The next morning Harry was, eating breakfast at the Slytherin table when, a barn owl, flew to the Gryffindor table, towards Neville with a small package from his grandmother.

Neville opened the package, revealing a large glass ball, filled with white smoke: a rememberball.

Then in the next moment, another owl flew in. This time towards Harry at the Slytherin table with a copy of Daily Prophet

Taking the newspaper from his talons, Harry gave the owl a piece of bacon, as he turned his attention to the headlines.

A booming laugh was heard throughout the hall.

"Why, are you laughing Harry?" Daphne asked, bewildered at seeing her friend laughing uncontrollably.

Harry simply shook his head, handing her the morning edition of the Daily Prophet. IT READ:

Hogwarts Professor Imprisoned

By Rita Skeeter

In a surprising turn of events, at a Wizengamot emergency council, held the previous day at 1800 hours, Hogwarts Potion Master: Severus Tobias Snape, has been sentenced to life imprisonment in Azkaban.

As it turns out, Severus Snape had been caught using Legilimency, on the Lord of the Most Ancient and noble House of Potter: Lord Harry Potter. Not only this, when questioned under the Veritaserum ( The truth serum), he revealed that he had always been a willing death eater and was never loyal to the light side, contrary to his earlier testament in the trial of 1981. Also, through our trusted witnesses it has been revealed that this was not the first time Severus Snape had used Legilimency on the students.

He has, on many previous occasions, been accused of invading student's mind,

"We have always suspected professor Snape of using Legilimency on us during classes" Says James Chadley a seventh year student.

"No one could take action against him. Headmaster Dumbledore always protected him" Confirmed, Anna Johnson, a sixth year Slytherin.

What is the meaning of this? For what reason would the great Albus Dumbledore, the defeater of Grindlewand, employ a Death Eater to teach the next generation of witches and wizards? Has the old man finally gone senile? First he saved the man, from facing justice, for his crimes. Now, he gives the man a free reign to harass students.

Has the Headmaster finally gone senile? Or is there something going on between those two, that the public should know about?

For more information about Legilimency turn to page 3

For more information about the trial of 1981 turn to page 4

Sirius Black Found Innocent

By Billy Simmons

Sirius Arctus Black, the once believed secret keeper, best friends and betrayer of the Potter, has, as of yesterday been released from Azkaban with full pardon.

The case of Mr. Black caused quite a commotion in the Wizengamot, when it was revealed it that it was Peter Pettigrew not Mr. Black, who was the Potter's secret keeper. As it is, Mr. Black had been thrown into Azkaban without a trial, without the right to defend himself. !

Every assembled member was, startled at the revelation, due to which the decision to release the innocent Prisoner of Azkaban was unanimous. "A great injustice had been made. I am myself shocked at the actions of my predecessor. To sentence an innocent man, is a crime in itself and I am ashamed of our ministry," Said Mr. Cornelius Fudge: The Minister of magic.

Unsurprisingly the first person to reconcile with Mr. Black was; none other than a teary eyed, Lord Potter, who later was confirmed to be the godson of Mr. Black.

The case may have been closed, but the questions still remain. Why was a man not given a trial? Why did Albus Dumbledore, the supposedly leader of 'Light', exercise his power as the Chief Warlock, to stop such a travesty of injustice?

For more information about Sirius Black turn to page 5

For more information about Peter Pettigrew turn to page 6

For more information about the Fidelius Charm turn to page 7

Dumbledore Removed as Chief Warlock

By Rita Skeeter

After the events of the previous, the news of removal of Albus Dumbledore, from the position of Chief Warlock, does not come as a surprise.

In a, secluded interview, Madam Marchbanks; The current acting Chief Witch, confirmed that Albus Dumbledore has been removed as Chief Warlock and as Magical Britain's representative in the ICW.

Also, coming to light are the facts, that Headmaster Dumbledore, had appointed himself the magical guardian of Lord Harry Potter, completely disregarding Potter's will. Not only, this the 'esteemed' headmaster had, even tried to steal money from the boy-who-lived, going as far as to arrange an illegal marriage contract between House Potter and House Weasley, who are a conventionally 'light' family, firmly in Dumbledore's pocket.

But, out of these the most troubling charge was the news of the abuse, both physical and mental faced by, Lord Harry Potter at the hands of, his muggle relatives, where, he was left as a toddler, by Mr. Dumbledore.

Is this how we treat our savior? Is Dumbledore truly the 'Leader of Light'? Or has he finally gone 'Dark'?

Needless, to say, Dumbledore faced quite some heat over the debacle.

A chorus of laughter was heard throughout the hall, as, the majority of the student body, were unable to stop themselves. While the rest specifically the Gryffindors, looked unsure.

At the head table, Dumbledore threw his paper in self-loathing. Unable to believe the extent to which his reputation had been tainted in a single day.

Harry Potter !

Oh, how much he hated that name; the name which had become the bane of his existence. Years of planning, laid waste in a single day, by a single child. Couldn't the boy understand how useful Severus was for his plans? So, what, if he harassed the boy, a little, it was for the greater good after all.

At the Slytherin table the boy-who-lived, watched with immense satisfaction, as the Headmaster's face confronted in anger. His plan to disrupt Dumbledore's motives, were well on track. Soon, Dumbledore would realize, he messed with the wrong family.

