Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Harry Potter's characters. Everything
belongs to J. K. Rowling. Everything unfamiliar is mine. 9/9
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
If you HAVEN'T read book 5 please stay away. There maybe spoilers
popping in. I'm not sure yet, actually I might put spoilers without
really meaning to. Check out my other stories: "Models", "Last
Chance", "Summer Camp", "It's All About the Money" (they're all Draco-
Hermione fics), and "Picture Perfect" (That last one is a Sirius-
Hermione fic).
Romance will come in the future chapters.
Title: The Haunted
Chapter1
The Manor
The fall of Voldemort has finally come. At the end of Harry's 7th year, he was able to stop Voldemort in his own games. The more Voldemort used the "Avada Kedavra Curse" the more powerful Harry's counter curse has become. People have been praising him as "the boy who lived". Surely there would come a time when he would outgrow that reputation and do incredible things on his own. Harry with the help of his friends (namely Hermione and Ron) came up with a solution to use Voldemort's power against him. Ever since he found out that he could tap into Voldemort's power he used it to survive/escape from him. Now he learned to use these powers against him. The Gryffindor trio has come up with a spell that let's Harry use the spirits that suffered under Voldemort. The spirits willingly agreed to help him. With their help, Voldemort finally lost. Although, because of all the things he has done to be immortal all Harry could do was seal him in eternal darkness. Voldemort just can't be killed.
When the news of the faith of the Dark Lord spread, Death Eaters lost their minds. They didn't care anymore about purebloods or mudbloods, what mattered now was the Dark side and the side of the Light. Many witches and wizards have volunteered to sweep out the Wizarding world of Death Eaters. In this war, the Death Eaters didn't have a chance. Harry Potter led the war and everybody worshipped the ground he walked on. People started taking his side. In no time, the Death Eaters have been reduced to the likes of rats hiding in their holes. The ones affected the most were the families left behind. They weren't rounded up, as long as they haven't sided with the Death Eaters but they were ostracized.
There was a person who took it the hardest. His father had a high-ranking position in Voldemort's side. His father however didn't suffer the same faith as his master. He had died fighting leaving his only son to fend for himself. His wife had searched for revenge but she was caught by Harry's followers and thrown into Azkaban.
Life for the young wizard has been hard. He wasn't able to cope with his loss very well. All of his friends have either left him, joined the other side or were caught by 'Harry Potter'. He didn't know whom to trust anymore. He didn't want to trust anyone.
He handed out clothes to all of his house elves. Most of them didn't want to leave him even when they were forced to. The best they could do was to merge themselves with the walls of the Manor. Only one elf served him still. She prepared his food and all his basic necessities.
The young wizard decided to leave the whole world behind him. He moved from his room to the deepest and coldest dungeon in the Manor. The faithful house elves made the dungeon possible for human living conditions. He was left to wallow for his loss and drown himself to loneliness.
~~~~~~~~~~
"Hermione! I see something!" A red haired witch shouted to get her company's attention.
Hermione was gazing at the perfect full moon. 'Ginny, wait! Look at that!" She pointed at the moon.
Ginny did as was told, "What about it 'Moine? It's big and Creepy!"
"And romantic." Hermione added with a sigh.
"Hermione if we're not careful we'll end up facing the moon for eternity, six feet under!"
"Only if we're lucky." Hermione took a last glimpse at the wondrous glow from the moon. She knew Death Eaters could do more horrible things than just kill you. She took a deep sigh and faced the red haired girl. "So what did you actually find?"
"I saw a very creepy Manor up north. Actually it looks like a haunted house if you ask me." Ginny reported.
"Haunted house? Come on Gin, we've seen worse than ghosts. I think we could wait for Harry and Ron there."
"It's more than just ghosts Hermione. I feel something really bad is in that house."
Ginny did however succumbed to the older witch's decision; she has after all more experience.
Hermione led the way using only the light emanating from the moon. She passed through the forest as swiftly and as quietly as possible. She has been trained along with Harry and Ron about proper tracking. Death Eaters are still dangerous. Nobody can be too sure. They were closing in on the dark empty Manor when Ginny felt an urge to talk to calm herself.
"Why again are we not using the mirror Harry gave us?"
"Cause there might be Death Eaters around us. We might give away Harry's location. We don't want that now do we?"
Ginny didn't like it when Hermione acted all "know-it-all", but because of all the hardships that they've been through, she learned to deal with it. "No we don't."
"And besides, as I recall, this forest was a popular spot in finding Death Eaters. The more we should watch our actions." Hermione added.
"I know, I know." Ginny was sorry she had to ask.
Hermione marveled at how large the estate was. 'It seems like nobody cared to even put charms on the walls surrounding the entire estate.' The walls seemed to have crumbled down to bits. She closed her eyes to try to picture what the original estate must have looked like. She could picture powerful pillars rising up to heavens. She could picture the ominous gate that filters the incoming visitors. In the middle of the front lawn, she could picture a great statue. 'A snake maybe.' She then focused her attention to the Manor; actually it looked like a castle. All she could see was darkness. 'So that's creepy. It's more like lonely though.' She turned around and almost bumped into her partner. "Ginny!"
