glad you approved Claire.
Next post!

Ellouise and Xavier cocked their heads to the sky and sniffed the air. Something was different, something had changed. The only question that remained... was what? As she lowered her head to the ground, the fur on the back of Ellouise’s neck stood on end. She didn’t feel comfortable with the new situation and neither did Xavier. They both looked at each other, ears pointed, and tails unmoving. Xavier peered toward the dense growth of forest at the end of Ellouise’s garden then turned to her. Ellouise bowed her head then followed Xavier’s lead as they made their way to cover. The thing that worried Ellouise the most was not that something had changed, but that she was familiar with the scent. The only thing was, she couldn’t tell where she knew it from. They walked deep into the cover of the trees, off the narrow dirt path and into darkness. Then Xavier and Ellouise morphed back into their human forms.
“We should probably head back”, said Xavier in a whisper, “You ready?” he asked.
Ellouise starred into the darkness, she didn’t feel ready to leave, she had the sudden urge to visit the cemetery. She knew it was probably a bad idea, and she had thought against it earlier, but for some unexplainable reason, she felt compelled to go there.
“I need to go to the cemetery first...” she whispered back as she felt Xavier close his fingers around hers. She heard him sigh.
“You go back, tell Remus I won’t be long. I promise I’ll be careful.” Ellouise didn’t expect Xavier to go with her, it probably seemed like a mental thing to want to do given the circumstances.
“I thought I told you that your never doing anything like this without me, though even if I hadn’t have said that I still wouldn’t leave you here. Pretty sure Remus would have me skinned and hanging on a hook from the attic if I returned without you”, he said, laughing a little under his breath. Ellouise smiled, though she knew Xavier couldn’t see her, so she squeezed his hand, hoping he’d get the message.
Ellouise pulled out her wand and cast the disillusionment charm on Xavier before casting it on herself.
“It’s safer than animagus form”, she whispered.
“You’re probably right, but I like having stronger senses”, he said before being dragged back towards the garden.
“You can change if you want”, she offered. Xavier didn’t respond, instead he just kept walking.

Once they reached Farrington Close they had to slow their pace, in an effort not to make any sounds. Even though they were invisible they were still very solid. Ellouise even contemplated removing her boots, but decided against it. The walk back through town was quiet and eerie. It felt more foreboding than the last time thought Ellouise, even though this time she had the comfort and Xavier’s hand in hers. It was a strange sensation, feeling him but not seeing him. She almost felt as though she was going insane, perhaps it was all a dream? She thought.
Ellouise froze, she could hear rustling and shifting, but as she peered around all she saw were swirls of leaves as the wind blew. She felt her hair fly onto her face and tried to wipe it away with her wand hand, almost poking her eye out in the process. It seemed to take a lot longer to make the journey into town, caution slowing them down considerably.
“Almost there”, whispered Ellouise so low that Xavier barely heard it, he squeezed her hand in reply. As they rounded the corner of a narrow street, Ellouse glimpsed the high grey stone wall of the cemetery. Now that she was here she didn’t quite know why she wanted to come. Or why she felt she needed to come. Thunder boomed from somewhere above them, Ellouise crossed her fingers and hoped it wouldn’t start raining, that was the last thing they needed.

The entrance to the cemetery stood metres in front of them, Xavier and Ellouise had come to stand still, neither of them particularly enthusiastic about entering beyond the stone archway. A sad and broken figure of an angel with two doves stood atop the grey stone archway. A huge crack scarred the face of the angel, and one of its wings were broken. Mustering up her remaining courage Ellouise pulled Xavier forward, onto the uneven cobble stone pathway of the cemetery.

Yay another gr8 post!... although... I'm concerned for Ellie and Xav's wellfare. Why are you doing this? its... dangerous... get back to the lovey-doveyness pleaaazze!

jks its great pams!

Next Post!

Unsure of what she was looking for Ellouise turned her head in every direction as they proceeded up the path. The weeds grew high here as well, creeping ivy wound its way around tombstones, tall grass covered most of the area. It had been years since Ellouise had visited her grandparents’ graves, made her feel guilty in a way.
“Wait here”, she whispered to Xavier as they slowed to a stop in the middle of the cemetery. Thunder boomed again from overhead. Ellouise peered up at the sky before continuing off the path towards a corner by the tall grey stone wall of the cemetery. Ellouise bent down at one of the tomb stones and pulled away at some of the dry grass and the creeping ivy. The cold, grey face of the tomb stone was slowly uncovered as Ellouise struggled against the ivy, cutting her hands as she pulled it.
“Ellie!” hissed Xavier from not far behind her. Ellouise stopped what she was doing, stood and peered around the cemetery.
“What?” she whispered back, wondering if Xavier had seen or heard something.
“It’s not safe, stop moving things and making noise. You’ll have your head blown off.” He whispered more closely now. He had edged along the path Ellouise had cleared, and stood at her side.
“I have to see something”, she muttered as she knelt back down and began pulling at the ivy again.
“Just great!” she muttered. Beneath the ivy was a particularly extensive growth of moss. Ellouise pulled out her wand from her pocket and tapped the tombstone, performing a non-verbal spell. Within seconds the tombstone had been cleared and Ellouise slumped to the ground to read it.

Here Lies
Benson Browne
Husband, Father, Guardian, Peace Seeker, Truth Keeper
1941-1994

Ellouise ran a finger across the engraving, the cold stone sending a shiver up her spine. Beneath the inscription was a symbol, Ellouise didn’t recognise it, though it did look familiar. A line split down the centre of a triangle within which was a circle.
“Funny, I could have sworn I’d seen that before”, she said pointing at it, forgetting that she was under the protection of the disillusionment charm.
“You probably have”, replied Xavier in a hushed whisper, “You’ve been here before haven’t you?” he stated his question.
“I suppose I have.” Ellouise replied.
That must be it, she thought. That’s why is looked so familiar. She had visited the grave before as a child, before the war started.
“I wonder what it means”, she whispered more to herself than to Xavier. She went to move back to the previous tomb when she collided with a solid, yet invisible object.
“Ouch!” muttered Xavier, “You stood on my foot.”
Ellouise couldn’t help but laugh at the situation. “So.... sorry”, she managed to say between fits of silent giggles. Xavier held her hand and pulled her in the direction of the next tomb, then stopped to help her uncover it.
“We really shouldn’t be making any noise though”, he whispered to her. She knew he was right, but she was beginning to feel more comfortable with her surroundings, and who knew perhaps they had only been on edge because of the unfamiliarity and uncertainty Godric’s Hollow presented.
“I’ll never forget her apple custard crumble”, whispered Ellouise as she peered down at her grandmothers tombstone.


