Disclaimer: I would like to acknowledge that most of the characters, settings and the world in which they live are not my creations but belong to J.K. Rowling. However the story line in this FanFic is my own individual creation inspired by the wonderful world of Harry Potter.

About me: This is my second FanFic, my first was Padfoot Returns... which was not completed as I took a great deal of time off SS and it was deleted . But I have returned and I would like to share this story with you.

Context: Sirius Black is well and free, Wormtail was caught and imprisoned in Azkaban (temporarily). Lily and James Potter are well and safe- they defended against Lord Voldemort who fled, weakened by the love bond which empowered the Potters. Lord Voldemort returned to power a year later.



All's Fair in Love and War



And so it begins...

In the past seven years, the wizarding world had seen the uprising of Lord Voldemort, the downfall of the Ministry of Magic, much pain, much suffering, tremendous loss, never ceasing chaos and mayhem. Wizarding families were divided, ties severed, some went into hiding only to be discovered by the death eaters, some fought for a chance at a normal life and perished, whilst others joined the dark side and turned on those who had once been so close to them. Life hadn’t been normal in years, and there was little hope at a normal life in the near future. The effects of the war had been felt all over the world. Battles raged in plain sight, out in the open, where muggles were among the casualties. Battles also raged in secret, hidden from most but felt by all. Prisoners of war had been taken by both sides, allies had been formed, broken and re-formed. Nobody was safe, nobody could be trusted.

Before Voldemorts uprising, it had been thought that he had been destroyed, that he had been disposed of by the Potters. But that had not been the case. Some considered this to be an infamous blunder on the Potters’ behalf, others believed it to be a great misfortune. Either way nothing would be achieved by pointing the finger.

Ellouise Browne sat against the trunk of an Oak tree, its long branches sheltering her from the gentle drizzle of rain that now emanated from the dark foreboding sky. She closed her eyes and leant her head back against the rough bark, letting it tangle her long black hair. Sighing deeply she looked up once more scanning the canopy of the great Oak. It had been five days since she’d slept properly, she was always moving and never stayed in one place for too long. It was becoming increasingly difficult to carry on alone. She reminisced to six days ago when she and her parents were fishing from a sheltered bay located ten kilometres outside of Bristol in the south of England. It had been a good day, they were making progress, sort of, but that night everything had gone horribly wrong. Her dad, Spencer, had been awake, keeping guard outside the small tent they were staying in. A number of spells and enchantments were concealing them from plain sight, this of course was standard practise. A group of death eaters were scanning the area, they had with them two bodies wrapped in sheets and were disposing of them in a shallow ditch just meters from where they were hiding. Spencer had been trying to stifle a cough, something had caught in his throat, but he couldn’t muffle the sound completely. One of the death eaters heard the noise and then all hell broke loose. The spells and enchantments were broken and wands were drawn. Ellouise was roused from her shallow sleep by her mother Andrea who had concealed her using the disillusionment charm. She witnessed her mother surrender to the death eaters, going out to stand alongside her husband, her wand lay on the ground at her feet as a sign of defeat. Ellouise remembered the pain she felt that night, how she had held her breath, trying so desperately not to give herself away. She was the only one that could save her parents now. The death eaters had not killed them, knowing who they were and acknowledging their usefulness they lead them away, arms shackled behind their backs, faces covered with calico bags. It all seemed like a distant memory now, an unwelcome memory.



I hope you enjoy reading this and I look forward to reading your comments.
Emily

Oooo! Mucho Mucho Interesante!

PAMS!

Wow 32 views and 1 comment thanks Ruby!

Heres the next post.

Peering down at her watch, Ellouise let out a mournful sigh. Xavier was late. She had been at the rendezvous point for almost an hour now and there was no sign of him. Ellouise pulled out a crumpled, yellowing photograph from her pocket, she peered down at the smiling faces of two children playing in the sunshine running around a big Oak tree. The little girl in the photo had shoulder length black hair and wore a blue floral dress. She barely recognised herself now. The once chubby face speckled with freckles had given way to a sleek jaw line, high cheekbones and a porcelain complexion. She smiled to herself, Xavier Black was her height though he was two years older, he wore faded denim shorts, a black tank top and a straw hat sat atop his thick black curls. The photograph had been taken eight years ago, not long before life as they knew it changed. It has been years since she’d seen him, granted they were no longer children. Ellouise was a tender age of thirteen, Xavier was now fifteen. In a normal world Ellouise would have been in her third year at Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry, worrying about mastering spells, completing homework and the infamous end of year exams. But the world was not right, and far from normal. With the complete collapse of the Ministry of Magic, the use of magic was no longer regulated or monitored. Children were learning to perform spells, curses and hexes as early as five years of age, this was what war did to people. Ellouise had been home schooled by her mother, father and godfather. Spencer had been an Auror, trained in fighting the dark arts and evil witches and wizards, she had learnt a lot from him. Her mother had been a transfiguration teacher at Durmstrang Institute for Magical Learning. She had taught Ellouise how to change her facial features and objects but best of all Ellouise was a proficient animagus. She had the ability to transform into a grey wolf at her will, this was partly her godfather Remus Lupin’s influence. Remus Lupin was a devoted godfather they were best of friends at times, he was also a werewolf. On the night of the full moon Ellouise would keep him company in his time of distress. They would race each other up mountain sides, across valleys and through the woods, only stopping when the night sky began to fade and the Sun could be seen on the horizon. Remus Lupin hadn’t stayed with them for too long, always coming and going. He and his pregnant wife Naomi went in search of the Black’s and the Potter’s. They were all very much like family and together they would find a way to get through these hard times. It now seemed as though Remus had located the Black’s, he had sent her a patronous which had led her to an abandoned shack by the side of a river in Scotland. That was where she found the photograph nailed to a wall beside the door inside the dilapidated structure.

Tell me what you think

Well I suppose people are reading..
Hope you enjoy, let me know what you think.


Ellouise turned over the photograph of her and Xavier and read the words to make sure she hadn’t misinterpreted the message. The black ink scrawled across the back said: A day in the Sun. 19th August “95. Studying it carefully Ellouise considered the facts. It was currently Sunday the 19th of August and it was now eleven o’clock. Surely “95 would suggest 9:50... although there was no indication as to whether it was supposed to be am or pm. She was able to determine the location of the rendezvous from the photograph, she turned it back over and watched herself and Xavier running around the Oak tree in the picture. It was a lot taller now and had a lot more foliage than in the photo. She stood up, stretching her arms as far as they could go. After shaking of the grass and dirt from her jeans she wandered around the tree. This used to be her favourite place growing up. She looked out over the landscape. Flat grassy terrain surrounded her with snow-capped mountains and ridges in the background, Snowdonia National Park was a beautiful place.
“Kind of takes your breath away doesn’t it?”
Ellouise turned to see a tall, well built boy standing behind her. He wore faded grey jeans, a black t-shirt and a thick black coat unbuttoned. His features where undoubtedly handsome, grey-blue eyes looked down at her, his lips slack but his expression was curious. Ellouise wanted to smile, to run to him and be held in his arms. But she was still wary of him. She had to make sure he wasn’t an imposter.
“What present did you get me for my sixth birthday that I loved?” she asked him sceptically. He smiled at her briefly before answering, “I got you two presents for your sixth birthday, the first was sent by owl as we weren’t sure we would be able to make it to your party. It was a book entitled “Witches Tales for Little Ladies”, you didn’t like that one very much. The other gift I got you on your sixth birthday was a packet of Bertie Botts Every-Flavour Beans which we spent hours eating in your neighbours tree-house when the party was over. I distinctly remember you getting a pepper flavoured one. You cried for at least an hour.” He laughed.
“Well I was only six” Ellouise stammered defensively.
“My turn”, Xavier said serious once more.
“The last time I saw you what was I wearing?” he asked, one eyebrow raised in anticipation.
“You wore your favourite red plaid button-up shirt, black jeans, sneakers and our friendship bracelet that I made you. It was made of green cotton with a silver star pendant. You had told me once that even though we wouldn’t see each other much we could always stare up into the night sky and see the same thing... therefore in some way we would still be connected.” she replied coolly.
Xavier and Ellouise stood there for a moment, just staring at each other. Xavier put his hand into his pocket and fished out a wispy string of green cotton, the silver pendant sparkled as it swayed in the light breeze. He finally made the move and approached Ellouise wrapping his arms around her. “It’s been too long Ellie” he said softly. She couldn’t agree more.

Yay 78 views thanks to those who have been reading.
Drop us a comment anytime you feel like it.

