Runaway Wizard 48
Another chapter of Runaway for you all. I was trying to get the Christmas chapter done for posting on Christmas Day but it's not going to happen. Sorry.
Title: Runaway Wizard
Chapter:
Rating: Mature
Disclaimer: Except for the few original characters, all characters in this story are the property of J. K. Rowlings, who has kindly allowed me to play with them.
Warnings: Probably a little of everything. Fighting, Living on the streets with everything that entails, Spanking, Bondage, Blood, Gore, Bad Language, and Pissy Snape.
Parings: H/D eventually
Beta: 50ftqueenie Brit picker: purpledodah
Banner code for RW
The feast was just about to begin. Draco and Harry had arrived in good time and settled at the head of Gryffindor table, side by side.
Dumbledore had made his usual remarks, welcoming everyone to the feast. Then he'd settled in his place at the head table. Harry was a bit startled that he didn't make some comment about their bonding but the man had been singularly reticent lately.
Professor McGonagall stood to say, “Now, I know everyone is anxious to eat so I'll keep my remarks short. No one is to go into the front courtyard during the ball, nor into the inner garden. There will be no hanky-panky. Anyone caught in a dark corner will also be punished. Anyone caught in the forbidden areas will be sent to their dorm at once. To make myself perfectly plain. Do not leave the ballroom. Enough. Let's eat.” And with that she sat down.
The tables filled with food and everyone helped themselves. Harry was pleased to see that his favorites were all there. He was also a bit astonished to see that Draco was making him up a plate.
Draco smirked at him then put the plate down. “There you go. And I didn't even spit in it.”
Harry forked up some potatoes then said, “Berk.” just before placing them in his mouth.
Draco filled his own plate and started in on his roast beef. “Mmm. Prat.”
They both ate happily, conversing with each other and their friends. Harry notice that Theo was missing. “Has Theo gone?”
Draco nodded. “This morning. His father was getting insistent that he come home during the three day weekend and be marked.” He looked sad for a moment. “That means that all my crowd are gone. Theo, Daphne, Millicent, Vince, Greg; they're all at Longbottom House now.”
Harry just took Draco's hand for a moment. “Well, I'll share my crowd. That's Hermione, Ron, Neville, the twins.” Draco looked horrified. “Don't look like that. The twins are brilliant ... and I'll teach you how to tell them apart. It'll drive them mental.”
Draco nodded. “That'll be fun. Unless it goads them into pranking me.” He was startled to see an expression of fury flit across Harry's face. “Only I don't think they will?”
Harry snarled, “They better not. I don't mind them pranking me but they better not prank you.”
Draco looked at Harry, startled and a bit worried. “Harry, they won't do me any harm. I know as well as you do that they're not malicious.”
Harry took a drink of his pumpkin juice, cleared his mouth and said, “I know. I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me.”
Ron, who looked very nice in the dress robes that had been a present from Draco and Lucius, remarked, “It's probably part of the Bond. If Draco is the sub, then you're the dominant one. It's sort of plain that you would be over protective for a while.” He smirked at their gobsmacked expressions and helped himself to another roll.
Hermione took it out of his hand, rather absently as she had her nose in some papers. Ron retaliated by taking the papers away and tucking them into his robes.
“Hermione, eat. And we're dancing later. Now, pay attention to the here and now.”
Hermione started to object then snapped her attention to Ron. “Dance? You can't dance.”
Ron looked smug. “Can too. Harry's been teaching me.”
Harry groaned at the remembered dancing lessons. He had managed to squeeze in dancing lessons for Ron by adding them after their evening sword training. Ron would never win So You Think You Can Dance or anything, but he wouldn't walk all over Hermione's feet either. The fact that he'd participated in the lessons at Malfoy Manor really helped a lot.
“Yes, he's not bad. And you know it. You were at the lessons at the Manor.”
Ron grumbled, “Back handed compliment but thanks.”
Hermione made a face and mumbled, “Yes, but most of the partners avoided him like poison because he trod on their toes.”
Draco took a slice of beef off the serving platter and put it on Harry's plate. “Eat some of this. You're not eating enough. Thin as a wand.”
Draco glowered playfully at Harry until he started on the beef. Harry was thinning down again, he always did when he was worried. His appetite was always the thing that suffered first, but Draco was determined that Harry would eat, so he did.
Harry never realized what they were all up to but each one of his friends took turns distracting him from what he was eating while Draco kept putting foods he knew Harry liked on his plate. Harry ate it all.
Hermione had come up with this plan yesterday. They had all noticed that he wasn't eating properly but didn't know what to do about it. Hermione had just told them that he was easy to distract from his food; so, if they distracted him but kept putting food on his plate, he'd eat it. They'd discovered at lunch that it worked. Thank Merlin.
The conversation during the feast was lively and funny. Neville had revealed that he had a rather dry wit and a talent for imitation. His Snarky Snape was spot on. He was also very good at Flitwick and McGonagall.
Finally, Dumbledore stood up, produced a chiming sound with a wave of his wand and announced, “Now that we're all totally stuffed, the dancing. This ball will not, however, feature any of that noise you children think of as music. I'm very sorry about that, but the group that was scheduled to appear were all murdered by Death Eaters. Enjoy!”
Harry blinked at the old wizard for a moment. “What the hell?”
Draco snorted. “Announce that the featured band was murdered then tell us to enjoy the dance? I agree, What the hell?”
The rest of the students groaned and grumbled as they made their way to the edges of the Great Hall. Dumbledore and Flitwick gestured with their wands and transfigured the long dining tables into small tables scattered around the edges of the room. McGonagall did the decorations of floating pumpkins, bats and candles.
Everyone agreed that it was very traditional, quite nice, but boring. They were also very disappointed to find that the 'band' would consist of a pianoforte played by Professor Sinestra and nothing else. Luckily, the instrument was magically enhanced to be heard all over the hall.
Harry eyed Draco for a moment. “Well? What do you think?”
Draco took a deep breath, needlessly straightened his robes and gave a firm nod. “Just like we planned.”
When the music started, all the students stepped onto the floor, paired up with a partner. Harry offered Draco his hand and led him onto the floor. They had practiced this carefully, in their parlor with all the furniture pushed back to give them room.
The first dance was a Revolvé, a combination of waltz and polka that was strictly wizarding. Harry was glad that was the first dance as it lent itself perfectly to his plans. As they danced, they twirled in place then broke into the step called a gallop. At every twirl, they changed leads. As they danced, their robes wrapped around their legs then flared out into a pool of fabric that made it look as if they were dancing in a rippling pool of greens, gold and silver. By the time the music was done, they had nearly cleared the floor.
The next dance was a Portland, and the chassé close chassé was another perfect place to change leads. This more vigorous dance was another perfect show of Harry and Draco's dancing skills, and they put on a show, hopping high and moving across the floor in the chassé, robes streaming.
As was polite, after two dances they settled at one of the small tables to allow friends to sit with them and converse.
Hermione and Ron joined them.
Ron looked very handsome in his bronzy brown robes, which suited his complexion to a t. Hermione was also very pretty in robes of fuschia and cream that complimented her complexion. Harry had lent her a very nice garnet set that went well with the robes. The set were pale garnets and included a small cornet, a necklace, two bracelets and a broach. The necklace was a 'dog collar and drop' design with a large central stone. The drop was more of a bib with a teardrop shaped stone in the centre. She looked every inch a lady. She'd never tell that it took a house elf nearly thirty minutes to confine her hair into the elegant braid that supported the cornet.
Hermione sighed, “I wish Dumbledore would let you bring down your MP3 player. At least we could have something other than the few pieces that Professor Sinestra knows.”
Harry shrugged. “I could offer. But I bet he won't accept. It really doesn't make any difference. I'm not dancing with anyone but Draco.”
Draco nodded. “I'm not dancing with anyone else either. It's not proper for us. We're still, as the saying goes, 'new in our bond' and it's not socially acceptable.” He laughed lightly. “Thank goodness. Some of the idiots I've had to dance with, Merlin's beard. They all had two left feet and were ham handed.”
Hermione made a sour face. “Well, damn. I was hoping for a few dances with Harry. And you. Just so I don't have to dance with either of the Creevy boys. They're awful dancers.” She pulled a fan out of her tiny wrist bag and fanned herself.
Neville joined them. He'd gone stag, as he couldn't find anyone that he really wanted to invite. “Sorry, Hermione, but you can't dance more than two dances with anyone, or you'll invite all sorts of gossip you don't want.”
Hermione scowled, “Blast! I forgot. And we really don't need more scandal. I swear, if I ever catch Rita Skeeter out and about, I'm going to hex her.”
Draco nodded, white-gold hair glinting in the candle light. “Please do. A Mute hex would be nice.”
“And confunded so she can't write.” Harry added.
They spent the next two dances chatting amiably and watching the dancing. Draco made snide remarks about peoples robes and dancing skills. Harry amended them. Neville did several imitations, nearly caricatures. They all laughed easily together.
Professor McGonagall noticed that they all seemed reluctant to dance anymore so she made her way to the table.
“Good evening. I notice that you're not dancing. Is there a problem?”
Harry looked up and into her eyes. She really seemed interested and a bit concerned.
“Yes. The music is just ... boring. Professor Sinestra is doing her best but she only knows about eight songs. I have an MP3 player that will work here. I tested it once. I wish ... Professor Dumbledore would let me bring it down.”
Professor McGonagall, who had noticed the limited repertoire, gazed at Harry for a moment. “Go up and bring it down. I'll just tell Albus that we're using it. Thank you for the offer. Still, you're not dancing at all, are you.”
Draco shook his head. “We won't be dancing with anyone but each other. I find myself rather reluctant to be in the embrace of anyone but Harry.”
Harry nodded. “And I seem to be finding it disturbing to see him in the arms of anyone else. Even Hermione. It's very unnerving.”
The professor eyed them both for a moment then opined, “Well, if you're finding it uncomfortable, of course you must not dance with other partners. Miss Granger, you must remember not to dance more than two dances with the same partner, unless you are dating. It'll cause unneeded talk.”
Hermione muttered something about 'Victorian mind set' and 'antiquated morals' but nodded her understanding.
Harry got up and slipped into the shadows between the table and the wall. He had no intention of running all the way to their quarters and back. “Dobby! I need you.”
Dobby popped in, dressed in an odd assortment of jumpers, lederhosen and tea cosies. “Yes, sir? Dobby is sorry about his dress. He was not expecting to be called tonight.”
Harry chuckled a bit. “Not a problem. I know you were expecting a night off, but would you pop down to my rooms and bring up my MP3 player?”
“Certainly. Dobby will do.” Dobby popped out and right back in, with the player.
“Thanks. Say Hi to Winky for me. Now git.” Harry made a shooing motion with one hand and Dobby grinned before he left.
Harry set up the player in an alcove that was behind where the high table usually sat. He waited for a moment as Dumbledore was obviously coming to speak to him.
“Well, well, my boy.” Harry hid his wince. “It's very kind of you to allow us to use your ... Em Pay player. Thank you.”
Harry smiled a bit at the usual wizard mangling of muggle terms. “That's ok, sir. I'd hate to see the party spoiled because of a lack that I can make up. I'll spend a while tending to it then Neville will take over. Ron can take a turn then Hermione. That way no one will miss all the dancing. Is that Ok?”
“Fine, fine. Very generous of you.” Dumbledore was, at this point, willing to agree to almost anything Harry suggested.
Harry took the first turn with Draco sitting beside him. They argued genially about what to play, Draco finally persuaded Harry not to shock the rather delicate sensibilities of the wizard group with Techno but did agree that the second set should be more modern music. Harry had some wizard groups and some muggle that he thought would be nice for later.
After a break for refreshments, Neville took over. Hermione decided to join him as she'd danced twice with Ron and was now hiding out for a while to rest her feet. She'd danced with both Creevy brothers and her toes had suffered for it.
“Oh, Neville! You have to play this.” Hermione had been looking through the printed play list that Harry kept. “The Sleeping Beauty Waltz by Tchaikovsky. Please?”
