Harry and Hermione looked at each other, then over at Corfay. Harry went over to him but knew he was dead, he wasn't breathing anymore. He walked back over to Hermione who was still staring at Corfay.
"Hermione, c'mon. We have to tell someone what's happened. Hermione?"
She didn't answer, just kept staring. Harry finally put his hand up and waved it in front of her face, she looked at him.
"He's dead, isn't he? She killed him…" Hermione trailed off looking back at Corfay.
"Yes, and we have to get someone and tell them, now. Hermione? Hermione!" he said loudly. Harry regretted bringing her with him. This was not something he ever would have had her see; she wasn't taking it well. She looked at him again and then came back to herself.
"You're right, we need to find someone, and we should check on Madam Pomfrey too," she hurried past him towards Pomfrey's office. Harry grabbed the cloak and the map and ran after her.
Madam Pomfrey was in her office, unconscious, on the floor. They ran over to her and tried to shake her awake, but she didn't respond.
"At least we know she's still alive, let's go find Dumbledore," Harry said. They both set off into the corridor as fast as they could, once again using the cloak. They went right into Dumbledore's office and found him there talking to the usual group. Everyone turned to look at Harry and Hermione.
"Corfay's dead," Harry said before anyone could say anything.
"What?" Sirius asked standing up. "How?"
"A shapeshifter, disguised as Madam Pomfrey," Hermione spoke up. "She's alive, but unconscious in her office."
"What were you two doing in the hospital wing?" Snape asked glaring at them. Harry looked over at Hermione and she was looking back at him. They had been doing something they weren't supposed to, but what did that matter now? He had answers that they wouldn't have had if he didn't go down there tonight.
"I went down there because I needed to ask Corfay a few questions," Harry said looking at Snape.
"Severus we will deal with that later," Dumbledore said then. Please go down and see that Madam Pomfrey is okay, Minerva, please go with him and I will be down shortly." They both nodded at him, Snape somewhat reluctantly, and left the office.
"Now please explain what happened, did he tell you anything?" Dumbledore said turning to them. Harry explained exactly what Corfay had told him, and how he was now stuck with the knowledge. Then they explained what the shapeshifter had done, and Hermione once again had a glazed over look to her eyes.
"Why would he do that?" Sirius yelled clearly furious at Corfay.
"Because he was afraid," Lupin answered him.
"That's no excuse!" Sirius shouted.
"Sirius, please," Dumbledore said. "We agree with you that it is a horrible excuse, but there is nothing we can do about that now. Let's work on finding a way to solve the problem at hand." Then he turned to Harry and Hermione.
"If there is nothing else for now then I think it's best you both get to sleep. Miss. Granger, will you be alright?" Hermione nodded at him. Then she and Harry both said goodnight and headed back to their tower.
The next morning, Harry felt himself being shaken awake. He grabbed his glasses and saw Ron standing next to his bed.
"Where did you go with Hermione last night?" Ron asked sounding almost angry.
"To see Corfay, what's wrong with you?"
"Corfay? So, you guys didn't…never mind. What did he say?" Ron asked, sounding embarrassed.
"He's dead."
"What? How?"
Harry went through the explanation of what happened again. When he finished Ron was speechless.
"So you haven't seen Hermione yet?" Harry asked him. "She seemed very upset by everything last night. I hope she's okay." Ron just shook his head. Harry got out of bed and dressed quickly, then they both went downstairs to look for Hermione. She was sitting in a corner talking with Ginny. They both smiled as Harry and Ron came over.
"Good morning," Hermione said.
"How are you?" Harry asked her.
"Better," she replied, smiling. Ginny just looked at them confused, but didn't say anything about it. Instead she pointed to a piece of paper on the wall near the door.
"They posted that there's going to be a trip to Hogsmeade on Halloween. Think you'll be allowed to go?" she asked looking at Harry.
"Who knows," Harry said. "I'm getting so sick of this though. I'm gonna be forced to spend the rest of my life with a chaperone the way things are looking."
"We don't know that yet. Let's just wait and see." Ron said.
As the weeks passed Harry started gaining more use of his new knowledge. He knew the answers to all the questions, and could do most of the spells and potions on his first try. It was hardly hurting at all now, and he came to enjoy it. It was nice to give Hermione a little competition, even though he knew it wasn't the same.
When it was almost Halloween and no one had come to Harry yet to tell him if he could or couldn't go to Hogsmeade, he decided to just go and ask. He made his way up to the head table one morning after breakfast, and went straight over to Dumbledore.
"Professor, I wanted to ask you about Hogsmeade," he said immediately.
"Do you not want to go?" Dumbledore said smiling at him. Harry just looked at him as what he said seeped in.
"Well, no sir, I mean yes sir. I do want to go, very much. I was just checking because of last year…"
"Last year, yes. Well when we let you go, you got into a bit of trouble and when we made you stay, you got into worse trouble. I don't see how either was the better situation so we'll just have to keep a close eye on you. I know you'll use common sense," he said pointedly. Harry just smiled at him and nodded. He thanked him and went back to his table.
Halloween came and it was a beautiful day, perfect for a trip to Hogsmeade. Harry wasn't as excited about this year's trip as he had been there several times now. He was just looking forward to getting his mind off things and having fun.
When they arrived, they found the place more crowded than usual.
"Did every wizard in England decide to come today?" Ron asked looking around.
"I don't think they'd all fit, but they sure tried," Harry said.
"Well where to first?" Hermione asked.
"Let's go to the Three Broomsticks, I know we just got here but I really want some butterbeer!" Ron said. When they got there, Harry said he would get the drinks and the others went to get a table.
"Harry!"
Harry turned around while waiting for the drinks to see Cho standing behind him.
"Cho! How are you? I haven't seen you all year!" Harry said excitedly, then he realized how he was sounding and lowered his voice a little.
"How was your summer?" he asked in a calmer voice.
"It was wonderful, I traveled all around Europe with my parents, I only wish there'd been more time. I want to go again, but with…someone else." She said smiling. Harry could feel his face turning red, Cho just kept grinning at him. "How was your summer?" she asked finally.
"Not nearly as fun as yours," Harry said, not wanting to go into what had happened. "Just uneventful, I don't want to bore you with it."
"I heard you stayed at Hogwart's," she said, then lowered her voice. "Was it because of…You-Know-Who?"
"Here you are three butterbeers!" said a loud voice behind Harry that startled them both. He turned to the person at the counter.
"Thank you, um…" he said then turned back to Cho. "Would you like to sit with us? I'll get one for you too…" Cho smiled and nodded, Harry spun around and ordered another drink. When they had all four, they headed over to where Ron and Hermione were waiting.
The four of them spent the day together, looking in all the shops, stocking up on candy and trick toys, and staying clear of the Shrieking Shack. Harry could never remember having so much fun at Hogsmeade. There was only one point where it seemed as though there might be trouble. As they were leaving Honeydukes, Malfoy, Crabbe and Goyle were just walking in.
"Potter, I can't believe the headmaster let you out of his sight!" Malfoy said feigning amazement. "I thought you were far too precious, you might be hurt!" Then he doubled over in laughter and Crabbe and Goyle joined him.
"I'll be fine, but you might not be," Harry said taking a step forward, then he felt a hand on his arm. He turned and saw Cho, shaking her head at him to tell him no. The effect this had on Harry was different then when Ron or Hermione was doing this, and he immediately calmed down.
"Do you always let your girlfriend tell you what to do, Potter?" Malfoy asked sneering.
"At least he has one!" Ron spoke up next to Harry. "You'll be lucky to find anyone besides your mum who wants to stare at your ugly face day after day."
Malfoy looked as if he were about to lunge at Ron, but the shopkeeper came over to them and told them to quit blocking the doorway, customers were waiting to get in. The two groups walked past each other, glaring, but as soon as they were out of the shop Harry and Ron were laughing.
"He was redder than a beet!" Harry managed to get out between laughs.
