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?-??????????????? Disclaimer : Yeah, you know, I know, we know.
Back in the past, one year ago, Dumbledore was considered dangerous and crazy for saying Voldemort was back, now he was popular and respected more than ever for a same reason. Everyday, different magazines and newspapers talked about Dumbledore. The Ministry had asked him to help them, and Dumbledore do help.
The Order of the Phoenix became an elite organization. The main reason was Dumbledore didn't want to attract too much attention. He thought that with these people were enough, and he wanted to choose more carefully. So he kept it secret from even Cornelius Fudge. Dumbledore told them once in a lunch.
`Never understand how curious they are, nosey I must say, about our Order. What shall I say? Well, Dumbledore`s Army do fit,` he said, winked at Harry.
The fact was, this summer was one of the busiest summers Harry had ever known. The Death Eaters caused quite a number cases, and spread fear so everyday they were busy. For Harry, Hermione and Ron, too, who didn't even know anything, were expected to work hard. They were not spies or messenger or other cool stuffs, but they cleaned the house!
Amazingly, the Order's member was a lot. Every kind of people came to Grimmauld Place and stayed there for last few days. They came from all over the country. Harry was fascinated to saw so many kinds of Wizards and witches grouped in the hallway. But they created chaos here, and Harry was too busy to watched or try to hear something, he had tons to do.
`We have been working 100 times more than those people for the Order and still they haven't let us join!` growled Ron furiously, as he carried a mound of foul smelling dirty blankets.
People had injuries when they went back from `work`. Not very bad, but some got deep cut. Harry overheard that this war wasn't an open war, but very soon it will be. Hermione fancied healing people with magic.
Because of that, Mrs. Weasley made them lunch and dinner in the dining room. Harry never really liked the long, delicate looking and graceful dining room - plus strangers so he choose to eat in the kitchen with the Weasley`s and Hermione.
* * *
In the other hand, Hermione Audrey Granger could feel a soft invincible bound with Draco Malfoy since their talk. They were not stupid enough to chatted animatedly in front of Harry and Ron, who were both fuming at this time. But overtime they met, after all his `warm and friendly` exchange of sneers and insults with Hermione`s friends, Draco will smile a little to her. And Hermione liked that smile.
Draco was busy. Like all the Order members, he locked himself in the spacious drawing room. They only go out for lunch, with tired but e!!!cited face. As long as Hermione know, there were only a little `field work` since all this crowd stayed.
One day, when Hermione was going to bring foods for people that were ill and have serious injuries, she met Draco in the stairway.
`Uh. hullo.` said Draco brightly, after hesitated.
`Hi!` greeted Hermione brightly. `What's that in your hand?`
`This?` asked Draco, opened his hand. On it lay a big rounded badge. There were shining gold bird and orange words that Hermione couldn't read in the dingy stairway. `This is our Order's badge.`
`Hermione was glad to hear `our` instead of `my`. Malfoy put that badge on Hermione`s hand after she put her tray on the dusty table nearby. Hermione examined it closely in a weak candlelight, (if only she was allowed to `LUMOS!`).
That badge was very pretty. That bird which Hermione saw earlier was a Phoenix, soared to the sky. His feather color shone beautifully. The background was blue and under it there were `The Order of The Phoenix` written in a sharp and smooth words.
`What do you use it for?` asked Hermione curiously played the badge in her hands. Draco rolled his eyeballs.
`No idea. But Dumbledore gave it with a wink and ordered us to bring it in every work. He said this Phoenix in the badge really cute .` moaned Draco, shook his head tiredly. Hermione giggled.
`Feel much better?` asked Hermione anxiously. Draco walked her to the `hospital` room and Hermione had kicked away the risk of being seen by Harry and Ron.
`I think so. But these meetings are tiring me even before tomorrow.`
`What's the matter with tomorrow?` cut Hermione quickly. Draco realized his mistakes but shrugged nonetheless.
`Well, you are going to know it tomorrow, so what's the different? Tomorrow there will be a big attack from the Order's member. We will attack a suspicious target that is suspected as the Death Eater's headquarter. Tom Riddle's house.` explained Draco coolly while Hermione felt something gag her throat.
`What? Tomorrow? You will go too?` asked Hermione, his feet weak because of fear. It was still fresh in her memory, evil people behind the mask. And tomorrow everybody will attack a house full of those scary people.
`Yes,` said Draco, calm. But his face paled. They stopped in front of their destination room and Draco handed the tray back to Hermione. Hermione stopped for second, watching a blond boy in front of her.
`Draco, can I ask for something?` asked Hermione.
