CHAPTER FIVE: THE ANCIENT ENCHANTMENTS OF THE BRETHREN
A/N: This chapter is bordering on R. Some sexual references.
It had been two weeks since the memorable Order of the Phoenix meeting and Harry had not been given any more information other than what he had already witnessed, leaving him very confused and annoyed.
After Miss Snape disapparated out of Grimmauld Place, havoc reigned for several minutes before Lupin finally told everyone that he was taking Harry back to Hogwarts.
On the trip home, Harry had attempted to find out what all the cryptic remarks that had been made during the meeting meant. But Lupin was not in a co-operative mood. He told Harry to be ready for his training on Sunday, and that he would see him then.
So Harry, once again, spent all of his Saturday cramped in the Gryffindor common room trying to finish his homework. This was not an easy task as Ron and Hermione had taken to having long snogging sessions by the fire next to Harry. This situation was made even more uncomfortable when Parvati came over and began looking at Harry, and then at Ron and Hermione dribbling into each other's mouths, and then back at Harry again. Harry, a little worried at what she was getting at tried to go up to his dormitory, only to find Dean and Ginny in a ferocious argument. So he had trotted off to the library and spent the day with Luna Lovegood, who took pity on him and dictated information from his text books.
When he went to bed that night, he thought about what Miss Snape had said to him before the meeting. And it was then, he realised, that Miss Snape had left many holes in her story. The biggest one was about her role in the Order. She had said that she was there to train Harry ... and give Malfoy something to fight for. But the question was; why did the Order want Malfoy to fight anyway? They did not need a spy - that was what Snape was for. And Harry didn't see the Order trying to recruit Neville or Seamus. Why Malfoy? What was Dumbledore's plan?
And then Harry wondered what the documents had said to frighten her so badly. He wondered who this 'seer' was, and how Miss Snape knew her. But most of the night was spent wondering where she had disappeared too, and whether she would show up on Sunday.
With this all in his mind, Harry was naturally shocked to see her there at Godric's Hollow acting as if nothing had happened on Sunday. Harry had, of course, tried to engage her in conversation about the meeting. But both she and Lupin were not talking.
Harry had been drained all week after his training. Miss Snape had first taken him through all the defensive and attacking spells he knew to see if he was doing it all right. Lupin sat there wearing a face of someone who was clearly trying to bite his tongue. Then Miss Snape had announced to Harry that he would be learning to do all these spells without his wand before they could move on to "her magic." Harry asked her what "her magic" was, and she told him not worry about it just yet.
Wandless magic was not a common talent; most wizards could not do it, and even those that are trained at it are restricted. Harry knew this, and so was shocked to see Miss Snape conjure a Patronus (a large border collie dog, that looked vaguely familiar to Harry) without a wand - in fact, without even saying the incantation. By the end of the day, all Harry could do was a weak Wingardium Leviosa. And that had drained him of all his strength. Harry was disappointed in himself but Miss Snape was very happy and said that maybe this training would not be in vain.
As the week progressed, Harry got through his classes and Quidditch practices, taking it each day at a time. But it was becoming harder to push Voldemort, and the eventual fight that he would face with him, from his mind. And his constant exhaustion was making it harder to clear his mind and have dreamless sleep. He had nightmares about Sirius every night, and every time after, he would have to take a walk around the Gryffindor common room, trying to calm himself down, before he would be able to walk up to his dormitory and drift of to sleep again.
And as if this wasn't enough, something else had happened that the teachers seemed to be ignoring. Crabbe and Goyle weren't the only Slytherin's missing.
Draco Malfoy had not been sighted since the Quidditch try-outs. And Harry had a sneaking suspicion Lucius Malfoy had taken his son back ... again.
"Please Hermione? Pretty please?" Ron pleaded to his girlfriend.
"No Ron," Hermione attempted to sound stern but she was holding back laughter.
"Oh, come on!" Ron said tickling her, "I won't copy word for word."
Hermione was laughing now, "No ... ha-ha ... stop it!" Hermione let her Charms homework go and Ron quickly scooped it up and began writing ferociously. They had Charms next.
"You know, you could just do your homework when you're meant to," Hermione said.
"But then it wouldn't be any good cause I couldn't copy off yours," Ron said matter-of-factly. "Plus, this way I get an excuse to feel you up."
The third years that had been sitting across from them turned red as Hermione slapped Ron across the back of his head. But she curled up next to him afterwards and stole one of his hands so that he had to work with one.