"Sorry Hermione. Didn't I tell you it was creepy?" This time Ginny grabbed her hand for support.
"You have a point but it's nothing a little light can't fix." Hermione hoped this to be true.
"You're not actually planning to go inside Hermione?" Ginny didn't like the eeriness coming from the Manor.
"No Ginny. I'm not planning to inside-"
Ginny drew a sigh of relief.
"I'm not planning to go inside, alone. I'm planning to stay inside with you until Harry and Ron catches up with us."
Ginny's eyes widened in protest. "You can't possibly make me go inside that!"
"Fine! You can stay here and wait for Harry and Ron with the rest of the CREATURES in the forest." Hermione made sure she put enough emphasis on creatures. She then braved to enter the huge doors.
Ginny took a deep breath, 'I can do this. I'm a Gryffindor!' She then followed her lead. "Oh so how are we going to enter that Manor? It looks like it doesn't want us to enter it."
"Nonsense! It's a minor setback." Hermione took out her wand and whispered something. The next thing happened so fast that Ginny didn't know what happened next. Hermione shook her wand playfully on the younger witch's face.
"Show off!" Ginny managed to tease.
Hermione entered the Manor cautiously. Her wand was still drawn. She asked Gin to keep a look out as she scanned for anything moving. Her eyes could only do much with such little light. She found the hallway to be big and overwhelming. When she was sure that nobody was there she motioned to Ginny.
As Ginny came in, the door suddenly shut closed. Ginny jumped at this and went to Hermione's side.
"It's alright Gin. It just the wind." Hermione reassured her.
"Check it then." Ginny was using all her will power not to cry.
"Fine." Hermione carefully walked up to the door with Ginny close behind. She then grabbed the doorknob. She took a deep breath before turning it.
"Well?" Ginny asked curiously.
Hermione tried to open the door but it didn't budge. She didn't want to panic the already terrified girl beside her. "Let's check on it later. I'm more curious at who was the last owner of this Manor."
Ginny was doubtful but nodded.
Hermione decided to do some more exploring. They ended up in the great stairway. She couldn't see well even when she cast "Lunos". She found that the furnishings were still intact. She could see paintings on the wall but they were all covered with curtains. She was curious to find out the family who lived here and thought that the portraits were her best chance of knowing. She stopped in front of a rather large portrait. She was about to open it when she felt Ginny grab her hand.
"Hermione, don't! I'm already freaking out." Ginny pleaded.
Hermione nodded and left the portrait. "Maybe we should look for supplies or some sort. I don't know about you but I'm starving." She tried to ease the mood.
Ginny nodded still clinging to her arms.
Hermione searched for the possible hallway that led to a kitchen or the like. She turned to a hallway that has the heads of house elves hanging on the wall. "Kind of remind you of Sirius' place."
Ginny remembered that summer in their 5th year were they were tortured by Sirius's screaming grandmother.
"I just can't understand why it would be an honor to have their heads chopped off and hanged as a trophy. Why can't all the house elves be like Dobby? He's doing great without a master. I mean they have powers that can rival with ours."
"Hermione, please let's change the subject. I'm not in the mood for elves rights right now."
~~~~~~~~~~
Both girls didn't realize that they weren't alone. There were a lot of eyes following their every movement. Most of them have hatred in their eyes for trespassing into their master's house. There was a pair of eyes that had been watching them curiously though. The moment the girls entered the house, hope filled her being. "Dobby. Surely one of them could help."
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione didn't think that there would be any supplies left. The Manor did look like it's been deserted for years. She wasn't really looking for supplies. She was looking for another way out. Whenever Ginny wasn't looking, she tried to open a window or a door that leads outside; let's just say today wasn't her lucky day.
"Hermione, I don't think there are any food left in this place. Maybe we should just leave. I mean we could get food outside of this place." Ginny was eager to leave.
'Maybe I should just tell her the truth.' Hermione cleared her throat, "Um Gin dear, we have a slight problem." Hermione could see panic starting to build up on her friend's features.
"Problem?"
"You see, we're sort of, how should I say this." Hermione bit her lips to try a positive way of saying it.
"Trapped!" Ginny screamed.
"No, no, no."
"Then what?"
"I was thinking stuck?"
All the color flooded out of her face. "What do you mean stuck?"
"The doors wouldn't budge."
Ginny felt like the walls were closing in. She had trouble breathing. "That's not possible. Have you tried everything? What about the spell you cast earlier outside?"
Hermione didn't know what to do. Her friend was panicking and her rambling wasn't helping. "Gin, we have to be calm. I was thinking since it was already dark, we could stay here until morning. Then we'll try again." She said as calm as possible.
"Spend the night here! I don't think so!"
"Gin, as far as I can see when Harry and Ron gets here, they can open the door and we can go out."
Ginny wasn't using her head; she just nodded as she thought of ways to leave the manor. "Maybe we should use the furniture on the glass and stuff."
"Gin, I promise, tomorrow we'll try everything. What we both need now is to rest."