`Sure,` replied Draco, a bit surprised. ` But don't expected something too great, I won't be able to do It.`
`Hmmm.promise you'll be back safely.` whispered Hermione. Malfoy`s gray eyes widened in awe, but Hermione stilled her expression.
`I will.`
Upon hearing that answer Hermione turned.
`Wait. I want something too.` Draco stopped her. Hermione turned back.
`Promise you wont be too worried.` Hermione gawked at him. But she saw teasing grin on his good-looking face. And Hermione smiled.
`I will.`
* * *
Harry and Ron darted downstairs in the next morning when they heard shouts. They halted in the kitchen and found Lupin and Mrs. Weasley was arguing heatedly, witnessed by the Weasley`s kids, Mr. Weasley, Tonks, Hermione, some other close people, and there was Dumbledore.
`I am able to go.` muttered Lupin, tensely.
`No, Lupin, NO! You are still ill and will only be a burden for the rest.` burst Mrs. Weasley angrily, and the atmosphere was silent in a moment. Harry saw Lupin face redden brightly. Harry didn't remember seeing Lupin that angry before and he and everybody were holding their breath.
`Thanks for reminding me, Molly. But I'm sure I'm healthy now.` said Lupin, with a forced calmness. They all breathed.
`But you could get hurt! And we need you more in here, and-`
`Molly, that's enough.` cut Dumbledore, that were standing in silent since Harry came in. His blue eyes sparkled a faintest impatient look. `Remus shall go with us if he wish. He is needed by the team. Don't worry, I believe he could take care of himself and he is more mature then some `
`Oh, Dumbledore.`Mrs. Weasley protested, pale.
`Molly, dear, Remus is going with us in this attack.` Said Dumbledore in his final tone. `IF you excuse me, I have to meet the others.`
After said that he was gone in seconds, leaving very tense situation behind. Mrs. Weasley was very red in the face and Lupin looked glad and everyone was staring at them, hoping something to happen again.
But, Harry was already thinking about Dumbledore`s word. Att.ack? What does it mean? Then he let his gaze roamed the kitchen. Every Order Member wore similar dark blue long robes, that looked light and flexible. Even Tonks hair was dark today.
`Remus, we will be waiting for you in the front hall.` growled Moody, breaking the silence. Soon after that Mrs. Weasley bid his family good night, and noises spread again. While Lupin, who wore a shabby gray robes (that looked suspiciously like blue before) smiled at Harry and they went to the corner.
`Harry, as you see, I will go with the rest of others,` said Lupin lightly. Harry fell silent.
`What-what does it means, that attack? Answer that seriously.` demanded Harry, suddenly angry.
`Oh, I always answer you seriously. But well, Order of the Phoenix!! is going to attack Voldemort`s house today, Harry.` said Lupin, in earnest.
`Re-really? And, and you too?` spattered Harry, his anger faded into worry.
`Yes, I am going. It's alright Harry, we all will be back.` said Lupin, after saw Harry's expression.
Harry doubted it. Lupin looked paler and thinner than before. There was an `ill-look` in him and Harry could see why Mrs. Weasley forbid Lupin to go. Harry felt an unexplained fear in his stomach. After all, this pale man in front of him was his father's one of his fathers best friend. A great man, Lupin was, he always helped Harry. Suddenly he realized that he couldn't stand it if.if Lupin.if his familiar calm figure.like, like-
`See you, Harry` Lupin tapped Harry's shoulder lightly and went out from the kitchen, without looking back.
That day was the longest day in Harry's life. After the wizards in dark blue robes march with blazing Phoenix badge in their chests set off, everybody lost their will to speak. They all stayed in the kitchen, with no reason at all, but for Harry it was much better here than being alone in the bedroom. He had to admit, that kitchen was not that fun.
Mrs. Weasley spent most of the times cutting seasoning herbs into tiny pieces, but now and then let out high-pitched sob before covering her face with her apron. Fred and George gloomily forcing dangerous looking red-green jelly to Crookshanks mouth. Ginny mourned over her silver watch which Bill gave her, and Ron sat beside Harry, pale, very silent. And for Harry the most peculiar thing was Hermione, she didn't even glance at the thick book on her lap. Anxiously kept checking at the stilled grandfather clocks.
Harry himself, didn't feel like talking. His mind wondered to where the Order headed. Riddle's House. Harry had seen it many times, in his dreams. And about that Death Eater, twice he was lucky enough to run from that jeering, laughing like maniacs crowd.
He didn't have the slightest idea about today's attack. How come? When the Death Eater will see them clearly. Not to mention their number, a lot of Death Eater, powerful and dangerous. Unwontedly, Mad-Eye's story about the previous Order floated in his head. About how the Death Eater outnumbered them one to twenty, all of them picking their victims.