They began walking, about a meter separated them and the silence was deafening. Ellouise ran her fingers through her knotted hair. She couldn’t wait to have a proper shower and a good night’s sleep.
“So what have you been up to these last few years?” asked Xavier with a small laugh.
Ellouise turned to look at him, smiling as she did so. “Oh you know, just the usual, learning how to attack, how to defend, how to hide, how to travel. We’ve been through Europe a few times, we went as far as Switzerland, but it’s the same everywhere, so we came back.”
“Hey... where are you parents?” he asked suddenly turning looking about as if expecting to see them in the distance.
Ellouise dropped her gaze, shoving her hands inside her jacket pocket she looked back up, “Mum and Dad were taken only almost a week ago”, she said in a small voice. Xavier stopped in his tracks. “I’m so sorry”, he said. “I would have thought Remus would have filled you in on the details. It’s ok though... I plan on getting them back”, replied Ellouise. She was trying to remain positive in the light of recent events, but the mask was slipping from her face and when it did she doubted that she would be able to hide the tears.
Soon they reached the peak of a small hill overlooking the valley. “I love this view”, said Ellouise. Xavier just looked at her, then offered her his hand. “You ready to come home?” he asked. In reply she removed her hand from her jacket pocket. Her fingers were still cold and welcomed Xavier’s touch. After one last look at her favourite place they apparated, lurching forward into an unknown. She had no idea where Xavier was taking her. All she knew was that he had called it home, and a home was something she wanted.

Their feet landed with a quiet thud. Ellouise opened her eyes to a musty hallway, dust covered the floor, cobwebs hung from blacked out portraits and the light the emanated from the candles flickered though there was no draft. She didn’t recognise the place but followed Xavier to the end of the hallway to a tall black door. As Xavier opened the door a brilliant glow of yellow light flooded the hallway. The smell of roasting vegetables and meats wafted over teasing Ellouise’s stomach. She realised in that moment that she hadn’t eaten a descent meal in days, not since she had stolen a chicken from a farm near Cardiff. Xavier stepped through pulling Ellouise behind him. The room was a great deal more inviting than the hallway had been. The room was warm and well lit, the furniture looked comfortable and soft, but most importantly a number of familiar faces peered down at her. “Elle...” came the soft familiar voice of Remus as he walked towards her slowly. Ellouise ran past Xavier and threw herself into Remus’s waiting arms. After a moment he let her go gently and she peered around the room at all the other faces. There was Naomi of course, sitting by the fire, Sirius Black stood by the door with Xavier, Lily and James Potter sat in the corner with little Harry playing with a kitten on the hardwood floor.
“Welcome home”, said Xavier who had come to her side.


Sorry but I wont be able to post again for another day or two. Busy with Christmas shopping and preparations.

K, heres the next post, sooner than I had expected.
Enjoy.

The next morning Ellouise woke up in a queen size four-poster bed, its soft scarlett covers holding her where she lay. Number twelve Grimmauld Place was the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix. The Order was comprised of a group of witches and wizards led by Albus Dumbledore to fight against the dark side, against Voldemort and his death eaters. It was a safe and secure location, with Albus Dumbledore as its secret-keeper. Slowly but surely she got herself to sit up, resting her head on her knees. She had cried herself to sleep last night. It was the first time she had cried in a long time, the first time she shed a tear for her parents. It had been all too painful when she explained the events of that night to everyone. They had all been very sympathetic and tried to be reassuring, but Ellouise knew there was only so much that could be done to get them back and now was not the time for that. They had a war to worry about.
After getting changed into some clothes Naomi had found for her, Ellouise made her way to the bathroom. She closed the door behind her and leant against the wall. After taking a deep breath she then turned to face herself in the mirror. Fresh tears began to form in her eyes but she smiled at her reflection whispering to herself, “Could be worse”. There was a rapping at the door, “I’m almost done” she called out emerging from her trance.
“Breakfast’s ready”, said Remus through the door. Ellouise brushed her teeth, combed through her hair and studied her figure in the mirror. She was a fair bit skinnier than she used to be, though to be fair she hadn’t had a stable diet. The green silk singlet she wore only enhanced her already vibrant green eyes, and the skinny black jeans she wore elongated her legs and the knee high boots she wore only added to the illusion that she was taller. All in all this made her feel a bit better about herself. It seemed to be a small accomplishment in the light of recent events.
Unlocking the door and skipping down the stairs taking two at a time Ellouise followed a short flight of stairs down to the kitchen. There were a number of unfamiliar faces sitting around the table, a few were reading the paper intently whilst a short man with a heavy beard was in an animated discussion with Sirius who simply looked irritated. She spotted Xavier sitting across the table from two boys who looked to be his age. Ellouise gathered herself and went to take a seat beside him.
“Morning”, she said shyly as she took her seat.
“Blimey Xavier, you never told us she was hot!” exclaimed one of the boys, eyeing her off.
“Morning Ellie, how’d you sleep?” he asked, politely ignoring his friends remark.
“The best I had in a long time”, she replied whilst grabbing a piece of buttered toast.
“Ellie, I’d like you to meet Carlisle Smith”, said Xavier gesturing at a sandy haired boy sitting opposite him. “And this idiot over here is Anton Smith, you’re better off ignoring him... or avoiding him if you can” he sniggered. Anton placed a hand on his heart in what Ellouise supposed was a mock wounded expression. “So you two are brothers?” she laughed to herself.
“Twin brothers actually”, corrected Anton who was leaning toward her across the table.
“Clearly I’m the better looking one” he said smiling.
Carlisle cleared his throat. “Blessing in disguise that we’re not identical, otherwise I’d have to acknowledge that he’s actually my brother”, he said snidely.
“With Smith being such a common surname I can usually get away with saying we’re not related and that it’s all just an unwelcome coincidence.” He said punching his brother in the arm lightly.

Thanks to those that are reading, I really appreciate it.

Just then Remus entered the kitchen flanked by none other than Albus Dumbledore and a man with long black hair, a crooked nose and sallow skin. His black robes billowed around him as he walked giving him an air of self-importance. Ellouise had a feeling she wouldn’t like this man very much. The three of them sat a short distance away and helped themselves to some tea, the black haired man declined. Ellouise stood to leave when Remus turned to her and waved her over. Curiously she shuffled along the bench instead until she was by his side.
“Elle, I’d like to introduce you to Professor Dumbledore and Professor Snape.” He said.
“Pleased to meet you Miss Browne” smiled Dumbedore extending his hand politely, “Welcome to the Order of the Phoenix, I trust you’ll be quite valuable to our cause”, he said as Ellouise shook his hand. Professor Snape didn’t move.
“I’ll do what I can”, she replied in a small voice looking between Dumbledore and Snape.
“Professor Snape is our man on the inside, he’s sort of the go-between man”, started Remus, “he relays information to us about what’s happening amongst the death eaters whilst also pretending to be a spy for them but providing them with often irrelevant and inaccurate information.” He added matter-of-factly. “I see, sort of like a double agent?”, replied Ellouise as she made eye contact with Snape. “I don’t suppose you’ve heard anything about the whereabouts of my parents?” she asked him pouncing on any opportunity to gain information which may help rescue her parents.. He looked at her, the features of his face fixed and unmoving.
“And who might they be?” he asked in a flat monotonous voice.
“Spencer and Andrea Browne”
“Ahh...” he replied. “Browne”, he said to himself. “I did here the name come up in conversation, I believe at the time they were discussing moving them to a secure location. This generally means they’re being held within the Ministry of Magic”. He said.
“They’re using the Ministry of Magic?” asked Ellouise, somewhat taken aback by this revelation. She knew it no longer served the purpose it once had, but she had always imagined it to be abandoned or destroyed, just an empty shell.
“Yes its sort of his Headquarters”, replied Snape tiptoeing around the name Voldemort.
“Anyway, we’re having a meeting this afternoon, you should come along. It would be good if you could get involved”, said Remus with a small smile. “Sure, I’ll be there”, said Ellouise as she stood to make her way out of the kitchen, picking up another couple of pieces of toast along the way. Anton stared after her.

The next post will be longer!... I promise!
p.s. Let me know what you think. I'm itching for some comments

Ok, sooooooooo sorry I haven't replied, been mucho busy, it being last few weeks before school breaks up for Xmas Yay

YAY! Sirius and Remus are here!

-does victory dance-

Looking at most of the fan-fic's, Remus does seem to be a lot of people's God-Father.... Ahhh well, you can't help it, he's just so loveable!

PAMS!

P.S. Go away Naomi! Remus belongs to Tonks! No offence, I just love Remus/Tonks

Thanks for the comment Ruby I do love Remus, he's one of my favourite characters, but Im afraid Im not a fan of Remus and Tonks.
Oh and I really appreciate all the views Im getting, so thank you to all those that read!

