Foaly heard Holly's outburst over the headset. "What?!"
"Oh, it's nothing," Artemis replied hastily, "nothing at all. I was about to say-"
"Let me talk to Foaly," interrupted Holly. "Now!"
Artemis handed her the headset and moved to leave the room.
"Where do you think you're going?" Holly asked. "Stay right here where I can see you until we get this sorted out."
Artemis was not in an agreeable mood. "No," he said firmly.
A warning spark of magic shot from Holly's finger. "Yes. And don't say another word."
Artemis sighed resignedly and took a seat. Holly turned her attention to the headset, still keeping one eye on him.
"Foaly, it's Holly."
"Was that you yelling before? I thought I heard-"
"Yes. Diggums is gone."
"You mean he just disappeared?
"Without so much as a clump of dirt."
"Artemis."
"Who else would it be?"
"This isn't good, Holly. If there was any chance that I would restore his memory, it's gone."
"Don't you see? That's exactly why he needs it back, so things like this wouldn't happen."
"How will that help us now, though? The dwarf is already gone."
"You think he'll stop at that? Our entire world is in danger."
"Then how will giving him more knowledge help?"
Holly was growing frustrated. "I thought I already explained this..."
As Foaly and Holly continued their discussion, Hermione listened intently from the doorway. Harry was just waking up.
"Hermione, what are you-"
"Shh!" she scolded him before returning to eavesdropping.
Harry yawned and stretched. He put his glasses on, then joined Hermione by the door. "What are you doing?" he whispered.
"Isn't it obvious?" said Hermione. "Shush, I think something important is happening."
"Have you gotten any sleep?" wondered Harry.
"I told you, I don't need sleep," Hermione replied shortly. "Now either be quiet, or go someplace else."
Harry gave up and decided to pass the time by exploring Fowl Manor. After walking through several magnificently decorated rooms filled with antique furniture, paintings, and rugs, he concluded that not even the Malfoy residence could possibly be as luxurious and extravagant as this mansion.
As Harry entered another room, he was so busy gazing at the enormous chandelier hanging from the ceiling that he almost tripped over something on the floor.
"What...?" Harry looked back and saw a familiar-looking creature. "You're that dwarf! Shouldn't you be locked up in a cell somewhere?"
Mulch grinned. "Clever, aren't you?" He motioned for Harry to come closer.
Harry complied, only to have Mulch grab him and put his hand over his mouth. Harry struggled to break free, but was surprised by the strength of Mulch's grip.
"Let's go for a walk, shall we?" Mulch chuckled as he dragged Harry through the room, down a flight of stairs, and out of the mansion.
Another chapter! Thank you once again to everyone who has reviewed, I can't say it enough. All questions, comments, and critiques are greatly appreciated. Please review! -Luna