Hey everyone,
I have no idea why I was so glad to have finished the last chapter, considering that Umbridge and other crap are practically all over the Order of the Phoenix book. And to be honest, though I never really cared for Half-Blood Prince, I now kind of wish I could work on that one as my apathy for that one would make writing easier.
Oh well, here we go,
Venquine1990
Chapter 30
Ending The Reading
13th of August 1995
Potter Place Borders
Lea's POV
Potter Place has much larger grounds than I ever expected and I can only imagine that there are spells on the borders that make the inside larger than the outside would normally allow. Yet Even and I are easily rushing past the borders, letting wisps of our shadow powers, mine filled with power, his with ice, pass through.
Yet all of mine die out, proving that there is no one outside the wards trying to look in or have an influence of what happens within the borders. Yet to make matters even crazier are we incapable of seeing any of the other houses or even the rest of town as instead, even at the borders, there is nothing but land as far as the eye can reach.
"These illusion spells are absolutely incredible." Even mutters and I agree with him before I say: "If I didn't know any better, I'd say we've already passed this part. Those vast landscapes that just keep on stretching further and further. It's no wonder so many Potter generations grew up here." At which Even smirks and asks:
"And you will soon be adding to those generations, won't you Lea?" But I focus back on running past the borders and on the wisps of dark flames that I send out as I say: "Not before the books are read. Harry needs me as a supporter right now, not someone who helps him continue his family legacy." At which Even nods and says:
"Right, my apologies. Forget I said anything." I nod and we rush past a few more acres before I decide to speak up a potential idea that had sprung in my head during the reading of the last two chapters. "You know, you might be the only one Granger will actually listen to." I tell the man, who tilts his head and asks:
"What makes you say that?" And I answer: "You both love investigating and researching things. You're both the studious types. And you're both very ambitious when you believe in something; to the point of being stubborn. You know what they say, sometimes you have to fight fire with fire – or knowledge with knowledge in your case."
At this the former Ice Nobody seems to turn contemplative and he says: "I won't deny that your idea has merit, but for some reason I doubt it will work. The girl seems more stubborn than ambitious. I think it will sooner help her if we really rant her out for a huge mistake. And seeing her current track record, I doubt that will take long."
Yet while I don't disagree with the guy, do I still grimace as I think: "He's not wrong, but will Harry be able to handle that?" And while I know that I told the Little Flame that he will only lose a friend if he wants it or if Hermione wants it, do I also know that the latter happening will hurt my mate more than his friend seems to realize.
"We're about to reach our starting point." Even suddenly tells me and I nod. We reach said point and I stop, Even only a few steps behind me and I turn to where the borders are hidden by the illusion charms as I say: "Good, it doesn't seem as if that assassin is still here. Let's report back and get those wards lessened."
Even nods and we rush back for the arena, me feeling proud that, even after three years of peace, neither Even nor I have slacked off enough to be tired after such a long run. And apparently does James feel the same as he sees us arrive and asks: "Wait, you just scoured the entire border and you're not even exhausted?"
At which I shrug and say: "A little winded, slightly tired, but nothing more." And Even goes on: "And the assassin has definitely left. I can only imagine that he was just a one-day fly or something. Make an attempt and then vanish, whether he won or lost." And James nods before he turns back to the gem in the arena's center.
I myself turn back to where Harry is lying and I raise an eyebrow at the sight that he is still asleep. "Riku still in there?" I ask and Sora answers: "You know my boyfriend. He doesn't like doing only half work." At which I smirk as that is definitely true and I think: "Guess he will be taking out more than just a few bits of Darkness."
And just as I think that, does the boy in question return, a bit of sweat on his forehead, his hair ruffled up and his cloths quite the mess as he says: "I managed to change bits Dark emotions from a lot of the more painful memories into Heartless. They didn't take out all of Harry's pain and suffering, but they did lessen it.
Should make it easier for him to heal and accept that certain horrible things happened without him being able to control it." At this I nod, but then I notice Riku looking at me sternly and I gaze back, suddenly spotting how his eyes dash between Hermione and myself. And instantly I get what the other Keyblade Master is trying to say.
"I also lessened the pain Harry feels from how Hermione is treating him." Is his silent message and I nod in grateful relief before Riku turns back to Sora and happily accepts the warm, loving hug Sora gives him as the brunette pulls his boyfriend on the seat next to him. I myself move over to Harry alongside the twins.
"I'll be right back, I'm going to pick up Seamus and his mother. Alastor, will you hand these papers to Albus and Minerva and remind them of the Hogwarts Charter, please?" James then asks and the Auror nods as he takes the pages from the last chapter and limps out of the arena, James kissing Sirius lovingly before he follows the man.
At The Finnegans
James' POV
The Finnegans definitely have a nice two story house with a brilliant bit of ground that surrounds the whole house, going from the front over into the back with only a simple white fence made of wood separating the two. It is also so ordinary looking that I am glad that my House Elves have the same ability as Postal owls.
I knock on the door and get answered by a boy who, by the description in the book, I recognize as Seamus and the boy gasps before I say: "Greetings. Seamus, right?" And the boy nods while his face proves that he is wondering how I know that. Yet I ignore this and pleasantly ask: "Will you let me come in, please?"
And while the boy seems dazed with his shock, does he step aside to let me in. I gratefully smile at him and then move through the slim entrance hall that seems to lead straight into the living room, which – if I have to go by what I have seen so far – takes up most of the bottom floor of the house and is cozily decorated.
And standing at the window to the left of the fireplace that is stationed against the right outside wall is Seamus' mother. Mrs. Finnegan is definitely a pretty looking woman with the same sandy-colored hair as her son, but then with a pair of stunning blue eyes whereas Seamus seems to have inherited his father's green eyes.
"Mum, Lord – ehm Potter?" He asks and I nod before he goes on: "Lord Potter is here to visit us." And the woman turns to us shocked before she says: "Ah Lord Potter, what a wondrous surprise. And wonderful timing too. Now you can help me figure out a little something." And I instantly feel curious as the woman asks:
"Why has the Daily Prophet stopped using your son as an example in their stories?" And this instantly sets me off and I state: "Because they weren't using him as an example, Mrs. Finnegan, they were slandering him. And considering that their motivation was the murderer of his aunt, my sister by bond, I think it's only right that they did."
The woman looks shocked and she asks: "So you – you don't think it right that the people finally get to know their hero?" To which I retort: "Not if they base all their info on nothing but a gossip writer with an ego bigger than the Quidditch final stadium and a hatred for other people unless she can completely ruin them."
"Is that really how you think about Rita Skeeter?" The woman asks shocked and I retort: "Wouldn't you if her articles turned your son into a national pariah?""But surely Potter can handle it? I mean, he's been famous for almost two decades!" The woman says, but I ask: "Has he – or has the world just hyped up his title behind his back?
I mean, after Lily was killed, how long did it take for Harry to be back in the magical world again? I do believe it was a good decade. So is he famous – or is his title famous?" By now the woman looks thoughtful and I say: "There's nothing wrong with believing in a title, but it should never go at the cost of the person behind the title."
"So – so you're – you're here to –." The woman asks and I answer: "To make sure you don't push this belief in the paper into actions you will later regret. And to prove I know what I'm talking about; I, James Christiaan Potter hereby swear that my son, Sora Arturo Black took a De-aging potion to turn from 18 to 15 years old.
Upon my magic, I swear, upon my magic, so mote it be." The woman looks shocked and then Seamus asks: "Why did you have to tell us that?" And I answer: "Because when my son came back from 1998 to this year, he took three books with him. And it's in those books that we found evidence of what I just told you about beliefs and actions."
The woman looks shocked and curious and then another voice asks: "Seamus is going to cause trouble for Harry, because he doesn't want to disappoint his mum, am I right?" And I turn around to see a tanned lad with curly black hair and brown eyes and I ask: "Dean Thomas, am I right? That must be pretty hard for you to hear."
"Why would that be hard for him?" Mrs. Finnegan instantly asks and I answer: "Because Dean may be friends with your son, but he has nothing against Harry either. So to be sharing a dorm with two people he at least cares for, but who are causing trouble for each other. Surely you can see how that will be hard on him?"