"We're just lucky you didn't end up fighting," Hermione yelled over their laughter. "You could have gotten in trouble." She looked at Cho for backup and Cho nodded, but she was smiling all the while at Harry and Ron. They began walking again, Harry and Cho a few steps behind Ron and Hermione.
"So, you tell your friends I'm your girlfriend?" Cho asked smiling.
"What? Oh, no…Ron was just saying that to…" Harry began turning red.
"It's okay, I don't mind," she interrupted.
"Good…wait, you don't?" he asked, looking into her eyes.
"No, I don't." She slipped her hand into his and they continued walking. Harry couldn't stop smiling the rest of the day, and realized when it was time to go, how much he wanted nothing more in the world then to just stay there forever.
When they arrived at the school, everyone went to their common rooms to drop off their belongings before heading down to the great hall. Harry was still feeling very giddy and floated over to the table with his friends.
"What's gotten into him?" Seamus asked as they sat down.
"He's in love," Hermione said smiling.
"Oh," he replied, then went back to talking with Dean and Neville. Hermione gave him an annoyed look but turned back to her friends quickly. Finally the food appeared and everyone dug in. They joked and laughed and talked about the day with each other. Harry had not felt this good in a long time.
"Do you want to go over some of those new strategies tonight?" Ron asked him.
"Sure," Harry said happily.
"Are you sure you're going to be able to concentrate?" Ron asked smiling.
"Oh shut up, of course I'll be able to!" Harry said elbowing Ron.
"Well, shall we head up then, unless you want to eat more?"
"I couldn't no matter how much I wanted to. Coming Hermione?" She nodded and the three of them got up and headed for the doors. The feast was over so most of the students were starting to get up anyway. They went through into the hallway and stopped short. Something was lying a few feet away.
They walked over to it slowly and Harry realized it wasn't something, it was someone. He barely heard Hermione scream as she turned and ran back into the great hall, everything was muted for him and he felt all the strength drain out of him, as he sunk to his knees.
It was Mrs. Figg…and she was dead.
"Mrs. Figg?…Mrs. Figg!" Harry said, shaking her. "Mrs. Figg! Please, answer me!" He didn't notice that most of the school had now come into the hallway and were forming a wide circle around him. Ron was in the center as well, though he wasn't moving, just staring in disbelief. Then Dumbledore broke through with the other teachers and walked straight over to Harry, who was still trying to wake Mrs. Figg.
"Harry, please step away from her, there's nothing you can do."
"But…" he started. Though he didn't know what he was going to say. He just looked at her lying there with her eyes wide open, but unseeing.
"Come now, Mr. Potter. Please, do as the headmaster says," Professor McGonagall said. Harry finally tore his eyes away from the body and stood up. He noticed Hermione for the first time was standing near him looking about to faint.
"Take them to my office, Minerva, please?" she nodded and they headed off as Dumbledore told the rest of the students to head back to their towers.
Harry, Ron and Hermione sat in the office and waited. Harry was feeling numb from the shock of everything.
"I've known her for as long as I can remember," he said quietly. They both looked at him, and Hermione started crying. Harry started to move towards her, but Ron was out of his seat immediately, he went over to her and put his arms around her.
"It's okay Hermione, everything will be okay," he said over and over. Harry just looked at her, feeling horribly guilty for how she was feeling. If it hadn't been for him, none of this would have happened. They all looked up when they heard people behind them. Dumbledore came in followed by Lupin, McGonagall, Snape and Sirius. Dumbledore had something in his hand, which he handed to Harry.
"This was found on her," was all he said.
Harry looked at the piece of paper in his hand and realized it was a letter with his name on it. He slowly tore it open and began to read.
Here's your Secret Keeper back. I've gotten all I need from her. I thought it fitting to kill her exactly 15 years from the day I killed your parents. Soon all your friends will join her, as will you. Give yourself to me now, and I may spare some of them, but should you choose to ignore my generous offer, I promise you they will all die painfully.
Harry stared at the letter, feeling anger building inside him, then he crushed it in his hands.
"I know what you're thinking Harry, this wasn't your fault. You know he's lying, he'll kill you and kill all of us anyway," Sirius said to him.
"Well how else can I protect all of you?" Harry asked. "I can't fight him and it seems he can get to any of you!"
"He would never keep his word, Sirius…is right." Snape said, seeming to struggle with his words.
"Mrs. Figg…" Harry started. "I've known her my entire life. She used to watch me every time the Dursley's went somewhere because they thought I would burn the house down, or something. Then one time, she was ill, I think she broke her leg, and they had to take me with them. I was so…happy, because it meant I wouldn't have to sit around listening to her talk about cats," Harry said, feeling his face turn red from shame. "But now she's dead, and she'll never talk again, and no matter what any of you say it wouldn't have happened if it weren't for me!" He had a very large lump in his throat that he was forcing to stay down.
"I think you are being too hard on yourself," Sirius said.
"Harry. Listen to me very carefully." Dumbledore said. "Voldemort is using your love for your friends against you. He wants you to feel as if it is your fault so you will play into his trap. You must understand, if he had managed to kill you, whether it happened 15 years ago or yesterday, Mrs. Figg would most likely still be dead, as would many of the people in this room. He wants to kill anyone that is opposed to him and that is exactly what he is doing."
Harry looked at him and nodded, though privately he still disagreed. He looked over at his friends. They both looked much better now, though Hermione looked extremely tired.
"I want to go to bed now." Harry said to no one in particular.
"Yes, I think that's probably best right now, do you need to see Madam Pomfrey first?"
Harry shook his head no, Sirius looked like he was going to argue but Dumbledore put up a hand to stop him.
"Goodnight then, you three. Sleep well."
Harry didn't talk much over the next few days. He still knew the answers in class, but didn't bother to answer any questions unless he was called on. He ate lunch with his friends still, but didn't join in on the conversation. Finally after a week of this, Ron decided to try to get through to him.
"You can't let this control you, you know," he said coming into the boys' dorm one night. "You're letting him win."
"What are you talking about?" Harry asked coldly. "No one is controlling me."
"You're wrong…you're not even talking to anyone anymore."
"I'm talking to you, aren't I?"
"You know what I mean. We haven't had any quidditch practices and you haven't hung out in the common room at all. I think you wouldn't even go to class if it weren't required. You can't let him get to you like this."
"Can't let WHO get to me Ron?" Harry said glaring at him. Ron narrowed his eyes and looked straight into Harry's
"Voldemort." Ron said. Harry just looked at him, shocked that he said the name.
"I'm not letting him win, Ron," Harry said with a sigh. "He's doing that without my help."
"Well then stop sitting around moping about it and do something. You know that you have whatever spell it is he needs so let's try and figure it out. Or if anything figure out how to get rid of it." Ron looked at Harry in exasperation.
"I know you're right, I know it. It's just I've never had someone I knew die before. I mean I knew my parents, but not the same way. Do you understand?"
"Yes I do, more than you know. My grandfather died when I was 10. It was horrible for me, for my whole family. He was so close to us, and he always took my side when my mother got angry with me. I know what it's like to lose someone, but the pain does fade."
"This isn't like that though, I didn't love Mrs. Figg, but she died protecting me."
"So you shouldn't let her death be in vain." Harry looked at Ron for a long time before speaking again.
"How did you get so smart, Ron?" he said with a grin.
"I've always been this way, haven't you noticed?" Ron said. "C'mon, lets get out of here and do something, anything."
Harry hopped off his bed and they headed downstairs together.
Quidditch practice resumed as the first match of the year, Gryffindor vs. Slytherin, drew closer. Harry and Ron were trying to show the new chasers all the formations that they knew from their old team, but most of the players were already good enough that not much training was required.
The day of the match came and Harry got up early. He met Ron down in the great hall for breakfast and they talked about the match ahead of them while they ate. Soon the hall was busy with people and the rest of the team joined them. No one appeared to be very nervous, but Harry and Ron knew otherwise. Even they still got nervous before a game, and the first game was the worst for that.
Draco walked over to their table then, with a sneer on, as usual.
"Trying to give out some last minute tips? Doesn't matter, your new team has no hope of beating us."
"Any member of our team is worth your whole team put together, Malfoy," Harry said angrily.
