Chapter 190 (1/2)

In the chaos before departure, Harry had no chance to talk to Ron or Hermione or vaseline; they were busy moving all their trunks down the narrow stairs of the Leaky Cauldron bar and piling them up next to the gate.

Hedwig and Percy's shrieking owl, Hermes, were in their own cages, and they were placed on the top of the luggage with Wallin's. A small wicker basket was placed next to the boxes, purring noisily.

”It's all right, crook hill,” Hermione coaxed the cat through the wicker basket. ”I'll let you out on the train.”

”Don't let it go,” Ron snapped. ”What about poor spot, huh?”

He pointed to his chest, where there was a large lump, indicating that the spot was hidden in Ron's pocket.

Hermione glared at Ron fiercely, and Fanlin quickly stepped up to block between the two men. It was not the time to break out a war or something.

Mr. Weasley had been waiting outside for the Ministry's car, and now he put his head in.

”Here comes the car.” He said, ”Harry, come on.”

Mr. Weasley forced Harry to walk across a short section of the sidewalk. Just as everyone got on the bus, Harry was stopped by Mr. Weasley. It seemed that some advice was necessary because of Sirius.

Come down here, Mr. Weasley said quietly

He tossed his head towards a pillar, and Harry followed him to the back of the pillar and left the others around Mrs. Weasley.

”There is something I must tell you before you leave - Mr. Weasley said nervously.

”Well, Mr. Weasley,” said Harry, ”I already know.”