And the woman cringes before she nods and Seamus asks: "Is – is that why you're here?" And I cross my arms and raise my eyebrow at him and say: "That – and because I wonder why you only told your mum bad things. Surely you had good times with Harry as well; Quidditch matches, cups won, things like that? Surely they matter?"
And Seamus turns red before I turn to his mother and say: "I am already housing Ron and Neville as well as some other Weasleys and Augusta. I have nothing against housing the rest of my son's dorm. In fact, I think it will be a good way for them to grow closer before school starts again, you know, before trouble starts anew."
"You think they will be in trouble?" Mrs. Finnegan asks worriedly and I ask: "Do you really believe that the trial that took place a few days ago has made Fudge decide to stop his slander campaign against my son?" And the woman grimaces before she mutters: "He is way too stubborn to give up after something like that."
And I think: "Exactly." Before I ask: "So, you lot coming?" To which the woman answers: "Just let me write a quick note to my husband so he knows where we are and why we didn't wait for him. Oh wait –." But I cringe and say: "Sorry, my family wards are a little over-powered at the moment. I'll explain later."
The woman nods and a few minutes later are the four of us standing outside the borders of my home. "Eeeeeh." Dean mutters as he sees the destroyed cottage and I say: "Potter wards are known for their illusionary tricks." And the boy nods in amazement before I put one hand against the air just above the small metal fence.
I then stretch out my other hand and say: "I'll need you to lay your hand flat against mine so I can have your magical signature registered with the wards. Dad hated the idea of using blood over anything else; he was very creative." And while the three look intrigued, do I take a quick and cautious look around the perimeter.
The three of them lie their hand against mine one at a time and when I have registered their signatures in the wards, do I shock my new guests by opening a gate door in the middle of air and nothing else. We then pass and the mouths of the three new arrivals drop as Dean whispers: "Yep, definitely known for illusions."
And I smile at him, but then move behind him and the other, take a quick look around to see if I spot any Muggles and then send a few quick and harmful spells at the darker, better hidden parts of the street before I quickly slam the gate door closed and hiss: "Danger level; mediate." And the wards shine as they rise their protective power.
"What was that about?" Mrs. Finnegan asks and I sigh as I say: "I'm sorry. I should have told you. Just about an hour ago, we were reading something that really irked the adults in the group, but because it was something future related, were we unable to do anything about it. So we decided to vent off some steam indoors.
However, after we adults had left, did some unknown person cast a deadly spell at the kids that almost saw them killed. Since then we've been on high alert, even though we already checked the perimeter and it seems this assassin has left after his attempt on the teens lives failed." And the three look quite shocked to hear this.
"Are the others okay?" Dean asks and I nod as I say: "They are, they're in the arena that houses the ward stone. It activated itself just seconds after the spell hit and undid all the damage, including healing any injuries the kids got from the attack." At this Dean sighs in relief and Mrs. Finnegan grabs my hands as she asks:
"Do you have any suspects?" But I shake my head and say: "The only two people I could possibly suspect of wanting to do this are either arrested and in custody or have been trialed and already found guilty. The latter had crimes severe enough, they send both suspects of the latter through the Veil of Death, and one of them was a minor."
"Who on earth are you talking about?" Seamus asks and I answer: "Ginerva and Molly Weasley. And no, I won't tell you anymore; that's a story for the Weasleys to share. It's their story, not mine." The two boys nod and Mrs. Finnegan asks: "And the former?" To which I answer: "Fanatical Figgy." Already saying enough.
I then move back to the front and move them past the manor and over to the arena where everyone else is waiting. Yet as I arrive, do I spot that I am not completely right as I ask: "Alastor not back yet?""We think he might be having issues with Albus again. You know why." At which I sigh and nod before Ron says:
"Hey Dean, you here too?" And Dean answers: "I was staying at Shay's place when Lord –.""Mister." I tell him and he looks at me as I say: "Outside I'm Lord Potter, inside I'm James, but only to those I have come to know well enough. To new guests, I'm Mr. Potter, not Lord." And the boy nods with interest before he says:
"When Mr. Potter came to set things right for Shay and Harry. Wait, why is Harry asleep there?" And only then do I notice that my youngest is indeed still fast asleep on the laps of the twins, who say: "We couldn't help ourselves. He looked too adorable, too peaceful." Making me smile as I can get where they're coming from.
"So it's true then? That you two got bonded to Harry alongside one other person?" Seamus asks and the twins nod before Seamus asks: "But – why?" And Fred answers: "Because Harry's Veela.""Because we're his mates.""Because he's cute.""Because we're proud to know him.""Because we love him!"
They chorus in the end and Seamus shakes his head as he says: "Never mind, forget I asked." Making me snicker as it's obvious he hasn't been around the twins long enough to get used to their speaking pattern. "Hey, Mr. Potter says you're reading books of the future. How far did you guys get?" Dean asks and Ron answers:
"We only just reached the first weekend of next year. We had things like moving from a safe house to here, the trial/meeting to worry about and helping new people who are friends with Sora settle in. Plus a part of the story was about the actual trial that would have taken place and that was something we read even before the meeting."
"Yeah, I can get why you would need some time off after that. Just one last question. Is it true that Ginny's been thrown through the Veil of Death?" At this the Weasleys all turn dark with vengeance and Bill mutters: "We're currently suspecting either her or mum to have cast an actual Heartstamp spell on Harry."
Yet this confuses the boys and Ron says: "It's a dark curse, guys. Dark enough that when Moody recognized it, he started cursing a right ass storm, let me tell you." And the two look shocked before Dean asks: "So, when do we read on?" To which Kingsley throws him the book and says: "Right now, have fun, I'm done."
The boy looks startled and I say: "He had to read two chapters dedicated to Dolores Umbridge. Trust me, she's a nasty piece of work. You'll read about it yourself I'm quite sure." The boy grimaces at this and then finds a seat with Seamus and Mrs. Finnegan. I too seat myself with my family and smile as Dean starts reading the chapter.
Percy and Padfoot
"Wait, Percy and who?" Seamus asks and Sirius answers: "That's the nickname for my Animagus form. It's what my partner called me after we became Animagus in our fifth. It's also the nickname for me in our group; the Marauders." At this both new boys turn to look at the twins, who are yet again gleaming before Dean resumes reading.
Harry was … Magic lesson.
"Was it really that bad?" Mrs. Finnegan asks and I answer: "He was put in detention with Umbridge, who used a Blood Quill on him, but made use of curses put on his DADA book to keep him from reporting to the staff. And that's just one of the things that went wrong that week." At this Dean cringes and then he reads on.
Judging by … common room.
"He's actually starting on his homework already? I didn't think he would do it so soon." Hermione says shocked and Seamus asks: "Why not? If he's had so many detentions, wouldn't it stand to reason he would use the weekend to catch up on leftover homework?" And this defense of his friend makes Ron smile as Dean reads on.
Making straight … to say.
"Wait, that doesn't sound like he's writing homework." Hermione says, a suspicious look now on her face and then Sirius smirks and says: "No, it doesn't. Because he's not doing homework. He's going to rebel in the best way possible. Thank you, Harry." And father sends his son a loving smile as Dean reads on.
He could … to have?
"HARRY JAMES POTTER! I TOLD YOU THAT WAS A –!" Hermione tries to explode, but Lea shoots out of his seat with a look of raging fury as he snarls: "You are not his mother, you are not in charge, you should appreciate how hard he is trying to be careful and you should stop thinking you can wake him with your rant!
Got – it – memorized?" He ends, his voice sounding as dangerous as the first embers sparking that start a huge forest fire and Hermione looks at the man shocked, yet Lea just glares at her and snarls: "Just because you disapprove of something, doesn't make it a crime." And with that does he turn from her as Dean reads on.
