{"id":96,"date":"2008-03-30T13:08:14","date_gmt":"2008-03-30T12:08:14","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/the-apprentice-and-the-necromancer\/part-15\/"},"modified":"2012-11-13T20:41:56","modified_gmt":"2012-11-13T19:41:56","slug":"chapters-141-150","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/junofanfic\/hp-fanfic\/the-apprentice-and-the-necromancer\/chapters-141-150","title":{"rendered":"Chapters 141-150"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe Apprentice and the Necromancer\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 by JunoMagic
\n Chapters 141\u00e2\u20ac\u201c150<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWe Need a Strategy\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/h3>\n

After three spells and three brilliant displays of magical illumination (amber, sapphire, and to Harry’s intense discomfiture, emerald green), a deathly hush fell over the Order meeting.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMerlin’s bollocks,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ron blurted out at last, staring at the naked arms of Hermione, Harry, and Severus.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMuch as it pains me to admit this, Mr. Weasley,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Snape said softly and quickly rolled down his sleeve until it covered the scars on the inside of his left forearm, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcbut your assessment sums up the situation quite nicely.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHoly shit,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry muttered and rubbed fiercely at his arm. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo I’m going to be a Squib?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNo,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ginny said. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt’s much worse.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She drew a stack of parchments from her satchel and slammed them on the table. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’ve been working with Rita Skeeter for the last six weeks.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

At Harry’s groan she shook her head impatiently. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSkeeter may be the nastiest bug to ever crawl over the surface of this planet, but even you have to admit that she smells a story ten miles against the wind.
\n \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnyway, she put me on a project of my own. Nothing fancy. Just a nice little sob story to get me started. Only now I don’t think it’s little at all. And it’s anything but nice.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ginny looked haunted. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’ve got three cases of Muggle-born witches who died giving birth since the Muggle-borns Protection Act was implemented. Seven still-births. And fifteen miscarriages recorded at St Mungo’s.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOh dear,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Minerva whispered. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOh dear\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6and I have no experience with such spells at all.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Snape snorted. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOf course not. Leeching spells belong to the Dark Arts, along with Necromancy and similar delightful endeavours.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIf you have you something constructive to contribute, Severus, feel free.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI suggest to research cases of magical depletion. Complete magical depletion is very rare. Does it always lead to death? Or do some victims survive as Squibs? The records of St Mungo’s date back to the 16th century. The H\u00c3\u00b4tel-Magie de Paris has archives that go back to the Roman occupation,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Snape replied coolly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAdditionally we need to contact experts on Spell Damage in order to find out how quickly the spell is working, if and how the process can be affected.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcCan we cut the tattoos off?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione asked suddenly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcLike you did with\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She gestured at Severus’ arm. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWould that stop the spell?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Severus shook his head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNo. While it is not the same spell as the one for the Dark Mark, it is similar. Had I attempted to remove the Dark Mark while Voldemort was still alive, I would have died instantly.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He looked at the white fabric that hid the scars the laser-treatment had left on his skin. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcA terrible temptation,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he added softly and lowered his head. His shoulder-length hair fell forward like a curtain, obscuring his expression. Hermione suspected from the tone of his voice that he had known someone who had given in to that temptation, and that Severus had envied that person for their easy escape.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWe need to catch whoever is behind this. Either to make them break the spell or to discover how we can break it,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry said. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd we need to get them now<\/em>, before more people die.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 His eyes glowed with a hard light. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIs it only me, or do you suspect that someone at the Ministry is involved?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcUmbridge,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione suggested. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI bet she’s involved.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSuch a spell would certainly suit her agenda,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus said softly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHer hatred of Muggles, Muggle-borns and half-bloods is well documented.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Harry glanced at the faded scars on his right hand. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShe’s definitely evil enough to come up with something like that. So what do we do about it? Inform the Minister and bust her arse?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Andromeda shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe Minister has to be informed, of course. But I don’t think we should move in on Umbridge right away. While we’d have the element of surprise on our side, this won’t help us if our assessment is correct that Umbridge is working with\u00e2\u20ac\u201dor for\u00e2\u20ac\u201dsomeone else\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6if she is involved at all.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWe need a strategy,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ron announced.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcCould we simply grab her, pour a pint of Veritaserum down her throat, and find out what she knows?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ginny asked.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBut that’s illegal!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione protested.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIf we can save lives that way,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry shouted, his eyes flashing with determination, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcwe’ll do it.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Ron frowned, and Hermione was shaking her head, but it was Severus who interrupted, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMr Weasley\u00e2\u20ac\u201dmy wife insists that you’re a superb strategist. Why don’t you dazzle us with your talents?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Ron glared at Snape. But then he wrinkled his nose thoughtfully. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSorry, Gin, Harry. But that’s not a good idea. Not because it’s illegal.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He ducked his head at Hermione’s scowl and went on doggedly, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcLook, when you come up with a strategy, you need to plan for the worst <\/em>case scenario.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI mean, obviously the best<\/em> case scenario is that we catch Umbridge, force-feed her Veritaserum, and she spills her guts, admits she dunnit and includes the appropriate counter-spell.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBut what if she had nothing to do with it? Or if she’s on an antidote? Or if she’s using oh,<\/em> say an Unbreakable Vow to make sure that her secrets stay <\/em>secret? And if she is involved but works with accomplices, or if she <\/em>is actually the accomplice of the real<\/em> culprits\u00e2\u20ac\u201dyour idea might make matters much worse\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Right now we have no idea how that spell works. It looks like it’s gradually draining your magic. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be adapted to drain and kill you instantly. If it’s Umbridge, she could have devised a trigger-word to cause that effect. You start questioning her, she starts answering, and the next thing you know, you’re dead. Or what if taking down Umbridge makes her accomplices disappear\u00e2\u20ac\u201dalong with the only counter-spell there is?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Harry blinked at Ron. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMate, I guess there’s a reason why you’re so much better at chess than I am.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Are You Scared?<\/h3>\n

Hermione stared into the silent mirror. Thank Merlin for that. The fascination of talking mirrors had worn off in her first year. Since then, she appreciated quiet when she looked at herself in a mirror. She scowled at her reflection. You look like shit, Granger,<\/em> she thought. Her face appeared almost as sallow as her husband’s. Dark smudges bruised her eyes, and the wild tumble of her curls accentuated cheekbones, jaw and chin to the point of gauntness. She knew that she’d lost weight since Halloween. And I feel like shit, too.<\/em> She tried not to look at her left arm in the mirror, but of course that was exactly where her gaze strayed to, time and again, with every other move of the brush. She shuddered, put her toothbrush away, and quickly rinsed her mouth.<\/p>\n

When she entered the bedroom, Severus lay on his back, his eyes closed. Hermione slid underneath the covers.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHold me,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she ordered fiercely.<\/p>\n

He didn’t open his eyes but turned on his side and pulled her against his body all the same. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBossy, aren’t you?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she said and moved ever closer to him, pressing her body as close to him as she could manage. He was terribly thin but very strong all the same. Heavy cauldrons and constant pacing was apparently enough to keep him fit. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAbsolutely.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She buried her head against his chest, inhaling his scent and warming her cold cheeks and nose. He opened his eyes. They were so dark that she could see no difference between iris and pupils.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAre we going to die?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcEventually,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he replied calmly.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAre you\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She swallowed hard. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAre you scared?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOf death?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She nodded. He gazed at her, with that strange intense look he reserved only for her. His eyes glinted with strange sparks. Love? Is that how love looks at you?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAre you?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he asked, his voice very soft.<\/p>\n

