A/N: Thank you everyone who reviewed!!! And, in this chapter the Cwn Annwn is mentioned. The Cwn Annwn are the hellhounds from the Celtic legends of the Wild Hunt – and since the term hellhound was already used in the HP universe in order to describe Fluffy, I went with this name for them. They're also different from Fluffy the three-headed dog in appearance. For more info on hellhounds, and the Great Hunt, check out . It's a great resource for info on myths and what not. I spend way too much time there.
Chapter 9: Meetings Revisited
The rest of classes on Friday went by in a whirl for Harry. Divination with Ron had been difficult – sitting next to the boy and knowing that his pink face was all Harry's fault kept making the dark haired boy want to smile with glee. And that just wouldn't do – although Harry was sure Ron knew his and Dean's state was either due to a prank pulled by Harry, or at the very least, that Harry had been in on it. The redhead had glared at Harry all day, regarding him with a look of pure, unadulterated hate when he thought the dark haired boy couldn't see him. A little piece of Harry died at that look – a piece that he could have sworn was already dead. It hurt, but for the most part, Harry was proud of himself for pulling off the prank – and getting away with it. He was already planning for future pranks. He'd love feed Ron the Illusion Potion, but not in Snape's class – Harry'd have to figure out how to slip in into Ron at some other time. Maybe there was an edible version of it…
Harry had escaped dinner early and was firmly ensconced behind his chosen table in the library, studying, when a muffled sound made him look up. The contrast between the bright light of his lamp and the relative dimness of the surrounding bookshelves nearly hid the forms of Ginny and Neville, who were standing hesitantly in one of the aisles, peering out at him from their dim recesses. Harry blinked at them in surprise.
"Hi Harry. You mind if we join you?" Ginny asked softly, a nervous grin flitting across her face. Harry nodded slowly, heart rate picking up as he regarded the two Gryffindors. He looked past her to Neville, who also looked distinctly nervous.
"Hi Harry," the sandy haired boy said, managing to flash Harry a small smile. "You mind if I join you too?" The dark haired boy looked at Neville thoughtfully. Neville had helped him on Monday – and Harry hadn't seen Neville around during any of the times that the other Gryffindors got together to gossip about him...
"Sure Neville. Have a seat," Harry told the boy, watching as the two settled themselves opposite of him. Ginny didn't take out any study materials though; she just folded her hands in front of her and looked at Harry intently. She had a stubborn set to her face, and Harry had the feeling that whatever she wanted to talk about was going to play hell with his promise to himself to be strong.
"Are you ok Harry?" Ginny asked softly, finally, reaching across the table and covering one of Harry's hands with her own. Harry looked down at her hand, a mild ache running through his chest, the earlier joy from his successful prank-pulling fading and the memory of just how miserable his live had been that week resurfaced – first Draco, now Gin…how do they know that touching me breaks down the walls? Is it that obvious? He turned his hand palm up and gripped her hand tightly, curling his fingers around hers, feeling the slight weight in his palm. He raised his eyes to hers, and tried to smile.
"Not really. But I have to be, you know?" he said softly, not trusting his voice. Neville reached out hesitantly and touched Harry's forearm gently. Harry looked at the other boy and gave him a faint, watery smile. He sniffed and pushed the threatening tears away, locking them inside again. This wasn't the time or the place for emotional outbursts. He had to be strong. Ginny tightened her hold on his hand, her eyes dark with worry.
"Harry –" she began, but he shook his head.
"No, Gin, really. I'm fine. It's just – " he shrugged and looked away from them, "it's a little hard, you know?" He let out a breath and blew his bangs up out of his eyes, cursing himself mentally for being weak. He turned back to them, a tight, pained smile on his face. "I think I'm starting to get used to the silence. It – that was the hardest part, you know, at first. Hermione was always on about something; talking me and Ron's ear off, or Ron himself was bellowing about something – it was rarely quiet when we were together. And now," he looked away from them, eyes focusing on something they couldn't see, "and now I'm surrounded by silence." Neville tightened his grip on Harry's arm.
"You don't have to be," the other boy said softly. Harry brought his gaze back to the two students in front of him. He shook his head, a quirky smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"No thank you, I think I'm beginning to like it. You get so much more done this way!" he tried to joke, attempting to recapture his earlier good humor. Ginny smiled sadly at him, and Neville looked down at the table, not wanting to meet Harry's eyes. A sudden thought made him look up though.