Harry flinched. They'll catch Lupin and friends red- handed, torturing them slowly, amused. They'll use Cruciatus Curse, or.Harry tore his mind away form thoughts like that. His thought ruined by Crookshanks, who were jumping in his hind paws.
`Very kangaroo like,` commented Hermione absentmindedly.
* * *
In the end, both Mrs. Weasley and Hermione became conscious and started yelling at the twins. Ginny helped Crookshanks with twitched lips, and the twins tried their best to look guilty. Hermione ran in panic, searched for some antidote. The kitchen was alive suddenly. Harry smiled, and he glanced at Ron, who was smiling too.
`Filthy people! How dare you come back to my house! My ancient Black house. Get out! Out! ` the horrible Mrs. Black's shriek rang from the hallway.
`They are back!` said Ginny happily, but everybody was already dashed outside. They didn't look too happy, these Order of the Phoenix members. They came with dark look in the face and some had heavy injuries. Harry's hopes getting smaller at their appearance, and he searched for Lupin in the grim crowds.
`You-know-who is way too slimy.`
`Uh-huh, you got the point, he was this near from us.`
`Nott is caught again. But he gave me nasty curse.`
`Dumbledore was being cornered, lucky he is Dumbledore .`
`How many of us went to St. Mungo?`
Pass wizards that were speaking like that sure was a hard job for Harry. It sounded bad and smelled like failure. He pushed annoyingly untouched looking Malfoy from his side and made his way to the very corner of the drawing room. Harry's face cracked to a smile.
His back on him, was Dumbledore. His white long hair and magnificent robes was striking. Harry felt a surge of warm feeling swept over him as he approached Dumbledore. Suddenly Harry stopped dead. Dumbledore was frowning at a stretcher in front of him. A man laid there, frozen, his eyes closed. White as a snow, he was lifeless.
`NO!` Harry shouted but no voice came from him. He heard a choked noise instead. Dumbledore turned, stared with his blue eyes at Harry.
`Sssh, Harry.` hushed Dumbledore in soft voice.
`Bbb-but Professor! Is he- is he-`spattered Harry, panicked.
`No, Remus Lupin is alive. Only, he was worn out by this attack and fell down in our way home. We should let him rest properly. Do you mind making a cup of tea for me, Harry? My ages tiring me, I really need to take a small break.` said Dumbledore, half sighing. He was talking very fast so that Harry's brain digested it once again.
`Now, Professor?` asked Harry, didn't sure about his ear.
`Yes, in the kitchen, please.` said Dumbledore, stood up and magically hoisted up Lupin`s stretcher. Dumbledore did it with a simple flick of his wand but the stretcher soared in the smoothest manner. His great robes billowed as he passed the crowds, who divided automatically.
Harry stood for moment, awed. But he cleared his mind away, making his way to the kitchen. Harry didn't make a cup of tea, but one pot full of it. The tea's aroma gave him a calming effect as he poured the tea leaves into the hot water. Harry had just finished when Dumbledore went in. `Are you finished? Very good, indeed,` said Dumbledore, looked slightly cheerful for the first time in this day. Harry notice his sparkling blue eyes were tired. Dumbledore sipped his tea in thoughtful silent and Harry didn't have the courage to ask about the attack.
`Well.`began Dumbledore after his last gulp. `I have guessed that you wanted me to tell you what happen.`
`Yes, Professor.` replied Harry, nodded.
`You heard what my fellow members say? Unfortunately we didn't caught Voldemort. He slipped from our hands like a snake, yes, a snake. I, myself, was wrong in guessing about their number. They had prepare for this, and their movement was fast to protect Voldemort.`
`We had a massive duel back there, Harry, hard, with curses darker than I remember. We cornered them, at last, but Voldemort was already missing. We caught some of the Death Eater, like Macnair and Goyle.`
Dumbledore stopped, his eyes clouded and Harry could feel that Dumbledore`s avoid to tell him the details. Perhaps it wasn't pleasing enough, he thought fairly.
`Ehrrr, Professor, why do the Death Eaters torturing people like now? I mean, I still couldn't understand, what is the fun in killing innocent Muggle and such,` said Harry, spoke of the riddles that hung over his head for times. Dumbledore`s blue eyes widened in mild surprise as he stared at Harry.
`Harry, sometimes I forgot you are only sixteen,` said Dumbledore, beamed in father-look way. Harry grinned in discomfort. Yeah, he'll take that as a compliment.
`I'm not sixteen yet.` said Harry in reply.
`Yes, yes but you are on the next Friday, is it right? Very well then, where was I? Oh, the Death Eater. You didn't understand it, and believe me, you are better in that state. Their minds are out of control, Harry. They are Voldemort`s big supporter and they loved him more then everything. You see all of the Death Eater will sacrifice everything if he asked them to.`explained Dumbledore, his forehead gave a small thoughtful frown.
