Chapter 22- Pain and Suffering
Anaka opened the 7th years door slowly. She tiptoed quietly into the room. Anaka watched Leslie sleep and then went for her bag. As she opened it a bright red light came out and a loud shriek filled the air. Leslie jumped out of bed and looked around. She saw Anaka out of the corner of her eye and grabbed her bag away from her. Anaka watched surprised at how aggressive she was and cried out as Leslie kicked her legs out from under her.
"Leslie it's me Anaka!! Geez! I didn't know you could do that." Anaka yelled.
"Ana?" Leslie asked. She groped on her dresser and found her glasses. She put them on and gasped when she saw Anaka lying on the floor.
"Oh Ana! I'm so sorry!" she helped Anaka up and they sat on her bed, "I can't see anything without my glasses! I thought you looked a little small for a thief."
One of the girl Aurors stuck her head in the door and yawned.
"Is everything ok in ere?" she asked groggily.
"Everything's fine Suzy. Go back to bed." said Leslie. Suzy nodded and closed the door.
"Why were you going through my bag Ana?"
"I wanted to know if anything was missing." Anaka replied.
"Why would anything be missing?" Leslie said slowly.
Anaka hesitated.
"What went off when I opened your bag?"
"An alarm. It goes off when someone else opens my bag."
"But what if I did like you said yesterday and opened your bag to get your book to read?"
"You know you're right. It would have gone off then too. In order for someone else to open my bag I have to put a spell on my bag saying they can open it. Watch this."
Leslie took out her wand and whispered some words to the bag.
"There," she said handing the bag to Anaka, "open it now."
Anaka opened the bag and smiled as the alarm stayed quiet.
"Thanks." Anaka said handing her bag back.
"Anytime." Leslie said slowly, "Can we go back to bed now?"
Anaka started to nod but then stopped. She narrowed her eyes at Leslie.
"Earlier tonight I came in here when I heard a noise. It turned out that a woman was in here looking through your bag! Why didn't your alarm go off then?"
Leslie flinched.
"Ow. Busted."
"What do you mean?" Anaka asked puzzled.
"I'm sorry I was so rude to you then. I was just trying to act my part as Jessica Snape."
"You were that woman?!"
"Yes. As a spy you have to have a lot of different personalities. I have her and a movie star and a…uh…another one that I probably shouldn't say and so many others."
"That's so cool!" Anaka cried, "You can turn into anyone?"
"Almost. I don't turn into actually people. I turn into new people. Jessica Snape isn't a real person. I made her up. When you're a spy you can't take on every job as yourself because it'd be too dangerous so I pick a false identity. You can't tell anyone else though. I need to keep this secret."
"Oh course!"
"Now get back to bed."
Anaka nodded and headed back to bed. What a cool job, she thought.
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Anaka watched as Leslie and Remus talked during breakfast.
"They are really hitting it off huh?" Harry asked as he took a biscuit.
"I think so." Anaka said with a smile.
It was nice to see her father happy with another women. She knew no one could ever replace her mom but she thought her father and Leslie would make a cute couple.
"Interesting girl." John said with a mouthful of food, "She has a really cool job too."
"I think she may be to old for you John." Anaka teased. John swallowed and smiled at her.
"Trying to get rid of me already? I'm afraid you're stuck with me Anaka Lupin."
"Oh brother." Harry mumbled. Anaka laughed and playfully hit him in the shoulder.
"You won't say that when you start to date." She pointed out. Harry shrugged.
After dinner Harry, Anaka, and John went to the Quidditch field. Though John wasn't a great Quidditch player he decided to join the fun. When they stopped to rest Anaka groaned.
"I just remembered something. I have to go visit Madam Pomfry."
John and Harry nodded.
"We'll still be here." John said kissing her goodbye.
Anaka nodded and ran into the school. The school was strangely quiet and Anaka rushed down the hall. As she turned a corner she heard a slight groan. She stopped and looked around. The halls were empty. Anaka shivered and walked down the hall slowly. She past an old statue of a man and gasped as a hiss seemed to come from it. She turned around quickly to see a dark figure run out from behind the statue. Anaka backed up and was suddenly thrown against a nearby wall. Cold fingers groped over her body and eventually reached her throat. They tightened slowly. Anaka had tried to scream the whole time but the figure had disguised itself so well that she couldn't see anything but it's eyes and as she stared in them she seemed to be frozen solid. They stared at her the whole time as the fingers tightened around her throat and the fingernails created giant cuts. Anaka gasped and tried to move her arms but the creature had pressed its body against hers so she couldn't move. Everything around her started to fade and go black except for the creatures' eyes that stayed red orange the whole time. Anaka's eyes started to close as her primary functions slowed down. She thought she heard someone call her name from far away but she couldn't tell.
"Die." Hissed the creature. It tightened its grip further so that the creature's nails punctured her throat.
Suddenly the creature drew away and there was a blast of light. Anaka slid to the floor. Blood trickled down her neck and she tried to gasp for breath but found little air. A figure bent over her and started to talk but Anaka faded away into nothingness.
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Leslie was going down to Remus's quarters to have tea when she heard running footsteps in the next hall. She turned around curiously and walked back the way she had come. She turned down the hall and saw a figure turn the corner slowly. It's only Ana, she thought and turned to go back when she heard a loud thud like something getting rammed against a wall. Leslie quickly ran down the hall.
"Ana!" she cried when she turned the corner.
A figure one foot taller then her was cloaked and masked leaning against something on the wall.
"The creature." Leslie whispered.
She fumbled to take out her wand.
"Help!! Help!!" Leslie screamed. The creature never looked at her but whispered something to Anaka as it tightened its grip.
"STOP!!!!!" Leslie screamed.
She pointed her wand at the creature.
"Expecto patronum!!! Expecto patronum!!!" she screamed.
There was a blast of light as a phoenix came out of her wand and flew at the creature. The creature was thrown against the floor and it ran, faster then anything Leslie had ever seen, down the hall. Leslie forgot about the creature and ran to Anaka. She knelt beside her.
"Ana! Ana can you hear me? You have to stay awake!!" Leslie said wiping blood from her neck.
"Help!!!!" she screamed again as she picked up the unconscious Anaka.
Remus and two Aurors ran down the hall. They stared at Leslie. Tears were streaming down her face and her face was distorted in terror. She held a limp form in her arms. She ran towards the Aurors.
"Get Madam Pomfry quick!! This girl is going to die if she doesn't get immediate help!" Leslie yelled.
One of the Aurors ran back down the hall. The other took off his cloak and laid it on the floor. Leslie put Anaka down slowly and Remus cried out in horror when he realized who it was.
"Anaka! Anaka! Oh what happened to her?!" he cried. He knelt by his daughter and gently stroked her pale face with shaking fingers.
"I need a piece of your cloak Remus. I need any piece of cloth. Please hurry!" said Leslie.
