirmative," Dumbledore said, "I realize that is a high energy measure, but you can no longer afford not to at Hogwarts. There is a lower energy measure that would be nearly as effective."

Harry perked up.

"What is that?" Harry asked.

"There are many different ward," Dumbledore said, "Nymphadora will be coming by in an hour to help you master the Alert Bubble Charm. In the meanwhile, breakfast."

Dumbledore waved his wand, platters appeared on the table along with plates.

"I assume you're not happy about the Minister's interference Professor," Hermione said.

Harry raised his eyebrow, Gia came over and sat next to him.

"I am not happy in the slightest," Dumbledore said, "Overruling on a serious matter-reckless. He sent the message that Killing Curses are permitted at Hogwarts-that idiot."

Ron raised his eyebrows, Harry scanned the articles.

"What did the others say?" Harry asked.

"Normally I do not slander a Minister, but this time the description fits," Dumbledore said, "The Minister came around while you were practicing, in a fit as always. He interviewed Mr. Thomas and several others, all were lying to the Minister, but the Minister believed their tales as they corroborated what Buckland had been saying. The Minister was on the verge of suspending when I promised to deal with you personally-we are having breakfast together."

Dumbledore nibbled at his fruit salad.

"Minister sure seems to enjoy interfering-it's a school matter to discipline," Harry said, "He thinks I can do nothing right."

"His perception comes from the papers, one read and you would understand why," Dumbledore said, "Voldemort has done a superb job, a plant in the Ministry is no longer needed. Minister Fallerschain is reacting to political pressures now, frying you is the popular pastime. Your troubles are his chief concern anymore, they are mine, as they should be. He seems fit to pursue you as a culprit, simpler from his perspective."

Harry poked at his side of bacon.

"Picking on me," Harry said, "That's what they're doing."

"It is unfair on you," Dumbledore said, "However, I do firmly believe that Voldemort would be doing a lot worse if he were not so focused upon this campaign against you. Unfortunately, it is not restrained in nature, so people are being killed as a part of it-look at the recent rise in foreign activity."

Harry shuffled the paper. "Syria and Kiribati, wherever those are."

"That was last night," Dumbledore said, "So far, the Death Eaters have been launching attacks in one or two countries per night, sending up the Potter Mark as they do it. You of course get the blame, some eyewitnesses get fooled by the occasional Polyjuice."

"How many hairs do they have?" Harry asked.

"Uncertain," Dumbledore said, "Only a part is needed, any size. Likely, the hairs are being chopped or ground to permit the maximum distribution possible. They only need that though for some of the countries, the ones with better forensics. In many, just the Potter Mark alone is sufficient to allow the authorities to place blame."

Harry sighed.

"Disturbing," Dumbledore said, "So far, we estimate forty percent of the countries have sustained at least one attack so far."

"Internationally?" Hermione said, "There's little point-they've already excited the people here."

"Unless they have caught onto the scope of our commute," Ron said.

Dumbledore looked at Ron, then sipped his pumpkin juice.

"More disturbing is the reports of what is following these attacks," Dumbledore said, "Apparently, late last month or early this month, some sort of blind decree made its way past the International Confederation of Wizards to lend support to the British Minister of Magic in resolving this situation. Nearly each one of the countries attacked has endorsed the measure shortly afterward in their usual manner. What the decree exactly is, nobody seems to be willing to speak with me on that."

"Not a drive for a birthday gift," Harry mumbled.

"Definitely not that," Dumbledore said, "What-I need to figure out."

"Sounds dangerous," Gia said, "A blank check for something."

"It may or may not be blank," Dumbledore said, "Those in the know are not talking-it has undoubtedly passed the Wizengamot by now."

A knock came from the door, then Tonks entered the hut; she saw them still around the table.

"Well well," Tonks said, "Nice meeting location."

"It is," Harry stated.

"Of course," Tonks said, "No disrespect intended."

"I will leave you in her care," Dumbledore said.

Dumbledore left.

"Well," Tonks said, "Come."

They left the hut where Tonks led them onto the Quidditch Pitch, Gia sat off in the stands.

"Only open space I could find," Tonks said, "Now, you have the basic issue of being unaware until you stumble into something. The Zone, while good, is quite draining. Simple enchantment, membraclamor. Protect yourselves and try to hit me."

Tonks stepped into disillusion. Harry felt his skin tingle, being magically pricked. Harry fired off a curse blindly.

"Try the damn enchantment," Hermione snapped.

Harry and Ron mumbled.

They spent the better part of three hours firing curses at random around the pitch. A tingle on his skin, then Harry would fire off a curse. They heard Tonks voice coming from all around.

"Just Potter now," Tonks said.

Ron and Hermione backed off, then laid on the ground watching Harry. Harry kept firing curses around the stadium for another half hour until finally, Harry fired a curse and Tonks illusioned.

"Figured it out?" Tonks asked.

Tonks stepped into disillusion, Harry's skin tingled, then a curse and Tonks illusioning.

"Yes," Harry said, "Can tell the direction it's coming from."

"Exactly," Tonks said, "Quite useful, wouldn't you say?"

"Why not tell us that earlier?" Harry asked.

"It sticks better this way," Tonks said, "Weasley, Granger, you're next."

Harry laid on grass, watch Tonks repeat with Ron and Hermione. Tonks came back up to them.

"You should always use that," Tonks said, "You do have to renew it periodically, but it's awfully damn useful."

"Yep," Harry said.

Ron's stomach growled.

"About time for Lunch," Tonks said.

They went for the castle and the office of Tonks. She served them lunch.

"We'll need to cover more," Tonks said, "You can vary the distance you set it at. Further out gives you more of a warning, but it draws more of your energy and will also have more false alarms; the smaller one is better in crowds."

Harry sighed.

"Can I set it about something else?" Harry asked.

"Mean like Gia?" Tonks said, "It can be done, but moot if you can't reach her in time. This alarm is good for your reflexes, but it does not protect."

Hermione finished her salad.

"So," Hermione asked, "What's next?"

"You get to spend the afternoon with Professor Flitwick," Tonks said, "I do have classes to teach."

"Him?" Harry said, "He hates-"

"Is highly skeptical," Tonks said, "He is neutral at this time. He wants to believe you, but can't at this time. In either case, you are more than a match for him."

Harry groaned, they then got up and left the office. They all stepped into disillusion and kept moving. They passed Thomas with a shiny Prefect badge pinned to his collar as they entered entered the Charms classroom. Gia looked at the carvings in the wall while Harry, Ron, and Hermione stepped into illusion.

"My goodness!" Flitwick fell backward, clunked his head.

"We were told-" Harry said.

"Of course," Flitwick said.

Flitwick got up, the door to the classroom closed.

"I was told to give you a lesson normally reserved for the seventh year," Flitwick said, "That I shall do. A lesson on controlling your curses, the strength and scope of it. I have already lost one student in my-"

"We know!" Harry barked.

"Calm down," Ron said, "He has every right to berate-"

"It's unjust!" Harry snapped.

Flitwick looked up at Harry.

"I apologize for bringing that topic up," Flitwick said, "However, any further outbursts and this lesson is over."

Flitwick stood on his podium, they sat on the desks.

---

Saturday, Harry woke first in the small room in the hostel in Prague of the Czech Republic. He removed a letter from his jacket, and opened it.

Harry Potter

You are hereby warned that any use of Dark Arts or Dark Magic at today's Quidditch match will result in a life time ban from ever playing Quidditch again.
Victor Fallerschain, Minister of Magic
Dolores Umbridge, Chair of the Harry Potter Guidance Committee and Potter Task force

"You should talk to Voldemort," Harry sneered.

Harry moved onto the school paper.

THE HOGWARTS CORPSE

Saturday, May 17, 1997

QUIDDITCH FINAL

Brave Slytherins

by Draco Malfoy

As Captain of the Slytherin Quidditch Team, I can assure you that we will not be swayed by any Dark Curses Potter might try to use in an attempt to cover their obvious shortcomings. Each member of my team has already drafted their wills and made preparations should Potter lash out-we are not scared or fooled by his lousy intimidation. We feel that today will show what we all know, Slytherin is superior at Quidditch.

Harry continued reading the rest of the paper declaring that Slytherin would win.

"That's what they think," Ron said, looking over Harry's shoulder, "We'll show them."

Harry sat on the bed.

"What I find strange is this," Harry said, "Why haven't we been suspended? Surely, the agents wouldn't care about a school match-unless it's a student."

"Or," Hermione said from the bed, "Unless that person has a friend at Hogwarts, or wants to show up and watch the game."

"At least we get to play," Ron said, "With how things are going, it might be our last at Hogwarts."

"Hadn't thought of it like that," Harry said.

Later in the morning, Harry and Ron went for the locker room at Hogwarts, both in their Quidditch Robes carrying their Whitehorns. McGonagall led the way to the stands for Gia, Hermione, and Kline following.

"Some good and wholesome Quidditch," Kline said.

"Wholesome?" McGonagall said, "This is Gryffindor vs Slytherin."

"Like I said," Kline said, "Wholesome."

They climbed to the top of the top box, sat down behind Seamus Finnigan. Finnigan turned, glared at Hermione.

"Do not worry Mr. Finnigan," McGonagall said, "They are under my supervision."

"Like they were earlier this-?" Finnigan snapped.

"You lied to the Minister," McGonagall said, "To think, a Gryffindor turning on-"

"Speak to the monsters," Finnigan snapped.

"Keep your tongue in check," McGonagall warned.

Hermione sighed, watched over the field. Gia noticed Dumbledore escorting up the Minister and then taking seats nearby. She then turned her attention to the sun soaking grass under the blue sky with a few small clouds drifting through.

Harry and Ron lined up with the others of the Gryffindor Quidditch Team behind their doors. Ron exhaled, gripped his Whitehorn.

"All Firebolts," Brenner said, "Against Slytherin, we have a chance."

"We'll be winning," Ron said.

"Fire off a Killing Curse or two," Paul Prewett said, "Scare 'em."

"There will be no killing from us," Harry said.

Wood stood to the side of the Quidditch Pitch. Finnigan took up the magic microphone, clicked it on.

"Welcome to the runoff Final for the Quidditch Cup!" Finnigan announced, "Today we have Gryffindor vs Slytherin and it should prove quite interesting. Pre-sent-ing Slytherin! Captained by Draco Malfoy!"

Doors opened under the Slytherin section, out zoomed seven green blurs.

"Malfoy!" Finnigan announced, "Baddock! Bletchley! Warrington! Pritchard! Southwick! Lavick!"

Malfoy circled the stadium showing off his nicely polished Firebolt and smiling.

"An entire team on the latest Nimbus!" Fallerschain said to Kline, "Should be no match for Gryffindor. Why are you here?"

"It's fun to watch the odd nice and clean game," Kline said.

McGonagall rolled her eyes.

"Pre-sent-ing Gryffindor!" Finnigan announced.

Doors opened under the Gryffindor section, out zoomed seven scarlet blurs outpacing the green.

"All Firebolts!" Fallerschain exclaimed.

"Any broom from a manufacturer is legal," McGonagall said, "I looked up that rule myself some years ago. Besides, I see Mr. Malfoy of Slytherin has a Firebolt."

Hermione grinned, spied Dumbledore's eyes twinkling. Harry circled up to the top, faced off of Malfoy.

"Scarhead!" Malfoy shouted, "Bring your parachute?"

"Scared of heights?" Harry shouted back, "Have yours ready?"

"You're going to-" Malfoy sneered.

Harry glared at Malfoy.

"Implying anything?" Harry demanded.

Malfoy cleared his throat.

"You're a pathetic flier Scarhead!" Malfoy sneered, "You'll find a way."

"I can take the fall," Harry replied, "Can you?"

Malfoy opened his mouth, but got interrupted.

"Wood comes out to release the balls!" Finnigan announced.

"Those two argue a lot," Gia said pointing to Harry and Malfoy.

"They've never liked each other," Hermione said.

Gia pressed the omnioculars to her eyes. Wood set the box down, reached for the latch, and opened the case. He released the Snitch, the Bludgers, then threw up the Quaffle.

"They're off!" Finnigan announced.

The crate was banished to the side of the stadium, Wood mounted a Nimbus 2001, and flew upward, whistle in hand. The players blurred, crimson mixed with green.

"Gryffindor in possession!" Finnigan announced, "Watch those Firebolts go!"

Brenner flew quickly down the field, out paced the Slytherin keeper Malcolm Baddock, and ran the Quaffle into the middle goal.

"Score to Gryffindor!" Finnigan announced.

Cheers came from some of the Gryffindors in the stands, the rest of the students booed including the Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws. McGonagall shook her head.

Ron was watching from in front of the goals to the left side, he was sitting on his Whitehorn like a bench, both legs dangling to one side, and the broom pointed to his right. He saw the Quaffle in the grip of Pritchard racing toward him, Bludgers from the Prewetts converged as Brenner and Ginny moved in. Ron moved his broom quick, sliding over and blocking the Quaffle from entering the goal. He handed the Quaffle off to Ginny, then moved in time for a Bludger to hit Pritchard. Wood blew his whistle.

"Foul!" Wood shouted, "Do NOT enter the Keeper's box!"

Players moved to the side to let Ginny take the penalty shot. Malfoy, however, zoomed up to the top box.

"A timeout is called as Slytherin is to protest this calling," Finnigan announced.

Mild cheering came from the stands. Gia watched Harry circle the stands above flying backward on his broom, tail first. McGonagall gasped when she saw this, thus she grabbed the magic microphone from Finnigan.

"Mr. Potter!" McGonagall shouted, "Quit horsing around!"

"He can break his neck if he wants to," Fallerschain said.

"Totally irresponsible!" McGonagall said.

"Defines Potter to a tee," Snape sneered.

Wood came up to the top box.

"I understand there is a challenge," Wood said.

"Yes," Malfoy said, "First, Graham was outside of Weasel's zone. Second, Weasel is flying his broom in contradiction to rules by not flying properly."

"The International rule book merely requires contact of the player with his or her broom," Wood said, "Technique of flying is not regulated. Second, the zone alarms activated, therefore, my ruling stands."

Malfoy looked at the Minister.

"You heard him student," Fallerschain said, "This is your jurisdiction Dumbledore."

"For that," Dumbledore said, "I defer the decision to the referee, in this case, Oliver Wood."

"My ruling stands," Wood said, "You can either accept it or forfeit the match."

Malfoy huffed, flew off. Wood rolled his eyes then flew off to supervise.

"The game continues!" Finnigan announced.

"Didn't have enough Galleons to buy the Minister?" Harry asked Malfoy.

"What did you imply?" Malfoy snapped back.

Harry adjusted his balance, stood up on the handle of his broom, glared at Malfoy. Malfoy though took a sharp look at the thousand feet to the ground as they circled.

"You might fall," Malfoy warned.

"Know something I should be aware of?" Harry asked.

Ginny made her penalty shot, a quick rebound and Colin put in another.

"Like your pathetic flying Scarhead?" Malfoy sneered.

Harry kept flying backward, in front of Malfoy's fast trot.

"You mean you can't do this," Harry said.

"I'm not that stupid," Malfoy said.

Harry noticed the Snitch teasing behind Malfoy's head, then his eyes locked back upon Malfoy's.

"You mean you can't," Harry said, "At least it hasn't been jinxed yet."

Malfoy's eyes darted, spied what was coming that Harry heard approach, his eyes returned to Harry.

"You should add one," Malfoy sneered, "They'd love to see-"

Harry ducked for the approaching Bludger that zoomed over his back and hit Malfoy on the shoulder. Malfoy gritted, but kept his balance.

"A Dark Art!" Malfoy yelled.

"Bludgers are now Dark Arts?" Harry laughed. "You gotta be kidding! I could kill you for the suggestion."

Harry kept his eyes locked upon Malfoy's.

"You could," Malfoy said, "With the Minister watching..."

Malfoy dived down; Harry tilted his feet and fell, grabbing his broom. Malfoy kept a lead until Harry mounted his Whitehorn in free fall, then saw what Malfoy was after, the Snitch was glittering on the field. Harry outpaced Malfoy, then Malfoy's Firebolt slowed for the approaching ground from the Unbreakable Braking Charm. Harry did not slow down, he did pull in time to brush his knuckles across the grass, then rose in pursuit of the Snitch. Harry slowed, kept neck in neck with Malfoy, with the brutal body slams going back and forth. McGonagall watched Harry's maneuvers, her face a pure white, along with some discrete Cleaning Charms.

"He's a lunatic!" Hermione exclaimed.

"He's got a conversation in store for him!" Gia said, peering through the omnioculars at Harry.

Kline tried his best to hide his smug and guilty look from McGonagall and Dumbledore.

"Dean Thomas is currently accepting wagers for Potter's death!" Finnigan announced.

"Mr. Finnigan!" McGonagall snapped.

"Sorry Professor," Finnigan said.

The Snitch eluded Malfoy and Harry let it remain until Gryffindor was up, a hundred twenty points to twenty. Harry was to one end of the pitch, Malfoy circling above. Malfoy dived for a glittering object recognized as the Snitch; Harry moved fast. Malfoy bumped Harry when they met up, Malfoy reached for the Snitch near the handle of his broom. Harry was several feet to the left, but above. Harry pushed with his left arm, stretched out with his right hand, leaving only his left hand gripping the handle. At forty feet in the air, Harry swung downward, his right hand moved past Malfoy's by an inch and grabbed onto the golden object. Harry's swing downward wasn't fast enough to avoid Malfoy's punch to his left shoulder. Harry reflexed, lost his grip, and fell.

Gasps and cheers came from the crowd at the sight of Harry falling, Malfoy pursued. Malfoy tried to pry at Harry's tight hand, but Harry hit the ground in a roll and stood presenting the Snitch. Harry summoned his wayward Whitehorn back to the ground, mounted, and flew out to avoid the converging Bludgers that smacked Malfoy onto the ground, unconscious.

"Gryffindor has caught the Snitch!" Finnigan announced, "Gryffindor wins at two hundred eighty points to twenty!"

Harry flew to Wood, handed over the Snitch, then flew up to the top box. Ron came along, they both grabbed Hermione and Gia; flew out before Dumbledore had a chance to bring out the cup. Harry and Ron flew their Whitehorns around the back of the top box and the stands, out of sight, and into disillusion. They flew toward the castle, in through the window of Wood's office, and landed. Hermione gave Ron a kiss.

"You won!" Hermione said, "You beat them-and Malfoy's tactics."

Harry and Ron quickly divested their Quidditch Robes, then changed into their normal dragon hide.

"Malfoy may be improving," Harry said, "but he has a long ways to go."

"He did spot the Snitch," Hermione said.

"After it loitered by him for half the game," Harry said, "We were racking points, so I didn't bother catching it for a while."

Ron got out his Portkey.

"Ahem"

They turned, saw Wood and Ginny standing in the doorway of the office.

"We were about to leave," Harry said, "So you and her can-"

Ron gave Harry a punch.

"She's my sister!" Ron turned to Wood. "You had better be careful!"

Ginny blushed, Wood turned a brilliant shade of red.

"It's not that," Wood said, "Somebody disagreed with your rapid departure."

"We won the cup!" Ginny said, "There's a party to commence shortly in the Tower."

"Without us sis," Ron said, "We're not wanted there by many."

Ron held his Portkey behind his back; Harry, Hermione, and Gia crowded in.

"That's not true!" Ginny said.

"The Lynchings this week say otherwise," Ron said.

Ron, Hermione, Gia, and Harry vanished leaving a blinking Ginny staring.

They landed on a desert plain with sage brush, Harry gripped onto the four of them and they disapparated. They apparated onto the outskirts of Waimea, Hawaii. Harry pulled out the small cloth small backpack from the pocket of his dragon hide jacket.

"We need to stock up," Harry said, "then sleep in tomorrow to handle the long day."

Harry breathed once, they stepped out and went for the small grocer.

An hour later, they were heading up the Waimea river then flew up several side canons. Several times, Harry and Ron flew the length of the small canyon looking, then landed at a small area under the trees adjacent to a river cascading over a small set of falls into a sizable cool pool with some yellow flowers dotting the bank.

"Any guesses?" Hermione asked Gia.

Harry took out his Auror's Handbook.

"We need privacy," Harry said, "Totally."

Harry flipped through the pages. Gia took off her jacket, laid it down next to the Whitehorns.

"Here it is." Harry pointed at an entry. "The Emergency Hiding bubble-can I borrow your wands?"

