Disclaimer: Harry Potter and associated characters belong to J.K Rowling.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Chapter 21: The Best Seeker
The week following their return from their second mission, rumours were going around the school why the students who took part in the mission, with the exception of Harry and Hermione, were out for the entire day. As much as the teachers told the school that they were learning more advanced spells, the school still thought that they were up to something since they were gone until after classes finished and didn't show up to any meals.
Professor Sepet returned the day after their failed mission and Harry suspected that he was up to something even though Malfoy was the one accused of killing Karkaroff. Sepet relentlessly made Harry's life more miserable than ever in the duelling class by pairing him up with Blaise, who wasn't as supportive of him as Hermione had been. The Count also increased the difficulty of his training by making him fight six on two duels on top of the usual one on one against the Count, which he always lost. In addition, one of the Gryffindor students, Parvati, had stopped showing up to classes in the morning and wouldn't be seen until lunchtime, which baffled everyone, as she normally didn't miss any classes. By the end of the gruelling week, Harry was indeed looking forward to the Quidditch game against Slytherin as beating them would be a major morale boost and he had trained his team very hard for it.
Slytherin was supposed to have forfeited the match since they didn't have a replacement seeker ever since Malfoy was officially expelled from the school for endangering students and imprisoned in the dungeon under close guard until an investigation could be carried out. However someone had volunteered to replace him as the Slytherin seeker therefore Gryffindor had to uphold their end of the game in order to have a shot at the Quidditch cup at the end of the year.
The morning of the Quidditch match against Slytherin was bright and cold. Harry, Ron and Hermione were eating breakfast in the Great Hall and Harry was discussing the Quidditch match with Ron while Hermione was sitting with a book propped up against her goblet.
"Did you ever figure out who the seeker was for Slytherin?" Ron asked.
"No, I haven't but I'm worried," Harry replied. "We've beaten Slytherin many times, but that was because Malfoy was a pushover as a seeker. The seeker this time may be a lot better than he was and it's possible that he may be even better than me."
"Oh come on Harry," said Hermione, turning to face him. "You're the youngest player to have become a seeker in a century and no one else has done that again. So go and teach those Slytherins a lesson."
Harry smiled at her. "Thanks for the encouragement Hermione."
"You're welcome," she replied, grinning. "I'll be in the stands cheering for you both."
"Really?" said Ron, his face brightening at the thought of Hermione cheering for him.
"Yes - Why wouldn't I be cheering for my two best friends?"
"Good point," Ron said, his cheeks flushing with colour.
At that point, several owls flew into the Great Hall and started dropping assortments of packages and papers. One of the owls dropped something that looked like a copy of the Daily Prophet in front of Hermione, who picked it up and started to read it.
As she started reading it, her face fell and by the time she had finished, all of the colour in her face was drained and she looked very distressed.
"What's wrong Hermione?" Harry asked, noticing that she was looking rather pale.
She didn't answer and just handed the paper to Harry, who took it and began reading.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The Corrupted Headmaster & 'The Boy Who Lived'
Written by the talented and vivacious Rita Skeeter whose sharp pen has punctured many reputations.
Albus Dumbledore, the eccentric headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, has always appeared to the public eye as the best headmaster that Hogwarts has ever had in years reports Rita Skeeter, Special Correspondent.
However, last week he and a group of wizards were caught by our very own Minister of Magic: Cornelius Fudge, attempting to free the Death Eaters of Azkaban. Why he would want to free the Death Eaters is beyond comprehension, as they were all well-known followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be- Named, but it is clear that he has finally shown his true colours.
"We always knew that it was a mistake to allow him to become headmaster. We granted him power and look where he has gone," says Lucius Malfoy, a prominent member of the Ministry of Magic. "I don't think any of the students are safe with such an abominable person in charge. I am personally withdrawing my son, Draco, from that school and I encourage all parents who are still loyal to the ministry to do the same."
If such treachery couldn't be worse, among this group was the Harry Potter, 'The Boy Who Lived.' Whether or not he was corrupted by the headmaster or there on his own will is unknown, but from reports that I have personally heard from students at the school such as Draco Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson, Harry Potter has often been given special treatment by the professors to the point where he can blatantly ignore the school rules. The fact that he too has betrayed the wizarding world is shocking to us all but given the circumstances we can all see that it was only a matter of time before he too abused his powers.
The members of the ministry have given Fudge high praise for acting decisively and stopping the overbearing headmaster at Azkaban from freeing the Death Eaters. Credit has also been given to Draco Malfoy for providing the information that prevented this raid from succeeding and the ministry has granted him the 'Order of Merlin,' second class.
Where this appalling news will lead to is unknown right now but according to Fudge, it will be only a matter of time before the traitorous headmaster and his group of rogue wizards will be brought to justice and imprisoned along with the Death Eaters in Azkaban.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Harry put down the paper and looked over at Hermione who was now really worried. He felt like he shouldn't be at Hogwarts anymore and wished he were somewhere far away from the wizarding world.
"What did the Daily Prophet say?" Ron asked, looking from Harry to Hermione and back at Harry again, both of them sitting still with horrified looks on their faces. "You both look like you've been petrified."
"See for yourself. - I may as well be dead," Harry said shakily and handed the paper over to Ron who also started to read it.
Unlike Hermione, who knew what was going on, Ron looked rather unfazed by what he was reading.
"It's an article by that Skeeter reporter from last year, so what of it?" he asked, putting the paper down.
"Ron - do you realise what Skeeter has done to Dumbledore and Harry?" said Hermione, her voice full of concern.
Ron just stared at her blankly, apparently confused.
"It means that Dumbledore and Harry have just been labelled as criminals and could be thrown into Azkaban at anytime," Hermione said frantically, picking up the article from the table and pocketing it.
"But that's ridiculous!" he exclaimed loudly causing several heads to turn and look at him. "Harry never left Hogwarts. I mean everyone saw him at potions, even the Slytherins. If anyone was missing, it was Malfoy."
"We know Ron, but still, Harry can get in a lot of trouble and so could Dumbledore."
"What do you think we should do then since you're the smart one."
"I really don't know - we probably should go see Dumbledore about this."
"But the Quidditch match is in an hour and Harry needs to prepare for it so that we can beat the Slytherins."
"Honestly Ron, can't you think about anything but Quidditch?"
"Well, what do you say Harry? You've really been quiet about this," Ron asked, looking to Harry for an answer.
Harry just looked at him, somewhat peeved that Ron had decided to drag him into the argument with Hermione, but he responded eventually, "I think we should go beat the Slytherins first, then go see Dumbledore. If we went to see Dumbledore, we may be missed at the match - then people will really suspect something."
"Oh all right," Hermione conceded. "I suppose a small Quidditch match isn't going to get us killed."
"It's about bloody time you gave in," Ron said pointedly.
"I didn't give in because of you, Ron, I gave in because Harry had a point," Hermione countered hotly.
"Enough you two," Harry cut in, breaking up the argument, which was starting to get out of hand again. "Let's get going, we don't want to miss the game."
With that, he got up from his seat and walked out of the Great Hall with Ron and Hermione following closely behind.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
As the trio made their way over to the Quidditch pitch, Harry's mood lightened somewhat as the Quidditch game against Slytherin would help take his mind off of Skeeter's article. How she had found out about their little raid on Azkaban was unknown to him, but somehow the Order would have to deal with the ramifications of such an article.
"Hey Potter," said a voice from behind them. "Glad to see you didn't back away from the match."
Harry wheeled around quickly, causing Ron and Hermione to stop and turn around as well only to see Malfoy coming towards them, escorted by Walter and two of his skeletons, each of them carrying a sword and a black shield.
"What do you want Malfoy?" Harry asked, glaring at him.
"Nothing, just wanted to let you know that this time Slytherin will give you guys the thrashing you deserve."
"Shove off Malfoy," Ron said, his jaw clenched tightly. "Slytherin hasn't beaten us yet and we won't start now. Harry's the best seeker this school has ever seen in years and no one's going to beat him."