He sat … Best, Harry
By now all of the adults are smiling and have their arms crossed in pride as Kingsley says: "That kid has you two beat when it comes to coded letters – which makes me feel even worse that we believed Albus when he told us the opposite was true.""You actually think that is a decent letter? Really?" Hermione asks and I snap:
"Hermione, do your friendship a favor and drop the bleeding ego. You're giving me reason to believe I am better off keeping Harry far – and I mean far away from you." The girl looks shocked and Dean asks: "Besides, why are you suddenly doubting your best friend so much?" But when the girl only splutters, does Dean just read on.
Harry reread … be back.
"That wasn't even a hint." Hermione says, but Ron says: "It didn't need to be. Obviously Malfoy and the Death Eaters already knew about Hagrid and his mission, so it wasn't as if they could gleam anything new out of it. Heck, he could have just written Hagrid's name and nothing would have changed." At which Dean reads on.
Harry did … at Hogwarts.
"That doesn't make sense." Ron says, but this time Hermione is the one bringing the answer as he says: "It does. The Ministry doesn't know he's on a mission for the Order and Harry wants to keep it that way." At this Ron turns red and says: "Right, I forgot about that. Guess the hint did matter." At which Dean nods and reads on.
Considering it … you, Harry."
"James, did you –?" Sirius asks me and I nod as I say: "He won't leave Harry all alone just yet. For some stupid reason he wouldn't tell me he doesn't think Harry has earned that right quite yet. But I did manage to compromise with him that he will keep his jokes to less sensitive pranks and word jokes. It was the best he would give me."
"You can actually tame Peeves?" Seamus asks shocked and I answer: "It's more so that Peeves has a different level of respect for House Potter, because we provided him with the means that allows him to remain inside Hogwarts. Though that reasoning of his still bothers me." At this my family nods in agreement as Dean reads on.
"Yeah, bye … at last.
"Harry and Quidditch. It's like the Weasleys and food, no offense." Seamus laughs and Ron says: "It's one of the only good things that no-good bint and her bleeding offspring did." Seamus stops laughing at this and winces as he says: "Sorry, that was careless." But Ron sighs and shakes his head before he turns to Seamus and says:
"Don't, it wasn't. It's currently just kind of hard to think light of her few good traits – when I am worried she might use those for bad against book-Sirius. And seeing as how it's just her and book-Sirius in there, can anyone blame me?" And as an answer do I pull Sirius close, cuddling into his side in concern as Dean reads on.
Something brushed … Saturday morning.
"She wasn't spying on him to catch him in the act. She was tracking him down. Filch must have been tipped off with some fake info and must have send Norris to track you down. Trust me, Regulus did it on mother's orders plenty of times for me to recognize the signs." Sirius growls in concerned anger and Dean reads on, worried.
The sun … his shoulder.
Yet without any reason whatsoever does Dean suddenly stop and look up. Yet the other kids seem to get why as they all turn to the manor as one and to my shock do I indeed see Hedwig actually fly out of Harry's window and over to us, the graceful being flying a cautious circle in the air before she lands near Harry's head.
She then hops over the last few inches and starts gently pecking at his hair, grooming his sleep-head looking hairstyle and only then do Dean and Seamus seem to notice how different Harry looks. "Wow, he really changed." Dean says and Sora replies: "I undid the glamour a few days ago." At which the boys nod and Dean reads on.
"Right, I … she understood.
"I sincerely doubt there is anything Harry tells her that she wouldn't understand. I mean, hasn't she been his silent support even when these two practically break up their friendship?" Dean asks and Ron snaps: "We never did – well, Hermione never did no such thing!" But while I wonder why he changed that, does Dean ask:
"Ehm, Scabbers and Crookshanks?" But to this the whole Weasley family turns grim and Arthur says: "Dean, Scabbers turned out to be Peter Pettigrew. A man thought dead who turned out to be the Potter's Secret Keeper and the man responsible for Lily's death. And Crookshanks turned out to be Kneazle able to recognize him."
"And to make matters worse, did Pettigrew turn out to work along with – wait." Here I suddenly stop and I think: "Figgy is a squib who has been arrested and is now in Ministerial custody. But the Ministry is currently filled to the brim with spies and people who want to help Fudge demoralize and defame my son.
Could – could she – wait, my son?" And then suddenly a horrible realization hits me as I whisper: "My son – my – my boy." And everyone looks at me as Dean was apparently about to start reading again, but then I jump up and shout: "I'll be right back! I have to check up on something!" And with that I dash out of the arena.
"Where are you going?""James, wait!""Wow, wait a minute!""What's going on?""What happened to him?""What was he talking about?" I hear the others either shout at me or asking each other and then a voice sounds from besides me and Hercules asks: "Any reason you're running off like this?" And I keep running as I say:
"I just came to a realization about something that was actually the core reason behind much of what happened before Lily was killed. And by the Great Lords of the world beyond, do I hope I'm wrong!" At this the hero grimaces and asks: "Need me to come with you?" And I hesitate for a minute before I nod and say:
"Hold onto me." And with that do I pass the boundary line and when Hercules has a firm grip on my arm, do I twist on the spot while running, causing for both of us to experience the inconvenience that is Apparation. And when we finish the trip, do I regain my step and continue my dash, Hercules faltering as he lets me go.
Yet the hero seems to need only a few seconds to regain himself before he catches up with me again and I say: "Sorry about that. I should have warned you of what I was planning to do there." Yet the Hero shakes his head and we dash across the grounds and over to the huge structure that is Hogwarts school once again.
And at the entrance do we run into Moody, who looks shocked to see us and I say: "Go back to the Manor, Alastor. The wards have been lowered and we gathered Dean, Seamus and Mrs. Finnegan." "And what are you two planning?" The man asks and I growl: "I need to ask a certain someone some – potentially – unpleasant questions."
"Then I'm in. You got a good bit of attack there on your side, lad, but you could do with an extra bit of defense." Moody says and I can't and don't want to disagree with him, so I just nod and dash up the Grand Staircase all the way to the far top north where the North Tower and the Divinations classroom is located.
Moody seems to recognize where I'm heading, yet while the same doesn't count for Hercules, can I see that the hero doesn't care for where he's going as long as he can help me. And only when we reach halfway up the staircase to the Divinations classroom do I start to feel winded, making me slowdown in my constant running.
Then we reach the landing that reaches up to the Divinations classroom and while my concern for my belief has grown with each landing we pass, do I not let it show as part of me wants to believe that Albus has been smart enough to realize this himself after that stunt with the guy who forced my Siri into that horrible oath.
The hatchet in the ceiling opens up and the silver ladder slides down. At this I take a deep breath and whisper: "I pray to Ecloseus Potter that I'm wrong here. If not, may he guide me into delivering just and well-deserved punishment." And with that do I climb up the ladder, Hercules and Moody sharing a look before they follow me.
We enter the Divinations classroom and it is everything Harry described in the second to last chapter. Yet I ignore the interior for the woman sitting at the head of the room, slightly cloaked in shadows due to the fireplace being lit up behind her as she drinks straight from a bottle of cherry, not even noticing any of us.
Yet due to what I suspect and due to what Luna told us, do I still signal my two partners to be careful as I move into the classroom, hating how I am treating this as an Order mission, yet feeling that it is a necessity nonetheless. "Greetings, young men. I foresaw that you would come and visit me." The woman then says.
Yet as we approach her, do I notice that she seems shocked at seeing both Moody and Hercules. "She was expecting Sirius and me. She thought we'd come to see her about the prophesy she made all those years ago. Well, she's only half-wrong, really." Goes through my mind as the woman tries to hide her sudden shock.
"If you foresaw us coming, then you know why I'm here as well. Though it seems the Hidden Eye is misleading you. Perhaps it tried showing us to you while you had a little too much – assistance?" And I motion for the bottle of cherry that seems to be near the halfway point of being empty, yet Trelawney doesn't seem bothered by it.
"She's got some resistance, I'll give her that." Goes through my mind and before the woman can say anything, do I say: "Never mind, I'm here on family business and I am worrying my family by being here anyway. Let's get down to the reason I'm here." And the woman seems flustered at how direct I am with her.
"You were half-right, you know. When you thought I would approach you about the prophesy you made all those years ago." At this the woman wants to open her mouth, but I don't let her and say: "I'm not here about the prophesy. Quite frankly, I don't care for that batch of words. I'm here for something else that is related.
