Chapter 14

The Slug Club

Hermione's visit to the Marauder Quarters ended up being a blessing in disguise. Sirius and Remus had been extremely sympathetic towards Hermione and had even offered to prank Ron just to make her feel better. She had been the one to reveal that Ron had left Harry to come back from Quidditch practice alone, something that had infuriated Sirius. Luckily, Quidditch practice was put on hold for the time being so Harry didn't have to worry about Sirius monitoring the practices like a hawk.

It was also during this visit that Harry and Remus had told Hermione about the Half-Blood Price's Potion's book. She had been extremely hesitant to trust anything in the book, especially after learning that some on the Prince's notes contained dark spells. Harry assured her that Remus double checked everything before passing on the knowledge and offered to show her his potions journal to prove it. While Hermione read through it, Harry and Remus discussed Remus' progress into who the Half-Blood Prince was. Remus was currently going through old 'Daily Prophets' to find any Princes that attended Hogwarts fifty years ago, since that had been when the book had been published. The only problem was that with the research Remus was doing for the Order and for Madam Pomfrey on empaths and natural healers, he didn't have an over abundance of time to find some mystery student.

After that day, Hermione had been welcomed to visit the Marauder Quarters and Remus whenever she wanted. Remus and Sirius had become a mixture of honorary uncles/confidants that could advise her on her feelings better than Harry could. Harry offered an ear whenever Hermione needed one but this was certainly uncharted territory for him. He was relieved that Sirius and Remus offered their help because some of the conversations that consisted of Hermione ranting and Harry listening were becoming too uncomfortable for him. Harry sympathized with Hermione's situation but he wasn't about to abandon his friendship with Ron, even though Hermione was avoiding him at all costs.

Of course, hanging around Ron meant having to put up with Lavender Brown who seemed to have attached herself to Ron's hip. Ron enjoyed the new relationship immensely, returning to the laughing and joking Ron that everyone knew so well even though he was still oblivious to anything happening around him. Harry's embarrassment to Ron and Lavender's sporadic snogging was one of the few things that Ron didn't notice or just ignored. It was becoming more and more of an occurrence that when Harry spent time with Ron, he ended up spending time alone whether it was reading in the Common Room or wandering around the Library.

As Christmas drew near, Harry found himself once again the object of desire by many girls. It was rather disconcerting to see the number of girls huddled around the mistletoe that was hung along the corridors for a chance to catch him for a kiss. Ron was absolutely no help so Harry found himself usually in the company of Hermione and Cho, both of whom found the situation funny but never voiced their opinions. Cho had recently broken up with Michael Corner and had joined Hermione in the 'boys are gits' campaign which made Harry feel uncomfortable whenever they started badmouthing boys. He tried not to take offense to what they were saying but everyone can only handle so much slander about their own gender.

With the colder weather, Harry's training had been moved indoors which limited the number of places Sirius and Harry could work on wordless dueling. They were now working on defending wordlessly against wordless spells along with testing Harry's limit. Harry could easily cast powerful shielding charms for everything Sirius sent at him but that would require Harry to cross the line and tap into his reserves. It had been a slow process but Harry was finally able to know where the invisible line was between his actual power and his magical reserves. All he had to worry about now was the time when he was caught off guard.

Another change was the constant presence of Hogwarts. It seemed that after Malfoy's 'attack', the castle was taking a more active role in protecting Harry. She would send him waves of warning whenever someone approached regardless of how many times Harry tried to assure her it wasn't necessary. Malfoy had kept his distance since that night and had resulted to glaring hatefully at Harry whenever they were in class together. Harry had to wonder what had been said to Malfoy to make him stay away so he could use it on Professor Slughorn.

Once again, the topic of Slughorn's Christmas party was all everyone could talk about. Everyone wanted to be invited to Slughorn's party as a date of a member of the 'Slug Club'. Harry, Sirius, Remus, and the members of the Council had received a personal invite. There was a catch, however. Professor Slughorn wanted the entire Council present. If one member declined, none of them could attend. Slughorn wanted the set and only the set would do. This made it extremely difficult for Harry. He really didn't want to go but if he didn't, Cho, Luna Lovegood, Justin Finch-Fletchley and Hannah Abbot weren't allowed to attend since Ginny and Neville were already members of the 'Slug Club'.

Harry did the only thing he could do without causing a rift in the Council. He agreed to attend the party. This led to Harry being cornered in the library by Hermione and Cho who warned him about the additional attention he should suspect from girls who wanted to be his date for the party. Hermione had even revealed that there were several who were discussing possible ways to slip Harry a love potion from Weasley Wizarding Wheezes. It really wasn't surprising, just disturbing at how far people would go to be seen with the-boy-who-lived.

"Why can't people realize that I really can't handle a girlfriend right now?" Harry asked in aggravation. "Why can't I just go with you two as friends?"

