Hogwarts OverExposed - Salazar's Return

Hogwarts OverExposed - Salazar's Return

"Be reasonable Justin," Percy declared derisively. "On one hand you have a former Hogwarts prefect who went on to become school head boy and ultimately the esteemed Minister of Magic. He smirked, pointing at himself. "On the other, you have an eccentric girl who holds a variety of rather weird beliefs, which have no basis in fact. A young lady who was given the moniker Loony by her peers and now edits both a sleazy rag and a nudie magazine."

"Who do you think the prudent wizard should believe and trust?"

Chapter Twenty-five
Missing

"That was the worst night's sleep I've ever had," Kim complained, her body aching all over. "I don't know how Tarzan and Jane ever managed to sleep in a tree."

"Well, for one thing, they had a tree house. For another, Jane didn't have to sleep with one eye open all night for fear that Cheetah would bugger her," Caitlin mumbled. "Every little noise made me twitch."

"Funny, how back home the sounds of nature are calming and here they're... well, here they're just plain scary."

Caitlin nodded her concurrence. "I hope we get out of this tree soon. I have to pee and I just don't feel right doing it while up here."

"Consider yourself lucky," Kim stated. "I've been holding back a number two all night. If I'm required, I could probably bring myself to pee in front of the others, but I'll simply die if I have to do the other item with anyone watching."

"Yeah, some things should always stay private," Caitlin agreed. "I think even Emily might be hesitant about doing that openly. Poor Emily, she most likely thinks we're all dead."

"It's just a matter of time," Kim replied downheartedly.

Caitlin glared at Kim.

"Don't look at me that way. I'm just being rational," Kim explained. "I don't want to die any more than anyone else, but I can't possibly imagine how we're going to get off this island."

"Mum and Dad will find a way," Caitlin said positively. "I just know they will."

"Okay, listen up everyone," Harry called out. "We don't see any signs of the Erumpent or any other dangerous beasts, so we're going to get out of this tree. We'll do up the rope thing again and then slide, one at a time, down to the ground. Then Caitlin will untie it from the limb before she jumps down into my arms. Once we're on firm earth, I'm sure many of you will be keen to get your clothes back on, in spite of them being rather the worse for wear."

A number of the students, especially the boys, nodded their agreement.

"Then what?" Jeffrey McDowell asked.

"Then we'll decide on the best course of action to take," Harry responded. "Our ultimate goal is to get back to that abandoned work shed on the beach and our Portkeys. We'll discuss our options for doing just that, but first let's get out of this tree. I for one am tired of playing monkey."

Harry and Ron climbed down the makeshift rope first so that they could steady it for the others. Climbing down went much easier than climbing up, although Nora did lose her grip and end up plummeting down on top of both Ron and Harry. It was a toss up as to who was the most embarrassed, student or professors, as they untangled their intertwined bare limbs.

They made fast time and soon only Hermione and Caitlin remained in the tree.

"Caitlin, as soon as Hermione is on the ground, untie your end and toss it down," Harry instructed. "Then you jump. Don't worry, Ron and I will be ready to catch you."

"Professor Potter, look!" Nora cried out, excitedly. The Ravenclaw girl was anxiously pointing in the direction of an Erumpent, lumbering toward them.

"Hermione, you don't have time to climb down," Harry shouted. "Just jump; you too, Caitlin. Ron and I will catch you."

It was at least twenty feet from the tree limb to the ground, but Hermione didn't hesitate. Unfortunately, Ron wasn't prepared for the impact Hermione's weight, though trim, would have when falling from that height. He was sent sprawling and Hermione hit the ground awkwardly, her ankle shattering on contact.

"What about the clothes rope?" Caitlin asked, neither she nor Harry aware of Hermione's blight.

"Just forget it," Harry yelled. "Jump!"

Harry stumbled when Caitlin hit him, but managed to remain upright.

"Let's get out of here before that thing gets too inquisitive," Harry ordered.

"Harry, I'm sorry. Hermione's hurt," Ron said, his voice etched with remorse. "I dropped her; I think she's broken an ankle."

"Then I'll simply have to carry her," Harry said firmly, certainly not about to leave Hermione behind. He effortlessly swept the stunning nude witch into his arms before she had a chance to protest or for that matter even utter a word.

"Everyone, this way," Harry called out, heading in the direction of the safari ride tube.

"But, Harry," Ron exclaimed, running next to his best friend, "I thought you didn't want to stay in the tube? Weren't you apprehensive of being trapped in there?"

"I didn't and I still am," Harry answered, "but Hermione and I discussed it last night. It's seems like the only way out of this place. I'll explain once we're out of harm's way."

Luckily, Harry's earlier supposition concerning the Erumpent seemed to be holding true. The animal didn't seem to be looking for a fight. As long as the group didn't provoke the beast it seemed to be content to let them alone.

As soon as they were back inside the tube and it was apparent that the Erumpent was not following, Harry placed Hermione gently on the ground.

"Caitlin, will you have a look see at your Mum and do what you can about her ankle?" he asked.

The young girl quickly did as requested and, in spite of Hermione's protests, began methodically examining her mother. When she reached the lower limbs, Caitlin's skilled hands first stroked Hermione left leg, then her right. When she reached her Mum's right ankle, she briefly cupped it in her hands as she closed her eyes.

"Just a few bruises and her right ankle was shattered," Caitlin said, almost casually. "She's fine now."

Harry gazed at both his wife and daughter with astonishment, as Caitlin helped Hermione back to her feet. Caitlin's abilities were now so potent that they sometimes made Madam Pomfrey seem like a fraud by comparison.

