James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

4. The COLLECTOR
ess than a minute later, Zane led the group back through the dark antechamber, with its single table and collection of rings, and up a short wooden staircase to a second narrow door. This he opened carefully. As he did so, a creak emanated from the outer laboratory. Zane froze and glanced back nervously. What? James asked. Is Franklyn coming back? Shh! Zane hissed, and then added in a lower voice, Its not Franklyn Im worried about. Its Jackson. If he catches us messing around with his rings, being stretched to oblivion will be the least of our worries. A shadow moved in the outer room, and then a figure appeared in the doorway. Am I late? a girls voice asked in an excited whisper. Oh good. Im not late. Zane exhaled in relief. You all know Nastasia. I told her we might be going on a little field trip. James frowned as Nastasia crowded next to him, her hair now transformed to a glossy pink. You think its a good idea to take this many people? Well be fine, Zane answered easily, stepping up into the tiny office. Jackson made six copies of every set of rings. There are six of us. Its perfect.

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G. Norman Lippert

Besides, Nastasia smiled, sidling up next to James at the base of the steps. If you leave me behind, I will totally rat you all out. Nice, Scorpius nodded, not unappreciatively. Rose trotted up the steps and glanced back from the office doorway. Come on, you lot, she grinned. In for a Drummel, in for a Jack! Careful not to touch anything, James crowded into the dark office with the others. The room was extremely small, crammed with a desk, a very full bookshelf, and a tall wooden cabinet lined with narrow drawers. Zane counted down from the top, then slid open the eighth drawer. A collection of folded purple cloths lay neatly inside, each labelled with a pinned note. James leaned close, reading the labels. These are insane, Ralph muttered, impressed. They cover the whole magical world! Heres the pyramids of Egypt! And Loch Ness! And whats this one? The Ring of the Bearded Ancients? Ooo! Rose said in awe, shoving Ralph aside with some effort. Thats the Pakistani wizarding university! Very secret and ancient! They say its hidden up in the Karakoram Mountains, surrounded by impossible peaks! Lets go there instead! Dont be daft, James insisted. Its too far. I dont fancy getting pulled into a thread and snapped in two. You were all excited about New Amsterdam a minute ago. That was before I knew all the options, Rose pouted. Make with the rings, Zane, you Zombie goombah! Nastasia urged eagerly. James here is itching to go! James glanced aside at her in annoyance. If anything, he was having serious second thoughts about the entire venture. Nastasia, however, seemed to enjoy antagonizing him. She glanced at him, shoulder to shoulder, and winked mischievously. Here we are, Zane announced, lifting one of the cloth bundles out of the drawer. The Crystal Mountain, government level. Thats the topmost floors of the huge glass skyscraper we saw last year, remember? Oh, this is going to be totally excellent. Very gingerly, he laid the cloth on the desk and unwrapped it, careful to map exactly how it had been folded. A moment later, twelve rings gleamed against the darkness. A pair each, Scorpius said in a business-like manner, reaching for a set of rings. Just like before. This is it, everyone, Zane warned. Gold for outgoing, green for coming back. Keep your rings stashed safe in a pocket whenever you arent using them. If everything goes as planned, well be back before the next bell and nobody will suspect a thing. Ralph moaned, Since when does everything go as planned? We should all be in agreement, Rose announced, setting her face sternly and glancing around. If anyone wants to stay back, we all stay back. Agreed? Hmmm Nastasia cocked her head thoughtfully. She glanced aside at James and narrowed her eyes. Mmmm No. With that, she jammed the golden ring onto her finger and vanished in a blur of speed. I must admit, Scorpius announced abruptly, I do sort of like her. He twisted his own ring onto his finger and vanished as well. Eeee! Rose cried, bouncing on her toes with equal parts excitement and fear. She donned her own

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G. Norman Lippert

ring, vanishing along with Zane, who left a thrilled whoop echoing behind him. James gave a perplexed shrug. What say, Ralph? On three? Ralph nodded stiffly. Together they counted off, rings poised before their fingers. On three, they jammed the rings on. This time, the sensation of stretching was much greater. For a split second, James felt that his body was a mere ribbon, many miles long, funnelling through a conduit of light and colour. Then, more violently than before, reality snapped up around him, nearly smacking him in the face. He stumbled and fell heavily, sprawling onto some plush, flat surface. Oooh, he moaned, trying to push himself upright. He opened his eyes and found himself staring down through a diminishing blur of glassy layers, vanishing into bright, dizzying depths. Oh! he exclaimed again, scrambling to his knees in alarm. Yeeks! Ralph agreed from nearby. James glanced up and saw his friend huddled a few feet away, leaning against a gleaming, transparent desk. They appeared to be in a sort of enormous office complex, filled with desks, low walls, collections of plush chairs and long tables. It was not unlike some areas of the Ministry of Magic, except for the fact that everything, right down to the plush carpeting and high panelled ceiling, seemed to be made out of perfectly transparent materials. Every surface glimmered with captured prisms, dancing in the sunlight that filtered, uninterrupted, throughout the entire building. Spreading below, and visible from every angle, was the stacked twin cities of New Amsterdam and Manhattan, looking serene and eerily empty in the distance. The Crystal Mountain, James said, smiling in amazement. Freaky, Ralph commented, getting gingerly to his feet. Nothing like living with constant, crushing vertigo. Wheres everybody else, by the way? As if in answer, a voice boomed through the air, echoing broadly. All late arrivals should make their way to the elevators, it announced sternly, interrupted by a distant, girlish giggle. The voice went on, somewhat off-microphone, Shut up, Nastasia! Youre ruining the effect! James and Ralph glanced at each other. Zane, they said in unison. The public address system shut off with a loud click. Over there, James grinned, pointing toward a bank of glassy lift doors refracted through the crystal desks and a collection of tasteful, nearly invisible potted ferns. Together they began to make their way through the complex, barely avoiding barking their shins on the corners of transparent desks and chairs. Despite the beauty of the place, a thin layer of dust fogged the crystal surfaces, reminding them of its months of abandoned emptiness. Glassy mugs still sat on desks, half full of congealed coffee and tea. At the head of a long conference table, a Magical Marker scribbled notes on a floating crystal screen, repeating the same charts over and over, squeaking drily in the silence. James shivered despite the sunny warmth of the place. Ralph reached the lifts first and tapped the up button. Distant machinery began to hum. Glancing down, James could see a tiny glimmering box between his feet. Swiftly, it began to climb, resolving into the unmistakable shape of a lift compartment. It swept smoothly into place behind the closed glass doors and shuddered to a stop. The doors shuttled open and both boys stepped inside, their feet making no noise on the strangely invisible plush carpeting.