R.I.P
Belladonna Browne
A lifelong friend and lifelong lover
May she be reunited with her beloved Benson for all Eternity
She will always have Love for her beloved son Spencer and his family
1944-1995

Emily searched the words for a hidden meaning, but found none. Her grandmother had been a very compassionate woman, she had loved them all with her entire heart and soul. Belladonna Browne was an eccentric, prematurely grey woman, she almost always wore her hair in a tight bun, but her appearance deceived her age. Belladonna was a mischief maker, child like in many ways, she had always been playful and energetic. But after Benson passed away, she had become quiet, almost distant. She followed suit a short time after, Spencer always said she died of a broken heart.

Sorry I havn't been ale to post in a while... been super busy.
Heres the next post! sorry its not very long.

Ellouise turned in a semi-circle, hoping to glimpse something that might give her some insight into... well into something. She didn’t know what she was looking for, she only hoped she’d recognise it when she saw it. So far the journey to Godric’s Hollow had been less than fruitful, though Ellouise now had a small selection of family photographs, a little wooden box with her family crest on the front of it, and a symbol marked on her grandfathers grave.
“Ellie, I really think we should go now”, came Xavier’s hushed voice.
Ellouise reached her arms out in the direction of his voice, trying to find him, to get hold of him, to feel his fingers entwined with hers, but she just grasped at thin air.
“Where are you?” she whispered, her heart began to beat rapidly.
A crack of lightening shot down from the sky, illuminating their surroundings, shadows stretch across the cemetery. Long spindly finger like shadows reached in their direction. Everything suddenly became even more frightful than it already had been.
“Xavier?!” squealed Ellouise as she felt around for him.
“SSSsshhh sssshhh I’m here”, he said as he found her flailing hand. He grasped it tight and wrapped his fingers around hers, giving them an encouraging squeeze.
Xavier had an instantaneous effect on Ellouise’s heart rate. It rapidly decreased and Ellouise breathed more freely now that she knew he was right by her side, within her reach.
“Let’s go”, she whispered as she dragged him back to the path that led the way out of the cemetery.

Xavier followed Ellouise, he tried to keep in step with her as best he could, but occasionally bumped into her. Being invisible had its perks but it also had its drawbacks. They wandered back down the cobble stone path and through the front gates. The fractured Angel stared down at them, its features appeared to be more contorted than they were previously. Xavier kept moving, his feet carrying him forward, hurrying to get back to the comfortable confines of Grimmauld Place. Quite suddenly Xavier’s arm was yanked backward. It appeared that Ellouise had stopped dead in her tracks. He tugged gently but she didn’t move. Feeling on edge, he peered around the town centre. It looked dead, almost peaceful, there was a light breeze which rustled the dead leaves on the street edge, stirring the tall grass from its sleep. He couldn’t figure out what had made Ellouise stop, he turned in her direction, opening his mouth to say something when he saw it. His gaze travelled through where Ellouise would have been and fell upon two wizards sitting on an old, rusted, park bench only feet away from the entrance of the cemetery. How did they not see them before? How long had they been there for? Did they know they were here?

Next post!
It's a bit longer... to make up for the short one I posted last time.
Enjoy!

Ellouise couldn’t believe her eyes, she felt Xavier yanking on her arm, but she couldn’t move. She was frozen to the spot, every fibre in her body questioning the very thing that she saw, every fibre in her body telling her to take out her wand and curse him to hell. But then she had to wonder what the other wizard was doing in his company? Xavier had stopped pulling, his grip went rigid, Ellouise assumed he must have finally seen what she was looking at. Albus Dumbledore, one of the greatest wizards to date, sitting on an old park bench, in a ghost town with the man she only knew as Igor.
Ellouise felt her body tense as she remembered her two encounters with Igor. They had both occurred when she was on her reconnaissance mission, scouring the forest where an exchange was supposed to be held between a few death eaters and representatives of the Russian Ministry. The first time she saw him it had been an accident, they hadn’t been anticipating the arrival of three death eaters, these included Lucius Malfoy, Igor and of course Balthazar, the wizard that had captured Ellouise’s parents. The second encounter was of course the day of the exchange itself which had gone sour. Ellouise still remembered the pain she felt when she arrived back at Grimmauld Place. Shuddering Ellouise starred at Dumbledore and Igor’s exchange.

Both men sat on the park bench, not close to each other enough to look comfortable, but not far enough apart to consider each other strangers. Dumbledore sat with his hands folded in his lap, his shrivelled, blackened hand noticeable beneath his healthy one. He didn’t look particularly ill, Ellouise thought as she examined Dumbledore. She wondered why he had been absent from the Order Headquarters for so long. Was he hiding something? Why was he talking to Igor? Curiosity getting the better of Ellouise, she tugged gently at Xavier’s hand and edged a little bit closer, hoping to grasp some of the conversation. For the most part the two men just seemed to be sitting their enjoying the scenery, but on closer inspection their lips were moving very quickly, and their voices were very low.
“But surly that’s too obvious Albus”, said Igor in a rapid monotone.
“Perhaps, but what other options do we have?”
There was a brief moment of silence between them before Igor continued.
“I don’t know Albus, but I’m thinking the dark lord wouldn’t have made it so clear and obvious. He’s not a careless man.”
Dumbledore nodded, acknowledging the fact.
Ellouise’s mind was racing, what were they talking about? It obviously related to Voldemort, but none of it made sense. What was obvious? How would it be careless?
Dumbledore turned his gaze from a tree in the distance, to a patch of road in front of him.
Sighing, he turned back to Igor, “Keep me posted.”
Igor stood and faced Dumbledore, bowing his head low.
“I’ll see what I can find out”, he said before he disapparated.
Dumbledore sat there for a moment, almost like a statue or a monument.