"Oh - get a room," Seamus said dumping his books on the table.
"Shut up, Seamus," Ron said.
"It's just plain disrespectful, look at poor Harry. He's got no one to talk to anymore because you two spend all your time shagging all over the place," Seamus said. "Don't worry Harry, we'll get you laid."
"I'm sure he can manage on his own," Ginny said snappishly walking past.
"Ooo..." Seamus said grinning mischievously behind Ginny's back, "Bit of UST between you two Harry?"
"Please," Ron snorted. "Harry's got UST with half the Hogwarts female population."
Harry just laughed and got up to leave for class.
"Wait, wait, wait!" Ron said. "I'm coming!"
"So is Christmas, hurry up," said Seamus.
Ron wrote the last line and quickly dumped his quill and parchment into his bag before flinging Hermione's homework back at her and running to catch up with Harry.
"Oh, that's nice!" said Seamus. "We wait for him-" he said to Hermione who was now walking a few paces behind Ron and Harry- "and he runs off to be with Harry! Don't worry Hermione; you can sit with me..."
Seamus put his arm cheekily around Hermione's waist. When Ron turned around Hermione played it up and lent into Seamus. These are things that Harry never though Hermione would do. Things he didn't think she had in her. But Ron seemed to bring out her inner child.
Ron smirked at Harry and Harry returned it.
"We don't care," Ron said loudly. "Do we Harry?" Ron made a big fake yawn and dropped his arm around Harry's shoulders, looking him up and down suggestively.
"Don't objectify me!" Harry said in fake indignation, before flinging his head dramatically and stopping outside the Charms classroom. These acts of theatrics were becoming common practice with Ron and Harry.
"Oh my, curse me, curse me!" said Ron in a thespian, pompous voice that sounded a lot like Percy. He dropped to his knees and looked up at Harry, whilst Harry faked looking upset. "Can you forgive me?"
"I don't know, I've been hurt before," said Harry in an equally thespian, pompous voice. A small crowd was gathering to witness the theatrics. Hermione and Seamus were shaking their heads; having been used to this behavior now.
"I am truly sorry! Oh, damn my eyes! Please forgive me?"
"Why?"
"CAUSE I WILL LOVE YOU, BABY... AALLWWAAYYSS. AND I'LL BE THERE-"
"Oh no, you're not Bon Jovi-ing your way out of this one."
"Oh, please Harry! Who will help me clean the toilets for Filch's detention? Please say you will come?"
"I shall come," said Harry, looking down at Ron. "But I will not help. I will point and laugh and flick toilet water in your face."
"If that's what it takes," said Ron dramatically.
"What's going on out here?" Tiny Professor Flitwick came running out of the classroom at all the laughter coming from the spectators. He shook his head when he saw Harry and Ron.
"Enough gentleman, get into class. And the rest of you - off you go."
"Stuff this Auror crap Harry," Ron said, voice back to normal. "We should be actors."
"Harry?" asked Seamus. "What's Bon Jovi-ing?"
Harry was pleased when Ron sat himself next to him in Charms. Parvati had been eyeing him from the front desk. Ron noticed.
"Why don't you just go for it Harry?" Ron asked. "I mean, she's pretty good looking. And she's that bloody smitten on you - she'd have it off with you after a week."
"Not everything's about 'having it off' Ron," said Harry.
"Yes," Dean said turning around to face them. "Some stuff's about groping."
They all laughed. "Are you with Hermione for sex then?" Harry asked.
"We haven't had sex, and of course I'm not," said Ron.
"Then why'd you say-"
"Harry," Ron said in an exasperated-don't-you-know voice. "I've liked Hermione for longer than I've really known what sex was. Our relationship is deeper than that."
Harry was a little shocked that Ron could think so astutely, "So are you suggesting that any relationship I have wouldn't be deep?"
"Not while you're here at Hogwarts."
Harry looked abashed.
"He's sort of right Harry," Dean said. "I mean, most girls here don't really know you but they like you anyway, just because you're you, and sort of good looking or whatever. You can't really build a relationship with substance based on that."
"You think I'm good looking, Dean?" Harry asked smirking.
Dean rolled his eyes and turned away. And Harry was denied arguing Dean's point as Professor Flitwick began the lesson.
"Alright sixth years, quieting down."
The chatter died away. "Now, who can tell me what the Camaraderie Charm is?"
To no one's surprise, Hermione's hand flew in the air, nearly knocking Neville off his seat.
"Miss Granger, the floor's yours," Professor Flitwick said smiling.
