Kidnapped: A Dramansy Story

Chapter 24

Hermione was in a dark room.  She looked around, a useless action, but it was instinctive.  She heard low voices, angry voices.  Familiar voices.  To whom did the voices belong to?  Finally, she could rule out Ron’s voice.  After a few seconds, she found Rose and Hugo’s voices, as well. 

A bright light shone, practically blinding Hermione.  Then, she saw some red.  A lot of red.  No, it was more of a ginger…

“HOW COULD YOU?” someone screamed.  A migraine was quickly forming as the stress grew and the screaming continued.

“HOW COULD YOU BETRAY US?”

“Wh-What?” stuttered Hermione.

“Don’t you play dumb!  How could you leave us for Malfoy?” someone spat. 

“Ron…”  She tried to crawl over to him but he took a step back.

“We looked for you!  And now look what you’ve turned our children into!” Ron shouted, revealing two children whose eyes were red and puffy from crying.  Their pallor was pale and they looked painfully thin.  “I’ve had to admit them to St. Mungo’s.”

“St. Mungo’s?” whispered Hermione worriedly.  “Wha–“

“They were so upset from losing you that they went mad.”  Ron’s voice went from rocky to smooth. 

“Ron–“

“AND YOU CAUSED ALL OF THIS!  If you hadn’t been thick enough to go off with Parkinson, this never would have happened!” Ron screamed.  Hermione was sobbing now.  “Please…”

Hermione was sobbing now.  “Please, Ron, please listen to me…”

“You have more family who wants to talk with you!” hissed Ron.

Hermione caught a glimpse of her entire family, including her extended family.  That was a lot of red hair.  The dream faded.  Now, she was in the same room that was lighted with candles.  It was very dim.  She saw three people standing in a row.  Ron, Rose, and Hugo.  They looked calm and cool.

“Father, she’s awake,” said a cold voice.  It came from Rose’s mouth. 

“Good.”  Ron stepped to Hermione.  “So you finally came back.  I was worried that we wouldn’t get to deliver our message.”  Hermione frowned, the dream turning more out of control than it already was, like most of her nightmares these days.  “What message?” she asked.  “Can’t we just go home?”

“What do you mean, Mudblood?” spat Ron.  “You don’t belong in this family.  You’re just Hermione Granger who couldn’t give a rat’s arse about your family.”

“That’s not true!” shouted Hermione.

“It doesn’t matter!” said Rose.  “We don’t need you!”

“We don’t need you!” said Hugo.

“We don’t need you!” said Rose.

“We don’t need you!” they said in unison.

“We don’t need you!”

“We don’t need you!”

“We don’t need you!”

This rang through Hermione’s ears.

**********

Hermione’s eyes flew open.  She was shaking, but not because she was cold.  She stood up shakily and took a very hot shower.  Her family would not think those things about her, would they?  No, of course not.  She just had family on the brain.  That was all.  She quickly got dressed and looked at her watch.  It read 7:56.  She opened her bedroom door and saw a note taped on it.  She peeled the note off of the door and read.

Charice,

When you read this, I will either be in the Ministry getting my Apparation ticket or I will already be in Albania.

It seems like you are good with children.  I am glad.  Scorpius’ lessons start tomorrow at 9 a.m. sharp.  His Hogwarts books are in his study and McGonagall sent me his lesson plan which is in the top right drawer of his desk.

Tell Pansy not to do anything rash until I return.  By then, I should have sorted out this Unbreakable Vow out.  Also, refrain yourself from getting into a situation when you are alone with either of my parents.

Draco Malfoy

Hermione frowned at the letter but put it in her pocket.  She walked down the hall and knocked on her door.

“What?” Pansy snapped.

“Um, I was told to tell you-”

“Not to do anything rash, yeah, I get it,” said Pansy.  Hermione could not help but notice that Pansy was very moody.

“Er… are you-”

“I am fine!” shouted Pansy.  She slammed her door.  Hermione shrugged and walked down the stairs.

“Good morning, Ms. Renigold,” he said politely.  Hermione did not answer him.

“Ms. Renigold?”  Hermione still did not answer.  “MS. RENIGOLD!”  Hermione jumped.  Lucius was around the corner and quickly walked to his grandson and scolded him.  “Do not yell at our guests, boy!  Apologize immediately!”

“Sorry,” said Scorpius.  Hermione shook her head.  “No, no, that was completely my fault.  I spaced out.”

“Yes, well,” said Lucius.  The three stood awkwardly in silence.  “What are you still doing here, boy?” barked Lucius.  “Go on.  I’d like to have a chat with Ms. Renigold.”  He turned coldly to Hermione, who forced a smile on her face.  “If you would kindly follow me to my office.”

As Hermione followed Lucius down the long corridor, she thought, I’ve gotten myself into the exact situation Malfoy warned me not to get into.

Lucius led Hermione into a large library.  The two stood at the door.

“Sit down,” said Lucius smoothly.

“Er-Alright,” she said, fumbling for the right words.  She sat on a comfortable chair that reminded Hermione of a chair she had in her bedroom as a child.  “Um… Is there anything I can do for you?”

