harry potter and the twilight dragon

8/14/2019 Harry Potter and the Twilight Dragon

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Harry Potter and the Twilight Dragon

Harry

PotterAndTheTwilight Dragon

By George Straken


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Contents

Chapter OneDark Intentions

Chapter TwoTidings of Trouble

Chapter Three

Winged Beasts

Chapter FourGodric's Fire

Chapter FiveThe Edge of Knowledge

Chapter SixWebs and Ghosts

Chapter Seven

The Talismanic Group

Chapter EightEducation


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Chapter NineDraconic Tales

Chapter TenBroken Brooms

Chapter ElevenThe Prophet's Grudge

Chapter TwelveThe Missing Link

Chapter ThirteenThe Seeker's Inheritance

Chapter FourteenPotter's Ploy

Chapter fifteenThe Fall of Viktor Krum

Chapter SixteenThe Flight of The Phoenix

Chapter SeventeenAquamancer's Rescue


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Chapter Eighteen

Nurmengard

Chapter NineteenThe Price of The Heart

Chapter TwentyThe Throne of Dominion

Chapter Twenty-One Draco's Demise

Chapter Twenty-TwoA Family Heirloom

Chapter Twenty-ThreeHead of The Beast

Chapter Twenty-FourA Hint

Chapter Twenty-FiveLegend of The Twilight Dragon

Chapter Twenty-Six


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The Hidden EmeraldChapter Twenty-Seven

Dragon Hunter

Chapter Twenty-EightWaiting

Chapter Twenty-Nine The Sword's Secret

Chapter Thirty

Remnants of The Past Chapter Thirty-One

Gift of Requirement

Chapter Thirty-TwoHorses and Butterflies

Chapter Thirty-Three Dragongaze Plains

Chapter Thirty-Four AggressionChapter Thirty-Five

The Way to Dominion

Chapter Thirty-Six The Secret GuardianChapter Thirty-Seven Legend of The Egg


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Chapter Thirty-Eight Heritage Arisen

Chapter Thirty-NineThe Battle of The Temple

Chapter FortyThe Descendants of Darkness

Chapter Forty-One

Resolution


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Disclaimer: Some of the characters, and the plot of the trilogy (of which this is the firststory) are mine. The rest is the sole property of J.K. Rowling. I have simply used her created world as

my playground and workstation, and the world's inhabitants as my toys and tools. And so, I haveplayed, and built. This is the result. I hope you enjoy it!

Harry Potter and The Twilight Dragonby George Straken

Dark Intentions


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It is almost time my lord, a voice said. It came from a hooded figure, sitting at a dimly lit

table, along with six other figures wearing the same type of hooded robe. One would have been unable

to know for certain who the figure was talking to, but the hoods angle suggested that he was looking atthe person seated at the head of the table, a likely spot for the New Lord to be sitting.

This person (it was impossible to tell the gender) gave no indication of having heard, but a voice that

seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere said, Patience, Gauntlet. He will come.

The man codenamed Gauntlet turned his head toward the empty chair directly across from him. Afaint aura of concern emanated from the wizard, which was understandable; if the absent wizard didnt

arrive on time, the rooms enchanted door would shut him out. This inconvenience would be all the

greater because he was supposed to bring some sort of equipment; without it, the purpose of this

meeting would be moot.

The others, however, had a more dangerous problem on their minds. They were facing toward the

figure sitting immediately to the right of the New Lord. Despite the lack of identity, they were quite

certain that this person was new; at least, they had never met. It wasnt so much the presence of thefigure, as the implications behind it, that held the members transfixed. The New Lord was insistent on

the number of members in the group being no more or less than 13, including the Lord. This person

was clearly an addition, as only seven members besides the lord were invited, and the seventh person

was obvious. Thus, this extra figure could only mean one thing: a current member, one attending thismeeting, would be eliminated. This threat created an atmosphere of unease, made worse by the missing

wizards absence. All was still, except for the flickering of the two lit candles on the table. Time

seemed to crawl by.

Then suddenly, the door flew open, and another figure darted in. This was clearly the wizard that was

carrying the necessary materials for furthering the mission that this meeting concerned. A second later,

the door slammed shut, sealing the world outside and the group members within.

Still motionless, the Lord said, Good evening, Cutlass, for Cutlass was the wizards codename.

Good evening, my Lord, murmured Cutlass.

You cut it closer every time, a figure (a wizard by the sound of his voice) grumbled. If you hadntmade it

He made it, thats what counts, snapped Gauntlet. He didnt know who Cutlass really was, but all the

same, he didnt want him to die. Sensing an oncoming argument from the complaining wizard, headded, Drop it, Lantern.


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Lantern fell silent, and Cutlass seized the opportunity to murmur to the New Lord, Shall we? The

Lord nodded slightly, then said, The meeting is now begun. A small pause. Lantern, you have the

information? The Lord had sought four particular items, as they were rumored to give the bearer greatpowers when brought together. The Lord already had one; Lantern had been asked to locate the other

three.

Yes, my Lord, he said, but hesitated. Speak, his leader commanded, and Lantern obeyed. Item one

is in the possession of a collector with a penchant for showing off treasures. Item two is borne by aforeign athlete. And the third is held within the home of a pureblood family. Silence. Then the Lord

asked, I assume you have names? Yes, answered Lantern, and he gave three names. There were a

few moments quiet, as everyone processed this news.

Finally, the Lord said, the collectorLantern, youll be our connection to that area. Your reputation

and expertise will enable them, the Lords head tipped toward the three figures sitting immediately to

the right, to access theproperty. No one questioned this choice of agents, as they knew that thisoperation required great skill, and these three people were very good at what they did.

The athlete will be easy, one of them said. We must frame someone else, a rival. The same can be

done with the collector. And the pureblood homewe can penetrate that area. Great enchantments

may guard it, warned Lantern. If it is anything we havent faced before, it will be a welcomechallenge. I daresay weve been too inactive lately. This will be an excellent opportunity tostretch.

Well in that case, the third spoke up, why dont we split it up? One heist for each?All three noddedin agreement, and the Lord said, You will require A nod toward Cutlass, who immediatelywithdrew a flask and a bag from his cloak. Shaking three vials from the bag, he poured what looked

like mud into the vials, stoppered them, and handed them to the trio.

And now, said the Lord, on to the next order of business. The hoods opening tilted toward the

table for a moment, before the Lords voice said slowly, It seems there is a traitor among us.

There was a stir among the members, as heads turned this way and that, evidently looking at each other.

This disloyal member has been recruited by the Ministry as a spy, to glean what they could of ourtransactions and aims. They are suspicious of us, as always, and this has unfortunately penetrated the

group. And as a cancerous growth must be excised from the flesh, the Lord continued, with an air ofapproaching climax, so the defector must be not only removed, but abolished as well. I leave it up to

myself to execute this highly important sentence. Suddenly, the head rose, and faced directly toward

Gauntlet, whose face drained of all color.

Gauntlet, rise. Gauntlet did as he was told; slipping his fingertips into his pocket (no doubt grabbing


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his wand), he drew himself up to his full height.

The New Lord, oddly, did not rise; simply sitting there, the hood stared at Gauntlet. Every one else in

the room sat rock-still, barely even breathing. Without warning, the Lord whipped out a long, thin blackwand. Pointing it at Gauntlet, two calm words were heard: Avada Kedavra. A jet of green let eruptedfrom the wands tip, striking the wizard in the chest before his wand was fully raised. His lifeless body

crumpled, falling to the floor to move no more.

Venomous, take care of the body. When Venomous had done so, the Lord continued, Which bringsus to our final purpose in this meeting. Gesturing to the mysterious person on the right, the Lord

explained, We have lost one member this hour, which calls for another, preferably more talented,

member. This is the member-to-be that I have chosen. Turning to the figure, The Lord remarked, I am

not in the mood for ceremony, so this shall suffice. Waving the black wand: I now declare you anofficial member of this group, which entitles you to all privileges and obligations that apply. I name

you Saber. A burst of red and silver glitter swirled around Saber, and the Lord said, I believe that

concludes this meeting. All are dismissed.

Everyone stood up and filed to the door, which opened of its own accord. Turning alternately down

either end of the hall, they walked through the walls at the ends, coming out at random, inconspicuous

locations. The new member made to leave, but the Lords hand touched their forearm. If anyone

discovers more about what we are doing than is safe, eliminate them wisely.

Yes, my Lord, spoke a distinctly female voice, and received a nod before being let go. Saber was

soon gone, and the Lord returned to the chair at the head of the table, and sat staring into space,

thinking, for the rest of the night.