"Hermione how can you be so calm? This was a house of a Death Eater. We don't know what's in here!"
"The more that we shouldn't panic. We need our heads here. We can't let our emotions get in the way. Just think that tomorrow, we'll be able to get out of here."
Ginny knew there was no use in arguing with her. She knew the debate had been won long ago. Hermione was right. The last thing that they should be doing was panicking or arguing. She nodded in defeat.
Hermione was glad that Ginny was finally starting to calm down. "Let's go find the bedrooms."
"Hermione, I don't think I can sleep alone tonight."
"That's fine, we'll be like dorm mates like in Hogwarts." She gave her a warm smile.
"Thanks."
"No problem."
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione found the great stairway once again and hesitated before going up the stairs, Ginny followed suit. At the top of the stairs she was surrounded by darkness once again. She realized that she was standing in a hallway. She noticed that there were doorknobs sticking from the wall. 'Any room would do. It's just for one night.'
She tried the first knob but it wouldn't budge. She tried using magic but still the door remained firmly in its place. Ginny helped her in opening the doors but they wouldn't budge as well. Finally, there was only one door left. Hermione was quite irritated. She wanted at least a nice bed to sleep in with all the eeriness the house has projected. 'Damn this house if this door wouldn't budge.' She grasped the knob and it turned quite easily. 'Finally, a door that works.'
Hermione gave Ginny a smile of the success.
Ginny however hesitated. "What if we get stuck inside that room? I'm not claustrophobic but I don't think I like getting stuck inside a room."
"You're right. Maybe we should test it first."
"Meaning?"
"One of us would enter the room and the other will wait outside."
"I'm not staying inside that room alone." Ginny shuddered.
"Fine, after 10 minutes, open the door ok?"
Ginny nodded.
Hermione took a deep breath before she entered the room. She closed her eyes to calm herself. She maybe brave but she still can get spooked. She took deep breaths until she calmed down. When she opened her eyes she was amazed to see light coming from a candle. 'What's going on here?' She came closer to the candle and saw the room brighten up. She looked to her side and saw a great window with green curtains fluttering from the wind. She could see the moon through the window. She looked around and saw that the room had a bathroom. The bed was a queen sized four-poster bed, decorated in green sheets. She found a closet and looked inside. There were a couple of robes that seemed to be just the right size for her and Ginny. She looked at her back and saw a desk. On top of which were two plates of food. There was no talking mirror or any portrait in the room but it was still fairly exquisite. It gave of a feeling of security. She had a good feeling about the room although she had doubts with the food. She went to the fluttering curtains to see if the window can be used for their escape. As she neared it, she could feel the wind brushing past her. She was about to look out the window when she heard the door to the bathroom creak open.
Hermione quickly drew her wand. "Who goes there?"
A small house elf appeared. (Sorry I don't know how house elves talk.) "Sorry to be disturbing you mistress."
"What the-"
"Will you be needing Wina's help mistress?"
"Wina?"
"Yes mistress? That's my name. Will you be needing anything?"
"I need you to answer some questions."
"Wina would be honored mistress."
"Please call me Hermione."
"That's disrespectful mistress. The masters would have me hanged for such insolence." She was about to leave the door.
"Wait Wina. Why can't we leave this house? Why are you serving us?"
House elves have great loyalty especially to their family but remember that she was also freed. "My masters have told me that there were visitors coming. I have to welcome them for masters sake." That was said out of loyalty. The owners before did plan on having a meeting with their fellow Death Eaters but their plan was spoiled.
Hermione wondered if this was true. She knew that house elves show a lot of loyalty to their families so she can't really trust her. She just might be under orders. "Why then can't we leave?"
"Master told me to protect visitors till they come back. Wina can't protect visitors if they left." This she said out of her free will. This little house elf had plans.
"Do you know when your masters will come back?"
"Wina knows nothing of masters plans."
"Wina, what if we're not the visitors your masters have told you?"
"Wina then kills trespassers."
Hermione held her tongue for a moment. She can't believe she was in the mercy of a house elf. She wanted to ask who her masters were but then again that would only prove that she's not the visitor.
Ten minutes were up. Ginny opened the door carefully only to find a house elf staring at her. "What the-"
"Oh, Gin. This is Wina. She's a house elf here. She's even prepared us some food." Hermione gave her a wary smile.
Ginny's mouth drop open. She didn't think there would be any creature living in this place.
"If mistress have no more questions, Wina would like to leave now. Wina have other business to take care of." She curtsied to both Hermione and Ginny.
Hermione nodded her head then turned her attention to Ginny. "Are you alright?"
"Does that mean we can leave?" Ginny was hopeful.
"We can but only until her masters come back."
"But what if her masters were Death Eaters captured or worse dead?"
"I guess we have to warn Harry then."
"It's about time."
Hermione searched for the mirror in her robe but she found nothing. She then looked at Ginny's face.
"Don't tell me you lost it."
Hermione remained silent.
"Where?" Ginny exclaimed.
"Maybe when we were looking for a way to escape."