Hermione and Cho looked at each other then shrugged. "That actually isn't a bad idea," Cho said thoughtfully, "although, you do realize you're going to receive even more attention for taking two girls, right Harry? There will also be the endless girls who will seek us out because we've taken Hogwarts' most eligible bachelor out of the running."

Harry stared at Cho with a raised eyebrow. A part of him knew that she was having fun with the current situation while another part of him knew it was the truth. "Well, if you two want to ask someone, you're more than welcomed to," Harry said nonchalantly as he returned his attention to his Defense Against the Dark Arts essay. "I just thought that you two weren't really interested in hooking up with someone at the moment."

Hermione and Cho looked rather uncomfortable. "Well, McLaggen has asked me to go but he seems to think he's doing me a favor by going with him," Hermione said. "He's just so full of himself. The only reason I would go with McLaggen would be because Ron hates him."

"If he would even notice," Cho added sarcastically. "Zacharias Smith, Anthony Goldstein and Ernie MacMillan have been giving me rather blunt hints that they want me to ask them. Hannah and Justin are going together which means all of the Hufflepuffs are focusing on me and even Luna. Ginny's going with Dean and everyone assumes you, Hermione, are going with a Gryffindor, most likely Harry with the rumors and all."

Harry groaned as he buried his face in his hands. Ever since the day of the Quidditch match, there had been so many rumors about him and Hermione secretly dating. Lavender had passed on her version of Harry comforting Hermione to the entire Gryffindor Tower after she had returned with Ron. It also didn't help that Harry and Hermione had spent the rest of the day in the Marauder Quarters, unaware of what was going on. By the time they returned to the Common Room, the story was that Harry and Hermione had finally realized that their close friendship was something more and spent the last hours snogging. Hermione's glare after hearing this had been murderous which made quite a few people back off. Those closest to Harry and Hermione knew that there was no truth to the rumor and tried to convince everyone else but there were still the few that believed Harry Potter had finally found love.

Hermione let out a snort and buried her face into her Potions book. "I can't believe anyone actually trusts anything Lavender Brown says," she said irritably. "She has to be the worst gossiper with Parvati a close second in Gryffindor, if not the entire school. I'm still cornered by girls who want to know if Harry has any tattoos."

"Don't remind me," Harry muttered in embarrassment as he shook his head slowly. "It's times like these when I regret not taking Sirius up on the home schooling option."

Cho smiled at Harry and ran two fingers down the side of his face in a teasing matter. "Don't say things like that, Harry," she said sweetly. "We all know you wouldn't miss out on a year at Hogwarts. Who would everyone swoon over if you weren't here to save us all from boredom? I can't imagine a morning without the latest Harry Potter gossip. I never would have thought that you sleep shirtless or that you charm your eyes to be that amazing color? All this time I thought your eyes were naturally that shade of green. Can you believe that?"

Harry glared at Cho, noticing that Hermione was desperately trying to keep herself from laughing. "You are cruel, Cho," he said through his teeth. "I never thought you would take part in spreading rumors."

"And deprive myself of all the attention those gullible twits give me?" Cho asked in all seriousness before smiling. "You know me, Harry. You know I love to be the center of attention. I've spent years learning from you, after all. Tell me, Harry. What do you want me to say where your tattoo is? I think a phoenix on your shoulder blade would be perfect after the way Dumbledore's phoenix took you to Hogsmeade." Cho looked away for a moment, appearing to be deep in thought. "On the other hand, a dragon is very macho. Perhaps we can use that."

Hermione was covering her mouth to silence her laughter but the tears leaking out of her tightly closed eyes were enough to know that she was finding the banter hilarious. Cho had a remarkable gift of making all of the insanity surrounding Harry appear to be an every day occurrence but mixed it up with sarcasm and jokes for Harry and Hermione to know that she despised it just as much as Harry did.

Harry continued to glare at Cho but she only smiled innocently at him. "And I thought I could trust you to be on my side," he said then shook his head and returned his gaze to his essay. "Oh well. I guess I won't show you my memory of that night at the Ministry." It had been a thought in his head for a while now. He wasn't comfortable with showing his duel with Voldemort to the entire D.A. but he did trust the Council enough to know they wouldn't spread what they witnessed. They, at least, should know what they're up against.

Cho's smile faltered. Hermione's silent laughter died instantly. "Seriously?" Cho asked. Harry nodded. "You're going to let us see…that night? I thought there was some sort of law of secrecy against it…by the Ministry I mean." She looked at Hermione as if seeking confirmation then sat back in her chair. "Wow."

Hermione, however, wasn't as awestruck. "Are you sure you want that many people seeing that, Harry?" she asked uncertainly. "It may bring up some questions that you don't want asked."

"Actually, that duel was one of the more normal duels I've had," Harry said with a shrug of the shoulders. He understood Hermione's nervousness. The last thing he needed was anyone viewing any of the outbursts he had. They had been hard enough to talk about with Ron and Hermione. "Nothing was said that everyone doesn't already know. Thanks to the Prophet, everyone is aware that Voldemort was after a Prophecy that night and that it was destroyed. The only other revelation from that night is that Voldemort is completely out of his mind but we all know that all ready…Of course, you can be there too, Hermione."