* * *

A pair of red-tinged eyes rose from a globe, and gazed thoughtfully in to the distance. They belonged

to a man-like creature, with crusty eyelids and flesh. Its nails were still rather long, while the legs werethick, and strangely shaped. Its arms were small and weak-looking, and its teeth were pointy. Overall, it

looked like a human suffering from a horrible, severe disease. Its thoughts, however, werent entirelyconcerned with its form; it was pondering the scene it had just witnessed within the crystal ball sitting

before it. The leader had been impressive with its simplicity, intelligence, and skill, as well as its level

of command, it thought.

Looking around, it took in the dozens of old trinkets surrounding it. To anyone else, they would have


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seemed like worthless junk, but the man-thing had seen these items in their newer, stronger state, and it

still saw them as sources of power, although they were now drained of magic. The magic had been used

to cast a spell that had been progressing for a little less than two months. The spell was almostcomplete; all that was needed was one more burst of power This, the beastly animal knew, was a

problem, as the power needed was very rare. But a solution had already been found. It just needed to bebrought within reach.And that, it thought, will be fairly simple.

Standing up, the creature strode across the room, its gate slightly awkward due to its shape. Stoppingbefore a cage, a clawed hand reached into it, a finger gently stroking the beautiful creature imprisoned

within it. The cage was a contraption of simple genius; it was made of a solidified phoenix ash coated

with dragon blood. It was the only thing that could contain the creatures prisoner. Opening the cagesdoor, the creature removed its captured prize, murmuring to it soundlessly. Carrying it to the opening of

the man-creatures home, it pressed the back of a finger to the pets chest. The eyes closed, then

opened: they were now glowing a soft red, a sign of possession.

A beautiful night, whispered the creature, staring at the starry sky just barely visible high above.Perfect for my plans.

It pause, then looked down at its hand. Fly forth to do my bidding, and return with my reaping, the

creature commanded in a whisper, and lifted its arm. With a rush of wings, the newly released captive

disappeared into night.

Tidings of Trouble

Harry was soaring high above a vast green field, purple and yellow cloak zooming back andforth beneath him. Recognizing his surroundings, Harry began circling the perimeter, faces in the

audience flashing past him. Wind pushed his hair back as he scanned the field for a glint of gold

farther and farther into the sky he rose, and he noticed the field becoming frighteningly small. He tried


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to push the broom handle dwn, but it wouldnt budge; he had no choice but to continue to ascend into

the clouds. Finally emerging above them, he looked around, and spotted the Snitch, hovering 200

yards directly behind him. Whipping the broom-handle around, he charged towards it. As thoughsensing his approach, the snitch dived straight downward, and Harry followed it without thinking.

Snitch and wizard plummeted toward the ground far below, the Snitch straining for safety, Harrystraining for the Snitch. Just fifty feet from the ground, Harrys fingertips were inches from the

glittering golden ball, when the other seeker appeared out of nowhere. neck and neck, they hurtled toearth. Just as they reached it, Harrys fingers wrapped around the Snitch, and he yanked the broom

upwards, so his speed sent him flying across the ground. Dizzy but ecstatic, Harry got up on his knees,

but something grabbed the back of his robes and pulled him backward. Harry turned, and received ablow to his face. Sprawling, he saw his teammates rushing to his aid, but the other Seekers team

intercepted them, and green jets of light started flying. Within seconds, all of his fellow players had

fallen dead, and Harry was meanwhile suffering a series of punches and kicks. Suddenly, he wassurrounded by Death Eaters, and looking up, he caught sight of his attackers face, and what he saw

terrified him. Drawing a wand, James Potter aimed at Harrys face, and there was a burst of green light-

Harrys eyes flew open, and he sat bolt upright, staring wildly around, before slumping. He wasnt on a

Quidditch field, he wasnt surrounded by Death Eaters, and his father wasnt standing over him, aboutto kill him. What a nightmare, Harry thought. It was confusing; his dreams were either visions,

subconscious thoughts, or memories, but none of these applied to this dream. Harry glanced at the

clock: 6:30. He was supposed to get up at 6:35, so he shut off his alarm, then got up and got dressed.Walking into the bathroom, he looked into the mirror and simply stared at his reflection, gaze roving

over very familiar features before coming to rest on the greatest mark of all, one that had become his

identity at the age of on: a lightning-bolt shaped scar above his left eyebrow. Ever since the age ofeleven, he was reminded of his dead parents whenever the scar crossed his mind. They had been killed

by Voldemort the same wizard that gave Harry the scar; in fact, they had died to protect Harry,inadvertently creating a charm that had protected him for years, since he was a year old up to his 17th

birthday. But just months ago, he had finally managed to kill Voldemort, freeing him from the life of ahunted creature. But he knew there would always be more wizards trying to take Voldemorts place.

Well dont you look handsome, a voice interrupted his thoughts.

Harry turned to see George Weasley standing outside the bathroom door.

I love what youve done with your hair.

It never changes, Harry answered, knowing George was joking like always. He looked into themirror again, giving his hair a brief once-over. It was true; his hair was hardly ever neat. It was

particularly messy in the back, where it stuck up.And thats the way Ginny and Hermione like it,

thought Harry, his thoughts drifting away. Hermione was popping up in his thoughts more and moreoften these days. It was getting annoying; for one thing, he still liked Ginny. For another, he was pretty

sure she like Ron, not him. He couldnt forget the way she had kissed him when hed voiced his


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concerns about Hogwartss houselves during that last fight with the Death Eaters, and the way he had

kissed her back. But despite his belief that Hermione was strictly off-limits, he couldnt help

occasionally switching mental gears, imagining that he liked Hermione instead. The dreams he hadsometimes had

listening? Georges raised voice startled Harry out of his musings, and he abruptly turned to face

George. Looking for something else to think about, he caught, quite unfortunately, a recollection of the

death of Georges twin, Fred. If Fred was still alive, hed be standing next to George, and they wouldbe taking turns cracking humorous comments. They sure could lift a gloomy mood

Whats got you so off, Harry? Not wanting to remind George of his brothers death, Harry shook his

head and said nothing.

Right, look here, I wanted to talk to you about something. George looked over his shoulder, asthough checking for something (or someone, Harry thought) then leaned closer and said quietly,

Quidditch tryouts for Chudley Cannons are coming up, and Ron reckons he might have a go. This

surprised Harry, as Ron usually wasnt too keen on activities that he might fail at, as it would strike ablow to his ego, which was none too strong.

So, asked George as Harry left the bathroom, What do you think?

Well, Harry said slowly, he was pretty good in 5th and 6th year

Yeah, agreed Harry. His only problem is his confidence.

And thats a bigproblem, George pointed out, lowering his voice as they approached the kitchendoor.

Harry followed suit, whispering, Any ideas on how to boost his ego? Cant get it too high up, or itll

be like an egg dropped from twenty feet in the air, warned George. Harry winced at the image.

Are you two about done whispering behind my back? Rons voice interrupted.

Behind a door, actually, George said smoothly, but why dont we take this discussion to the kitchen?That way Ron will know exactly how we feel. George pushed the door open wide, strode to the

kitchen table, and helped himself to some toast.


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Harry followed, taking a plateful of eggs and bacon from Kreature as Ron asked darkly, You told him,

then?

Course I told him. Hes your best mate, dyou think Id leave him out? Ron stayed silent, moodilychewing on toast.

Well? he finally burst out, glaring at Harry, arent you going to tell me how stupid I must be?

Actually, Harry thinks-, George started, then stopped. Turning to Harry, he suggested, You tell him.

Itll mean more coming out of your mouth. And, he added, wheeling to face Ron, I had no influence

on his opinion. Its pure Harry.

He glanced over his shoulder expectantly, and Harry obliged, Its a good idea. Theres just oneproblem-,

Ron snarled, See? in a gloomily triumphant manner, but George ignored him as Harry continued, -

your confidence. This stopped Ron. He stared, then muttered absentmindedly, I wonder whatHermione would say?

Hermione would say, came a female voice as a slim girl with bushy brown hair entered the kitchen,

that its a good idea, but Harry has a point. Your confidence is your only major weak point.

Ron said nothing, simply staring at her. Harry, looking her over, thought she looked pretty good in a redshirt and blue jeans, which clung to her hips. Her shirt hugged her contours, and Harry thought he

could see the edge of a pink strap going over her shoulder. It mildly turned him on, and he slapped

himself mentally. Take it easy, boy, he thought to himself.

An owl flew into the room, followed by another. The first dropped a newspaper on the table, while thesecond dropped a letter in front of George. Hermione paid the owl, then picked up the newspaper and

scanned the front page. She noticed Ron still staring at her, and she said impatiently, If you want to let

fear rule over you for all of your life, then stay where you are. She paused, then added, No one gotanywhere in life without taking risks. She half-glanced at Harry, then returned to perusing her paper.

Ron caught the look, and knew what she meant. Seeing his face darkening once more, Harry could

practically hear him thinking of all the risks that people (Harry for instance) had taken that had gone forthe worse.

George, meanwhile , was examining his letter. Oh blimey, he murmured, and he abruptly stood up.