"So, Harry, are you excited about our first Quidditch session?" Blaise asked breaking him out of his thoughts.

"Definitely," Harry replied, grinning.

Daphne rolled her eyes at their antics. For all her prowess in studies, Quidditch was really not her field.

The same was true for Neville and Hermione, both of them very nervous for their first Quidditch lesson the nest day. This was something you couldn't learn by heart out of a book, not that Hermione hadn't tried. At breakfast, she bored them all with flying tips she'd gotten out of a library book called Quidditch Through the Ages. Neville was hanging on to her every word, desperate for

anything that might help him hang on to his broomstick later.

"Attention, all students." Dumbledore, shouted in his booming voice, once everyone had, finished their morning meal.

"As you all must be aware by now, of our ex potion's professor, Professor Snape's, recent debacle. I have a few announcements for you all. First of all, please welcome, our new potion's Professor, Professor Elizabeth Ford."

The door to the great hall opened as, a middle-aged woman, dark haired woman, made her way towards the head table, amidst a thunderous applause.

"And second" Dumbledore began, after the murmurs had died down, "The new Head of Slytherin House. Professor Bathsheda Babblings." This was followed by another wave of cheer; the entire Slytherin house smiling happily, at their new head of house.

After breakfast ended, all of them made their way to the Potions classroom for, their first lesson with their new Professor.

At precisely 9:00 am the classroom door opened, signaling the arrival of Professor Elizabeth Ford.

"Good morning students, I am your new Potions Professor, Elizabeth Ford." She introduced.

"Now, I have been told how your Previous teacher; Professor Snape, had the reputation of favoring his own house. Well, none of that will happen on my watch. The only thing that matters to me is your skill and your dedication. So, don't ever except any special treatment for me, it just won't do." She warned. "On that note let us start our first Potions class."

"Who here can tell me the first step in potion making?"

Everyone looked unsure of, how to answer the question. Snape's first step had always been to put their wands away, and they had all seen how well he went. Still, a hesitant Parvati Patil raised her hand. "Um... clean your cauldron thoroughly?" she asked.

"Incorrect."

Daphne raised her hand unsure of herself. "Inspect your ingredients, beforehand."

"Incorrect."

Harry too raised his hand. "Umm, read the instructions carefully, before starting on your potion?"

"Half correct, Mr. Potter."

"Anyone else?" She asked when no one raised their hand.

"No, ok I'll tell you. The very first step before making potions is, to fasten you robes carefully and, tie your hair." She instructed showing her tied hair. "For all we know a strand hair might be able cause a reaction in a potion. To avoid that tying your hair is very important."

Immediately all the girls and some boys with long hair, began tying their hair.

"We shall proceed now. Today we will be working on Blood replenishing potions."

"Who can tell me about this potion?"

Many students raised their hands. "Yes Miss..?" The professor pointed at Daphne.

"Miss Greengrass, Professor." Daphne replied. "The blood replenishing Potion is a powerful healing potion that replenishes the drinker's blood, after some sort of injury."

"Correct Miss. Greengrass," Professor Ford congratulated.

"The instructions for the Potions are on the board. If anyone has any problem regarding any step, do not hesitate to ask me. You may proceed."

Everyone distributed themselves into pairs, to start working on their potions.

Harry paired with Daphne.

Placing their silver cauldron on the stand, Daphne poured the Honeywater while Harry lighted the fire. Harry took out the mortar, pulverizing the Valerian roots, mixed it with the Honeywater which, had come to a low simmer. Harry then stirred the Valerian Roots into the mixture in clockwise direction for one minute, While, Daphne lightly pestled the Nettle Leaves before, adding them to the mixture. For the nest step Harry, mixed Rose petals and Dittany leaves in a separate bowl, stirred them into the mixture. Lastly, they dropped a pair of fairy wings, left it to simmer.

When they arrived on the last step, to pour the silverweed extract, Harry stopped Daphne. "Listen Daph I have a slight variation in mind that I would like to discuss."

Daphne nodded for him to continue. Harry took out his notebook, showed her his improved version of Blood replenishing potion. After making some corrections with help of Daphne, they went back to their potion.

Due to their new improved notes, the potion was ready in only half an hour as compared to its original 2-hour time span.

The dungeon was filled with red fumes signaling the completion of his potion.

"It is done Professor." Harry said gesturing to their caldron

The Potions Professor looked at the pair with wide eyes. "Mr. Potter it has only been half an hour, the potion requires two hours to complete." She pointed out. "Are you sure you are done?"

Harry nodded. "Positive Professor."

She came over to inspect the potion. "Well, it seems correct at a glance but there is only one way to test it for sure. Let's take it to Madam Pompfrey."

Taking a sample of the potion, Professor Ford led both of them to the hospital wing, after instructing the rest of the class to continue with their work.

In the Hospital wing they saw Madam Pompfrey tending to a first year Hufflepuff.

"Madam Pompfrey." Professor Ford called.

The healer's head suddenly jerked up. "Professor Ford? What can I do for you?"

"Madam Pompfrey I have this vial of Blood replenishing potion that, these two have modified." She said, pointing at Harry and Daphne. "I was hoping you could check their validity."