That was a reaction she hadn’t expected. She considered the question, her thoughts going back to Halloween and her experience of the River of Death. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes and no,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she whispered at last. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI don’t know\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

For a while they lay in silence, facing each other. Too many thoughts and feelings constricted her throat. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI don’t want to die,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she choked out at last. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNot now. I want to live. With you. I want to become a Potions Mistress. I want to be pregnant with your child. I want to see you hold our baby. I want to go to Harry’s wedding. And to Ron’s. And to Alina’s, one day.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She didn’t manage to blink her tears away. Fuck,<\/em> she thought. Oh fuck.<\/em><\/p>\n

Wordlessly, he raised a black eyebrow. Hermione frowned, torn between exasperation and sudden, inexplicable need. Could he read her mind just like that? <\/em>Would he?<\/em><\/p>\n

His hand found her face. Fingertips trailed her cheek. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcUnless you have a better idea, of course,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus murmured, his voice gentle.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThis is it?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 asked Hermione and stared at the ultra-modern cubes of the building in front of her. Golden letters attached to the grey front of glass and steel answered her question. This was indeed the \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcKoninklijke Bibliotheek\u00e2\u20ac\u2122, <\/em> the national library of the Netherlands in The Hague.<\/p>\n

Anne Flamel nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThere’s a separate entry to the wizarding levels. Just around the corner.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

It looked like a fire-exit. For Muggles it probably was<\/em> a fire-exit. But anyone who carried a wand would see a large sign next to the unassuming door, giving the opening hours of the library as well as instructions for how to spell the door open.<\/p>\n

Inside, they found themselves in a brightly lit staircase of white marble. Not quite as modern as the Muggle building outside, but a far cry from the Victorian monstrosity of the British Ministry of Magic and the magical part of the British Library.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo why are those manuscripts here and not in Paris?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione inquired as she followed Anne down the stairs.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOnly the female line of the Flamels stayed in Paris\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthe Perrier and the Dubois families. Currently Perenelle Perrier holds sway over that part of the family. She’s a top researcher for Chanel\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthe wizarding branch of the company, of course. The male line of the Flamels moved to the Netherlands where they established themselves as merchants in the Hanseatic League, trading potions ingredients, herbs, and alchemical substances. My grandfather’s still in the business. But my father and my mother are herbologists. \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Flamel’s Florets & Fungi\u00e2\u20ac\u009d.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em> Anne glanced at Hermione with a wry grin. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcA less than perfect alliteration, I know. But even if I do say so myself, we’re one of the best nurseries for magical and medicinal herbs in Europe.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnyway\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthe manuscripts of Uncle Nicolas are heirlooms of the male line. But during the last three hundred years no member of the Flamel family had any scholarly interest in Potions or Alchemy, so the manuscripts were loaned to the library. No use in having them moulder away in our cellars if they can be useful for the research of scholars, right?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Hermione nodded with an appreciative smile.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHere’s the passage I wanted,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Madame Dubois said. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt’s a postscript of a treatise on the Deathly Hallows.\u00e2\u20ac\u201dNicolas Flamel researched items similar to the Philosopher’s Stone, such as the Holy Grail, Horcruxes, and the Resurrection Stone quite extensively.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt’s in Latin, so I’ll give you a quick translation:<\/p>\n

‘The inability of Necromancers to pass beyond the Veil and back is widely undisputed. This argument is based on the fact that the origin of both the Elder Wand and the Resurrection Stone can be located on <\/em>this side of the Ninth Gate. However, most chroniclers overlook the significance of the Invisibility Cloak. Different from ordinary invisibility fabrics, the cloak of Ignotus Peverell does not consist of Demiguise hair. Instead my tests have revealed that it is not made of any earthly fabric. It is made of what I can only assume is the very fabric that makes up <\/em>the Veil from the other side\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6’\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The Soul of a Dead Wizard<\/h3>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhat in Circe’s name is that?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Draco complained when a huge stack of parchments deposited itself on his desk.<\/p>\n

Umbridge’s secretary, a vapid witch with dyed blond curls called Janice followed the papers into Draco’s office. Now she looked at him with an uncertain expression on her face.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’m not really sure, sir,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Janice admitted and flashed him a toothy smile. Her perfume was too sweet, heavy with Jarvey musk. Draco wondered how strong the concentration of musk had to be for Janice to start blathering insults. Though that just might<\/em> raise the average semantic content of her comments to the level of a talking weasel, Draco mused uncharitably.<\/p>\n

Janice inched a bit closer, fluttered eyelashes cloyed with mascara, and lowered her voice. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt’s those Muggles, sir. That delegation that Mrs Umbridge is supposed to meet on Thursday.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She bent down in an attempt to display her cleavage to her best advantage. Her breasts were pear-shaped and plump, just like the rest of her. If she weren’t as dumb as a doornail and always dressed in pink, Draco might have been tempted. As it was, he merely tried to hold his breath long enough to escape the choking cloud of her expensive perfume. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI don’t know about you,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she whispered. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBut I think that Muggles in robes are plain creepy.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

A knock at the door frame made her draw back, and Draco immediately breathed easier.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMalfoy.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWeasley.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcUhh<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6I’ll go then, Mr Malfoy. See you tomorrow. Good evening, Mr Weasley.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Janice hurried away.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhy’s she so scared of you?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Draco asked. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou’re just a\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcA stickler for the rules?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Percy raised an eyebrow and let his hands drift over imaginary curves.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShe did?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcTrust me, Draco, you don’t <\/em>want to touch her.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI didn’t to start with. Thanks for the warning all the same. I’m very content with the arrangement that Hannah and I have.\u00e2\u20ac\u201dBut … Percy, can you tell me anything about this mess?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He indicated the heap of parchment on his desk.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAs a matter of fact, I can,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Percy said. He leant back against the door frame and crossed his arms in front of his chest, mimicking Snape’s best lecturing stance. \u00e2\u20ac\u2122It’s a delegation from the Catholic Church\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthe main Muggle Church. Shacklebolt delegated the duty of dealing with them to your boss. With the best <\/em>intentions, I’m sure. As all of us know how much she enjoys dealing with Muggles.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo what do they want?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Percy shrugged. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSome kind of good-will event. About a series of popular Muggle books that feature a boy who grows up to be a wizard and a hero. They seem to think that if they show themselves with witches and wizards in public, they’ll win over parts of the mixed-blood community.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Draco smirked. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcUmbridge’s going to love that.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 After a pause, he went on, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAre you ready for tomorrow?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

6 December 2000 was the day of the Ministry’s annual chess competition. And Percy Weasley would play against Dolores Umbridge. Percy stiffened. His expression\u00e2\u20ac\u201dif that was at all possible\u00e2\u20ac\u201dturned even stuffier. Or expressionless. Draco frowned. Something about Percy reminded him uncannily of his former Head of House, but he couldn’t quite put his finger on it.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Percy said. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou should be good to go for at least one hour. Actually, I think Ron would skin me alive if I didn’t last that long.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcGreat.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