What? Ron trailed off, and George answered distractedly, The shop.


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What happened, did it blow up? Ron asked, while Harry inquired, Is it serious?

George shot Ron a nasty look, then tossed the piece of parchment toward Harry. Ron attempted to grabit out of the air, but Harrys catching skills, honed by capturing Snitches, overcame Rons easily, and hesucceeded in snatching the letter out of Rons reach.

Read it aloud! Ron demanded after George vanished from the fireplace, but Harry ignored him. The

first couple lines stunned him, and his bewilderment grew as he skimmed the rest of the letter. Finally,

he returned to the top, and began reading:

To Mr. Weasley and Mr. Jordan,

Rumors that your shop, Weasleys Wizard Wheezes, has been developing a substance that effectively

manipulates targeted enchantments has instigated an investigation, and has been declared a potentialDark Material. This requires the immediate confiscation of the said product by the Ministry. Ministry

action will be taken shortly, and the presence of either owner is needed, so as to allow access to the

restricted area of the property. If you would like to discuss the particular points of interest in safetyguidelines regarding your product, the Ministry recommends that you contact the Head of the Magical

Products Safety Department. An appointment may be necessary, and we apologize for any

inconveniences this may cause. If you wish to make the adjustments needed to satisfy the MinistryMagical Product Safety specialists, you may do so within a specified area, as designated by the

Ministry, under supervision. All adjustments must be listed, and confirmed by specialists. If you makethe required adjustments according to the guidelines, if approved, your product will be returned 1-2

weeks after changes are made, although the length of the interval is not guaranteed. Thank you foryour cooperation.

Donald Ramball,

Department of Magical Safety Confirmation Head

Harry looked up, his mind buzzing with what he had just read.

Mr. Jordan? Whos Jordan? Ron wondered.

Lee Jordan, of course, Hemione answered.

But why? Ron asked, then said suspiciously, Did George ever replace?


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Exactly, Hermione affirmed, never looking up from her paper. Rons chest swelled in indignation.

Why didnt he say anything? Ron asked furiously, Glaring at Hermione.

In his position, I wouldnt blame him. Informing you of my financial decisions wouldnt exactly be

top priority, as its really none of your business, Hermione responded casually, and forestalled Ronsoncoming tantrum by saying, Listen, both of you.

Harry looked up, and Hermione said, Theres been two dragon attacks.

Where? Ron inquired, and Hermione said, Durham and Blackpool.

Cant have escaped from Romania, then, Ron stated.

Theyll still have to catch them, though, wont they? Harry said seriously.

Catch them? Theyll have to kill them. Dragons attacking people, you cant let that go by. Its too

risky, Ron corrected him.

They came from Scotland, no doubt, Hermione mused, her eyes staring into infinity.

Why dont they capture them? Arent they worried for our safety? Harry asked, referring to thepeople of England.

Theres lots of dragons up there. They let them stay as long as they behave, Ron informed him.

Any casualties? Ron inquired, and Hermione said, Just an old owl named Muglug. According to thefamily, it wasnt much use anymore anyway. She shrugged, the looked at her watch, before looking atHarry and saying, Shouldnt you be going somewhere?

Huh? Where? Ron asked as Harry jumped up, and Kreature immediately seized his dish and Rons,

then Disapparated.

Harrys meeting a friend at the Ministry. He has some sort of contact waiting, Hermione answered.


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How come you know everything? Ron asked, and Hermione replied, You should know, Harry

mentioned it last night when he was discussing his lessons for learning to be a DA teacher.

I dont remember that, Ron protested, and Hermione said irritatedly, Thats funny, because Idistinctly remember you wondering if Valid was related to the one your dad knows.

Harry remembered this as well, but didnt say anything. He approached the fireplace, followed by Ron

and Hermione.

Were going to the Ministry, right? Ron asked, and Harry nodded. He made to grab a pot off the

mantle, but Ron grabbed his arm, so Harry waited while Hermione retrieved some Floo powder.

She turned and gave them both a questioning glance, but Ron nodded at the fire, and she obediently left

in a flash of green flame.

Harry looked at Ron and Ron dropped his gaze to the floor, while he muttered, ErmHarry, Ive been

thinking about what you and Hermione said Harry noted Rons omission of George, but disregardedit as Ron continued, Ill try for Keeper, if you promise me something.

Harry, caught off guard, said, Erokay, I promise, sure that whatever Ron asked him, it wouldnt be

too difficult. Ron, looking relieved, said, I want you to try for Seeker.

Harry was stunned; of all the things Ron could have asked him, this was hardly what he had expected.Ron saw the look on his face and said quickly, with a note of panic in his voice, You said you would!

All right, all rightIll think about it, Harry compromised, unwilling to make such a hasty decision.

At the very least, hed have to arrange matters for conveniences sake.

Ignoring the slightly disappointed look on Rons face, Harry took a pinch of powder, tossed it on thefire. With a shout of The Ministry! he was whirled away among emerald fire, his mind still struggling

with Rons request.


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Winged Beasts

Stumbling out into the Atrium, Harry looked around for Hermione. Spotting her a short distance away,he joined her, then waited for Ron to catch up. Once he had done so, they set off across the main hall of

the Ministry of Magic, passing a desk where visitors wands were being weighed. Harry could

remember having to hand his wand over for inspection, the day of his court hearing for underagemagic. It all seemed so long ago now His gaze roved over the rest of the Atrium. It hadnt changed

much since the death of Voldemort. The Fountain of Magical Brethren had been reinstalled, and theMagic is Mightmonument had been covered by nondescript tarp that was difficult to look at directly, asit had been bewitched with an Anti-Focus Jinx, since the statue had evidently been cursed to stay in

place.

Harrys attention was caught by a red-haired person, and he adjusted his course slightly, heading for

George Weasley. The person beside him was Levitating a box filled with jars. They had been speakingin low voices, but upon the approach of Harry and his friends, the man that Harry assumed to be the

confiscator of Georges product fell silent, glancing pointedly at them.

Friends, this is Mr. Barnabus Beetem. Hes the bloke they sent to collect my product-in-progress. Mr.

Beetem, this is my brother Ron, my friend Hermione, and you may not know who this chap is-,George winked at Harry, who smiled back; he knew George was making fun of his fame, which was

fine by him.

Meanwhile, Mr. Beetem stared grimly at them. Erm, this is con-,

Oh, not to worry, George interrupted impatiently. Theyre my confidants.

We are? Ron asked, bewildered.

Of course, George said.

While the others were caught up by this new development, Harry thought he saw the wizard waving his

wand gently at the box, and the powders glowing faintly.


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Er, GeorgeYou might want to watch that guy. He looks like hes doing something strange to your

stuff Harry said warily.

Oy! George barked at the official, causing him to jump. Whatre you doing to it?

A charm to help balance the box, as its contents are sliding around, Beetum said smoothly.

That wouldnt happen if the charm was properly cast, Hermione said flatly, and Beetem shot her anasty look.

Here, gimme it, George said, but Beetem shook his head and said, Sorry, but I cant give confiscated

property back to its owner unless I have permission from higher up.

Give it to Harry, then, George said impatiently, and received another shake of the head. No, I cantgive to any of your friends either, Beetem explained. George rolled his eyes and muttered something

about bloody contracts.

Beetem was just telling before you showed up that I just need to put enchantments on my stuff toprevent it from Dark uses. They reached the lift as its gate opened, and people began to both pour out

of it and into it. Harry and his companions joined the latter, Harry becoming wedged between Beetem

and an old wizard carrying a tray filled with jars and jewelry. George turned and said, He also

suggested that I put special Defense and Dark Detection spells on a few jars of it, and donate it to theMinistry.

Ahem, Beetem cleared his throat pointedly. George ignored him.

Nothing wrong with a little bribe, you know-,

Mr. Weasley, Id prefer to keep our discussions private. It says in the contract that all information thatpasses between us, when dealing with a material this potent, must remain strictly confidential.

George opened his mouth, but Beetem interrupted, Confidential, Mr. Weasley,

Looking grumpy, George grumbled, Oh, all right. Couldve sworn I said they were confidants,

though.


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George turned his attention to a wizard standing at the back wall, holding a crate from which there

came a scuttling noise. Harry noticed a badge on his chest identifying him as Eric Connors, Moderate

Dark Confiscation Specialist.

Whats in the box? George asked curiously, and Connors responded, You wouldnt want to know.

I do want to know, George insisted, but Connors simply shook his head, while the box trembled.

A Dark creature or device, Id assume, said Hermione, and George turned towards her, eyebrows

raised.

Thats our Hermione, sharp as ever, he said with a wink, grinning at her.

I should think itd be obvious, she said loftily. Since its being kept in a box, it must be Dark, andonly a device or creature would be moving so much.

Dark it is, Dark it is indeed, spoke the wizard softly. George eyed the box with a mixture of wariness

and curiosity.