`Why? Some of them already have everything,` said Harry, remembered Lucius Malfoy, who was always bathed in gold. Dumbledore smiled serenely at him.
`Power, Voldemort offered them power. I know they were some of the greatest wizards these days. Clever, brave and fast, but dark. He let them released their evil side, gave them power to act as foul as they wish, as long as they obeyed Voldemort`s order. They are allowed to banish Muggle and Muggle born, the Death Eater's long-time insane obsession. In fact, Voldemort used them.`
`If, you cannot understand it, that means that your heart is still true, Harry. It tells me that you are not fond of power like them,` said Dumbledore, his eyes softened. Harry stared back at Dumbledore.
`Neither do you,` said Harry automatically. A strange expression showed up in Dumbledore`s face.
`Do I? How do you know? The truth is I am Hogwarts Headmaster, I am the Wizengamot`s chief. I have and use my power from times to times. How do you know that I am not fond of power, like Voldemort?` forced Dumbledore, so strange, horrible and menacing right now that Harry jumped back. Harry gulped and closed his eyes.
`I-I, believe so,` answered Harry, anxiously. He saw Dumbledore smiled in a moment before turned into the usual Dumbledore again, mild, kind, and wise, now looked older and tired then usual.
`Nobody's flawless, Harry, nobody, except young people's heart. That is one of the reason why I'm hoping so much on Mr. Malfoy, on the Weasley`s kids, on Miss Granger, on every students in Hogwarts, especially on you,` said Dumbledore, looked straight at Harry. Harry felt that his blue gaze shot through him, exploring his heart. But it was warm and encouraging at the same time.
`Now, Harry, what do you want for your birthday?` asked Dumbledore. Harry blinked at him.
* * *
Hermione slipped quietly outside the packed drawing room. She accelerated her speed until tall figure in front of him stopped. His silver-blond hair reflected the candle light and his lips curved into a smile as he turned.
`I fulfilled my promise,` stated Draco Malfoy with mock solemnity. Hermione scanned the boy in front of her. He was in good appearance, not a single injuries in face nor body. But his blood looked scarily drained from his face, like a white wall. He was even whiter compared to the dusty wallpaper behind him. Malfoy`s eyes stared questioningly at her, as if waiting for Hermione`s response.
`Alright. But you look ill, Draco.` pointed Hermione, started to worry. Draco rolled his gray eyes.
`Come on! The main idea is I come back, safe. And what about you?` asked Draco, curious. Hermione was going to lie but her mouth betrayed her.
`I'm worried sick.`blurted her. Draco`s eyebrows went up in wonder for seconds before wicked grin flashed. Hermione never saw him that cute before.
`Really? For me? I'm flattered.` said Draco, his hand tossed back some stray hair in his forehead automatically. Hermione frowned, angry with herself.
`Not really. For the others, too.And what about today?` asked Hermione, tried to drop the subject out. Draco`s eyes darkened, and he searched for the comfiest place as if going to tell long stories. He was going to lean against the wall when he spoke.
`Hard. I hate to tell you these, but the result is n-OWWW!`
Draco swore out loud and jumped back as if someone invincible poked his head. Hermione was so shocked when Draco doubled up in the floor, biting his lip to muffled screams. Hermione touched his back and he yelped again. Frantic, Hermione opened Draco`s robes hastily, only to find white-red shirt inside. Suddenly it hit Hermione.
`Draco, you're hurt!` cried Hermione. His shirt was not red, but it was drenched with blood. Draco shushed her and stubbornly stood up.
`I know. Darn, my cursed uncle Rabastan, made quick slashing movements but I don't know that'll hurt like this,` said Draco, closing his eyes. Hermione saw beads of cold sweat in his forehead. Hermione shuddered at the sight of Draco`s shirt. He'll be in danger of losing too much blood.
`Ill heals that if you want. In your room or mine?` asked Hermione, very fast. Draco stopped gritting his teeth and shook his head slowly.
`Tsk, tsk, tsk, Hermione Granger, fine young lady usually didn't say such thing to a man.` teased Draco, grinning from ear-to- ear. Took times for Hermione to realize of what the hell Draco was talking about before she caught the meaning. Hermione blushed beside the laughing Draco.
to be continued.
Wooohooo, guys, my second chapter!!! Hey, please review, okay! Tell me everything good or bad about this story. Perhaps my Grammar (wink innocently) everything. I know this looked complicated, cause I've been through lots these days and poured it all in my story but just read it, okay. Hope you enjoy it, THANKS!!!