Hermione blinked a few times before smiling. "I'd appreciate that, Harry," she said sincerely. "When are you thinking of doing this?"

Harry shrugged again. "Maybe the first Council meeting after Christmas," he said then looked at Cho, who now had a strange look on her face. "Is there something wrong, Cho?"

Cho shook her head. "I was just thinking," she said then smiled softly. "I think we should have something made up to ensure silence. I know you trust the Council, Harry, but it doesn't hurt to be cautious. Luna's father is the editor of the Quibbler and Justin doesn't hide the fact that he idolizes you. If what you're going to show us is what has Scrimgeour in such a hurry to speak with you, then chances are you don't want anyone else knowing about it or whatever version is passed around the school."

"She has a point, Harry," Hermione added. "Maybe we should talk to Sirius and Remus about this. They're bound to know something about secrecy spells."

Harry massaged his temples as he shifted his gaze from Cho to Hermione. He had a feeling that the decision was already made no matter what he said. "Well, when you two decide what I should do please let me know," Harry said indignantly as he started to pack up his things. "Merlin forbid I actually think for myself for once."

Hermione and Cho quickly rose to their feet, each grabbing a wrist to stop him. "We didn't mean it like that and you know it, Harry," Cho said. "We're just looking out for you. Secrets don't remain secrets at Hogwarts, especially your secrets. Have you talked to Mr. Black and Mr. Lupin about this?" Harry shook his head. "I may not know them that well but I do know that Mr. Black is extremely overprotective of you. The entire school knows it. If we didn't suggest this, he would."

Harry collapsed back in his chair and let out a resigned sigh. He could feel the worry pouring off of Hermione and Cho as they pulled up their chairs and sat down, facing Harry. This entire situation was just too weird. In no time, the close friendship between Harry, Ron and Hermione had shifted to a completely different one between Harry, Hermione and Cho. Instead of Harry and Ron talking about Quidditch and joking about whatever nonsense they could find while Hermione looked on, Harry was now looking on as Hermione and Cho talked about daft boys and comparing notes. Cho and Hermione tried to include Harry, they really did, but there was no denying the change.

Running his hand down his face, Harry looked at Hermione and Cho, smiling apologetically. "I'm sorry," he said sincerely. "I didn't mean to snap at you two. It's just been a really long term and I'm not looking forward to Christmas break."

Hermione nodded in understanding. "If you're not comfortable with going to the Weasleys for Christmas lunch then why are you still going?" she asked.

Harry shrugged. "Mrs. Weasley, Fleur and the twins really want to see me," he said rubbed the back of his neck. "I think Ginny also wants me there. She's been hinting that she was going to let it slip how Ron's been behaving and figures Ron won't kill her if company's there."

"If that's the case then I don't envy you at all," Hermione muttered. "The way Ron treated Ginny was inexcusable."

Harry wanted to mention the Ron had treated Hermione worse but he didn't want to upset her. Hermione had really received the worst of Ron's mood swings for no reason other than she was an easy target. Perhaps that was why being around Ron was so hard. Ron felt that he had justifiable reasons for acting the way he was and didn't bother righting his wrongs. There had been no guilt, no remorse. Harry knew that for certain. Ron's emotions rested solely on either annoyance or a combination of giddiness and pleasure. That was why Harry did everything he could not to use his empathy around Ron.

It wasn't long before they were chased out of the library by Madam Pince, claiming that the library was closed. Cho bid a cheery farewell before hurrying off for the Ravenclaw Tower. Harry and Hermione made their way back to the Gryffindor Tower in silence. Strong waves of annoyance, nervousness and dread were flowing off of Hermione with every step she took. It was clear that this entire situation with Ron was bothering her in more ways than she was expressing. It made Harry wonder just how much more Hermione would go through before she ignored her feelings and refused to repair her friendship with Ron.

"Baubles," Hermione said, breaking the silence, as they reached the Fat Lady portrait.

"And the same to you," the Fat Lady said with grin before the portrait swung open to allow them entrance.

Harry motioned for Hermione to enter first then stuffed his hands in his pockets. His line of thinking concerned him. What if their friendship with Ron could never be repaired to what it had been? Could he abandon Ron just because the emotions he was feeling from Ron made him uncomfortable? Perhaps it would be different if Harry had a girlfriend of his own but he didn't think so. Sensing whatever Ron was feeling towards Lavender when they were snogging was just wrong.

A loud voice quickly snapped Harry out of his thoughts. "Hi Harry!" Romilda Vane exclaimed as she hurried towards him, a goblet in one hand and a box in another. "Fancy a gillywater or perhaps some pumpkin juice?"

Harry glanced over at Hermione, who was biting her lower lip in an attempt to keep herself from laughing. "Er—no thanks," he said uncomfortably. "I'm not thirsty but thanks for the offer." He moved to follow Hermione to the nearest empty table but was blocked by Romilda.