Ellouise wasn’t sure what she just saw, but she wasn’t willing to stand there and pretend that nothing happened. No... Ellouise wanted some answers. After letting go of Xavier’s hand she tapped herself of the head with her wand, removing the disillusionment charm. Dumbledore flinched suddenly as she became visible.
“Miss Browne”, he said by way of greeting, “Very nice charm work, you had me fooled.”
Ellouise felt her chest fill with pride, though she was still sceptical about Dumbledore’s behaviour.
“Thank you”, she said politely before continuing, “Might I ask what you were doing conversing with Igor”, she said the name with distaste.
Dumbledore smiled ruefully, “Ahh, yes Igor Karkaroff”, he said as he removed his half moon spectacles and wiped them with the sleeve of his robes.
“He, like Severus Snape, is a death eater and is working against Lord Voldemort. Very valuable indeed.”
Ellouise processed this information. Snape, she wasn’t all that comfortable with, though he had proved his worth on occasions. Igor Karkaroff on the other hand has been an unknown. And though Dumbledore seemed to trust him, Ellouise could hear a faint nagging voice in the back of her head, telling her to stay away.
“And you believe him?” came Xavier’s voice loud and clear. Ellouise had almost forgotten he was there, following his voice she tapped him on the head also and he appeared before them.
“Ahh, bravo Miss Browne, fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me”, he said merrily before responding to Xavier’s question.
“I do indeed Master Black, he has after all provided me with useful and highly confidential information.”
“What information is that? And where have you been?” asked Xavier, anger and disappointment present in his voice. Ellouise took his hand and gave it a squeeze. Dumbledore rose from his seat and peered around the town centre.
“Perhaps we should discuss this matter further at the Order”, he said in a bit of a whisper.
Before either of them could respond Dumbledore had placed a hand on Ellouise’s should and they were lurching forward through a haze of light and darkness.

Next post!

Ellouise felt her feet hit the hard wooden floor of the hallway she was so very familiar with by now. They were back in number twelve Grimmauld Place, standing in the dusty, partially lit hallway. Ellouise still held Xavier’s hand, though Professor Dumbledore no longer stood by her side, he had already made to move to the kitchen.
“Come on”, whispered Ellouise as she pulled Xavier behind her.
They swept through the empty green drawing room, hurrying to catch up with Dumbledore. Ellouise could hear noise coming from the kitchen, loud voices, laughter, clinking of glasses, perhaps everyone had realised that Dumbledore has returned? She wondered. But surely even they were overreacting? It wasn’t that big a deal. Ellouise took the stairs two at a time, Xavier right by her side adjusted his stride to match hers.
“Starting the party without us?” asked Xavier as they were met with the scene of butterbeers and fire whiskeys being passed around.
Everyone took in the sight of Dumbledore, taken by surprise but pleased nonetheless, then their eyes averted and fell on Xavier. Their eyes wandered from his mischievous features, down the length of his arm, to his hand clasped around Ellouise’s, they then traced it back up to stare into her face.

Ellouise felt her face go red as she realised everyone was starring not just at her, not just at Xavier, but the two of them together. Was it really that obvious? Did they already suspect she liked him? Ellouise felt as though she was being x-rayed, and that all her deepest and darkest secrets, all of her deepest emotions were on show.
Sirius and James let out a whoop as they raised their glasses high and clinked them noisily.

Ellouise turned her body in towards Xavier, squeezing his hand as she did so. She must have had a look of worry or concern on her face because he placed both her hands in his and gave them a gentle squeeze, whispering, “It’s ok, I’m here”.
This soothed Ellouise’s nerves, she smiled and returned her gaze to the kitchen occupants. Everyone was here, drinking, celebrating? What were they celebrating? She thought to herself. And where were Remus and Naomi? She thought as she suddenly realised they were missing from the scene.
“Where’s Remus and Naomi?” she pipped up, hoping someone would be able to answer question. Harry suddenly came running up to her towing Ron as he went.
“Elle!” he exclaimed, “they went to a safe house!” he almost yelled, “Naomi’s having the baby!” he added. Before she could say Merlin, she had been steered over to the table and seated between Xavier and Carlisle, across the table from Sirius, James and Lily. Sirius poured her a glass of fire whiskey and slid it in her direction, then offered his son one.
Without even thinking, Ellouise grasped the glass in one hand and downed it in one shot. It burned her throat, like acid, her mouth felt suddenly rough and dry, as if on fire.
“Trust you to choose one that’s got guts”, exclaimed Sirius to Xavier, he poured Ellouise another glass, but Xavier took her hand before she could skull it again.
“Ellie?” he asked gently, “Ellie?” he repeated, this time shaking her a bit.
“She must be in shock”, said Lily as she stood to go to the kitchen cupboard. When she returned she broke off a piece from a slab of chocolate and thrust it into Ellouise’s hand.
“Eat this, you’ll feel better in no time”, she said gently.
Ellouise took the chocolate and put it in her mouth, she wasn’t controlling her actions, she was on auto pilot. All she could hear was white noise, her eyes couldn’t focus on the swirl of colour surrounding her, her arms moved without being told to. What was going on?
“Ellie?” came Xavier’s voice again, “Ellie, you ok?” he asked.
Slowly Ellouise came out of her stupor, she could feel a cold sweat forming on her forehead.
“I... I’m fine”, she said as she only took a little sip of fire whiskey this time.
“When did this happen?” she asked, “When did she go into labour?” she added.
“Perhaps a half hour after you left”, said Sirius as he pointed to his son.
“It was a couple of hours ago”, said Lily, clarifying for Ellouise.
Ellouise felt two hands on her shoulders, with long, cold fingers.
“I hear congratulations are in order”, said Dumbledore from behind her, “Perhaps we should postpone our discussion, considering the current circumstances”, he said gesturing to the crowded kitchen. Ellouise just nodded, and took another sip of fire whiskey. She welcomed the burn. Soon, she was going to be an... Aunty? No that’s not right. Cousin? Nope that’s not it either. Guardian, thought Ellouise. Yes guardian seemed fitting.

Next Post!

The celebrations continued for some time, it had been a few hours since Ellouise and Xavier had arrived back at Grimmauld Place. Suddenly realising she hadn’t been in contact with Remus, Ellouise pulled out her wand and summoned her patronous. A patchy, dishevelled looking dog patronous appeared.
“What in the name of Merlin is that?!” exclaimed a now slightly alcohol effected Anton.
Ellouise scowled at him.
“It’s an African wild dog”, she said simply as she made it dance around him and snap at his heels. After a moment of thought her patronous disappeared, running off through the kitchen wall.
“It’s ugly”, replied Anton.
“Anton, don’t make me kick your butt......again”, she said threateningly.
Anton froze, his eyes widened a little out of shock, “No I’m not... I’m not... it’s just... well it is” he stuttered. Sirius, James, Lily, Xavier and Carlisle suddenly burst out laughing.
“Anton, you’ve got a lot to learn about women”, said Sirius as he poured himself another glass.
“Don’t... whatever you do... show them fear!” he said between gulps of the amber liquid. Lily laughed even harder at this.
“Oh you’re full of it Sirius. Vanessa scared the living daylights out of you on a number of occasions if I remember correctly.”
Vanessa had been, of course, Xavier’s mother. She was a beautiful, radiant woman, she had bright blue eyes and beautiful long black hair. She was never scared to speak her mind, and speak it she did. It was hard to lose her... even harder for Xavier and Sirius, but they pulled through. Ellouise remembered the day they got the news. It had been almost a year since they fled Godric’s Hollow, when her life was taken by a death eater. Her body was never recovered.
“But only once I married her!” added Sirius as he turned his attention to his son.