Remus looked up at Leslie. She was trying to stop the cuts on Anaka's neck from bleeding with her sleeves but it wasn't working. Remus quickly took off his cloak and ripped a piece of it off. Leslie took it and applied pressure to the cuts.
"It was the creature." Leslie said quietly.
"Why would it attack Ana?" Remus asked.
"I don't know. But I think someone should be with her and Harry at all times now."
Madam Pomfry ran down the hall and knelt next to them. She took out her wand and whispered some words. Anaka started to float.
"We can get her there quicker this way." She said and then started giving orders to the others.
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Remus paced outside the curtain hiding Anaka's bed. He listened to the hushed, hurried voices speaking inside. Harry and John were sitting with Leslie against a nearby wall. Sirius was lying in front of them. Remus sighed and sat down next to Leslie. He scratched Sirius's ear thoughtfully.
"I'm sure she's fine Remus." Leslie said softly. Remus nodded.
"She will be fine." He reassured himself.
They grew silent as Madam Pomfry came out of the curtain. She took off a pair of bloody gloves and threw them away.
"I can't do anything else." She said slowly, "I was able to stop the cuts from bleeding. She was lucky the claws didn't puncture her windpipe or anything else. She's still asleep but I'm sure she'll be fine from here on."
Everyone sighed with relief.
"Can I see her?" Remus asked.
"Only two at a time please."
Remus nodded. He and John went to see Anaka, leaving Leslie and Harry alone.
"You should have someone with you at all times Harry. Anaka's going to have around the clock watch too." Leslie said quietly.
"You think it's after me too?" Harry asked. Sirius whined.
"I don't know. But it is definitely working for Voldemort. Anaka could have just been a warning for you."
Harry gulped and looked down at his hands. They were silent for a moment and then they heard loud voices behind the curtain. Leslie pulled it back slightly. Anaka was sitting up with a bandage around her neck. John was holding her hand and they were both looking at Remus angrily. Remus glared at them.
"Sorry to intrude but," Leslie said entering, "I don't think you should be getting Anaka so upset. What happened?"
"I volunteered to protect Anaka but Professor Lupin won't let me." John growled.
"She doesn't need you." Remus snapped.
"What does she need?" Leslie asked softly. Remus looked at her silently.
"She doesn't need him." He whispered.
Anaka squeezed John's hand.
"I think she does." Leslie countered, "But I agree with your father that he can't help you with this. John can't go with you everywhere, like the girls dormitory."
"So what should I do?" Anaka asked.
"I'll speak to your father." Leslie said gesturing for Remus to follow her. They left silently.
"You can see her Harry." Said Leslie. She stared at the dog for a minute.
"You too dog."
The dog got up and walked with Harry.
"That's not a regular dog is it?" Leslie asked Remus. Remus cleared his throat.
"So what did you want to talk to me about?"
Leslie knew he was changing the subject but decided to drop the dog issue. They had bigger problems.
"I think I can watch Anaka without her knowing. She doesn't have to feel strange about having someone with her because she won't know I'm there."
Remus nodded. Then his face brightened.
"Would you like to get a cup of tea?"
"I'd love to!" Leslie said with a laugh.
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In 2 weeks Anaka was on her feet again. She didn't know why everyone had suddenly dropped the issue of her having someone watch her but Anaka didn't mind. It gave her a chance to try to forget the incident. The battle was only four weeks away and Anaka was bringing her father his potion. She walked down the hall, looking over her shoulder occasionally. Over the last few days Anaka had had the feeling that someone was following her. Ever since she heard footsteps behind her one day. Anaka quickened her pace, then stopped. She listened and heard soft footsteps. They stopped suddenly. Anaka shivered and rushed to her father's door. She knocked quickly looking down the hall. Her father opened it and she quickly slipped in.
"Close it!" Anaka hissed. Remus, surprised, quickly shut the door.
"What happened?" Remus asked taking the potion.
"Someone's following me dad." Anaka said worriedly.
"Someone with soft padded feet?" Remus asked with a smile. Anaka nodded.
"Well I guess I should tell you. Leslie has been following and watching you ever since that day we argued. You have nothing to worry about."
"It would have been nice if you told me." She scolded.
Remus laughed and drank his potion.
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Leslie watched Anaka leave the table at dinner. She was with Harry and the dog but Leslie still felt like she should follow her. She looked reluctantly at Remus and found she didn't want to leave. Another thing that puzzled her was that they had all agreed that the dog could watch Harry and when she had argued they had changed the subject. Leslie quietly said good-bye to Remus and followed Anaka out of the Great Hall. She watched them walk down the hall. She walked slowly behind them, hiding behind statues and dodging into classrooms. Once they reached the portrait of the fat lady Leslie sighed. As long as they were in the common room they were safe. Leslie followed them inside. As she walked in she found Anaka and Harry turned towards her.
"So you were following us!" Harry accused.
"My dad told me everything. You don't need to be with me at all times." Anaka pointed out.
"I should have told you. I'm sorry. Why don't you guys go to bed? You need to be up early in the morning." Leslie replied.
They nodded and headed to bed. Leslie quietly slipped out again. She walked down the halls until she came to the hall where Anaka was attacked. Se stared at the statue silently. Then a low growl came from behind her. She jumped with surprise and turned around quickly, taking a fighting stance. She sighed when she saw what had made the noise. The big black dog was growling at the statue. It stopped and looked at her.
"Stupid dog." She mumbled. The dog barked at her.
"Ok ok! Sorry. But next time make sure I know you're here!" she scolded.
Leslie looked back at the statue and examined it. There were scraches along the bottom and it was chipped on the back.
"I have no idea what this thing is," she murmured, "what has red orange eyes, is really big and has the power to freeze you? Plus it's great at hiding and has big claws. Also, how do I stop it? What can destroy something like this?"
The dog sniffed around the base and then turned away quickly with a sour face.
"Smells bad too?" Leslie asked. The dog seemed to nod slightly and Leslie shook her head.
"After this I'll figure out what you are. Come on Super dog, sniff this thing out."
Sirius barked and sniffed around. Soon they were running up and down the halls, entering and exiting classrooms. Leslie sighed as they entered the dungeons. Snape was at his desk writing some papers. He looked up and frowned as Sirius sniffed around the room.
"Get that thing out of here." Severus growled.
"Oh shut up," Leslie replied, "super dog and I are looking for the Beast. Do you happen to know where I can find him Beauty? Not hiding him I hope."
"Super dog? Beauty?" Snape said with a confused look, "Get out of here before I kill your mutt."
"Hey, don't lay hands on my partner." Sirius barked happily and looked at Snape. If he had been human Leslie would have swore the look would have been a smug one. Severus turned bright red as Sirius started to sniff at his bedroom door.
"Partner? Ha!" he grumbled.
"At least he doesn't ask a lot of questions." Leslie replied.
They watched Sirius and looked at each other in surprise when he started to growl and scratch at the door.
"So you are hiding him." Leslie whispered.
