Dark Day Pass But Are Never Forgotten
By: LogicalRaven
Pregnant? Yikes, that would be horrid now wouldn't it. As wonderful of a plot as it would be, Cho will not be having Harry's baby anytime in the near future. I hope this chapter explains a bit of that particular situation. This is another plot building chapter. I'm extremely excited about the next chapter. So excited I almost was unable to complete this one. I won't make a long authors note, just a simple thank-you. You all are too kind to me.
Read and Review
Nothing is My Own
Dark Promises Kept
Cho's eyes streamed tears heavily as she felt a pair of arms wrap around her. She couldn't make out her comforters face through her blurred vision, but it didn't matter. Her face was buried in the depths of his robe. She fought hard to stop them, but they wouldn't stop. They just kept falling, each one telling a story of the pain burning inside her.
"I wish Cedric would have never died," she whimpered as she felt a broad hand stroke her back gently. It reminded her so much of Cedric's touch. The thought of Cedric brought on more tears. She barely remembered him, she sometime could hear his voice if she tried, but over the years his voice had changed, it no longer was clear.
"I'm sorry."
Cho's heart stopped in her chest as the voice registered in her mind, it wasn't Cedric. Instantly, her body jerked back from his touch and her eyes froze in dread.
"You needed someone to talk to, someone to be there for you, and I treated you horribly," Eros said softly as he reached out a tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear.
"Can you forgive this fool?" Eros asked.
Cho remained motionless, her voice unable to speak. Her eyes lowered as her heart pounded against her chest.
"Please," Eros pleaded, his lip trembling as he spoke.
Cho closed her eyes and took a deep breath, "I don't love you, Eros. I can never be with you like that."
"You love Harry, I know. I was a fool," Eros said bitterly, "I can't help how I feel anymore than you can."
"You really hurt me. I thought I had lost everything," Cho whispered her voice growing weaker with every syllable.
"I would have found you if O'Riley didn't," Eros assured her, "I never abandoned you."
"You didn't?" Cho said sharply as she rose to her shaky feet, "You told me I could either be with you or be kicked of training. You told me my future had already been decided."
"I made a mistake, people say things when they're angry," Eros pleaded, "At least I'm a big enough person to admit when I'm wrong. I'm begging you for your forgiveness."
"I don't know," Cho said lowering her eyes, her breathing deepened as she willed herself not to cry, "I trusted you, and you betrayed me."
"I know you don't want to be my pupil anymore, and I don't blame you. I wouldn't want to work under an idiot like me either," Eros continued, "I'm just asking for your friendship."
Cho took another deep breath as she stared a Eros in disbelief, "December O'Riley was very kind to take me in."
"She is an excellent mentor. If I could pick someone good enough for you, she is the only one who would do," Eros agreed.
"Have you spoken to Harry?" Cho asked her voice cracking slightly.
Eros shook his head, "I going to apologize as soon as I see him. What happened between you and him was entirely my fault."
"No," Cho said softly, "What happened between Harry and I was nobody's fault."
Cho felt the familiar warm tears trickling down her face again at the mention of Harry's name.
"If I could ease your pain I would," Eros said as he face softened, "I would move the world for you."
Cho wiped her face and sniffled, "I'll be fine. I'm strong and I'll get through this. Harry and I just weren't meant to be."
"You don't know that," Eros said softly as he reached out to touch Cho's hand.
Cho shuttered slightly from his touch, "He hasn't even tried to find me. He doesn't care."
"Then he is an idiot. You are breathtaking. You are the most amazing woman I've ever known," Eros said softly as his hand lingered up towards her face and brushed gently across her cheek.
"Don't," Cho reacted as she stepped out of his reach, "I don't want to give you any false hope."
Eros dropped to one knees causing Cho to gasp slightly, "I'm asking for your friendship. I don't want to live a life that you aren't a part of. I want you in my life, even if it is just as a friend."
Cho smiled as a noise between a sob and a laugh escaped her, "You'll always have my friendship, just not my heart. I don't think there is anything left of it anyway."
Eros rose from his position and pulled Cho into a warm embrace, "I'm so sorry I hurt you."
Cho stiffened but gradually relaxed as Eros pulled back, "Have you spoken to your parents?"
Cho shook her head slowly as she bit her bottom lip. She had assumed correctly, Eros had already spoken to them with his side of the story. They probably despised Harry even more than they had before.