Harrys gaze was drawn to a faint glow coming from a pearl necklace dangling over the edge of the old

wizards tray. George followed his gaze, and mouthed, Useless junk. Probably not worth much.

A pair of wizards across from them were conversing. Did yeh hear about the dragon attacks? one

asked. He was of medium height, with broad shoulders and a blunt face and squashed nose.

Who hasnt? responded his mate, a thin, bald headed man of equal height, his face seemed to droopslightly.

Ill tell yeh sommat yeh likely haven heard. There be dragons in Romania goin bonkers as well.

I have heard, but I thought that was because of bad meat, The other said in a note of faint

puzzlement.

Ar, thas what theyd have us believe, but I got me a buddy on the inside says theres nothin wrong

with anythin cept the dragons.


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The thin wizard was clearly skeptical, so the bigger one continued, O course ther gonna blab about

spoiled meat. Sbetter than havin no reason fer the mess. Peopled get worried, and when they get

worried, the Ministrys gotta step in. Could cut off their fundin, they could. And whered that leaveem? He chuckled, then said, Theyd have to either send the brutes someplace faraway, or destroy

em. And the researchers love ther great scaly monsters, so theyd sooner keep them than let em go.And killin their precious overgrown lizards is outta the question.

Sounds like theyre in a spot of trouble, his friend said.

Got that right. I jus wonder how long theyll hold the wolves offWas takin so bloody long? Shouda

been out ages ago!

As though on cue, a calm female voice said gently, Magical conveyance has encountered minor

difficulties. Corrections will be made momentarily.

Everyone groaned, and some grumbled to each other.

Magical Maintenance must be slacking off a bit, Ron muttered.

And suddenly, chaos erupted.

Connors shifted his grip on the crate, and with a thump, the lid flew off, a dark shape rose out of the

box, and soared at Harry. Leaning out of the way, Harry watched it zoom past, and saw that it was atarantula with bat-wings. Ron, in an effort to avoid the flying spider, jumped sideways, sending Harry

crashing against the old wizard, then toppling, head slamming against the ground. At the same time,

Rons flailing arm struck Beetem in the nose, causing his spell to falter. Both tray and tub fell to thefloor; shards of glass and pottery burst into the air, dust spilling and mixing on top of Harry. Wary of

the dangers of letting the stuff into his body, but Harrys headache from hitting his head on the floor

hurt greater when he held his breath, so he had no choice but to inhale. He began choking, the

combined powders burning in his throat and lungs. Hermione reached for him, but shrieked and drewher hand back as the glowing pearl necklace slid across her hand. The pounding in his head intensified

as he tried to get up, and he had to pause in a kneeling position, for fear of his wobbling legs collapsingbeneath him. He felt hands grabbing his arms and helping him up, while the female voice said,Magical Conveyance is now resuming.

Harry struggled to maintain his balance, his heads throbbing steadily climbing, aware of voices around

him but unable to understand what they were saying. The gate opened, a females voice sounding dimly

in the background, and he stumbled out. He tried to say that he needed to go to St. Mungos, but hecouldnt tell if the words made it out. Peering through the haze of popping rainbow colored lights, he


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saw the old man rush past, and for the briefest moment, he thought the wizard glanced back at him with

a satisfied smirk on his face. But then the wizard vanished, leaving Harry standing unsteadily in the

hall. He tried to walk, but a wave of nausea washed over him, followed by a piercing pain that rippedthrough his skull, and his world was engulfed in a burst of blinding white light, which gave way to

numbing darkness, into which Harry gratefully lost himself.

George had to catch Harry as he collapsed in a dead faint.

Godric's Fire

Hope hes okaynasty bump on the head, hell have a headache for the rest of the day for sure, Anti-

Ache Draughts have a history of spotty performanceand that dust...supposed to be an old remedy, but

maybe it went bad after such a long existence, and mixing with Georges powder might have made

quite a nasty productwont know for sure until he wakes up

Hermiones voice sounded in Harrys head as he struggled toward the surface of his mind. He mentally

paused, confused as to why he was hearing Hermione inside of his dark, inner world ofunconsciousness. He felt a vague sensation of something wrapped around his hand, but try as he might,

he could not move it.


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And Ron with his spider-bite, they may not have been able to counteract the venom, the antidote

Ministry-approved, dont know what the poisons side-effects will be

Harry suddenly realized he was hearing Hermiones thoughts, and as her mind returned tocontemplating his own condition, he noticed an underlying emotion that had been absent during herworries about Ron. It was right there in front of him; he couldnt help but study it, as one would look at

a scrawled-on bit of parchment lying before them. It took him a second to interpret the mix of

emotions, but he finally identified them: fear, anxiety, and concern? Affection?...Love!???

Shock forced Harrys eyes open, and he immediately spotted Hermione on his left, face frowning

heavily. A glance at his hand told him that it was her hand he was holding. This knowledge, combined

with what hed found in her mind, made him feel strange. It was almost as though she was trying to tell

him something

Harry? Are you all right? How do you feel? Hermiones concerned voice broke into his musings.

Harry mentally shook himself and said, Im okay. Then he added, A little thirsty, though. Hermione

immediately grabbed a plastic cup from somewhere nearby and filled it with water from her wand. Asshe handed it to him, his eyes were drawn to her front, where her shirt was hugging her breasts. Arousal

washed through him, and he shifted so it wouldnt be so noticeable. Hermione, aware of his gaze,

shifted, granting Harry a view of Ron. But what Harry focused on was Hermiones other hand now

holding Rons. All arousal vanished from his system, replaced by a cold, hard fury. The cup in his handsuddenly exploded, shards of plastic poking his hand. Hermione grabbed his hand and began picking

bits of plastic from its flesh, frowning as she did so. He noticed as she looked closer, and knew shed

seen how the plastic had gone outward instead of inward, as it would have if his grip had crushed it.

She was just throwing the pieces out, when Ron stirred, groaning. She hurried over to him, bending

over him. Harry saw her hand tenderly brushing some stray hair out of his face. Such a display of

affection caused his anger to rise, and an expanding wave of energy sent a nearby metal tray rolling,

seemingly of its own accord. The force also pushed Rons bed, moving it a couple of inches sideways.Ron opened his eyes; they immediately locked onto Hermione (from Harrys point of view). Smiling

gently, Ron reached up and stroked her face.How dare he?! Harrys rage skyrocketed; a wave of

force sent the tray flying into a wall, where it stayed pinned, off the ground. The windows shattered,and the open door slammed so hard, its glass pane went soaring out of sight.

Rons bed started to flip; his eyes widened, and he launched himself sideways. Rolling like a logseveral times in midair, he twisted and landed on his feet, before dropping into a crouch. He ducked,

and the bed flew over him. Harry didnt remember moving or even thinking about it, but found himselfon his feet anyway, slowly advancing on a wary Ron.

Harry! STOP! Hermiones voice broke through the haze of fury that surrounded his brain.

He looked into her eyes, and suddenly saw himself covered in golden fire. A mixture of awe and fear


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accompanied the vision, and he wrenched himself away from Hermiones gaze to look down at himself.

He only had time to think, amazing. Then his mind, instinctively protecting itself from anticipated pain,

cut the flames off. He stared at his unmarked skin, then looked up at Hermione. She watched himnervously; she was clearly afraid of his previous combustion. Ron, meanwhile, did not straighten from

his defensive pose.

Where are my clothes? Harry snapped, unnerved by his friends reactions. For his closest friends to

fear him

Hermione snatched up a bundle from the ground next to a toppled chair, and tossed it to him. He caught

it and went into the rooms private bathroom to change. He barely paid attention to what he was doing;

his mind buzzed with confusion and low-level panic. He had never done this before; he had never burst

into flames, due to emotions or otherwise. This was completely new. Then Hermiones words cameback to him: supposed to be an old remedy, but maybe it went bad after such a long existence, and

mixing with Georges powder might have made quite a nasty product Thats probably what happened,

he thought. Thinking of Hermione made his mind wander over to her. Her thoughts began to pop intohis head again.I know of only one person who use to burst golden flamesWho? He wondered, and

realized too late that he had inserted the thought into her mind.

Harry? He found himself looking out her eyes, at a misty-eyed Ron whose hands were on her

shoulders. Its okay, Hermione, he was saying. She took a deep breath, and he pulled her close. Shelifted her face to look into Rons, which was tilted downward as he looked back at her. His face began

to lowerSuddenly, her mind shut him out, like a door slammed in his face.

Harry was inwardly grateful that he had just finished getting dressed as he whirled, energy emanatingfrom him once more. He didnt even touch the door; it flew open as his power struck it. He charged

from the bathroom, leaping at Ron. Ron spun to the side, taking his hands off of Hermione as he did so.

