Disclaimer: We all know that I don't own anything that you recognize as
someone else's so don't sue me. I'm going to be on the Supreme Court some
day so I'd win a law suit anyways. Wendy belongs to Whitelighter
Enchantress. Check out her story, Harry Potter and the Quest for
Gryffindor. Wendy rules.
Dedicated to Whitelighter Enchantress And everyone go read "One Last Hope" by Reluxi and "Confessional" by Falkesbane!
The next morning, Cadance got up early to meet Cati, Sirius, Bill, Charlie, and Remus for pancakes in the Great Hall. They were getting there early because they were assigned to go find Cole so that he could tell them the location of Voldemort's lair.
They were just sitting down for pancakes when the doors to the Great Hall burst open and Wendy the Former-White Lighter ran in. "Hey! That's Wendy!" exclaimed Cadance.
"WENDY!" exclaimed Sirius and Remus at the same time jumping up out of their seats.
"TODAY IS NATIONAL SQUIRREL APPRECIATION DAY!" announced Wendy as if she was announcing the demise of Voldemort. She ran into Sirius and Remus causing all three of them to fall to the ground. Charlie leaned backwards in his chair and looked at the three of them.
"I may be going out on a limb here," he said. "But I take it you three know each other."
They got up off the floor. Wendy pushed Sirius into his chair, sat on his lap, and began making out with him. Cadance, Bill, Cati, and Charlie all stared at them in complete disbelief, their pancakes forgotten.
"Would you like me to explain?" asked Remus.
"An explanation would be nice," said Cadance.
"Well, that's Wendy and she's Sirius's old girlfriend from Hogwarts," said Remus. "And then she got killed by Death Eaters and now she's making out with Sirius."
"Ohh, pancakes," said Wendy as she stopped making out with Sirius and took a bite of pancakes.
"This is great," said Cadance. "Now you can just tell us where Voldemort's lair is so that way we don't have to spend the morning chasing after Cole to have him tell us."
"One problem," said Wendy. "I don't know where Voldemort's lair is. I just orbed with Leo. I can't even orb myself any place ever since I've been regranted life. No more White Lighter powers."
"Darn," said Cadance. "Well, everyone finish up so we can go look for Cole. The first stop is Kala's bar."
* * * "Kala, please do not tell me you're being serious," said Cadance.
"I'm sorry, Cadance. Yesterday, right after you left, two demons came up to Cole and he left with them and I haven't seen him since," said Kala. "The Ministry has people tracking him. Ask them where he is."
Cadance turned to Bill, Charlie, Remus, Sirius, Cati and Wendy. "Well, what's next?"
"We can have my dad ask the Ministry people who are tracking him to find out where he is," said Charlie. "I don't know of any other way to get a hold of him. We can ask my dad today and then tonight at the Order Meeting maybe he'll have an answer."
"I guess that's all we can do," said Cadance. "Let's get back to Hogwarts."
* * * "He's dead," announced Mr. Weasley.
"Dead?" repeated Cadance.
"I thought he was indestructible," said Charlie.
"Only on this plane," said Mr. Weasley. "Not on a demonic one. The rumor going around is that the Source had him taken out for impersonating one of his messengers."
Cadance began banging her head off of the table and McGonagall put her head in her hands. "What is going on?" asked Dumbledore.
"That's how he rescued us," said McGonagall.
Charlie put his hand in between the table and Cadance's head to stop her from getting brain damage.
"Let's move on to the next order of business," said Mr. Weasley changing the subject. "I have talked to Bob Reynolds and he has a proposition for Cadance and Minerva." Hearing this Cadance and McGonagall both picked their head up and looked at him. "Before I tell you what it is, I have to say that it would require that you leave your Hogwarts positions."
"I already decline," said McGonagall.
"I'm not going to turn it down right away," said Cadance. "I want to hear it first."
"Promotion," said Mr. Weasley. "You'd be in a different department. The Department of Mysteries."
"Unspeakables," whispered Cati.
"Ah, so they don't just get the coffee in the morning," said Cadance. "There goes that theory, Cati."
"Can we please not joke about this," said Charlie.
"Who's joking?" asked Cadance. "We really thought that the Unspeakables were the people who got the coffee in the morning but the Ministry gave them a cool name so that they didn't feel bad about it."
"Cadance, that's not what I meant," said Charlie.
"I'm still staying," said McGonagall. "I could never leave Hogwarts."
"Cadance?" asked Dumbledore.
"24 hours," murmured Cadance. "I need to think about it."
"Cadance, I don't think you fully comprehend how dangerous it would be if you take the position," whispered Charlie quietly to Cadance.
"Believe me, Charlie, I understand fully well how dangerous it would be," said Cadance.
"I don't think that you understand that you would have a better chance of dieing if you took this position," said Charlie getting a little bit louder.
"No, Charlie, I understand die very well, thank you," said Cadance also getting louder.
"I don't think you do!" said Charlie.
"Since when is what I do with my life any of your business!" argued Cadance. "You are not my mother."
"No, your mother would be able to get this nonsense out of your head!"
"How is taking a job that would allow me to fight more against the Greatest Dark Lord of our time nonsense!?"
"It's dangerous!"
"Oh, and chasing dragons isn't!? Think about it Charlie. I wasn't even a full time Auror and I still almost died! Everything in these Dark times is dangerous! There are all kinds of dangerous!"
"Okay, I think we've had enough excitement for one meeting," said Dumbledore over top of them.
"Yeah," piped in Sirius. "To separate ends of the ring with the two of you."
"As far as I'm concerned, this meeting is over," said Dumbledore. "If anyone needs me I'll be in my office."
"Why are you looking at me as you say that?" asked Cadance.
"Duh," said Charlie.
"Charlie," began Cadance through gritted teeth.
"Enough," said Dumbledore. "This is not the place for this. If you two have something you wish to discuss in loud tones, do it where nobody else can hear you. If you still don't have your problems worked out, then go to the Quidditch Pitch. I'll have no bloodshed in the castle. Now, Goodnight." He got up and walked out.
"Well," said Charlie getting up. "After you." He opened the door and let Cadance walk out ahead of him.
"I got 17 galleons that say they end up at the Quidditch Pitch," said Fred.
"They're not going to be pleasant tomorrow," said Cati.
"Hey, is it just me or can you hear Cadance's Irish accent creeping into her speech when she's angry?" asked Sirius.
"Irish accent, Irish temper, and Irish stubbornness," said Remus.
"Her mother used to do the same thing only she'd have a full-blown Irish accent when she was angry," said Arabella.
"Well, if anyone can get her angry enough to bring out the Irishwoman in her, it's Charlie," said Bill.
"Of that I have no doubt," said Cati.
Meanwhile, in the hallway.
"Look, Cadance! That way to the dungeons! We can blindfold you and then you can run down there blindly and try to vanquish demons! That's something exciting and dangerous that you haven't done before!"
"Bugger off, Charlie," said Cadance as she continued walking at a quickened pace down the hallway, not mentioning that she had done that before. Charlie continued to follow at her heels.
"Okay, okay, okay," said Charlie slowing down and grabbing her wrist so she would do the same. "Just hold on a second. Can we talk about this like mature, responsible, adults?"
Cadance stuck her tongue out at him. He rolled his eyes and dragged her to the nearest classroom.
"Cadance?" asked Charlie. "Why do you want to do this? Why do you want to take the job?"
"I never said that I wanted to take the job. I just wanted to consider it. It's a great opportunity," said Cadance.
"Yeah, to get yourself killed," said Charlie.
"Ugh, Charlie, you're impossible!" exclaimed Cadance. "Listen to me. When I graduated from Hogwarts I spent four, count them, four months away from everyone going through extensive training. For what?! A part-time Auroring job and a steady position teaching. And that with a Dark Lord on the loose! I could have gone off to college and become a lawyer like I had planned. But in my last week of school I had to get a premonition of the Dark Mark and changed my mind. And so four months of Auror training and 6 years of chasing demons and Death Eaters for the Ministry later, I am teaching people how to protect themselves from Kappas and why vampires don't like garlic. And the sad thing is I love it!"
"I'm not following," said Charlie.
"Don't you see, Charlie? While I love teaching, I'm an Auror, born and bred," said Cadance.
Before Charlie could reply, Sirius burst into the room. "There you two are! I've been looking everywhere for you! We have a major problem!"
"What's the matter?" asked Cadance urgently.
"The Bulgarian and German Ministers have formed and alliance with Voldemort," said Sirius. "The people are outraged but they have no say in the government there anyway. And it gets worse. France has decided to stay completely neutral on the situation."
"Those damn French!" exclaimed Charlie.
"Why in the hell would anyone join with Voldemort?" asked Charlie.
"Because people are stupid," said Cadance. "The things we want most are exactly what's worst for us. The Bulgarian and German Ministers have never been quiet about their positions on the purity of blood. Voldemort has the same opinion."
"We are in deep," said Sirius. "Our list of allies is short."
"This is going to influence your decision isn't it?" asked Charlie.
"It is," said Cadance.
"I'm going to go and tell Dumbledore about all this now," said Sirius.
"Tell him I'll see him in the morning," said Cadance.
Sirius nodded and left the room.
Cadance heaved a sigh and sat on the desk. "You're planning on going aren't you?" asked Charlie. He put one hand on her shoulder and cupped the other one under Cadance's chin, making her look at him.
"You'll look after my uncle and Jen for me, won't you?" she asked.
"Cadance, please, rethink your decision," said Charlie. "My father gave you 24 hours. Please use all of them to think about it."
"Charlie, there is nothing really keeping me here," said Cadance.
Charlie looked deep into her eyes. Then he pulled her close and kissed her. When they finally broke away, Cadance said, "Wow. Talk about famous last words."
"You know, if this were a really cheesey fanfiction that someone posts on the internet for shits and giggles then Sirius would walk in right now," said Charlie.
And since this is a fanfiction Sirius walked in right at that moment. But since he had no reason to be there he left to contemplate why he had gone there in the first place, not realizing the power of the fanfiction author.
Charlie leaned forward so that his forehead was touching Cadance's. "Why, Mr. Weasley! Are you trying to seduce me?" asked Cadance.
Charlie laughed. "You caught me," he said.
"It's working," said Cadance. Charlie kissed her forehead.
"Does that mean you now have a reason to stay?" asked Charlie.
"Maybe," said Cadance.
"Cadance?" asked Charlie.
"Hmm?"
"Will you marry me?" he asked.
Cadance pulled her head back to look him in the eyes. "Yes," she said. "But out of curiosity, was this a spur of the moment thing?"
"If it was, would I have gotten this?" he asked. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a gorgeous diamond ring.
A huge grin spread across Cadance's face as Charlie slid the ring on her finger. For the first time in a long time, she was completely speechless.
* * *
Cadance and Cati were walking down the hallway the next morning. Cadance was in such a good mood despite what Cati was now telling her.
"There were four Muggles killed last night," said Cati.
"That's too bad," said Cadance.
"And Lord Voldemort is mad that you and Minerva escaped. He sent 3 demons here this morning and it's still early," said Cati.
"We should send him a fruit basket," said Cadance.
"And there will be more demons coming I'm sure," said Cati.
"Hakuna Matata," said Cadance.
"What is with you this morning?" asked Cati. "You haven't stopped smiling at all and you're very optimistic."