"Not even Krum?" hinted Malfoy and Harry's face fell.
*WHAT? * he thought, *I'm going up against Krum, a professional Quidditch seeker? This won't be good. *
"Krum is playing for Slytherin?" Hermione asked. "But that's against the rules. He's not even a student in the school."
"Really mudblood, when will you learn," Malfoy gloated, "that my father has more power than that old fool we call our headmaster. - Besides, that old coot agreed to allow Krum to play for Slytherin."
"I don't think Dumbledore would agree to that, especially since Krum is a professional player. - Harry won't stand a chance."
"Well, why don't you ask him? He did agree to it after all - he didn't sound confident enough to think that Potter here would win."
"I believe that is enough Mr. Malfoy," Walter interrupted sharply. "Although the headmaster has allowed you to get out of your cell for this game - I will remind you that you are still my prisoner and you will not get out of line."
"And what if I did?" Malfoy scoffed, glaring at Walter. "My father will ensure you're removed with that old man once he gets the board of governors to agree."
"Mr. Malfoy, you are trying my patience," Walter replied menacingly. "I wouldn't suggest that you push your luck any further."
"Just wait old man. My father will come with his master and you will all suffer for this."
At that remark, a steel boot came and hit Malfoy hard in the side followed up by Walter's fist hitting him in the stomach. Malfoy doubled up in pain and threw up some blood before falling to the ground.
"I warned you Mr. Malfoy - now you have received your punishment. Unlike the headmaster, I am not as forgiving when it comes to treating prisoners. Now I suggest you get going," Walter said, forcibly pulling Malfoy up and shoving him towards the Quidditch pitch with the two skeletons following in formation.
"That stupid git," Ron sneered. "He got what he deserved."
"Ron, no one deserves to be treated like that, even if it is Malfoy," Hermione countered.
"First the house elves and now prisoners," Ron said wearily. "Really Hermione, won't you ever stop trying to free them? I mean the house elves like working and the prisoners deserve the treatment."
"Seriously Ron, the house elves deserve a break and even prisoners shouldn't be treated so brutally."
Harry, not wanting to waste anymore time, cut in before Ron had the chance to respond, "Let's go you two, we've been hung up long enough."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
When they arrived at the Quidditch pitch, Harry went with Ron to the locker rooms so that they could change into their Quidditch robes while Hermione made her way over to the stands where the other Gryffindor students were already present.
"Ready everyone?" Harry asked once everyone was ready.
They all nodded.
"Today will probably be the hardest game we've ever played against Slytherin as Krum will be their seeker."
"WE'RE PLAYING AGAIN KRUM?!" the Weasley twins exclaimed in surprise.
Harry was nervous now, but he made an attempt to speak confidently, regardless, "Yes, that's right - Malfoy got Krum to volunteer and his father ensured that Krum would play as seeker. But don't be discouraged - I'm sure we'll all do our best. Dumbledore has every confidence that we will hold our own. We must not let him down."
"That's the spirit! Let's clobber the Slytherins!" Seamus shouted, into Dean's ear causing him to jump away.
Harry grinned. He was certainly feeling a lot better after that Seamus' burst of energy. "Let's go."
The team filed out and onto the field, loud cheers erupting from the stands and Harry could spot Hermione jumping up and down excitedly next to Hagrid, who was also cheering gleefully. The sight raised his spirits even further and he felt that he stood a chance against Krum now.
They walked to the centre of the field where Madam Hooch was already waiting and Harry stood facing Flint, the Slytherin captain. They shook hands, Flint squeezing Harry's hand as hard as he could before walking back to his team. Krum was studying Harry, probably so that he could see what kind of person he was up against.
"Mount your brooms, please."
The players climbed onto their brooms and soon Madam Hooch blew her silver whistle.
All fifteen brooms rose into the air and the Quaffle was thrown into the air.
"The Quaffle is immediately taken by the beautiful Gryffindor chaser, Katie Bell and she's now speeding off towards the Slytherin goal posts with their chasers in pursuit. - HA CAN'T CATCH HER CAN YOU?"
"JORDAN!" warned Professor McGonagall, but she was partially drowned by the loud cheers from the stands.
"Sorry Professor."
"KATIE SCORES AND ITS GRYFFINDOR 10-0! Now Montague has possession of the Quaffle and is speeding over towards the Gryffindor side followed by the Gryffindor's new chasers Ron Weasley and Dean Thomas. Montague shoots and YES! It's stopped by Gryffindor's keeper, Seamus Finnigan. - CAN'T AIM CAN YOU?"
"Jordan, I'm warning you -"
"Sorry Professor."
"Now Seamus is speeding towards the Slytherin posts again - OUCH - He was just hit by a bludger directed at him by that bas- sorry Professor - Bole. - And sadly Seamus is out of the game."
"Pucey now has the Quaffle and is heading towards the goal posts - Almost got him with that bludger Fred - sorry Professor - and Slytherins score, evening it up."
Harry was flying around high above the field waiting for some sign of the snitch. A loud moan from the crowd indicated that the Slytherins had scored again since the Gryffindor keeper was out of the way. He had to catch the snitch before Krum, who was likewise looking around for the snitch, found it. This time with both of them on Firebolts, it would be an even match in terms of speed.
"Chaser Bell now has the Quaffle and is flying towards the Slytherin goal posts - Watch out - here comes Flint and Pucey right behind her - Hey you dirty - sorry Professor - they've trapped her in between them and are forcing her down. - THAT'S A FOUL! Unfortunately, Bell is out of the game, unconscious from having been slammed into the ground. Penalty shot to Gryffindor."
"Chaser Ron Weasley takes the shot and - YES! HE MAKES IT! GRYFFINDOR 20- 20!" exclaimed Jordan, the crowd roaring with delight at the Slytherin's failure.
Harry was now somewhat worried. They had their keeper out of the game and now a chaser while the Slytherins had all their players still. He could see that Dean was trying his best to take over as keeper and he managed to block the last shot taken by the Slytherin chaser, Warrington.
Suddenly Harry saw Krum dive and head towards the Gryffindor posts. Harry looked over to see if he had seen the snitch and indeed he had. It was hovering in the middle of the field and Harry immediately sped towards it, attempt to catch up with Krum.
Eventually Harry caught up with Krum, which was surprising as Krum had a head start, and their brooms were flying side by side. Two bludgers went over their heads and in the direction of the snitch, but before the bludgers got near it, both the Gryffindor and Slytherin beaters had flown in front of the snitch and hit both of the bludgers, targeting the opposing team's seekers.
The bludgers went sailing towards their heads with increased speed from the combined hits of both beaters on each team. Krum and Harry turned over on their brooms so they were both flying upside down and Harry could feel the one of the bludgers fly over his feet, where his chest would have been if they were both flying right side up. All four beaters glared at each other before flying away and both seekers rolled over again before flying up as the snitch had disappeared.
The Slytherin chasers outnumbered Ron three to one since Dean took over as keeper and unfortunately he was now having problems stopping them from scoring. Soon the game was in Slytherin's favour, 70 to 20.
"We have chaser Dean in possession of the Quaffle and flying towards the goals - it's hit out of his hand by a bludger aimed at him by Slytherin beater, Derrick. The Quaffle dropped is taken by Pucey and he's flying towards the goal posts - Fly back quickly Dean! DAMN! He scored. Sorry Professor."
The crowd groaned as the Slytherins cheered. The game wasn't going well for Gryffindor indeed with Slytherin in the lead by 60 points.
"Dean once again has the Quaffle - That's the way to do it Ron! - Ron has taken over Dean's position as keeper as Dean speeds towards the Slytherin side. Great tactics! - Two Slytherin chasers are heading towards him and WATCH OUT FOR THOSE BLUDGERS! Whew - a narrow miss."
"The Slytherin chasers are now on his tail and - WHAT! FLINT IS PULLING HIS BROOM TO SLOW HIM DOWN! NO BLAGGING! FOUL YOU CHEATING BASTARDS!" Jordan shouted.