“So, you two seem happy”, he said nodding in their direction.
Ellouise and Xavier exchanged nervous glances.
“Yeah, we are”, replied Xavier as he put an arm around Ellouise’s waist, pulling her a little closer to his side as if protecting her from something.
Ellouise couldn’t hold her tongue any more. Why were they looking at her like that? Did they know all along how she felt, how he felt?
“Ok, why are all of you looking at us like that?” she asked, blushing slightly.
Lily looked at her sympathetically, James and Sirius on the other hand grinned broadly.
“Well see here”, began James, “Remus wasn’t happy when you disappeared”, added Sirius, “And when Xavier tried to go after you, he wasn’t going to have a bar of it, trust issues you know”, supplied James, “And so... Xavier convinced him by telling everyone that he loves you.” Finished Sirius. Xavier clasped his free hand to his forehead and dropped his gaze to the table. He didn’t want her to find out this way, he had wanted to tell her in his own time.
Sirius and James suddenly froze at Xavier’s reaction. Judging by the look on Ellouise’s face, he had forgotten to mention that bit.

*squeals* so many exciting develoments!
LOVE!
Pams....like now

Thanks Claire!
Next Post!

Ellouise felt a lump rise in her throat, she was tempted to down the rest of her fire whiskey, but decided against it. She placed one of her hands on Xavier’s knee, he was looking down at his feet, his cheeks, flustered and pink. Ellouise couldn’t help but smile.
“So you told them, and not me?” she asked in disbelief.
He look up, his left eyebrow raised quizzically.
“I didn’t want to scare you away, I was going to tell you... just not so soon”, he said in a small voice, averting his gaze once more.
Ellouise considered this statement. Did he really think it would scare her off? Or was he just scared she wouldn’t feel the same way?
“Xav, you should know by now that I don’t scare easy”, she said lifting his chin up so she could see his face. His eyes were soft and gentle, they sparkled in the dim light, engulfing her in a wave of emotions. Ellouise sighed deeply trying to catch her breath.
“Xavier, I love you”, she said in a soft voice.
“I love you too Ellie”, he said taking her face in his hand and kissing her full on the lips.
“Besides, you’re the bravest, craziest woman I know”, he added, “Who in their right minds would go for walk in Godric’s Hollow... alone?”, he said poking her in the ribs.

“You did what now?!” yelled a voice from further down the table. Charlie’s eyes were glued to the couple, his nostrils flared. “Are you... are you suicidal?” he yelled at Ellouise.
“Wait until Remus finds out, you’re in for it”, he said this time in Xavier’s direction.
“Oh shove off Charlie”, said Ellouise as she finished off her fire whiskey.
They were both standing now, glaring across the table at each other.
“You know what I’m glad things didn’t work out for us, otherwise I would have gotten roped up into your crazy suicidal madness!” he hissed.
“What do you mean things didn’t work out for us? There was no ‘us’ Charlie” she replied scathingly. The kitchen had suddenly gone quiet again, celebrations on hiatus as Charlie raised his voice again.
“Either way, I’m glad it worked out this way, you’re mental.” He said. Molly hissed at him from her seat, “That’s no way to talk to a lady”, she said.
“Oh she’s not a lady mum, she’s a common...”, Charlie’s words were suddenly drowned out by the arrival of a shimmering silver stallion. Remus Lupin’s voice filled the kitchen.
“At 5.47pm, Florence Ellouise Lupin, seven pounds- three ounces, entered the world. Both baby and mum are doing fine. We’ll be home tomorrow. We love you all.”

Hiya Emily!

I felt like I should announce my attendance here. I'm almost caught up with your story. I'm currently on the second page and I should say, you are incredibly talented. Your story is just so intriguing and well written that sometimes I can clearly see myself in the whole setting you describe. The plot is strong. Ellouise and Xavier are lovely together. Such a cute couple. The characters and their interactions with each other is very real. I love the dialogues you put in there.

So I got that off my chest since I’ve been so impatient to catch up. But I will soon. Keep up the amazing work. I can’t wait to read more.

thanks Ava! I'm glad you're enjoying it! and I'm sure you'll catch up soon enough. I usually like to post everyday, but I don't really have time to do that anymore...

But anyway:
Next Post!... this is from Charlie's p.o.v ... just felt as though he needs to be included a bit more.

Charlie couldn’t hear himself think over the noise that erupted in the kitchen. Everybody was up and out of their seats, stumbling around to embrace each other, clinking glasses and spilling amber liquid on the floor in the process. As tempting as it was to join them, Charlie sat down resigned to his thoughts. His shoulders slumped, and that’s when he realised his wand was drawn and hung limply at his sides. He placed his wand back in his pocket, hoping nobody had noticed. In all honesty he could hardly believe he had withdrawn it at all, especially against Ellouise. No matter what he felt for her, or what she didn’t feel for him, he still couldn’t bring himself to hurt her... could he? He looked over to where she was standing, though he could no longer see her, only the back of her head, she was surrounded by people, and Xavier had his hand resting in the small of her back.
Didn’t take him very long, he thought to himself darkly.
Wish it was you though, came the voice in his head. Charlie rubbed his temple, it annoyed him how his subconscious contradicted his every thought.
No- they’re perfect for each other, arrogant and psychotic.
Don’t be silly, replied the silky voice in his head, you would have gone in his place if she gave you the chance.
Charlie didn’t respond, deep down he knew he was right... or it was right? Who was that in his head? He emitted a low growl, out of annoyance, but nobody heard.

He made to grab the fire whiskey bottle for a refill, only to find it had already been emptied. Deciding he couldn’t be bothered summoning a new bottle he picked himself up and pushed his way through the crowded kitchen. Along the way to the stairs he heard Ellouise’s voice, she sounded happy.
Good, he thought.
Once he was in the drawing room he plopped himself down on one of the armchairs by the fire. A faded black leather bound book lay forgotten on the floor. Charlie bent down and picked it up, that night was still strong in his mind. He could still feel Ellouise’s warmth, her soft lips, and her silky black hair.
Snap out of it, jeered the voice in his head. Charlie ignored it.
“You’re not the only one”, came a voice from behind him. He turned in his seat to see Anton approaching him.
“What are you talking about?” he asked confused. He dropped the book back on the floor.
“Ellouise... you’re not the only one that likes her,” said Anton as he lay down on the couch, kicking his shoes off. Charlie didn’t say anything, he raised an eyebrow, wondering where this conversation was going.
Anton shifted uncomfortably, he could feel the intensity in the air.
“I liked her too, still do.”...”But I messed things up really bad, I was just trying to impress her.”
“I heard”, commented Charlie, through gritted teeth. Who in the name of Merlin’s saggy underwear does he think he is? Thought Charlie to himself, the voice in his head sniggered in response.
Anton sat up suddenly and looked into Charlies eyes.
“Look, I didn’t want to admit it, but Ellouise and Xavier are meant for each other. They’re happy. So you better not get in the way of that”, he said defensively. Charlie smirked then turned his attention to the roaring fire.
But you could make her just as happy, said the voice in his head.