"That thing is here?!" Snape asked surprised. He narrowed his eyes and took out his wand. He pushed Sirius aside and opened the door slowly. Their eyes became wide but they just stood there.
"Guys?" Leslie asked, "Guys?"
Suddenly there was a crash and a big figure ran out the door knocking Sirius and Snape down. Leslie jumped back as the creature passed her then ran after it. She grabbed its robes and clung on. The creature was running extremely fast. Leslie took out her wand and started to say a spell when the creature swatted her with a big hand scratching her arm. Leslie cried out and fell back as the creature ran up the stairs. Leslie held her head and if she would have looked up she would have saw the creature stop and look at her, then run away. Leslie got up slowly and walked into the classroom. Snape was standing by his desk shakily and Sirius was panting on the floor.
"Thanks for leaving me to deal with him guys." Leslie growled. Severus looked at her.
"You should get that bandaged." He said pointing at her arm.
Leslie cursed as she looked at it. The creature's claws had ripped her sleeve and there were long lines going up her arm. Blood dripped freely from them.
"Come on super dog." She said slowly. Sirius got up and together they walked to see Madam Pomfry. Severus left to tell Dumbledore.
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"Those eyes." Leslie mumbled as she sat by the fire. She was sitting on the floor of the Gryffindor common room with Sirius. She scratched him and sighed.
"They froze you both huh? And dogs can't even see color. Well I guess we should both get some rest. We have some detective work to do tomorrow."
Leslie laughed as the dog licked her face. She yawned and went to her bed. She changed into her nightgown quickly and was soon asleep. Leslie woke up suddenly when she thought she heard the door open. There was a thud like something was dropped on the ground. Leslie turned and saw nothing by the door. She sighed and turned to find herself staring at an orange warty hand. Leslie gasped and sat up. Strong hands pushed her down on the bed. Leslie fought fiercely but the hands were too strong. She looked up quickly but soon regretted it. A pair of red orange eyes stared at her. Leslie found herself unable to move and she cursed silently. The creature seemed to chuckle. It bent over her and Leslie's heart pounded.
"Stop trying to get me." It hissed.
The creature put a hand over her heart and pressed down. A shock ran through Leslie's body and pain overwhelmed her. Her heart started to skip beats. Leslie closed her eyes in agony and found that when her eyes were closed she could control her body. The creature's claws ripped her nightgown as he pressed his claws into her skin. Leslie opened her eyes and stared at the creature's chest. She gripped the creature's hand that was pressing against her chest. When she realized the creature was to strong for her and she couldn't move the creature's hand Leslie moved her head closer to the creature's arm. Pain exploded in her head and her neck ached. Leslie bit down on the creature's arm as hard as she could. The creature yelped in surprise more then pain and let her go.
Leslie got off the bed as quickly as she could and back kicked the creature in the head. The creature rubbed its jaw and laughed. Leslie climbed over the bed and started towards the door. The creature bounded after her tearing her nightgown with its claws as it reached for her. Leslie tripped and fell to the floor in-between two beds. She sat on the floor holding her head, trying to make the room stop spinning. The creature stood over her and slashed her cheek. Leslie sank to the ground in pain. Her heart was pounding strangely in her chest and she knew that the creature had done something to her heart. The cuts on her chest were deep and were bleeding heavily. Her white nightgown was torn and bloody.
"What do you want?" she mumbled.
The creature stood over her silently. Leslie knew she had to do something quick or the creature would kill her so she tried to scream. Only a small noise escaped her mouth. The creature slashed at her and the bandages on her arm opened. Leslie quickly climbed on the bed in back of her and fell to the other side. She gasped for breath.
"Next time you will not live." It hissed. Then it was gone.
Leslie stood uneasily and headed for the door. She looked around and saw two limb figures lying on the ground by the first bed. Leslie recognized who one of them was at once.
"Oh Harry." She mumbled.
She fell to the floor and crawled towards the bodies. Harry's clothes were torn and bloody. Cuts were all over his body and he had a big slash on his forehead. Leslie tore off a part of her nightgown and rapped them around his worst wounds. Leslie then turned over the other body. She brushed back the man's black hair. Leslie stared at the handsome face and thought it looked strangely familiar. She tore off another piece of her gown and rapped it around his wounds. Then she crawled to the door and opened it.
Leslie got up and walked to the 5th year rooms. She opened them quickly and found Anaka sleeping peacefully. She checked on the Suzy and found her asleep too. Leslie quickly went to the boys dormitory and found that Auror sleeping soundly. She looked around for Milata but couldn't find him anywhere. She ran to the common room and then gasped. Despair and horror clutched her heart and she fell to the floor sobbing. In the middle of the common room floor Milata's body was lying next to his severed head.
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Severus was sleeping in his room when a noise in the classroom awoke him. He opened the door slowly and looked inside. When he saw nothing he opened it wider. Suddenly a hand shot out from behind the door and grabbed him. He cried out in surprise and looked down at the floor because he had a feeling who it was. The creature chuckled as Severus squirmed.
"Pitiful. You don't have to worry. I won't kill you. That would make Voldemort unhappy but I can discourage you from acting against me." He hissed and laughed slightly, "Even the girl put up more of a fight then you."
"Who are you talking about?" Severus growled.
"The little women who was in here before."
"Leslie!" Snape said with surprise.
Severus growled and slipped out of his shirt. The creature reached for him scratching his back. Severus cried out in pain and ran for his potions rack. He took one and threw it at the creature. The creature screamed as the potion hit it and it ran out the door. Snape sighed. He touched his back and found his hand covered with blood. Then Severus remembered Leslie and he ran out the door.
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He ran down the halls and gasped as he saw the Fat Lady. She wasn't in her portrait but the portrait was ripped to shreds. Severus quickly entered the common room. He looked around and his stomach flipped. The floor was drenched with blood. The body of one of the Aurors was lying on the floor beheaded. His head was lying next to him with a look of horror on it. Sobs filled the air and Severus looked to see a small figure crouching by the Auror. Blood was around her and Severus soon realized it was from her. Leslie looked up at the sound of Snape. Tears ran down her cheeks and there were a series of cuts on one cheek that flowed as freely as the tears. Her nightgown was in taters. Leslie knew at once by the blood on his hand, the blood dripping off his back, and the fact that he had no shirt on that the creature had also attacked him.
"Severus." Leslie whispered.
Then Snape did something out of character. He knelt by her and hugged her tightly.
"I couldn't help him…it got to him…. and me…. and Harry…. and some man…. don't know who it is…" she mumbled. Severus held her at arms length and looked into her eyes.
"Where are the others?" he asked.
"I'll show you." She whispered.
Leslie stood up shakily and walked to the 7th years room.
"The other two Aurors and Anaka are fine. They slept through everything." She said quietly.
Leslie opened the door and walked in. She knelt by two figures on the floor. Severus quickly did the same and checked their pulses.
"They're alive." He said with a sigh.