"Of course, Professor, I was in need of some blood replenishing Potions anyway. If it works I can use it right now."

She took the vial, and carefully examined it, waving her wand over it. Scrunching her eyebrows once in a while, "Hmm, this seems perfectly fine to me." She concluded. "Since I have exhausted my previous supply of this potion, I shall use it on Mr. Thomas here to check it thoroughly. He was in need of it."

She unscrewed the vial, making the first-year drink it.

Madam Pompfrey muttered a few spells, running a body scan on Thomas. The results were quite astonishing.

"Is it working Ok, Madam Pompfrey?" Professor Ford asked uncertainly, seeing the shocked expression on the healer's face.

"It is better than Ok." Madam Pompfrey squealed in delight. "It is spreading in the body much faster than the original version."

"Mr. Potter you have to tell me the new improvements."

Harry nodded. "Of course, Ma'am."

"You know in the last step, we add the Silverweed extract into the potion to increase its density and lifespan, correct?"

Both women nodded, confused. "You also know that Silverweed extract also has very high heat retaining capacity?"

They again nodded. "So, I thought, how about instead of adding Silverweed we add 5 ml of ghast tears." He explained "They will certainly provide the same consistency. Also, since they have low heat retaining capacity they will cool down much faster."

"But Mr. Potter, Ghast tears are acidic. They will ruin the potion." Professor Ford interrupted.

Harry nodded. "That's what troubled me too, but Daphne pointed out to me the solution, we added Venorpous Daises to balance its acidity, while not interfering with its properties."

Both women looked at the pair with shocked expressions, till Madam Pompfrey started chuckling. "Just like your mother eh, Mr. Potter, you do her proud." The matron praised. "25 points each to Slytherin House and Mr. Potter please give me the improvements on a piece of parchment. I shall send it St. Mugnos immediately."

With that she went to back to her work, leaving both the children with their Potions Professor, "Very good both of you." She congratulated, breaking the silence.

"Mr. Potter, Professor McGonagall had talked to me about your advancement case. I can see without a doubt you are very much capable for advanced level Potions."

"However, I can also deduce that Miss. Greengrass here, is also quite versed in potions. So, instead of teaching you alone, I shall teach both of you advanced potion lessons." She offered.

Daphne's face instantly lit up. "Really Professor?"

Professor smiled, Of course child. I will discuss it with Professor McGonagall further." She promised. "Now run along you two, it is almost time for your next lesson."

The rest of the day passed by quickly. And, soon it was time for their quidditch session.

At precisely 4:30 pm all of them made their way towards the Quidditch pitch for their first flying lesson. It was a clear, breezy day, and the grass rippled under their feet as they marched down the sloping lawns toward a smooth, flat lawn on the opposite side of the grounds to the forbidden forest, whose trees were swaying darkly in the distance.

The Gryffindors were already there, looking very excited. Just this morning, Harry had overheard Weasley and Nott loudly proclaiming, their 'extraordinary' skills. But he knew the idiots were just talks.

Their teacher, Madam Hooch, arrived. She had short, gray hair, and

Yellow eyes like a hawk.

"Well, what are you all waiting for?" she barked. "Everyone stand by a broomstick. Come on, hurry up."

Harry glanced down at his broom. It was old and some of the twigs stuck out at odd angles. Why couldn't they afford better brooms? With the amount of fees the school collected, a decent set of brooms was the least they could do.

"Stick out your right hand over your broom," called Madam Hooch at the front, "and say 'Up!'"

"UP" Everyone shouted.

Harry's broom shot up into his hand, being one of the very few that did. Daphne's broom simply rolled on the ground, while Nott's broom, didn't move at all.

Harry bit back a retort, at seeing the boy turn red in embarrassment.

"All right then before you actually fly, I'll explain to all of you the game of Quidditch." Madam Hooch shouted

"Now, Quidditch is easy enough to understand, even if it's not too easy to play. There are seven players on each side. Three of them are called Chasers."

Madam Hooch took out a bright red ball about the size of a soccer ball. "This ball's called the Quaffle," said Madam Hooch. "The Chasers throw the Quaffle to each other and try and get it through one of the hoops to score a goal. Ten points every time the Quaffle goes through one of the hoops. Follow me?"

"YES" Everyone shouted.

"Now, there's another player on each side who's called the Keeper. He flies around the hoop to stop the other team from scoring."

Madam Hooch took out a small club, a bit like a small baseball bat.

"Now, I'll show you what Bludgers are."

She showed them two identical balls, jet black and slightly smaller than the red Quaffle. They seemed to be straining to escape the straps holding them inside the box.

"Stand back everyone," Madam Hooch warned. She bent down and freed one of the Bludgers.

At once, the black ball rose high in the air and then pelted straight at her face. She swung at it with the bat, and sent it zigzagging away into the air it zoomed around their heads and then shot back at her, who jumped on top of it and managed to pin it to the ground.

"See?" Madam Hooch pointed, forcing the struggling Bludger back into the crate and strapping it down safely. "The Bludgers rocket around, trying to knock players off their brooms. That's why you have two Beaters on each team, it's their job to protect their side from the Bludgers and try and knock them toward the other team."