Neville grinned at her. “Ok. I remember you telling me about that ... cartoon, was it? Wait a sec.” He got up and went to the nearest table, whispered something to one of the group seated there then returned. “All fixed.” He bit his lip doubtfully. “I just hope this works. I've never pranked anyone before.”
Hermione blinked. “What did you do? Can I help?”
So Neville explained to Hermione what he was up to and taught her the charm. She learned it quickly, grinning in delight.
Neville cued the music.
When it started, everyone went out onto the floor, someone even dragged Harry and Draco out. They obediently started to dance.
Since they were totally wrapped up in each other they never noticed as other dancers gradually sat back down.
Neville cast his charm and suddenly they were dancing in a pool of cool green light. As the two twirled gracefully across the floor the light gradually changed to blue. Hermione did her bit by casting the other charm which made gold and silver glitters sparkle around them.
They were so wrapped up in each other that they didn't notice until the very last of the tune. Harry blinked a bit then smirked at Draco. “Suicide?”
Draco grinned back. “Double.”
Harry nodded then effortlessly dipped Draco, he came up with Draco in the dance move called a Suicide Spiral. He twirled Draco around several times, clasping one hand and one ankle. Draco's robes billowed and rippled. When Harry released his ankle he dropped to his feet in an athletic move that no one had ever seen before. He wrapped his arms around Harry and led him into the same steps that had led into the spiral and Harry was suddenly face up and spinning giddily in the same fashion as Draco had only moments before.
Harry left the spiral by a move called, inelegantly, a butt spin, shifting from the face up suicide spiral into spinning on his butt then rising to his feet to step back into Draco's arms. The dance ended seconds later and Harry and Draco took bows as the whole room burst into wild applause. They grinned at each other and said together, “Pranked by Neville. Jinx!” Then laughed rather wildly as they left the floor to return to their table.
It took them a bit as everyone between them and their objective wanted to slap them on the back, ask for a dance or congratulate them. The back slaps were accepted with grins, as were the congratulations, the dance invitations were politely declined.
They were just beginning to relax again when there was a loud bang. The huge double doors of the Great Hall were flung back against the walls and a man charged in.
Harry looked up, as startled as the rest of the young people. “What the hell?”
Just as everyone was beginning to ask questions the man shouted, “Where is he? Where is that little shit? Potter! Where are you? Come out!”
Harry stepped onto the dance floor, his expression cold. “Who are you? What do you want?”
“I'm Brown. I challenge you to a duel. You have impugned the reputation of my daughter and I'll have satisfaction.” The man looked wild eyed. His clothing was disheveled and his hair uncombed. He looked like a crazy person.
Harry just waited for him to continue. He didn't get the chance as Dumbledore interrupted.
“Here now, Mr. Brown. This is no way to go about this. If you wish to challenge someone, a ball is not the place to do it. Come up to my office and we'll discuss it.”
“NO! No office. No discussion. I want satisfaction. Now! And I will have it.” Mr. Brown whirled around. “Potter! I ...” He slumped to the floor as Dumbledore hit him with a Sleeping Jinx.
Several people cried 'foul' but Dumbledore just announced, “I am not interfering with the challenge, only the time and place. A ball is no place for a duel. Now, as the mood is sadly shattered, perhaps it would be best if you all went to your common rooms. Mr. Potter, with me please.”
Harry just watched as Dumbledore turned Mr. Brown over to Professor McGonagall with instructions to take him to the infirmary. She flicked her wand to hover the man and left with him in tow.
Harry followed Dumbledore to his office, clutching Draco's hand in his. Neville, Ron and Hermione followed. Neville was quick to notice Hermione's death grip on Ron's hand. He smiled a bit at it.
They all settled into chairs, Draco and Harry, Hermione and Ron, in wide chairs that accommodated them both and Neville in a chair of his own.
Dumbledore cast floo powder into the fire, called, “Malfoy Manor” then waited to be answered.
“Yes, what the devil have those two gotten themselves into now.” Lucius sounded more resigned than annoyed.
“Mr. Brown just challenged Harry to a duel. Right in the middle of the dance floor.”
Lucius grumbled then said, “I'll be through in a moment. I was just getting ready for bed.”
.
Meanwhile, in the ballroom, the rest of the students were grumbling and grousing about having their fun cut short.
Most of them blamed Brown, but a few blamed Harry. They were silenced easily by glares from their classmates, but owls were sent, complaints were made and the whole story was all over by morning.
The parties in the common rooms lasted until well after midnight.
Professor McGonagall took Mr. Brown to Madam Pomfrey who put him in a bed, dosed him with sleeping potion and said that should hold him until morning.
.
Lucius got dressed again, in robes that were appropriate for night visiting. He was tired after a day spent conducting business for his holdings and Harry's but he was ready in minutes.
When he stepped through the floo the first thing he saw was Harry. He was seated in a love seat with Draco, sipping tea.
“Harry! Are you alright? Draco?” When they both nodded, he turned to Dumbledore and snarled. “What now? Damnit! I cannot trust you with anything ... one would...” He took a deep breath, visibly calming himself.
Dumbledore offered tea which was refused with a glower. He offered some brandy, which Lucius accepted. He sat down in a comfortable chair in an obvious snit and demanded, “Someone explain to me why I have been called here. Immediately, in detail.”
So Dumbledore explained exactly what had happened, ending, “So he's in the infirmary right now. He's been dosed with sleeping draught which should keep him out until morning. But, Harry has to accept the challenge, or be dishonoured.” He looked weary and old.
Lucius surprised him by saying, with admirable calm. “We have been expecting something like this. Just not quite this soon. My filing a law suit against Parkinson must have initiated this.” He finished his drink then stood up. “Albus, I shall convince him to hold his challenge until the Duelling Club meeting. Day after tomorrow?” Dumbledore nodded. “He can re-issue his challenge in a proper manner then. Convince him, won't you?”
Dumbledore sighed, “Very well. I'll do that. But ... are you sure you won't offer a proxy?”
Lucius sneered elegantly. “I doubt that that will be needed.” He turned his eyes to his sons. “Go to bed. Your eyes are like holes burnt into parchment.” He smiled at Harry. “You'll do fine. I'll be at the club meeting, you know that. I'll second you. Now ... bed.” And with that, he flooed back home.
Harry stood up, dragging Draco with him. “Thanks for helping us, Professor. That's very kind of you. Draco, we better go, Papa will have a fit otherwise. Hermione, Ron, Neville. You'll be at the club meeting?”
All three nodded their intent to do exactly that. Dumbledore offered tea and was refused, everyone making the excuse that they needed to go to bed, too. The headmaster then dismissed them to their beds sighing in relief when they went. He wondered how the devil he was going to protect Harry from this duel with Mr. Brown without causing insult all around. He realized then that Lucius had said that he was going to second Harry. Obviously the man had some scheme in mind. He decided to take Harry's advice and just butt out. He could always pick up the pieces later.
.
Saturday morning dawned chill and a bit foggy. Not that that made any difference to anyone inside Hogwarts. The gossip was hot and exciting. Everyone knew that Harry had been challenged. Everyone had either been there or been told the second they got up.
Chairs were grouped in gossiping clumps while people gobbled their breakfasts so they could clear away for the Dueling Club.
Even though the club wasn't supposed to start until 10am, the tables were cleared away by nine and all the school was waiting for the meeting to start, whether they belonged to the club or not.
Dumbledore nodded to Professor Flitwick and said, “I'll bring Mr. Brown down during the demonstration. Maybe that will convince him to change his mind.”
Professor Flitwick looked up at his old friend. “I doubt it. He was always hasty.” He took a deep breath. “Well, I better get down there. The little imps are getting restless.”
When he got up on the dueling platform, Flitwick called the meeting to order and announced that their guest would be there soon. As they waited, the tiny professor gave a lecture on dueling safety. This included what clothing to wear and how to bow without taking your eyes off your opponent. He taught the incantation for the safety shields that would keep spectators from catching a stray spell, informing them that it was the judge's responsibility.
Draco and Harry had eaten breakfast in their quarters at Professor Flitwick's suggestion. Now he had them come up onto the platform to show what proper dueling robes look like. Their entry from the small retiring room behind the head table was all that Flitwick could have hoped. They entered in the now familiar flying wedge, Harry at the front, flanked by Neville and Ron with Hermione just behind them.
Hermione didn't mind her rear guard position, as that was exactly what she was. She'd learned healing spells from Madam Pomfrey and shield spells from Mr. Malfoy. She could heal on the fly and carried a small pouch filled with potions. It was a healer's pouch and spelled to be bigger on the inside than the outside and also to dispense the proper potion quickly. She was very pleased with herself and it showed.
The four young people entered the hall, heads held proudly, step firm. Their robes were their usual robes that everyone was familiar with. But now they held a new significance, these young students were warriors, ready to fight whenever needed.
Flitwick nodded to them and asked if Harry would mind coming up to model his robes. He didn't as he'd been told to expect the request.
Harry stepped up and all Hogwarts got a really good look at the combat robes. Professor Flitwick explained that dragon hide provided protection from edged weapons and minor protection from hexes and jinxes. The robes were cut so that they allowed freedom of movement but also baffled the eye by obscuring the outline of the body. Flitwick explained every detail of the robes, having Harry turn this way and that.
After the lecture on robes, Flitwick announced that his guest was just arriving. Every head turned to see Lucius Malfoy entering the Great Hall through the huge main door. He bowed slightly to the room then strode to the platform.
Lucius was also wearing combat robes. His were deep midnight blue, without any trim. He smiled at Harry and Draco, shocking most of the rest of the students. Harry smiled back while Draco frankly grinned.
Lucius turned to Professor Flitwick and bowed slightly. Flitwick bowed back.
“Mr. Malfoy. Thank you for coming. I have an excellent opponent for you.” He smiled genially.
Professor Snape stepped up onto the platform, smirking in a slightly feral fashion. He bowed to Lucius and then Professor Flitwick.
The professor then announced, “I am so pleased to present a demonstration duel between Mr. Lucius Malfoy and Professor Severus Snape. Both gentlemen are ranked in the top ten duellists of the International Duelling Federation.” He grinned widely. “They took second and third place respectively. So ... Shall we begin, gentlemen?”
Both duelists nodded and went to the back of the platform to have their wands weighed in and examined. Flitwick explained that weighing and examining the wands eliminated any chance of a duelist preloading spells or enhancing his wand in a variety of illegal ways. A hand went up near the back of the room.
'Yes, Miss ... Delancy?”
A fourth year Hufflepuff stood up. “Yes, sir. Um ... who was first? I mean, if Mr. Malfoy and Professor Snape were second and third, who was first?”
Professor Flitwick grinned in a way that hinted at his goblin ancestry. “Oh, that would have been me.”
Professor Dumbledore, who'd officiated at the weighing, announced himself satisfied that the wands were in proper order. “Thank you, gentlemen. Now, as Professor Flitwick will be, not only judging but lecturing, I will hold the protective shields. Fillius, you may proceed at your pleasure.” He stepped back to settle in his chair behind the platform.
Professor Flitwick snapped, “Begin.” and stepped to the back of the platform.
Severus and Lucius stood back to back in the middle of the platform. They began to walk to the ends as Professor Flitwick counted from one to ten, on ten they turned and stood to wait for the command to fight.
Unlike the time Snape and dueled Lockheart, they stood with their left shoulder to their opponent, wands held loosely.
Snape made the first move, flicking his wand and snapping, “Confringo!” He pointed his wand at Lucius' feet. The platform burst into flames.
Everyone expected Lucius to use Aguamenti to put out the flames, instead he jumped straight up then flipped in mid air, long hair and loose robes streaming in the air. He landed beyond the reach of the flames, while he was in the air he case a silent Difodio. This gouged a deep slash into the platform right at Snape's feet. He stepped back, grinned in a way that made two first years start crying and the fight was on.
They cast spells, some of them in languages no one understood, others silent, jumping over or ducking under their opponents spells at the same time. Snape yelped as a spell slashed his shoulder open, but he kept fighting.