Hermione was completely focused on Madame Dubois. The French witch stood bent over the desk, the manuscript resting between her palms. The edge of her shimmering Demiguise scarf brushed the yellowed pages.<\/p>\n

So Dumbledore’s and Severus’ assumptions were not correct? Necromancers<\/em> could pass beyond the Veil and return?<\/em><\/p>\n

But why would they do that just to immobilize a portrait?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhy would anyone do that just to paralyse a painting?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she asked.<\/p>\n

Claire Dubois looked up and stepped away from the manuscript. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNo one would do that,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she said with absolute certainty. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt’s much too dangerous.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThen why would anyone pass beyond the Veil to\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6do whatever they did to the soul of Albus Dumbledore?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Madame Dubois frowned suddenly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIs there anything you’re not telling me, Mrs Snape?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Instinctively, Hermione looked first at Severus, then at Minerva. The headmistress nodded to her. Her husband scowled darkly. Hermione inhaled deeply, shrugged out of her robe and rolled up her left sleeve. Madame Dubois raised her eyebrows and took a step towards Hermione. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMay I?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she asked politely, extending her hand towards Hermione’s arm.<\/p>\n

Hermione nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSure.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

The woman’s fingers were gentle, careful. Nevertheless the delicate touch caused Hermione’s skin to ripple with goose bumps.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe spell you want,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus said smoothly, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcis \u00e2\u20ac\u0153Vim Magicam Revelio\u00e2\u20ac\u009d.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 <\/em><\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dubois forked her fingers through her hair until it stood on end very much like Madam Hooch’s preferred hair-style. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhy would anyone want to tamper with the soul of someone who has passed beyond the Veil?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’m sorry. I don’t know! I can think of a number of reasons. Revenge.<\/em> As long as the soul is near the Veil, you can probably still cause it pain. Or\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She toyed with the end of her scarf. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt might be due to an entirely different spell altogether.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhat kind of spell?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus asked softly.<\/p>\n

Madame Dubois stared at Snape for several seconds without a word. Then she shook her head wearily. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI just don’t know! We have almost no evidence for Necromancers venturing beyond the Veil and back to begin with. The legend of the Deathly Hallows is pretty much all I’ve got to work with.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBut if you’d ask me to make a … well, it is<\/em> quite a daring leap of intuition … But after all I’ve read about what Nicloas Flamel wrote about Horcruxes\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6hmm<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Let’s just say: if I<\/em> wanted a really safe<\/em> location for something like a Horcrux\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6or<\/em> immense amounts of magical power\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6I just might<\/em> think of the soul of a dead wizard.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Mirror, Mirror Upon the Wall\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6(Who is the Most Powerful Wizard of All?)<\/h3>\n

Minerva looked as shocked as Hermione felt, although she was better at playing it down. Severus appeared unmoved, while Bill Weasley’s expression was clearly concerned.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI don’t believe in coincidence,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Dubois elaborated. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou have asked for my help concerning the paralysis of the portrait of one of the most powerful wizards of the twentieth century. I have discovered that the problem was caused by Necromantic magic, probably executed on the other side of the Veil\u00e2\u20ac\u201dan almost impossible feat of magic.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAt the same time you<\/em> find out that someone has manipulated the protective magical tattoos and is draining the magical energy from all Muggle-borns and half-bloods in Britain.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThat kind of energy has to go somewhere<\/em>. It’s too much energy to be used up right away, even if the draining is a very slow, gradual process. Even if you wanted to create a whole army<\/em> of Inferi, you wouldn’t need that much power! In other words, your leech needs to store magical energy somewhere safe that could blow up a whole continent.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOf course, ‘somewhere safe’<\/em> is tricky where magic is concerned. It doesn’t work like Muggle electricity. You can’t simply put it into a battery and shelve it.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou’d want to keep it where spill-over can’t do any harm,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Bill said, picking up Dubois’s train of thought. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSomewhere where you think that no one can get at it.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBeyond the Veil!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione gasped. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOnly Necromancers can do magic in Death. And before I heard of the Deathly Hallows, I thought no one could go there\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand back. To be honest, I still believed that until approximately twenty minutes ago.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSeverus?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Minerva asked. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhat do you think?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Severus’ eyes were fixed on the still figure of Dumbledore’s portrait. His fathomless black gaze didn’t betray any emotion. Only a slender finger that kept tracing his mouth showed how deep in thought he was.<\/p>\n

When he spoke at last, his words were soft and carefully considered. He did not meet Hermione’s eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI am still not completely convinced that it is<\/em> possible to go beyond the Veil and back.\u00e2\u20ac\u201dI have been close to the Ninth Gate only once in my life, and I barely had the strength to return.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHowever, I don’t believe in coincidence either.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo you will attempt this, Professor Snape?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Dubois asked.<\/p>\n

Hermione’s throat was so tight that she could barely breathe. She knew what he would say, and she desperately wanted to protest, to shout, to scream, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNo, no, no!<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Instead she only stared at Severus as he slowly nodded his head.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes. Unless you think that you are better qualified?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he sneered.<\/p>\n

Dubois ignored the sarcasm. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI am not powerful enough,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she stated simply, with a shrug and a smile. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAs a Portrait Mistress I travel a lot,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she went on. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou’d be surprised at how often your name comes up in dinner conversations around the world, Professor Snape.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

His scowl didn’t seem to intimidate her at all. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou must be aware that in some circles the game of ‘Who is the most powerful wizard in the world?’<\/em> never gets old. For many years the answer was simple\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand caused hours of awful arguments: Voldemort or Dumbledore, Dumbledore or Voldemort.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Dubois ignored Severus’ grimace. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOf course the answers have changed of late,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she continued. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI must admit that it is quite amusing how miffed certain American and French wizards are that once again the names that come up most often belong to two British wizards.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIf you have a point to make, then get to it, Madame,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus ground out.<\/p>\n

Dubois merely smiled. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcTwo, actually. Those names are: Harry Potter.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd Severus Snape.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAny other names?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus asked, as if the names Dubois mentioned were of no more consequence than a remark about rainy weather in the Highlands.<\/p>\n

The blond witch sighed and shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’m sorry, no. A few, of course: Peter Jackson, Steve Jobs, the American president. But none of them are Necromancers, and I don’t believe any of them are powerful enough to cast a spell with the scope of what you are dealing with here.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWelcome to the annual Chess Tournament at the Ministry of Magic!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Shacklebolt intoned. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcPlayers, please take your seats and raise your wands!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Percy took a deep breath and raised his wand to salute his boss. Umbridge’s smile was sweet enough to make his teeth ache. She twirled her wand in her pudgy fingers and returned the traditional greeting.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcLet the games begin!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Shacklebolt called, and the audience went wild, clapping and cheering.<\/p>\n

As the crowd quieted, Percy caught how Umbridge looked at the minister out of the corner of his eye. She smirked at Shacklebolt, and the Minister’s affable expression froze on his face.<\/p>\n

Then she lowered her pink wand to the chess-board.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcDamn.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Draco yawned and scowled at the sleeping kittens that adorned the walls of his superior’s office.<\/p>\n