"The Camaraderie Charm is based on the respect, loyalty and faith that one feels for another. That is, an individual can gain power from another witch or wizard, by channeling their respect, loyalty and faith for you. The spell is most effectively used on an individual's best friend or a sibling."
"Why not lovers Miss Granger? Why is it not wise to use the charm on say ... your husband?" Professor Flitwick asked.
"Because loyalty, faith and respect are rarely found all together in a marriage. After a few years, respect is often lost, loyalty is often forgotten. And faith in each other becomes dependence more than real ardor," Hermione said.
"And what happens when you attempt to use the spell on someone who does not feel these three things for you?" Professor Flitwick asked.
"The spell will do the opposite for what it's intended. It will most likely kill you, if not, seriously injure."
"Very good Miss Granger, ten points to Gryffindor."
"Well what's the point of the charm then?" Lavender Brown asked. "If you can't tell if someone feels those things for you, why risk it?"
"Good question Miss Brown," said Professor Flitwick. "The fact of the matter is it's never a good idea to use this charm, unless you are in a life or death situation. And, given the state the wizarding world is in-" everyone's eyes rested on Harry- "it's likely that ... at least one of you ... may find yourself in a situation where you will have to take a few risks … Now, everyone stand up and say together, Camaridis Salavitor."
"Camaridis Salavitor," the class chanted.
"And now with some feeling," Professor Flitwick said.
"Camaridis Salavitor!" The class shouted.
"Come on! You can do better than that!"
"CAMARIDIS SALAVITOR!" An enormous screech filled the classroom and a thick mist exploded out of Harry's chest. It was like a solid fog, Harry gasped and watched in astonishment as it quickly began moving, shifting shape, until it looked like ... "Ron?"
Professor Flitwick was clapping, "Very good Mr. Potter, Miss Patil, Miss Patil … oh and you to Mr. Boot … and Miss Granger, Mr. Weasley and Mr. Longbottom! I expected you ADADA students to be able to do it."
Harry looked at Ron standing next to him and was shocked to see a similar mist floating in front of the red head. Only the fog looked like Harry.
Harry looked over at Hermione and saw her mist had taken the form of Ginny. He looked over at the Patil twins who appeared to be looking in a misty mirror, and then Harry realised that Parvati's mist was Padma, and Padma's mist was Parvati.
Terry Boot's was a young woman that Harry didn't recognise, and Harry was surprised to see another mist in the shape of him, floating in front Neville.
"Now, who can tell me what happened ... Miss Granger?"
"It's our Camaridi's. When you say the Camaraderie Charm, with purpose, and without a wand, the individual who would be most effective for you to use the charm on, erupts out from inside you. Our Camaridi," Hermione said.
"Very good Miss Granger," Professor Flitwick said. "For example, we can see the form of our own Mr. Potter hovering above Mr. Longbottom here. Therefore, the most appropriate person for Mr. Longbottom to use this charm on is Mr. Potter. And now that you have this knowledge," Professor Flitwick said to Neville, "Don't ever attempt to use the charm on any other individual, unless in a life or death situation."
"Please sir?" Lavender's hand was in the air.
"Yes, Miss Brown."
"Why can't the rest of us channel a ... misty thing?"
"It's just an individual's innate magical strength," Professor Flitwick shrugged. "But do not worry; you will all be able to do it by the end of the lesson."
Professor Flitwick began moving about the class, helping those who hadn't yet formed their Camaridi. Harry looked at his own Camaridi that was currently fading.
"You should be flattered Harry, I have loyalty, respect and faith in you," Ron stated.
"Oh, as if I didn't know," Harry said cheekily. "I'm not flattered. Knowing you, you'll get tired during NEWT's and just start draining me of power so you can get through the exams."
Ron smiled, "Now there's an idea."
Dean once again turned around to see the almost faded mists in front of Harry and Ron, "God, you two ... it must be love, eh?"
Ron nodded his head, "Ours is forbidden."
"What is happening? What is she doing?" A twitchy man in a white medical gown said to his researcher companion.
He looked through the glass and saw the petite blonde headed girl, hovering above her bed. He began shaking. He knew from experience, that any action this girl made that was not sleeping, staring or eating, was for a purpose - and not a purpose that favored their cause.
"I do not know," his companion said. "She has not been the same since that fool of a psychiatrist attempted to escape."
"Attempted? From my understanding he did escape," the twitchy man mumbled.
"Not for long ... the black caped men caught him."