Once confident that Hermione was satisfactory, Harry gathered Ron and all the students together. "We have to make a decision," Harry said solemnly. "I'd rather we all remain together, but I'll not force anyone to do something with which they are uncomfortable.

"If I thought that the Ministry had dispatched a rescue team, I'd most likely recommend that we remain here. Regrettably, I think that is doubtful. In all likelihood, they presume us all dead. As you all know, there was a second explosion. Hermione and I believe that it occurred near the starting point of the safari ride. If that blast also breached the tube, it could soon be teeming with creatures, possibly Acromantula.

"I feel the tube is our only way to safety, but only if we use it without delay before it becomes infested. I suggest that we follow the tube until we get to the termination point of the ride. Then, if the key fences are still secure, we should be able to follow the main road back to the beach.

"As much as I'd like to, I can't give you any guarantees that we'll all make it. If anyone feels more secure staying here, we will treat you as adults and allow you to make that choice. If we make it home, we'll send back a rescue team. Take a few minutes to make your decision."

Harry turned and walked a distance away in order to give the students the opportunity to discuss the situation privately. Ron and Hermione followed him. Likewise without discussion Jamie, Caitlin and Kim joined the three adults.

"What if the tube is already infested?" Brian asked apprehensively. "We know what is out here. We made it through the night without any problem Death could be waiting around any corner of this damn cylinder."

"True, but how long will we survive here without them," Debby commented. "They're arguably the three greatest heroes of the century."

"If they don't make it, no one will ever be sent to rescue us," Nora added.

"I'd rather take my chance in that tube with them" -Dick glanced at the professors- "then spend my last days here living in constant fear with nothing to eat but bananas," Dick said reluctantly. "What's more, if the tube does become overrun, what's to prevent the creatures from taking over this section of the park?"

It only took a few minutes to reach a unanimous conclusion.

"Do you think it would be safe to go back and grab our clothes?" Lee Wilson asked meekly.

"As long as the Erumpent isn't hanging around," Harry responded understandingly.

"Forget it," Ron said wincing. "It looks like the Clabberts had other thoughts."

Everyone looked in the direction of the tree in which they had spent the previous night. A group of the creatures were having a fun time shredding the clothing rope into small pieces.

Kim smiled and whispered to Caitlin. "It looks like I'm no longer the only reluctant nudist."

Kim was correct. Everyone in the group was starkers and would apparently be remaining that way for some time to come. The only exception was Dick Bancroft, who was still clad in his tidy whities. Nora was animatedly quarrelling with Dick, apparently determined that he should get rid of them.

* * * * * *

The group had been walking for about thirty minutes without any misfortune. Nora and Dick, although keeping with the group, had been lagging slightly to the rear in order to better enjoy each other's company. As they passed a secluded dark alcove, Dick pulled Nora aside with the intentions of getting a brief kiss and, if he were lucky, perhaps grabbing a quick feel. All of a sudden Nora screamed and Dick jumped away.

"I'm sorry; I just wanted to kiss you," he whispered anxiously, trying to quiet the girl.

"There's something in there," she cried, pointing to a mass in the dark corner.

Hermione was the first to react, running back in the direction of the two students and shouting, "Lumos!"

Harry and Ron pointed their wands, ready to counter if there was the slightest movement.

"It's Rishard," Hermione said sorrowfully. "I think he's dead."

Caitlin hurried forward and knelt next to the unmoving form. She placed her hand on the man's chest and then shuddered before quickly leaping back.

"He's dead," she said. "The body has been pumped dry. This is just an empty shell."

"What's she mean by pumped dry," Kim asked, shivering. "Has something sucked his blood out?"

"Not just his blood," Hermione explained, examining the corpse. "An Acromantula attacked Mr. Simone. Because the spider can only digest fluid food, predigestion must take place outside the spider's body. Some people believe that spiders suck blood; this is not correct. Spiders inflict a wound with their fangs and, through the wound, inject digestive enzymes into the wound to liquefy the tissues of their prey. Then the spider pumps the victim dry, leaving nothing but an empty shell behind."

"What a horrible way to die," Nora sighed.

"By the appearance of the body, he was killed while he slept," Harry noted. "Poor bloke didn't even have an opportunity to defend himself."

"Don't be too quick to feel sorry for him," Ron said, after finishing searching Simone's bag. "I think he might have had something to do with this debacle."

In one hand Ron held a map of the safari ride's tube system and in his other some sort of Muggle mechanism with different colored wires attached to what appeared to be candles. The device was imprinted with a large number two.

"Ron, be careful!" Hermione shouted. "That's a bomb!"

Ron froze. "A bomb?" he questioned. "You mean the stuff Muggles use to blow up things?"

"Yes! And if you drop it, we'll be what gets blown up," she said forcefully.

Hermione cautiously took the apparatus from Ron's trembling hands and gently placed it on the ground. Then she began carefully examining the contrivance. Meanwhile, Harry began checking the map.

"Rishard was the bastard responsible for the second explosion, the one that occurred near the launch point of the ride," Harry said, pointing to the diagram which indicated that a bomb was to be placed near the Acromantula exhibit. It must have been equipped with a timer that delayed the explosion until both safari vehicles were well by that position."

"But how did he manage to do it without being seen?" Ron asked.

"Think about it," Harry said. "All he had to do was bend over out of the vehicle and place the device on the ground while everybody else was enthralled with the monstrous spiders that were covering the tube. Would you have noticed him?"