Lucius sat across from her.  “I wasn’t going to come right out and ask you–my wife didn’t want me to come off as rude–but there is something you can do for me.  Or rather, tell me.”  He sipped the tea that the House-elf brought in.  He did not speak.  Hermione cleared her throat.  “What is it?”

Lucius’ pale gray eyes pierced Hermione’s brown ones.  She looked away.

“My, my, you do seem familiar,” he said.  Hermione froze.  Did he know?  “What,” said Lucius, “is my son up to?”

“I-I don’t know what you’re talking about,” stammered Hermione.

“Lies,” hissed Lucius sounding uncannily familiar.  Hermione leapt out of her chair.  Lucius looked taken aback at his sudden outburst.

“Er… sorry, Ms. Renigold.  I do not know what came over me,” he said.  “All I want to know is… well, have a look.  My people are either correct, or they’ve done a horrible inspection.”  He handed Hermione a thick folder.  “Have a look at this example folder.  That is how thick a standard folder containing background information on a person is,” he said as Hermione flipped through.  But at the word ‘background,’ she flinched.

“Now, now, Ms. Renigold, I just want you to look at this folder,” Lucius said, sliding a very thin folder into Hermione’s hands.  She opened it and saw a single paper.  It was blank.  Hermione flipped it over.  She then raised her eyebrows at Lucius.

“Exactly.  This is your file.  Empty.  Nothing.  No records of your existance,” said Lucius.  Hermione panicked.

“Granger, I-” said Pansy, running into the library.  There she saw Hermione staring wide-eyed at her and Lucius narrowing his eyes at both of them.

“Well, well, well.  It looks like I’ve found you out.”

Kidnapped: A Dramansy Story

A/N: Hey, guys!  I feel like I haven’t blogged in forever!  Sorry about this late post (again).  I’ve been having some computer issues, but here’s this weeks chapter.  Hope you enjoy it!

Chapter 18

(Ron’s POV)

Ron,

How are you?  Is Rose home yet?  Harry has news about Malfoy.  He seems very skeptical of Malfoy’s involvement, but he thinks he has proof that Malfoy is involved.  Come for dinner at half past six and we can talk.
Harry sent two Aurors into the field.  He also told them to take dogs with them.  I suppose that is because of their keen sense of smell.  He also said that it is what Hermione would have suggested.  Muggle methods…
How is Hugo?  Give him a hug and kiss from Harry and me.  He looked just about to fall apart the last time I saw him.  I think it will be good for Rose to be home, especially for Hugo.  They are welcome to stay with us if you need time alone, Ron.
You are probably going to tell me you are fine, but really, how are you?
We await your arrival.  We are having some sort of pasta, but it is rather special to Harry.  He found the recipe for it in a scrapbook of his mum’s in his parents’ home.
With much love from the Potters,
Ginny

Ron folded the letter and shoved it into a drawer.  He thought about it for a moment, feeling a bit depressed.  Naturally, he missed Hermione.  Ron checked his watch and stood.  “Hugo!  Come downstairs, we’re going to pick Rose up from King’s Cross!  We don’t want to be late.”

Ron walked into the kitchen and looked at the hook on the kitchen wall that held the car keys.  He would only use the car in desperate situations.  Ron figured this was a desperate situation.  Hesitantly, he grabbed the keys and met Hugo in the living room.

“Hey, kiddo.  Are you ready to get Rose?” asked Ron, kneeling down in front of Hugo.

“Yes, Dad.”  Hugo’s eyes were red and puffy, and his face was tear-streaked.  Ron sighed.  “Alright.  Let’s go.”

**********

“Ron,” said Ginny after she opened the door.  She saw Hugo and Rose standing on either side of him.  “Hugo, Rose!”  Rose’s eyes were puffy as she ran into Ginny’s open arms.

“Oh, Rose,” Ginny mumbled, stroking her hair.  “Shh…”  Ginny looked up at her brother, who looked terrible.

“Er–Harry!  Ron and the kids are here.  Lily!”  Harry and Lily strode into the living room.  “Ah, Ron.  Hey, Hugo, Rose.  How’re your first few months at Hogwarts?”

Rose made a noise that could have been a sob or a laugh.  Or a cross between both.  “They were good.  I made some new friends.  So far my closest is Carrie Morgan.”  Harry smiled, recalling his first year.

“Guess what?” Ginny said, holding Rose at an arm’s length.  “You three kids,” she said, regarding Rose, Lily, and Hugo, “get to eat in the living room and watch the television.”

“Yes!” Hugo said with a grin.

“Aw, Merlin,” Lily said glumly.  “That’s only ’cause they want to talk about grown-up stuff.”  But she still escorted Rose and Hugo to the couch.

Harry gave Ron a grim look.  “I’ve got news.”

**********

After Ginny served the children in the living room, the adults took their seats in the dining room.  Ron moved his food around with his fork, which was uncharacteristic of him.  Ron never passed up a meal.

“We have eyewitnesses that report Malfoy was seen with Hermione… and apparently Pansy Parkinson,” Harry began.

“Parkinson?” Ron and Ginny exclaimed in unison.