Lucius landed awkwardly and everyone in the room heard a snap. No one was sure exactly what it was. With that sound, though, the fight changed. Lucius drew a sword from somewhere which forced Snape to pull one of his own.
They fought back and forth, steel clashing and scraping on steel, spells flying, until Severus managed to pierce Lucius through the shoulder with and extended lunge a la sinister. This did not, however, give him the win. He glanced down at his thigh. Lucius had stabbed him through it at the halfway mark with a dirk.
Flitwick called a halt and announced, “Tie. Double incapacitation. Madam, if you would.”
Lucius, all dignity forgotten, flopped down flat on his back. “I expect that dirk back cleaned.”
Severus, who was sitting on the platform, clutching his thigh, retorted, “You wish. Mine now.”
Madam Pomfrey headed to Professor Snape first as he was bleeding more heavily, being wounded twice. The slash across his shoulder bled down his back and his thigh was dripping blood onto the platform. He seemed singularly unconcerned about it though. Madam waved her wand at his shoulder and the flesh knit together quickly. His thigh received another wave then she handed him a vial. Snape swallowed it without comment, not even making a face. He stood up and went to Professor Dumbledore who kindly mended his robes with a flick of his wand.
Draco went to him while Harry went to Lucius. Madam Pomfrey had also healed Lucius with rather ruthless efficiency, and was just handing him a potion.
“Papa! That was great! I've never seen anything like it. Is that how it goes in a real duel?”
Lucius looked up into Harry's glowing face and laughed. “Yes, that's what it's really like. You're not allowed to kill your opponent, only come close. And anything that occurs on the field stays on the field. Help me up.” He held up his hand to Harry who obligingly pulled him to his feet.
“There you go. I better go congratulate Professor Snape.” Harry grinned at Lucius' raised eyebrow. “Never let it be said that I held a grudge after a formal apology was accepted.”
Lucius found himself chuckling gently, then he groaned as unhealed bruised ribs complained. Madam returned to him, snapping, “Stop moaning. You know I heal bleeding first. Here!” she thrust a vial into his hand, “Pain reliever combined with blood replenisher. Men!” She looked around herself in undisguised disgust then flounced back to her place. She really disliked dueling.
While this was going on all the students were reacting in various ways. Some were excited by the duel, other's were stunned by the viciousness of it. All of them could only admire the skills that were displayed although some, mostly Slytherins, were well aware that they'd just seen two Inner Circle Death Eaters battling it out right before their eyes. Dumbledore himself was more than a little dismayed by the display.
This was what his students were facing. This was - he’d had no idea at all that Death Eaters were so competent. Again, he had much to think about.
Lucius held a quick, whispered consultation with Fillius then stood and walked to the front of the platform, his casual saunter displaying to everyone where Draco had acquired his mannerisms.
“Thank you, everyone. I do believe that this demonstration came off a bit better than the last one.” He turned his head to smirk at Professor Snape who curled his lip in disgust. “That is a skill level only to be found in the upper 10% of duellists. Also, it requires not only precision, strength and magical and physical endurance, but a knowledge of spells only to be found amongst a rare few. If you are approached by Death Eaters, cast a screamer and run like the hounds of hell are after you, because ... they are.” He waited for the grumbling and fearful exclamations to die down. “You are here, in this club, to learn all that you can so that you can defend yourselves. Do not think that you will learn the skills needed to start a fight with anyone. It is called the Duelling Club for a reason. You will be concentrating on duelling protocols and practices. They will not turn you into warriors over night, or even any time soon. Remember this and do not, as the saying goes, bite off more than you can chew. Thank you.” And with that, he whirled, robes flaring and strode to the side of the platform and just stepped off. He landed on the floor with easy grace and walked to a chair beside Dumbledore, he settled into it, gracefully rearranging his robes.
Professor Flitwick nodded his head in approval, remarking, “Thank you, Mr. Malfoy. And you as well, Professor Snape. Now. You all know your levels. Pair up with someone of an equal strength. If there are any odd men out, come to me and I will pair you up.”
The groups gathered in indicated spots around the Great Hall and started pairing up. Everyone noticed that Draco, Harry, Ron, Neville, and Hermione stayed together. As there were five of them, there was going to be an odd man out. Most of the students kept an eye on them to see what would happen.
Professor Flitwick called them all to attention, instructing them to mind themselves and leave others to do the same. Then he went to the Hogwarts Horrors, as they were the only group with an odd man out that was not willing to settle on waiting for a turn.
“Well, how shall we do this? Miss Granger?”
Hermione just settled on the floor in a graceful pool of robes. “Professor, we usually draw lots. We have two with numerals one and two and one blank one. The blank one sits out until the other two pairs are finished then duels one of the winners. We make sure that no one is always the blank lot. We'll do that, if you don't mind.”
The professor smiled cheerfully at the explanation, exclaiming, “Perfect! But I shall take the blank lot, I think.”
So they drew lots; Harry drew Ron, Neville drew Draco and Hermione was left dueling Professor Flitwick. She gave him a small smile. “Don't worry, sir, I'll take it easy on you.”
His return smile was definitely goblinish. “Oh, I don't think there will be any problems ... on either side of this duel. Shall we?” he offered his arm to her.
Hermione took the small professor's arm and allowed him to lead her to the platform. There were now platforms in each corner of the hall and three down the middle of it. A professor refereed at each one, maintaining the safety spells and keeping order in the lines of waiting students. The prefects who had not joined the club were there anyway, to help keep the waiting students in order.
“Yes, now. Miss Granger, are you any good with a blade?”
“Fair. I'm taking lessons from Mr. Malfoy and he says that I'm progressing nicely.” Hermione shrugged, “But I don't have my sword with me. Harry has it.”
“Mr. Potter has your sword? Why is that?” Professor Flitwick looked puzzled.
“I'm more of a shield and curse sort of gal so he has it in his devils bag so it's near but not where curious idiots can cut themselves with it. I can get it from him, if you'd like.” Hermione's self-depreciating shrug had the professor wondering.
“Yes, I do think you should ask him for it.”
Hermione went to Harry but didn't have to ask him for her sword as he was in the process of handing out everyone's sword, dirk and shield. Except for Draco and himself, they both used a targ.
Harry's original sword had suffered the fate of many such things and broken on him. He was now using a one-handed bastard blade and targ. Draco still favored a saber but used a targ instead of a dirk. Neville had graduated to a huge two-handed sword that Hermione called a Wallace. She used a small arming sword and shield. Everyone in the know noticed that all of them, including Neville, kept one hand free for wand use. No one much noticed Neville as he was still unassuming and a bit shy, but he had developed broad shoulders and a deep chest, he had also grown several inches and looked, on close examination, very much like his bear animagus form.
Harry grinned as he handed over Hermione's weapons. “Watch out for Flitwick. He may be little but he was champion for several years.”
“Right. He loves charms but that doesn't mean he's a push over. I'll be careful.” Hermione patted Harry on the shoulder. “And you don't flip out over Draco.”
“Things are settling, thank goodness. I'll be fine.” Harry was relieved that his overprotective tendencies had settled. He and Draco had had some interesting problems, but they'd only lasted a couple of days.
Suddenly, the back door from the professors retiring room burst open. Mr. Brown charged through a furious expression on his face.
“Damn you, Dumbledore! You drugged me. You thought you could just push me off? Thought that everyone would forget about my challenge? Potter! Where the hell is that little shit?”
Brown looked even crazier today than he had last night. He was wild-eyed, disheveled and unshaven.
Harry looked up from his task of handing out weapons to his friends and grumbled, “Well, shit. I was hoping he'd been shoved off.” He tucked his bag back into his robes. “Ok. Let's do this. Wonder where Papa is? He was going to be my second.” He glanced at the chair next to Dumbledore where Lucius had been sitting, but Lucius was already striding across the floor to Harry's side.
He made it to Harry at the same time as Brown. Just in time to intercept a full handed slap aimed at Harry. The smack of palm meeting palm attracted the attention of everyone nearby.
Lucius rolled his hand around in a quick move, taking hold of Brown's wrist. “That was not necessary. In fact, this whole thing is not necessary. As Harry's second, I ask, is there any chance of reconciliation?”
Mr. Brown snarled, “He has ruined my little girl. And me. The financial reparations have left me with just enough to keep household. Damn you both.”
Harry scowled at him for a moment then snapped, “Well, she's fairly ruined the prospects of my families, so who's the worst of us?”
Lucius sighed rather dramatically then announced in a carrying voice, “I have tried to reconcile the parties. As this is impossible, we accept the challenge. I second my foster son, Harry James Potter. Twenty minutes.”
Flitwick nodded. “I will referee and judge. Mr. Brown ... who is your second.” Brown looked around for a moment. All the nearby students stepped back as no one wanted to second the 'crazy man'.
Dumbledore looked a bit confused at first but when a second was called for he just nodded to a seventh year Hufflepuff. “Second him, won't you, my boy.” The poor kid looked anything but willing. Lucius gave him a surreptitious nod so he stepped forward, looking like he'd rather have a tooth pulled.
He withdrew to the north side of the main platform to consult with Mr. Brown. This consultation consisted of him telling Brown that he'd be better off to apologize and run and Mr. Brown saying, “Not a chance!” The Hufflepuff then just shrugged, said, “Your funeral.” and offered to hold his robes. This was also rejected with a snarl.
Draco sighed and remarked to Hermione, “No manners, that one. Never did have. It's no wonder Lavender turned out so ... off.”
Hermione just nodded, huffed and crossed her arms over her chest.
The Hufflepuff walked over, introduced himself as Adam Fimblepott, and asked Lucius if there was any way Harry could reconcile with Mr. Brown. He was sure there was not, but as a second, he had to ask.
Harry laughed softly, then shook his head. “You know there's not but you're doing a good job. Go tell him to get ready. As the challenged, I have the right of choice, so I choose ... no cutting hexes, no strong bludgeoning jinxes and whoever gets knocked out first looses.”
Adam nodded with some relief. “Sounds good to me. I just hope the idiot doesn't refuse.”
Harry glanced at Lucius, concern written across his face. “What if he does?”
Lucius shrugged as a ruthless expression flitted across his face. “If he refuses, it proves he has no honour. You cannot refuse to duel him, but if something happens, you are absolved of all blame. Do what you must.”
Harry sighed but nodded. “As you say, Papa.” Harry just hoped the stupid man didn't push his luck.
He was getting ready for his duel with Brown when all his friends joined him at his end of the platform. Hermione cleared her throat then said, “We ... all of us ... well, don’t take chances. If that ... that ...” She screwed her face up, trying to come up with a name for Mr. Brown without swearing.
Neville took over. “Just watch him, mate. I don't trust him to stick to the conventions. He's ... not right.”
Ron nodded. “He's not. He's got that wild look in his eyes. And ... Hermione and Neville are right. Watch him.”
Draco refrained from comment, feeling that the others had said all that needed saying. Instead, he just gripped Harry's shoulder for a moment. Harry nodded at them all then turned to mount the platform.
As he mounted he heard a soft throat clear. He looked in the direction of the sound to see Snape. He nodded slightly.
“Take him down. But be careful. He is just crazy enough to be really unpredictable. That's dangerous.”
Harry just returned, “I will sir, thank you.' and went on up the stairs.
He joined Lucius who asked, “What did Severus want?”
“He wanted to warn me that Brown is not stable. I thanked him, of course, even though I can see that the man is not ... all there.”
Lucius grimaced, hissing softly, “The appellation shit house rat comes to mind.”
Harry shifted uneasily, “Exactly. I don't think he's going to stick to the rules I established.”
“If he steps over the line, you are then justified in anything you do. Just ... I'd rather you didn't kill him if you can avoid it.”
“Me too. But I'm not going to let him maim me or anything.”
Lucius patted Harry's shoulder, much as Draco had done. “Of course not. Be very careful. I would hate to have anything happen to you ... of the permanent sort.”
Harry made a little growling sound and said, “Aren't you supposed to be seconding me or something?”