"Oh Cati," said Cadance. "It's a beautiful day. You're alive, I'm alive, and there's nobody attacking the castle. Smile a little. It won't kill you."
About 20 minutes later, Cati, McGonagall and Jen were all in Dumbledore's office. "You have got to do something about Cadance," said McGonagall.
"Why?" asked Dumbledore. "What's the matter with her?"
"She's too happy," said Cati flatly.
"Yeah," agreed Jen. "This morning, I saw her smiling at Professor Snape."
"And she's very optimistic," said Cati.
"What's wrong with that?" asked Dumbledore. "She's just happy to be out of Voldemort's lair."
"I'm happy to be out of Voldemort's lair but you don't see me smiling insanely and crazily happy. Besides, she has to make a major decision about whether or not she's going to take that job and if she were acting normal for her she would be thinking about that non-stop and wouldn't have time to be that happy," said McGonagall.
"Yeah," said Cati. "It's sickening, really."
Just then Cadance came in smiling. "Good morning!" she said.
"See?" asked Cati, McGonagall, and Jen at the same time.
"Cadance, dear, are you okay?" asked Dumbledore.
"I'm perfectly fine, Uncle Albus," said Cadance.
"That's good," said Dumbledore. "Because it has been brought to my attention that you are quite optimistic this morning."
"Well, sure I am. Why shouldn't it be?" asked Cadance.
"I'm not sure," said Dumbledore.
"Okay then," said Cadance. "I'm going to go then. I will see all of you later." She turned to head out of the door but then turned back around. "By the way, I'm engaged."
"That's nice, dear," said Dumbledore.
Cadance was out the door, past the gargoyle, and down the hallway before what she had said sunk in. Without saying a word to each other they all got up and ran after her.
"Cadance did you just say you're engaged?" asked Cati.
"Uhhh, yeah," said Cadance.
"Congratulations," said Jen. "Who are you marrying!?"
"Hey, yeah!" exclaimed Cati. "You're not even dating anyone."
It was then that Charlie came over to them. "Good morning," he said.
"Hello, dear," said Cadance kissing him. "Ready to go?"
"Ready," said Charlie. "Anyone know when Hagrid's coming back because my boss wants to know how much longer I'll be out?"
"OH MY GOD!" exclaimed Cati.
"Okay, okay," said Charlie. "You don't have to answer."
"Well, it took you two long enough," said McGonagall. "I believe our bet was 5 galleons, Albus."
"Hey!" exclaimed Cadance. "You're not allowed to place bets on our futures!"
"Too late," said McGonagall. "You should hear what Albus thinks is going to happen in Cati's future."
"Well, Cadance, we better be going," said Charlie.
"Where're you two going?" asked Jen.
"To tell my parents," said Charlie. "And, Cati, not a word to Bill."
"Why are you assuming that I would be the one to tell him?" asked Cati.
"Because you love him," said Cadance.
"Charlie, get your fiancée out of here before your engagement becomes short- lived," said Cati.
"C'mon, Cadance," said Charlie. "We're running a bit late."
Cadance and Charlie left, hand in hand.
Jen reached over and pinched Cati. "Ow!" exclaimed Cati. "What was that for?"
"I just wanted to make sure this was all real," said Jen with an air of mysticism.
"You're supposed to pinch yourself," said Cati.
"But that would hurt," said Jen. Cati rolled her eyes, although we all know that she knew that what Jen said made sense.
* * * Cati practically skipped down to the Great Hall. Being that it was Sunday there were lots of people eating a late breakfast. Sirius, who was not exactly a morning person, was groggily sipping his orange juice.
"I know something you don't know," sang Cati skipping up to the Head Table.
"What?" asked Sirius.
"I'm not telling," said Cati.
"Do you know that you're a kook?" asked Sirius.
"No."
"Well then I know something you don't know," said Sirius.
"Yeah, but I know something BIG," said Cati.
"Well, you're a big kook," said Sirius.
"Fine then," said Cati. "I won't tell you who is getting married."
Wendy, who was more cheerful in the morning than Sirius, chose this moment to come into the Great Hall equally as bouncily as Cati had entered. "Who's getting married?" she asked.
"It's a surprise," said Cati.
"Oh by the way, Sirius, I've been deported back to the United States by the White Lighter Council and I'll be leaving in an hour," said Wendy.
"What!" exclaimed Sirius.
"I know," said Wendy. "But I don't have a choice."
"Wendy, you can't leave," said Sirius.
"I have to," said Wendy.
"She's right you know," said Jen coming up to the Head Table. "Wendy has a destiny to fulfill."
"How do you know?" asked Sirius.
"Well, she's been regranted life for a reason," said Jen. "Maybe she'll be allowed to come back after she fulfills it."
"How did you get to be so smart?" asked Sirius. "I thought you were related to Cadance."
* * * Wendy was gone before Cadance and Charlie returned. Cadance was sorry that she didn't get a chance to thank Wendy once more. Cati had gone back to singing "I know something you don't know" every time she saw Sirius.
Later that day, Cati turned up missing. Cadance, on a hunch, went down to Hogsmeade to find Sirius. He and Remus were sitting in Sirius's living room. "Where's Cati," she asked.
"Cati?" asked Remus innocently.
"We know nothing of this Cati of whom you speak," said Sirius.
"Fine," said Cadance. "I'm not going to tell you what she knows."
But by the end of the week all the Aurors knew. The entire teaching staff knew. A good portion of the Ministry knew. All of the Gryffindors knew. Sirius pretended to be angry that he wasn't the first to know.
About two days later, Hagrid returned, but would not say where Dumbledore had sent him. It was hard to tell whether he was more shocked that Cadance and Minerva were alive or that Cadance and Charlie were engaged. Charlie had to return home and to his regular job. Fred and George bet that Cadance would vanish for several hours every evening. They were right.
One day, within a week later, Cadance was walking down the hallway on her way to Hogsmeade to see Cati (why? I don't know). She suddenly heard a few angry shouts and a few minor blasts coming from around the corner. She hurried over and found not demons, not Death Eaters, not Professor McGonagall transfiguring Professor Trelawney into a bat (which wouldn't require much skill as she was so bat-like already), but Harry and Malfoy locked in a verbal battle of wits.
"Hey!" she exclaimed.
Harry turned his head and looked at Cadance. Malfoy used this opportunity to cast a spell. The Gryffindors crowded around them and screamed and boo- ed while the Slytherins cheered. Ron tackled Malfoy as Hermione cast the counter-spell.
Cadance pushed her way through and pulled Ron and Malfoy apart. "Stop now!" she exclaimed. There was still commotion all around her. Getting annoyed, Cadance launched two fireballs into the air. Complete silence.
"I don't care who started it. I don't care why it was started. Just everyone get yourselves into the Great Hall," said Cadance through gritted teeth. In silence they all made their way to the Great Hall. It wasn't until they got there that they realized that Cadance wasn't there. They sat down anyway. 15 minutes later, Cadance came walking in. Behind her was the rest of the school. They all took their seats. The teachers were behind them. So was the rest of the Order of the Phoenix (wow, they're quick).
"I think it's time that you all learn a few lessons in life," announced Cadance. "Your lives are being ruled by fear, hatred, and stereotypes. Yes, stereotypes. Stereotypes of families, houses, and groups. But what happens when the stereotypes you know mean absolutely nothing?" She grinned evilly.
"Uh oh," said Jen. "I know that face"
"Tomorrow morning, you will report here at 8:00 AM and will then be given a slip of paper. If there is a red dot on your paper, you are a Death Eater. You will also be given a table number. All the Death Eaters will be at one table. The people at your table is your social group; your friends. I don't care if you don't like the people at your table, at least pretend to get along. You will receive further instructions tomorrow. Classes will not be in session. This game will last all day. Now go to your dormitories. Rest up for tomorrow."
* * *
The next morning at 8:00 AM all of the students reported to the Great Hall. At the Head Table Cadance stood behind her chair. She looked like she could have been waiting for orders from the commanding Auror before a Death Eater battle. Her eyes seemed to be looking at all of them at once yet not looking at them at all. Dumbledore sat beside her, his eyes sparkling as if he knew something they didn't. On his other side sat Snape, looking as if the next person who talked to him would be force-fed poison. Professor McGonagall was on Snape's other side talking in hushed tones with Arabella Figg.
Charlie was sitting on Cadance's other side. He looked like he was trying to get Cadance to sit down. Cati and Bill were sitting on Charlie's other side talking quietly. Sirius and Remus were silently sipping coffee. The rest of the teachers and Order Members weren't present.
Cadance cleared her throat and what little noise there was stopped immediately. "Are you all ready to begin our little game? Good. The first rule is, there are no rules. Because in real life there are no set rules that you can follow to stay safe. Everyone is a target. Next, Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin will be walking around with a hat. In these hats are slips of paper. Those pieces of paper have a number on it. That is the table you will be at. The tables are in order starting with the Slytherin table as number on. If there is a red dot on your paper along with your number you are a Death Eater. Don't show anyone your paper. All of the Death Eaters are at one table." As she talked Sirius and Remus began walking around, giving them their paper.
The students were too busy watching each other, trying to look at each other's paper to see if they were a Death Eater, that they did not notice a hat going around the Head Table. Everyone took a slip of paper except Dumbledore. The teachers were also playing, and the students didn't know.
As soon as everyone had their paper, Cadance began speaking again. "No, everyone take your piece of paper and fold it in half and stick it in your envelope." Everyone looked around curiously because they didn't have envelopes. Then, an envelope appeared in front of them with their name written neatly on the front. They all put their papers in the envelopes and their envelopes disappeared from their hands. "Headmaster Dumbledore will be acting as the moderator. If, for some reason, you would like to join the Death Eaters, you will secretly send a request to him and he will tell the Death Eaters who will either accept or decline your request. Every 30 minutes, the Death Eaters will choose one person to kill off. All those people who are killed off will sit at that table over there." She pointed to a table in the back. "Feel free to get homework or something to keep you occupied if you do not wish to watch. Also, if someone accuses you of being a Death Eater, there will be a trial over which Headmaster Dumbledore will preside. He will not determine guilt or innocence. That is up for the people to decide. Now everyone head to your assigned table. Get to know your peers. Eat breakfast. The game will start in an hour with the first venture into inter-group relations between your new groups." She sat down. Everyone got up and began moving to their new tables. None of the people at the Head Table moved. They were all assigned to table 5. And they all had a red dot on their paper.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione looked at each other. They were all sent to separate tables. Harry got to his table and discovered that Ginny had been assigned to that table too. Also, Dennis Creevey and Agatha Smith of the Smith Triplets were there. There were also a few other Gryffindors. Only 3 people were from Slytherin.
Meanwhile, up at the Head Table, the teachers/Order Members were talking and eating breakfast. "Are you sure you want to do this?" asked Dumbledore.
"Of course," said Cadance. "It's going to be fun."
"I'm not sure if watching them turn on each other when we're really the bad guys is exactly the best thing for our consciences," said Arabella.
"Well, if we always listened to that annoying little cricket, life would be awfully dull," ventured Cati.
"Yeah," agreed Cadance. "If I always listened to my conscience I'd probably still be stuck doing paper work at the Ministry."
Sirius opened his mouth to comment but Cati smacked him in the back of the head first. "So who are we killing off first?" asked Cati.
"Cati, must you be so perfectly blunt about it?" asked Snape.
"Besides, we have to wait until after our first activity to kill someone off," said Cadance.