“Well, didn’t you say that Parkinson was present at the S.P.E.W. meeting?” asked Ron in confusion.

“Yeah, but I hadn’t seen either of them after that…” Ginny mused.

“Exactly,” said Harry flatly.  “Anyway, we’ve found some other information that should interest you.”

“What?” Ron asked.  There was a long stretch of silence before Ginny said, “Harry?”

“I wrote to McGonagall yesterday.  She owled me back today at the Ministry.  Ron… I think you may have been right?”

“About Malfoy being involved?” Ron breathed.

“Yeah.  His son was sent home today, too.”

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXXIX

Chapter XXXIV

It was June 15th, the last day of school.  Albus stood in front of a mirror and straightened his tie before slipping his black school robes on.  He gently placed his pointed black hat on his head.

Today was a big day.  Albus remembered boarding the Hogwarts Express on the first day of school.  He remembered how nervous he was when he put the Sorting Hat on his head.  He remembered-

“Albus?” called James, standing in the entry way of the First Year boys’ dormitories.

“Yeah?”

“Stop staring at yourself.  The feast is going to start.”  Albus blushed.  “I wasn’t staring at myself.”  He followed James into the common room where Seamus, Iris, and Rose were waiting.

“Oh, I’m so nervous,” said Rose.  “Do you think we’ll win the House Cup?”

“Relax, Rose,” said James.  “Hey, guess what?”  He put his arm around his cousin’s shoulders.  “Al thinks he’s beautiful!”  Albus blushed while the others laughed at his expense.  “I do not.”

“Uh-huh,” said Iris, snickering.

James wedged himself between Iris and Rose.  “Owl me in the summer, yeah?” Iris punched his arm but grinned at him.  “Sure.”  James beamed.

“Come on,” said Seamus.  “We’ll be late.”

——————————————————————————————————————-

“Students of Hogwarts!” boomed McGonagall, standing.  The Great Hall grew silent.  “It has been a long year.  I congratulate everyone for their remarkable test results.  I also congratulate the Seventh Years who will be graduating in three hours.  Everyone is welcome to the graduation.  And now, I shall announce which Hogwarts House wins the House Cup.”

“In fourth place is Ravenclaw with 279 points!”

“In third place is Slytherin with 345 points!”

“In second place,” said McGonagall, “is Gryffindor with 394 points!”

“And in first place,” she said, waving her wand making the flags hanging in the Great Hall turn blue and bronze with a badger in the center, “Hufflepuff, with 433 points!”  The Great Hall erupted in applause.

“Congratulations, Hufflepuff!  And now, tuck in!”

The Gryffindors were still happy, even though they were in second place.

“It’s a shame we didn’t win,” said Rose, eating a spoonful of mashed potatoes.

“Lighten up, Rose.  If anyone deserved to win, it was Hufflepuff,” said James, shoving a biscuit into his mouth.

“Yeah,” said Iris, “can’t you be happy that we are in second with–how many points?”

“394,” said Albus.

“I suppose.  Oh well.  We still have six more years to improve,” said Rose.  “I can’t wait for next term!”

——————————————————————————————————————-

After the Seventh Year graduation ceremony, the students were sent to their dormitories to pack their belongings.  Albus was one of the last students to finish packing in the First Year boys’ dormitories.  He looked around the almost-empty dormitory.  It was sad-looking.

“I’m going to miss it too,” said a girl’s voice from the doorway.  Albus spun around.

“What?” said Iris.  “Don’t tell me you’re not going to miss all of this.”

“No, no, I am going to miss it.  A lot.”  Iris sat on the side of someone’s bed.  I had a good year.  How about you?”

“I think so,” said Albus, shoving a book into his trunk.  He sat next to Iris.  “I’m… sorry you thought I would judge you about talking to Malfoy.”  Iris shook her head.  “I should have known you wouldn’t.  I’m just sorry I have to spend my summer with the Malfoys.  They’re not too bad if you understand their logic.”

“Well, they might not be bad, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to be chummy with Malfoy,” said Albus.  Iris laughed.  Then she did something unexpected.  Iris leaned over and kissed Albus on the cheek.  She left without a word with Albus gaping at her as she left.

“Merlin,” said Albus in awe.

——————————————————————————————————————-

Albus and James boarded the Hogwarts Express.  Albus waved to Hagrid, who was sure to visit during the summer.

Albus did feel sad to be leaving Hogwarts, his home away from home, but the sadness soon faded.  He would be back in September.

With more adventures to come.

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXXVIII

Chapter XXXVIII

The weeks passed until it was June.  Then things began to slow.  James and Albus, on some days, were too lazy to leave the Gryffindor common room sofas.  Even Rose, who scolded her cousins for not doing anything productive, was caught sprawled on a couch in the common room- and Rose was never sprawled.

Albus did not see much of Iris, which was unusual.  She had begun speaking with Scorpius Malfoy more and more.  Albus did make a point of spending more time with Rose.  He enjoyed her company, yes, but Albus missed the amusing conversations he had with Iris.

“Albus,” muttered James from a maroon couch in the center of the common room.

“Hmm?” Albus said, distracted by an article on the front page of the afternoon Prophet.

“What time is it?”

