Harry had slept in longer than he intended. He wanted to meet with the team this morning and go over the plays they intended to use the next day. Harry made his way down the steps to the common room only to find Ron making his way up.
"About time, I thought you were going to sleep all day," said Ron giving Harry a strange look.
"It's not that late. I doubt the team has had breakfast yet," Harry said with more hope than sureness. Then catching Ron's look, "Is something wrong?"
"Nothing, it's just that Fred and George have been gloating the past fifteen minutes. They won't say what it is until you come down to the common room. And no, the team hasn't had breakfast yet."
Harry was relieved he hadn't truly overslept and also thankful he wouldn't have to hear comments about the captain being late. He and Ron made their way to a table with Fred, George, Hermione and Ginny. Harry had to agree that Fred and George were looking very smug this morning.
"What's so important you had to wait on me?"
"The tables have turned. Seems everyone forgot to meet Cheryl Silvertone after the dance except for me and George."
"Here you go ladies." George handed Hermione and Ginny each a new Music disc. Fred handed Harry and Ron one each as well.
"Oh my gosh! Is this the new song?" asked Ginny.
"'Call My Name'?" asked Hermione with surprise.
"One and the same. We had a nice chat with Cheryl after the dance."
"She said we were both quite handsome but had trouble telling us apart. Haven't the slightest idea why," said George grinning.
"Was most interested in knowing more about the joke shop we intend to open after we finish here at Hogwarts. Keen on the jokes herself."
"Wanted to know if we were taking on investors," grinned George even more broadly. But he suddenly changed the topic after seeing looks of shock from Ron and Ginny. "Anyway, got those to ya." He motioned to the music discs. "The team is still meeting back here in the common room after breakfast, right Harry? See you later then." Fred and George both left for the Great Hall.
"Mum and dad will be so disappointed."
"I know," said Ron sadly.
It was too much. Harry had decided to tell them who Fred and George's first investor was - himself. Just as Harry opened his mouth, a bleary-eyed Colin Creevey stumbled through the portrait hole. Bloodshot eyes and smiling he was carrying a large stack of envelopes looking very pleased with himself.
"There you are, excellent, got your pictures."
"Colin Creevey, have you been out of the dorms all night?" asked Hermione sternly.
"By the time I realized it was after hours I decided to spend the night printing pictures. I didn't want to risk detention or costing Gryffindor points. Besides, I think you'll agree the pictures are worth it." Colin handed out envelopes from the large stack he had. Harry noticed his was thicker than the rest. But Ron stood there holding onto his envelope while everyone else started opening theirs.
"It's okay Ron. I got it," said Hermione.
"Oh, okay. Thanks." The tip of Ron's ears turned pink.
Harry knew Ron had very little money. And what little he did have he usually spent at Honeydukes. Harry thumbed through the wizarding photos of himself dancing with Ginny, Cho, the girls from the team and many others. His eyes bulged as he pulled out an eight by ten of himself and Hermione turning slowly to music now unheard, glittering golden flames and silver-blue moonlight illuminating them.
"How did -," Harry started.
"I didn't know -," Hermione stuttered looking just as confused as Harry. "Where did all the gold colored lights come from?"
"Dumbledore did it. Everyone saw," said Ron flatly.
"Nice picture don't you think?" interjected Ginny waving a picture of herself and Harry dancing.
"Yes, it is," Harry said politely and turned to Colin. "Ah, how much do I owe you Colin?"
"Not a single bronze knut. Dumbledore paid for yours and Hermione's. Actually he ordered five. The two for you guys, one for Cheryl Silvertone and two for himself. And he insisted on paying me five sickles," Colin beamed. "Later guys. I've got more deliveries to make and then I'll catch up on some sleep. I want to be rested enough to take pictures at the game tomorrow. Go Gryffindor!" Colin left with his stack of envelopes still smiling, stumbling and bumping into things as he went.
On their way to the Great Hall for breakfast, they were met with smiling faces and hellos, from fellow students. Some were humming Silver and Lovefire's new song. Ron was eating up the attention and puffed up with each "Hi Ron" from pretty and giggling girls. Harry nudged Ron.
"Don't bump up against anything sharp. You're liable to pop."
"Whaaat. I'm not the only one getting unexpected attention. We all are, including Hermione and Ginny," Ron said defensively sitting down at a table. "What's up anyway?"
"Isn't it obvious Ron. It's our implied association with Silver and Lovefire," said Hermione. "It'll blow over as quickly as it came. - Right Harry?"
"Probably," Harry said with assurance. Though he did hope it wouldn't be like his own experiences of a surge in popularity followed by fearful despising avoidance.
"It is kind of nice Hermione. I've had several boys say hi to me this morning I'm sure didn't know I existed before yesterday."
"Yes, it is, isn't it." Hermione hid a smile by quickly drinking a glass of milk while Harry raised an eyebrow and Ron looked indignant.
The urge to break off their experiment, their test of real love, welled up in Harry again. 'We need to talk,' Harry thought to himself.
"Hermione we -." But Harry was cut off as an owl carrying an envelope landed beside Hermione. She quickly untied it and read.
"Oh my. You guys need to read this."
●
Hermione Granger,
I thought I should let you know right away. I have just been asked by the Ministry to not mention, hint, or infer, that you were saved by 'The Breath of Life' nor that you have had anything to do with the writing of my new song. Saying the song is about Merlin and Nimue is quite acceptable. I'm sure you will agree this is all ridiculous, but I wasn't exactly "asked" if you know what I mean. Such a shame too. It looks like 'Call My Name' is going to be my best song yet. You should all receive some credit for it. Give my regards to Harry, Ron, Ginny, Fred and George.
Thanks for the inspiration
Cheryl Silvertone
Shocked silence followed everyone reading Cheryl's letter. Finally Hermione spoke.
"Be sure to tell Fred and George at the team meeting later." Harry, Ron, and Ginny nodded in agreement.
●
Harry never realized how much pressure Oliver must have felt being captain until he had the position himself. It was so much more than just doing the job of his own position. He found himself watching much more intently, what was happening in the game than his usual razor focused attention at finding the Golden Snitch. It occurred to him that Keeper was really the ideal position to be captain. Keeping an eye on the game was part of being Keeper. Harry was lucky that he was captain of such a seasoned team. They worked well together and needed very little input from him. Except for Ron, he was having a horrible case of first game jitters. Harry found himself feigning several dives for the Snitch that took him close enough to yell encouragement to Ron. The Slytherin Captain kept screaming at Malfoy.