"But who is that man?" Leslie asked. Severus grew uncomfortable.
"We should get you all to Madam Pomfry." He said, changing the subject.
Leslie was too tired to argue. She sighed and lay down next to Harry. Then she went to sleep. Severus looked the three of them over. He woke up the other Aurors and quickly explained the situation. They each picked up a person and carried them down the halls. Madam Pomfry woke up to Severus knocking and looked at them with surprise.
"What happened?" she asked.
"Ask later. They need help now." Said one of the Aurors.
Madam Pomfry nodded and gestured for them to lay the three people on three empty beds. Severus made sure they were being taken care of and then went to Dumbledore.
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"This creature is becoming more aggressive all the time." Dumbledore said as they walked quickly down the halls.
"We need to figure out how to stop it soon before it kills someone else." Severus replied.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"Milata was a good man. He had a wife and three kids in Africa. A fourth to come."
They stayed silent until they reached the hospital wing. They entered to the sound of arguing voices.
"No, I don't want any drugs!! I'm fine…ow! Don't do that! Madam Pomfry I demand to be told who that man is?"
"Oh shut up!"
"Who are you to say that!?!?!?!"
Dumbledore and Severus walked up to the beds. Harry was still unconscious but Sirius was sitting up and so was Leslie. Their beds were next to each other and they were glaring at each other.
"Can one of you make her shut up?" Sirius asked.
"Why don't you." Severus snapped.
"Who is he?! Dumbledore I just want to know so I can figure out his connection to the creature!" Leslie replied.
"What connection? The creature attacked everyone that was in the dungeons and went after Harry and Milata because they woke up and tried to stop the creature!" Sirius growled. He looked at Snape.
"Shouldn't you put a shirt on?" he sneered.
"Everyone calm down! Leslie, I'd like you to meet Sirius Black." Dumbledore said slowly.
Leslie's eyes widened and she stared at Sirius in disbelief.
"I thought you looked familiar! I studied your case! What are you doing here you murderer!? You belong in Azkaban!"
"He's innocent. Peter killed James and Lily." Dumbledore told her.
"Petegrew?" Leslie asked, "Well I guess that makes sense. He is a …."
"Can we change the subject?" Severus asked.
"He doesn't think I'm innocent." Sirius whispered to Leslie, "Give it up grease ball."
Severus went red and he clenched his fists.
"Wait a minute!! You said the creature attacked everyone in the dungeon but what about…" Leslie's voice trailed off.
"Super dog?" Sirius asked with a grin, "Here I am! Where did you get that name anyway? I mean, super dog?"
"You are an Animagus! Wow, talk about a reality check."
Harry stirred and everyone looked at him.
"Will he be ok?" Sirius asked.
"He'll be fine with some rest. That's what all of you need." Madam Pomfry replied, "Now let me look at you Professor Snape."
Severus sat on a bed and Madam Pomfry treated his wounds. Leslie sighed.
"It feels good to have my heart beating regularly again." She said.
Madam Pomfry finished with Severus and he stood up.
"Now can you put a shirt on?" Sirius asked.
Severus glared at him.
"You should probably get someone to clean up everything in Gryffindor's dormitories. Also send someone to…. to clean up the common room." Leslie said quietly.
Dumbledore nodded and left. They sat there in silence. Leslie stared at her hands. Severus sat on the end of her bed.
"I'm sorry about Milata." He whispered. Leslie looked at Snape and let the tears fall down her cheeks.
"He had a wife and three kids and his wife is pregnant! I'd worked with Milata before. He wouldn't hurt a soul. Damn that creature. I'll kill it with my bare hands." She whispered. Leslie squeezed Severus hand.
Sirius watched them. He had a bad feeling about the two of them. Suddenly Anaka and Remus rushed through the door.
"What happened!?" Anaka asked, "We heard you guys were attacked by the creature but how? I don't understand how I slept through it!"
Remus looked over the three. His eyes lingered where Leslie and Severus were holding hands but he quickly looked away. Eventually Harry woke up and they were able to piece together what happened. Milata had to have been in the common room when the creature came in. He stood up and looked the creature in the eyes. The creature then beheaded him and rushed to Harry. Sirius woke up when the creature entered and turned into himself. Before he could do anything the creature was on him and Harry woke up. Harry tried to help but the creature got him. It then carried both of them to Leslie's room and attacked Leslie. Then the creature left and attacked Severus.
"How horrible!" said Anaka.
"We have to stop this thing soon." Remus replied.
"But how?" asked Harry.
"Well, the thing ran away when I hit it with a potion. I can find out what that potion was and make more." Severus suggested. Leslie nodded but Sirius rolled his eyes.
"Oh please! You think one potion will kill this thing? It just scared the creature! It won't kill it." He scolded.
"I think you have had enough visitors today." said Madam Pomfry, "I don't want you three getting all upset."
The others nodded and left. Remus said good-bye to Sirius and was about to leave when Sirius stopped him.
"Are you sure there's nothing between that girl and Snape?" he asked quietly.
"Oh course not." Remus scolded.
"I just don't want to see you get hurt." Sirius shrugged.
Remus nodded and left. Of course there's nothing between them, he thought, How could there be?
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It took them all a week to get better and they were not any closer to finding out how to stop the creature. There had been no more attacks but everyone was on their guard. Milata's funeral was scheduled at the night his family arrived. Anaka watched his family stand by the coffin. He had a daughter who was 11, a son that was 8 and a son that was 5. His wife was 8 months pregnant and was going to have a girl. The thought of them growing up without a father made Anaka feel sick. She couldn't understand why these things happened to innocent people. John squeezed her hand.
"They'll be alright." He whispered.
"How can they be?" Anaka whispered back.
"We will all get through this somehow." John sighed.
Anaka nodded. Once the funeral was over they were each allowed to go up to the closed coffin. Anaka and John went up at the same time.
"I'm so sorry this happened." Anaka whispered. Her eyes stung with tears.
"We will stop this creature." John said sternly.
Anaka nodded and they walked to the side to wait for the others.
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Leslie had stood in the back during the funeral and she waited for everyone to leave before approaching the coffin. She put a hand on it and tears stung her eyes.
"You were in the wrong place at the wrong time pal. Why were you up? You should have been asleep. It wouldn't have hurt you then. I promise I'll find this thing. I promise I'll kill it. I'll kill it…. I promise to avenge you. You won't die in vain. I won't let you Milata. Your family will be leaving tomorrow so don't worry. I won't let it hurt them. You're wife, kids, and baby will be fine. You'll be going home too. Africa must be a beautiful place. I wish I could have gone with you to see it. You've been a great friend…I'll never forget you…I swear."
She ran her hand over the coffin. Then she sat beside it and watched the sun set. Tears ran down her face.
"I'll never forget you." She whispered, "I'll get that creature before it hurts anyone else or I'll die trying!"