McGonagall didn't bother to chastise him, as she too was angered at the Slytherin's cheating.
Madam Hooch blew her whistle. "I expected a clean game - apparently I was wrong - penalty shot to Gryffindor."
Dean took the shot, but unlike Ron, Flint blocked it and the crowd booed. The game continued and Flint headed towards the Gryffindor posts with the Quaffle, dodging a bludger aimed at him by Fred, who cursed when he missed. He took the shot and the crowd cheered when Ron blocked it.
Ron threw the Quaffle to Dean who tried to catch it but it was intercepted by Warrington who shot it into the far right goal post before Ron could get there, scoring 10 more points for Slytherin.
Dean took the Quaffle and flew over exhaustedly towards the Slytherin side. Derrick and Bole both hit bludgers in his direction but they were repelled by Fred and George who were escorting Dean over to the Slytherin goal posts.
"Nice play by the Gryffindor beaters and now they are flying in formation, Dean being escorted by the Weasley twins," commented Jordan. "He's almost made it to the goal posts - here comes the Slytherin chasers led by Flint - OUCH - QUIT CHEATING YOU - Penalty shot to Gryffindor."
Pucey had rammed headlong into Dean, knocking both players out of the game. Hope of victory was looking slim for Gryffindor now as they were down their keeper and two chasers even though Slytherin lost one of their chasers.
Up above the field, Harry continued looking around for the snitch, but he saw Krum dive once again and the crowd gasped as they saw him dive. Just in case he had seen the snitch, Harry dived down after him and looked around for it. Not seeing the snitch, he realised that Krum was trying to use the Wronski Feint on him and he pulled out of the dive.
Krum eventually noticed that Harry wasn't following him and he too pulled out of it. Flying back up, Krum dodged a bludger aimed at him by George by doing a roll before returning to his original altitude above the field.
By now, Ron stopped trying to block any of the shots the Slytherins were taking and concentrated on trying to score points for Gryffindor. Unfortunately being outnumbered three to one, he wasn't able to make it past the halfway point on the field and the Slytherins shot ahead 160 to 20.
Then Fred signalled to Harry to call a time out, which he did happily, as the game wasn't going too well for them. Madam Hooch blew her whistle acknowledging it.
The remaining players descended and the Gryffindor team members made their way over to Harry.
"This isn't good," Fred stated.
"What do you think we should do? End the game now? Neither of you have found the snitch yet and we're getting creamed right now," George added questioningly.
"Why don't we go for a stalemate?" Ron suggested causing everyone looked in his direction. "It's like chess; if you can't win then go for a stalemate."
"Looks like it's up to me now," Harry said resolutely.
"Yeah, you need to catch the snitch," Ron agreed.
"I know."
"Good luck Harry - we're counting on you," George said
"We'll try to get Krum out of the match with our bludgers."
The team headed back to the field and the game resumed. Harry flew up high once again with Krum and continued to look around for the snitch, which was doing well in keeping out of sight for this game.
"The game isn't going well for Gryffindor and it looks like this may be the first time they've ever lost to Slytherin. Neither of the seekers have located the snitch and this game could well last long into the day - Warrington has possession of the Quaffle and Ron is heading towards him. He's flying up towards the goal posts - looks like Ron will get to him in time - NOO - he pulled a Porskoff Ploy, dropping the Quaffle to Montague who was flying below him and Montague scores. C'MON DON'T LET THOSE SNOBBY BA - sorry Professor - KEEP FIGHTING!"
Harry was now getting desperate. If Slytherin scored again, then everything would be lost. Ron had the Quaffle and was flying around, but wasn't making any attempt to score, as the Slytherins would have possession of the Quaffle if he missed. He was doing well in dodging each bludger being hit in his direction as well as the Slytherin chasers; however it was clear that he was starting to get exhausted from having to continuously move around.
Something golden flashed down on the field catching Harry's eye and he dived down at it - it was the snitch. Harry quickly looked behind him to see if Krum was following, not wanting to take his eyes off the snitch for too long. Krum was indeed following but he was slowly catching up.
"It looks like Harry has seen the snitch - ," Jordan commented excitedly as the crowed looked on anxiously to see who would catch it. "The snitch has changed directions and has levelled off - It's flying towards the Gryffindor posts with both seekers in hot pursuit. - They're now evenly matched - "
Jordan had stopped commenting, as he too was anxious to see who would get the snitch. Meanwhile Hermione was looking on in the stands worriedly digging her fingernails into her cheeks and Ron was still occupied by the Slytherin chasers following closely behind him and slowly catching up.
Then an idea struck Ron and he flew towards the snitch as well, but from the opposite direction that the seekers were coming from. Both Krum and Harry were closing fast on the snitch but Ron would still get there first.
Right before he got to the snitch, Ron threw the Quaffle at Krum as hard as he could, his anger at Krum for taking Hermione to the Yule Ball, filling him with a burst of energy. Both Harry and Krum saw the Quaffle coming towards them, but not expecting such a stunt from the Gryffindor chasers, Krum's natural reflexes caused him to catch the Quaffle with both hands. However that didn't leave him holding onto his broom and the force of the Quaffle hitting him made him lose his balance and he to fell to the ground with a look of surprise as Harry's hand closed around the snitch, bringing the game to an end.
"AND IT'S A TIE! THE BRILLIANT GAMBLE BY CHASER RON WEASLEY AND SEEKER HARRY POTTER THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE IN THE HISTORY OF QUIDDITCH PAID OFF!" Lee Jordan shouted.
The crowd was cheering loudly now as Harry and Ron both flew down to the ground, drowning out the moans of the Slytherins who were disappointed at the fact that they had been cheated out of victory once again.
No sooner had Harry and Ron touched the ground, cheering Gryffindor fans; eager to take them to the party surrounded them. Hermione gave both of them a hug and a kiss on the cheek before scurrying away in embarrassment and the two players found themselves blushing furiously. Surprisingly, Cho was among the crowd and she went up to Harry to congratulate him as well.
"That was a great play Harry," Cho said, giggling. "The look on Krum's face was just too funny."
"Thanks Cho," he said beaming at her.
At that point, Krum, having recovered from his fall came up to Harry and Ron. He looked battered and was limping slightly, probably from having fallen hard on his left leg, injuring it badly but not breaking it.
"You two pulled off a brilliant play," Krum said to both of them, laughing slightly. "I didn't think you'd ever think of throving the Quaffle at me. I vos expecting the bludgers but never the Quaffle."
"Thanks," Ron said, turning red in embarrassment. Such high praise coming from his favourite Quidditch player, even if he had taken Hermione to the Yule Ball, was very flattering to Ron.
"Thank you - You were great yourself," Harry replied and the two seekers shook hands in front of the crowd.
"Thanks Harry, I look forvard to the next time ve play," said Krum before turning and limping off the field towards the Slytherin locker rooms.
Fred and George finally broke through the crowd and enthusiastically went over to them.
"That was bloody brilliant!" Fred exclaimed.
"Yes, I think we should have a party even though it we tied with Slytherin," George added.
"Why?" Harry asked with a confused look on his face. "We didn't win."
"We know," said the twins. "But you two stopped them from winning so you deserve a break."
"Even ickle Ronnikins deserves a break every now and then," George teased.
"Especially if he helped snatch victory from the Slytherins," Fred added grinning.
Ron turned the colour of his hair and Harry started to walk towards the locker room to change out of his robes as the crowd dispersed. Ron and the Weasley twins followed and afterwards, they walked back to the Gryffindor tower for their party, the Weasley twins sneaking off along the way to get their party supplies from Hogsmeade.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
When Harry and Ron arrived at the common room, it was surprisingly quiet. Normally everyone would be very excited at the thought of a party but instead everyone was gathered around Lavender, who was crying and Hermione was making an attempt to comfort her.
"What happened?" Harry asked, breaking through the circle of students
"Parvati didn't wake up this morning," Hermione explained since Lavender was too shaken to say anything.