Lucius laughed, a light sound that no one could ever remember coming from him. “Yes, I am. Excuse me while I do my thing, as you children say.” and with that, he went over to Professor Flitwick to tell him what rules Harry, as challenged, had decided on.
Flitwick announced, in a rather satisfied tone, “That boy is a right one. So, Mr, Fimblepott, is your primary instructed?” Adam nodded with a doubtful expression on his face. “And what is that face for?”
“I don't think he's going to stick to his instructions. He wants revenge and he's going to have it. You are warned.” The poor boy looked defeated and a little sick. “He's over there mumbling about ... weird stuff. I really wish there was some way to stop this. Potter's in trouble.”
Lucius snorted. “He's been instructed by me ... and Professor Snape. Brown is doomed. Excuse me while I go warn Harry to expect ... just about anything.” He bowed to Flitwick then Fimblepott and strode to Harry's side.
Harry nodded his head at the quick warning his Papa gave him then went to his position in the middle of the long narrow platform. He turned his back on Brown as if he was dueling another student and just waited for Flitwick to begin the duel.
Brown stormed over to stand back to back with Harry, mumbling direly under his breath about 'evil boys' and 'good girls' as well as other things Harry couldn't quite hear. He gave Lucius an eye roll then paid attention to the matters at hand.
Professor Flitwick called them to order, numbered out the steps and called “Duel!”
Harry stalked Brown like a panther. He moved out of the way of his heavy stunners, nimbly hopping over some and ducking others. He put up a shield that would block the bludgeoning hexes and just withstood their impacts with stoic calm. He was waiting for Brown to show his true colors and wasn't disappointed.
It didn't take long for the man to use a forbidden curse. The entire school gasped as he used the Entrail Expelling curse on Harry. It missed by a mile but Professor Dumbledore had to do a bit of fancy footwork to keep it from getting to the observers. The shields hadn't been set for something like that. Dumbledore corrected that oversight at once.
Flitwick called foul but Brown just kept on fighting. Harry hadn't lowered his guard when the professor signaled, he wasn't going to trust Brown as far as he could hex him.
But he was mad as hell, someone could have been killed, as Dumbledore was so trusting that he'd not put up shields strong enough to keep in anything stronger than a bludgeoning hex. Harry waited until Brown dropped all pretense of dueling fairly then he literally pulled out the big guns.
“Go dteasctar seo!”
Brown's robes slit across the chest revealing a deep cut which immediately started to bleed.
“Greadadh trí lár a scairt!”
He fell to one knee, gripping his stomach, face twisted in pain.
“Lasc fola!”
Harry's face was fearsome to behold as a red lash formed at the tip of his wand and he used it like a whip, lashing at Brown as he stalked towards him.
“You idiot! I'd have let it go, but you had to be so dishonourable as to cheat. Now, you'll pay.”
Lucius waited long enough for Harry to scare the hell out of the man then he called, “Harry!”
Harry turned to face Lucius, turning his back on Mr. Brown. “Yes, Papa?” His tone of voice was polite, slightly bored and questioning.
“No more. He's done.”
“Yes, sir.”
But it was not to be. Screaming incoherently, Brown staggered to his feet and cast. He only got as far as, “Avad ...” when he was cut off. He was hit by stunners from Lucius and Professors Snape, Flitwick and McGonagall. Dumbledore was so startled that he just stood there with a shocked expression on his face.
Brown dropped like the proverbial pole axed ox. Harry snarled a bit but calmed when Lucius shook his head at him.
The faint smell of burnt feathers puzzled some, the rest ignored it in favor of exclaiming over Brown's foul, Harry's use of powerful Irish spells or just babbling in general.
Flitwick called them all to order. “Enough! Silence! Those of you not in the duelling club should leave now. Anyone who doesn't want to be questioned by Aurors also leave. Anyone sixth year or above, this does not include you. You will stay. Now, sort yourselves.”
This led to a scramble as everyone under fifth year scurried out the doors, most went to their common rooms to wonder and marvel over the day, the rest retired to their rooms to write to their parents.
Dumbledore went to his office to floo the Aurors while McGonagall and Snape set all the remaining students down at the tables, returned to their places for the purpose, and had them write up what had happened. Snape used his slate to write an announcement which appeared simultaneously on all the common room boards to tell all the other students to write up a similar essay. He knew that the aurors would have to read all of them. He smirked to himself, revenge, even minor, was sweet.
Madam Pomfrey made sure that Brown wasn't going to exsanguinate, or return to consciousness then stood over him to wait the aurors.
Lucius refrained from undignified public displays, barely. He called Harry to him as soon as he could and kept him at his side until the aurors arrived. He was silently amused to hear Harry muttering under his breath. Something about how was he supposed to get any real training in when people insisted on challenging him to 'stupid' duels.
Professor McGonagall came over. “Most impressive, Mr Potter. Too bad Mr. Brown had to cheat.”
Harry just shrugged a bit. “I really wanted to turn him into a pig, but ...” He couldn't help a small smile. “I didn't want to insult pigs.”
Professor McGonagall actually snickered. “I see. Well, I'm proud of you.”
Harry gave her an irritated look. “I'm glad you are.” but his snappish tone seemed off.
Professor McGonagall got all Scottish on him. “Excuse me? An' what, may I ask, brought on that?”
Harry turned to face her. “I'm sorry. I'm a bit put off right now, but now's as good a time as any. I'm very disappointed in you. You're supposed to help me, believe in me, support me. But every single time I've ever come to you, you've either put me off or ignored me. Keep my head down, my ... foot.” He stopped speaking before he said something irretrievable.
The professor had the good grace to look ashamed of herself. “Yes, well ... Dumbledore said ... but that's no excuse. I'm ashamed of myself. As a professor, head of house and a woman. I should have at least listened to you. The stone is an especially unforgivable but ... Umbridge. That woman had us all so at odds and ends that we ... none of us ... were worth a damn. All I can do is say I'm very sorry and promise to do better.”
Harry blinked once, very slowly, as he thought that over. “Thank you, ma'am. I ... well, we'll split the blame, shall we? And, ...” he smiled a bit sadly. “I think we all, students that is, forget that you're all just human, when all is said and done. Umbitch was a real piece of work. She had everyone on edge and jumping at shadows.” Harry made a motion as if to hug his head of house then drew back, wondering if it was proper or not.
Professor McGonagall just snorted, said fondly, “Ay, pish, ye'll ha' me greetin' the mo'. Ye great lummox.” She tugged him into a smothering hug, sniffled a bit then patted his shoulder.
Harry couldn't help but smile and hug her back. He was now sure that she had the best intentions in the world but believed in and listened to Dumbledore over her own feelings.
Lucius nodded at her over Harry's head. He knew McGonagall as a straight arrow and a firm believer in right over might, but she was also too much in Dumbledore's pocket. This was changing as the stern woman had her nose rubbed in his faults.
“Now, I'd really like to know where you got those spells. Please.” Her stern expression never changed but the twinkle in her eyes said mischief.
Harry smiled, “Merlin’s book. And Seamus. He helped me with the pronunciation.”
“Ay, well. Very well done. Bring that book to my office tonight, if you please, I'd love to see it.”
Harry blushed a bit. “I'll have to keep one hand on it or it'll close on you. I've managed to get it to stay open for Hermione and Seamus but ... it's a bit peculiar.”
McGonagall smirked at him. “Merlin's book? I'm sure it is. But I'd love to see it, none the less.”
“I'll bring it by after supper ... about seven?”
“Good, good. I'll have tea ready.” And with that, Professor McGonagall hugged him again and hurried off.
She was stopped by Dean Thomas, who was in a regular fit of temper, “Ma'am ... Professor McGonagall! He shouldn't be allowed to use spells like that! Dark, all of them. Mum said only the Latin was Light. I've done my best to discourage them but they just won't listen. I've even destroyed ...”
McGonagall, who was well aware that there was trouble between the year mates, exclaimed, “Where the devil did you and your mother get that idea? Dark and Light have nothing to do with the language the spell is in. Come to my office.” and with that she actually grabbed him by the arm and started to haul him off. She was stopped by Flitwick who reminded her that the Aurors would want to speak to both of them. She let go but told Dean that he was due for several detentions and an essay on languages and Light and Dark magic. “Thirty inches and not a line less. See to it!” She stormed off, planning detentions as she went.
Dean gazed after her for a moment then went off to sulk in a corner. His mother would be getting a letter.
As McGonagall was doing her best to control her temper the Aurors arrived, with all the flourish and thunder of a troupe of trolls. Harry rolled his eyes.
Lucius was relieved to see that the group consisted of Kingsley Shacklebolt, Nymphadora Tonks and four unknown but obviously junior aurors. They split at once into two groups, one consisted of Tonks and three of the juniors the other of Shacklebolt and one junior. The junior auror held a quill and parchment, obviously delegated to keeping notes of all the inquiries, Lucius noted that the other team also had one auror as transcriptionist.
Everyone was disgusted to find that the write ups that the faculty had had them start were not acceptable to the aurors, they were all going to have to be questioned directly. A suitable notice was sent to the common room boards, to the joy of all, except the students who were still in the Great Hall.
Auror Tonks went to Professor Dumbledore and spoke with him for a few moments. Then she went to Professor Flitwick, a puzzled look on her face. They spoke but Lucius didn't get a chance to read lips as Auror Shacklebolt spoke to him.
“Well, Malfoy, what's going on here.”
Harry immediately bristled. “Excuse me? Isn't there supposed to be a Mister in there somewhere? Or have I been taught wrong?”
Lucius decided to let the reprimand sit in Harry's hands. “Senior Auror Shacklebolt.” He bowed slightly, never let it be said that a Malfoy disregarded the niceties.
Kingsley took a deep breath, bowed and said, “Mr. Malfoy. Could you tell me what is going on, please?”
.
It took nearly three hours for all the statements to be taken. So long, in fact, that the house elves brought in sandwiches, tea and cakes.
After some confusion, Dumbledore suggested that they set the auror teams up at small tables then line the students who were waiting up at long tables nearby. This allowed everyone to either study, gossip, eat, or play board games until they were called.
It also kept the confusion down to, what was for Hogwarts, a minimum. This meant that, while students changed tables at will, quarreled with each other and in general acted out their ire at being kept inside on a free day, everyone got interviewed.
Finally, Brown was enervated and questioned. This proved to be a bit problematic as he was now certifiable. He swore at everyone, blamed Dumbledore for most of Lavenders problems, claimed that Harry had tried to potion Lavender first and demanded satisfaction of anyone who spoke more than two words to him.
It was decided to take him to St. Mungo's for confinement until he could be evaluated.
The junior aurors took off with him, dragging him out the great doors and down to the apparition point by the main gates. They disappeared with a bang.
Harry, who had endured a cross examination from hell from Shacklebolt with commendable aplomb, sighed. “Well, finally! Thank goodness they're gone. I want tea, and cake, sandwiches wouldn't go amiss either.”
Lucius just accepted a plate from Draco, settled at a table and nodded to chairs. “Sit. Where are Hermione and ...” Hermione plopped down across from him joined by Neville and Ron. Draco sat beside Lucius. “Ah, there you are.”
Hermione grumbled, “I've never been questioned by anyone who'd already made up their minds before. Disgraceful.”
Lucius nodded his agreement, his mouth being full of egg salad at the moment.
Ron was philosophical about it. “Well, it did keep the amount of questioning down to a minimum.”
Neville was on Hermione's side, declaring, “Aurors should be impartial and take evidence without forming an opinion as to guilt beforehand.”
Harry just snarled, “And to think I wanted to be an auror. Not now, thank you very much.”
Draco just poked doubtfully at a piece of cake then said, for all of them, “I'm just glad it's all over and Harry isn't hurt. I just hope nothing else happens before Hols.” He was to be sadly disappointed.
.
The Irish:
“Go dteasctar seo!” - cut 'deep'
“Greadadh trí lár a scairt!” - Scorching through their midsection! Actually a traditional Irish curse.