Ron came over, looked at Harry. Ron raised his eyebrows.

"Trying to figure out-" Ron scratched his head.

"We can build a small bubble of privacy," Harry said, "Normally useful in battles, but useful in this case. We can't use our wands while it's up, but we get the Imperturbment along with other wards-conceal, say, this little bit of water. Three wands would make it stronger."

Ron read the page, handed his wand over, then looked at Hermione.

"How secure would this be?" Hermione asked.

Harry glanced at the next page. "According to this, at the size I'm intending, it would not withstand a direct attack. However, it's intention is camouflage for us, so as long as our presence remains secret, there's virtually no chance of harm."

"Please?" Ron asked.

Hermione rolled her eyes, handed over her wand. Harry grabbed three of the jackets; he then placed the wands down on top of them at three points around the pond, his own near the falls, the other two at equal distances away, a bit from the draining river. Harry then chanted; they saw the red bubble form encompassing the pond, the falls, and about fifteen feet beyond the bank, about sixty feet in diameter. The red faded to be replaced by a foot wide series of concentric rings, a pair of greens on the inside, followed by a pair of yellow, then a pair of red lines, spanning a foot wide on the ground from inner green to outer red.

"Those lines," Harry said, "They mark the bubble, venture outside and you'll be seen."

"How long will it last?" Ron asked.

"Until one of us uses a wand for some other spell," Harry said.

Harry removed his shirt, let it fall to the ground.

"Know where this is leading to," Hermione said.

Harry stepped in front of Hermione, stood on his toes to meet the eye level of her.

"We're being hunted and I want to go for a dip," Harry said, "This being the first opportunity Gia and I have had in weeks to really do anything."

"You've done it since," Hermione said, "I've seen you two!"

"I do appreciate what you and Ron do to help," Harry said, "However, in a darken room with you two ready to hex any intruders isn't totally satisfying. If you wish to dive your nose into that handbook-feel free to. I'm swimming."

Harry stepped back to his Whitehorn, dropped his trousers then finished stripping. He walked starkers into the pond and took several laps. Gia, then Ron, added their clothes to the pile and entered. Hermione stood, watched Ron and Gia gang up and attempt to "drown" Harry. Hermione then sat down and started leafing through the handbook.

Harry and Ron resorted to wrestling in the water; Gia stepped back and sat under the light foam cascading down the short drop.

"Almost got you," Ron said to Harry.

Harry reached down with his foot, hooked under Ron's leg, and lifted, rotating Ron into a splash. Both laughed.

"Our boys." Hermione came into the water and sat on a stone under a fall adjacent to Gia.

In the next move, they saw Ron pushing Harry down head first into the wat.

"Yep," Gia said, "At least they're getting a bath."

Always a good thing." Hermione snorted. "I'm more worried about anything that could be swimming in here."

Gia shrugged.

"Notley will catch it during Monday's examination," Gia said, "So, if we do get something, we get to share the symptoms."

"Pleasant thought," Hermione asked, "How's Harry doing with his weight?"

They saw Harry get a good dunking on Ron.

"He's improving," Gia said, "That much is for certain-he's also gained an inch."

Hermione looked at her. "It's normal-"

"Not for him," Gia said, "He stopped more than a year ago—normally it's because he reached his potential, it's now clear that it was due to malnutrition. I pestered Harry enough to have Notley show me his charts. At the time Notley first measured, he was at seventy six pounds, way too low for his height, now he's at eighty two pounds."

"What's normal?" Hermione asked.

"The low end," Gia said, "that's what Notley is aiming for, was at ninety eight pounds until he gained an inch, now it's at a hundred two pounds."

"Six pounds doesn't sound like a lot," Hermione said.

"It's something to take cautiously," Gia said, "You don't want him to become bulimic or something-last thing we'd want is for him to self-justify the anorexia to a lethal conclusion. Apart from that, we do have stress and the occasional attack, it's not exactly conducive to healthy living."

They watched Harry and Ron roll in the shallow side of the pond, they traded light punches while laughing with each one.

"He doesn't look that light," Hermione said, "True, skinny, but eighty pounds?"

"Looks can be deceiving," Gia said, "This place is nice, suppose Harry can make this more often."

"Unlikely," Hermione said, "We can't exactly go and start doing great deals of magic-it'd get detected rapidly and right now we can't afford that type of scrutiny. Suppose they'll be wanting something from us in a bit."

"You're always free to decline," Gia said.

They watched Harry and Ron continue for another hour. Harry and Ron then glanced over to the falls and took notice of them. Harry and Ron came over, sat down next to them and under their own falls.

"Hi," Harry said.

Gia looked over the various bumps and bruises on Harry's skin. Ron got up, went over to the backpack, and then brought back some beers; he ignored Hermione's glares and handed them around.

"Fun day so far," Ron said, "See we've gone for the extended version."

"Yep," Harry said, "It was an interesting game."

"You talked to Malfoy a lot," Ron said, "He seemed irritated."

"Protested to the Minister on several calls," Hermione said, "Fell on deaf ears-showed what a poor sport he is."

Harry started to massage Gia's foot.

"I got the feeling that Malfoy knew something," Harry said, "I slipped several questions to him, I could sense something odd by his reactions."

Ron turned to Harry.

"An interrogation in the middle of the Quidditch Final?" Ron exclaimed. "Are you mad?"

"It's the only time I can get close without suspicion," Harry said, "Had to be careful. He was definitely jealous by my flying-there's no doubts there. I gave him a veiled death threat, but he lacked any real concern that I'd strike."

"You searched-" Ron protested.

"We did," Harry said, "So he's not the culprit. However, he could be hearing things, whisperings, to realize what is happening."

"Trust a Malfoy to straddle the fence until he has to commit," Ron said, "No secret why his father gave sizable donations to St. Mungo's."

Harry shrugged for a moment.

"He's sits on the fence," Harry said, "He's been quite neutral when it comes to things. He slams me enough but not too much, that way he can spin his way out. True Slytherin there."

Harry finished his beer, then pulled Gia out into the middle of the pond.

---

Late Sunday, Harry gathered them on the edge of the small pond.

"Time to dress," Harry said, "Time to return to Hogwarts."

"It's evening!" Ron protested.

"Here, yes," Harry said, "There, it's Monday morning. That's why we slept into the afternoon."

As Harry started into his clothes, Ron felt into his dragon hide jacket, pulled out a letter addressed to him.

Ron

To think that you've got Dumbledore screening all your post!

I missed you at the celebration-you were the Captain last time I checked. People attending actually wanted you there-the more objectionable ones had already left.
Ginny

"Well, ex-cuse me," Ron said, "Hard for me to tell that from the killing curses aimed at me."

Ron crumpled the letter, threw it aside. Harry moved onto the paper.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Monday, May 19, 1997

EM Lashes Out at Fallerschain

Eximo Macula 'EM' is displeased with the lack of action Minister of Magic Victor Fallerschain has been demonstrating in regards to the situation with the new Dark Lord Harry Potter. We remind him that more than six hundred people, to date, have been confirmed to have been killed by Harry Potter-possibly thousands of people are dead. Clearly, Potter is exerting his influence of fame, fortune, and other assets upon the Minister, for a normal wizard would have been executed months ago for similar crimes.

We insist the the Minister take appropriate steps and measures to contain and control Potter. Attempts to salvage Potter be damned, Potter is a clear nuisance that threatens and kills us all!

Problem Solver

Potter, Harry : 2,252,000 galleons

Weasley, Ron : 1,761,000 galleons

Granger, Hermione : 1,167,000 galleons

Prescott, Gia : 688,000 galleons

Removal of these problems would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be sent to "Bye Bye". To claim a reward, submit relevant documentation. (These values are now rounded due to the astounding growth of the values.) 20,000 galleon bonus for each relation severed.

Harry rolled his eyes.

"Definitely need to do something," Gia said, wrapping her arm around Harry, "Maybe-" Gia gave him a kiss.

---

Monday morning, they landed in McGonagall's office where they were met by her glance from behind the desk.

"Well, Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, "We need to discuss your flying habits from the match."

"We won," Harry said.

McGonagall did not return the grin, Harry sank into a chair.

"It was foolish and dangerous flying," McGonagall said, "You could have easily sustained serious injury by playing such games-standing on your broom at two hundred feet is unacceptable."

"Why?" Harry said, "Seemed fine to me."

"You could have fallen," McGonagall said, "That level of risk is unacceptable."

"I fell after the Snitch," Harry said, "That worked out, uninjured."

"It might not have," McGonagall said, "I assume you've consulted with Madam Pomfrey about-"

"No injuries," Harry said, "So, there was no point. Besides, it's not like I haven't done it before."

McGonagall looked at them over the rim of her glasses, looking for his next statement.

"I've been doing it for months, Professor," Harry said, "There was no danger."

"Please elaborate," McGonagall said.

"We are now professional players," Harry said.

"I was unaware of that," McGonagall said, "However, that does not excuse your behavior."

"They have had us training like that," Harry said, "We have been spending time learning our limits on our brooms, I was perfectly safe and in control."

"You will refrain from those maneuvers at Hogwarts Mr. Potter," McGonagall said, "In the future, use tactics like immediately catching the Snitch which I saw loitering in your reach numerous times and your intentional delays. You are excused."

Harry got up and went for the office door.

"Congratulations on the position," McGonagall said.

They left the office, then stepped into disillusion. At the end of the empty second floor corridor, before the Stone Gargoyle, Longbottom was pacing back and forth as they approached. Ron and Harry exchanged looks. Longbottom was oblivious to the approaching disillusioned teenagers, instead he noticed the Stone Gargoyle moving and Dumbledore stepping off the spiral stairs.

"Mr. Longbottom?" Dumbledore prompted.

"I wa-wanted to speak with Potter," Longbottom said, "I was told he would be with you."

Dumbledore glanced, looked through the disillusion at Harry, then returned his focus to Longbottom.

"As you are aware," Dumbledore said, "There have been a great number of students wishing to have a word with Mr. Potter in a not so kind of fashion. It is reasonable to know your intentions first."

"I just wish to talk," Longbottom said, "Nothing more."

Dumbledore stood there for a moment looking at the trembling Longbottom.

"Wait in my office," Dumbledore said, "Should Mr. Potter wish to reciprocate, he will show, otherwise, you will leave upon my return. Understood Mr. Longbottom?"

Longbottom nodded. The Stone Gargoyle sprung back to life, Longbottom stepped on. Harry, Hermione, Gia, and Ron stepped on behind.

They entered the office. Harry glanced at Hermione, Ron, and Gia, then stepped just himself into illusion and moved in front of Longbottom.

"You claimed to want to talk," Harry said, "I am listening, but do not try anything foolish."

"I apologize," Longbottom said.

Harry stared at the round face, looked at the blinking eyes staring back; Harry raised his eyebrows.

"I apologize for my behavior over the past year," Longbottom said.

"While I do appreciate the sentiment," Harry said, "I'm having trouble understanding why-I've had too many Trojan horses."

"Many things," Longbottom said, "Dean pushed again, wanted me to try a Killing Curse on you, thought I was weak willed last week to only go for a Jelly Legs. Should've heard them bragging that they could get away with murder so long as it was yours."

"Elaborate more" Harry said.

"I'm getting pressured and I got fed up," Longbottom said, "Also, I...um...witnessed something, I know you're being framed, at least on one occasion."

Fawkes fluttered to the floor between them.

"Have a seat Neville," Harry said, pointing to one of the armchairs.

Longbottom sat, Fawkes hopped onto the lap, Longbottom stroked.

"Gran and I witnessed something," Longbottom said, "It was horrible. Our next door neighbors down the road, the Ackergills, sent in an editorial in defense of you into the Daily Prophet at the urging of Gran-wish they didn't now. We could only watch from a distance as a couple Death Eaters attacked-yes Death Eaters, one of whom was Bellatrix Lestrange. All were wearing EM robes though, one sent up a Potter Mark. Lestrange took a substance and transformed into you Harry. They proceeded to murder the Ackergills, the other one took pictures as she killed-looking like you."

"I assume the Ministry responded," Harry said.

"If you call it a response," Longbottom said, "All of Gran's witness statements were edited to make it seem like you had launched the attack."

"How were you certain they were Death Eaters?" Harry said, "Certainly, you aren't on a first name basis."

Longbottom snorted. "Our family has prior non-friendly encounters with the Lestranges, we recognize them for who they are and who they support."

"So," Harry asked, "You changed your mind on things because of this?"

"If there's one thing I can't swallow," Longbottom said, "It's the notion of you voluntarily associating with Death Eaters. This Potter Eater and stuff is a stretch, but Death Eaters and You-Know-Who is too far. He murdered your parents, you can't associate with him. Seeing that the Death Eaters can do it once means they could do it again, over and over until their potion is out.

"Gran and I spent the rest of the weekend, save the cup, going over the old papers. All we could ever find of proof are eyewitness reports, nothing further. No wand evidence, nothing else. Gran wants me to get you to talk to her, she wants to know your side, and to invite you over to stay over the weekend."

Harry breathed for a moment, thinking.

"I hope you can understand my reluctance when two million galleons want me dead," Harry said, "You also have your own actions-you didn't participate in nearly anything, but you did participate in some things."

"Had to participate," Longbottom said, "You don't understand the pressure everyone places onto this, to get you. If I don't do something, I'm labeled a sympathizer. The only person with any leeway is Ginny Weasley given her relation. EM is strong with Dean and Seamus as card carrying members-they filled out a card for me and stuffed it into my wallet when I wasn't looking."

Harry exhaled, kept his fingers to his mouth.

"I will need to consider this," Harry said, "You need to tell Dumbledore about the incident when he returns."

"I cannot undo what I have done Harry," Longbottom said.

"Or left undone," Harry said.

"You know me," Longbottom said, "Good game Saturday, apparently Malfoy was berating his team for hours afterward about squandered investments."

Harry smiled for a moment.

"Dumbledore is approaching," Harry said.

Longbottom raised his eyebrows. The doors opened, through which stepped Dumbledore.

"You are both in one piece," Dumbledore said, "I assume a truce was called."

"In a manner," Harry said, "Longbottom has something he would like to share with you."

Dumbledore took a seat in an armchair adjacent to Harry, looked at Longbottom.

"This weekend," Harry prompted.

Longbottom explained the attack he had witnessed, the responses.

"Thank you Mr. Longbottom for choosing to share this information," Dumbledore said, "I will be in contact with your grandmother soon. You may return to class."

Longbottom stood up, left the office.

"I notice that you were not alone with him," Dumbledore said to Harry.

Ron and Hermione stepped into illusion from opposite sides of the chair, wands drawn. Gia illusioned, sat on an armchair, Ron and Hermione stowed their wands.

"We were uncertain to his motives," Harry said, "This seemed the safest approach."

Ron's stomach growled.

"Have you had breakfast yet?" Dumbledore asked.

"No Sir," Harry said, "We haven't."

Dumbledore waved his wand, several entrees materialized. Ron, Hermione, and Gia joined in the eating.

After lunch, they were walking along the first floor corridor when Harry pulled them to a stop.

Cautiously, Harry approached the window and illusioned a black box.

"Step back!" Harry barked.

Gia did so, Ron stepped closer. Harry aimed his wand at Ron.

"Away!" Harry barked.

Ron and Hermione backed up. Cautiously, Harry stepped back, then summoned the black box with three portals. However, the black box vanished. From the ceiling, a hard gust of air blew down, a whirling vortex started at where Harry had his wand aimed. A camera propped on a window a bit down from them snapped a picture, then more cameras snapped pictures. Harry ran backward, toward Ron and the hasty retreat. A curse from Harry did not dissipate the vortex, but instead it grew into a fully grown cyclone from floor to ceiling.

"Tornadoes!" Harry exclaimed.

Hermione pointed her wand. "SEDARE!"

Fast moving air whirled faster and grew in size, walls rattled, fragments of the stone walls ate away at other stones filling the corridor with shrapnel. Harry threw up a small bubble shield around the four of them, taking the fragments. They looked up and down the corridor, through the obscuring dust and moisture, they could see the entire corridor filling up with many cyclones. Harry and Ron took out their Whitehorns, mounted. They flew carefully in the bubble and went out a window.

"Shit!" Ron muttered, Hermione gripped his midriff even tighter.

Cyclone upon cyclone filled the corridors they could see, the courtyard, and around the grounds. Fluttering and shooting through the air, caught up in the vortices, were shreds of parchment, wood, grass, shoes, books, and much else. They saw the scaffolding around the North Tower collapse flying every direction, a plank missed Harry's head by a foot. Harry tried to fly for the ground, they found themselves trapped inside the middle of a big tornado over the greenhouses.

"Well?" Ron asked.

They turned and dived, but gasped in the lowering pressure of the cyclone rotating faster and faster. They all fainted above the glass of greenhouse three from a lack of oxygen.

"He's coming around."

Ron woke first, saw the ceiling above him with missing stones, then looked and saw Notley bent over him on a bed. He looked around, saw that they were in a private room; Harry, Gia, and Hermione still out on adjacent beds. Ron looked at the bandages on his arms, then looked over at Dumbledore sitting on a chair watching.

"Welcome back," Dumbledore said.

"I recall extreme wind," Ron said.

"It has blown over," Dumbledore said.

Ron groaned. Harry woke next.

"Hogwarts?" Harry asked, "Hospital Wing? EM?"

"This is not the Hospital Wing," Dumbledore said, "However, it is still Hogwarts, while you are still here, I am required to supervise."

"Huh?" Harry muttered.

Hermione and Gia stirred, their eyes opened.

"Given the pictures," Dumbledore said, "It was obvious that you sprung a trap intended for you. It resulted in the biggest windstorm this castle has seen in a millennium, fortunately it is still structurally sound despite some damage. Before you ask, the Minister has decreed a suspension of three weeks, so after Mr. Notley clears your health, you will not return to Hogwarts no sooner than Tuesday, June tenth. I am interested in why we found you crashing into greenhouse three."

Harry explained from spotting the box to blacking out. Ron, Hermione, and Gia filled in bits here and there.

"At least you noticed it beforehand," Dumbledore said, "However, this is a school that I am supposed to be running and keeping safe, you could have come to me."

"Likely a trap for that too," Harry said, "I figured it'd be another inferno, so we'd have it trigger at a distance and burn itself out."

"Reasonable if it were of such design," Dumbledore said, "The trigger boxes for these traps seem to be mass produced, so it stands to reason that they have more than one trap in mind."

Notley finished his check over.

"You won't be practicing Quidditch today," Notley said, "However, you can tomorrow. Otherwise, you'll be fine albeit a bit of discomfort may persist for a day or two."

Notley left the room.

"Rumor of your injuries in the greenhouse spread quickly as some second years were in the middle of a lesson in there," Dumbledore said, "Several students, including Mr. Finnigan, were caught placing a trap into the Hospital Wing-their punishments were delayed until the Minister departed. As soon as you feel ready, you are to leave Hogwarts."

Harry stretched, glanced over to his Whitehorn broom propped up against the wall near the door. He got up, walked over, and stowed the Whitehorn into his pocket.

"I do plan to have another card club match in the near future," Dumbledore said.

"Without Snape?" Harry asked.

"I wish you two would overcome your petty squabble," Dumbledore said.

"Talk to him!" Harry said, "He never game me the chance to do otherwise with him! Like Voldemort, Snape's always needled me."

Ron stowed his broom.

"I have spoken with him," Dumbledore said, "Severus is to work on it."

"Day he turns a leaf-we check him for Polyjuice," Ron said.

Harry activated his Portkey; Ron, Hermione, and Gia held on. They landed in an alley along Slovenske Costa in Ljubljana, Slovenia. It took them a short while of walking the streets to find a cafe and enter. They ordered then sat at a cozy table.

"I heard a camera!" Harry said, "Any guesses where that picture'll land? Definitely a trap-how did they know we'd go by there? Are there more laying about? I wonder what those were-at least it's not a murder or two."

Ron moved the salt shaker about on the table.

"Before you moan about getting us into this Harry," Ron said, "It's not your fault and I intend to press on regardless of where it leads me."

"You're always saying that," Harry said.

"You need the reminder-I need the reminder given how much the toll has been so far," Ron said, "Those tornadoes were wicked, have to admit that. No murder though, that's a mystery given how readily they've murdered before."

They took delivery of their dinners, Harry poked at his stew.