Ginny sat at the bed to catch her breath.
"Don't worry. We could ask Wina to help us look for it in the morning."
"How can I not worry? If we don't warn Harry and Ron then we'll all be prisoners of this house!"
"You have got to have some faith Gin dear. We'll get out of here one way or the other. Remember we got Harry. People would be looking for him and his friends, that's us. We'll get out of here I promise."
~~~~~~~~~~
Wina was happy at how everything was going as she planned. She knew that they weren't the visitors her former masters were talking about but she knew that they could help her or her young master.
She went in front of the head of her elder hanging on the hallway. "Wina's sorry. I have to help young master. He needs them more than he thinks. This is all Wina could do for him. I have to let mudbloods and her likes here for young master's sake. He's not doing well right now. Wina would do anything for young master. Wina not like Dobby. Wina good house elf."
~~~~~~~~~~
The young wizard stared lazily at the moon. It reflects his sad past. He did not love his parents the same way any normal witch or wizard would. He had respect for them. They were his parents. Now somebody else took them from him. He wasn't used at loosing things that belong to him. He can also say this to his friends. Now he was all alone. Sometimes he liked it sometimes he hated it. He liked the fact that he didn't have to trust anyone. He didn't like the pain that comes with it.
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione woke up with the sun shining inside the room. To her amazement, the room has changed. Sure the colors were still green but there was an atmosphere that made her feel welcome, as if she was at home. She went to the window to look out but she could only look and not put out her head. There was a barrier preventing her to do so. She wasn't surprised. She knew how house elves could get serious about their loyalty. She looked back inside and found bathrobes hanging on a dresser. She decided to take a quick bath.
Ginny was still asleep. She was awake all night long. She deserved a good rest. Hermione took the robe and headed toward the bathroom. Inside she found it to be larger than it looked. There was a gigantic tub; you can call it a mini swimming pool. She found the vanity, which contained soaps of different variation. She picked up a strawberry scented soap and dumped it in the tub. She slowly relaxed to the warmth of the water.
After her bath, she went to Ginny's side. "Hey Gin, time to wake up now. We have lots to do. We still have to find the mirror-"
Ginny got irritated by her voice and covered her head with a pillow.
Hermione tugged it away from her face. "Come on Gin. I thought you wanted to leave this place?"
Ginny opened her eyes and the scene that she saw amazed her. She looked to her side and saw fresh flowers on top of the desk. "Did I really say that?"
"You were singing a different tune last night."
"You know 'Mione, I could get used to this. This bed is so comfortable and the food Wina prepared last night was almost as good as mum's."
"Hey I thought you were spooked to be trapped inside this room?"
"You were right last night. All this place really needs is light." Ginny finally stood up. "Something smells good."
"Must be Wina."
"No, it's smells something like strawberries."
"That's me then."
Ginny raised her eyebrows, "What do you mean?"
"Soaps. There's lots on the vanity inside the bathroom."
Ginny got excited and took the robe in the dresser before she headed to the tub. "Hermione! This is a great room! I wouldn't mind getting trapped here for life!"
"I see you must have found the tub." Hermione shouted back.
"What tub? This is a pool!"
"I know what you mean."
"This would've been perfect if we have boys trapped with us as well."
"Well if we don't find that mirror we'll have Harry and Ron here with us as well."
"Fine! I take Harry, Ron's my brother."
"Hey Gin, I'm not planning to be stuck here forever."
"Why not?"
"I have better things to do."
"Like what?"
"Death Eaters for one."
"Ow come on 'Mione. This place is extremely romantic. I can't believe you don't feel it."
"Remember Gin that this house once belonged to a Death Eater. You told me that last night."
"Please don't ruin the feeling."
"I don't have to. When we go down you'll feel the same feeling you did last night anyway."
"Then I wouldn't leave this room."
"It's funny how fast you change your mind."
~~~~~~~~~~
When Ginny finished her long bath, somebody knocked on the door.
"Who is it?" Hermione asked as she drew her wand.
"Wina mistress."
Hermione opened the door to let her in. "What is it?"
"I thought mistress would like some breakfast."
Ginny looked at Hermione and shook her head vigorously. One thing she had in common with Ron was they both have an appetite.
"That would be great Wina."
"Breakfast is served downstairs mistress." Wina opened the door for the two ladies. "Mistress!" She called after Hermione.
"What is it Wina?"
"Wina has cleared the other rooms. Mistress doesn't have to share a small room no more. Mistress can choose to her own liking."
"We'll think about it Wina." Hermione gave her a smile.
"Wina has put effort in cleaning them rooms as fast as possible for your liking mistress."
"Don't worry Wina, we'll choose our rooms later."
"Yes mistress. Call Wina again if you need anything else."
"Oh, I seem to misplace a small mirror last night. Is there any chance you found it?"
"No mistress. But I will look again if that is your wish."
"Thank you Wina."
Wina nodded in reply. She took out a small packet from her clothes. 'Wina recognizes this mirror. Mistress cannot leave Manor just yet. This is all for young master.'