Anaka opened the 7th years door slowly. She tiptoed quietly into the room. Anaka watched Leslie sleep and then went for her bag. As she opened it a bright red light came out and a loud shriek filled the air. Leslie jumped out of bed and looked around. She saw Anaka out of the corner of her eye and grabbed her bag away from her. Anaka watched surprised at how aggressive she was and cried out as Leslie kicked her legs out from under her.
"Leslie it's me Anaka!! Geez! I didn't know you could do that." Anaka yelled.
"Ana?" Leslie asked. She groped on her dresser and found her glasses. She put them on and gasped when she saw Anaka lying on the floor.
"Oh Ana! I'm so sorry!" she helped Anaka up and they sat on her bed, "I can't see anything without my glasses! I thought you looked a little small for a thief."
One of the girl Aurors stuck her head in the door and yawned.
"Is everything ok in ere?" she asked groggily.
"Everything's fine Suzy. Go back to bed." said Leslie. Suzy nodded and closed the door.
"Why were you going through my bag Ana?"
"I wanted to know if anything was missing." Anaka replied.
"Why would anything be missing?" Leslie said slowly.
Anaka hesitated.
"What went off when I opened your bag?"
"An alarm. It goes off when someone else opens my bag."
"But what if I did like you said yesterday and opened your bag to get your book to read?"
"You know you're right. It would have gone off then too. In order for someone else to open my bag I have to put a spell on my bag saying they can open it. Watch this."
Leslie took out her wand and whispered some words to the bag.
"There," she said handing the bag to Anaka, "open it now."
Anaka opened the bag and smiled as the alarm stayed quiet.
"Thanks." Anaka said handing her bag back.
"Anytime." Leslie said slowly, "Can we go back to bed now?"
Anaka started to nod but then stopped. She narrowed her eyes at Leslie.
"Earlier tonight I came in here when I heard a noise. It turned out that a woman was in here looking through your bag! Why didn't your alarm go off then?"
Leslie flinched.
"Ow. Busted."
"What do you mean?" Anaka asked puzzled.
"I'm sorry I was so rude to you then. I was just trying to act my part as Jessica Snape."
"You were that woman?!"
"Yes. As a spy you have to have a lot of different personalities. I have her and a movie star and a…uh…another one that I probably shouldn't say and so many others."
"That's so cool!" Anaka cried, "You can turn into anyone?"
"Almost. I don't turn into actually people. I turn into new people. Jessica Snape isn't a real person. I made her up. When you're a spy you can't take on every job as yourself because it'd be too dangerous so I pick a false identity. You can't tell anyone else though. I need to keep this secret."
"Oh course!"
"Now get back to bed."
Anaka nodded and headed back to bed. What a cool job, she thought.
******************************************
Anaka watched as Leslie and Remus talked during breakfast.
"They are really hitting it off huh?" Harry asked as he took a biscuit.
"I think so." Anaka said with a smile.
It was nice to see her father happy with another women. She knew no one could ever replace her mom but she thought her father and Leslie would make a cute couple.
"Interesting girl." John said with a mouthful of food, "She has a really cool job too."
"I think she may be to old for you John." Anaka teased. John swallowed and smiled at her.
"Trying to get rid of me already? I'm afraid you're stuck with me Anaka Lupin."
"Oh brother." Harry mumbled. Anaka laughed and playfully hit him in the shoulder.
"You won't say that when you start to date." She pointed out. Harry shrugged.
After dinner Harry, Anaka, and John went to the Quidditch field. Though John wasn't a great Quidditch player he decided to join the fun. When they stopped to rest Anaka groaned.
"I just remembered something. I have to go visit Madam Pomfry."
John and Harry nodded.
"We'll still be here." John said kissing her goodbye.
Anaka nodded and ran into the school. The school was strangely quiet and Anaka rushed down the hall. As she turned a corner she heard a slight groan. She stopped and looked around. The halls were empty. Anaka shivered and walked down the hall slowly. She past an old statue of a man and gasped as a hiss seemed to come from it. She turned around quickly to see a dark figure run out from behind the statue. Anaka backed up and was suddenly thrown against a nearby wall. Cold fingers groped over her body and eventually reached her throat. They tightened slowly. Anaka had tried to scream the whole time but the figure had disguised itself so well that she couldn't see anything but it's eyes and as she stared in them she seemed to be frozen solid. They stared at her the whole time as the fingers tightened around her throat and the fingernails created giant cuts. Anaka gasped and tried to move her arms but the creature had pressed its body against hers so she couldn't move. Everything around her started to fade and go black except for the creatures' eyes that stayed red orange the whole time. Anaka's eyes started to close as her primary functions slowed down. She thought she heard someone call her name from far away but she couldn't tell.
"Die." Hissed the creature. It tightened its grip further so that the creature's nails punctured her throat.
Suddenly the creature drew away and there was a blast of light. Anaka slid to the floor. Blood trickled down her neck and she tried to gasp for breath but found little air. A figure bent over her and started to talk but Anaka faded away into nothingness.
****************************************
Leslie was going down to Remus's quarters to have tea when she heard running footsteps in the next hall. She turned around curiously and walked back the way she had come. She turned down the hall and saw a figure turn the corner slowly. It's only Ana, she thought and turned to go back when she heard a loud thud like something getting rammed against a wall. Leslie quickly ran down the hall.
"Ana!" she cried when she turned the corner.
A figure one foot taller then her was cloaked and masked leaning against something on the wall.
"The creature." Leslie whispered.
She fumbled to take out her wand.
"Help!! Help!!" Leslie screamed. The creature never looked at her but whispered something to Anaka as it tightened its grip.
"STOP!!!!!" Leslie screamed.
She pointed her wand at the creature.
"Expecto patronum!!! Expecto patronum!!!" she screamed.
There was a blast of light as a phoenix came out of her wand and flew at the creature. The creature was thrown against the floor and it ran, faster then anything Leslie had ever seen, down the hall. Leslie forgot about the creature and ran to Anaka. She knelt beside her.
"Ana! Ana can you hear me? You have to stay awake!!" Leslie said wiping blood from her neck.
"Help!!!!" she screamed again as she picked up the unconscious Anaka.
Remus and two Aurors ran down the hall. They stared at Leslie. Tears were streaming down her face and her face was distorted in terror. She held a limp form in her arms. She ran towards the Aurors.
"Get Madam Pomfry quick!! This girl is going to die if she doesn't get immediate help!" Leslie yelled.
One of the Aurors ran back down the hall. The other took off his cloak and laid it on the floor. Leslie put Anaka down slowly and Remus cried out in horror when he realized who it was.
"Anaka! Anaka! Oh what happened to her?!" he cried. He knelt by his daughter and gently stroked her pale face with shaking fingers.
"I need a piece of your cloak Remus. I need any piece of cloth. Please hurry!" said Leslie.
Remus looked up at Leslie. She was trying to stop the cuts on Anaka's neck from bleeding with her sleeves but it wasn't working. Remus quickly took off his cloak and ripped a piece of it off. Leslie took it and applied pressure to the cuts.