"Stop following Potter all over the Pitch and find that Snitch or you'll have more than extra practice to answer for."
The score was now fifteen to thirty six. The Slytherin's were doubling the score on them and Ron was the reason. 'What he really needs is some confidence,' Harry thought. 'This is no good. I've got to find the Snitch.' He and Malfoy saw it about the same time hovering near the stands, but Harry was closer and it was as good as his. However, he wasn't going to take any chances and gave it everything his Firebolt had. Plummeting at a high rate of acceleration toward the crowd below he knew he had plenty of time to pull out of his dive. People's faces were becoming clearer and growing rapidly in the background. Some screams and yells were erupting below him as the rest of the crowd gasped.
Colin Creevey saw the perfect opportunity to take a fantastic picture of Harry zooming toward the crowd, capturing the Snitch and winning the game. He raised his camera taking careful aim, waiting for just - the - right - moment.
Harry reached out to clasp his hand around the fluttering Snitch as a bright flash from the crowd washed away his world - and his vision. He was blind! Sheer panic engulfed him. His instinctive reaction was to pull up away from the crowd just as something hit him hard, spinning him around the axis of his broom.
'Oh my God, which way is up?!'
In times of panic the mind can shift into overdrive, making time seem to slowdown, and for Harry this was no exception. He knew that if he plowed into the crowd at this speed someone could be killed, including himself. And he had no idea what had hit him except maybe a Bludger. 'Panic' was against him and he knew it.
'I need to get a grip. My emotions are ruling my thoughts. I need to see. I must know which way is up. Must - reach out…'
Images started to form, not from his eyes but within his mind. Silhouettes of shapes darker and lighter started to take form. The dark and light were slowly rotating around him. 'Focus,' he thought. 'Reach out.' He started to see outlines of shapes in the darker part and a round whitish object in the lighter part. 'The round light colored orb must be the sun. That way's got to be up.' Harry pulled or pushed toward it as he spun around his broom as he tried to slow the roll. The outlined silhouettes became less contrasted as he could just make out something to his left falling toward the crowd. It looked like someone on a broom. 'Must be Malfoy. He was probably blatching me but now he's out of control. No time to reach for my wand, must remember what Dumbledore tried to teach me.'
The falling object slowed and gently tumbled into the crowd as Harry's peripheral vision began to clear. He had managed to pull out of his uncontrolled dive and was hovering about a dozen meters above the stands. The bright blue spot in his vision was shrinking to a dot and he could now see Malfoy tangled up in the crowd lifting his head up and looking into the eyes of a disappointed and disgusted Professor Snape. It was a priceless moment and Harry started to laugh just as he heard Hermione scream.
"Harry! Look out!"
Harry caught sight of Hermione, with solid grey eyes, pulling out her wand and pointing it toward him. His head jerked forward slightly, numbness grew and swept over him leaving nothing but darkness. The last thing he remembered was the sensation of cool air blowing in his face.
●
"I have no Idea what you think to accomplish. He's unconscious, has a concussion an' doesn't even know you're here. Nevertheless, you can take ten minutes before I run the lot of you out." Madam Pomfrey went back to her office leaving the entire Gryffindor team staring awkwardly at Harry lying in a hospital bed.
"I don't care if he knows or not. I just wanted to see him for myself. Besides, he looks a lot better without blood running out of his nose."
"Come on Powers."
"Yeah David." The group shifted uneasily.
"You have to admit he does look like he's wearing a turban with all those bandages," said Mandy searching for something to say.
"I still can't figure out how Malfoy landed like a feather in the crowd. Weird I tell ya, but the look on Snape's face was worth a Sickle."
"No doubt in my mind Malfoy was blatching him. Was probably hoping either to keep him from getting the Snitch or jar it loose," said Katie. A murmur of agreement sounded.
"Too bad he got away without even a scratch. Claimed he was blinded by Colin's camera flash the same as Harry must have been. Finest piece of flying I've seen - the way Harry handled coming out of that dive spinning around like that," George finished saying with a nod. Everyone agreed.
Everyone immediately became silent as Harry moaned. Ron and Hermione moved closer on either side of Harry's bed.
"Hey mate. Looks like you're going to spend another night in the Hospital Wing. Thought you'd have been tired of the place after this summer."
"Did - did - we?" Harry asked weakly.
"Did we win? You bet we did, thanks to you. We had to pry the Snitch out of your hand. Madam Hooch had to perform a repairing spell 'cause you broke one of its wings holding on to it so tight. Half the staff had their wands out after Malfoy tumbled into the crowd. You never had a chance to hit the ground with all those levitating spells going out at the same time. Hermione's included. The Bludger clipped you good though. Had us worried there for a bit.
"Alright everyone out. If you want your captain to heal up he needs his rest. Out with ya." Madam Pomfrey ushered them out and stopped at the foot of Harry's bed with folded arms. "And you Mr. Potter. Are you going to get some sleep or do I have to cast a sleeping spell?" Harry weakly raised a finger. "Good, and I'll be checking…."
●
A dark figure deftly crept up the steps of the Gryffindor boy's dormitory stepping into the shadows outside the fifth year's door and listened. Finally, a decision was made and the figure entered the room quickly scanning around in the dim light looking for something that it found, a trunk with the initials H.P. The trunk was opened and something silvery, almost liquid looking, was taken out and put on. The person beneath immediately disappeared as the trunk seemingly closed itself - followed by the door of the room doing much the same thing.
●
A hand stroked Harry's cheek though he was fast asleep. Fingers toyed with a few locks of his hair that poked from beneath the bandages around his head. She spoke in a very light whisper.
"You always seem to be in harm's way Harry. I worry about you so. I wish - I want there to be so much more between us. And it's not just because you saved my life. I think you're the most handsome boy in school. If only…," Someone cleared their throat. Ginny jerked her head in the direction of the hallway. She could have swore the door to the hospital wing had been closed. It made her nervous, she didn't want to be caught out of the dorm after hours and cost Gryffindor points. She didn't see anyone but decided it was time to make her way stealthily back to the girl's dorm. Quickly she gave Harry a light kiss on the cheek and left making sure the door was closed on her way out.