Madam Hooch then showed them, how to mount their brooms without sliding off the end and walked up and down the rows correcting their grips. She praised Harry for getting it right in his own, and told Nott that he'd been doing it wrong for years, much to everyone's delight.

"Now, when I blow my whistle, you kick off from the ground, hard," said Madam Hooch. "Keep your brooms steady, rise a few feet, and then come straight back down by leaning forward slightly. On my whistle – three - two -"

She blew the whistle and everyone rose off the ground. The lesson progressed, with Madam Hooch instructing them more about the different types if positions in the game. As time went by, more and more students began dropping out, not wanting to proceed further on a broom.

Harry on the other hand was having the time of his life. Quidditch was one of the things that came naturally to him. He always felt free in the air.

"AAAHHH." Someone shouted, breaking him out of his calm flight.

Daphne's broom had gone out of control. She was screaming in terror, as she went spiraling in the air.

"Calm down, girl!" Madam Hooch shouted, but Daphne couldn't focus. She was rising straight up, like a cork shot out of a bottle; thirty feet, fifty feet, seventy feet. She was scared out of her wits, her face white, as she looked down at the ground. Suddenly she gasped, her hand slipped and she fell sideways off the broom.

Immediately Harry dived down, straight after her.

He saw, as though in slow motion, as Daphne fell towards the ground. He leaned forward and pointed his broom handle down. He was gathering speed in a steep dive, racing towards her, wind whistled in his ears, mingled with the screams of people watching.

"Arresto Momentum" Harry shouted, slowing down her fall, as he stretched out his hand. Ten feet off the ground he firmly caught her, just in time to pull up in a sharp turn, a mere foot before he hit the ground.

Daphne desperately clung onto his neck, her entire body shook in fear.

Slowly Harry lowered his broom, touching down softly on the ground.

"Are you, all right?" Harry asked, soothingly.

Daphne nodded, lightly, burying her face in his chest.

Slowly, Harry walked back, towards the rest of class, and gently set her down on her feet. Tracey was, immediately by her side, consoling her shaken friend.

"You, girl, take your friend to the infirmary." Madam Hooch instructed Tracey.

When they were out of ear shot, Madam Hooch turned towards Harry. "Very Good Mr. Potter, you have got some fast reflexes, 20 points to Slytherin for saving a friend."

"All of you, except Mr. Potter, please leave. Mr. Potter, follow me."

Not, knowing what to do, Harry silently followed Madam Hooch. She led him up the front steps, through the marble staircase. She stopped outside the transfiguration classroom, opened the door and poked her head inside.

"Professor McGonagall, may I borrow Flint?"

Flint? Thought Harry, why would she ask for the Slytherin Quidditch captain?

Marcus Flint came out, looking questioningly at Madam Hooch.

"You two, Follow me." Said Madam Hooch and, they marched up the corridor. They were led to Professor's Babblings office.

"Professor Babblings."

Madam Hooch peaked inside the room. Startled, the runes Professor, looked u from the essay's she was currently grading.

"Madam Hooch? Mr. Potter? Mr. Flint? What can I do for you?"

"Professor, I have found your new chaser."

Both Professor Babbling's and Flint's expression turned to delight.

"Are you serious Madam Hooch?" Flint asked.

"Absolutely," said Madam Hooch crisply. "The boy's a natural.

I've never seen anything like it."

"He saved a fellow housemate, from an eighty foot dive." Madam Hooch told them. "Didn't even scratch the broom, never in history of Hogwarts, have I seen a student do this."

"But Ma'am, he is a first year. No one will allow him on the team." Flint protested.

"You don't worry about that Mr. Flint." Professor spoke, for the first time since, the conversation had started. "You just focus in taking his trial. I'll talk to Headmaster and Professor McGonagall, about bending the first year ban a little."

Marcus was now looking like a child who just got his candy.

"Ever seen a game of Quidditch, Potter?" he asked excitedly. "Hmm his build is of a chaser too; nicely muscled but lean and lithe physique."

"Do you have a broom, Mr Potter?" Marcus asked, jumping in excitement.

"Yes."

"Ok then, owl for it immediately and, come to the field at 4:00 pm tomorrow with your broom and we can have your trial with the rest of the team present."

Madam Hooch smiled encouragingly at him. "Your father would have been proud Mr. Potter. He was a good chaser himself."

****LINE BREAK****

"You are joking."

It was dinnertime and Harry had just finished narrating to his friends what had happened when, he had left the grounds with madam Hooch. Suffice to say all of them were latched onto his tale.

"Chaser?" Daphne asked. "But first year aren't allowed. Merlin, you must be the youngest chaser in Hogwarts history."

'Yes, Professor Babblings said she would get special permission for me to be on the team, if I am clear the trial that is." Harry replied in a hushed tone. "But, don't tell this to anyone, Flint wants it to be a secret."

"Think you are so great, Huh Potter?" Nott asked, walking towards the Slytherin table, joined by Crabbe and Goyle.

"You're a lot braver now, Nott. Where were your skills in the Quidditch pitch? Couldn't even get the broom to fly properly, could you Nott? Harry taunted.