What you did on the day you met Dumbledore for your interview. Or better said who you met before your interview with Dumbledore." And the way that the bottle of cherry breaks as it falls out of her hand and her complexion pales, do I instantly know that I am indeed right, a thought that absolutely terrifies me.
"So I was right. You met with Fanatical Figgy, who told you that Prophesies only need to be real for 10% to end up in the hall of prophesies and who taught you how to accomplish that before you met with Dumbledore. And at first you didn't listen to her due to your pride, but when Dumbledore prepared to reject you – you followed orders.
Lily's death – is solely on you." And with those words do I turn my back on the sputtering woman and move out of the classroom and down the ladder. And as I once again pass the many staircases I ran up before, but then at a softer pace, do I work my hardest not to let the tears of pain and grief fall, lest Trelawney finds out.
"James, Alastor, Mr. Hercules, what are you three doing here? Why did you visit Sybil?" I then hear an ancient voice ask and I look up, spotting Dumbledore at the bottom of the staircase leading up to the Divinations classroom. "You have warning sensors on your staff's classroom, Albus?" Alastor asks and Dumbledore says:
"Sybil plays a vital role in what the Order is guarding. I must keep her safe and with Tom back, I had to ensure that I always knew that she was alone when she deserved to be." Yet his cryptic words do nothing to either aggravate me or make me understand his point as I say: "They know about the prophesy, Albus."
And the man whitens, yet I glare at him and ask: "Surely you trust your best friend to keep vital things secret?" And I turn to Alastor as I ask this, making Albus sigh before I say: "Besides, there seems to be a little something you didn't know about that blasted bucket of words. Namely, that they're circumstantial, not reliable."
The man looks shocked and confused and I say: "Prophesies only need to have 10% legitimacy to be recorded in the Hall of Prophesies. I looked this up after you reported it to Lily and myself. If someone just acts the part of going into a trance and then speak words that sound mythical and forewarning, the 10% is already guaranteed.
And Albus, I wasn't the only one who knew this back in the day. Figgy did too. And when I hinted at her with Trelawney just now, she betrayed herself and proved me something. She met with Figgy and Figgy taught her this before she met with you. That's why she didn't make her prophesy until you were on the verge of denying her.
The Prophesy is circumstantial, meaning its wording can be interpreted in a 100.000 ways and still come true. Take that one line at the hand of the other. If Harry were to hand you the chance to defeat Voldemort, it would still be at Harry's hand. It would still make the prophesy come true, even if it didn't happen directly."
By now Albus seems awed with what he knows and I say: "We can start protecting Harry. We can start giving him the youth and the chance to regain his innocence that you seem so desperate for. He no longer needs to be our answer and his person no longer needs to be sacrificed for our safety and freedom from that monster.
Are you willing to come back and share ideas on how to accomplish this?" And to my relief does Albus nod before he asks: "So what do I do with Sybil. If she – Merlin's beard!" The man gasps and then he says: "Go back home without me, James. I need to check on something first." And the man dashes past us.
"You think that wench did the same thing for someone else?" Alastor asks and I mutter: "It certainly does seem like it. I just don't know if I want to care or not." And Hercules says: "Let's not. Let's just listen to his advice and head back home. Like you said, you're worrying Sirius and the others with being here this long."
At this I nod and about twenty minutes later are we back on Potter Place grounds and heading back to the arena. Yet the minute I am getting in viewing distance, do I get shocked as it's not Sirius or Sora that dash at me, but Harry. The boy is running for me, worry and fear in his eyes and I take him in my arms the minute he reaches me.
"Mum, are you okay? What happened? They told me you just dashed off all out of the blue. What's wrong? Did you realize something? Wait, were you at Hogwarts? What happened there?" The boy asks and I laugh as I say: "You are way too perceptive, little one." Before I lead him back to the arena and sit down with him.
"Alastor, good to see you back. How did you talk with Minerva and Albus go? Any troubles?" Kingsley asks and Alastor says: "I'm fine. The talk with Albus took some extra time as he had been overthinking our last talk, but Minerva was doing fine, a little ruffled but fine. Got to help Potter in defense as well."
"Defense? For what? What happened?" Sora asks shocked and I answer: "It was just a precaution, Sora. The person I wanted to ask some vital questions to was one who was known for her tricks and seeing the trick I thought she pulled, I was wary of her actual skills. Which is why I accepted Herc and Al's request to help me."
"James?" Sirius asks and I turn to him as I say: "I'm fine, Siri. I managed to get the answers out of the person through shock and was out of there before the person's shock wore off. Also, the answers? They lifted a weight off my shoulders. One I have been carrying for almost 15 years now." And Sirius nods in empathy.
"Mum?" Harry is this time the one asking and I just know it's because of the amount of time I mentioned and I say: "Not you, little one. At least, not in the way you think. I promise to tell you, but I'll do it later. It's best if I tell you in private first, you deserve that. Sorry folks." Yet mostly everyone nods and Dean reads on.
"Safe flight … giant bird.
"What the heck is that?" Seamus asks shocked and I answer: "It's a Thestral. Harry can see them now that he's seen Cedric die. You'll probably learn about them in your ComC class this year." And while this makes Mrs. Finnegan wince as she must feel guilty over having forgotten my son's hardships, does Dean cautiously read on.
It soared … her hands.
And while this makes Dean and Seamus share a wicked smirk with each other, do Harry, Lea and the twins grimace, instantly drawing the attention of the former two. "What's wrong?" Seamus asks and Dean goes on: "Yeah, I thought you had a crush on Chang." But Harry shakes his head and says: "I thought so too."
Then Lea says: "Apparently, according to Luna, Cho uses all kinds of special spells to make her look irresistible to the male population, depending on what they consider a beautiful female specimen. We're currently just concerned that Harry will fall for someone who is just physically lying to him." And Dean reads on, concerned himself.
"Hi," said … have jammed.
"That can't be right." I mutter and then turn to Harry's friends as I ask: "Is Harry a decent speaker to you?" And while Harry wonders why I am asking it like this, while ignoring him, do the others nod and this really worries me. "Why? Does it matter?" Harry himself asks and I nod, before he repeats his first question.
"It matters, because of your genes. If a Potter is a decent speaker, his ancient genes make sure he remains that way, regardless of hormones or location. So even if Harry were to speak to his crush in the middle of a meeting with the Wizengamot, his genes should have made sure something like this won't happen."
And while Harry turns a little red at the example I use, does Hermione ask: "What do you think could have caused it? More of the magic she uses when she changed herself into the perfect girl?" But Sirius shakes his head and says: "No appearance changing magic, light or dark, can have these effects." And Dean reads on, sounding worried.
He wanted … like that."
"Wait, I thought Dolores Umbridge was banned from ever entering Hogwarts again in her OWL year." Mrs. Finnegan mutters in confusion and I can't help but ask: "And you think that matters to someone who just wants to see my son humiliated like Fudge?" And while the woman grimaces in concern, does Dean continue reading.
Harry's insides … her owl…
"You mean the cuts caused by that Blood Quill Umbridge had you use? Was it actually really that bad?" Seamus asks and Harry asks: "You told them about that?" To which I shrug and say: "The book would have done so anyway. We told them just before you woke up." And Harry seems to agree with this before Dean reads on.
But the … for Dungbombs!"
"Really, someone tipped him off about Dungbombs? What, did the twins annoy some Slytherins who decided to get back at them through their friend or something?" Seamus asks, but then Alastor mutters: "Don't write it off that easily, lad. There might be more to this than meets the eye." And Dean reads on, concerned again.
Harry folded … said fiercely.
"Well, she may be trying to play him with her looks, but it seems she's smart enough to know when to side with who." Alastor growls and I retort: "I think it's more a case of her hating Umbridge more than that she likes playing with Harry. She seems to have her priorities straight." At this the former Auror nods and Dean reads on.
There was … the moment.