"They have been worried sick. You must go see them," Eros urged, "Especially your mother. They love you Cho, they only want to see you happy."
"I'm not ready to face them," Cho admitted as she wiped a few more tears off her cheek.
"Go to them. When everything else withers away, your parents will always be there," Eros recited, "Don't let something as stupid as me ruin your relationship with your mother and father. They are wonderful people."
Cho took another deep breath, "You're right. I need to face them and get everything done with once and for all."
"They'll be thrilled. Will you come with me tonight?" Eros asked, "Your parents are in London looking for you."
"My parents, are in London?" Cho asked looking slightly surprised.
"Yes, I told you they have been worried sick," Eros replied giving Cho an encouraging smile.
Cho eyes watered slightly as she glanced down at her tattered appearance, "I look a fright. Really Eros, I'm not ready to face my father," Cho argued as she frowned.
"Please, Cho, I promised them I'd bring you to them as soon as I found you," Eros pleaded as he held her hand against his chest.
"Where in London are they?" Cho asked.
"Diagon Alley," Eros replied, "at the Leaky Cauldron."
Cho nodded, "I just want to freshen up a bit and rest. I'll meet them tomorrow, I promise. I just need to be alone for awhile."
Eros gave Cho another quick embrace, as his lips brushed her cheek, "Alright. I'll be at my place if you need me."
"Thank-you," Cho whispered as she pulled herself out of Eros's arms.
The morning came quickly, leaving behind the memories of the previous night. Harry Potter ruffled his impossible hair as gave a stiff yawn a stretch. It was good to be home. Hedwig gave a greeting hoot as she cooed quietly on her perch.
"Morning Hedwig," Harry said as he rose to his feet, "no mail today?"
"HARRY!!!"
Harry started slightly as Lavender's voice pierced though the floor. For a brief moment he actually felt pity for Seamus, he never realized Lavender could shriek so loudly.
"HARRY!!!"
Harry ripped open his bedroom, neglecting his robe hanging on the back of his desk chair, "WHAT!"
Lavender let out a little giggle as Harry peered over the balcony. His hair was messier than ever and he hadn't bothered to put on his glasses so his eyes were narrowed.
"Wake up on the wrong side of the bed?"
"What are you doing here, Noel," Harry spat as he ran his hand through his hair.
Noel's expression grew bitterer, if that was possible, and she flashed Lavender an annoyed look, "Do you mind?"
"Not at all," Lavender said cheerfully, not catching the sarcasm.
"You don't seem to understand. I need to talk to Harry about something that is classified," Noel tired to explain, but she received no response from Lavender.
"If you need to talk to me, you can come up here," Harry said callously, as he turned from his position over the banister.
Noel seemed taken back by the suggestion but proceeded up the stairs against her judgment. She rolled her eyes as she entered his bedroom, and eyed the cloths scattered across his cloths.
"Moody sent me to retrieve you," Noel said flatly as she brushed a jumper out of her path with her foot.
Harry placed his glasses on his face and walked over to Hedwig, "Why didn't Moody come get me himself?"
"How am I supposed to know that? He sent word to the Academy this morning that we are to report to our position at Malfoy Manor by noon. It appears some developments have occurred,"
"What kind of developments?" Harry asked annoyed.
Noel threw Harry his Auror robe out of his closet, "You can ask Moody yourself when we get there."
"I need to get ready, do you mind?" Harry motioned.
Noel rolled her eyes, "Do hurry, I'm anxious to find out what Malfoy has discovered."
It didn't take Harry long to get ready and soon they two were off to Malfoy Manor. It was an easy disapperation. Moody was pacing inside their monitoring location, his peg leg creating an annoying clicking sound.
"Bout time the two of you got here. Did I not specify it was an emergency?" Moody croaked causing Master Smith to eye him inquiringly, "here, is an invisibility cloak."
"What are we suppose to do with it?" Harry asked as he grabbed it out of the air.
"Potter, when will you learn to use your brain before asking questions you already know the answer to?" Moody said as he shook his head, "Tail Malfoy. According to our wonderful informant Narcissa Malfoy knows nothing of her husband's whereabouts. Hogs wallow if you ask me, she knows, she just isn't telling that snitch son of hers. I want the two of you to say close to Malfoy today. I suspect he'll be visiting safe places, safe places for Death Eaters. Either of you ever been up Knockturn Alley before?"
Harry glanced a Noel who shook her head affirming a no.