"What's the matter Nott? Not used to doing something, without your bodyguards helping you." said Harry coolly. Nott turned red in embarrassment; even his bodyguards couldn't do anything, as the High Table was full of teachers, neither of them could do more than crack their knuckles and scowl. Not that they could do anything to Harry on the first place.

"I'd take you on anytime on my own," shouted Nott. "Tonight, if you want. Wizard's duel; Wands only, no contact," He stated. "What's the matter? Never heard of a wizard's duel before, I suppose?"

"Of course, I have," said Harry. "Blaise will be my second. Who is yours?"

Nott looked at Crabbe and Goyle, sizing them up.

"Crabbe," He said. "Midnight all right, we'll meet you in the trophy room; that's always unlocked."

When Nott had gone, Hermione rushed towards them.

"Harry." Hermione interrupted frantically. "I overheard you talk with Nott. You shouldn't wander the halls at night. If Filch catches you, you would get into serious trouble."

"Don't worry Hermione. No one is going to catch me." Harry assured the distressed witch.

Daphne turned to him. "You aren't seriously going to fight him, are you?" She asked seeing his smirk.

"Of course, not," Harry exclaimed. "He didn't issue a formal challenge, so as such I am not required to show up. However, I can't let the opportunity of defaming him pass up now, can I?"

"Now, if you'll excuse me I have some arrangements to make." Harry got up from his table and went over to Filch.

"Hello Filch." Harry greeted the caretaker.

"Potter." Filch turned around. "What can I do for you?"

"I heard that Theodore Not has been giving you trouble since his first day. How would you like to get back at him?" Harry asked smirking.

Filch gave an evil smirk, mirroring Harry's. "I'm listening."

"Well..." Harry began, narrating his entire plan.

****LINE BREAK****

In the Gryffindor, common room, Theodore Nott, lay in his bed seething uncontrollably.

He would show Potter, who the real power in the school was. How dare he insult him?

Nott's schools term hadn't quite begun as he had planned.

First, Potter had embarrassed him on the train. Then he had somehow got sorted into this horrendous house. If that wasn't enough, Potter had even beaten him in Quidditch. Well, not anymore, tonight he would show Potter, his rightful place. Yes, he would.

There was a very good chance he was going to get caught by Filch or Mrs. Norris, and Theodore felt he was pushing his luck, breaking another school rule, after he berated the caretaker, the previous day. On the other hand, Potter's face kept looming up out of the darkness. This was his big chance to beat Potter face-to-face. He couldn't miss it.

"Half-past eleven," He muttered at last, "I'd better get going." He pulled on his robes, picked up his wands, and crept across the tower room, down the spiral staircase, and into the Gryffindor common room. A few embers were still glowing in the fireplace, turning all the armchairs into hunched black shadows.

When he exited the common room, through the portrait of the Fat lady, he met with Crabbe, waiting for him at the entrance.

"Ready to kick Potter's ass boys?" Not asked confidently

Sadly his, humongous bodyguard, didn't share his confidence. "Are you sure Theodore, I have heard Potter is very skilled with a wand. He even performed wandless magic in Transfiguration yesterday." Crabbe asked, worriedly.

"I am sure it was just a fluke Crabbe." Not sneered. "I am going to beat potter, and prove to everyone, how I am superior to him."

They flitted along corridors striped with bars of moonlight from the high windows. At every turn, Nott expected to run into Filch or Mrs.

Norris, but they were lucky. They sped up a staircase to the third floor and tiptoed toward the trophy room.

Harry and Blaise weren't there yet. The crystal trophy cases glimmered where the moonlight caught them. Cups, shields, plates, and statues winked silver and gold in the darkness. They edged along the walls, keeping their eyes on the doors at either end of the room. Nott took out his wand in case Potter leapt in and started at once. The minutes crept by.

"He's late hah." Nott cheered triumphantly "I'm telling you he's chickened out. What a coward."

Then a noise in the next room made them jump. Nott had only just raised his wand when they heard someone speak -and it wasn't Potter.

"Sniff around, my sweet, they might be lurking in a corner."

It was Filch speaking to Mrs. Norris. Horror-struck, Nott waved madly at his companion to follow him as quickly as possible; they scurried silently toward the door, away from Filch's voice. Crabe's robes had barely whipped around the corner when they heard Filch enter the trophy room.

"They're in here somewhere," they heard him mutter, "probably hiding."

"This way!" Nott mouthed to his companion and, petrified, they began to creep down a long gallery full of suits of armor. They could hear Filch getting nearer.

Crabe suddenly let out a frightened squeak and broke into a run -he tripped, grabbed Nott around the waist, and the pair of them toppled right into a suit of armor.

The clanging and crashing were enough to wake the whole castle.

"RUN!" Nott yelled, but it was of no use, as Filch and his cat appeared beside him.

"Well, well, look at, what we have here Mrs. Norris, Students out of bed." Filch exclaimed excitedly. His face plastered with a smirk.

He grabbed both of them by their ears, forcefully dragging them forward. "Come along boys. I reckon a trip to Professor McGonagall's office is in order."

Throughout all this, the only thing running through Nott's mind was: 'Potter tricked me again.'

When they were out of ear shot, a chorus of laughter filled the air as, a lone figure materialized in the corridor.

"That was hilarious." Harry laughed, cancelling the dillusionment charm he had cast upon his friends, now they were alone.

