Unofficial Portkey Archive

A/N - These next few will be getting very complicated, and very interesting I think. For now, I do hope you enjoy this chapter. I'm almost at 400 reviews, so please review! :)

Also, thanks to hpfan73 for pointing out an error in the time-line. Snape uses the Cassus Animus Potion 2 months or so before James and Lily are killed, but Lily didn't give her notebook to Dumbledore and Snape until the night they died.

An edit will be put in soon, having Lily asking about her book and the potion, rather than giving it to Dumbledore. Dumbledore will say that Snape is still going over the book at that moment, but that the potion was finished, and it was successful. Snape has to gain Dumbledore's trust before September, because he's hired at Hogwarts on Sept. 1, 1981, and it was during early 1981, when Regulus is killed, when Snape approaches Dumbledore to join the Order. James and Lily were in hiding by this time, so they limited their excursions. Lily's book however was unable to be returned to her, because Snape still had it, and was at the time (the night of Oct. 31st) still working on the potion, and other potions in the book.

Of course if any of you have an idea as to how it could be edited, please feel free to suggest an alternative.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

The Darkness Approaches

`Alright Harry, if you're unwilling to give me information on your trips out of Hogwarts at night, I'll just have to report my own theories. Now, what about you and Miss Granger?' Rita Skeeter asked Harry, after pelting him with questions about the two nights before; Harry not answering any of them.

`What about her?' Harry asked, sounding aggravated.

`Well, I believe I was right all along wasn't I? You two are an item. Very touching' she added, scratching down notes on her parchment. The room they were in was small, and Umbridge seemed to make it smaller with her pacing around Skeeter and Harry, who were sitting in the middle of the room on the only chairs.

`Things between Hermione and I are none of your business. Besides, I thought you were done with your writing days' Harry mentioned, his eyes locking onto Umbridge, who continued her slow encircling, like a vulture waiting for an injured animal to die.

`Oh Harry, my business is a fickle one, and there are always opportunities. My good friend Dolores told me she could set up an interview with you, and I have several papers already itching to publish this lovely little chat.'

`I doubt they will when you learn nothing from me' Harry responded. Skeeter laughed harshly at this, and wrote another comment on her parchment. Umbridge was behind her, and tried to read, but Skeeter saw her leaning, and clutched the parchment close to her, hiding it from the vulture's sight. Harry wondered why she would keep secret the notes she was taking on Harry from Umbridge, but figured it was Skeeter being paranoid over her only break in the last two years since her last interview with Harry.

`Oh, I'm sure we'll learn plenty from you Harry. We have all the time in the world' Rita explained happily, looking at Harry with her bug-like eyes peering through her fake jeweled spectacles.

It was then that a loud knock came at the door to the room. Skeeter clutched to her parchment dearly with her large, man-like hands, and Umbridge gave a sigh-strutting over to the doorway, and opening it slowly. She carefully peered out the doorway, but immediately closed it when a spell was fired at her from someone on the other side, and smashed into the door with a crack. She turned back to Harry, who was turned in his seat, and she looked completely infuriated.

`This is an imposter! Potter is outside. Leave him, I must catch that boy' Umbridge told Skeeter. Harry gave a strange look to both Umbridge and Skeeter, but stayed in his seat.

`I'll stay here and watch this one; you bring the boy here' Skeeter told Umbridge. Umbridge nodded, and opened the heavy wooden door cautiously. Not having any spells cast at her, she swung it open quickly, and ordered two Aurors passing by to search for Harry. The door closed with a thud, and to Harry's surprise, Skeeter pointed her wand at the door, and it locked with a click.

`Hmmm' she said quietly, looking at a patch of stone floor in front of her with a strange expression. She wrote something short on her parchment, and stood from her chair. She turned, and began to pace around behind her chair, and looked back at Harry.

`Well then, if you're not Harry Potter, then there is no need for you' she stated in a rather dark tone compared to her normal, rather annoying one. She pointed her wand at Harry, and he quickly dove out of the way before the spell she cast hit him, and instead turned the chair he was sitting on into shards of wood.

`Expelliarmus!' Harry yelled, his wand pointed at Skeeter. She moved out of the way quickly, and was able to avoid the spell.

Skeeter then turned, and kicked her chair at Harry. Harry dove again to miss getting hit by the chair, but in his dive, Rita cast her own Disarming Spell, and Harry's wand flew out of his hand while he was still in mid-flight. Harry hit the stone floor hard, and felt naked without his wand, as it was now happily in Rita's hand.

`What, did Voldemort get to you?' Harry asked angrily from the floor, looking up at an oddly emotionless Skeeter.

`Something like that, yes' she answered, as the door began to thud and pound from the outside. She pointed her wand at Harry's chest, and he desperately tried to think of a way out.

`Ava- . . . Avad- . . . ` Skeeter started, but began to twitching violently. Her wand was still pointed at Harry, but it seemed like she was struggling somehow to say the curse.

Wasting no time, Harry reached up and stole back his wand. Skeeter was still struggling, and had closed her eyes like she was fighting some internal battle. Harry backed up, and tried to open the door, but just as he reached it, it seemed Skeeter finished the battle.

`Ava- . . . Avada . . . Avada Kedavra!' she shouted, the green light flashing towards Harry. He hastily threw himself to the stone floor, and luckily dodged the Killing Curse as it slammed into the heavy wooden door. He looked up and found Rita's expression lifeless, and her eyes hazed as she continued to fire spells at Harry; the pounding on the door becoming more intense.

Harry ran behind a stone pillar that stood in the corner of the room, and quickly reached into his pocket. He was desperate, and had only one way to escape the room. He would try to fight back, but Skeeter was firing so many Killing Curses, he would for sure get hit by one if he tried to get into a good position.

Pulling it out of his pocket, he put the Time Turner around his neck, and just as another Killing Curse was being fired by Skeeter, and a booming crack came from the door, he flipped the hourglass once.

The scene around him began to change, and he saw both he and Skeeter dueling, then Umbridge re-entered, and she was pacing in a circle. Everyone looked shadowy, and before he knew it, Harry and Umbridge were out of the room, and soon after that, Skeeter was too. The room slowly returned to normal, and only Harry was inside, still standing behind the pillar.

Harry wasted no time, and ran out of the room towards the Headmistress's Office. Heaving the password to the stone gargoyles, Harry quickly entered and found the office empty. Fear beginning to enter Harry's mind, he asked some of the portraits, and learned the Headmistress left to go and speak to a professor. Which one, they did not know, but Harry ran out and began his early morning and tired search.

