AN: So, I haven't been very inspired lately, I don't know why, but, here is an interlude to keep you entertained in the mean time. Keep an eye out for a funny one shot coming soon, too.

Chapter 15: Lupin Interlude 3

Remus Lupin entered the Great Hall through the staff door after his lesson with Harry and took his seat next to Albus.

"Ah, Remus, you had a lesson with Harry this evening, did you not?"

"I did, Albus. As I'm sure you recall, I offered to help him learn the Patronus Charm."

"Yes, yes, I recall you mentioning that. And how did he do?"

"Amazingly well. Harry nearly produced a corporeal Patronus on his first attempt."

Remus saw Albus quickly hide his astonished reaction. "I had no idea Mr. Potter was so powerful."

"He nearly exhausted himself using so much magic."

"Remus, join me in my offices after dinner. I'd like to discuss offering young Harry some extra lessons to allow him to reach his full magical potential."

"Of course, Albus." Remus ate quickly, knowing that he was expected to leave the Great Hall with Albus. However, when Dumbledore stood a few moments later, he couldn't help casting a sorrowful look at the desserts which had just appeared.

"Come along, Remus, we have much to discuss." Sighing, Remus stood, once again wondering exactly why he catered to the whims of such a difficult man. He followed Albus out the side door and through a secret passage that led them directly to the Headmaster's office. The moment the door was closed, Albus whirled around to confront Remus. "I take it your cryptic remarks earlier meant you were able to bind his core?"

"Of course, Albus. Just as you suggested. He will no longer have access to his core in its entirety. I restricted him to a mere 50%. If he proves to still be too powerful, I can restrict it further."

Dumbledore steepled his fingers just below his chin and grinned evilly. "Excellent. And how did he take your stories?"

"He believed them entirely. I am certain that if he comes across Black now, he will attempt to kill him."

"That's wonderful. You did quite well, Remus."

"Thank you, Albus. Now, was there anything else you wanted me to do with regards to Potter?"

"Keep an eye on him. Make sure his magic is not advancing too quickly. I need to keep him stunted so that I can take him out more easily if he fails to die at the hands of Voldemort."

"About that, Albus, you still believe that Voldemort will murder his own son?"

"Of course, Harry will not be recognized. He is the son of James and Lily Potter, remember?"

"It's a shame he wasn't sorted into Gryffindor. They're known for their lack of effort with schoolwork."

"Indeed, but perhaps you can offer help to his Slytherin friends to gain their trust. Perhaps suggest Harry is working too hard, prey upon their care for each other."

"Brilliant idea, Albus."

"Naturally. Now, I must prepare for tomorrow's lessons."

"Of course, of course." Albus waved Remus away and grinned as he contemplated how well his plans were evolving.

Fawkes sat on his perch with his beak buried in his feathers, pretending to sleep. The mad one was getting worse every day. However, Fawkes could sense that the time to show his true allegiance was getting closer.

Chosen One.

Yes, Fawkes?

Beware the wolf-man, he has bound your core and is plotting with the mad one.

Yes, I know, Fawkes, but he tried to bind my core. Severus already fixed it.

Wonderful. Listen, you must hear out the one called Black.

NEVER! He betrayed my parents.

I do not believe that is the case. The mad one and wolf-man were discussing him, they know of his innocence. He may have been a pawn.

Are you sure?

No, but I believe you should hear him out.

*sigh* I suppose. But only for a moment. If I don't like what I hear, I will kill him.

It is the most I can hope for, I suppose.

Thank you, Fawkes.

You are welcome, Chosen One.