"And what might that be?" asked McGonagall.
"You'll find out soon," said Cadance. "In about 10 minutes I'm going to stand up and announce it as well as the terms for winning."
Ten minutes later, Cadance stood back up. She tapped her glass with her wand and everyone looked at her. "The first activity will be a sort of role-playing activity. You'll all be assigned a career. You will then get into your career groups. But beware: there is no longer safety. The Death Eaters will be split and divided among the groups like everyone else. The game is over when 20 people have been tried and found guilty of being a Death Eater. Only 10 people have to actually be Death Eaters. If you were wrong about more than 10 of them, the Death Eaters win. Now enjoy your breakfast. Careers will be assigned in about 15 minutes and the game will officially begin in a half hour." She sat back down again.
"Cadance," said Cati. "Out of idle curiosity what are the jobs and how are we going to pull this off if we're split among them?"
"Quite easily," said Cadance. "You see there are 9 of us and I have 5 categories of jobs. Two people go to four of them and one goes to the last. Now, I already have us split up but we'll just have the students count off. Now when the task is assigned within the group you watch now you word things. And make sure you help a little but not too much."
"So what are the jobs?" asked Cati. Cadance just grinned evilly.
Ten to fifteen minutes later, Cadance was on her feet again. "Alright. Count off from 1 to 7 within your tables. Nobody switch seats and remember your numbers." She waited as they counted off (mass confusion coming from a table filled with a number of Slytherins). Okay then. Numbers 1 and 7 go to table 1. You will be Ministry Workers. Numbers 2 and 6 go to table 2. You work for the Daily Prophet. Number 3's go to table 3. You are Doctors and Nurses. Number 4's go to table 4. You are Foreign Ambassadors to France; Sorry. And the last group comes up here and they are the Hogwarts teaching staff. In about 10 minutes you will be asked to move to these tables to get your tasks." She sat back down.
"Foreign ambassadors to France?" asked Cati. "Okay, who gets tuck with that one?"
"Actually," said Cadance trailing off.
"Oh no," said Cati.
"Haha, you're a foreign diplomat to France," said Bill laughing at her.
"What are you laughing at, Bill, you're one too," said Cadance.
"What!"
"Oh you're going to have fun. One of your tasks involves writing a nasty letter to the French Minister," said Cadance.
"Ohhhh," said Cati her eyes lighting up.
"Right, well, Snape and Minerva, you two are the Hogwarts Teaching Staff," said Cadance. "Arabella, you're with the newspaper. Remus and Sirius, you're the Ministry workers and Charlie and I are the Mediwizards."
"So once everyone goes to the different tables, all I have to do is pass out the folders you gave me earlier?" asked Dumbledore.
"Yes, that's all," said Cadance. "And then in a half-hour, the rest of us will determine who to kill off."
"Yes!" exclaimed Cati.
"You've been waiting for this, haven't you?" asked Bill.
"You know it," said Cati. "I have a few names in mind already."
"Why am I not surprised?" asked Snape.
"Because I'm related to you," said Cati.
And now, since the author is tired of writing mindless dialogue we're going to skip to the part where the game begins. Everyone went to their new tables.
Harry found himself at the Ministry table as well as Hermione, Parvati Patil, Dean Thomas, and Draco Malfoy. Jen and Ginny were Mediwitches. Ron, Neville, and Seamus Finnigan were working for the Daily Prophet.
Dumbledore came around to hand out their assignments. And the first stop in this fanfic is the Ministry table because I'm the author and I said so.
Dumbledore put a folder down on the table. Sirius was closest to it. He picked it up and pulled a paper out of it. It had instructions on it. Sirius began to read them.
"Your mission, should you choose to accept it (and you better or else fail Defense Against the Dark Arts), is to come up with a set of rules regarding the battling and capturing of Death Eaters. You have a half hour. Good luck."
"Does anyone have any ideas?" asked Remus.
"How about we discuss the use of Unforgivable Curses?' suggested Sirius.
"What do you propose?" asked Remus.
"I say the Aurors just go for it," said Dean Thomas.
"No way," said a Hufflepuff boy, Marcus Monroe.
"The Unforgivables are unforgivable for a reason," said Parvati.
"But what if using one saves an innocent's life?" asked Hermione.
"I think I may have another way to approach the Unforgivable Curses," said Harry.
"What, Potter?" spat Malfoy. "I suppose you'd rather use them."
"Stuff it, Malfoy," said Dean. "Listen to what he has to say."
"We've been treating the Unforgivables as a unit. They're three separate curses and they do three different things. Maybe an Auror can use the Cruciatus Curse to buy time so they can disarm Death Eaters. Or the Imperius Curse to make them stop fighting. But we can just leave the Killing Curse out of this."
"I like that idea," said Hermione.
"We could still work out some agreement as to when a battle gets intense enough to use those two Unforgivable curses," said Marcus.
Meanwhile, at the Newspaper's table, Arabella was looking around at the students. She took the folder and opened it. There was a stack of blank parchment inside along with the instructions. She picked up the instructions an read them. "Your assignments is to each come up with an article regarding the 'Death Eater attack' that is about to happen. This untimely 'death' of one of your classmates is the first in a series of articles you will be writing. You may work with up to two other people on this assignment. Until such time as the student who has been chosen is announced, you are to choose partners and get better acquainted with them."
At the time when the "Death Eat Attack" was to be announced, Dumbledore stood up and cleared his throat. The hall got quiet. Some students looked nervous. "I am sorry to announce that one of you is now dead. And that person is a Mr. Dean Thomas."
* * * By twelve o'clock, four more people had joined Dean Thomas at the "dead" table. All of them were Gryffindors and all of them were at the Ministry Table. This led to the accusation of a Mr. Draco Malfoy.
"Mr. Malfoy," said Dumbledore. "Please approach the bench." By the bench he was referring to the table in the back where he was sitting with the five people who the Death Eaters had killed off. "You are accused of being a Death Eater. How do you plead?"
"Innocent, sir," said Draco.
"Mr. Black," said Dumbledore. "You will be our Ministry Representative and prosecutor. Who here would like to defend Mr. Malfoy?"
There was silence for a few seconds. Then, Cadance stood. "I'll do it," she said.
"Thank you, Cadance," said Dumbledore, then he caught Professor McGonagall's disapproving glance and corrected himself. "I mean, Professor Dumbledore." Professor McGonagall nodded. "Professor Dumbledore, you may go first. This is an informal trial. The only witness that needs to be called is Mr. Malfoy if you feel the need to call witnesses. After both sides have talked, then everyone will vote to determining guilt or innocence. Majority wins."
Cadance nodded at him. "Why, exactly, does this man stand accused of being a Death Eater? I am disappointed that you all have ignored my raving tirade that I gave you yesterday. The five that are dead were not Gryffindors. Mr. Malfoy is not a Slytherin. You are all just people. You all are not playing the game right. Think about it." She sat down.
Sirius stood. "Everything that she just said is bull crap." He sat down again.
Then, the populace voted and Dumbledore stood to deliver the verdict. "Guilty," said Dumbledore.
"I feel like Atticus Finch," said Cadance.
Afterwards, everyone headed back to their groups for lunch. At the Head Table, Cadance and Sirius were congratulating each other on commendable acting.
By dinner-time half the students were gone, either killed off or accused of being a Death Eater. There were about 140 students left. The entire newspaper staff was gone. Harry, Ron, Hermione, Jen, and Ginny had managed to stay in the game.
Dumbledore stood up. "I'm sorry to announce that there has been a massacre. The following people are now dead: Any student with the last name starting with the letters H through Z. If you are one of those people, please leave your seat and join you other classmates."
"Wait a minute!" exclaimed Jen as Ginny got up to join the dead. "What is up with that?!"
"What do you mean, Jennifer?" asked Dumbledore.
"That was random and unfair," she replied.
"Who said life was fair?" asked Cadance. "Due to the necessity for more room for the dead people, the remaining people are to move to table one and the dead people can move to the remaining tables."
Jen and Hermione looked at each other. They were the only two Gryffindors left in the game. There were only 12 students left in the game. The nine Order Members went down and joined them at the first table. Dumbledore, too, went down.
"Well, this game is beginning to get interesting," said Dumbledore.
"Yeah, sure," said Jen, who was clearly not amused. "How do you end it again?"
"20 people are found guilty of being Death Eaters," said Dumbledore. "According to my calculations, 19 people have been found guilty of being Death Eaters."
"One more," muttered Hermione under her breathe.
Meanwhile, Harry, Ron, and Ginny were talking together at one of the tables. "There's something about this that isn't quite right," said Ginny.
"Yeah, we're dead," said Ron.
"No that's not what I mean," said Ginny. "I mean there isn't something right with this situation. There is obviously at least one Death Eater left, but who is? And people from all the different tables have been killed, so which one had the Death Eaters at it? Are the Death Eaters killing off Death Eaters to throw people off?"
"I don't know,' said Ron. "I've never psycho-analyzed a Death Eater before."
Back at the table.
"Okay, here's what we have to do," said Jen. "We just have to accuse one more person of being a Death Eater and find them guilty and then the game is over. We're sure that at least 10 of the people we accused are really Death Eaters, right?" Murmurs of assent went up around her. "Well that's all we need to win. Let's just end this game."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Oh my God," said Ginny. "I think I've figured it out."
"What?" asked Harry.
"I figured out what's wrong with this game," said Ginny. "Jen is going to be so mad at her sister when this is over."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Okay, let's just vote. Who thinks Goyle is a Death Eater?" asked Jen. She and 10 other students raised their hands.
"Well, majority rules," said Cadance. "Sorry, Mr. Goyle."
Dumbledore stood. "Will everyone please return to your regular seat at your regular house table. All of those accused of being a Death Eater, please sit at the table in the back." Everyone did as he said. It took them a few moments and then he continued. "I have here the envelopes from each of the 20 people who have been accused of being Death Eaters. If at least 10 of them are Death Eaters, you win. If not, you lose."
"First, Mr. Malfoy," said Cadance. She opened the envelope. "Innocent." She continued with the rest of the people. "Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent."
With each word, everyone's mouth dropped a little lower.
"So does that mean that there were no Death Eaters?" someone asked.
"No," said Dumbledore. "Will all the Death Eaters please stand?"
They all stood. Cadance and Cati were smirking. Bill, Charlie, and Remus smiled pleasantly. Sirius was grinning like a Cheshire Cat. Snape was glaring. Arabella and McGonagall were looking neutral, yet wise at the same time.
"Things aren't always what they seem," said Dumbledore.
Jen was clearly trying to find words to express her annoyance.
"So what have you all learned from this?" asked Cadance.
"I learned you're sadistic," said Jen.
"That wasn't exactly the angle I was going for," said Cadance.
* * *
Cati stood at her post at the front doors of the castle. It was a beautiful day in May. The students were all studying for their finals. A few were outside laying by the lake studying, but most were in the library or in their Common Rooms or in the classrooms where a few teachers had made themselves available for study help in case the students needed it.
But Cati was at her post. She was alone at the front door. Honestly, if Death Eaters attacked, one person would hardly be of any hindrance to them, and she would not be able to sound the alarm if she were ambushed. But she wasn't one to question her assignments. Boredom began to kick in. She began a staring contest with the gargoyle. It was because of this staring contest that she didn't realize that someone was coming up behind her until they tapped her on the shoulder. Cati spun around and threw her arm back, conjuring up a fireball.