"It'd be easy too," Harry said, "I mean, a little Polyjuice, a camera, and a killing curse; a planned escape so I'm left by the corpse-it worked before. Six hundred deaths so far? I don't recall that many-why? Why hasn't the minster arrested me? He's has cause so far-all of this."

Ron reached into his dragon hide jacket, took out his journal; he opened and flipped through the pages.

"Huh?" Harry said, "Oh no, not that-"

"Better than you think." Ron flipped through more pages then landed upon one for Friday. "Remember Dumbledore's remark about some new acts? Friday? I spent a bit of time perusing the papers while you and Gia were-you know-in the library."

"I helped," Hermione said.

"Yes, it was her idea," Ron said, "Through last Thursday, we had eighty four other countries attacked in our names-Potter Marks and that sort-Botswana, Australia, Canada, Russia, Japan, Finland, Denmark, India, Bulgaria, South Africa, Egypt, Ireland, Libya, Nigeria, Ukraine, Madagascar, Grenada, Georgia, Bangladesh, Paraguay, South Korea, Togo, Equatorial Guinea, Mongolia, Chile, Sierra Leone, China, Italy, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Mexico, Morocco, Switzerland, Venezuela, Mali, North Korea, Estonia, Guatemala, Suriname, Nauru, Fiji, Zimbabwe, Taiwan, Maldives, Samoa, Haiti, Greece, Costa Rica, Albania, Dominica, Poland, Laos, Turkmenistan, Myanmar, Marshall Islands, Guinea-Bissau, East Timor, France, Antigua, Kuwait, Panama, Trinidad, Uruguay, Saint Lucia, Malawi, Jordan, Cuba, Algeria, Czech, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, Netherlands, Thailand, Serbia, Zambia, Macedonia, Gambia, Bolivia, Afghanistan, Nicaragua, Syria, Kiribati, and Dominican Republic."

"In other words," Harry said, "A lot. Likely to persuade them into signing anything."

Hermione nodded.

"That would explain why the Death Eaters don't want you arrested and executed," Gia said, "Not the Minister."

"He's being influenced," Harry said, "At the core, he's a decent person against the same thing we are. He's delusional into thinking that ridding the world of us will rid him of the Dark stuff-he's committed things that are unforgivable against us, but he's trying to fight for the same principles."

"Seems a bit excessive if you ask me," Ron said.

"EM's the same way," Harry said, "If you ignore the Death Eaters, the rest are being tricked into believing we're Dark and need to be eliminated. Voldemort's done a damn good job dividing us and turning us upon ourselves with this one."

Harry finished his stew.

---

Tuesday morning, they hunched over the Daily Prophet as they ate breakfast in Slovenia.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Tuesday, May 20

Gusting Potter Tornadoes Hogwarts

Yesterday, Harry Potter was witnessed touching off a fierce windstorm that threatened to topple Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As seen from the photograph, Potter initiated the first cyclone in a Dark Art then the cyclone grew until it encompassed the entire castle threatening the lives of himself and every other person. Flying debris showed the imminent danger Hogwarts has not seen for a millennium and it would have been its final moments if it were not for the decisively swift action of the Ministry Aurors to bring the moments of terror to an end. Potter received a three week suspension as a result of this latest act-no relief to those many who have died already from his Dark actions.

EM Pushes for Recall of Minister

Disgusted and disgraced by the inaction of the Minister of Magic to contain Potter, EM has started a signature drive needed to push for a recall of Victor Fallerschain as Minister of Magic. EM cites Potter still rampaging around as their main reason for pushing the recall, EM notes that there have been numerous opportunities afforded to Victor Fallerschain to arrest and execute Potter for crimes against the wizarding world. If Victor Fallerschain wishes to retain his position as Minister of Magic, EM advises him to do more to contain and eradicate the rising Dark Lord Harry Potter.

Should EM succeed in collecting the required 200,000 signatures by the September 1 deadline, then alternate candidates will be allowed to petition themselves onto the ballot, no sooner than the middle of November.

Minister Explains Potter Situation

by Victor Fallerschain

I am personally and professionally concerned with the emergence of a new Dark Lord, Harry Potter, into our lives; he is a problem that must be dealt with by each and every member of our society. Personally, I would have hoped that he would have reformed his ways months ago when we gave him the chance through the Harry Potter Guidance Committee and subsequently the Potter Task force; however, all evidence points to the contrary, it indicates that Potter is determined to remain on his course of death and destruction to that of a new Dark Lord, one that might even rival the former You-Know-Who. Professionally, as the Minister, any actions I take must be legal and in accordance to legal precedents and traditions of the Ministry of Magic, therefore, I cannot always take action even though I want to; the laws that bind us together also restrain what steps I may take to control Potter-he certainly does not want to be constrained to these same laws, but we must maintain the moral high ground in such fights. I understand a certain organization is understandably frustrated, so am I. They would quickly find that any Minister of Magic is bound by the same laws as I currently am.

To hasten the process, certain legislative initiatives are slowly working their way through the Wizengamot, the International Confederation of Wizards, and the other national legislative bodies; these initiatives will permit the Ministry of Magic to take more aggressive steps in eliminating the threat that Harry Potter poses to us all. Among the items being debated is on that will strip the "safe harbor" rights that Albus Dumbledore is currently exercising in shielding Harry Potter from the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Magic or any other authority. Yet again, upon request after yesterday's incident at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizard, Albus Dumbledore refused to surrender Harry Potter or his accomplices for the legal sanctions-he cited a disbelief in the guilt of Potter despite having seen the volumes of evidence showing a clear pattern of Dark Arts and Curses. For those upset at the current situation with Harry Potter, speak to Albus Dumbledore, current Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Harry moved onto his letter.

Harry

As you may have read, the Minister of Magic is not happy. It may be prudent to keep any and all travels in his jurisdiction to a minimum and keep such visits as short as necessary.
Dumbledore

"Not like I intended to spend much time there," Harry muttered.

"What could Voldemort want passed by the International Confederation of Wizards?" Gia asked.

Harry looked at her.

"It's the only explanation I can think of," Gia said, "You're being slandered in each country by him, he's putting the pressure on."

"It's not for my health, that's for certain," Harry said, "It's got to be important-while removing the Minister sounds appealing, we don't know who'd replace him-wonder if we could get Fudge to run."

Hermione shook her head.

"After what Fallerschain has blamed upon him?" Hermione said, "This recall is a bad idea, very bad, we'd likely get somebody worse, a parent of one of the murder victims-to heck with any procedure."

Harry grunted for a moment.

---

Wednesday, Harry woke first, then them from under a grove of trees; they made for the nearby city of Cork, Ireland. Harry opened the Daily Prophet as they sat in the cafe for breakfast.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Wednesday, May 21, 1997

Rules Change at Hogwarts

Effective immediately, as approved by the Wizengamot, all provisions of the Suspected Dark Wizard Control Act will be incorporated into the school rules in effect at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Harry turned to a letter addressed to them.

Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, Miss. Prescott

The modifications to the rules will permit any student to attack yourselves without fear of reprisal from any of the staff. It saddens me to see the day.
Albus Dumbledore

Harry laid the letter down, looked at Ron working on his pancakes drenched in syrup.

"Well," Harry said, "Hogwarts is now a shooting range. Do we ever want to return?"

"You're bringing this up again?" Hermione asked.

"It's something we need to discuss," Harry said, "We're open targets if we get exposed for whatever reason at Hogwarts."

"We have, like, three weeks?" Ron said, "We can worry later."

"I'll support your decision," Gia said.

Harry poked at his eggs. "I'll need to think on it."

Later, they arrived at Puddlemere United, went into the currently empty auditorium. Harry put the phoenix feather back into the inner pocket of his jacket. Dumbledore appeared moments later. Harry looked straight at Dumbledore.

"I read the article and your letter," Harry said, "Upon our return, I reserve the right of self-defense within the corridors. Warn every student not to attack us, they may live to regret it."

"While you do possess the right of self-defense," Dumbledore said, "I cannot endorse an Unforgivable by any person."

"Don't tell them I'll be avoiding those," Harry said, "Just make it sound ominous enough so few, if any, will dare."

"I will warn them," Dumbledore said, "I also warn you not to use them."

"I won't so long as there's another way," Harry said, "You know me."

"I also know about tempers," Dumbledore stated.

---

Thursday, Gia went to the small newsstand and picked up a copy of the local wizarding paper, the Florida Tomorrow. The clerk failed to look at her muttering about a stiffed paycheck. Gia kept it rolled up in the wrapping until after they finished breakfast at a Denny's in Miami Florida. Harry ate his breakfast as his feet danced with Gia's under the table. He scooped up a dab of hash browns with ketchup, then he touched her foot with his; they exchanged grins.

After he finished, Harry took the Florida Tomorrow and opened it up to read.

THE FLORIDA TOMORROW

Thursday, May 22, 1997

31 Perish by Potter

Potter brutally attacked a meeting of the South Florida chapter of the EM last night on the west side of Fort Lauderdale, killed thirty people and left one of his accomplices to die. Investigators from the Florida Department of Magic are investigating, the British Minister of Magic has promised all assistance in bringing Potter to justice.

Last night, twenty five adults and five children gathered for a potluck in the modest home on the edge of Tamarac, a suburb of Fort Lauderdale, as the monthly meeting of the South Florida chapter of the Eximo Macula (EM). Unbeknown to them, Potter had been planning to attend himself serving up his usual nasty dishes such as kids-on-a-stick.

After the group had gathered, Potter descended with his fellow Potter Eaters onto the house, erected barriers, and then overpowered those gathered. Florida State Aurors responded a short bit later to find Potter Marks loitering above the house and screams coming from within. Blood stained curtains gave little hint of the butchery within, from the kid harpooned with a table leg to the mother being carved alive. Aurors found themselves vomiting from the sight and smells of the mess. After walking on the blood soaked soggy carpet, Auror Carndon swore to bring the culprit (Potter) to justice.

Among the victims was a Potter Eater sliced in two, demonstrating that Potter has no concern for his own followers. Confirmed dead is Randy Moore from Clearwater, FL, who has a verified Potter Mark on his left forearm (similar to the Dark Mark from the era of You-Know-Who). Florida State Aurors are working with the US Department of Magic to extradite Potter from the United Kingdom for this heinous crime. Acts like these only serve to straighten the pressure on Congress to pass legislation to assist the British in containing this world wide threat.

"I can't escape it!" Harry exclaimed.

"Sorry mate," Ron said, "Never can-wonder how long..."

Harry slammed a twenty down onto the table. Three people in dark jackets came up to the table.

"May I help you?" Harry asked.

The lead man flashed a badge "Federal Bureau of Investigation, Magic Division" to Harry, the others brandished wands and kept a slight bit of distance.

"You're under arrest Harry Potter," the man said, "You all are on the charges of mass murder as described."

Harry notice two others standing at further distance with hands on wand hilts; another pair were quickly and quietly escorting the other customers out.

"Apparation wards are in place," the man warned.

Harry kept his hands under the table. From under the table, red curses fired at each of the agents, stunning them. The best of the agents took a second to recover, the others took two, but it gave them enough time to hop over the table and run. Each of the agents fired stunning curses as Harry ran for the emergency exit; Ron, Hermione, and Gia in close pursuit; the curses were absorbed into their dragon hide jackets so they kept running out into the parking lot. They stopped long enough to take in the calamity of the situation. There were many others situated around the restaurant, some from the Florida State Aurors, others were Oblivators. They noticed several walk away from the area before disapparating to appear in another area and walk back in.

"Surrender!" the agent behind Harry advised.

Harry erected his bubble ward around them, curses bounced off back to the agents firing them. Ron got out his Whitehorn, then Harry's.

"Let go of the brooms!" another agent warned.

Ron mounted, Hermione grabbed on, he took over on the ward. Harry mounted, Gia grabbed on.

"Stop now!" a third agent warned.

Harry recovered his wand from Ron. The bubble dropped and they flew like mad, past the group of agents on Firebolts. They zoomed past a second group of Aurors unable to keep up. Curses kept flying past them, with each one that crossed their alert bubble, they rolled one way or the other. Groups of fliers apparated in front of them, Harry and Ron went into quick falls and avoided.

"Well," Ron said to Harry, "These are faster than Firebolts after all."

Hermione rolled her eyes. Harry bumped into Ron and Hermione, took a hold of Gia, and disapparated. Several Apparations later, they arrived at Puddlemere United for their afternoon practice.

---

Late Friday, they apparated into the edge of a village, Harry was carrying a covered platter of butter covered grilled tuna. They walked down the narrow lane out of Plaidburn; then turned onto Longbottom lane. It followed around several groves, past a recently burned shell of a home, then another bend, then toward a house with a fence across the lane. On the gate of the white fence was a sign with the name "Longbottom" painted in dark black. They could hear the small stream flowing on the other side of the L shaped house. Harry reached around, opened the latch and went through the gate. They passed through, went up the walk to the double doors angled between the two wings; several windows could be seen recessed into the grey stone walls. Harry knocked.

"Hope nobody saw us," Ron muttered.

Eyes peeped out of the curtains of the window to the right, they vanished to be followed by the door knob jiggling and then the left of the double doors opening. A formidable witch in a green dress and vulture hat looked at them.

"We are here for Professor Dumbledore's card club," Harry said.

She waved them in. They entered, before them with walls angling away was clearly the living room, the chimney and fireplace along the right wall, a set of stairs to the left. Immediately adjacent to the door and foyer were two openings, one to the left and one to the right.

"This way for the food," the witch said.

She escorted them to the right-into a room with a rectangular and long table. Harry set down the platter onto the table, Gia set down some rice wine, and Ron placed down some Firewhiskey. The witch turned to them.

"I am Rose Longbottom."

"Harry Potter."

"Ron Weasley."

"Hermione Granger."

"Gia Prescott."

"Of course, of course," Rose said, "Neville speaks most highly of you."

Harry opened his eyes, studied the face for a moment. She looked over at the platter, took a peek under the foil.

"Barbecued tuna," Harry said, "Butter both sides, then roast it over coals for a half hour."

"Professor Dumbledore did mention your new fondness for exotic foods," Rose said.

"It's definitely not exotic," Harry said, "Not after having spent the hour cooking it."

"You cooked it Potter?" Moody came into illusion. "You have no kitchen-"

"Couldn't believe that sales guy let us spend an hour trying out that grill," Harry said.

Harry and Gia went through the doors and into the living room. Flames leapt in the fireplace to their hard left, out of them came Neville stumbling out. Crashing onto the floor was Neville's trunk. Rose, who was coming out to the living room already, looked down at the trunk; Harry returned the glare to her, silencing her comment. Harry bent down, picked up the trunk.

"Thanks," Neville muttered to Harry.

Harry followed Neville up the stairs, turned down the short hallway to the left, then through the end doorway. Harry entered a slightly vaulted, but big, room painted a light blue, numerous windows showed the yard and stream out back. Along the long wall to his immediate left was a tall wardrobe, then dresser, then a single bed. Along the wall opposite the door were some shelves that spanned the whole sixteen feet. To the left next to a window was an oak desk. To the right of the center of the room was a round table. Harry set the trunk down on the floor.

"My room," Neville muttered.

Harry retreated for the door.

"Wait," Neville said.

Neville gave the door a quick slam shut, then went to his trunk, dug around.

"Interesting article," Neville said, "Made Seamus and Dean jealous."

Harry raised his eyebrows, Neville got out the Daily Prophet, handed it to Harry who read.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Friday, May 23, 1997

Potter Eludes FBI

Dark Lord Harry Potter along with his accomplices eluded Aurors from the Magic Division of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation yesterday as they attempted to act upon warrants for Potter's arrest-hundreds of muggles witnessed the spectacle and kept all of their Oblivators busy for hours. After receiving several anonymous tips, an agent spotted Potter in a muggle establishment in Miami, Florida (a short distance south from the site of his heinous crime), agents attempted to arrest Potter as the primary suspect in a mass murder the prior evening. Potter proceeded to fire curses which gained him enough time to flee using a broom-demonstrated several violations of the SDWCA by carrying serviceable wands, brooms, and apparation. Potter flew over many muggles before disapparating. Editors at the Daily Prophet recognize that this flight can only confirm that Potter knows himself to be guilty of the mass murder. Minister of Magic Victor Fallerschain has promised assistance in bringing Potter to justice.

"How could they be jealous?" Harry asked.

"Florida," Neville said.

Harry rolled his eyes. "If they want to get chased from place to place, they're certainly welcome to try it themselves."

"Were you there?" Neville asked.

"In Florida, yes," Harry said, "We were eating breakfast-argh!"

"You're also supposedly apparating," Neville said, "Given that nobody else is licensed-you're not either for that matter."

"I've had too many close calls not to." Harry grabbed Neville's shoulder. "I'd be dead now if I stayed within the rules." Harry brought his hand down, then moved for the door.

"Told you it's my room," Neville muttered.

Harry stopped, looked at Neville.

"Yes, at least you have a room," Harry said, "I've only had my own room for three weeks, it was destroyed by the EM last month along with the death of Hedwig, my owl that was a gift from Hagrid. I do know that most of them are lemmings and will realize their mistake once Voldemort makes his move-however, all the apologies in the world won't bring them back or Lupin or any of the hundreds of others murdered along the way because they were fooled."

Neville sank onto the comforter of his bed.

"It's getting bad, isn't it?" Neville said, "I recall Colin Creevy getting pounded by Seamus when Creevy expressed doubts about your guilt in certain matters. Dean's been setting traps-don't enter the dormitory-he wants you dead because he's convinced you're the Dark Wizard they claim you are. Parvati's understandably upset because she's convinced you murdered Padma."

"It's been a thorough job." Harry sat on the desk chair. "The Death Eaters murdered enough people and convinced nearly everyone it's me doing it. They've gotten the entire wizarding community to gang up on me-including the Minister."

"Have any luck with Lestrange?" Neville asked, "Have you found her?"

"There's no point," Harry said, "She likely got the Polyjuice from Voldemort including the sample-someone did a good job collecting."

A knock came from the door, Harry strolled over and opened the door. Hermione was standing there.

"The food is getting cold downstairs," Hermione said.

Neville stood, followed Harry and Hermione.

"You'd be getting a nasty Howler from Mum if she were still alive," Fred said to Ron as they nibbled dinner.

"Murder, eluding, resisting arrest, Apparation without a license," George said, "We've got a career criminal in the family."

Ron worked on his tuna, then summoned up a menacing look toward Fred.

"Better watch out," Ron warned.

"Like your status?" Harry entered the dining room, behind him were Hermione and Neville.

Ron rolled his eyes.

"Invite some Aurors," Harry whispered to Ron, "Maybe we could repeat our little exit."

Ron shook his head.

"Uh-oh," Fred whispered to them, "Planning something?"

"Us?" Harry said, "Never."

That earned Harry a sharp look from McGonagall across the table from him, a look that was interrupted by Tonks knocking over her wine glass across McGonagall's plate dumping wine onto the food.

"My apologies Professor," Tonks said hurriedly to her.

They continued working on dinner

"There have been numerous murders recently," Tonks said, "Regardless of our belief in Harry's innocence, many are dying, being killed."

"We speculated earlier this week on that," Harry said, "Professor Dumbledore mentioned some legislation passing through other countries-something the Death Eaters want to pass. Do we know what countries have passed it and when they got attacked by the so called Potter Eaters? What is in that bill?"

Dumbledore twinkled his eyes for a moment.

"That has been my deduction," Dumbledore said, "Dates between attacks and passage of the Anti-Potter Terrorism Bills are remarkably close. What all is exactly in the bills, I do not know."

"It is absolutely clear that these bills are being pitched as the magic solution to the Potter crisis," Bones said, "As to the actual contents, nobody is talking. As far as we can tell, the contents are being kept blind until every nation passes it."

"I, for one, would not be sadden to see Fallerschain go," Tonks said, "He's incompetent, resorting to fault a kid for his own inadequacies is unacceptable."

"It depends on who replaces him," Harry said, "It could be worse."

After the meeting, Dumbledore ushered Harry aside into the kitchen, he cast an Imperturbment Charm against the doors.

"Your nerves appear a bit edgy lately Harry," Dumbledore said, "That is understandable on my part, I place no blame upon you."

Harry blinked.

"Given your experience with the Aurors of the British Ministry of Magic, I also understand your response to the FBI in the United States," Dumbledore said, "If the opportunity arises in the future, bear in mind that questioning by them may prove useful. However, your flight might leave them a bit more biased now."

Harry looked down at the floor.