"Damn Potter. I said it once, I'll say it again: life will never be dull with you around." Tracey managed in between fits of laughter.

"Hey guys." Tracey said attracting their attention. "What do you say, since we are already on the third-floor corridor, why don't we snoop around a little bit? See about Dumbledore's proclamation of a 'horrible death.' "

"Umm, are you sure Tracey?" Blaise aske uncertainly. "I am not sure it is such a good idea." He pointed.

"Come on Blaise, don't be a chicken." Tracey scoffed.

She was met three hesitant, but positive nods.

They walked around a doorpost and travelled down one corridor then another, Harry in the lead, without any idea where they were or where they were going - they walked inside an old, murky looking door and found themselves in a hidden passageway, walked along it and came out near their Charms classroom, which they knew was miles from the trophy room.

"Nothing here so far, we'll explore a little further then, we will head back." Harry instructed.

They hadn't gone more than a dozen paces when a doorknob rattled and something came shooting out of a classroom in front of them. It was Peeves. He caught sight of them and gave a squeal of delight.

"Shut up, Peeves."

Peeves cackled.

"Wandering around at midnight, Ickle Firsties? Tut, tut, tut. Naughty, naughty, you'll get caughty."

"Should tell Filch, I should," said Peeves in a saintly voice, but his eyes glittered wickedly. "It's for your own good, you know."

"If you even open your mouth to anyone about us Peeves, I promise I'll set the Blood Baron after you." Harry promised, watching in satisfaction as all the humour drained from the poltergeist's face . "And I'm pretty sure you wouldn't want that. Seeing how pissed he was at you yesterday. Am I clear?"

Cursing under his breath, Peeves silently glided away from them.

Walking ahead they came across a locked door at, the end of the corridor.

"Alohomora," Harry silently casted.

The lock clicked and the door swung open, they piled through it. When all of them were inside the door suddenly closed itself.

"Do you think this is the forbidden place, Dumbledore was talking about?" Harry asked.

"What?" Harry asked seeing the terror on his friend's faces.

Harry turned around - and saw, quite clearly, what. For a moment, he was sure he'd walked into a nightmare - this was too much, on top of everything that had happened so far.

They weren't in a room, as he had supposed. They were in a corridor, more specifically the forbidden corridor on the third floor. And now they knew why it was forbidden.

They were looking straight into the eyes of a monstrous dog, a dog that filled the whole space between ceiling and floor. It had three heads, three pairs of rolling, mad eyes; three noses, twitching and quivering in their direction; three drooling mouths, saliva hanging in slippery ropes from yellowish fangs.

It was standing quite still, all six eyes staring at them, and they knew that the only reason they weren't already dead was that their sudden appearance had taken it by surprise, but it was quickly getting over that, there was no mistaking what those thunderous growls meant.

Blaise frantically groped the doorknob bur, it didn't open.

Meanwhile the monstrous three headed dog, growled at seeing their try to escape.

"Blaise stop." Harry shouted. "You'll pique it further."

At once Blaise stopped fumbling the doorknob.

"Everyone huddle together." Harry instructed. "Quickly."

"Protego." Harry shouted, pouring as much strength he could muster into his shield, and just in time as the dog took a swipe towards them.

Luckily for them, Harry's shield held firmly, pushing the dog backwards.

"Calm down boy." Came Harry's soft words. "We are friends, right?"

"HARRY." Blade shouted frantically. "I don't think the dog is in a mood for friendship. We need to get out of here immediately." His voice desperate and fearful.

"Blaise shut up. The more you project fear, the more aggressive the Cerberus will get."

"I'll handle it you all just keep calm and don't aggregate it."

Taking a deep breath Harry closed his eyes, lowered himself into a meditative state. Tapping into his primal form he channelled his magic towards the beast, making it stop in confusion.

Slowly the beast backed down, feeling the magic. It felt calm, peaceful, but most of all it sensed the threat, the bigger beast in front of him.

Dispelling the shield, Harry moved forward, eyes still closed, ignoring the fearful gasps of his companions.

His friends watched in shocked amazement as he raised his hand towards the beast's snout. The guardian of the underworld sniffed once, before lowering itself into a subversive position. Three tongues hanging out as it let out playful barks.

Smiling Harry opened his eyes, rubbing the Cerberus' snout affectionately.

"Good boy." Harry cooed.

"Come on guys. He is friendly, I assure you." He beckoned to his friends. Tentatively they all stepped forward.

"Damn." Tracey whistled. "Is there anything you can't do Harry?"

Harry shrugged innocently.

The three-headed dog barked joyfully at the prospect of company, but for some reason Harry could detect a feeling of hopefulness from it. It was short as if it was looking for something

…

"Guys please step back for a moment. I need to check something." Harry instructed, his eyes hardened stopping any protests his friends may have had.

He again closed his eyes and focused his magic towards the Cerberus' mind. Slowly his expression morphed from confusion to anger, add the memories kept on progressing.

"How dare he.." Harry growled, his magic swirling violently. "That bloody imbecile." Tears threatening to break his vision.

Daphne immediately rushed forward, seeing the tears in her friend's eyes. "What's wrong Harry?" She asked, rubbing his back soothingly.