Checking the Charms room and the Astronomy office, Harry found both of them were empty. Time was running out quickly for Harry, and he needed to hurry. He and the others would be returning to the castle very soon.

While running to the Potions dungeon, Harry suddenly stopped, and remembered what Umbridge said when they arrived. He turned around, and made a mad dash to the Transfiguration classroom, where he finally found Professor McGonagall, talking with Professor Fourmove.

`Potter, What is the matter?' McGonagall asked after Harry ran through the doorway and approached the two professors, catching his breath from the sprint.

`Where's Umbridge?' Harry asked. Professor McGonagall looked at Professor Fourmove, and then to Harry.

`She's more than likely looking after her rounds. What is wrong Potter; why did you run here, and what are you doing up so early in the morning?' Harry looked around, and took a seat at one of the desks, and the Headmistress and Potions Master came closer.

`Professor Terrwynebas, Ron, Hermione and I are going to be coming back to the castle soon. We had to make another trip to find . . . something.'

`Going to be coming back? But you're here' Professor Fourmove pointed out. Harry reached under his collar, and pulled out the Time Turner to show the two Professors. Professor McGonagall was not impressed.

`Potter, we gave you that Time Tuner under the notion you would be using it only for your lessons, not to warn us you are coming back from field trip to save you from getting in trouble' she explained flatly.

`Professor, Umbridge is going to be letting a Death Eater into the castle in the next hour-`

`Stop Potter' McGonagall said abruptly, putting her hand up. `You cannot come back in time to warn us of things to come.'

`But I know I already did!' Harry avowed.

`And how is this?' McGonagall asked.

`Because Umbridge tells us that you want to see Professor Terrwynebas, and that Professor Fourmove wants to see Me, Hermione, and Ron. Where you planning on doing that just now?' Harry asked. McGonagall looked again to Fourmove, but just for a moment.

`No Potter we were not. Who is this Death Eater Umbridge is bringing into the castle?'

`Rita Skeeter. She tried to kill me' Harry divulged. Professor McGonagall was stunned by this name.

`Skeeter? She could not be a Death Eater; she does not fit the profile. She's much too . . . selfish. But you say she tries to kill you?' she asked. Harry nodded, and Professor McGonagall thought for a moment.

`When are you due back?' she asked, Harry taking a glance at the old clock on the left-hand wall.

`In about ten minutes' Harry realized, hoping the two women would make a decisive choice.

`Alright Potter, we will do this, but there is a lot of explaining to be done once this is all over. Iona, can you go and inform Dolores about our requests for Professor Terrwynebas and the students?' The young transfiguration professor agreed, and quickly exited the room. Professor McGonagall signaled Harry to move as well, and they began their way to her office.

`Was this trip tonight successful?' she asked as they climbed the quiet and empty stone stairwells, lit with a dampened morning glow from the windows.

`Somewhat. It's hard to explain, and I need to ask Professor Dumbledore's portrait some questions first if you don't mind' Harry asked, trying to sound as polite as possible, remembering how he felt manipulated again by Dumbledore.

`Very well Potter, but quickly. I am glad to see you are safe, but I disagree with the time you are arriving back at the castle. I was told by Professor Dumbledore's portrait that these excursions were to last no longer than three hours' McGonagall informed as they reached her office. They entered quietly, and McGonagall let Harry walk in first. He moved right to Dumbledore's portrait.

`Good morning Harry. I am very glad to see you alive and well. How was your trip last night?' he asked, like one would ask how a trip to the corner store went.

`You knew about the Cup? It was already gone' Harry said darkly.

`It is gone, yes Harry.'

`Then why in Merlin did you send me out to find something that you know doesn't exist anymore!' Harry yelled, his hands clenched in fists at his sides. Professor McGonagall looked to interrupt with her dislike for Harry's tone, but Dumbledore raised his hand to motion it was alright.

`You needed to find Severus' Dumbledore answered simply. All that did however was enrage Harry more.

`Oh yes, find Snape. He stunned all of us, and tied us up! I was ready to kill him, and part of me still wants to!'

`I know Harry, and I am sorry. I did not know how Severus would go about trying to convince you of his allegiance, but-`

`Why the lie?' Harry interrupted. `Why did you lie to me about the Cup?'

Dumbledore lowered his head, and sighed. `I did not really lie to you Harry. You were still searching for the Cup, but the shards of it are in Severus' possession. So, to find the Cup, you needed to find Severus.'

`But why do we need to; the Cup's already destroyed. Snape can go rot as far as I care' Harry admitted, looking away from Dumbledore's reaction.

`Harry' Dumbledore started, leaning forward in his painting, and lowering his voice to calm either Harry, himself, or both of them. `Harry, you saw the memory; Severus destroyed a Horcrux. He was the first to destroy a Horcrux; before me, before you. That is important Harry, because it is proof of which side Severus is on. He can be difficult sometimes, I know' he continued, as Harry gave a harsh laugh, `but he has helped me, the Order, and yes Harry, you. He has helped you more than you know.'

`How? By teaching me Occlumency wrong? By taunting Sirius? By always preaching about how horribly he thinks my father was?' Harry stated, anger again rising back up in his chest and his stomach.

`No Harry. For some things, you will have to talk to Severus about, but the Occlumency was partly my fault. I know he taught you incorrectly, and it was not entirely my idea to do that.'

`What do you mean "entirely"? Did you tell him to teach me wrong; to allow Voldemort to get more into my head?' Harry ranted at the painting.

`No Harry. I simply asked Severus to find out what you were seeing, and what, if anything, your visions could be. He found the only way to get the visions to come up, was to make you relive harsh memories, and get you angry. He only told me after some time, and it was then that I stopped your lessons. I knew they were doing worst for you than good.'

`You didn't stop them; I did. I looked into his memories, and he threw me out of his office.'

`Yes Harry, and who do you think told him to leave his memories in a Pensieve like that? Don't think I forgot a few years ago, when you got curious of my Pensieve' Dumbledore informed cautiously.

`You mean, you knew I would look into it, and see those memories?' Harry asked in disbelief, wondering if he was so predictable. Dumbledore nodded, and the vision of Harry as Dumbledore's puppet began to increase in Harry's mind. Harry was going to respond back angrily, when the door to the office opened, and Professor Terrwynebas, along with Hermione, Ron, and Professor Fourmove came inside.