"When we win this game today you'll see just how pitiful your team really is," Malfoy said glaring at them.
"You're team has never beaten ours while you were the seeker, so I think you should shut your mouth," Ron said. Malfoy threw Ron an ugly look, then headed back to his table.
"Let's head out now, it's almost time anyway," Harry said. They left the great hall together and headed for the pitch. When they were in the locker rooms everyone got changed and Harry gave a small speech.
"I know that this team can win. You're all wonderful players and we have practiced so hard. I know we'll all do our parts, so lets go out there and win!"
They all cheered and headed out to the pitch. Harry shook hands with the Slytherin captain, and they all kicked off at sound of the whistle.
The game started off immediately with Slytherin taking the lead 10-0 over Gryffindor. But there was a penalty called on them for stooging, and Gryffindor was tied soon after. Seamus Finnigan was doing the commentary and he wasn't nearly as outspoken as Lee Jordan used to be.
Soon Gryffindor was in the lead 50-10 and Harry still hadn't spotted the snitch. He looked over at Malfoy who was staring intently below them, then watched as Malfoy took off, diving towards the ground. Harry didn't see the snitch anywhere in that direction, but was just about to dive after him when he glanced towards the goal posts, and spotted it near Ron. He took one more look at Malfoy who was still streaking downwards, and sped off towards Ron. When he was close enough, he reached forward and snatched it easily out of the air.
The crowd erupted in applause and cheers and Harry flew once around the stands with the snitch held high before landing near the rest of his team. He forced his way closer to Malfoy, who was glaring furiously at him.
"Nice try. You were attempting a Wronski Feint, weren't you?" Malfoy looked away, refusing to speak with Harry. Harry just kept grinning at him.
"You really should leave that to the professionals, you know. You're just not…experienced enough." He kept smiling at Malfoy as he walked away, then headed off to the locker rooms to get changed. The rest of the team was just leaving, still talking about their win.
"You guys did wonderful today, you really did," Harry said to the rest of the team as he passed them "You played better than I could've hoped for!" They smiled and thanked him as the headed back to the school. When he got inside he began to change, he wanted to get up to the common room for the celebration that would surely already be started. But when he turned to go, something in the doorway caught his eye, a thin black cloak, it appeared, was slithering under the door, all by itself. Harry watched in horror as it moved towards him, slowly. He backed away from it, staring in horror and pulled out his wand to try a few curses but they had no effect, it kept moving forward.
Suddenly, it began to wrap itself around him, and he felt its clammy touch, which sent a shiver up his spine. As he struggled, it slid itself over his face, trying to smother him and he was unable to cry out for assistance. He couldn't breathe; he was getting weaker and was starting to feel dizzy. If he passed out, he would surely die. He felt the darkness start to take him as he clutched his wand in his hand.
Harry could barely even move, but somehow was able to push the black thing partly away from his face, though it didn't help. It had closed off any air from getting in and there was precious little of it left. Suddenly, a familiar feeling came to him and he had an idea, he clutched his wand tightly, pointing it away from himself into the folds of the creature and used the last of his energy to cry out the words:
"Expecto Patronum!"
Almost immediately Harry felt air rushing back to him. He looked around to see the black thing being pushed away by the stag, Prongs. It hit the ground and slithered quickly under the door.
Harry sat there, shaking from lack of oxygen, taking in deep breaths of wonderful air. He knew that he had used his other knowledge to defeat whatever the black thing was, but still didn't know how. He needed to figure out a way to open his mind to be able to control it, use it when necessary. If it hadn't happened just when it did, he would be dead right now. After a few minutes, he decided to go back to the school and tell Dumbledore what had happened. He stood up, and took a few shaky steps towards the door, stopped to calm down again, and continued. It seemed it was still a problem to stay conscious and he couldn't figure out why. It took a long time to make it back to the school, when he finally made it inside; Professor McGonagall was just heading outside.
"Where have you been?" she asked him with a severe look. "We just found out you never went back to your common room." Then she took a closer look and realized something was wrong.
"Mr. Potter…are you okay?"
Harry was now swaying on his feet, he looked at her and tried to talk, but nothing came out. He hit his knees, and fell forward to the ground.
When Harry opened his eyes everything was blurry, he reached around, found his glasses and put them on. He was in the hospital wing.
"Well, I almost made it to Christmas without being in here," he said sighing to himself. Then he realized he wasn't alone, There was a big black dog lying down on the end of his bed.
"Sirius," Harry whispered. "Are you awake?"
Sirius picked up his head and looked over his shoulder at Harry, then leaped off the bed and ran out of the room. Harry sat staring after him until a few moments later, when he returned with Dumbledore.
"You gave Professor McGonagall quite a scare," he said sitting down next to Harry. "Can you tell me what happened?"
Harry shivered involuntarily, and began recounting the events that took place after the quidditch match. He almost felt like he was trapped inside the black thing again and was taking very deep breaths as he spoke. When he finished Dumbledore was looking very grave, and a bit surprised as well.
"Do you know what that thing was?" Harry asked him.
"It's called a Lethifold or the Living Shroud." They are very rare and usually only found in tropical climates, which is why I'm so surprised there was one here. They don't live very long unless they are in their natural habitat. Something else I find strange is that Lethifolds will never attack someone who appears to be able to defend themselves. Usually they'll go after victims who are sleeping, they digest the victim whole, leaving no trace of them. Someone must have been controlling it."
"Voldemort?"
"I don't think so. You see, the creature would have killed you, and we know that at this time, he needs you alive." Dumbledore seemed to consider this for a minute, then continued. "You said you used the Patronus to defeat it?"
"Yes, it just came to me. Like the way the answers in class are coming to me."
"Interesting. The last time someone was able to defeat a Lethifold using the Patronus Charm was in 1782. It is the only known spell to repel them."
"Well, I'm glad it was in the Zlam's book of knowledge as well, or I'd be very dead right now. How long have I been here?" he asked realizing he had no idea.
"Just overnight, you can still attend classes tomorrow if you feel well enough."
"I'm sure I'll be fine. Do you know, is it normal for someone to feel so weak after a Lethifold attack?" Harry asked feeling embarrassed. He didn't know why he had passed out.
"I'm sure it was just from the strain of what happened, but I will look into it. In the meantime, I think Madam Pomfrey will let you leave today, so I will go get her for you now. She'll just want to check you over once more."
Harry nodded and sat back on the bed watching Dumbledore walk away. He looked at Sirius and just shook his head. Someone had tried to kill him, and it hadn't been Voldemort. He needed to find out who, in order to defend himself. When Madam Pomfrey came over Harry waited as she looked over him, then headed upstairs to his tower.
"Harry you're okay!" Hermione cried as he stepped through the portrait hole. "We were so worried, what happened?" It was still early Sunday evening so most of the students were still up in the common room. Harry walked over to a corner of the room and Ron and Hermione followed, they all sat down in a circle. He then explained, for the second time that day, what had happened in the locker room the day before. When he finished, he was breathing heavy again, and his friends were looking at him with great concern.
"A Lethifold, here?" Hermione exclaimed.
"Yes, Dumbledore thinks someone was controlling it," Harry said, not surprised that Hermione knew what a Lethifold was. "But not Voldemort."
"Then who?" Ron asked.
"Someone who wants me dead. Voldemort needs me alive right now, that's why it couldn't be him. But I honestly have no idea who else it could be," Harry said.
"The Zlam?" Hermione suggested. Harry shook his head.
"I don't know. I can't see why it would be them, if they need their Knowledge back, how does my being dead help?"
Ron and Hermione just looked at him blankly and shook their heads.
The next day classes went on as usual. Many of the Gryffindors were poking fun at Malfoy whenever they saw him for his attempt at tricking Harry.
"You know, even if you had followed him, he probably would've ended up crashing anyway. You're much better at dives than he is," Ron said as they were walking past another group laughing about it.
"Thanks," Harry said. Malfoy walked past them, scowling and Harry just waved at him and grinned.
When they got to the great hall that night, everyone was whispering to each other.