"The Cheering charms?" Ron asks and Harry nods, his face a mask of concern and then he asks: "Dad, is there a way I can grow immune to her charms like that? Or could the alliance try and stop her?" But Sirius sighs and asks: "Luna, do you know if Harry is her prime target for these spells?" But the girl shakes her head and says:
"Her goal is to become the most popular girl in Ravenclaw. And unfortunately, that gives her House protection. You see, Ravenclaw House gives House Protection to anyone who wants to complete goals that have to do with Hogwarts, whether directly through class or indirectly through its student body. I know, not exactly intelligent."
The girl sighs in the end and Sirius nods before he says: "Then sorry, pup, but the Alliance can't do anything.""And there isn't anything I can use to grow immune to her either?" Harry asks and Sirius sighs as he says: "The only way is through full completion of your bond with at least one of your three mates – and you're too young for that.
No Harry, you are." Sirius adds sternly and he says: "I don't like it, but I did some research into Empathic Veela after we realized that you were one and that kind of Veela actually has a 80% bigger chance of getting pregnant upon the full completion of their bond than any other Veela. And you're too young to be a mum."
By now Harry is both silent and quite red in the face and then the twins shock me as they share a look and ask: "And what if we complete the bond – between us, I mean? Will that do anything?" But Sirius shakes his head and says: "Only with Harry there can any of the bonds be completed." And the twins grimace as Dean reads on.
They left … asked her…
"She was laughing and gossiping about it for three hours, afterwards. Sorry, I felt you had to know it." Luna says and Harry asks: "Are you going to tell my book-self too?" But Luna shakes her head and says: "I probably won't – to save my friendship." And the smile she sends him proves how much she values the friendship as Dean reads on.
"Morning," Harry … as it –"
"Hermione, no. Homework may be important, but in this case, you have no right to do this. It will just make it look as if you are doing the same thing everyone else is; as if you're trying to take Harry everything he holds dear just to have him do what you want him to." I tell the girl with a stern glare before Dean reads on.
But she … no… Sirius!"
And instantly the whole arena is tense, all of them worried. That is until Luna says: "It's the 35%." And we all look at her before Harry's eyes widen and he turns to Hermione, who seems confused for only a second before she asks: "You don't think I did this?" But Harry shakes his head and says: "I just think your secret got revealed."
Hermione looks confused and Harry asks: "What were you doing when you said dad's name?" And the girl answers: "Reading – SKEETER! Molly got in contact with Skeeter and then staged that whole thing at the Platform, screaming Sirius' name the way she did. She did it on purpose, so she could imprison Sirius inside London!"
And while Dean and Seamus look shocked, do the rest of us all look heavily concerned and then dad sighs as he says: "If this keeps up, I wouldn't be surprised if she would go and try to get me killed as well." And while this instantly makes Harry and me dash to embrace him, do I notice Sora and Riku share a dark look.
"What?" I nervously ask and Riku says: "Sirius is the kind of man who would lay his life down if it meant seeing Harry happy and safe." And then Sora goes on: "Yet he wasn't in any of the pictures Master Yen Sid send with Kairi. He just wasn't there –." And the boy lowers his head in pain as he whispers: "Anymore."
And the meaning behind that one word hits us all like a Bombarda curse, making me grip to Sirius even tighter, while Harry actually breaks out in tears and a tear-shedding Sora gets pulled onto Riku's lap. The others also seek comfort with each other and Sirius pulls both my youngest and me closely against his form.
"It's the 35%, it won't happen." The man whispers at us, but I look up and notice Luna looking away. And instantly I know that, while Molly will drive Sirius to a state where he wants to die, it won't be by her hand that my beloved will lose his life. Yet this thought does nothing to make me feel better or make the pain any less.
"Luna, do you know who I can blame for my son's teacher not spotting my partner when he took his pictures?" I whimper and the girl gently asks: "Directly or indirectly?" And Alastor snarls: "Both. It doesn't matter one way or another. Your words prove them both equally guilty." And the girl nods at this before she says:
"Directly; him. Sorry, I need time before I can say his name. Indirectly; her and – the Headmaster." And instantly I remember why I banished Dumbledore from the grounds in the first place and looking at Alastor, do I know that he thinks the same. "Then we will lay into him when we next see him. Lad, read on." And Dean does as asked.
"What's happened … the platform…"
Yet at this Harry, who has stopped crying by now and is just sniffing from time to time, grimaces and he whispers: "I really wish I realized that there was yet another Pettigrew inside the Order." And the fact that the enemy in this case was actually someone my son thought he could trust breaks me as Dean quietly continues reading.
"What?" said … not to."
"And that is exactly what that woman wanted. Now she has him all to herself and she can do whatever she wants without anyone even knowing. She and Sirius are after all the only ones permanently staying at London – or at least in the books they are." Alastor growls in fury and I whisper: "This ought to convince him."
The others all look at me and I say: "Dumbledore. Hearing that his need to see Sirius safe would have resulted in him being in more danger than when caught by the Ministry will, hopefully, make him realize that even his plans can have their faults – even if they're not his doing." And the others nod before Dean reads on.
Harry looked … in Azkaban.
And this instantly takes all attention away from Sirius' imminent death in the books and Molly's horrible plans as everyone looks shocked and then Harry, Ron and Hermione say: "He's been set up." And we all look at them in shock as Harry says: "I'm sure of it. I'm just – not yet sure how." And Dean reads on, sounding awed.
"Sturgis Podmore … get him!"
Here Harry and Riku both turn thoughtful, while Sora seems to think that Ron could be up to something. And yet Harry says: "That sounds like it could be plausible." Before Riku goes on: "But it doesn't sound like something the Ministry would do." And Harry goes on: "Like something they would need to do."
Here everyone looks at them and the two look at each other as Harry says: "Fudge and Umbridge already have practically the entire Magical World by the throat.""Which means they wouldn't need to stage a coup like this." Riku says and Harry finishes: "Him just being at the wrong place and time would have been enough."
"But isn't that exactly what my book-self said?" Ron asks and Riku says: "More or less. You just missed one thing." And when Ron turns to Harry, does the boy seem ready as he says: "Why Sturgis would want to be there. He had a mission early the next morning. Why be at the Ministry in the middle of the night? That doesn't add up."
"Damn, you two are good." Sora then exclaims and the two boys smile before Hermione grumbles: "That was my job, just so you know." But then Ron says: "No it wasn't. It was Harry who figured out the whole thing with Voldemort and the Stone, remember" And the girl hums in remembered agreement before Dean reads on.
There was … a week…
"And after the week you've been through, not doing something you enjoy will only make it harder for you to focus on your homework, which will only result you in getting bad scores." Sirius then tells his son, just when Hermione wants to open her mouth. And the girl falters at this before she grimaces and Dean reads on in relief.
"I mean … Quidditch team…"
"That and people need to start realizing that piling homework onto someone with nothing but hardships on his path will only result in more trouble. And no, Hermione, I don't mean just you. I meant the teachers and their lack in keeping to the Charter." I tell the girl, who looks away guilty before Dean continues reading.
"Yeah, that's … his mind.
"Something's not right." Harry says, his face dark with concern once again and Riku mutters: "You noticed it too." At this Harry nods and the twins ask: "What? Noticed what?" To which Riku grimaces and mutters: "That those Thestralls are being mentioned way too often to be coincidence." And Dean reads on in concern.
They collected … training session.
At this I notice that there are a few of those around me who want to object, but then Luna says: "Don't. This is a lesson she needs to learn for herself. Double repeat won't help matters. Only speak when her wrong actions need explaining." And while Hermione looks shocked that Luna stood up for her, does Dean continue the chapter.
All their … the stadium.
"Ehm, I'm sorry, how pathetic can you get?" Even suddenly asks and everyone looks at him as he says: "Do those team members really have such bad insecurity issues that they need to degrade the other teams in order to believe they have a chance at winning? How pitiful." And this makes Dean read on with a cheerful grin.
"What's that … like that?"
"Why would –?" The twins want to chorus, but then Lea asks: "Do you really want to lower yourselves to their level?" And the twins look at each other shocked before Lea seats himself between them and says: "Come on, I know you two are better than that." And this earns him loving smiles from the boys as Dean reads on.