●
Just before midnight, Madam Pomfrey checked in on her patients. One had the flu, slightly dehydrated, and would be released in the morning. Another had an accident in potions class earlier in the day leaving them with a case of scaly hives and blue feathers for hair. She glanced at Harry who was sleeping peacefully enough but went back and took a second look. Harry's hand on his chest had an extra set of fingers. Madam Pomfrey had seen a lot of strange things before and didn't become alarmed easily. Yes, there were extra fingers. In fact, an extra hand on top of Harry's that wasn't connected to anything she could see. Closer inspection revealed an indention on the left side of Harry's bed as though someone were laying there beside him. This hand resting on top Harry's was familiar to her - something she had seen during the summer. It reminded her of … 'Miss Granger?' she asked herself. She pulled out her wand and hesitated. After some thought she conjured a puff of air that blew back enough of the invisibility cloak to expose Hermione's sleeping face, her chin resting on Harry's shoulder. Madam Pomfrey smiled at her own accurate guess and thought to herself, 'Normally I wouldn't tolerate such a thing, but they've been through so much.' She turned and left them there sleeping peacefully. She hummed a few bars of 'Call My Name' as she strolled to her quarters at the back of the office and instructed her alarm clock to wake her early.
●
Harry found himself in a dark graveyard. Death Eaters were casting curses from all sides. Harry lunged between two large tombstones narrowly dodging a green light.
'Fancy meeting you here Potter.'
Harry felt a sudden blow to the side of his head. He fell to the ground looking up at a hooded Death Eater holding a bloody Quidditch club. Harry couldn't move. The Death Eater lowered his hood revealing Malfoy's sneering face.
'Thanks for the soft landing at the Quidditch match Potter.'
Another Death Eater stepped up beside Malfoy and lowered his hood.
'Ah, excellent work son,' said Mr. Malfoy. Then calling to the darkness 'Master - Potter is over here.'
Harry was helpless. How had they caught him? How did he get here? He saw a tall menacing shape forming in the darkness.
"N-n-no, no."
"Harry, it was only a dream. I'm here, I'm right here. It's okay." Hermione's voice was reassuring and comforting. Harry relaxed and quickly fell back to sleep.
●
"Time to get poppin' Poppy."
"You know I don't like that."
"Yes, but you wanted to get up early and an annoying wake up usually works best," said the alarm clock.
"Oh, that's right." She got up, sleep still heavy on her eyes, and cracked open the door of her office. "It's about time I checked on my patients," she said in an even tone out the crack of the door. Then she listened. There was a brief mumble and a thud as something hit the floor with an "Ow". The sound of footsteps ensued followed by a door opening and closing. Madam Pomfrey smiled and yawned. "Give me another hour."
"Will do," said the alarm clock.
●
Harry didn't like the bandages wrapped around his head. He liked even less the soreness he felt every time he took a bite of his breakfast. He looked at the breakfast tray in front of him with dismay. He was hungry enough but it was disconcerting feeling a sore spot on his head whenever he flexed a jaw muscle. It just didn't seem right that his jaw should affect a spot on his head.
"Trouble eating yer breakfast Mr. Potter? Wouldn't happen to have some soreness when ya move your jaw now would ya?"
Harry nodded. "Why?" he winced just speaking.
"Your jaw muscles are some of the most powerful muscles in your body. They do wrap up around your skull. You've suffered severe bruising of the temporalis muscle on the left side of your head. Here let me numb that for you." Madam Pomfrey unwrapped Harry's bandages, dipped a sponge in something that looked like grape jelly and stroked the side of his head. It felt warm at first touch but immediately went numb. Harry didn't like the numbness either but decided it was better than being sore. After all, he did want to eat his breakfast. Madam Pomfrey wrapped his head back up.
"Better? Good. Ah, back so soon Miss Granger?" Hermione stopped in her tracks but Madam Pomfrey didn't give her a chance to respond. "And before you ask, he'll be released this evening provided the treatment I give him today goes well. However..." She turned to Harry. "The bad news Mr. Potter is that Quidditch practice is out of the question for the rest of this week. And I do not want to hear of you running, jumping or lifting anything more than five kilograms for the next two days. And can I count on Miss Granger here to help enforce these restrictions?"
"Will do," Hermione affirmed but noticed Harry looking downcast. "Don't look so glum Harry. Eat something," she encouraged. "You can still coach."
"From the ground. It's possible you could have dizzy spells and we'll take no chances of any extra bumps." Madam Pomfrey shook her head at Harry who looked even more dejected. She went back to her office carrying on as she went. "Quidditch, the most dangerous sport in our world and from the looks of him you'd think I'd cut off his arm for a week. Tch."
"Oh Harry, don't look like that. Eat your breakfast. You'll feel better. You did catch the Snitch and win the game." She dropped her chin and gave him a pleading look with brown eyes that warmed him from the inside out and made him smile. "That's better. Oh, hi Colin." Hermione glanced from Harry to Colin. "Don't be late for any classes Colin. I'll drop back by about lunch Harry. Ron and I will take notes for you."
"I prefer your notes if you don't mind." Hermione winked at him as she left. "Hey Colin, what's the matter?" Colin looked devastated.
"I'm so sorry Harry. It's all my fault. I could have gotten you killed. I - I think I should give up photography."
"Isn't that a bit drastic? I know you didn't do it on purpose. Just don't take flash pictures at sporting events. That should be sufficient.
"No I didn't mean any harm and It's already been posted, as a new rule, that no flash devices will be allowed at a Quidditch match."
"Good enough for me. Why do you have to have a flash in the bright sunlight anyway?"
"It's what captures motion otherwise it would all be a blur. It looks like I'm never going to get another action shot at a Quidditch match."
"Why not? You're a wizard aren't you? Figure out how to make a flash-less flash or something."
"B-but how could that be done? Unless - maybe…" Colin brightened tremendously. "Thanks Harry!" Colin was gone - leaving Harry alone, smiling.
●
The week drug by and Harry was elated when Madam Pomfrey removed the restrictions she had placed on him. Hermione and Ron had split up his books and were insisting they carry them for him. It was annoying, all the unwanted attention, when he didn't feel bad at all. Well, he did have a few nasty headaches but a dose of potion took care of them. Harry gave an involuntary shudder thinking about the headache potion, it was sickly sweet. They were currently on their way to Hogsmeade via the secret passageway that would take them to the cellar of Honeydukes. Harry had been slipped a note from Professor Figg at the end of her class. The note instructed them to bring their brooms and wear appropriate warm clothing for the night air and that they were to make their way up behind the Shrieking Shack. Harry had to admit he enjoyed the special lessons they had been getting. There was a sense of adventure and learning something new. Not to mention the small thrill of sneaking around the castle with the chance of getting caught. Albeit a slight chance with Hermione's map. A map that she now pulled out, stopping in the middle of the tunnel, looking at it with dismay.