"Oh," he shuddered. "Who are they?"
"No one but the Dons knows that ... but I've heard the Dons call them ... Death Eaters."
"Dea- What's she doing now? Listen..."
They listened carefully, and heard whispering. It was getting louder, and more aggressive. "Quickly call the Dons!"
The man ran out of the office and into the white hall. He ran a few paces and stopped at the in-house phone.
"Hello? This is Researcher Caddington, number four, five, three, one ... yes. Research one, one, two, is currently recording questioning behavior ... we require assistance..." Researcher Caddington looked up and down the corridor nervously. He stopped talking and dropped the phone. She was out. She was standing still as a statue in the corridor two metres from him, her head tilted, gazing at him with no emotion.
Even as he looked into her eyes he knew it was a mistake. A screeching noise stampeded through his mind. Louder than anything he had ever experienced before. He began falling to the floor; he was unconscious before he hit the white slate.
"I believe I have out-grown undeviating internment."
A water-eyed, fidgety man stood reluctantly next to his master and looked out from the ridge inside the hall. He looked out at his Lord's followers. Some of which had just recently returned to their master's side.
"Welcome," a cold disembodied voice began from next to Peter Pettigrew. "Welcome my faithful followers, my avengers of the dark. I have summoned you all here for two purposes. Firstly, let us welcome back our once missing Death Eaters, which have rightfully returned to us," there was a small round of applause. Voldemort's eyes fell on one man who appeared to be agitated. "Lucius, my slippery friend, you appear to be a man with something on your mind."
"You are right as always, my lord," came the drawling voice of Lucius Malfoy. "I have a question, and require an answer from a member of this gathering."
"You may do this," said Lord Voldemort. "But I first must ask a question."
Voldemort looked out at his followers, probing their faces, looking for fear and finding it ... feeding off it. "Who here knows of the ancient Brethren? The women who use magic of old?"
There was no answer.
"Do not test me," Voldemort said sharply, sending chills up spines. "I know one of you must."
"My-my Lord," came a small voice belonging to a slight young man from the back of the room. "I kn-know of the Bre-brethren."
"Come forth."
The Death Eaters spread to the corners to make room for the slight man. He stopped when he reached the foot of the stairs leading up to the ridge. He bowed aptly in front of his lord.
"What do you know, and where did you learn it?" Voldemort said jadedly.
"I - at Hogwarts, my lord. In Advanced Defence Against the Dark Arts. There is a b-book belonging to one of the Pro-professors, I borrowed it for an assignment. It was marvelous, extremely detailed, apparently the only copy in England-"
"I do not require a novel thank you," said Voldemort mockingly. The Death Eaters laughed. "What did the book say?"
"Oh – I - well, everything. Who started the Brethren, what spells they use-"
"Does this book say who the members of the Brethren are?"
"We-well no, I mean - I don-don't-"
"Speak up boy and in English please. I am indeed multi-lingual, but I'm afraid gibberish isn't one of them."
There was more raucous laughter from the Death Eaters.
"The book says," the small voice said a little clearer. "It says who the first four female generations were. If you were to do the appropriate research, you could find out who are the four Brethren-"
"Four?"
"Yes, my lord. Ever since the first male generation, there have only ever been four. Before another can come into their power, one must die."
"And the four of today are..?"
"Well, no one knows. Not until you fight them, and then the information is worthless as you would die. No one has ever defeated a Brethren."
Silence invoked the hall. Everyone was holding their breath.
"Are you suggesting, little boy, that one of these Brethren could defeat me?" Voldemort said in little more than a whisper, his blood red eyes opened wide. His tone was so terrifying that the slight young man began quivering.
"N-no m-my lor-lord," he said.
"I should hope not," Voldemort said, twisting his wand idly through his fingers. "Is there anyway of finding out who the Brethren are?"
"Well, y-you could, if you did enough r-research, b-be able to narrow it down to se-several families. But it would still be hard to p-pick the right woman within these several in-integrated families."
"Which Professor at Hogwarts did this marvelous book belong to?"
"Pr-professor Sn-snape, my lord."
"Is that so? Interesting…"
"Why are concerned, my Lord? If you do not mind me asking so. The Brethren stay out of Wizard Wars."
"I do mind you asking so. It is none of your concern. Lucius come forth, the rest of you - we will take a small break," Voldemort ordered. Then he turned to Malfoy. "Lucius, are you still in contact with your lap dog Severus?"