The spell that had sent the porcelain spies with their fluffy hair and pretty pink bows to sleep was an incredibly complex charm, with just a touch of Transfiguration mixed in. In short, it caused the essence of magic to thicken, slowed down the very atoms of the awful decorative plates and dragged the inhabitants of the room’s ornaments down into the heavy laziness of solid matter. Unfortunately it also had a similar effect on the caster of the spell.<\/p>\n

He gulped a vial of Invigoration Draught. When he felt certain that there was no more steam issuing from his ears, and he felt sufficiently awake and alert, he began to search Umbridge’s office.<\/p>\n

Methodically, systematically.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ron had guessed that Umbridge wouldn’t be a brilliant chess player, but that she’d be devious and vicious in her moves.<\/p>\n

Fifteen minutes into the game, Percy knew that his little brother had been right on spot, and he was worried. Between one move and the next, he couldn’t tell whether he should be scared because he would win too quickly, or because she would win too soon.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Check and Mate<\/h3>\n

Percy watched how another of his pawns crumpled next to the board. He stared at it with a strange pang of sympathy. Just a little pawn in a game that went on way above his head.<\/p>\n

When he took another look at the small black figure, his stomach twisted, and he almost gulped audibly. That pawn would never play another game. Percy inhaled deeply and observed Umbridge as she made her next move.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcDamn, damn, damn,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Draco cursed under his breath, thinking of the few times he’d heard his Head of House utter the threefold damnation to great effect in that smooth voice of his.<\/p>\n

He’d been over everything twice. He’d cast every fucking<\/em> spell of revelation and discovery he knew. The advanced, even Dark spells that Severus had taught in preparation of this very night, down to different version of \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcRevelio\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em> and even the lowly \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAlohomora\u00e2\u20ac\u2122.<\/em><\/p>\n

Nothing.<\/p>\n

Bloody hell.<\/em> He’d have bet his left leg that Umbridge was involved in this mess. But there was nothing, really nothing out of the ordinary in the office. For the third time he passed around her desk, scowling at the stack of papers detailing the visit of the delegation from the Church.<\/p>\n

\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcDear Madam,<\/p>\n

Thank you for the friendly reception. We are looking forward to seeing you again and to entering a constructive cooperation…\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Draco shook his head. He couldn’t for the life of him imagine that any Muggle delegation would have enjoyed a ‘friendly reception’ in Umbridge’s office. At least not while she was present.<\/p>\n

He scowled at the pink wand holder that was attached to the desk, and the charming and cleaning implements that were meticulously stashed beneath it. The thought of what she was doing to her wand made him shudder. To obscure the essential symbol of one’s magic\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6and with a lurid, candy-floss pink to boot\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6it was simply wrong.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

Percy’s eyes were virtually glued to the board now. Sweat beaded on his forehead. The growing heap of unmoving figures on the one side and the cowering anxiousness of the others did nothing to support his equilibrium.<\/p>\n

He didn’t have his little brother’s experience, but he was fairly sure that within five to ten moves, everything would be over, this way or that. Where in Merlin’s and Nimue’s names was Draco? Percy knew that it didn’t really matter if he won or lost this game\u00e2\u20ac\u201dhe would only fail if he hadn’t given Draco enough time to search Umbridge’s office.<\/p>\n

Draco,<\/em> he thought frantically, what in the Hallows are you doing up there?<\/em><\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

That was incidentally the question that Draco was asking himself at this point.<\/p>\n

I’m a loser,<\/em> Draco thought. I have more than an hour to search a room, and all I find is a letter from those Muggles in robes<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u201dwhich is sitting right in the middle of the bloody desk, the just as openly displayed notes for pink-charming a wand<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6and that fucking fish.<\/em><\/p>\n

Draco had always disliked magical creatures. But his aversion had reached new heights since Umbridge had acquired an aquarium to adorn her office. Now the fish tank occupied a large section of the shelf next to her desk. And of course she didn’t just keep any kind of ordinary fish, like a goldfish or a rainbow-fish. No:<\/em> Umbridge kept a full-grown Lobalug in her office. It was poisonous (deadly, in fact; the ‘XXX’ MoM rating was due only to the exceptional value of Lobalug poison for potions-exports in Asia and the Americas, and due to diplomatic difficulties concerning the use of Lobalug poison by the Merpeople) and uglier than a Blast-Ended Skrewt. It stayed mainly inside what looked like a miniature gate made of strange, gleaming black stone. At the moment only its long, rubbery spout was visible. The rest of the animal was hidden inside its ‘castle’. It looked almost like a fishy guard dog, the way it lurked inside its murky abode.<\/p>\n

Another round of the room.<\/p>\n

Still nothing.<\/p>\n

Damn. There has to be something here! Probably right in front of my eyes. Only I’m too stupid to see it.<\/em><\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

Percy was staring at the doors at the end of the hall, pretending to be deep in thought regarding his next move. That was a ruse. There were two options for the next move, and they were quite simple. One option would have him defeated within seven moves, the other would make him win in three. He personally preferred the second option, but where in Merlin’s name was Draco?<\/em><\/p>\n

As if the man in question had heard his thoughts, the doors opened, and a slim, blond figure slipped into the hall, keeping to the back.<\/p>\n

Draco. At last.<\/em><\/p>\n

Percy almost moaned with relief. He turned his attention back to the board.<\/p>\n

A short time later, he smiled at his boss.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMadam, I’m very sorry. But I am afraid that I have no choice\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Check.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcTo yield to such a charming young man is no sacrifice,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Umbridge simpered. But her fingers curled so tightly around her wand that her knuckles stood out. Strangely enough, when she prodded her last figure to remove itself from the board, it was the first that didn’t drop dead next to the board.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIn that case,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Percy’s smile tightened, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcthere’s only one thing left for me to do, Madam:mate.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBravo,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Umbridge applauded, but to Percy it seemed that her smiling fa\u00c3\u00a7ade was cracking at the corners.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

An hour after the tournament, Shacklebolt was walking down the hallway. His steps created an insecure, irregular echo of his customary forceful stride.<\/p>\n

In his mind he heard Minerva’s voice. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe spell is draining their magic\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6all of them will die\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6already ten deaths at least\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Someone at the Ministry has to be involved\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Necromancers\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6very powerful\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Is there anything you can tell me?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/em><\/p>\n

He suspected that Draco had searched Umbridge’s office tonight. But that wouldn’t be enough. Not if his suspicions were correct.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Making a List and Checking it Twice<\/h3>\n

Shacklebolt’s steps slowed until they came to a halt.<\/p>\n

Searching offices wouldn’t be enough. But vague suspicions and dread without proof wouldn’t get results either. Damn it all to hell and back.<\/em><\/p>\n

To mask his reluctance to proceed, he turned to the window on his left. It was Charmed, of course; it showed the Thames as it must have been once, long ago, on a summer afternoon before industrialisation set in. The broad expanse of shimmering water, peaceful river banks overshadowed by bright brushes and the darker silhouettes of trees seemed to taunt him, aware as he was of the real London outside with its dismal December weather.<\/p>\n