Here's the next post. Its longer than the others.
So enjoy

Ellouise spent most of the day in the green drawing room, where she skimmed through some books, practiced some spells and played wizards chess with a very enthusiastic Harry. He wasn’t half bad either, beating her three games to one. Order members came and went like clockwork, a few stopping to have a chat to her. Naomi sat in one of the armchairs opposite her by the fire, knitting needles suspended in the air creating what appeared to be a yellow blanket. It had been a relatively quiet day, Ellouise had been looking forward to the Order of the Phoenix meeting and now that time had come. Order members flocked down to the kitchen together, a babble of noise following them as they greeted each other along the way. Ellouise took a seat next to Remus towards the head of the table where Dumbledore sat, with his long fingers pressed together, and his piercing blue eyes peering over the top of his half-moon glasses. Soon the room fell silent.
“Welcome everyone, so glad you could all make it today”, began Dumbledore, “some of you will have noticed we have a few new additions to today’s meeting, but I will hold off on the introductions for the time being as we have urgent matters to discuss.”
Dumbledore then gestured to Professor Snape and all attention was diverted to him. Snape seemed to be rather uncomfortable under the gaze of so many people, and there seemed to be some hostility towards him, this mostly came from Sirius Black and James Potter. Snape cleared his throat loudly before he began.
“There have been a number of important developments of late.” He said.
“Firstly, I have news on the whereabouts of three of our Order members that were abducted last month whilst on a reconnaissance mission, Abigail Schrewt, Barnaby Roughead and Juliana Cassotti. They are currently undergoing a process of interrogation on level ten at the Ministry.”
Whispers suddenly broke out around the kitchen.
“Secondly, the dark lord has acquired the support and allegiance of a number of werewolves, this includes the infamous Fenrir Greyback. Werewolves of course are highly dangerous and highly uncontrollable. Their primary function or purpose, will be to inflict as much pain and death as possible on those who do not support the dark lord. The location of these attacks will be calculated and carefully selected. I will be able to provide you with more details closer to the full moon.”
Remus shifted uncomfortably in his seat. A low murmur carried across the room but stopped abruptly when Snape continued.
“And lastly, the Russian Ministry officials have decided to work with the dark lord rather than against him. They are offering him information, resources and man power; essentially providing him with an army three times the size that it is currently. It is important that we get hold of this information, for I will not be privy to them when I return to the dark lords side. Now the exact details are going to be discussed on the outskirts of a city by the name of Tver. There will be two death eaters and then the Russian representatives.” He paused here and looked down over at Dumbledore who gave him an encouraging nod. “A reconnaissance mission will be required. The locality is an abandoned town and is renown for its wild terrain and abundant wildlife.” Snape seemed to have come to the end of his speech. Everyone peered around at each other, whispering feverishly until Dumbledore raised his hand.
“Now, first on our agenda, the rescue of our Order members. Professor Snape I trust you will continue to survey the Ministries defences and keep a watchful eye over them to ensure they are safe.” He paused and looked down the table, “It will only be a matter of time before we can attempt a rescue mission.”
Ellouise thought about her parents, wondering where they were, what they were doing and how they were being treated. She stopped herself there. She couldn’t think about that now. Shaking her head she brought herself back to reality.
“Secondly,” stated Dumbledore over the noise that had erupted. “It seems that Voldemort has acquired the aid and support of the werewolves. This is not good.” He turned his head to a man sitting on the far side of Sirius. He was quite tall, looked to be in his forties, and had thinning blonde hair. “Nigel, how are the dragons coming along?” asked Dumbledore. Nigel cleared his throat before replying, “yes Professor Dumbledore, well... they are coming along well. We’re heading out on an expedition to Hungary tomorrow to see if we can get some Hungarian Horntails to join our side. It shouldn’t be too difficult now that we’ve got most of the Norwegian Ridgebacks and Common Welsh Greens.” He looked down at his hands for a moment before adding excitedly, “Ohhh oh! I have an acquaintance in the Ukraine who said they could get me some Ukrainian Ironbelly’s”, he said enthusiastically. Voices began to murmur again, many people nodded impressively. “Brilliant”, said Dumbledore, “With any luck, Rubeus Hagrid will return shortly with some good news. He has been trying to win the support of a Troll community in Norway, should he succeed I’d say we’re in with a stronger chance at winning this war.”

The meeting was adjourned for a half hour whilst Dumbledore responded to an urgent owl that had just arrived, this provided the Order members with the opportunity to discuss the news they had just been provided with.
“Well at least we’ve got one werewolf”, said Sirius to Remus.
Remus grinned mischievously and let out a small laugh. “Big difference I’ll make”, he said. Sirius shrugged, “At least it’s something.”
Naomi was coming around the kitchen table serving people with firewhiskey and butterbeer. Ellouise took a butterbeer and sipped it quietly. She felt it trickle down her throat filling her with warmth.
“... It’ll be too dangerous, I don’t think anyone will be too eager to volunteer considering what happened on the last one”, said Lily Potter, who was sitting on Ellouise’s left hand side.
“Can you blame them?” asked Remus thoughtfully.
“It’s just a matter of concealing yourself and blending in”, announced Sirius, “any good wizard or witch should be able to do that”, he said gruffly.
James laughed, “Are you volunteering Sirius?” he asked.
Sirius pulled a face at him, “They know my animagus, it would be suicide”, he said in response. “Unless I was invisible, but thats just reckless, leaving footprints and all.”
“They don’t know mine”, said Ellouise. They all turned to face her. Remus looked worried, Lily, James, Sirius and Xavier looked surprise.
“Ellouise Morgan Browne, I swore to your parents that I would love you and protect you from all harm”, he emphasised the last part. Ellouise fixed her eyes on him.
“What do I have to lose?” she asked.
“No Elle, the answer is no.”
“Weren’t you just saying this morning that I should get involved, keep myself busy?” she asked still staring at him.
“Yes, but this isn’t what I meant.” He said, though he sounded defeated.
They sat silently for a few moments, till Xavier spoke. “What is your animagus?” he asked.
Ellouise stood up and took a step back, focusing she transformed.
The whole room fell quiet. Everyone was looking at her now. Or at least they were looking at her animagus. Her strong wolfish blue eyes gazed around the room, she crouched low to the ground then jumped swiftly onto the bench between Remus and Lily. Then she returned her body to its human state. A few people clapped, some whispered in astonishment between them. Ellouise was only thirteen after all.
“Bravo”, came Dumbledore’s voice as he entered the kitchen and resumed his position at the head of the table. “A marvellous display of magic”, he added cheerfully.
Ellouise stood up, and faced Dumbledore, a serious expression across her face.
“Professor Dumbledore, sir. I would like to volunteer for the reconnaissance mission”, she said. The room was silent, it seemed they all anticipated Dumbledore’s response. Dumbledore studied her intensely. “It is very brave of you to make the offer...” he began, but Ellouise cut him off. “I am perfectly serious Professor.” She said calmly.
Dumbledore nodded. “Do you feel as though you are ready for such a task?” he asked. Ellouise thought for a moment before responding. “I do sir”. She said simply. Professor Dumbledore nodded and Ellouise sat back down.
“I’d also like to volunteer”, said Anton who sat at the opposite end of the table. He stood, then made his case. “I think I should go with Ellouise. Both of our animagi are grey wolves, we would be disguised as part of a pack. Even in plain sight it wouldn’t look as suspicious if there were two of us rather than just one.”
Dumbledore studied his expression just as he had studied Ellouise. “And do you Anton feel that you are ready for such a task?” he asked. Then he added, “It will not be easy, and will require a great amount of bravery.”
Anton frowned a little and replied, “I assure you Professor is Ellouise can handle it, then so can I.” Dumbledore was silent for a period of time. “You did not answer my question Anton. I asked whether or not you feel ready for the task. I did not for any other justification.” Anton blushed, he had made a fool of himself in front of Albus Dumbledore, one of the greatest wizards of all time. “I am ready Professor”, he said simply.
“Very well”, replied Dumbledore, “Are there anymore volunteers?” he asked.
After waiting a minute he said, “Very well. Anton, Ellouise I will be in touch to debrief you for your mission. The rest of you I trust you are keeping well, if you have any further questions or would like to raise an issue with me please see me at once. Otherwise this meeting is adjourned.” Dumbledore didn’t move out of his seat. Some people stood to leave, others moved to the drawing room, some people decided to stay in the kitchen. Ellouise caught Anton’s eye, he smiled and started walking in her direction. He had only taken a few steps however when he was intercepted by Xavier. Ellouise couldn’t hear what he was saying. Xavier had a hand placed on Anton’s chest, preventing him from moving forward. They stared at each other for a moment. Ellouise could see Anton’s lips move in response to what Xavier had said but couldn’t make out the words. Xavier let his hand down and exited the kitchen, Anton continued to walk in her direction.