"What's up Hermione?"
"Just my suspicious nature toward a couple of brothers." She leaned her broom against her shoulder in the crook of her neck while she rolled out her map. "Ah ha, just as I thought. The little buggers are following us."
"Who?"
"Jim and Tim Bennet of course. They've got the Marauder's Map."
"What?" Harry and Ron said together.
"Oh, sorry. I forgot to mention it. I've seen them sneaking around the secret passageways on my map."
"Let's go back and take it from them," Ron suggested furrowing his brow. It was Harry's first urge as well but he hesitated, not saying anything, and wondered if Hermione had anything in mind.
"Now how would that work out Ron? None of us are supposed to be down here. All we'll do is succeed in making matters worse by taking it from them and that might take more time than you think. We're supposed to be behind the Shrieking Shack at nine o'clock. We just don't want them following us. Agreed?"
"Er, yeah, agreed. But do you have something in mind?"
"I still think we should take it from them. I know a couple of curses I've been itching to try out."
"Ron! Give it a rest. And yes, I do have something in mind. Here hold this." Hermione handed Ron her broom and went back in the tunnel from the direction they just came. After a short minute he and Ron could hear distant voices echoing in the passageway. Suddenly two of the voices sounded surprised. Hermione came back into view grinning.
"I told them I didn't have time to argue and that we would all talk sometime tomorrow."
Harry could still hear sounds echoing albeit somewhat muffled. "So? What did you do?"
Hermione eyed the ceiling. "Oh, I just charmed their clothes to wrap them up long enough to let us get on to our lesson. Last I saw, Jim's robe was over his head as he tripped over Tim whose pants were trying to give him the twist."
Harry and Ron burst out laughing.
"Oh, I'd like to see that," said Ron taking a step back down the tunnel.
"Come on Ron." Hermione took her broom back pulling Ron with it.
They made their way up the hill toward the Shrieking Shack.
"There's too much moonlight. I feel exposed," whispered Harry. "Maybe we can ride our brooms close to the ground off the main road. We should also try to keep our profiles low to the brooms. Hermione why don't you glide between Ron and I. If you sense any danger Ron and I will both know at the same time." Hermione and Ron agreed.
"I wish I had that disillusionment charm down. I think I'd much rather walk the road." Harry grinned in the moonlit darkness. He suspected Hermione didn't like gliding less than a meter off the ground zigzagging their way around bushes in the dark.
They dismounted their brooms upon reaching the backside of the Shrieking Shack. It seemed that no one was there. They walked the length of the backside avoiding a triangle shaped shadow formed by the moonlight.
"Maybe she's around front," suggested Ron.
"We had specific instructions to meet on the backside Ron."
"Wait. Didn't we all avoid that shadowed area back there? I'll bet she used a concealment spell and is watching to see what we do." Harry was feeling confident and walked directly into the shadow, fighting the urge to go somewhere else, but no one was there. He stepped back into the moonlight showing the palms of his hands indicating he didn't know what to do next.
"Not bad. I'd give Gryffindor ten points if this were an official lesson. Five because you didn't come sauntering up the road and another five because Harry figured out there was a concealment spell placed on the shadows there. But none of you considered looking up."
Three heads jerked in the direction of the roof. Harry couldn't see a thing that resembled Arabella Figg, or a person for that matter, when he saw the movement of a broom descend from the roof and stop beside them. The front and rear of a broom, to be exact, the middle of it was absent until Professor Figg removed her invisibility cloak.
"I would have been very impressed if you had seen part of my broom as I hovered near the roof. Of course, if this had been an actual stakeout I would have enlarged my invisibility cloak to cover the entire broom, but it's always such a nuisance to untangle if I do that. Let's get underway, we've got about a half hour of flying time before we can begin tonight's lesson."
Harry was thinking this was going to be a rather brisk flight in the cool night air just as Professor Figg handed them each a cup and pulled a thermos out of her robes.
"Here you go something to take the chill out of the flight, a small cup of coffee with a dash of warming potion. Hold your cups steady. The moon is fairly bright but it's still a bit tricky."
Harry found the coffee to be cinnamon flavored, slightly sweet. It was very good and made the autumn night air feel like a warm summer day, the only thing missing was a bright sun overhead. Instead, a soft yellow moon was still climbing in the sky, almost full but in the waning phase. Professor Figg put away the thermos and gathered the cups.
"I'll need to put a Disillusionment Charm on each of you before we go." She rapped each of them on the head with her wand, including herself, the charm made them blend into their moonlit surroundings almost perfectly. "Now it will be difficult to see each other. Therefore, I want us to fly in a tight formation. I'll be in the lead. Harry and Ron I want you on either side of Hermione since you've both had more flying experience. Ready?"
They kicked off in unison, Harry, Hermione and Ron closely behind Professor Figg. Harry found the flight exhilarating as they clipped along at about sixty kilometers per hour. They rounded their way north of the castle, deep into the forest, skimming along the tops of the trees. About twenty minutes into their flight, Professor Figg slowed. As they came upon a clearing in the forest Harry thought it looked rough and rock strewn but wasn't sure because of the dim light. However, Professor Figg took them in to land gently on a very large stone out crop as they dismounted their brooms.
"Hold still while I remove the Disillusionment Charm," Professor Figg said in a normal tone of voice. It was a relief from the hushed whispering they had used before leaving Hogsmeade. "I'm sure you're wondering why it was necessary to go so far for this particular lesson. There are no dwellings this deep in the forest; witch, wizard or muggle. The reason is that you'll be learning a curse, the Blasting Curse and variations thereof."
"Aw right."
"Excellent."
"Isn't it a little dark for this sort of thing?"
"Since we'll only be working on the basics and not accuracy it should do. However, we will need just enough extra light to work on technique." Figg conjured a floating torch. "There, that's better. The Blasting Curse is primarily based on anger. Irritation and aggravation can also fuel the spell. Our primary concern this evening is to make sure no one casts a curse too closely. Could be a nasty business sorting through the pieces," Figg chuckled as her pupils gave her odd looks. "Anyway, this will be good practice using defensive charms as well. I'll cast the first curse to demonstrate." Chanting the 'Conflare Confractum' she raised her wand and brought it down hard giving it a thrusting motion like poking with a sword. A large boulder several hundred meters away blew to bits. Harry was impressed but soon found it was not as easy as Professor Figg made it look. Harry's first attempt was a loud bang about fifty meters away and Hermione's was similar. Ron however, managed a nice boom on his first attempt. Professor Figg was always standing nearby ready to cast a defensive charm in case something went wrong.