"So? Maybe she just wanted to sleep in for a day," Harry reasoned. "It's still early in the afternoon."
"It's - not - like - her," Lavender sobbed. "She was - well - yesterday. She - also never - misses - any - Quidditch games - against - Slytherin. But - this - week - she's been - sleeping in - more often - and - hasn't been - eating much - either."
"No wonder it was so quiet in Divination," Ron commented, receiving an elbow from Harry.
"Ow - what - ," Ron started to say but he noticed Hermione glaring at him and shut up immediately.
"That explains why she hasn't been showing up to classes in the morning," Hermione said.
Just the Parvati came downstairs in her pyjamas, looking fatigued, only to be greeted with stares from everyone in the common room.
"Why is everyone staring at me?" she asked.
There was silence in the room for a while but eventually Harry summoned enough courage to explain, "Because you just missed the Quidditch game and have been sleeping in all week."
"Sorry - I've just been very tired lately," she replied. "How did the game go?"
"It wasn't going well at first and we were getting killed by the Slytherins but I caught the snitch and we tied with them."
"Would everyone stop staring at Parvati and acting as if she died," said Fred as he entered the common room with George, both of them laden with Honeydukes sweets butterbeers, pumpkin fizz and some of their own jokes.
"Yeah, let's party!" George exclaimed and the common room broke into chatter as everyone moved towards the twins as they started handing out the party supplies.
Lavender had stopped crying and moved to greet Parvati while Hermione went back to join Harry and Ron, who were still standing there, apparently ignored by everyone in the room.
"I'm going off to see Dumbledore to give him the Daily Prophet article then I'm going to the library," said Hermione, " - I need to do some research. Care to join me?"
"But Hermione, what about the party?" Ron whined. "You're always doing something at the library. Our homework isn't due until Monday anyway and why does Dumbledore need to see the Daily Prophet? He probably already knows all about it."
"Exactly why I want to see what he's going to do about it and at any rate, I need to get started on my work. "
Ron thought about it for a moment, "I think I'll pass, I want to join the party - I did earn it after all."
"Suit yourself - The article is only about your best friend being accused of being a traitor," said Hermione hotly before she wheeled about and started heading towards the portrait.
"Wait Hermione," Harry called after her. "I'll join you - If the article concerns me, I want to know what Dumbledore is going to do about it and I need to get some work done too."
Ron rolled his eyes, "Harry - you're starting to turn into Hermione. Really, I think you both need to take a break before you burn yourself out."
With that, Ron joined the party and Harry and Hermione, shaking their heads, walked out of the common room, heading in the direction of Dumbledore's office.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Arriving at Dumbledore's office, Harry and Hermione were surprised to find Walter standing at the bottom of the staircase. The gargoyle was already moved aside - apparently Walter had already said the password and was on his way to see Dumbledore as well.
Upon hearing footsteps behind him, Walter turned around abruptly, his hand going to his dagger at his side. However he saw who it was and relaxed slightly, his stern face breaking into a friendly smile.
"Good afternoon Miss Granger - Mr. Potter," he said. "Going to see the headmaster about the Daily Prophet article?"
"How - " Hermione began, with a confounded look on her face.
"I saw the Daily Prophet this morning," Walter explained. "I assumed that you'd want to see the headmaster about it since it concerns Mr. Potter."
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Harry couldn't help laughing slightly at Hermione's facial expression after Walter finished explanation. Harry's laughter caused Hermione to abruptly snap out of her confounded trance and glare at Harry, who quickly stopped laughing.
"Why did you beat Malfoy so badly earlier?" Hermione questioned Walter.
"Because he is my prisoner and he got out of line. Prisoners who get out of line should be taught who's in charge," Walter replied coldly.
"But it's so brutal," she argued. "They're humans and deserve to be treated like humans. - Besides if you treat them like that, they'll hate you."
Walter smiled evilly. "That's why I have my skeletons around - they're lifeless and have no objection to mistreating those animals. - I can care less if the prisoners hate me or not - They committed a crime so as far as I'm concerned, they have forfeited their rights as humans."
"But - "
"That's enough Miss Granger - Come - I'm sure the headmaster would like to explain what he plans to do about the situation you wanted to talk to him about," Walter said softly, motioning them to go up the stairs.
Hermione stopped trying to reason with Walter as her concern for Harry's situation overrode her uneasiness over the way the prisoners were treated so they went up the stairs with Walter following.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Walter opened the door when they arrived at Dumbledore's office and allowed them to enter. Dumbledore was sitting at his desk, looking deep in thought.
"My apologies for interrupting your private time headmaster," Walter said respectfully.
"It's perfectly alright Professor Laikov," replied Dumbledore. "The fact that Harry and Miss Granger are here must mean that you wish to discuss the Daily Prophet article this morning?"
"Yes, that's right headmaster," said Walter. "I just wanted to request your permission, as head of the Order, to do something about it."
Dumbledore smiled; his eyes twinkling in the firelight, "Just leave it alone - Rita Skeeter won't be able to do any harm to us."
"Headmaster?" Walter asked, confused about Dumbledore's course of action. "Could you please explain?"
"Last year - Rita Skeeter wrote several articles similar to the one you saw this morning. They all had minimal effect. - She can't do anymore harm that she already has so let her do as she pleases."
"As you wish," Walter replied. "I will take my leave now."
Walter turned about and left, leaving Harry and Hermione alone with Dumbledore.
"But what about Harry?" Hermione asked once Walter had left the room. "The ministry could throw him in Azkaban."
"Miss Granger - I assure you that Harry is in no danger so please leave everything to me," Dumbledore replied. "I know you're concerned with his safety, but trust me on this - As long as Harry stays here at Hogwarts - he will be safe and nothing Rita Skeeter says will change that."
Harry was wondering if Dumbledore knew if there was something wrong with Parvati as she was acting very strangely all week but he didn't bother to say anything.
*Maybe it's just temporary and she's just sick, * Harry thought.
"If you have nothing else to bring forth, then I will leave you two to go about your business," said Dumbledore. "Please don't worry yourself over such a trivial matter as Rita Skeeter."
Harry or Hermione weren't completely satisfied with Dumbledore's answer but it was clear that the conversation was over so they turned around and quickly made their way towards the library, wondering what else could go wrong during the school year.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/N: That was a rather fun chapter to write. I have a vague idea about what I should do for the next chapter, but we'll see. It'll either be Christmas or what happens in between now and then. When I get to February and Valentine's Day, you'll find out who gets paired up with whom.
Mikala: They'll probably go at another mission sometime in the next 4 chapters; As for Malfoy, I didn't liked him so sorry if he's evil.
Angelis: Thank you for reviewing each time. It's always nice to know people are reading my story.
Orion: Wow. I'm honoured that you added me to your favourite author's list. Your stories are great, even though I'm a Harry/Hermione fan.
Quis: Thanks for the review; hope this was quick enough for you.
Anja: Well, the point of this fic is to read it in one go, though I guess reading it in fragments would work too.
Baybee05: Your review sounds almost like one Mikala put up a while ago, but hehe, I'm glad you like my fic. As for Harry/Hermione or Draco/Ginny, keep reading to figure out who's paired with whom since I don't want to ruin the romance part for everyone.
Voidhawc: You make a valid point so I put Malfoy in the dungeons in Walter's capable care. Bwahahaha.
Gerhrh: Hey, I try to hurry up with these chapters, but making sure almost everything is perfect takes a while.
Uniqueidividual: Thanks for reviewing, I read your story so check my review.
Gardengnomez: Thanks for reviewing. If you want to be a beta-reader, here are several questions that I'd like to ask you first. If you can answer them to my satisfaction then I'll let you be a beta-reader. These are the same standards I put for my other beta-reader and she's done a great job of following them so its only fair I put forth the same standards for you.
How fast can you proofread & get it back to me? Can you do it in less than 24 hours of sending you the chapter? How accurately can you catch errors?