Harry managed to catch Rons wrist, and planting his feet, he swung Ron around, right off his feet. Ron

curled into a ball so as not to hurt himself as he smashed into the wall. He leaped to his feet, and Harrycame at him. Ron kicked out, his foot slamming into Harrys chest with enough force to break the bone.

But all it did was drive him back a few steps. Ron swung his other leg up and around, his heel ramming

into Harrys temple. It might have been a tapping finger for all the effect it had. It did, however, clearHarrys mind somewhat. He realized that if he didnt get away from Ron, he would end up killing him.

He spared enough time to think to Hermione, meet me at the Ministry. Then he vanished with a

CRACK!

He reappeared in the middle of some woods. He had chosen the first secluded location that occurred tohim: the Forest of Dean. Energy flared within him, and Harry let it flow.

He was engulfed in a pillar of golden flame, and he began to rise into the air. Glancing at his arms, he

saw that he had wings instead. A quick peek over his shoulder told him he had a tail as well. Scarlet


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feathersan idea flashed into his head, but he didnt want to consider it. It was too farfetched.

Because, how could he be aphoenix?

Without thinking, he simply raised his newfound wings and whipped them downward, sending himskyrocketing at an incredible velocity. He flapped twice more, and finally came to rest above theclouds.

He drifted along, hiding in the clouds to watch a commercial airplane soar by. Then he had to circle

around to avoid a flock of sparrows. After that, he simply hovered, peaceful. Wow, he thought as hefloated idly, this is amazingBut he had told Hermione to meet him, and he wasnt about to disappoint

her. He deliberated for a few moments longer, then dived, streaking toward earth like a red bullet. It

took him maybe ten seconds to land. A second later, and he was back to normal. He registered a

lingering regret, as he wasnt sure he could transform again. Maybe if I get really mad again, hethought. Without further ado, he turned on his heel, Apparating to the Ministry.

The Edge of Knowledge

Harry emerged in the middle of the Atrium. Only a couple seconds later, he heard his name. Harry!

He turned and saw Ron and Hermione coming towards him. Hermione seemed to be keeping a very

slight distance from Ron, which pleased Harry. He lightly touched her mind, wanting to be sure shewas okay. She was; even as he sensed this, she became aware of him.

Reading my mindagain, Harry? She asked. He averted his gaze, and was surprised when she thought,Its okay, as long as he doesnt know. She thought of Ron when she said he.

She liked being linked to him! Harry was even more pleased. He realized that Ron was talking to him.


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Hey, isnt that Valid over there? he asked, and Harry turned to look. It was indeed Valid. He was at

the edge of a group of wizards and witches heading for one of the fireplaces.

As Harry approached, with Ron and Hermione on his heels, Valid spotted him and said, Harry!Whereve you been?

Here and there, answered Harry. He really didnt feel like discussing his personal problems with

Valid.

I heard you went to St. Mungos, said Valid casually, as though describing his shirt. That Ron

freaked out over a transfigured tarantula-, Rons ears reddened, -and knocked you over, you fell and

almost conked out, and a bunch of powder or something fell on you.

Er- Harry tried to think of an response that would neither confirm nor deny the rumor, but it wasnt

necessary, as Valid switched his attention to Ron.

I dont blame you for your reaction, he said sympathetically. If a great flying spider came at me- helooked up at the ceiling thoughtfully, Id probably take out my wand and start firing curses at it. He

grinned at Harry. Imagine getting hit with a Reductor Curse!

They accompanied Valid to the fireplace that his group was using. You missed our class this morning,Valid commented. Say, arent you in this one, too?

ErIm not sure, hedged Harry. He didnt really think he was in this class, but he didnt have

anything else to do, either.

Ah, its okay, you can come with us, Valid made up his mind for him. Just dont expect the Professor

to pay for your ticket.

Ticket? Harry asked at the same time Hermione asked, Where are you going?

The Carlton Museum of Magical History, answered Valid, as the person in front of him vanished in a

flash of emerald flame. Then he answered Harry, pausing with one foot on the grate. And yes, you

need a ticket. You cant get in for free, you know. He seemed slightly amused at Harrys confusion.Then he turned and made to enter the fireplace, but was blocked by the witch standing beside it.

These are friends of yours, I presume? she said formally, studying the trio with a stern eye.


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Yes, Professor, Valid responded politely, quite unlike his usually friendly and casual manner.

Are they disruptive or distracting in any way that might detract from my lesson? she inquired; Ronsnorted, quietly enough that only Harry and Hermione heard. Harry knew what he meant: of course aprofessor like this one would be very worried about a stray persons effect on her (in this case)

educational efficiency.

They are very well-mannered, Valid reassured her, speaking as though they were merely pets. You

wont even know they are there.

I should most certainly hope so, she spoke, then moved aside. She tossed some powder on the fire,

turning it green. Valid stepped in, shouted, Carlton Magical Museum! and was gone.

The Professor looked at them. This is the Ministrys Floo powder, she murmured, and I doubt they

would mind just a few visitors. None of them replied, as she seemed to be talking to herself. Verywell, she sighed, and gestured. Harry, who was closest, stepped into the fire as soon as it was ready,

giving the same address Valid had.

After the usual tight whirl of motion, Harry stumbled out onto a tile floor. He brushed ash off himself,

then stepped aside to make way for the next arrival.

Once Ron and Hermione rejoined him (closely followed by the Professor), he walked over to the line of

people waiting in front of a large desk. A long rope stretched between the desk and one wall, blocking

the only pass leading beyond the hall. A guard stood next to the rope, evidently to control admittance to

the museums main body.

The first of the students was almost to the desk, so the Professor swept past Harry and approached the

desk. When the last visitor before the class had received a ticket and moved away, the Professor said,

This is my class. We are here on an educational trip.

How many? the clerk, a blond female who looked to be in her late 20s, said tonelessly, as thoughmildly bored. 35?

32, actually. Those three, she pointed at Harry and his friends, are separate. They are simply

accompanying us.


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Fine. Thatll be twenty galleons, two sickles and three knuts, the clerk spoke, and the Professor

quickly counted out the money. Tickets were distributed among the students, and they trickled through

the guarded area. When almost all the students had gone through, Harry stepped up to the desk andasked, How much for a ticket?

She glanced up and opened her mouth to answer, but stopped when she saw his face. She gaped for a

couple of seconds, then whispered, Harry Potter! She then blinked, and seemed to remember where

she was and what she was doing. Mr. Potter! she said. What a surits an absolute pleasure to meetyou! she changed course in midsentence. Never thought I would, but here you stand before me! She

offered her hand, and he obliged, but quickly let go. Im Denise, by the way.

Erhi, nice to meet-- Harry started was interrupted.

Potter? barked a voice, and Harry turned to see that, even though the students were gone, theirteacher had hung back. She held up a scroll, looked down at it briefly, then said slowly, It so happens,

Mr. Potter, that you are in my class. It is a good thing that the mistake was rectified in a timely, and

convenient, manner. I dont take kindly to laggards and wastrels, and you missing a daythe first day,nonethelesswithout a sufficient excuse would put you in rather a pickle. And oftentimes, she added,

pursing her lips, it takes quite a bit of extra effort to regain level ground with me. She turned to Ron

and Hermione. As for you two

Mr. Potters friends are free, of course, the clerk said quickly. Harrys new teacher raised hereyebrows, and Harry knew that she disapproved; however, she didnt say anything.

Youd better catch up with the rest of your class Harry, Ron said in a low voice, and with Hermione

right behind them, they went to the rope that spanned the width of the hall they were to go through. The

guard watched them closely, his eyes narrowing as they drew near. When they were quite close, andstill showed no sign of producing their expected tickets, he stepped in front of them and planted his feet

in a wide-legged stance, and extended his hand.

Erwere free to go Ron said, and Denise suddenly called, Oscar!

The guard looked over them, met her gaze, then nodded and withdrew, allowing them to proceed.

The first thing Harry noticed when he reemerged on the other side, was the enormous size of the centralhall. It went a long ways, with only slightly larger halls on each side, about a dozen halls per side. As

he walked along, it appeared to Harry as though there were many large rooms leading off of each side

hall. He spotted his new classmates and approached them. Scanning the crowd, he found Valid andjoined him. Oh, hi! he said. Im a classmate now, I think, Harry informed him.


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Valids jaw dropped, then he smiled. I suspected it. I asked, but you werent sure.

Harry remembered. That Professorshes a stiff piece of work, commented Ron, his eyes on her.

The names Adellia.ProfessorAdellia, Valid said. Before he could say anything else, Professor

Adellia called, Class, attention!

The silence was instant. Everyones focus was centered on her; it was clear that she had them trained.

A guide has been kind enough to agree to walk us through the history of Defense Against the Dark

Arts. It will includebut Ill let her tell you herself. Please pay close attention, as any information she

gives you may be on a future test or quiz, and I may not tell you beforehand With this warning,

Professor Adellia surrendered the students attention to a short brunette.

