A/N: Hey everyone! This chapter is a bit of a mix of things, we have a scene, an article, a letter and a bit of bonding between Alina and Harry. Let's get this show on the road, yeah?

Warning: Slash and language in this one,

Disclaimer: I'm not J.K but this plot is mine XD

Parsel

Chapter 33,

Harry was still laughing when the shadows vanished and Tom pinned against the nearest wall, his eyes were dancing as he looked at Tom.

"Patience is a virtue." Harry told him and Tom scoffed.

"In what way did I make you think I was a saint?" He countered and Harry laughed.

"Is there something you wanted, Tom?" He asked, tilting his head slightly. Tom pressed himself closer to the teen, biting lightly on his earlobe.

"I like how we left off," He murmured.

"Oh, remind me?" Harry said, his voice dropping as Tom trailed kisses down on to his neck. He breathed in sharply when Tom's hands started to wander over his body and he bit his lip to stop any sound coming out when Tom brushed over his nipple.

"You were without these unnecessary clothes," Tom told him, easily vanishing his top with a snap of his fingers, "And you had these gorgeous legs wrapped around me." Tom's hands drifted lower and lifted Harry up as if he weighed nothing, Harry wrapped his legs around Tom's waist, moaning at the friction it caused.

"It's coming back to me." Harry admitted, rolling his hips and he hissed when Tom bit down on his neck hard. "Had you not just mentioned how you going to make me forget my own name?"

"Something like that." Tom confirmed before he was kissing him. Harry was left breathless when Tom rose for air, he was barely given time to recover before Tom turned and threw him on to the bed; literally.

"Hey, I'm not a rag doll." He exclaimed, pushing himself on to his elbows, "I don't appreciate being thrown around thank you very much."

"I am sure that will be the last thing on your mind very soon." Tom stated, stalking over. He knelt between Harry's legs and flashed a dark smirk before he was everywhere, he kissed, licked and bit down Harry's exposed skin, paying extra attention to his nipples and turning the teen in a whimpering mess. Tom removed the rest of Harry's clothes, his own following instantly and wandlessly slicked his fingers to prepare his teen, Harry groaned when he saw what Tom was doing which made the Dark Lord smirk. By the time he had three fingers stretching his lover, Harry was writhing beneath him, begging for anything. Tom entered slowly, teasingly and Harry whimpered as he began a slow, even pace.

"Tom, please please." Harry groaned, "I need more,"

"Patience is a virtue." Tom repeated, and Harry managed to glare at him.

"I'm not a fucking saint either, so fuck me." Harry snapped, and then yelled out when Tom slammed straight in to his prostate. His body seemed to arch up and his blood was lit on fire, and Tom did so enjoy the image Harry presented. Harry threw back his head when Tom hit that spot again, a loud cry leaving him as he did so, he could feel everything as Tom pulled out and thrust back in sharply. The Dark Lord slowed down causing Harry to whimper, he moved at a slow pace until Harry was incoherent. Harry was feeling light headed, Tom was torturing him, he couldn't even speak probably, so he wrapped his legs around him and clenched his muscles making Tom hiss out a groan. The languid pace sped up, the lust and desire flowing between the pair was growing and for every thrust Tom gave Harry moved to meet him, their movements becoming erratic as they neared the end. Tom changed angles and repeatedly hit the spot that turned Harry in a screaming mess.

"Come for me," He ordered, his voice husky and Harry exploded, his release hit him instantly and his vision whited. Tom felt the muscled clamp down around him and managed a few more thrusts before he filled his younger with his seed, and collapsed down next to Harry. They led there, basking in the afterglow and just enjoying the company for many minutes, Harry stretched and hissed, he rolled over and led his head on Tom's chest, curling his hand around the man's waist.

"You know, I have so much to do and so little time." Harry said, his voice barely above a whisper, and he shuddered when he felt Tom's hand trail patterns on his hip.

"How many times will you relive after this?"

"Three times," Harry answered, "Once for ministry work, once for anti-Dumbledore work and the final for magical work."

"What magics are you working on?" Tom asked, looking down at the dark head on his chest.

"Ah, now that would be telling." Harry said and Tom could feel his smile.

"You are very evil."

"I know." Harry agreed, "I suppose I can tell you that I'm working on this very nice version of the Cruciatus curse."

"Oh?"

"Yes, it's coming along very nicely."

"I can only imagine." Tom murmured, "I would like to see it, once it is perfected."

"Of course," Harry agreed, "I was supposed to ask you something, but I have been rather busy."

"Go on,"

"The counter curse, I assumed it worked, but it was highly inconsiderate for me not to ask how it went." Harry said and Tom smiled slightly, not that Harry could see.

"Yes, it was highly successful and Bella has been working with Narcissa to overcome the fact that she, unintentionally, killed her cousin. She was rather distraught."

"I can imagine." Harry said, "And she didn't even glare at me today."

"Yes, her aversion of you has practically vanished. The curse is no longer working and you are of Black blood, you will no longer have any issues with her at all." Tom explained and Harry nodded.

"Good." He stayed silent for a few moments before speaking again, "What is Nott's father like? The one you are friends with."