If anyone else wants to beta-read and can meet the standards above, I'll e- mail you the next chapter and let you beta-read.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Chapter 21: The Best Seeker
The week following their return from their second mission, rumours were going around the school why the students who took part in the mission, with the exception of Harry and Hermione, were out for the entire day. As much as the teachers told the school that they were learning more advanced spells, the school still thought that they were up to something since they were gone until after classes finished and didn't show up to any meals.
Professor Sepet returned the day after their failed mission and Harry suspected that he was up to something even though Malfoy was the one accused of killing Karkaroff. Sepet relentlessly made Harry's life more miserable than ever in the duelling class by pairing him up with Blaise, who wasn't as supportive of him as Hermione had been. The Count also increased the difficulty of his training by making him fight six on two duels on top of the usual one on one against the Count, which he always lost. In addition, one of the Gryffindor students, Parvati, had stopped showing up to classes in the morning and wouldn't be seen until lunchtime, which baffled everyone, as she normally didn't miss any classes. By the end of the gruelling week, Harry was indeed looking forward to the Quidditch game against Slytherin as beating them would be a major morale boost and he had trained his team very hard for it.
Slytherin was supposed to have forfeited the match since they didn't have a replacement seeker ever since Malfoy was officially expelled from the school for endangering students and imprisoned in the dungeon under close guard until an investigation could be carried out. However someone had volunteered to replace him as the Slytherin seeker therefore Gryffindor had to uphold their end of the game in order to have a shot at the Quidditch cup at the end of the year.
The morning of the Quidditch match against Slytherin was bright and cold. Harry, Ron and Hermione were eating breakfast in the Great Hall and Harry was discussing the Quidditch match with Ron while Hermione was sitting with a book propped up against her goblet.
"Did you ever figure out who the seeker was for Slytherin?" Ron asked.
"No, I haven't but I'm worried," Harry replied. "We've beaten Slytherin many times, but that was because Malfoy was a pushover as a seeker. The seeker this time may be a lot better than he was and it's possible that he may be even better than me."
"Oh come on Harry," said Hermione, turning to face him. "You're the youngest player to have become a seeker in a century and no one else has done that again. So go and teach those Slytherins a lesson."
Harry smiled at her. "Thanks for the encouragement Hermione."
"You're welcome," she replied, grinning. "I'll be in the stands cheering for you both."
"Really?" said Ron, his face brightening at the thought of Hermione cheering for him.
"Yes - Why wouldn't I be cheering for my two best friends?"
"Good point," Ron said, his cheeks flushing with colour.
At that point, several owls flew into the Great Hall and started dropping assortments of packages and papers. One of the owls dropped something that looked like a copy of the Daily Prophet in front of Hermione, who picked it up and started to read it.
As she started reading it, her face fell and by the time she had finished, all of the colour in her face was drained and she looked very distressed.
"What's wrong Hermione?" Harry asked, noticing that she was looking rather pale.
She didn't answer and just handed the paper to Harry, who took it and began reading.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The Corrupted Headmaster & 'The Boy Who Lived'
Written by the talented and vivacious Rita Skeeter whose sharp pen has punctured many reputations.
Albus Dumbledore, the eccentric headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, has always appeared to the public eye as the best headmaster that Hogwarts has ever had in years reports Rita Skeeter, Special Correspondent.
However, last week he and a group of wizards were caught by our very own Minister of Magic: Cornelius Fudge, attempting to free the Death Eaters of Azkaban. Why he would want to free the Death Eaters is beyond comprehension, as they were all well-known followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be- Named, but it is clear that he has finally shown his true colours.
"We always knew that it was a mistake to allow him to become headmaster. We granted him power and look where he has gone," says Lucius Malfoy, a prominent member of the Ministry of Magic. "I don't think any of the students are safe with such an abominable person in charge. I am personally withdrawing my son, Draco, from that school and I encourage all parents who are still loyal to the ministry to do the same."
If such treachery couldn't be worse, among this group was the Harry Potter, 'The Boy Who Lived.' Whether or not he was corrupted by the headmaster or there on his own will is unknown, but from reports that I have personally heard from students at the school such as Draco Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson, Harry Potter has often been given special treatment by the professors to the point where he can blatantly ignore the school rules. The fact that he too has betrayed the wizarding world is shocking to us all but given the circumstances we can all see that it was only a matter of time before he too abused his powers.
The members of the ministry have given Fudge high praise for acting decisively and stopping the overbearing headmaster at Azkaban from freeing the Death Eaters. Credit has also been given to Draco Malfoy for providing the information that prevented this raid from succeeding and the ministry has granted him the 'Order of Merlin,' second class.
Where this appalling news will lead to is unknown right now but according to Fudge, it will be only a matter of time before the traitorous headmaster and his group of rogue wizards will be brought to justice and imprisoned along with the Death Eaters in Azkaban.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Harry put down the paper and looked over at Hermione who was now really worried. He felt like he shouldn't be at Hogwarts anymore and wished he were somewhere far away from the wizarding world.
"What did the Daily Prophet say?" Ron asked, looking from Harry to Hermione and back at Harry again, both of them sitting still with horrified looks on their faces. "You both look like you've been petrified."
"See for yourself. - I may as well be dead," Harry said shakily and handed the paper over to Ron who also started to read it.
Unlike Hermione, who knew what was going on, Ron looked rather unfazed by what he was reading.
"It's an article by that Skeeter reporter from last year, so what of it?" he asked, putting the paper down.
"Ron - do you realise what Skeeter has done to Dumbledore and Harry?" said Hermione, her voice full of concern.
Ron just stared at her blankly, apparently confused.
"It means that Dumbledore and Harry have just been labelled as criminals and could be thrown into Azkaban at anytime," Hermione said frantically, picking up the article from the table and pocketing it.
"But that's ridiculous!" he exclaimed loudly causing several heads to turn and look at him. "Harry never left Hogwarts. I mean everyone saw him at potions, even the Slytherins. If anyone was missing, it was Malfoy."
"We know Ron, but still, Harry can get in a lot of trouble and so could Dumbledore."
"What do you think we should do then since you're the smart one."
"I really don't know - we probably should go see Dumbledore about this."
"But the Quidditch match is in an hour and Harry needs to prepare for it so that we can beat the Slytherins."
"Honestly Ron, can't you think about anything but Quidditch?"
"Well, what do you say Harry? You've really been quiet about this," Ron asked, looking to Harry for an answer.
Harry just looked at him, somewhat peeved that Ron had decided to drag him into the argument with Hermione, but he responded eventually, "I think we should go beat the Slytherins first, then go see Dumbledore. If we went to see Dumbledore, we may be missed at the match - then people will really suspect something."
"Oh all right," Hermione conceded. "I suppose a small Quidditch match isn't going to get us killed."
"It's about bloody time you gave in," Ron said pointedly.
"I didn't give in because of you, Ron, I gave in because Harry had a point," Hermione countered hotly.
"Enough you two," Harry cut in, breaking up the argument, which was starting to get out of hand again. "Let's get going, we don't want to miss the game."
With that, he got up from his seat and walked out of the Great Hall with Ron and Hermione following closely behind.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
As the trio made their way over to the Quidditch pitch, Harry's mood lightened somewhat as the Quidditch game against Slytherin would help take his mind off of Skeeter's article. How she had found out about their little raid on Azkaban was unknown to him, but somehow the Order would have to deal with the ramifications of such an article.
"Hey Potter," said a voice from behind them. "Glad to see you didn't back away from the match."
Harry wheeled around quickly, causing Ron and Hermione to stop and turn around as well only to see Malfoy coming towards them, escorted by Walter and two of his skeletons, each of them carrying a sword and a black shield.
"What do you want Malfoy?" Harry asked, glaring at him.
"Nothing, just wanted to let you know that this time Slytherin will give you guys the thrashing you deserve."
"Shove off Malfoy," Ron said, his jaw clenched tightly. "Slytherin hasn't beaten us yet and we won't start now. Harry's the best seeker this school has ever seen in years and no one's going to beat him."
"Not even Krum?" hinted Malfoy and Harry's face fell.