The persistent fourth year offered the box. "How about some Chocolate Cauldrons?" Romilda offered. "My gran sent them to me but she must of forgotten I don't like them. These have firewhiskey in them."

Harry stared at Romilda with a raised eyebrow. He really didn't believe that. Pulling his hands out of his pockets, Harry had his wand in hand with a flick of the wrist and waved his wand over the box while thinking Specialis Revelio. A faint mist appeared along with what actually was in the Chocolate Cauldrons. "Are you sure your grandmother sent those to you, Romilda?" Harry asked as he re-holstered his wand. "Those are filled with a common love potion, not firewhiskey. It could be dangerous in the wrong hands."

Romilda suddenly looked extremely nervous. "Oh!" she said as she took a step backwards. "Thanks, Harry. I—I'll let my gran know."

Harry watched her run off before joining Hermione who was approaching a nearby table. "Thanks for the warning," he said as he reached her side. "I just wish she would take the hint that I'm not interested."

Hermione smiled softly. "It seems that boys aren't the only ones who are—" her voice broke off as she caught sight of two people in intertwined in an armchair. Harry followed her gaze and let out a frustrated sigh. Ron and Lavender were once again in a world of their own. Soft waves of longing and pain brushed against Harry as Hermione looked away quickly. "I—I think I should call it a night, Harry."

Harry took her hand to prevent her from escaping to her dorm room for the night. Resting his hand underneath her chin, he turned her face so their eyes met. "Don't do this, Hermione," he said softly. "I know it hurts but you can't keep running away and secluding yourself with only your pain as company. How about we spend the night in the Marauder Quarters? Sirius and Remus wouldn't mind, I promise."

Hermione smiled at him and squeezed his hand. "You're a great friend, Harry," she said sincerely. "Not many boys would put up with what you've had over the past few weeks. I know Sirius and Remus wouldn't mind us visiting but I can't keep running to them every time I'm unsettled. Sometimes you just have to work things out on your own." Rising herself up on her tiptoes, Hermione kissed Harry on the cheek. "I'll be all right, Harry. I promise."

Harry let her go with only one question on his mind. Why does everything always have to be so complicated?

With the following day being the final day of lessons before Christmas break, there wasn't much time to do anything other than focus on classes and discuss Slughorn's party that evening. Sirius and Remus had been surprised to hear that Harry was escorting Hermione and Cho even if it was 'just as friends' but they kept their comments to themselves, having heard more than their fair share of Hermione and Cho's predicament.

During the past few months the majority of the students had become comfortable with the 'famous Sirius Black' as their advisor. Sirius' free time had certainly decreased as the weeks had passed. He had become well known for his lighthearted personality and insane suggestions, allowing people to come to their own rational solutions, unless a 'serious Sirius' was needed. It didn't happen often but there had been the rare occasion. Perhaps that was why the student body didn't react well when Professor Dumbledore announced that Remus would be returning to his role as advisor after Christmas. It wasn't like any disliked Remus. Sirius just had a tendency to act more like a teenager half the time making it seem like the students were confiding in a friend rather than an adult.

Remus had recovered a great deal over the past few months, which was partially because he had served as a test subject for Harry. Every week, Harry had tried to heal a particular ailment and every week he had only been partially successful but it was becoming easier for Harry to 'call upon' the ability when he needed to. Harry now had some control over the ability instead of it controlling him. Remus wasn't completely healed yet and most likely wouldn't be for some time. He attended meals in the Great Hall and could also be seen walking down the halls with Sirius but he certainly wouldn't be up for a game of Quidditch any time soon. He would be able to fill the role as advisor, allowing Sirius to take a more active role in the Order. What that role may be, Harry didn't know but he had a feeling it would be discussed over Christmas.

With all of Harry's concerns, Ron acting in his usual uncaring self towards Hermione was the last thing he needed but it happened in Transfiguration. The entire class was working hard on human transfiguration in front of mirrors. The assignment was to change the color of your own eyebrows and was incredibly difficult. Ron's first attempt had been rather comical and quite shocking. Instead of changing his eyebrows, Ron had somehow managed to create an odd looking handlebar mustache on himself. Hermione had laughed along with most of the people around Ron who had noticed but Ron decided to take his revenge out on Hermione. For the remainder of class, Ron imitated Hermione jumping up and down in her seat for every question Professor McGonagall asked.

Hermione had been reduced to tears and would have ran out of the classroom if Harry hadn't taken a tight hold on her hand and quietly persuaded her not to pay attention to Ron or Lavender and Parvati who found Ron funny. "He's being a git, Hermione," Harry said gently. "If you let him see that it bothers you, he wins. Don't let him win. Push him out of your mind for now. Remember, boys are insensitive prats that only care about Quidditch."