Kingsley stared at the new and sunny perspective of the river before him.<\/p>\n

A new perspective. That’s what I need.<\/em><\/p>\n

And suddenly he knew. With the irrefutable clarity that had guided his political career from the Aurors’ Office to the Order of the Phoenix to the Office of the Muggle Prime Minister, and finally to become Minister of Magic.<\/p>\n

He knew: It was a set-up. The murders of the Muggle-born witches and wizards. Maybe not the first or the second time<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u201dbut the fifth, the sixth, the seventh, and all subsequent killings. A set-up that would make desperate measures acceptable.<\/em><\/p>\n

A white swan and a black swan drifted on the river before him, graceful and serene.<\/p>\n

I brought this on them<\/em> Shacklebolt thought. He stared at the sunlight that glinted on the river, dappled, rippling, golden-green flecks, as the light filtered through the leaves. And all because of one moment of pettiness and because I was too enamoured with my own cunning\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6<\/em><\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

Shacklebolt knocked on the door, but he didn’t wait for her high, girlish voice to invite him in. He flung open the door and strode into the room.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcDolores, my dear.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She sat at her desk, a stack of Muggle-fashion paperwork in front of her. Just for a second he saw her face without the mask of smile and simper. He almost recoiled and only caught himself at the last moment.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWe have to talk,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he said sharply.<\/p>\n

The smile was back, too wide and too pink, and it did not reach her eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI agree, Minister. There is much to discuss.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She twirled her wand in her fingers.<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMiss Petrel? I want to see you in my office after lunch.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Alina stared at the looming figure of her Head of House and felt quite brave for not flinching, faced as she was with Professor Snape at his most forbidding.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes, sir,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she squeaked.<\/p>\n

A curt nod, and he strode away, black robes billowing.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBat,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ebe grumbled.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShhh,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 cautioned Geilis with a furtive glance at the High Table.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhat does he want?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 wondered Haemon.<\/p>\n

Alina wrinkled her nose. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI think I know.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She heaved a sigh. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI did so want to wait until I found all of the bells,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she complained. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI was hoping he’d maybe even give some points to me. I bet the house-elves tattled.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHow many are still missing?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ebe asked.<\/p>\n

The Little Knights had spent most of their free time during the last two weeks bell-hunting. An adventure that had turned out to be trickier than anticipated. For some reason everyone (teachers, prefects, and Filch’s damn kittens) appeared to be watching them 24\/7 no matter if they were up to some mischief or not. It wasn’t fair. And when Alina had complained about it to Hermione, she’d only smiled and said that this was the price they had to pay for the fame they had acquired last year.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcJust one,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Alina replied. She didn’t manage to keep a sullen note from her voice. She had really wanted to impress her favourite teacher. And she was certain that presenting all the missing bells to him at once would have done the trick. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI haven’t discovered the password for the bell tower yet.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

After lunch, Hermione had some time to herself. She withdrew to her study in the dungeons. Once comfortably ensconced behind her desk, she spread out a piece of parchment in front of her. She placed the inkstand and the blotter within easy reach, controlled the pointy tip of her quill.<\/p>\n

Then she took a deep breath. It was time to make a list.<\/p>\n

Either she’d make a list and get a grip, or she’d panic and collapse, and stay in the Hospital Wing being plied with Calming Draught and Dreamless Sleep by Poppy Pomfrey until everything was over.<\/p>\n

Gryffindor<\/em>, she thought. Know-It-All. What have you done during the last nine years when things were a mess like that? Right. You made a list, checked it twice, and started getting things DONE. There’ll be time for panicking and collapsing later. <\/em><\/p>\n

So now you start with that damn list. <\/em><\/p>\n

\n

Item #1:<\/strong> research the Peverell brothers\u00e2\u20ac\u201dhow did they go beyond the Veil and come back alive?<\/p>\n

Item #2:<\/strong> research Necromancy (pick Severus’ brain\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand threaten to talk to Madame Dubois if he’s not forthcoming; talk to Madame Dubois anyway<\/span>)<\/p>\n

Item #3:<\/strong> research the Veil (ask Harry for a piece of his Invisibility Cloak to experiment on?)<\/p>\n

Item #4:<\/strong> research magical tattoos (ask Madame Dubois for help?); if it’s impossible to get rid of them, maybe the speed (consult Madam Pomfrey? Healer Mugwort?) of the spell can be slowed down? (BUT: what about the Ministry?)<\/p>\n

Item #5:<\/strong> prepare questions to be addressed at the next Order meeting<\/p>\n

Item #6:<\/strong> finish Potions essay (check references in 19th century edition of \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMost Potente Potions\u00e2\u20ac\u2122; British library\u00e2\u20ac\u201dMuggle side\/homeopathy)<\/p>\n

Item #7:<\/strong> prepare query letters for publication of essay (ask Severus for letter of recommendation?)<\/p>\n

Item #8:<\/strong> order books (\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcCharmed Potions through the Centuries\u00e2\u20ac\u2122, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcInterdisciplinary Studies: Charms and Potions, Volume I\u00e2\u20ac\u2122, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWand & Rod\u00e2\u20ac\u201dThe Tools of Masters\u00e2\u20ac\u2122)<\/p>\n

Item #9:<\/strong> Christmas present for Severus<\/p>\n

Item #10:<\/strong> Christmas presents for everyone else<\/p>\n

Item #11:<\/strong> plans for Christmas (ask Severus; Harry, Ron\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthe Burrow?)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Plans for Christmas.<\/em> Hermione sighed and put her quill down. Nothing could be further from my mind right now.<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Binder’s Bell<\/h3>\n

Alina shuffled towards Professor Snape’s office with her two newest bells clutched in her arms. She knew she was sulking, but she couldn’t help it.<\/p>\n

Her plan had been perfect.<\/p>\n

She’d find the remaining bells. Then she’d go to his office\u00e2\u20ac\u201dor better yet, she’d ask for an appointment<\/em> and then<\/em> come to his office. She would present the bells proudly and explain how and where she’d found them. And then he’d start teaching her the secrets of the bells\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6<\/p>\n

Instead he’d summoned her summarily to his office, scowling at her in a fashion that told her she was in for it because she hadn’t followed his instructions down to the last dot on the \u00e2\u20ac\u02dci\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 and the last cross on the \u00e2\u20ac\u02dct\u00e2\u20ac\u2122.<\/p>\n

Life simply isn’t fair,<\/em> Alina concluded. To add insult to injury, one of Filch’s kittens, a dark marmalade tom growing lanky with youth had appointed himself her guardian. The dratted beast was spying on her as soon as she left her House. She couldn’t put her smallest toe over the proverbial line without the little quarter-kneazle cocking his head at her as if he wanted to ask, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShould I fetch a teacher now or later?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 <\/em><\/p>\n

And then there was her jarvey. Cicero\u00e2\u20ac\u201dby now firmly imprinted on her, and quite chatty in his strange mix of Latin vernacular and toddler-speak\u00e2\u20ac\u201dresented being left alone in her dorm. He was quite demonstrative about his resentment, too. Not even the strongest ‘Evanesco’ <\/em>would get rid of the rich musky scent that pervaded the room by now. Her room mates had threatened to go to her Head of House to get either the jarvey or Alina or both out of their dorm. She couldn’t even blame them. Or Cicero for that matter.<\/p>\n