"It was the creature." Leslie said quietly.
"Why would it attack Ana?" Remus asked.
"I don't know. But I think someone should be with her and Harry at all times now."
Madam Pomfry ran down the hall and knelt next to them. She took out her wand and whispered some words. Anaka started to float.
"We can get her there quicker this way." She said and then started giving orders to the others.
*************************************
Remus paced outside the curtain hiding Anaka's bed. He listened to the hushed, hurried voices speaking inside. Harry and John were sitting with Leslie against a nearby wall. Sirius was lying in front of them. Remus sighed and sat down next to Leslie. He scratched Sirius's ear thoughtfully.
"I'm sure she's fine Remus." Leslie said softly. Remus nodded.
"She will be fine." He reassured himself.
They grew silent as Madam Pomfry came out of the curtain. She took off a pair of bloody gloves and threw them away.
"I can't do anything else." She said slowly, "I was able to stop the cuts from bleeding. She was lucky the claws didn't puncture her windpipe or anything else. She's still asleep but I'm sure she'll be fine from here on."
Everyone sighed with relief.
"Can I see her?" Remus asked.
"Only two at a time please."
Remus nodded. He and John went to see Anaka, leaving Leslie and Harry alone.
"You should have someone with you at all times Harry. Anaka's going to have around the clock watch too." Leslie said quietly.
"You think it's after me too?" Harry asked. Sirius whined.
"I don't know. But it is definitely working for Voldemort. Anaka could have just been a warning for you."
Harry gulped and looked down at his hands. They were silent for a moment and then they heard loud voices behind the curtain. Leslie pulled it back slightly. Anaka was sitting up with a bandage around her neck. John was holding her hand and they were both looking at Remus angrily. Remus glared at them.
"Sorry to intrude but," Leslie said entering, "I don't think you should be getting Anaka so upset. What happened?"
"I volunteered to protect Anaka but Professor Lupin won't let me." John growled.
"She doesn't need you." Remus snapped.
"What does she need?" Leslie asked softly. Remus looked at her silently.
"She doesn't need him." He whispered.
Anaka squeezed John's hand.
"I think she does." Leslie countered, "But I agree with your father that he can't help you with this. John can't go with you everywhere, like the girls dormitory."
"So what should I do?" Anaka asked.
"I'll speak to your father." Leslie said gesturing for Remus to follow her. They left silently.
"You can see her Harry." Said Leslie. She stared at the dog for a minute.
"You too dog."
The dog got up and walked with Harry.
"That's not a regular dog is it?" Leslie asked Remus. Remus cleared his throat.
"So what did you want to talk to me about?"
Leslie knew he was changing the subject but decided to drop the dog issue. They had bigger problems.
"I think I can watch Anaka without her knowing. She doesn't have to feel strange about having someone with her because she won't know I'm there."
Remus nodded. Then his face brightened.
"Would you like to get a cup of tea?"
"I'd love to!" Leslie said with a laugh.
******************************************
In 2 weeks Anaka was on her feet again. She didn't know why everyone had suddenly dropped the issue of her having someone watch her but Anaka didn't mind. It gave her a chance to try to forget the incident. The battle was only four weeks away and Anaka was bringing her father his potion. She walked down the hall, looking over her shoulder occasionally. Over the last few days Anaka had had the feeling that someone was following her. Ever since she heard footsteps behind her one day. Anaka quickened her pace, then stopped. She listened and heard soft footsteps. They stopped suddenly. Anaka shivered and rushed to her father's door. She knocked quickly looking down the hall. Her father opened it and she quickly slipped in.
"Close it!" Anaka hissed. Remus, surprised, quickly shut the door.
"What happened?" Remus asked taking the potion.
"Someone's following me dad." Anaka said worriedly.
"Someone with soft padded feet?" Remus asked with a smile. Anaka nodded.
"Well I guess I should tell you. Leslie has been following and watching you ever since that day we argued. You have nothing to worry about."
"It would have been nice if you told me." She scolded.
Remus laughed and drank his potion.
*****************************************
Leslie watched Anaka leave the table at dinner. She was with Harry and the dog but Leslie still felt like she should follow her. She looked reluctantly at Remus and found she didn't want to leave. Another thing that puzzled her was that they had all agreed that the dog could watch Harry and when she had argued they had changed the subject. Leslie quietly said good-bye to Remus and followed Anaka out of the Great Hall. She watched them walk down the hall. She walked slowly behind them, hiding behind statues and dodging into classrooms. Once they reached the portrait of the fat lady Leslie sighed. As long as they were in the common room they were safe. Leslie followed them inside. As she walked in she found Anaka and Harry turned towards her.
"So you were following us!" Harry accused.
"My dad told me everything. You don't need to be with me at all times." Anaka pointed out.
"I should have told you. I'm sorry. Why don't you guys go to bed? You need to be up early in the morning." Leslie replied.
They nodded and headed to bed. Leslie quietly slipped out again. She walked down the halls until she came to the hall where Anaka was attacked. Se stared at the statue silently. Then a low growl came from behind her. She jumped with surprise and turned around quickly, taking a fighting stance. She sighed when she saw what had made the noise. The big black dog was growling at the statue. It stopped and looked at her.
"Stupid dog." She mumbled. The dog barked at her.
"Ok ok! Sorry. But next time make sure I know you're here!" she scolded.
Leslie looked back at the statue and examined it. There were scraches along the bottom and it was chipped on the back.
"I have no idea what this thing is," she murmured, "what has red orange eyes, is really big and has the power to freeze you? Plus it's great at hiding and has big claws. Also, how do I stop it? What can destroy something like this?"
The dog sniffed around the base and then turned away quickly with a sour face.
"Smells bad too?" Leslie asked. The dog seemed to nod slightly and Leslie shook her head.
"After this I'll figure out what you are. Come on Super dog, sniff this thing out."
Sirius barked and sniffed around. Soon they were running up and down the halls, entering and exiting classrooms. Leslie sighed as they entered the dungeons. Snape was at his desk writing some papers. He looked up and frowned as Sirius sniffed around the room.
"Get that thing out of here." Severus growled.
"Oh shut up," Leslie replied, "super dog and I are looking for the Beast. Do you happen to know where I can find him Beauty? Not hiding him I hope."
"Super dog? Beauty?" Snape said with a confused look, "Get out of here before I kill your mutt."
"Hey, don't lay hands on my partner." Sirius barked happily and looked at Snape. If he had been human Leslie would have swore the look would have been a smug one. Severus turned bright red as Sirius started to sniff at his bedroom door.
"Partner? Ha!" he grumbled.
"At least he doesn't ask a lot of questions." Leslie replied.
They watched Sirius and looked at each other in surprise when he started to growl and scratch at the door.
"So you are hiding him." Leslie whispered.