~~~~~~~~~~
When Hermione got to the stairway both girls caught their breath at the sight they saw. All the darkness last night was replaced with light. The hall was bright with flowers at each corner. The floors were polished. There were paintings hanging on the wall but there were no portraits. Hermione still doesn't know who owns the place but with all the surprises it has shown them, she was falling in love with the house.
Ginny on the other hand could not believe that this was the same house that they entered last night. "Hermione, pinch me. I think I'm dreaming."
"If you can see the chandelier hanging there then you're not dreaming, unless we're having similar dreams." Hermione closed her eyes and pictured a guy waiting at the end of the steps waiting for her. She smiled dreamily.
"I see you got romance in there." Ginny noticed her smile. "I wouldn't blame you. I mean this is only a stairway, I can't wait to explore the whole house."
Wina seemed to be everywhere. She was waiting for them at the foot of the stairs. "Wina is sorry for last night. Wina wasn't sure when visitors would come. Wina was able to clean house last night. I hope mistress wasn't displeased last night."
"You don't have to apologize Wina. You've done great."
"Wina is pleased. Mistress, food is getting cold. If you would follow me please."
Hermione and Ginny exchanged pleased glances. "This is too good to be true!"
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: Cathyhb is begging for reviews. Please review! Cathyhb now is
pleading, kneeling for reviews. Cathyhb also ask for beta reader.
Cathyhb expects emails for those interested to hbpikapi@yahoo.com.
Cathyhb happy you finished reading, please review!
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
If you HAVEN'T read book 5 please stay away. There maybe spoilers
popping in. I'm not sure yet, actually I might put spoilers without
really meaning to. Check out my other stories: "Models", "Last
Chance", "Summer Camp", "It's All About the Money" (they're all Draco-
Hermione fics), and "Picture Perfect" (That last one is a Sirius-
Hermione fic).
Romance will come in the future chapters.
Title: The Haunted
Chapter1
The Manor
The fall of Voldemort has finally come. At the end of Harry's 7th year, he was able to stop Voldemort in his own games. The more Voldemort used the "Avada Kedavra Curse" the more powerful Harry's counter curse has become. People have been praising him as "the boy who lived". Surely there would come a time when he would outgrow that reputation and do incredible things on his own. Harry with the help of his friends (namely Hermione and Ron) came up with a solution to use Voldemort's power against him. Ever since he found out that he could tap into Voldemort's power he used it to survive/escape from him. Now he learned to use these powers against him. The Gryffindor trio has come up with a spell that let's Harry use the spirits that suffered under Voldemort. The spirits willingly agreed to help him. With their help, Voldemort finally lost. Although, because of all the things he has done to be immortal all Harry could do was seal him in eternal darkness. Voldemort just can't be killed.
When the news of the faith of the Dark Lord spread, Death Eaters lost their minds. They didn't care anymore about purebloods or mudbloods, what mattered now was the Dark side and the side of the Light. Many witches and wizards have volunteered to sweep out the Wizarding world of Death Eaters. In this war, the Death Eaters didn't have a chance. Harry Potter led the war and everybody worshipped the ground he walked on. People started taking his side. In no time, the Death Eaters have been reduced to the likes of rats hiding in their holes. The ones affected the most were the families left behind. They weren't rounded up, as long as they haven't sided with the Death Eaters but they were ostracized.
There was a person who took it the hardest. His father had a high-ranking position in Voldemort's side. His father however didn't suffer the same faith as his master. He had died fighting leaving his only son to fend for himself. His wife had searched for revenge but she was caught by Harry's followers and thrown into Azkaban.
Life for the young wizard has been hard. He wasn't able to cope with his loss very well. All of his friends have either left him, joined the other side or were caught by 'Harry Potter'. He didn't know whom to trust anymore. He didn't want to trust anyone.
He handed out clothes to all of his house elves. Most of them didn't want to leave him even when they were forced to. The best they could do was to merge themselves with the walls of the Manor. Only one elf served him still. She prepared his food and all his basic necessities.
The young wizard decided to leave the whole world behind him. He moved from his room to the deepest and coldest dungeon in the Manor. The faithful house elves made the dungeon possible for human living conditions. He was left to wallow for his loss and drown himself to loneliness.
~~~~~~~~~~
"Hermione! I see something!" A red haired witch shouted to get her company's attention.
Hermione was gazing at the perfect full moon. 'Ginny, wait! Look at that!" She pointed at the moon.
Ginny did as was told, "What about it 'Moine? It's big and Creepy!"
"And romantic." Hermione added with a sigh.
"Hermione if we're not careful we'll end up facing the moon for eternity, six feet under!"
"Only if we're lucky." Hermione took a last glimpse at the wondrous glow from the moon. She knew Death Eaters could do more horrible things than just kill you. She took a deep sigh and faced the red haired girl. "So what did you actually find?"
"I saw a very creepy Manor up north. Actually it looks like a haunted house if you ask me." Ginny reported.
"Haunted house? Come on Gin, we've seen worse than ghosts. I think we could wait for Harry and Ron there."
"It's more than just ghosts Hermione. I feel something really bad is in that house."