“You’ve got a watch,” said Albus.  “Use it.”

“Humph.”  They sat in silence.  There were other students in the common room, but they were Fifth Years through Seventh Years.  Something -a picture in the Prophet- made Albus’ eyes widen.  “James.”

“What, Albus?” said James, becoming annoyed.

“Come look at this.  It’s about Uncle Ron,” said Albus urgently.  James stumbled over to Albus and together they read the article.

Weasley Injured After Returning From Top Secret Auror Mission

One week ago, seven Aurors were sent on a mysterious mission.  The details regarding the mission have not yet been released to the public.  Katie Bell, Rufus Brown, Dennis Creevey, Sue Li, Harry Potter, and Ronald Weasley returned, but Weasley was far from safe when he arrived with his group.  Weasley had been attacked by a Manticore, which, according to the Ministry of Magic, is classified as one of the most dangerous magical beings.

“I think it definitely looks worse than it feels,” Weasley jokingly said.

“He was attacked… four days after we began the mission, I believe,” says Creevey, suffering from minor memory problems.  It is a shock Weasley made it back home alive.  We send all of our best wishes!

-Rita Skeeter

“D’you think Rose knows?” breathed James, who was wide awake now.  Albus shook his head.  “I’m going to go find her.  Maybe… maybe I can break the news to her slowly.”

“Yeah…” said James in a daze.  “Poor Rose.”

Albus stood, rolled the newspaper, and walked out of the portrait hole.

——————————————————————————————————————-

Albus banged the rolled up newspaper against his leg as he walked.  What do I say?  How do I break the news? he thought.

Albus figured Rose would be in the library, but she was not.  Rose’s second favorite place to be was in the bleachers at the Quidditch pitch.  So that is where he went to look.

As Albus walked into the grass, he bumped into someone- literally.  Albus realized who it was as he and the other person stood.  “Iris.”

“Er… hello,” Iris said awkwardly.  Albus started to walk away, but Iris gripped his wrist.  “Please listen to me.”

“I can’t right now, I have to go find-“

“Just listen to me!” said Iris shrilly.  The tone of her voice made Albus tense.

“Can… can we sit?” asked Iris, regaining her composure.  She gestured to the grass.

“I -I suppose,” Albus said.  The two sat for a few seconds in silence before Iris began to talk.

“I received a letter from my parents a few weeks ago.  For the duration of the summer, my parents and brothers will be in Italy, visiting distant relatives and a family friend, Blaise Zabini.  They’ve been planning this for a while.  I never, ever thought they would go through with these plans, so I always refused to go with them.  They assumed that I wouldn’t want to go with them so… they’ve… they’ve arranged for me to stay with… the Malfoys.

“Mum and Dad told me to spend time with Scorpius so we could get to know each other again.  Scorpius was not too pleased to associate with a Gryffindor, but his parents wrote to him forcing him to speak with me.  There was no way out of it.”

“What does that explain?” asked Albus.

“Why I’ve been avoiding you.”

“Why?”

“Because… because I didn’t need any criticism about talking with Scorpius!” said Iris.

“But –I wouldn’t have criticised you.  Do you think I would criticise you?” asked Albus.  He felt something in his chest.  It was a strange feeling, a rare feeling.  It was hurt.

“I… don’t know,” Iris faltered.

Albus looked down.  He heard a sob and thought it was coming from Iris, but when he looked up, he saw the familiar flash of red hair.  Rose.

Albus jumped up and stumbled.  “I -I have to go.”

“Wait, what’s wrong?” asked Iris, standing.  Albus had already run off after his cousin.

“Rose!” shouted Albus, his Gryffindor tie flapping up.  “Rose!”  No matter how fast he ran, Rose was faster.

“Rose!  Oy!” shouted Albus as he tripped.  This seemed to make Rose halt suddenly.  She collapsed and sobbed loudly.  Albus tried to get up, but twisted his ankle when he fell, so he crawled to her.  When he reached Rose, Iris was trying to console her, but Rose batted her away.  Albus took Rose by the shoulders.

“Rose- calm down!” Albus said, giving her a painful hug.  Painful because of the position they were in.

Rose stuttered, “D- Da- D is h- urt!”  She shrieked loudly.  She was trying to sound angry, but the stuttering did not help.

“I know… but he said so himself, it looks worse-“

“He’s lying!  Who do you think read all of the Healers’ Guides in the library?  Who do you think did all of the research, hmm?  ME!  He’s been poisoned, don’t you see?”  Rose kept rambling about everything.  Eventually, she strayed off-topic.

“I think she’s hysterical,” said Albus.  “Go find James and tell him to write to my aunt quickly, then find McGonagall.”  With that, Iris sprinted to the castle.  Now Albus was left with the job of calming Rose down.  He did not know what to talk about, so he just started talking.  He talked about stories his mum told him about his dad and vice versa.  It barely worked.  Albus saw three figures approaching- McGonagall, Densay Wood, and Iris.

“James is owling your aunt,” said Iris.

“Ms. Nott, if you would kindly escort Ms. Weasley to the Hospital Wing so Madam Pomfrey can supply a Calming Draught, that would be marvelous,” McGonagall said dryly.  Rose shook her head quickly.  “N- no,” she croaked.