Hi! she said brightly, beaming at them. My name is Carol, and Im going to be your guide today.

She continued to babble about the history of the museum as she lead the class to a particular side hall.

This entire hall, she said, gesturing down its length, is dedicated to the history of Defense.

She started down it and began to explain major events that happened long ago, and their relevance tothe detritus scattered across tables and inside of showcases. There was everything from coins and

necklaces to cups and knives, as well as little statuettes and figurines. Listening to Carol, he learned

that Defense went back thousands of years, and that some very ancient enchantments had beensurprisingly sophisticated, even inspiring currently existing methods of defense.

After a while, he looked around, and his gaze landed upon a deep alcove set in the wall opposite him.

What aroused his curiosity was the fact that while all the other exhibits were bright and populated, even

if only with a couple of people, this one was rather dark, and completely devoid of people. He walkedover to it. There was some tables on each side, and a glass showcase at the very end. Looking at the

tables on the right, he saw medallions, some silverware, and (oddly) a couple of candle holders.

Nothing interesting. So He continued until he was directly in front of the showcase. It contained asingle item: a sword. Looking closer, he saw that it had a marvelously well-kept blade. It had a hilt the

color of copper, in which there were sapphires embedded. As he shifted his head in his examination, he

noticed scratches along the blade. A stray scrape? Leaning even closer, he tilted his head and could just

make out some letters: Theres no sharper edge than that of knowledge. Something about this phrasesounded slightly familiar to Harry, but he couldnt figure out what. He turned away to look at the other

tables, and was soon absorbed in a pair of glasses.


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Suddenly, he heard a small click. It didnt really register with him, until he sensed movement nearby.

He turned, and saw Ron standing there, holding something. In front of him, the glass case was open.

Harry pushed past, staring. The case was completely empty. Slowly, realization hit, and he whirled,

looking at Rons hands. Sure enough, there was the sword, held delicately in his fingers.

Ron, he said slowly and calmly, give the sword here. It shouldnt be out of its case.

Ron simply looked at him, smirking. Then he put one foot behind him, deliberately, as though trying to

give the impression that he was about to bolt. His fingers twitched on the sword, and Harry began toworry. What was Ron about to do?

Ron? he asked, and when Ron didnt answer, he reached out and grabbed the sword. He kept hisgrasp light, so he wouldnt hurt himself on the blades edge. Unfortunately, this compromised the

strength of his tug as he tried to remove it from Rons hands. He pulled harder, but stopped when avoice called from behind Ron, What are you kids doing over there?

Ron turned to look at the voices owner; as he did so, he twisted in such a manner that the man who had

spoken was given a clear view of the swordand Harrys hands on it. What--? Then he shouted,

HELP! Theyre stealing the sword!

Ron looked at Harry and said, loudly enough for the man to hear, Distract him, and Ill make a run for

it. Harry didnt have a chance to reply. Ron pulled the sword away from him, running at the man. The

poor man was sent sprawling; Harry, chasing after his friend, didnt help him up or offer an apology.

Ron ran very fast, and Harry couldnt manage to draw any closer. But he still kept on his trail.Eventually, Ron turned and darted into a room. A sign next to the door identified the room as a

bathroom. Harry sprinted to the door, just in time to hear a loud CRACK! inside. He opened the door

and Ron came out, looking slightly disgruntled. Didnt even say excuse me, he muttered, then saw theway Harry was looking at him. What?

Whatd you do with the sword? Harry demanded, confused. Ron wasnt acting like a person who hadjust committed a major theft.

What sword? asked Ron, then realization dawned on his face. He looked over his shoulder at thebathroom door. Damn! he said. The bloke was that close, and I didnt He shook his head.

Harrys mind worked furiously. This Ron had obviously not even seen the sword, which meant the


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other was an impostor. That explained the strange behavior. And they must have used a Polyjuice

Potion. It wouldnt have been exactly difficult to obtain a piece of him

Harry heard running feet, and he spun to see the man who had seen Harry and the impostor with thesword.

There! yelled the man. They did it! A pair of grim looking guards strode forward and grabbed Harry

and Ron. Where is the sword? asked one guard, and Ron snapped, I dont know!

Dont lie! snarled the other guard, and Harry said, The guy was an impostor. He ran into the

bathroom and Disapparated.

A likely story! said the man. He looked at the guards. Take care of these two. Then he marchedaway.

What are you doing? asked Ron as they took his wand. Harry, remembering the Elder Wand, handed

his over.

Youre both under arrest, answered one of the guards, for the theft of the Sword of Ravenclaw.


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Webs and Ghosts

Will we stand trial? Harry asked Ron as they were marched down a hall leading from the room theyhad been transported to by Side-Along-Apparition.

Oh sure, he said softly, glancing guardedly at the wizards who accompanied them. But it wont be

for a day or two.

We have to wait? Harry asked, his heart sinking. The longer their trial was delayed, the less of achance Harry had of convincing thewell, whoever was judging them that he and Ron were innocent.

Yeah. But thats not the worst part, Ron said glumly. It looks like well have to wait inAzkaban.

Oh no! Harrys heart sank to his toes and beyond, because Azkaban meantDementors. He always

fainted around them unless he could produce a Patronus in time. And that was just the effect of one

Dementor. Azkaban had dozens.

What am I going to do, without a wand? Harry groaned.

Ron glanced at him sympathetically. Nothing. Absolutely nothing.


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Whats the matter? Worried bout the Dementors? The guard grinned. Shoulda thought of that

before you stole the sword.

We didnt steal the sword! Ron said angrily.

The guard grunted. Whatever. Doesnt matter anyway. He smirked. Youre in for a hell of a night.Maybe two.

Harry scowled at the floor. He didnt like the way the guard had disregarded his proclaimed innocence.

But one thing the guard was right about

He had hell to look forward to.

* * *

They flew on brooms to Azkaban.

Despite the fairly quick speed at which they traveled, it took over an hour for them to reach their

destination. About an hour after takeoff, the clouds began to darken, even though it was still light out.

Harry glanced around nervously, hoping they wouldnt have to fly through a rain storm. A few minuteslater, lightning illuminated the sky. Harry grew more edgy by the second, having no wish to be battered

around in midair by stormy winds, or even hit by lightning.

As the lightning flashed, increasing in frequency, Harry spotted a black shape in the distance. A coupleminutes brought them close enough for him to realize that it was a triangular building, like a stack of

huge triangles. Dozens of black dots soared around it, and Harrys blood froze in his veins when he

suspected what they were. Sure enough, two of them came zooming towards Harry, soon recognizableas Dementors. They came to a very brief halt in font of the group, which slowed a little; then they

swerved to each side, apparently satisfied with the groups validity. They kept pace as Harry and the

others swiftly descended, landing on a stone dock.

They dismounted and headed for the front doors. The Dementors glided alongside them, their frigidaura just grazing his mind. Harry gazed at the prison, looming above them like the shadow of doom.

Unable to bear the sight of it, Harry lowered his eyes, then noticed a glimmer near his waist. Looking

down, he saw that his skin was glowing a faint silver, which shimmered slightly. Strange, he thought.He concentrated on it, and found that he could make it brighter. Suddenly, the Dementor beside him

shifted, increasing the distance between them by a few inches. He dimmed the light, and the Dementor


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immediately drifted closer. It occurred to Harry that the glow was very like the glow that surrounded

Patronuses. He quickly put two and two together. Wow, he thought,Patronus Skin. Abruptly fearing

that the guards would notice his illuminated flesh, Harry dimmed his skin once more, keeping just aslight shine, enough to hold the screaming at bay in the back of his mind.

The doors were guarded by a single Dementor, which hovered to one side of the doorway. Sensing their

approach, it darted along the door. Silently, the doors opened, and the prisoners were herded inside.

Harry craned his neck to look upwards. The ceiling was very nondescript; a chilly dampness seemed tolinger everywhere. The Dementor next to Harry swerved closer to him, and he immediately flinched

away. He accidentally stepped on Rons foot, and Ron stopped, throwing Harry a confused look.

Sorry, Harry muttered, and Ron shrugged, as thought to say,Big deal.

Yknow, theyre more aware than usual, the guard behind Harry remarked.

Huh, the other said. He yanked Ron to a stop, then stepped around and waved his wand in front ofRons face. Ron pulled his face away and snapped, Whatre you doing!?

Youre right, the guard grunted to the first.

You arent feeling anything? Harrys guard asked him.

If you mean am I being overwhelmed by guilt, the answer is no, Harry said sourly. As I said

before, were not guilty.

The guard didnt say anything.