`Harry? How in the blazes did you get up here before us?' Ron asked, looking up at Harry in wonder.

`I have to go and stop Umbridge' Harry told Professor McGonagall all of a sudden, dropping his conversation for now with Dumbledore's portrait, and remembering his past self.

`No, I want you to first tell me what happened' she demanded. Harry told her quickly about going into the side room from the Entrance Chamber, and how Umbridge and Skeeter were there. He explained about Umbridge answering the door, and mentioning an imposter, then how the problems with Skeeter start. Professor McGonagall understood it well enough, and was convinced that Harry would not actually see his past self.

`Well, it sounds clear. Professor Fourmove, go with Potter and bring Dolores up to my office for a nice chat. Professor Terrwynebas, can you detain Rita once Umbridge is out?' Professor McGonagall asked. They all nodded, and as they left, Professor Dumbledore cleared his throat.

`Miss Granger, Mr. Weasley, can you stay here, I wish to discuss something with you?' he asked. They both looked at Harry, and he knew full well that Dumbledore wanted to talk about him. Harry nodded to them with a bit of dislike to Dumbledore's talking behind his back, and they stayed behind.

Walking down the cool stairwells in the early morning light, Professor Fourmove remained quiet, along with Harry and Topher. They reached the Entrance Chamber, and Harry led them to the side chamber. Both the Professors waited around the corner, as Harry walked up, and banged on the door.

Some shuffled footsteps could be heard, and just as the doorway opened up, and Harry caught Umbridge's toad-like face, he shot a Blasting Curse at the door, and she quickly closed it. Harry moved quickly down the hallway, and right on queue, Umbridge opened the door, and took notice of Harry running away.

`You two` she yelled at two passing Aurors. `Get Potter!' she ordered as she slammed the door behind her, and began moving her short hoof-like legs down the stone hallway, coming around the corner to find three wands pointing at her. She stopped abruptly, and the two black cloaked Aurors bumped into her back. The three of them looked at the two Professors and Harry.

`You will give me your wand. The Headmistress wishes to have a word' Professor Fourmove said sweetly. Umbridge raised her rather bulbous chin, and the two Aurors behind her moved closer.

`I think not. Potter here is to be questioned, and you have no authority over me Professors' Umbridge replied, looking at Harry with a sick grin.

`I have no troubles banishing you and your guards to the Forbidden Forest. I'm sure the centaurs will be thrilled to see you. Isn't that right Firenze?' Topher asked, looking around the group.

Harry smiled brightly as he saw Umbridge's eyes grow wide as the sound of hooves against stone could be heard growing louder behind the group. Harry tilted his head around Umbridge's wide frame, and found the large centaur walking towards the group. The Aurors looked to see him, but Umbridge tried desparately to maintain herself, and not look at the approaching Divination Professor.

`Mercury predicted the traveling of people to evil places, and of a sacrifice to be made for those who venture' he informed the group, coming closer and looking at Harry with his bright blue eyes. Umbridge, who had begun to shake, looked down to the stone floor, noticed his long shadow approaching, and burst through the Professors and Harry quickly.

`Alright! I will go to McGonagall's office! Here!' she shouted, throwing her wand back to Professor Fourmove.

`There's an imposter in that room down the hallway' she explained to the Professors as she began walking up the stairwell, still not looking back.

`Don't worry, we already know' Topher responded. Professor Fourmove ran to catch up to Umbridge, and took her up towards the Headmistress' Office, along with the two Aurors. Topher and Harry bid Firenze goodbye-as he was on his way out towards Hagrid's Hut, and approached the side chamber door. A crash came from within, and they hurried up.

Trying to open the door, and then using a spell, the door failed to move. `There must be a Cementing Spell on it. We're just going to have to blast our way through it' Topher said. They backed up a little, and heard Harry from inside the room.

`What, did Voldemort get to you?' the Harry inside the room said. Harry and Topher both pointed their wands at the door, and began throwing Blasting Curses at it. It looked like the curses were having some effect; yet when Topher stopped, he walked up and tried to push the door, but found it to be exactly how it was before.

`Avada Kedavra!' came from the other side of the door, and both Harry and Topher stood back again, and threw Blasting Curses again at the door; at a closer distance and with a quickened pace. Just as Harry began worrying if the door would actually come down, he saw it creak open after a barrage, and Topher quickly vaulted into the room-the door making a loud booming sound when it opened-and Harry followed behind.

Reaching inside, he found the same chair as before in pieces on the floor. The corner of the room was empty, and Topher bound Rita in cords, and took her wand from her.

`Harry, pick up her notepad please' Topher asked, motioning to the clipboard and the dropped red quill. Harry took it, and looked at the paper and was surprised.

`It's blank' he exposed, showing it to Topher. Rita laughed harshly again, and looked at Harry again with a hazy expression.

`The Dark Lord will soon have you in his clutches Potter. You and your Mudblood love will plead for death before the end' she hissed. Topher tapped her with his wand, and she fell into a deep sleep.

`Whoops' he said sarcastically, bringing her out of the room. Some early risers came down-or up-from their dormitories, hearing the sound of the curses. They all had their wands out, and as Harry looked at the two dozen or so, he was proud to see students from all four houses, and every one of them were members of the Guard.

`We heard Blasting Curses and assumed the worst' Neville informed, who was still managing with the arm of his shirt.

`Harry, is that Rita Skeeter?' Ginny asked, who was standing with a few other Gryffindors as they saw Topher levitate her above the ground. A few more students were arriving with their wands, and asking others what was happening.

`It is. I'll explain later' Harry said quickly, looking at the group.

`Yes, everyone back to their dormitories, now' Topher ordered. Harry almost forgot he was Head of Gryffindor house, and all the students hurried quickly back to their dormitories, no doubt to tell all the rest of the students. Topher gave a flick of his wand, and the three began their way to the Headmistress' Office.

`Well, there goes any secrecy' Topher admitted as they approached the first staircase.

`Why would she be working for Voldemort?' Harry wondered aloud as they climbed the stairs, and Topher levitated Rita up.

`She's not working for them on purpose Harry. Did you notice her eyes?'

`I did, they were hazy, and it had me wondering. Was she-`

`Yes, under the Imperious Curse I believe. Was probably ordered to gather information on you, and try to kill you if possible' Topher suggested. They moved up into the next staircase, and remained quiet for a while as Rita was slowly levitated in front of them.