"I have not been in exchange with him since my ... departure ... from Azkaban, my lord. But he is the one with whom I wished to ask a question. Is he not here, my lord? Do you still not trust him? I can assure you he is not faithful to Dumbledore as you fear. He detests all of them, particular Potter."
"That is true, my lord," the young man said a little pompously. "He was, and I imagine is still, very severe with Potter; my youngest brother is best friends with him-"
"Thank you, you may leave," Malfoy drawled to him. The young man looked at his Lord to see if that was what he wanted, but it appeared Malfoy's orders were also to be obeyed as well as the Dark Lord's. He walked off quickly, his read hair standing out in the crowd of Death Eaters.
"You may punish him later Lucius, for his disobedience," said Voldemort.
"Thank you, my lord," drawled a smirking Lucius.
"Can you get this book Lucius?"
"Yes, my lord."
"Very well, we shall move on to our second matter of business - oh, and Lucius, what question did you have for your lap-dog?"
"I want to know," said Malfoy, his eyes suddenly looking deadly - his voice becoming shaky with anger, "where my son is."
It was nearing the end of another day at Hogwarts. All that remained for Harry was Potions and then Quidditch training just after dinner. Harry's thoughts, as per usual, were not with the rest of him as he trotted off behind Dean to the dungeons. Harry was feeling a bit depressed. Homework was arriving in truck loads, and between two sets of Quidditch Practice, he was having trouble keeping up. The only light was Advanced Defense Against the Dark Arts. Due to Malfoy's absence, Miss Snape let Harry help her teach the other students. He had that similar feeling of satisfaction that the DA had always brought out in him when one of his peers did a successful spell with his guidance.
Harry and Dean seated themselves in their usual spot at the back of the room and Snape hushed the class. He was clearly in a bad mood.
"Quiet now, thank you Miss Abbot – five points from Hufflepuff for being a hopeless gossip. Miss Parkinson, please hand out Monday's homework results."
Pug-faced Pansy Parkinson took the homework off Snape and began handing it out while Snape barked out instructions for today's potion.
"Today we will be doing Veritaserum. No doubt you have all heard of it, attempted to make it or even had it used on you. It is ... almost foolishly ... common. By conducting this potion you will hopefully not only learn to make it, but learn to recognise it and understand why it does what it does. That is," Professor Snape said angrily turning to Harry who was laughing at Dean's impersonation of Crabbe and Goyle on a broomstick, "Unless we are insufferable heroes who believe themselves above such common knowledge."
Harry stared up at Snape meeting his eye with an equal amount of malice as was being returned. Harry had taken to doing this lately, rather than protesting aloud. It was the easiest and most effective way of avoiding a confrontation with Snape that would inevitably lead to loss of house points - whilst still keeping his dignity and letting Snape know exactly what he thought if him.
"Potter," Snape said vindictively. "Given your latest abysmal homework score -" Pansy Parkinson laughed out loud as she dropped Harry's and Dean's homework on their desks. Dean's had a rather tiny 'E' in the left hand corner, but Harry's had a large 'P' in the centre "- I would think you would at least attempt to listen to the instructions."
"Sorry, sir," Harry said with a blank, indifferent look on his face.
Snape's lip curled. Harry knew that Snape wanted him to react so that he could punish him. "Well Potter, if you are keen to redeem yourself, we could perhaps test the class's serum on you?"
Harry's stomach twisted. That was something that he definitely didn't want. Snape smiled maliciously and continued with his explanation of the Veritaserum Truth Potion.
"Don't worry, we'll stuff up the potion on purpose," Dean smiled reassuringly.
Harry smiled back, but knew that Snape would just make him drink another class member's.
"Get to work," Snape ordered.
Harry looked over at Snape, expecting him to be wearing a look of smug satisfaction. But his attention had been turned elsewhere with the Slytherin's asking for help. He was about to go to the student store cupboard to get the potion ingredients when the classroom door was thrown open. Everyone turned their heads to see who had entered so abruptly.
"What can I do you for, Salima?" Professor Snape courteously asked.
"I'm afraid I have to steal Mr. Potter from you," Miss Snape said smiling.
The courtesy left Professor Snape's face quickly, and it was moments like this, where Harry found it hard to think of the two black-haired teachers as siblings. They seemed a world apart.
"No. Potter has to test the class' truth serum," he said firmly.
Miss Snape raised her eyebrows, she turned her head to Harry who was giving her a pleading look, "Come on Harry – the Headmaster's waiting."