Hermione laughed at Harry using her own words to comfort her and brushed away her tears. Once Hermione calmed down, Harry returned his blond eyebrows back to their original color before shooting Ron a glare. He couldn't believe the depths Ron would go to in order to impress Lavender and regain his pride. Harry was certain that their friendship was passing the point of no return. It would take a miracle for Hermione to forgive everything regardless of the fact that she still had feelings for the git.

Harry and Hermione were nearly inseparable for the rest of the day, both of them steering clear of Ron. It had been at dinner when everyone learned that Harry Potter was going to Slughorn's party with Hermione and Cho, causing quite a stir. Some believed that Harry had asked the two girls because he couldn't decide between them. Others believed that Cho and Hermione were dragging Harry to it since Harry had always found a way to avoid Slughorn's parties until now. The rest were disappointed that three of Slughorn's favorites were unavailable to take anyone else.

Fortunately for Harry, he didn't have to endure the attention for long. Hermione took pity on him and pulled him out of the Great Hall, claiming that they had to get ready with Ginny, Dean and Neville following them. It didn't take long for Harry to change into a pair of black trousers and a dark green collared dress shirt with the sleeves rolled up. He then threw on a black robe but left it open so it didn't look like he was trying to imitate Professor Snape. I'd never live that one down, that's for sure.

After meeting Hermione at the bottom of the stairs, Harry and Hermione left to meet Cho and Sirius in the Entrance Hall. Hermione was wearing her light pink dress robes she had purchased at Diagon Alley before the school year began and had her hair pulled back in some sort of twist. She seemed to be rather self conscious about her appearance which Harry found odd but he didn't say anything about it. He just complimented her and offered his arm for her to wrap her own arm around.

When they arrived at the Entrance Hall, Harry quickly noticed that it was abnormally busy. Several groups of girls were waiting around, whispering to each other. Sirius, dressed similar to Harry except that he was wearing a royal blue colored shirt, was talking to Cho, apparently in the middle of a one of his stories about his time at Hogwarts. Cho was wearing light blue colored dress robes and had her hair pulled back with loose curls hanging from her face. Sirius was the first to notice Harry and winked with a sly grin on his face. Harry could tell that Sirius found the situation amusing.

"Ready for this, kiddo?" Sirius asked as Harry and Hermione approached then offered his arm to Cho. She wrapped her own around it with a blush. "We should probably be going. The sooner we get there, the sooner we can leave. After all, Slughorn never said we had to stay all night, now did he?"

Harry bit back a laugh. Thank you, Sirius. He knew that Sirius was only going because Harry was going. Rumor had it that there was supposed to be a vampire at the party along with Professor Snape. It was still up for debate of who Sirius felt Harry needed more protection from.

As they reached Slughorn's office, the sounds of laughter, music and loud voices were enough to give anyone a headache. Harry quickly concentrated on anything and everything other than the emotions around him. He couldn't risk being bombarded with too many emotions tonight. He doubted that he could push anything off as a magical fluctuation without raising suspicions now no matter what Professor Dumbledore said.

Harry and Hermione followed Sirius and Cho into Slughorn's crowded office. The room had clearly been charmed to be larger than it actually was to accommodate so many people. Green, red and gold hangings covered the ceiling and walls, making the place look like a rather large tent. Harry could only roll his eyes at the thought. Slughorn was obviously the Ringmaster bringing forward his acts to dazzle the crowd. And I'm the star act. Great. Just great.

The room was bathed in red light from an elaborate golden lamp hanging from the center of the ceiling. There even appeared to be real fairies fluttering around, each of them casting a distinct speck of light. Loud singing accompanied the music coming from the far corner of the room which was too difficult to see with the haze caused by pipe smoke. People were all talking in groups, not paying attention to the house elves that were trying to maneuver their way around with heavy silver platters of food in their hands.

Harry moved to follow Sirius to an empty corner when a dreaded voice called out for him. "Harry, m'boy!" Professor Slughorn exclaimed, his excitement clear in every line of his face. He was wearing a velvet hat with a matching smoking jacket. He looked like an overstuffed plum but Harry wasn't about to say that out loud. "Just the person I was waiting for! And you've brought Miss Granger! Good to see you, my dear!"

Sirius moved so he was standing directly behind Harry. "Horace," he said with a nod.

Slughorn's smile faltered for a brief moment before it returned just as wide as before. "Sirius!" he boomed. "I didn't expect to see you here tonight. You've denied every one of my invitations."

"And I would have denied this one if you hadn't coerced Harry into coming," Sirius said dryly as he rested a hand on Harry's shoulder. "Harry, Hermione and Cho are here to enjoy themselves, Horace, not to be paraded around by you."

Slughorn chuckled but it sounded slightly forced. "Sirius, Sirius, Sirius," he said shaking his head. "You never change. You are as protective of your godson as you were of your friends during your years here. You're more than welcome to accompany us, of course. Eldred Worple is eager to meet the both of you. I'm certain Miss Granger and Miss Chang could spare you two for a small time."

Hermione took a step back, pulling her arm free and standing beside Cho. "We'll look around for the rest of the Council, Harry," she said with a smile. "We're supposed to meet up with Ginny and Luna anyways."