“I don’t bite,” said Iris.  “Honestly, I wonder about you sometimes.  Are you prejudiced against pure-bloods?”

“Nott, Weasley!” barked McGonagall.  “Castle, now!”

“Densay, why are you here?” asked Albus wearily.

“Well, mate.  The word is that you’ve done something to your ankle,” began Densay.

“Yeah…?”

“Should I beat you to a pulp so this will be less embarrassing for you?”

“Why?” asked Albus slowly.

“I’ve got to carry you to the Hospital Wing.”  Albus paled.  “Oh, don’t worry, Potter.  I doubt anyone’s going to laugh at you.  I’ll tell you what: if I hear a snicker, snort, giggle, or laugh, I’ll hex the person into next week.”

Albus shook his head.  “And why can’t we use magic again?”

Densay opened his mouth, then closed it.  “Didn’t think of that.”

Densay carried Albus into the Hospital Wing so Madam Pomfrey could mend his ankle.  He was giving a Sleeping Potion and fell asleep instantly.

——————————————————————————————————————-

When Albus awoke, Iris was sitting in a chair near the bed.

“How are you?” asked Iris tentatively.

“Fine.  Where’s Rose?” asked Albus.

“She was released a few hours ago.”

“Wait- how long have I been asleep?  What day is it?”

“Well, I’m sorry to disappoint you, but I wasn’t worried that much that I counted the hours, but it’s eight o’clock.  You missed dinner.  We can -I- can go into the kitchens and-“

“Rose-“

“I’ll make something.  What is that organization your aunt’s obsessed with?” asked Iris.

“S. P. E. W., and it isn’t an obsession.  She just cares for magical beings and creatures,” said Albus.

“Mr. Potter?” said Madam Pomfrey.  “Here.” She thrust a flask at him.  “Drink it.  Then you’re free to go.”

Albus examined the flask.  “Is it Firewhiskey?” he blurted.  Iris sniggered.  Madam Pomfrey glared at her and fixed Albus with a stern look.  “Mr. Potter.  Please refrain yourself from making alcoholic references in school.  No, for Merlin’s sake, Mr. Potter!  It is not Fir- er… just drink it!”  Madam Pomfrey shuffled away, tending to other patients.  Albus drank what was in the flask.

Rose strolled into the Hospital Wing.  “Hey, Al,” said Rose.  “James is on his way.”

“How are you?” asked Iris suddenly before Albus could ask the same.  Rose gaped at Iris.  “I’m… I’m fine.  Thank you for asking.”

“Well, I’m not that bad a person, you know,” Iris mumbled.  James sauntered into the Hospital Wing.  “How are you feeling, Albie boy?”

Albus gritted his teeth.  “Didn’t I tell you not to call me that?”

“Yes, but when have I ever listened to you?” asked James.

“James, be nice,” chided Rose.

“Humph,” said James.  He walked away to annoy Madam Pomfrey.  One of his favorite things to do: annoy the teachers.

Albus stood, straightened his shirt, and put his tie on.  “I think,” he said, glancing at Iris, “we should call a truce.”

“What do you mean, Al?” asked Rose.

“You two haven’t exactly been the happiest around each other.”

Iris held her hand out to Rose.

“I’m a half-blood,” said Rose pointedly.  Albus groaned and Iris retreated her hand.

“Rose,” said Albus, trying to keep calm.

“Alright, alright,” said Rose.  She stuck her hand out and she and Iris shook.

Albus grinned.  Now, his two friends were friends.

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXXVII

Chapter XXXVII

The months passed on quietly after the drama with Teddy.  It was now the end of April.  Albus received a letter from his mum.  Everything had been going smoothly at home.  The summer holidays were around the corner, as were his final exams.  He and Rose had been studying for them for hours each day.  Albus needed a break.

“Rose, don’t you think we could use a break?” asked Albus, sitting at the desk in the common room.

“Albus, these are the most important tests of the year!  We need more knowledge!” said Rose irritably.

Albus slammed his book shut and walked out of the common room.  Usually Rose would notice behavior like this, but she was too interested in her studies to notice her cousin’s antsy behavior.

Albus walked into an empty corridor and sat down.  James was not studying, as he was far too busy fooling around.  Rose begged and begged James to sit down for half an hour to study, but to no avail.  And Iris… well, he did not know what was happening between them.  He had not interacted with her much since he invited her to take a walk with him, which I might add, was a horrible invitation.  Albus knew he was being cocky.   Albus was not cocky.  Now James… well, he was a different story.

Albus heard footsteps approaching but did not look up until he felt someone trip over his feet.  Iris.

“Iris!  Uh, sorry,” he said.

She did not pay Albus much attention, as she was reading a letter.  It seemed important.

“Iris?”

“Stuff it, Potter,” she said angrily.  Albus was taken aback.  What was the matter.

“What’s the problem, Iris?”

“Just… leave me alone.”  She walked away.  Albus felt horrible.  What had he done to upset her?

“Albus?” called someone.  He glanced up.  It was Rose.

“What?” he grumbled.