"No," Ron admitted. "I had my eyes closed."

"He probably cut his seatbelt so that he'd have greater mobility," Harry explained. He pointed once again to the chart. "Rishard was supposed to plant the other bomb" -Harry pointed to the device that Hermione was still examining- "near the end of the ride."

"I didn't liked the git, but I would have never believed him to be a follower of Slytherin," Ron comment.

"But something doesn't make sense to me," Jamie questioned. "Richard had no way of knowing, beforehand in which vehicle various people would be riding. If not for the unexpected attack of the Erumpent, the first car would apparently have made it safely out of the tube before this bomb went off. Slytherin would have failed in his goal to kill the Covenant if the three of you had been riding in that vehicle."

"No," Hermione disagreed. "That eventuality was planned for and that's why I think Rishard Simone was under the Imperius Curse and not acting of his own volition. This bomb has a number two printed on it for a reason. It doesn't have a timer. When activated, it would have at once gone off, killing the bomber along with his victims."

For a time everyone remained silent, then Bancroft asked the question that was troubling everyone. "If Simone was killed by an Acromantula, where is it now?"

"Where is it or where are they," Harry replied, soberly. "Clearly creatures have entered the tube. Simone's body is testament to that. I would speculate that during the night scouts passed the point where we were camped. Sometime later, they found Simone and killed him. Whether they are ahead of us or have returned to their web-spun home at the other end of the tube is anyone's guess."

"Harry, how close are we to the finishing point of the safari tube?" Hermione inquired.

"Close," Harry responded, checking the map. "Probably less than another thirty minutes of walking."

"What beasts are outside the tube?"

"Considering the distance we've walked, I think we can assume that we've left the Erumpent's area behind and are now within the enclosure that is home to the Nundu," Harry replied.

"We certainly don't want to have to face them," Hermione exclaimed. "The Nundu is arguably the most dangerous beast in the world. It takes at least a hundred skilled wizards working together to subdued one and didn't Dr. Soderbergh say he has four of the creatures?"

"I doubt, too, that the bubble head charm would be sufficient to protect us from its disease causing breath," Jamie put in.

Hermione nodded her agreement.

"The next area is home to Quintapeds and then we've gone full circle," Harry noted.

"Quintapeds," Hermione repeated with astonishment. "But I thought they were only found upon the Isle of Drear off the northernmost tip of Scotland. Drear is unplottable; how could Soderbergh have possibly caught specimens?"

"Haven't a clue," Harry said with a shrug. "At the moment I'm more worried about the hairy eight legged beasts that might be ahead of us inside this tube than I am about the furry five legged carnivorous beasts that might be outside."

"So what are we going to do?" Jamie asked concernedly.

"Our choices haven't changed much since this morning," Harry answered. "We can either plunge forward and face what awaits us or we return to live with the Erumpents. That, however, would now be only temporary. The Erumpent is no match for a colony of Acromantula."

"Then we push forward," Nora urged.

"That would be my decision, Miss Jordan," Harry said. "And I suggest we do so with haste. Ron, will you please bring that Muggle bomb with you. We might have need of it, but please be extremely careful."

Hermione stared worriedly at Harry. "Harry, what are you planning?"

"Not planning anything, my love," Harry replied. "Just keeping my options open."

* * * * * *

As they moved along, Harry kept referencing the map plans they had found with Simone's body.

"Hermione, have you noticed the numbers that are engraved every so often on the tube?"

"Yes, I have."

"I'm not sure what they indicate, probably just panel numbers, but the same numbers are posted on this map," Harry said. "At least it gives us an idea of where we are and how much further we have to go."

"Number fifty," Hermione said, pointing to the nearest panel.

"According to the map, that means we are now in the region inhabited by the Quintapeds," Harry explained. "The numbers should be decreasing. When we reach number one we should be at the end of the tube and back on safe ground."

"Forty-nine," Hermione said excitedly. Harry had to smile. Hermione sounded like a little girl calling off mileage posts on a Muggle highway.

"Forty-eight."

With every number that Hermione called out, the smiles of the group increased. Soon everyone was calling out the numbers in unison.

"Twenty-five."

"Quiet, everyone!" Jamie said, hushing the group. "I think I heard something."

Everyone stopped and remained motionless.

"What did it sound like?" Ron asked.

"I'm not sure exactly," Jamie replied. "Wait, there it is again."

This time everyone heard a distinctive clicking sound. Ron's face paled. He would never forget that sound. Worse, it was getting louder and more frequent.

"Spiders!" Ron called out. "And not just one or two. They're moving this way."

Harry grabbed Hermione's hand. "Do we run or fight?" he asked.

Hermione forced a smile. "I'm not prone to running," she said courageously.

"Ron, give me that Muggle bomb," Harry ordered.

"Harry, no! I won't let you sacrifice yourself," Hermione cried.

"I assure you that I'm not going to play hero," Harry answered her. "I doubt there is enough explosive to kill them all anyway, but it might get two or three and make the others hesitant."

"How are you going to set it off?" she asked concernedly.

"I figured a few well placed Reducto Cruses might do the trick," Harry clarified.

"But what if the blast breaches open the tube?" Ron queried.

"Then my friend, we'll have a choice of whether we want to be killed by the Acromantula or the Quintaped," Harry replied pointedly.

The students had overheard the conversation of the professors and knew that their remaining time was short.

"I've been a fool for seventeen years," Bancroft declared. "Zacherley, for what it's worth, I'm sorry for being such a prat. My brother seems to be the only one in the family with any brains."