James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

James peered at the glowing buttons next to the door. The top button was larger than the rest, labelled ROOF MEZZANINE. With a shrug, James tapped it. Immediately the lift began to rise. Beyond the doors, floors began to shuttle downward, revealing more levels of offices and meeting rooms. In a matter of seconds, the last floor swept below them and the lift came to a halt. James could see Zane, Rose, Scorpius and Nastasia gathered outside, but the rest of the exterior space was a glare of sunlight on crystal. As the doors swept open, a gust of hot wind barged into the lift, ruffling James hair and tee shirt. Looks like theres a bit of a scattering effect over distances, Zane called over the wind. Good thing none of us materialized between floors. Nastasia nodded. Or inside an elevator shaft. Ralph blinked and shuddered. I hate knowing that the only thing between us and falling two hundred floors was dumb luck. I wouldnt be too worried, Deedle, Scorpius said encouragingly. Dumb luck seems to have a thing for you lot. James and Ralph joined the others as they strode toward a low railing. Sets of stairs led down from either side to the main roof, which was divided into a series of low, square platforms. Landing pads, Zane said, pointing. For people who commute by broom. Look, therere still a few brooms parked over there on the rack. James squinted against the sunlight. Sure enough, a series of neat racks stood along the roofline, still decked with a scattering of sleek, black brooms. Each broom seemed to have an unusual shape perched on its handle. James thought they looked like miniature gargoyles. Come on! Zane called, trotting down the stairs to the main roof. Lets take a look over the side! Rose and Nastasia followed eagerly, looking around with open curiosity. Feeling strangely reluctant, James descended the stairs as well. Blimey, Ralph said in a low voice as he reached the ledge of the roofline. Thats a lot of height. James peered over carefully. The four lane avenue appeared to be miles below, separated from them by a haze of distance. Wind tore over the roof, rattling the brooms in the rack and whipping through the students hair. Its excellent, Nastasia proclaimed, leaning over the ledge and tilting her head up toward the sky, her eyes closed and her pink hair fluttering. Brr! Rose said, hugging herself. It gives me the shivers! She stepped back behind Zane and clutched her cardigan tightly about her shoulders. My father says Victor Krum and the Harriers are down there somewhere, Scorpius muttered, frowning into the distance. The official story is that theyre helping find stragglers, but my father thinks there are other reasons. He thinks theyre here to keep an eye on headmaster Merlins staff. His staff? Rose blinked. You mean its still down there? Scorpius nodded, still peering down into the city below. He jammed it into the street when he cast the spell that froze the Muggles for a day. It was the spell that used up all his power, killing him. But his staff has been stuck there ever since. Nobody can get it out, and its too powerful just to leave unguarded. Like the sword in the stone, Ralph sighed, and then shuddered.

James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

James glanced at his friend and saw the frown on his face. Last time they had been here, Ralph had been carrying the dead body of poor Lucy, killed in the World Between the Worlds. A deep sense of melancholy descended on him at the thought. Come on, he said flatly. Lets get out of here. To his surprise, there were nods all around. Slowly and silently, the troop began to make their way back to the mezzanine. As they reached the top of the steps, a particularly hard gust of wind howled over the rooftop, flapping James tee shirt against his chest and streaming wildly through Roses long hair. The cardigan she had clutched around her shoulders caught the wind like a sail and tore up into the air. No! she cried, grasping at it, but it was already gone. The cardigan lofted gently into the sky, borne on the currents of the wind, and then dropped, fluttering silently past the roofline and down, down, out of sight. No! Rose cried again, Bloody hell! No! Bummer, Zane announced with feeling. That was a nice sweater, too. Rose spun on the spot and boggled at him, her eyes wild, her hair still streaming in the wind. It isnt the sweater, you great idiot! She screamed, and then clutched her face in her hands, turning back toward the empty space beyond the roof. Oh, how could I have been so bloody stupid? What is it, Rose? James asked, approaching her. Whats the problem? The ring! she said, facing him and holding up her left hand, showing him the golden ring on her finger. The green ring for the return trip! It was in my cardigan pocket, James! Its gone now, blown right over the roof, and Im stuck here! There was a long moment of silence as everyone stared at Rose, dumbfounded and horror-struck. Nastasia stepped back toward the top of the stairs and peered over the railing, into the distant haze of the cities below. Whoopsie! she sang out, glancing back with an ironic smile.

James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

The six students approached the railing over which Roses cardigan had blown. Ralph frowned thoughtfully. Cant the rest of us just return and then send somebody back with two green rings? They dont work that way, Zane shook his head. Theyre made in pairs. The green rings only work with their golden counterparts. Separated, theyre just jewellery. James squinted over the ledge, seeking any sign of Roses lost cardigan. At least no one else can use her green ring if they find her sweater, right? Right, Zane agreed. But if we dont find it, Rose is going to have to walk home. And its a hell of a long way to the Aleron on foot. This is all her fault, James said suddenly, turning and glaring at Nastasia. She took off before we all agreed to come. Shell probably pop straight back without another thought. A sincerely hurt look crossed Nastasias face. James was so surprised to see it that he felt rather bad about blaming her. The look, however, was gone almost as soon as it had appeared. I didnt make anyone come along, she proclaimed loftily. Im the adventurous type. I cant help it. Ralph turned to Rose with a pained expression. Why couldnt you just keep your ring in your pocket like everyone else? That cardigan contained the only pockets I have! she hissed. You try running around in a skirt and see where you stick things! Yeah! Zane said with sudden enthusiasm. This is all very entertaining, Scorpius interjected, but the clock is ticking and we arent any closer to finding Roses ring. Might I suggest we head down and form a search party? James sighed. Right. Theres no point in bickering. Ill stay with Rose to help her find her ring. The rest of you can head back if you want. No way, Ralph said immediately. We stick together. Rose was right. Were all in this together. Im not going anywhere without Rosie, Zane agreed. This was my idea, after all. Scorpius nodded curtly, and then turned to Nastasia. Oh, what fun would it be if I left now? she announced in a suddenly sulky voice. James was secretly gratified to see that she was capable of being disgruntled. Fine, Scorpius said, turning toward the mezzanine and the elevators beyond. Down we go. Zane shook his head. The elevators are no good. The street level is all locked up inside and out. The magical security perimeter was set up by Professor Jackson himself. Theres no way out through the building. So what are we going to do? Ralph shrugged helplessly. Jump? No, James said, turning toward the further roofline and pointing. We fly! Rose approached the few dark broomsticks that remained in the rooftop rack. But that would be like stealing. Wouldnt it?

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G. Norman Lippert

Nooo, Zane assured her heartily. No, its called commandeering. This is an emergency after all. We can return them when were done. Rose glanced aside at him suspiciously. You like the idea of flying those brooms over the ledge, dont you? Dont be silly, Zane replied unconvincingly. Tough times call for tough measures and all that. Its a dirty job. Damn the torpedoes. Ooo! This ones an Aventidore! Got its own slipstream generator and everything! Zane! Rose scolded. This is very serious! Right, Zane agreed, not taking his eyes from the broom. Very serious. Totally. But still. This ones mine. James peered closely at the broom, noticing again the impish shape perched on the end. Whats that thing, anyway? Zane shrugged. I dont know. Hood ornament, maybe? He reached for it, grabbing the sleek black broom from its rack just as Scorpius called out a sudden warning. His words were drowned out by an ear-splitting shriek from the broom itself. THIEF! the broom blared in a shrill falsetto voice. THIEF! ANUTHORIZED POSSESSION! WHOOP! WHOOP! CALL POLICE! NOTIFY OWNER! CONTACT INSURANCE AGENCY! WHOOP! WHOOP! WHOOP! Thats a personal alarm gargoyle! Scorpius shouted over the wailing broom. He pointed at the impish shape perched on the end, which had cupped its tiny hands to the sides of its wide mouth. What are you, a total bumpkin? Ah, Zane nodded, trying to sound casual while shouting over the blaring imp. Nice feature! Theres got to be a way to shut it off somehow. He began to poke and prod at the imp, as if looking for a button. The imp slapped at his hand, then began to giggle angrily. Knock it off! it demanded. This is serious! Im being stolen! THIEF! NOTIFY POLICE! WHOOP! WHEEOOO! Were not thieves! Rose cried, leaning close to the imp with her hands over her ears. And your owner isnt anywhere nearby! The whole citys been evacuated! Theres no one here! No police, no anybody! The imp glared at her suspiciously. LIKELY STORY, LADY! it blared, its shrill voice echoing around the rooftop. THATS JUST WHAT YOUD LIKE ME TO BELIEVE, ISNT IT? We could prove it, Nastasia conceded thoughtfully. Just chuck it off the roof, Zane, and let it see for itself. Now lets not be hasty! The imp admonished, raising both of its hands, palms out. Im just doin a job here, Pinkie! No need to damage the merchandise! Look, Scorpius said, addressing the imp. We arent stealing you. Were just borrowing you for a bit of an emergency. My father has one of you installed on his own broom, and I know for a fact that youre especially hexed to assist in any and all emergencies. Then again, he stood back and cocked his head thoughtfully. Perhaps thats just the Genie Five Hundred series.