"How did you know I was friends with him?" Tom asked and Harry turned to look at him questioningly.

"You told me, back when we were at Malfoy Manner still. You mentioned it, something about the disappointment Theodore would feel if he could see his son." Harry said and Tom blinked.

"That was a tiny detail months ago, completely inconsequential." Tom pointed out and Harry shrugged.

"I remember everything you tell me." Harry said absently, "So, what's he like?"

"Theodore Nott is a very simple man. He values traditions, and magic, and he is exceptionally powerful. If he saw how his son acts towards you he would probably hex him to Avalon." Tom told him.

"That's reassuring." Harry said, "Because Izar Nott is coming very close to me ending him."

"I had noticed. Izar is foolish, and he has been warned to not go against you, but he seems to be blinded by hatred." Tom's voice was layered in amused exasperation and Harry shook his head.

"It seems to happen a lot with me. Snape was the same until I got through to him."

"Yes, but even that took six years."

"Don't remind me, Tom." Harry huffed and whacked him when he felt Tom chuckling. "I'm leaving." Harry sat up and went to move away but Tom wouldn't let him.

"Do not be like that." Tom said in amusement, "I am surprised you managed in six years."

"Uhuh," Harry nodded, his expression unimpressed and his tone sceptical. Tom rolled his eyes and pulled him down in to a slow kiss, one that made Harry's eyes glaze over and darken in lust.

"So sure you are leaving."

"I-what?" Harry muttered, and Tom chuckled again. Harry shook his head to clear it and shot a small glare at Tom, one that was more of a pout than an actual glare much to Tom's amusement.

"Distracted, Snake?"

"You are terrible." Harry stated with a huff, he slipped out of Tom's arms and in to the bathroom to have a quick shower. He came out dressed in a looser pair of jeans and a v neck top and running his hand through his hair to dry it.

"I'll be vanishing for the rest of the day completely, I'll do my relives and then I'll crash. Tomorrow, I am hoping, there will be something in the paper about the law." Harry said to the Dark Lord, who had moved enough to sit back on the bed with underwear on.

"I believe Hadrian Greengrass would have spoken out, you may even receive a letter from him." Tom replied and Harry nodded.

"I am hoping that is the case." Harry agreed, "Now, I have research to conduct and a ministry to rip apart."

"Do have fun."

"I will." Harry kissed his cheek and shadowed away.

War Council:

Dumbledore Passes New Ministry Law:

Senior Undersecretary Speaks out!

In a shocking move within the last Wizengamot Session, the Chief Warlock, Albus Dumbledore, invoked the War Council and passed through one of the first War Legislations by Majority vote: The Magical Protection Act.

With this surprising move, speculation has arose to just what the motivation was behind this sudden move. Since the first war, rumours have spread about a Vigilante group, run by Dumbledore, working to combat the dark forces within out world, and with this passing of legislation it has been speculated that it could be another ploy to give Dumbledore yet more power. As Headmaster, Chief Warlock and Supreme Mugwump of the ICW, Dumbledore is one of the most politically powerful men, if not the most, in our world, with this passing of this law he will now have the power to direct his group, said to be called the Order of the Phoenix, to capture and take down those believed to be within the Dark. But isn't this a job for our aurors and ministry staff? Why, suddenly, is such a law being put through allowing civilians to interfere with the law? One member of the ministry, and a Lord who voted against the passing of the law, was Undersecretary Greengrass, Lord to the Noble and Most Ancient House of Greengrass.

"It is ridiculous," He said, walking through the ministry where we managed to catch him. "This is nothing more than an indiscrete power play enabling those who have no business taking the law in to their own hands to do so."

His distaste for Dumbledore's latest mood was apparent, and it was apparent he was not the only one. Mr Lucius Malfoy, Lord to the Noble and Most Ancient House of Malfoy, was also available for comment.

"This latest law is an act of desperation." He told us, "With Dumbledore's recent exposé, people are starting to doubt, rightly so, if he has what's best for our world in mind. He has had too damage control, and with this law, Dumbledore, as his vigilante group are able to remove his opposition in the name of the law. It is a disgrace."

Speculation will continue to grow and people will ask themselves if this was truly the best course of action for our world, and, eventually, they will have to ask themselves if Dumbledore is really as honest as he makes out to be.

Rita Skeeter, Daily Prophet Correspondent.

Harry raised an eyebrow at the paper, Rita was turning to be the best thing they had on their side at the moment and he seriously had to send her a gift for all the work she was doing. Even without him telling her to. It seemed as if she wanted to ruin Dumbledore just as much as he did, and she was using anything and everything to make the old man look bad. It wasn't as powerful or as impacting as the ones Harry was sending to her, but then, this plus the other three and the one still to come were going to pack a punch. He couldn't wait for his finale to be released, he knew he would have to have something written up to finally push Dumbledore out but the next article was going to blow.