"I don't know about that," Jamie said, giving her one time nemesis a grin. "You managed to find yourself a jewel of a girl. I only wish you both had the opportunity to spend the rest of your lives together."

"We do," Nora said, forcing a laugh. "Unfortunately it will probably be less than an hour."

Harry placed the bomb in position and then the group backed away so that they could avoid the direct impact of the blast. "Jamie, will you assist Hermione, Ron and I?" Harry asked. "The rest of you keep low."

Harry surveyed the students; they were so young and held such promise. No war was worth the cost of innocent sacrifice.

"They're getting closer," Harry said as the distinctive clicking became more and more intense. "There must be at least a couple dozen of the monsters. Wait until I give the signal, then hurl your first spell at the bomb. Then hit the ground. The blast should take out at least a few of them and cause the others to temporarily retreat. If the tube bursts, we'll all make a run for the opening." He laughed. "If we're going to breathe our last breath, let's at least make it fresh air."

Kim gave Caitlin a hug as the two girls waited apprehensively.

They could now see the first of the monstrous eight-eyed spiders. "On three!" Harry shouted.

The spiders were twelve feet from the bomb.

"One!"

Six feet.

"Two!"

The first few spiders were adjacent to the device.

"Three!"

As one, they pointed their wands and shouted, "Reducto!" Then all four lunged to and hugged the floor as flesh, blood and hairy legs were strewn around them.

When Harry looked up he saw the remains of four, possibly five spiders; it was hard to be certain. The detonation had also managed to breach the protective tube. "Is everyone okay?" Harry shouted.

Receiving no notice to the contrary, he called, "Hurry, everybody out through the break."

Once out of the tube, Hermione's first priority was to take a head count. Once she was sure everyone had made it out safely, she turned to Harry. "I could hear the spiders regrouping to attack again," she said. "I think there are too many of them for us to handle."

"I don't think we'll have to worry about the Acromantula killing us," Harry said, pointing to a pack of Quintapeds that had every path of escape blocked.

Slowing the carnivorous beasts, which have a particular taste for humans, started advancing on the group.

"This is it then, isn't it, Harry?" Hermione asked, forlornly.

Tears welled in Harry's eyes. "I love you Hermione, but unless you have a miracle up your sleeve, the next time we'll talk will be when you meet my parents. I just never thought it would end like this; alone on a deserted island."

"You're not alone!" shouted a voice from behind them. "You've got us!"

Was he already dead or was he just dreaming? Damn, that sounded like Neville's voice, but how could...

Harry turned to see Neville Longbottom helping an extremely pregnant Ginny through the break in the safari ride tube. On Ginny's other side was a girl with straggly, waist-length, dirty-blonde hair, very pale eyebrows, and protuberant eyes: Luna Lovegood. Severus Snape, Katie and Professor Flitwick followed them. Sam hurried to Ron's side, tears streaming down her face. Students followed the faculty, mostly sixth and seventh years. Alex and Amanda pushed their way through to Jamie, Emily hurrying in their wake.

The assemblage wasn't just composed of Hogwarts students and faculty; townspeople were also represented. Harry saw Stan Shunpike, whose release from Azkaban he had been instrumental in obtaining, and Florean Fortescue, who Harry had rescued from Voldemort's clutches. Of course Fred and George Weasley were there. In all nearly two hundred people had come to their rescue. Harry had been so overwhelmed that he had momentarily forgotten all about the Quintaped that had them surrounded.

When he turned again to face them, they were gone. Legend has it that the original Quintaped were Transfigured humans. Evidently the breed had maintained a large degree of their human intelligence and realized they were sorely out numbered.

"Sorry, we took so long," Neville said, giving Harry and Hermione a wink, "but we had to do a little exterminating on the way here. Is everyone all right?"

"Our group is fine," Harry said, choking back his emotions. "But, all except for two, the American team along with their coach perished; so did Rishard Simone. But how did you guys find us? How did you know we were alive?"

"You have that persuasive, beautiful blonde to thank for that," Neville said, indicating Luna. Luna was looking around, a vacant expression on her face, trying to find the beautiful girl to whom Neville was referring. "Her and Dr. Soderbergh; between them, they convinced us that the Ministry was lying yet once more."

At last Luna turned her protuberant eyes upon Harry in surprise. "Harry, do you know that you're naked?" she asked seriously. She gave Harry an approving once over and then looked at Hermione and then at all the other survivors. "You're all nude. Are you all members of some alliance? Is this an initiation? Should I be naked, too?"

Luna had started unbuttoning her blouse as she spoke and was about to remove it when Harry stopped her. Ron gave Harry an annoyed look that caused Sam to punch him hard on the arm.

"What was that for?" Ron complained. "I wasn't going to touch, but you can't blame a bloke for wanting to window shop."

"If you do any more window shopping, I'll have to think twice about the welcome home present I was going to give you," Sam threatened. She turned to Hermione. "I'm not sure if I even want to know why you're all naked, but you might want to find something to cover yourselves with. Justin Finch-Fletchley from the Daily Prophet is here with us and his photographer accompanied him. They lagged behind to take pictures of the dead Acromantula, but I'm sure they'll be joining us before long."

Harry and the others were offered garments to cover themselves with before Justin and his photographer got to see them nude; even Caitlin reluctantly covered up. Harry, Ron and Hermione all agreed to sit for an interview with Justin and Luna, but begged that it be conducted back at Hogwarts. Everyone was eager to bid farewell to Fantastic Island.