Thanks for reading!
Next Post!

“I should walk you up to bed”, said Xavier as he helped Ellouise up from her seat. She could hardly stand on her own, the room seemed to be running circles around her, her head ached with a thudding pain, and her mouth was dry. Finally things were starting to look up, thought Ellouise.
“Or look down!” she yelled as she felt herself falling towards the ground. Xavier caught her just in time and dragged her back up.
“Or what?” he asked.
Whoops, thought Ellouise, had she really said that out loud?
“Mmmm nothing”, she said giggling a little.
“You’re drunk,” he said smiling as he shepherded Ellouise towards the stairs slowly.
“Am I?” she asked in reply.
“Nah, you’re fine”, came a booming voice from behind her. She turned, almost falling over again, to see Sirius swaying behind her.
“That’s what I thought”, she said in agreement.
Xavier chuckled as he tightened his grip on Ellouise, it was no use though, she could hardly stand even with him holding her up, let alone walk. After taking a deep breath he bent down and scooped her up into his arms.
“Whhhooooppp”, she said as she managed to lock her arms around his neck.
“Goodnight Dad,” said Xavier as he began to ascend the stairs.
“Night son, night Elle”, he replied.
“Night Sirius!” called Emily as they left the kitchen.

Ellouise managed to stop giggling, and looked into Xavier’s eyes. She didn’t know where they were or where they were going, and she didn’t really care. In that moment she felt so overcome with emotions that she thought she was going to start crying. Biting the inside of her cheeks, Ellouise managed to calm down, holding the tears back, though she didn’t take her eyes off Xavier for a second.
“Xav?”, she said.
“Yes?”, he replied
Ellouise paused for a moment, he was looking into her eyes now, they had stopped moving and the background was beginning to come into focus. They were standing on the second floor landing, outside her bedroom door. Had he really carried her all this way?
“I love you”, she said, a smile spread across her face.
Xavier just stared at her, it seemed like minutes but it could have been seconds.
“I love you too Ellouise”, he said, his voice dripping with love, caressing her name as the words escaped his lips.

Without thinking she leant in and kissed him, first on the cheek, then on the lips. She loved how plump and soft they were. They felt cool and silky, so she kissed him a second time. Each time she kissed him her lips lingered a little longer. Ellouise was slightly taken aback as Xavier deepened the kiss, their mouths were synchronised, moving in harmony, it took her breath away.
How did I get so lucky? she thought to herself as she continued to kiss him passionately. A split second later she felt something hard and cold against her back. Ellouise spread her arms out behind her and felt the hard, cool surface of the wall. Somehow Xavier had managed to flip her and pin her against the wall. She wasn’t complaining. They continued kissing for some time, until Xavier pulled away, slightly out of breath.
“I should go... goodnight Ellie.”
Ellouise watched as he opened her bedroom door for her and pulled back the covers on her bed.
“Goodnight Xavier”, she said as she slumped into bed fully clothed.
“I’ll see you in the morning”, he said as he walked out, closing the door quietly behind him.

OOOOOMMMMMMMGGGGGGGG!!!!!! I didn't know you were writing a ff too! Girl, it's amazing!

Your story is brilliant; it's one of those stories you read and you actually feel like you're there with the characters. And you've put in some great twists- Dumbledore and Karkaroff? What the heck is wrong with Charlie?! I love the way characters and themes we know keep popping up throughout your story: nice Deathly Hallows symbol at Elle's grandfather's grave.

Xavier sounds HOTT!!

Seriously, you are an excellent writer, and I can't wait to read more of this awesome story.

PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS!!!

Hi! thanks for reading I'm glad your enjoying it so far

Also thank you EVERYONE for reading! Now over 1000 views!!! how amazing is that!

Next post!

The sunlight filtered through the half closed curtains, illuminating the small crimson room, bouncing balls of light off the surface of the mirror and glass objects around the room. Ellouise stirred. The covers had been tossed to the floor and the sheets had somehow managed to twist itself into a knot around her. Ellouise opened her eyes, but shut them immediately, the sun had burned swirly yellow shapes onto the back of her cornea. She grumbled and searched the bedside table with her hands outstretched, soon she found what she was searching for. Her wand. Picking it up she made a swishing movement in the direction of the curtains. They snapped shut. Slowly Ellouise worked up the courage to open her eyes again, this time the room was darker, though everything was still quite visible.
“Merlin!” she said as she relived memories of the night before. Random images and portions of conversations played themselves over and over in her head.
How much had she drunk last night? she wondered.

After hurrying to the bathroom to shower and freshen up, Ellouise got changed into black sweatpants and a grey singlet. After slipping her wand into her pocket and tying her hair into a loose ponytail Ellouise jogged down the stairs towards the kitchen. She was badly in need of a cup of tea. As she walked through the drawing room her toes hit a hard surface.
“Ouch!” she exclaimed as she hopped on the spot holding her toe.
It wasn’t broken, or bleeding, but it still hurt. Ellouise looked down to see her book laying on the floor metres away from where she had left it nights ago. Picking it up she inspected the cover, it wasn’t any more damaged than it already had been. She shoved it under her arm and continued down the stairs to the kitchen.

“Morning sunshine.”
Ellouise jumped at the sound of the voice.
“Remus! You’re back!” she said jogging to embrace him. He looked terrible, the large dark circles under his eyes made him look as if he had been in a fight, and his scruffy hair gave him the appearance of a homeless man.
“You look aweful”, she said to him.
“Thanks Elle”, he muttered, still smiling, “... the change tonight. It’s going to be a rough one,” he added in a sombre tone.
Ellouise knew what that meant. She hadn’t realised it, but it was that time of month again. The time when Remus’s world was turned upside down, when the full moon would rise. Remus Lupin was a werewolf.
Ellouise looked around the kitchen but Naomi and Florence were nowhere to be seen.
“They’re upstairs sleeping”, said Remus, answering her question as if reading her mind.
“I’ll take you up after breakfast”, he added, gesturing for her to take a seat.