“Lasc fola!” - Blood whip.
Difodio - Gouging hex, gouges hunks out of target.
Title: Runaway Wizard
Chapter:
Rating: Mature
Disclaimer: Except for the few original characters, all characters in this story are the property of J. K. Rowlings, who has kindly allowed me to play with them.
Warnings: Probably a little of everything. Fighting, Living on the streets with everything that entails, Spanking, Bondage, Blood, Gore, Bad Language, and Pissy Snape.
Parings: H/D eventually
Beta: 50ftqueenie Brit picker: purpledodah
Banner code for RW
The feast was just about to begin. Draco and Harry had arrived in good time and settled at the head of Gryffindor table, side by side.
Dumbledore had made his usual remarks, welcoming everyone to the feast. Then he'd settled in his place at the head table. Harry was a bit startled that he didn't make some comment about their bonding but the man had been singularly reticent lately.
Professor McGonagall stood to say, “Now, I know everyone is anxious to eat so I'll keep my remarks short. No one is to go into the front courtyard during the ball, nor into the inner garden. There will be no hanky-panky. Anyone caught in a dark corner will also be punished. Anyone caught in the forbidden areas will be sent to their dorm at once. To make myself perfectly plain. Do not leave the ballroom. Enough. Let's eat.” And with that she sat down.
The tables filled with food and everyone helped themselves. Harry was pleased to see that his favorites were all there. He was also a bit astonished to see that Draco was making him up a plate.
Draco smirked at him then put the plate down. “There you go. And I didn't even spit in it.”
Harry forked up some potatoes then said, “Berk.” just before placing them in his mouth.
Draco filled his own plate and started in on his roast beef. “Mmm. Prat.”
They both ate happily, conversing with each other and their friends. Harry notice that Theo was missing. “Has Theo gone?”
Draco nodded. “This morning. His father was getting insistent that he come home during the three day weekend and be marked.” He looked sad for a moment. “That means that all my crowd are gone. Theo, Daphne, Millicent, Vince, Greg; they're all at Longbottom House now.”
Harry just took Draco's hand for a moment. “Well, I'll share my crowd. That's Hermione, Ron, Neville, the twins.” Draco looked horrified. “Don't look like that. The twins are brilliant ... and I'll teach you how to tell them apart. It'll drive them mental.”
Draco nodded. “That'll be fun. Unless it goads them into pranking me.” He was startled to see an expression of fury flit across Harry's face. “Only I don't think they will?”
Harry snarled, “They better not. I don't mind them pranking me but they better not prank you.”
Draco looked at Harry, startled and a bit worried. “Harry, they won't do me any harm. I know as well as you do that they're not malicious.”
Harry took a drink of his pumpkin juice, cleared his mouth and said, “I know. I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me.”
Ron, who looked very nice in the dress robes that had been a present from Draco and Lucius, remarked, “It's probably part of the Bond. If Draco is the sub, then you're the dominant one. It's sort of plain that you would be over protective for a while.” He smirked at their gobsmacked expressions and helped himself to another roll.
Hermione took it out of his hand, rather absently as she had her nose in some papers. Ron retaliated by taking the papers away and tucking them into his robes.
“Hermione, eat. And we're dancing later. Now, pay attention to the here and now.”
Hermione started to object then snapped her attention to Ron. “Dance? You can't dance.”
Ron looked smug. “Can too. Harry's been teaching me.”
Harry groaned at the remembered dancing lessons. He had managed to squeeze in dancing lessons for Ron by adding them after their evening sword training. Ron would never win So You Think You Can Dance or anything, but he wouldn't walk all over Hermione's feet either. The fact that he'd participated in the lessons at Malfoy Manor really helped a lot.
“Yes, he's not bad. And you know it. You were at the lessons at the Manor.”
Ron grumbled, “Back handed compliment but thanks.”
Hermione made a face and mumbled, “Yes, but most of the partners avoided him like poison because he trod on their toes.”
Draco took a slice of beef off the serving platter and put it on Harry's plate. “Eat some of this. You're not eating enough. Thin as a wand.”
Draco glowered playfully at Harry until he started on the beef. Harry was thinning down again, he always did when he was worried. His appetite was always the thing that suffered first, but Draco was determined that Harry would eat, so he did.
Harry never realized what they were all up to but each one of his friends took turns distracting him from what he was eating while Draco kept putting foods he knew Harry liked on his plate. Harry ate it all.
Hermione had come up with this plan yesterday. They had all noticed that he wasn't eating properly but didn't know what to do about it. Hermione had just told them that he was easy to distract from his food; so, if they distracted him but kept putting food on his plate, he'd eat it. They'd discovered at lunch that it worked. Thank Merlin.
The conversation during the feast was lively and funny. Neville had revealed that he had a rather dry wit and a talent for imitation. His Snarky Snape was spot on. He was also very good at Flitwick and McGonagall.
Finally, Dumbledore stood up, produced a chiming sound with a wave of his wand and announced, “Now that we're all totally stuffed, the dancing. This ball will not, however, feature any of that noise you children think of as music. I'm very sorry about that, but the group that was scheduled to appear were all murdered by Death Eaters. Enjoy!”
Harry blinked at the old wizard for a moment. “What the hell?”
Draco snorted. “Announce that the featured band was murdered then tell us to enjoy the dance? I agree, What the hell?”
The rest of the students groaned and grumbled as they made their way to the edges of the Great Hall. Dumbledore and Flitwick gestured with their wands and transfigured the long dining tables into small tables scattered around the edges of the room. McGonagall did the decorations of floating pumpkins, bats and candles.
Everyone agreed that it was very traditional, quite nice, but boring. They were also very disappointed to find that the 'band' would consist of a pianoforte played by Professor Sinestra and nothing else. Luckily, the instrument was magically enhanced to be heard all over the hall.
Harry eyed Draco for a moment. “Well? What do you think?”
Draco took a deep breath, needlessly straightened his robes and gave a firm nod. “Just like we planned.”
When the music started, all the students stepped onto the floor, paired up with a partner. Harry offered Draco his hand and led him onto the floor. They had practiced this carefully, in their parlor with all the furniture pushed back to give them room.
The first dance was a Revolvé, a combination of waltz and polka that was strictly wizarding. Harry was glad that was the first dance as it lent itself perfectly to his plans. As they danced, they twirled in place then broke into the step called a gallop. At every twirl, they changed leads. As they danced, their robes wrapped around their legs then flared out into a pool of fabric that made it look as if they were dancing in a rippling pool of greens, gold and silver. By the time the music was done, they had nearly cleared the floor.
The next dance was a Portland, and the chassé close chassé was another perfect place to change leads. This more vigorous dance was another perfect show of Harry and Draco's dancing skills, and they put on a show, hopping high and moving across the floor in the chassé, robes streaming.
As was polite, after two dances they settled at one of the small tables to allow friends to sit with them and converse.
Hermione and Ron joined them.
Ron looked very handsome in his bronzy brown robes, which suited his complexion to a t. Hermione was also very pretty in robes of fuschia and cream that complimented her complexion. Harry had lent her a very nice garnet set that went well with the robes. The set were pale garnets and included a small cornet, a necklace, two bracelets and a broach. The necklace was a 'dog collar and drop' design with a large central stone. The drop was more of a bib with a teardrop shaped stone in the centre. She looked every inch a lady. She'd never tell that it took a house elf nearly thirty minutes to confine her hair into the elegant braid that supported the cornet.
Hermione sighed, “I wish Dumbledore would let you bring down your MP3 player. At least we could have something other than the few pieces that Professor Sinestra knows.”
Harry shrugged. “I could offer. But I bet he won't accept. It really doesn't make any difference. I'm not dancing with anyone but Draco.”
Draco nodded. “I'm not dancing with anyone else either. It's not proper for us. We're still, as the saying goes, 'new in our bond' and it's not socially acceptable.” He laughed lightly. “Thank goodness. Some of the idiots I've had to dance with, Merlin's beard. They all had two left feet and were ham handed.”
Hermione made a sour face. “Well, damn. I was hoping for a few dances with Harry. And you. Just so I don't have to dance with either of the Creevy boys. They're awful dancers.” She pulled a fan out of her tiny wrist bag and fanned herself.
Neville joined them. He'd gone stag, as he couldn't find anyone that he really wanted to invite. “Sorry, Hermione, but you can't dance more than two dances with anyone, or you'll invite all sorts of gossip you don't want.”
Hermione scowled, “Blast! I forgot. And we really don't need more scandal. I swear, if I ever catch Rita Skeeter out and about, I'm going to hex her.”
Draco nodded, white-gold hair glinting in the candle light. “Please do. A Mute hex would be nice.”
“And confunded so she can't write.” Harry added.
They spent the next two dances chatting amiably and watching the dancing. Draco made snide remarks about peoples robes and dancing skills. Harry amended them. Neville did several imitations, nearly caricatures. They all laughed easily together.
Professor McGonagall noticed that they all seemed reluctant to dance anymore so she made her way to the table.
“Good evening. I notice that you're not dancing. Is there a problem?”
Harry looked up and into her eyes. She really seemed interested and a bit concerned.
“Yes. The music is just ... boring. Professor Sinestra is doing her best but she only knows about eight songs. I have an MP3 player that will work here. I tested it once. I wish ... Professor Dumbledore would let me bring it down.”
Professor McGonagall, who had noticed the limited repertoire, gazed at Harry for a moment. “Go up and bring it down. I'll just tell Albus that we're using it. Thank you for the offer. Still, you're not dancing at all, are you.”
Draco shook his head. “We won't be dancing with anyone but each other. I find myself rather reluctant to be in the embrace of anyone but Harry.”
Harry nodded. “And I seem to be finding it disturbing to see him in the arms of anyone else. Even Hermione. It's very unnerving.”
The professor eyed them both for a moment then opined, “Well, if you're finding it uncomfortable, of course you must not dance with other partners. Miss Granger, you must remember not to dance more than two dances with the same partner, unless you are dating. It'll cause unneeded talk.”
Hermione muttered something about 'Victorian mind set' and 'antiquated morals' but nodded her understanding.
Harry got up and slipped into the shadows between the table and the wall. He had no intention of running all the way to their quarters and back. “Dobby! I need you.”
Dobby popped in, dressed in an odd assortment of jumpers, lederhosen and tea cosies. “Yes, sir? Dobby is sorry about his dress. He was not expecting to be called tonight.”
Harry chuckled a bit. “Not a problem. I know you were expecting a night off, but would you pop down to my rooms and bring up my MP3 player?”
“Certainly. Dobby will do.” Dobby popped out and right back in, with the player.
“Thanks. Say Hi to Winky for me. Now git.” Harry made a shooing motion with one hand and Dobby grinned before he left.
Harry set up the player in an alcove that was behind where the high table usually sat. He waited for a moment as Dumbledore was obviously coming to speak to him.
“Well, well, my boy.” Harry hid his wince. “It's very kind of you to allow us to use your ... Em Pay player. Thank you.”
Harry smiled a bit at the usual wizard mangling of muggle terms. “That's ok, sir. I'd hate to see the party spoiled because of a lack that I can make up. I'll spend a while tending to it then Neville will take over. Ron can take a turn then Hermione. That way no one will miss all the dancing. Is that Ok?”
“Fine, fine. Very generous of you.” Dumbledore was, at this point, willing to agree to almost anything Harry suggested.
Harry took the first turn with Draco sitting beside him. They argued genially about what to play, Draco finally persuaded Harry not to shock the rather delicate sensibilities of the wizard group with Techno but did agree that the second set should be more modern music. Harry had some wizard groups and some muggle that he thought would be nice for later.
After a break for refreshments, Neville took over. Hermione decided to join him as she'd danced twice with Ron and was now hiding out for a while to rest her feet. She'd danced with both Creevy brothers and her toes had suffered for it.
“Oh, Neville! You have to play this.” Hermione had been looking through the printed play list that Harry kept. “The Sleeping Beauty Waltz by Tchaikovsky. Please?”