*WHAT? * he thought, *I'm going up against Krum, a professional Quidditch seeker? This won't be good. *
"Krum is playing for Slytherin?" Hermione asked. "But that's against the rules. He's not even a student in the school."
"Really mudblood, when will you learn," Malfoy gloated, "that my father has more power than that old fool we call our headmaster. - Besides, that old coot agreed to allow Krum to play for Slytherin."
"I don't think Dumbledore would agree to that, especially since Krum is a professional player. - Harry won't stand a chance."
"Well, why don't you ask him? He did agree to it after all - he didn't sound confident enough to think that Potter here would win."
"I believe that is enough Mr. Malfoy," Walter interrupted sharply. "Although the headmaster has allowed you to get out of your cell for this game - I will remind you that you are still my prisoner and you will not get out of line."
"And what if I did?" Malfoy scoffed, glaring at Walter. "My father will ensure you're removed with that old man once he gets the board of governors to agree."
"Mr. Malfoy, you are trying my patience," Walter replied menacingly. "I wouldn't suggest that you push your luck any further."
"Just wait old man. My father will come with his master and you will all suffer for this."
At that remark, a steel boot came and hit Malfoy hard in the side followed up by Walter's fist hitting him in the stomach. Malfoy doubled up in pain and threw up some blood before falling to the ground.
"I warned you Mr. Malfoy - now you have received your punishment. Unlike the headmaster, I am not as forgiving when it comes to treating prisoners. Now I suggest you get going," Walter said, forcibly pulling Malfoy up and shoving him towards the Quidditch pitch with the two skeletons following in formation.
"That stupid git," Ron sneered. "He got what he deserved."
"Ron, no one deserves to be treated like that, even if it is Malfoy," Hermione countered.
"First the house elves and now prisoners," Ron said wearily. "Really Hermione, won't you ever stop trying to free them? I mean the house elves like working and the prisoners deserve the treatment."
"Seriously Ron, the house elves deserve a break and even prisoners shouldn't be treated so brutally."
Harry, not wanting to waste anymore time, cut in before Ron had the chance to respond, "Let's go you two, we've been hung up long enough."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
When they arrived at the Quidditch pitch, Harry went with Ron to the locker rooms so that they could change into their Quidditch robes while Hermione made her way over to the stands where the other Gryffindor students were already present.
"Ready everyone?" Harry asked once everyone was ready.
They all nodded.
"Today will probably be the hardest game we've ever played against Slytherin as Krum will be their seeker."
"WE'RE PLAYING AGAIN KRUM?!" the Weasley twins exclaimed in surprise.
Harry was nervous now, but he made an attempt to speak confidently, regardless, "Yes, that's right - Malfoy got Krum to volunteer and his father ensured that Krum would play as seeker. But don't be discouraged - I'm sure we'll all do our best. Dumbledore has every confidence that we will hold our own. We must not let him down."
"That's the spirit! Let's clobber the Slytherins!" Seamus shouted, into Dean's ear causing him to jump away.
Harry grinned. He was certainly feeling a lot better after that Seamus' burst of energy. "Let's go."
The team filed out and onto the field, loud cheers erupting from the stands and Harry could spot Hermione jumping up and down excitedly next to Hagrid, who was also cheering gleefully. The sight raised his spirits even further and he felt that he stood a chance against Krum now.
They walked to the centre of the field where Madam Hooch was already waiting and Harry stood facing Flint, the Slytherin captain. They shook hands, Flint squeezing Harry's hand as hard as he could before walking back to his team. Krum was studying Harry, probably so that he could see what kind of person he was up against.
"Mount your brooms, please."
The players climbed onto their brooms and soon Madam Hooch blew her silver whistle.
All fifteen brooms rose into the air and the Quaffle was thrown into the air.
"The Quaffle is immediately taken by the beautiful Gryffindor chaser, Katie Bell and she's now speeding off towards the Slytherin goal posts with their chasers in pursuit. - HA CAN'T CATCH HER CAN YOU?"
"JORDAN!" warned Professor McGonagall, but she was partially drowned by the loud cheers from the stands.
"Sorry Professor."
"KATIE SCORES AND ITS GRYFFINDOR 10-0! Now Montague has possession of the Quaffle and is speeding over towards the Gryffindor side followed by the Gryffindor's new chasers Ron Weasley and Dean Thomas. Montague shoots and YES! It's stopped by Gryffindor's keeper, Seamus Finnigan. - CAN'T AIM CAN YOU?"
"Jordan, I'm warning you -"
"Sorry Professor."
"Now Seamus is speeding towards the Slytherin posts again - OUCH - He was just hit by a bludger directed at him by that bas- sorry Professor - Bole. - And sadly Seamus is out of the game."
"Pucey now has the Quaffle and is heading towards the goal posts - Almost got him with that bludger Fred - sorry Professor - and Slytherins score, evening it up."
Harry was flying around high above the field waiting for some sign of the snitch. A loud moan from the crowd indicated that the Slytherins had scored again since the Gryffindor keeper was out of the way. He had to catch the snitch before Krum, who was likewise looking around for the snitch, found it. This time with both of them on Firebolts, it would be an even match in terms of speed.
"Chaser Bell now has the Quaffle and is flying towards the Slytherin goal posts - Watch out - here comes Flint and Pucey right behind her - Hey you dirty - sorry Professor - they've trapped her in between them and are forcing her down. - THAT'S A FOUL! Unfortunately, Bell is out of the game, unconscious from having been slammed into the ground. Penalty shot to Gryffindor."
"Chaser Ron Weasley takes the shot and - YES! HE MAKES IT! GRYFFINDOR 20- 20!" exclaimed Jordan, the crowd roaring with delight at the Slytherin's failure.
Harry was now somewhat worried. They had their keeper out of the game and now a chaser while the Slytherins had all their players still. He could see that Dean was trying his best to take over as keeper and he managed to block the last shot taken by the Slytherin chaser, Warrington.
Suddenly Harry saw Krum dive and head towards the Gryffindor posts. Harry looked over to see if he had seen the snitch and indeed he had. It was hovering in the middle of the field and Harry immediately sped towards it, attempt to catch up with Krum.
Eventually Harry caught up with Krum, which was surprising as Krum had a head start, and their brooms were flying side by side. Two bludgers went over their heads and in the direction of the snitch, but before the bludgers got near it, both the Gryffindor and Slytherin beaters had flown in front of the snitch and hit both of the bludgers, targeting the opposing team's seekers.
The bludgers went sailing towards their heads with increased speed from the combined hits of both beaters on each team. Krum and Harry turned over on their brooms so they were both flying upside down and Harry could feel the one of the bludgers fly over his feet, where his chest would have been if they were both flying right side up. All four beaters glared at each other before flying away and both seekers rolled over again before flying up as the snitch had disappeared.
The Slytherin chasers outnumbered Ron three to one since Dean took over as keeper and unfortunately he was now having problems stopping them from scoring. Soon the game was in Slytherin's favour, 70 to 20.
"We have chaser Dean in possession of the Quaffle and flying towards the goals - it's hit out of his hand by a bludger aimed at him by Slytherin beater, Derrick. The Quaffle dropped is taken by Pucey and he's flying towards the goal posts - Fly back quickly Dean! DAMN! He scored. Sorry Professor."
The crowd groaned as the Slytherins cheered. The game wasn't going well for Gryffindor indeed with Slytherin in the lead by 60 points.
"Dean once again has the Quaffle - That's the way to do it Ron! - Ron has taken over Dean's position as keeper as Dean speeds towards the Slytherin side. Great tactics! - Two Slytherin chasers are heading towards him and WATCH OUT FOR THOSE BLUDGERS! Whew - a narrow miss."
"The Slytherin chasers are now on his tail and - WHAT! FLINT IS PULLING HIS BROOM TO SLOW HIM DOWN! NO BLAGGING! FOUL YOU CHEATING BASTARDS!" Jordan shouted.
McGonagall didn't bother to chastise him, as she too was angered at the Slytherin's cheating.