Ginny did however succumbed to the older witch's decision; she has after all more experience.
Hermione led the way using only the light emanating from the moon. She passed through the forest as swiftly and as quietly as possible. She has been trained along with Harry and Ron about proper tracking. Death Eaters are still dangerous. Nobody can be too sure. They were closing in on the dark empty Manor when Ginny felt an urge to talk to calm herself.
"Why again are we not using the mirror Harry gave us?"
"Cause there might be Death Eaters around us. We might give away Harry's location. We don't want that now do we?"
Ginny didn't like it when Hermione acted all "know-it-all", but because of all the hardships that they've been through, she learned to deal with it. "No we don't."
"And besides, as I recall, this forest was a popular spot in finding Death Eaters. The more we should watch our actions." Hermione added.
"I know, I know." Ginny was sorry she had to ask.
Hermione marveled at how large the estate was. 'It seems like nobody cared to even put charms on the walls surrounding the entire estate.' The walls seemed to have crumbled down to bits. She closed her eyes to try to picture what the original estate must have looked like. She could picture powerful pillars rising up to heavens. She could picture the ominous gate that filters the incoming visitors. In the middle of the front lawn, she could picture a great statue. 'A snake maybe.' She then focused her attention to the Manor; actually it looked like a castle. All she could see was darkness. 'So that's creepy. It's more like lonely though.' She turned around and almost bumped into her partner. "Ginny!"
"Sorry Hermione. Didn't I tell you it was creepy?" This time Ginny grabbed her hand for support.
"You have a point but it's nothing a little light can't fix." Hermione hoped this to be true.
"You're not actually planning to go inside Hermione?" Ginny didn't like the eeriness coming from the Manor.
"No Ginny. I'm not planning to inside-"
Ginny drew a sigh of relief.
"I'm not planning to go inside, alone. I'm planning to stay inside with you until Harry and Ron catches up with us."
Ginny's eyes widened in protest. "You can't possibly make me go inside that!"
"Fine! You can stay here and wait for Harry and Ron with the rest of the CREATURES in the forest." Hermione made sure she put enough emphasis on creatures. She then braved to enter the huge doors.
Ginny took a deep breath, 'I can do this. I'm a Gryffindor!' She then followed her lead. "Oh so how are we going to enter that Manor? It looks like it doesn't want us to enter it."
"Nonsense! It's a minor setback." Hermione took out her wand and whispered something. The next thing happened so fast that Ginny didn't know what happened next. Hermione shook her wand playfully on the younger witch's face.
"Show off!" Ginny managed to tease.
Hermione entered the Manor cautiously. Her wand was still drawn. She asked Gin to keep a look out as she scanned for anything moving. Her eyes could only do much with such little light. She found the hallway to be big and overwhelming. When she was sure that nobody was there she motioned to Ginny.
As Ginny came in, the door suddenly shut closed. Ginny jumped at this and went to Hermione's side.
"It's alright Gin. It just the wind." Hermione reassured her.
"Check it then." Ginny was using all her will power not to cry.
"Fine." Hermione carefully walked up to the door with Ginny close behind. She then grabbed the doorknob. She took a deep breath before turning it.
"Well?" Ginny asked curiously.
Hermione tried to open the door but it didn't budge. She didn't want to panic the already terrified girl beside her. "Let's check on it later. I'm more curious at who was the last owner of this Manor."
Ginny was doubtful but nodded.
Hermione decided to do some more exploring. They ended up in the great stairway. She couldn't see well even when she cast "Lunos". She found that the furnishings were still intact. She could see paintings on the wall but they were all covered with curtains. She was curious to find out the family who lived here and thought that the portraits were her best chance of knowing. She stopped in front of a rather large portrait. She was about to open it when she felt Ginny grab her hand.
"Hermione, don't! I'm already freaking out." Ginny pleaded.
Hermione nodded and left the portrait. "Maybe we should look for supplies or some sort. I don't know about you but I'm starving." She tried to ease the mood.
Ginny nodded still clinging to her arms.
Hermione searched for the possible hallway that led to a kitchen or the like. She turned to a hallway that has the heads of house elves hanging on the wall. "Kind of remind you of Sirius' place."
Ginny remembered that summer in their 5th year were they were tortured by Sirius's screaming grandmother.
"I just can't understand why it would be an honor to have their heads chopped off and hanged as a trophy. Why can't all the house elves be like Dobby? He's doing great without a master. I mean they have powers that can rival with ours."
"Hermione, please let's change the subject. I'm not in the mood for elves rights right now."
~~~~~~~~~~
Both girls didn't realize that they weren't alone. There were a lot of eyes following their every movement. Most of them have hatred in their eyes for trespassing into their master's house. There was a pair of eyes that had been watching them curiously though. The moment the girls entered the house, hope filled her being. "Dobby. Surely one of them could help."
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione didn't think that there would be any supplies left. The Manor did look like it's been deserted for years. She wasn't really looking for supplies. She was looking for another way out. Whenever Ginny wasn't looking, she tried to open a window or a door that leads outside; let's just say today wasn't her lucky day.