"Oh, Bill, It's just you," said Cati.
"What are you doing?" asked Bill.
"Me? I'm being a gargoyle," said Cati. She assumed a position similar to the gargoyle.
"Right," said Bill. "Want some company?"
"Sure," said Cati. "But it's really boring."
"That's alright," said Bill. They sat down on the stairs leading up to the front door.
"So what do you want to do?" asked Cati.
"I don't know," said Bill. There was a silence that followed. Sirius came up to them from Hogsmeade in the meantime.
"Oh no! Not you!" exclaimed Cati. "Things can't get any worse!" Of course, since she said that things can't get any worse, it started raining.
"Great," said Bill.
"Well, I'm going inside. Cadance has me running errands for her," said Sirius. "I have to pick up a list of things to get in Diagon Alley. Anyone else need anything?"
"Yeah, I have a list of Potion ingredients in my apartment," said Cati. "Money's in the jar on top of the refrigerator. Thanks Sirius."
"Pick up hot wings, let's party tonight!" exclaimed Bill.
"Right," said Sirius going inside. As soon as he did, it stopped raining.
Cati sighed. "This is incredibly boring," she said.
"Well, as long as you have to do it, at least you're doing it well," said Bill.
"You know what, Bill? You're right. Can you watch the door for a minute? I'll be right back," said Cati. She got up and ran inside. A few minutes later she came out wearing one of Cadance's long coats, Indiana Jones hat, and belt with bullwhip attached.
"Oh dear," said Bill.
"State your name," said Cati very seriously to Bill.
"Cati, what are you doing?" asked Bill.
"Sir, if you don't state your name you will be escorted from the premises," said Cati.
Bill sighed. "Bill Weasley," he said.
"State your business," said Cati.
"I'm keeping you company while you guard the doors," said Bill.
"Well, I suppose I can let you stay. Just no funny business," said Cati. Bill rolled his eyes. He sat back down on the stairs while Cati stood next to the door, as still as a statue.
"So, Cati," began Bill.
"Shhh! A good Auror does not make idle conversation while on duty," said Cati.
"Oh boy," said Bill.
Sirius walked out the front doors. "Excuse me, sir," said Cati. Sirius turned and looked at her strangely. "Is there any particular reason you're leaving the castle?"
"Uhhh, I'm going to Diagon Alley to get your potion ingredients, Cadance's books, Bill's hot wings, and new robes," said Sirius.
"Well, move along then. There's nothing to see here. No blocking the doorway," said Cati with authority.
Sirius looked at Bill, questioning Cati's behavior. Bill shrugged. Sirius shook his head and then walked away.
About an hour later, Cati decided to change door guarding tactics. She crouched on top of the gargoyle and pulled out the bullwhip. She sat perfectly still as if daring someone with evil intentions to try and enter the castle.
Albus Dumbledore was the next person to come along. "Professor Dumbledore," began Bill as Professor Dumbledore reached the door. "Cati-." But Cati cut him off. She snapped the bullwhip and it wrapped itself around the door handle. Dumbledore's eyes followed the bullwhip up to where Cati was standing. He raised one eyebrow questioningly. Cati hopped down.
"Catalin, what are you doing?" asked Dumbledore half-way amusedly.
"State your name," said Cati.
Dumbledore raised his other eyebrow. "Just do it, sir. She's serious," said Bill.
"Albus Dumbledore," said Dumbledore.
"State your business," said Cati.
"I'm the headmaster," said Dumbledore.
"I said state your business. You stated your profession. Failure to comply with the questioning procedure may result in injury on your part. I have a wand and I have permission to use it," said Cati.
"I'm the headmaster," said Dumbledore. "My business is Hogwarts. I live here."
"Then what were you doing out of Hogwarts?" questioned Cati suspiciously.
"I was visiting Arabella Figg concerning the protection of Hogwarts," said Dumbledore. "Arabella is the Auror in charge here. That makes her your boss."
"That's it, I'm going to need some identification," said Cati.
"I don't have any on me," said Dumbledore. "I have some inside."
"Is there anyone inside who can confirm that you are indeed the headmaster?" asked Cati.
"Cati, he's the headmaster," said Bill. "Everyone can confirm it."
"I'm going to need someone to confirm it and it better be someone with authority," said Cati. "My assistant, Mr. Bill Crabby-Pants, will go and fetch them. Now who can confirm you identity?"
"Better go get Cadance," said Dumbledore. "Those are her clothes she's wearing. Maybe she'll have some sort of explanation."
"Right away, sir," said Bill. He hurried off to find Cadance.
While they were waiting, Sirius returned from Diagon Alley. "Cati, here are your potion ingredients," said Sirius.
"An Auror does not receive packages while on duty. You'll have to wait until my shift ends," said Cati.
"Professor Dumbledore, what are you doing out here?" asked Sirius.
"Cati is detaining me because I don't have identification," said Dumbledore.
"Cati, is this really necessary? He's the headmaster," said Sirius.
"Can you prove that?" asked Cati.
Sirius thought a second. "Yes! Yes I can!" he exclaimed. "Yes I can! Look!" He pulled three cards from the Chocolate Frog packs out of his pockets. One of them was Dumbledore. "Look, it's Dumbledore!"
Cati took the card. "Hmmm. So it is. Okay, sir, you're clear to go."
"Er, thank you, Catalin," said Dumbledore
Just then Bill came running out dragging Cadance behind him. "Cati, what is this all about?" asked Cadance.
"Ah, Professor Dumbledore," said Cati. "I'm sorry but your services are no longer necessary. This man here forgot his identification, but Mr. Black has taken care of it."
"Cati, what on earth is going on here?" asked Cadance. "Why have you detained my uncle? And what are you doing in my clothes?"
"This is my post. I will do anything possible to protect Hogwarts! I'd like to see just one bad guy get by me!" exclaimed Cati. Then she snapped to attention. "Minister," said Cati. They all turned around and saw that Mr. Weasley and Charlie had come up to them.
"Charlie!" exclaimed Cadance happily as she ran up to her fiancé. He kissed her.
"Everyone back up! Give the Minister some room! Failure to comply will result in your immediate ejection from the premises!" exclaimed Cati. Cadance and Charlie were still kissing.
"Cati's gone nutters," explained Bill.
"As an Auror it is my job to protect Hogwarts. This is my post," said Cati.
"I think she's been working too hard," said Dumbledore.
"There is no such thing as working too hard," said Cati. Then she noticed the packages Sirius was carrying. "Code blue, code blue! Sir, put the packages down and back away slowly!" Cadance and Charlie were still kissing.
Bill whispered something to his father. Mr. Weasley nodded. "Cati!" he said happily. "Just the person I was coming to see! I have a new assignment for you! Why don't you meet me inside once your shift is over?"
"Yes sir," said Cati. "I'll be there."
"Good, good," said Mr. Weasley. "Well, shall we go inside now then, Albus?"
Cadance and Charlie were still kissing. Cati finally noticed them. She grabbed Cadance by the back of her robes and pulled them apart. "That's a PDA! I'm taking the two of you in!"
"Cati, they're fine, I'll vouch for them," said Mr. Weasley as he and Dumbledore walked inside.
"Yes, sir," said Cati.
Cadance and Charlie raised their eyebrows at Cati as they walked by and inside.
* * * Cadance and Charlie were walking down the hallway an hour later. They stopped suddenly. Bill and Mr. Weasley were dragging Cati down the hallway.
"Cati, you're going on vacation! That is a direct order!" exclaimed Mr. Weasley.
"No, no, no! I'm needed here! I have to protect the castle!" exclaimed Cati.
"We're taking you to the Ministry where there's a port key waiting for you! You're going insane, you need a vacation," said Mr. Weasley.
"If I go nutters can I go on a Ministry-sponsored vacation?" asked Cadance.
"No, you're already nutters and not from being overworked," said Mr. Weasley.
"Dad, can we keep the wisecracks to a minimum now that Cadance is my fiancée?" asked Charlie.
"If she'll help us get Cati to the Ministry," answered Mr. Weasley. Cadance wiggled her nose and Cati disappeared. "Where'd she go?"
"The Ministry," said Cadance. "That's where you said you wanted her."
"You're going to have to teach me that trick one day," said Charlie.
"Sorry, can't," said Cadance. "It's a Sorceress thing."
"No, I mean you have to teach me how to make Cati disappear," said Charlie.
"Charlie, that's awful!" chastised Cadance.
"Well, I'd better be off to the Ministry. I don't know how long Bob Reynolds will be able to hold her on his own," said Mr. Weasley. He excused himself.
"So where are they sending Cati?" asked Cadance.
"I don't know," said Bill. "My dad was telling me and he was getting very excited about it so I didn't understand much of what he was saying. It's in America. He was saying something about it being run by a mouse or something and dreams coming true and a big castle and a freefalling muggle contraption."
"Sounds relaxing," said Cadance sarcastically. "Cati'll love it, I'm sure."
* * *
"How long is Cati going to be gone, Dad?" asked Charlie Weasley. It was now a few days into June and Cati had still not returned. School was ending in about two weeks.
"Oh I rather think they'll be sending her along one of these days," said Mr. Weasley.
"That's good," said Cadance. "She's been gone for three weeks already. How much longer can they keep her?"
"I don't know," said Mr. Weasley.
"Well she'd better hurry up," said Charlie. "We've set the date and if she's not back by then she'll never catch the bouquet and Cadance'll never get to make some Bill-ish remark."
"Well you know they like each other!" exclaimed Cadance.
"So what have you two decided?" asked Mr. Weasley. "When are you going to tie the knot?"
"August 21," said Cadance.
"Of this year?" asked Mr. Weasley. "That's only a two months away."
"We figured that with all the Death Eaters and Demons-" began Charlie before Cadance cut him off.
"We don't want to lose each other," said Cadance grasping Charlie's hand firmly.
Around the corner, Professor Dumbledore turned to head back to his office. He sighed. If they only they knew what was to come in the next year like he did himself. "The next year will be difficult for all of us; for them in particular," he thought to himself. "We'll just have to meet things as they come."
Yes, the next year will be full of hardships and heartaches; death and destruction. But by this time next year the clouds will have lifted and life will return to normal, or at least as normal as possible, for the survivors. But as the great Albus Dumbledore once told us, "To a well- organized mind, death is but the next great adventure", and unfortunately in these times there are too many great adventures. But what is to be is just that: to be. Fate, destiny, and choice are all intertwined to become one, but sometimes not even that is enough to save you from the powers of evil. Yet sometimes, when all hope seems lost, fate, destiny, and choice take over and you are saved just in the nick of time.
Albus Dumbledore will write no more than three months after overhearing Cadance and Charlie talking to Mr. Weasley in the hallway, "Times are growing harder and harder and knowing what is to come and knowing that I can't change it has taken its toll on me. I want to tell them so that they may change it but I can't because I fear it will change my own fate as well. Messing with destiny and fate is a difficult business, and I'm afraid a mother's love may not bring us out of this exactly as it did the last time. When the day comes, Cadance and Jen will have to face the evils of our world on their own, but they will never be alone. I will not waste precious time worrying about that now, though. In the next few months, I must try to change the fate of one without changing my own fate or that of those I love. I pray that Cadance and Jen never develop such acute a form of premonition that I have developed. Knowing what is to come is a burden one should never have to bear. I'll gladly bear it to keep them from bearing it. When the time comes, they will have to step up and take their place among the great witches and wizards, sorcerers and sorceresses, of our time."