"I am going to kill Dumbledore. He has been starving the poor create for a week Daphne, that is why it attacked us. It was hungry. It didn't want to hurt anybody, but that manipulative old fool has forced it to." Harry managed through his tear filled vision.

"Not for long. I am going to save it." He vowed, furiously wiping his tears.

"Couper." He shouted for his elf.

Suddenly a pop was heard coupled with the arrival of his elf.

"Master Harry calls Couper." The elf bowed

"Couper I want you to take the Cerberus to the manor add feed him properly."

The elf nodded and with a snap of his fingers both he and the dog vanished from the castle.

"Umm Harry." Blaise called hesitantly. "I think it is time we went back."

Harry nodded as all of them made their way towards the door.

"Alohomora." Harr casted.

The door opened, just as they were about to exit Harry get a strange aura coming from the middle of the room. Concentrating his eyes, he saw what it was. A trap door hidden by a flavour charm, right below where the Cerberus previously sat.

But before he could after the others, the sound of footsteps was heard in the distance.

"Hurry up guys. Someone's coming." Blaise shouted frantically.

Closing the door, Harry locked out with the strongest locking charm he knew. Then, he fished into his pockets and took out a runic cluster.

Pressing it to the door, he muttered. "Activate."

The cluster flowed for a moment then merged with door. The door too, lit up for a moment, before reverting back to normal.

"What did you do Harry?" Daphne asked.

"I shielded the door with, my very own runic cluster." He explained. "Nothing short of a very powerful killing curse can break it now."

With that he led the way towards the Slytherin common room. Not seeing the shocked looks on his friends faces. They did not stop until they reached the entrance.

"Salazar." Blaise muttered the password, ushering all of them inside. They entered into the common room and collapsed, into the recliners. Exhausted.

It was a while before any of them said anything.

"What do these people think they are doing? Torturing a poor creature, and that too inside a school?" Questioned Blaise finally.

"I, think I can answer your question." Harry sighed. "Did you see what it was standing on?" Harry asked.

"Sorry, Harry but at that time we were busy, trying to flee for our life, to see at its feet. Jeez." Tracey retorted.

"Ha, ha, ha. Funny aren't you Davis." Harry said faking a laugh. "The Cerberus was standing in a trap door. It was hidden under a glamour, but i saw it. I think the dog was guarding something."

"Guarding what exactly?" Daphne asked

"Wait a minute."

"Couper." Harry shouted for his elf.

Suddenly q pop was heard coupled with the arrival of his elf again.

"Master Harry, the Cerberus has been fed and placed in the shelter." The elf bowed. "What else can Couper do?"

"Couper can you get me the Dialy Prohpet for July 31st?"

The elf nodded, and vanished with a pop.

"Umm Harry I forgot to ask the first time. How did your elf apparate through the Hogwarts wards?" Daphne asked uncertainly.

"Oh. That wasn't apparition. You can call it an elf transportation method, for the lack of a better name." Harry explained. "The Hogwarts wards, as you would know only stops normal apparition, it can't stop the elves. Otherwise how do you thing Hogwarts elves travel inside then castle?"

Couper reappeared, with a copy of the Daily Prophet in his hands.

"Here read this." Harry said, handing the paper to Tracey.

BREAK IN AT GRINGOTTS

Investigations continue into the break-in at Gringotts on 31 July, widely believed to be the work of Dark wizards or witches unknown, Gringotts goblins, while acknowledging the breach, insist nothing was taken. The vault in question had, in fact, been emptied the very same day. "But we're not telling you what was in there, so keep your noses out if you know what's good for you", said a Gringotts spokesgoblin this afternoon.

Gringotts now need to readdress their security system. Goblin security specialists are combing the land for a better breed of security dragon to replace the now deemed useless existing ones. They are even going as far as examining muggle security systems. Gringotts need to get another security system in place before any more breaches occur. Wizards, Witches all over the country are scratching their heads wondering how safe their money is in the so-called safest wizard bank. Head Goblins are urging the wizarding community for calm.

"Ok. So, there was a robbery at Gringotts. What does it have to do with that giant dog?" Tracey questioned.

"My dear Tracey, it has everything to do with our problem. You read how the vault in question was emptied the very same day of the break in, correct?"

Tracey nodded.

"Well, what the goblins didn't tell is that, the vault had been emptied by our very own gamekeeper, Hagrid."

Everyone looked at him with shocked expressions. "You think that whatever it is that Hagrid retrieved from that vault, is being guarded by the Cerberus?" Blaise asked.

"Yes." Harry replied nonchalantly.

****LINE BREAK****

"How the hell is he still here?" Blaise questioned, seeing Nott still sitting at the Gryffindor table at breakfast next morning.

Harry chuckled. "Come on Blaise. Do you really think his father really has so little influence on the School Board?"

Blaise muttered something like 'smart-ass'.

As the owls flooded into the Great Hall as usual, everyone's attention was caught at once by a long, thin package carried by six large screech owls. The owls soared down and dropped it right in front of him. They had hardly fluttered out of the way when another owl dropped a letter on top of the parcel.

"OPEN IN PRIVATE." It read.

Harry was immediately bombarded with questions from his friends.

"Is this your broom Harry?"

"Which model is it?"

"Can I ride it?"