Harry hurriedly grabbed his things, not believing his luck.
"Salima, what may I ask is so important-" Professor Snape began to protest, going slightly pink with anger. But Miss Snape was already opening the door for Harry who rushed out.
"Just get over it, Severus."
She closed the door with a resounding thud and smiled down at Harry, "I know you don't believe it, but he is a good man. Underneath the brooding exterior."
Harry didn't say anything. He had never seen any sign of goodness in Professor Snape. It had seemed that every time Harry had begun to reconsider his opinion of him, he did something totally bitter and uncalled for.
"What does Professor Dumbledore want to see me for?" Harry asked, walking along the dungeon corridors with Miss Snape.
"He doesn't want to see you. He wants to see me. But I thought you should come," she said with a glint in her eye. Almost as if she knew what Snape was up to.
"Well what does Dumbledore want with you?"
Miss Snape either didn't hear Harry or ignored him, as she made no reply.
After a minute of walking in silence, Harry decided to ask Miss Snape a question that had been bugging him since the night of the Order meeting.
"Miss Snape," he began. "Why does the Order want Malfoy?"
She stopped walking. She made a surprised sort of humph and then started walking again, "I thought it would take much longer..." she mumbled to herself.
Harry was going to ask her what she meant but then they were facing the entrance to Dumbledore's office.
"Blueberry Flavoured Ghost Drop," Miss Snape said.
The statue began moving and the staircase came around to meet them.
"After you..." Miss Snape gestured with her hand for Harry to go up.
As he walked into the office, he heard a surprised cry from his guardian who was sitting on a chair in front of Dumbledore's office.
Remus Lupin quickly walked over to Harry and greeted him with a brief hug, "What are you doing here? Not that it's not good to see you ... Albus?"
"SALIMA!" There was a shriek from somewhere near Dumbledore's private library. Harry looked over and saw three young women, beaming up at Miss Snape who had just walked in behind Harry.
"Oh, Salima! I 'ave not seen you fo' at lease two yeerz!" A strong German accent floated through the air and a long-blonde-haired woman went over to Salima and embraced her tenderly. This was followed by a second woman who appeared to be Japanese as Harry was positive he heard a "konnichi wa" and "o genki desu ka". Then a brown headed Scottish woman with freckles covering her face came up and also hugged her.
"Salima? Is zat 'im?" The German woman asked, looking at Harry.
Salima laughed and shook her head with a no response as she walked over to Harry and pulled his fringe up to reveal his scar to the three women. Their smiles immediately vanished. Harry thought they were about to do the normal routine of "oh my God it's Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived", and Harry was about to mentally curse Miss Snape - but they turned away from him and frowned at Dumbledore.
"Vot is going on, Albus? Ve said ve vill stay out of it, jus' like orvays."
"Salima?" Lupin looked at her obviously agitated. "Why did you bring Harry?" Miss Snape wasn't listening though; she went to Dumbledore's fireplace and snatched a handful of Floo Powder. She threw it into the fire and stepped in, not saying any destination. The room was quiet, and everyone stared at each other for a few seconds before the Scottish woman shrugged and came forward to extend her hand to Harry.
"My name's Maureen, sweetie."
"Nice to meet you," Harry said quietly.
She smiled at him. "This is Christina," Maureen said, pointing the German woman, "And this is Keiko."
The Japanese woman bowed her head politely. The German woman came over to Harry and gave him a big smacking kiss on the forehead, "You look jus' like your fazzer. I voz very close to your muzzer ven I voz a little girl. I 'ope ve can be friends. As fo' you," she said glaring up at Lupin. "It vood not kill you to be jus' a little nicer to Salima."
The three women sat down and began talking in a language that Harry had never heard before. Harry sat down next to Lupin and looked at the Headmaster who wore an uncharacteristic, anxious frown.
Ten minutes passed and still there was no sign of Miss Snape. Christina, Maureen and Keiko didn't seem concerned at all and continued to talk amongst themselves in the strange tongue. Harry made small chit chat with Lupin about school and Dumbledore continued to look anxious.
Then suddenly there was a roar from the fire and Miss Snape returned. "Sorry about that. Now, Dumbledore," Miss Snape sat in the last remaining chair next to Harry, "What did you wish to speak to me about?"
"It would seem Salima," Dumbledore finally spoke. "That you have anticipated me."
Christina laughed, "Yes, she does zat."