Awww, trust Remus to be all protective!

Oooo, I think someone likes Elle... (cough)Xavier(cough)

PAMS!

Thanks for the comment Ruby
This will be my last post till after Christmas so I hope you all enjoy.

“I guess if we have to work together, maybe we should get to know one another,” said Anton, his eyes moving up and down her body.
“Right”, replied Ellouise as she pushed past him and left the kitchen.
“What? What did I do?” called out Anton as he watched her walk away.
Ellouise walked down the hallway and into the green drawing room. Xavier was sitting by the fire with Carlisle. They were laughing about something as she approached them.
“Mind if I join you?” she asked.
“Not at all”, replied Carlisle as he stood to give her his seat.
“Oh I’m fine on the floor”, she said as she sat down leaning against Xavier’s armchair her legs bent at the knees. Anton soon joined them and took the spot opposite Ellouise on the floor. He didn’t mention their brief exchange in the kitchen, but stared into the fire instead.
“So what do you guys do for fun around here?” she asked glancing up at Xavier first before turning to look at the others.
“Not much”, laughed Anton as he puffed out his chest, “usually we just practice our magic, we dual and stuff you know”, he said. Carlisle laughed, “no, we dual... you just try to”, he said gesturing to Xavier. Anton smirked, “Oh yeah, come on then. I’ll take you on”, he said standing up.
“Don’t be silly”, said Carlisle, who was clearly trying hard not to laugh.
“I bet Ellie fights better than you”, sniggered Xavier. Carlisle and Xavier exchanged looks, they knew it was probably true. “I doubt that”, he said looking down at Ellouise, “No offence”, he said.
“Oh none taken”, replied Ellouise as she stood up and drew her wand. “Where shall we do this?” she asked grinning mischievously. Xavier and Carlisle let out a howl of laughter. “I’ve got to see this”, said Carlisle grinning at Ellouise. Anton looked taken aback slightly, it seemed he hadn’t expected her to challenge him.
“You’re not serious are you?” he asked, “I mean, it’s just... well I don’t fight girls,” he added.
“Yeah because he knows he’s going to lose”, said Carlisle.
“Don’t worry Anton, I’ll go easy on you”, said Ellouise.
“Alright then, bring it on.”
And with that the four of them headed for the staircase that lead upstairs, Harry followed behind them hoping to be entertained. They walked up to the attic which was almost empty, in one corner of the room was an old banged up suit of rusty armour, a target was painted on its chest. To the other side of the attic was a pile of cardboard boxes, a thick coat of dust lay on its surfaces. Xavier, Carlisle and Harry stood to one side of the attic, right up against the wall and watched eagerly. Ellouise walked to one end of the attic while Anton stayed at the other end rolling up his sleeves. They bowed in each others direction then held their wands poised for attack. Xavier let a shower of red sparks escape his wand and the dual began. Harry cheered excitedly as Ellouise sent a hex at Anton sending him flying into the wall and disarming him in the process. He was quick to his feat and sent back a reductor curse that was blocked too easily by Ellouise. Instantly she cast a tongue-tying jinx and giggled to herself as Anton failed to pronounce the incantation to his next spell correctly resulting in his wand backfiring and singeing his eyebrows. Ellouise disarmed him, Anton’s wand flew into the air, ricocheting off the ceiling and landed behind Ellouise who pointed her want threateningly at Anton.
“Cohibeo”, said Ellouise coolly as she flicked her want in Antons direction. Anton’s back hit the wall and he slid up and onto the ceiling of the attic, there he was motionless, completely paralyzed. Only Anton’s eyes were moving, rolling around in his head, both his arms and his legs were outstretched like a gangly spider on its web. Ellouise held her wand in his direction and glanced around to Xavier, Carlisle and Harry as they cheered triumphantly.
The attic door creaked open and in came Sirius and James. They took one look at Ellouise and Anton before they burst out laughing.
“Should I let him down now?” asked Ellouise as she looked around at her audience.
“No, leave him there a bit longer”, said Carlisle as he came to her side.
Ellouise drew circles in the air with her wand making Anton spin in circles on the ceiling. Xavier, Carlisle, Harry, Sirius and James burst out laughing again, fresh tears sprang to their eyes as they struggled to breathe.
“How long did he last?” asked Sirius.
“I’d say about five minutes”, replied Carlisle.
“Nah, thats too generous, I’d say about three”, said Xavier walking to stand next to Ellopuise a huge grin on his face.
Ellouise waved her wand and Anton slid back down the wall gently until his feet touched the ground, then the spell was broken. He panted and leant his head back against the wall.
“You’re not as innocent as you look”, he said.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

So I've had some unexpected spare time
Here's the next post, hope you all enjoy. Thanks for reading and hope you all have a spectacular Christmas!

The next few days went by in a hazy blur. It was an incredibly busy time for Ellouise and Anton, as they were preparing for their reconnaissance mission in Russia. They were seldom seen down in the kitchen or in the drawing room with the others, with the exception of dinner time and Order meetings. They had three days to prepare themselves, and so they didn’t spend much time apart. Anton’s behaviour had settled down considerably, he was less arrogant and was more reserved about his feelings, so he was much better company than Ellouise had originally hoped for. Most of their preparation involved laying ground work at the site of the reconnaissance mission. Professor Snape had apparated Ellouise and Anton to the site the first time as neither had any idea what it looked like. Snape had been right about the location, it was crawling with wildlife; there were various birds and insects, there were squirrels and foxes, and now there were even wolves. The site was in fact a large clearing in a dense forest which was located at the west end of an abandoned farm, it spanned many acres. The fences were decrepit and broken in many places. Barbed wire twirled around fragmented remains of paddock fences, troughs once used for feeding livestock lay rusted and covered in dirt. It was hard to imagine that anyone had ever lived here at all, but a small house which stood erect on the north side of the property hinted at what once was and what could have been. Its windows were opaque and covered with grime and the paint on the front door was peeling. Ellouise knew it would not be inhabited again. It was here in the forest where Ellouise and Anton spent a great deal of time, they skulked around the area, surveyed the land, scoped out hiding places etc. By the third day they both knew the area well.

In the cover of the thick trees Anton returned to human form.
“I’m going to head back now, I promised Carlisle that I’d help him make a potion”, he said.
In wolf form Ellouise bowed her head and watched him apparate back to Grimmauld Place. After a moment she peered up at the canopy of the forest, even through the dense trees she could feel a light breeze, then she caught an unfamiliar scent. Sniffing the air more intensely now, she began to move in its direction, the hairs on the scruff of her neck sticking up as she did so. She glided across the forest floor smoothly and silently and came to stop behind a small shrub near the entrance of the large clearing they had been surveying. Standing in the clearing was a man, he wore long black robes with silver fastening and he carried with him a walking stick. Though the man’s face was concealed by a mask, all death eaters wore masks to conceal their identity, Ellouise recognised him by his shoulder length blonde hair. This man was Lucius Malfoy. The Malfoy’s were an old wizarding family and were renown for their pure blood, fondness of the dark arts, and their allegiance to Lord Voldemort. Ellouise stood stock still as Lucius Malfoy circled the clearing. Suddenly there was a small pop and taller wizard also wearing a death eaters mask joined him in the clearing.
“Lucius”, he said as he bowed his head in the wizards direction.
“Igor”, replied Lucius courteously bowing in Igor’s direction.
A short period of silence followed this exchange until Lucius broke the silence.
“Everything appears to be in order, the ground in undisturbed”, said Lucius.
“Very well”, replied Igor as he took a turn around the clearing. “And the surrounds?” he asked.
“No sign of human life”, replied Lucius, “I must return to the dark lord now. Wait until Balthazar gets here. Tell him to alert the Russian authorities that we will be here at the arranged time and that the area has been searched.”
“Of course”, replied Igor.
Then with a small pop Lucius Malfoy disapparated. Ellouise kept her eyes on the man named Igor, he seemed to be somewhat uncomfortable, shifting from one foot to the other before taking another turn around the clearing. After what seemed like half an hour Igor stopped and turned and looked toward the spot where Ellouise stood, her body tensed but she didn’t move. There was a light rustling sound now only metres from where Ellouise stood. A short shadowy figure walked into sight. Accompanying his shadow was a short man, wearing a death eaters mask and faded grey robes. Ellouise recognised this man immediately, he was one of the death eaters that took her parents away. She drew a deep breath and resisted the urge to hunt him down and rip his throat out.
“Balthazar, so good to see you”, boomed Igor as he walked forward closing the distance quickly with his long strides.
“Igor”, replied Balthazar, “And where is Lucius?” he asked as he gazed around the clearing.
“He left not long ago, he left a message.” Igor paused as if waiting for permission to continue. Balthazar nodded. “He said that the area has been searched, and that the meeting will go on at the arranged time tomorrow. He would like you to confirm this with the Russian authorities”, said Igor. Balthazar didn’t respond immediately, but then bowed and disapparated. Igor sighed and he too diapparated. Ellouise was now alone and couldn’t wait to return to the others. She returned to her human form careful not to leave a footprint where she stood and disapparated to Grimmauld Place.