"Like pranks?" Neville asked softly, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth, letting the serious moment slip away. Ginny looked at Neville quizzically, then comprehension dawned on her face and she turned back to Harry.
"Ron – You didn't!" she gasped, a grin breaking out over her face. Harry smirked at them.
"Maybe," he said mysteriously, winking at Ginny. Neville started to chuckle quietly, finally having to raise his free hand and muffle his mirth.
"Harry! That's well," Ginny giggled, trying to keep quiet. "That's – that's horribly wonderful! How'd you do it?" she asked eagerly. Harry's grin turned devilish.
"A certain – friend of mine, helped me out. He sent a package over this morning, and well, since potions was first, I thought I might as well get started right away, so…" Harry shrugged, a satisfied grin coming over his face. "How's he taking it? I couldn't look over at either of them during dinner – I would've started laughing my head off."
"Oh, Harry, Ron's so mad. I think he and Dean spent over an hour in the bathroom after dinner, scrubbing to get the color off! Oh, and you missed it!" Neville's eyes suddenly lit up, "Malfoy and Zabini started in on the two of them too during dinner – I think just after you left the Hall. They were making comments about how 'lovely it is to see that you've discovered your inner-girl,' and whatnot. It drove both them and Hermione bats – she was about to curse them for being, what was it – 'misogynistic bastards', but Snape walked up and ruined it – taking House points for Hermione's language and giving all three of them detention with Filch. I thought Ron was going to cry he was so embarrassed – especially with Malfoy going on about the his 'girl within' and how Dean and Ron could now go and get pedicures done together. I hate to say it, but I think I'm grateful to them for that – the whole school was laughing at the prats and they just had to stand there and take it. They finally stormed out of the Great Hall with all of Slytherin laughing at them, and most of Ravenclaw snickering." Neville said after catching his breath. Harry gaped at him, and then began to laugh, muffling himself with his sleeve.
"That's – the most wonderful thing I've heard all day," Harry finally said, shaking his head and wiping tears of mirth from his eyes. They shared a quiet moment together, all catching their breath. Harry looked up at Ginny suddenly, an unpleasant thought crossing his mind. "Gin, aren't you going to catch it from Ron if he finds out that you were here with me? Wont both of you?" Harry asked. Ginny shared a look with Neville and shifted in her seat.
"No, Harry. I'm sure Ron thinks Nev and I are off snogging or something here in the library," she said, her comment making Harry's eyebrows rise towards his hairline.
"What?" he asked faintly, eyeing Ginny and Neville. "You're – together?" Harry inquired, voice rising. I thought Neville was gay…Ginny smiled and shook her head.
"No, well, the school thinks we are, but – Neville and I were worried about you, and," she looked down at their hands, a faint blush coming over her face, "well, we were trying to set up a time to meet here in the Library so we could try and find you – then Hermione stuck her big, fat nose into our business, and before you know it, the whole table is congratulating us on becoming a couple. It was odd. So we decided to go with it, because it got Ron off my back and would let us be alone together to try and find you," Ginny babbled, still not meeting his eyes. Harry blinked at her in silence, trying to pick apart her babble and translate it into English. He cocked his head finally, and smiled faintly at her, then turned to Neville and put on a mock scowl.
"Well, I think I understood that. So, as my duty as protective older male, this is my warning speech to you, Neville," Harry cleared his throat and sat up straighter in his seat, pinning Neville with a glance. "Now, listen here," he began in his best impression of Snape " – don't be trying anything funny with Ginny or I'll curse you from here till next year! I can make you howl with pain, so you better mind yourself!" he shook his finger at Neville severely, a mock-snarl transforming his normally happy face into a terrible mask. Ginny was grinning and Neville was about to retort when a gasp made them all jump and look towards the entrance of the library – a second year Hufflepuff was staring at Harry in horror from where she was pulling out a book from the stacks. The girl gave a small squeak when their attention turned to her, and she ran, dropping the other book that she'd been holding in her haste to get away. Harry slowly lowered his hand, trying to close his gaping mouth. Oh fuck me, he whispered mentally, I should learn to quit while I'm ahead. He turned back towards the other two Gryffindors, a strange, twisted smile coming over his face.
"Well, shit," he said shortly, withdrawing his hand from Ginny's and running it through his hair. "There goes another thousand popularity points." Ginny and Neville exchanged worried glances. This could be bad. Ginny shot a glare off to the main part of the library, where rising whispers could be heard. Shit, she thought, we're in for it now. She growled under her breath and scowled. Harry looked at her and chuckled.