"Your decision was reasonable," Dumbledore said.

Harry looked back up at Dumbledore.

"I also had news from Professor Snape," Dumbledore said, "He is to be taught how to cast the Potter Mark as a Death Eater. It confirms what we knew."

"Can we show this to the Minister?" Harry said, "Certainly, he'd listen, especially if we can get the Death Eaters to run an attack against him."

"As tempting as that would be," Dumbledore said, "The Death Eaters are not idiots-that blind legislation was submitted by the British Ministry, from Wizengamot by another person with stipulations about secrecy. You must remember how the ICW works. It recommends a provision of law by issuing a decree. It is then up to the various countries to adopt it into law, either in whole or in part as they see fit. Blind measures, while legal, are very rarely used and have never been adopted before."

Harry stroked his chin.

"Well," Harry said, "Unless there's anything further-"

"If this gets worse, I will recommend the Fidelius Charm," Dumbledore said, "They are currently investing huge amounts of energy to get at you-it is an arms race-so I would rather not risk losing the best method to hide you until we have no other alternative. The current campaign is far more aggressive than the one that hunted your parents."

"I'll wait before deciding to use that," Harry said, "We haven't exactly been careful on our foreign travels. Sure, on the Isle, but we've been letting our hair down away from it. Until Thursday, it worked fine."

Dumbledore shook for a moment, grabbed for his cane, but lost his balance. Harry rushed, supported Dumbledore until he sat in a kitchen chair.

"Should I get Madam Pomfrey?" Harry asked.

"No," Dumbledore said, "I will be alright."

"Certain?" Harry asked.

"Yes," Dumbledore said.

Harry drew up another chair and sat until he could escort the Headmaster back to the fireplace in the living room. The rest of the group entered, leaving Harry standing there in the living room, glancing outside.

"It's late," Harry said, "We best be going."

"Do not be ridiculous," Rose Longbottom said, "You can spend the night."

Harry studied Rose for a moment.

"That'd expose you to-" Harry said.

"Nonsense," Rose said, "Girls can use the guest room, boys can stay with Neville."

Harry looked over to Neville, then back to Rose. "Fine." Harry looked at Ron, Hermione, and Gia. "Help her." Harry looked at Neville. "I'm going for a quick stroll."

Harry walked into the small foyer; Neville came up to him. Rose had already gone up the stairs along with the others.

"Are you crazy?" Neville whispered, "You'd be seen."

Harry shook his head, stepped into disillusion. The front door opened, Harry went out, Neville followed and closed the door.

"Wicked," Neville said, "I can't see you."

"I'm checking your security measures," Harry whispered.

Neville stumbled for a moment.

"They're alright," Neville whispered.

"I've had enough thrown at me," Harry said, "I have to check."

They approached the gate.

"I think Professor Dumbledore bolstered them," Neville muttered.

Harry reached down, picked up a small stone from the lane, aimed his wand at it for a moment, then laid it back down.

"Let's go around the house," Harry whispered.

Neville lead the way under the light of the waxing gibbous; across the grass, under the trees, over the stream, along the bank, completing a circuit. As they went, Harry repeated, picking up a small stone or a stick, aiming his wand, then laying it back down. An hour later, Harry entered Neville's bedroom, Neville behind him. The round table had been stored away, in its place were two twin beds. The room was otherwise empty.

"Cool about you doing magic," Neville said, "You're underage though."

"If I had abided by that," Harry said, "I'd be dead by now."

"And your fascination with those objects," Neville said.

"Wasn't a fascination," Harry said, "Enchanting them."

Neville pulled off his sweater, and then started changing for bed.

"Feel free," Neville said.

"I will when I'm ready." Harry sat on one of the beds. "It's hard to easily explain, moving from one place to another, always in fear of EM or Voldemort or Death Eaters attacking. It eats at the nerves."

The door opened, Ron entered to face Harry's wand.

"Relax," Ron said, "Your fiancée wants a kiss."

"Fiancée?" Neville asked.

"Be back in a minute." Harry left the bedroom.

Neville looked at Ron removing his jacket.

"It's for him to explain," Ron said, "At least his. Hermione and me are engaged."

Neville blinked, then blurted, "You're fixed!"

Ron shrugged. "She's willing to continue."

Harry came back into the bedroom, dumped his dragon hide jacket across the foot of his bed.

"All dragon hide," Neville said, "Fancy, rich, and show offs."

"And practical," Harry said, "It repels a number of curses."

"Was trying to figure out why you still want girls in your lives," Neville said, "Hermione's obvious, but the other-"

"Useful," Ron said, "Need somebody to cook, clean, and that sort."

Harry rolled his eyes. "How have you been? We don't really talk much."

Ron's eye lids closed.

"Potions is horrible without you Harry," Neville said, "Professor Snape has nothing better than to pick on me when you're gone-I heard you dropped it."

"No," Harry said, "Not really, but it's hard to keep up. Professor Dumbledore is tutoring us privately, brings Snape in for Potions still. At least Snape isn't in the EM."

"He could fool me," Neville said, "EM is horrible at Hogwarts, everyone's required to be a member unless you like being beaten when no teacher or Auror is around. Around them-especially Dean or Seamus-you're the worst thing in the wizarding world. Say anything in support, and they take points or beat you."

"That bad?" Harry said, "Aurors?"

"When you're not around they're actually good," Neville said, "One gave Malfoy a detention for helping melt my cauldron in Potions."

"Three somebodies are coming," Harry said.

Neville lifted his eyebrows.

"Downstairs," Harry said.

Harry got up, threw his jacket over his bare torso; he then followed Neville out the door.

Neville opened the front door. Harry stood to the side, wand drawn, and in disillusion. On the other side was a tall but slender man, behind him were two shorter men. All three were wearing black cloaks with the mostly white EM logo embroidered in the lapel. The fore person's eyes moved for a moment, seeing a teenage boy standing there in a T-shirt and shorts.

"Sorry for disturbing you," the foreperson said, "Rockley is my name, my companions are Deptford and Laneham-" the respective persons nodded "-I must advise you to keep the doors locked for Potter was seen in this area earlier, you may be in grave danger. He may be lurking on your property, mind if I look?"

Harry rolled his eyes.

"I'm sorry but I don't want to wake Gran to ask," Neville said, "Come back tomorrow."

Neville moved the door shut, but Rockley put his left foot between the jams, blocking it.

"Perhaps I did not make my intentions clear enough," Rockley said, "Potter is such a threat that the mere thought of him being nearby should not be leaving your trousers dry. We are searching now, with or without your permission."

"You're trespassing!" Neville said, "Leave before I call the Ministry! Harry Potter is not the menace you make him out to be."

Neville shoved on the door, Rockley forced it open.

"We also noticed the lack of a Potter effigy," Rockley sneered, "I am Ministry, so who'd you think they'd listen to?"

"You're a bunch of bullies!" Neville snapped, backing up away from the door.

"We are protecting you," Rockley said, "Protecting you from Potter, a person who has no conscious and would just as soon slit your throat like he has to hundreds of others."

"You're the threat!" Neville snapped back, "I'll fight you!"

Neville bared up his fists. Laneham laughed at the sight of a glaring Neville in a stance with fists in the air.

"We don't have time for this," Deptford snarled, "Fill out the paperwork in the morning-Longbottoms are hereby listed as Suspected Dark Wizards as accomplices to Potter!"

"Leave!" Neville yelled at Rockley.

Laneham shot a red curse at Neville, it rebounded off a shield charm materializing in front of Neville, the curse struck Deptford. Deptford shook it off.

"Underage wizardry!" Rockley snapped, "Capital-"

Rockley's wand flew into Neville's hand; it was summoned back by Deptford who returned it. Neville took a step backward into the middle of the living room, Rockley took a step forward, Deptford and Laneham fanned out alongside of Rockley.

"Avada-" Rockley shook off a stunning curse, kept his hand aimed at Neville. "Ked-"

Rockley shuddered.

"I told you to leave!" Neville said.

"Stop dawdling!" Rockley sneered, "We don't have time to dwell on a person colluding with Potter!"

Deptford and Laneham had moved around and behind Neville.

"You're more of a threat to me than he is," Neville said.

"Potter is a threat to me and so are you," Rockley said, "Avada Ked-"

An icy cyan curse shot from Harry to Rockley, Rockley slumped to the ground. Neville confiscated Rockley's wand, started to spin. Red curses shot from Deptford and Laneham toward the spot of the disillusioned Harry. Harry moved into illusion and across the room.

"Potter!" Laneham shouted.

"Avada-" Deptford chanted, wand tracking Harry.

Neville swung around, his left fist striking the jaw of Deptford. Deptford glared, but another icy cyan curse shot from Harry to Deptford. Deptford slumped onto the stairs, his wand fell and rolled to a rest under Neville's foot.

"Avada-" Laneham shouted, wand aimed.

Laneham tumbled to the ground under the oppressing force of Ron jumping off the balcony at the top of the stairs. Laneham and Ron struggled, rolling several times. Laneham drew a knife from under his wrist, managed a slit across the skin of Ron's left hip, but froze at the sight of Harry's wand aimed.

"Drop the knife," Harry warned, standing above them.

A reverberating echo, the knife hit the floor. Laneham shuddered for a moment.

"Please!" Laneham begged, "I have a wife and kids."

"Why didn't you think of them earlier?" Harry demanded, "Why didn't you think of that before you tried to murder us?"

Ron pushed off the floor, got off of Laneham, then stood besides Harry. They heard footsteps from upstairs.

"What the-?" Rose asked as she looked down onto the scene.

"Gia-trousers," Harry said, "Hermione-you're smart enough. Neville-collect them."

Gia went one way along the balcony, Hermione retreated. Rose walked cautiously down the stairs. Neville moved Rockley and Deptford over, close to Laneham but not in reaching distance.

"I can't feel my legs!" Laneham moaned.

"What happened?" Rose said, "Explain."

"Potter endangers you all!" Laneham sneered.

"Funny," Neville said, "First ones to endanger me were you. They aren't dangerous, you are. You claim to protect-yet you assault and threaten my life. Them-only danger they pose to me is Ron pissing on the floor."

Rose glared at the blushing Ron for a moment.

"Better not," Rose warned, "There's a loo in-"

"I'm fine," Ron muttered.

"Explanation is still needed," Rose said.

"Gran," Neville said, "I answered the front door, they wanted to conduct an inspection, I refused, they forced their way in, declared me a Dark Wizard, then attempted to kill me. If it weren't for Harry, I'd be..."

Gia came down with three sets of trousers, handed them to Harry, then to Ron, then to Neville; who then put them on one at a time. Rose cleared her throat, Harry removed his left hand from under the front Gia's jacket partially covering her chest.

"They tried to kill you Neville?" Rose asked.

Neville nodded.

"Best if we wait a moment for explanations," Harry said, "We need documentation."

Hermione came down the stairs. She laid a roll of parchment onto the coffee table, then she took out a quill. It started writing. Hermione then reached into her jacket, took out a vial. Ron slid his hand across her boob only to have her eyes flash at him.

"Was helping to get a second-" Ron said.

"And have that a part of the record?" Hermione asked.

Harry took the vial, opened the cap.

"What's that?" Rose asked.

"Veritaserum," Harry said, "This dolt will consume five drops."

"Normally it's four," Hermione said.

"I want no doubts," Harry said.

"It's poisoned!" Laneham snapped.

"Your life was already forfeit the moment you entered this house trying to kill my grandson," Rose said.

Harry kept his wand aimed, bent over and dripped some into Laneham's mouth from the dropper. Harry closed then handed the vial back to Hermione.

"While we wait for that-" Harry reached down, ripped off the left sleeve of Laneham's robes until the skin of the fore arm was exposed. Harry touched the arm, waited. "No on Laneham." Harry moved to Rockley, tore at the robes then touched the left fore arm, a Dark Mark showed itself. "Yes on Rockley." Harry moved to Deptford, tore at the robes, then touched the left fore arm; he waited. "No on Deptford."

"Huh?" Laneham muttered.

"One of your cohorts is a Death Eater," Harry said.

Rose moved for the fireplace, spoke. "Dumbledore."

Harry rolled his eyes, turned his attention to Laneham.

"Who are you?" Harry asked, "Where are you from?"

"Colby Laneham, from Falkirk near Glasgow."

"I would have preferred it for you to have waited Harry."

Harry turned, saw Dumbledore standing there.

"I have questions I want answered," Harry said, "You can then ask yours."

Harry turned back to Laneham.

"Why did you come here?" Harry asked.

"Artair Rockley got word at work that Potter was in Plaidburn," Laneham said, "We came to look."

Harry and Dumbledore grilled Laneham for another hour. Dumbledore turned to Harry.

"It is clear by now that Laneham is an EM member-" Dumbledore said.

"A lemming," Harry said.

Dumbledore raised his eyebrows.

"He believes the smut," Harry said.

"Apt description," Dumbledore said, "Mr. Rockley seems the ring leader."

Harry nodded. He pointed his wand at Rockley, out shot a lavender curse. Rockley's eyes flickered then widened at the sight of Harry standing over him.

"He's dangerous!" Rockley exclaimed, then looked toward Dumbledore.

"Who is the one who tried to use the Killing Curse tonight?" Rose asked.

"I heard you use it," Neville said to Rockley.

"Potter trickery again!" Rockley snapped.

"This?" Harry reached down, touched the left fore arm, Rockley glared.

Dumbledore handed Harry a vial. "Use this."

"Poisoning me?" Rockley asked.

"Only if you ingested something earlier to make this a poison," Dumbledore said, "Let me interrogate first Harry."

Rockley kept his mouth tightly closed, Neville couldn't pry it open. Harry aimed his wand, Rockley opened his mouth. Harry poured in a number of drops.

"Easy there Harry," Dumbledore said.

Harry moved away from Rockley, kept his wand drawn and aimed.

"Your name?" Dumbledore asked.

"Artair Rockley."

"When did you receive the mark?" Dumbledore asked.

"A year ago."

"Your current job?"

"Auror for the Ministry of Magic."

"Are your associates considering receiving the mark? If so, who and when?"

"Yes, Alpin Deptford is to receive it next weekend."

"Is Harry Potter a Dark Wizard?" Harry asked.

"Yes," Rockley said.

Dumbledore looked at Harry for a moment.

"I had to ask," Harry mumbled.

"Wait," Dumbledore said.

Dumbledore turned back to Rockley.

"Who is responsible for the murders at Hogwarts?" Dumbledore asked.

"Harry Potter," Rockley said in a heavy slur.

Neville's eyes drooped, he sagged. Rockley's hand reached up, grabbed a wand, aimed it at Deptford, and fired a green curse. Rockley aimed for Laneham, but slumped. Dumbledore looked at Harry.

"I thought you had immobilized them," Dumbledore said.

"I did," Harry said, "He must have overcame the paralysis I induced."

"You could not have anticipated it," Dumbledore said, "In the final stages of the poison, the victim does regain control. It is a common practice among Death Eaters to ingest a substance prior to an activity, it renders Veritaserum a lethal poison."

"They'd rather die than be captured?" Harry said, "It doesn't make sense."

"The wrath of Voldemort is usually worse than death," Dumbledore said.

Harry slumped back onto the sofa, stared at the floor.

"I have a wife and kids!" Laneham said.

Harry glared at Laneham. "You claim to treasure them, yet you go running around aiding in the killing others. Why did you join EM?"

"Clarance Patil is a good friend of mine," Laneham said, "I joined after one of his daughters was raped by Potter at Hogwarts."

"Were you aware of the Aurors interfering with the capture of the real culprit?" Harry asked.

"They nabbed him, you," Laneham said.

"What do you know about the Polyjuice Potion?" Harry asked.

"Second year Potions," Laneham said, "Used to look like another person."

"You had a Death Eater in your little gang." Harry pointed at Rockley. "Another was slated to take the mark." Harry pointed to Deptford. "AT LEAST ONE OF WHOM IS WORKING AS A MINISTRY AUROR OF ALL THINGS! SO, YOU'RE WONDERING HOW THE DEATH EATERS COULD LET ME BE FRAMED BY OTHER DEATH EATERS? THEY DON'T CARE THAT I'M INNOCENT-THEY'D JUST AS SOON HANG ME! WE'VE GOT A MINISTER SITTING BY BEING FOOLED BY THE SMUT CAMPAIGN, ALLOWING DEATH EATERS TO BE HIRED INTO THE MINISTRY-HE'S YET TO CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION INTO ANYTHING! POLYJUICE IS THE THING I CAN THINK OF TO ACCOMPLISH AN IMPERSONATION-USEFUL FOR RAPES, ISN'T IT, TO HAVE SOMEONE ELSE BE ACCUSED? I'M GOING TO WAKE UP TOMORROW AND READ THAT I'VE SUPPOSEDLY COMMITTED ANOTHER MASS MURDER IN MY SLEEP! I'M BEING FRAMED, PURE AND SIMPLE. I DEPLORE THE ACTS THAT ARE BEING DONE IN MY NAME, I ABSOLUTELY DEPLORE THEM, AND I WANT THEM STOPPED AS BADLY AS YOU DO-BUT I HAVE NO CONTROL OVER WHAT THE DEATH EATERS ARE DOING EXCEPT TO TRY TO CATCH THEM. YOUR ORGANIZATION SEEMS TO THINK THAT MURDERING ME IS THE BEST METHOD-MURDER OF ME, MY FRIENDS, AND ANYONE ELSE WHO SHOWS A HINT OF FIGURING OUT THE TRUTH! YOU MAY NOT BE A DEATH EATER, BUT YOU'RE BEING FOOLED AND MANIPULATED INTO DOING THEIR DIRTY WORK!" Harry turned to Dumbledore. "I leave him to you." Harry then whispered into Dumbledore's ear.

"Some twins might be aware of the location," Dumbledore said, "Keep in mind the hour."

Harry walked quickly up the stairs; Neville, Ron, Hermione, and Gia followed. Harry entered Neville's bedroom, made his way for his several articles of clothing.

"Leaving now?" Neville asked.

"Staying here endangers you," Harry stated, "If it weren't for me, you'd have said yes to them and let them in to search. Rights be damned-they take a refusal as an admission. Girls-get ready."

Gia took several steps toward Harry, ignoring the sharp look of his eyes. She reached around to his back side, rubbed his shoulders.

"Perhaps you're rushing," Gia said.

"Gia," Harry said, "Finish getting dressed."

Harry spun around.

"I've made up my mind," Harry said, "Ron and Hermione can stay here or come-it's up to them."

"Kicking us out when-" Ron said.

"I'll meet up with you tomorrow!" Harry snapped.

"Calm down Harry," Neville said.

"I am calm," Harry said, "Ron-talk to you tomorrow."

Harry stuffed his loose clothes into the pocket of Gia's jacket, then escorted her out of Neville's bedroom.

"He's a bit moody," Neville said.

"Consider how much crap is thrown at him," Ron stated.

Ron left the bedroom along with Hermione; they entered the guest room in time to see Harry disapparating with Gia.

Harry and Gia apparated into the living room of Fred and George's in London. The clock on the wall chimed, announcing that it was one in the morning. Harry looked around at the lifeless living room. Harry's eyes drifted closed, he collapsed onto the sofa; Gia sat on the sofa, let herself fall to sleep.

---

Harry woke up late Saturday morning, saw Sirius sitting in a chair around the kitchen table reading the paper.

"Rubbish," Sirius muttered.

Harry felt around, noticed it was obvious to anyone looking that his head was snuggling against the chest of Gia; her jacket laying on the floor. Harry placed the jacket to cover her top. He got up, stretched, and cinched the belt on the trousers. He stumbled over to the table. Sirius took a glance at Harry then returned to the newspaper.

"Enjoy Vanuatu?" Sirius said, "It's a group of islands in the south Pacific."

Harry raised his eyebrows.

"Your friendly troublemakers killed five there last night," Sirius said.

"I get enough of that already," Harry said.

"I know it's not you," Sirius said, "Ginny was surprised to find you sleeping in the living room."

Harry grabbed a cup, poured out a bit of the lemon tea, then sipped for a moment.

"Dumbledore said you were here," Harry said, "Was a bit late, so I didn't want to wake you."

"It's not an imposition if you need me," Sirius said.

"It could wait until the morning," Harry said, "Also didn't realize how tiring interrogations can be."

Sirius raised his eyebrows.

"The one last night." Harry explained the incident.