* * * * * *

"That covers everything I can think of," Hermione said, after she, Ron and Harry had spent two hours explaining every detail of their adventure. "Now it's your turn. I'd like you and Luna to fill us in on what happened from your viewpoints."

"You go first, Luna," Justin suggested. "You have the fascinating, truthful narrative; I just have the Ministry's fabricated version."

"Did someone mention my name?" Luna asked turning away from the window and staring misty eyed at the group. "I'm really glad to be back at Hogwarts."

"Luna, will you tell us your version of the story?" Harry asked

"Sure Harry," Luna said. "By the way, you really looked nice naked. You should do it more often."

"Ah, thanks," Harry said, rather flustered by Luna's remark. "Would you please tell us what happened when you got to Fantastic Island?"

"Well, Uncle Miltie had invited me to come a day earlier than the other reporters," Luna started.

"Uncle Miltie?" Ron questioned.

"He's not really my uncle," Luna clarified. "My Dad has known Dr. Soderbergh since forever. They've searched for Crumple-Horned Snorkacks together. Uncle Miltie has seen me naked often. Of course that was ages ago; I was just a baby."

Harry was starting to think that Luna's account of the events might last longer than the group's actual stay on Fantastic Island.

"This wasn't my first time on the Island," Luna told them. "I've been there numerous times to see my Uncle and check on the development of the resort. Anyway, I caught up to Uncle Miltie just as you guys departed on the safari ride. I went with him to the park control center; he wanted to check on your movement.

"When we walked into the control center, we surprised a man that was making some unauthorized entries into the computer system. When he saw us, he ran. I didn't have my wand and neither of us got a very good look at him. Before Uncle Miltie could determine what damage the trespasser had done, we heard an explosion. Initially we had no idea what had happened."

"That was probably when the Erumpent attacked the American team's vehicle, causing the tube to explode when its horn made contact with it," Hermione said, cutting in.

"You really have a stunning body Hermione," Luna said dreamily. "Are you positive that you wouldn't reconsider posing for Playwizard?"

"No, I don't think so," Hermione replied, smiling and shaking her head. "What did you and Dr. Soderbergh do after you heard the explosion?"

"I was panicky and got my wand out of my overnight bag," Luna replied. "Uncle Miltie keep pushing buttons and typing things into the computer. He looked like he knew what he was doing, but I found it all rather intimidating. I just watched him type away. It was rather boring. Finally Uncle Miltie sighed and said that all the main fences were safe and sound, but that there had been a fracture in the safari tube near the Erumpents' compound. All the systems protecting the tube were down. Then we heard another explosion. An alarm alerted my Uncle that it had occurred near the beginning of the ride, in the neighborhood of the Acromantula. He tried frantically for about fifteen minutes to get the safety doors to close, but they'd been sabotaged."

"That was undoubtedly the timed bomb that Simone planted," Ron remarked.

"Did you know that you have a rather big willie?" Luna asked. "I never saw any real live ones before today, but yours seems much larger than any I've ever seen in pictures. Is that because you're a werewolf? I bet it's really huge when you get a stiffy."

Ron's face turned a brighter red than his hair. He wished he could do a wandless Disillusionment Charm and merge with the furniture. "What did you and your Uncle do next?" he asked, trying to get Luna back on topic.

"Nothing," Luna answered. "They wouldn't let us do anything."

"Who wouldn't let you do anything?" Harry asked.

"The representatives from the Ministry."

"Where did they come from? How did they get there?" Harry asked.

"That's what Uncle Miltie asked them, before they hexed him," Luna replied. "They told us they were in charge and that they'd do any questioning. We were informed that the island was to be evacuated and quarantined. The guy in charge told me that if I wrote anything about the attack by Slytherin's agents that I'd be arrested and end up in Azkaban with Dr. Soderbergh."

Justin dropped his quill, an astonished expression covering his face. "Your source that Slytherin was behind this whole affair was the Ministry itself?" Justin's mouth dropped. "You've just as good as called the Minister of Magic a bold faced liar."

"What else is new?" Harry asked disgustedly. "Fudge, Scrimgeour and Emma Wrong were all deceiving two faced liars. Why not Weasley?" Harry turned to Ron. "No offence mate."

"None taken," Ron replied.

"I'm just about through," Luna said, sounding slightly annoyed and as if all of a sudden she was in a rush to finish her story and irritated at being constantly interrupted. "Anyway, the ministry lackeys weren't the sharpest tools in the shed; they reminded me a lot of those dimwits from the Inquisitorial Squad that held us captive in Umbridge's office. They left Uncle Miltie and me alone while they went to round up the rest of the staff. I wasn't about to let them send my favorite Uncle to Azkaban, so I covered him with my invisibility cloak."

Harry looked at Luna with surprise.

"What? Did you think that you were the only person in the world with an invisibility cloak?" she questioned. "I had mine in my bag; wouldn't think of traveling without it. I told the ministry dunderheads that Dr. Soderbergh had snuck out and they believed me. When I was Portkeyed off the island, Uncle Miltie simply joined me hidden under the cloak. Once in London we Apparated to Hogsmeade and then rushed to Hogwarts and you know all the rest."

"Well, you don't." She pointed to Ron, Hermione and Harry. "But you do." She indicated Severus, Ginny, Neville and Justin. "Anyway, why don't you carry on from there, Justin?"

Justin nodded his agreement. "I told you earlier about Minister Weasley's speech and my dialogue with him. As a follow up, I wanted to see first hand the reactions of the students and staff of Hogwarts and possibly interview some of your friends and colleagues." Justin looked uncomfortably at the trio. "I'm sorry. I believed Minister Weasley. I thought you were all dead."