`How did you know about Umbridge and the centaurs?' Harry asked as the came closer to the Headmistress's Office.

`When she came to the castle in August to work out the rounds for her Aurors, Professor McGonagall told me about her little trip in the Forbidden Forest, and her love for centaurs. Just in case something like that situation occurred' he explained, a smile wiping across his face, as they rounded the last corner, and reached the Headmistress' Office. They entered, and brought Rita in; finding Professor's McGonagall, Fourmove, Slughorn, and Flitwick; Madam Pomfrey, Umbridge, Hermione, Ron, and the two black cloaked Aurors.

`Was there any trouble? Are you both alright?' Professor McGonagall asked.

`We're fine Professor, although by breakfast every student will know that Rita here is in the castle. It seems she was under an Imperious Curse. Strange you did not notice her eyes Dolores' Topher pointed out, everyone focusing on the stout woman.

`She was wearing a cloak when she entered, so students and staff would not wonder. I asked her about her eyes, but she said it was just a healing spell that was wearing off' Umbridge justified. Professor McGonagall looked away in disbelieve of Umbridge's stupidity, while both Madam Pomfrey and Professor Fourmove laughed at it.

`A healing charm? Even I'm no good at Healing, and know that no charm for the eyes has any lasting external effects' Professor Fourmove exclaimed.

`Why not?' Hermione asked.

`Because it would impede the person's vision' Fourmove answered, Hermione nodding in understanding.

`That has nothing to do with what's happened. Do we know anything about who could have cursed Rita, or any information she took?' Professor McGonagall asked, getting the conversation back on track.

`She asked me where I have been going on my trips outside the castle, and . . . ` Harry hesitated, glancing at Hermione for a moment. Professor McGonagall was not up for waiting however.

`And Potter?'

`And about me and Hermione' he admitted, looking at Hermione who was nearby. She looked a bit worried over the news, her brown eyes growing slightly wider, but she stayed collected.

`Don't worry' Harry continued, `I didn't tell her anything, I swear' he reassured both Professor McGonagall and Hermione. Hermione smiled lightly at Harry, and nodded knowing he was truthful.

`We believe you Potter. Is this the notepad she wrote on?' Professor McGonagall asked. Harry nodded, and handed it over. She gave it Professor Flitwick, and he placed it on a chair to look at it. After waving his wand over it a few times, he scratched his head slightly, and looked at the notepad again.

`This notepad is connected to another I believe. When someone writes something, it appears on the other notepad' he explained.

`So someone was getting Rita's notes' Professor Fourmove stated.

`Yes, and you can judge how far away the other notepad is, by how fast the ink disappears' he pointed out. He took the red quill, and everyone leaned in closely to see him write.

I have the real Potter. What should I ask?

The writing evaporated quickly, and before the tiny Charms professor finished the dot on the question mark, almost all the other writing was gone.

`Is it me, or was that fast?' Ron questioned rhetorically.

`Very fast. The other notepad must be no farther than Hogsmede' Professor Flitwick maintained.

`Professor Fourmove, contact the Ministry, and let them know about this immediately' Professor McGonagall stated. The black haired professor nodded, and quickly exited the room.

`Poppy, can you take Rita to the Hospital Wing. I want her isolated, so none of the students see her' Professor McGonagall maintained. Madam Pomfrey agreed, and levitated Rita out of the office.

`Professor Slughorn, can you please bring up some Veritaserum for Rita; we need to-`

`There's a response!' Professor Flitwick squeaked, as writing appeared in dark faced letters.

Ask Potter if he is searching for something in the Department of Mysteries

Harry immediately looked at Topher, who wore just as worried a face as Harry did.

`The Department of Mysteries? Harry m'boy, you aren't looking for something down there are yeh?' Professor Slughorn asked gruffly. The professors, along with all the portraits-who had been listening to every word-looked at Harry for an answer.

`I . . . I am, I think' he responded, looking to Topher for help.

`We're both looking for something. Something very important, powerful, and dangerous' he professed.

`And just how are you getting information about the Department of Mysteries?' Umbridge inquired rudely from her side of the room.

`You let someone who was clearly under an Imperious Curse into the castle, which almost resulted in a student being killed Dolores. You are in no way justified in asking a question, so stand there and be silent' Professor McGonagall commanded, Umbridge responding by huffing and turning away slightly from the group, no one really caring about her performance.

`I have a source inside. Voldemort shouldn't know though, I've only dealt with one man, and he's trustworthy' Topher explained, everyone except Harry, Hermione, and Ron shivering at the word Voldemort.

`As I was saying, Professor Slughorn, can you please bring up a bottle of Veritaserum to find out where Ms. Skeeter has been, so we may know how long she's been under the Curse' Professor McGonagall asked. Professor Slughorn agreed, and waddled out of the office towards his potion's room in the depths of the castle.

`Professor Flitwick, can you please find out as much information as possible about that parchment. Find out where that person is on the other side, and what else they have been asking about.'

`Are you sure it's best to have him reading it alone? I mean, remember the diary and Ginny?' Hermione said, looking at Professor McGonagall.

`Do not worry Miss Granger. I will take great care of this parchment, and will be sure not to read too much into it. Now, if you will excuse me' Flitwick requested, picking up the parchment and walking out the door.

`Now, Dolores, what to do with you?' Professor McGonagall wondered.

`You can not lock me up; I am the Supervisor of the Auror detail' she announced, trying to raise herself up to look a measly one and a half centimeters taller. It did not work.

`We will survive, do not worry Dolores. These two Aurors will escort you to the North Tower, where you will wait until a Ministry official arrives to relieve you' McGonagall said, a bit of what Harry thought was happiness seeping into her voice.

Umbridge looked at the two Aurors, and was surprised to see them coming next to her, and holding her arms as they began to walk. The three quietly exited the Headmistress' Office, and McGonagall put her hand to her forehead, and for the first time Harry could remember; she showed signs of tiredness. She quietly moved around her desk, and sat down in the high winged chair.

`Potter, did I hear you correctly earlier? Did you go out searching for Severus Snape?' McGonagall asked to the group in her office, which now consisted of the same one that just returned to the castle that early morning.

`We didn't go searching for him, but we found him. He's at Grimmauld right now with Malfoy' Harry informed.