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G. Norman Lippert

The Genie Five Hundred series!? the imp scoffed, crossing its arms haughtily. Thats strictly aftermarket dwarf charm stuff! Not even real imp! Im a two hundred Drummel factory option. Just try me, bucko. I dont know, Zane said, concealing a half smile. I bet you cant even get us down from this roof. The imp rolled its bulbous yellow eyes. Nice reverse psychology, Sigmund. WHOOP! WHOOP! IM BEING STOLEN BY AN IDIOT WITH NO IMAGINATION! Hold up! Ralph called out, interrupting the imp as it drew another deep breath. This really is an emergency. Were stuck here unless we can all get down from this roof and find our only way back. Youre the only one that can help us, but you cant fly us all down anyway. Can you turn off the alarm gargoyles on these other couple of brooms as well? The imp still had its chest inflated, prepared to continue whooping. In a strained voice, it asked, You sure this is a real emergency? Please, Rose said seriously. Im stranded here if I cant get down and find what Ive lost. Well bring you right back here when were done. If we can, Nastasia added reasonably. The imp glared at her, apparently remembering her threat to toss it over the side. Finally, it exhaled harshly and shook its head. Fine, it agreed reluctantly. But Im hexed with a photographic memory and I am going to report each and every one of you if things get hinky. Hey! The rest of you! Command over-ride yellow: riders in need of assistance. The other two remaining brooms each emitted a sort of squawking bleat. The imps crouched on the handles stirred to life and eyed the students with a mixture of suspicion and eagerness. One of them was lithe and silvery blue with a tiny wedge-shaped head and glowing, pupil-less eyes. The other was very fat, pink, and adorned with a pair of fluffy white wings. Oooh, the pink one said in a bubbly voice, A real emergency! Shall I locate the nearest florist? Cupid series, the first imp muttered under its breath. Great. Yay! the Cupid clapped its chubby hands. An adventure! Zane held up the Aventidore. Dibs on this one! To Rose, he muttered, Say shotgun. Shotgun! Rose proclaimed immediately, sidling up next to him. James glared at her, not entirely sure what that meant but knowing it would probably result in him flying the Cupid broom. He glanced aside and saw Scorpius snatch the blue broom from the rack. Its silvery imp coiled lithely on the end. Im with Scorpius, Ralph said sheepishly, glancing back at the pink broom. I dont think that thing could hold me up anyway. Nastasia grinned and took her place next to James. You want me to drive? she asked sweetly, glancing up at him and batting her eyes. James sighed and shook his head. He reached for the Cupid broom. Like the others, it was mostly black, although it bore neat pink pinstripes down both sides and had dried roses threaded into its tail. You two look simply adorable, the Cupid insisted as James reluctantly mounted the broom and Nastasia threw her arms around his shoulders. And just look! it went on, pointing at Nastasias hair. We match! How perfectly scrumptious!

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Yeah, Nastasia grinned, her voice very loud in James ear. Its scrumptious, isnt it, James? James felt his face heat with a confused rush of embarrassment, fear, and a few other emotions he couldnt immediately identify. Winds blowing that way, Zane announced, pointing out over the length of the avenue below. Lets follow it and keep a sharp eye out. Roses sweater must have fallen down there in the street somewhere. Lets get low enough to search for it. Got it, Impy? Dont push it, the Aventidore imp growled in resignation. James clutched his broom. Lets go! Everybody stay together. Ill look up starting times for any good shows at the Moxy Mage! The Cupid cried in an inspired voice. With that, the three brooms, each weighed down with two riders, kicked off from the roof and lofted out into the whickering wind over dizzying heights. Immediately, they angled down and began a slaloming descent into the shadows of the skyscrapers. Youre drifting right! Nastasia barked in James ear, renewing her grip on his shoulders. And youre dropping too fast! Whered you learn to fly? Just shut it, Im trying to concentrate, James called tersely. And do you have to hold on so hard? Youre going to squeeze my head off. You fly better and maybe Ill loosen up. Look out! James swerved to the left as a flagpole swept past, jutting from the side of a nearby skyscraper. Nastasia nearly climbed onto his shoulders as he sped up. Theres a whole row of them! she squealed. Not so close! What are you doing? Im looking for Roses cardigan, you big git! It might be hung up on anything! Get off me! I can hardly see! Lovers quarrel, the Cupid chided with a cluck of its tongue. I could arrange an appointment for his and hers pedicures? How romantic would that be? Answer: very! Shut up! both James and Nastasia commanded simultaneously. The three brooms continued to drift downward, seesawing back and forth between canyons of glass and steel. In the lead, Zane called back, Anybody see anything? We have to get lower still, Scorpius announced, shaking his head in frustration. It could have blown anywhere: under any of those abandoned cars, or on top of an awning, anything. Blast it all, Rose cursed to herself. If only I could just perform an Accio spell! Ralph brightened. Thats a great idea! Why dont you do it? Rose glanced back at him as if he was a total idiot. Because my wand is also in the pocket of my cardigan! And none of us knows it well enough to summon it ourselves, Scorpius sighed. Theres nothing for it but to keep-- Whats that? Nastasia interrupted, stabbing out an arm and pointing toward a nearby roof. James glanced to the right, following her gesture. The roof was sliding past, rising as they descended. Something was moving through the collection of old air conditioning units and snaking ducts. With a stumbling lunge,