"What's going on?" Harry asked as they sat down.
"Dumbledore's going to make an announcement tonight," Dean answered him.
Just as he finished saying this, Dumbledore stood up.
"There are two things that are going to be changed starting tonight, and I know you will not be happy to hear them," Dumbledore said. "The first is, we are once again setting the rule that no student is allowed outside the school without a teacher after dark. If you are found outside after dark, you will be punished." All the students were now whispering loudly to each other, most of it sounded angry. Harry just kept his head down, feeling this was probably because of him.
"The second," Dumbledore started, not looking like he was happy at all to be saying this, "is there will be no more quidditch matches this year."
Harry's head shot up, the hall erupted in anger. Some people were talking angrily to each other, some were just sitting there glaring at Dumbledore and some were yelling at him for an explanation.
"Please calm down!" Dumbledore called loudly, the room when silent. "There have been a few strange occurrences this year that lead me to believe it may not be safe to continue the tournaments this year. I am very sorry to do this; I enjoy watching the games as much as any of you. It is very unfortunate but these are dangerous times and I feel this is quite necessary."
Harry sat there in shock; he glanced across the table and saw Ron's face mirroring his feelings. It was happening again and it was because of him. Then Dumbledore started to speak again.
"On a happier note, we are still going to allow the Hogsmeade visits to continue, for now. Your next one will be on the day before the winter holidays begin. Now please, enjoy your dinner, and head straight back to your towers when you're finished."
Harry ate but didn't taste any of his food. He couldn't believe the quidditch matches had been cancelled again.
"Harry, don't worry about it, we still have next year," Ron said seeing the look on his face.
"But who's to say something doesn't happen to cancel them then too?" Harry asked glumly. But he knew Ron was right, there was nothing he could do about it, and he was determined not to let this make him miserable. Besides, he had other things to worry about.
As the last day of classes drew closer, Harry was unsure about whether or not he wanted to go to Hogsmeade or not. But when Cho asked him if they were going together, he quickly decided. He realized he had barely spoken to her since last time they went and felt bad about this, so he was going to make it up to her.
When they arrived at Hogsmeade he asked her what she wanted to do first.
"Whatever you want to do is fine," she answered him, smiling.
"No really, pick something, we'll do whatever you want."
"Okay, I want to go look at the shops and see the new racing broom." Harry was actually up for doing that as well, so they both set off. As usual, there was a crowd of people around the window with the newest model broom in it.
"The Fireball," Cho read. "Look at it, wouldn't you just love one of those?" Harry nodded; it was spectacular.
"You always seem to get the newest brooms, maybe you'll have one of those next year, you'll catch the snitch in record time," Cho said. Harry was reminded of the canceling of quidditch and turned his head.
"Maybe we should look somewhere else now," he said.
"Hey, c'mon now," Cho started, "we're here to have fun. I'm not upset about the quidditch matches. You're just lucky you didn't have to play me this year. I would've beaten you for sure," Cho said smiling.
"You wish!" Harry said. He felt sad because he knew he'd never get to play Cho again, not in a school game anyway. But at the same time, relieved. He always felt awkward going up against her.
"At least I beat Malfoy before the games were cancelled this year," he said, grinning.
"That's the spirit!" Cho said. "C'mon, I'm thirsty, let's go get a drink."
She put her hand in his, and they headed off down the street towards the Three Broomsticks.
The day flew by for Harry and it was all too soon that they were back at Hogwart's. Cho was going home for the holidays, but Harry got up early and ate breakfast with her the next morning. He went with her down to the train and right before she left she gave him a soft kiss goodbye. He waved to her until he couldn't see the train anymore, and started back towards the school feeling lighter than air.
"Good Morning!" he said brightly to Ron and Hermione after he stepped through the portrait hole.
"Morning," Ron mumbled. "Why are you up so early?"
"I had to see Cho off this morning, we had breakfast together and I went to the train with her."
"How sweet!" Hermione said smiling, "Is that all?" she prompted. Harry blushed furiously and changed the subject.
"So, what are we doing today?"
"Well, I don't care, as long as it doesn't involve homework or reading," Ron said as he watched Hermione already starting on her Arithmancy paper.
"I don't want to leave it all to the last minute, then the end of my holidays are ruined."
"I would think the end of you holidays would be ruined this way, you'll have none left to do later on!" Ron said, laughing. Hermione gave him an annoyed look but went back to her studies.
"How about a game of chess?" Harry asked Ron.
"You're asking me to play? That's a change…"
"Are you saying no?" Harry asked tauntingly.
"Never!" Ron said. They played four games before Harry finally tired of losing, and then they dragged Hermione away from her books for lunch. They spent the day having fun and playing games, when they finally tired and headed up to bed, they were all pleasantly sleepy, dreaming about what they might get for Christmas, the next day.
Christmas morning came, and Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny spent the morning exchanging gifts. They were literally the only students left in the Gryffindor common room for the holidays. Most every student decided not to stay due to the new restrictions. They had decided to spend the morning relaxing, going through their new things, but finally when it was almost dinner time, they were all quite hungry and headed down to the great hall.
Almost all of the instructors were already there when they arrived, so they sat at the four empty seats near the end of the table. Dinner was wonderful as always, and Harry was surprised when he felt a tugging on his sleeve, and turned to see Dobby.
"Dobby! How are you? Merry Christmas!" Harry exclaimed.
"Dobby came to see Harry Potter! I have present for you, but not here. Dobby will give it to you later, though!" he said looking a bit concerned.
"It's okay Dobby, you didn't need to get me anything," Harry said knowing he had nothing to give in return. He would have to grab another pair of socks…
"Dobby will go get it and bring it to you!" Dobby said running out of the room.
"Wait!" Harry called, but Dobby was already gone.
"Will you tell him I've gone to your office, to visit the…dog?" he asked Dumbledore. He nodded; smiling, and Harry stood up to go. "Dog?" he heard one of the other teachers ask, but didn't turn around, Dumbledore would tell them something.
He was just about to say the password as he reached the statue, when it swung open. Harry stared in shock as Cornelius Fudge stepped out, he looked at Harry and stepped back, surprised.
"Harry, I was coming here to see you. We need to talk," he said quickly. Harry didn't answer right away, concerned as Sirius was in Dumbledore's office. But Fudge must not have seen him or surely he wouldn't be asking to talk to Harry.
"O-Okay…what about?" Harry stammered. He was afraid Fudge would ask him why he was coming here, when Dumbledore was downstairs.
"It's about the Zlam. They are the ones who tried to kill you a few weeks ago. I really don't feel safe talking about it here, please follow me," Fudge said quickly. Harry followed him eagerly through several hallways. Finally he would get an explanation from someone who knew more about the Zlam. Fudge opened the door to a classroom that was very dusty, and wasn't used much. Harry stepped through the doorway and started to turn around when he heard Fudge yell something.
"Stupefy!"
Harry was out before he hit the floor.
Harry opened his eyes and immediately felt the pain in his head. He tried to raise his hand to it and realized he couldn't, his wrists were tied behind him around the back of the chair he was sitting on. He tried to move his legs and realized his ankles were tied as well. He looked around and saw he was sitting at one of the desks in the room and Fudge was sitting across from him, with an empty bottle in front of him. The cork was pulled out of the bottle and he had his wand out, and was mumbling something very quietly. Harry saw his own wand on a desk near the front of the room.
"What's going on?" he asked looking at Fudge. He ignored Harry and kept speaking quietly, Harry tried to get his hands free, but it only hurt as the ropes cut into his skin. He looked again, and noticed that the cork suddenly lit up from within, then went dim. A few seconds later, the bottle did the same thing. Fudge at last looked up at Harry.
"Just a little longer…" he said, sounding more frightened than anything.
"What do you mean? What's going to happen?" Harry asked.
"This would have been a lot easier if you just let the Lethifold take you," Fudge said sounding angry all of a sudden. "None of this would be necessary."
"Oh, so sorry to disrupt you plans!" Harry said glaring at him. "I'll be sure and let myself get eaten next time I see one!" Then he remembered something Fudge had said earlier.