Dedicated to Whitelighter Enchantress And everyone go read "One Last Hope" by Reluxi and "Confessional" by Falkesbane!
The next morning, Cadance got up early to meet Cati, Sirius, Bill, Charlie, and Remus for pancakes in the Great Hall. They were getting there early because they were assigned to go find Cole so that he could tell them the location of Voldemort's lair.
They were just sitting down for pancakes when the doors to the Great Hall burst open and Wendy the Former-White Lighter ran in. "Hey! That's Wendy!" exclaimed Cadance.
"WENDY!" exclaimed Sirius and Remus at the same time jumping up out of their seats.
"TODAY IS NATIONAL SQUIRREL APPRECIATION DAY!" announced Wendy as if she was announcing the demise of Voldemort. She ran into Sirius and Remus causing all three of them to fall to the ground. Charlie leaned backwards in his chair and looked at the three of them.
"I may be going out on a limb here," he said. "But I take it you three know each other."
They got up off the floor. Wendy pushed Sirius into his chair, sat on his lap, and began making out with him. Cadance, Bill, Cati, and Charlie all stared at them in complete disbelief, their pancakes forgotten.
"Would you like me to explain?" asked Remus.
"An explanation would be nice," said Cadance.
"Well, that's Wendy and she's Sirius's old girlfriend from Hogwarts," said Remus. "And then she got killed by Death Eaters and now she's making out with Sirius."
"Ohh, pancakes," said Wendy as she stopped making out with Sirius and took a bite of pancakes.
"This is great," said Cadance. "Now you can just tell us where Voldemort's lair is so that way we don't have to spend the morning chasing after Cole to have him tell us."
"One problem," said Wendy. "I don't know where Voldemort's lair is. I just orbed with Leo. I can't even orb myself any place ever since I've been regranted life. No more White Lighter powers."
"Darn," said Cadance. "Well, everyone finish up so we can go look for Cole. The first stop is Kala's bar."
* * * "Kala, please do not tell me you're being serious," said Cadance.
"I'm sorry, Cadance. Yesterday, right after you left, two demons came up to Cole and he left with them and I haven't seen him since," said Kala. "The Ministry has people tracking him. Ask them where he is."
Cadance turned to Bill, Charlie, Remus, Sirius, Cati and Wendy. "Well, what's next?"
"We can have my dad ask the Ministry people who are tracking him to find out where he is," said Charlie. "I don't know of any other way to get a hold of him. We can ask my dad today and then tonight at the Order Meeting maybe he'll have an answer."
"I guess that's all we can do," said Cadance. "Let's get back to Hogwarts."
* * * "He's dead," announced Mr. Weasley.
"Dead?" repeated Cadance.
"I thought he was indestructible," said Charlie.
"Only on this plane," said Mr. Weasley. "Not on a demonic one. The rumor going around is that the Source had him taken out for impersonating one of his messengers."
Cadance began banging her head off of the table and McGonagall put her head in her hands. "What is going on?" asked Dumbledore.
"That's how he rescued us," said McGonagall.
Charlie put his hand in between the table and Cadance's head to stop her from getting brain damage.
"Let's move on to the next order of business," said Mr. Weasley changing the subject. "I have talked to Bob Reynolds and he has a proposition for Cadance and Minerva." Hearing this Cadance and McGonagall both picked their head up and looked at him. "Before I tell you what it is, I have to say that it would require that you leave your Hogwarts positions."
"I already decline," said McGonagall.
"I'm not going to turn it down right away," said Cadance. "I want to hear it first."
"Promotion," said Mr. Weasley. "You'd be in a different department. The Department of Mysteries."
"Unspeakables," whispered Cati.
"Ah, so they don't just get the coffee in the morning," said Cadance. "There goes that theory, Cati."
"Can we please not joke about this," said Charlie.
"Who's joking?" asked Cadance. "We really thought that the Unspeakables were the people who got the coffee in the morning but the Ministry gave them a cool name so that they didn't feel bad about it."
"Cadance, that's not what I meant," said Charlie.
"I'm still staying," said McGonagall. "I could never leave Hogwarts."
"Cadance?" asked Dumbledore.
"24 hours," murmured Cadance. "I need to think about it."
"Cadance, I don't think you fully comprehend how dangerous it would be if you take the position," whispered Charlie quietly to Cadance.
"Believe me, Charlie, I understand fully well how dangerous it would be," said Cadance.
"I don't think that you understand that you would have a better chance of dieing if you took this position," said Charlie getting a little bit louder.
"No, Charlie, I understand die very well, thank you," said Cadance also getting louder.
"I don't think you do!" said Charlie.
"Since when is what I do with my life any of your business!" argued Cadance. "You are not my mother."
"No, your mother would be able to get this nonsense out of your head!"
"How is taking a job that would allow me to fight more against the Greatest Dark Lord of our time nonsense!?"
"It's dangerous!"
"Oh, and chasing dragons isn't!? Think about it Charlie. I wasn't even a full time Auror and I still almost died! Everything in these Dark times is dangerous! There are all kinds of dangerous!"
"Okay, I think we've had enough excitement for one meeting," said Dumbledore over top of them.
"Yeah," piped in Sirius. "To separate ends of the ring with the two of you."
"As far as I'm concerned, this meeting is over," said Dumbledore. "If anyone needs me I'll be in my office."
"Why are you looking at me as you say that?" asked Cadance.
"Duh," said Charlie.
"Charlie," began Cadance through gritted teeth.
"Enough," said Dumbledore. "This is not the place for this. If you two have something you wish to discuss in loud tones, do it where nobody else can hear you. If you still don't have your problems worked out, then go to the Quidditch Pitch. I'll have no bloodshed in the castle. Now, Goodnight." He got up and walked out.
"Well," said Charlie getting up. "After you." He opened the door and let Cadance walk out ahead of him.
"I got 17 galleons that say they end up at the Quidditch Pitch," said Fred.
"They're not going to be pleasant tomorrow," said Cati.
"Hey, is it just me or can you hear Cadance's Irish accent creeping into her speech when she's angry?" asked Sirius.
"Irish accent, Irish temper, and Irish stubbornness," said Remus.
"Her mother used to do the same thing only she'd have a full-blown Irish accent when she was angry," said Arabella.
"Well, if anyone can get her angry enough to bring out the Irishwoman in her, it's Charlie," said Bill.
"Of that I have no doubt," said Cati.
Meanwhile, in the hallway.
"Look, Cadance! That way to the dungeons! We can blindfold you and then you can run down there blindly and try to vanquish demons! That's something exciting and dangerous that you haven't done before!"
"Bugger off, Charlie," said Cadance as she continued walking at a quickened pace down the hallway, not mentioning that she had done that before. Charlie continued to follow at her heels.
"Okay, okay, okay," said Charlie slowing down and grabbing her wrist so she would do the same. "Just hold on a second. Can we talk about this like mature, responsible, adults?"
Cadance stuck her tongue out at him. He rolled his eyes and dragged her to the nearest classroom.
"Cadance?" asked Charlie. "Why do you want to do this? Why do you want to take the job?"
"I never said that I wanted to take the job. I just wanted to consider it. It's a great opportunity," said Cadance.
"Yeah, to get yourself killed," said Charlie.
"Ugh, Charlie, you're impossible!" exclaimed Cadance. "Listen to me. When I graduated from Hogwarts I spent four, count them, four months away from everyone going through extensive training. For what?! A part-time Auroring job and a steady position teaching. And that with a Dark Lord on the loose! I could have gone off to college and become a lawyer like I had planned. But in my last week of school I had to get a premonition of the Dark Mark and changed my mind. And so four months of Auror training and 6 years of chasing demons and Death Eaters for the Ministry later, I am teaching people how to protect themselves from Kappas and why vampires don't like garlic. And the sad thing is I love it!"
"I'm not following," said Charlie.
"Don't you see, Charlie? While I love teaching, I'm an Auror, born and bred," said Cadance.
Before Charlie could reply, Sirius burst into the room. "There you two are! I've been looking everywhere for you! We have a major problem!"
"What's the matter?" asked Cadance urgently.
"The Bulgarian and German Ministers have formed and alliance with Voldemort," said Sirius. "The people are outraged but they have no say in the government there anyway. And it gets worse. France has decided to stay completely neutral on the situation."
"Those damn French!" exclaimed Charlie.
"Why in the hell would anyone join with Voldemort?" asked Charlie.
"Because people are stupid," said Cadance. "The things we want most are exactly what's worst for us. The Bulgarian and German Ministers have never been quiet about their positions on the purity of blood. Voldemort has the same opinion."
"We are in deep," said Sirius. "Our list of allies is short."
"This is going to influence your decision isn't it?" asked Charlie.
"It is," said Cadance.
"I'm going to go and tell Dumbledore about all this now," said Sirius.
"Tell him I'll see him in the morning," said Cadance.
Sirius nodded and left the room.
Cadance heaved a sigh and sat on the desk. "You're planning on going aren't you?" asked Charlie. He put one hand on her shoulder and cupped the other one under Cadance's chin, making her look at him.
"You'll look after my uncle and Jen for me, won't you?" she asked.
"Cadance, please, rethink your decision," said Charlie. "My father gave you 24 hours. Please use all of them to think about it."
"Charlie, there is nothing really keeping me here," said Cadance.
Charlie looked deep into her eyes. Then he pulled her close and kissed her. When they finally broke away, Cadance said, "Wow. Talk about famous last words."
"You know, if this were a really cheesey fanfiction that someone posts on the internet for shits and giggles then Sirius would walk in right now," said Charlie.
And since this is a fanfiction Sirius walked in right at that moment. But since he had no reason to be there he left to contemplate why he had gone there in the first place, not realizing the power of the fanfiction author.
Charlie leaned forward so that his forehead was touching Cadance's. "Why, Mr. Weasley! Are you trying to seduce me?" asked Cadance.
Charlie laughed. "You caught me," he said.
"It's working," said Cadance. Charlie kissed her forehead.
"Does that mean you now have a reason to stay?" asked Charlie.
"Maybe," said Cadance.
"Cadance?" asked Charlie.
"Hmm?"
"Will you marry me?" he asked.
Cadance pulled her head back to look him in the eyes. "Yes," she said. "But out of curiosity, was this a spur of the moment thing?"
"If it was, would I have gotten this?" he asked. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a gorgeous diamond ring.
A huge grin spread across Cadance's face as Charlie slid the ring on her finger. For the first time in a long time, she was completely speechless.
* * *
Cadance and Cati were walking down the hallway the next morning. Cadance was in such a good mood despite what Cati was now telling her.
"There were four Muggles killed last night," said Cati.
"That's too bad," said Cadance.
"And Lord Voldemort is mad that you and Minerva escaped. He sent 3 demons here this morning and it's still early," said Cati.
"We should send him a fruit basket," said Cadance.
"And there will be more demons coming I'm sure," said Cati.
"Hakuna Matata," said Cadance.
"What is with you this morning?" asked Cati. "You haven't stopped smiling at all and you're very optimistic."
"Oh Cati," said Cadance. "It's a beautiful day. You're alive, I'm alive, and there's nobody attacking the castle. Smile a little. It won't kill you."