"Luna and I arrived at Hogwarts about the same time, but with quite different agendas," Justin continued. "I was fighting through the milling crowd trying to get my bearings when suddenly I heard Luna's amplified voice. She had somehow managed to climb up onto one of the viewing towers.

"Hello, I'm Luna Lovegood." Luna's voice echoed out through the stadium. There were quite a few snickers and jeers, evidently many people knew Luna by reputation.

"Please, don't laugh," she called out. "I know many of you think of me as Loony Lovegood, but what I have to say today is important. Please hear me out.

"I just came from Fantastic Island. I was with Dr. Soderbergh when the explosions occurred. Those detonations were not an accident. Fantastic Island was sabotaged."

There was more hissing and booing.

"Whether you believe that or not is unimportant. What is essential is that you help me. Not everyone was killed. There are survivors, but they can't endure there for long."

There was more booing.

Luna started to cry. "Please, please, you must believe me. I'm not making this up. They're my friends; some of the few people that have ever cared about me. If you don't help me, they're all going to die."

"I believe you, Luna!" Neville Longbottom had gotten to his feet.

"I believe you, too," shouted Ginny.

"What can we do? How can we get to the Island?" Neville called.

"Dr. Soderbergh can give the Headmaster the coordinates, if he'll make us Portkeys." Luna pleaded. "But we're going to need at least a hundred volunteers. Please, I beg you. Don't let them die!"

"Severus ended up turning volunteers away," Justin concluded.

Hermione ran to Luna and hugged her tightly, only stepping aside when Harry and Ron insisted on having a turn. Then in turn the trio hugged Neville, Ginny and Severus.

"Harry, can I ask you one last question before we call it a day?" Justin asked.

Harry nodded. "Sure Justin, one for the road."

"When are you going to accept the position of Minister of Magic?"

"Not me. Not ever," Harry answered emphatically. "I enjoy teaching; I'm no politician. But if the right person challenges Weasley, I will openly support them."

"Who is the right person?" Justin asked.

Harry shook his head. "I wish I could answer that, Justin, but I'm not even sure a person exists with all the qualities needed."

"What qualities are those?" Justin prodded.

"Obviously honesty," Harry replied without delay. "Someone who will tell it like it is without first considering the political ramifications." Harry considered the subject further. "Someone who is open minded, and will consider all possibilities. But most importantly, a person who will in time of crisis do what is right, not what is easy."

Harry glanced around the room. Luna, had drifted off, absorbed in tracing her own palm lines. Then Harry, without thinking, blurted it out. "Someone like Luna Lovegood."

Luna looked up. "What?! I'm sorry! Did you ask me something, Harry?"

* * * * * *

"I must be the most pandered to woman in the entire world," Hermione sighed, after experiencing still yet another orgasm Harry had spent the entire evening pleasuring her, while rebuffing all of Hermione's efforts to return the favor. "Are you sure I can't at least do you once?"

"Not tonight," Harry insisted. "Tonight is all about you and how much I adore you."

"In that case why don't you give me a kiss and then just hold and caress me until we drift off to sleep," Hermione asked, cuddling closer to her lover.

"Your wish is my command," Harry teased, kissing Hermione deeply and passionately.

"I can taste me on your lips," Hermione confessed bashfully. "I feel so lucky and spoiled. There was a time I thought I'd grow up to be a lonely spinster like Madam Pince."

"You can't be serious," Harry said. "You're beautiful."

"Have you forgotten the unattractive bucktoothed girl you met on the Hogwarts Express?" Hermione asked. "The girl without any friends." She sighed. "Even when you, Ron and I became best friends, neither of you ever saw me as a girl. Is it any wonder that I jumped at the chance to go to the Yule Ball with Victor?"

"I admit that for many years, I was blind," Harry said. "Even when I realized how lovely you were, I was ignorant of my true feelings toward you."

"It all worked out for the best," Hermione sighed. "Although I genuinely missed you the five years we were apart."

Harry nodded desolately. "It must be awful to be alone; not have anyone to love or love you in return."

"You're thinking about Luna, aren't you?" Hermione asked.

"How did you know?"

"I know you," Hermione answered. "You've always had a soft spot in your heart for her."

Harry suddenly looked defensive.

"Don't get excited," Hermione said reassuringly. "I'm not jealous. I know you don't have those types of feelings for her. It's just that you care about her and feel sorry for her."

"Do you think she was telling the truth when she said that I was the first man she'd ever seen naked? Wouldn't that mean that she's never had sex?"

"I've never known Luna to lie," Hermione remarked. "Maybe she just hasn't met the right guy yet."

"Do you think she plays for the other team?" Harry asked.

"I don't think so," Hermione replied, "but then it's tricky to tell if a person is gay unless they openly flaunt it like Rishard did. Ginny never mentioned anything and I imagine she would have known; she and Luna became best friends during their last three years of school."

"Harry, do you seriously think Luna would make a good quality Minister of Magic?" Hermione asked, shifting the subject.

"I'm sure she would drive most of the intelligentsia crazy, but yes, I do." Harry replied. "She's a little mad, but like Ron once said it's in a good way. When she's focused, she makes the right decisions and she isn't the type to be bullied or bought. Luna is her own person."

"I never thought I'd say this, but I agree," Hermione said kissing Harry. "Do you think she'll actually run?"

"I don't even think she thought I was serious," Harry replied. "I think she thought I was having a go at her."