And why was she always so tired? Alina yawned, shifted the bells in her arms, and knocked on the door of Snape’s office.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcCome in,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Professor Snape called in his customary smooth voice, and the heavy black door opened before her without a sound.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou asked to see me, sir,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Alina managed and stepped into the room. The door slammed shut behind her.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes, indeed I did, Miss Petrel. Don’t stand there, gawking. Come here, put those bells on the desk and sit down.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 A finger tapped impatiently on the edge of his ebony desk.<\/p>\n

She inched forwards and unceremoniously set down her prizes.<\/p>\n

Professor Snape bent forwards, narrowing his eyes to black slits. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcKibeth,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he said softly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe Walker who brings freedom of movement to the dead or takes them beyond the next gate. And Astarael, the Sorrowful, the final bell, that casts everyone who hears her sound deep into Death\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcTwenty points from Slytherin House for disobeying my explicit orders. Four points to Slytherin House for finding the bells.\u00e2\u20ac\u201dWhere did you find them?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI\u00e2\u20ac\u201doh\u00e2\u20ac\u201dah,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Alina stuttered. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’m sorry, sir.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

He pinched the bridge of his nose, then repeated more forcefully, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhere did you find them? Miss Petrel, I can’t hear you.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Alina gulped. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthe one you called Kibeth, it was with the house-elves. They have a whole floor with enchanted bells at the wall, arranged by rooms, back from when wizards would use bells to summon house-elves. And this one wouldn’t ring. And it looks just like the others, silver with mahogany handle.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Alina gasped for breath and hurried on. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd the other one was in the music room. Alyah\u00e2\u20ac\u201dMiss Beiond\u00e2\u20ac\u201dfrom Ravenclaw found it. It was in the cupboard with the old and broken instruments.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd you assume that the last bell is in the bell tower?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he asked, face impassive, voice cool and silky.<\/p>\n

Alina nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYes, sir. It’s the pattern. Qui\u00e2\u20ac\u201dmy\u00e2\u20ac\u201dhe<\/em> hid them in plain sight, most of them, anyway. Apart from the one behind his portrait, and the one in the Room of Requirement. And if it’s the biggest, deepest bell that’s still missing, that would make sense.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She tried not to look too hopeful as she looked from the bells to her Head of House. Would he allow her to accompany him to the bell tower? But his next words crushed her hopes.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcVery well,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Professor Snape said brusquely. He raised his hand, and although he hadn’t used his wand or said a word, the door opened again. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou may go.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

His steps were heavy as he approached the bell tower.<\/p>\n

Damn you, Quirrell,<\/em> Severus thought. But his thoughts lacked rancour. He’d long since come to terms with the man’s deeds and motivations. He knew too much about the almost inescapable lure of knowledge, recognition, respect\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6and the more elusive, barely acknowledged need to belong. <\/em><\/p>\n

And now<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6He muttered the password and stepped into the dark staircase of the tower. When he thought of Quirrell now, it was mostly with envy, envy for that spirited, brilliant, and beautiful girl that the man could have called daughter.<\/p>\n

Slowly he ascended the stairs. The wind that blew in through the open windows moaned in the nooks and crannies of the building. Once he reached the top, Severus used the opportunity to gaze outside. The stark, melancholy beauty of the Highlands tugged at his heart, just like the vista of the many towers and turrets that made up Hogwarts castle, that made up his home.<\/p>\n

Resolutely, he turned to the bells.<\/p>\n

Lion’s roar, Raven’s call, Badger’s growl, and Serpent’s Hiss. Admonita<\/em> for storm’s warning, Hora<\/em> for the hours’ turning. And<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6the mysterious silent bell.<\/p>\n

He shook his head and wondered why he’d never realised the significance of the silver bell before.<\/p>\n

For a moment Severus hesitated and stared at the silver body of the bell and the intricate runes that covered it. Then he pushed away all thoughts of what might have been aside and reached up to detach the bell from its hinges.<\/p>\n

Saraneth, it was, the deepest and lowest of the Necromantic bells. The Binder, the bell who would shackle the Dead to the will of its wielder.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

A Unique Position<\/h3>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou need not concern yourselves with that problem,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus said softly, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcas I find myself in a unique position that will ensure my return no matter what happens.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

The Headmistress blanched, but he caught her gaze and held it, unflinching. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou know<\/em> what I am talking about.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI do, Severus,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Minerva said at last. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBut\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 The older witch hesitated and glanced at Hermione, concern and pity evident in her piercing eyes. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThere are others you should explain yourself to,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she added pointedly.<\/p>\n

Hermione watched the exchange with mounting trepidation. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSeverus, what’s going on? What \u00e2\u20ac\u0153unique position\u00e2\u20ac\u009d<\/em> are you talking about?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

The expression on his face remained inscrutable as he turned to her. Hermione felt Harry shift uncomfortably in the chair next to her, but Severus ignored him, as well as the others who were present.<\/p>\n

Tonight that meant Madame Dubois, Bill Weasley, Professor Flitwick, Madam Pomfrey, and Healer Mugwort.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou needn’t be concerned about my return from beyond the Veil,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he said curtly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI am bound by an Unbreakable Vow not to kill myself. The penalty for breaking a vow like that is not death, of course.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He hesitated for a moment. Hermione’s mind was racing, connecting memories, things he had told her\u00e2\u20ac\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcEither Madame Dubois is right,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus went on, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcand Necromancers can<\/em> indeed move beyond the Veil and back. Or I will die and return anyway, coming back as a ghost because I broke the Vow. You see, one way or the other we will<\/em> get the information we need.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThat’s why,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione gasped. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThat’s why you asked me to\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She stared at him in shock. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThat’s why you agreed to the apprenticeship. So you could order me to kill you\u00e2\u20ac\u201dbut it wouldn’t have worked! The conditions of my indenture\u00e2\u20ac\u201dyou cannot command me to do anything illegal\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand wouldn’t the Vow have seen me as just another tool\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione stopped short. A tool.<\/em> She had been a tool for him. Nothing but a tool. She swallowed hard. It’s different now,<\/em> she thought desperately. And I <\/em>do understand. I really do. But if I understand, why does it hurt so much?<\/em><\/p>\n

He fixed his fathomless black gaze on her. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI would merely have ordered you to burn a piece of wood,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he explained gently. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI <\/em>would have been gone at that point. Though not dead,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he smirked. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe Vow would have been satisfied. And making a fire for your master is perfectly legal.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou were going to make your apprentice make a fire with<\/em> her master?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry gaped at Snape for a moment, before he rounded on him hotly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThat may be legal, you manipulative, scheming Slytherin bastard, but you know what? FUCK legal, what the hell were you THINKING? She was trying to save your life! And she was\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He glanced at Hermione, his green eyes aflame with fury, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dc\u00e2\u20ac\u201dshe is<\/em> in love with you!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Severus’ face contorted into a grimace of pain and\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Hermione frowned. Guilt?<\/em> No matter. She jumped up, and, stepping in front of her husband, she turned to face Harry. For a moment she didn’t know what to say. Her confusion and shock threatened to overwhelm her and to destroy the last vestiges of her composure.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHarry. Severus. Not one word.<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 She inhaled deeply. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHarry, why Severus took me on as his apprentice is his business. Whatever he may have wanted to make me do or not is something between him and myself. It is of no consequence for the problems ahead of us.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She stared at Harry until he scowled at her and slumped back down in sullen silence. When she was sure that her friend was not about to hex her husband, she stepped aside, glancing at Severus in warning. We’ll talk later,<\/em> she thought at him. He raised his eyebrows at her but leant back in his chair in wordless acquiescence.<\/p>\n