"It's alright, Ginny. They all think I'm mad or evil or some such rot already. It'll just be another rumor to add to the mix," he said sourly, looking down at his transfiguration book. Ginny snorted.
"But Ron'll hear about it, and he'll be pissed. Then he'll make life living hell for you," she said shortly. Harry leaned his head on his hand and half lidded his eyes, thinking.
"No…how about," he began slowly, an idea coming to him, "ah, perfect. Yes. Tell Ron that you and Neville were in here, doing, er, something, and that I stalked up, all angry and that I threatened Neville with what that Hufflepuff just heard. Then tell him that Neville told me off, defending your honor and the Weasley name from my evil ways, etc etc. It'll make his day," Harry said, glancing at Neville. "Think that would work?" Ginny mimicked Harry's pose and tapped a finger against her lips thoughtfully. Finally, she nodded.
"It just might. He'll be pleased that Neville's made his break with you, Harry, and it would help to solidify the rumors of our 'relationship'. Neville? What do you think?" she turned to the other Gryffindor. Neville gulped and thought about it. It would mean that he'd have to lie – and he was horrible with lying. But – it would get them out of a mess, and get them back into the library without Ron ordering a squad of other Gryffindors to 'protect' them from Harry, so…
"I'll try," he said faintly, a nervous smile twisting his mouth. "I'm horrible with lying, but I'll try. Maybe if I just stutter, they'll do all the talking for me," he said weakly. "Ron likes to hear himself talk, anyhow." Harry grinned at Neville's mildly bitter remark.
"I dunno, Neville. You just pulled off sarcasm pretty darn well," he said with a wink at the sandy haired boy, who flushed and shrugged.
"It's Professor Snape. He rubs off on you," Neville muttered. Harry laughed, tilting his head back, ignoring the hushing noises that rang out afterward.
"Oh, Neville. Never change," Harry said fondly. The other boy finally smiled fully at Harry, pleased to see a truly happy expression on his face.
_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_*_
The potions lab was a chilly place to be late at night. Draco had worn his warmest robes and extra socks – and was thankful that he'd thought ahead for the chill. Severus bustled over the three simmering cauldrons in front of him – they had to be watched for exactly two hours, then have several ingredients added to each of them in rapid order. Severus was required to attend a meeting of the Order, so he had entrusted Draco to mind the cauldrons while he was gone. While no longer a spy – Severus still helped the Order in every way that he could, often by talking to informants that he knew in the muggle world, who ran a grapevine that was faster and more efficient than even Hogwart's own. They kept Severus updated on any suspicious gatherings, or rapid movement of known Death Eater hideouts. The underground organization would have nothing to do with Albus, or most of the wizarding world – most of them being exiles, or wanted criminals in their own rights. But they liked Severus, and had long ago made up their minds to help him, at the very least. Lucius was also coming to the Order meetings now – he watched the financial world for Albus, and kept his ears open in the Ministry. Draco smiled to himself, pleased – his father would be spending the weekend with them in the dungeons as usual. Severus had been nervous about that at first – fearing Dumbledore's displeasure at the other man's presence, but the old man merely smiled at them and looked the other way. Severus deserved all the happiness he could get – and Dumbledore would do almost anything to pay the tall, lanky man back for everything he'd done for the Order.
Severus fussed over the last cauldron and wiped his hands absently on the leather apron he was wearing. He had tied his hair back to keep it out of his eyes and there was a smear of – something yellow on his chin. Draco snorted to himself; his godfather was oblivious at the best of times about his appearance – but especially so when he was busy making potions. Draco hovered at the older man's elbow, waiting until he was done before interrupting Severus's train of though.
"Severus?" Draco murmured. Severus looked at the young man in surprise, not realizing until then how close the young blond had been standing to him. Severus raised an enquiring eyebrow at Draco. "You have something on your chin," the young Malfoy told him with a grin. Severus's hand jerked up involuntarily before halting and he rolled his eyes at Draco. Letting it go for a moment, he did finally rub at the smear, getting the worst of it off. Draco sighed and shook his head, pointing to the bathroom.
"Go. Wash up. We can't have you going to the Order meeting looking like that. Especially if you want Father to come near you - " Draco broke off, ducking swiftly to avoid the swat at his head. He laughed and danced out of reach, smirking to himself when he saw the amused glint in the older man's eyes.