"Hermione, I don't think there are any food left in this place. Maybe we should just leave. I mean we could get food outside of this place." Ginny was eager to leave.
'Maybe I should just tell her the truth.' Hermione cleared her throat, "Um Gin dear, we have a slight problem." Hermione could see panic starting to build up on her friend's features.
"Problem?"
"You see, we're sort of, how should I say this." Hermione bit her lips to try a positive way of saying it.
"Trapped!" Ginny screamed.
"No, no, no."
"Then what?"
"I was thinking stuck?"
All the color flooded out of her face. "What do you mean stuck?"
"The doors wouldn't budge."
Ginny felt like the walls were closing in. She had trouble breathing. "That's not possible. Have you tried everything? What about the spell you cast earlier outside?"
Hermione didn't know what to do. Her friend was panicking and her rambling wasn't helping. "Gin, we have to be calm. I was thinking since it was already dark, we could stay here until morning. Then we'll try again." She said as calm as possible.
"Spend the night here! I don't think so!"
"Gin, as far as I can see when Harry and Ron gets here, they can open the door and we can go out."
Ginny wasn't using her head; she just nodded as she thought of ways to leave the manor. "Maybe we should use the furniture on the glass and stuff."
"Gin, I promise, tomorrow we'll try everything. What we both need now is to rest."
"Hermione how can you be so calm? This was a house of a Death Eater. We don't know what's in here!"
"The more that we shouldn't panic. We need our heads here. We can't let our emotions get in the way. Just think that tomorrow, we'll be able to get out of here."
Ginny knew there was no use in arguing with her. She knew the debate had been won long ago. Hermione was right. The last thing that they should be doing was panicking or arguing. She nodded in defeat.
Hermione was glad that Ginny was finally starting to calm down. "Let's go find the bedrooms."
"Hermione, I don't think I can sleep alone tonight."
"That's fine, we'll be like dorm mates like in Hogwarts." She gave her a warm smile.
"Thanks."
"No problem."
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione found the great stairway once again and hesitated before going up the stairs, Ginny followed suit. At the top of the stairs she was surrounded by darkness once again. She realized that she was standing in a hallway. She noticed that there were doorknobs sticking from the wall. 'Any room would do. It's just for one night.'
She tried the first knob but it wouldn't budge. She tried using magic but still the door remained firmly in its place. Ginny helped her in opening the doors but they wouldn't budge as well. Finally, there was only one door left. Hermione was quite irritated. She wanted at least a nice bed to sleep in with all the eeriness the house has projected. 'Damn this house if this door wouldn't budge.' She grasped the knob and it turned quite easily. 'Finally, a door that works.'
Hermione gave Ginny a smile of the success.
Ginny however hesitated. "What if we get stuck inside that room? I'm not claustrophobic but I don't think I like getting stuck inside a room."
"You're right. Maybe we should test it first."
"Meaning?"
"One of us would enter the room and the other will wait outside."
"I'm not staying inside that room alone." Ginny shuddered.
"Fine, after 10 minutes, open the door ok?"
Ginny nodded.
Hermione took a deep breath before she entered the room. She closed her eyes to calm herself. She maybe brave but she still can get spooked. She took deep breaths until she calmed down. When she opened her eyes she was amazed to see light coming from a candle. 'What's going on here?' She came closer to the candle and saw the room brighten up. She looked to her side and saw a great window with green curtains fluttering from the wind. She could see the moon through the window. She looked around and saw that the room had a bathroom. The bed was a queen sized four-poster bed, decorated in green sheets. She found a closet and looked inside. There were a couple of robes that seemed to be just the right size for her and Ginny. She looked at her back and saw a desk. On top of which were two plates of food. There was no talking mirror or any portrait in the room but it was still fairly exquisite. It gave of a feeling of security. She had a good feeling about the room although she had doubts with the food. She went to the fluttering curtains to see if the window can be used for their escape. As she neared it, she could feel the wind brushing past her. She was about to look out the window when she heard the door to the bathroom creak open.
Hermione quickly drew her wand. "Who goes there?"
A small house elf appeared. (Sorry I don't know how house elves talk.) "Sorry to be disturbing you mistress."
"What the-"
"Will you be needing Wina's help mistress?"
"Wina?"
"Yes mistress? That's my name. Will you be needing anything?"
"I need you to answer some questions."
"Wina would be honored mistress."
"Please call me Hermione."
"That's disrespectful mistress. The masters would have me hanged for such insolence." She was about to leave the door.
"Wait Wina. Why can't we leave this house? Why are you serving us?"
House elves have great loyalty especially to their family but remember that she was also freed. "My masters have told me that there were visitors coming. I have to welcome them for masters sake." That was said out of loyalty. The owners before did plan on having a meeting with their fellow Death Eaters but their plan was spoiled.
Hermione wondered if this was true. She knew that house elves show a lot of loyalty to their families so she can't really trust her. She just might be under orders. "Why then can't we leave?"