Madam Hooch blew her whistle. "I expected a clean game - apparently I was wrong - penalty shot to Gryffindor."
Dean took the shot, but unlike Ron, Flint blocked it and the crowd booed. The game continued and Flint headed towards the Gryffindor posts with the Quaffle, dodging a bludger aimed at him by Fred, who cursed when he missed. He took the shot and the crowd cheered when Ron blocked it.
Ron threw the Quaffle to Dean who tried to catch it but it was intercepted by Warrington who shot it into the far right goal post before Ron could get there, scoring 10 more points for Slytherin.
Dean took the Quaffle and flew over exhaustedly towards the Slytherin side. Derrick and Bole both hit bludgers in his direction but they were repelled by Fred and George who were escorting Dean over to the Slytherin goal posts.
"Nice play by the Gryffindor beaters and now they are flying in formation, Dean being escorted by the Weasley twins," commented Jordan. "He's almost made it to the goal posts - here comes the Slytherin chasers led by Flint - OUCH - QUIT CHEATING YOU - Penalty shot to Gryffindor."
Pucey had rammed headlong into Dean, knocking both players out of the game. Hope of victory was looking slim for Gryffindor now as they were down their keeper and two chasers even though Slytherin lost one of their chasers.
Up above the field, Harry continued looking around for the snitch, but he saw Krum dive once again and the crowd gasped as they saw him dive. Just in case he had seen the snitch, Harry dived down after him and looked around for it. Not seeing the snitch, he realised that Krum was trying to use the Wronski Feint on him and he pulled out of the dive.
Krum eventually noticed that Harry wasn't following him and he too pulled out of it. Flying back up, Krum dodged a bludger aimed at him by George by doing a roll before returning to his original altitude above the field.
By now, Ron stopped trying to block any of the shots the Slytherins were taking and concentrated on trying to score points for Gryffindor. Unfortunately being outnumbered three to one, he wasn't able to make it past the halfway point on the field and the Slytherins shot ahead 160 to 20.
Then Fred signalled to Harry to call a time out, which he did happily, as the game wasn't going too well for them. Madam Hooch blew her whistle acknowledging it.
The remaining players descended and the Gryffindor team members made their way over to Harry.
"This isn't good," Fred stated.
"What do you think we should do? End the game now? Neither of you have found the snitch yet and we're getting creamed right now," George added questioningly.
"Why don't we go for a stalemate?" Ron suggested causing everyone looked in his direction. "It's like chess; if you can't win then go for a stalemate."
"Looks like it's up to me now," Harry said resolutely.
"Yeah, you need to catch the snitch," Ron agreed.
"I know."
"Good luck Harry - we're counting on you," George said
"We'll try to get Krum out of the match with our bludgers."
The team headed back to the field and the game resumed. Harry flew up high once again with Krum and continued to look around for the snitch, which was doing well in keeping out of sight for this game.
"The game isn't going well for Gryffindor and it looks like this may be the first time they've ever lost to Slytherin. Neither of the seekers have located the snitch and this game could well last long into the day - Warrington has possession of the Quaffle and Ron is heading towards him. He's flying up towards the goal posts - looks like Ron will get to him in time - NOO - he pulled a Porskoff Ploy, dropping the Quaffle to Montague who was flying below him and Montague scores. C'MON DON'T LET THOSE SNOBBY BA - sorry Professor - KEEP FIGHTING!"
Harry was now getting desperate. If Slytherin scored again, then everything would be lost. Ron had the Quaffle and was flying around, but wasn't making any attempt to score, as the Slytherins would have possession of the Quaffle if he missed. He was doing well in dodging each bludger being hit in his direction as well as the Slytherin chasers; however it was clear that he was starting to get exhausted from having to continuously move around.
Something golden flashed down on the field catching Harry's eye and he dived down at it - it was the snitch. Harry quickly looked behind him to see if Krum was following, not wanting to take his eyes off the snitch for too long. Krum was indeed following but he was slowly catching up.
"It looks like Harry has seen the snitch - ," Jordan commented excitedly as the crowed looked on anxiously to see who would catch it. "The snitch has changed directions and has levelled off - It's flying towards the Gryffindor posts with both seekers in hot pursuit. - They're now evenly matched - "
Jordan had stopped commenting, as he too was anxious to see who would get the snitch. Meanwhile Hermione was looking on in the stands worriedly digging her fingernails into her cheeks and Ron was still occupied by the Slytherin chasers following closely behind him and slowly catching up.
Then an idea struck Ron and he flew towards the snitch as well, but from the opposite direction that the seekers were coming from. Both Krum and Harry were closing fast on the snitch but Ron would still get there first.
Right before he got to the snitch, Ron threw the Quaffle at Krum as hard as he could, his anger at Krum for taking Hermione to the Yule Ball, filling him with a burst of energy. Both Harry and Krum saw the Quaffle coming towards them, but not expecting such a stunt from the Gryffindor chasers, Krum's natural reflexes caused him to catch the Quaffle with both hands. However that didn't leave him holding onto his broom and the force of the Quaffle hitting him made him lose his balance and he to fell to the ground with a look of surprise as Harry's hand closed around the snitch, bringing the game to an end.
"AND IT'S A TIE! THE BRILLIANT GAMBLE BY CHASER RON WEASLEY AND SEEKER HARRY POTTER THAT HAS NEVER BEEN SEEN BEFORE IN THE HISTORY OF QUIDDITCH PAID OFF!" Lee Jordan shouted.
The crowd was cheering loudly now as Harry and Ron both flew down to the ground, drowning out the moans of the Slytherins who were disappointed at the fact that they had been cheated out of victory once again.
No sooner had Harry and Ron touched the ground, cheering Gryffindor fans; eager to take them to the party surrounded them. Hermione gave both of them a hug and a kiss on the cheek before scurrying away in embarrassment and the two players found themselves blushing furiously. Surprisingly, Cho was among the crowd and she went up to Harry to congratulate him as well.
"That was a great play Harry," Cho said, giggling. "The look on Krum's face was just too funny."
"Thanks Cho," he said beaming at her.
At that point, Krum, having recovered from his fall came up to Harry and Ron. He looked battered and was limping slightly, probably from having fallen hard on his left leg, injuring it badly but not breaking it.
"You two pulled off a brilliant play," Krum said to both of them, laughing slightly. "I didn't think you'd ever think of throving the Quaffle at me. I vos expecting the bludgers but never the Quaffle."
"Thanks," Ron said, turning red in embarrassment. Such high praise coming from his favourite Quidditch player, even if he had taken Hermione to the Yule Ball, was very flattering to Ron.
"Thank you - You were great yourself," Harry replied and the two seekers shook hands in front of the crowd.
"Thanks Harry, I look forvard to the next time ve play," said Krum before turning and limping off the field towards the Slytherin locker rooms.
Fred and George finally broke through the crowd and enthusiastically went over to them.
"That was bloody brilliant!" Fred exclaimed.
"Yes, I think we should have a party even though it we tied with Slytherin," George added.
"Why?" Harry asked with a confused look on his face. "We didn't win."
"We know," said the twins. "But you two stopped them from winning so you deserve a break."
"Even ickle Ronnikins deserves a break every now and then," George teased.
"Especially if he helped snatch victory from the Slytherins," Fred added grinning.
Ron turned the colour of his hair and Harry started to walk towards the locker room to change out of his robes as the crowd dispersed. Ron and the Weasley twins followed and afterwards, they walked back to the Gryffindor tower for their party, the Weasley twins sneaking off along the way to get their party supplies from Hogsmeade.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
When Harry and Ron arrived at the common room, it was surprisingly quiet. Normally everyone would be very excited at the thought of a party but instead everyone was gathered around Lavender, who was crying and Hermione was making an attempt to comfort her.
"What happened?" Harry asked, breaking through the circle of students
"Parvati didn't wake up this morning," Hermione explained since Lavender was too shaken to say anything.
"So? Maybe she just wanted to sleep in for a day," Harry reasoned. "It's still early in the afternoon."