Harry noticed that Hadrian's owl landing next to him and he quickly undid the tie and fed the bird, it seemed the owl knew that it couldn't be around Harry for very long because it took off with its bacon instantly. Harry tucked the letter away and left the hall, he knew Dumbledore's eyes were on him so he made his way to the library, he would have to sit there for a bit before retreating to his rooms and seeing Luna. His sister had been distant with him since the wolf attack, but he had something for her. While he was busy with his research yesterday, he had taken a little break to create something for her, and he hoped she liked it. The library was quite today, as it always was on a Sunday and Harry made his way to his usual spot, gladly dropping down to his table and pulling out a book. It was a history book, he wasn't taking the class granted, but he could get away with saying he wanted to take it at the ministry as he had gotten an A in it after all. Of course, if one were to inspect the book he was actually reading then he would have to make up some hastily made excuses on how he had got the book and why he was reading it; which is was why it was charmed to Avalon and back. Harry had nearly finished his book, and the notes he was making, when his little bubble was popped a despondent little figure dropped down opposite him.

"Hey, Little Elf,"

"Hi," He replied in a small voice, and Harry frowned.

"What's up?"

"I couldn't find you yesterday." She whispered, and looked up showing Harry a bruise on her cheek and a split lip. His eyes flashed dangerously and he stood abruptly, making her flinch slightly.

"Sorry," He said, taking a breath to calm himself. "I was stupidly busy yesterday, but that is no excuse."

"What were you doing?" Alina asked and Harry grimaced.

"Trying to fix the ministry, it's a long process."

"Why are you trying to fix it? Isn't that Fudge's job?"

"Yes, but he's practically useless and he won't be in power much longer." Harry stated, and then he sighed. "I can't have you being attacked and then not being able to find me. Come on," She blinked at the instruction but followed him out of the library. The halls were desolate and Harry took the quickest route to the defence corridor he knew, making sure to point out unique details so Alina would be able to find the same route if she so wished. He walked down to his rooms and the portrait swung open, he mentally asked Hogwarts to recognise Alina and allow her access at all times and he felt the warm of the castle agreeing with his request.

"Where are we?" She asked, looking around with wide eyes.

"This is where I live." Harry answered, "And now you know where it is, you can come here if you want. Even if there is no one here, I will know when you enter and come see you. But I don't mind if you just stayed here to hide out, there are books and I have elves that work here if you wanted anything."

"Really?"

"Of course." Harry assured. She beamed at him and flung her arms around his middle, Harry often forgot how small she was because her head rested on his stomach.

"Thank you, Harry."

"So what's say we hang out here for the day and you can help me bribe my sister with cookies?" He suggested and Alina nodded delightedly. "Let's get out of these horrible robes first." Harry snapped his fingers and Winky popped in, a smile ready for her master.

"Yes Master Harry?"

"Can you go and collect a change of clothes for Alina? Something like my Sunday clothes." Harry questioned and she nodded.

"Right away, Master."

"Let me show you around, not that there's much to see."

"Ok," She agreed, "How comes you have your own rooms?"

"Dumbledore's a bit of a d-," He cut himself off and looked at the little elf by his side, he reminded himself that she was little and that she shouldn't be swearing yet. "He's a bit of a fool."

"Oh." She frowned, "I know why, but why?" Harry chuckled at the bizarreness of that sentence, but he understood what she meant.

"He's under the belief that if he separates me from my friends then he'll get what he wants easier." Harry told her.

"It's not working how he wants it to, is it?" She said after a few moments and Harry snorted.

"Not even close." He confirmed. They got to his bedroom and Harry grinned when she bounced on the bed before hopping off, he pushed open the bathroom door and she gasped.

"It's huge!" She exclaimed and Harry blinked.

"No, it's rather normal." He corrected, "I'll show you a huge bathroom one day, its like three times this size."

"Wow!" She whispered amazed. Winky popped back in and handed Alina the clothes, and Harry herded her in to the bathroom.

"Run wild." He told her with a laugh. He grabbed his own clothes and slipped in to his joggers and a tight top, forgoing shoes and padding over to his wardrobe in his socks. He hissed at the secret compartment he had creates and pulled out a covered hanger, a white box and a blue velvet case. He carried them down to the living room, hanging the hanger on the door and putting the box and the case on a conjured table. Alina came barrelling down in to the room and Harry very nearly cooed, she looked adorable, and even smaller in before. She was dressed in a set of dark blue dungarees that finished in a pleated skirt, with a green and pink pattern over them, over a dark pink top and cute little black shoes with white socks pulled up to her knees. It was an outfit that made her look years younger and Harry couldn't help but smile. He picked her up and deposited her on the kitchen counter much to her shock, he called for Winky and asked for some ingredients before looking back at Alina.

"What's in the bag?" She asked, pointed to the hanger off the door.

"Ah, that's something for my sister." Harry replied, "Want to see?"

"Yes."

Harry unzipped the bag and held it up, Alina gasped and looked at the piece in awe.

"Whoa, where did you get it?"

"I made it." Harry told her, zipping it back up.

"You made it?" She repeated, shocked and Harry grinned.

"Yeah, bit of a pass time for me."

"That's so cool!"

"Thanks." Harry said, putting the hanger back. He went back to the kitchen and grabbed one of the bowls left by Winky. "Have you ever made cookies before?"

"No," She shook her head, looking at the collection of ingredients with interest. "Can you even do that?"