“I noticed you were gone.  I’m sorry I’ve been making you study.  It wasn’t my place,” said Rose.

“No… it’s not your fault.”  Albus wondered if he should burden Rose with his thoughts.  “Rose,” he said, turning to his cousin.  “Hypothetically, what would you do if you were a boy and had upset a female friend?”

Rose stared blankly at Albus.  “Oh, I don’t know, Albus.  If you haven’t noticed in the last eleven years, I’m not a boy.”

“Never mind,” said Albus.

“Is this about Iris?” asked Rose kindly.  Albus stayed silent.  He nodded.  “Am I that obvious?”

“Well, I figured it could only be one person.  Albus,” said Rose tentatively.  “Maybe it would be good if you… took a break from Iris.  She seems to always put you in a bad mood.”

“I don’t know, Rose,” said Albus.  “D’you think she’s mad at me?”

Rose looked sadly at Albus.  She knew something and it would have been cruel to keep it from him.  “No, Al.  She’s not mad at you.”

Albus took a breath of relief.  He looked at Rose.  “Thanks, Rose.”

She smiled at him wryly.  “No problem, Al.  Are… are we okay?  We’re not fighting?”

Albus grinned at Rose.  “We’re fine, Rose.  I miss hanging out with you.”

“Me to, Al.”

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXXV

Chapter XXXV

“Lily?  Lily, come on, answer me!” said James.  He saw Albus.  “Al, it’s Lily, and I don’t even know how she got here!”

“Mr. Potter, your sister is unconscious,” said McGonagall dryly, “and she will be fine.”

“First Teddy, now Lily…” muttered Albus.

“What eez wrong with Teddy?” asked Victoire sharply.

“Er- well, I found a note-”

Victoire held out her hand expectantly.  Albus drew the note from his pocket and handed it to her.  “We’ve got to find him!”

Victoire paled when she read the note.  “Professor McGonagall!”  McGonagall did not seem to hear her, as she was speaking to Madam Pomfrey.

Albus ran out of the Great Hall, but Victoire caught up to him.  She threw her arm out in front of him.  “What, Vict-”

“Shh!  There eez someone over zere, I ‘eard them!”

“Shh… yes.  That’s right, just stay there, Al,” said Teddy in a low voice.  He emerged from the shadows.  He was bleeding- everywhere.  His clothes were torn, and his hair was ruffled.

“Oh, Teddy!  Oh, mon amour!  But you need zee ‘ospital wing!”

“No, just let me…”  Teddy fell to the floor, and Victoire screamed.  Albus almost followed her suit.

Then, McGonagall, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Harry, Ron, Neville, and a few other teachers jumped out of nowhere.  Harry and Ron took Teddy.  Harry looked distressed; Teddy was like a son to Harry.  He was his godfather.  Neville managed to get Albus and Victoire to move, and McGonagall, Kingsley, and the remaining staff searched the vicinity.  Rose and Iris were nowhere to be seen.  Albus ran out of the corridor and right into Iris with Rose behind her.

“Ow,” said Albus and Iris in unison, rubbing their foreheads.

“Oh, Al,” said Rose, giggling.

“Shut up,” said Iris.

“Right.  We’ve got to get to the Hospital Wing.  I bet my parents, James, and Lily are there,” said Albus.

“Well, we know Lily’s there,” said Iris.

“What happened to Teddy?” asked Rose.

“He… he was attacked by a werewolf,” said Albus.

The two girls gasped.

“Let’s go to the Hospital Wing.”

—————————————————————————————————————————–

“Dad!” shouted Albus as he ran to Harry.

“Albus,” said Harry, hugging him.

“Is Lily alright?” asked Rose.

“Yes, Lily’s fine.  Who isn’t fine is Teddy…” said Harry.  Rose walked to Ron and hugged him.  “Will Teddy be okay?”

“I hope so, Rose,” said Ron.

“It isn’t a full case of lycanthropy,” said Madam Pomfrey.  “Now, shoo!  My patients need rest, and Teddy will be sent to St. Mungo’s in half an hour.  Off you be!”

“Go on, Albus, Iris, Rose,” said Harry.  He turned to Ron.  “Let’s walk around the school, to be sure, and then we should be off.”

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXXIV

Chapter XXXIV

“Good morning, class,” said Professor Flitwick.

“Good morning, Professor Flitwick,” replied the class.

“Alright, today, we are going to study the spell, Wingardium Leviosa.  Does anyone know what this spell does?”

Several hands flew into the air, including Iris’.

Flitwick looked surprised.  “Yes, Ms. Nott?”  Rose’s nostrils flared.

“Come off it, Rose,” muttered Albus.  “Other people can be called upon.”

“Yes, Albus,” she replied angrily.

“Wingardium Leviosa allows the target to levitate,” answered Iris.

“Very good, Ms. Nott, ten points to Gryffindor!” said Flitwick.  “Now, allow me to demonstrate.”  Flitwick took out his wand and pointed at a piece of paper.  “Wingardium Leviosa.”  The paper flew into the air.  “Now, why don’t you all give it a go?”

There were several people muttering Wingardium Leviosa. 