"That thing is here?!" Snape asked surprised. He narrowed his eyes and took out his wand. He pushed Sirius aside and opened the door slowly. Their eyes became wide but they just stood there.
"Guys?" Leslie asked, "Guys?"
Suddenly there was a crash and a big figure ran out the door knocking Sirius and Snape down. Leslie jumped back as the creature passed her then ran after it. She grabbed its robes and clung on. The creature was running extremely fast. Leslie took out her wand and started to say a spell when the creature swatted her with a big hand scratching her arm. Leslie cried out and fell back as the creature ran up the stairs. Leslie held her head and if she would have looked up she would have saw the creature stop and look at her, then run away. Leslie got up slowly and walked into the classroom. Snape was standing by his desk shakily and Sirius was panting on the floor.
"Thanks for leaving me to deal with him guys." Leslie growled. Severus looked at her.
"You should get that bandaged." He said pointing at her arm.
Leslie cursed as she looked at it. The creature's claws had ripped her sleeve and there were long lines going up her arm. Blood dripped freely from them.
"Come on super dog." She said slowly. Sirius got up and together they walked to see Madam Pomfry. Severus left to tell Dumbledore.
*********************************************
"Those eyes." Leslie mumbled as she sat by the fire. She was sitting on the floor of the Gryffindor common room with Sirius. She scratched him and sighed.
"They froze you both huh? And dogs can't even see color. Well I guess we should both get some rest. We have some detective work to do tomorrow."
Leslie laughed as the dog licked her face. She yawned and went to her bed. She changed into her nightgown quickly and was soon asleep. Leslie woke up suddenly when she thought she heard the door open. There was a thud like something was dropped on the ground. Leslie turned and saw nothing by the door. She sighed and turned to find herself staring at an orange warty hand. Leslie gasped and sat up. Strong hands pushed her down on the bed. Leslie fought fiercely but the hands were too strong. She looked up quickly but soon regretted it. A pair of red orange eyes stared at her. Leslie found herself unable to move and she cursed silently. The creature seemed to chuckle. It bent over her and Leslie's heart pounded.
"Stop trying to get me." It hissed.
The creature put a hand over her heart and pressed down. A shock ran through Leslie's body and pain overwhelmed her. Her heart started to skip beats. Leslie closed her eyes in agony and found that when her eyes were closed she could control her body. The creature's claws ripped her nightgown as he pressed his claws into her skin. Leslie opened her eyes and stared at the creature's chest. She gripped the creature's hand that was pressing against her chest. When she realized the creature was to strong for her and she couldn't move the creature's hand Leslie moved her head closer to the creature's arm. Pain exploded in her head and her neck ached. Leslie bit down on the creature's arm as hard as she could. The creature yelped in surprise more then pain and let her go.
Leslie got off the bed as quickly as she could and back kicked the creature in the head. The creature rubbed its jaw and laughed. Leslie climbed over the bed and started towards the door. The creature bounded after her tearing her nightgown with its claws as it reached for her. Leslie tripped and fell to the floor in-between two beds. She sat on the floor holding her head, trying to make the room stop spinning. The creature stood over her and slashed her cheek. Leslie sank to the ground in pain. Her heart was pounding strangely in her chest and she knew that the creature had done something to her heart. The cuts on her chest were deep and were bleeding heavily. Her white nightgown was torn and bloody.
"What do you want?" she mumbled.
The creature stood over her silently. Leslie knew she had to do something quick or the creature would kill her so she tried to scream. Only a small noise escaped her mouth. The creature slashed at her and the bandages on her arm opened. Leslie quickly climbed on the bed in back of her and fell to the other side. She gasped for breath.
"Next time you will not live." It hissed. Then it was gone.
Leslie stood uneasily and headed for the door. She looked around and saw two limb figures lying on the ground by the first bed. Leslie recognized who one of them was at once.
"Oh Harry." She mumbled.
She fell to the floor and crawled towards the bodies. Harry's clothes were torn and bloody. Cuts were all over his body and he had a big slash on his forehead. Leslie tore off a part of her nightgown and rapped them around his worst wounds. Leslie then turned over the other body. She brushed back the man's black hair. Leslie stared at the handsome face and thought it looked strangely familiar. She tore off another piece of her gown and rapped it around his wounds. Then she crawled to the door and opened it.
Leslie got up and walked to the 5th year rooms. She opened them quickly and found Anaka sleeping peacefully. She checked on the Suzy and found her asleep too. Leslie quickly went to the boys dormitory and found that Auror sleeping soundly. She looked around for Milata but couldn't find him anywhere. She ran to the common room and then gasped. Despair and horror clutched her heart and she fell to the floor sobbing. In the middle of the common room floor Milata's body was lying next to his severed head.
*********************************************
Severus was sleeping in his room when a noise in the classroom awoke him. He opened the door slowly and looked inside. When he saw nothing he opened it wider. Suddenly a hand shot out from behind the door and grabbed him. He cried out in surprise and looked down at the floor because he had a feeling who it was. The creature chuckled as Severus squirmed.
"Pitiful. You don't have to worry. I won't kill you. That would make Voldemort unhappy but I can discourage you from acting against me." He hissed and laughed slightly, "Even the girl put up more of a fight then you."
"Who are you talking about?" Severus growled.
"The little women who was in here before."
"Leslie!" Snape said with surprise.
Severus growled and slipped out of his shirt. The creature reached for him scratching his back. Severus cried out in pain and ran for his potions rack. He took one and threw it at the creature. The creature screamed as the potion hit it and it ran out the door. Snape sighed. He touched his back and found his hand covered with blood. Then Severus remembered Leslie and he ran out the door.
************************************************
He ran down the halls and gasped as he saw the Fat Lady. She wasn't in her portrait but the portrait was ripped to shreds. Severus quickly entered the common room. He looked around and his stomach flipped. The floor was drenched with blood. The body of one of the Aurors was lying on the floor beheaded. His head was lying next to him with a look of horror on it. Sobs filled the air and Severus looked to see a small figure crouching by the Auror. Blood was around her and Severus soon realized it was from her. Leslie looked up at the sound of Snape. Tears ran down her cheeks and there were a series of cuts on one cheek that flowed as freely as the tears. Her nightgown was in taters. Leslie knew at once by the blood on his hand, the blood dripping off his back, and the fact that he had no shirt on that the creature had also attacked him.
"Severus." Leslie whispered.
Then Snape did something out of character. He knelt by her and hugged her tightly.
"I couldn't help him…it got to him…. and me…. and Harry…. and some man…. don't know who it is…" she mumbled. Severus held her at arms length and looked into her eyes.
"Where are the others?" he asked.
"I'll show you." She whispered.
Leslie stood up shakily and walked to the 7th years room.
"The other two Aurors and Anaka are fine. They slept through everything." She said quietly.
Leslie opened the door and walked in. She knelt by two figures on the floor. Severus quickly did the same and checked their pulses.
"They're alive." He said with a sigh.