?-??????????????? Disclaimer : Yeah, you know, I know, we know.
Back in the past, one year ago, Dumbledore was considered dangerous and crazy for saying Voldemort was back, now he was popular and respected more than ever for a same reason. Everyday, different magazines and newspapers talked about Dumbledore. The Ministry had asked him to help them, and Dumbledore do help.
The Order of the Phoenix became an elite organization. The main reason was Dumbledore didn't want to attract too much attention. He thought that with these people were enough, and he wanted to choose more carefully. So he kept it secret from even Cornelius Fudge. Dumbledore told them once in a lunch.
`Never understand how curious they are, nosey I must say, about our Order. What shall I say? Well, Dumbledore`s Army do fit,` he said, winked at Harry.
The fact was, this summer was one of the busiest summers Harry had ever known. The Death Eaters caused quite a number cases, and spread fear so everyday they were busy. For Harry, Hermione and Ron, too, who didn't even know anything, were expected to work hard. They were not spies or messenger or other cool stuffs, but they cleaned the house!
Amazingly, the Order's member was a lot. Every kind of people came to Grimmauld Place and stayed there for last few days. They came from all over the country. Harry was fascinated to saw so many kinds of Wizards and witches grouped in the hallway. But they created chaos here, and Harry was too busy to watched or try to hear something, he had tons to do.
`We have been working 100 times more than those people for the Order and still they haven't let us join!` growled Ron furiously, as he carried a mound of foul smelling dirty blankets.
People had injuries when they went back from `work`. Not very bad, but some got deep cut. Harry overheard that this war wasn't an open war, but very soon it will be. Hermione fancied healing people with magic.
Because of that, Mrs. Weasley made them lunch and dinner in the dining room. Harry never really liked the long, delicate looking and graceful dining room - plus strangers so he choose to eat in the kitchen with the Weasley`s and Hermione.
* * *
In the other hand, Hermione Audrey Granger could feel a soft invincible bound with Draco Malfoy since their talk. They were not stupid enough to chatted animatedly in front of Harry and Ron, who were both fuming at this time. But overtime they met, after all his `warm and friendly` exchange of sneers and insults with Hermione`s friends, Draco will smile a little to her. And Hermione liked that smile.
Draco was busy. Like all the Order members, he locked himself in the spacious drawing room. They only go out for lunch, with tired but e!!!cited face. As long as Hermione know, there were only a little `field work` since all this crowd stayed.
One day, when Hermione was going to bring foods for people that were ill and have serious injuries, she met Draco in the stairway.
`Uh. hullo.` said Draco brightly, after hesitated.
`Hi!` greeted Hermione brightly. `What's that in your hand?`
`This?` asked Draco, opened his hand. On it lay a big rounded badge. There were shining gold bird and orange words that Hermione couldn't read in the dingy stairway. `This is our Order's badge.`
`Hermione was glad to hear `our` instead of `my`. Malfoy put that badge on Hermione`s hand after she put her tray on the dusty table nearby. Hermione examined it closely in a weak candlelight, (if only she was allowed to `LUMOS!`).
That badge was very pretty. That bird which Hermione saw earlier was a Phoenix, soared to the sky. His feather color shone beautifully. The background was blue and under it there were `The Order of The Phoenix` written in a sharp and smooth words.
`What do you use it for?` asked Hermione curiously played the badge in her hands. Draco rolled his eyeballs.
`No idea. But Dumbledore gave it with a wink and ordered us to bring it in every work. He said this Phoenix in the badge really cute .` moaned Draco, shook his head tiredly. Hermione giggled.
`Feel much better?` asked Hermione anxiously. Draco walked her to the `hospital` room and Hermione had kicked away the risk of being seen by Harry and Ron.
`I think so. But these meetings are tiring me even before tomorrow.`
`What's the matter with tomorrow?` cut Hermione quickly. Draco realized his mistakes but shrugged nonetheless.
`Well, you are going to know it tomorrow, so what's the different? Tomorrow there will be a big attack from the Order's member. We will attack a suspicious target that is suspected as the Death Eater's headquarter. Tom Riddle's house.` explained Draco coolly while Hermione felt something gag her throat.
`What? Tomorrow? You will go too?` asked Hermione, his feet weak because of fear. It was still fresh in her memory, evil people behind the mask. And tomorrow everybody will attack a house full of those scary people.
`Yes,` said Draco, calm. But his face paled. They stopped in front of their destination room and Draco handed the tray back to Hermione. Hermione stopped for second, watching a blond boy in front of her.
`Draco, can I ask for something?` asked Hermione.