"When did you wander up Knockturn Alley Potter?" Moody interrogated.
"I accidentally landed in a shop in Knockturn the first time I flooed," Harry replied flatly, watching Noel's eyes cut over towards him.
Moody grunted, "Malfoy doesn't know anybody is tailing him, so keep your cover and your distance. I just want to know for sure what the little ferret is saying, make positive he isn't betraying us. Constant vigilance, trust is for fools. The only thing I trust is my cat, and I do routine spells to make certain it is a cat. I'm not exactly allowed to permit you to do this type of mission, but I feel you're up to it. Just don't go off and tell O'Riley your doing Rank III type assignments," Moody warned.
Noel pursed her lips, "There is a reason we aren't suppose to be doing this type of mission. Maybe we shouldn't."
"If you aren't up to it perhaps you should rethink your decision to be an Auror. Part of our job is to do things that aren't expected of us. You never know when you're ready to do something until you do it. An alert mind and the courage to do thing you aren't prepared for are the traits that keep you alive in this job," Moody barked.
"Yes Master Moody," Noel said lightly, as Harry suppressed a chuckle.
"Go, you're wasting time. Malfoy is about to leave the Manor any second now," Moody continued as the two students flung the cloak over the heads. They quickly dashed out the entrance it to the open yard.
"Make sure you keep in pace with me. If one of us goes to quickly then the cloak could slip off," Harry instructed as Noel inched her way further from Harry.
"Who made you an expert at invisibility cloaks, Potter?" Noel hissed.
"Stay close to me," Harry snapped, "I own an invisibility cloak, that is what makes me an expert."
Noel tutted but slowed her pace so Harry close the distance between them.
"There's Malfoy," Noel whispered as Draco emerged from his front door. Apparently there was an anti-apparating spell on the interior of the manor.
"He's going to disapparate, we have to tail him," Harry concluded.
The two moved closer to Malfoy so they could follow his trail. As he disapparated with a loud crack the two Auror trainees followed. He landed in Diagon Alley and glanced over his shoulder to see is anybody was following him. He couldn't see Harry and Noel creeping up silently behind him as he made his way towards Knockturn Alley.
Noel made a motion to move forward but Harry seized her waist drawing her to a stop.
"What are you doing Potter?" Noel hissed as a heat creped up towards her cheeks. The emotions she felt as Harry's arm lingered around her waist caused her to reaction angrily.
"I told you to stay close to me," Harry warned before finally releasing Noel.
Noel cut her eyes bitterly, "Touch me again and I'll curse that scar right off your face."
"Trust me, touching you did nothing for me either," Harry retorted, "We know where he's going, so we don't need to tail him so closely."
"Since you seem to know Knockturn Alley so well," Noel hissed in a angry whisper, "Is that it?"
"I've only been there once, but if I know Malfoy I know exactly where he's going," Harry acidly whisper back.
He couldn't see Noel rolling her eyes in annoyance as Harry steered her up the crowed street. Harry was correct about Malfoy's destination, he proceeded into the shop where Harry had once seen his father trying to dispose of some Dark items. The shop looked the same as Harry had remembered it, only this time he understood what more of the items were, courtesy of his Dark Arts class.
Noel didn't utter a word, now they were out of the noisy Diagon Alley, but her sharp movements told Harry she wasn't happy being in such close proximity to him.
"Borgin," Malfoy greeted sharply as he picked a clouded red ball and tossed it slightly, "You know why I'm here?"
"Master Malfoy, I heard you were in prison…caught?" Borgins stopped short, "Are any other ears about?"
Draco sneered, "Would you doubt the fools at the Ministry would try anything less?"
"Then I won't say a word," Borgin revealed as he snatched the ball from Draco's grip.
"Is my father still alive?" Draco demanded.
"Young master, do you really want the answer to that question?"
Draco Malfoy glanced over his shoulder once more and stared at the spot Harry and Noel were hiding, "It is safe. My captors are out of ears length."
"Lucius is very much alive," Borgin revealed, "But I don't know his whereabouts. I never took the Dark Mark."
"But you supported my Master just the same," Malfoy accused.
Borgin glanced around nervously before responding, "Perhaps, but that is neither here nor there. I hear thing young Master Malfoy. The Death Eaters are rising and gaining strength. I hear they still have many allies, and I hear they have a new leader who knows the magic to summon them."
"So my father is with this new clan?" Malfoy asked.