Next Post:

Once inside the dark, dusty, narrow hallway, which was all too familiar now, Ellouise ran through the drawing room, passed the Potter’s who were talking amongst themselves, passed Naomi who was sitting by the fire as she knitted little yellow booties, down the stairs and into the kitchen. Anton was sitting at the kitchen bench with Carlisle preparing ingredients and adding them to a slow burning cauldron, Xavier sat with them reading from a book that lay open on the table. Sirius and Remus sat at the other end of the table with Snape and a red haired wizard Ellouise didn’t recognise. Ellouise grabbed Anton by the arm and pulled him in her direction as she continued to the end of the table to speak to Remus and the others.
Xavier and Carlisle looked up curiously as Anton jogged to keep up with Ellouise. Remus looked up, his eyebrows furrowed as he analysed the look on Elle’s face.
“You won’t believe what just happened!” she exclaimed as she took a seat. They all looked at her expectedly, waiting for her to continue.
“Not long after you left Anton, I was still exploring the forest near the clearing and then I came across an unfamiliar scent. Guess who was standing in the clearing?” she asked, her eyes burning with excitement.
Ellouise didn’t wait for a response, “Lucius Malfoy!” she exclaimed.
“No doubt making the final preparations”, said Snape bluntly.
“Yes, he was joined by a man named Igor, then he left and Igor waited for another named Balthazar. Balthazar is going to notify the Russian officials that the meeting will be going ahead as planned”, she paused for a breath, “they searched the forest and the surrounding areas, they didn’t find anything. Means we did well”, she said turning to Anton whose face had turned an unnatural shade of green.
“And they didn’t see you?” asked Remus who looked nervous and relieved at the same time.
“No, didn’t notice a thing.”
“That’s a good start, just be sure it goes just as smoothly tomorrow,” said Snape.
“You alright there Anton?” asked Xavier as he and Carlisle came over, “Couldn’t help over hearing”, he said to the others.
Anton hadn’t moved, his eyes were wide and he seemed to be having some difficulty breathing.
“Anton?” Ellouise said. Anton’s head turned to face her.
“They were there.... there were three of them.... they were there.” He repeated.
Xavier slapped the back of his head, “Snap out of it, you’re going to have to keep your cool if you plan on being there tomorrow”, he said slightly annoyed.
“Is this going to be a problem?” asked Snape, his top lip curling unpleasantly. Anton sighed, “No sir, everything will be fine, we’ll be ready for it,” he said exchanging an annoyed look with Xavier.


Let me know what you think

Hope you all had fabulous festivities!
Here's the next post.

Ellouise didn’t sleep much that night. She stared out her window, the moon was in its first quarter, its light beamed through her window drawing patterns on the floor. She spent hours thinking about her parents, thinking about what it could have been like if they were all still together and thinking up ways to get them back. Though the more scenarios she dreamt up the more ridiculous they became. At some stage early in the morning Ellouise dozed off into a light slumber, only to be woken up a couple of hours later. Ellouise sat bolt up-right in her bed, her fingers curled around the sheets, her skin damp with sweat. She’d had that dream again. That sickening dream of the night her parents were taken, she had relived every second of that memory over and over again. But no matter how many times she relived it, it still haunted her. A few minutes passed and eventually Ellouise examined the clock on her bedside table. The sky outside her window was more of a blue than a black now, and the stars were fading. It was four-thirty in the morning, she would have to be up in an hour to execute her mission anyway. So with a big stretch Ellouise dragged herself out of bed, changed into some blue jeans and a long sleeved black top. She tied up her long black hair into a loose pony-tail and silently tiptoed downstairs, through the drawing room and down to the kitchen where the light was still on. There was no one in the room, everyone seemed to still be in bed. Ellouise took a seat at the table and lay her head on its smooth surface, today was the day she would start fighting back, today was the day she would make her mark as a member of the Order of the Phoenix. The thought of it made her stomach rumble, she would need her energy for the reconnaissance mission. So without a second thought Ellouise hurried to the pantry and began making a tomato and chive omelette. She reminisced on times when her mother would make it for her, back when they still had a home, when they lived in peace, it was too long ago now.
“Making me breakfast?” Ellouise jumped at the voice that came from behind her.
She turned to see Xavier, half asleep, hair ruffled and curling at odd angles, wearing a grey sweatshirt and black satin shorts. Ellouise hadn’t really noticed before but he was quite developed for his age. His biceps were bulging out of his shirt sleeves just enough to warrant him being a man, the stubble on his cheeks only added to his masculine appearance. Ellouise smiled and cleared her throat softly.
“I suppose you can have mine”, she said as she placed the omelette on a place and pushed it towards him. Xavier smiled and sat down.
“Thanks Ellie”, he said grinning at her as he grabbed a knife and fork.
Ellouise laughed, a smile spread across her face, “You know, nobody calls me Ellie anymore, it’s usually Elle”, she said conversationally. Xavier thought for a second as he swallowed his mouthful.
“Yes I’ve noticed”, he said, “But I’ve always called you Ellie, and I’m not about to stop.”
Ellouise didn’t respond straight away, she flipped her omelette onto a plate and took a seat next to Xavier before she said, “I never said you should.”
They sat quietly as Ellouise ate, Xavier left his seat and went to retrieve something from the pantry. He sat back down next to Ellouise and placed a bowl of apricots in front of her. Ellouise smiled.
“You remembered,” she said smiling at him as she took a couple. Apricots had been her favourite fruit growing up. Whenever the Blacks would go to their place to visit, Xavier and Ellouise would spend hours playing in the back garden and would climb over the fence into the neighbours backyard to pick apricots off their tree. There were a number of occasions when they had been caught and chased off the property by a middle aged, balding man. Needless to say their parents weren’t very happy when he knocked on their door.

I'm on fire! Here's the next post!... it's a bit short but there will be more to come tomorrow
Thanks everyone for the 250+ views!

Just then Naomi and Remus entered the kitchen followed by Carlisle. After exchanging good mornings Ellouise went upstairs to grab her black wool coat, boots and wand. It was almost time to set up. Though the meeting was taking place at around midday, she and Anton had to be in position earlier, in case the death eaters decided to increase their security, though at this stage they didn’t have any reason to suspect they would, it was merely a precaution. Ellouise morphed into her wolf animgus and bounded down the stairs racing through to the kitchen. She noticed that the Potters had joined them for breakfast. Ellouise jumped up onto the kitchen bench and stole the piece of toast Harry was holding, right out of his hands. Harry laughed and scratched Ellouise behind the ear. Xavier sidled up to her and stroked her soft sleek fur, “I didn’t know wolves like marmalade,” he said jokingly. Ellouise morphed back to her human form and smiled at her audience, “I’m not your average wolf,” she replied.
“Ready for your mission?” asked James as he looked up from his paper.
“Absolutely, it’s about time I can do something useful”, she said. Remus had a concerned expression on his face, his brows furrowed and his lips pulled down at the corners.
“I’m sure you’ll be a great asset to the Order”, said James reassuringly.
Ellouise looked up at the wall clock, it was now five-thirty, Anton would have to hurry up if they were going to get there for the time they had planned.
“Promise me you’ll be careful,” said Xavier suddenly. His grey eyes focused on Ellouise. “I promise I’ll be careful,” she replied not leaving his gaze. “I just got you back Ellie, I don’t want to lose you again,” he said. Ellouise’s heart skipped a beat, she inhaled a deep breath, he had missed her, he still cared. Just then Anton arrived, he wore a thick sheepskin coat, a green beanie, dragon-hide gloves and dragon-hide boots. He looked uncharacteristically pale and each movement he made was very calculated and deliberate. Ellouise laughed, “Looks like you’re set,” she said. Anton smiled weakly, “Ladies first”. Ellouise kissed Remus on the cheek and whispered something in his ear, then she turned to Xavier and the Potter’s, “See you guys soon,” she said, then she apparated.

As promised heres the next post. I promise to try to post longer ones in the future.