"But who is that man?" Leslie asked. Severus grew uncomfortable.
"We should get you all to Madam Pomfry." He said, changing the subject.
Leslie was too tired to argue. She sighed and lay down next to Harry. Then she went to sleep. Severus looked the three of them over. He woke up the other Aurors and quickly explained the situation. They each picked up a person and carried them down the halls. Madam Pomfry woke up to Severus knocking and looked at them with surprise.
"What happened?" she asked.
"Ask later. They need help now." Said one of the Aurors.
Madam Pomfry nodded and gestured for them to lay the three people on three empty beds. Severus made sure they were being taken care of and then went to Dumbledore.
******************************************
"This creature is becoming more aggressive all the time." Dumbledore said as they walked quickly down the halls.
"We need to figure out how to stop it soon before it kills someone else." Severus replied.
Dumbledore shook his head.
"Milata was a good man. He had a wife and three kids in Africa. A fourth to come."
They stayed silent until they reached the hospital wing. They entered to the sound of arguing voices.
"No, I don't want any drugs!! I'm fine…ow! Don't do that! Madam Pomfry I demand to be told who that man is?"
"Oh shut up!"
"Who are you to say that!?!?!?!"
Dumbledore and Severus walked up to the beds. Harry was still unconscious but Sirius was sitting up and so was Leslie. Their beds were next to each other and they were glaring at each other.
"Can one of you make her shut up?" Sirius asked.
"Why don't you." Severus snapped.
"Who is he?! Dumbledore I just want to know so I can figure out his connection to the creature!" Leslie replied.
"What connection? The creature attacked everyone that was in the dungeons and went after Harry and Milata because they woke up and tried to stop the creature!" Sirius growled. He looked at Snape.
"Shouldn't you put a shirt on?" he sneered.
"Everyone calm down! Leslie, I'd like you to meet Sirius Black." Dumbledore said slowly.
Leslie's eyes widened and she stared at Sirius in disbelief.
"I thought you looked familiar! I studied your case! What are you doing here you murderer!? You belong in Azkaban!"
"He's innocent. Peter killed James and Lily." Dumbledore told her.
"Petegrew?" Leslie asked, "Well I guess that makes sense. He is a …."
"Can we change the subject?" Severus asked.
"He doesn't think I'm innocent." Sirius whispered to Leslie, "Give it up grease ball."
Severus went red and he clenched his fists.
"Wait a minute!! You said the creature attacked everyone in the dungeon but what about…" Leslie's voice trailed off.
"Super dog?" Sirius asked with a grin, "Here I am! Where did you get that name anyway? I mean, super dog?"
"You are an Animagus! Wow, talk about a reality check."
Harry stirred and everyone looked at him.
"Will he be ok?" Sirius asked.
"He'll be fine with some rest. That's what all of you need." Madam Pomfry replied, "Now let me look at you Professor Snape."
Severus sat on a bed and Madam Pomfry treated his wounds. Leslie sighed.
"It feels good to have my heart beating regularly again." She said.
Madam Pomfry finished with Severus and he stood up.
"Now can you put a shirt on?" Sirius asked.
Severus glared at him.
"You should probably get someone to clean up everything in Gryffindor's dormitories. Also send someone to…. to clean up the common room." Leslie said quietly.
Dumbledore nodded and left. They sat there in silence. Leslie stared at her hands. Severus sat on the end of her bed.
"I'm sorry about Milata." He whispered. Leslie looked at Snape and let the tears fall down her cheeks.
"He had a wife and three kids and his wife is pregnant! I'd worked with Milata before. He wouldn't hurt a soul. Damn that creature. I'll kill it with my bare hands." She whispered. Leslie squeezed Severus hand.
Sirius watched them. He had a bad feeling about the two of them. Suddenly Anaka and Remus rushed through the door.
"What happened!?" Anaka asked, "We heard you guys were attacked by the creature but how? I don't understand how I slept through it!"
Remus looked over the three. His eyes lingered where Leslie and Severus were holding hands but he quickly looked away. Eventually Harry woke up and they were able to piece together what happened. Milata had to have been in the common room when the creature came in. He stood up and looked the creature in the eyes. The creature then beheaded him and rushed to Harry. Sirius woke up when the creature entered and turned into himself. Before he could do anything the creature was on him and Harry woke up. Harry tried to help but the creature got him. It then carried both of them to Leslie's room and attacked Leslie. Then the creature left and attacked Severus.
"How horrible!" said Anaka.
"We have to stop this thing soon." Remus replied.
"But how?" asked Harry.
"Well, the thing ran away when I hit it with a potion. I can find out what that potion was and make more." Severus suggested. Leslie nodded but Sirius rolled his eyes.
"Oh please! You think one potion will kill this thing? It just scared the creature! It won't kill it." He scolded.
"I think you have had enough visitors today." said Madam Pomfry, "I don't want you three getting all upset."
The others nodded and left. Remus said good-bye to Sirius and was about to leave when Sirius stopped him.
"Are you sure there's nothing between that girl and Snape?" he asked quietly.
"Oh course not." Remus scolded.
"I just don't want to see you get hurt." Sirius shrugged.
Remus nodded and left. Of course there's nothing between them, he thought, How could there be?
****************************************
It took them all a week to get better and they were not any closer to finding out how to stop the creature. There had been no more attacks but everyone was on their guard. Milata's funeral was scheduled at the night his family arrived. Anaka watched his family stand by the coffin. He had a daughter who was 11, a son that was 8 and a son that was 5. His wife was 8 months pregnant and was going to have a girl. The thought of them growing up without a father made Anaka feel sick. She couldn't understand why these things happened to innocent people. John squeezed her hand.
"They'll be alright." He whispered.
"How can they be?" Anaka whispered back.
"We will all get through this somehow." John sighed.
Anaka nodded. Once the funeral was over they were each allowed to go up to the closed coffin. Anaka and John went up at the same time.
"I'm so sorry this happened." Anaka whispered. Her eyes stung with tears.
"We will stop this creature." John said sternly.
Anaka nodded and they walked to the side to wait for the others.
*********************************************
Leslie had stood in the back during the funeral and she waited for everyone to leave before approaching the coffin. She put a hand on it and tears stung her eyes.
"You were in the wrong place at the wrong time pal. Why were you up? You should have been asleep. It wouldn't have hurt you then. I promise I'll find this thing. I promise I'll kill it. I'll kill it…. I promise to avenge you. You won't die in vain. I won't let you Milata. Your family will be leaving tomorrow so don't worry. I won't let it hurt them. You're wife, kids, and baby will be fine. You'll be going home too. Africa must be a beautiful place. I wish I could have gone with you to see it. You've been a great friend…I'll never forget you…I swear."
She ran her hand over the coffin. Then she sat beside it and watched the sun set. Tears ran down her face.
"I'll never forget you." She whispered, "I'll get that creature before it hurts anyone else or I'll die trying!"