“Wingardium Leviosa,” said Albus.  His paper shot up into the air.  Rose gaped at him, as did many other students.

“Very good, Mr. Potter!” exclaimed Flitwick.  “Do I sense a knack for Charms?”

—————————————————————————————————————————–

An hour later, Iris and Albus emerged from the classroom along with Rose.

“How did you manage that, Albus?” asked Rose once again.

“I’m telling you, Rose, I haven’t a clue!  Maybe it was beginner’s luck,” said Albus.

“Rose,” started Iris, “are you incapable of accepting that maybe Albus was able to succeed at the spell during his first try because of mere talent?”

“I am not incapable of accepting it.  But he never even studied the spell!  So, this leads me to ask, how does one accomplish a spell with absolutely no knowledge of the thing itself?”

Albus saw Scorpius with a few mates.  They nodded civilly at each other.  He left the girls to their argument and decided to visit Teddy.  They had a fifteen minute break between Charms and Transfiguration.

He remembered the portraits and walked very quietly so he would not wake them.  In front of Teddy’s room, he spotted a crumpled note  He unfolded it: Do Not Enter.

Albus looked around hoping to find the person who wrote it.  He knocked on Teddy’s door, but there was no reply.  Teddy couldn’t have been teaching class yet.  His first class started after lunch.  Albus knocked on a portrait.

“What do you want, you insolent little boy?”

“Professor Snape,” said Albus, holding up the paper.  “Did you see who wrote this?”

“If I did, do you think I would care?  Leave me now, boy!”

He sprinted to the Gryffindor common room to find Iris and Rose doing their Arithmancy.

“Guys, look at this!” said Albus, shoving the note into their faces.

“Honestly, Albus, have you not the decency to…” said Rose, drifting off as she read the note.

“Albus,” she said, “you need to take this to a professor.  Immediately!”

“Alright, you go to someone, I’m going to find Victoire!”

When Albus looked at his watch he got when he was younger from his Grandma Molly, he asked, “Where is Victoire?”

“The Great Hall,” said the watch in a bored voice.

“Where is Teddy?”

“I cannot locate him at this time.”

“Bloody watch,” muttered Albus.  “To the Great Hall then.”

—————————————————————————————————————————–

When Albus arrived in the Great Hall, there was a huge crowd surrounding the Gryffindor table.  A crowd made of all Houses.

“What’s going on?” asked Albus cutting through the crowd.

He saw a girl with red hair and a boy leaning beside her.  He immediately recognized these people.

“Lily?” asked Albus incredulously.

 

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXXIII

Chapter XXXIII

The next morning, the stings were gone and Albus felt normal.

“Time for your potions, Albus!” said Rose with Iris pacing behind her.  “Brought you some breakfast as well!”

“Thanks, Rose,” mumbled Albus, “but you do realize I’m still asleep?”

Iris smirked and Rose turned red.  “Well,” she said, flustered, “call if you need anything.”  She left the boys’ dormitories.

When Albus was sure Rose had left, Albus was fully awake.  “Can you find my shoes?”

“Excuse me?” said Iris.

“I mean, help me out of here!  I am very… claustrophobic,” said Albus.

“Ha!  Yeah right!” said Iris.  “You’re able to squeeze into small spaces while ‘secretly’ exploring the castle?  No, you are not claustrophobic.”

“Please?” asked Albus, taking the sweater his Grandma Molly knitted him and pulling it over his head.

“I am not finding your shoes!”

“Fine.  I’ll walk alone,” said Albus.

Iris was speechless.  Good, thought Albus.  I’ve finally caught her off guard.

“Was that supposed to be an invitation?” she asked.

The corner of Albus’ mouth turned up slightly.  “Yeah, I suppose it was.”

Iris blushed and looked down, regaining her mask.  “Well… it was a lousy one.”

“Ouch.  That hurt,” said Albus, walking to his wardrobe.  “I, uh, need privacy for this part of the process.”

Once again, Iris blushed, but quickly left the room.  Albus mentally slapped himself as he dressed in clean pants.  It was still early, and classes began at nine o’clock, which meant he could take a decent walk.

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————-

Albus and Iris now walked the Hogwarts grounds.

“So… what happened that day… well… the day Scorpius cursed me?” asked Albus tentatively.

Iris turned to Albus.  “Well.  We were sitting in a compartment on the Express.  Scorpius walked into the compartment and annoyed the both of us and jinxed you.”

“Wow,” said Albus finally.

“Yeah.  I’ll probably be in trouble with Mum and Dad for choosing your side over Scorpion’s,” said Iris glumly.

“Oh,” said Albus.  “I’m sorry I’ve gotten you into trouble.”

“No!  No, no, no.  I didn’t mean it like that, Albus,” said Iris quickly.

“Well, what did you mean it like?”

Iris took a deep breath.  “My parents act weird around me because I’m a Gryffindor.  I’m proud to be a part of the Gryffindor House, though, honest, I am.  I want my mum and dad to be proud of me, but I can’t do that if I keep disappointing them, can I?”

“No… no, I don’t suppose you can,” said Albus.  “I’m sorry your parents can’t accept you for who you are.”