"Of course I can." Harry said, "And you are going to help me. It will be fun." Harry put a bowl in front of Alina along with a sieve. "Ok, first thing is first. We need to sieve the flour. Just do what I do." Harry put a spoon full of flour in his own sieve and shook it gently over a bowl, Alina watched him with keen eyes and did the same thing, she was a bit messier than Harry but it was to be expected. They repeated the motion a few times until they had the right amount of flour, then Harry added some salt and Bi Carb and put the bowls to the side.

"Next we have to mush some stuff together." Harry told her. "We have to get the butter and mush it with the sugars." He passed her a bowl with chunks of butter in it and poured in the brown and caster sugar on top, handing her a fork to start with.

"What do I do?" She questioned, looking at the bowl.

"Just mash it up." Harry said, "Doesn't have to be neat." To illustrate, he began mashing with his fork and she laughed and copied him. They continued until all the sugar was gone and Harry swapped out her fork for a wooden spoon, he cracked an egg and added it, threw in an egg yolk and some vanilla.

"I gotta mix it?" Alina confirmed and Harry nodded. He watched her as she mixed everything together as he absently mixed his own, when it was blended together he flashed a grin.

"Now for the messy bit." He said, "We have to put the flour in to this, and we get to mix it with our hands."

"Wicked!" She dumped all the flour in to the mix and stuck her hands right on, her nose wrinkling cutely when she felt the gooey mix around her hands. The flour kept puffing up as she was mixing it and Harry laughed when she looked surprised, Alina pouted and flicked some of it at him. When the mix was binding, Harry threw in some chocolate chips, both white and milk and they mixed them in until the dough was ready. He tapped the oven with his wand to get it to the right temperature and then separated the dough in to even size balls before sliding them in to the oven, setting an alarm to alert them when they were done. Harry cleaned them up with a wave of his hand and lifted Alina back on to the ground.

"How long do they take?"

"About fifteen minutes." Harry said, "So not long." They both looked around when Luna danced her way in, and Harry flashed her a smile as Alina waved.

"I was wondering where you were." Harry said, "Can you sort Alina's face out please?"

"I've been listening to things, nothing that interesting, only Dumbledore's ability to prove he is in fact a fool." Luna told him, "And of course, hold still Alina." Luna waved her wand and the makes all but vanished. "I'll get you a salve to put on your cheek before you leave."

"Thank you, Luna."

"No problem." She turned to make her way upstairs but Harry cleared his throat.

"Don't you want to see your presents?" He asked innocently and her eyes light up.

"I thought you had forgotten." She said and Harry scoffed.

"As if," He waved the very thought away, "No, this just took a bit more time." He pointed to the door and where the hanger, box and case were resting and her pale eyebrows rose. She opened the case first, inside was a simple set of diamond stud earrings with three matching silver bracelets, each with four stones on them. The next thing she opened was the box and took out its contents, it was a pair of simple white satin platformed heels, with a line of diamonds going down the heel. Luna squealed slightly when she saw them and carefully put them away. Finally she turned to the hanger and unzipped the bag, she gasped in utter awe when she laid eyes on what was inside. It was a floor length ball gown, made from ice blue satin and a sweetheart neck line. It was a fishtail design and the base of the dress was entirely backless, however, to preserve her modesty, there was a layer of intricately designed lace and mesh that covered the dress, adding texture and detail. The lace went up to the neck and it was long sleeve, and on the back, where the dress stopped, the lace was there covering and in each of the twisted flowers there was a diamond stitched in.

"Oh Harry," She breathed, her eyes tearing up as she looked at the masterpiece.

"I'm so sorry for worrying you." He said and stepped back a few times with the force of Luna throwing herself at him,

"You idiot." She muttered in to his shoulder.

"I'm taking a guess here, but I assume you like them?"

"Harry they're beautiful!" She exclaimed, "I can't believe you did this."

"Anything for you."

"I think I shall wear this one to the Malfoy ball. The Malfoys usually throw the best ones and I want something perfect." Luna decided and Harry smirked.

"I have plans for the balls anyway, I am quite looking forward to them."

"I can imagine."

"Harry, the cookies." Alina called from where she had taken up residence in front of the oven, her head poked up over the counter and Harry grinned.

"Oh yes, we can't have them burning now, can we?"

"Nope."

Harry tapped his hands with his wand before opening the over and taking out the cookies, they smelled pretty amazing and he placed the trays on the counter.

"Tah dah!"

"I do so love it when you bake." Luna sighed happily, carefully grabbing a piping hot cooking and putting it on a plate.

"Alina helped today." Harry said, grabbing a cooking for himself and handing one to the girl in question.

"Really? Did you have fun?"

"Yes! I've never made cookies before." She told Luna.

"Harry makes other things too, he'll probably show you some other time." Luna said, "He's a rather good cook." To emphasis her point she bit in to the cooling cookie and smiled.

"So you cook and make clothes?" Alina said, as if she didn't believe it.

"And duels, creates spells, plays quidditch and has a gift with animals." Luna added.

"Whoa, you're like Merlin or something." She breathed and Harry laughed.

"I wouldn't say that, I just happen to have learned different things."

"You're still amazing."

"Thanks," Harry said with a smile, "How about I show you some spells before you leave, that way you can get ahead in Professor Drield's class and he will like that."