That was all it took for Slughorn to usher Harry and Sirius towards a large group of people. All conversation ceased as everyone turned towards Slughorn and his two guests. "Now Harry, Sirius, this is Eldred Worple, the author of 'Blood Brothers: My Life Amongst the Vampires' and an old student of mine," Slughorn said with a smile, gesturing towards the short, plump, bespectacled man. "Next to him is his friend, Saguini."

Sirius' hand tensed on Harry's shoulder, alerting Harry that the pale, tall man with dark shadows under his eyes was the rumored vampire. Worple eagerly shook Harry's hand then Sirius'. Saguini tried to keep a bored expression on his face but kept his eyes on Harry, almost like he could determine whether what he had heard was true. The people around them were also staring at Harry like they couldn't believe their eyes.

Worple was the first to move, grabbing Harry's hand and shaking it fiercely. "Harry Potter!" he said. "Simply delighted! Professor Slughorn had mentioned it had been a challenge to recruit you. In fact, we were just speaking the other day about the fact that one such as yourself has been through so much, yet there is nothing printed about the boy we all want to know so much about. The biography of Harry Potter would be priceless. I would be delighted to write it, of course."

Harry pulled his hand free, already trying to think of a tactful way to escape from this. "No thanks," he said firmly. "Everyone knows enough about my life as it is."

"But most of it is speculation," Worple countered. "You have faced He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named more times than anyone and yet nothing is actually known about those encounters, including the infamous battle at the Ministry. It must have been remarkable if Scrimgeour is impressed by it." Worple's gaze shifted to Sanguini, who was edging towards a nearby group of girls. "Sanguini, stay here!"

Harry felt the hand on his shoulder tighten as Sirius leaned towards Slughorn. "You either control that vampire or you send him away," Sirius warned softly. "As a teacher here it is your responsibility to protect those present. If that vampire even tries anything, you'll be in Ministry custody before you can say Crystallized Pineapple."

"Ah!" Worple said as he looked up at Sirius. "Of course we can't forget Sirius Black. Your story is nearly just as mysterious as your godson's. The only person to escape from Azkaban without assistance. Your biography would also bring in the gold."

"Not interested," Sirius said tensely. "Now, if all of you are done staring, Harry and I will be leaving. Good evening to you all." No one had the nerve to argue as Sirius steered Harry away. It didn't take them long to move back to the secluded corner Sirius had noticed earlier. "Pompous prats the lot of them," Sirius said through his teeth. "Worrying about biographies in the middle of a war. Fudge's influence, no doubt."

Harry knew better than to interrupt Sirius' quiet rant and that had nothing to do with the fact he agreed completely with Sirius' point. Sirius was finally releasing his steam. It had taken a lot off self restraint on Sirius' part to remain as silent as he did. Remus' influence no doubt. Harry let out a sigh as he scanned the crowd for any sign of Hermione and Cho. Sirius was not a diplomat. Sirius hated the world of politics. It had been that world that had sent him to Azkaban without a trial.

"Harry!"

Startled out of his thoughts, Harry quickly turned his head just before he found himself trapped in a fierce embrace and red hair in his face. He only knew one person with that shade of red hair. "Er—hi Ginny," Harry said as he pulled himself free. "Care to tell me the reason for attacking me?"

Ginny smiled as she pulled her hair away from her face. "Just a thank you for coming. You won't believe how boring these parties can be with no one to talk to," she said sincerely then looked over at Sirius. "Hello Sirius. Enjoying yourself?"

Sirius let out a snort. "Immensely," he said dryly. "I suggest that you be careful though. The vampire with Eldred Worple seems to have a fondness towards teenage girls and Worple is too busy trying to find his next bestseller to worry about it. Don't wander off alone and warn the other girls."

"Will do," Ginny said with a nod then returned her gaze to Harry. "Just in case you want to know, Dean and McLaggen are over there—" she pointed off to her right where several groups of people were deep in conversation "—talking about possible improvements for the Quidditch team….Well, it's more like McLaggen talking about improvements and Dean trying to appear interested."

Harry pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance. "If I see Dean, I'll apologize," he said. "I'm really starting to regret making McLaggen a part of the team."

"You really didn't have a choice, Harry," Ginny said logically. "Then again, perhaps it's the position. I find it hard to think that two prats play the exact same position is merely a coincidence. You're still coming for Christmas lunch." Her gaze shifted between Sirius and Harry, her face hopeful. "Right?"

Sirius shot Harry a brief questioning glance. "Molly's expecting us, Ginny," he said with a smile. "You know how your mother is. If we're even a minute late she'll come looking for us. For some reason, she has to see Harry with her own eyes to stop her worrying."

Ginny beamed. "That's my mum!" she said. "Well, I should probably pull Dean away from McLaggen and find the girls. Have fun."