"Impudent brat," Severus said fondly. He turned his eyes back to the cauldrons and checked them once more before taking off his apron and handing it to Draco. "Now, remember – the potions should stay their current color for two hours. When they begin to lighten, you need to add the extra ingredients that I've laid out – but only if I'm not back in time. Which I should be. Understood?" Severus's tone was now clipped and business-like. Draco nodded his understanding swiftly.
"Yes sir," Draco said. Severus glanced at him and gave him a small, proud smile that warmed Draco to the core. He loved his godfather, and it made him so happy that he could make the other man proud. Severus nodded and left the room swiftly, heading for the lavatory, not looking back – he'd have to hurry to make it to the Headmaster's office on time if he stopped to clean up.
He had just reached the Headmaster's gargoyle when an arm snaked its way out of the shadows and hauled him into a side passageway. Severus let out a surprised grunt, eyes widening, hand going for his wand. A strong arm encircled him, trapping his arms and another hand clamped itself over his mouth, muffling him. Severus struggled uselessly, damning himself for being unprepared. He was about to stomp down on his captor's foot when his attacker spoke to him.
"Hello, dear," a deep, silky voice purred in Severus's ear, and the Potions Master relaxed. Lucius, you prat, Severus mentally snarled, but there was no heat in it. Lucius loved getting the jump on the slightly smaller man – it was a continuous game they played. The hand dropped away from Severus's mouth and the arms now came around Severus in a loose embrace. The lanky Potions Master turned and faced his lover, leaning into him, looking up a little into the other man's eyes.
"That could get you killed one of these days," Severus said sourly at Lucius's smug expression. The blond sniffed disdainfully, arms tightening around Severus, pulling the lithe body close.
"Never. A Malfoy is too cunning to be killed," the taller man said haughtily, stealing a kiss. Severus allowed the public display of affection, but ended it quickly. He raised an eyebrow and shook his head at his lover's arrogance. But that arrogance was what defined Lucius, through and through. He was a Malfoy – and Malfoys, by nature, were arrogant, there was no denying it. Severus disengaged himself from the other's embrace reluctantly, and then pulled the blond along with him as he approached the entrance to the Headmaster's office.
"Come along. We're late," Severus snapped, missing Lucius's irritated mimic of him behind his back. Lucius had agreed to help the Order only because Severus had refused to stop helping them completely, which was what Lucius had wanted his lover to do originally – and Lucius knew the thin man couldn't be trusted not to get himself signed up for some bloody stupid assignment if he stayed with the Order. The Headmaster knew how to manipulate his pawns into the direction he wanted them to go, but the blond would be damned if Severus was going anywhere without him. Severus whispered the password to the gargoyle and they mounted the moving stairs quickly. They noticed they were the last ones to arrive, and quickly took a seat on an empty couch. Only a few of the Order were assembled – Sirius and Remus couldn't make it, being off on an assignment somewhere, which both Lucius and Severus were thankful for. Lucius bared his teeth at the disapproving looks that were cast their way from the Weasleys, and then turned his attention to Albus, who was seated behind his desk, calmly sipping his tea.
"Ah, all here now," Albus said warmly, setting down his teacup with a faint click. He regarded them all solemnly for a moment, eyes peering at them from over his glasses, the previous warmth fading from his expression. "I have called you all together because of some very disturbing news I have received. Voldemort as somehow acquired a number of the Cwn Annwn," Dumbledore made the announcement quietly, taking note of the reactions of the gathered members. Most of the room paled at his words. The Cwn Annwn were red-eared, white skinned dogs of the Wild Hunt, known to chase down their prey and never rest until either it, or they, were dead. They never slept and were extremely difficult to kill – perhaps impossible. From legends, it told that the Cwn Annwn belonged to Gwyn ap Nudd, the ruler of Annwn, the Celtic underworld.
"How?" Arthur Weasley said, a bit breathlessly, eyes wide. Molly, sitting next to her husband, gripped Arthur's hand tightly, lips going white with fear. The Cwn Annwn hadn't been seen or heard from in over a thousand years – most witches and wizards believed they were nothing more than tales to scare children with now. If they were set loose on the wizarding world … Albus sighed and steepled his hands, leaning back in his chair, face looking old and tired.