"He was so happy with my essay, said it was the best one he had ever read from a first year and I got twenty points." Alina said proudly, "That book is helpful."

"Have you covered the disarming spell practically yet?"

"Yes, Professor had us learn that when we handed the essay in." Alina said, "We're working on the shield charm now."

"Ok, shall we go through that and I can show you a few others, one's I know you'll be learning after Yule."

"Yes!" She bounced around to the main area and Harry followed her with a shake of his head. Luna made herself comfortable in Harry's chair and sat back and watched, Harry was a great teacher and she liked watching him work.

"So the first thing you have to remember is that the shield is there to protect you, so that means you have to want it to protect you. Many first years struggle with this spell."

"No one has gotten it yet, we've has a few lights but even Jamie Fisher, who gets all the spells, can't get it." Alina said emphatically and Harry nodded.

"It's because it's not really in the curriculum on how to get this spell up straight away." Harry said, "Now, I want you to think, really think, of something in front of you protecting you. You have to concentrate fully on being protected, on wanting to stay safe. Try closing your eyes too, and imaging that shield there protecting you from harm." Alina closed her eyes and did what Harry said, frowning as she pictured being safe and protected and Harry nodded to himself.

"Keep picturing it, it is the most important thing on your mind, picture it clearly." He said, his voice soothing and low, "Now speak the word Protego,"

"Protego," She spoke clearly and a clear blue shield erupted from her wand, it was firm and powerful and Harry smiled proudly. He knew that this method worked because it was one he used with the DA for those who still couldn't get the shield, it wasn't taught at school but if you pictured something enough your magic would finish it for you; it was helpful like that.

"Open your eyes." He instructed, and she gasped when she saw the shield. As expected, it rippled and flickered out, but she had seen it and she looked at Harry with excitement.

"Did you see that? I did it, I actually did it." She cried and Harry smiled.

"Yes you did. Do you remember how it felt when you said the spell?" He questioned and she tilted her head.

"It was warm, I could feel my magic flowing and then it was gone."

"Good. Let's do it again, except this time you keep your eyes open and when you see the shield you don't lose focus." Harry said and she nodded determinedly. They went through the stages again and the shield came from her wand, it flickered slightly but Harry saw her face frown in concentration and it help up and she smiled.

"Congratulations." Harry told her.

"So do I have to concentrate like that all the time?" She asked, looking the spell over before it faded out, and Harry shook his head.

"No, we'll go through this another time and then we'll go on to the cheating way. Once you've learned the spell properly then there is usually a quicker way of doing it."

"Cool," Alina managed to get the shield up without a flicker this time and Harry grinned, she was definitely a powerful little thing.

"Can you still feel your magic?" He questioned and she nodded, "Ok, what I want you to do is remember that feeling, memorise it, let it fill you up." Harry knew she had did it when she gasped. "Ok, now, thinking of only that feeling, say the spell." The shield burst out, stronger than before and her eyes went wide.

"Wow!"

"It's an amazing feeling, right?"

"Yes, it's tingling."

"Do it again and then we'll move on. You can practice on your own before the class." Harry said. He thought of what to show her next, there were a few that would be coming up but he had to take in to account that they weren't in a practice room.

"So what next?" Alina questioned and Harry nodded to himself.

"The next spell is surprisingly easy, the trick is controlling your magic." Harry said, "And you have to promise that if you use it against a person that you only aim for the arms because I don't want you arrested for murder just yet." Her eyes widened.

"What spell is it?"

"It's the severing charm, Diffindo."

"Professor Flitwick mentioned that one."

"Yes, and it's usually used for cutting ropes and clothes, however, it you have enough power and control it can cut through skin very easily. So be careful."

"I will. I promise."

"Good. Now, I want you to imagine this-," He conjured up a t shirt and hung it mid-air, "Being cut in half and the bottom falling away." To illustrate what he meant, Harry flicked his wand and the top was sliced in half, the bottom fluttering to the ground. Alina nodded and Harry repaired the top with another flick of his wand, "You'll have to keep your eyes open for this one, you need to aim your wand at the top. Once you think you've got it pictured, the spell is Diffindo," Alina repeated the spell and a violent ball of light shot from the wand, destroying the top and carving in to the wall behind. Harry gaped a little before laughing, Luna was snickering in to her hand and Alina was looking at her wand in shock.

"Powerful little Elf," Harry said, "Did you feel the magic?"

"Yes, it felt different, like a wave."

"I want you to imagine that feeling, but instead of the wave, I want a stream." Harry commanded. It was a few attempts before Alina got the stream Harry was after, but by that time she could over power and under power the spell. Harry cast a tempus and blinked, it was fast approaching dinner, they had worked entirely through lunch and he shook his head; it didn't feel like they had worked that long.

"It's nearly dinner time." Harry told Alina, "I can have Winky bring you some of our cookies later."

"Thank you, Harry. You're the best."

"And you know you can come here whenever you want," He said, indicating the room, "It's no problem."

"I will," She looked at him before running and hugging him again and leaving.

"She's too cute." Harry decided.

"That outfit made her look adorable." Luna said, "You bought that one, didn't you?"