And she was gone, walking through the crowd of people but before Sirius could question Harry about what had been said, an overabundance of purple came into their line of sight. "There you are, Harry," Slughorn said loudly. "So this is where you've been hiding. If I didn't know any better I would think you were avoiding people."

"You don't say," Harry said evenly. He wanted to tell Slughorn that he was avoiding people. He wanted to point out that the type of people who attended these parties were the type of people he normally went out of his way to avoid. "I've never really been comfortable with strangers, sir."

Professor Slughorn chuckled. "I can understand that, my boy," he said. "You've lived a life of solitude. It's only natural for you to shy away from the public life. That is why you need someone to help you along, show you the ropes if you will."

"And you are nominating yourself for that role," Sirius concluded as he enfolded his arms across his chest. "Harry doesn't need to be shown the ropes, Horace. He has more important things to worry about than your little parties, like his schooling and the remainder of his childhood."

Harry buried his face in his hand as he furiously tried to think of something to stop the shouting that was bound to come. Sirius' protectiveness, irritation and frustration were colliding with Slughorn's pride and eagerness, two opposite personalities that could only cause an explosion when Sirius became defensive. Harry didn't know if he should try to calm Sirius down or just let him give Slughorn whatever was necessary for the man to see reality for what it was.

Fortunately, someone else arrived to diffuse the situation. "Professor Slughorn," wheezed the Caretaker, Argus Filch, as he approached, dragging a reluctant Malfoy by the ear. "I discovered this boy lurking around in a corridor upstairs. He claims to have been invited. Did you issue him with an invitation?"

Harry once again felt Sirius' hand on his shoulder as Slughorn moved his overweight body between Harry and Malfoy. Nothing had been said publicly concerning Harry and Malfoy's confrontation but clearly the teaching staff knew what had transpired and were prepared to do what they could to avoid another confrontation between the two. The problem with that was that Malfoy wasn't looking for Harry or to cause a scene. Harry could tell from the sensations of panic, exhaustion and frustration rolling off of Malfoy in strong waves. Whatever Malfoy had been up to, it had nothing to do with attending Slughorn's party.

Malfoy pulled himself free and scowled at Filch. "Fine!" he said furiously. "I wasn't invited! I was trying to sneak in, happy?"

Filch smiled gleefully. "As a matter of fact, I am," he said. "No nighttime prowling without permission! Headmaster's orders! That'll be detention for you now!"

"Now Argus, that's all right," Slughorn said pleasantly. "It is Christmas after all and it's not a crime to want to celebrate. I think just this once, we can forget any punishment. You may stay, Draco, but only if you refrain from causing any trouble. This is a social gathering, after all."

Filch looked positively outraged which wasn't surprising. What was surprising that Malfoy didn't look pleased in the slightest that Slughorn had gotten him out of trouble. If anything, Malfoy looked like it was Slughorn who had caught him sneaking around, not Filch. Harry looked over his shoulder at Sirius and noticed the guarded look on Sirius' face. Something was going on here; but what? What could possibly cause Malfoy to act this way?

Before anyone could say anything, Harry saw a tall black figure moved from the corner of his eye towards Malfoy. Harry stepped to the side to get a better look and saw Professor Snape staring at Malfoy with a mixture of anger and something else Harry couldn't put his finger on. It wasn't surprising to see Professor Snape upset that Malfoy was causing more problems but it was more than that. Concentrating on Professor Snape, Harry couldn't believe the waves of anger, frustration and nervousness pouring off of Snape. This only fueled Harry's belief that something was indeed going on.

"I wasn't aware you received an invite, Draco," Snape said coolly.

"Now, now, Severus," Slughorn said chuckling. "The boy meant no harm." He looked at Malfoy and winked. "I believe Blaise is a member of your house, Draco. He was speaking with Eldred Worple the last time I saw him."

There was no mistaking the discrete dismissal. "Thank you, sir," Malfoy said, a smile appearing on his face. "I appreciate it."

Malfoy left to find Zabini with Snape disappearing into the crowd a short moment later. Harry partially turned and shared a glace with Sirius, his eyes moving from Sirius, to the door and back. Sirius nodded in a silent understanding. "I'll find Hermione and Cho," Harry said and left before Slughorn could say anything in protest. His curiosity was now in overdrive. What in the world was going on with Malfoy and Snape? There was so much tension between them now and it certainly had nothing to do with school.

It didn't take Harry long to find Hermione and Cho. They were huddled in a circle with Ginny, Hannah and Luna, talking and laughing. They were clearly enjoying themselves, unaware of anything that had transpired. Harry felt slightly guilty for intruding on their fun but before he could turn around he was spotted by Cho and pulled into the group.

"No offense, Harry, but you look bored out of your mind," Hannah Abbot said with a smile. "Have you been trapped listening to Quidditch from McLaggen too?"

Hermione wrapped her arm around Harry's and smiled up at him. "He left us not too long ago," she clarified. "He wasn't too happy to hear that none of us wanted to go 'talk' somewhere more private. He thinks we'll just fawn over him because he's on the Quidditch team and he knows the Minister of Magic. McLaggen also didn't like it too much when Luna pointed out that Scrimgeour was a vampire."