"I am not sure, Arthur. Voldemort has recourse to many of the Dark Arts that have been forgotten, so I cannot be sure just how he got his hands on them. From what I've heard, he cannot control them, as yet. He merely has them penned in a kennel. But it is what he is going to do with them that worries me." Dumbledore sighed and let his eyes pass around the room. The two Slytherins seemed to sink into themselves, becoming lost in their thoughts. The Weasleys looked worried and a bit panicked. Albus let his gaze rest on Molly for a moment – he had, of course, heard about the falling out between Ron and Harry, and the Weasley children's own admittance that it had been their mother to urge their split from the dark haired boy. Albus let his eyes move on, a foreboding filling his heart. Arthur was a good man – a bit clueless at times, but a good man none-the-less. Molly, however – her new attitude towards Harry had and had not surprised Albus. He knew about Molly's distrust and hate for the Dark Arts – but he'd never thought that she would end up hating the boy as well. The older man stifled a sigh and kept his face clear of the worry that was eating him up. There was something wrong going on in that family – but he didn't know what. And the problem would have to wait for another time – right now Albus's plate was full to overflowing with problems he already couldn't solve.
"Do you think He'll send them after the boy?" Moody's gruff voice asked, all of them knowing who the old auror was talking about. Albus rubbed a hand over his tired eyes.
"I don't know Alistair. He might." Albus sighed.
"Then you need to get him out of the school. Put him in Azkaban – if only for his own protection," Molly's strident voice could be heard, shocking the room.
"Molly!" Minerva gasped, scandalized. Albus looked up to see his deputy headmistress regarding the unrepentant Molly with shock. "How could you say such a thing!"
"It's true. The boy may or may not be mad, we've all discussed it. Heavens, we've even made plans for it, and now you're surprised that I say lock him up for his own good? He's wild, Minerva, and no one knows what he'll do. He may very well be Marked, for all we know," Molly said with utter conviction. Albus felt a weight settle in his stomach, one of his fears coming true. Arthur was looking at the Headmaster with apology, but said nothing to gainsay his wife.
"Are you out of your skull, woman? The boy is not Marked, and will never allow himself to be. You should know that," Severus's icy voice sliced through the air, causing several people to flinch. Severus looked at Molly's demeanor, and an understanding light came into his eyes. "You're the reason why those Gryffindor brats have been pranking Potter," Severus murmured, understanding beginning to come to him. So that was why Potter seemed so haunted all the time now.
"What pranks, Severus?" Minerva asked, confused. Severus spared her a disgusted glance.
"The tripping and the rumors, Minerva. One of them pulled a stunt today in my class that nearly got Potter severely hurt – and they were completely unrepentant. Have you been completely blind?" Severus snapped at her. Minerva flushed hotly.
"I've been busy, Severus, and I don't have the time or the patience to hold hands through teenaged spats. If the boy had come to me – " Severus snorted and Minerva broke off, glaring at the Potions Master. She then turned to Molly. "And you! Molly, I can't believe this! How – "
"How can I believe that the boy may be mad? From the fact that he's connected to You-Know-Who, that's how. He has terrible nightmares, ones that wake the entire dorm, or so Ron told me, and sometimes while he's dreaming he talks. He babbles You-Know-Who's words to the entire room, and it scares the children. He's already started on the road to evil – his muggle relatives I'm sure have helped him on that account. And now that he helped You-know-who kill Cedric, well – " Molly carried on pompously, not seeing the icy glares that were directed her way from a number of people in the room.
"Potter did not help the Dark Lord kill Cedric. The Hufflepuff boy was killed by a death eater after they were portkey'd in. Potter had no idea where they were, or what was going on at the time. He had no hand in the other boy's death." Lucius's deadly quiet voice overrode Molly's strident tones. All eyes in the room went to the elder Malfoy's rigid form, a cruel sneer on his face directed at Mrs. Weasley. Lucius couldn't believe his ears – that members of the precious Light side were questioning their boy hero – it was positively nauseating. Molly glared at Lucius, her eyes full of hate.
"And just why, exactly, should we believe you? For all we know, you're spying for the Dark Lord on us, and you want the boy to murder all the children in their sleep," Molly spat, causing several gasps around the room. Severus started to stand, but Lucius laid a hand on his arm, keeping the irate Potions Master seated. Lucius narrowed his eyes at both of the Weasleys, who were staring right back at him with undisguised hate. The long-standing feud between the Malfoys and the Weasleys was one that neither time, nor understanding could fix. Lucius narrowed his eyes to slits at the portly woman and refrained from going for his wand. He could not stand the woman. He eyed Arthur, who was also staring at Lucius in anger. Those bloody Weasleys, Lucius thought, disgustedly, when will they ever pick up a history book and realize that our blood feud is their entire fault. If their ancestors hadn't been so bloody greedy for power and recognition, they wouldn't be in the position they are today. The Weasley's had, over the centuries, forgotten one important thing in their long standing feud with the Malfoy clan – it had been Martin Weasley, back in the fifteenth century, who was the one that, quite literally, backstabbed Damian Malfoy over a position in the newly formed Ministry of Magic. The Malfoy line had demanded restitution from the Weasley family, and gotten the bulk of the their fortune and lands. The rest was pissed away by further members of the Weasley line, who wasted it on bribes and attempts on the lives of the Malfoy heirs. But the current Weasley's had quite forgotten about their power hungry, malicious ancestors – something the Malfoy line had never done.