About 20 minutes later, Cati, McGonagall and Jen were all in Dumbledore's office. "You have got to do something about Cadance," said McGonagall.
"Why?" asked Dumbledore. "What's the matter with her?"
"She's too happy," said Cati flatly.
"Yeah," agreed Jen. "This morning, I saw her smiling at Professor Snape."
"And she's very optimistic," said Cati.
"What's wrong with that?" asked Dumbledore. "She's just happy to be out of Voldemort's lair."
"I'm happy to be out of Voldemort's lair but you don't see me smiling insanely and crazily happy. Besides, she has to make a major decision about whether or not she's going to take that job and if she were acting normal for her she would be thinking about that non-stop and wouldn't have time to be that happy," said McGonagall.
"Yeah," said Cati. "It's sickening, really."
Just then Cadance came in smiling. "Good morning!" she said.
"See?" asked Cati, McGonagall, and Jen at the same time.
"Cadance, dear, are you okay?" asked Dumbledore.
"I'm perfectly fine, Uncle Albus," said Cadance.
"That's good," said Dumbledore. "Because it has been brought to my attention that you are quite optimistic this morning."
"Well, sure I am. Why shouldn't it be?" asked Cadance.
"I'm not sure," said Dumbledore.
"Okay then," said Cadance. "I'm going to go then. I will see all of you later." She turned to head out of the door but then turned back around. "By the way, I'm engaged."
"That's nice, dear," said Dumbledore.
Cadance was out the door, past the gargoyle, and down the hallway before what she had said sunk in. Without saying a word to each other they all got up and ran after her.
"Cadance did you just say you're engaged?" asked Cati.
"Uhhh, yeah," said Cadance.
"Congratulations," said Jen. "Who are you marrying!?"
"Hey, yeah!" exclaimed Cati. "You're not even dating anyone."
It was then that Charlie came over to them. "Good morning," he said.
"Hello, dear," said Cadance kissing him. "Ready to go?"
"Ready," said Charlie. "Anyone know when Hagrid's coming back because my boss wants to know how much longer I'll be out?"
"OH MY GOD!" exclaimed Cati.
"Okay, okay," said Charlie. "You don't have to answer."
"Well, it took you two long enough," said McGonagall. "I believe our bet was 5 galleons, Albus."
"Hey!" exclaimed Cadance. "You're not allowed to place bets on our futures!"
"Too late," said McGonagall. "You should hear what Albus thinks is going to happen in Cati's future."
"Well, Cadance, we better be going," said Charlie.
"Where're you two going?" asked Jen.
"To tell my parents," said Charlie. "And, Cati, not a word to Bill."
"Why are you assuming that I would be the one to tell him?" asked Cati.
"Because you love him," said Cadance.
"Charlie, get your fiancée out of here before your engagement becomes short- lived," said Cati.
"C'mon, Cadance," said Charlie. "We're running a bit late."
Cadance and Charlie left, hand in hand.
Jen reached over and pinched Cati. "Ow!" exclaimed Cati. "What was that for?"
"I just wanted to make sure this was all real," said Jen with an air of mysticism.
"You're supposed to pinch yourself," said Cati.
"But that would hurt," said Jen. Cati rolled her eyes, although we all know that she knew that what Jen said made sense.
* * * Cati practically skipped down to the Great Hall. Being that it was Sunday there were lots of people eating a late breakfast. Sirius, who was not exactly a morning person, was groggily sipping his orange juice.
"I know something you don't know," sang Cati skipping up to the Head Table.
"What?" asked Sirius.
"I'm not telling," said Cati.
"Do you know that you're a kook?" asked Sirius.
"No."
"Well then I know something you don't know," said Sirius.
"Yeah, but I know something BIG," said Cati.
"Well, you're a big kook," said Sirius.
"Fine then," said Cati. "I won't tell you who is getting married."
Wendy, who was more cheerful in the morning than Sirius, chose this moment to come into the Great Hall equally as bouncily as Cati had entered. "Who's getting married?" she asked.
"It's a surprise," said Cati.
"Oh by the way, Sirius, I've been deported back to the United States by the White Lighter Council and I'll be leaving in an hour," said Wendy.
"What!" exclaimed Sirius.
"I know," said Wendy. "But I don't have a choice."
"Wendy, you can't leave," said Sirius.
"I have to," said Wendy.
"She's right you know," said Jen coming up to the Head Table. "Wendy has a destiny to fulfill."
"How do you know?" asked Sirius.
"Well, she's been regranted life for a reason," said Jen. "Maybe she'll be allowed to come back after she fulfills it."
"How did you get to be so smart?" asked Sirius. "I thought you were related to Cadance."
* * * Wendy was gone before Cadance and Charlie returned. Cadance was sorry that she didn't get a chance to thank Wendy once more. Cati had gone back to singing "I know something you don't know" every time she saw Sirius.
Later that day, Cati turned up missing. Cadance, on a hunch, went down to Hogsmeade to find Sirius. He and Remus were sitting in Sirius's living room. "Where's Cati," she asked.
"Cati?" asked Remus innocently.
"We know nothing of this Cati of whom you speak," said Sirius.
"Fine," said Cadance. "I'm not going to tell you what she knows."
But by the end of the week all the Aurors knew. The entire teaching staff knew. A good portion of the Ministry knew. All of the Gryffindors knew. Sirius pretended to be angry that he wasn't the first to know.
About two days later, Hagrid returned, but would not say where Dumbledore had sent him. It was hard to tell whether he was more shocked that Cadance and Minerva were alive or that Cadance and Charlie were engaged. Charlie had to return home and to his regular job. Fred and George bet that Cadance would vanish for several hours every evening. They were right.
One day, within a week later, Cadance was walking down the hallway on her way to Hogsmeade to see Cati (why? I don't know). She suddenly heard a few angry shouts and a few minor blasts coming from around the corner. She hurried over and found not demons, not Death Eaters, not Professor McGonagall transfiguring Professor Trelawney into a bat (which wouldn't require much skill as she was so bat-like already), but Harry and Malfoy locked in a verbal battle of wits.
"Hey!" she exclaimed.
Harry turned his head and looked at Cadance. Malfoy used this opportunity to cast a spell. The Gryffindors crowded around them and screamed and boo- ed while the Slytherins cheered. Ron tackled Malfoy as Hermione cast the counter-spell.
Cadance pushed her way through and pulled Ron and Malfoy apart. "Stop now!" she exclaimed. There was still commotion all around her. Getting annoyed, Cadance launched two fireballs into the air. Complete silence.
"I don't care who started it. I don't care why it was started. Just everyone get yourselves into the Great Hall," said Cadance through gritted teeth. In silence they all made their way to the Great Hall. It wasn't until they got there that they realized that Cadance wasn't there. They sat down anyway. 15 minutes later, Cadance came walking in. Behind her was the rest of the school. They all took their seats. The teachers were behind them. So was the rest of the Order of the Phoenix (wow, they're quick).
"I think it's time that you all learn a few lessons in life," announced Cadance. "Your lives are being ruled by fear, hatred, and stereotypes. Yes, stereotypes. Stereotypes of families, houses, and groups. But what happens when the stereotypes you know mean absolutely nothing?" She grinned evilly.
"Uh oh," said Jen. "I know that face"
"Tomorrow morning, you will report here at 8:00 AM and will then be given a slip of paper. If there is a red dot on your paper, you are a Death Eater. You will also be given a table number. All the Death Eaters will be at one table. The people at your table is your social group; your friends. I don't care if you don't like the people at your table, at least pretend to get along. You will receive further instructions tomorrow. Classes will not be in session. This game will last all day. Now go to your dormitories. Rest up for tomorrow."
* * *
The next morning at 8:00 AM all of the students reported to the Great Hall. At the Head Table Cadance stood behind her chair. She looked like she could have been waiting for orders from the commanding Auror before a Death Eater battle. Her eyes seemed to be looking at all of them at once yet not looking at them at all. Dumbledore sat beside her, his eyes sparkling as if he knew something they didn't. On his other side sat Snape, looking as if the next person who talked to him would be force-fed poison. Professor McGonagall was on Snape's other side talking in hushed tones with Arabella Figg.
Charlie was sitting on Cadance's other side. He looked like he was trying to get Cadance to sit down. Cati and Bill were sitting on Charlie's other side talking quietly. Sirius and Remus were silently sipping coffee. The rest of the teachers and Order Members weren't present.
Cadance cleared her throat and what little noise there was stopped immediately. "Are you all ready to begin our little game? Good. The first rule is, there are no rules. Because in real life there are no set rules that you can follow to stay safe. Everyone is a target. Next, Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin will be walking around with a hat. In these hats are slips of paper. Those pieces of paper have a number on it. That is the table you will be at. The tables are in order starting with the Slytherin table as number on. If there is a red dot on your paper along with your number you are a Death Eater. Don't show anyone your paper. All of the Death Eaters are at one table." As she talked Sirius and Remus began walking around, giving them their paper.
The students were too busy watching each other, trying to look at each other's paper to see if they were a Death Eater, that they did not notice a hat going around the Head Table. Everyone took a slip of paper except Dumbledore. The teachers were also playing, and the students didn't know.
As soon as everyone had their paper, Cadance began speaking again. "No, everyone take your piece of paper and fold it in half and stick it in your envelope." Everyone looked around curiously because they didn't have envelopes. Then, an envelope appeared in front of them with their name written neatly on the front. They all put their papers in the envelopes and their envelopes disappeared from their hands. "Headmaster Dumbledore will be acting as the moderator. If, for some reason, you would like to join the Death Eaters, you will secretly send a request to him and he will tell the Death Eaters who will either accept or decline your request. Every 30 minutes, the Death Eaters will choose one person to kill off. All those people who are killed off will sit at that table over there." She pointed to a table in the back. "Feel free to get homework or something to keep you occupied if you do not wish to watch. Also, if someone accuses you of being a Death Eater, there will be a trial over which Headmaster Dumbledore will preside. He will not determine guilt or innocence. That is up for the people to decide. Now everyone head to your assigned table. Get to know your peers. Eat breakfast. The game will start in an hour with the first venture into inter-group relations between your new groups." She sat down. Everyone got up and began moving to their new tables. None of the people at the Head Table moved. They were all assigned to table 5. And they all had a red dot on their paper.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione looked at each other. They were all sent to separate tables. Harry got to his table and discovered that Ginny had been assigned to that table too. Also, Dennis Creevey and Agatha Smith of the Smith Triplets were there. There were also a few other Gryffindors. Only 3 people were from Slytherin.
Meanwhile, up at the Head Table, the teachers/Order Members were talking and eating breakfast. "Are you sure you want to do this?" asked Dumbledore.
"Of course," said Cadance. "It's going to be fun."
"I'm not sure if watching them turn on each other when we're really the bad guys is exactly the best thing for our consciences," said Arabella.
"Well, if we always listened to that annoying little cricket, life would be awfully dull," ventured Cati.
"Yeah," agreed Cadance. "If I always listened to my conscience I'd probably still be stuck doing paper work at the Ministry."
Sirius opened his mouth to comment but Cati smacked him in the back of the head first. "So who are we killing off first?" asked Cati.
"Cati, must you be so perfectly blunt about it?" asked Snape.
"Besides, we have to wait until after our first activity to kill someone off," said Cadance.
"And what might that be?" asked McGonagall.
"You'll find out soon," said Cadance. "In about 10 minutes I'm going to stand up and announce it as well as the terms for winning."