Ellouise’s feet landed softly on the ground, almost immediately she morphed into her animagus and took cover beneath a shrub. A moment later Anton appeared, he too morphed immediately. They looked at one another then began moving off in different directions. They needed to survey the forest and its surrounding areas again to assess whether anything was different, and to make sure they were alone... for the time being at least.

Many hours had passed, the sun now hung high in the sky, slightly obscured by the soft grey clouds that peered down at them threateningly. Anton and Ellouise had settled down in one of their hiding spots near the edge of the clearing. Here they were obscured by bushes on each side. It was relatively quiet in the forest, all that could be heard was the low rumble of thunder from overhead, the light breeze ruffling the leaves on the trees and the occasional bird whistle. Anton was quite restless, his ears pricked up at every sound and his body quivered as if he was shivering. Ellouise snapped her teeth in his direction, if he wasn’t careful he’d blow their cover. Anyone would be suspicious of a quivering bush. Anton lowered his head and rest them on his paws, he emitted a low whiny sound and closed his eyes. The past few days had gone like clockwork, Ellouise had thought they were doing really well, they had finally started getting along. But now she became sceptical, why was Anton behaving this way? He couldn’t be cold surely, perhaps it was nerves? It couldn’t be fear. He had volunteered for the mission himself, he had a choice and he took it. It must be nerves she thought more confidently now, it will pass.

It felt like a lifetime that they had been stuck sitting amongst the bushes, but finally a familiar sounding pop announced the arrival of a death eater. It was Luicus Malfoy, his hair tied back in a sleek pony-tail. Almost immediately after him came two more pop’s. Standing on either side of his were the men Ellouise had seen the previous day, Igor and Balthazar. Anton peered through the leaves nervously, his body quivering slightly. Ellouise flicked him with her tail and glared at him when he met her eyes. He settled slightly. The death eaters paced around the clearing, their eyes darting in every direction. Balthazar’s gaze dropped momentarily to the bush where they were concealed, but looked away and walked back to the centre of the clearing. They seemed satisfied. Suddenly there were three more pop’s, now there were six men standing in the clearing. The three men that had joined the death eaters were not familiar to Ellouise in any way, they were the Russian Ministry Officials she presumed. The man in the centre wore long robes of magenta and had a long thick brown beard. The other men behind him wore simply robes of grey, like a uniform. The men in the clearing had shook hands and exchanged pleasantries, now it was down to business.
There was a sudden sharp yelp from beside where Ellouise lay, her fur stood on end as Anton jumped out of the bush, she followed tackling him to the ground, she was not about to let him blow their cover, she flicked her head in the direction of the wood briefly as she and Anton struggled, hoping that he would take her hint and run for it, she would follow and try to circle back to the clearing. Ellouise stole a look toward the clearing, the six wizards looked at them with apprehension, their wands drawn. Ellouise turned back in time to see Anton morph and disapparate with a pop. That was it, their cover was blown. Ellouise turned on her heel and ran for the cover of the trees as she heard the wizards bellow various spells and curses in her direction. She heard their footfalls coming after her. Ellouise morphed mid-run into her human form and disapparated almost immediately, still with the momentum of her run.

Hope you enjoy.

OMG OMG OMG!

OKAY YOU NOW HAVE TO PAMS!

PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS PAMS!

Thnks Ruby! I realise I left you in suspence. I hope you enjoy the next post. It's a short one, but I promise the next one will be longer.

Ellouise landed with a thud against the coat hanger in the hallway. After steadying herself as best she could Ellouise looked around at her surroundings, her sight was blurred slightly but she could still make out the familiar dark dusty hallway, its dark shapes around the edges, this soothed her nerves. Inhaling painfully Ellouise peered down, her hands shaking, she clutched at her right side, it felt warm and damp, no... not damp, it felt wet and sticky. Ellouise held up her hand to her face, it was covered in blood. She was bleeding, and heavily. Slowly she placed one foot in front of the other and exited the hallway, taking a right hand turn into the green drawing room. There she stopped and looked up her bloodied hand clutching at her side. Anton stood in the middle of the room, held at the scruff of his shirt by Xavier with Remus bearing down on him, his wand drawn. Naomi stood behind him, hands clasped to her mouth in shock. Ellouise moved forward slightly, away from the shadows. Ellouise felt her wand drop out of her other hand. Everyone looked up, their eyes travelling up her body, pausing briefly at her hand that clung to her side. It all happened in slow motion, there was a silent hum in her ear, drowning out the words Naomi spoke, and the words Xavier looked to be yelling. Harry who was seated on the couch next to Lily had tears running down his cheeks. The room became blurry again, she couldn’t focus, the shapes in front of her moved slowly, she closed her eyes, the light danced shadows across her lids. Ellouise could feel herself falling as her knees gave way, it seemed to be a long fall, she was waiting and waiting, expecting to feel the hardwood floor beneath her, still she waited and then there it was. Its surface was smooth and cool, almost like ice, she welcomed its embrace. The shadows continued to swirl around her, she couldn’t open her eyes, her lids stayed glued down. Noises stirred around her, it was muffled it could have been yelling, she thought she heard her name. Ellouise tried to respond, tried to reassure everyone she was ok, but the words never escaped her lips. She was in sudden darkness.

Wow... I changed one of my settings so that my default text colour is blue... I had no idea that it would change all my previous posts blue as well. I hope it's not too difficult for you to read otherwise just let me know and I can change it back
Another short post.... just to keep you going before I post the longer ones.

Two days had passed, and Ellouise still lay in bed, drenched in sweat and falling in and out of consciousness. Remus, sat by her side relentlessly, only leaving to use the bathroom. Naomi visited frequently, she checked Ellouise’s temperature, changed her covers and applied ointment to her wounds. On the third morning Naomi entered the room, carrying a tray of fresh ointment and a pot of coffee. Remus was snoozing in the arm chair by the bed. Naomi set the tray down on the bedside table, trying to make as little noise as possible, then she pulled back the covers and slowly removed the dressing on Ellouise’s wound. After applying some ointment she gently bandaged it up again and measured her temperature. It was considerably lower than it had been the past couple of days. Naomi turned to leave the room when Remus grabbed her arm. He smiled up at her, “Thank you,” he said as he stood to embrace her gently. Naomi didn’t say anything, after kissing Remus back she left the room and he decided to follow. It had been a while since he had something to eat, it would do him some good to get some fresh air, and to have some company. He had hoped that the potion Severus Snape had made would have helped, but it hadn’t, not much. The ointment was supposed to alleviate Ellouise of her physical wound and help reduce scarring, however so far it hadn’t been very successful either. Though, the wound did seem to have shrunk slightly.
“Remus, how is she?” asked Lily as Remus entered the kitchen behind Naomi.
“Well she’s not any worse,” he said, trying to sound positive. Remus sat himself down beside James and Lily, opposite from Sirius and Xavier. They sat silently whilst they ate breakfast. Remus and Xavier made eye contact, though neither of them spoke the message was clear. Xavier hadn’t seen Ellouise since she returned from the mission, since she had collapsed in the drawing room. He had helped carry her up to her bed but left soon after and hadn’t been able to muster up the courage to see her again. Remus understood why, it was hard to see her laying there, motionless and in pain.
“I’m sure she’d love to hear your voice,” said Remus as he set his fork and knife down on the plate. Xavier just looked at him, his eyes deep and sorrowful. He was sure he wasn’t strong enough to see her. He knew he would just crumble at the sight of her, but alas he nodded. He knew he shouldn’t have. He knew that he would march up those stairs and then spend hours talking himself into opening the door. He knew with one look he would be broken and would have to leave, he couldn’t see Ellouise like that, he just couldn’t.
Remus had decided that he would give Xavier and Ellouise some privacy, he stayed down in the kitchen and buried himself in a pile of books, hoping and praying that he would find something that would be able to help her.

Hi Emily, Im a new reader! think ur fanfic is amazing! I love the way you write, it's just so descriptive and beautiful. Plus............ I am a HUGE fan of Sirius Black and I just love the way you've incorporated him into ur story. Xavier is the sweetest!... his son right? Only Im just wondering is there a Mrs Black??? there hasn't been any mention of her. Just curious.

This is really exciting, post again soon!

<3 Claire!

oh wow thanks Claire! Sirius is one of my fave characters as well. As for Mrs Black all will be revealed in time.
Next post!