Crabbe, Goyle … can do…"
"Should we call in the team as well? Considering we have the dorm here already and all?" Harry asks and I answer: "Let's wait with that until we reach the chapter of the first match." To this Dean pages through the book and says: "Looks like that's in another five chapters." And Harry and the twins turn excited as Dean reads on.
Harry reversed … was grateful.
"Was that out of pity or because Malfoy was already doing it?" Ron asks, sounding just as ashamed as the book describes him and the twins chorus: "Probably the latter." And this actually makes Ron send them a bit of a grateful smile as the two say: "We will never steep to his level again, promise." Before Dean continues reading.
"Pass it … Fred gloomily.
"He hasn't." Harry says before he sends his best friend a guilty look as he says: "He just has more trouble dealing with stress that comes from outside sources than I do. He's just easier influenced by his belief that he needs to live up to other people's expectations than I am." And the twins nod before Dean continues reading.
They returned … evidently horror-struck.
"You gave her the wrong half, didn't you. I –." Hermione wants to say, her voice sounding much too smug and arrogant for my liking and I snap: "Accidents can happen. They just need to make sure to recolor their candy. You get less than Outstanding from time to time as well." And the girl looks flustered as Dean reads on.
"Well, let's … common room.
"Hermione, I'm sorry, but I've had enough of this attitude of yours. Obviously you're stuck in a view that is your own and you are discriminating and belittling everything and everyone that doesn't follow that view. It will make you lose a lot of friends, young lady." I growl angrily at the girl, who looks properly chastised as Dean reads on.
"It was … time to –"
"Why did you instantly believe it was his fault? Couldn't you have just asked him what happened?" Tonks asks and the girl turns red with shame as I state: "Like I said, attitude." And the girl turns her head away, anger and stubbornness showing through her entire stance and I think: "Harry's just lost himself a friend."
Which makes me look at my son in concern, the boy looking at his best (former) friend with a look that is a mix of annoyance and pain. I then turn to Kairi and silently tell her: "Get us someone to replace her – at least as Harry's friend. I can't allow her to continue hurting my son." And the girl nods before Dean reads on.
"Who said … you said…"
"That and I have some serious issues I need to overcome." Ron grumbles at which the twins share a look and one of them says: "Maybe it'll help.""If you and Harry practice.""While we watch.""And then over time.""Start adding commentary.""Or pretend to be the Slytherins.""Why would you even want to do that?"
Hermione asks, clearly indicating the last one and Harry says: "Because that was one of the issues Ron needs to overcome." And then the twins prove that they are better than Hermione as they say: "And because we haven't been much better, we're sad to admit. But no more." And the girl looks at them shocked as Dean reads on.
Neither Harry … his skull.
"Those godforsaken spells!" I growl in anger and Sora turns to Riku as he asks: "Did you manage to undo any of them? Or the Heartstamp Spell that Moody discovered?" But Riku shakes his head and says: "He'll need professional help for those, seeing they were cast in his sleep." And Harry frowns worried as Dean reads on.
"You know … steadily darker.
"That's it! Ron, Harry, when you get back to Hogwarts, you're signing up for those Study Clubs. And no, Hermione, you won't. Your attitude so far has only proven that you will cause the same problems you caused with the last club you attended." And while the girl looks as if I've got her assigned to a year's worth of detention, does Dean read on.
Slowly, the … I only –"
"Hermione, even I know not to make helpful comments on Ron's work when he's either tired or stressed out. You know Ron way longer and better than I do, how did you not see it coming that he would attack you for it?" Neville asks, his voice proving he is trying to remain neutral and the girl grimaces as Dean reads on.
"Yeah, well … sounding amazed.
And instantly Ron turns cold with fury, jumps out of his seat and says: "No." And he stomps out of the arena, his pacing proving how furious he is with whoever the owner belongs to. And when Hermione wants to stop him, does Arthur almost beg her: "Hermione, don't. Just – just don't." And this makes Dean read on warily.
"Blimey, it … me for?"
"I'm going to assume that you Weasleys used the meeting that was supposed to be Harry's hearing to speak with Percy?" Seamus then asks and the Weasleys nod as Bill says: "It ended – heh, horribly." And I can see the other Weasleys all nodding in sad agreement, making the rest of us wince in concern before Dean reads on.
He crossed … Harry nodded.
"You're thinking that Percy has had a change of heart and is writing Ron to declare his regret over what he let Fudge do to Harry, don't you?" Neville asks and Hermione says: "It could have been." But then the whole Weasley family choruses: "Not likely." And while the girl looks at this shocked, does Dean read on, even more troubled.
Ron unrolled … my congratulations.
"Well, it's a good start so far." Hermione says, obviously trying to prove that her theory still has merit, but then Kingsley says: "But the fact that he mentions Fudge so obviously proves that he hasn't changed a bit. This isn't going to be a pretty letter, Ron scowling just proves that." And Hermione sighs as Dean reads on.
I must … awkward questions.
"If that were his intentions, then he's got his mind messed up worse than I thought. A letter by day would always draw less attention than one send by night. Though I will admit one thing." Kingsley says and when the others look at him, he says: "Had the letter been received in the Great Hall, Fred and George would have spotted it."
At this the twins in question nod and Kingsley crosses his arms as he says: "All in all, his intentions were doomed to fail either way." And this makes me look back at where Ron left the arena as I think: "Now more than ever." Which makes it so I can't help but wonder what could have gone wrong at that meeting as Dean reads on.
From something … that boy.
And just those last two words make Harry cringe and make Sirius pull his son closer against him. Yet just by looking at how the Weasleys don't look surprised or angered at their son's letter makes me know that they were expecting Percy to be like this. "He probably said worse at the meeting." I think as Dean continues his reading.
Yes, I … Potter's behavior.
"Arthur, if Ron gets that letter, make sure he hands it to one of us right away. Fudge is a lot, but he's not above the law and that is evidence that he wants to stage a coup on Dumbledore. Heck, thanks to his paranoia of Dumbledore, we can even consider that a threat on his life." Kingsley tells Arthur, but then Hermione shrieks:
"You don't think Fudge would do such a thing, do you?" And Kingsley growls: "Paranoia and fear can make a person capable of feats they would otherwise not be able to." And Alastor growls: "I'm the living example of that. Don't ask, Missy, you don't want to know." And Hermione whitens in clear fright as Dean reads on.
I shall … his guilt.
"Do you think that's really true?" Harry asks and Augusta answers: "It might be, but I am willing to believe that the ones he spoke to are either associates of Lucius or people who are in serious financial issues and therefore don't have a choice but to agree with him." And this seems to reassure my poor boy as Dean reads on.
It may … know, violent –
And this is the last bit of that letter that I can take as I say: "That's it. Arthur, I'm coming with you to work tomorrow. It's time that brat learns a valuable lesson.""What lesson is that?" Arthur asks and I growl: "The lesson that my son is no longer without those who have the right to defend him." To this Arthur grimaces and asks:
"You really think it will help?" And while I have no doubt that this might hurt father of my little boy's best friend, do I hiss: "Sorry Arthur, but I no longer care either way. Either I teach him this lesson – or I jeopardize all of our plans for the future." And the calm way that the man nods in acceptance makes me grimace as Dean reads on.
but if … advise you.
"I know this sounds farfetched, seeing how Ron reacted when we discovered that the letter was from Percy, but… could it be that Umbridge put Percy under the same spells as she did with Harry?" Dean asks, but Arthur shakes his head and says: "Bill checked that when we met with Percy." And Dean nods before he reads on.
This leads … of years!
"Head Boy ship isn't worth the loss of friendship or true loyalty. And loyalty to a title that can be given to just about anyone with the right qualities isn't true loyalty." Luna says and I smile at her as I think: "She may not have had any friends before now, but she definitely knows what friendship is." Before Dean reads on.
I am … rubbing shoulders.)
"That brat is going to regret his words sooner or later, right?" Harry asks Luna and then Sirius smirks as he says: "Oh, I intend to make him, don't you worry about it, kiddo." And while I still hate that he was considered a high-level criminal until recently, does the irony of his words make me smirk at him as Dean happily reads on.