"I only hear rumors young sir, nothing more."
"I know him. Lucius sold him dark trinkets during my second year," Harry whispered into Noel's ear.
"Did you hear that?" Borgin snapped quickly as Harry whispered.
Malfoy glanced around again, "Perhaps it is not as safe as I thought."
"I will reveal no more. We need to meet in secret, where we can talk."
Malfoy narrowed his eyes, "Indeed."
With two curt nods Malfoy exited the premises with Noel and Harry close behind.
They made their way almost near the entrance of Diagon when Malfoy reared, "What are you two playing at?"
Harry ran into Noel almost knocking her over as the two came to an abrupt stop.
"I'm not a idiot, Potter!" Malfoy said acidly, "Let me guess, an invisibility cloak?"
Noel snapped her head up towards Harry and mouthed the word 'no.'
"Come out, Potter, I know you're there!" Malfoy yelled.
Harry made a move to uncover the two of them but Noel stopped him, "It's what he wants. If he uncovers us here in Diagon Alley, everyone will know he's being tailed."
"Afraid?" Malfoy taunted as he reached out madly trying to catch the cloak.
"Fine," Malfoy snapped, "We'll see what Moody thinks about you fouling up my opportunity."
Harry glanced around at the people in the street who had stopped to stare at Malfoy.
"He's gone mad," someone whispered as Malfoy disapparated quickly
Harry knew he and Noel were to far away to actually trail him. They both glanced at each other and apparated back to Malfoy Manor.
"Damn him," Noel swore, "he was trying to blow our cover."
"Just figure that out did you?" Harry snapped, "Borgin knows where Lucius is, and he's up to something. What was the talk about a master who knows how to summon them?"
"I'll kill Malfoy. He went against the agreement. Even he had suspected we were trailing him, he should have never have admitted to it," Noel continued to rant.
"In here both of you," Master Smith snapped as Noel and Harry entered into the secure area.
Moody was bearing down of Malfoy who was looking defiant, "It was your idiots. They ruined my contact. The only way Borgin is going to meet with me again is if I can prove I'm not working with you clumsy lot."
"That's a lie!" Harry yelled as he took a step towards Malfoy.
"You are the stupidest Auror I've ever seen!" Malfoy hissed.
Noel grabbed Harry's arm, "Stop playing innocent Malfoy. You purposely tried to blow our cover in Knockturn Alley. You wanted all your contacts to know you were being tailed so they wouldn't slip up and say something you don't want revealed, like the location of your father."
"You two made racket enough to wake the dead in Borgin's presence," Malfoy defended, "Borgin was about to reveal sensitive information before the two of you tipped him off."
"Borgin didn't know we were there!" Harry snapped, "We did nothing you couldn't have played off."
"ENOUGH!" Moody hissed, "Harry, Noel, outside both of you."
Noel tugged on Harry's arm as the two of them proceed into a different section of the location.
"Moody isn't going to believe that lying git," Harry snapped.
Noel nodded, "Idiot, I'd like five minutes with him. Just him and my wand."
Harry had to smile as Noel gave an angry growl while narrowing her eyes.
"It is interesting watching you vent when your fumes are directed towards me," Harry commented against his better judgment.
Noel appeared to direct her anger towards Harry for a brief moment, then she chuckled, "I can be a bit much a times."
"That is an understatement," Harry continued dangerously.
Noel sighed, "What are we going to do about Malfoy? No telling what he's telling Master Moody and Master Smith in there."
"We stick by one another no matter what. There are two of us but only one of him," Harry answered.
"Of course," Noel agreed, "Malfoy better pray they don't leave him alone with me."
"Trust me, I don't think they'll do that anytime soon," Harry said a smirk, that made Noel's insides swim, but her outer appearance showed no signs of it at all.
December had so much left to do. She finished her final touches on a press release she was planning on handing to Skeeter later that afternoon. She was still walking on tender ground, and the public wasn't quite sure what to make of Dumbledore's bid to run.
Fudge definitely wasn't happy. He would be even more irate once he discovered December had agreed to be Dumbledore's campaign manager. Plenty of volunteers had offered their support and help. Although the Prophet was trying to tarnish Dumbledore's reputation, he was still strongly supported.
"Master O'Riley?"
December looked up from her parchment and gave her new pupil a warm smile, "Good evening Cho. What can I do for you this evening?"