They sat at the table with the usual crew- minus Xavier who was still in bed, and dined on pancakes and a hangover remedy that Kreacher brewed for them. It tasted strangely of smelly socks mixed with nettle tea, though it looked more like dirty water.
“Thanks Kreacher,” Ellouise managed to say as she choked down the liquid. It was rancid, but had an almost immediate effect.
“That’ll teach you for having a big night,” said Remus as he set down his tea cup. Ellouise grimaced; she was well within her rights to let herself go. It was, after all, in the name of celebration.
“So is there anything you want to tell me?” asked Remus in a serious tone.
Ellouise looked up, swallowing her mouthful of pancakes... “Um... no”, she said as she shoved another forkful in her mouth. Remus raised his eyebrows critically.
“Are you certain?” he asked her.
Ellouise put her knife and fork down and thought for a minute. What could he possibly want to know? She thought to herself. Just then she caught a glimpse of Charlie staring down at the table at the other end of the kitchen... Oh that would be right.
Ellouise sighed. “Ok, look I know it was dangerous and reckless but I had to do it... it’s been so long and I want mum and dad back.” She said to him.
Remus looked at Ellouise blankly.
“What?” he retorted. Ellouise saw Sirius mouth something from behind Remus, though she wasn’t sure what he was trying to communicate. Remus turned his head and glared at Sirius, but then turned his attention back to Ellouise.
“Ellouise Morgan Browne”, he started, she knew she was in trouble now, “What in the name of Merlin did you do now?” he asked.
Just then Ellouise worked out what Sirius was mouthing... Xavier.
Shoot! He only wanted her to tell him about what happened with Xavier. He had no idea about Godric’s Hollow. Though in all honesty, it would have come out in the end anyway, so why not get it over with now. Ellouise sighed, then she braced herself for the wrath that was Remus Lupin.
“I went back home.... to Godric’s Hollow”, she said, waiting for a phenomenal amount of pain to engulf her. But it didn’t come. There wasn’t even yelling, why?
Ellouise opened her eyes, she had closed them in the hope she wouldn’t see Remus’s outburst. He sat there calmly, a twinkle in his eye.
“I shouldn’t have expected anything less dangerous... I swear you were born without common sense Elle,” he said in an affectionate tone.
“I wish you would stop being so foolish though. What if you would have been seen?” he asked concerned.
“Oh believe me Remus, Miss Browne can handle herself.”
Everyones head turned to face the voice that was coming from the kitchen entrance. There stood Dumbledore, dressed in vibrant purple robes, Severus Snape stood behind him in the shadows, donning his usual black habit.

Glad I've never needed Kreacher's remedy for my hangovers...

PAMS!

so am I... though I probably would have needed it.

Next post!

Greetings were exchanged as Dumbledore and Snape joined them for breakfast.
“Pardon, but what do you mean... she can handle herself?” asked Remus. He was curious to hear what Dumbledore thought on the matter. Ellouise held her breath, she wasn’t entirely sure why. After all she had successfully concealed herself and Xavier from the great wizard.
“Ellouise is a very talented witch”, said Dumbledore simply, helping himself to pancakes, smothering them with golden syrup. Snape just sat there, a cup of nettle tea in front of him. His dark beetle like eyes stared intently at Ellouise.
Once Dumbledore was content he had enough syrup on his pancakes he continued, “I happened to be in Godric’s Hollow on Order business when she... ambushed me.” He said chuckling.
“I wouldn’t call it an ambush Professor”, said Ellouise, “I like to think of it as a... surprise”, she added.
Remus looked at her, his expression was confused. How could anybody surprise Albus Dumbledore?
“How?” he asked bluntly, looking down at his god daughter.
“Disillusionment Charm”, she replied.
“A very powerful one at that,” said Dumbledore.

Remus continued his conversation with Dumbledore in the drawing room, the kitchen was almost empty when Ellouise realised it was only her and Snape left. She had her book open on the table in front of her, she read quietly. The air felt suddenly stale and heavy. Ellouise looked up to find Snape was still staring at her.
“Might I ask what you’re reading Miss Browne?” asked Snape, rather formerly.
Ellouise returned his bored gaze, though he didn’t pose any immediate danger Ellouise couldn’t help but feel as if he was the grim reaper, bringer of doom, gloom and death.
“Legilimency and Occlumency”, she said simply, showing him the cover.
Severus Snape smiled, was it even possible for him to smile? thought Ellouise. It wasn’t a particularly friendly smile, no gleaming white teeth or rosy cheeks, it was more of a... smirk? Ellouise wasn’t sure, but she was certain that Severus Snape was not a happy man, this was rare for him. She suddenly felt sorry for him, her heart felt a pang of pain. Severus Snape reminded her of the broken angel from the cemetery at Godric’s Hollow. Once a beautiful form, now crumbled and broken beyond repair, just a shadow of its former self.
“Are you interested in learning it?” he asked.
Ellouise pondered his question. It was blunt and straight to the point. Was he offering to teach her? Could he teach her? Or was he merely making conversation?
“Yes, my father was going to teach me... but that’s no longer possible.”
Ellouise had a sudden thought. “How are they? Have you heard anything?” she asked, crossing her fingers underneath the table.
“They’re....” Snape paused, “surviving”, he said.
This wasn’t particularly comforting, but it still gave Ellouise some hope, after all they were alive.
“They’re still being held at the Ministry, but I suspect it won’t be long before they’re taken to Azkaban.”
Ellouise nodded, this wasn’t entirely bad news. As long as they were alive Ellouise would find a way to get them back, and nothing was going to stop her.
The kitchen was suddenly eerily quiet. The only sound that could be heard was Kreacher grumbling in the pantry as he made preparations for lunch.
“Would you like me to teach you?” asked Snape suddenly.
Ellouise searched his face, he appeared to be quite genuine. Could he really teach her?
“Yes, thank you”, the words tumbled out of her mouth. Snape nodded.
“Ready?” he asked, “I have an hour to spare before I’m needed elsewhere.”
Ellouise didn’t even have to think about this one, “Wonderful.”

Severus Snape smiled, was it even possible for him to smile? thought Ellouise. It wasn’t a particularly friendly smile, no gleaming white teeth or rosy cheeks, it was more of a... smirk? Ellouise wasn’t sure, but she was certain that Severus Snape was not a happy man, this was rare for him. She suddenly felt sorry for him, her heart felt a pang of pain. Severus Snape reminded her of the broken angel from the cemetery at Godric’s Hollow. Once a beautiful form, now crumbled and broken beyond repair, just a shadow of its former self.
“Are you interested in learning it?” he asked.