`Malfoy? Draco Malfoy? Both of them at Grimmauld? By heavens Potter, you can't be serious? Snape killed Professor Dumbledore, and Draco Malfoy set it all up!' McGonagall said loudly, her eyes wide with a mixture of wonder and anger.

`No Minerva, Severus Snape did not kill me in the way you think' Professor Dumbledore's portrait announced quietly. Everyone looked at the portrait, as it took a deep breath (although many would question why it would need to breath), and continued on.

`I drank a potion that night that was killing me. Snape levitated me over the edge, and let me fall, because I was already dying-quite painfully I might add.'

`Potter, is this true?' McGonagall asked, turning around to face Harry.

`I guess. I didn't know what the potion was, or did. Snape told me the same thing though; that he levitated him over the edge, and it was Dumbledore's own decision, not his' Harry admitted, though not too happily.

`Severus said it was a Dolomors Potion' Topher put in. McGonagall's face grew pale slightly, and she looked gravely at the portrait.

`Oh Albus, is that . . . is that true?' she asked gravely to Dumbledore. He nodded, and she closed her eyes for a moment before nodding. `I understand. So that means . . .'

`That means' the portrait continued, `that Severus Snape is on our side. I trust Harry here can confirm his allegiance.' Dumbledore looked at Harry over his half-moon shaped spectacles, and Harry nodded.

`It's true, Snape's on our side' he admitted despondently.

`But what of Draco? Surely he can not be trusted, after what he did' Professor McGonagall said, looking at the portrait.

`Young Mr. Malfoy is more of a worry, because I do not know what has happened to him since he left Hogwarts. Did he tell you anything Harry?'

`He said Voldemort murdered both his parents-his father right in front of him. He said he hates him' Harry explained.

`Hmm' the portrait responded, thinking for a moment while other portraits in the room conversed quietly. `Did he say he wanted to help us?'

Harry took a moment to try and remember back, but the morning was turning into a blur fast. He was quite tired from the lack of sleep.

`He said he wanted Voldemort dead, and Bellatrix' Harry said, remembering Draco's rantings in Grimmauld.

`Don't worry Professor McGonagall' Topher assured, reaching into his pocket, and pulling out the piece of parchment he had both Snape and Malfoy sign. `A bit of insurance, just in case' he explained, putting the parchment on the desktop.

`What is this?' Professor McGonagall asked, picking it up and reading it.

`It's a Bonded Parchment. Both Severus and Draco signed it, swearing allegiance to the Order. If either of them break it . . . well, let's just say, they won't get that far' Topher said with a devilish smile.

`Bonded Parchment?' Ron asked, Hermione turning to him quickly.

`It's the spell I put on the sign-up sheet for the DA' she informed quietly.

`Alright' Professor McGonagall said, taking the parchment and putting it in a pocket of her green robe. `If you three could go to the Great Hall for breakfast, I have some things to discuss with Professor Terrwynebas here. Please inform the students that Rita is visiting the castle for Prophet business. You may have the morning off from classes to rest.' Harry protested.

`Professor, I need to talk to Professor Dumbledore's portrait more, there are questions I have that need-`

`I know Potter, I know' she admitted, holding up a calm hand. `But this is important. Perhaps Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley can help you' she offered.

`Harry, let's go to breakfast, please' Hermione insisted, holding onto his arm, as both support, and to keep him from jumping around the Professors, to yell at Dumbledore's portrait.

`We will talk later Harry, I promise' Dumbledore assured from his portrait, looking at Harry with his gentle blue eyes. Harry sighed tiredly, and nodded.

`Please report back here at six tonight, after supper. You can discuss more with Professor Dumbledore then, and we will be having a meeting with some Order members to discuss what is to be done with Mr. Malfoy and Severus' Professor McGonagall maintained. Harry agreed, and he, along with Ron and Hermione, left the Headmistress' Office, and began their slow and sleepy walk to the Great Hall.

`So what did Dumbledore talk to you two about while I was gone?' Harry asked, getting right to the point.

`He told us about Snape basically, and that we should try to support and help you' Hermione said calmly, still holding onto his arm.

`Yeah mate, that was about it. He knows you're mad, but he wants you to come back and talk to him later tonight' Ron put in, Harry looking at his red-haired friend in astonishment.

`Why does he want me to go back? Just to hear more of how I'm his little puppet in his game, and for me to just get more angry at it all' Harry asked. Hermione stopped Harry in the middle of the hallway, and looked at him closely.

`Harry, you're not a puppet. He's always felt horrible for keeping things from you, but he needs you to go back, because you know more than him, and he wants to help you' she explained to him, trying to maintain a lock on his eyes as they darted around.

`Let's go get some food, and some sleep. I swear, I'm gonna fall over if I don't sit down' Ron insisted, as he continued down the stairwell. Harry sighed, and Hermione placed her finger on his chin, raising his head to look at her.

`Ron's right, it's been a long night. Let's get some breakfast, and then we can sleep alright?' she asked sweetly. Harry looked at her as she was basked in the morning rays of the sun, and he nodded. She moved closer, and gave him a slow and seemingly time-stopping kiss. For the moment as they lingered-Harry forgot his earlier problems, and took comfort in Hermione's ability to calm him in even the tensest moments. His shoulders fell, and he relaxed his arms as they draped around Hermione's comforting form.

`I'll meet you two in the Great Hall!' Ron shouted from the other end of the hallway, as he looked back at his two friends, and left. Harry did not bother responding, and instead allowed his kiss with Hermione to continue quietly in the empty stone hallway; the orange and yellow from the sun casting down through his closed eyes.

Harry and Hermione slowly parted, and Harry smiled at Hermione, as she moved her arms around his neck, and began playing with his hair in the back of his head.

`You missed that, didn't you?' she asked playfully. Harry smiled, and gave her a hug, looking out the window to see the cool morning mist spreading through the Forbidden Forest. Harry's thoughts turned to the multitude of tasks before him, and worry to Rita Skeeter's questions about him and the girl he held in his arms.

`Don't worry Harry' Hermione said, as they moved to look at each other again. `You'll be alright; we're all hear for you' she encouraged. Harry moved a strand of her auburn hair out of her face, and placed it slowly behind her ear.

`I'm worried about you. If Rita was asking, that means he knows' he admitted.

`Then we'll face him together' she said determinately, but still softly. Harry gave her a kiss, and the two started their way to the Great Hall hand in hand.

Turning around the corridor, Harry could hear a couple behind a stone pillar making some rather obvious noise. Taking out his wand, he moved around, and his mouth fell open at the sight.