"Molly. That's enough," Albus's quiet voice silenced the room. Molly sneered at Lucius and turned to the Headmaster, who was regarding her sadly. "I'm afraid, Molly, I'm going to have to ask you to leave," Albus said firmly. Molly gaped at him.
"But you can't believe them over me! I've seen facts, in black and white, that the boy is going to become evil, if he isn't already now! And all the research done on curse scars like his back that proof up!" Molly exclaimed. Albus frowned, now leaning forward in his chair.
"What research?" he asked, fixing Molly with a stare. She glared at Albus, huffing slightly.
"The research that Percy found from the Ministry files. They've been studying curse scars and their side effects for longer than you've been teaching here, or so it said, and since Percy had been promoted, he's been helping out the division that researches them – he's seen the files himself. It's all there, in black and white, on record. The boy will go mad, or Dark – it's only a matter of time. He should be locked up, or forced to face You-Know-Who as soon as he can. And if he ends up dying, well, then at least the wizarding world wont have to deal with two Dark Lords instead of one," Molly argued, her face flushing red, eyes blazing with zeal. Albus pursed his lips and leaned back slowly, never taking his eyes off of Molly.
"I have been kept abreast of most of the Ministry's research facilities, and never, in my life, have I heard of them researching curse scars, or their effects. There simply aren't enough around too study." Albus said cautiously, watching for her reaction. Molly tossed her head and crossed her arms over her ample form in a huff.
"Percy was very clear and very thorough. He showed me the copies he had made from the files he'd seen. It was all there, plain as day." She sniffed and tilted her chin up stubbornly. Albus's brows lowered.
"Molly, I really must object. You've given Harry up for lost without a fight. He deserves more than that. And besides, are you quite sure about Percy's promotion and about this – department he's been helping?" Albus chided her softly, a warning in his tone. Molly shook her head, eyes blazing. Arthur's head shot up, angry now at what the Headmaster was implying.
"Albus!" Arthur objected, one hand clenching on the armrest of the couch he and his wife were sitting on. "You not implying –" Albus just looked at Arthur from over his glasses wordlessly. He looked over to Lucius, who shook his head. He'd never heard of such a research department.
"I have no information of such a department," Lucius said evenly. Arthur bristled at Lucius, his face flushing the color of his hair. Lucius merely raised a calm eyebrow at the irate man, enjoying his discomfiture.
"Percy is a good boy – the best. He's always been a hard worker, and would never lie to me," Molly said firmly, her belief and love for her favorite son overruling her sense. "And as for Potter, he deserves nothing from my family anymore. Every time we've saved him from his relatives, he's repaid us by getting my children nearly killed. I wont stand for it anymore. Potter stays away from my family and that's that." Molly said determinedly, glaring at the Order members around her.
"Molly – this is quite an about face," Flitwick said softly from his seat near Minerva. He looked confused. "Last year you were more than happy to come and – " Molly waved him off.
"That was before Cedric died and Percy found the information in the Ministry files. I had been worried before, about the many times that Potter had gotten Ron or Ginny nearly killed or injured, but I had always brushed it off as accidents. But those files – and that research – the boy is more than likely mad," she stressed, leaning forward, a fanatical light blooming in her eyes, "and he doesn't even realize that he's subconsciously trying to get the other children killed. But soon enough that madness will lead him to You-Know-Who's side, and you'll have a raving killer on the loose, in the middle of the school, with little to no control over him," she finished, trying to convince Flitwick of her logic. The tiny man wavered at her words, a seed of doubt worming it's way into his mind.
"Enough, Molly. I refuse to believe this information unless you present it to me yourself. I would like you to leave, now," Albus's voice was warming with anger. Molly looked at Albus with scorn.
"You'll never believe that the boy is mad – he's too important to you as a figurehead. He needs to be removed from the school – just like the rest of the Slytherins," she sniped. Lucius growled and sprang to his feet – as did Arthur. They both went for their wands at the same time.