They continued down the hall, to the door at the very end. One guard pushed a button next to it, and the

door slid sideways, allowing them onto the triangle-shaped platform within. Once inside, the guard

went to a key pad that had been inscribed in the wall. Pressing a button that had the number 8 on it, theguard stepped back and waited as the elevator began to rise. After a short while, one of the two other

walls slid open, and the prisoners were steered along another hall. They turned a corner, continued a

little further, then stopped. One cell was unlocked and opened, and Harry was pushed in. He heard thecell door close behind him; a key rattled in the lock, securing his confinement. Listening, he could

discern the racket of another cell door, before the sound of footsteps faded, to be replaced by the moans

of restless prisoners, and a very faint trickling sound coming from somewhere.


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Harry stared at the wall, trying to think what to do. Was there any way out of this? He recalled

Hermiones reaction when she had seen them being taken away:

Harry? She had asked through her mind.Weve been framed, he said.

She simply stared for a moment, then said,Ill take care of this, and hurried off.

Harry sighed and slowly shook his head. She was their lifeline; he could only hope shed be fastenough.

Abruptly, he remembered Ron. He turned and walked to his cell door.

Ron? Are you okay? he whispered, afraid that something may have happened to his friend already.

Silence. Harrys heart seemed to freeze.

Ron! he hissed.

I hear you, Rons low voice came. From the sound of it, he was in the cell next to Harrys.

Harry sighed in relief. What are you doing? he asked, just to talk, and to hear Rons voice. Anything

friendly in this hole was a blessing

Mmm was Rons response.

Erwhat? Harry said, confused. Ron sounded rather preoccupiedlike he was doing more than just

sitting around

MmmIts kind of hard to explain, Ron murmured.

Give me a try, Harry said; he had nothing better to do, and besides, he was curious.

WellIm kind of on the ceiling, Ron said slowly, and Harry said blankly, What?


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Im on the ceiling, Ron repeated. Dont ask me how. He paused, then added, Its pretty cool. Too

bad you cant see me.

Yeah, too bad, Harry thought to himself. He pondered the matter, but his mind soon turned down otherpaths. After a little while, he noticed something nagging at the back of his mind. He focused, and asmall voice became clear. He listened. He turned to the wall that stood separated his cell from Rons,

and placed both of his hands flat on it. Fade out, he thought at it, fade out. A section of the wall

shimmered, slowly becoming transparent. Harry withdrew his hands in astonishment. He could soonsee through the wall into Rons cellwhich was apparently empty. He walked forward, into the wall; it

was like walking through a wall of water. He emerged from the other side and looked around.

Ron? he said, puzzled. Then he remembered Rons words, and he looked upward. Ron was crouched

on the ceiling, staring downward at Harry, mouth open in amazement.

WhatHowYou?, Ron stammered, then stopped, frowning.

Harry shrugged and quoted Ron. Dont ask me how.

Ron snorted, then said, Harry, look at this. Im sticking to the stone!

Erany idea why? Harry inquired, and Ron said thoughtfully, Before I passed out, the Healer

told me that the antidote they gave me for the venom was unapproved.

You drank an unapproved antidote? Harry asked in disbelief.

Well, the Ministry is still reviewing itfrom what the Healer knew, it was a pretty effective

treatment.

Harry noticed something whitish-gray from the corner of his eye; turning, he saw a web on the wall.Did you do that? he asked Ron.

Oh yeah, said Ron, eyeing the sticky creation. Thats another thing I can do. Watch this. He

reached out with one hand, fingers spread wide, and aimed his palm at the wall. The skin at the center

puckered, forming a small crevice, and a rope of gray-white material identical to the mess on the wallburst from it. It struck to wall, then pulled taut, as Rons fingers wrapped around the near end. He

pulled lightly, but the webbing didnt give.


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And Ron muttered, and let go of the rope, then aimed his palm at the wall again. This time, a wad

of sticky material shot out, expanding into a perfectly made web, which landed on the wall.

He looked at it for a second, then said, I can do this, too. He shot a string of web, wiggling his handas he did so, and he drew a spiral on the wall. Then a curving line appeared, followed by two spots,form a smiley face. Harry smirked in spite of himself, and Ron chuckled.

Hey, Ron said suddenly, I want to try something. He paused, then added, you might want to back

up. Harry backed away a couple of steps. Ron suddenly dropped, somersaulting in midair so he landedon his feet. He did so with incredible speed and grace.

Try to punch me, Ron commanded, and Harry halfheartedly struck out at him. Ron dodged easily,

and shook his head. Not good enough. Put some effort into it.

Harry threw his fist at him again. Moving so fast he was a blur, Ron sidestepped him and grabbed his

arm. The next thing Harry knew, he was lying on his back, staring at the ceiling.

Oops, did that kind of hard, didnt I? said Ron, his face appearing in Harrys line of sight. He held

out a hand, and Harry took it. Ron pulled him to his feet, then backed up a step and said, Now try to

kick me.

Harry, wary now, kicked, and Ron moved so fast that Harry instinctively tensed. An expanding wave offorce burst from him, slamming Ron against the wall. Ron was then pinned there by little strips of

golden flame; he gaped at Harry.

Youre full of surprises, he said finally.

So are you, replied Harry, cutting off the magic.

My strength and reflexes have beenimproved, somehow, said Ron. I think that the antidote might

have changed the venom so it helped me, instead of hurting me. He saw Harrys expression and said

quickly, Its the only explanation I can think of.

A rumble came from the wall, and they both turned to look at it. Probably thunder, Ron muttered,then shrugged and turned back to Harry. He opened his mouth to say something, but was interrupted by

an even louder rumble. That thunders getting too close, Ron said.


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Then the world exploded.

Rocks flew everywhere, and Harry was fallingall of the stones went wide of him, undoubtedly

pushed away by his magical defenses. However, one small chunk hit his hand, digging into it, then fellaway. He was falling, falling

He jerked to a halt, dangling, with rocks plummeting past him. He was confused for a moment, until he

realized that his cloak seemed to be caught on something. Twisting, he looked upand saw a line of

white attached to his robes. His eyes followed it upward, until it ended in a handRons hand. Ronwas hanging by another rope of webbing, and wiggling nimbly to avoid the last chunks of stone that

were still airborne and swiftly dropping. Ron suddenly hauled on Harrys line, yanking him upwards,

and snagged Harrys collar. He then kicked out, causing him to swing forward, and let go of the

webbing. He shot another line of webbing at another spot, swung and let go again. He finally liftedHarry onto his shoulder, then dropped. As soon as he landed, he set Harry back on his feet and asked,

You all right, mate?

Harry nodded, and they began to descend, jumping from one rock pile to the next; Ron demonstratedan extraordinary degree of balance and grace, as well as strength, as his jumps were twice as long as

Harrys.

Upon reaching relatively flat ground, they turned to study the damage done to the prison. A great

gaping hole had been blasted into the wall, and they could torn and broken bodies lying here and there.

Blimey, Ron murmured, his face very pale. What dyou think?

Lightning, maybe? Harry suggested; it was the best guess he could come up with. We heard

thunder

Lightning that just happened to strike the prison, right where we were? Ron wondered aloud.

You think someone was trying to attack us? Harry asked.

Well, chances are, this place is enchanted against lightning strikes, so for a lightning bolt to hit, it had

to be both strong and intentional, Ron explained. But hopefully, whoeveror whateverdid this is

satisfied, or didnt stick around.

But even as he spoke, there came a crackling sound from overhead. They both looked up to see a figurehovering high above, and it was wielding something that was lit up: another charge to throw at them.


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Ron Seized Harry and threw himself sideways, but Harrys incredible, newfound strength enabled him

to resist. He fought free of Rons embrace and stood, staring at their attacker. Ron made to grab him,

but stumbled back as a blistering heat struck him. Flames rippled across Harry, his skin emitting afurious glare, energy pulsating from him. Ron stared in disbelief.

Whoa, thought Harry, feeling the power rushing through his veins. In the back of his mind, he

registered an awed, joyful amazement that he had actually tapped into this power at willhe was still

staring at the figure, and he raised his arm to point at their assailant. A blazing bolt of blue lightningburst from his finger, burning a fiery path through the sky, to collide with the other lightning bolt

midway. There was a great flash of white light, and a second later, a huge CRACK! crashed into their

ears. Harry saw Ron flinch, but he himself remained unmoved. After a couple of moments, the skycleared. The good news: the figure was no longer in sight. The really bad news: there were dozens of

Dementors swooping toward them.

Harry! screamed Ron, and Harry dashed over to him and grabbed his arm.

Stay next to me! Harry commanded, then he let go of Ron. Raising his hands, he spread his arms, andturned his Patronus Glow way up. But as more and more Dementors began swirling around them,

slowly Harrys Glow dwindled to nothing.

Abruptly, ice-cold air slammed into him and Ron, pitching them to the ground. Mustering all of his

strength, Harry sat up, flung out one luminous hand, and roared, EXPECTO PATRONUM!

To his utter astonishment, a white stag burst from the light surrounding his hand, and began to canteraround them at a rapid pace. The frigid aura smothering them faded, and Ron slowly got to his knees.