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G. Norman Lippert

it leapt out into the sunlight. Its a woman! Rose cried, shaking Zanes shoulders atop their broom. Whats she doing here? It was indeed a woman. Her dirty blonde hair was stringy, whipped by the wind so that it formed a wild strew around her head and her haunted, bright eyes. James knew instinctively that she was a Muggle, and yet when she saw them-- six young people flying along on brooms three hundred feet over the avenue-she did not so much as blink. She lurched toward them, her shoes slipping frantically on the tar-paper roof. Help, she gasped hoarsely. There was movement behind her now. Dark shapes flitted through the rooftop vents, angling swiftly toward her. James barely had time to see them before his broom descended below the line of the roof, obscuring his view. As James swept past, the woman glanced back at her pursuers. She moaned in terror, and then, to James complete shock, she leapt. No! Rose cried. But the woman was not jumping to her death. She had aimed for James broom. Flailing desperately, she tackled both him and Nastasia, one arm around each of their necks, clinging desperately. The broom slewed sickeningly to the left, nearly turning over completely, and began to drop in a steep spiral. Too heavy! the Cupid wailed. Exceeding weight limit by forty percent! No love triangles! Grab her! James shouted, struggling to regain control of the broom as its descent steepened. Are you crazy?! Nastasia shrieked into the rushing wind. We cant hold her up! Well we cant throw her off! Well crash if we dont! Nastasia, James realized, was trying to pry the womans arm from around her neck. The woman moaned, seemingly too weak to hold on much longer anyway. Nastasia! James cried. Stop! Hold onto her! Well make it! A shape swooped past them, buffeting them with its passage. James glanced hectically aside and saw Zane struggling to match their descent. Behind him, Rose hung on for dear life, her lips pressed into a thin line of terror. Zane pointed downward and hollered something. What!? James cried, struggling futilely to hold the broomstick upright. Zane leaned aside and called out again, Aim for the awnings! James boggled at him, and then turned his attention to the avenue that was roaring up beneath him. A broad green awning spanned the building on his left side. James nodded understanding and lunged hard left, dragging the failing broom with him. Hold on! he cried. The awning swept up beneath them, tilting and yawing as James completely lost control. He braced himself and closed his eyes. The impact was much harder than he expected. The taut canvas was shockingly stiff, but the framework beneath broke away with a screech of startled metal. The awning collapsed beneath them, taking them with it as it crashed down, half onto the sidewalk and half onto an abandoned yellow taxi. James bounced off, losing his grip on the broom and ricocheting off the door of the cab. He struck the pavement hard enough to rattle his teeth and for a few seconds his vision went swimmy. Shadows passed over him as the others swooped down to land nearby. James! Rose called anxiously. Are you all right? Tell me youre all right!

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Im fine, James said mushily, forcing himself to a sitting position in the shadow of the taxi. I think. What about the others? He looked around, fearing the worst. Nastasia was tangled in the remains of the awning, which seemed to have folded around her in a sort of green canvas cocoon. She moaned irritably and began to struggle out of the wreckage. The mysterious blonde woman had fallen onto the taxi and rolled down onto its bonnet, where she stirred limply. Miraculously, she seemed to be physically all right, if near exhaustion. She slid off the bonnet and her knees buckled. Run, she muttered tensely. Go, Lissa. Dont let him collect you. Run, babe, run! But her legs rebelled, refusing to hold her up. They jiggled beneath her and she sprawled pathetically to the sidewalk. Is she all right? Zane asked, ditching his broom and running to her side. Who is she? Ralph added, dropping to his knees next to her. Rose joined them. Together, the three students helped her into a sitting position. Miss? Rose asked her carefully. Is that your name? Lissa? What are you doing here? Have to run, the woman, Lissa, insisted dully. She glanced around, saw Rose and Ralph, and suddenly her eyes sharpened. She grabbed at them. Have to run! she repeated frantically. The Collector is coming! The who? James said, climbing awkwardly to his feet. The Collector, a deep voice announced from behind him. James startled and spun around, nearly unhinging his knees again. A figure was standing against the lowering sun, casting James in its shadow. It was a man, very tall, wearing a heavy burgundy robe with gold scrollwork on the sleeves. A deep hood concealed his face, revealing only his chin and the tip of his nose. He seemed to stare at James from the depths of the hood, as if weighing him. I apologize, he said, smiling suddenly. He raised his pale hands and pushed back the hood, revealing a handsome, if unremarkable face. Dark hair, threaded with steely grey, was combed back from the temples. I didnt mean to startle you. I am the person she is referring to, the Collector, although it is not so much a name as a sort of title. What do you want? Rose called out, putting her arm protectively around Lissa, who had begun to hyperventilate in apparent terror. Why are you chasing her? This poor creature is one of my charges, the man answered, a hint of sadness in his voice. Just one of the unfortunate, forgotten people left to fend for themselves in this ghost of a city. I have taken it upon myself to care for them, whenever my duties allow it. If you are caring for her, Scorpius asked, taking a step forward. Then why was she running from you? Why did she nearly kill herself trying to get away from you? Alas, the Collector said, moving carefully closer to Lissa and descending to one knee. She is not in her right mind. Few of them are. This is why they were left here to begin with, why they did not heed the warnings to evacuate along with the others. She is confused. And as you can see, she is a danger to herself. I will take her back. I will care for her, as I do the rest. Lissa suddenly laughed. It was a ragged, desperate sound. The rest! she gasped. There are hardly any of us left at all! Youve collected so many! Youre a monster! A a beast!

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The Collector bowed his head and spread his hands. Unfortunately, some delusions are much more stubborn than others. I do what I can to help them, but some require special attention. He raised his head again and spoke directly to the woman. Come along, my dear Melissa. You know there is no way out of the quarantine zone now, not unless you wish to get arrested by the authorities. They would imprison you. Your many crimes Lissa laughed again, a wild, animal cackle. Imprisonment! Yes! Let them take me! Ill go willingly! She giggled, and the giggle was half sob, as if the Collector was teasing her with a wonderful treat rather than a threat of capture. A shiver rippled down James back. She doesnt want to go with you, he said, moving to get between the Collector and Lissa. She can come with us. We can look after her. Youve done your bit. The Collector glanced up at him without raising his head. His eyes were cold, his smile a mere mask. How generous you are James Potter, he said. James took a step backward and reached for his wand. Narrowing his eyes, he asked, How do you know who I am? Come, Lissa, The Collector said again, extending his pale hand. You dont want to involve these nice young people in your troubles. Do you? The threat was obvious. James glanced back at Lissa, saw the frozen fear on her face. If she didnt go along with this man, her fate-- whatever it was-- would be extended to those helping her. Slowly, haltingly, she disengaged herself from Rose, Ralph and Zane. She began to stand. I dont think so, Scorpius said impatiently, raising his fist. His wand protruded from it, levelled at the Collector. I have nothing against you, friend, but personally, Im weary of veiled threats. Believe me, I know them when I hear them. The woman stays with us. The Collector looked at Scorpius wand, his eyebrows raised slightly. Is this how all of you feel? he asked, a tinge of disappointment in his voice. James raised his own wand and moved alongside Scorpius. He nodded resolutely. A moment later, he felt Ralph and Zane on either side, their own wands levelled. Really, James? The Collector said, ignoring the others. This is the stand you wish to take? Risking all for the sake of a sad, wasted Muggle woman? A woman even her own kind cannot deign to be bothered with? James swallowed hard and nodded, renewing his grip on his wand. You really should consider, the Collector said, rising again to his full height, choosing your battles more wisely. He raised his arms, showing them the white palms of his hands, as if he was about to perform a magic trick. And then, furthering this image, black smoke began to pour out of his dangling sleeves. The smoke swirled, condensing into tendrils, and then collapsing horribly into shapes. Two creatures formed out of the smoke, both taller than the Collector himself, and both equally terrible. You will not yet have learned of the Wendigo, the Collector said calmly. It is native to this country, ancient and starved nearly to extinction. Until, that is, a certain Warlock associate of mine revived them. They are cannibal spirits. And as you can see they are hungry. The Wendigoes looked like horribly emaciated humans, with mottled grey skin stretched taut over