"ENOUGH!" The Headmaster's voice boomed in the room. Everyone froze. He stood up slowly, eyes piercing the Weasleys. "I am most disappointed in both of you. I am afraid I'm going to have to place both of you on probationary status in the Order. What you have said here worries me greatly – both for your objectivity and trust-worthiness. We will speak later," Albus pointed to his fireplace, ignoring the shocked looks of the Weasleys.
"But you can't – you can't! We, the Order, the money – " Arthur sputtered. Albus's gaze grew angrier and he shut up. He gave the older wizard an angry look and gathered the stunned Molly by the elbow and led her to the fireplace. When they were gone a tense silence fell over the room.
"I cannot believe that the Weasley's would be so blind," Moody murmured, clasping his hands behind him and pacing the room. Minerva twisted her hands in her robes, feeling a heavy worry wash through her. Flitwick kept his eyes on his lap, lost in his thoughts. Severus and Lucius were silent on their couch, both tense.
"How does the rest of Gryffindor House treat the boy?" Severus's voice broke the small silence. Minerva raised her eyes from her lap and looked at the younger professor.
"As far as I know, fine. It may just be the Weasleys that have a problem with Potter." Severus snorted.
"Minerva, your house – " he began.
"Is exactly that. My House. I will get to the bottom of this tonight and put a stop to any nonsense that might be going on. And that's that. I do not meddle in your House affairs, I'll thank you to keep out of mine," Minerva said primly, face flushing a bit at the embarrassment of the idea that her House may have been full of havoc and she had not seen it. Severus sneered at her, but kept his peace. He had no doubt that Minerva would be storming off of to Gryffindor Tower the minute that the meeting was over – but her furious demands would only make the students more careful in their pranking. Severus hid a sigh and made a mental note to have Draco and the rest of his year keep a sharp lookout for Potter in the future. He may not especially like the boy – but he was damned if he was going to let Potter be turned to the Dark Lord by the actions of his own House.
"Lucius, do you think you could find me a copy of those 'reports' that Molly was going on about?" Albus asked the blond. Lucius nodded slowly.
"It may take me some time – I'm not exactly popular in the Ministry right now. But if they are there, I'll find them," Lucius said. He was intrigued by the story of the 'reports' and this 'department' – if it what the young Weasley said was true, and the Ministry did have such facilities, then the research would more than likely hold interesting information that Lucius himself could add to his library at home before turning it over to the old wizard. Albus nodded slowly, eyes twinkling at Lucius as though he'd heard the older blonde's thoughts, and picked up his now tepid tea. A murmured spell had the liquid steaming once more, and the older man stared into the cup.
"Minerva, if you could get Hagrid for me on your way to the Tower, I would be much obliged. He might have more information on the Cwn Annwn for us," the Transfiguration teacher glanced at the obvious dismissal and rose, a little put off by the abrupt ending to the meeting – but also happy that she would be able to address her House immediately. "Filius, if you could be so kind, would you look for information on the Cwn Annwn in your books? I know Celtic history, myth and magic is a particular hobby of yours. What I need to know, exactly, is how Voldemort got his hands on those dogs, and if there is anyway to either return them to their home or destroy them. It is vital that you find out as soon as you can," Professor Flitwick looked up and nodded rapidly, happy that he could be of help. He slid off his chair and accompanied Minerva out of the office. "Moody, Lucius – I'll also need your help in creating a network of inner office eyes and ears for me in the Ministry. Surely there are – certain – young people that would be eager for work in the Ministry, even if they are merely secretaries or office runners? It is always the overlooked that hear the most, after all," Albus raised his eyebrows at them. Moody gave the Headmaster a wolfish grin and nodded.
"Aye, Albus. I'm sure there are. I'll get back to you as soon as I can," Alistair winked at the older wizard and rubbed his hands together, a speculative gleam coming into his eyes. He began muttering to himself as he flooed from the office. That left the Headmaster alone with Lucius and Severus. The Headmaster leaned forward in his chair now, eyes pinning Severus in his seat, his demeanor significantly altered.
"How soon will that potion be done?" The Headmaster's voice held a degree of urgency that sent a ripple of unease down Severus's spine.
"By tomorrow morning," the Potions Master answered cautiously, licking his lips. Lucius raised an inquiring eyebrow at him, but Severus shook his head slightly, keeping his eyes on the older wizard. He'd tell his lover later, when they were alone. Albus nodded, the urgency fading a little, and took a sip of his tea.