"At least you have two out of his service," Sirius said, "Amazing how much trouble a rat can generate. I do know that your parents are rolling in their graves since their son has no other option but to be homeless. I'll kill that rat once I get my hands on him."

"So you haven't forgiven Wormtail?" Harry asked.

"What he did is unforgivable," Sirius said, "Strange you'd even ask."

Harry made for the stack of cold french toast, soaked a bit of syrup onto one of them.

"Neville made some overtures," Harry said, "I'm uncertain."

Sirius swished the tea in his cup.

"No I haven't forgiven Wormtail," Sirius said, "However, I have forgiven Dumbledore."

"What's he done to earn it?" Harry asked.

"He can never earn forgiveness," Sirius said, "It's not about retribution or making them pay for what they did. To forgive is your gift, your decision alone-they have no right to demand it."

Harry poked at a chunk of his french toast.

"I'm just uncertain," Harry said.

"You'll forgive when you're ready," Sirius said, "If there's anything I'm certain of, it's that-besides, you're under no obligation to tell them about it. Have any plans for the day?"

Harry snorted for a moment.

"Not getting killed is one," Harry said, "Not certain otherwise."

Up in northern England, Ron went down the stairs, hair clean from his shower. He walked across the living room, through the doors, and into the dining room. Dumbledore and Rose were sitting around the table.

"Good morning Mr. Weasley," Dumbledore said, "I believe Mrs. Longbottom has offered her guests the courtesy of a morning breakfast."

"Thoughtful," Ron said.

"I am hoping to get a word in with Harry before he leaves," Dumbledore said.

"Too late," Ron said.

Ron reached for some cauldron cakes.

"Pardon?" Dumbledore said.

"Left last night," Ron said.

"Do you know where Mr. Potter is now?" Dumbledore asked.

"Nope," Ron said.

"I had wanted to review last nights incident with you," Dumbledore said, "I felt it was better to wait until you were well refreshed."

Ron worked on his bite, swallowed.

"Hermione and me can do something now," Ron said, "Harry-I'll tell him when I meet back up with him."

"I had wanted to thank him for saving Neville's neck," Rose said.

Ron rolled his eyes, worked on his breakfast.

---

Sunday afternoon, in Stanley Park of Vancouver, British Columbia, in Canada, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia were sitting on a small stretch of grass among the ferns near a tree, all in disillusion. Harry munched on a sandwich, Hermione nibbled on some salad, Ron worked on a hamburger, and Gia sipped on some soda. Birds flew across the partly sunny sky, oblivious to the teenagers sitting below. Several kids rode their skateboards past without noticing them.

"Dunno," Harry said, "Might forgive Neville, maybe. I don't want to hold a grudge, but I can't totally get rid of it."

"Can you get past it enough to talk to him every so often?" Hermione said, "He's got quite a scoop when it comes to what's happening at Hogwarts."

Harry clasped his hand to his forehead over his scar, moaned slightly, then closed his mouth when he saw Ron spying this.

"Nothing," Harry said.

Ron touched Harry's scar, Harry recoiled. Ron reached into his jacket, removed a vial of a purple liquid, brought it to Harry's mouth.

"Ron!" Hermione snapped.

Ron glared into Harry's eyes, then glared at Hermione.

"It's important!" Ron snapped.

Ron tipped the vial, Harry sipped. Ron then flashed his wand, around them went up a small enclosed bubble, first red then went into black.

They were looking through a pair of eyes toward a two story whitewashed house in dark night, bearing a gold "31" on the blue trim. From inside the house, they could hear singing along with screaming.

"I'm singing in the rain, just singing in the rain," the voice of Wormtail sang, "What a glorious feeling, I'm so happy again."

"Work quietly," Voldemort warned.

They followed the eyes into the living room, seeing the mud stains on the carpet. They turned the corner into the kitchen, now lacking its own ceiling, but instead vaulted through an upstairs bedroom-Gia puked onto the ground at the sight-dangling upside down in the middle of the room from ropes bound around the ankles were two men, two women, two teenage girls, and two teenage boys; all had expired their last breaths, slits at their throats, and their blood dripping out into collection pans underneath with an extensive amount already pooling.

Harry slumped to the ground for a moment.

The eyes looked into a mirror.

"Aw Potter," Voldemort said, "So glad for you to join us in this little ritual, a ritual that was made necessary by your actions and your unwillingness to see the truth-power is the only true asset and you're too meek to seek it. Come, try to rescue them, see if you can't put the blood back in-I'd be able to end your miserable and pathetic existence. Recognize these? You should, it's what happens when you bang muggles, you kill them, make them dead as you should be. You may think your consumption of that untrackable potion will give you immunity-you're only killing more people, eight more dead for your spreading disgrace to Slytherin at the Quidditch final, eight more deaths for your determination to live. You can end this-tonight."

Again, the bodies came into view; this time, the pails were gone, but maggots were devouring the flesh of the muggles. Quickly, the eyes moved outside, they saw the Potter Mark rise into the sky, the wards being removed, then moving back and watching the Ministry Aurors apparate in. Voldemort laughed as the vision faded.

"No!" Harry yelled.

Gia cried, the tears flowed.

"Who?" Ron asked.

Harry glared at Ron. "We're going."

"Who?" Ron said, "That's crawling with Ministry by now! We can't-"

"We have to," Harry said, "I have to, Gia has to, you-go play with yourself!"

Their privacy bubble burst with a mild pop. Harry grabbed onto Gia's shoulder, she stood, but buried her face into his shoulder.

"Who were they?" Ron said, "They're obviously important, but-"

"My Aunts, My Uncles!" Gia snapped.

"And cousins," Harry said.

"Harry disapparated with Gia.

"Argh!" Ron exclaimed, "I wish he'd bring us!"

"It's sensitive," Hermione said, "That and you pried."

"Don't know where he went to!" Ron said, "I mean, his scar acted up and he's lousy about filling in the details to us-I had to."

"Hope he can handle it," Hermione said.

Harry and Gia apparated into the Claughton part of Birken head, across the Mersey river from Liverpool.

"Know the address?" Harry asked.

Gia nodded. Harry took out his Whitehorn, they mounted. Harry flew them over the river to the suburb of West Derby. They turned off of Whitehorse Road, down the road to the mass of emergency cars filling the street in front of the house of the row.

"Sickening," one police officer muttered to another.

Reporters gathered around one high ranking police officer.

"Hello," the male officer said to the reporters, "I'm Captain Voss, spokesperson for the West Derby regiment of the Liverpool Police Department. We received the call a half hour ago, we arrived to find eight persons dead-names are being withheld pending notification of family. Currently, we are awaiting the biohazard response team before we can provide any more answers."

Gia glanced at the fast approaching boy, running up the street to them. Gia pointed, Harry flew the broom. Gia jumped off, into illusion, and collided with the boy. Both fell onto the pavement.

"Gia?" the boy asked.

"Trevor," Gia said.

"What's going on?" Trevor asked.

Harry walked up behind Trevor. Gia grabbed Trevor tightly, trembled for a moment.

"They're dead," Gia whispered.

"You're kidding," Trevor said.

"No," Gia said, "Uncle Marty, Uncle Milton, all of them-why were they even all here?"

Trevor took advantage of his height, towered over Gia, looked at her.

"Family dinner," Trevor said, "They spent most of the weekend talking about you-I had to cut out for the study group when I heard my address being reported on the news. Survivors? Why? How?"

"No survivors," Harry said, "He made certain of that."

Trevor looked at Harry.

"Who?" Trevor asked, "Why?"

"He's never needed a reason before," Harry said, "He murdered your parents, your siblings Trevor-likely had you in mind too. Whatever the police tell you-bull, they were in fact murdered. Gia, hurry, we can't afford to loiter."

Trevor choked back some tears, kept his back straight.

"They are worried about you," Trevor said, "Milton tried to get a hold of you but he couldn't-the house you were supposedly in was destroyed two months ago."

"Sorry," Gia said, "Been worried about other things."

Harry gave Trevor a slight nudge. "Go find out."

Trevor slowly walked toward the police. Harry and Gia slipped into disillusion, followed.

---

Monday morning, Ron apparated, from Worcester Massachusetts, back to the campsite near West Royce Mountain in the White Mountain National Forest of New Hampshire in the United States; he set down the sizable bag spilling the aromas of the contents within. He then sat onto the bench of the picnic table across from Hermione, he laid down the paper he was carrying.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Monday, May 26, 1997

Open Letter to Dumbledore

We, the editors of the Daily Prophet, urge you, Albus Dumbledore, to help curtail and control the danger that Dark Lord Harry Potter poses to us all. You proved your ability to fight Dark Lords Grindlewald and You-Know-Who; we urge you to show the same strength and conviction against Harry Potter. Yet, we are disappointed and dismayed that you would ally yourself with the emerging Dark Threat, permitting that spoiled brat to whomp and kill whomever he pleases inside or outside of Hogwarts. Turn Potter over to the Ministry or do something to curb the threat he poses to us all!

Potter Murders in West Derby

Last night Potter struck again in the normally quiet suburb of West Derby east of Liverpool. Eight muggles were killed in a brutal butchering similar to that previously engaged in the United States. Of particular note is the relations to Potter's girlfriend, all those killed at this site were related to her, two uncles, two aunts, and four cousins. Perhaps Potter is afraid of any future in-laws - the message is clear that Potter can and will kill any he pleases to kill.

In international news, Potter killed three last night in Ecuador, South America.

Problem Solver

Potter, Harry : 2,491,000 galleons

Weasley, Ron : 1,933,000 galleons

Granger, Hermione : 1,287,000 galleons

Prescott, Gia : 752,000 galleons

Removal of these problems would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be sent to "Bye Bye". To claim a reward, submit relevant documentation. (These values are now rounded due to the astounding growth of the values.) 20,000 galleon bonus for each relation severed.

Hermione shook her head.

"Kill Harry to let Voldemort take over," Ron snapped, "Perhaps they want him!"

"The aggravating thing-I can see it now," Hermione said, "They'll be griping about us not doing something about it-it's rather difficult with them hurling Killing curses at us."

"So can Harry," Ron said.

Ron turned to a brief letter of his, read it.

"Ginny's upset," Ron said, "Harry spent a night there but not me-she doesn't realize the danger he exposed them to nor the danger of me being there. Argh!"

Ron munched down on his scones, however, he eyed Hermione's chest-her top was hanging from a line between trees, drying.

"What's it with you anyways?" Hermione asked.

"Enjoying the scenery," Ron replied.

Hermione snorted. "Yeah, right. One guess to what's on your mind."

"Look at what our lives have been reduced to," Ron said, "Only good things right now are you and Quidditch."

Hermione rolled her eyes.

"As soon as your slingshot is dry," Ron said, "I've got practice."

Hermione sighed. "I wish I could use a library or something-"

"There's the club library," Ron said.

"Totally complete on the subject of Quidditch," Hermione said, "Quite lacking on anything else."

"Like you said," Ron said, "Complete."

Hermione growled.

"Hermione, if there were a better way, I'd have no problems dropping you off at a library," Ron said, "but it's too easy to get separated with millions of people hunting and trying to kill us."

Ron finished off his mineral water.

---

Tuesday, Harry woke up besides Gia in the small room above the pub in Tallinn, Estonia. Harry stretched across Gia, put in his contacts, then grabbed the Daily Prophet from his jacket, then opened it.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Tuesday, May 27, 1997

Minister Notes

Minister of Magic Victor Fallerschain held his weekly press conference yesterday.

"Good afternoon.

"As of a few minutes ago, Albus Dumbledore is still invoking safe harbor in an attempt to shield Harry Potter from justice-the good people of this country should not be tolerating such an apparent attempt to give Potter more time to do whatever it is he's up to now.

"In matters of personnel, I have word that an Auror of the Ministry, a Artair Rockley, has resigned, along with an agent of the Magical Law Enforcement Squad, Alpin Deptford-we wish them the best of luck in their future affairs. Fortunately, we are training up plenty of agents and Aurors to bolster the numbers to keep us secure.

"On finances, overall the Ministry is revenue neutral. I would be sending another request for a tax cut to the Wizengamot-if it were not for the expenditures owing to the Potter problem."

What actions has Potter taken recently?

"As reported in the Daily Prophet this morning, Potter murdered three last night in Ecuador-a country in South America. Saturday night, it was two in Latvia. Most appalling were the eight muggles killed Sunday night near Liverpool-all strung up to die, not by a killing curse, but by slitting throats; these eight bore a relation to him, the uncles, aunts, and relatives to his muggle girlfriend."

How are you cooperating with out international counterparts?

"Unfortunately there is little I can do while Albus Dumbledore is invoking safe harbor-it prohibits me from soliciting the current whereabouts of Harry Potter from him, or use him as a negotiating third party. Albus Dumbledore is shielding Potter from any and all responsibility."

You announced last week that the SDWCA will be extended to Hogwarts. Is Albus Dumbledore intending to implement it?

"I have spoken with Albus Dumbledore on the matter, he is naturally reluctant. While he has an erroneous belief in Potter's innocence, he is required to implement it as the Headmaster-I did concede to some of his other concerns on the matter. Injury or harm to innocent bystanders will not be tolerated by anyone seeking out Potter. Setting of traps or mislaid curses will be frowned upon."

Of recent speculation is the possibility of Death Eaters being hired into the Ministry of Magic. Would you care to comment?

"You-Know-Who has been dead for years, Death Eaters have been quiet for years. If someone who was a part of that organization, but has since renounced that and reformed themselves-I would be willing to consider them for employment. We all make mistakes, including Potter, and I am willing to forgive them and give them a second chance if they deserve it."

You-Know-Who hasn't been dead for years-

"The records have been reexamined. The last credible sighting of You-Know-Who was fifteen years ago-all the recent ones were from either Potter or Dumbledore, and now that we know their true intentions, it is safe to say that they have been manufacturing stories to cover their own actions. The illegal Order of the Phoenix is concocting and manufacturing myths to suit their own ends-spoiling Potter for all these many years."

What actions have the Potter Taskforce taken to help contain Potter?

"Currently, they are compiling a list of possible reasons why Potter has undertaken his path of death and destruction. I should point out that Potter is negligent in paying his bill, to the tune of 40,000 galleons is currently owed to the Ministry in his name.

"Thank you for your questions, I will see you again next week."

Potter Update

Last night, Potter descended upon more victims, murdering them; two in Angola and three in Belgium.

Open Letter

by Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Like you, I am strongly concerned about developing events surrounding Mr. Harry Potter and I am concerned about the reaction of the community at large to these events. It is a fact that Mr. Harry Potter has been systematically framed by Death Eaters for the past months, both at and away from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It is a fact that Death Eaters are organizing under the leadership of Voldemort, they are being taught the Potter Mark, they are committing mass murder while casting suspicion upon the innocent Mr. Harry Potter. It is a fact that Death Eaters are playing a pivotal role in the EM to eliminate Harry Potter-a Death Eater and a recruit were discovered in EM robes this past weekend. It is a fact that the Death Eaters have rogue impostors running around-the needed supplies being readily available to any Death Eater wishing to add their destruction to the tally designated for Harry Potter.

It is a fact that your fears are being played to by Voldemort and his Death Eaters; it is successfully dividing us when we should be uniting against him. I deplore the murders and other heinous crimes being committed and I strive to fight the true culprits; however, Harry Potter is not the culprit, Voldemort is.

Rebuttal

by Victor Fallerschain, Minister of Magic

Typical, how typical, for Dumbledore to resort to blaming a dead man and a dead organization for the troubles Potter is causing. You-Know-Who, the Death Eaters, they have been dead for years. Potter has obvious done something to Dumbledore to be able to hoodwink a person who used to be well respected in the community. I formally remind Albus Dumbledore about the other provision of the safe harbor act-under which, I give Albus Dumbledore until the end of June to fully and unequivocally cooperate with the Ministry of Magic in prosecuting Harry Potter, otherwise, he will face listing under the Suspected Dark Wizard Control Act as an accomplice to Potter.

Harry threw the paper onto the floor, pulled the covers back over them. He tickled Gia until she woke.

"Hmmm," Gia said, "You might want to wait until I was awake."

"Wait to wake you?" Harry asked.

Gia rolled them over and then looked down into his green eyes.

"News?" Gia asked.

Harry rolled his eyes. Gia twisted herself out of his grasp, ran to the shower; he pursued.

---

After Quidditch practice Wednesday, Harry activated his Portkey; Ron, Hermione, and Gia held on. They landed behind some buildings, then emerged. Harry pointed to one building.

"Iceland," Harry said.

"Reykjavik," Hermione said.

They roamed the streets, found an ATM. Harry withdrew more money, stuffed it into his wallet. He looked at the wallet stuffed full of various currencies, raised his eyebrows for a moment.

"Guess we have been traveling," Harry said.

Harry handed Ron 50,000 Islensk Kronas. Ron's ears tinged green.

"Not that again!" Harry complained, "We've got millions who want us dead and you're squabbling over a few bills?"

Hermione grabbed the Kronas, shoved them into her wallet.

"Come," Harry said.

They walked along, Gia picked up a map. They opened it. Hermione pointed toward the south.

"Looks interesting," Hermione said.

Harry shrugged; they walked along into disillusion. Harry and Ron took out their Whitehorns. Several wrong turns and an hour later, Harry and Ron set down behind some empty tourist buses in the Geysir parking area. They stowed their Whitehorns, then they walked into illusion and toward one of the puddles of water that many people were staring at.

"Oww, Ahh."

They watched along side of the other tourists, the water bunched up in the puddle, then spurts upwards in a massive release of energy. Harry glanced around, his eyes rested upon a man standing across crowd. This man was wearing a black jacket with "EM" embroidered in the lapel and white trousers; he was surveying the crowd through a pair of binoculars. Harry tapped Ron's shoulder pointed.

"Uh-oh," Ron muttered.

"We're disillusioned!" Harry whispered.

"It depends on what those things are showing him," Ron said.

Zooming around, the binoculars came to train themselves on Harry and Ron. A green curse hurtled out of a wand of a man coming into illusion besides the man with the binoculars; the curse traveled until it hit the elderly lady standing next to where Harry was, the lady fell to the ground with a sickening thud. People in the crowd screamed. Harry ducked behind a boulder, kept his eyes focused on the two men; Ron ducked behind the bolder. Hermione and Gia laid flat on the ground.

"Surrender!" the man shouted at them.

"In other words, be executed," Harry muttered, "Not on my life."

Pops came from the other people bearing EM jackets, more green curses fired at them, none hit Harry or Ron or Hermione or Gia, but they did hit the other things-a car burst into flames, two more of the crowd were hit and fell with thuds. The crowd surged, running for their cars. Harry stuck out his Portkey, the others held on, and he activated it in time to miss the curse that would have otherwise nailed him.

They landed in a tight alley. Harry walked fast; Ron, Hermione, and Gia followed. Harry cast them all into disillusion, then walked fast through the crowds of the morning rush hour in Tokyo, Japan. They made their way to the bullet train, then they were fast under way to Osaka. Ron squeezed onto the seat.

"Blimey!" Harry exclaimed.

Wheels squeaked, the train surged forward, then slowed back to its normal pace.

"You're not happy," Ron said.

"Doh!" Harry said, "Go and look at the geysers-why was that guy even there? The whole point of traveling is to ditch them-he just happens to be gawking around in Iceland at the same thing we went to? No, he was looking for us there, like he knew we'd be found-it's too big of a planet to be chance."

"Last week," Ron said, "In Florida-"

"We did pick up a magical newspaper," Harry said, "We interacted-somebody could've reported us. Iceland-we did no such thing, nor were we visible to a casual encounter."

Hermione drifted her eyes off the passing Mt. Fuji, turned the gaze of her brown eyes until it landed on Harry.

"They're tracking us," Hermione said, "However, we're untrackable."

"Remember what Dumbledore said?" Harry said, "We—our bodies-aren't trackable, but something else could be-have we received anything from anyone suspicious?"

"Those agents could've done something," Gia said.

"As soon as find a spot," Harry said, "We're checking."

Harry's eyes looked out the window.

"One...Two...Three..." Harry muttered.

Hermione looked at him.

"EM jackets," Harry said, "Four-they're all over the place. How do they know? Argh-I wish they'd leave me alone."

The train moved, they made it to Osaka. Harry renewed the disillusion and moved rapidly, they slipped past one Japanese man in an EM jacket. They went into the business district, Harry found them a bath house and rented them a private bath; Harry locked the door after they entered the small room, with benches in front of them, a shower to the far side, and a pool of water to their left.