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their bones. Their feet were grotesquely elongated, raised at the heels like wolves. Long, spindly arms dangled to the ground, ending in spider-like fingers. The worst part, however, were their heads: oversized, hunched forward between their shoulders, with deep, wide-set eyes as white as marbles and thin, bloody lips peeled back from their teeth. Ragged antlers sprouted from their temples, sharp and ridged with serrations. The Wendigoes raised their long fingers, hooked into talons, and coiled to pounce. Run! James called, levelling his wand at the monster on the right. He shot it with a stunning spell, but the jet of magic merely exploded from its nearly translucent skin. It launched itself at him, unleashing its rancid breath in a low roar. James ducked sideways, throwing himself under the collapsed awning. The Wendigo landed atop it with a screech of metal and immediately began tearing at it. The other roared viciously. James heard its thumping footsteps as it galloped past in pursuit of the others. Someone screamed. Spells were fired, illuminating the street. A whoosh of air told James that at least one of the brooms was airborne again. He scrambled out on the other side of the broken awning and began to run. Scorpius, Rose and Lissa were crammed onto one of the brooms, but they were too heavy to get any lift. The second Wendigo pounced after them, leaping over abandoned cars and snarling hoarsely. A heavy thump struck the ground behind James, accompanied by a gust of stinking breath. He knew the first Wendigo was right behind him, sensed its long arms lunging toward him. He ducked to the left and leapt through a broken shop window. Mannequins toppled before him, skating away on pebbles of broken glass. He tumbled over them, scrambled up and threw himself into the darkened store. Behind him, the Wendigo roared, smashing through the remains of the window and dashing aside the mannequins effortlessly. James glanced back, saw its milky eyes glowing faintly in the dimness. It saw him and pounced. Down James crouched, ducking under a rack of clothing. The Wendigo crashed into it, knocking it sideways, but James scrambled out the other side and hurled himself through a rear door. Darkness met him, crowded with boxes and more mannequins. Shelves stood in rows, cluttered with merchandise. The only light came from a tiny window in the back, set into a grey metal door. James made toward it, dodging frantically around the shelves. Behind him, the storeroom door burst from its hinges. The Wendigo hefted it in its spindly arms and threw it at James like a discus. The door whooshed over his shoulder and crashed against a shelving unit, sending boxes flying in all directions. Gasping with terror, James reached the rear door. It was equipped with a push-bar, which James slammed downward with both hands. Thankfully, the door heaved open before him, dumping him out into a narrow alley, choked with trash bins and wooden pallets. James ran, threading through the trash bins. Distantly, he heard screams, crashes, the fizzing whoosh of magic. The Wendigo exploded through the rear door, blasting it off its hinges and sending it crashing against the brick wall opposite. The Wendigo saw James and dropped to all fours. With a scrape of gravel, it launched itself after him, galloping between the trash bins with horrible speed. It was nearly upon him. With a deep, grating snarl, it leapt. James threw himself to the broken pavement and covered his head.

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A shadow flicked over him, accompanied by a strange metallic noise: FPANG! A split second later, a heavy, ringing crash filled the air. James looked up in time to see the Wendigo hurled, upside down, against a chain-link fence that divided the alley. The fence bowed under its weight, and then recoiled, flinging the horrible creature against a stack of pallets. Stay! Where! You! Are! a deep voice commanded sternly. James craned to look back over his shoulder. A man in a heavy green tunic, studded with black leather armour, hovered over the alley on a nasty-looking black broom. His arm was fully extended as he sighted down his wand, pointing it at the Wendigo. The Wendigo scrambled to its feet, apparently unfazed by its encounter with the fence. It saw the man on the broom and snarled, wrinkling its bloody lips from its black gums. Then, with a lithe speed that was terrible to watch, it lunged for the nearest trash bin. James thought it meant to hide. Instead, the thing heaved the enormous bin into the air, hurling it like a projectile. The man on the broom feinted left instantly, just enough to allow the trash bin to whistle past, crashing against the wall behind him. He fired a green spell, briefly illuminating the dim alley and producing another strange metallic FPANG! The spell struck the Wendigo squarely in the chest, knocking it backwards with incredible force. The Wendigo hit the brick wall and smashed completely through it, creating a jagged hole into darkness. Come! the man on the broom commanded, lowering a large gloved hand to James. They cant be killed, only repulsed! Hurry, before it revives itself! James glanced from the broken brick wall to the man on the broom. This was obviously one of the Harriers that Scorpius had mentioned. Without a second thought, he reached up, grasped the mans forearm, and felt himself pulled bodily off the ground and onto the broom. Hold on! the Harrier barked hoarsely, turning swiftly in the narrow confines of the alley. Behind them, the Wendigo roared. There was a crash of bricks. The green-clad Harrier hunched over his broom and it rocketed forward, more swiftly and powerfully than anything James had ever experienced. He scrambled for a hand-hold, grasped two fists full of the mans short cape, and held on as tightly as he could. The force of acceleration was breath-taking. An instant later, the broom sped out into sunlight, leaving the alley behind. My friends! James called over the rush of the wind. Theres another of those things after them! The Harrier didnt reply, but he banked hard to the right, soaring out over the avenue where the fight had begun. James saw the broken awning and the crooked taxi. The broom banked again as its pilot surveyed the scene, seeming to ascertain which direction the fight had gone from a thousand subtle clues. He tilted the broom upwards and accelerated again. As they hurtled around a corner, James spied a flash of electric blue ahead. The Harrier ticked his broom straight toward it and raised his wand again. Its them! James called as they closed in. Sure enough, Scorpius, Rose and Lissa were limping along on the blue broom, barely twenty feet above the street. Beneath them, the second Wendigo leapt onto a bus, coiled, and sprung at them, stretching out its incredibly long arms. It swiped, meaning to swat them straight out of the air, but another blue flash lit

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the street, emanating from an orb of magic that flickered around the broom, repelling the Wendigos grasp. It fell back to the street in a furious crouch and roared. Thats one tough little imp, the Harrier exclaimed, gesturing with his wand as they circled the others. James squinted through the roaring wind and saw the lithe little security gargoyle crouched alertly on the tip of the sinking broom. Its blue eyes glowed like pinpricks of lightning, casting the protective blue bubble. It cant hold out much longer, the Harrier added, swooping to cut the Wendigo off from them. Well have to fend it off. Fortunately theres just the one. Ah, damn. James saw it coming at the same time: the Wendigos twin leapt into view at the end of the block. It saw the crippled broom and snarled viciously. In an instant, it began to leap from car-top to car-top, crimping the metal bonnets and roofs with its thudding footprints. Wand out! the Harrier ordered, levelling his own wand at the nearer of their pursuers. Use a Convulsis spell if you know it! Anything with some force behind it! You take the further one! Now? James cried, fumbling his wand out and aiming it. NOW! Both of them fired at once. The nearer Wendigo thrashed backwards as a blue bolt struck it. James Convulsis spell missed its mark, however, exploding a newspaper box behind the advancing monster. The Wendigo zigged back and forth, shattering windscreens and swinging from utility poles. Again! the Harrier commanded. More bolts of magic lit the street, with Scorpius joining in from behind, but it was little use. Even the Harriers direct hits only repulsed the creatures for a moment. The twin monstrosities were nearly upon them, snarling more viciously than ever. A series of pops suddenly echoed along the canyon of skyscrapers. Figures appeared in mid-swoop, each dressed in green tunics and matte black armour, each straddling their own long, sleek broomsticks. They arced around in tightening loops and finally halted in formation, forming a ring around the original Harrier and his charges. Nine Harriers in all, nine wands pointed down at the Wendigoes, which had suddenly dropped to alert, furious crouches. On my mark! one of the newcomers barked. James glanced up and was overjoyed to see Viktor Krum, his face set with grim determination. FIRE! All nine Harriers unleashed their spells on the Wendigoes simultaneously. Green bolts lit the street, converging on the creatures in an instant. That strange, metallic FPANG! sounded again, this time multiplied nearly ten-fold. There was an explosion of green light and a shockwave of thick, black smoke. When the echoes died away, the Wendigoes were gone. The Harrier sharing James broom drew a deep breath and let it out slowly, purposely calming himself. He looked aside, assuring that everyone was all right, and then glanced up at Krum. About bloody time! he shouted, his voice echoing along the empty street.