Ten minutes later, Cadance stood back up. She tapped her glass with her wand and everyone looked at her. "The first activity will be a sort of role-playing activity. You'll all be assigned a career. You will then get into your career groups. But beware: there is no longer safety. The Death Eaters will be split and divided among the groups like everyone else. The game is over when 20 people have been tried and found guilty of being a Death Eater. Only 10 people have to actually be Death Eaters. If you were wrong about more than 10 of them, the Death Eaters win. Now enjoy your breakfast. Careers will be assigned in about 15 minutes and the game will officially begin in a half hour." She sat back down again.
"Cadance," said Cati. "Out of idle curiosity what are the jobs and how are we going to pull this off if we're split among them?"
"Quite easily," said Cadance. "You see there are 9 of us and I have 5 categories of jobs. Two people go to four of them and one goes to the last. Now, I already have us split up but we'll just have the students count off. Now when the task is assigned within the group you watch now you word things. And make sure you help a little but not too much."
"So what are the jobs?" asked Cati. Cadance just grinned evilly.
Ten to fifteen minutes later, Cadance was on her feet again. "Alright. Count off from 1 to 7 within your tables. Nobody switch seats and remember your numbers." She waited as they counted off (mass confusion coming from a table filled with a number of Slytherins). Okay then. Numbers 1 and 7 go to table 1. You will be Ministry Workers. Numbers 2 and 6 go to table 2. You work for the Daily Prophet. Number 3's go to table 3. You are Doctors and Nurses. Number 4's go to table 4. You are Foreign Ambassadors to France; Sorry. And the last group comes up here and they are the Hogwarts teaching staff. In about 10 minutes you will be asked to move to these tables to get your tasks." She sat back down.
"Foreign ambassadors to France?" asked Cati. "Okay, who gets tuck with that one?"
"Actually," said Cadance trailing off.
"Oh no," said Cati.
"Haha, you're a foreign diplomat to France," said Bill laughing at her.
"What are you laughing at, Bill, you're one too," said Cadance.
"What!"
"Oh you're going to have fun. One of your tasks involves writing a nasty letter to the French Minister," said Cadance.
"Ohhhh," said Cati her eyes lighting up.
"Right, well, Snape and Minerva, you two are the Hogwarts Teaching Staff," said Cadance. "Arabella, you're with the newspaper. Remus and Sirius, you're the Ministry workers and Charlie and I are the Mediwizards."
"So once everyone goes to the different tables, all I have to do is pass out the folders you gave me earlier?" asked Dumbledore.
"Yes, that's all," said Cadance. "And then in a half-hour, the rest of us will determine who to kill off."
"Yes!" exclaimed Cati.
"You've been waiting for this, haven't you?" asked Bill.
"You know it," said Cati. "I have a few names in mind already."
"Why am I not surprised?" asked Snape.
"Because I'm related to you," said Cati.
And now, since the author is tired of writing mindless dialogue we're going to skip to the part where the game begins. Everyone went to their new tables.
Harry found himself at the Ministry table as well as Hermione, Parvati Patil, Dean Thomas, and Draco Malfoy. Jen and Ginny were Mediwitches. Ron, Neville, and Seamus Finnigan were working for the Daily Prophet.
Dumbledore came around to hand out their assignments. And the first stop in this fanfic is the Ministry table because I'm the author and I said so.
Dumbledore put a folder down on the table. Sirius was closest to it. He picked it up and pulled a paper out of it. It had instructions on it. Sirius began to read them.
"Your mission, should you choose to accept it (and you better or else fail Defense Against the Dark Arts), is to come up with a set of rules regarding the battling and capturing of Death Eaters. You have a half hour. Good luck."
"Does anyone have any ideas?" asked Remus.
"How about we discuss the use of Unforgivable Curses?' suggested Sirius.
"What do you propose?" asked Remus.
"I say the Aurors just go for it," said Dean Thomas.
"No way," said a Hufflepuff boy, Marcus Monroe.
"The Unforgivables are unforgivable for a reason," said Parvati.
"But what if using one saves an innocent's life?" asked Hermione.
"I think I may have another way to approach the Unforgivable Curses," said Harry.
"What, Potter?" spat Malfoy. "I suppose you'd rather use them."
"Stuff it, Malfoy," said Dean. "Listen to what he has to say."
"We've been treating the Unforgivables as a unit. They're three separate curses and they do three different things. Maybe an Auror can use the Cruciatus Curse to buy time so they can disarm Death Eaters. Or the Imperius Curse to make them stop fighting. But we can just leave the Killing Curse out of this."
"I like that idea," said Hermione.
"We could still work out some agreement as to when a battle gets intense enough to use those two Unforgivable curses," said Marcus.
Meanwhile, at the Newspaper's table, Arabella was looking around at the students. She took the folder and opened it. There was a stack of blank parchment inside along with the instructions. She picked up the instructions an read them. "Your assignments is to each come up with an article regarding the 'Death Eater attack' that is about to happen. This untimely 'death' of one of your classmates is the first in a series of articles you will be writing. You may work with up to two other people on this assignment. Until such time as the student who has been chosen is announced, you are to choose partners and get better acquainted with them."
At the time when the "Death Eat Attack" was to be announced, Dumbledore stood up and cleared his throat. The hall got quiet. Some students looked nervous. "I am sorry to announce that one of you is now dead. And that person is a Mr. Dean Thomas."
* * * By twelve o'clock, four more people had joined Dean Thomas at the "dead" table. All of them were Gryffindors and all of them were at the Ministry Table. This led to the accusation of a Mr. Draco Malfoy.
"Mr. Malfoy," said Dumbledore. "Please approach the bench." By the bench he was referring to the table in the back where he was sitting with the five people who the Death Eaters had killed off. "You are accused of being a Death Eater. How do you plead?"
"Innocent, sir," said Draco.
"Mr. Black," said Dumbledore. "You will be our Ministry Representative and prosecutor. Who here would like to defend Mr. Malfoy?"
There was silence for a few seconds. Then, Cadance stood. "I'll do it," she said.
"Thank you, Cadance," said Dumbledore, then he caught Professor McGonagall's disapproving glance and corrected himself. "I mean, Professor Dumbledore." Professor McGonagall nodded. "Professor Dumbledore, you may go first. This is an informal trial. The only witness that needs to be called is Mr. Malfoy if you feel the need to call witnesses. After both sides have talked, then everyone will vote to determining guilt or innocence. Majority wins."
Cadance nodded at him. "Why, exactly, does this man stand accused of being a Death Eater? I am disappointed that you all have ignored my raving tirade that I gave you yesterday. The five that are dead were not Gryffindors. Mr. Malfoy is not a Slytherin. You are all just people. You all are not playing the game right. Think about it." She sat down.
Sirius stood. "Everything that she just said is bull crap." He sat down again.
Then, the populace voted and Dumbledore stood to deliver the verdict. "Guilty," said Dumbledore.
"I feel like Atticus Finch," said Cadance.
Afterwards, everyone headed back to their groups for lunch. At the Head Table, Cadance and Sirius were congratulating each other on commendable acting.
By dinner-time half the students were gone, either killed off or accused of being a Death Eater. There were about 140 students left. The entire newspaper staff was gone. Harry, Ron, Hermione, Jen, and Ginny had managed to stay in the game.
Dumbledore stood up. "I'm sorry to announce that there has been a massacre. The following people are now dead: Any student with the last name starting with the letters H through Z. If you are one of those people, please leave your seat and join you other classmates."
"Wait a minute!" exclaimed Jen as Ginny got up to join the dead. "What is up with that?!"
"What do you mean, Jennifer?" asked Dumbledore.
"That was random and unfair," she replied.
"Who said life was fair?" asked Cadance. "Due to the necessity for more room for the dead people, the remaining people are to move to table one and the dead people can move to the remaining tables."
Jen and Hermione looked at each other. They were the only two Gryffindors left in the game. There were only 12 students left in the game. The nine Order Members went down and joined them at the first table. Dumbledore, too, went down.
"Well, this game is beginning to get interesting," said Dumbledore.
"Yeah, sure," said Jen, who was clearly not amused. "How do you end it again?"
"20 people are found guilty of being Death Eaters," said Dumbledore. "According to my calculations, 19 people have been found guilty of being Death Eaters."
"One more," muttered Hermione under her breathe.
Meanwhile, Harry, Ron, and Ginny were talking together at one of the tables. "There's something about this that isn't quite right," said Ginny.
"Yeah, we're dead," said Ron.
"No that's not what I mean," said Ginny. "I mean there isn't something right with this situation. There is obviously at least one Death Eater left, but who is? And people from all the different tables have been killed, so which one had the Death Eaters at it? Are the Death Eaters killing off Death Eaters to throw people off?"
"I don't know,' said Ron. "I've never psycho-analyzed a Death Eater before."
Back at the table.
"Okay, here's what we have to do," said Jen. "We just have to accuse one more person of being a Death Eater and find them guilty and then the game is over. We're sure that at least 10 of the people we accused are really Death Eaters, right?" Murmurs of assent went up around her. "Well that's all we need to win. Let's just end this game."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Oh my God," said Ginny. "I think I've figured it out."
"What?" asked Harry.
"I figured out what's wrong with this game," said Ginny. "Jen is going to be so mad at her sister when this is over."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Okay, let's just vote. Who thinks Goyle is a Death Eater?" asked Jen. She and 10 other students raised their hands.
"Well, majority rules," said Cadance. "Sorry, Mr. Goyle."
Dumbledore stood. "Will everyone please return to your regular seat at your regular house table. All of those accused of being a Death Eater, please sit at the table in the back." Everyone did as he said. It took them a few moments and then he continued. "I have here the envelopes from each of the 20 people who have been accused of being Death Eaters. If at least 10 of them are Death Eaters, you win. If not, you lose."
"First, Mr. Malfoy," said Cadance. She opened the envelope. "Innocent." She continued with the rest of the people. "Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent. Innocent."
With each word, everyone's mouth dropped a little lower.
"So does that mean that there were no Death Eaters?" someone asked.
"No," said Dumbledore. "Will all the Death Eaters please stand?"
They all stood. Cadance and Cati were smirking. Bill, Charlie, and Remus smiled pleasantly. Sirius was grinning like a Cheshire Cat. Snape was glaring. Arabella and McGonagall were looking neutral, yet wise at the same time.
"Things aren't always what they seem," said Dumbledore.
Jen was clearly trying to find words to express her annoyance.
"So what have you all learned from this?" asked Cadance.
"I learned you're sadistic," said Jen.
"That wasn't exactly the angle I was going for," said Cadance.
* * *
Cati stood at her post at the front doors of the castle. It was a beautiful day in May. The students were all studying for their finals. A few were outside laying by the lake studying, but most were in the library or in their Common Rooms or in the classrooms where a few teachers had made themselves available for study help in case the students needed it.
But Cati was at her post. She was alone at the front door. Honestly, if Death Eaters attacked, one person would hardly be of any hindrance to them, and she would not be able to sound the alarm if she were ambushed. But she wasn't one to question her assignments. Boredom began to kick in. She began a staring contest with the gargoyle. It was because of this staring contest that she didn't realize that someone was coming up behind her until they tapped her on the shoulder. Cati spun around and threw her arm back, conjuring up a fireball.
"Oh, Bill, It's just you," said Cati.
"What are you doing?" asked Bill.