Ohhhhh....that was beautiful....what a lovely (tragic) description.

Yes, Ellouise- Snape is a good guy, just broken as you said! Love on him.

Can't wait to read about Snape teaching her...

Please let her parents be ok!!!!!

Super as always. PAMS PAMS PAMS!!!!

thank you! hehe I am very much a Sev Snape fan... he's lovely... just broken.

Next post!
Note: Many quotes from this scene have been taken from/adapted from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, by J.K. Rowling

The attic hadn’t changed much since the last time she saw it. Ellouise entered first, to one side of the attic the rusty suit of armour stood neglected in the far corner of the room the painted target on its chest beginning to peel away. To the other side was a pile of cardboard boxes, a thick coat of dust lay on its surfaces, what looked like rat droppings were scattered along the floor by the walls edges. Severus Snape strolled in after Ellouise, robes billowing in his wake. Pulling out his wand he stood in front of her, a few metres apart.
“Pull out your wand Miss Browne”, he commanded. Ellouise did as Snape instructed, she was beginning to feel butterfly’s thrashing about in her stomach. It will all be worth it, she said to herself.
“You may use your wand to disarm me or defend yourself from me”, said Snape.
Ellouise nodded her understanding and braced herself, ready to defend. She wasn’t sure what to expect from the experience, she had only begun reading about it. All she knew for certain was that Snape was about to break into her mind, her deepest, darkest most vulnerable experiences would be exposed for him to see.
“Ready, now! Legilimens!” he said pointing his wand at her chest.
Ellouise wanted to react, spells and incantations ran through her head, but she was... stunned. The attic began to shift in front of her eyes, then it vanished. Images flickered before her, as if it was a slide show presentation of her life.

She was five, sitting in her father’s study drawing with crayons.... at eight she was at Snowdonia, flying her new broomstick.... at nine, she was in a tent with her mother, tears streaking down her face........... she was with Remus, in wolf form......... she was in her nightmare again, Balthazar torturing Ellouise- only it wasn’t Ellouise, it was Bellatrix Lestrange..........
No, said a voice in Ellouise’s head, as the nightmare haunted her. You’re not watching that, you can’t watch that, I won’t let you-

Ellouise felt a sharp pain in her knees, the attic was starting to come back into focus, the low light from the small windows shone through onto the dusty floorboards. Ellouise looked up at Snape who was still standing, he had lowered his wand and was rubbing his wrist, it was mottled and red, almost like scorch marks.
“Did you mean to produce a Stinging Hex?” he asked coolly.
“No I didn’t”, answered Ellouise honestly as she got up from the floor.
“I thought not”, said Snape, “You lost control, let me get in too far...” he said trailing off.
“Professor, did you see everything I saw?” she asked curiously.
“Flashes of it”, he replied. He looked at her, a glint in his eye, he almost looked sympathetic.
“May I ask... How did you escape the death eaters if they had you under the Cruciatus Curse?”
Ellouise was taken aback by this question, but composed herself quickly.
“Um... it wasn’t me Professor. It happened the night my parents were taken, I was safe, hidden by my mothers Disillusionment Charm... but they found traces of my hair in the tent when they searched it. The person you saw being tortured wasn’t me... it was Bellatrix Lestrange. She used Polyjuice potion... they were tormenting my parents. Warning them what would happen to me if they found me.”
Snape nodded, his wand limp by his side. He decided it was best to change the subject.
“Overall not a bad effort for a first try Miss Browne, no doubt in time you will become strong enough to defend yourself efficiently. You may either repel me with your wand or with your mind. Shall we try again?”
Ellouise nodded, she would be ready this time. She knew what to expect and she knew what she would have to do.
“Clear your mind, let go of all emotion...”
Ellouise felt herself relax, eyes closed, her breathing became level, even and deep as if she was resting.
“Focus...”, encouraged Snape.
“Again on the count of three, one... two... three, Legilimens!”

Ellouise braced herself, an image began to stir in front of her... she was outside the cemetery watching Dumbledore and Karkaroff... then... she was back in the attic, facing Snape, a small smile playing on his lips.
“Well done Miss Browne, you’re gaining control.” He said piercing her eyes with his gaze.
Ellouise didn’t understand what had happened, she was...open, vulnerable, he got into her mind but how had it stopped.
“You expelled me with your mind, pushing me out before I saw too much. It’s good progress.”
Ellouise watched as Snape put his wand back in his pocket, she hadn’t realised how quickly time had passed.
“Keep practising clearing your mind of thoughts and emotions. This is the key to being a successful Occlumens”, said Snape as he made his way to the door, “I’ll be in touch.”

Hooray! Good for Elle! She's putting Harry to shame.. Oh, the whole thing about the polyjuice scene....
BUH-RILLIANT!!

PAMS

Next Post!

On her way back down stairs from the attic Ellouise poked her head into Xavier’s room. His bed was empty, the curtains pulled open. About time he got up, she thought to herself. She relived the events of the previous night, their passionate embrace on the second floor landing... it sent shivers down her spine. Picking up her pace she rushed down the last two flights of stairs and made her way to the kitchen. Dumbledore and Remus were still deep in conversation, seated by the cold, empty fireplace.
“Naomi and Florence are up”, he called out to her as she raced past.
Pausing, Ellouise took a few steps back and looked at Remus.
“Are they still upstairs?” she asked. She could hardly contain her excitement, she was very eager to meet her new extended family member.
“No they’re in the kitchen”, he said smiling.
Without another word she hurried forward taking two steps at a time until she entered the brightly lit kitchen. Florence, huddled in a blanket was pressed up against her breast.
“Elle!” greeted Naomi as she took a seat beside her giving her a one armed hug and a kiss on the cheek.
“How are you?!” asked Ellouise turning her attention to the beautiful girl in Naomi’s arms. She had stopped suckling and turned her big brown eyes to Ellouise, making her heart melt.
“I’m good... tired but good,” replied Naomi. She watched as Ellouise stroked Florence’s tiny baby arms, the soft silky skin was intoxicating, so much so that Naomi had been having difficulty tearing herself away from the infant. Bracing herself she smiled at Ellouise.
“Would you like to hold her?” she asked.
Ellouise looked up, her heart fluttered wildly in her chest, she longed to hold the precious girl, to cradle her and care for her.
“I’d love to”, she replied.