`Sure,` replied Draco, a bit surprised. ` But don't expected something too great, I won't be able to do It.`
`Hmmm.promise you'll be back safely.` whispered Hermione. Malfoy`s gray eyes widened in awe, but Hermione stilled her expression.
`I will.`
Upon hearing that answer Hermione turned.
`Wait. I want something too.` Draco stopped her. Hermione turned back.
`Promise you wont be too worried.` Hermione gawked at him. But she saw teasing grin on his good-looking face. And Hermione smiled.
`I will.`
* * *
Harry and Ron darted downstairs in the next morning when they heard shouts. They halted in the kitchen and found Lupin and Mrs. Weasley was arguing heatedly, witnessed by the Weasley`s kids, Mr. Weasley, Tonks, Hermione, some other close people, and there was Dumbledore.
`I am able to go.` muttered Lupin, tensely.
`No, Lupin, NO! You are still ill and will only be a burden for the rest.` burst Mrs. Weasley angrily, and the atmosphere was silent in a moment. Harry saw Lupin face redden brightly. Harry didn't remember seeing Lupin that angry before and he and everybody were holding their breath.
`Thanks for reminding me, Molly. But I'm sure I'm healthy now.` said Lupin, with a forced calmness. They all breathed.
`But you could get hurt! And we need you more in here, and-`
`Molly, that's enough.` cut Dumbledore, that were standing in silent since Harry came in. His blue eyes sparkled a faintest impatient look. `Remus shall go with us if he wish. He is needed by the team. Don't worry, I believe he could take care of himself and he is more mature then some `
`Oh, Dumbledore.`Mrs. Weasley protested, pale.
`Molly, dear, Remus is going with us in this attack.` Said Dumbledore in his final tone. `IF you excuse me, I have to meet the others.`
After said that he was gone in seconds, leaving very tense situation behind. Mrs. Weasley was very red in the face and Lupin looked glad and everyone was staring at them, hoping something to happen again.
But, Harry was already thinking about Dumbledore`s word. Att.ack? What does it mean? Then he let his gaze roamed the kitchen. Every Order Member wore similar dark blue long robes, that looked light and flexible. Even Tonks hair was dark today.
`Remus, we will be waiting for you in the front hall.` growled Moody, breaking the silence. Soon after that Mrs. Weasley bid his family good night, and noises spread again. While Lupin, who wore a shabby gray robes (that looked suspiciously like blue before) smiled at Harry and they went to the corner.
`Harry, as you see, I will go with the rest of others,` said Lupin lightly. Harry fell silent.
`What-what does it means, that attack? Answer that seriously.` demanded Harry, suddenly angry.
`Oh, I always answer you seriously. But well, Order of the Phoenix!! is going to attack Voldemort`s house today, Harry.` said Lupin, in earnest.
`Re-really? And, and you too?` spattered Harry, his anger faded into worry.
`Yes, I am going. It's alright Harry, we all will be back.` said Lupin, after saw Harry's expression.
Harry doubted it. Lupin looked paler and thinner than before. There was an `ill-look` in him and Harry could see why Mrs. Weasley forbid Lupin to go. Harry felt an unexplained fear in his stomach. After all, this pale man in front of him was his father's one of his fathers best friend. A great man, Lupin was, he always helped Harry. Suddenly he realized that he couldn't stand it if.if Lupin.if his familiar calm figure.like, like-
`See you, Harry` Lupin tapped Harry's shoulder lightly and went out from the kitchen, without looking back.
That day was the longest day in Harry's life. After the wizards in dark blue robes march with blazing Phoenix badge in their chests set off, everybody lost their will to speak. They all stayed in the kitchen, with no reason at all, but for Harry it was much better here than being alone in the bedroom. He had to admit, that kitchen was not that fun.
Mrs. Weasley spent most of the times cutting seasoning herbs into tiny pieces, but now and then let out high-pitched sob before covering her face with her apron. Fred and George gloomily forcing dangerous looking red-green jelly to Crookshanks mouth. Ginny mourned over her silver watch which Bill gave her, and Ron sat beside Harry, pale, very silent. And for Harry the most peculiar thing was Hermione, she didn't even glance at the thick book on her lap. Anxiously kept checking at the stilled grandfather clocks.
Harry himself, didn't feel like talking. His mind wondered to where the Order headed. Riddle's House. Harry had seen it many times, in his dreams. And about that Death Eater, twice he was lucky enough to run from that jeering, laughing like maniacs crowd.
He didn't have the slightest idea about today's attack. How come? When the Death Eater will see them clearly. Not to mention their number, a lot of Death Eater, powerful and dangerous. Unwontedly, Mad-Eye's story about the previous Order floated in his head. About how the Death Eater outnumbered them one to twenty, all of them picking their victims.