As the evening's lesson progressed so did their Blasting Curses. Hermione was lagging behind Harry and Ron, which was frustrating her to no end. Right after Hermione had another disappointing turn casting the curse, with only a mild boom; Ron leaned in and whispered something to her. Hermione stiffened and squinted her eyes at Ron.
"I'd like to have another go if you don't mind Professor." Not waiting for a reply Hermione cast her curse that went off with an echoing boom throwing debris into the night air. Ron stepped back surprised and swallowed hard.
"Very good Hermione, it seems Ron's words of encouragement helped. I'll assume it was encouragement."
"S-sure," Ron nodded in the affirmative.
Harry barely heard Hermione say. "Humph, be glad you weren't on the receiving end of that one," as she walked around behind Harry indicating it was his turn to step up and cast a curse. Ron was still looking shaken.
"What did you say?" Harry whispered.
"I-I was just trying to help. I told her she might have better luck with the curse depending on the time of the
month."
"Er yeah, well, I think you over did it."
"It's getting late. You've all mastered the basics and there are many variations. It is also possible to direct the blast in a desired direction by adding the word Pellere to the beginning of the curse. In any case, I would recommend that you use this curse only in an emergency." They all agreed with her.
"Could I have one more go at it? I wonder what I could do if I gave it a bit more."
"Holding back on us Mr. Potter? Very well have another go at it and it will have to be the last."
Harry paused, "I don't know. I hadn't thought … Anyway." Harry shook off Professor Figg's question and decided to give it a lot more than he had previously. Anger was the core of this curse giving it the explosive nature it had. Harry knew he had a lot of buried anger and thought this would be a good way to let some of it out. He just had to remember what Dumbledore had taught him about being in control. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly before plunging into his own feelings. Bits and pieces of anger, frustration swirled. '… killed my parents,,,,. tried to kill Hermione…murdering bas..'
It can be a frightening realization discovering how much anger you really have built up inside. It can take on a life of its own - threatening - consuming. Maybe Harry still held back because of that fear but went ahead and channeled what he had a grip on. He raised his wand and swung it down "Conflare Confractum!" The moment of release was sweet but the deafening blast that followed was shocking. Professor Figg had been on the ready and cast a Defensive Charm for all of them. It was a good thing as boulders, earth, and debris bounced off the barrier the charm created. The debris stopped falling and the charm dissipated but a thundering echo rolled eerily around them. Harry was the first one to say anything after several moments of shocked silence.
"I-I'm sorry," stuttered Harry.
"Nothing to be sorry for," said Professor Figg with a brief quiver in her voice. "It just proves my
point that the Blasting Curse can be very dangerous."
Professor Figg put her hand up to her chest and then sat down on a boulder and began searching for something in a pocket.
"Are you alright professor?" Hermione asked.
"I'm not as young as I used to be. Just a nip of medicinal potion and I'll be fine." She took a sip from a small bottle, put it away, and stood up gingerly. "Now, I think we can dispense with another Disillusionment Charm and take a more direct way back to Hogwarts and fly straight away to the Astronomy Tower. We can part ways from there."
●
They landed gracefully on top of the Astronomy Tower. Professor Figg waved, put on her cloak and disappeared. Hermione pulled out her map and nodded signaling everything was all clear. They made their way down the first set of steps drawing near the first lit torch when Hermione turned put her hand out on Harry's chest to stop him.
"Is everything all right Harry?" There was a look of concern.
"Oi mate, that was incredible. I'll bet you left a bloody crater. I wish we could have gone back to take a look." Harry was pleased as well but Hermione ignored Ron and looked searchingly into Harry's eyes.
"I'm okay, honest." Harry wanted to reassure her that he meant what he said. He suppressed the urge to stroke her hair and kiss her on the cheek because Ron was there. Not looking satisfied with his answer she finally took her hand away and looked at her map once more. Harry was keenly aware of the fading warmth where her hand had been on his chest and felt suddenly exposed. He gave Ron a quick look and was relieved to see he was looking over Hermione's shoulder at her map.
"Uh oh, something's up. There's way too much activity in the corridors for this time of night. Almost half of the Prefects in the school, along with Filch, are patrolling the hallways." Hermione pushed her map at Harry. "Here you two, please try not to get caught. I'll blend in with the rest of the Prefects and find out what's going on."
It turned out that Jim and Tim had almost been caught the night before, as Mrs. Norris had raised the alarm with Filch. Filch in turn rousted a number of Prefects to help catch whoever was out after curfew. Harry, Hermione, and Ron were listening to their story in an empty classroom that Hermione had found.
"Anyway, if we hadn't had the Marauder's Map we would have been caught for sure. What we want to know is how you knew we had it."
"Because - oh, wait a sec. Harry, or Ron could you give us a bit more privacy? Concealing privacy if you know what I mean." Ron waved Harry to go ahead. Harry cast a concealment spell on the room. Tim and Jim's eyes bugged.
"How did you do that?"
"Hey cool, can you teach us that?"
"Maybe in time but back to your first question. I can see you two traipsing around the castle on my map." Jim and Tim responded with a flurry of questions about maps, what Harry, Hermione and Ron had been doing and why couldn't they be in on it.
"The Marauder's Map belonged to my dad and his friends. Hermione made the map she has and what the three of us have been doing is learning some advanced magic. We're not at liberty to give more details but it is very important that this be kept quiet."
Tim looked putout but Jim looked concerned and was the first to say something after Harry's partial revelation.
"This has to do about 'You know who' doesn't it?"
Hermione nodded slowly in reply.
"Biting and leaping clabberts!" exclaimed Jim. "Why didn't you say so? Is there anything we can do to help? We can certainly keep this quiet."
"Do you want us to give you the Marauder's Map?" Jim asked looking pained.
"If we didn't already have a better map I would be tempted to say yes. For now, just don't get caught," said Harry.
"Pleeease, try to stay out of trouble. Gryffindor has lost enough points because of you two already. Don't you two ever get tired of detention?"
Jim and Tim only grinned eyeing the ceiling.
"You give us too much trouble and we will take it," added Ron.
●
The end of Transfiguration Class and Harry's thoughts turned once more to Quidditch as he gathered his books. It had been almost a week since Hufflepuff had played Ravenclaw and Harry still hadn't worked out a plan to distract the Hufflepuff Seeker who was exceptionally good. Harry reasoned that since he was distracted being Captain he needed some way to put the other Seeker on more of an even level with himself.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley, please approach my desk."