Cho returned her smile, "I was wondering if you needed me for anything. Eros stopped by…"
"Eros?" December said sharply, "He has strict orders not to bother you while you are in training."
Cho shook her head, "He wasn't bothering me. He just wanted to apologize about the way he acted the night…"
December looked at Cho curious but nodded, "If you're up to the task you can assist me with Dumbledore's campaign. It isn't in your Auror training requirement, but I would greatly appreciate it."
"I would love to," Cho said finally, "Has Harry declined his nomination yet?"
December shook her head, "Not that I know of."
Cho face grew into a forced smile, "What would you like me to do?"
"There is a stack of invitations over on my bookcase. I need to make sure they are all addressed properly for Dumbledore benefit dinner next Saturday," December explained, but Cho was already sorting through them like a typical Ravenclaw.
"Tomorrow, I'll have her in the location."
"I have your word that she will be in Diagon Alley tomorrow. It would be most unfortunate if you were unable to accomplish your task," Lucius Malfoy said in a dark tone, sweeping his dark cloak behind him.
The Death Eater before him bowed slightly, "I am grateful for your leniency my Lord, but she will be there."
"My Lord," a smiled played against his lip, "I appreciate the respects, but our Master does not share his title."
"Chang will be in Diagon Alley tomorrow. I have confirmed it, her parents are waiting for her, but your excellence," the Death Eater paused, "The Prophet is saying Potter and Chang are to be wed, but I feel it may be a false claim."
"I have ears, I know what the rumors are saying!" Lucius surged, "Still, even if the news of Potter's engagement is false, the death of Chang will bring attention to our cause. If the bride of Potter can be stripped away, than nobody is safe."
"I understand."
"Avery and Points will be waiting for your word to move. Our allies will do the rest," Malfoy said sharply before taking his throne, "You can remove yourself from my sight."
Lucius waited until the door closed behind the departing Death Eater before he breath his sigh of relief. He dropped his head slightly as if considering what to do.
"Lovegood!"
Luna heard the summons of her acting leader and entered into his chambers with a slight bow, "You called?"
"Summon Darthanynia to me at once. It is time for him to act on his agreement," Lucius hissed.
Luna smiled behind her mask; "You've found Chang then?"
"Indeed. The bride of Potter will die before the sun rise after next," Lucius said as eagerness entered his voice.
"The Dark Lord will be thrilled," Luna offered.
Lucius snapped his head back towards Luna, "I did not ask for your opinion, now go!"
Eros guided Cho towards the Leaky Cauldron, where her parents were eagerly awaiting her appearance.
"I don't think I'm ready," Cho whimpered pulling against Eros's hand.
He stopped and gave her a sympathetic smile, "Would it be easier if I didn't go with you?"
Cho lowered her head, she definitely thought it would be, but thought it sounded heartless saying so.
"It's alright," Eros smiled, "I know I haven't exactly made your relationship with your parents easier."
Cho laughed spite herself as Eros tilted up her chin, "I'll be down the street at Olivander if you need me. I have some business to take up with the wand maker while I'm here."
"Thank-you," Cho muttered as she moved her face out of Eros's touch.
Eros nodded as he took off down the Alley. Cho watched him until his disappeared out of sight, then took a deep breath and tapped the bricks that lead into the Leaky Cauldron. She hadn't spoken to her parents since the night she rushed out during dinner with the Raymers. She wasn't sure what they'd say to her, nor what she would say to them.
Si Chang looked as stern and as defiant as ever as she caught sight of her father sitting at a corner table. Her mother didn't look so well. Kim Chang's shoulder where doubled over and her face was swollen from lack of sleep.
"Cho," Mrs. Chang said happily embracing her daughter into a warm hug, "we have been so worried."
"Mum," Cho greeted returning her mother's hug. She cut her eyes toward her father, "Father."
"Cho Lei," Si Chang said in stern voice, but it cracked towards the end, "Eros tells us you are well."
"I'm working under December O'Riley," Cho commented, wondering what Eros had told them about their situation.
Si Chang nodded as he took a rattled breath, "You remain certain you want this path?"
"Yes," Cho replied as he bit her bottom lip, "December O'Riley is one of the top Auror at the Ministry, it's an honor to work with her."
"And Harry Potter?" Si continued.
Cho lowered her head, "He's still at the Academy. I haven't spoken to him."
Si nodded again before retaking his seat.