"One guess," Hermione said.

Harry ignored her, walked around the edge of his room with his wand aimed at the walls. He came back around to Hermione staring at the pool.

"Don't jump in-yet," Harry said, "We've had too many coincidences. We need a bit of privacy for this-No time to lose." Harry removed his Stupefy! Stunnington's Auror Handbook, then flipped the pages landing on one that caught his interest. "Here-dealing with unwanted tracking-" The light glow from his wand started to scour his Whitehorn, the handle, the binding of the twigs, and onto the twigs. One glowed blue.

"Weird," Ron muttered.

Harry hovered the broom at eye level; with the left hand, he kept his wand trained on the twigs; with his right, he reached for the twig, the one not rooted with the rest, the twig grabbing on to a neighboring twig. Harry lifted the twig out, set it into a clear bag on the bench.

"One tracking bug down-" Harry said, "We're to leave nothing unchecked—everything!"

From the bug in Harry's green briefs to the one on the back of the jackets to the disillusioned leeches on themselves to the ones loitering in intimate areas, more than twelve dozen bugs were added to the bag – the leeches reproduced in the bag. All of the bugs were aware of being detached and were scurrying about the bag trying to find their hosts.

"Aren't you glad I insisted on looking?" Harry said, "It explains their fast finding of us."

They quickly dressed.

"Suppose we should destroy them?" Ron was looking at the bag.

"That'd be cruel-besides we don't know what may be on them to prevent that," Harry said, "I have a better idea."

Harry stowed his Whitehorn, then grabbed the bag of bugs. Ron, Gia, and Hermione followed him out of the private bath. All went into disillusion and left the franchise. Harry walked around back, threw the bag into the back of the garbage truck currently emptying the dumpster. They walked past a couple of men in EM jackets casing the bath house with wands. Harry walked and walked; Ron, Hermione, and Gia following. Harry entered a Shinto shrine, found a secluded corner, and sat on a bench.

"Well," Harry said, "I know you didn't like that intrusive search Hermione, but you saw what was outside the bath house waiting."

"Cruel," Ron said, "Using that Muggle truck."

"If we keep EM busy searching for a pile of garbage," Harry said, "they're not bothering us or anybody else. Think your brothers will mind us crashing at their place?"

Ron shook his head. Harry grabbed onto Gia, disapparated. Ron grabbed Hermione's hand.

"Thank you," Ron said.

Hermione looked at him.

"Putting up with Harry's idea for the searches," Ron said, "Can't believe they got so many on us like that."

"They reproduced," Hermione said, "They just had to get one-your brooms being the easiest to plant onto."

"We keep them guarded," Ron said.

"You still had to fly them during the game," Hermione said.

Ron sighed. He grabbed Hermione and disapparated.

Ron and Hermione apparated into the living room of Fred and George. Edward grabbed Ron about the left leg. Ron shook his leg until Edward fell backward and screamed.

"Ronald Bilius Weasley!" Arthur scolded.

"He was grabbing!" Ron protested.

"You think he knows better?" Arther asked.

"Now he does," Ron snapped.

Hermione saw the expression forming on Arthur's face, the green coming to his ears.

"Is the guest room available?" Hermione said, "We're a bit exhausted."

"Yes," Arthur snapped.

Hermione pulled on Ron, they went for the stairs.

---

Midday Thursday, Ron stepped out of the bathroom from his shower. He adjusted his tie, then went over to the kitchen table. Hermione went into the bathroom, the running shower could be heard in the kitchen. Ron grabbed to bag of cold cereal, poured some granola into his bowl, then added milk and started munching.

"Raging Ronald."

Ron looked up, saw Charlie standing there.

"Hello," Ron said.

"Weasley used to be a respected name until you had at it," Charlie said.

"So," Ron asked, "You're advising I break off my friendship with Harry just because Voldemort doesn't like it?"

Charlie flinched.

"Blimey!" Charlie said, "Watch your mouth! If Mum heard-"

"She won't," Ron snapped.

Ron tuned out Charlie's protests, turned his attention to the Daily Prophet and its front page article.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Thursday, May 29, 1997

Potter's Iceland Escapades

Potter and his cohorts turned violent again yesterday in the parking lot (used to store muggle transportation) of a famous geyser in the southwest corner of Iceland. Upon being peacefully approached, Potter lashed out. Curses flew across the crowds of muggles, five were killed. Oblivators from Iceland's Ministry were busy for hours dealing with the gross breach of secrecy by Potter; exposing many muggles to fright and possible death.

Potter continues to wreak havoc internationally. Potter has been implicated in the destruction of a bath house this morning in Osaka, Japan, along with the murder of its owner, staff, and occupants, no survivors. Potter also murdered two in Nepal, three in the Philippines, and four in Niger. What roles Potter's sidekicks Ronald Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Gia Prescott have played in each crime is still under investigation and will likely not be known until a thorough interrogation can be made of each accomplice.

"Blimey!" Ron exclaimed.

"Ronald Weasley!" Charlie scolded, "Language!"

"Blow it out your ears," Ron snapped.

Hermione came out of the bathroom, looked over at Ron, her eyebrows were arched.

"Oh, no surprise our little incident made the paper," Ron said, "Of course, why should we expect unbiased reporting? They neglected the little fact that it was EM who had hunted us there, or the fact it was that EM fellow who murdered those muggles-no, make it read like Harry did it. EM took out that bath house we had used-guess who's being blamed there? Any Firewhiskey Chuck?"

Charlie glared. Hermione cleared her throat.

"Like I'll live long enough to regret it." Ron went for the liquor cabinet, took out WWW Firewhiskey, poured some into a glass.

"That's not a good idea," Hermione said.

Ron shrugged, took a long gulp of it. He then burped, flames came from his mouth changing color twice a second from yellow to red to green to blue to many others until the flame died down.

"Good stuff," Ron said, "Try it. Edward?"

"No." Charlie moved quick, carried Edward up the stairs.

"Where's Harry?" Ron asked, "He ought try a shot of this."

Ron took another gulp, then exhaled. His outpouring breath turned a dark blue.

"Practice maybe?" Hermione said, "It's already past noon."

"Great idea 'Mione," Ron said, "Let's go."

Ron downed the rest of the bottle, leaving only the half empty glass behind. Ron disapparated. Hermione rolled her eyes, disapparated herself. Ron stumbled onto the Quidditch pitch at Puddlemere United. Harry flew down to Ron. Ron gripped Harry's shoulder.

"Starting without me thinking about?" Ron said, "I love you."

Harry rolled his eyes, then grabbed a Nimbus 1000 from the shed and handed it to Ron.

"Shove it where do I?" Ron asked.

"Fly." Harry took off.

Harry flew back up into the air toward Kline, however, he kept looking over his shoulder toward Ron. Ron did mount the broom and flew, haphazardly, upward. He belched out a long rosy pink cloud that dissipated.

"Uh-oh," Kline said, noticing.

"He's drunk," Harry said.

"Wicked," George said from nearby.

Harry looked at him.

"He fell for it," George said, "The potion we left out for his benefit-we needed a tester."

They saw a green cloud come out from Ron's shorts.

"It illuminates everything," George said, "Great for parties, don't you think?"

They saw the front of Ron's shorts rapidly turn yellow; Harry flew over to Ron.

"Down," Harry said.

"Mean whatchya?" Ron asked.

Harry grabbed the handle of Ron's broom, pulled him down to the ground. Harry escorted Ron back into the locker room and into the health room.

"Hello," Notley said.

"He's drunk," Harry asked, "You've got something?"

Notley saw the soaked shorts from the obvious, waved his hand in front of his nose.

"Leave him here," Notley said, "I can handle him."

"I love you all." Ron dropped his shorts exposing himself, stumbled, he peed onto the floor.

Harry went out of the room, closed the door. Hermione crashed into him, both fell to the floor.

"Didn't realize you cared..." Harry said.

Hermione blushed, got up. Harry stood.

"Where's Ron?" Hermione asked.

"Drunk as hell," Harry asked, "What's the matter?"

"Can we go somewhere?" Hermione asked.

Harry studied the stress and worry lines in Hermione's face. "Sure."

Harry led the way, toward the entrance of the locker room, but turned and went into an equipment storage closet, he closed the door behind them. A flame torch lit itself, the light flickered in the room showing the boxes of balls along with bats of the room. He looked at Hermione.

"What?" Harry asked.

"It's..." Hermione landed her face into his shoulder for a moment, tears soaked in.

Harry gave Hermione a gentle pat on her back.

"Ministry won," Hermione whispered, "Won in the battle of my parent's estate."

"What?" Harry stammered.

"I dropped by the attorney's several minutes ago," Hermione said, "Told you about the fight? Well, Ministry won out, got everything. I even have to repay several expenditures-more than is otherwise in my name-which includes their funerals."

"It's unfair!" Harry said, "Anyways, money's not an issue-"

"I know you'll offer," Hermione said, "That's sweet and all-but the Ministry stole my parent's estate out from underneath me-made enough noise about me killing them that the court sided with them. Attorney's filling an appeal, but there's little hope at this point beyond the credit card issue."

"Interfering fools," Harry said, "Argh! Well, if you're feeling better-even if you're not-might want to see Ron, especially if he's still drunk."

Harry and Hermione left the storage closet.

---

Ron was woken Friday morning by Arthur shaking him awake in the guest room at Fred and George's in London. Ron looked up at Arthur, then immediately pulled the bed covers to hide Hermione's front.

"Ron," Arthur said, "You need to come down immediately, bring her too. There's something you need to see."

Ron shook Hermione.

"Huh?" Hermione asked.

"Come," Arthur said, "Just use the bathrobes."

Arthur left the room, brought the door to a near close. Ron and Hermione got up, both cinched the bathrobes around themselves and went out.

Ron entered the living room, Hermione was behind him; seated around the room were a number of glum faces like Fred, George, Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snuffles, Tonks, Moody, and Wood.

"Did I miss something?" Ron asked.

Dumbledore handed Ron the Daily Prophet. Ron glanced from the headline "POTTER DEAD" to the pictures; one of a knife impaling into the shirt around Harry's abdomen with red fluid oozing, the next one of a bead of green light striking him from the end of a wand tip, the last one is him laying motionless on the ground being declared dead by Notley in an EM jacket. Ron's eyes moved to the article.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Friday, May 30, 1997

POTTER DEAD

Unconfirmed reports are claiming that the infamous Dark Lord was murdered last night, presumably after having killed three in New Zealand and ten in Israel, in the streets of Riga, Latvia. Ministry officials are currently working on validating the claims, and pending the outcome, some person will be entitled to the nearly three million galleon EM bounty currently standing on Potter's head.

Good riddance.

Ron handed Hermione the paper, let her read it.

"An idle fantasy now," Dumbledore said, "I had presumed that Mr. Potter could have survived the onslaught, unfortunately, if true, that article is testimony to the contrary."

Ron looked at Hermione. "I'll be back." Ron ran up the stairs.

"We still have your survival to worry about," Dumbledore said, "That and the life of Gia Prescott, wherever she might be."

Ron ran into his guest room, removed the black stone from the pocket of his dragon hide jacket. Ron held the stone up in front of him.

"Harry!" Ron said to the stone, "I need to talk-NOW!"

A ghostly green image of Harry's head rose from the dip in the center of the stone.

"What?" Harry snapped, "I'm busy!"

"Here I thought you were joking-you actually went through with it?" Ron exclaimed, "Can you fathom how much Dumbledore is panicking now? Or Hermione?"

Gia's head could be seen intruding into view, her tongue going to Harry's ear.

"Come on!" Harry said, "It gets EM off my back-did you realize they're still looking? We had several close calls in Riga-I've counted at least five patrolling about. Here I thought we had licked them! Don't you understand? I had to do it. Even if all we get is a weekend break-then great!"

"Can you come here and at least let Dumbledore know it's a hoax?" Ron said, "Keep him from going absolutely spare-I'm all for keeping it out of the Daily Prophet, but geez, they're about to divvy up your vault and cancel that attractive debit card of yours."

"Argh!" Harry exclaimed, "I can't escape, can I?"

"Not me, nor Hermione, nor Dumbledore," Ron said, "Anybody else you want to-fine. Now, finish up and Apparate on over."

"Sounds like a wonderful idea," Gia said, "Bit more Harry."

Harry's image vanished.

A knock came from the door, Ron opened it to see Dumbledore there.

"My condolences," Dumbledore asked, "May I come in?"

Ron nodded, Dumbledore entered. Ron closed the door, Dumbledore sat on the desk chair.

"I was unaware of exactly how bad the situation was getting," Dumbledore said, "I had informed Harry of a more secure measure if needed-I wish he had said something."

"He will if he feels he needs it," Ron said, "Definitely confident of that."

Blue eyes locked onto brown.

"Did you fail to read the article while it was in your hands?" Dumbledore asked.

"I read it," Ron said, "I have dismissed it as wishful thinking on their parts."

Blue eyes tracked brown as Ron sat on the bed.

"Voldemort has no reason to fake Harry's death," Dumbledore said, "With pictures and the other evidence to the contrary, you're going to have to learn to accept it."

"If-" Ron said.

Harry and Gia apparated into the middle of the bedroom, both dressed.

"That's why Professor," Ron said, "Harry will explain."

Harry glared at Ron, then looked at Dumbledore.

"I am interested," Dumbledore said.

Harry thought for a moment.

"I wanted EM to leave me alone so I took a page from Pettigrew," Harry said, "We staged it last night in Riga with Notley's help. Like the curse shot? That took some effort."

"Rather than chastising you about the intelligence or lack thereof of your charade," Dumbledore said, "I will let you find out the consequences-I do recommend you settle the matter with Gringotts before something unwanted happens to your vault."

Dumbledore stood up.

"I do hope nobody dies tonight," Harry said, "They can't dare impostor me if I'm supposed to be dead."

"True," Dumbledore said, "However, that would depend on the credibility of your performance." Dumbledore took a step for the door, then paused. "And I thought that I had seen it all."

Dumbledore went out of the door.

"Miss. Granger," Dumbledore said down the stairs, "I do think Mr. Weasley would like to see you."

Hermione came in, slamming the door.

"Ron! How dare you...!" Hermione's eyes drifted and caught Harry's form standing there.

"Hi," Harry said.

Hermione grabbed him tightly around the midriff.

"Move a bit lower and you could-" Harry recoiled from Hermione's jab to the stomach.

"I don't get it-unless you, you didn't," Hermione asked, "did you?"

"Yes," Harry said, "I faked it."

"How could you?" Hermione said, "I thought you had that suicide-"

"It's not," Gia said, "Harry and I discussed it first. It's quite rational and simple-I supported it and helped."

Hermione looked at Gia, then Harry.

"Have a clue to how many will be distraught by that article?" Hermione demanded.

"Not many," Harry said, "Know how many won't get killed because of it? I'm sick and tired of all the murders. If filing a false death report can spare some of them-GREAT!" Harry looked at Ron. "Well, get ready, however, check yourselves for bugs-we might not have nabbed them all. We're headed to the stadium for practice and meet Dumbledore."

"With him here," Hermione said, "We could have our little session now-practice later."

"Fine, whatever." Harry turned to Ron. "Have fun with her in the shower."

Hermione glared at Harry. Ron grabbed Hermione's right shoulder, escorted her out of the room. Ron closed the door and led Hermione down the stairs. Ron entered the living room, saw the glum faces still there. Ron walked over to Dumbledore, whispered into his ear.

"Yes," Dumbledore said, "I can do that."

Ron moved for the shower.

"You're not acting upset," Fred said, "You're just going into the shower?"

"Sure," Ron said, "I need it."

Ron ushered Hermione in, then closed and locked the door. He cast an Imperturbment Charm against the door.

"I have to check for bugs." Ron undid the tie of her bathrobe. "You'll need to check me."

"One guess of what he's trying to encourage," Hermione said.

"He said he got followed in Latvia," Ron said, "With as easy as these seem to be to plant, we need to check regularly."

An hour later, after running out of hot water, Ron and Hermione came out of the bathroom. Only Fred, George, Arthur, Edward, and Sirius were there.

"Took a while," Fred said.

"Had to be thorough," Ron said.

"Sure," George said.

Fred walked into the bathroom, closed the door.

"Care for some more Firewhiskey Ron?" George asked.

"George!" Arthur snapped.

"He's of age!" George protested.

"Not today," Ron said.

Arthur came over, rested his hand onto Ron's shoulder.

"I understand how difficult things seem," Arthur said, "His loss doesn't make things easier. We'll be here to help."

"I'm curious as to why he was in Latvia," Sirius said, "Not exactly a common destination."

"Exactly the point," Ron said, "Worked for a while."

"Definitely making Ginny jealous," George said, "She hasn't exactly traveled like you have-none of us have."

"Excuse me," Ron said, "I need to get dressed. Give us fifteen minutes, then let Dumbledore up."

Ron went for the stairs, Hermione followed.

"You'd think he'd be depressed," George hollered after Ron.

A knock came at the door. Ron looked around, all of them were dressed. Brown eyes locked onto Green, Harry and Ron nodded. Ron opened the door, Dumbledore was standing there.

"Come in," Ron said, gesturing.

Dumbledore came in. Ron closed the door. Both Ron and Harry took out their wands, aimed them at Dumbledore, a soft glow shone onto Dumbledore. Dumbledore took several steps backward, however a patch glowed blue on his robes. Ron reached and removed the patch.

"You're bugged," Ron said, "We should check for others."

"Fortunately I am aware of that-bug as you call it." Dumbledore took the patch back from Ron and reapplied it to his robes. His twinkling eyes fell both upon Ron and then Harry. "You are the first to catch that and say something. Poppy insisted I wear it-I do so to appease her."

"At least you gave your consent," Harry said, "Several days ago, we found that we had been bugged-disposed of them, but more could be finding us. I thought they had explained our frequent run ins with the EM-it's something else, perhaps in addition to the bugs."

Hermione glared at Harry. "You mean I let Ron search me-"

"Like Ron needs a reason," Harry whipped.

"Children," Dumbledore said, "Back to the topic-"

"Iceland-perfect example," Harry said, "We arrived, flew to look at that geyser. EM showed up, used binoculars or something that allowed them to see us despite being under the Disillusionment Charm-THEY FIRED KILLING CURSES INTO A CROWD FULL OF MUGGLES! Daily Prophet said nothing about the fact that it was EM doing the murdering-oh no, only the Dark Lord Harry is capable of killing, despite the fact that entire reigns of terror were built upon that many years before I was even born!"

Hermione stared at Harry.

"Let Mr. Potter vent," Dumbledore asked, "Any more Harry?"

"I'm fine now," Harry said, "Anyways, we fled the area, found a bath house-seemed like a good spot to stop and search. We found the bugs-I think they were for tracking us given that simple locater charms no longer work. EM apparently demolished the place as a reward."

"How did you dispose of these bugs?" Dumbledore asked.

"Threw them in the garbage," Harry said, "Seemed to me that if they're tracking a load of garbage, they're not after me or others. It was either that or flushing them down into the sewers. Destroying them was out of the question-it would've alerted them immediately to our discovery."

Dumbledore chuckled for a moment. "I would hope it works, however, from the sound of your comments, you suspect it has not."

"I saw EM people in Latvia," Harry said, "Having never been there before, I have to assume I was tracked there. It was different from Japan and Iceland-they didn't seem to have a clue where to specifically look."

"There might be a less accurate bug still planted upon you," Dumbledore said, "I do advise searching and determining whether that is true."

"I know I'm seeing Notley as soon as we show up," Harry said.

Dumbledore thought for a moment.

"I offer an observation you may have missed but may need," Dumbledore said, "In any sizable organization, there are always radical fringes who take matters to the extreme-the EM may be such a case. It has a half million members in Britain and many more internationally, so their radical fringe is undoubtedly huge in numbers. Your encounters with the EM are likely from that fringe and not the body as a whole."

"They seem rather persistent and hateful of me," Harry said, "One look at today's paper will show that."

"It is one thing to hate" Dumbledore said, "It is another to act upon hatred."

Harry arched his eyebrows.

"Take the students at Hogwarts," Dumbledore said, "They took today's article as truth, nearly every single one cheered. When given the chance to express their hatred and anger, they do so. Count-how many have actually lashed out before forcing you to?"

Harry blinked, but kept an iron face.

