Organization Established

Rainy day.

Harry and the others splashed through the vegetable patch to Herbology, their robes billowing in the wind. Rain hammered the greenhouse roof like hail, making it almost impossible to hear what Professor Sprout was saying.

That afternoon, Care of Magical Creatures was moved indoors to an empty classroom on the first floor. At lunch, Angelina told the team that Quidditch practice was cancelled, much to everyone's relief.

"Perfect."

Harry said quietly, "Because we've found a place for the defense group's first meeting. Eight o'clock tonight, on the Eighth Floor, opposite the tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy being beaten by trolls. Can you let Katie and Alicia know?"

She seemed a little surprised, but agreed to notify the others.

Harry went back to wolfing down his sausages and mashed potatoes.

When he looked up to drink some Pumpkin Juice, he found Hermione watching him.

"What is it?" he asked thickly.

"Well... Dobby's plans aren't always that safe. Don't you remember he was the one who got all the bones in your arm removed?"

Hermione's concern was not without reason. More importantly, he had told Jon about this, but had yet to receive a response.

Generally, no reply meant the plan was highly feasible, but she was still a little uneasy.

"This room isn't just one of Dobby's whims. Dumbledore knows about it too. He mentioned it to me at the Christmas Ball."

Hermione's face brightened.

"Dumbledore told you about it?"

"He mentioned it in passing." Harry shrugged. In truth, he had overheard Dumbledore telling Karkaroff about it.

"Oh, then it's fine," Hermione said brightly, raising no further objections.

They split up with Ron to find everyone who had signed up at the Hog's Head Inn and tell them about that evening's meeting.

Harry was a little disappointed because Ginny