"Sorry I missed it," Harry said dryly then looked directly at Hermione and Cho. "I didn't mean to interrupt but I just wanted to let you two know Sirius and I are leaving. Malfoy came and we want to avoid any trouble."

"Malfoy gate crashed?" asked Ginny in surprise. "And Slughorn let him stay?"

"Professor Slughorn probably wanted to avoid a scene," offered Cho. "Most likely to avoid being caught in the cross fire." She looked at Harry for a moment before smiling. "I suppose we could leave too. It's not like we doing anything here we can't do any other time."

"That really isn't necessary," Harry insisted. "Stay. Enjoy the party. Just because this sort of thing isn't my cup of tea doesn't mean you have to miss out." He knew that spending time with the girls was probably the best for Hermione. This way she didn't have a constant reminder of Ron and Lavender like she would if they were to return to the Gryffindor Tower. "I just wanted to let you know so you didn't look for me later."

Hermione and Cho shared a look. "Well…if you're sure," Hermione said uncertainly.

"I'm sure," Harry said with a smile then looked around the small group. "Good evening, ladies. If I don't see you before the holidays, Happy Christmas." With a final wave, Harry left his classmates to rejoin Sirius. He didn't have to look back to know that Hermione was back to laughing with the girls.

As much as Harry didn't want to, he couldn't help thinking of his nearly nonexistent friendship with Ron. Nothing was as it should be. He should be laughing with Ron and Hermione, not wondering if the friendship that had seemed so unbreakable only months ago could be repaired. Both Ron and Hermione had made mistakes but only Ron had been hurtful and cruel. Ron would have to be the one who apologized. Within this lifetime would be nice but unlikely.

Harry finally found Sirius waiting alone by the door and followed him out. The hallway was dimply lit compared to Slughorn's office. Voices and music echoed throughout the halls until it was too distorted to make out. Everything grew muffled. Harry stumbled as his vision swam. He didn't know what was happening. He couldn't explain it. All he knew was he didn't like it.

He was in a room, a dark classroom. Two people were standing face to face. The taller of the two had black, greasy hair, a hooked nose and a sallow face. The shorter of the two had a pale, pointed face and white-blond hair. He also looked ill with dark shadows under his eyes. The taller wizard was glaring at the shorter but the shorter glared right back. They appeared to be in the heat of an argument but no words were being said. The taller wizard was the first to break the silence.

"You cannot afford any more of these mistakes, Draco," said the taller wizard, "because if you were to be expelled—"

"I didn't have anything to do with that, all right?" the smaller wizard said in frustration, his hands clenched in fists.

The taller wizard enfolded his arms across his chest as he sneered at the shorter wizard. "I hope you are being truthful because that stunt was both clumsy and foolish," he spat. "It would be unfortunate if someone were to dig deeper into the situation and begin to suspect you."

The shorter wizard's eyes narrowed. "For the last time, I didn't do it, all right?" he asked angrily. "I know what you're trying to do! As much as it may surprise you, I'm not stupid! Whatever you try won't work! This is my task! Mine!"

"Stop acting like a spoilt child, Draco!" the taller wizard snapped as he took a quick step towards the shorter wizard, forcing him to take a step backwards. "I grow tired of this! You have been avoiding me all term!" The taller wizard forced himself to calm down slightly as he took a step backwards and glared at the shorter wizard. "I see now you won't tell me anything. Very well. I shall leave you to your fate then and tell your mother that you are too caught up in your own arrogance to listen to reason."

The shorter wizard glared. "Leave my mother out of this," he spat.

The taller wizard smiled a cruel smile. "I would," he said coolly, "except for the fact that your mother called upon me to help you. She even wanted me to make the Unbreakable Vow but the Dark Lord forbid it. He knows you will fail, Draco. He's counting on it. What will happen to you then? Who will protect you from the Dark Lord's wrath? Your mother? Crabbe and Goyle?"

The shorter wizard's conviction seemed to melt off his face. "I won't fail," he insisted although his voice was now shaking slightly. "It's just taking a little longer than I originally thought. I will succeed and nothing you can do or say will stop me. You just want to steal my glory and remain the Dark Lord's favorite!" The shorter wizard appeared to have regained his confidence as he shot one final glare at the taller wizard before stalking towards the door.

"You can't do this alone, Draco!" the taller wizard insisted, his frustration clearly getting the better of him. "You need to see the bigger picture! You are following in your father's footsteps only you won't have the luxury of a cell in Azkaban! You will be killed! Staying alive is more important than your pride!"

The shorter wizard turned to face the taller with an arrogant smile on his face. "Your words mean nothing to me!" he spat. "I already have people on my side! I don't need you! Accept it and stay out of my way!" Not waiting for a reply, the shorter wizard turned, opened the door and strode away.

Harry didn't have time to notice anything else before everything went black.