An awkward silence settled over the room. Madame Dubois spoke up first, seemingly unfazed by the tangible tension in the air. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAn interesting Vow,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 she commented. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWho made you take it?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Severus glanced at Hermione. Then his gaze jumped to Harry. A muscle twitched at the corner of his mouth, giving away that he was not as calm as he pretended to be. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcA\u00e2\u20ac\u201da former friend,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he replied at last. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShe was\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6worried about me. And she feared we would not be\u00e2\u20ac\u201din a position to\u00e2\u20ac\u201dreestablish that friendship\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he trailed off uncomfortably.<\/p>\n

Harry came to the same conclusion as Hermione at exactly the same time. Only while she bit down on her lip, he couldn’t keep his mouth shut.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcMy\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6mother?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he croaked. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShe\u00e2\u20ac\u201dwhen\u00e2\u20ac\u201dhow?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Severus sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNot long before she\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6before your parents<\/em> were killed. She\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He shook his head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt was the last time I saw your mother before she died. I think she knew what\u00e2\u20ac\u201dI’d done\u00e2\u20ac\u201dall of it. She\u00e2\u20ac\u201dI’d like to think she meant it as a sign of forgiveness. She said that she feared for me.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He stared blankly ahead as he went on, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI told her that I would do anything she asked of me. She asked for an Unbreakable Vow.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Madame Dubois didn’t appear impressed. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcInteresting way of showing your forgiveness to a spy, <\/em> isn’t it? Taking away his final means of escape.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

When both Harry and Severus rounded on her with nearly identical frowns, she just raised delicate eyebrows. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHowever, you’re married now, therefore I imagine you would<\/em> prefer to come back alive. As I don’t assume that a man’s marital relations would benefit from putting mind over matter quite like that.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcTherefore, I suggest we concentrate our efforts on solving this riddle in a way that leaves you <\/em>alive and kicking.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd how,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus asked with a sneer, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcdo you propose to do that, Madame?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWith what we know,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Dubois replied archly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd maybe some additional research.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd what<\/em> exactly do you think that we know?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus snarled, losing his temper at last.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Power and Peverells<\/h3>\n

Here we go,<\/em> Hermione thought and took a deep breath. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAll evidence points toward the fact that the Peverell brothers passed beyond the Veil and returned. We know that the wood of the Elder Wand came from trees growing on the banks of the River of Death. Severus, Alina, and I have seen them. Severus tells us that the Resurrection Stone is made of the same stone as the Nine Gates. This information can be checked easily by asking one of the registered Necromancers. They must have seen the Gates, so they should be able to corroborate that. Finally, while the Stone and the Wand are lost or destroyed, Harry still has the Cloak, and there is that\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6image? simulacrum? seflection? of the Veil in the Department of Mysteries. We should<\/em> be able to determine if Nicolas Flamel’s claim is correct, and the Cloak is really made of the same fabric or substance as the Veil.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHowever, all of this can only prove that it is likely that<\/em> the Peverell brothers went beyond the Veil and returned.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhat we really need to know is how<\/em> they managed it.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe biggest clue so far seems to be how powerful they were. All sources agree that they were the most powerful wizards of their time. In connection with what Severus said about how he was barely able to return from the last precinct of Death, that seems to be one of the two most important factors.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe Peverell brothers had two things going for them: they were Necromancers<\/em>, and they were damn strong<\/em>.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Dubois nodded approvingly. Then she added, \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThere is something else we know: They were three.<\/em> Three is a number of unique power. The first odd prime number, the pivotal number in many Muggle mathematical theories, one of the most powerful figures known in Arithmancy. And<\/em> the figure with the most important influence on mythology, both Muggle and magical.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcUnfortunately we don’t have three Peverell brothers readily available just now,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry commented. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBut that was a good summary, Hermione.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo that is the reason why you went to bed at three o’clock in the morning during the last week,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus remarked.<\/p>\n

Hermione gnawed on her lower lip and ducked her head, blushing. Then she shrugged. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcResearch is what I do best.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo the salient factors may rather be that the Peverells were very strong, and that they were Necromancers, and not some arcane spells or something?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry asked.<\/p>\n

Dubois nodded. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcOf course it is prudent to find out as much as possible about the spells they may have used. But indeed, that is <\/em>what it all may come down to: Necromantic talent and brute magical strength.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Harry forked his hands through his hair. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcSo, are there three Necromancers around who are as strong as the Peverells supposedly were?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Minerva shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcCurrently there are three Necromancers registered with the British Ministry of Magic. One of them works for the Ministry, the other is a decrepit old man in a nursing home near Leeds. And the third is an inmate of the Spell Damages ward at St Mungo’s.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

She glanced at Madame Dubois. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHow about Necromancers in France, or in the States?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Dubois shook her head. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNecromancy is a very rare gift, and it has a very bad reputation. I think I am currently the only Necromancer registered in France. And while there are five Necromancers active in the States\u00e2\u20ac\u201done of them a quite powerful young lady in St. Louis\u00e2\u20ac\u201dI doubt they are anywhere near as strong as Professor Snape or Mr Potter.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcDo you need three strong wizards<\/em>? Or do you need three strong Necromancers<\/em>?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Healer Mugwort asked.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt is<\/em> possible for Necromancers to take another wizard with them,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus said. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIf the other wizard has a certain \u00e2\u20ac\u0153affinity\u00e2\u20ac\u009d <\/em>for Death, the Necromancer will be able to draw on their power.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThat’s what Alina did,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione interrupted. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhen she took me with her to look for you!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Dubois frowned. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWho is this Alina? You’ve mentioned her name before.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcA student,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Minerva explained. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcA second-year of Slytherin House.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShe’s a Necromancer,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione added.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHow strong is she?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Dubois asked at once.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcShe’s a child!\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Severus exclaimed, raising his hands in a gesture of denial. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcBarely a teenager! She’s only thirteen.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Dubois regarded him dispassionately. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIn terms of power, youth doesn’t matter that much. What you need is either three powerful Necromancers, or three powerful wizards with as much in the way of Necromantic affinity as you can find.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHarry has it, too,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione said suddenly. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHe entered Death before he defeated Voldemort. And he is<\/em> the descendant of Ignotus Peverell.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Harry grimaced at her. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd what about you?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he retaliated. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcTechnically, you died when you<\/em> saved Snape the first time. And then you died again<\/em> when he <\/em>saved you at Halloween.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIf that guy near Leeds is out of the running and the lady at St Mungo’s as well\u00e2\u20ac\u201dwhy don’t we grade the power of those we’ve got?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Bill Weasley suggested. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIt’s a very simple test.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dc\u00e2\u20ac\u0153Sphaera magica illumina\u00e2\u20ac\u009d <\/em>is the spell. The wand gesture is a perfect circle. Pour in all the strength you’ve got. And everyone else: Don’t forget to shield your eyes\u00e2\u20ac\u201dthat is really important! You can go blind if you don’t protect yourself,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Minerva ordered. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIs everyone ready? Yes? Severus, you can go first.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Severus produced a ball of lightning that hurt Hermione’s eyes even through her protective goggles.<\/p>\n