"Your father and I could be moving back to England for a time," Kim said with a smile touching her daughter's rigid arm. "We want to be with you during this journey."
Cho took a deep breath, "I'm an adult mother. Don't move back to London on my account."
"Dumbledore has requested I retake my position as an Ambassador," Si Chang explained, "It is imperative that we keep strong ties between nations during times of peace."
Cho smiled at the mention of Dumbledore's name, "I'm assisting with his campaign, father. Dumbledore really is a great man."
"Yes," Si Chang agreed. He cleared his throat and sat a little straighter, "I hear you require a place to live while attending the Academy. Our home is always open to you daughter."
"I appreciate the offer, but I'm doing well. I should have enough saved up to afford my own flat soon," Cho lied, hoping her father wouldn't see through her.
"You may be growing into a woman, but you are still my daughter. I do not want to lose you as I did Ran," Si explained firmly, "I am not instructing you to move back into my home, but simply that it is available."
"Thank-you father," Cho replied feeling more uncomfortable every second. "Will you be in London long?"
"No, we are going back to China this evening," Kim Chang revealed, "We have many ends to tie."
"I'm staying with my friend Marietta Edgecombe during my time off if you need to owl me," Cho said as she started down at the table, "I'll send word when I move into my own flat."
Kim Chang sized her daughter in a tight embrace as a few tears spilled down her face.
"Kim," Mr. Chang said sternly, "We must go."
Kim Chang nodded and let her daughter go, "Please write. I love you so much."
Cho fought back her tears as her father looked down at her, "Good luck with your new instructor. Keep your mother and I informed of your progress."
"Yes father," Cho said softly.
Her parents made a motion towards the door when a cool chill swept up her spine. It was a sensation she had nearly forgotten. A feeling she was positive she'd never feel again.
"Father!" Cho called out.
Si Chang turned around and caught a glimpse of his pale white daughter.
"Cho Lei, what is wrong?"
Cho never got a chance to answer as a deafening scream pierced though the walls. Si Chang threw his wife behind him as he drew his wand. Cho stood motionless waiting to see those deep red eyes boring into her own.
"Cho Lei, wand," Si snapped as he locked eyes with his daughter. Cho blinked as she threw her hand into her pocket and withdrew her weapon. She knew the spells to defend against vampires; she knew them better than any other spell. Her heart raced in her chest as her mind was filled with those memories. She could still taste his blood and smell his soured breath.
Si backed away from the brick wall with his wife, who also had her wand drawn. The two were in a defensive vampire position. The air around them lingered with death as the bricks folded back. Cho took another rattled breath before looking towards her parents.
"GET OUT OF HERE!" she bellowed, "Disapparate, go get Dumbledore!"
Kim attempted to lock eyes with her daughter but Cho's eyes were now focused on the hissing creature approaching her.
"Untolitiousiou," Cho said quickly shooting a blue spark towards the wall.
The people in the bar were ducking behind tables and quivering in fear as the high priest emerged from the smoke where Cho's spell had hit.
"I thought I'd never lay eyes on you again, my Cho."
Cho's body grew rigid as the voice lingered around her. Her racing heart froze as his bloody colored eyes focused on her.
"Come with me…"
Cho shook her head and aimed her wand at the vampire's chest, "Leave!"
"My Queen," Darthanyia hissed, and with a soft hand motion beckoned her, "come…"
Cho didn't move, as her eyes lingered towards the vampire's chest, "No! Leave or I will kill you."
"Empty threats. If I am to be so easily killed, why has nobody succeeded in my death before? I am older than death and time," Darthanyia continued, "I have searched an eternity for you, and now…."
"Go to hell!" Cho shrieked, "I will never be your queen!"
Darthanyia hissed revealing his white fangs, "Than you will die."
"Untolitiousiou," Si Chang roared from the corner of the bar.
"No father!" Cho cried as the spell bounced off of the Vampire's skin.
Darthanyia spun around facing his new attacker and laughed as only a vampire could laugh.
"Your business is with me!" Cho shouted, but the vampire did not turn.
"Zitallioua Sious," Cho shot a curse as a last attempt to divert the vampire's attention.
It worked as the spell caught Darthanyia off guard knocking him off his feet and into a wall.
"GO!" Cho yelled at her father, "GET MUM OUT OF HERE!"
Kim Chang was shaking violently as Si Chang stared at his daughter in disbelief.
"I will not leave you!" Si said defiantly.