"You said the Zlam tried to kill me, but why? How would that help them?"
"They sent the Lethifold after you because if you died your knowledge would be passed on to the creature. As Lethifolds are not terribly bright, the overload on its brain would kill it and the Zlam would be able to extract the knowledge when the time was right for them. Waiting for you is not something they care for, obviously."
"When the time is right? And what do you mean waiting for me?"
"They have to elect a new Librarian, a process that we don't know all the specifics of, but let's just say they don't just choose someone and that's it. It is very hard to obtain that position. So when one is finally chosen they could take the knowledge out of the Lethifold, which they would keep preserved until that time, and have their knowledge back. The same thing will eventually happen to you, you will die from the knowledge if someone doesn't kill you first. The fact that you are human and a wizard makes the process much slower. But if you die with the knowledge, they can still use your body to get it back."
Harry just stared at him in shock, reeling from the news. The knowledge was killing him? He needed to find a way to get rid of it fast! He looked at Fudge who was visibly sweating now.
"Why did you bring me here?" Harry asked coldly.
"To end all of this nonsense," Fudge said. "If You-Know-Who will let people live just by handing you over, then that's what I intend to do. I feel it is my duty as Minister of Magic to protect the innocent."
"The innocent? And what am I?" Harry asked incredulously.
"I am truly sorry, but if by losing you we can save many, I feel that it's worth it."
"You don't really believe him, do you? Why would he keep his word?" Harry asked trying very hard to control his anger.
"Yes I do," Fudge said, going paler. "He…he came to me. Told me this himself. If I don't do this, then he's going to kill me, I have no other choice…" Fudge trailed off, looking very sick.
"You're the Minister of Magic! Surely there's something you can do! Fight back, get the rest of the ministry to help, I know Professor Dumbledore will!" Harry said.
"It's too late for that now!" Fudge shouted as he stood up. He started pacing, looking at the bottle and the cork. "Why is it taking so long?" he asked himself.
Harry had no idea what he was talking about but didn't really think he wanted to know. He didn't know how long he'd been gone and wondered if anyone was looking for him. Dumbledore must have gone back to his office by now, and Sirius would tell him Harry had never shown um, and they would look for him. He felt stupid now, for following Fudge all the way to some barely used part of the school, but he had no reason to suspect him of anything.
Suddenly, the cork lit up again, followed by the bottle and they both went dim. Fudge hurried over to them immediately, and began saying words again while pointing his wand at them. This time however, Harry understood what was happening, even though he had never seen it done before.
Fudge was turning the items into portkeys.
Harry stared at him in disbelief.
"Minister, please…don't do this," he said pleading. He was struggling desperately now to loosen the ropes, ignoring the pain entirely.
Fudge looked at Harry with some sadness, but his expression hardened quickly. He picked up the cork and walked around the desk to where Harry sat. He kneeled down behind him and Harry craned his neck to see what Fudge was doing. He felt the cork shoved into his hand and then Fudge did something with his wand that forced Harry's fingers to close around it. He couldn't open his hand to drop it.
"You're just gonna give me to Voldemort and expect everything to be okay?" he shouted. "Because that's not what's gonna happen! He'll probably kill you as soon as we arrive, you still have time to stop this!"
"I don't want to stop this," Fudge said evenly. "This is something I've had much time to think about, and this is the decision I've come to. It'll just be a few minutes, so you won't have long to wait," he said pulling a watch out of his pocket and checking it. Harry tried frantically to pry his fingers away from the cork with his other hand, but they were like stone, then he thought he heard movement down the hall.
Fudge went over to the door and peered out quietly, he shut it and glanced at his watch again, seeming to pale even more. He tore a long piece off of his robes and quickly walked over to Harry and gagged him with it, then stood, waiting near the door. His wand outstretched in one hand, the bottle in the other.
After just seconds Harry saw a shadow under the door, he tried to make noise to let whoever it was know he was there, but was unable. His heart sank as he saw the shadow move on, past the door. Fudge lowered his wand and turned back to Harry.
Suddenly, there was a very loud bang, and Sirius burst into the room, his wand was held out in front of him, and the tip of it was glowing blue.
Fudge stared at Sirius in amazement, expecting to see anyone but him.
"Black," he whispered.
Sirius wasted no time at all.
"Expelliarmus!" he shouted. Fudge's wand flew out of his hand and over to Sirius, but Fudge took a run at him and knocked him to the floor before Sirius realized what was happening. Harry watched barely breathing as they struggled for a few moments, and Fudge was able to get his wand back, but Sirius shouted something and Fudge was thrown backwards against one of the desks. He wasn't unconscious, just dazed. Sirius rushed to Harry and pulled the gag out of his mouth.
"Sirius!" Harry said immediately, his voice full of panic. "There's a portkey in my hand, he did something and I can't let go of it! It's gonna leave any second!" Sirius' eyes opened wide, he moved quickly around behind Harry and started whispering with his wand held out. Harry kept trying to move his fingers while watching Fudge carefully, who was now starting to get up again. Finally his fingers sprung open and he dropped the cork. Sirius picked it up and tossed it across the room, they both watched as it disappeared in mid-air.
Sirius bent down to untie Harry, not noticing Fudge, who was now furious. He held the bottle in his hand out in front of him, and as a last ditch effort leaped across the desk so it would touch Harry.
"No!" Harry screamed as he tried to move away, but he couldn't go anywhere. He felt the bottle touch his chest as Sirius once again grabbed his wand and stood up.
There was another loud bang and Fudge was thrown across the room, he clutched the bottle to him, for fear it might break. Harry and Sirius looked to the doorway where Dobby was standing.
"You will not hurt Harry Potter!" he shouted angrily at Fudge. Dobby stepped into the room towards Fudge but before another word could be said, he disappeared. Harry let out his breath that he didn't realize he'd been holding as Sirius finally untied him.
"Is Harry Potter okay?" Dobby asked full of concern.
"I am now. How did you both find me?" he asked, rubbing his wrists, which were very scraped and bruised.
"I'll explain on the way; c'mon, Dumbledore's looking for you as well," Sirius said. Harry stood up shakily, and started towards the door with both of them.
"I knew you'd be coming to Dumbledore's office after your dinner so I waited there for you," Sirius began. "Luckily I was in the back when Fudge came through the fireplace, he seemed very nervous and was glancing over his shoulder every other second. Since I couldn't reveal that I was there, I stayed hidden and watched. After a few minutes he headed towards the exit, I heard him start to talk to someone, but I had no idea who. I'm guessing now it was you, right?" Harry nodded.
"So I continued to wait for you and was about to take form as a dog to go looking when I heard the door open. I came around into the office expecting to see you, but it was Dobby."
"I was coming to give Harry Potter his present!" Dobby interrupted. "Headmaster said to go to his office to meet you!" Harry grinned at him, and turned back to Sirius.
"When Dobby told me this, I knew something must have happened, though I still didn't suspect Fudge. I told Dobby to get Dumbledore immediately, as you might be in trouble."
"And I did, I did!" Dobby shouted at Harry in excitement. "I got Headmaster straight away, and told him he had to go to his office because you were in trouble!"
"When Dumbledore arrived," Sirius continued, "He told me it had been quite some time since you left the great hall, and we split up to search for you. I took the hallways that are no longer used much, to avoid being seen by anyone and used the retrieval spell, you have your watch on you I take it?"
"Always," Harry answered.
"Good thing too, otherwise I wouldn't have found you. Dobby came with me, and after many dead ends, we finally found you. Just in time too, I would say."
"So would I," Harry said as they finally came into view of the statue, which led into the office. Dumbledore was just coming up from the other side, a look of relief washing over his face when he saw Harry. He beckoned them inside silently, and they all stepped through into the office.
"Harry," Sirius said as soon as they were inside, "what did Fudge want with you? Where was he taking you?"
"He was going to give me to Voldemort," Harry said feeling anger rising within him again. Sirius and Dumbledore both looked angry as well, infuriated, actually.