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Whats the matter, Piotre? one of the late arrivals called, Cant handle a couple of escaped housepets on your own? James! Krum shouted, piloting his broom into position next to him, his face deadly stern. What are you doing here? James stammered. We-- there were some rings experimental magic Krum shook his head vigorously. On second thought, I dont care. Do you have a means to get back home? James nodded, then glanced aside as Rose and Scorpius lowered their overloaded broom, the Muggle woman crammed between them. Er, sorta . And were very keen to, actually. But Rose is missing her ring. It was in her cardigan when it, er, blew off the roof of the Crystal Mountain. James turned back to Krum, expecting a stern or confused frown. Instead, Krum had produced a tiny notebook from a chest pocket on his leather armour. He was writing on it with an equally tiny quill, the implements looking slightly silly in his large, gloved hands. He nodded curtly at his own notes. Cardigan, he stated. Colour? Um, Rose spoke up sheepishly, Its sort of a pale salmon colour? With perhaps a little mauve? Krum looked at her without writing anything, his brow lowered. Pink, James interjected. Its pink. Do you think you can help us? The cardigan contains a ring, Krum confirmed, frowning again at his notes. Anything else? My wand, Rose called. And, er, some Droobles gum. And possibly a Nosebleed nougat or two-- That will do, Krum announced crisply, pocketing his notebook and tiny quill. He raised his voice and called out, Search pattern Sigma! Object is a pink cardigan sweater, lost from the roof of the Crystal Mountain. Consider prevailing winds and be aware of high perches and overhangs. Upon retrieval, assure contents: one ring, one wand, assorted effects. Teams one through three, go now and report back in a quarter hour. Team four, return to watch perimeter. This may have been a distraction. The last he added in a worried growl, turning back to James.

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It was very foolish of you to come here, James, he said gravely, and it pained James to hear the disappointment in the older mans voice. We werent supposed to come here, exactly, James insisted weakly. We started out in the top floors of the Crystal Mountain. It was just a quick out-and-back, using these magical rings Zane and his mates have been working on. Krums eyes sharpened. Zane Walker? He is here as well? James nodded nervously. Yeah. Somewhere. He and a girl named Nastasia, a wave of worry suddenly washed over him as he glanced around the deserted street. And Ralph, too! Where are they? That Collector bloke must have them! Even as James spoke, a clatter echoed from the nearby corner and a trio of figures clambered into view. James glanced toward the sound and was astounded to see Zane, Nastasia and Ralph climbing around the wreck of a bus. Piotre, the Harrier with whom James still shared a broom, said, Are these your friends? Thats them, James nodded, squirming to climb off the broom. The Harrier lowered his broom, allowing James to jump down. James! Zane called, What happened to the Wendigoes? And who are your new pals? On second thought, he frowned a little, I guess both those questions sorta answer each other. Oh! Hi, Viktor! I should have known you were part of this, Walker, Viktor sighed. James met his friends near the wrecked bus. What? he stammered, looking them up and down. They appeared to barely have broken a sweat. How did you? How did we avoid becoming lunch for a pair of anorexic zombie cannibals? Zane clarified, raising his eyebrows. Good question. Its a tale of true grit and resourcefulness if there ever was one. See, as soon as we saw Scorpius and Rose fly off with the Muggle woman I just put on my green ring, Nastasia piped up, lifting a hand and wriggling her fingers. Baddaboom. Built-in escape route. Ralph and I followed along, Zane shrugged. It seemed like the obvious thing to do. Then, we zapped right back again. Only when we came back, the rings landed us back on top of the Crystal Mountain. It took us a few minutes to get back down from there. Fortunately, I was genius enough to grab these from the X-Comm lab. He held up a pair of old but serviceable brooms. Rose and Scorpius joined them, bringing Lissa with them. James frowned at Zane. You mean, you three just left? We thought you would do the same, Ralph said. There was no fighting those Wendigo things. At least, not without er, professional help. He eyed Viktor and Piotre, who hung in mid-air nearby, talking in serious voices on their sleek brooms. But I-- James began, and then stopped. He had honestly forgotten about the ring in his pocket, the one that would have whisked him immediately to safety if he had merely put it on. In retrospect, it seemed very silly-- and potentially deadly-- for him to have forgotten about it. But then he remembered that Rose hadnt had her ring at all, and neither had the Muggle woman, Lissa. He looked at Zane and Ralph, then Nastasia. You, he said, realization dawning on him. You were just waiting for a chance to zap back. You

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didnt care about anyone else. If Zane and Ralph hadnt seen you do it, they never would have thought to do it themselves. They never would have left Rose here. Now hold on, James, Zane interjected. We came back immediately, and with help. We were going to use the brooms to get everyone up off the street, where those monsters couldnt reach us. She wasnt thinking about anyone but herself, James insisted, still glaring at Nastasia. Neither of you would have left if you hadnt seen her do it first, just to save her own skin. Im surprised you even got her to come back with you! Nastasia met his glare with a look of wounded surprise. Then, her face hardened. She turned away, but not before James saw tears shimmering in her eyes. Suddenly, Zane did the last thing James expected. He shoved James, hard, on the shoulder. Whats the matter with you? he demanded. What were we supposed to do? You ran off! Scorpius and Rose made it into the air with Lissa! One of those things nearly ripped Nastasias head off with one swipe! It was instinct to get to safety any way we could! If it wasnt for her quick thinking, the three of us would probably be dead right now! James stared at his friend in shock. He glanced at Ralph for support and saw a deeply wounded look on the big boys face. Im sorry James, Ralph said quietly. You might be right. Perhaps we shouldnt have left. But we came back as soon as we could. James suddenly felt like a complete cad. He shook his head. No, Ralph. I-- I shouldnt have said Yeah, yeah, Zane said with uncharacteristic bitterness. Were all sorry about everything. Can we just find Roses cardigan and get the hell out of here already? He stepped past James, heading toward Viktor and Piotre. Really, Ralph, James said quietly. I am sorry. You both did the smart thing. I was stupid to forget I had a way out in my pocket, and I almost got killed for it. Sure, Ralph said, smiling wanly. But youre right. At least you didnt leave Rose here. You and Scorpius, you two are the heroes. Hah, James scoffed. I barely got a shot off. I ran like a garden gnome and completely lost track of Rose and the others. If it hadnt been for Viktor and his harriers He shuddered, realizing how truly perilous his situation had been. Its all right, Rose said quietly, placing a hand on James and Ralphs shoulders. We all did the best we could. And everything turned out all right. Didnt it? Lissa suddenly gave a harsh, bitter laugh. Everythings all right, she repeated, shaking her head. None of you have any idea. No clue at all. What do you mean? Ralph asked, turning to the Muggle woman. Who was that man, anyway? Whos the Collector? Lissa met Ralphs eyes and the bitter smile fell from her face. She drew a deep, shuddering breath. Hes the devil. She shrugged helplessly. He found us. The ones that were left when the city emptied out. Me and Park and a bunch of the other street people, we were just beginning to band together, to understand what had happened. And he found us. He was powerful magical and he promised us things.