Cho narrowed her eyes, "I have to stay! It's my responsibility. GO GET HELP!"
Darthanyia was soon back on his feet and lunged at Cho knocking her backwards into a table, shattering it. She groaned in pain as she clung tight to her wand. She raised her wand hand hoping to catch the vampire before he was expecting her to recover, but he was too quick. She could smell his pungent breath as he hissed, inched away from her face.
"Time to die."
Cho closed her eyes, fighting with all her might against his ancient strength. He was too strong and bent her neck backwards preparing her for his meal. It was over, she had lost, and now she was going to have to pay with her life.
"Zitallioua Sious!"
Cho felt Darthanyia fingernails dig into her flesh as he was flung from her. She shrieked in pain, but her eyes opened to see Eros Raymer standing with his wand aimed at the Vampire Priest.
"Alright?" Eros called quickly, not letting his eyes move off the vampire as he questioned Cho.
Cho jumped to her feet and raised her wand towards Darthanyia, "Fine."
Darthanyia hissed and raised his pointy finger towards Cho, with a raise of his cloak and quick motion the pub was filled with flying bats.
"Disappareate, the Ministry, NOW!" Eros yelled.
Cho glanced over her shoulder but her parents had already disappeared. With a loud pop she joined them, escaping the room of flying vampires.
The Auror trainees sat motionless in a small dormitory room in the Academy. They didn't know what they had been summoned for, but something big had happened. Harry stared down at his hands. He and Noel had been summoned from their mission with Malfoy. He could only imagine what was occurring.
December O'Riley appeared moments later with Mad-Eye Moody by her side.
"Good evening everyone. I'm sorry to pull you from your weekend, but the entire Academy has been called back. We will be assembling in the main hall in twenty minutes. Bring your wands and a willing mind," December said quickly as her face stayed stern.
"What is going on Master O'Riley?" Susan Bones asked as December turned to leave.
"Everything will be revealed shortly," December sighed, "Just know there is a new threat being evaluated at this time."
Harry studied December's face as a uncomfortable feeling settled on his stomach, "Was there an attack."
"Bout time you started using that brain of yours Potter," Moody croaked with a wide grin.
"So there was?" Noel chimed in.
December nodded, "There were no causalities, but it leaves us in a very unstable state. The Prophet is going to have a field day."
"Was is Death Eaters?" Michael asked.
December shook her head, "No, it wasn't Death Eaters this time, but there is a chance they were behind the motivation for the attack. Now students please. I must go inform the others about the gathering. Remember twenty minutes."
As December and Mad-Eye left the dormitory the students started their chattering.
"What was Master O'Riley talking about? It wasn't Death Eaters but they were behind the attacks?" Susan questioned.
Noel sighed, "Isn't it obvious, something or someone in league with the Death Eaters was responsible. I'm guessing it was the giants."
Harry shook his head, remembering Cho's incident with the Vampire priest the previous year, "Or vampires."
"I wonder who was attacked?" Michael asked.
"If the Daily Prophet is going to have a field day then it had to occur in a public place, like Hogmeade or Diagon Alley," Noel concluded with her usual snooty tone.
Harry rose from his seat, "I'm going to the main hall now. I'm not just going to wait around here wondering."
"I'll go with you," Susan said rising herself, causing Noel to roll her eyes.
"Are you two coming?" Harry asked.
Michael smiled in Noel's direction. It was obvious he was hoping she'd refuse and the two of them would get a moment alone together. Noel observably sensed Michael's hope and decided to go with Susan and Harry herself.
The four students made their way down the corridor into the main hall where several of the other Auror trainees had already gathered. Harry noticed some of Cho's year mates, but couldn't help observing she was not present.
"What happened?" Noel asked Jake Harlo, a Rank VI trainee.
Jake shook his head, "The details are still sketchy, but we think it was a vampire attack."
Harry grinned as Noel flashed him an annoyed look.
"Chang was attacked in Diagon Alley, that's why we think it was probably vampires," Harlo explained.
"Cho?" Harry said as the grin melted off his face, "Is she alright."
Harlo nodded, "She's at the Ministry with the others."
Harry's face relaxed slightly as a few of the Rank XI wandered in.
"So why are they making us gather?" Michael asked, glancing at Harry's expression.
"Your attention please," December called out over the group before anyone could answer Michael's question.