Harry was next. His orb appeared to be slightly smaller, and its flare was not as intense as the one Severus produced.<\/p>\n

Then it was Hermione’s turn. Although bright and clear, her globe was considerably smaller and paler than the other two.<\/p>\n

Alina followed her. The burst of lightning she produced didn’t keep its shape, and it was the smallest yet. However, it was just as bright as Severus’ magic.<\/p>\n

Madame Dubois cast the spell with casual elegance. But although her sphere was perfectly formed, and its light glowed evenly, it was very small and translucent.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Trio or Duo?<\/h3>\n

Percy observed the procession of dark-robed men from the visitors’ entrance to the meeting room where Umbridge was waiting. He wondered why their presence bothered him so much. After all, the corridors and hallways were full of robed men, of men and women in robes of every imaginable colour, day and night. Was it because of the weird hairstyle they favoured? But there were bald wizards, too. His own father sported a hairline that was quite visibly receding with age. Or their piercing eyes, filled with distrust and thinly veiled disapproval? But Minerva McGonagall could outstare most Slytherins with her beady gaze. And he was certain that Severus Snape would have those Muggles quaking in their boots within seconds.<\/p>\n

Was it just because they were Muggles? That thought disturbed him. Had he learnt nothing from his experiences during the war? Percy shook himself. His boss was waiting for him. Andromeda Tonks-Black and he were investigating if the magical tattoos had been manipulated from within the Ministry of Magic. A job of late nights, high stacks of parchment, and finicky detection spells. Probably the most important job of his life. He swallowed hard. And not only of <\/em>his life.The lives of many others depended on his work.<\/em><\/p>\n

Turning around, he almost collided with the Minister of Magic. He apologised profusely, bowed, and looked expectantly at the older man, but there was barely a reaction. Shacklebolt looked dazed and merely nodded at him before he hurried on. His movements were mechanical, as if he was beyond weariness. And<\/em>\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6Percy grimaced. He must have been to see Umbridge this morning already. A wave of Jarvey musk floated in the wake of the Minister’s passage.<\/p>\n

Just before they disappeared from his sight, Percy noticed that one of the dark-robed Muggles had slowed down. The man was watching him\u00e2\u20ac\u201dand the Minister. Dark eyes glinted with what Percy recognised as shrewd cunning and a flicker of\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6of what?<\/em> Suspicion? Dread? But why would a Muggle who belonged to an official diplomatic delegation be afraid of him? Or of the Minister?<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAlina would<\/em> be the logical choice for a third,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione admitted at last, but Ron noticed that she wouldn’t look at Harry. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcIf it’s really necessary to have a team of three\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Snape shook his head at once. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAbsolutely not. She’s a child. And a student. I will not allow that.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcLook, Severus,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry cut in. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI understand why you don’t like that. I really do. But\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6she’s strong and<\/em> she’s a Necromancer. She has also proven on more than one occasion that she’s smart, and that she can handle herself in difficult situations. I mean, if you think back, in my second year I<\/em> had already faced\u00e2\u20ac\u201d\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 He stopped. A flush and a sheepish expression suffused his face. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcUmm.<\/em> Well. I guess there’s no really good way to put that, is there? In my second year I’d already faced Alina’s dad with Voldemort attached to him and<\/em> I survived the Chamber of Secrets. I mean that<\/em> was dangerous, too.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcExactly,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Snape hissed. A vein at the man’s temple pulsed, betraying his agitation in spite of the soft tone of his voice. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcYou could<\/em> have been killed. Your friends <\/em>could have been killed. Back then it was my task to ensure your survival\u00e2\u20ac\u201dagainst all odds, including murderous plots of various Death Eaters, and even against Albus Dumbledore’s infernal meddling. Today I am responsible for Alina’s safety. And while I know better than anybody else about the mitigating circumstances for your extracurricular activities, I fail to understand how Arithmantic statistics justify endangering the life of a young girl.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Harry’s eyes flashed green lightning. He straightened up, a look of barely contained belligerence on his face. For a moment Ron wondered if his friend was actually looking forward to risking his life again.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHarry, mate,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ron interrupted. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’m sorry, but for once I have to agree with Sn\u00e2\u20ac\u201dwith Professor Snape. I don’t know a lot about Arithmancy, but even I know that every figure has some kind of power. So if the two of you are the strongest wizards in the world, you should be able to pull off this stunt on your own. Leave the kid out of it.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Snape and Hermione looked at him with disconcertingly similar expressions of astonishment.<\/p>\n

Harry glared at him. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcNo risk, no fun,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he snapped. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAnd if Madame Dubois and Professor Vector both say that a trio has the best chance, then I think we should bloody well put together a trio for this expedition.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

Ron looked at Harry and wondered if he’d always been so stubborn. Hermione was still staring at her interlaced fingers as if they held the answers to all her questions. Snape was glaring at Harry and studiously ignoring Hermione.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHarry? Could I talk with you for a moment outside?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Ron glanced at McGonagall, belatedly realising that he was interrupting an Order meeting. But McGonagall nodded.<\/p>\n

He practically dragged Harry from his chair and out the door.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWhat?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Harry ground out once they were in the hallway.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHarry, I don’t know why you don’t want to listen. But you’re taking things too far. No one knows if you can get beyond the Veil and back<\/em>. And no matter what Dubois and Vector are saying about favourable figures, Snape at least is convinced that he’ll only get back as a ghost. Have you even noticed how he won’t even look<\/em> at Hermione? Bloody hell, Harry, do you even care<\/em> how dangerous that trip is?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAre you feeling better?\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 Hermione asked softly. Then she sighed. \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcI’m sorry. That’s a stupid question.\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

The room was dark and cold, apart from the warmth of her body at his side. He would have preferred to be alone, without the constant reminder of what he would lose. The warm curves of her body pressed against him. The sighs of her pleasure exhaled into shared kisses.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcAt least Alina will be safe now,\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 he replied.<\/p>\n

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcHopefully\u00e2\u20ac\u00a6\u00e2\u20ac\u2122<\/p>\n

oooOooo<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n

\u00c2\u00ab Chapters 131\u00e2\u20ac\u201c140<\/a> oooOooo<\/strong> Chapters 151\u00e2\u20ac\u201c160 \u00c2\u00bb<\/a><\/p>\n

\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

\u00e2\u20ac\u02dcThe Apprentice and the Necromancer\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 by JunoMagic Chapters 141\u00e2\u20ac\u201c150 \u00e2\u20ac\u02dcWe Need a Strategy\u00e2\u20ac\u2122 After three spells and three brilliant displays of magical illumination (amber, sapphire, and to Harry’s intense discomfiture, emerald green), a deathly hush fell over the Order meeting. … Continue reading →<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":194,"featured_media":0,"parent":77,"menu_order":15,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"chapter.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-96","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/96","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/194"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=96"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/96\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10116,"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/96\/revisions\/10116"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/77"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/juno-magic.fancrone.net\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=96"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}