Hermione started kissing Harry's neck and then moved down to his chest. "Speaking of having a go; are you sure I couldn't interest you in a little oral pleasure."

Harry gulped as Hermione's tongue moved further and further down his body.

"If you insist," he said, trying to sound laid back.

"I insist!"

* * * * * *

Friday, June 30, 2006

It was the last day of the school year and as customary breakfast was a noisy event. Some students were saying their final good byes, this being their final year at Hogwarts. Others would be returning in the autumn, but would not see best friends for two long months.

"It has been an eventful year," the Headmaster said, speaking to Hermione and Harry as they sat down for breakfast.

"You always were one to understate things, Severus," Hermione replied, giving the Headmaster a meaningful smile.

Hermione looked out over the sea of students, some smiling and laughing, others crying as they hugged friends.

She saw Alex and Jamie embracing Amanda and wondered if their friendship would endure now that their school years were ended. So many times even the greatest school friendships die away due to time and distance. Alex and Jamie would be residing in the castle together while she taught and he continued his legal education, but Amanda, who had been such a large part of their lives, was now moving on.

Hermione eyes moved to Nora and Dick, the most unforeseen pairing of all time. Dick had changed radically in the last few months. Even Jamie said she was starting to like the previously loathsome Slytherin boy. Hermione hoped their relationship would continue beyond school. Dick had a confidence building effect on Nora and without Nora, Hermione was fearful that Dick would revert to his old self.

Then there were the younger students. Hermione watched Tyler, Kim and Emily, a young version of Alex, Amanda and Jamie. In the fall they would be starting their third year at Hogwarts. Would their friendship continue to grow and survive through seven years? Hermione watched as Tyler's looked lovingly, or was it licentiously, at Emily. They were holding hands, but instead of staring into Emily's eyes, Tyler's eyes seemed glued to Emily's chest. Hermione shook her head with annoyance. Obviously, Emily was once again using the concealment charm while she sat stark naked in the Great Hall. Emily would always be an extremist when it can to naturism. Hermione wondered in what new ways her daughter would push the limits of public nudity in the next four years.

As Hermione turned her eyes toward Caitlin, the delivery of the morning post and her copy of the Daily Prophet interrupted her thoughts. After a fast glance at the front page, she turned quickly to the editorial page. Justin had been writing a series of articles concerning the happenings on Fantastic Island and the series was scheduled to conclude today.

My Outlook on the World by Justin Finch-Fletchley

Those of you, who have read my previous columns devoted to the happenings on Fantastic Island and the handling of those same events by the Ministry, will not be surprised to hear that I consider our current Minister both a hypocrite and a dupe.

This is probably a good time to remind you that this is an editorial and that my views do not necessarily reflect those of the owners or management of this paper. In fact, I find that that we infrequently agree on any significant issues. I appreciate that thus far I have been given latitude to speak my piece. Today, I'm most likely going to step over that imaginary line drawn in the sand. Therefore, if this column abruptly disappears from the Prophet after today please know that I have appreciated your loyal readership.

With that said, I'd like to recommend that the Minister of Magic, Percy Weasley be impeached. The Weasel, and the name seems rather appropriate, has time after time displayed his ignorance and lack of concern for his constituency. The Weasel seems concerned with only one thing and that is power and remaining in office to brandish that authority.

In wrapping up my discussion with Harry Potter the other day, I asked him if he would reconsider accepting the position of Minister of Magic. Sorry to say, he still feels he is not the right person for the post. He does, however, feel that changes need to be made and that Weasley has proven his incompetence. Potter is even prepared to support the right person in a confrontation against Weasley.

At first, when asked, the hero of the wizard word was unable to come up with anyone he considered a viable candidate. Finally he recommended Luna Lovegood.

Pause for laughter

Yes, I laughed too, until I thought about the job and the person. Potter considers honesty to be the primary qualification for the position. Say what you will about Luna Lovegood, but she is one of the most truthful people I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. She will tell it like it is without worrying about the political consequences.

Harry Potter also feels that a good leader most be open to all suggestions and possibilities. Luna has a reputation for believing in the unbelievable. But most importantly Miss Lovegood is a person who in time of crisis does what is right, not what is easy.

I'm not even sure if this intelligent, likeable woman would be willing to take on such a challenge, but I hope she will be encouraged to do so.

I'm also not sure what the future holds in store for this reporter, but I complete this column today with a feeling of righteousness in my heart. I could have done what was easy, but I've chosen instead to do what is right. I hope you'll do the same and support Luna Lovegood for Minister of Magic.

Until we meet again. Bless you all.

P.S.

Mister Minister, sometimes it pays to be determined in your beliefs no matter how impossible they may appear to be. Dr, Soderbergh showed me some interesting pictures of a creature he intends to feature when Fantastic Island finally opens. He's been searching for it for years. It's called a Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

"Harry, you won't believe Justin's column today," Hermione squeaked excitedly. "He's committed what amounts to editorial suicide; writing in the Prophet that everyone should support Luna for Minister of Magic. I can't believe the paper published his editorial."

Harry gave the paper a swift read before responding to Hermione. "I doubt if it got proof read. Justin knows the tricks. He probably submitted it just prior to deadline. Sadly, I'm afraid he will pay the price. The Prophet is infamous for cowering to the will of the Ministry. Percy would have him hung if it were possible; he'll definitely see that Justin loses his job."

"Do you think Luna will do it?" Hermione asked. "Will she actively seek the position?"

"What do you think?"

"I think it depends on what happens to Justin," Hermione replied. "If the Prophet fires him, I think she'll run. If she runs, I'm going to help her with her campaign."