Harry flinched. They'll catch Lupin and friends red- handed, torturing them slowly, amused. They'll use Cruciatus Curse, or.Harry tore his mind away form thoughts like that. His thought ruined by Crookshanks, who were jumping in his hind paws.
`Very kangaroo like,` commented Hermione absentmindedly.
* * *
In the end, both Mrs. Weasley and Hermione became conscious and started yelling at the twins. Ginny helped Crookshanks with twitched lips, and the twins tried their best to look guilty. Hermione ran in panic, searched for some antidote. The kitchen was alive suddenly. Harry smiled, and he glanced at Ron, who was smiling too.
`Filthy people! How dare you come back to my house! My ancient Black house. Get out! Out! ` the horrible Mrs. Black's shriek rang from the hallway.
`They are back!` said Ginny happily, but everybody was already dashed outside. They didn't look too happy, these Order of the Phoenix members. They came with dark look in the face and some had heavy injuries. Harry's hopes getting smaller at their appearance, and he searched for Lupin in the grim crowds.
`You-know-who is way too slimy.`
`Uh-huh, you got the point, he was this near from us.`
`Nott is caught again. But he gave me nasty curse.`
`Dumbledore was being cornered, lucky he is Dumbledore .`
`How many of us went to St. Mungo?`
Pass wizards that were speaking like that sure was a hard job for Harry. It sounded bad and smelled like failure. He pushed annoyingly untouched looking Malfoy from his side and made his way to the very corner of the drawing room. Harry's face cracked to a smile.
His back on him, was Dumbledore. His white long hair and magnificent robes was striking. Harry felt a surge of warm feeling swept over him as he approached Dumbledore. Suddenly Harry stopped dead. Dumbledore was frowning at a stretcher in front of him. A man laid there, frozen, his eyes closed. White as a snow, he was lifeless.
`NO!` Harry shouted but no voice came from him. He heard a choked noise instead. Dumbledore turned, stared with his blue eyes at Harry.
`Sssh, Harry.` hushed Dumbledore in soft voice.
`Bbb-but Professor! Is he- is he-`spattered Harry, panicked.
`No, Remus Lupin is alive. Only, he was worn out by this attack and fell down in our way home. We should let him rest properly. Do you mind making a cup of tea for me, Harry? My ages tiring me, I really need to take a small break.` said Dumbledore, half sighing. He was talking very fast so that Harry's brain digested it once again.
`Now, Professor?` asked Harry, didn't sure about his ear.
`Yes, in the kitchen, please.` said Dumbledore, stood up and magically hoisted up Lupin`s stretcher. Dumbledore did it with a simple flick of his wand but the stretcher soared in the smoothest manner. His great robes billowed as he passed the crowds, who divided automatically.
Harry stood for moment, awed. But he cleared his mind away, making his way to the kitchen. Harry didn't make a cup of tea, but one pot full of it. The tea's aroma gave him a calming effect as he poured the tea leaves into the hot water. Harry had just finished when Dumbledore went in. `Are you finished? Very good, indeed,` said Dumbledore, looked slightly cheerful for the first time in this day. Harry notice his sparkling blue eyes were tired. Dumbledore sipped his tea in thoughtful silent and Harry didn't have the courage to ask about the attack.
`Well.`began Dumbledore after his last gulp. `I have guessed that you wanted me to tell you what happen.`
`Yes, Professor.` replied Harry, nodded.
`You heard what my fellow members say? Unfortunately we didn't caught Voldemort. He slipped from our hands like a snake, yes, a snake. I, myself, was wrong in guessing about their number. They had prepare for this, and their movement was fast to protect Voldemort.`
`We had a massive duel back there, Harry, hard, with curses darker than I remember. We cornered them, at last, but Voldemort was already missing. We caught some of the Death Eater, like Macnair and Goyle.`
Dumbledore stopped, his eyes clouded and Harry could feel that Dumbledore`s avoid to tell him the details. Perhaps it wasn't pleasing enough, he thought fairly.
`Ehrrr, Professor, why do the Death Eaters torturing people like now? I mean, I still couldn't understand, what is the fun in killing innocent Muggle and such,` said Harry, spoke of the riddles that hung over his head for times. Dumbledore`s blue eyes widened in mild surprise as he stared at Harry.
`Harry, sometimes I forgot you are only sixteen,` said Dumbledore, beamed in father-look way. Harry grinned in discomfort. Yeah, he'll take that as a compliment.
`I'm not sixteen yet.` said Harry in reply.
`Yes, yes but you are on the next Friday, is it right? Very well then, where was I? Oh, the Death Eater. You didn't understand it, and believe me, you are better in that state. Their minds are out of control, Harry. They are Voldemort`s big supporter and they loved him more then everything. You see all of the Death Eater will sacrifice everything if he asked them to.`explained Dumbledore, his forehead gave a small thoughtful frown.