Xavier walked up the flight of stairs, his hand collecting dust as it moved up the railing. He tried to take his time, but five minutes later he was standing in front of her door. He sighed, then took another step forward and placed his hand on the door knob. Xavier stood there for what seemed like half an hour, and then he finally turned the knob and entered, closing the door silently behind him. He had done it, after days of thinking about her, of remembering her, of wishing that he had the strength to see her... he was finally here. And there she was, her hair was loose and tangled, her bed spread was wrinkled and wrapped around her awkwardly, but she was still beautiful. Xavier sat himself down in the arm chair by her side and placed her hand in his. It was warm and soft, the silkiness of her skin caressed his, sending a shiver down his spine. He let her hand go, placing it gently on the bed beside her, then leant his head back against the chair. “I’m so sorry Ellie,” he whispered, “I’m so sorry I didn’t stop him from going with you. This is all my fault.” Xavier took a deep breath and leant forward studying her facial expression as if he was waiting for her to respond. When she didn’t he continued.
“He’s a bloody coward, always has been. Even when we went back to their place just after the war broke out, his parents were taken, they’re presumed dead now... when we arrived at their place, they had been hiding in the basement, Carlisle almost blew my head off, Anton on the other hand hid in a corner like the little the coward he is.” Xavier sighed as he relived the memory of that night.
“We were about to leave when two death eaters turned up. Anton panicked and fled, leaving Carlisle, my father and I to face them. We were lucky....” he paused, trying to find words to continue. “I just wish you could have been lucky too. I’m sorry Ellie... I hope you can forgive me.”
Ellouise didn’t stir, she just lay quietly as if she were in a deep sleep. Xavier stood up and went to the other side of the bed where he lay down beside her and watched her sleep.

Xavier laughed to himself. “Remember when I used to call you Ellie the elephant... you used to get so mad at me,” he laughed again, “You thought you were fat, think I even made you cry once... sorry for that. But the look on your face was priceless sometimes.” He looked down at her. She didn’t move. “I’ll let you in on a little secret... just between you and me.” He smiled. “I think you’re the most amazing and the most beautiful witch I’ve ever met.” Still Ellouise didn’t move. Xavier half hoped that she would open her eyes and hear him. Only because he knew he wouldn’t have the courage to say it to her when she was awake. Xavier continued to watch her, occasionally she would move her arm or pull a face, but then she would just go back to being a motionless zombie. He supposed her body coped better with the pain when she was unconscious.

It was night time again, nobody had disturbed them, Remus had gone to bed to catch up on the sleep he’d missed, and Naomi only came in once to check on Ellouise and showed Xavier how to apply the ointment to her wound so that he could do it again later. Xavier’s heart sank when he saw the large abrasion on her side, it was still bleeding a bit, but nowhere near as much as it had before. The skin was blistered at the edges, the little bubbles filled with yellow fluid. He dabbed the ointment onto her wound and around the edges as lightly as he could, trying not to cause her too much pain. Xavier peered over Ellouise, the clock on the bedside table showed it was nearly half past ten. He wasn’t planning on leaving her side but the next Order meeting was about to start. He considered skipping it, but decided not to. He wanted to know how things were going on the front line. It was a different war on the front line, sitting here at head quarters talking strategy seemed all too easy at times and quite often he forgot what the war was really like. Quietly Xavier tiptoed out of the room, stopping to look back at Ellouise before he closed the door. He would be back.

Hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Naaawww Xaviers such a cutie! I think he should tell Elle that he loves her. He so very clearly does!!!! Post again soon!
<3 Claire

thanks Claire.
Happy New Years Everyone!!! All the best for 2011!
I wont be able to post for the next couple of days. Im goign camping!!!!
See youse when I get back.

Note: this post is darker than the others I have posted.

* * *
She felt a hand on her shoulder, it began to shake her. Ellouise opened her eyes, her mother stood looking down at her, a finger pressed to her lips. There was someone outside their tent, and it wasn’t father. Ellouise’s eyes flashed in horror as she realised what must have been going on. Andrea handed Ellouise her wand and kissed her daughter on the forehead, stroking her cheek she held her own wand up to Ellouise and cast the disillusionment charm. Ellouise blended away, like a chameleon, almost invisible but still very solid. She didn’t want to leave her parents behind. Following her mothers’ lead Ellouise left the tent, trying to be as silent as possible and trying not to leave any obvious footprints in her wake. There was a sharp pain in her chest as she saw her mother surrender her wand and join her father Spencer. They knelt in the dirt, their hands on their heads, staring straight into the eyes of the death eater in front of them. He was short, had thick black hair and wore a death eaters mask. His laugh was deep and husky, it had a cruel edge to it. Ellouise felt the goose bumps rise on her skin. “Well if it isn’t the spectacular Spencer Browne!” exclaimed the man, his voice booming. He looked my mother up and down, “And this must be?... Mrs Browne?” he questioned. Neither Spencer nor Andrea moved. One of the other death eaters that had been examining the contents of the tent sidled up to him and whispered something in his ear. “I see,” said the man his expression serious. Ellouise slowly began to move back, taking slow calculated steps. “Come now Balthazar, there’s no need to hide your face”, came Spencer’s voice. He sounded calm and collected. Ellouise turned to look at the death eater, he had stopped in his tracks. “Oh you’re quite right,” replied Balthazar. Ellouise braced herself trying hard not to let her rapidly beating heart give her away. Balthazar waved his wand before him and his mask melted away into thin air like wisps of smoke. Ellouise wished he had left it on. His small black eyes were hard, cold and soulless. Balthazar had a ragged scar across his left cheek and had bad acne spots. Really he was quite unfortunate looking. “Well aren’t you going to introduce us?” he asked gesturing to Andrea. He held out his hand waiting for Andrea to place hers in his. She didn’t, instead she looked to Spencer, frown lines appearing on his forehead. “Andrea, meet Balthazar, he worked for the Ministry, Department of International Magical Cooperation.” Balthazar smiled, exposing unusually razor sharp pointed teeth.
“Now enough with the pleasantries”, said Balthazar circling them like prey.
“I believe you have a daughter, do you not?” he asked, still circling them.
“We did”, replied Spencer, his facial expression unmoving, “Her name was Ellouise... we were separated just a few months after the war broke out. We haven’t been able to find her since”, he said sadly. Ellouise thought his performance was quite believable, but Balthazar chuckled to himself then applauded him. The sharp loud claps coming from his hands echoed in the dark valley. Ellouise could feel the blood drain from her face, again she took another couple of steps back, trying to stay within earshot.
“Bravo”, said Balthazar, the other two death eaters joined in with the clapping, though less enthusiastically.
“You know, you almost had me fooled”, began Balthazar, “but I know you all too well. Spencer Browne, one of the Ministries finest Auror’s would never lose his only child.” His cold dark eyes flashed malevolently. Slowly he held up his hand, his fingers clasped around something, something invisible.
“Look what we found!” he exclaimed excitedly. The death eater that approached him earlier giggled merrily, almost as if Christmas had come early, this surprised Ellouise. She hadn’t heard of many female death eaters. But she had heard of Bellatrix Lestrange, the mad cousin of Sirius Black.
“A long, black hair,” said Balthazar in response to Spencer and Andrea’s confused expressions. Balthazar walked between them, “See the thing that bothers me, is that I haven’t met her yet”, he said almost cheerfully, flashing his teeth again. He looked around expectantly, “Is she here?” he asked bluntly, his grin slipping from his face slightly.
“No, she’s not”, replied Andrea just as bluntly. The atmosphere was so thick with hatred that you could have cut it with a knife.
“Bella dearest”, said Balthazar warmly as he gestured over the death eater. Ellouise could feel her heart racing. It was Bellatrix Lestrange. “Yes?” she replied in an irritatingly girly voice. “The Polyjuice potion”, said Balthazar smiling at her as she withdrew a small vial of gluggy liquid that looked like thick brown mud from an inner pocket of her robe. Uncorking it, she took the hair from Balthazar’s hand and dropped it into the potion. It hissed threateningly and turned a vibrant shade of teal. Bellatrix giggled and downed the vial in one gulp. Ellouise’s stomach began to squirm uncomfortably. What was happening? Why was Bellatrix becoming her? She felt a shiver creep down her spine as she watched Bellatrix morph into a spitting image of herelf. Ellouise clasped a hand to her mouth to stop herself from yelling out.
“My my... pretty little thing isn’t she”, said Balthazar as Bellatrix danced around him.
Spencer looked annoyed, though of course he knew that Ellouise was safe, for the time being.
Just then Balthazar did something neither of them expected him to do. He had grabbed the Bellatrix-Ellouise by the wrist and kissed her passionately, his hand in the small of her back. Ellouise cringed, Spencer muttered angrily under his breath as he and Andrea looked away in disgust. Bellatrix pulled away and giggled madly, skipping around them in circles.
“Like I said, pretty little thing”, gloated Balthazar as he approached Spencer.
“Oooohhh show him what will happen to his real daughter if he doesn’t comply!” screeched Bellatrix, her shrill voice emanating from the Ellouise look-alike. Balthazar grinned broadly, his eyes darting from Spencer, to Andrea and back to Bellatrix.
“What a fabulous idea!” he said as he held his wand in front of him. Suddenly Balthazar flicked his wand in Bellatix’s direction, “Crucio!” he called as he did so.
Ellouise could feel the colour drain from her skin as she watched a version of herself writhe of the ground before her parents. Andrea had tears streaking down her cheek. Just the thought of any harm befalling her daughter caused her immense pain. Spencer’s nostrils flared as he inhaled and exhaled more deeply, his eyes furrowed in anger, his brows narrowed and his forehead creased. Bellatrix heaved herself up from the ground, laughing shrilly as she did so, Ellouise thought to herself, she really must be mad.
“What do you want from us?” asked Spencer as silence fell around them.
“Oh don’t you worry, we’ll have plenty of time to discuss that,” replied Balthazar as Bellatrix and the un-named death eater conjured shackles around their wrists and ankles, covered their faces with calico bags. They also retrieved their wands from the ground and handed them to Balthazar who shoved them into one of his pockets. Balthazar placed a hand on Spencer and Andrea’s shoulders and after a brief moment the three of them disapparated, Bellatrix and the other death eater following soon after. They were gone, and Ellouise was left alone, left to her own thoughts.
* * *