"Me? I'm being a gargoyle," said Cati. She assumed a position similar to the gargoyle.
"Right," said Bill. "Want some company?"
"Sure," said Cati. "But it's really boring."
"That's alright," said Bill. They sat down on the stairs leading up to the front door.
"So what do you want to do?" asked Cati.
"I don't know," said Bill. There was a silence that followed. Sirius came up to them from Hogsmeade in the meantime.
"Oh no! Not you!" exclaimed Cati. "Things can't get any worse!" Of course, since she said that things can't get any worse, it started raining.
"Great," said Bill.
"Well, I'm going inside. Cadance has me running errands for her," said Sirius. "I have to pick up a list of things to get in Diagon Alley. Anyone else need anything?"
"Yeah, I have a list of Potion ingredients in my apartment," said Cati. "Money's in the jar on top of the refrigerator. Thanks Sirius."
"Pick up hot wings, let's party tonight!" exclaimed Bill.
"Right," said Sirius going inside. As soon as he did, it stopped raining.
Cati sighed. "This is incredibly boring," she said.
"Well, as long as you have to do it, at least you're doing it well," said Bill.
"You know what, Bill? You're right. Can you watch the door for a minute? I'll be right back," said Cati. She got up and ran inside. A few minutes later she came out wearing one of Cadance's long coats, Indiana Jones hat, and belt with bullwhip attached.
"Oh dear," said Bill.
"State your name," said Cati very seriously to Bill.
"Cati, what are you doing?" asked Bill.
"Sir, if you don't state your name you will be escorted from the premises," said Cati.
Bill sighed. "Bill Weasley," he said.
"State your business," said Cati.
"I'm keeping you company while you guard the doors," said Bill.
"Well, I suppose I can let you stay. Just no funny business," said Cati. Bill rolled his eyes. He sat back down on the stairs while Cati stood next to the door, as still as a statue.
"So, Cati," began Bill.
"Shhh! A good Auror does not make idle conversation while on duty," said Cati.
"Oh boy," said Bill.
Sirius walked out the front doors. "Excuse me, sir," said Cati. Sirius turned and looked at her strangely. "Is there any particular reason you're leaving the castle?"
"Uhhh, I'm going to Diagon Alley to get your potion ingredients, Cadance's books, Bill's hot wings, and new robes," said Sirius.
"Well, move along then. There's nothing to see here. No blocking the doorway," said Cati with authority.
Sirius looked at Bill, questioning Cati's behavior. Bill shrugged. Sirius shook his head and then walked away.
About an hour later, Cati decided to change door guarding tactics. She crouched on top of the gargoyle and pulled out the bullwhip. She sat perfectly still as if daring someone with evil intentions to try and enter the castle.
Albus Dumbledore was the next person to come along. "Professor Dumbledore," began Bill as Professor Dumbledore reached the door. "Cati-." But Cati cut him off. She snapped the bullwhip and it wrapped itself around the door handle. Dumbledore's eyes followed the bullwhip up to where Cati was standing. He raised one eyebrow questioningly. Cati hopped down.
"Catalin, what are you doing?" asked Dumbledore half-way amusedly.
"State your name," said Cati.
Dumbledore raised his other eyebrow. "Just do it, sir. She's serious," said Bill.
"Albus Dumbledore," said Dumbledore.
"State your business," said Cati.
"I'm the headmaster," said Dumbledore.
"I said state your business. You stated your profession. Failure to comply with the questioning procedure may result in injury on your part. I have a wand and I have permission to use it," said Cati.
"I'm the headmaster," said Dumbledore. "My business is Hogwarts. I live here."
"Then what were you doing out of Hogwarts?" questioned Cati suspiciously.
"I was visiting Arabella Figg concerning the protection of Hogwarts," said Dumbledore. "Arabella is the Auror in charge here. That makes her your boss."
"That's it, I'm going to need some identification," said Cati.
"I don't have any on me," said Dumbledore. "I have some inside."
"Is there anyone inside who can confirm that you are indeed the headmaster?" asked Cati.
"Cati, he's the headmaster," said Bill. "Everyone can confirm it."
"I'm going to need someone to confirm it and it better be someone with authority," said Cati. "My assistant, Mr. Bill Crabby-Pants, will go and fetch them. Now who can confirm you identity?"
"Better go get Cadance," said Dumbledore. "Those are her clothes she's wearing. Maybe she'll have some sort of explanation."
"Right away, sir," said Bill. He hurried off to find Cadance.
While they were waiting, Sirius returned from Diagon Alley. "Cati, here are your potion ingredients," said Sirius.
"An Auror does not receive packages while on duty. You'll have to wait until my shift ends," said Cati.
"Professor Dumbledore, what are you doing out here?" asked Sirius.
"Cati is detaining me because I don't have identification," said Dumbledore.
"Cati, is this really necessary? He's the headmaster," said Sirius.
"Can you prove that?" asked Cati.
Sirius thought a second. "Yes! Yes I can!" he exclaimed. "Yes I can! Look!" He pulled three cards from the Chocolate Frog packs out of his pockets. One of them was Dumbledore. "Look, it's Dumbledore!"
Cati took the card. "Hmmm. So it is. Okay, sir, you're clear to go."
"Er, thank you, Catalin," said Dumbledore
Just then Bill came running out dragging Cadance behind him. "Cati, what is this all about?" asked Cadance.
"Ah, Professor Dumbledore," said Cati. "I'm sorry but your services are no longer necessary. This man here forgot his identification, but Mr. Black has taken care of it."
"Cati, what on earth is going on here?" asked Cadance. "Why have you detained my uncle? And what are you doing in my clothes?"
"This is my post. I will do anything possible to protect Hogwarts! I'd like to see just one bad guy get by me!" exclaimed Cati. Then she snapped to attention. "Minister," said Cati. They all turned around and saw that Mr. Weasley and Charlie had come up to them.
"Charlie!" exclaimed Cadance happily as she ran up to her fiancé. He kissed her.
"Everyone back up! Give the Minister some room! Failure to comply will result in your immediate ejection from the premises!" exclaimed Cati. Cadance and Charlie were still kissing.
"Cati's gone nutters," explained Bill.
"As an Auror it is my job to protect Hogwarts. This is my post," said Cati.
"I think she's been working too hard," said Dumbledore.
"There is no such thing as working too hard," said Cati. Then she noticed the packages Sirius was carrying. "Code blue, code blue! Sir, put the packages down and back away slowly!" Cadance and Charlie were still kissing.
Bill whispered something to his father. Mr. Weasley nodded. "Cati!" he said happily. "Just the person I was coming to see! I have a new assignment for you! Why don't you meet me inside once your shift is over?"
"Yes sir," said Cati. "I'll be there."
"Good, good," said Mr. Weasley. "Well, shall we go inside now then, Albus?"
Cadance and Charlie were still kissing. Cati finally noticed them. She grabbed Cadance by the back of her robes and pulled them apart. "That's a PDA! I'm taking the two of you in!"
"Cati, they're fine, I'll vouch for them," said Mr. Weasley as he and Dumbledore walked inside.
"Yes, sir," said Cati.
Cadance and Charlie raised their eyebrows at Cati as they walked by and inside.
* * * Cadance and Charlie were walking down the hallway an hour later. They stopped suddenly. Bill and Mr. Weasley were dragging Cati down the hallway.
"Cati, you're going on vacation! That is a direct order!" exclaimed Mr. Weasley.
"No, no, no! I'm needed here! I have to protect the castle!" exclaimed Cati.
"We're taking you to the Ministry where there's a port key waiting for you! You're going insane, you need a vacation," said Mr. Weasley.
"If I go nutters can I go on a Ministry-sponsored vacation?" asked Cadance.
"No, you're already nutters and not from being overworked," said Mr. Weasley.
"Dad, can we keep the wisecracks to a minimum now that Cadance is my fiancée?" asked Charlie.
"If she'll help us get Cati to the Ministry," answered Mr. Weasley. Cadance wiggled her nose and Cati disappeared. "Where'd she go?"
"The Ministry," said Cadance. "That's where you said you wanted her."
"You're going to have to teach me that trick one day," said Charlie.
"Sorry, can't," said Cadance. "It's a Sorceress thing."
"No, I mean you have to teach me how to make Cati disappear," said Charlie.
"Charlie, that's awful!" chastised Cadance.
"Well, I'd better be off to the Ministry. I don't know how long Bob Reynolds will be able to hold her on his own," said Mr. Weasley. He excused himself.
"So where are they sending Cati?" asked Cadance.
"I don't know," said Bill. "My dad was telling me and he was getting very excited about it so I didn't understand much of what he was saying. It's in America. He was saying something about it being run by a mouse or something and dreams coming true and a big castle and a freefalling muggle contraption."
"Sounds relaxing," said Cadance sarcastically. "Cati'll love it, I'm sure."
* * *
"How long is Cati going to be gone, Dad?" asked Charlie Weasley. It was now a few days into June and Cati had still not returned. School was ending in about two weeks.
"Oh I rather think they'll be sending her along one of these days," said Mr. Weasley.
"That's good," said Cadance. "She's been gone for three weeks already. How much longer can they keep her?"
"I don't know," said Mr. Weasley.
"Well she'd better hurry up," said Charlie. "We've set the date and if she's not back by then she'll never catch the bouquet and Cadance'll never get to make some Bill-ish remark."
"Well you know they like each other!" exclaimed Cadance.
"So what have you two decided?" asked Mr. Weasley. "When are you going to tie the knot?"
"August 21," said Cadance.
"Of this year?" asked Mr. Weasley. "That's only a two months away."
"We figured that with all the Death Eaters and Demons-" began Charlie before Cadance cut him off.
"We don't want to lose each other," said Cadance grasping Charlie's hand firmly.
Around the corner, Professor Dumbledore turned to head back to his office. He sighed. If they only they knew what was to come in the next year like he did himself. "The next year will be difficult for all of us; for them in particular," he thought to himself. "We'll just have to meet things as they come."
Yes, the next year will be full of hardships and heartaches; death and destruction. But by this time next year the clouds will have lifted and life will return to normal, or at least as normal as possible, for the survivors. But as the great Albus Dumbledore once told us, "To a well- organized mind, death is but the next great adventure", and unfortunately in these times there are too many great adventures. But what is to be is just that: to be. Fate, destiny, and choice are all intertwined to become one, but sometimes not even that is enough to save you from the powers of evil. Yet sometimes, when all hope seems lost, fate, destiny, and choice take over and you are saved just in the nick of time.
Albus Dumbledore will write no more than three months after overhearing Cadance and Charlie talking to Mr. Weasley in the hallway, "Times are growing harder and harder and knowing what is to come and knowing that I can't change it has taken its toll on me. I want to tell them so that they may change it but I can't because I fear it will change my own fate as well. Messing with destiny and fate is a difficult business, and I'm afraid a mother's love may not bring us out of this exactly as it did the last time. When the day comes, Cadance and Jen will have to face the evils of our world on their own, but they will never be alone. I will not waste precious time worrying about that now, though. In the next few months, I must try to change the fate of one without changing my own fate or that of those I love. I pray that Cadance and Jen never develop such acute a form of premonition that I have developed. Knowing what is to come is a burden one should never have to bear. I'll gladly bear it to keep them from bearing it. When the time comes, they will have to step up and take their place among the great witches and wizards, sorcerers and sorceresses, of our time."
