Chapter 4

Once they got back to the tower, they found Hermione and Kagato working near the fire. Ron made a face and took his pastries to his room. Harry shook his head and sat down next to them.

"Would either of you like one?"

Kagato nodded and took one.

"Thanks Harry. So what have you and Ron been up to?"

Harry told them what had happened in the kitchens.

"That's strange Harry. Do you think Dobby knows something?"

He shrugged at Hermione.

"It would seem so. But I'm not sure if he'll tell us."

"Weird. But if he knows something.... I think I need to talk to him."

Kagato got up. Harry grabbed his arm.

"Wait, if Dobby wouldn't tell Ron and me I doubt he'll say anything to you. Give me some time. I'll find out if he knows anything or not."

Harry pause...something Ron had said was now bothering him.

"Kagato, why won't you tell us what happened the day the vanished?"

Kagato went silent. Hermione glowered at Harry.

"Harry, leave it alone. If he can't tell us, don't ask."

"No Hermione, it's ok. I should try to talk about it."

Kagato sat back down and rested his arms on the table.

"The last thing that I remember was several people in white cloaks and masks appearing out of nowhere and vanishing with both girls. I was hit by flying glass after one Druid blew out the window trying to stop them. That's really all you missed after you fell to the floor Harry."

Hermione frowned.

"But, no one can apparate or disapparate inside the school grounds. This is very odd."

Kagato nodded.

"I know, Dumbledore was almost speechless. I wish I knew more...or where they took them. I swear, if anyone's harmed either of them...I'll, I'll"

Kagato fell silent and looked out the window. Harry watched him and sighed.

"If we only knew where to look."

Hermione stared at Harry.

"Don't you even think about it Harry. You heard Dobby. I don't think any of us should leave the castle."

"Hermione, Alex and Cat are out there, having who knows what done to them. At least we should try to find them."

"Harry, I'm sure that the Ministry is searching for them right now. There's nothing that we can do."

Both Kagato and Harry frowned.

"I may go have a look around in the forest. I might be able to get some information that no one else can."

Hermione and Harry looked at him.

"Well, I can question, erm, certain people in the forest that no one else can talk to. Just have to figure out how to get there, without being seen."

Harry grinned and Hermione shook her head.

"No Harry, don't. If you two get caught, they might expel both of you."

"Hermione, I don't see any other way to do it."

Kagato looked at Harry and nodded.

"Ok, tonight then. Into the forest we go."

Hermione just sat there, staring at them.