`Neville!' Harry breathed, as Hermione came around and looked as well. The couple instantly broke apart, and the other individual was identified.

`Ginny!' Hermione said, sounding and looking astonished. Neville was blushing like a tomato, as was Ginny, who was still keeping a hold of Neville's hand to keep him from falling over in embarrassment.

`Don't tell Ron please. For the love of Merlin, don't tell Ron' Ginny pleaded quickly. Neville was still looking like he just ate something rather distasteful.

`How long have you two-?' Hermione asked.

`A couple of months' Ginny answered. Neville was getting pale, and looked at Harry with immense worry.

`I'm . . . I'm sorry Harry' he finally voiced.

`Sorry?' Harry asked.

`Because . . . because you . . . and Ginny, last year . . .' he began, as he started to hyper-ventilate.

`Relax Neville, I think it's great you two' Harry said with a smile, looking at both Neville and Ginny. Ginny smiled happily at Harry, and gave him a hug.

`Thank you Harry' she whispered in his ear happily. Neville hunched over and slowly regained his breath, and Ginny moved back over and gave him short kiss.

`Com'on, let's go to breakfast' Harry insisted after a short laugh at it all. Everyone agreed, and as they started down the stairwell, Ginny asked about Skeeter.

`So what was she doing in the castle, and why did Professor Terrwynebas stun her?'

`If anyone asks, she was here for a Prophet article. Truthfully, she was under an Imperious Curse to get information on me' Harry explained quietly.

`Are you alright?' Neville asked.

`I'm fine, yeah. But McGonagall is having a meeting tonight with some Order members about it all. We'll have to see how things are with the fake story at the Guard meeting tomorrow night.'

As they entered the Great Hall, it seemed the truth was not going to wait until the next night. A surprisingly large number of students were up early on this Monday morning, and Harry had to rethink his plan.

`Why was Skeeter here-who was that woman-why was she stunned-`

`Alright! The Guard will meet tonight at eight pm in the Room of Requirement. For those still wishing to join, find out from other members were it is. We'll explain what happened then' Harry affirmed. Everyone seemed to accept that, and made their way back to the house tables. Ron was already diving into his food when Harry and the others sat down, and he gave both Ginny and Neville an odd look.

`Are you two seeing each other?' he asked, taking careful look at Ginny. Neville dropped his fork at the question, and on his way to pick it up, banged his head on the table.

`We are, is that a problem?' Ginny asked angrily. Ron was going to respond, when Hermione interrupted.

`That's great Ginny, and you too Neville.'

`Yeah, that's wonderful guys!' Harry added in, making Ron look at his friends, as they casually started at their breakfast.

`So Ron, is it a problem?' Ginny asked again, Neville stopping for a moment to wait for his response. Both Harry and Hermione glanced at Ron, and he gave a sigh.

`No, it's great. Congrats guys' he said with a chuckle, digging into some jam for his toast. Harry and the others smiled at each other, and broke into laughs when Ron began looking at them questioningly.

As breakfast continued, the daily owls came swooping into the Great Hall, and the regular Daily Prophet landed in front of Hermione, carried by a Burrowing Owl. Harry was going to look at it with her, when another owl found itself in front of Harry.

`Hedwig, what do you have there girl?' he asked, taking a note that was in her beak. The snowy owl took a few pieces of bacon from Harry's plate as he read, and waited for his response.

Dear Harry,

Hagrid

`Hagrid asked us to come by his Hut tomorrow' Harry informed Ron and Hermione.

`We have a free period before supper' Hermione answered, looking through the front page of the Prophet, which was stamped with dangerous and wanted wizards and witches. Harry wrote a reply telling Hagrid of the time they could be expected, and Hedwig-after a soft pat-flew off and through to the outside.

`Things are getting worst' Hermione stated, placing the newspaper down on the table. `Over thirty dead in one night, and five missing. The Ministry is so overrun, they're even having trouble protecting St. Mungo's, Muggles, and even the Ministry itself.'

`I hope Dad's alright' Ron said with a tinge of fear, looking at Ginny who looked just as worried.

`It says the Ministry is still safe, but that Ministry officials are so spread out, it wouldn't take much defeat it' Hermione said, reiterating the newsprint.

Breakfast finished quickly, and still more people came to question Harry about Skeeter. He continued to explain that he would tell everyone at the Guard meeting that night, and it seemed most of the students in the castle would be showing up.

The trio bid farewell to the others, and very sluggishly made their way to the towers. Ron asked if he could sleep in the East Tower, because there would not be any students going through it, and they let him sleep in the common room. Hermione charmed a make-shift bed for him, and although it was not a four-poster, he fell asleep almost instantly. Harry and Hermione, both overly tired from the day before and the night spent away, gave each other a kiss, and slumped their way to their dormitories. Harry changed slowly, and fell asleep quickly on his bed.

After what felt like a short sleep, filled with odd and yet wonderful dreams of himself and Hermione, as well as Luna, Draco, and Crookshanks; he woke up to find the room dark. He figured he closed the drapes before going to sleep, but as he rolled over and looked out, he was surprised to see that it was in fact dark outside. He smiled as the stars twinkled in the night sky, and remembered back to his kiss with Hermione that morning, and her insistence in being calm with Dumbledore.

Sitting up all of a sudden-making his head dizzy for a moment-he looked out the window, and began panicking; it was already the evening, and he missed his afternoon classes. He hastily got up from his bed, and frantically searched for his wand. Finding it, he made light, and realized he was still in his clothes from the day before. He ran to his trunk, and threw on his Hogwarts robes quickly, making sure his Head Boy badge was on, and vaulted his way down the staircase-still feeling groggy and knowing his hair looked as messy as ever.

Reaching the common room, he looked and found Hermione sitting at the desk, and Ron still asleep on the bed in the middle of the room; in between the two chairs and the fire, which was burning quietly.

`What time is it?' Harry asked quietly, approaching Hermione.

`It's five thirty. Don't worry, I talked to Professor Fourmove about class, and she said it was alright to miss it' she informed.

`So how long have you been up?' Harry asked, going over to take a look at Ron, who was sprawled out on the make-shift bed, looking to fall off soon.

`About an hour or so. I went to talk to Professor Fourmove, and just checked about Rita Skeeter.'

`And?'