Neville grinned at her. “Ok. I remember you telling me about that ... cartoon, was it? Wait a sec.” He got up and went to the nearest table, whispered something to one of the group seated there then returned. “All fixed.” He bit his lip doubtfully. “I just hope this works. I've never pranked anyone before.”
Hermione blinked. “What did you do? Can I help?”
So Neville explained to Hermione what he was up to and taught her the charm. She learned it quickly, grinning in delight.
Neville cued the music.
When it started, everyone went out onto the floor, someone even dragged Harry and Draco out. They obediently started to dance.
Since they were totally wrapped up in each other they never noticed as other dancers gradually sat back down.
Neville cast his charm and suddenly they were dancing in a pool of cool green light. As the two twirled gracefully across the floor the light gradually changed to blue. Hermione did her bit by casting the other charm which made gold and silver glitters sparkle around them.
They were so wrapped up in each other that they didn't notice until the very last of the tune. Harry blinked a bit then smirked at Draco. “Suicide?”
Draco grinned back. “Double.”
Harry nodded then effortlessly dipped Draco, he came up with Draco in the dance move called a Suicide Spiral. He twirled Draco around several times, clasping one hand and one ankle. Draco's robes billowed and rippled. When Harry released his ankle he dropped to his feet in an athletic move that no one had ever seen before. He wrapped his arms around Harry and led him into the same steps that had led into the spiral and Harry was suddenly face up and spinning giddily in the same fashion as Draco had only moments before.
Harry left the spiral by a move called, inelegantly, a butt spin, shifting from the face up suicide spiral into spinning on his butt then rising to his feet to step back into Draco's arms. The dance ended seconds later and Harry and Draco took bows as the whole room burst into wild applause. They grinned at each other and said together, “Pranked by Neville. Jinx!” Then laughed rather wildly as they left the floor to return to their table.
It took them a bit as everyone between them and their objective wanted to slap them on the back, ask for a dance or congratulate them. The back slaps were accepted with grins, as were the congratulations, the dance invitations were politely declined.
They were just beginning to relax again when there was a loud bang. The huge double doors of the Great Hall were flung back against the walls and a man charged in.
Harry looked up, as startled as the rest of the young people. “What the hell?”
Just as everyone was beginning to ask questions the man shouted, “Where is he? Where is that little shit? Potter! Where are you? Come out!”
Harry stepped onto the dance floor, his expression cold. “Who are you? What do you want?”
“I'm Brown. I challenge you to a duel. You have impugned the reputation of my daughter and I'll have satisfaction.” The man looked wild eyed. His clothing was disheveled and his hair uncombed. He looked like a crazy person.
Harry just waited for him to continue. He didn't get the chance as Dumbledore interrupted.
“Here now, Mr. Brown. This is no way to go about this. If you wish to challenge someone, a ball is not the place to do it. Come up to my office and we'll discuss it.”
“NO! No office. No discussion. I want satisfaction. Now! And I will have it.” Mr. Brown whirled around. “Potter! I ...” He slumped to the floor as Dumbledore hit him with a Sleeping Jinx.
Several people cried 'foul' but Dumbledore just announced, “I am not interfering with the challenge, only the time and place. A ball is no place for a duel. Now, as the mood is sadly shattered, perhaps it would be best if you all went to your common rooms. Mr. Potter, with me please.”
Harry just watched as Dumbledore turned Mr. Brown over to Professor McGonagall with instructions to take him to the infirmary. She flicked her wand to hover the man and left with him in tow.
Harry followed Dumbledore to his office, clutching Draco's hand in his. Neville, Ron and Hermione followed. Neville was quick to notice Hermione's death grip on Ron's hand. He smiled a bit at it.
They all settled into chairs, Draco and Harry, Hermione and Ron, in wide chairs that accommodated them both and Neville in a chair of his own.
Dumbledore cast floo powder into the fire, called, “Malfoy Manor” then waited to be answered.
“Yes, what the devil have those two gotten themselves into now.” Lucius sounded more resigned than annoyed.
“Mr. Brown just challenged Harry to a duel. Right in the middle of the dance floor.”
Lucius grumbled then said, “I'll be through in a moment. I was just getting ready for bed.”
.
Meanwhile, in the ballroom, the rest of the students were grumbling and grousing about having their fun cut short.
Most of them blamed Brown, but a few blamed Harry. They were silenced easily by glares from their classmates, but owls were sent, complaints were made and the whole story was all over by morning.
The parties in the common rooms lasted until well after midnight.
Professor McGonagall took Mr. Brown to Madam Pomfrey who put him in a bed, dosed him with sleeping potion and said that should hold him until morning.
.
Lucius got dressed again, in robes that were appropriate for night visiting. He was tired after a day spent conducting business for his holdings and Harry's but he was ready in minutes.
When he stepped through the floo the first thing he saw was Harry. He was seated in a love seat with Draco, sipping tea.
“Harry! Are you alright? Draco?” When they both nodded, he turned to Dumbledore and snarled. “What now? Damnit! I cannot trust you with anything ... one would...” He took a deep breath, visibly calming himself.
Dumbledore offered tea which was refused with a glower. He offered some brandy, which Lucius accepted. He sat down in a comfortable chair in an obvious snit and demanded, “Someone explain to me why I have been called here. Immediately, in detail.”
So Dumbledore explained exactly what had happened, ending, “So he's in the infirmary right now. He's been dosed with sleeping draught which should keep him out until morning. But, Harry has to accept the challenge, or be dishonoured.” He looked weary and old.
Lucius surprised him by saying, with admirable calm. “We have been expecting something like this. Just not quite this soon. My filing a law suit against Parkinson must have initiated this.” He finished his drink then stood up. “Albus, I shall convince him to hold his challenge until the Duelling Club meeting. Day after tomorrow?” Dumbledore nodded. “He can re-issue his challenge in a proper manner then. Convince him, won't you?”
Dumbledore sighed, “Very well. I'll do that. But ... are you sure you won't offer a proxy?”
Lucius sneered elegantly. “I doubt that that will be needed.” He turned his eyes to his sons. “Go to bed. Your eyes are like holes burnt into parchment.” He smiled at Harry. “You'll do fine. I'll be at the club meeting, you know that. I'll second you. Now ... bed.” And with that, he flooed back home.
Harry stood up, dragging Draco with him. “Thanks for helping us, Professor. That's very kind of you. Draco, we better go, Papa will have a fit otherwise. Hermione, Ron, Neville. You'll be at the club meeting?”
All three nodded their intent to do exactly that. Dumbledore offered tea and was refused, everyone making the excuse that they needed to go to bed, too. The headmaster then dismissed them to their beds sighing in relief when they went. He wondered how the devil he was going to protect Harry from this duel with Mr. Brown without causing insult all around. He realized then that Lucius had said that he was going to second Harry. Obviously the man had some scheme in mind. He decided to take Harry's advice and just butt out. He could always pick up the pieces later.
.
Saturday morning dawned chill and a bit foggy. Not that that made any difference to anyone inside Hogwarts. The gossip was hot and exciting. Everyone knew that Harry had been challenged. Everyone had either been there or been told the second they got up.
Chairs were grouped in gossiping clumps while people gobbled their breakfasts so they could clear away for the Dueling Club.
Even though the club wasn't supposed to start until 10am, the tables were cleared away by nine and all the school was waiting for the meeting to start, whether they belonged to the club or not.
Dumbledore nodded to Professor Flitwick and said, “I'll bring Mr. Brown down during the demonstration. Maybe that will convince him to change his mind.”
Professor Flitwick looked up at his old friend. “I doubt it. He was always hasty.” He took a deep breath. “Well, I better get down there. The little imps are getting restless.”
When he got up on the dueling platform, Flitwick called the meeting to order and announced that their guest would be there soon. As they waited, the tiny professor gave a lecture on dueling safety. This included what clothing to wear and how to bow without taking your eyes off your opponent. He taught the incantation for the safety shields that would keep spectators from catching a stray spell, informing them that it was the judge's responsibility.
Draco and Harry had eaten breakfast in their quarters at Professor Flitwick's suggestion. Now he had them come up onto the platform to show what proper dueling robes look like. Their entry from the small retiring room behind the head table was all that Flitwick could have hoped. They entered in the now familiar flying wedge, Harry at the front, flanked by Neville and Ron with Hermione just behind them.
Hermione didn't mind her rear guard position, as that was exactly what she was. She'd learned healing spells from Madam Pomfrey and shield spells from Mr. Malfoy. She could heal on the fly and carried a small pouch filled with potions. It was a healer's pouch and spelled to be bigger on the inside than the outside and also to dispense the proper potion quickly. She was very pleased with herself and it showed.
The four young people entered the hall, heads held proudly, step firm. Their robes were their usual robes that everyone was familiar with. But now they held a new significance, these young students were warriors, ready to fight whenever needed.
Flitwick nodded to them and asked if Harry would mind coming up to model his robes. He didn't as he'd been told to expect the request.
Harry stepped up and all Hogwarts got a really good look at the combat robes. Professor Flitwick explained that dragon hide provided protection from edged weapons and minor protection from hexes and jinxes. The robes were cut so that they allowed freedom of movement but also baffled the eye by obscuring the outline of the body. Flitwick explained every detail of the robes, having Harry turn this way and that.
After the lecture on robes, Flitwick announced that his guest was just arriving. Every head turned to see Lucius Malfoy entering the Great Hall through the huge main door. He bowed slightly to the room then strode to the platform.
Lucius was also wearing combat robes. His were deep midnight blue, without any trim. He smiled at Harry and Draco, shocking most of the rest of the students. Harry smiled back while Draco frankly grinned.
Lucius turned to Professor Flitwick and bowed slightly. Flitwick bowed back.
“Mr. Malfoy. Thank you for coming. I have an excellent opponent for you.” He smiled genially.
Professor Snape stepped up onto the platform, smirking in a slightly feral fashion. He bowed to Lucius and then Professor Flitwick.
The professor then announced, “I am so pleased to present a demonstration duel between Mr. Lucius Malfoy and Professor Severus Snape. Both gentlemen are ranked in the top ten duellists of the International Duelling Federation.” He grinned widely. “They took second and third place respectively. So ... Shall we begin, gentlemen?”
Both duelists nodded and went to the back of the platform to have their wands weighed in and examined. Flitwick explained that weighing and examining the wands eliminated any chance of a duelist preloading spells or enhancing his wand in a variety of illegal ways. A hand went up near the back of the room.
'Yes, Miss ... Delancy?”
A fourth year Hufflepuff stood up. “Yes, sir. Um ... who was first? I mean, if Mr. Malfoy and Professor Snape were second and third, who was first?”
Professor Flitwick grinned in a way that hinted at his goblin ancestry. “Oh, that would have been me.”
Professor Dumbledore, who'd officiated at the weighing, announced himself satisfied that the wands were in proper order. “Thank you, gentlemen. Now, as Professor Flitwick will be, not only judging but lecturing, I will hold the protective shields. Fillius, you may proceed at your pleasure.” He stepped back to settle in his chair behind the platform.
Professor Flitwick snapped, “Begin.” and stepped to the back of the platform.
Severus and Lucius stood back to back in the middle of the platform. They began to walk to the ends as Professor Flitwick counted from one to ten, on ten they turned and stood to wait for the command to fight.
Unlike the time Snape and dueled Lockheart, they stood with their left shoulder to their opponent, wands held loosely.
Snape made the first move, flicking his wand and snapping, “Confringo!” He pointed his wand at Lucius' feet. The platform burst into flames.
Everyone expected Lucius to use Aguamenti to put out the flames, instead he jumped straight up then flipped in mid air, long hair and loose robes streaming in the air. He landed beyond the reach of the flames, while he was in the air he case a silent Difodio. This gouged a deep slash into the platform right at Snape's feet. He stepped back, grinned in a way that made two first years start crying and the fight was on.
They cast spells, some of them in languages no one understood, others silent, jumping over or ducking under their opponents spells at the same time. Snape yelped as a spell slashed his shoulder open, but he kept fighting.