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But he he lied. Scorpius tilted his head curiously. So there are others? Lissa giggled a little again. There were others. There are hardly any left now. Now that hes done collecting. What does that mean, Lissa, Rose asked worriedly, her face going pale. Lissa shrugged helplessly. We didnt want to do it, but he promised to take us with him when the new world came. He took care of us, but for a price. Every day he sent us out into the city, looking for things. He was making something. She shook her head and grimaced. Something awful. He needed lots of very specific ingredients for it. But when he finally had everything he needed he didnt need us anymore. He started collecting people instead. First Park, then, one by one, most of the others. Even the ones who were like him. The magical ones. Rose looked perplexed. He killed people? Even other wizards? Lissa shook her head again, slowly and emphatically. It wasnt just killing. It was like a game to him. It gave him pleasure. And it made him more powerful. He collected them. When he was done, they werent so much dead as they were just sort of sucked dry. Empty human husks, with everything stripped out of them. He made us bury them in the park, which was the worst part of all. Some of them She shuddered violently and met James eyes, almost pleadingly. Some of them were still breathing. They were dead dead in every way that mattered. But they breathed Hes a rogue wizard, Ralph said suddenly, glancing from Scorpius to James. Just taking advantage of the situation here, with all the authorities gone. Right? Just some really deranged, vicious wizard with delusions of grandeur? Scorpius scowled thoughtfully. Ive been around wizards with delusions of grandeur my whole life. I come from a long line of them, to be honest. Not many of them could conjure mythical beasts out of thin air. That was some serious dark magic. He referred to a Warlock friend of his, Rose said, shivering at the memory of the Wendigoes. Warlocks are very specialized wizards. They make magical weapons, poisons, instruments of mass warfare. Thats where they get their name. But there are hardly any of them left, arent there? Most of them were on the side of Voldemort, back in our parents day, and got sent to Azkaban. They were the most wicked wizards of all, because they truly believed what they were doing was right. They were unapologetic, and vowed to continue their work if they were ever released. Worlick! James gasped, his eyes widening. The others blinked at him. Ralph asked, Who? The criminal that I met at Azkaban, the one who ended up escaping with Judiths help! I told you all about it, remember? His name was Worlick! But what if that wasnt a name? What if it was just another word for Warlock? Rose glanced at Scorpius. They shared a strangely uncomfortable look. Its possible. She acknowledged. Thats the whole reason he was in Azkaban to begin with, James went on, speaking to himself as much as the others. He was making all sorts of dark magic weapons and poisons! He killed one of Dads best aurors using them! He must be the one working with this Collector person! And that means that theyre

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both involved with with Judith! He glanced at the others faces in turn. The Lady of the Lake! Rose bit her lips in a strange grimace. Scorpius looked away pointedly. Even Ralph shuffled a little on his feet. Only Lissa, the Muggle woman, did not blink. She watched James face as if hypnotized. Did you ever see her? he asked, taking half a step closer to her. A tall woman? With reddish hair? Keen looking, but cold? Lissa still met his gaze intently. She shook her head very slowly. There was another she admitted in a near whisper. But no one ever saw who or what it was. They always met in secret. The Collector took orders. Sometimes they argued. He wanted to use it now. The other insisted they wait until a better time. The perfect time. Scorpius looked sharply at Lissa. The perfect time for what? What were they talking about using? Lissa still stared at James. Her eyes were wide, eerily intent. In a low, muttering voice, she said, He knew you. He called you by name James shivered. What were they talking about, Lissa? he pressed. It might be important. What were they waiting for the perfect time for? Lissa finally tore her gaze from James face. She glanced around at the others, as if noticing them for the first time. When she spoke, it was in a hushed whisper. The thing they had made, the thing we had to collect all the ingredients for. It was very difficult, they said, but powerful. Terrible. They called it the the Morrigan Web. She shuddered. All the colour fell out of James face. The Morrigan Rose repeated, narrowing her eyes thoughtfully. Ive heard of that. The Morrigan was a goddess of war. But whats a a Morrigan Web? Lissa shook her head slowly. The Collector told us she muttered. He told us what it is. He told us it was the end of our world. James looked at her, a chill coiling down his spine. In his mind, he saw Petras dream story, saw her handwriting scribbled all over it, blending together into a cacophony of random thoughts and ideas. And in the middle, written larger and more emphatically then the rest, each letter pressed into the parchment as if written with great force, was that same phrase: the Morrigan Web. Petra knew about it. Petra was involved. You should all return this moment, Viktor called suddenly, snapping James out of his reverie. We will protect the young lady until her possessions are returned and she can facilitate her own way back. The Muggle woman will be taken to the authorities. Ralph shook his head. Im staying with Rose, he insisted, and James saw that he was still smarting from the guilt of leaving her during the attack. If that Collector person attacked us once, he may try it again. You may be more right than you know, Piotre admitted darkly, swooping nearby on his broom. As I told Mister Potter here, the Wendigoes cannot be killed, only repulsed. They have surely returned to their master, whoever or whatever he may be. Zane returned to the group, his face serious. I told Viktor about the Collector, he nodded. An opportunist, Viktor acknowledged. The worst kind of wizard imaginable. Where some exploit disasters to loot goods, people like him delight in looting souls. We will find him and he will pay for

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what he has done, this he directed at Lissa, meeting her eyes gravely. Turning back to the others, he went on, For now, however, it is all the more reason for you to return to safety. I am not asking. You have already broken numerous edicts in coming here. Do not doubt that I will see you prosecuted if you disobey me. Viktor, Zane said, raising his voice. Seriously. We cant leave without-- You can and you will, Viktor commanded sternly. Immediately. I do not care how or why you came to be here, but believe me, you have already caused more trouble than you know. Go now or face the consequences. As he spoke, thankfully, two other harriers zoomed low along the street, converging on them. One of them, James saw, was carrying a pink, fluttering shape in his fist. The young ladys property, he called out, setting down on the street and holding up the cardigan. It got conveniently hung up on a statue in Union Square. Everything seems to be in order. He handed the cardigan to Rose. Thanks, she said sheepishly. Viktor nodded firmly. I suppose that settles that, then. Are there any other arguments? James thought he sensed the slightest undertone of wry humour in the former champions words. He shook his head emphatically. Excellent. Then off with you. Miss? This, he addressed to Lissa as he held a hand out to her. There is a Magical Integration Bureau office on the Brooklyn Bridge blockade. They will assist you. Lissa nodded wearily. You first, Rose, Zane sighed, producing his green ring from his pocket. Well follow. Rose nodded. She rummaged in the pocket of her cardigan, found her own green ring, and showed it to the others. Sorry, everyone, she said, smiling wanly. Ralph smiled back at her. Just get back safely. We still have one more jump to make from there, back through the cabinet. Its probably the middle of the night, Hogwarts time. Thats true, she nodded. All right. See you all on the other side. With that, she jammed the ring onto her finger. An instant later she vanished with a sort of rushing pop. Scorpius didnt wait. With a brisk sigh, he donned his own ring and disappeared. Im sorry, Zane, James said meekly, turning to his friend. Really. Zane met his gaze, but his eyes remained hard. He nodded curtly. Lets just go. What about Nastasia? Ralph asked, glancing around. Already gone, Zane shrugged, glancing down at his green ring. We both thought it would be best. After, you know everything. Without looking up, he pushed his ring onto his finger and vanished. James drew a deep breath and let it out, feeling thoroughly miserable. Thoughts swirled around his head in a sort of storm: Petra, the Morrigan Web, Worlick, the Lady of the Lake, the Collector, even Nastasia, especially the wounded look on her face when he had accused her of caring only about herself. He dug his own ring out of his pocket, feeling the conspicuous glare of Viktor Krum watching from his broom, fifty feet away. Ralph, he asked quietly, pausing with his green ring poised before his finger. When we were talking about Worlick and his escape, why did you all look so strange?