"Did he say why?" Dumbledore asked in a very low voice. Harry nodded and explained what Fudge had told him about his decision. And how he had said Voldemort had come to him and threatened him.
"Why didn't he bring the rest of the Ministry in on this?" Sirius asked Dumbledore, seething with anger.
"He told me he felt there was no other choice," Harry said.
"More likely it was his stubborn pride," Dumbledore said. "He didn't want to believe Voldemort had returned, no matter how I tried to convince him. He let himself believe you were not to be trusted after reading that Skeeter woman's article as well. So when he finally was proven wrong by Voldemort himself, I suspect he didn't want to say he was wrong. Too busy thinking about the repercussions on himself to care who else might get hurt. But trying to turn you over to Voldemort to save his own skin was unforgivable, the Ministry will hear of this, I'll see to it."
"Fudge told me something else too. He said the Zlam were the ones that sent the Lethifold after me," Harry said.
"Why would they do that?" Sirius asked.
Harry explained what Fudge had told him about the Zlam wanting to get their knowledge back as soon as possible and how they would be able to extract it from the Lethifold once the knowledge killed it.
"So they can take it even if the person, or creature holding it is dead?" Sirius asked. But before Harry could answer Dumbledore spoke.
"The knowledge would kill the Lethifold?" he asked.
"Yes…and it's killing me too," Harry told them, feeling real fear building inside him. "Just more slowly because I'm human, and a wizard…according to Fudge anyway."
"We have to find a way to get rid of it!" Sirius exclaimed standing up.
"I agree Sirius, please calm down," Dumbledore said. "I am going to contact the Ministry of Magic tonight and insist that they give me any information they have on this. I'm also going to report Cornelius Fudge for what he tried tonight."
"I don't see what good that's going to do. When Fudge was transported to Voldemort without me…" Harry said trailing off.
"He got what he deserved," Sirius said darkly.
"Nevertheless, they need to be told," Dumbledore said. "Harry, you should head back to your tower. I'm sure the ministry will want to speak with you about all of this. I will get you when it is time, try to get some rest for now." Harry agreed as he felt very tired after all that had happened. He said goodnight and left the office.
As he got to the portrait of the fat lady, he realized he hadn't seen Dobby after they went into the office. But as soon as he walked into the common room, he saw him there with Ron, Hermione and Ginny.
"Dobby didn't forget Harry Potter's gift!" he said excitedly.
"Thank you Dobby, you really didn't have to…" Harry started, but Dobby thrust a package into his hands and Harry began to open it.
"What took you so long?" Ron asked. "Dobby told us-"
"I'll tell you later," Harry said, cutting him off. Dobby, meanwhile was hopping back and forth from one foot to the other in excitement. When Harry finally got the package open, he saw a lot of green material. He pulled it fully out and saw it was a rather large, though somewhat lopsided, green sweater.
"Dobby made it himself!" he squealed. "Does Harry Potter like?"
Harry couldn't imagine being seen wearing this thing in front of anyone besides the people in the room, so he smiled and put it on over the shirt he was wearing. One arm hung so far down it was past his knee, while the other was just shy of it, and the sweater itself was down to his thighs. He pulled up the sleeves and looked at Dobby.
"I love it! Thank you Dobby!" Harry exclaimed.
"What happened?" Hermione said sounding rather alarmed. She was looking at Harry's wrists. Harry pulled the sleeves down quickly and covered them.
"I'll tell you later," he said quietly. Then he looked at Dobby again.
"I'll go get your gift, wait right here!" He stood up and headed for the stairs, scooping up the sleeves in his arms. He ran to his trunk and grabbed two pairs of socks, took one of each, and a sweater that was a bit too small for him, and went back downstairs.
"Me didn't tell them anything!" Dobby said proudly as Ron, Hermione and Ginny looked at him guiltily. He gave them an annoyed look and went over to Dobby.
"Here you go Dobby, I didn't have time to wrap it, I'm sorry."
"Harry Potter, sir! Two presents! Thank you!" Dobby said as he pulled on the socks and sweater. He lunged forward and hugged Harry fiercely around the middle.
"Your welcome Dobby!" Harry said laughing. Dobby looked as if he were going to cry, but kept on smiling.
"Dobby has to go now! He hopes to see Harry Potter again soon!" he said suddenly. Then he ran across to the portrait hole almost tripping on the sweater, and left.
Harry turned around and looked at his friends.
"Will you tell us now?" Ron asked anxiously.
"You know, I told you I'd tell you and I will. I just wanted to wait until Dobby was gone before I went through this all again."
"Harry, we were just worried. Dobby said something happened and he helped save you, why would he need to save you?" Hermione asked.
Harry sat down with a plop and pushed his sleeves back again. For the second time that night he told what had happened from the time he left the table in the great hall, until arriving at Dumbledore's office, leaving out the knowledge's effect on him, for the moment. His voice was very hoarse by the time he finished and his friends were all staring at him with wide eyes.
"I can't believe Fudge did that!" Hermione cried.
"Well, he did," Harry said. "And now who knows where he is, I can't imagine Voldemort was too happy to see him, alone."
"Well if he doesn't kill Fudge, the Ministry of Magic will take care of him." Ron said, looking very angry.
"I don't understand," Ginny said, looking very confused. "Not about Fudge, but about the Zlam. Who are they?" Harry, Ron and Hermione all looked at each other realizing Ginny hadn't been around for any of the other things that had happened.
"I'll tell her," Hermione said. "You better get those looked at," she said pointing at Harry's wrists which were now visibly swelling.
"I think you're right, Ron, come with me to get some ice?"
Ron nodded and they stood up and headed for the door. Hermione ran over to them before they stepped all the way through.
"Harry, I just have one thing I'm still unclear on. Fudge told you the Lethifold would die from the knowledge, in just hours after receiving it, but you…" she trailed off after looking at the expression on his face.
"Oh no…"
"It's slower with me, because I'm human…and a wizard, but I don't know how much slower."
Ron looked back and forth between them, until finally realizing what was being said. He looked at Harry in horror.
"Dumbledore and Sirius know and they're working on it. I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want you to worry. I knew you'd figure it out, just didn't realize it would be so soon."
"But, I could help!" Hermione exclaimed. "I could…"
"I'm sure they'll be glad to have your help, but at this moment there's nothing we can do."
Hermione just looked at him for a moment and turned back to Ginny, who still looked completely confused. Harry and Ron stepped into the hallway.
The next morning Harry was being shaken awake, and he heard someone saying his name. He turned over and grabbed his glasses to see who it was.
"Professor Lupin? What is it?"
"Harry, we need you to come to Professor Dumbledore's office. Some of the ministers are there waiting for you. They want to ask you a few questions."
Harry groaned inwardly. He did not want to rehash all of the events of the previous night yet again. But he just nodded and got out of bed. Once he was dressed, he and Lupin headed straight for Dumbledore's office.
Harry was a bit surprised to see Percy was there, along with Mr. Weasley and a few other men he didn't recognize.
"Hello Harry," Dumbledore said kindly. "I know this is sooner than you expected to have to do this, but these men have some questions for you." One of the men stepped forward then. He was very tall and thin, with light brown hair and very dark brown eyes.
"Hello Mr. Potter. I am Marshall Thurston," he said in a condescending tone, "second in the ministry only to Cornelius Fudge. Professor Dumbledore here has told us your story of what happened here last night, and we just need to go over a few things."
Harry nodded, taking an immediate disliking to Thurston.
"Now, you say that Fudge had spoken with He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, yes? And that he was making some sort of deal with him?"
"Yes," Harry said.
"What deal, exactly?"
"Didn't Professor Dumbledore…?"
"I want to hear what you have to say now. Never mind what he told us."
"He said that Voldemort told him he would not kill as many people, Fudge included, if he gave me to him." All of the ministers flinched at the mention of the name, and Harry averted his eyes. He would have to remember not to say it again.
"So," Thurston continued, smiling, "Cornelius Fudge was going to give you to You-Know-Who, to save lives. Is that what you're saying?"
"That's what he was saying," Harry answered through clenched teeth.