Harry held up his hands in surrender, "Guys, guys, questions all over the place."

"Let me see. Umm."

"Yes, it is my broom. No, I can't tell you the model yet, it is a secret. And, yes you can ride it after a few days."

Harry merely laughed, seeing their pouts.

As seven o'clock drew nearer, Harry left the castle and set off in the dusk toward the Quidditch field. Hundreds of seats were raised in stands around the field so that the spectators were high enough to see what was going on. At either end of the field were three golden poles with hoops on the end.

"Potter over here." Flint shouted, beckoning Harry over to him.

"Welcome Harry. Allow me, to introduce you to the Slytherin Quidditch team."

"This is Ethan Hall, our keeper." A tall, dark skinned boy stepped forward, extending his shake for a shake.

"Nicholas Doug, our beater." A grinning fifth year student stepped forward.

"William Doug, our second beater." Another grinning fifthe year student, apparently the brother of Nicholas stepped forward.

"Kira Mulligan, our seeker." A short heighted, lithe girl stepped forward.

"And I am the chaser."

"You will play against the beaters add keeper. Your objective will be to score as many points as you can within thirty minutes."

Harry nodded taking out a secondary school broom.

"Where is, your broom Mr. Potter?" Flint questioned..

"Oh, I have it with me alright. I will show it you after my trial. I want to keep it a secret for now. Also, I don't want anyone to think I got selected because of my broom." Harry replied with determination.

Flint nodded, impressed with the boy's determination. "Very well then let's begin."

The beaters add keeper took their position as Harry mounted his broom and kicked off.

The quaffle shot into Harry's hands. He shot straight ahead like a surfing bullet, dodging the oncoming beaters assault's. He steered ahead, dodging flawlessly due to his lean built. William dropped in behind him, taking a swing with his bat. Harry ducked, then elbowed him out of the way. He shot over Nicholas and threw the quaffle lightly to the right. The keeper seeing his hand movement, immediately shot to the right hoop at full speed. Before the quaffle could get far Harry tilted his broom to the left and kicked the quaffle to the far-left hoop.

The quaffle sailed through.

He flew back, as the keeper threw the quaffle back at him.

He took the quaffle down the field. A bludger flew at him but, he easily dodged it. William cane straight at him, he was ready. Tilting his broom, he shot down in a sharp vertical arc. The hoops were closing in. He sat straight on his broom, juggling the quaffle between his hands. The keeper was confused not understanding the direction of his throw.

When he was a few free from the centre hoop he, pulled his right arm backwards, then jerked it forward, the quaffle still in his hands. His action had the desired result. The keeper sit to the right, thinking that Harry didn't have the distance to change directions. But Harry had a different plan.

When he has jerked his arm forward, the quaffle was still in his hands, but instead of throwing it to the left, he simply threw it to the right with a backward shot. Completely surprising the keeper.

Again, he flew back, as the quaffle was thrown back at him. This time the beaters were ready hurling the bludgers at him, nonstop. He avoided all of them. But it was becoming increasingly difficult, thanks to the brooms less than stellar handling.

WOOSH !

A Bludger flew above him, missing by only a hair's length. The next Bludger was aimed straight at his arm. He didn't have the time to fly against it. He straightened down on his broom, then turned to the right, just in time as the Bludger flew past, where his hands were previously positioned.

Keeping down he shot forward dodging the imposing beaters. This time he didn't trick the keeper, he simply threw the quaffle with such force that it bent the keeper's fingers and shot past him into the hoop.

The pattern continued with Harry scoring like a man on a mission. After thirty minutes Flint blew the whistle, signalling the end of the trial. In the end, Harry had scored a 120 points.

"So, was I good?" Harry asked when the whole team had gathered again.

"Good? GOOD?" Flint asked incredulously. "You were bloody brilliant. I am telling you Mr. Potter with skills like yours we will surely win. Welcome to the team."

All the team members patted him on the back, congratulating him for his achievement.

"Now listen up everybody." Flint shouted, silencing everyone. "Practices from tomorrow onwards, are from 4:00 pm. Everyone has to be present. Any defaulter will be strictly dealt with." Flint warned.

"Slytherin house has been winning the Quidditch championship for two consecutive years' ladies and gentlemen. And, I intend to keep it that way."

"Now, everybody except Mr. Potter can leave."

"Mr. Potter," Flint began when everyone else had left. "I don't want to come across as bossy, but can I request you to show me your broom. I merely wish to see if it is up to the standards. I don't want any hindrance for the team."

"Ok." Harry replied smirking.

Reaching into his pocket, he took out a small shrunken broom.

"Engorgio." He casted.

If Flint was not shocked at seeing a first-year student casting a third-year charm, he was definitely shocked upon seeing the broomstick.

A sleek mahogany handle, with a flawless streamlined body. At first, he thought it was the latest Nimbus 2000, but then the realisation kicked in.

"Great Merlin!" He gasped. "It's a…"

"Yes." Harry replied chuckling. "Now you understand why I didn't want to show it to anyone. And I'll appreciate it if you keep it that way till our first match."

Flint nodded, dumb folded.

Smiling Harry bade farewell to the awestruck boy and made his way towards the Slytherin common rom. Eager to give his selection news to his friends.