"I love it when we agree," Harry said leaning close and giving his wife a peck on the cheek. "What are your plans for today?"

"Jamie and I are going into Hogsmeade after the Express departs," Hermione elucidated. "Last evening I asked Ginny if she wanted to accompany us, but she's not feeling up to it. If the baby doesn't come soon, I think Poppy might induce labor. Ginny is really anxious and Draco being sick doesn't help any."

"Draco's sick?" Harry questioned. "Is that why he didn't come with the rescue party? I didn't want to say anything to Ginny, but I was sort of troubled that he wasn't in attendance. I know we were once enemies, but I thought that was all in the past."

"Draco didn't even know we were in need of rescuing," Hermione explained. "He had to go away that morning because of some sort of emergency. Neither of them said exactly what it was and I didn't want to appear nosey. We were all back at the castle before he ever learned of the dilemma. He was really angry at Ginny; he understood her desire to go, but felt it was impetuous, considering her condition."

Harry smiled. "In time Draco will learn that you can't step in the way of a determined woman, especially a determined pregnant woman. You would have done the same thing."

"You really are getting to know me, aren't you, Mr. Potter?"

"About time isn't it," Harry joked. "What exactly is the matter with Draco?"

"I'm not sure," Hermione answered. "Poppy thought it was a cold, but the Pepperup Potion didn't seem to help. He's even paler than normal and very shaky. He almost looks like someone on the verge of a breakdown."

"Let's hope not," Harry said. "Ginny will have her hands full enough with a new baby; she doesn't need Draco sick to boot. What are you planning to do in Hogsmeade?"

"We need to go to Flourish and Blotts. Jamie has to put in an order for next years Charms textbooks and I want to take a look see at Emeric Switch's new revised Transfiguration series. Then we're going to meet Caitlin and Emily for lunch and go shopping."

"Sounds like you girls have the day all planned," Harry said. "I guess I'll go flying for awhile and then curl up with a good book. Just Crookshanks, Alfred and I."

"I'm sorry, Harry. I didn't mean to exclude you," Hermione said. "Would you like to come with us?"

"No. You girls enjoy your day. I was just giving you a..."

"Hermione, the baby is coming," Katie Bell yelled. "Ginny's water broke on the way down here for breakfast."

"Harry, I have to go," Hermione squawked excitedly. "Would you please explain to Jamie and ask her to pick up an evaluation copy of Switch's book for me?"

Before Harry could answer, Hermione was scurrying from the Great Hall.

* * * * * *

"Draco's a dad! That's hard to believe," Harry said, shaking his head. "The womanizer has a daughter. That poor girl won't be allowed to date until she's thirty-five. Draco will assume that all boys are as lecherous as he was."

"Oh Harry! Molly is just a tiny baby. It will be a long time before her dad has to worry about boys," Hermione exclaimed. "Ben and her will only be a year apart in school. Wouldn't it be something if they..."

"Don't even think it," Harry said barging in. "I've tried to reconcile my differences with Malfoy and I think I've done a fair job, but I'd rather not think about our children someday dating. I wouldn't stop it, but I'd certainly never encourage it either."

"Mum! Dad! Is Jamie with you?" Emily called out, as she and Caitlin burst into the room.

"No," answered Hermione. "I thought you three were meeting for lunch." Hermione looked to Harry. "You did talk with Jamie this morning didn't you?"

"Yeah! She understood your wish to be with Ginny," Harry said. "Jamie said that she would pick up that book for you and then meet Caitlin and Emily for lunch." Harry turned to Emily and Caitlin. "Maybe you guys just somehow missed each other in Hogsmeade. Have you checked the castle? Maybe she's in her new professor's quarters."

"We checked everywhere in the castle, she's not here," Caitlin muttered nervously. "And no one saw her in Hogsmeade. We checked everyplace. She never even went to Flourish and Blotts. It's like she just disappeared."

Harry ran for the Marauder's Map and quickly confirmed that Jamie was indeed not in the castle.

"Where can she be," Hermione asked concernedly. "She's certainly no little girl that has to report her every move to us, but ... Harry, Jamie wouldn't just go wandering off and not tell anyone. She's too responsible."

"You don't think she could have been kidnapped, do you?" Caitlin at last asked.

"Why would anyone want to abduct Jamie?" Emily questioned. "She's not rich and certainly no celebrity."

"Harry," Hermione cried. "What if it was a case of mistaken identity? What if someone was after me and snatched Jamie by mistake."

"Who would want to kidnap you Mum?" Emily asked and then realized whom and answered her own question. "Slytherin!"

Hermione, Emily and Caitlin all looked at Harry hoping he would immediately dismiss this conjecture as preposterous, but he didn't. Harry didn't want to acknowledge it, but he was concerned that in all probability that was exactly what happened.

Something distressed him even more. What if Slytherin dealt with mistakes in the same manner as Voldemort? Harry's dreams were still haunted by images of that day.

From far away, above his head, he heard a high, cold voice say, "Kill the spare."

A swishing noise and a second voice, which screeched the words to the night: "Avada Kedavra!"

A blast of green light blazed through Harry's eyelids, and he heard something heavy fall to the ground beside him; the pain in his scar reached such a pitch that he retched, and then it diminished; terrified of what he was about to see, he opened his stinging eyes.

Cedric was lying spread-eagled on the ground beside him. He was dead.

Harry couldn't control his emotions. Tears formed in his eyes. Was it by now too late? Was Jamie already dead?

End of Chapter 25 and of book three.