The three of them walked up to Professor McGonagall's desk.
"The three of you will serve detention with Hagrid tomorrow. Prepare yourselves to be out of doors all day."
"But that's Saturday, our day off, and we haven't done anything," Ron protested.
"Tut tut Mr. Weasley, detentions are not arbitrarily doled out. There are reasons for everything." McGonagall had been keeping an eye on everyone leaving the class room and she spoke again when the last one left the room. "I should also inform you that tomorrow's detention will take the place of this evening's lesson. To make things look proper twenty points will be taken for each of you. However, I'm fairly certain that Hagrid will award twenty points each by tomorrow's end, provided you do well." McGonagall looked at each of them over her glasses. "One more thing, I am supposed to tell you that lost time for your studies can be made up at the expense of getting older. I assume you all understand what that means."
●
"Gah, I hate double potions with the Slytherins. I'm glad it's over. Beats me how Dumbledore could have someone like Snape on the staff, especially with the way he treats us and Harry in particular."
"He's a licensed Potions Master for one and if you can get past his abrasive personality - which takes a lot of effort, he's actually quite brilliant. Ron shook his head disbelievingly at Hermione. Snape being brilliant was more than he could fathom.
"No lesson this evening Harry, how about a nice game of wizard chess?"
"We've still got a lot of homework Ron. I swear homework gets doubled every year we're here."
"There's no way we're going to get it done anyway. Not with detention tomorrow." Ron rolled his eyes. "We might as well make the most of it and enjoy ourselves with what little time we've got."
"That's right Ron. Time. Didn't you understand the message McGonagall gave us?" Hermione said sounding irritated. "We're to use the Headmaster's Sanctum to do our studies."
"Oh," grumbled Ron. "All the time in the world to study then. That should make you happy." Hermione ignored his sarcasm.
"It won't be so bad. We can order whatever we want from the kitchens. And surely we can work in some wizard chess after our studies." Then thinking of including Hermione, "Or exploding snap maybe."
"You two can play wizard chess. I'll be quite content to read a book," said Hermione giving a wry smile as Ron brightened considerably.
●
"Ready to serve detention are ya?" Hagrid said with a wink as he opened the door of his hut. "I'll be teachin' ya ah bit o' survival knowledge. We'll be spendin' most o' the day in the forest an' ya won't be needin' yer wands. So tucks 'em away till later. Ah will however be givin' ya these." Hagrid handed them each a sheathed knife.
"Don't be takin' those out o' their sheaths jus' yet. These knives 'ave been charmed. They'll never lose an edge 'an they'll cut jus' about anythin'. All ya have to do is press harder an' they'll cut. Le' me show ya." Hagrid took out his own knife that looked as big as a machete. Massive compared to theirs but similar in every other respect. He unsheathed it and placed it on a log. It must have been sharp because it sunk into the hard wood neatly. The surprise was when he started pressing down on it rocking it back and forth as if he were cutting a large sausage. The blade went cleanly through.
"I understand the charm working to keep the blade sharp but what lets it cut through like that? I didn't see any smoke so it's not a burning charm."
"Er, let me see if I can remember Hermione. It's a hermetic resins er something like that."
"Oh, you mean harmonic resonance?"
"Yeah, that's the ticket."
"But how was such a charm applied? I'll have to look that up."
"You would," said Ron rolling his eyes. Hermione wrinkled her nose at him in response.
●
Hagrid complained that to teach them some real survival skills he would need at least a month and preferable two but that he would do the best he could with a day. He stressed over and over the importance of water - where to look - and how to find it.
"Here's ya ah neat trick that even some muggles can do. They calls it dowsing, er witching fer water. Take a young limber sapling that has a nice double branch in it. A fruit tree tends to werk best but I always hated to cut one. However this here willow sapling will do." Hagrid grabbed hold of what Harry considered a young tree, not a sapling, took out his knife and cut it off cleanly at the base. He trimmed off the top, all but two forked branches giving him handles. Hagrid encouraged the three of them to do the same. Of course theirs were much smaller than Hagrid's. They wandered around holding willow sticks in the air. Harry thought it looked kind of silly until his suddenly bent straight down and so did Hermione's and Ron's on either side of him. It was weird how it bent down in a particular spot even when he tried to make it not.
"Good ya found a spot. Looks like an underground stream near ta surface. I'll move this 'ere rock an' we'll jus see." Hagrid kicked at a small boulder, rolling it out of the way and leaving a hole in the ground. They all watched as water bubbled up from the bottom filling the hole half way up.
Hagrid showed them how to fashion a crude shelter against the weather, and then how to make traps and snares. Harry never realized there was so much to know and was intrigued how Hagrid could make something out of seemingly nothing. Hagrid had them each build a snare which they left as he had them walk down another path imparting what knowledge he had of the forest and how to stay alive when you have almost nothing.
"Ya see the use of magic can be detected, within a certain range, and if you're not sure where your enemy is, you can't always risk using magic while you're out looking for water or wild game. So, what sounds good for supper? Grouse, rabbit, blackcock?"
"Say, that's right. We haven't even had lunch. I'm so hungry I could eat a Hippogriff but a nice leg of lamb sounds good," said Ron.
"Ham with mashed potatoes and gravy," said Harry.
"No, roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy sounds better," said Hermione
Hagrid chuckled. "Well le' see here - a Hippogriff, a sheep, a pig, and a cow," he said counting them off on his fingers. "Those things are all much too big for the snares we left. I'm betting on grouse or rabbit. Let's go back and check shall we?"
Hagrid was right. They had two grouse and a rabbit. It suddenly became clear what other use their knives would have. Hermione was the one most shocked at the realization.
"Ya alright there Hermione? I know ye has a soft heart for all the lesser creatures but this is tha best way to learn survival. Ya do it an' then yer sure ye can. It's wrong to kill for the sake of killin'. It's not wrong when it's fer survival an' ya could find yerself depended on by someone else for survival as well."
Hermione understood but was quiet. She did her part as well as Harry or Ron. Ron was the one who seemed most at ease having lived more of a country life than either Harry or Hermione. Hagrid showed them how to build a fire without magic and fashioned a spit to turn and roast the game on. They were all hungry and ate, Hermione eating very little. Harry thought the grouse was better than the rabbit but both tasted pretty good, especially since he was hungry.
●
December was drawing near and the weather was getting colder. It had been a week since there detention-lesson with Hagrid. Hermione had avoided eating meat of any kind all week, but was finally coming to terms with killing 'a beautiful wild creature' as she put it. Ron didn't see what all the fuss was about and was about to point out that all the food served at the castle came from somewhere. But not before Harry kicked him under the table and whispered.