"I am merely pointing this out because you may be forced to choose," Dumbledore said, "It would be foolish not to have thought about it beforehand. I am not saying it is a fair burden to place upon you, far from it, however, it may come to your shoulders.

"From the other things you described, I am glad that you are no longer being taken completely by surprise."

Ron came out from the health examination late that afternoon. George came in from the pitch.

"All day?" George said, "Something's up if you've spent the entire practice in the health room."

Ron glared at George, then grabbed a towel to cover himself.

"Perhaps Notley requested it." Fred came up.

Ron rolled his eyes. He snapped his towel at Fred.

"Hey!" Fred exclaimed.

"And here we were going to invite you to the memorial tonight," George said.

"What memorial?" Ron asked.

"Your ex-best friend dunderhead," Fred said.

Ron glared at Fred. "Luckily I wasn't planning to attend." Ron raised his eyebrows. "See you Monday!"

Fred and George scurried off to the showers. Ron dressed. Harry's locker then opened, clothes came out and slipped into disillusion.

"Have to admit Harry," Ron muttered, "That exam was very intrusive."

"Rather have an EM wand conducting it?" Harry whispered from his disillusion.

"He's talking to himself," George muttered from the distance, "Must really be taking it hard."

Ron finished dressing, followed Gia and Hermione coming from the health room out of the locker room. They went into the auditorium where Harry came into illusion.

"At least there aren't any bugs in or on us." Harry took out his Portkey, activated it.

They landed behind some bushes overlooking a river. They stepped into disillusion and searched the area, running across a sign advertising it to be Dählhölzli along the Aare river. A quick walk later revealed they were entering Bern, Switzerland.

"Been a while," Harry said.

"No EM," Ron said, "Should be fun."

They hurried along until they came to the Old Town, then entered the Swiss Rifle Museum. Ron pointed to a great silver cup.

"Owned by King Wilhelm III," Hermione said, "Another." She pointed at a silver-gold-plated cup.

They left the museum, Harry pointed across the street. They turned, saw a man in a black EM jacket peering into various windows.

"I thought we had abandoned them," Gia said.

They walked a short distance, made their way onto the Kirchenbrücke bridge.

"So did I," Harry said, "We know it's not a bug on us-it has to be something else then. Or maybe, another something, like the bugs were one plan with something else as a fall back. It'll be vastly annoying if I can't do anything to shake them."

"You're supposed to be dead," Hermione said.

"Voldemort will see through it," Harry said, "That much I can be certain of."

They passed next to Zytglogge, the distinctive clock tower, then turned right down Kramgasse. Hermione pulled them into the Einstein house.

"Richard would love this." Gia pulled out a camera, started taking pictures.

An hour later, they left the house into the street. In the dimness of the approaching dusk, Harry pointed out a witch looking at them to their right. She was wearing a EM jacket with a wand drawn. Harry renewed the disillusion and ran; Ron, Hermione, and Gia in tow. They ran to the left, took the next right down a narrow street, then right onto Münstergasse. They ran, bumping into pedestrians, ran across the square with the Zytglogge, up Marktgasse, then right down another narrow street, right across an intersection, then into the nearest building which happened to house a cafe. Hermione stepped into illusion then approached the counter of Kornhauscafé. The young man behind the counter took one look at Hermione, pulled a wand.

"Get out," the man ordered.

Hermione made for the door, Ron and Gia followed immediately, Harry brought up the rear with his wand leveled at the man. Cautiously, they left the cafe.

"So much for that," Ron grumbled, "I am hungry."

"Guess we'll need to do the same old," Harry said.

Hermione stepped into disillusion. They crossed the Aare river on the Kornhausbrucke, then kept going. They came across a small grocer, so Harry entered. He emerged several minutes later with a bag of groceries. Harry conjured up a small backpack, stuffed in the groceries, and handed the backpack to Hermione.

"Of course," Hermione muttered.

"Well," Harry said, "If you want to fly instead of ride, I'm certain Ron won't mind."

"No, no," Hermione stammered, "I'm fine."

Harry got out his Whitehorn, Ron got out his; they all renewed their Disillusionment Charm, then they took off. They flew across Bern to the mountains, found a more isolated forested spot and landed just below the snow near the top of the peak but below the tree line. Ron shivered for a moment.

"Not the greatest of camping locations," Ron said.

"We're running out of options," Harry said, "This will do for tonight-still need to figure out how they're tracking us."

Ron piled a few dead limbs into a heap, took out his wand, and lit a fire.

"Magic," Hermione said, "They could be tracking that."

"Arriving before we do?" Harry said, "That doesn't make sense. I don't think it's our magic that's doing it-something else."

Hermione sorted through the groceries, raised her eyebrows at the raw chicken.

"Roast it," Harry said, conjuring up a long metal rod.

"This will be interesting," Hermione muttered.

Several conjures and adjustments later, Harry had the chicken hanging over the fire, sizzling. Harry sat on the ground, watched the flames flicker. Ron went around their site, trying to weave up a ward.

"Argh!" Ron said as the ward collapsed.

"What are you trying to weave?" Harry asked.

"A simple disillusion ward," Ron said.

Harry got up, came over.

"Let's try something easier," Harry said, "SEP ward, get them to ignore our presence, that's what I want."

Harry took out his wand, he attached the ward to the base of the trees. Together, Harry and Ron slowly stretched the ward until it covered their entire campsite. Harry returned and checked on the chicken, he turned it over.

"Next," Harry said, "Warnings."

"Yeah," Ron said, "Right."

"Come," Harry said, "Remember where we placed the girls."

"We're more than mere girls," Hermione said.

Ron tickled her sides. "You still are a girl. No use in denying that."

Harry went out first, Ron next. They went beyond the ward by about a hundred yards. Harry picked up a rock, charmed it, then set it back down.

"Same thing as at Neville's?" Ron asked.

"Yep," Harry said, "Gives me an alarm if anybody crosses it."

Ron picked up an adjacent rock, charmed it, and placed it back down.

"There are wards that can do something similar," Ron said.

"Stretching it across this much area?" Harry said, "Would show up nicely with Moody's eye."

"Get you point," Ron said.

"It's about a low profile," Harry said, "Reminds me, one of us is going to have to remain awake all night."

"What?" Ron asked.

"Too many EM around in this country not to," Harry said, "We need guard duty-rotate it every hour or two."

Ron picked up another rock, charmed it. Harry picked up another rock, charmed it. They kept this up all the way around the site, coming back to where they started.

"Which reminds me," Ron asked, "Where is the fire?"

Harry pointed, they walked. A short bit later, they made their way back into the wards and to the smells of dinner. Gia had already carved up the chicken.

"How thoughtful." Harry gave Gia a kiss, then ate.

Ron munched through his chicken. Hermione poked at her lettuce.

"Harry mentioned a sentry," Ron said, "I think it's a good idea."

Hermione looked at Ron, then Harry.

"We've got loads of people after us," Harry said, "Keeping a lookout is rather wise, don't you agree?"

"I just didn't expect to hear it from Ron," Hermione said.

"What?" Ron exclaimed.

"Say four hour shifts each?" Harry said, "Don't hesitate to go shorter if need be."

"Sounds fine," Ron said.

"I'll go first," Harry said.

They continued on dinner, then wine. Harry conjured up a pair of big sleeping bags.

"One guess," Hermione muttered.

"Something that's healthy for any romance," Harry said, "You shouldn't be regretting it."

"It's not that," Hermione said, "I do like it and all."

"Then there shouldn't be a problem," Harry said.

Ron was already snoring in one of the bags.

"He's solved it," Harry said, "You're capable of conjuring if you want to."

Hermione slid into the bag. She slipped into sleep to the noise of Harry and Gia's moans and grunts in their sleeping bag.

---

Harry was woken early Saturday morning by a faint breeze. He looked up into the dark sky and saw a figure on a broom illuminated by the moonlight, an EM insignia glimmered. This figure was hovering above them but to the side, it was firing an orange ball of flame out of a wand to the ground.

Harry shook Ron awake.

"What?" Ron muttered.

"Wake up, all of you!" Harry said, "Be ready, NOW!"

Harry jumped out of his sleeping bag, threw his clothes on. He looked up into the sky, glowing a tinge of orange from all the other people flying around, methodically searching with orange flame balls hitting the ground. Hermione, Gia, and Ron quickly dressed.

"Thought one of you-" Hermione said.

"Forget it," Harry said, "We're alert now."

An orange ball of flame from the broom overhead penetrated the ward, caught the brush dried from their fire of the previous night. It started a small blaze. The figure whistled, then green curses shot down. One took out their ward, the next one destroyed a nearby rock. Harry aimed his wand, a jet of red shot up. The figure shot down another green curse, hit a tree that splintered and fell. Harry shot up a jet of green, hit the figure. The figure tumbled off his broom, hit the ground with a thud, the broom flew out of control and out of sight.

"Hurry!" Harry muttered.

"Ready," Hermione said.

The other broom fliers noticed, came over all firing curses at them. Ron activated his Portkey; it swept them away a second before jets of green hit where they were standing.

They landed in some brush. Quickly, they emerged and went into disillusion. A short walk later and they found a sign advertising their location as Valencia, Venezuela.

"Pretty much rested," Harry said, "Wish I could get some more sleep."

Harry looked around, saw restaurants closing. He looked up into the night sky, saw the glow of the light pollution. He took out his Whitehorn from his pocket, Ron did the same. All got on, then they flew north to the town of Puerto Cabello. They landed in the shrubbery near an imposing stone structure perched on the hill.

"Impressive," Gia said looking around.

They all saw the night view of a coastal town with a harbor. They walked around, found themselves locked inside a historic relic. Hermione charms the lock on the gate, they leave. Harry turned around, looked at the sign.

"Solano Fort," Harry said, "Built in 1732 by the famous Compañia Guipuzcoana as the entrance to the city. Doesn't seem all that old-what's the big fuss?"

They kept going into the city, then found a bridge, near the ocean, over a small stream, where they took to sleeping underneath.

They woke at dawn to a ship blowing its fog horn. Harry looked out, saw fog covering everything.

"Another day," Harry said, "Think I'll be able to enjoy it?"

"Twenty percent chance of it," Hermione said.

Harry glared at Hermione.

"You wanted odds, didn't you?" Hermione asked.

Harry groaned.

"Just being as obnoxious as you two tend to be," Hermione said.

"Hey!" Ron exclaimed.

Hermione broke out in a run; Ron pursued. Ron tackled Hermione to the ground, then kissed her.

"Trying to get your meat hooks into me?" Hermione asked.

"Always," Ron said, "Need to make certain you experience life rather than just reading about it."

"Uh-oh." Harry pulled Gia, they both took several steps beyond and waited.

Hermione's eyes flashed.

"Are we in a library now?" Ron asked.

"No," Hermione snapped.

Ron pulled Hermione up onto her feet, grabbed her tightly with his right arm.

"Studying is fine to a point," Ron said, "Just don't become imprisoned in books-that's my point. Anyways, let's get moving before the EM has a chance to spot us."

"They're here?" Hermione asked, "Where?"

"He's right," Harry said, "It's only a matter of time until they show up. We have to keep moving."

Harry moved, others came along. They generally followed the shoreline past some old ships until they came to a large brick structure jetting out in the harbor. Harry looked at the sign with numerous translations.

Constructed from 1732 to 1741 by the Guipuzcoan House, this imposing bunker protected the merchants from the pirates who roamed the Caribbean Sea during this time. Since then, this bunker has played a pivotal role in Venezuelan history, with it being used as a jail during the early part of the 20th century.

"Interesting," Harry said, "I guess."

"Drool over it if you want," Ron said, "I'm hunting for food."

Harry followed Ron; they went into the city full of wooden buildings. Harry stopped at an ATM for a moment, then ran to catch up. Ron stopped at a quaint little cafe, entered. All entered and came into illusion just before the lady behind the counter turned to look at them.

"How can I help you?" the lady asked.

"Breakfast," Ron said, "all four of us."

The lady scribbled down the order, took their preferences. Ron sat around a table with a bench seat. Harry and Hermione sat down; Gia remained near the counter watching the lady cook.

"EM might be getting close," Harry said, "Long shot right now-"

They watched the television news flash pictures of some shoppers in Valencia, Harry spotted one of them wearing an EM jacket.

"Dunno how close they are," Harry said, "Assuming we can manage it, I intend to use muggle transport and avoid magic."

Ron arched his eyebrows.

"I'm serious," Harry said, "I mean, are we bugged or not? Or is it something else? Only one way to find out without politely asking the EM for their methods."

"Have something in mind?" Hermione asked.

"Yep," Harry said, "After breakfast."

Later, Harry led them into the office of a small charter aircraft company. An hour and a half after that, they landed in at the Oranjestad Airport in Aruba. Harry passed through the gate out to the road. Harry made for the first ATM he saw, withdrew some more money.

"Well," Harry said, "First thing's first."

Harry pulled them into a swimwear shop.

"What?" Hermione said, "You never-"

"We may be swimming in public," Harry said, "Don't get spendy-we'll be ditching it when we leave."

"Why not simply," Gia said, "you know-"

"It may be detected," Harry said, "Besides, shopping?"

Gia's eyes lit up, she dived immediately into the girls section.

Later, they left the swim shop, Harry was carrying the bag with their goods.

"Shouldn't we disillusion?" Hermione asked.

"That's magic," Harry said, "I think that may be what's giving us away. We know we're bug free-it has to be magic. So, no, we'll simply try to blend in. According to this-" Harry pulled out a brochure for ACME Diving "-they have a dive lesson starting in under an hour. I plan to attend."

"What?" Ron exclaimed.

"You know," Harry said, "Use muggle aqualungs-just think about how jealous your Dad would be."

"Like I tell him everything," Ron muttered.

"I'm attending," Harry said, "Whether you do or not, that's your own affair."

"Sounds fun," Hermione said, "I'm in."

"I'm in," Gia said.

Ron trotted along.

"Why not just use Gillyweed?" Ron asked.

"And get that from where?" Harry said, "I'd have to go to Diagon Alley or somewhere similar for that-no way. Besides, this way looks fun."

They made their way to the center. Harry signed them all up.

Late that evening, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia left ACME Diving.

"Sorry for doubting you," Ron said, "That was a blast."

Ron shook the water out of his hair.

"That was just a test dive," Gia said, "Planning on something tomorrow-I'm sure of that."

"It actually worked so far," Harry said, "No EM to pester us-so, as long as they're not around tomorrow, yes, I do have an idea."

"Fish were spectacular," Gia asked, "Why am I in the mood for seafood now?"

"We should be studying for final exams," Hermione said, "They're a week away."

"Really?" Harry said, "Seems too far off to worry about. Besides, we're suspended until the second day."

"Oh," Hermione said, "I didn't realize-"

"You're assuming we'll even be permitted to take them," Harry said, "We'll likely be suspended before showing up anyways-no point in worrying. Besides, consider what we're having to do; it's the ultimate in defense exams, one bad slip up and we're dead."

Hermione shuddered for a moment. "I really wish you wouldn't put it like that."

"Why? It's the truth," Harry said, "We're fighting for our lives-Dumbledore will understand, so will the others who'll give us a fair chance."

"Snape would be more than happy to flunk us," Ron said.

'Fortunately, it's only Dumbledore we have to worry about," Harry said, "He's in charge-remember his discussion, the crash courses during the summer."

They found a restaurant, entered.

---

Sunday morning, Gia woke first in their rented room. She got up, fished out Harry's copy of the Daily Prophet, and opened it up.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Sunday, June 1, 1997

Potter's Death: A Ministry Hoax

Potter is ALIVE. Evidence has emerged that strongly suggests that the infamous Dark Lord is alive and still causing mischief and mayhem throughout the world. Late Friday, after the false report, Potter was spotted in Bern, Switzerland, resulting in the death of a prominent Swiss Wizard. Potter has also been implicated in the massacre of 13 souls last night outside Bogota, Colombia; he was also witnessed murdering two in São Tomé and Príncipe last night. Potter apparently skipped his daily mass murder Friday night, presumably to take advantage of the misconception about his death.

Irrefutable speculation has the startling revelation that the Minister of Magic issued the press release in a dirty and despicable attempt to boost ratings. Evidence of this lays in the festive parties within the Ministry and the revised budgets forecasting a reduction of badly needed agents within the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. EM is pushing for an independent investigation into the actions of the Minister with regards to the cover up and for the Minister to make a more concerted effort in resolving the Potter situation correctly with Potter's execution.

"What a bunch of arseholes," Gia said, "They think that just because they carry a stick they instantly know all of the answers-they don't, they simply refuse to think. I mean, if the Minister can fake your death Harry, he can fake Voldemort's."

Harry's eyes looked down onto the paper, then back to Gia.

"The trouble is trying to get them to think," Harry said, "Except for Voldemort and his cronies, the rest are his puppets blindly following whatever they're supposed to believe. I wish common sense was mandatory and taught at Hogwarts, but it's not."

Gia gave Harry the paper.

"In case you're wondering," Gia said, "Your ruse didn't last long."

Harry scanned the article.

"It worked for a night," Harry said, "That's something, to keep the Death Eaters at bay, even if it's for a single night. Doubt a second fake would fool them."

Harry set the paper down, took Gia's hand and escorted her to the shower.

"Plans?" Gia asked.

"Thinking of another dive," Harry said, "At least I signed us up for a boat."

"Without asking?" Gia asked.

"It's easier to bail than to sign up at the last second-there's usually a waiting list," Harry said, "After that, need to think about our next destination."

"We just got here yesterday," Gia said, "I do like it here."

"How long until the EM catch up?" Harry said, "We have to keep moving, wherever that will take us. That is the drawback, having to move constantly. I like it here too, but there's only so long until we're discovered and ratted out."

"So where is this dive to?" Gia asked.

"Some ship wreck," Harry said, "I've rented the boat and gear for just the four of us."

Early that afternoon, they left ACME Diving. They kept going in the north east direction, went into a casino and then into a family bathroom. Harry pulled out his Portkey, they all held on.

They landed, dusk was approaching, and they were on the side of a hill overlooking a huge populated area with much water. Quickly, they made their way down the slope. Harry went into disillusion at the trail head, taking Gia with him; Ron and Hermione followed. They went along Løvstakkveien, cut across some properties, along roads across Nygardsbroen bridge into Bergen, Norway.

"We really do travel," Gia muttered.

They found an inn and booked a room for the night. Ron and Harry ventured back down to the pub. Harry and Ron got beers, sat at the bar.

"Finally sunk in," Harry said, "Having to kill in Switzerland. I'm a murderer."

Both sipped their beers.

"You're no such thing," Ron said, "They're forcing you to-it's not really been your decision, but theirs."

"Still doesn't feel right," Harry said, "I hate it, killing. Then we have the others-where is it, a thousand by now? Blegh! All because of me. It's more than enough to reconsider things."

Ron ate some nuts, then sipped.

"Way I look at it is that they're chasing you and forcing you," Ron said, "Look at what you're trying-stunning them first. Not really a big threat-killing only inflames them. They've successfully constructed a bloody trap where you're damned if you do and damned if you don't."

"Making that article true might stifle things," Harry said.

"You really believe that? Still?" Ron said, "Voldemort simply does not need an excuse to kill-he does. Having you around merely allows him to shift the blame, but he's still going to kill."

"Not the EM though," Harry said.

"Any guess who the more active members could be?" Ron said, "Death Eaters wouldn't give a damn about bystanders. The only thing keeping them from a full scale war is you Harry."

"Dozens a night is not a war?" Harry asked.

"Try hundreds or thousands," Ron said, "Then you have a war. There is only one way Dumbledore has foreseen of ending this-he's working on seeing that work."

"Me," Harry said, "It always comes back to me. Should confront him now."

"Wait," Ron said, "Dumbledore is trying to get you ready, he knows the confrontation is inevitable, but he wants you to have the best advantage."

"Why not today? Or tomorrow?" Harry asked.

"Likely waiting until your powers wax," Ron said, "Usually, they peak at around twenty or thirty, you're at your strongest then. Your best chance to defeat Voldemort in a confrontation would be then."

"Millions would be dead by then," Harry said.

"It may happen sooner," Ron said, "However, just rampaging in front of Voldemort will likely get you killed. Try to do this right, for Gia's sake."

"Should probably get back to them." Harry sipped the remainder of his beer.

"Likely discussing who performed better under water," Ron said, "Perhaps a stroll."

"Are you mad?" Harry said, "Try the billiards."

"What?" Ron asked.