"I couldn't help it." Harry defended, "And she's so small anyway." Luna laughed and shook her head.

"Open your letter from Hadrian, I want to know what it says." She told him and Harry rolled his eyes. He summoned the letter to him and broke the seal.

Dear Harry,

I have to say, your insight into how Dumbledore's mind works is rather astonishing. You were quite correct, and when I stopped looking in to his legislation he halted his observations of my person. I realise, however, that he is getting desperate, and the passing, for it did pass if you are not yet aware, of this legislation only proves it. I did vote against it, and have been very vocal in my protest of the law, and Dumbledore is not pleased. I have not actively challenged him as of yet, so he is mere being cautious.

I, as you suggested, looked in to the ministerial records of court transcripts and was stunned to realise that you were, again, correct. It was not as if I doubted you, but believing that the ministry, even as corrupt as it is, would actually send a man to Azkaban without a trial is truly astonishing. I have been compiling evidence to prove the injustice, and I have been finding things that will ruin the reputation of certain individuals should they became known.

We must converse during the Yule break, I am sure we will have a lot to discuss. My instincts tell me that you have not been as idle as you have appeared to be, and I believe we will have much to discuss.

From,

Hadrian.

"I wonder what he has found in regards to Sirius' trial?" Harry mused, and Luna shrugged her shoulders delicately.

"I cannot say I know as of yet." Luna said with a frown, "I haven't managed to be around to catch anything."

"Do not worry about it, I mean, I will be seeing Hadrian over the Yule holidays and Yule Ball invitations shall be sent out within a week. I'll be getting those, and depending on the style of the invitations I will have a rough idea what to wear."

"I've already got that covered." Luna chimed and Harry laughed.

"Ok then, I will have an idea on what Paws and you shall be wearing."

"I already have one dress." Luna said, a happy smile coming to her face and Harry grinned.

"I am glad you like it."

"I think it may be your best one to date."

"It came to me and I already have your sizes." Harry shrugged. "I know you already know, but I have to fill the others in on the law and how royally Dumbledore screwed up again."

"It is rather amusing that it was his own fault, despite how refined that law actually is." Luna agreed, "Though, I am definitely not complaining about his screw up."

"No, that's for sure."

"Do you want to call a meeting now?"

"No, I'll speak to them tomorrow. I'm imposing my company on you for the rest of the day." Harry told her and she beamed.

"Good. You get the rest of the food and I'll get the sketch books."

"Remind me to speak to the twins about the tattoo tomorrow." Harry said to her as she darted up stairs.

"Will do."

Harry smiled to himself as he called his house elf, he was looking forward to relaxing for the day.

He walked directly to charms Monday morning. Winky had already popped in to give him his breakfast after his training so he just didn't bother with the Great Hall, if questions were asked he would claim he overslept due to exhaustion. They were now expected to perform silent magic in all of their practical magic application and it was a relief for Harry because he had a valid excuse for being able to case silently, Professor Drield was, after all, tutoring him privately and the man had gone through his entire spell list; well, that was what Dumbledore was being told anyway. Flitwick shot him a pleased smile when he cast a silent banishing charm and awarded him ten points, Harry grinned and continued on, he might just get away with picking up his ability. As long as he messed up the wand movements a few times it should go unnoticed, he lingered behind in the classroom when the diminutive professor called for him.

"Yes Professor?" Harry asked,

"I just wanted to speak to you about you're work. Professor McGonagall explained the reasoning behind your falling essay grades and I am pleased to see your grades are coming back up." Flitwick told him in his cheerful squeaky voice, Harry smiled in relief.

"That's good, I was worried about failing the year."

"You don't have to worry about that now, Mr Potter." Flitwick assured him, "As for your practical work, you have always had a quicker grasp on magic, but Professor Drield has assured me that you should not struggle with any silent casting due to your private tutoring." Harry sent a mental thank you to Tom while on the outside he nodded excitedly.

"Yes, Professor Drield had me start with first year and we worked through all the spells I knew so I had a firm understanding." Harry explained and Flitwick seemed to bounce on the spot.

"Wonderful, I hope to see the full extent during your end of year exam."

"Of course, Professor."

"Now, run along. I'll send you with a message to Professor Sprout." Flitwick waved his wand and Harry plucked the sheet of parchment out of the air,

"Thanks sir," He waved his hand and left the room, he slipped through the corridors and out of the main doors heading towards the greenhouses, it was cold out and Harry thanked warming charms as he went. He passed his note to Professor Sprout and she waved him in to line, Harry stepped up near Neville and followed the other teen's instructions to catch up. He would always hold a slight resentment to Herbology due to being forced to garden by the muggles, it wasn't something he control but it was something he would have to deal with. Sprout didn't say anything to him and Harry went to lunch, it was a rather dreary day and the mood seemed to be reflected in the hall. It wasn't very loud, which he was thankful for, but he didn't linger. Harry headed up to Transfiguration early and took his custom seat at the back of the room, McGonagall nodded when he cast his spell silently and Harry was allowed to leave without homework; something he was monumentally thankful for. His final lesson for the day was potions, he hauled himself down to the dungeons and met Draco outside the classroom. Harry was thankful that Draco paid attention, because he had no idea what they were doing. Draco shot him an unimpressed look and Harry grinned sheepishly.