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James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

Ralph met his eyes briefly, and then glanced away. It isnt that, he admitted uncomfortably. Its the other part. What other part? James asked, an edge of exasperation coming into his voice. Ralph glanced at him again and drew a deep breath. The Lady of the Lake, he admitted. Its all just a little weird. You know? James shook his head firmly. No, I dont know. Whats weird about that? It makes perfect sense. She helped Worlick escape so he could help her and the Collector make some sort of ultimate magical weapon. Its horrible, but whats weird about it? Ralph frowned in consternation. James, he said, lowering his voice still further. I dont really know how to say this. I guess I sort of thought you already knew What, Ralph? James demanded, losing his patience. Out with it! Ralph lowered his ring and ran a hand through his thick hair. He glanced out over the street, seemed to see Viktor watching, and then returned his gaze to James. His face was a mask of miserable resignation. James, he whispered harshly, leaning close. No one else ever saw this Lady of the Lake person. Only you. Did you not know that? James stared at Ralph in disbelief. He narrowed his eyes. But thats ridiculous! You were all there in the World between the Worlds! She was there with us in the black castle! We spoke to her! Ralph shuffled his feet again, but shook his head insistently. We heard a voice, he admitted. But I never saw anyone. I just saw the other Petra. The rest was just shadows and echoes. Zane and I sort of thought it was all a trick, that the other Petra-- the Morgan version-- was just, sort of, mad. Talking in two voices. Ralph, James hissed, an incredulous smile crossing his face. Youre joking, right? The Lady of the Lake The smile faded from his face. Ralph, she killed Lucy. You saw it happen. Somebody killed her, Ralph agreed gravely. But who? I didnt see it happen. I thought it was Morgan. Zane too. But what about the other times she showed up, James insisted. On the Zephyr! You saw her shooting from the windows at all those WULF blokes, blasting them out of the air! I saw a lot of people, Ralph agreed reluctantly. There were loads of people on the train with us. Ralph, this is just daft! James exclaimed, raising his voice. What about all the other times! What about He stopped as cold realization flooded over him. There were no other times. The other times he had encountered Judith, first in the halls of the Aquapolis, and then in the North Sea, when she had whisked Worlick away in the form of a living waterspout, none of his friends had been present. But on the Night of the Unveiling, James said, thinking hard. She was there on the street, calling out about how my dad was guilty, about how he killed that Senator. You heard her. She was right there with Morgan, standing side by side! Ralph shook his head slowly but emphatically. I did hear people screaming things. I heard stuff like that in the crowd. But I didnt see anyone. None of us did, James. Thats why everyone gets a little nervous when you talk about Judith. Because most people they dont exactly believe she exists. James! Viktor barked from some distance away. Both of you! You must go! Now!

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James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

Ralph glanced aside nervously. Come on, James, he said, readying his ring. We can talk about this more later. James was too stunned to respond. Ralph nudged him. On three, he suggested again. Ready? James nodded feebly. Ralph counted. They both put on their rings. Twenty minutes later, James, Ralph, Rose and Scorpius tumbled out of the vanishing cabinet into the dark stillness of the Great Hall. Home, Rose said fervently. For a little while there, I felt like Id never see this place again. Is that mad? I think we all felt that way a bit, Ralph agreed. Quietly, disconsolately, the students made their way out of the Great Hall, whispering goodnight to Ralph at the dungeon stairs. Tiptoeing so as not to arouse the attention of the always wandering Filch and Mrs. Norris, the three Gryffindors climbed the stairs to the portrait of the Fat Lady. Scorpius muttered the password, granting them entrance to the deserted common room. Orange embers glowed in the fireplace, casting the only light. Rose glanced at the large clock near the fireplace and yawned extravagantly. She turned to Scorpius and James in turn. Thanks, she said seriously. Thanks for waiting with me tonight. You didnt have to. But I am glad you did. James nodded. Scorpius shrugged, as if to say what else were we going to do? Rose, James said tiredly, stepping close to his cousin. You dont believe in Judith, do you? A pained expression crossed her face. I James, I dont doubt what you believe. Its Its all right, Rose, James nodded. I suppose it doesnt really matter. But will you help me with something anyway? Of course, she replied, looking rather relieved. After tonight, I feel like I owe you all a bit of an enormous favour. What is it? James glanced back at Scorpius, who was watching unabashedly. Help me figure out what the Morrigan Web is. Rose frowned slightly. Shouldnt you just tell your father-- I will, James interjected, looking back at her. But still. Youre dead smart, just like your mum, and I have a feeling that dad will need all the help he can get. Rose nodded. Ill help. Well start this weekend. All right? James agreed. A moment later, Rose turned and climbed the stairs to the girls dormitory. I really shouldnt mention this, Scorpius muttered as they made their way up the spiral stairs to their own dormitory. But you remember what tonight was, dont you? James shook his head vaguely. I dont know and I dont care, he said. Scorpius nodded. Thats good. It would have been rushed in the best case, after all. Even without everything that happened in New Amsterdam. James stopped on the stairs. His eyes widened in the darkness. Oh no. he said slowly. It cant be. I cant truly have missed it again

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James Potter and the Morrigan Web

G. Norman Lippert

Scorpius glanced back at him. I thought you said you didnt care? he asked sardonically. James stared at him in the darkness, his expression blank, his mouth hanging slightly open. It wouldve actually been funny, if it wasnt so preposterously frustrating. Dont worry, Scorpius said, turning and resuming his climb up the dormitory stairs. Theres always next year. After all its only Quidditch.

Here endeth Chapter 4

Who is the Collector and what is he up to? Always nice to see Viktor and the Harriers, especially when there are monsters about. And can you believe James missed Quidditch tryouts again? Still, fear not, faithful reader: James isnt done with Quidditch just yet...
Check back tomorrow for the next chapter
In the meantime, if you are itching for some new readables from me, your loyal author, or just want to show support for the JP stories, feel free to check out my other works. Thanks for coming along for the ride! www.ruinsofcamelot.com www.girlonthedock.com www.riverhousebook.com

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