`Why? Some of them already have everything,` said Harry, remembered Lucius Malfoy, who was always bathed in gold. Dumbledore smiled serenely at him.
`Power, Voldemort offered them power. I know they were some of the greatest wizards these days. Clever, brave and fast, but dark. He let them released their evil side, gave them power to act as foul as they wish, as long as they obeyed Voldemort`s order. They are allowed to banish Muggle and Muggle born, the Death Eater's long-time insane obsession. In fact, Voldemort used them.`
`If, you cannot understand it, that means that your heart is still true, Harry. It tells me that you are not fond of power like them,` said Dumbledore, his eyes softened. Harry stared back at Dumbledore.
`Neither do you,` said Harry automatically. A strange expression showed up in Dumbledore`s face.
`Do I? How do you know? The truth is I am Hogwarts Headmaster, I am the Wizengamot`s chief. I have and use my power from times to times. How do you know that I am not fond of power, like Voldemort?` forced Dumbledore, so strange, horrible and menacing right now that Harry jumped back. Harry gulped and closed his eyes.
`I-I, believe so,` answered Harry, anxiously. He saw Dumbledore smiled in a moment before turned into the usual Dumbledore again, mild, kind, and wise, now looked older and tired then usual.
`Nobody's flawless, Harry, nobody, except young people's heart. That is one of the reason why I'm hoping so much on Mr. Malfoy, on the Weasley`s kids, on Miss Granger, on every students in Hogwarts, especially on you,` said Dumbledore, looked straight at Harry. Harry felt that his blue gaze shot through him, exploring his heart. But it was warm and encouraging at the same time.
`Now, Harry, what do you want for your birthday?` asked Dumbledore. Harry blinked at him.
* * *
Hermione slipped quietly outside the packed drawing room. She accelerated her speed until tall figure in front of him stopped. His silver-blond hair reflected the candle light and his lips curved into a smile as he turned.
`I fulfilled my promise,` stated Draco Malfoy with mock solemnity. Hermione scanned the boy in front of her. He was in good appearance, not a single injuries in face nor body. But his blood looked scarily drained from his face, like a white wall. He was even whiter compared to the dusty wallpaper behind him. Malfoy`s eyes stared questioningly at her, as if waiting for Hermione`s response.
`Alright. But you look ill, Draco.` pointed Hermione, started to worry. Draco rolled his gray eyes.
`Come on! The main idea is I come back, safe. And what about you?` asked Draco, curious. Hermione was going to lie but her mouth betrayed her.
`I'm worried sick.`blurted her. Draco`s eyebrows went up in wonder for seconds before wicked grin flashed. Hermione never saw him that cute before.
`Really? For me? I'm flattered.` said Draco, his hand tossed back some stray hair in his forehead automatically. Hermione frowned, angry with herself.
`Not really. For the others, too.And what about today?` asked Hermione, tried to drop the subject out. Draco`s eyes darkened, and he searched for the comfiest place as if going to tell long stories. He was going to lean against the wall when he spoke.
`Hard. I hate to tell you these, but the result is n-OWWW!`
Draco swore out loud and jumped back as if someone invincible poked his head. Hermione was so shocked when Draco doubled up in the floor, biting his lip to muffled screams. Hermione touched his back and he yelped again. Frantic, Hermione opened Draco`s robes hastily, only to find white-red shirt inside. Suddenly it hit Hermione.
`Draco, you're hurt!` cried Hermione. His shirt was not red, but it was drenched with blood. Draco shushed her and stubbornly stood up.
`I know. Darn, my cursed uncle Rabastan, made quick slashing movements but I don't know that'll hurt like this,` said Draco, closing his eyes. Hermione saw beads of cold sweat in his forehead. Hermione shuddered at the sight of Draco`s shirt. He'll be in danger of losing too much blood.
`Ill heals that if you want. In your room or mine?` asked Hermione, very fast. Draco stopped gritting his teeth and shook his head slowly.
`Tsk, tsk, tsk, Hermione Granger, fine young lady usually didn't say such thing to a man.` teased Draco, grinning from ear-to- ear. Took times for Hermione to realize of what the hell Draco was talking about before she caught the meaning. Hermione blushed beside the laughing Draco.
to be continued.
Wooohooo, guys, my second chapter!!! Hey, please review, okay! Tell me everything good or bad about this story. Perhaps my Grammar (wink innocently) everything. I know this looked complicated, cause I've been through lots these days and poured it all in my story but just read it, okay. Hope you enjoy it, THANKS!!!