Lucius landed awkwardly and everyone in the room heard a snap. No one was sure exactly what it was. With that sound, though, the fight changed. Lucius drew a sword from somewhere which forced Snape to pull one of his own.
They fought back and forth, steel clashing and scraping on steel, spells flying, until Severus managed to pierce Lucius through the shoulder with and extended lunge a la sinister. This did not, however, give him the win. He glanced down at his thigh. Lucius had stabbed him through it at the halfway mark with a dirk.
Flitwick called a halt and announced, “Tie. Double incapacitation. Madam, if you would.”
Lucius, all dignity forgotten, flopped down flat on his back. “I expect that dirk back cleaned.”
Severus, who was sitting on the platform, clutching his thigh, retorted, “You wish. Mine now.”
Madam Pomfrey headed to Professor Snape first as he was bleeding more heavily, being wounded twice. The slash across his shoulder bled down his back and his thigh was dripping blood onto the platform. He seemed singularly unconcerned about it though. Madam waved her wand at his shoulder and the flesh knit together quickly. His thigh received another wave then she handed him a vial. Snape swallowed it without comment, not even making a face. He stood up and went to Professor Dumbledore who kindly mended his robes with a flick of his wand.
Draco went to him while Harry went to Lucius. Madam Pomfrey had also healed Lucius with rather ruthless efficiency, and was just handing him a potion.
“Papa! That was great! I've never seen anything like it. Is that how it goes in a real duel?”
Lucius looked up into Harry's glowing face and laughed. “Yes, that's what it's really like. You're not allowed to kill your opponent, only come close. And anything that occurs on the field stays on the field. Help me up.” He held up his hand to Harry who obligingly pulled him to his feet.
“There you go. I better go congratulate Professor Snape.” Harry grinned at Lucius' raised eyebrow. “Never let it be said that I held a grudge after a formal apology was accepted.”
Lucius found himself chuckling gently, then he groaned as unhealed bruised ribs complained. Madam returned to him, snapping, “Stop moaning. You know I heal bleeding first. Here!” she thrust a vial into his hand, “Pain reliever combined with blood replenisher. Men!” She looked around herself in undisguised disgust then flounced back to her place. She really disliked dueling.
While this was going on all the students were reacting in various ways. Some were excited by the duel, other's were stunned by the viciousness of it. All of them could only admire the skills that were displayed although some, mostly Slytherins, were well aware that they'd just seen two Inner Circle Death Eaters battling it out right before their eyes. Dumbledore himself was more than a little dismayed by the display.
This was what his students were facing. This was - he’d had no idea at all that Death Eaters were so competent. Again, he had much to think about.
Lucius held a quick, whispered consultation with Fillius then stood and walked to the front of the platform, his casual saunter displaying to everyone where Draco had acquired his mannerisms.
“Thank you, everyone. I do believe that this demonstration came off a bit better than the last one.” He turned his head to smirk at Professor Snape who curled his lip in disgust. “That is a skill level only to be found in the upper 10% of duellists. Also, it requires not only precision, strength and magical and physical endurance, but a knowledge of spells only to be found amongst a rare few. If you are approached by Death Eaters, cast a screamer and run like the hounds of hell are after you, because ... they are.” He waited for the grumbling and fearful exclamations to die down. “You are here, in this club, to learn all that you can so that you can defend yourselves. Do not think that you will learn the skills needed to start a fight with anyone. It is called the Duelling Club for a reason. You will be concentrating on duelling protocols and practices. They will not turn you into warriors over night, or even any time soon. Remember this and do not, as the saying goes, bite off more than you can chew. Thank you.” And with that, he whirled, robes flaring and strode to the side of the platform and just stepped off. He landed on the floor with easy grace and walked to a chair beside Dumbledore, he settled into it, gracefully rearranging his robes.
Professor Flitwick nodded his head in approval, remarking, “Thank you, Mr. Malfoy. And you as well, Professor Snape. Now. You all know your levels. Pair up with someone of an equal strength. If there are any odd men out, come to me and I will pair you up.”
The groups gathered in indicated spots around the Great Hall and started pairing up. Everyone noticed that Draco, Harry, Ron, Neville, and Hermione stayed together. As there were five of them, there was going to be an odd man out. Most of the students kept an eye on them to see what would happen.
Professor Flitwick called them all to attention, instructing them to mind themselves and leave others to do the same. Then he went to the Hogwarts Horrors, as they were the only group with an odd man out that was not willing to settle on waiting for a turn.
“Well, how shall we do this? Miss Granger?”
Hermione just settled on the floor in a graceful pool of robes. “Professor, we usually draw lots. We have two with numerals one and two and one blank one. The blank one sits out until the other two pairs are finished then duels one of the winners. We make sure that no one is always the blank lot. We'll do that, if you don't mind.”
The professor smiled cheerfully at the explanation, exclaiming, “Perfect! But I shall take the blank lot, I think.”
So they drew lots; Harry drew Ron, Neville drew Draco and Hermione was left dueling Professor Flitwick. She gave him a small smile. “Don't worry, sir, I'll take it easy on you.”
His return smile was definitely goblinish. “Oh, I don't think there will be any problems ... on either side of this duel. Shall we?” he offered his arm to her.
Hermione took the small professor's arm and allowed him to lead her to the platform. There were now platforms in each corner of the hall and three down the middle of it. A professor refereed at each one, maintaining the safety spells and keeping order in the lines of waiting students. The prefects who had not joined the club were there anyway, to help keep the waiting students in order.
“Yes, now. Miss Granger, are you any good with a blade?”
“Fair. I'm taking lessons from Mr. Malfoy and he says that I'm progressing nicely.” Hermione shrugged, “But I don't have my sword with me. Harry has it.”
“Mr. Potter has your sword? Why is that?” Professor Flitwick looked puzzled.
“I'm more of a shield and curse sort of gal so he has it in his devils bag so it's near but not where curious idiots can cut themselves with it. I can get it from him, if you'd like.” Hermione's self-depreciating shrug had the professor wondering.
“Yes, I do think you should ask him for it.”
Hermione went to Harry but didn't have to ask him for her sword as he was in the process of handing out everyone's sword, dirk and shield. Except for Draco and himself, they both used a targ.
Harry's original sword had suffered the fate of many such things and broken on him. He was now using a one-handed bastard blade and targ. Draco still favored a saber but used a targ instead of a dirk. Neville had graduated to a huge two-handed sword that Hermione called a Wallace. She used a small arming sword and shield. Everyone in the know noticed that all of them, including Neville, kept one hand free for wand use. No one much noticed Neville as he was still unassuming and a bit shy, but he had developed broad shoulders and a deep chest, he had also grown several inches and looked, on close examination, very much like his bear animagus form.
Harry grinned as he handed over Hermione's weapons. “Watch out for Flitwick. He may be little but he was champion for several years.”
“Right. He loves charms but that doesn't mean he's a push over. I'll be careful.” Hermione patted Harry on the shoulder. “And you don't flip out over Draco.”
“Things are settling, thank goodness. I'll be fine.” Harry was relieved that his overprotective tendencies had settled. He and Draco had had some interesting problems, but they'd only lasted a couple of days.
Suddenly, the back door from the professors retiring room burst open. Mr. Brown charged through a furious expression on his face.
“Damn you, Dumbledore! You drugged me. You thought you could just push me off? Thought that everyone would forget about my challenge? Potter! Where the hell is that little shit?”
Brown looked even crazier today than he had last night. He was wild-eyed, disheveled and unshaven.
Harry looked up from his task of handing out weapons to his friends and grumbled, “Well, shit. I was hoping he'd been shoved off.” He tucked his bag back into his robes. “Ok. Let's do this. Wonder where Papa is? He was going to be my second.” He glanced at the chair next to Dumbledore where Lucius had been sitting, but Lucius was already striding across the floor to Harry's side.
He made it to Harry at the same time as Brown. Just in time to intercept a full handed slap aimed at Harry. The smack of palm meeting palm attracted the attention of everyone nearby.
Lucius rolled his hand around in a quick move, taking hold of Brown's wrist. “That was not necessary. In fact, this whole thing is not necessary. As Harry's second, I ask, is there any chance of reconciliation?”
Mr. Brown snarled, “He has ruined my little girl. And me. The financial reparations have left me with just enough to keep household. Damn you both.”
Harry scowled at him for a moment then snapped, “Well, she's fairly ruined the prospects of my families, so who's the worst of us?”
Lucius sighed rather dramatically then announced in a carrying voice, “I have tried to reconcile the parties. As this is impossible, we accept the challenge. I second my foster son, Harry James Potter. Twenty minutes.”
Flitwick nodded. “I will referee and judge. Mr. Brown ... who is your second.” Brown looked around for a moment. All the nearby students stepped back as no one wanted to second the 'crazy man'.
Dumbledore looked a bit confused at first but when a second was called for he just nodded to a seventh year Hufflepuff. “Second him, won't you, my boy.” The poor kid looked anything but willing. Lucius gave him a surreptitious nod so he stepped forward, looking like he'd rather have a tooth pulled.
He withdrew to the north side of the main platform to consult with Mr. Brown. This consultation consisted of him telling Brown that he'd be better off to apologize and run and Mr. Brown saying, “Not a chance!” The Hufflepuff then just shrugged, said, “Your funeral.” and offered to hold his robes. This was also rejected with a snarl.
Draco sighed and remarked to Hermione, “No manners, that one. Never did have. It's no wonder Lavender turned out so ... off.”
Hermione just nodded, huffed and crossed her arms over her chest.
The Hufflepuff walked over, introduced himself as Adam Fimblepott, and asked Lucius if there was any way Harry could reconcile with Mr. Brown. He was sure there was not, but as a second, he had to ask.
Harry laughed softly, then shook his head. “You know there's not but you're doing a good job. Go tell him to get ready. As the challenged, I have the right of choice, so I choose ... no cutting hexes, no strong bludgeoning jinxes and whoever gets knocked out first looses.”
Adam nodded with some relief. “Sounds good to me. I just hope the idiot doesn't refuse.”
Harry glanced at Lucius, concern written across his face. “What if he does?”
Lucius shrugged as a ruthless expression flitted across his face. “If he refuses, it proves he has no honour. You cannot refuse to duel him, but if something happens, you are absolved of all blame. Do what you must.”
Harry sighed but nodded. “As you say, Papa.” Harry just hoped the stupid man didn't push his luck.
He was getting ready for his duel with Brown when all his friends joined him at his end of the platform. Hermione cleared her throat then said, “We ... all of us ... well, don’t take chances. If that ... that ...” She screwed her face up, trying to come up with a name for Mr. Brown without swearing.
Neville took over. “Just watch him, mate. I don't trust him to stick to the conventions. He's ... not right.”
Ron nodded. “He's not. He's got that wild look in his eyes. And ... Hermione and Neville are right. Watch him.”
Draco refrained from comment, feeling that the others had said all that needed saying. Instead, he just gripped Harry's shoulder for a moment. Harry nodded at them all then turned to mount the platform.
As he mounted he heard a soft throat clear. He looked in the direction of the sound to see Snape. He nodded slightly.
“Take him down. But be careful. He is just crazy enough to be really unpredictable. That's dangerous.”
Harry just returned, “I will sir, thank you.' and went on up the stairs.
He joined Lucius who asked, “What did Severus want?”
“He wanted to warn me that Brown is not stable. I thanked him, of course, even though I can see that the man is not ... all there.”
Lucius grimaced, hissing softly, “The appellation shit house rat comes to mind.”
Harry shifted uneasily, “Exactly. I don't think he's going to stick to the rules I established.”
“If he steps over the line, you are then justified in anything you do. Just ... I'd rather you didn't kill him if you can avoid it.”
“Me too. But I'm not going to let him maim me or anything.”
Lucius patted Harry's shoulder, much as Draco had done. “Of course not. Be very careful. I would hate to have anything happen to you ... of the permanent sort.”
Harry made a little growling sound and said, “Aren't you supposed to be seconding me or something?”