"Well, it sounds like he was acting in the best interests…" Thurston began.
"What are you saying?" Mr. Weasley spoke up then. "Fudge was only acting in his own best interests. You and I both know that Marshall. He wouldn't have done a thing if his own life hadn't been threatened." The two men glared at each other for a few moments.
"I know of no such thing, Arthur. And we even heard it from him," he said nodding towards Harry, "that Cornelius was doing this to save lives."
"Whether that was the case or not," Dumbledore interrupted. "Did that give him the right to decide that Mr. Potter should die?"
"I have to agree with Mr. Thurston," Percy spoke up suddenly. Harry looked at him in disbelief and noticed for the first time Percy was glaring at him. Mr. Weasley appeared shocked as well. "If Mr. Fudge was only doing what he thought would save lives, no charges should be brought against him." Harry felt utterly betrayed, he knew Percy cared a great deal for his job, but he thought they had been friends. Wasn't that more important?
The ministers were divided against each other, some agreed with Mr. Weasley, but more than half were behind Mr. Thurston.
"Are you listening to yourselves?" Lupin spoke up suddenly. He was addressing Thurston's group. "The Minister of Magic tried to give You-Know- Who the one thing he needs to regain his full strength. Harry would have been killed most certainly, and then he would still come for all of you. You're treating this like You-Know-Who would've kept his word, but what I can't understand is why?"
Thurston glared at Lupin intently for a moment.
"Well whatever actually happened," Thurston said, "we won't be bringing any charges against Cornelius Fudge until he's given the chance to tell his side. I won't do anything to damage his reputation based on the accusations of a traumatized boy."
Harry glared at him in indignation, and was about to open his mouth to say something, but a glance at Dumbledore told him to stay quiet.
"You handle the situation however you see fit, minister," Dumbledore said. "I was simply reporting this as I felt it was necessary. Now, about the other matter, we still need more information on the Zlam."
"We've given you everything we have," Thurston said quickly.
"That isn't what Mr. Fudge told me last time we spoke," Dumbledore said in a very low voice. He was quickly growing tired of this man.
"I'm sure you must've misunderstood…"
"I didn't misunderstand anything," Dumbledore said in a very loud voice. "He refused to give the information because he said it wasn't necessary. Now we know it is necessary, Harry is dying and you are going to give us anything you have that can help us figure out how to stop that from happening."
Thurston looked at Dumbledore trying to show strength, but he was obviously a bit frightened by him.
"If Mr. Fudge refused to give it to you, then why should we?" Percy spoke up. Mr. Weasley glared at his son, but remained quiet.
"Someone's life is in danger. Don't you think that's reason enough?" Dumbledore asked, looking sadly at Percy. It was obvious he was very disappointed with him. Percy lowered his gaze, but didn't answer the question. Then Mr. Weasley spoke up.
"I will see to it that you are given whatever you need, professor."
"Weasley! What are you…?" Thurston began.
"I'm doing what you should be. I have enough authority that I can get to the information and use it as I see necessary. I certainly see this as necessary. And there's nothing you can do to override it, not while Fudge is gone." He glared at Thurston, but refused to look at Percy.
"We are leaving now," Thurston said suddenly. "If you do see Mr. Fudge please try and let him explain his side before you do anything you might regret." He looked at Harry with hatred at saying this.
"What would we do to him? I wouldn't let him wander around the school, but we certainly wouldn't decide his fate for him by ourselves," Dumbledore said pointedly. "We will contact you immediately if we hear from him."
Thurston nodded and beckoned the rest of the men to follow him, as they used floo powder to leave. Percy looked as if he wanted to say something to Harry, and opened his mouth to do so. But he quickly closed it and turned to the fire. Soon, all of them were gone except Mr. Weasley.
"I'm very sorry Albus, I don't know why he was acting like that." Mr. Weasley began.
"Arthur, I have grown quite accustomed to the ministry being more concerned about their public image over what is right. But they are sorely mistaken if they think we will let this go, when Fudge does return."
"But I meant Percy, more than Thurston. I know he wants very badly to be accepted by all of the ministers who are higher up, shall we say, on the ministry. He hopes to obtain that level himself, but I know I brought him up better than that. I apologize to you too, Harry. I never thought he would treat you like that."
"Don't worry about it Mr. Weasley. I'm sure Percy only did it to impress Mr. Thurston," Harry said, not really believing that at all. Percy had been looking at him in such a way it could only be described as hatred. He stood up then. "Do you need me anymore right now?"
Dumbledore smiled and shook his head and Harry left the office, heading for the Gryffindor tower.
"So, is anything going to happen to Fudge?" Ron asked as Harry stepped through the portrait hole.
"Not now. They said nothing will be done until he's allowed to tell his side of the story," Harry told him.
"What? His side of the story? Are they mad?" Hermione spoke up, slamming the book she had been reading down.
"Yes, I think so," Harry said smiling. "But there's nothing we can do about that. Dumbledore told them he would contact them if Fudge shows up again. He also said he wasn't going to stop fighting this when that happens…if it happens. What I care about is that we're getting the information on the Zlam, all of it."
"That's wonderful!" Hermione exclaimed. "When?"
"As soon as Mr. Weasley gives it to us. You should've seen him Ron, he stood up to Mr. Thurston about it. Told him he couldn't override it!"
"Thurston? That's the guy Percy works for…ever since that whole incident with Barty Crouch…" Ron trailed off, not wanting to bring that up. "Was Percy there?"
"Yes. But he didn't say anything," Harry lied. He didn't think Ron needed to know about Percy's behavior. Mr. Weasley knew, and that was enough.
"Didn't try to impress Mr. Thurston, huh? Well, he talks about him enough to the rest of us. All about how much better this position is. Much more in the thick of things, and all that," Ron said, shaking his head. Harry just nodded at him, still feeling uneasy about the whole situation, but not wanting to talk about it. Ginny came downstairs then, and the four of them set off to the great hall for lunch.
The winter holidays ended soon enough, and all the students returned to school. Harry was excited to see Cho again, remembering the last time he saw her. Finally at breakfast the day classes began again, he got a chance to talk to her.
"How was your holiday?" he asked walking up to her.
"Harry! It was great; I had so much fun. But I'm glad to be back now. How was yours?"
"Great, we had fun here too…" Harry said, not saying anything about Fudge or the Ministry of Magic. "So, I was wondering if you wanted to hang out, sometime…on the weekend maybe? He looked away quickly, not sure what she would say, but when he looked back she was smiling at him.
"I'd like that."
Harry almost laughed out loud with relief.
"Great, um…I guess I'll just…meet you here on Saturday morning, then?"
"Okay. See ya then!" she turned and walked away towards her friends, and Harry stared after her happily. Then he went to where Ron and Hermione were waiting for him at his table.
They smiled at him as he sat down, but didn't say anything. When breakfast was almost over, Professor Dumbledore asked for everyone's attention.
"I know that many of you were not too happy with my last announcement, so I hope to make it up to you with this one. We will be having another ball this year, at the end of February. This is open to all students, though if you are third year or younger, there will be an earlier curfew for you. I know it isn't quidditch, but I hope you will all have fun." He sat down, as all the students began talking excitedly to one another.
"Are you going to ask Cho again, Harry?" Hermione asked smiling at him.
"Yes…who are you going with?" Harry asked.
"Oh…I dunno…so many choices…" Hermione said looking up.
"What do you me
an?" Ron asked looking hurt.
"I'm only kidding, silly."
Harry looked back and forth between his friends and realized for the first time, they were looking at each other the same way he felt he must look when he was with Cho.
"Are you two…not telling me something?" he asked.
"Now Harry, when do we ever keep things from you?" Hermione asked smiling.
Harry just looked back at them feeling nothing but happiness. They didn't need to say anything; he could see how they felt.
"We better get going," Ron said suddenly. "Snape will be more than happy to see us walk in late." They all agreed and hurried out of the great hall, towards the dungeons.
The weekend couldn't come fast enough for Harry and he woke up very early Saturday morning. He sat in the great hall and waited for over half an hour before Cho finally walked in. They ate breakfast together, and then got up to walk.