"You might be wondering why you have all been summoned tonight. As some of you are aware there has been an attack. One of our Rank VII trainees was attacked tonight in Diagon Alley. It is imperative the details of the attacked remain within our ranks. I repeat, no one is allowed to talk to any member of the press concerning this issue. Cho Chang will return to the Academy in the morning and she is not to be questioned. The vampire priest Darthanyia is again at large. Our forces are working on finding a connection between Darthanyia's clan and the remaining Death Eaters. New information leads us to believe they are connected. This is not a matter for any of you to concern yourself with," December paused as she looked directly at Harry, "I want each of you to practice the four main curses to defend against vampires. I trust all of you remember them. Everyone is to remain at the Academy tonight. I will not address any questions, but I recommend you all use your evening here tonight productively."
Harry took a deep breath, "At least she's alright."
"Why would Darthanyia attack Chang?" Michael asked foolishly.
Harry ignored the question; he knew very well why Darthanyia would attack Cho.
"Don't worry Harry. Darthanyia can't convert Cho anymore. He can only convert someone who is physically pure," Susan whispered.
Hermione frowned as Ron and Seamus played wizard chess, oblivious to the fact that Michael had been summoned to the Academy only a few hours earlier.
"Don't you think it's odd?" Hermione questioned as Ron looked up towards her.
"Michael is in Auror training, it can't be too important or they would have summoned Terry and you to," Ron responded.
Hermione rolled her eyes, "I'm going to go back to the Academy."
Ron eye's snapped up as he gave her a screwed look, "I thought you were spending the night here?"
"Well, it doesn't appear you'd miss me much. You've been too busy playing chess with Seamus," Hermione snapped.
Seamus smiled nervously, "I think that is my cue to leave. Err…. we'll finish this game later."
"What crawled up your skirt," Ron reared as Seamus made his exit from the parlor.
Hermione narrowed her eyes as her hair began to bush out slightly, "Excuse me? What did you say Ronald?"
"What is your problem?" Ron snapped, "Can't you let me be happy for just a second?"
"Oh, I forgot, only chess makes you happy," Hermione retorted, "Well, just call Seamus back down so you can finish your precious game. I'll go back to the Academy to make sure everything is alright. Merlin forbid something in the world more important than chess is happening!"
"You're bloody insane. You've finally lost it completely," Ron commented, but it only caused Hermione to fume even more.
"Honestly, I don't even know why I bothered with you. You are completely unmotivated."
"Unmotivated? I have a job," Ron defended.
"Please, you don't have a job. A JOB is something you get paid for," Hermione stated, "You are the laziest wizard in the history of magic."
"Lazy am I?" Ron snapped.
"Yes, lazy and selfish," Hermione affirmed.
"I'm not selfish! Just because I don't go trying to nose into everything because I have a need to feel important," Ron accused.
"How dare you!" Hermione cried, "I'm worried about Harry! He never returned this afternoon."
"He is an Auror in training!" Ron screamed, "What, are you in love with Harry now?"
"Of course not," Hermione snapped, "I'm just concerned."
"Or are you still in love with Krum," Ron interrupted not paying attention to what Hermione was trying to explain.
"What does Viktor have to do with this?" Hermione snapped.
Ron narrowed his eyes, "Don't you mean Vicky!"
"Don't call him Vicky!" Hermione shrilled.
"Vicky, Vicky, Vicky, VICKY!" Ron taunted.
Hermione took a deep breath, "I've said it before. You are the most insensitive toad I've ever had the misfortune to meet."
"Than go find someone else to play couple with. I'm tired of trying to live up to your expectations!" Ron yelled.
Hermione looked taken back but quickly recovered, "Maybe I will. I think VIKTOR is still available."
"Figures," Ron snickered.
Hermione narrowed her eyes, "Or maybe you're right. Maybe I'm in love with Harry!"
Ron was about to say what he thought about Hermione statement, but she apparated with a loud crack. Leaving Ron to stew in his own misery.
"Everything alright mate?" Seamus asked as he reentered the room.
Ron snapped a chess pawn with his hand, "If Harry touches her I'll kill him."
Never fear. Ron and Hermione have not parted ways. I just needed a good fight to jump start their relationship. I'm not going to waste anymore time. My wheels are turning and I have an exciting chapter approaching.
NEXT UPDATE: 06-06-04.…I probably will update later in the week, more like Friday or Saturday, but it could end up being Sunday. I'm moving so it will depend on when the cable company hooks up my internet. Sorry in advance for the wait.