Thanks, ma he started, his voice hoarse, but stopped as Harrys Patronus flickered and dissolved,

becoming a rolling tangle of sparks. The sparks were soon gone, and the Dementors closed in oncemore.

Were doomed, thought Harry faintly, as mists clouded his mind. He was sinking into cold darkness,

when he became aware of a someone standing over him. Who? he mumbled and the person bent

over.

THE BLOOD OF GODRIC GRYFFINDOR RUNS IN YOUR VEINS, HARRY POTTER, a deep,

echoing voice said to him. Harry looked closer, and saw that this figure was a broad-chested man, with

brown hair and eyes.

LISTEN TO ITS VOICE, the phantom continued. LISTEN TO ITS VOICE, AND YOU WILL NOTFAIL.


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Harry struggled to keep his eyes open, but was slowly losing. His head started to sag, and the ghost of

Gryffindor said, REST NOW, HARRY POTTER. YOU ARE GREATLY WEAKENED.

Harry noticed movement to the side, and turning his head, he saw a few blurred shapes emerging fromthe chaos that surrounded him. He tried vainly to protect himself, but failed. As he was sucked into a

blank nothingness, he saw a shining cat leap at him, and though his lips refused to move, he cried out in

his head, Dont let me die!

FEAR NOT, HARRY POTTER, Gryffindors voice said gently, and Harry knew no more.


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The Talismanic Group

Harry was surrounded by black, demonic creatures, a writhing fury of flesh. Their screams and howls

drowned out his own terrified thoughts as he cowered in the middle of a small clearing, the only free

space amid the churning tangle of bodies. His panic climbed as the gap shrank, losing a minute inchwith every second that passed. He was almost ready to turn and lash out with bare fists, anything to

keep the beasts awaybut he was too late. Snarling creatures heaped themselves on top of him; he was

soon well-buried beneath mounds of thesethese things. He was on his hands and knees, keeping uponly by means of seemingly superhuman strength; yet it wasnt enough to throw them off. He started to

sway, the stack of monsters moving with him, and the mesh of limbs shifted just enough to allow him a

narrow view of a section of the open air. Even as he gazed through, a tall, black, slender figure rosefrom the mass of activity, gliding toward him. Harry stared in a newly rising terror, certain that this

was yet another horror come to add to the assault on Harrys mind and body. It drew closer and closer,

until it was right next to the heap that covered Harry. And suddenly, it exploded. Nayit burst intolight, the sudden brightness giving the impression of a flaming eruption. Where the figure had stood, a

gleaming angel shone with a magnificent brilliance, whiter than any white Harry had ever known.

Everything was thrown off of Harry, and as he watched in stunned disbelief, all of the demonic

creatures rolled away from him like and expand, ebony wave, surging away from the being that stood

beside him. Gazing at his savior, Harry was struck with an impression of a majestic shard of Heaven, apillar of ultimate glory. He realized that the figure was offering its hand to him, an extension of

luminous perfection. He immediately reached up, but even as he did, he felt a great weight pressing onhis body, as though an invisible force were trying to push him down. And succeeding. Harry knew he

wouldnt be able to grasp the miraculous image before him, but just to touch it would be enough for

him, would last a lifetime. Their fingertips were scant inches apart

Snap!

The loud, unexpected sound broke the fetters that bound Harry in his swoon, and his eyes flashed open.

He was instantly sitting upright, finding himself on a recliner. His first instinct was to locate the source

of the sound. It wasnt hard; there was someone standing behind him, to the left. Kingsley, holding alarge chunk of chocolate, presumably what had made the sound.

Bout time, mate, said a familiar voice, and Harry turned to see Ron sitting in an armchair nearby,

holding a paper.

HowHow long have I been out? asked Harry.


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You arrived about half an hour ago, a quiet voice said from behind him, and Harry knew without

looking who it was, because he could sense her mind. It was very tense, and when he looked around, he

saw that she was staring at him with an anxious expression.

You okay? he asked, concerned. He didnt like her tension

Shes been worried sick about you, Harry, Ron answered for her. Was that a hint of bitterness in his

voice?

No need to worry, Hermione, Im all right, Harry reassured her. Reaching out with his mind, he

showed her that he felt okay. He sensed a small gush of relief, but her expression eased only slightly.

What happened back there, Harry? Ron asked, throwing the newspaper he held onto the Ministers

desk. Seeing Harrys confused expression, he elaborated, You cast a Patronus without a wand, then it

sounded like you were talking to someone.

I dont know how the Patronus happened, said Harry, and the person I was talking to He stoppedand glanced warily at Kingsley, who was listening closely, then decided to continue. I saw

Gryffindor, he said, and described the whole encounter.

Ron, stunned, said, You were visited by aa?

Wraith, said Hermione in a matter-of-fact voice. Gryffindorthat explains some things. And castinga Patronus without a wandthat indicates a lot of power, but it drains people horribly She looked

sharply at him, seeming to search his face for something. Youre sure youre okay?

I feel fine.

Id still feel better if you ate some chocolate, Hermione said, glancing at Kingsley, and he steppedforward, saying, I have some chocolate here. How about some wine as well?

Harry suddenly realized that his throat was very dry. Yes, please, he replied.

Kingsley handed him a chunk of chocolate, and pulling out his wand, he murmured, Vinum! Three

goblets of wine appeared. He handed one to Ron and Harry, then offered the third to Hermione. When


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she shook her head, he took it to his desk and sat down, sipping from it. Harry bit a chunk from his

chocolate, then realized that they were watching him. Casting around for a distraction, his eyes landed

on the newspaper Ron had tossed aside. From where Harry sat, the text was upside down, but he couldstill make out the wordsDragon Attack. There was another attack, then? he asked casually.

Ron followed his gaze, and scowled. Yeah, he answered, not far from the Burrow. Dads friends

with the witch who lived there, and she lost almost everything in the house. Stupid over-sized lizards!

What are you doing about that? Harry inquired, looking at Kingsley.

Theres not a whole lot we can do, Harry, the Minister replied gravely, wearing a deep frown. Harrysimply stared at him expectantly, so he continued.

So far, we have the Magical Creature Capture and Containment team patrolling England, but thats

about it.

They have Dragon Control Specialists in Romania, stated Hermione. Have you contacted them?

Kingsley almost smiled. Yes. And as far as I know, one of our own specialists is still there,

maintaining the flow of reports.

And theres nothing new? prompted Ron hopefully.

Kingsley sighed. All we can do, he spoke to all three, is watch and wait.

Silence fell, and Kingsley seemed to notice that Harrys chocolate was gone. He immediately begantalking.

Well, Harry, Ill admit thatalthough I spoke with the museum guards and the museums managerI

still dont know nearly as much about this situation as I would like. He sighed. Im sorry for taking

so long getting to you. Hermione was very fast in informing me of your demise. I would have retrievedyou sooner, but even I have to take certain mandatory steps before releasing anyone from Azkaban.

And while I was busy, I narrowed the explanations for your behavior down to two. One, the

unfavorable answer, is that you went off your rocker and nicked the sword, and somehow bullied Roninto assisting you. But, he continued, raising a hand to forestall Harrys protest, knowing you, I

immediately discarded that thought. The other explanation was that you didnt steal the sword, that it

was Ron, who was either under the Imperious Curse or being impersonated. Is that what happened?


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Yes! agreed Harry. Thats what I keep trying to tell everyone, but they wont listen!

Ahhh, thats unfortunate and things are more complicated bywell, have you any idea who theculprit might be?

Not a clue, Harry said.

As I said, that complicates the situation. People always want someone to blame, and you just

happened toand thats another thing. Did you ever wonder exactly why that particular object was

targeted?

No, answered Harry, confused. I wondered why it had to be me.

But you were told during your arrest that the sword was once Ravenclaws?

Yeah, replied Ron slowly.

Well, that artifact has a very special history behind it, explained Kingsley, looking at Harry. It has

seen some very rare events. And the past isnt entirely faded from it. But I dont know enough to give

you an accurate summary. So, I took the liberty of inviting an expert to speak with you.

An expert? Hermione questioned.

An expert iner, dragon-history, Kingsley elaborated. He should be along any time now.

Right on time, the flames in his fireplace turned emerald-green; a shape could be seen spinning in the

flames, and a second later a tall, thin man with black hair and a lined face stepped smoothly out onto

the hearth.

Minister, he said quietly to Kingsley in greeting.

Hello, Mark, replied Kinsley. Have a seat. Another armchair appeared out of nowhere, and Mark

sank into it. Kingsley then waved a hand at Harry and his friends, saying, These friends of mine wouldlike to hear the story I mentioned to you before. After all, you know it much better than I do.


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Very well, said Mark. First of all, my name is Mark OBrea, Harry sensed a small shi

harry potter and the twilight dragon

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