"Did you expect anything else?"

"You are impossible." He sighed, "Just prepare the ingredients." Draco pointed to a page in the book he threw at him and Harry did as he was told, potions hated him anyway.

"How did you even get in to this class?" Draco asked him, as Harry passed him the first set of ingredients.

"You know, I have no idea. I think I got lucky because the theory was on potions I know a lot about. I mean there was Polyjuice, wolfsbane and an extra credit question on Veritaserum."

"True, that must have dragged up your grade." Draco agreed, "As well as your prep."

"It's not that I can't make a potion, it's just that when I do it tends to go wrong." Harry said,

"I've noticed."

Being the mature one, Harry stuck his tongue out and continued preparing his ingredients. It was another thing he could pin on the muggles, due to them forcing him to cook he could use a knife better than most.

"So what are we actually making?" Harry asked when they were on the final stages of the potion.

"Have you not paid an ounce of attention?" Draco asked incredulously.

"Um… yes?"

"Honestly!" He rolled his eyes, "It's the numbing potion."

"Oh, cool." Harry peered at it, "It don't look that great." He noted, looking at the mustard yellow colour simmering in their cauldron.

"No, it has to stand and next lesson we'll boil it up and it should settle on a clear honey colour."

"Right, I'll take your word for it."

"You're potion should now resemble a mustard colour. Preserve your potions and pack away." Snape ordered, Harry took the equipment and washed up quickly before going back to his station and packing everything away as Draco preserved their potion, the last time Harry had tried to do that still made him shudder; he was pink for a week. Snape dismissed them but called for Harry and Draco to remain, Harry shrugged and sat back down, waiting for the class to file out. When the door slammed shut he felt Snape's wards flare and turned to his Professor.

"Yes?"

"Some of the ingredients needed for the potions I am making are not available for me to retrieve and pass them for school costs." Snape began, and Harry blinked.

"I forgot, damn, sorry about that." Harry shook his head, "Bleach, did I give you a card?"

"Yes, want me to double up on the ingredients and pass them on?" He suggested and Harry nodded.

"Yes, Badger is working on restocking the Greenhouses, though he has got permission to buy whatever he wants so we should go back to supplying most of them ourselves. I'll have to speak to Fenrir or Ellen and ask if there are any wolves that are able to harvest directly from the forest." Harry mused, "I bet there's a goldmine of things in there."

"That's a brilliant idea. The place is thousands of years old, after all." Draco agreed. "I shall have your ingredients by tomorrow, Severus."

"Very well." Snape nodded, and they were dismissed. Harry nodded to Draco as the blond headed towards his dorm and Harry went in the opposite direction and went towards the Great Hall. He didn't even manage to make it in to the Hall before McGonagall swept over to him and told him he was expected in Dumbledore's office. Harry nodded and smiled on the outside but on the inside he was bemoaning his suffering, he trudged up to the seventh floor and muttered the password to the statue. He knew this was coming and he knew what to expect so he steeled himself to deal with Dumbledore's shit as he knocked on the door and entered the office.

"Ah Harry, my boy, have a seat." Dumbledore greeted and Harry smiled.

"Hello headmaster," Harry returned, "How are you?"

"I am fine, thank you." He answered, "But I am afraid I do not call you here with good news?" Harry made his eyes widen and he sat forward.

"What is it? Who's been hurt? What has Voldemort done this time?" He asked in rapid succession and Dumbledore sighed.

"I am afraid to say that, on a recent mission to the werewolves, Remus has been captured." Dumbledore told him gravely and Harry gasped, looking horrified.

"Remus? No! It's can't be! Headmaster, are you sure?"

"I am so sorry, my boy, but the dark forces are indeed spreading." Dumbledore sounded as if it caused him pain and Harry took a moment to marvel at the man's sheer audacity. He actually believed the shit he spoke, and Harry couldn't wait to see the man's face when he realised just exactly how far the "dark forces" had actually spread.

"But we're going to go save him, right?" Harry cried desperately.

"The Order is gathering intelligence to discover his last movement so we can begin tracking him to discover his location." Dumbledore assured, "We are doing everything in our power to find him and bring him back safely." Harry nodded, but he bit his lip as if he was worried.

"Ok. Is there anything I can do?"

"At the current time, it is best if you remain in the castle and keep training."

"I can do that."

"There is something I wish to warn you about." Dumbledore began, sounding almost hesitant but Harry didn't buy it.

"Yes sir?"

"I am afraid that, in order to lure you out, Voldemort may use Remus against you." Dumbledore said and Harry looked shocked.

"What?"

"It is my belief that, over the next few days you may receive letters from Remus filled with lies in order to draw you away from the school and in to the Dark's clutches." Dumbledore explained and Harry looked sick.

"What shall I do?"

"If any such letter does come to you, I would like you to bring them to me immediately. Think nothing of the contents, for it is but a ruse."

"Ok sir, I can do that." Harry said, nodding determinedly, "I won't even read them, I know Remus' handwriting by now."

"Very good, Harry." Dumbledore said with a pleased smile, "And thank you for being so understanding."