"Do you want to get her starting on another organization? 'Vegetarians of Hogwarts' or something? You still remember S.P.E.W. don't you?" Ron gave a concentrated look and started talking about how well his favorite Quidditch team, the Chudley Cannons, were doing.
"By the way, I got a note from Professor McGonagall. Our next lesson will be with Madam Pomfrey this coming Saturday. Evidently, it will be our last one before Christmas holidays. And speaking of Christmas - where will you be spending yours Harry?"
Not giving Harry a chance to answer Ron said with a big grin, "With me, o' course. Right mate?"
"As long as it's not a bother, I'd like that. I really would."
"Bother? Are you off your trolley?"
"Glad to hear it. We should be able to spend time together by Floo with the new fireplace."
The three of them started making plans for the holidays as Harry made a mental note to think about gifts for his two best friends. He wanted this Christmas to be something special, but what?
●
The next several nights Harry found himself dreaming about a particular door that he desperately wanted to open. There was something, he desired, on the other side. Every time, he woke up with his scar hurting before he could open it. He had no idea what it meant and felt reluctant to tell anyone, reasoning that it would be better to have something more to say than 'I've been having bad dreams'. Saturday came soon enough and he found himself with Hermione and Ron to have their lesson with Madam Pomfrey.
"I've been instructed to give you three a lesson in battlefield first aid. I don't know what the Headmaster is thinking but considering what you've been through already….I suppose it's prudent enough."
Madam Pomfrey quickly took them through bones and muscles naming off names so fast it made Harry's head feel like it was spinning. They did however spend time learning how to apply splints and bandages. Harry had to admit it was kind of fun to make bandages shoot out the end of his wand. He and Ron had a short duel at bandaging each other up, looking like mummies in the process, before Madam Pomfrey put a stop to it. Hermione just rolled her eyes, but laughed nonetheless.
"Now let's go over the list again in order of importance. Anyone who is unresponsive or with labored breathing should have the attention of ah Mediwizard as quickly as possible. Prevent blood loss; a clamping charm an' bandages should suffice. Use Indolen solution to ease pain and Adhideflagrum cream for burns. If the injured goes into shock, be sure and keep them warm. A drop of warming potion on the tongue should last a good hour. Or blankets will do if you have none."
"Is Indolen that grape jelly looking stuff you used on my head."
"That's correct but it tastes nothing like grape jelly, I can assure you."
"Does a warming potion contain essence of fire?"
"Diluted essence of fire. An' a cooling potion contains concentrate of glacial ice."
"What's the broken bone for on your desk? One of the castle skeletons needs mendin'?" Ron chortled at his own joke.
"It's to show you three how difficult it is to mend bones. And not to be try it unless your competent."
"Like Professor Lockhart did to Harry's arm once?" Ron grinned.
Harry winced at remembering how Lockhart had attempted to magically mend his broken arm only to remove the bones instead. He had to spend a rough night in the Hospital Wing re-growing the bones.
Hermione just pursed her lips not saying anything.
"The skiving wazzok," Madam Pomfrey fumed. "I hear he's been released from St. Mungo's and is clerking in a bookstore. Serves him right."
"What bookstore?" asked Hermione. Everyone gave her an odd look. "I was just wondering…" she said defensively.
Besides attempting to mend a bone, which the three of them were not very good at, they also attempted to conjure a stretcher. Conjuring was really a seventh year subject, which made Harry eager to try. Hermione managed a stiff blanket, Harry managed a board and Ron managed a handkerchief. Madam Pomfrey encouraged them to practice and said they all did well, for fifth years, at their attempts in conjuring.
●
Saturday evening, after their lesson with Madam Pomfrey, Harry was discussing Quidditch at a table in the common room with the team. Hermione came in from making her Prefect rounds and caught Harry's attention. Harry made an excuse to leave the table as Ron watched Hermione tell Harry something. Harry made his way back to his chair at the table.
"We need to wrap this up by eight o'clock. Ron and I need to go to the library."
"What for? It's Saturday evening."
"To study I would imagine." Harry gave Ron a stern look.
"Uh huh. What's really going on Harry?" asked George.
"Yeah, inquiring minds want to know," coughed Fred.
"Ron and I are going to check out some Quidditch books."
"We are?" Ron looked confused.
"Maybe I can be of help," cooed Katie picking up the intrigue. Alicia and Angelina quickly affirmed their willingness to help as well.
Harry closed his eyes and frowned before giving Ron a hard stare and looking hopeless at the rest of the team. "Well, if you must know. Ron and I are supposed to go to the Headmaster's office at eight o'clock and Hermione is supposed to escort us there."
"Harry Potter you lied. Our own captain lied to us," teased Katie mocking a faint.
"That's bad enough," agreed Alicia. "But what have you two done now?"
"I had every intention of going by the library and looking at the cover of a Quidditch book, or two, on the way to the Headmaster's office - so it wouldn't have been a lie. But now I believe I'll dispense with the side trip. In addition, as far as I know we haven't done anything wrong. Since I don't know what it's about I wanted to avoid everyone's wild speculation as to what it might be." Harry had a touch of color rise in his face much to the amusement of his teammates. Except Ron who's ears were starting to turn pink.
●
The three of them stood in front of the entrance to the Headmaster's office, peering at a stone gargoyle, as Hermione said the password.
"Honey." The gargoyle jumped aside to let them stand on wooden steps that magically ascended to the Headmasters office. Just as Hermione put her hand up to knock on the heavy wooden door at the top Dumbledore's voice was heard on the other side.
"Enter."
The room was dimly lit save three floating candles illuminating Fawkes on his perch in the center of the room. There were about a dozen people here and only about half Harry recognized. Harry caught his breath and whispered.
"Sirius."
Hermione and Ron's heads snapped to the direction Harry was looking. Sure enough, Sirius was standing next to Tonks and Remus. He smiled briefly and nodded to the three. The whole atmosphere of the room was solemn and Harry was reluctant to move or say anything. Finally a stately looking witch spoke.
"We, the Order of the Phoenix have voted to allow you into our ranks as marked members having no other authority or rights. Do you wish to join our number?"
"Yes."
"I do."
"Aye."
"Stand before this phoenix and pledge your loyalty. State your name and be judged."
It was all strange and Harry wasn't sure what he was supposed to do. Hermione or Ron didn't seem to know what to do either and they stood motionless like Harry. Harry decided to take the plunge and stepped up to Fawkes.