Lucius laughed, a light sound that no one could ever remember coming from him. “Yes, I am. Excuse me while I do my thing, as you children say.” and with that, he went over to Professor Flitwick to tell him what rules Harry, as challenged, had decided on.
Flitwick announced, in a rather satisfied tone, “That boy is a right one. So, Mr, Fimblepott, is your primary instructed?” Adam nodded with a doubtful expression on his face. “And what is that face for?”
“I don't think he's going to stick to his instructions. He wants revenge and he's going to have it. You are warned.” The poor boy looked defeated and a little sick. “He's over there mumbling about ... weird stuff. I really wish there was some way to stop this. Potter's in trouble.”
Lucius snorted. “He's been instructed by me ... and Professor Snape. Brown is doomed. Excuse me while I go warn Harry to expect ... just about anything.” He bowed to Flitwick then Fimblepott and strode to Harry's side.
Harry nodded his head at the quick warning his Papa gave him then went to his position in the middle of the long narrow platform. He turned his back on Brown as if he was dueling another student and just waited for Flitwick to begin the duel.
Brown stormed over to stand back to back with Harry, mumbling direly under his breath about 'evil boys' and 'good girls' as well as other things Harry couldn't quite hear. He gave Lucius an eye roll then paid attention to the matters at hand.
Professor Flitwick called them to order, numbered out the steps and called “Duel!”
Harry stalked Brown like a panther. He moved out of the way of his heavy stunners, nimbly hopping over some and ducking others. He put up a shield that would block the bludgeoning hexes and just withstood their impacts with stoic calm. He was waiting for Brown to show his true colors and wasn't disappointed.
It didn't take long for the man to use a forbidden curse. The entire school gasped as he used the Entrail Expelling curse on Harry. It missed by a mile but Professor Dumbledore had to do a bit of fancy footwork to keep it from getting to the observers. The shields hadn't been set for something like that. Dumbledore corrected that oversight at once.
Flitwick called foul but Brown just kept on fighting. Harry hadn't lowered his guard when the professor signaled, he wasn't going to trust Brown as far as he could hex him.
But he was mad as hell, someone could have been killed, as Dumbledore was so trusting that he'd not put up shields strong enough to keep in anything stronger than a bludgeoning hex. Harry waited until Brown dropped all pretense of dueling fairly then he literally pulled out the big guns.
“Go dteasctar seo!”
Brown's robes slit across the chest revealing a deep cut which immediately started to bleed.
“Greadadh trí lár a scairt!”
He fell to one knee, gripping his stomach, face twisted in pain.
“Lasc fola!”
Harry's face was fearsome to behold as a red lash formed at the tip of his wand and he used it like a whip, lashing at Brown as he stalked towards him.
“You idiot! I'd have let it go, but you had to be so dishonourable as to cheat. Now, you'll pay.”
Lucius waited long enough for Harry to scare the hell out of the man then he called, “Harry!”
Harry turned to face Lucius, turning his back on Mr. Brown. “Yes, Papa?” His tone of voice was polite, slightly bored and questioning.
“No more. He's done.”
“Yes, sir.”
But it was not to be. Screaming incoherently, Brown staggered to his feet and cast. He only got as far as, “Avad ...” when he was cut off. He was hit by stunners from Lucius and Professors Snape, Flitwick and McGonagall. Dumbledore was so startled that he just stood there with a shocked expression on his face.
Brown dropped like the proverbial pole axed ox. Harry snarled a bit but calmed when Lucius shook his head at him.
The faint smell of burnt feathers puzzled some, the rest ignored it in favor of exclaiming over Brown's foul, Harry's use of powerful Irish spells or just babbling in general.
Flitwick called them all to order. “Enough! Silence! Those of you not in the duelling club should leave now. Anyone who doesn't want to be questioned by Aurors also leave. Anyone sixth year or above, this does not include you. You will stay. Now, sort yourselves.”
This led to a scramble as everyone under fifth year scurried out the doors, most went to their common rooms to wonder and marvel over the day, the rest retired to their rooms to write to their parents.
Dumbledore went to his office to floo the Aurors while McGonagall and Snape set all the remaining students down at the tables, returned to their places for the purpose, and had them write up what had happened. Snape used his slate to write an announcement which appeared simultaneously on all the common room boards to tell all the other students to write up a similar essay. He knew that the aurors would have to read all of them. He smirked to himself, revenge, even minor, was sweet.
Madam Pomfrey made sure that Brown wasn't going to exsanguinate, or return to consciousness then stood over him to wait the aurors.
Lucius refrained from undignified public displays, barely. He called Harry to him as soon as he could and kept him at his side until the aurors arrived. He was silently amused to hear Harry muttering under his breath. Something about how was he supposed to get any real training in when people insisted on challenging him to 'stupid' duels.
Professor McGonagall came over. “Most impressive, Mr Potter. Too bad Mr. Brown had to cheat.”
Harry just shrugged a bit. “I really wanted to turn him into a pig, but ...” He couldn't help a small smile. “I didn't want to insult pigs.”
Professor McGonagall actually snickered. “I see. Well, I'm proud of you.”
Harry gave her an irritated look. “I'm glad you are.” but his snappish tone seemed off.
Professor McGonagall got all Scottish on him. “Excuse me? An' what, may I ask, brought on that?”
Harry turned to face her. “I'm sorry. I'm a bit put off right now, but now's as good a time as any. I'm very disappointed in you. You're supposed to help me, believe in me, support me. But every single time I've ever come to you, you've either put me off or ignored me. Keep my head down, my ... foot.” He stopped speaking before he said something irretrievable.
The professor had the good grace to look ashamed of herself. “Yes, well ... Dumbledore said ... but that's no excuse. I'm ashamed of myself. As a professor, head of house and a woman. I should have at least listened to you. The stone is an especially unforgivable but ... Umbridge. That woman had us all so at odds and ends that we ... none of us ... were worth a damn. All I can do is say I'm very sorry and promise to do better.”
Harry blinked once, very slowly, as he thought that over. “Thank you, ma'am. I ... well, we'll split the blame, shall we? And, ...” he smiled a bit sadly. “I think we all, students that is, forget that you're all just human, when all is said and done. Umbitch was a real piece of work. She had everyone on edge and jumping at shadows.” Harry made a motion as if to hug his head of house then drew back, wondering if it was proper or not.
Professor McGonagall just snorted, said fondly, “Ay, pish, ye'll ha' me greetin' the mo'. Ye great lummox.” She tugged him into a smothering hug, sniffled a bit then patted his shoulder.
Harry couldn't help but smile and hug her back. He was now sure that she had the best intentions in the world but believed in and listened to Dumbledore over her own feelings.
Lucius nodded at her over Harry's head. He knew McGonagall as a straight arrow and a firm believer in right over might, but she was also too much in Dumbledore's pocket. This was changing as the stern woman had her nose rubbed in his faults.
“Now, I'd really like to know where you got those spells. Please.” Her stern expression never changed but the twinkle in her eyes said mischief.
Harry smiled, “Merlin’s book. And Seamus. He helped me with the pronunciation.”
“Ay, well. Very well done. Bring that book to my office tonight, if you please, I'd love to see it.”
Harry blushed a bit. “I'll have to keep one hand on it or it'll close on you. I've managed to get it to stay open for Hermione and Seamus but ... it's a bit peculiar.”
McGonagall smirked at him. “Merlin's book? I'm sure it is. But I'd love to see it, none the less.”
“I'll bring it by after supper ... about seven?”
“Good, good. I'll have tea ready.” And with that, Professor McGonagall hugged him again and hurried off.
She was stopped by Dean Thomas, who was in a regular fit of temper, “Ma'am ... Professor McGonagall! He shouldn't be allowed to use spells like that! Dark, all of them. Mum said only the Latin was Light. I've done my best to discourage them but they just won't listen. I've even destroyed ...”
McGonagall, who was well aware that there was trouble between the year mates, exclaimed, “Where the devil did you and your mother get that idea? Dark and Light have nothing to do with the language the spell is in. Come to my office.” and with that she actually grabbed him by the arm and started to haul him off. She was stopped by Flitwick who reminded her that the Aurors would want to speak to both of them. She let go but told Dean that he was due for several detentions and an essay on languages and Light and Dark magic. “Thirty inches and not a line less. See to it!” She stormed off, planning detentions as she went.
Dean gazed after her for a moment then went off to sulk in a corner. His mother would be getting a letter.
As McGonagall was doing her best to control her temper the Aurors arrived, with all the flourish and thunder of a troupe of trolls. Harry rolled his eyes.
Lucius was relieved to see that the group consisted of Kingsley Shacklebolt, Nymphadora Tonks and four unknown but obviously junior aurors. They split at once into two groups, one consisted of Tonks and three of the juniors the other of Shacklebolt and one junior. The junior auror held a quill and parchment, obviously delegated to keeping notes of all the inquiries, Lucius noted that the other team also had one auror as transcriptionist.
Everyone was disgusted to find that the write ups that the faculty had had them start were not acceptable to the aurors, they were all going to have to be questioned directly. A suitable notice was sent to the common room boards, to the joy of all, except the students who were still in the Great Hall.
Auror Tonks went to Professor Dumbledore and spoke with him for a few moments. Then she went to Professor Flitwick, a puzzled look on her face. They spoke but Lucius didn't get a chance to read lips as Auror Shacklebolt spoke to him.
“Well, Malfoy, what's going on here.”
Harry immediately bristled. “Excuse me? Isn't there supposed to be a Mister in there somewhere? Or have I been taught wrong?”
Lucius decided to let the reprimand sit in Harry's hands. “Senior Auror Shacklebolt.” He bowed slightly, never let it be said that a Malfoy disregarded the niceties.
Kingsley took a deep breath, bowed and said, “Mr. Malfoy. Could you tell me what is going on, please?”
.
It took nearly three hours for all the statements to be taken. So long, in fact, that the house elves brought in sandwiches, tea and cakes.
After some confusion, Dumbledore suggested that they set the auror teams up at small tables then line the students who were waiting up at long tables nearby. This allowed everyone to either study, gossip, eat, or play board games until they were called.
It also kept the confusion down to, what was for Hogwarts, a minimum. This meant that, while students changed tables at will, quarreled with each other and in general acted out their ire at being kept inside on a free day, everyone got interviewed.
Finally, Brown was enervated and questioned. This proved to be a bit problematic as he was now certifiable. He swore at everyone, blamed Dumbledore for most of Lavenders problems, claimed that Harry had tried to potion Lavender first and demanded satisfaction of anyone who spoke more than two words to him.
It was decided to take him to St. Mungo's for confinement until he could be evaluated.
The junior aurors took off with him, dragging him out the great doors and down to the apparition point by the main gates. They disappeared with a bang.
Harry, who had endured a cross examination from hell from Shacklebolt with commendable aplomb, sighed. “Well, finally! Thank goodness they're gone. I want tea, and cake, sandwiches wouldn't go amiss either.”
Lucius just accepted a plate from Draco, settled at a table and nodded to chairs. “Sit. Where are Hermione and ...” Hermione plopped down across from him joined by Neville and Ron. Draco sat beside Lucius. “Ah, there you are.”
Hermione grumbled, “I've never been questioned by anyone who'd already made up their minds before. Disgraceful.”
Lucius nodded his agreement, his mouth being full of egg salad at the moment.
Ron was philosophical about it. “Well, it did keep the amount of questioning down to a minimum.”
Neville was on Hermione's side, declaring, “Aurors should be impartial and take evidence without forming an opinion as to guilt beforehand.”
Harry just snarled, “And to think I wanted to be an auror. Not now, thank you very much.”
Draco just poked doubtfully at a piece of cake then said, for all of them, “I'm just glad it's all over and Harry isn't hurt. I just hope nothing else happens before Hols.” He was to be sadly disappointed.
.
The Irish:
“Go dteasctar seo!” - cut 'deep'
“Greadadh trí lár a scairt!” - Scorching through their midsection! Actually a traditional Irish curse.
“Lasc fola!” - Blood whip.
Difodio - Gouging hex, gouges hunks out of target.