"I just hope we get him back before it's too late." Harry muttered despondently, looking down at his hands.

"So do I, dear boy." Dumbledore agreed.

"Is there anything else, headmaster?" Harry asked, "I-I think I need to think this through properly."

"No no, there is nothing else. Go, rest, I understand this is stressful for you."

"Thank you, sir. Good evening." Harry murmured and he left. He rolled his eyes as soon as he was free and shook himself, he would have to speak to Moony about possibly sending some fake letters to him or something; he would have to discuss it with the wolf himself. Harry headed straight back to his rooms and found Luna lounging on the sofa and he dropped down on to his chair with a sigh.

"You need to prepare yourself, Ginny will be back very soon."

"I had a feeling that would be true." Harry sighed, "I think I might get away with avoiding her for a bit, play on the fear of her getting attacked again."

"That could work, it would have been something that Harry would do." Luna agreed, "And your idea about the letters, I believe, won't be needed."

"Oh?"

"No, I think, if you remain on this path, then Dumbledore will be too busy to care." Luna said, "That and we only have two weeks left before Yule break is upon us."

"It's not a lot of time, is it?" Harry groaned, "Ok, we can do this."

"I've picked up your search for the Ravenclaw heir, you can drop that."

"Are you sure?" Harry asked, looking at her and Luna nodded.

"You are doing too much, I can handle a little bit more. My listening doesn't take any effort, merely being in the right place at the right time."

"Ok, thank you." Harry said sincerely.

"It is not a problem." Luna waved him off, "Now, I have arranged a meeting so you better get cooking."

"Excuse me?"

"Everyone missed dinner, so chop chop."

"Wait a minute!? You volunteered me to cook!"

"Yes, chicken if you will."

"The things I do for you." Harry grumbled, "What time are they going to be here?"

"About an hour."

"Fine fine," Harry pulled himself up and went to get changed. Luna had already led out his joggers and t-shirt, and Harry quickly changed before heading back down. He moved in to the kitchen and started pulling out pans to work with and he snapped his fingers to call for Winky.

"Yes, Master Harry?"

"I'm going to need twenty deboned chicken thighs, cheese, some of the elves barbeque sauce, some streaky bacon, some potatos, oil and some turmeric and cumin powder. Plus some salad, some vinegar, white wine, mustard, salt and pepper." Harry said to her, "And can you get me an extra tray, I'm going to need it."

"Right away, Master Harry!" She squeaked happily, popping away.

"Oooh, are you making what I think you are making?" Luna exclaimed, peaking over the sofa.

"Depends on what you think I'm making." Harry countered.

"Are you making desert?"

"We still have cookies." Harry pointed out and she pouted.

"Not even a raspberry sorbet?" She pleaded and Harry sighed.

"Fine!"

"Here you is, Master Harry." Winky called, laying out all of the food Harry had asked for.

"Thank you very much, Winky. Can I also have a pail of raspberries, some sugar, lemon juice and some water?"

"Yes, sir,"

"Happy now?" Harry turned to Luna with a raised eyebrow and she grinned.

"As a Nargle."

"Uhuh," Harry said sceptically. He put all of the chicken thighs in to a bowl and coated them in some of the BBQ sauce and left them to sit. He chopped the potatoes up in to wedges and spread them out on a tray, he covered them in oil lightly and then coated them with turmeric and cumin powder, using his hands to turn them so they were fully coated. He put them straight in the over, knowing they would take the longest to cook. He then heated up the frying pan to sear the skins on the chicken to seal in the BBQ flavour, putting the bowl of remaining sauce aside for later. He was so in to his cooking, from where he was stuffing the chicken with cheese and wrapping them in bacon, that he didn't notice the others entering.

"Yes! You're making my favourite." Swift exclaimed, and Harry looked up sharply to find his room full of people.

"It wasn't as if I had a choice." Harry mock grumbled, but he was grinning.

"So what's for desert?" Paws asked and Harry rolled his eyes as Luna smiled smugly.

"Cookies and raspberry sorbet." Harry answered as he lay the wrapped chicken in a deep tray, he threw them in the oven and washed his hands. The raspberries were chopped up and put in a saucepan with the sugar being reduced down in to a liquid, Harry squeezed some lemon juice in to the liquid and added some water. He let that simmer until he felt it was ready to be strained, he pushed it through a sieve and added another splash of lemon and tapped the bowl with his wand, putting a slow freezing charm on it as he cast the spoon to slowly stir the mix. Once that was in the process of setting, he started chopping cucumber, lettuce, tomatoes and spring onions. He left some of the onions whole, only putting slits in to the tops and throwing them in a bowl of water; he wanted them to curl. He poured some oil and vinegar in to a bowl and added mustard and a dash of salt and pepper before whisking it together to make a vinaigrette. He put it to the side with a cooling charm on it, he washed his hands again and shook them to dry them.

"That's going to be about an hour guys." Harry told them, "Shall we get on with the meeting?"

There we have it folks, Dumbledore really is a despicable man, isn't he? Well, I think I have set everything up for the next chapter, it'll be up soon and I'll be extremely quick if you leave me a lovely review ^_^

Thanks guys,

Jess*