“So am I,” said Iris, almost to herself.  “So am I.”

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXV

Chapter XXV

Ginny, Iris, Albus, Lily, and Rose walked into Eeylops Owl Emporium.  Iris noticed Rose throwing dirty looks her way.  She raised a single brow, as if to say, What is the problem?

“Mummy, may I purchase a Snowy Owl?” asked Lily.

“A Snowy Owl?  Do you have enough Galleons for a Snowy Owl?”

“Yep!  I saved all of my birthday money and the spare Sickles and Knuts I found in the sofa cushions.“

Ginny laughed.  “Well, then, I suppose you may purchase a Snowy Owl.”

While Lily and Ginny looked around, Albus looked at another owl.  Rose appeared at his side, grinning.

“What’s so funny?” asked Albus.

“Oh, nothing.”  Rose glanced at Iris and laughed.

Iris walked over.  “Is there a problem?”

“There wouldn’t be if I didn’t see Slytherin everywhere I went,” muttered Rose.

“Rose!” said Albus in disbelief.

Iris smirked at her.  “You think I don’t get the same remark from Scorpius?  But then again, he’s always joking.  I don’t think that’s the case here, is it?”

Rose narrowed her eyes.

“Guys.  Can we all just get along?  It’s the Christmas Holidays!” said Albus.

“Fine,” said Rose.

“Albus, Rosie!  Look what owl I’m going to get!” said Lily happily.

“That’s great, Lily,” said Albus.

Lily and Ginny paid while Albus, Rose, and Iris waited outside.

Everyone was very quiet.

Then, Ginny and Lily came outside, Lily cooing at her owl.

“Mum, can we go to Quality Quidditch Supplies?” asked James as he, Hermione, Seamus, and Hugo approached.

“I suppose so.”

Rose scowled.  Unfortunately, Rose had inherited her mother’s flying genes.  She hated it.

Mostly, James and Iris did their shopping here.

“Alright-” said Ginny.  She was cut off by someone.

“UNCLE PERCE!” screeched Lily.  Ginny whipped around.

“Percy!  Don’t do that!  You’re becoming more like George every single day,” muttered Ginny.

“Uncle Percy, what’re you doing here?  Shouldn’t you be at the joke shop?” asked Rose.

“Yes, but our dear Uncle George has sent me on another errand,” replied Percy sarcastically.

The Potters and Weasleys smiled.

“Mum, can I go with Uncle Percy back to the joke shop?” asked Lily excitedly.

“Sure.  Maybe I should take the owl, though,” said Ginny.

“Oh.  Alright.  Goodbye, my little owl!  I shall name you when we arrive home.”

Lily and Percy disappeared in the crowd.

“Mum,” said Albus in a low voice.

“Yes?” asked Ginny.

“I can’t buy anyone presents this year.”

“What?  Why?” asked Ginny.

“I need the money for materials for… A project.”

Ginny eyed him.  “Oh, yes?  What is this project?”

“It’s for Tonks, and Remus, and Uncle Fred, and Sirius, and Grandpa James and Grandma Lily.”

Ginny’s eyes softened.  “Oh, Al.”

“So, you all can get along without me.”

“Al, honey, why don’t I come with you?” asked Ginny.

“Mum… I do appreciate your help, but I wanted to do this on my own.”

“Well… May I make something for them as well?  I think you have the right idea.”

“Sure, Mum.”

“Maybe I can get Dad to bring me back here later, then?” asked Albus.

Ginny’s smile wavered.  She felt happy tears in her eyes.  “Sure, honey.”

Harry Potter Series II: Albus Severus Potter Chapter XXIV

Chapter XXIV

“Ginny, while you’re in Diagon Alley, pick up some suitable presents for Seamus and his wife and… Pansy and Theodore,” said Harry awkwardly.

“Our presents arrived?” asked Seamus.

Harry laughed. “Yes, your parents sent them here.”

Twenty minutes later, Ginny and her lot met with Hermione, Rose, and Hugo in the Leaky Cauldron.

“Shall we go then?” asked Hermione.

Ginny counted everyone to make sure they were all there. “Yes.  Better get this done, preferably sooner than later.”

Hermione tapped the bricks with her wand.  They formed into a doorway.

“Mum, can we go to Eeylops Owl Emporium?  I really want an owl!” said Lily excitedly.

“No, not now, Lily,” said Ginny.  Lily’s face fell.

“Seamus and Iris are our guests, so they will choose what shops they wish to visit.  Ladies first.  Iris?  Where shall we go?”

Iris glanced at Lily’s face.  “Let’s go to Eeylops Owl Emporium.”

“You don’t have to, Iris, it is your choice,” said Ginny.

“Eeylops.”

“Alright then.  Hermione, ask Seamus where he wants to shop and take him there, please?  I’m taking Iris and Lily to Eeylops Owl Emporium.”

“No problem.”

“I’ll go with you, Mum,” offered Albus.

“Me too!” said Rose briskly glaring at Iris.

Hermione looked at Rose funnily.

“Mum, I’ll be with Aunt Ginny,” said Rose pleadingly.

“Alright then.  Seamus, where would you like to go…?”