"Good. I'll need it as soon as you're done with it." The Headmaster's tone made it clear that they were dismissed, but Severus pressed on.
"Albus, if you would at least tell me who – " he began. The Headmaster's sharp look cut him off.
"It's not for you, Severus, nor Lucius. That's all you need to know, for now." The Headmaster's tone was final. Severus scowled at the older man but nodded reluctantly. He'd find out who that potion was for if it killed him. The question haunted his sleep, for Severus knew about the effects of the potion, and wasn't sure if the Headmaster fully understood just how terrible they could be.
Albus watched Severus stand up stiffly, his anger clear in his posture. Lucius followed his lover out slowly, casting a suspicious glance in the Headmaster's direction as they left. Albus had to swallow a smile – off all of his members he valued the two Slytherins the most. Slippery and intelligent, they would get him the information he needed, with little questioning. They were intelligent enough to see his plots before the rest of the Order, and devious enough to keep that information to themselves. But as for Harry and the Vision Potion – if the Headmaster told Severus who the potion was for, the man would more than likely refuse to brew it. However much Severus said he hated Harry, and children in general, the man hid a soft heart underneath the tough, outer layers he presented to the world. It would break the Potions Master to find out that one of the most deadly potions he could ever make was being given to a fifteen-year-old boy. Severus would through a fit – and Albus didn't want to chance buying the potion on the black market – there were too many risky factors there. Besides, he trusted Severus's abilities implicitly – the tall, thin man truly was a master at his profession. He would far rather keep Severus in the dark and making the potion than throwing a fit and refusing to do so. Albus sighed and swirled the dregs of his tea around in his cup, drained and tipped it up to see what lay in his leaves. Caution, he read in the figure crossing the tightrope, and danger, he noticed, eyeing the inverted sword. Yes, plenty of danger – but for whom? He sighed and placed the cup and saucer back on his desk, leaning back in his chair. His eyes went to the fireplace, staring at it meditatively in the silence of the room. There was so much to do, and he didn't know if he had enough time to spare for it all.
End Chapter 9
A/N: and, because I can, I'm giving my book of the week award to House of Leaves by Mark Z Danielesky. Read it. Be consumed by it. Lovely work. And the CD of the week goes to Poe's album Haunted.
Review Responses:
Hippy flower: =)
Jammies2000: Thank you for the wonderful review!
Lady FoxFire: Interesting idea, not gonna happen in this fic, but interesting =)
Minerva-Serverus-Dumbledor: Thank you!!! =)
MOI: Heh, originally the smoke was going to be purple – then I thought, well, their 15 year old boys so…yup, time for pink. Glad you're enjoying the story! Thanks!
HPIceAngel: Thank you for your review!
Athenakitty: ooohh more lovely questions! Keep 'em comin'!
NayNymic: Thank you for the lovely review!!
Wild Star: I'm glad you're likin' the story! Lovely reviews, thank you! And thanks for catching the little typo's – I'll try to get them all next time! There are days when I hate spell check =/
Usagi Serenity Yui Cosmos: Charlie's on his way, don't worry =) The Seamus muse is having PMS currently and refuses to come out of her room – I think it's time to bribe her with chocolate =) Thanks again for another wonderful review!
Kristine Thorne: hehe thank you!!
Mcnugget: LOL the pink was too hard to pass up! Thank you for the review!
Hyperbole: the ostrich feather dress came outta no where, really – my mind can be odd sometimes. Thanks for another lovely review!
Mike of the freak patrol: /snicker spiked pumpkin juice …oohh that'd be a doozy. Thank you for the review! And ferrets…
Ysabell: I hate spiders, much like Ron, so the very idea of someone so phobic of spiders getting one on their skin, makes my skin crawl – but for him it was perfect revenge /evil laugh ™. And there will be Snape and Lucius action – unfortunately much edited from the original version (one of these days I really am going to have to figure out how to sign up for my own web page)
SparkySparkles: Thank you again for another lovely review!!
K: Glad I got you laughin' =) Thanks for the review!
Belle: =( sry I made you cry. But I'm agreeing with you about Ron. I've never really liked his character at all, so I'm going to have fun torturing him in this story! Thank you for the lovely review!
Relle: I was thinking green – but the pink is just so damaging to their pride. It looked lovely in my head, and I just couldn't pass it up =)
Redredredred: thank you! Harry and Draco should talk soon – not sure on the exact chapter…you see, this one was supposed to carry over to Saturday, but I only just got through the Order meeting. But soon. I know they'll talk soon =)