Dumbledore looked at Harry and appeared reluctant to speak. Harry was beyond confused, he had no idea what was going on. He clearly wasn't wanted at this gathering. But Miss Snape wanted him there. She wanted him to hear whatever Dumbledore had to say.
"I did not wish to tell you this yet, Harry. But it would appear Miss Snape will have it no other way," Dumbledore spoke rather gravely. "Harry, I believe Remus has informed you of the Brethren, yes?"
"Yes, when we went to Godric's Hollow the first time. And Miss Snape has told me some things during our Sunday lessons," Harry said.
"Yes, and you are aware that Miss Snape is a member of the Brethren?"
"Yes."
"Very good. Now I have three things to tell you before we may move on, listen carefully Harry," Harry nodded his head and sat on the edge of his seat in anticipation. With a sigh, Dumbledore began, "You may have already worked out, that Christina, Maureen and Keiko are the other three members of the Brethren, no?"
"I assumed so."
"Very well. Now Harry, there is always four with the power of the Brethren. Four with the incredible power to cast wandless magic, perform ancient spells and so on. I imagine you have been told this much?"
"Yes."
"Well, it is also important to note that when one member passes away, another comes into their full power. And not a moment before. However, future Brethren members' start showing spots of their power, when a current Brethren member begins losing their power. Do you understand?"
"Yes, I think so. Do you mean if, one of the Brethren were close to their death, the new member will start showing these ... spots of power?" Harry asked.
"Precisely," Dumbledore said, nodding his head. "And lastly - often the Brethren members are drawn to possible future Brethren and so can train them before they pass away and..."
Dumbledore faltered. He looked down at his hands for a moment.
"Is all this connected to Voldemort's ... plan?" Lupin asked.
"Not directly, but it will play out in this saga no doubt," Dumbledore responded.
More silence.
"Albus..?" Lupin said quietly.
Dumbledore looked up grimly from his half moon glasses. "It has come to my attention, Miss Snape that two others are coming into their power. And not only that, but one is a male. The first male since the original Brethren itself."
"Bu-but," Maureen stammered. "That would mean two of us are fading..."
"A male?" Lupin said.
The three women looked startled. Miss Snape however, did not look surprised.
"There is more. Or perhaps Salima, you would like to tell your friends," said Dumbledore.
Miss Snape smiled a little irreverently, "Well, it would appear that they will both come into aforementioned power, before next summer."
The three women went quiet.
"Are zey any ov our students?" Christina asked in a whisper.
"No, my dear," Dumbledore said. "Not your students."
"Hogwarts students?" Lupin asked.
"One..." Dumbledore said quietly.
"Not ... Harry?" Lupin asked gravely.
"No," Dumbledore said. "It would appear, Harry, that for once it is not you."
"An' ze ozzer? 'Oo is zat?"
"The Seer?" Miss Snape asked, though it seemed she knew it was an accurate guess.
Dumbledore nodded his head.
"How do you know this?" Lupin asked Miss Snape.
She looked at him with an eyebrow raised, "I have seen it."
"W-who ... which two of us?" Maureen asked.
"I do not know. But that doesn't matter right now. The Seer's coming," Miss Snape said.
"She's coming here!" Lupin asked standing up from his chair.
"Yes, she is," Dumbledore said.
"How much longer?" Miss Snape asked.
"A week, I would guess."
"That long? Is she sight seeing or something? God, we can't wait that long," Miss Snape announced, standing up beside Lupin. "Keiko, go to her. Bring her here."
Keiko bowed her head quickly and left the room promptly.
"How will you find her?" Lupin asked.
"We can track her power," Maureen said a little dazed.
"She will be here tomorrow. We will see what we can get out of her then," Miss Snape said. "Harry must come too and I'll get-"
"Why?" Harry asked. "I don't understand?"
Miss Snape smiled and bent down in front of Harry, "Do you know why the Brethren exist?"
"Well they ... no, I don't."
"We are not heroes Harry. We are protectors. We protect the heroes. You are the hero, and we must protect you. Well, that is why the Brethren were initiated. But as time went by, the Brethren could never find a worthy figure to protect. So we stayed out of it, allowing wizards to stew in their own mess. But no more," Miss Snape smiled, "now we come out again. We come out for you."
"Ve do?" Christina asked.
"Yes Germany, we do."
"And ... what do I have to do?" Harry asked.
"Many things Harry," Dumbledore said. "None of which can be explained now. I know this is hard for you, but you must understand, it is for everyone's safety that you know only what you have to."
Harry nodded his head, but it was still spinning. "Can't you tell me anything?"