`She was under an Imperious Curse, and had been for quite some time. There's no idea who, but someone very skilled at it. Professor McGonagall said she'd explain more at the meeting tonight. Don't forget you have a Guard meeting tonight too' Hermione reminded Harry.

Harry quickly planned out his meeting for the Guard, and just as he finished, Ron finally fell out of the bed, and with a thud, woke up and got ready for supper. The three of them left and quickly ate supper, and Harry dialed his fake-Galleon to let the DA members know about the meeting tonight. He confirmed the meeting with members, and the trio left the Great Hall; making their way to the Headmistress' Office again.

Not seeing much of the day light was effecting Harry's eyes a little, but adjusted and hoped he could sleep that night so he would not become a day sleeper. Being awake only at night made the castle feel darker, and less vibrant than usual.

`Stars and Moons' Harry said to the gargoyles, and they jumped out of the way for the three students. They all entered, finding Professor McGonagall sitting at her desk, with Remus, Tonks, Mad-Eye, and Baldric.

`Harry, Hermione, Ron; are you alright?' Remus asked, getting up from his chair and looking over Harry carefully.

`We're fine, just tired a little. We came to talk to Professor Dumbledore' Harry voiced, hoping to remind Professor McGonagall. Harry did not expect, or really want anyone else in the room during his conversation, but it seemed he was not that lucky.

`We know Potter. He told me that he wanted us all here for your conversation, in that it dealt with subjects we should all know about' Professor McGonagall divulged. Harry was not pleased, but went ahead towards the portrait.

`Where is Professor Terrwynebas?' Hermione asked.

`He will be arriving shortly with someone of importance. Do not worry Miss Granger' Dumbledore offered, before looking back at Harry.

`Harry, I know you have many questions, and that most revolve around Severus' he started, Harry staying calm like Hermione asked him to. `I want you to ask me what is on your mind, and I will do my best to explain everything.' Harry took a deep breath, and tried to forget the extra five people in the room.

`Why didn't you tell me I was searching for Snape, and not the cup?' he asked calmly, Hermione smiling at Harry for keeping relaxed.

`Because I knew if you were searching for Severus, you would wish to murder him. Regardless of what I could say to you, I knew you would not believe he was on our side. I knew it would take seeing his memories, and his destroying that cup to make you believe.'

`So why did you get me to search the castle, the Riddle House, and the Orphanage if you knew he would be at the Orphanage? We almost got killed in the House' Harry asked, some heat entering his voice, but he continued to stay relatively relaxed.

`Part of our plan, in case Severus would have to escape from the Death Eaters and Voldemort, was for him to hide in two places: the Riddle House, and the Orphanage. Both are heavily entrenched in Voldemort's mind, and he would not step into those buildings lightly. They already had magical spells on them, and would be good places for him to hide.

`The problem was, which one was he in? I figured by this time, he would have had to escape Voldemort, and hopefully Mr. Malfoy with him. So, it took a search of both places to find him. Searching Hogwarts was honestly just to get you thinking you were looking for the cup. I am sorry, but I had to deceive you in that way' Dumbledore said, still sounding as calm as he ever did.

`What about Topher?' Harry asked all of a sudden.

`What about him Harry?'

`How much did you tell him about me? He's still a stranger to me in many ways, yet he knows more about me than I tell him' Harry stated. He did not like questioning Topher behind his back, but it was something that troubled him.

`I told Professor Terrwynebas as much as he needed to know. He is a very open individual with the ones he trusts Harry, so I'm sure you can ask him, and he will tell you whatever you wish to know. But as for my part, I told him that it was important to continue my research to help you, to go with you on any trips you may take to find objects called "Horcruxes", and about your need for extra lessons on defence-focusing specifically on spells that use love.'

`That's it?' Harry asked.

`Basically, yes. I told him about Snape of course, because I knew on at least one of these trips, you would be going out to find him, even though you would say you were looking for a cup. Anything else he knows, it would be from either other staff, or from you directly. Do you still not trust him?' Dumbledore asked, looking over his half-moon spectacles.

`No, I do, believe me I do. It just bothered me how much he knew about me' Harry admitted.

`Well, realize that there were things you knew about him before he told you. It works both ways Harry.' Harry nodded, and Dumbledore decided to change subjects. `So, when is your next meeting for the Guardians?'

`Tonight, at eight in the Room of Requirement. It looks like the Guard will be over half the students in the castle' Harry appraised.

`That's wonderful Harry' Remus said, Harry turning and just remembering the others in the room.

`Yes, we were wondering' Hermione started, looking at Harry, `could some of the staff come and help students?'

Professor McGonagall pondered for a moment, and nodded. `I believe it is possible, however staff would be doing it voluntarily. I can not make all the staff help during non-classroom hours, but I will encourage it entirely.' Harry was happy to hear this, and turned around as a knock came at the door, and Professors Sprout, Sinistra, Flitwick, Slughorn, and the rest of the staff entered into the office-Professor Binns floating through the wall. Professor McGonagall took her seat at her high-winged chair, and the professors conjured their own chairs, and sat around the edges of the bookshelves in the room. Harry looked at the group, and still found that Professor Terrwynebas was absent from the office.

`As you all are aware, Rita Skeeter was allowed into Hogwarts early this morning by Dolores Umbridge. Rita was under an Imperious Curse, and Dolores neglected to notice. Rita attacked Mr. Potter here, but we were able to subdue her before any injuries took place. Ms. Skeeter was brought to the Hospital Wing, and is now stable, while Dolores is secure in the North Tower, pending a replacement from the Ministry.'

`What information were you able to get from the parchment?' Professor Fourmove asked Professor Flitwick.

`Very little. It seems I do a terrible written impression of Rita, and the other person quickly stopped writing. They were asking mostly about Mr. Potter, Miss Granger, as well as the Department of Mysteries, and Hogwarts.'

`What did you find out from the Veritaserum?' Professor McGonagall asked Madam Pomfrey.

`She was under the Imperious Curse for a while; at least a few months. Who knows how much information she's gathered since then.'

`Who is in charge of the Aurors at the moment?' Professor Sinistra asked, after a few quiet moments.

`This gentleman here, Baldric Branwen is in charge for the moment. Nymphadora is assisting, but all seems to be running smoothly. I think the Ministry will not send a replacement quickly, because of the troubles they are having themselves.'

`Yes, what is the news from the Ministry?' Professor Sprout asked, looking over at Tonks, who gave a sigh, and turned around in her chair to face everyone.