I count … day comes.
"He's joking, right?" Seamus asks shocked and then a dark voice snarls: "Trust me, with what he said at the Ministry, do I know that he does a lot, but joke about that good for nothing ego of his, he does not." And we see Ron storm off once again, but then Dean shouts: "Wait, there is only one more sentence left."
And the boy sighs before he asks: "And how much longer do our book-selves take to cover that bastard?" And Dean quickly turns back to the book before he says: "Not even two paragraphs, though Harry does think back on it for another paragraph later." And Ron sighs before he says: "I can live with that." Before Dean reads on.
Please think … brother, Percy
Here Dean stops and breaths in relief as he asks: "Are all chapters this hard? Have you been dealing with this much hardship this entire time?" And Sora shrugs awkwardly as he says: "Ever since Riku, Kairi and I got back here. When was that again? The fourth or the fifth or so?" And Sirius nods as Dean whistles and reads on.
Harry looked … the fire.
"I'm proud of you, Ron." Arthur then tells his son and Ron turns to him as he says: "In the book, Percy did not do what he did at the Ministry a few days ago. I can only imagine how hard it was for book-you to pick between your brother and your friend. You made the right choice." And Ron smiles at his dad as Dean reads on.
"Come on … his eyes.
"I'll be getting mum and dad to come over next break." Tonks says and she turns to Harry as she says: "I know the DADA book hasn't affected you yet, but Molly did curse you in your sleep and mum will be able to deal with those curses." At this, while Harry does look concerned about the spells, does he nod gratefully as Dean reads on.
It was … else had.
Here Seamus sighs and says: "And the way I'm treating you can't make things much easier?" At which Harry turns down and mutters: "It's what made me wonder if I can even handle reading the rest of this book. And to be honest, I'm still not entirely sure I can." And instantly his mates are around him as Dean reads on.
He had … possibly violent.
"I really could have seen it coming." Harry then suddenly mutters and we all look at him as he says: "The Tournament. Percy was distant and even insulting to me during the Yule Ball and he was demanding and snide when the Second Task began. I should have seen his behavior coming." But then the twins chorus:
"No, you shouldn't." And everyone turns to them as Fred says: "You should be able to trust in your friends." And George goes on: "And regardless of job, reputation or possible power, they should always trust you.""Percy should not betray you like this." The twins chorus and Ron nods in clear anger as Dean reads on.
And with … fourteen years…
This actually makes Hermione look up shocked and I think: "You have got to be kidding me." And looking at my son, can I easily see that he and I shared the same thought. I then turn to Kairi and the girl seems to have spotted the same as she sends me a determined nod. And while I know Harry will hurt over this, does Dean read on.
Harry blinked … the flames.
And this instantly cheers Sirius up greatly before Tonks asks: "Are you sure that's a good idea? I mean, considering the article that came out just the other day?" And my mate says: "If anything that article will make me want to see Harry even more, if only to reassure him." And the Auror smiles at her cousin as Dean reads on.
"Er – Harry … was clear."
"But wait. Weren't they studying in front of the fire the entire time? How did they not see you before now?" Bill asks and Sirius says: "I'm only there for a few seconds, remember. And I have no intention of interrupting my son when he is obviously so busy on his schoolwork." The Curse breaker nods at this and Dean reads on.
"But what … Hermione accusingly.
And this last word causes a lot of people to turn to the girl with raised eyebrows and looks of disbelief and Riku asks: "Remember what I said about Harry's rights to privacy? Cause what he does with his guardian falls under those rights" Yet to this the girl says: "But –." Yet Riku doesn't give her the chance and says:
"But nothing. Hermione, I'm not going to lie to you. At this rate, you remind me of someone. Someone I haven't been reminded of in three years' time.""And who is that?" Hermione shrieks, but she instantly regrets it when she sees Riku. The boy's whole persona changes and with that his looks get a change as well.
An aura of dark energy, one similar to the shadow portals that Even and Lea use, but then with more pain, regret and guilt added to its form shimmers around the lad and he growls: "Myself, when I chose power and beings who told me they cared for me over my own friends. And do you want to know what happened when I trusted them?"
The girl looks scared, yet she still nods and Riku mutters: "My soul and heart were thrown out of my body, my body was taken over by another and that other being used me to hurt my mate. That's what. I turned against everything that had been important to me for my whole life – and I was of the assured belief that I was doing the right thing."
He sneers at the end and causing the girl to cringe at which he asks: "Sounds familiar, does it?" And when the girl meekly nods, does he snarl: "Then learn from it. Learn from my mistake. Don't make my mistake." And with that does the boy take a deep breath and, to my shock, as he breaths out, does the aura just fade away.
"You can actually control that?" Seamus asks, while his mother looks as frightened as Hermione and Riku mutters: "My greatest skill for the last three years is to conquer the Darkness and to return it to Light. I walk the Road to Dawn, the name of my Keyblade." And with that does he summon his incredible weapon.
The eyes of our new guests widen as they see it appear and Riku sighs as he says: "Though reaching that level of control, the road to that realization, to me gaining the confidence in that knowledge – it wasn't an easy one. I doubted myself and my powers for years on end." And while Sora gives him a warm hug, does Dean read on.
"I forgot … said Sirius.
"Which is another something I would like to take a look at, Harry. Once the chapter is over and Tonks goes to fetch her folks, that is." Riku tells my youngest while letting one hand actually caress the blade now lying on his lap and Harry nods before he asks: "You feeling better, Riku?" And Riku himself nods calmly as Dean reads on.
"So you … Death Eater –"
"Unfortunately, I seem to underestimate her at the same time. Guess I'm too worried about what horrors Voldemort could cause to harm you to worry about others. Either that or I am being stupid and thinking that Umbridge won't try anything too drastic with Dumbledore around." Sirius mutters to himself, only to get shocked.
"I am sad to say that Dolores, at least in the books, seems not to care for this matter, Sirius." And when we look up, do we see Dumbledore standing at the edge of the arena, a grave look on his face. "You took long enough." Alastor jokes, yet this doesn't seem to give the old man an incentive to cheer up in the slightest.
"Forgive me, Alastor. But it was quite a bit harder to shock the truth out of her for me than it was for you and James. And when I finally did manage this, did I need time to wrap my mind and heart around it. I have been carrying a bit of a burden around lately, you see, and the answer I got helped me lift that burden off my shoulders.
And I am pleased to say that it won't be just my burden that will be removed." Here Albus looks at Harry and asks: "You still believe yourself responsible for Cedric's death, don't you Harry?" And Harry relieves me as he says: "I do, Sir, but not as bad as before. Riku helped me feel a little less pain and guilt earlier."
Dumbledore nods with a relieved smile and then says: "Well, I am pleased to tell you that I can take the rest of your guilt away, Harry. As you should not blame yourself for an event set in motion by others. In this case, Peter Pettigrew and our own Sybil Trelawney." And instantly everyone looks at him confused and befuddled.
"Allow me to explain, little fawn. You see, a prophesy only needs to be valid for 10% for it to end up in the Department of Mysteries. And if someone knows how to make a perfect replication of the effects that usually come before a prophesy and then speak words that sound just mythical and forewarning enough – that happens."
This shocks Harry and he turns to Dumbledore as he asks: "So – so – so then –." And Dumbledore nods as he says: "It seems that, the night before Buckbeak's supposed execution, Pettigrew used his rat form to scurry cross the school and met with Sybil. And because you were Tom's last victim, he ordered her to do so around you.
So you see, my boy, by paying Trelawney to create this – dare I say it – circumstantial prophesy, he solidified his own guilt in Cedric's death. He and Sybil have that poor boy's blood on their hands – and I am both joyous and sad to say that this was the straw that broke the camel's back for me. Sybil will be standing trial."
"Ehm Albus, is that safe?" I ask, knowing that the man has worked the last 15 years to keep Sybil safe due to her having made that other prophesy all those years ago and Dumbledore sighs as he says: "Yes, as I will be pressing charges for murder and be demanding her sentence to be a one-way trip through the Veil of Death."