Dumbledore looked at Harry solemnly, "I think I need to speak to Harry alone. Perhaps Remus, you would like to wait in the staffroom. Ladies? Are you returning to Hogsmeade?"
"Yes, unless … Salima?" Maureen said.
Miss Snape nodded her head. "Yes, come."
With that, everyone filed out of Dumbledore's office, Lupin giving Harry an encouraging smile as he left.
Once they were alone, Harry instantly let out a breath he didn't know he'd been holding. Dumbledore smiled at him.
"So sir, what did you want to say?"
"Harry – Voldemort is no fool. He can feel you getting stronger and stronger everyday. He is aware now that you are a force not to be taken lightly. And so, he is trying to put himself in the best possible position to both end this free world and end you, at the same time."
"Why at the same time?"
"Well, Harry, whilst if he simply showed up at Grimmauld Place with his Death Eaters, he may destroy all of us, it would not be with out many causalities of his own. Causalities that he could not afford. Causalities that would make it hard to overtake the remainder of the free wizards and witches in England. He has to create a fight were only those he wants to die will. You see, there is more to it than destroying the Order. Destroying the Order would only mean destroying the defiance – the thorn in his side. He has bigger plans. And he needs numbers for these plans to avail."
Harry nodded his head in understanding. "So what is he doing? Do you know?"
Dumbledore sighed, "We have the general gist of it. But please do not ask me what it is. Like I said before, the less you know the safer you will be. I know this doesn't make sense in light of what has happened in the last six months, but do not fret. You will know everything soon enough."
"Alright sir," a part of Harry wanted to just belt the truth out of Dumbledore. But he had to trust him. For as Hermione often said, "If we can't trust Dumbledore – who can we trust?"
"So," Salima Snape asked her companions. "What are you two doing now?"
"Grr..." Christina grumbled. "Fashion. O' ow I detest et. Et 'tis a form ov ugliness so intolerable zat ve 'ave to alter et every six months. Blech!"
Salima and Maureen laughed appreciatively. "And what about you Maurie?"
"I work as Barrister in Edinbrugh."
"O, one ov zose, eh?" Christina said laughing. "And vot 'ave you to say about zat?"
"Arguments are to be steered clear of; they are always crude and often convincing."
"Ha! Very true," Salima said.
"Now ven are ve going to meet zis little boy you used to speak ov so highly, Salima?"
"He's not little anymore."
"Votever! I vant to meet 'im! Do not tell me you're not going to check on 'im tonight! I know you ... oh my God..." Christina clasped her hand over her mouth. "He is ze ozzer one isn't he? Ze male?"
Salima nodded her head.
"Oh, Salima," Maureen said. "How long have you known?"
"Since the day I found out I was."
"Harry! Come in here," Lupin motioned for Harry to enter the staffroom. He had just come back from Dumbledore's office and was heading down to dinner.
"Are you alright Harry?"
"Yeah, I mean, things make a little more sense now."
"I know what you mean. If it's any consolation, Dumbledore has been very prudent with all if us."
Harry nodded his head and sat down on the couch next to Lupin, "Lupin?"
"Yes Harry?"
"What did Miss Snape do to make you all not like her?"
Lupin cleared his throat and went red in the cheeks. "Well, there were a few things but basically ... well, how to explain this?"
Harry raised his eyebrows.
"You see Harry, everyone is guilty of all the good they didn't do? You know what I mean?"
"No ... yes. But that doesn't seem fair. I mean she's still young. The last time she would've seen all of you, by the way you talk about her, was when Voldemort was at large fifteen years ago. She would've been twelve or something. How can a twelve year old be guilty of anything?"
"The last time we saw her was seven years ago Harry and she was in a position to help us beyond ... well really aid us. And she didn't. And on top of that – well. Harry listen, I'm not going to stop you from befriending her. But just be aware that she cares about us very little. I don't know that she would be that phased if Voldemort were to win this war ... she thinks herself beyond it. All four of them do. Just be careful Harry," Lupin said seriously. "She won't put her all into this unless she feels there is good reason to."
"She told me she'd fight for me," Harry said. "She said if I asked her she would. I believe her." Harry stood up to walk out.
"Harry?"
"I'll see you on Sunday, I have to go to Quidditch practice."
"Oh, bye Harry."
A/N: Thank you to Fluery (no I won't tell … hehe), MinorMistake99 (you write such lovely reviews!) and faketruth86 (I'm not telling you either … haha).
AbundantFear :-)