`In the past two days, there have been nine attempts to storm the Ministry. All have failed, but we are loosing numbers. The Ministry is calling up trainees to guard the Ministry entrances, however Death Eaters are not holding anything back. The Minister himself is rumored to be coming here in the next few weeks, to discuss setting up the Ministry here.' The portraits breathed and started talking almost as loudly as the professors did.

`You mean, the Ministry is actually going to be overrun?' Professor Slughorn asked worriedly.

`It's worst than before. You-Know-Who has many more followers, and the Dementors and Giants are moving through the country side like brushfire. There are even reports of Death Eaters attacked Dragon keeps in Romania, as well as in Portugal and Sweden' Tonks said dreadfully. Everyone was deeply quiet with the information, and Hermione held onto Harry's hand shakily. Harry noticed, and placed his hand on top, trying to calm her.

`So what should we do? We can't continue classes like normal with all this chaos' Madam Hooch expressed evenly.

`I agree Rolanda, but we must maintain order. The students must be kept in the castle, and classes must continue. Mr. Potter, along with Miss Granger and Mr. Weasley have started a student defence organization to train students in the event that the castle is attacked. They have asked if any of you can, to come and help them with their lessons. The group is rapidly expanding to the entire school, and they need help.' Hagrid stood up at this, and looked at the other staff.

`I don' know abou' the rest of yeh, but if Hogwarts is attack'd, I want'a make sure all the students er able to defend themselves. I'll help yeh Harry' he said proudly, walking over and extending his large hand. Harry stood, and accepted it greatfully.

`I'll help too Potter' Professor Sprout said, offering her hand. Soon, almost all the professors were offering to help. Professor Trelawney admitted she could not duel at all, and Madam Pomfrey offered to help train some upper year students in quick healing spells. Madam Pince, the librarian, agreed to have books on effective defence spells available to the students and staff, and Professor Binns explained he would talk to the ghosts about helping in some manner.

Harry told all the staff about the meeting that night, and they agreed to come and help out with the lesson. Talk moved on towards the Order, and news of it was less heartening than the Ministry.

Numerous Order members had gone missing in the past few weeks, and large portions of England remained unprotected. Most Order members were centered in London, Manchester, Bristol, Glasgow, Dublin, and here in Hogsmede; to protect the town, but more so Hogwarts.

Grimmauld became closer to that of a refuge for members, many of whom arrived at the house with injuries and other sicknesses. Snape and Draco had in the one day since their arrival helped with injured members, as well as work on potions for healing purposes. Harry was surprised of course to hear them helping the Order, but tried to remind himself they were on the same side now.

The Order decided for the time to let Draco and Snape continue their work at Grimmauld. It was not under any attack, and the magic protecting the house was still strong as Order members were inside. Of course, it was easy to let them stay there, since they could not leave the house, and could not tell anyone where it was.

As eight approached, Harry reminded Professor McGonagall about the Guard's meeting, and everyone stood, and made their way to the Room of Requirement. Reaching the staircase, Harry was shocked by the massive number of people waiting at least two hallways away from the Room.

`This has to be every student in the castle!' Professor Flitwick squeaked from his low vantage point. Harry glanced around, and smiled brightly at the mix of all four houses, and years of students that mingled together waiting for the meeting.

`We can't fit everyone into the Room we have, and it'll take at least an hour to get there' Ron proclaimed.

`Can we do this in the Great Hall Professor?' Hermione asked Professor McGonagall.

`Of course. Filius, can you and Remus clear out the tables for the students?' she asked. Harry turned, and smiled at Remus, thinking he had left.

`Even though I'm not a Professor, I can still help out!' he said with a smile, leaving to the Great Hall. Hagrid began bellowing at the students to make their way to the Great Hall, and soon every student in the castle, along with most of the staff, and a few Order members were assembled. Harry nervously stood on the platform where the staff table would have sat, and cleared his throat.

`Welcome to our new members. This is the third meeting of the Guardians of Hogwarts, and we've decided to move into the Great Hall, because we're the whole school now.' A group of students began cheering over this, and soon the whole hall was erupting in pride over the unity of the school. Harry was beaming at the outpour, as was the staff, Ron, and Hermione.

`The Professors and some members of the Order of the Phoenix have offered to help, and will be moving around with DA members.'

`What happened with Rita Skeeter?' a short second year Ravenclaw asked who was close to the front. Harry glanced at Professor McGonagall for a moment, and she nodded.

`She was under an Imperious Curse. That makes learning these spells even more important, so please work hard, and try your best. This is just in case, but it is very important to learn' Harry advised. He stepped down, and told the DA, and staff that Shield Charms would be the focus tonight, as well as Disarming, and Blasting Curses. Hermione offered the lead the group to go with Madam Pomfrey with healing spells, and after a few upper year students and DA members went with her, Harry began his lesson with the Guard.

Midway through, as spells and Shield Charms appeared throughout the hall, Harry felt someone tug on his sleeve, and he turned to find Luna smiling at him.

`What's wrong Luna?'

`Topher wanted to see you' she stated, motioning towards the doorway that led to the offset room where Harry went after his name came out of the Goblet of Fire. Harry told Ron and Professor McGonagall where he was going, and he quietly entered the side chamber.

Walking down the dark lit steps, Harry came to the base, and found Topher standing towards a side wall, looking at some of the many old trophies that littered the room from the floor to almost the ceiling.

`Oh Harry, it's good you have come. Is there anyone else with you?' he asked, sounding anxious.

`No, I came myself. Topher, what's going on, why are you here?' Harry asked. Topher gave a flick of his wand, and the door up the stairs clicked. Harry was beginning to get nervous over his moves.

`I have someone I wish for you to meet, and you must promise me you'll keep his identity a secret.'

`I promise' Harry affirmed, as the two of them moved across the room quietly in the dim light.

`I mean it Harry, you can't tell this to anyone; not even Hermione' he stressed.

`I promise Topher. Who am I meeting?' Harry asked, as they came to a pile of trophies covered by an old and beaten cloth.

`You're meeting me Mr. Potter' an old and raspy voice sounded. The old cloth began to move, and a man emerged from the other side; an old man Harry did not expect to find in Hogwarts, since he only ever saw him in his bar in Hogsmede.

`Harry, this is my contact in the Department of Mysteries: Aberforth Dumbledore.'

A/N - I know this chapter was a bit long, but I hope you liked it! Again, please review!

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