Ellouise woke with a start, it was dark, there was a candle flickering orange light across the walls of her bedroom. She could feel the sweat streaking down her face, the damp covers clinging to her skin. Ellouise blinked. Her eyes began to focus, she was alone... with him.

omg-gosh! Emily! thats such a good post. The details are amazing. It is kind of scary and VERY creepy. Bellatrix is psychotic in my opinion. At least Xaviers there to calm her nerves. Post again soon!

Hope you have a great camping trip and a happy new year!
<3 Claire

Thnx Claire, camping was great Hope ur new years went well
Next post!

“Merlin’s beard! Thank heavens you’re alright”, he said, his voice breaking awkwardly. Ellouise just stared up at him. It didn’t make sense, but then everything started coming back to her. She remembered the early morning, having breakfast, she remembered Tver, remembered watching the death eaters appear, followed by the Russian ministry officials. Ellouise inhaled sharply as she realised what had happened shortly after that, she remembered standing in the dark hallway, her hand covered in blood. Instinctively she placed her hand at her side, she felt the bandage hugging her wound, it was still quite tender. She tried to speak, but no sound came out. After taking a sip of water from the glass on her bedside table she cleared her throat noisily.
“Get out,” she rasped, her facial expression hard and unforgiving.
Anton nodded and left the room, his footsteps disappearing as they continued to climb the stairs. He had understood why she wanted him to leave. He didn’t blame her, but his heart sank, knowing that he wasn’t welcome at Grimmauld Place anymore.

Ellouise drank some more of her water, she was feeling quite dehydrated. It trickled down her throat softly, soothing the dry ache. After setting the empty glass down on the bedside table Ellouise glanced at the clock. It was almost midnight, but no doubt people would still be awake. Slowly and carefully Ellouise shifted to the edge of the bed and lowered her feet to the floor. The pain in her side ached and throbbed but was bearable. After grabbing her nightgown off the hook on the back of her door she proceeded down the stairs. All was quiet at Grimmauld Place, there was a slight eeriness to it. Shadows moved along the walls as she descended in the low light, from the candles burning in their candelabra. It took Ellouise some time to venture down the stairs, she winced occasionally as she turned. The green drawing room was empty, the red embers burned brightly in the grate, but the fire had long died out. Voices could be heard now, laughing, chuckling and giggling away. Ellouise proceeded down a small flight of stairs that led to the kitchen below. Nobody heard her enter. She stood silently in the shadows, observing the people in the room. There were the usual suspects of course, Naomi, Remus, Sirius, James and Lily all sat at one end of the long kitchen table, deep in discussion, their voices hushed. There was a red-headed man amongst them, Ellouise recognised his face but still hadn’t been introduced to him. Further down the table sat Xavier, Carlisle and Harry, they too had unfamiliar guests. There were five red-headed boys sitting with them. Two of which were identical twins. Ellouise stared for a moment as she watched them talking and laughing. Xavier smiled at Harry and the youngest of the red-headed boys. They were talking loudly, the red-headed boy seemed to be explaining to Harry why he thought the Chudley Cannons were the best quidditch team, Ellouise suppressed a laugh, she seemed to think that was a lost cause. Xavier’s gaze drifted from Harry and the others to the shadows by the door. Ellouise smiled slowly as she saw his expression change from complacency to one of surprise and joy. Xavier immediately jumped up from his seat and ran to Ellouise, throwing his arms around her. Ellouise winced in pain, but didn’t push him away. When Xavier finally released her she was pulled into another hug by Remus, who had also conveniently forgotten she was injured. Ellouise screwed up her face in pain, but held on tightly, embracing Remus’s warmth. How long had she been out for? She didn’t know.
“Elle,” started Remus, “Don’t you ever scare me like that again”, he said as he led her to the table so that she could sit down.
By this stage everyone that was in the kitchen had gathered around her, the red-heads grouped together slightly apart from them all but still very close. Ellouise smiled at them, the twins grinned at her broadly while the younger just stood there gaping, his jaw had literally dropped to his chest. Harry sat next to her on one side and hugged her tightly, she didn’t mind it was worth it for Harry. Naomi set down a fresh pot of nettle tea and conjured up some cups. As soon as the tea-pot poured her tea she gulped down the sweetened liquid in one shot. Ellouise was still very thirsty, she didn’t even mind as the liquid scorched her tongue and burned her throat on its way down, though her stomach wasn’t too happy about it. The loud rumbles emanated from her stomach like thunder.
“So... so,” Ellouise paused, her voice was still raspy, but she forced the words to come out, “How long... has it been?” she asked.
There was a sudden silence as Remus, Naomi, Xavier, Sirius, James, Lily and Carlisle exchanged looks. “Well...Elle, dearest. You’ve been unconscious for a few days”, piped up Naomi as she put a comforting arm around her shoulder. The others nodded.
“I’m so sorry for what happened Elle. My brother... I can’t defend his actions”, he said, his eyes pleading with her to understand. Ellouise nodded, she understood. He was Carlisle’s family after all, and no matter what happens between family, you would always love them. Even if it was easier not to.

The night wore on, Ellouise was introduced the Weasley Family, Arthur was the red-headed man she had seen here before the reconnaissance mission, he was very polite and friendly and very eager for discussion. His wife Molly, who had joined them after taking their daughter Ginny to bed, was a short plump witch with rosy cheeks and a warm personality. She had gushed over Ellouise when she entered the kitchen, “My goodness, Remus... she’s ok. She’s beautiful... and to have gone through so much. Poor dear. Horrible times these are. Children! Children sent out to do our bidding. Why I wouldn’t let Bill out of my sight if I had a choice in the matter”, she had gone on for so long. Ellouise couldn’t help but laugh. Though Molly and Andrea were so different in a number of ways, their passion and love for their children was much the same. Ellouise was reminded of this, and visions from her dream flashed through her mind. The eldest son of the Weasley family, Bill, wasn’t there, the eighteen year old was on the front line in London, fighting against the dark side. Charlie was sixteen and had shoulder length red hair that was tied into a pony-tail. He was quiet and didn’t say much, Ellouise noticed that he, like Xavier had a sense of masculinity about him, though he was still quite young his muscles were well developed and he carried himself like his adult counterparts. Next came Percy, he was a great deal skinnier, not at all like Bill. He had short red hair and unnaturally pale skin, almost as if he had never been out of doors. Fred and George Weasley caused Ellouise the most grief in their short meeting. Their sense of humour was so extravagant and lively that she couldn’t help but laugh at them, though this did bring many tears to her eyes as she clutched the wound at her side. Xavier and Remus looked at the twins, both were equally disapproving. Lastly was Ron, the youngest son. Ron was very shy in the beginning, he had been simply astonished at the fact that Ellouise was a member of the Order of the Phoenix and that she had been fatally injured during a mission. It had taken him about an hour to feel comfortable in her presence, and then came all the questions, “Did you fight the death eaters?”, “What did they look like?”, “Do they smell really bad? Like a corpse?” he had asked. “I heard that they have huge horrible scars all over their faces so that if their masks are removed they can’t be identified, is it true?” Ellouise had just smiled at him, trying to answer his questions as quickly, politely and accurately as possible. Ellouise glanced up at the wall clock, as she was so accustomed to doing, it was almost four in the morning, but she wasn’t tired enough to go to bed. Instead she settled herself down in the green drawing room and watched Xavier and Carlisle play a few games of Wizard chess.