"I, Harry James Potter pledge my loyalty to the Order of the Phoenix." Fawkes blinked at him and then stretched out his long neck in an affectionate manner. Harry didn't know what else to do except pet him and then step back. Harry heard Snape's scoffing voice in the back of the dimly lit room.
"I knew the boy was too young."
"Patience Severus, we shall see," responded Dumbledore in a low tone.
"Stand here," said the stately looking witch. "Next."
"I, Hermione Jane Granger pledge my loyalty to the Order of the Phoenix." Fawkes blinked and did the same as before, affectionately stretching out his neck toward Hermione who was delighted to pet him. She took her place beside Harry as Ron went next.
"I Ronald Bilius Weasley pledge my loyalty to the Order of the Phoenix."
'Bilius? Ron never told me his middle name was Bilius.' Harry looked sideways at Hermione who was trying to suppress a sly grin. 'Definitely teasing material,' Harry thought.
Ron presumed he was going to pet Fawkes like Harry and Hermione had done before him, but jerked his hand back has Fawkes stretched to his full height gently flapping his wings. Ron was briefly showered with what looked like glowing sparks. A very surprised Ron took his place beside Harry and Hermione as the lights in the room brightened and Harry could see everyone clearly.
The stately looking witch addressed them once again.
"My name is Emmaline Vance. As I shake your hand you are to respond in the same way you receive." She eyed Harry suspiciously, as she reached out and took his hand.
Immediately, with the touch of her hand, an image of a fiery phoenix appeared in his mind, it was beautiful. Harry now understood what she meant by respond in the same way you receive. He concentrated on the image. Harry judged that it worked by the surprised look on her face.
"I thought we were supposed to try not to look surprised Emmaline," Sirius' voice came from the darkened room.
Emmaline shot a look in his general direction before shaking Hermione's hand next. Once again, she had a surprised look but moved on quickly to shake Ron's hand. Ron squinted and concentrated before letting go.
Dumbledore stepped up beside Fawkes and addressed the room.
"Our mark is an image in the mind. An image kindled by loyalty and trust - that once broken - is lost as will any memory of our Order. Our mark is unique and cannot be duplicated. Nor can it be used without being diluted. We will know if our fellow member is under the influence of the Imperious Curse. Let us take our stand on Merlin's moto, 'Magical Justice for All'." The room echoed with affirmation. The ceremony concluded and Dumbledore's eyes twinkled as his solemn manner changed to a warm smile.
"Come everyone. Welcome our newest members." Dumbledore held out his hand.
Harry, Hermione and Ron proceeded to shake everyone's hand in passing, exchanging the fiery phoenix image as they went. Harry shook hands with several people he hadn't met before. Elphias Doge was an old wizard with a wheezy voice and silvery hair and was wearing a silly looking hat. Mundungunus Fletcher, who said to call him Dung since everyone else did. Harry had the distinct impression that Dung was a bit of a thief, but was reserving judgment. After all, he was a member of the Order. And Hestia Jones was a pink-cheeked black-haired witch. He also met those he had expected, or already knew were in the Order. Remus, Tonks, McGonagall, Hagrid, Figg, and Snape though he still didn't understand why. Snape shook Harry's hand with a sneer letting go quickly.
"Just remember Potter. You're a member in name only," Snape drawled. Then rather stiffly he left the Headmasters office but not before he shot a look of utter loathing at Sirius, who returned the action.
Lastly, Sirius shook Harry's hand and hugged him afterward. Harry wondered who else might be in the Order. He doubted that everyone was able to show up.
"So tell me Albus. How did my Godson and Hermione manage to have our mark when Fawkes obviously didn't give his blessing tonight?"
"First things first, Sirius. Have you met everyone here tonight Harry, Hermione, Ron? Good." Dumbledore clapped his hands to get everyone's attention as two trays appeared on his desk with snacks and drinks. "I believe refreshments are in order. Please help yourselves."
"I believe the answer is in what Harry and Hermione experienced in the 'Breath of Life'. Fawkes was involved. And I must once again mention my reservations at your coming tonight Sirius."
"Dumbledore is right Sirius. You probably shouldn't have come, but I'm still glad to see you."
"Same here. I should tell you to try and not look surprised if you shake a strangers hand and you see our mark. We don't want to give away anything about how we identify each other."
"Er, can I pass the image over to anyone?"
"No, only to fellow members or trusted agents will see our mark. Anyone else will see nothing at all."
"Agents?"
"I think that's probably enough for now," Sirius said catching a look from Dumbledore.
"Did mum and dad go through this as well?" asked Harry. Sirius looked pained and Dumbledore stiffened slightly.
"No," Sirius replied and paused before saying more. "I wish we would have had this in place the first time the Order was formed. But we try to learn from our mistakes and Dumbledore's idea of a secret mark couldn't be better. Aside from forming the Order."
Harry immediately understood that if they would have had this in place the first time the Order was formed Peter Pettigrew would not have received Fawkes' blessing and would never have been allowed in. He would never have had the chance to betray his parents and they might still be alive.
"Yes, I agree. It's a splendid idea." Harry noticed Dumbledore relax with a fleeting look of regret. "I thought Merlin had originally founded the Order, Sirius. You made it sound as if Headmaster Dumbledore did." Sirius had a sly grin but Dumbledore answered before Sirius said anything.
"No one knows for certain if Merlin founded such an Order, but Sirius likes to imply that he did. A well intentioned compliment that is somewhat misleading. However, Merlin did say 'Magical Justice for All'. A concept that everyone agrees upon until they find themselves weighed in the balance. We all want justice but do not always agree on the equity or disbursement."
Harry noticed the room was less crowded. It looked like the only ones left who weren't part of the Hogwarts staff were Sirius and Tonks. Sirius saw Harry scan the room.
"Yes, it's about time to leave."
"Er, how? How did the others leave?"
Dumbledore looked over his half-moon glasses at Harry, smiling.
"There's a large tapestry hanging on the wall in the back of the Headmasters office. Very old and nicely done, it shows the four founders and their coat of arms. As Headmaster, I am not without a few conveniences in reaching my Sanctum. A short walk in the corridor beyond the Sanctum puts a person beyond the anti-apparating spell of Hogwarts."
Sirius and Tonks said their goodbyes and left.
"If anyone should ask, why Hermione escorted you and Ron to the Headmaster's office, it was to find out where you would be spending the holidays. I assume it will be with the Weasley's. Very good."