"It's - not - like - her," Lavender sobbed. "She was - well - yesterday. She - also never - misses - any - Quidditch games - against - Slytherin. But - this - week - she's been - sleeping in - more often - and - hasn't been - eating much - either."
"No wonder it was so quiet in Divination," Ron commented, receiving an elbow from Harry.
"Ow - what - ," Ron started to say but he noticed Hermione glaring at him and shut up immediately.
"That explains why she hasn't been showing up to classes in the morning," Hermione said.
Just the Parvati came downstairs in her pyjamas, looking fatigued, only to be greeted with stares from everyone in the common room.
"Why is everyone staring at me?" she asked.
There was silence in the room for a while but eventually Harry summoned enough courage to explain, "Because you just missed the Quidditch game and have been sleeping in all week."
"Sorry - I've just been very tired lately," she replied. "How did the game go?"
"It wasn't going well at first and we were getting killed by the Slytherins but I caught the snitch and we tied with them."
"Would everyone stop staring at Parvati and acting as if she died," said Fred as he entered the common room with George, both of them laden with Honeydukes sweets butterbeers, pumpkin fizz and some of their own jokes.
"Yeah, let's party!" George exclaimed and the common room broke into chatter as everyone moved towards the twins as they started handing out the party supplies.
Lavender had stopped crying and moved to greet Parvati while Hermione went back to join Harry and Ron, who were still standing there, apparently ignored by everyone in the room.
"I'm going off to see Dumbledore to give him the Daily Prophet article then I'm going to the library," said Hermione, " - I need to do some research. Care to join me?"
"But Hermione, what about the party?" Ron whined. "You're always doing something at the library. Our homework isn't due until Monday anyway and why does Dumbledore need to see the Daily Prophet? He probably already knows all about it."
"Exactly why I want to see what he's going to do about it and at any rate, I need to get started on my work. "
Ron thought about it for a moment, "I think I'll pass, I want to join the party - I did earn it after all."
"Suit yourself - The article is only about your best friend being accused of being a traitor," said Hermione hotly before she wheeled about and started heading towards the portrait.
"Wait Hermione," Harry called after her. "I'll join you - If the article concerns me, I want to know what Dumbledore is going to do about it and I need to get some work done too."
Ron rolled his eyes, "Harry - you're starting to turn into Hermione. Really, I think you both need to take a break before you burn yourself out."
With that, Ron joined the party and Harry and Hermione, shaking their heads, walked out of the common room, heading in the direction of Dumbledore's office.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Arriving at Dumbledore's office, Harry and Hermione were surprised to find Walter standing at the bottom of the staircase. The gargoyle was already moved aside - apparently Walter had already said the password and was on his way to see Dumbledore as well.
Upon hearing footsteps behind him, Walter turned around abruptly, his hand going to his dagger at his side. However he saw who it was and relaxed slightly, his stern face breaking into a friendly smile.
"Good afternoon Miss Granger - Mr. Potter," he said. "Going to see the headmaster about the Daily Prophet article?"
"How - " Hermione began, with a confounded look on her face.
"I saw the Daily Prophet this morning," Walter explained. "I assumed that you'd want to see the headmaster about it since it concerns Mr. Potter."
Despite the seriousness of the situation, Harry couldn't help laughing slightly at Hermione's facial expression after Walter finished explanation. Harry's laughter caused Hermione to abruptly snap out of her confounded trance and glare at Harry, who quickly stopped laughing.
"Why did you beat Malfoy so badly earlier?" Hermione questioned Walter.
"Because he is my prisoner and he got out of line. Prisoners who get out of line should be taught who's in charge," Walter replied coldly.
"But it's so brutal," she argued. "They're humans and deserve to be treated like humans. - Besides if you treat them like that, they'll hate you."
Walter smiled evilly. "That's why I have my skeletons around - they're lifeless and have no objection to mistreating those animals. - I can care less if the prisoners hate me or not - They committed a crime so as far as I'm concerned, they have forfeited their rights as humans."
"But - "
"That's enough Miss Granger - Come - I'm sure the headmaster would like to explain what he plans to do about the situation you wanted to talk to him about," Walter said softly, motioning them to go up the stairs.
Hermione stopped trying to reason with Walter as her concern for Harry's situation overrode her uneasiness over the way the prisoners were treated so they went up the stairs with Walter following.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Walter opened the door when they arrived at Dumbledore's office and allowed them to enter. Dumbledore was sitting at his desk, looking deep in thought.
"My apologies for interrupting your private time headmaster," Walter said respectfully.
"It's perfectly alright Professor Laikov," replied Dumbledore. "The fact that Harry and Miss Granger are here must mean that you wish to discuss the Daily Prophet article this morning?"
"Yes, that's right headmaster," said Walter. "I just wanted to request your permission, as head of the Order, to do something about it."
Dumbledore smiled; his eyes twinkling in the firelight, "Just leave it alone - Rita Skeeter won't be able to do any harm to us."
"Headmaster?" Walter asked, confused about Dumbledore's course of action. "Could you please explain?"
"Last year - Rita Skeeter wrote several articles similar to the one you saw this morning. They all had minimal effect. - She can't do anymore harm that she already has so let her do as she pleases."
"As you wish," Walter replied. "I will take my leave now."
Walter turned about and left, leaving Harry and Hermione alone with Dumbledore.
"But what about Harry?" Hermione asked once Walter had left the room. "The ministry could throw him in Azkaban."
"Miss Granger - I assure you that Harry is in no danger so please leave everything to me," Dumbledore replied. "I know you're concerned with his safety, but trust me on this - As long as Harry stays here at Hogwarts - he will be safe and nothing Rita Skeeter says will change that."
Harry was wondering if Dumbledore knew if there was something wrong with Parvati as she was acting very strangely all week but he didn't bother to say anything.
*Maybe it's just temporary and she's just sick, * Harry thought.
"If you have nothing else to bring forth, then I will leave you two to go about your business," said Dumbledore. "Please don't worry yourself over such a trivial matter as Rita Skeeter."
Harry or Hermione weren't completely satisfied with Dumbledore's answer but it was clear that the conversation was over so they turned around and quickly made their way towards the library, wondering what else could go wrong during the school year.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/N: That was a rather fun chapter to write. I have a vague idea about what I should do for the next chapter, but we'll see. It'll either be Christmas or what happens in between now and then. When I get to February and Valentine's Day, you'll find out who gets paired up with whom.
Mikala: They'll probably go at another mission sometime in the next 4 chapters; As for Malfoy, I didn't liked him so sorry if he's evil.
Angelis: Thank you for reviewing each time. It's always nice to know people are reading my story.
Orion: Wow. I'm honoured that you added me to your favourite author's list. Your stories are great, even though I'm a Harry/Hermione fan.
Quis: Thanks for the review; hope this was quick enough for you.
Anja: Well, the point of this fic is to read it in one go, though I guess reading it in fragments would work too.
Baybee05: Your review sounds almost like one Mikala put up a while ago, but hehe, I'm glad you like my fic. As for Harry/Hermione or Draco/Ginny, keep reading to figure out who's paired with whom since I don't want to ruin the romance part for everyone.
Voidhawc: You make a valid point so I put Malfoy in the dungeons in Walter's capable care. Bwahahaha.
Gerhrh: Hey, I try to hurry up with these chapters, but making sure almost everything is perfect takes a while.
Uniqueidividual: Thanks for reviewing, I read your story so check my review.
Gardengnomez: Thanks for reviewing. If you want to be a beta-reader, here are several questions that I'd like to ask you first. If you can answer them to my satisfaction then I'll let you be a beta-reader. These are the same standards I put for my other beta-reader and she's done a great job of following them so its only fair I put forth the same standards for you.
How fast can you proofread & get it back to me? Can you do it in less than 24 hours of sending you the chapter? How accurately can you catch errors?
If anyone else wants to beta-read and can meet the standards above, I'll e- mail you the next chapter and let you beta-read.