"Here," Harry said.

Harry lead Ron over to the billiard table; they spent the remainder of the evening playing against themselves and other patrons.

---

Gia woke Monday morning to Harry trembling on top of her, he was wetting across her leg onto the bed. Gia stuffed her finger into his mouth, rubbed his back; Harry calmed down. Gia rolled them over until she was on top. After a couple of minutes, Harry subsided. Gia worked her way out, then pulled the covers over Harry who promptly rolled over onto the side of Hermione across from Ron on the other side. Gia rolled her eyes, then went to Harry's coat and removed the Daily Prophet.

THE DAILY PROPHET

Monday, Jun 2, 1997

EM/Ministry Cooperation

While the EM and the Ministry are at odds to the details of how to resolve the Potter crisis, both agree that the emerging Dark Lord Harry Potter is a threat that endangers us all. Therefore, in a move to appease the voters, the Minister of Magic has authorized EM access to key assets enabling for a more aggressive campaign to eliminate Potter. Small comfort to the five souls murdered last night in Azerbaijan.

Problem Solver

Potter, Harry : 3,101,000 galleons

Weasley, Ron : 2,385,000 galleons

Granger, Hermione : 1,590,000 galleons

Prescott, Gia : 905,000 galleons

Removal of these problems would be greatly appreciated. Contributions can be sent to "Bye Bye". To claim a reward, submit relevant documentation. 30,000 galleon bonus for each relation severed.

"Anything interesting?" Harry peered over the top of the paper.

"Your fans are excited," Gia said, "Promise to be more aggressive in killing you."

Harry took the paper, read it.

"Sounds ominous," Harry said, "Likely plan on murdering everyone just to be certain. Assholes, they can lick my..." He shook his rear.

"I like that," Gia said watching, "Do it some more."

Harry shook his rear, again, leaving the paper on the floor.

"While you two contemplate shagging," Ron said, "I'm using the shower."

Ron went for the bathroom, Hermione peeked out the curtains of the window.

"Not so fast," Hermione said, "We need to dress-EM are outside-shower at Puddlemere."

Harry went over to the window and saw the EM on the corner looking around.

"Ron!" Harry said, "Out, now!"

Ron came out of the bathroom, half covered with soap.

"EM-outside," Harry said.

Ron ducked back into the bathroom for a moment, rinsed, and came back out. They hurriedly jumped into their clothes. They heard the front door downstairs slam. Harry opened their door.

"May I help you?" the tender asked below.

"Search on authorization of the Eximo Macula," a gruffy voice said, "We have reason to believe the terrorist Harry Potter is in the country."

"I will have to see about this," the tender said, "I am calling-"

They heard a thud from below.

"Ready?" Harry asked.

Ron, Hermione, and Gia nodded. Harry walked over, grabbed onto them, and disapparated as heavy footsteps reached their floor. They apparated into the living room of Fred and George's.

"You chose here?" Ron asked.

"Care to return and ask EM to back off for a bit?" Harry snapped.

Gia went over and looked out the window.

"A second sunrise in a day," Gia said, "It's nice to see."

Footsteps came down the stairs.

"Harry!" George exclaimed, "How spiffy it is to see you."

George offered out a hand.

"You see him frequently," Ron said.

"My brother," George said, "Well, you couldn't keep a fake death secret now, could you? Oh, what Mum would've said about that!"

"Praise for protecting him," Arthur said, coming down the stairs.

"Hi Dad," Ron said.

"Well?" Arthur said, "It's rather early to make a house call."

"We got chased out of where we were," Harry said, "This seemed like a decent spot for a couple of hours."

George pulled Harry and Ron aside to the kitchen.

"While we normally don't mind seeing our younger brother crawling to us for help," George said, "You need to stop coming here."

Ron raised his eyebrows.

"I'm serious," George said, "We suffered an EM inspection twice yesterday-it's not safe to have you here."

"Don't be surprised if I do wind up dead," Ron spat.

"Pardon?" George asked.

"It's true," Harry said, "We can't stay anywhere without the EM popping up their nose-somehow we managed no scrutiny in Aruba, but-"

"Aruba?" Fred said coming into the kitchen, "You went to Aruba and you didn't take your lovable twin brother-me?"

"Yeah," Ron said, "Wonderful-even used muggle aqualungs."

"Really?" Arthur came into the kitchen. "How did that go? Does it use elecktricity? How does the gillyweed tolerate that?"

Ron rolled his eyes.

"Since our presence is a burden," Harry said, "We best be going."

"Burden?" Arthur said, "George, Fred, are you tossing your brother out?"

"Yep," Ron said leaving the kitchen.

Harry led first, came to Gia who was playing with Edward. Gia was moving a toy broomstick in front of Edward.

"Sorry to break up the play date," Harry said, "They made it clear that our presence is endangering them."

Gia set down the small broomsticks, Edward cried.

"Look what you have done!" Fred complained.

"Sorry," Ron said, "You two made it clear-"

"Rubbish," Arthur said.

"EM is getting aggressive," Harry said, "Bye."

Harry grabbed onto Gia and disapparated; Ron and Hermione followed.

Harry apparated into the club room at Puddlemere United.

"Potter," Meyers said walking through, "A discussion please."

Harry followed Meyers into his office, Meyers closed the door then turned to look at Harry.

"I've read several articles regarding a future seeker's death in the Daily Prophet," Meyers said, "Benjamin seemed to have known something about it, but deferred the matter to you. I do not appreciate games like that to be played out on the front page of the Daily Prophet."

"You don't understand how deadly the game is for me," Harry replied, "An innocent person got murdered this morning by the EM searching for me. I could be murdered tonight as I sleep-quite possible. Have some Polyjuice? You could try living in my shoes for a day, but I doubt you'd live."

"I am not disagreeing about the danger," Meyers said, "I am merely pointing out that it scared investors when I mentioned a certain future player being declared dead. Warn me ahead of time if you pull that stunt again."

"Stunts don't work twice," Harry said, "If you'll excuse me, I still need to grab a spot of breakfast."

"Cafeteria is open." Meyers opened the door, Harry exited the office.

"What was that all about?" Ron asked.

"He didn't like the article last week," Harry said.

"Few did," Ron said.

Harry glared at Ron.

"Well," Ron said, "Your supporters didn't."

They entered the cafeteria.

That afternoon, Harry and Ron left the locker room, went up the stairs, and met the girls in the club room. They dived around the corner, out of view, Harry activated his Portkey. They landed in the shrubbery next to a tall skyscraper, the sky was dark but illuminated from the many street lights onto the clouds above. Quickly, they crawled out of the vegetation onto the street. Several street signs later, Hermione realizes where they were.

"Malaysia," Hermione said, "Kaula Lampur or KL."

"Suppose we should find a spot to eat," Ron said, "I'm hungry."

They heard a popping noise behind them, a bank clock advertised it to be 23:10. Harry looked saw a person in an EM jacket looking away from them. Popping of apparation came from ahead on the street. Harry pulled Ron down between two parked cars. Gia and Hermione laid flat onto the ground, Harry peered over the edge to see even more EM personnel coming in.

"How?" Gia whispered.

"Dunno," Harry said, "Quiet."

Harry saw more apparating in, dozens and dozens were crawling the street searching; several pedestrians laid dead from EM interrogations. Harry activated his Portkey, they held on.

They landed in the shrubs close to a campsite next to an automobile. Harry crept out, took a look at the signs. Ron, Hermione, and Gia came.

"Zadar Croatia," Harry said, "Campsite or something."

They looked over the water, saw the sun reflecting.

"And daylight," Ron said, "Weird."

"Timezones are for a reason," Hermione said.

They took a quick walk down the road, made their way past a clock advertising the time as 16:24.

"Hear that?" Harry asked.

They ducked behind a dumpster, peered over. They saw an man with a EM jacket apparate on the sidewalk, twenty feet from them, who immediately stopped a car and interrogated at wand point.

"That's not right," Harry muttered, "Muggles-wands? He's mad."

"How're they doing it?" Ron whispered, "I mean, this is the second time in the past fifteen minutes-I know EM has many members, but not like this."

They watched the EM man get irate, the car was torched, the muggles screamed as they were burned alive and unable to escape the inferno.

"Let's draw fire," Harry said, "I'll dash-three, two, one, run!"

Harry bolted into the street, waved at the EM members, then ran back into the alley ducking Killing curses. They heard many footsteps, pops, and bodies falling; Harry touched Ron's outstretched Portkey, it pulled them away.

They landed in amongst a bunch of trees, daylight was breaking.

"Bloody!" Harry asked, "Where did you send us?"

Harry looked around, saw a sign on a outhouse.

"Property of Shasta-Trinity National Forest," Harry said, "That's where?"

"California," Hermione said, "States, about eight thirty in the morning right now."

"Move," Harry said.

They moved quickly and hid behind some bushes below the trail. They then heard the characteristic popping of young men and women arriving, all wearing EM jackets and having their wands out to bear. Immediately, one man took his wand and torched a tree. Tree by tree, the EM proceeded to start a forest fire.

"And I'm destructive?" Harry muttered.

Harry activated his Portkey; Ron, Hermione, and Gia grabbed on.

They landed on top of rocks, behind them were bars, in front of them was a drop off to several flat areas, upon which some tigers were sleeping.

"Um..." Harry said, "Say, apparate out?"

"Agreed," Ron said.

One tiger took notice, growled at them.

"Other side of that mirror," Harry said pointing.

Harry grabbed onto Gia, disapparated. Ron and Hermione disapparated. They apparated on the other side in a corridor. Several people gasped at the sight.

"You didn't expect me to stay in there?" Harry asked, "Did you?"

"Certainly not," one kid muttered.

Harry pushed forward, they left the tiger exhibition.

"Zawra Park and Zoo," Harry said pointing to a sign, "Iraq."

"Maybe we should check your Portkey," Ron said.

Harry pulled them to the side of the walkway.

"EM's likely going to show at any minute," Harry whispered, "If they do, we apparate to Bucharest-no Portkeys. Fly to Charlie's from there."

They heard pops and screams from the tiger exhibition. An EM apparated right in front of them, pointed a wand.

"Gotchya!" the man exclaimed.

They disapparated. Harry and Gia apparated into Bucharest, but over a small pond; they fell in. Ron and Hermione fell in with their own splashes.

"Fly," Harry muttered as he treaded water.

Harry and Ron got out their Whitehorns, used them to get out of the water. Harry lifted Gia, Ron lifted Hermione, and in a few moments all were on the two brooms.

"Why apparate?" Hermione asked.

"Charlie's," Harry said.

They flew to the north and into disillusion. An hour later, they flew down a lane lined with stone trees, dragons could be seen on their left in the distance. Ahead, in the fading light, they could see a red haired wizard cross the lane. Ron sped up, buzzed, touching the hair while still under disillusion.

"What the?" Charlie exclaimed.

Ron buzzed again, this time with his wand out and dusting out a blizzard onto Charlie.

"Charlie!" exclaimed another guy running after Charlie.

"What are you playing at Adam?" Charlie asked.

Ron buzzed a third time, adding some glittering snow to the small blizzard. Harry laughed. Charlie looked around, bewildered. Adam looked around then back to Charlie.

"Cool trick," Adam said, "Especially the laughter."

Harry held his hand to his mouth, silenced his noise.

"I thought I recognized it," Charlie said, "Never mind."

Charlie flicked his wand, the blizzard stopped; him and Adam made for the stone cottages, both of whom went into the one marked "Weasley". Harry and Ron landed their Whitehorns, dismounted. After stowing his broom, Ron approached the door and knocked. Harry and the girls remained to the side.

"Did you hear something Adam?" they heard Charlie call out.

"Might've been the door," Adam replied.

Ron knocked again.

"Can you get it?" Charlie asked.

The door opened, the brown haired and light build guy answered; having already ditched the tough dragon hide, he was wearing white boxers with a white tank top.

"Who are-" Adam stammered, "Wait a minute-you're that Dark Wizard, sidekick to-"

"And the brother to Charlie," Ron said.

Charlie came to the door, shirtless but with dragon hide trousers. "Aw, the source of my blizzard. I assume there are three others lurking about."

"May we come in?" Ron asked.

Adam shuddered for a moment until Charlie gripped his shoulder.

"Sure," Charlie said.

Ron came into the small living room, Harry, Hermione, and Gia came in.

"They're dangerous," Adam said to Charlie.

"So are the dragons," Charlie said, "I presume you had a reason Ronald."

"We need a spot to crash," Ron said, "Given that the EM was precluding us from using an inn, thought your place was better."

"Dunno about this," Adam muttered.

"Who is he anyway?" Ron asked Charlie while nudging toward Adam.

"Adam Grizedale," Charlie said, "He's a good friend of mine."

"More than a friend," Adam protested.

"They aren't to know that," Charlie growled at Adam.

Ron's eyes darted between the two, saw Adam reach around the backside of Charlie and slide his hand down the front of Charlie under the trousers.

"Gay?" Ron asked.

"If you want to stay, then you won't ask that question," Charlie said, "Make yourselves comfortable."

"Ashamed?" Adam asked Charlie.

Charlie walked, Adam followed with an obvious tent pole under his boxers, both went into the bathroom; they heard the shower start. Harry took out a folded outback hat from his jacket, transfered a black stone to the left pocket of his trousers, then hung the jacket on the coat rack.

"Well," Ron said, "Finally have the answer to why Charlie hasn't had any luck with girls."

Harry gave Gia a quick kiss. "Ron and I are going for a walk."

"You aren't-we'd love to watch," Hermione said.

"Not like that," Ron said, "Just to chat, be back-when Harry?"

Ron removed the black stone from his jacket, hung it next to Harry's on the coat rack.

"Couple of hours at the worst," Harry said, "You're near a dragon reserve-could use them to your advantage if pressed to."

Harry and Ron left the cottage.

"Where are they off to?" Gia asked.

"Almost afraid to ask," Hermione said.

They heard the shower taper off, some load moans came from the bathroom.

"Remember," Hermione said, "Be polite-it's his house."

Moans became muted, Hermione went into the kitchen, cleared off the stove, then put a pot on of water.

"Why'd Harry and Ron go out?" Hermione said, "They left us here, with-wizards to protect. What are they up to? It's not just a walk."

"They lied?" Gia asked.

"Obviously they don't want to expose us to danger," Hermione said, "I sure hope they know what they're up to."

"Without their jackets?" Gia asked.

Hermione looked at them hanging on the coat rack.

"Stupid of them," Hermione said, "Hope they live to regret that."

"Explains the bachelor pad feel if there's two," Gia said.

Harry and Ron walked up the lane, Harry fiddled with the hat in his hands.

"It's not just a walk, is it?" Ron said, "You're up to something."

"Yes I am," Harry said, "EM is tracking our Portkeys-I didn't want to bring Gia or Hermione on this-we're figuring it out tonight."

"We should get our jackets-" Ron said.

"No," Harry said, "We'll do better tonight so long as you aren't picky about size. I already stashed a vial of Veritaserum."

"Plan?" Ron asked.

"Simple." Harry grabbed Ron's hand, disapparated them both. Harry and Ron apparated to the field next to the rubble of 66 Pickering Place.

"That used to be-" Ron said.

"Yep," Harry said, "Needed a plausible starting point-don't want to give away Charlie's location."

"It's not hidden," Ron said.

"The fact the girls are-" Harry said.

"Right," Ron said.

"Remember," Harry said, "We need two, one for interrogation, both for jackets."

Ron raised his eyebrows.

"Hold on," Harry said.

Harry activated his Portkey, they were taken away and then landed.

"Too crowded," Harry said looking around, "Even for a night time in-where-Singapore."

"What's the goal?" Ron asked.

"Capture two," Harry said, "Figure out where this device is, borrow their jackets. You will then use the Portkey frequently, say every five or ten minutes, just long enough for EM to apparate in but not too long as to get captured. I'll hunt for the device."

They heard a couple of pops a short way down the street, they saw Crabbe and Goyle stumbling about. With speed, Harry stunned them, Ron rushed in. Harry grabbed Crabbe and Goyle, Ron held on, they disapparated.

They apparated onto some boulders, some lights were in the distance, it was night overhead. Harry force fed Crabbe some Veritaserum.

"Doubt either will be useful," Ron said.

"They're out of bounds too," Harry said.

"We're out of bounds," Ron said.

"It's so hard to remember that," Harry said, "Disposing of them should be easier though-remember what Dumbledore said about the Portkeys and Hogwarts."

A grin came across Ron's face.

"Enervate!" Harry said, wand aimed at Crabbe, "Imperio!"

Crabbe roused.

"Who are you?" Harry asked.

"Vincent Crabbe, Potter," Crabbe said.

"Why did you go to Singapore?" Harry asked.

"Was told to," Crabbe said.

"From where?" Harry asked.

"Ministry," Crabbe said.

Harry cursed Crabbe whose eyes closed.

"Stunning him-right, no qualms," Harry said, "Jackets-I won't use the Portkey."

"Huh?" Ron asked.

"Even better," Harry said.

They removed the EM jackets from Crabbe and Goyle; Harry put his on, adjusted the hat on his head.

"Well?" Harry asked.

"Won't recognize you," Ron said, "Green eyes though-might."

Harry grabbed Crabbe and Goyle, disapparated. Harry apparated outside the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade, he dragged Crabbe and Goyle into the middle of the road.

"Snape!" Harry called out to the greasy git approaching.

Snape ran, Harry disapparated.

Harry apparated into London, walked down a dingy street to a broken red telephone box, he stepped in and dialed 6-2-4-4-2 into the telephone.

"Welcome to the Ministry of Magic," a cool female voice said, "Please state your name and business."

Harry hesitated for a moment. "Vincent Crabbe on EM matters."

Harry removed a square silver badge that read "Vincent Crabbe, EM". The box shuddered, then moved him into the ground. He walked out of the box, joined the crowd of EM members pushing into the Ministry, and into a lift. Harry listened to the conversations.

"How many short are we this time?"

"Lost at least three."

"At least we got four muggles."

"How long until we nab Potter?"

"Dunno, he's decent at eluding, but that can go on for only so long."

"Sooner the better-horrible brat if you've ever met one. Rewards generosity with a killing curse-that's what he did to his muggle relatives. Read the reports, they spoiled him left and right, then Potter turned on them."

They got off on the second level, went through the Auror Headquarters, to a large room. In the middle of the room was a global sphere. Harry glanced around, saw many in EM jackets including Thomas and Finnigan. Buckland was hovering over the world globe, it had many green streaks starting and ending throughout the world plus the occasional red short hop.

"It's starting," Buckland announced.

They watched a red streak form in the Netherlands.

"Have an unregistered Portkey starting in Groningen, Netherlands," Buckland announced.

They watched the red streak move rapidly, up over Russia over to South Korea.

"Landed in Pusan, South Korea," Buckland said, "The local merchant market I believe."

Buckland pointed to some of the members including Thomas, they left the room. Harry discretely slipped toward a pillar, then glanced nervously about the room before concentrating upon the globe.

"An excellent piece of craftsmanship, don't you think?" Buckland bragged, "Took quite a while to develop, but worth the effort."

Many nodded, hummed, in agreement.

"Can track any Portkey in flight," Buckland said, "Registered or not-only Potter is known to use an international unregistered one."

A few moments later, they saw the red streak form in South Korea.

"As hard as he tries," Buckland said, "Potter can't escape with that."

The red streak moved across the Pacific Ocean, across Alaska, over to Manitoba, Canada.

"Winnipeg," Buckland said, "Corner of Logan Avenue and Arlington Street, near a hospital."

Buckland pointed, more members left, Finnigan remained.

"I have to admit," Buckland said, "I might have tried the same tactics-pretty smart, I say. A Portkey, that with each use, takes you to a different location that even you aren't aware of until you reach it-nice to stay one step ahead of your enemies. Took much craftsmanship to construct this globe to detect the very faint signature of their Portkeys-undoubtedly Dumbledore did something to make them hard to detect."

Finnigan ducked out of the room. The red streak started, moved across the Atlantic, across England, across most of Europe. Harry backed himself toward the door.

"McDonald's in Tighina, Moldova," Buckland said, "Volunteers-"

"Or just save us the trouble Potter," said the voice of Seamus Finnigan behind Harry.

Harry felt a wand tip push into his back.

END OF CHAPTER

[A/N: The style might be slightly inconsistent from bit to be as the revision has worked itself to the point where big chunks of the original pass was decent enough to retain.]