"So, I'd like to ask you…will you go to the ball with me?" Harry managed to say much calmer than the last time he's asked her this.
"I would be honored," Cho said, smiling brilliantly. "I'm glad they're having one, my last year here and all."
"I know, I wish I were a year older," Harry said, really meaning it.
"Don't say that. If you were, than everything we know might be very different. Things happen for a reason," she said. Harry wasn't sure how to answer this so he just nodded and continued walking. They spent the day together, doing whatever they felt like; they even spent some time in the library working on homework. Cho, who had been taking divination since her third year, just like Harry, was actually pretty good at interpreting the way the book showed you.
"It's a joke really," she said to him. "You can follow what the book says down to the last letter, but the predictions always contradict each other. I don't think Madame Trelawny has any idea what she's talking about, either."
"I know what you mean. Did you know she's told me I'm going to die every year? Several times a year at that."
"Poor you. Yes, she picks one student from every class. She needs to do everything being overly dramatic. But it's amusing, and I'm passing, so I stick with it."
At the end of the day, he walked her to the entrance to her common room.
"I had a wonderful time today Harry," she said.
"So did I, do you think…you'd like to do this again? Next weekend?" he asked.
"Yes I would, very much so." She smiled at him. This time he leaned towards her, and they kissed briefly. When they separated, Cho gave a small wave, and turned around to enter her common room. Harry, feeling just as happy as the day with her near the train, turned and headed back to his common room.
It was very late now though, and he was out in the hallways past curfew, so he was trying to hurry as fast as possible. He was doing great until he got halfway down one hallway and spotted Mrs. Norris. Having no other choice, he flew past her and got to the end of the hall. He turned the corner, almost at a run and crashed right into Malfoy, whose arms' were full. They both fell to the floor, the bottles he had been holding crashing everywhere, and smoke coming up from the mixing of the liquids that were in them. Before either of them could say anything, Argus Filch stepped into the hallway, sneering at both of them.
"Looks like two students will be receiving detention," Filch said with a wicked grin. "And what's all this?" he said pointing at the broken bottles.
"Mr. Filch," Malfoy began quickly. "Potter here was stealing these, from Professor Snape's office. I saw him and was trying to stop him. I was only doing what I thought was best. I didn't want to lose sight of him and…"
"You liar!" Harry shouted at him. Then he turned to Filch. "He was the one with the bottles. I never went near…"
"Enough! Both of you!" Filch yelled. "I don't care who stole them. I'm reporting both of you, and you're both getting detention. And when I tell them not only were you out past curfew but there was stealing involved, you may be in for some…extra punishment." He grinned to himself, looking much too happy about all of this. "Both of you get back to your common rooms now, I will inform the headmaster."
Harry and Malfoy glared at each other but didn't say anything. They passed each other quickly and started off down opposite halls. When Harry finally got to the portrait, he was back to thinking about the rest of the day, rather than its awful ending.
"What have you been doing all day?" Hermione asked him, smiling when he came over to them.
Harry told them everything about his day, and all the things he and Cho had done. Ron was ecstatic to hear Cho was good at divination, so Harry could give him the answers now. This earned him a disapproving glare from Hermione, but she didn't say anything. Then he told them about what happened with Malfoy and Filch.
"I wonder what he was carrying. Do you think he was stealing from Snape? They certainly don't get along as well as they used to," Hermione said.
"I don't know what he was doing, but he tried to accuse me of stealing them. I want to know what he was planning on using them for…" Harry trailed off.
"Nothing good, you can be sure of that," Ron said. "If anything good came out of it, at least he doesn't have them now, for whatever he was going to do."
Harry nodded, though he still wasn't happy about detention. He hoped it wouldn't be with Malfoy, because that would only make it last longer. He pushed these thoughts from his mind and tried to enjoy the rest of the evening.
At the end of the next week, Harry found out he'd be having detention that Saturday night. He groaned inwardly as he saw that he had to report to Filch's office at 8pm.
"Just hope he doesn't make you polish everything in the trophy case. I swear he sees invisible fingerprints," Ron said looking disgusted.
"I don't care about cleaning. I just know whatever it is I'm doing, it's gonna be with Malfoy. Spending an evening with the two of them is not something I ever intended on doing."
"Well try to find out what he wanted all those potion ingredients for," Hermione said.
"Oh and I'm sure he'll be anxious to tell me too. I can't understand why he wouldn't entirely forthcoming with that information," Harry said looking at her.
"Well I'm sure if you asked him just to tell you he wouldn't, but if you tricked him into telling you…" she trailed off.
"He is dumb enough, it might work," Ron said smiling. The others just laughed at him.
When Saturday night came, after another wonderful day with Cho, Harry set off for Filch's office. He arrived at the same time as Malfoy, who glared at him in hatred, but didn't say anything. Filch stood up and beckoned both of them to follow him. They walked down several hallways until they came to the bathrooms.
"You are both going to clean the bathrooms, using no magic. Hand over your wands, now." Filch held out his hand expectantly and Harry and Malfoy handed over their wands grudgingly.
"Just these bathrooms?" Harry asked.
"All of the bathrooms…on this level," Filch said showing some disappointment. He obviously would've liked to make them do the entire school, but that was ridiculous.
"The girls bathrooms too?" Malfoy asked, looking like he was going to throw a fit. Filch just nodded at him.
"But that's six bathrooms! We'll be here until the sun rises!" Malfoy screamed.
"You'll be here as long as it takes. Now let me show you were the cleaning closet is." They followed him to the cleaning closet and took out buckets, mops, sponges, and cleanser and headed back to the bathrooms.
When they stepped inside, Harry immediately went over to the sink and started filling his bucket with water. Malfoy just looked around, disgusted, then he turned and smiled at Harry.
"I think I'll watch, while you clean. If you decide to get Filch, it'll definitely look like I've been cleaning by the time you get back."
Harry stared at him for a minute, glaring.
"Fine. But you still have to stay here for as long as it takes me to clean everything. Do you want to be here that long? And if you're not doing anything, I bet you fall asleep, then when I get Filch it won't look quite like you've been working, will it?" He turned back around and began pouring soap into the bucket, a few seconds later, Malfoy was at one of the sinks filling his own bucket, but looking utterly annoyed. Harry started in the first stall, while Malfoy was looking around in horror.
"I'm not touching the toilets," he said finally. "I just won't."
"I don't care Malfoy, I'll do the toilets, you do the floors, the sinks, the mirrors and the windows, and I'll do the toilets and urinals. Okay?" Malfoy looked at him skeptically for a minute, but nodded and got to work. After almost two hours of cleaning in silence, they moved on to the girls' room next door. While they were filling up their buckets again, Harry decided to try and find out what Malfoy had been up to the other night.
"So you were planning on making a potion on your own the other night?" he asked.
"That's none of your business." Malfoy spat.
"Well if you weren't doing something you weren't supposed to, then why would you try to blame it on me? I know you stole those ingredients."
"You don't know anything."
"And Snape will know what's missing from his closet," Harry said remembering when Snape had accused Harry of stealing from him.
Malfoy remained silent after this last comment, and Harry decided to let it go. There was nothing that could be done anyway, since all of the ingredients were now destroyed and Snape would definitely be on the lookout for anyone who tried to steal from him again.
After another hour had gone by, Harry was just halfway through the stalls, when he heard Malfoy's voice, sounding frightened.
"Who are you? What do you…" and then nothing. He heard something hit the floor. When he opened the door to the stall he was in, he saw Malfoy unconscious on the floor, with one of the Zlam standing over him. Before Harry could think to do anything the Zlam was in front of him, holding his arms down. Harry felt immense pain in his head out of nowhere, and he clenched his teeth. He was about to cry out, when suddenly it vanished. The Zlam looked at him angrily and Harry just stared back, not knowing what had just happened. He felt his eyelids drooping, and was suddenly overcome with a desire to sleep, which he couldn't understand, but didn't have time to think about it as he was passed out within seconds.