And this is enough to shock all those in the Order as Albus has always voiced his hatred for that part of the Department of Mysteries. "I know it's extreme, but the punishment is more than overdue, not to mention the other blood she has on her hands." And the look Albus sends me says everything, making me nod before Albus sits down.
"So, where are we now?" The man asks and I answer: "We just finished the first weekend of Fifth year. Harry's been through way too much when it comes to class, his dorm room sanctuary state was almost jeopardized, he used Blood Quills during detention and we discovered that the girl he pretends to crush on is just playing him."
The ancient man seems intrigued by this and he asks: "Playing with Harry? How exactly?" And Harry mutters: "Cho Chang is using Glamours to make her into the perfect girlfriend material for me. I'm guessing it's Asian, because Fred and George are the only ones book-me has a crush on and they're as native as can be."
Dumbledore nods and Riku says: "We also found out that Molly Weasley purposely screamed Sirius' name at the station, so that she could get a story at the Prophet that would force Sirius to remain at London – and that it was part of her plan to see him killed. We're just glad that this was part of the 35% we already fixed."
"Thirty-five percent of what exactly? I sure seem to have missed a lot, haven't I?" Dumbledore asks pleasantly and his kind persona makes me feel a lot better too before I say: "You have – and we mean that we have already made sure with 35% that the pictures Riku and the others took with them from the future won't come true."
The man looks shocked to hear this and asks: "But surely taking Molly and Ginny out of commission causes for the pictures to be completely irrelevant?" But I sigh and say: "No Albus, it doesn't. It doesn't because of how Molly and Ginny represented themselves. As if they were the mother and pseudo mother of the group.
They were the epitome of a saying Lily once told me. The Road to Hell is paved with Good intentions. And while they may be gone, that saying still stands and it is what those pictures still represent. The good intentions Molly and Ginny had when they did all that." And Dumbledore grimaces as he says: "I see." Before Dean resumes his reading.
"She's foul … even further.
"And the reason you haven't told me about this yet?" I suddenly ask Remus, who turns red and asks: "You think you can do something about it then?" And I retort: "Am I the leader of the Great Alliance or not?" Making my old friend send me a tired, yet grateful smile, not unlike what he did in our youth before Dean continues reading.
"What's she … the loose."
"Sirius, please." Albus wants to try, but then I say: "Albus please. I'll explain you one of the reasons Sirius still hates Kreacher over break. Also, please remember that Kreacher was actually following Molly's orders while we were staying at Headquarters, even when she was grounded." The man sighs and Dean reads on.
Ron laughed … of Kreacher.
"I cut you off, Hermione, because you're forgetting one vital fact." Sirius tells the girl, who also looks at him affronted and he says: "I grew up with Kreacher, thus my experience with him extends to a good 16 years, instead of the one summer you knew him." At this the girl grimaces in her defeat and Dean continues reading.
"She's not … of Magic."
"And that is exactly why neither a Fudge nor a Potter should ever take up such a high position rank such as Minister. Sooner or later, the power goes to our heads and we start to believe nonsense like that. Yeah kiddo, that fact covers both the Potter and the Fudge line, sadly enough." I tell my son before Dean reads on.
There was … out with."
"For the record, I mean the stuff about the beings I – or better said book-me – believe to be part of her imagination. Book-me doesn't know she's a Wind Speaker. Also, I'm sure that those that know me, know that I often say all kinds of hurtful things about the ones I care about – without meaning them." Ron ends and Dean nods as he reads on.
"So we're … trumped-up charge."
"Which you really could have resolved right away if you just used the fact that Voldemort was supposed to have murdered Lily and I right from the getgo, Albus." I can't help but sigh and the man says: "I didn't want to disgrace your – or better said Lily's – sacrifice like that." But at this I shake my head and say:
"But letting Fudge slander the one person we sacrificed ourselves for is letting him disgrace her sacrifice, Albus. See what I mean? 35 percent? Good intentions?" And the man sighs as he says: "It seems I need to reevaluate my beliefs and intentions." At which I say: "I'm sure you'll do fine." Before Dean continues on.
This reminded … perfectly okay."
"Sirius, I don't believe you were doing a very good job of convincing them there." Albus laughs, with a note of concern underlying his voice, but Sirius sighs and says: "If telling them the truth means I can't comfort them to the level I would like, so be it, but I'm not going to give them false assurances." And Dean reads on, sounding awed.
Unconvinced, Harry … I could –"
"God damned woman, god forsaken overconfidence, blasted anxiety." Sirius grumbles and Albus asks: "Anxiety?" To which Sirius retorts: "Albus, you barely stay at that place any longer than necessary. How on earth do you not expect me to grow anxious with a need for escape after so long, especially with my experiences there."
The man sighs and says: "I just want you safe, Sirius. Safe to see another day and safe to be there for Harry when he needs it." But then Sirius himself turns almost as dark and dreary as Riku did earlier and says: "Albus, me staying there, would have meant I was safe, but there for Harry in the long run – not likely."
The man looks shocked and Sirius says: "Just think, Albus. I'm an outdoors person. Why do you think my Animagus form is a wild looking dog and not a spaniel or something. I spent 12 inside Azkaban, because I had to. But when I was on the run, I could have easily stayed at a good 5 dozen abandoned homes, houses and shacks.
I didn't, because staying indoors like that creeps me out. Even now, with James back in my life and my life back on track, I am in dog form when I fall asleep. I am in dog form, because in that form I can dash outside when I need to much faster than on my two human legs. I have anxiety issues, Albus, and staying indoors only worsens that.
And I have no doubt that blasted woman knew that about me." Sirius growls at the end and Remus mutters: "She was the one that fought most valiantly against you joining me on full-moon trips." And Sirius mutters: "My point exactly." While Dumbledore seems stricken with a new sense of guilt as Dean reads on, again sounding awed.
"NO!" said … get together."
"Now that's just low, Sirius." Tonks says, but I frown and say: "No, that's wrong." To which the woman asks: "What's the difference?" And I answer: "Sirius is never like that to his family; only to his enemies. This is him under that woman's influence again." And while this makes Harry sigh relieved, does Dean read on.
"I would … for James."
"And now I know that it's that woman speaking. For goodness' sake, if anyone knows how crazy I can get when it comes to protecting my family it's you, love. There is no way you would say such a thing, even if you pretended to be Harry's godfather." And yet Sirius sighs and says: "Unfortunately, book-Harry doesn't know that."
And this makes me hug the poor Veela close, while I hear Albus mutter: "To think that we have a Pettigrew affecting our most valiant member so directly, so constantly. And I don't even seem to notice." And I send the man a small smile, grateful that he seems to care this much about my mate as Dean quickly reads on.
"Look –""Well … once more.
"I think we should stop." Sirius mutters and he actually pulls himself free from my grasp and leaves the arena, a dark shadow showing on his face as Lea mutters: "Yeah, we did manage to read a good six chapters. Let's call it a day." At this I sigh and turn to Sora as I ask: "You think you can show our new guests where their rooms are?"
At this Sora nods and when Harry wants to get up, do I shake my head and say: "Stay here, Harry. Have Riku take another like inside. To see if he can help you cleanse that scar of yours." And while the boy looks greatly reluctant, does he still nod and sit back down before I greet the others with a nod and move out, in search of my hurting mate.
Poor Sirius,
The concern his family has for him since the article in the book came out isn't doing him much good and the knowledge that his book-self is being led to his death by someone who is exactly like the man that got his mate's sister by bond killed must be really affecting him something horrible. I really feel for him.
Also, wait WHAT? Pettigrew and Figgy did whatnow? I know you're wondering how Pettigrew could have pulled that off, but you have to remember one thing. He has been the Weasley pet the entire time the Weasley twins had the Map. It helped him recollect the info he needed, which helped him speed through the castle.
However, I am going to say this: neither Voldemort nor Figgy nor Pettigrew were responsible for the assassin and his attack. To be honest, I am not quite sure yet who I am planning to be the culprit or benefactor behind this person, but it won't be any of these three dastardly bastards, that's for sure at the least.
Hope you enjoyed,
Venquine1990
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