Gingerly Ellouise took the small girl bundled up in the thick pink blanket. She placed a hand behind her head and held her closely to her chest. She was marvellous. Ellouise was in awe of the beautiful little Florence.
“She’s amazing”, she said in a small voice.
Naomi nodded in agreement, “She is isn’t she.”
Just then Ellouise realised they weren’t alone in the kitchen. Looking up she realised Xavier was seated opposite her beside Sirius, James and Lily.
“Had a good sleep?” she asked Xavier, briefly turning her attention to the wall clock. He certainly looked tired, but it was nearing twelve.
“Brilliant sleep”, he replied grinning, still not taking his eyes off the pair of them.
Florence reached out a small hand and clasped it around a strand of Ellouise’s hair and pulled on it. Of course she was too young to realise what she was doing, Florence was only exploring her new surroundings, and that included Ellouise’s long black locks.
Wincing slightly Ellouise pried her hair out of Florence’s fingers gently, those big brown eyes staring up at her curiously.

Oh, the sweet, sweet baby!!!!

You sound like you've had a lot of experience with children and/or teaching. As a mom and a teacher, I think you are very knowledgeable and write beautiful details about them.

I WANNA HOLD THE BABY!!!!!

Oooooohh, Xavier likes seeing Elle holding a baby...hmmmm...

Lovely post- PAMS! PAMS! PAMS!

thanks for the comment!... although I'm not a mum... not for a couple of years anyway.
Hehe and indeed Xavier does like watching Ellie and Florence...


Next Post!
Sorry it's been a while since I last posted, havn't had much time to write recently, but hopefully that will change.

After a while Florence became irritable and impatient, Naomi took her from Ellouise’s arms and gave her a feed before heading upstairs to put her to bed for her nap. Florence wasn’t the only one that was getting hungry though. Ellouise went to the pantry in search of something to snack on whilst Kreacher finished making lunch. She returned to the table with a shiny green apple.
“So what were you and Snape doing?” asked Xavier as he made his way around the long table to sit beside her.
Ellouise swallowed her mouthful off apple. For some reason this question seemed to pique the interests of Sirius, James and Lily as well.
“Um... he was teaching me Occlumency”, she said, taking another bite of her apple.
Sirius and James exchanged dark looks.
“You let that slimy git get in your mind?!” said James in something that bordered anger and disbelief.
“Well, I couldn’t help it at first could I,” retorted Ellouise, “And he’s not a slimy git”, she added.
Lily smiled at her, “Don’t worry about James, you’re in good hands,” she said nudging her husband in the ribs.
“At first? So you’re getting better?” asked Sirius, his eye brows raised with respect and curiosity.
“Yes, well... sort of. The first time I accidently lost control and I broke his concentration with a Stinging Hex,” she paused, Sirius and James exchanged another look, this time they were both grinning broadly, they seemed to approve. “Continue”, said James, eager to hear more.
Ellouise wasn’t sure what was going on, but she was beginning to get the impression that they didn’t like Professor Snape, shame, even though he was strange and cold he was still a helpful and talented wizard.
“Then the second time I managed to stop him from seeing too much, I just used my mind to block him out.” She was pretty proud of this accomplishment, it was a good indication that she was learning.
“Aaawww no Hex or Curse?” asked James in a small voice, Sirius laughed. Lily nudged him in the ribs again, only, this time it was a bit harder. “Ouch!” exclaimed James.
“I’m proud of you”, said Xavier in her ear. Ellouise turned to face him, his deep grey eyes penetrated hers with an intense stare. She smiled in reply.
“So what’s the fascination with Occlumency?” asked Lily, this question caught her slightly off guard. Why was she learning it? Was one question she didn’t particularly want to answer. She knew that the main reason which motivated her to learn the art of Occlumency, was to get her parents back. She was sure the skill would play a key part in her plan and would determine whether or not she would succeed. Not that she had a plan yet... but she was working on it.
Noticing that all eyes were on her Ellouise opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. She tried again, “Um... well... I just”, she took a deep breath, “...thought it would be a good skill to have.” She said. Nobody seemed particularly at ease with her answer, but left it at that.

Yeah, shut up James! Quit picking on the scary-looking man with the golden heart.

PAMS, girlfriend!

Finally caught up!!! Amazing amazing story! Love the plot line and the way you describe the HP character are very cannon to the books. The invented characters of your brilliant mind also have very defined personalities.

how I love James.

Keep up the amazing work. I can't wait to read more. PAMS!

Thanks girlies! Really appreciate your comments!!! Glad your enjoying my posts

First of all... appologies for taking so long. Working two jobs at the moment so its hard finding time to RP and write... so the writing has been seriously lacking. But!.... I'm getting back into the swing of things. So hopefully you'll like my next post.

Its only short... but its a start!

Happy Reading! hopefully my posts will be more frequent now.

A few hours after lunch was served Ellouise found herself being shepherded into the library on the main floor. Nobody ever went in there. Cobwebs hung from books and candelabra, the windows were covered in grime, thick layers of dust coated the sofa and armchairs which were arranged around a sturdy mahogany desk. With a wave of his wand Dumbledore cleaned down the furniture, leaving them looking brand new. Gesturing for Ellouise and Xavier to take a seat, he took his position on the corner of the desk, twirling his thumbs as he went.
“Now, before I go into any detail concerning what you saw earlier, it is crucial that you both remain tight-lipped about this.”

Ellouise heard the warning in Dumbledore’s tone. Whatever was going on, whatever he was about to tell them, was not meant to be heard by anyone... not even them. Bt he didn’t have a choice in that matter.
“Yes sir”, replied Xavier, Ellouise just nodded her understanding.
“Right”, replied Dambledore nodding his head.
After a moment of awkward silence he let his palms rest against the surface of the table.
“The first thing you need to know is that Igor Karkaroff is not Severus Snape. He unlike Severus is not a trusted member of the Order of the Phoenix, so therefore he does not have access to the Order Headquarters”, he flourished his hands at their surroundings.
“Secondly, the nature of his mission is to feed myself and Severus information to which we are not privy. He is currently in Voldemort’s favour and therefore is an important asset to our cause.”
Ellouise followed along in her mind, so he wasn’t trusted... yet they took his words as gospel?
“Sir...” started Ellouise, but she was shut down almost immediately as Dumbledore raised a finger to his lips.
“Thirdly,” he said continuing as though she hadn’t interjected, “You need to realise that I am a very careful Wizard... I scrutinize every ounce of information I receive before I use it.”
Deep down Ellouise knew Dumbledore was a responsible Wizard, he would never do anything that would jeopardise the success of the Order.
“So how long has this been going on?” asked Xavier, who still didn’t look comfortable with the idea that Karkaroff couldn’t be trusted.
“Um Professor Dumbledore... how did it start?” asked Ellouise. Had Karkaroff gone to Dumbledore? Or was Dumbledore scouting traitors?