"Master told me to protect visitors till they come back. Wina can't protect visitors if they left." This she said out of her free will. This little house elf had plans.
"Do you know when your masters will come back?"
"Wina knows nothing of masters plans."
"Wina, what if we're not the visitors your masters have told you?"
"Wina then kills trespassers."
Hermione held her tongue for a moment. She can't believe she was in the mercy of a house elf. She wanted to ask who her masters were but then again that would only prove that she's not the visitor.
Ten minutes were up. Ginny opened the door carefully only to find a house elf staring at her. "What the-"
"Oh, Gin. This is Wina. She's a house elf here. She's even prepared us some food." Hermione gave her a wary smile.
Ginny's mouth drop open. She didn't think there would be any creature living in this place.
"If mistress have no more questions, Wina would like to leave now. Wina have other business to take care of." She curtsied to both Hermione and Ginny.
Hermione nodded her head then turned her attention to Ginny. "Are you alright?"
"Does that mean we can leave?" Ginny was hopeful.
"We can but only until her masters come back."
"But what if her masters were Death Eaters captured or worse dead?"
"I guess we have to warn Harry then."
"It's about time."
Hermione searched for the mirror in her robe but she found nothing. She then looked at Ginny's face.
"Don't tell me you lost it."
Hermione remained silent.
"Where?" Ginny exclaimed.
"Maybe when we were looking for a way to escape."
Ginny sat at the bed to catch her breath.
"Don't worry. We could ask Wina to help us look for it in the morning."
"How can I not worry? If we don't warn Harry and Ron then we'll all be prisoners of this house!"
"You have got to have some faith Gin dear. We'll get out of here one way or the other. Remember we got Harry. People would be looking for him and his friends, that's us. We'll get out of here I promise."
~~~~~~~~~~
Wina was happy at how everything was going as she planned. She knew that they weren't the visitors her former masters were talking about but she knew that they could help her or her young master.
She went in front of the head of her elder hanging on the hallway. "Wina's sorry. I have to help young master. He needs them more than he thinks. This is all Wina could do for him. I have to let mudbloods and her likes here for young master's sake. He's not doing well right now. Wina would do anything for young master. Wina not like Dobby. Wina good house elf."
~~~~~~~~~~
The young wizard stared lazily at the moon. It reflects his sad past. He did not love his parents the same way any normal witch or wizard would. He had respect for them. They were his parents. Now somebody else took them from him. He wasn't used at loosing things that belong to him. He can also say this to his friends. Now he was all alone. Sometimes he liked it sometimes he hated it. He liked the fact that he didn't have to trust anyone. He didn't like the pain that comes with it.
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione woke up with the sun shining inside the room. To her amazement, the room has changed. Sure the colors were still green but there was an atmosphere that made her feel welcome, as if she was at home. She went to the window to look out but she could only look and not put out her head. There was a barrier preventing her to do so. She wasn't surprised. She knew how house elves could get serious about their loyalty. She looked back inside and found bathrobes hanging on a dresser. She decided to take a quick bath.
Ginny was still asleep. She was awake all night long. She deserved a good rest. Hermione took the robe and headed toward the bathroom. Inside she found it to be larger than it looked. There was a gigantic tub; you can call it a mini swimming pool. She found the vanity, which contained soaps of different variation. She picked up a strawberry scented soap and dumped it in the tub. She slowly relaxed to the warmth of the water.
After her bath, she went to Ginny's side. "Hey Gin, time to wake up now. We have lots to do. We still have to find the mirror-"
Ginny got irritated by her voice and covered her head with a pillow.
Hermione tugged it away from her face. "Come on Gin. I thought you wanted to leave this place?"
Ginny opened her eyes and the scene that she saw amazed her. She looked to her side and saw fresh flowers on top of the desk. "Did I really say that?"
"You were singing a different tune last night."
"You know 'Mione, I could get used to this. This bed is so comfortable and the food Wina prepared last night was almost as good as mum's."
"Hey I thought you were spooked to be trapped inside this room?"
"You were right last night. All this place really needs is light." Ginny finally stood up. "Something smells good."
"Must be Wina."
"No, it's smells something like strawberries."
"That's me then."
Ginny raised her eyebrows, "What do you mean?"
"Soaps. There's lots on the vanity inside the bathroom."
Ginny got excited and took the robe in the dresser before she headed to the tub. "Hermione! This is a great room! I wouldn't mind getting trapped here for life!"
"I see you must have found the tub." Hermione shouted back.
"What tub? This is a pool!"
"I know what you mean."
"This would've been perfect if we have boys trapped with us as well."
"Well if we don't find that mirror we'll have Harry and Ron here with us as well."
"Fine! I take Harry, Ron's my brother."
"Hey Gin, I'm not planning to be stuck here forever."
"Why not?"
"I have better things to do."
"Like what?"
"Death Eaters for one."
"Ow come on 'Mione. This place is extremely romantic. I can't believe you don't feel it."
"Remember Gin that this house once belonged to a Death Eater. You told me that last night."
"Please don't ruin the feeling."
"I don't have to. When we go down you'll feel the same feeling you did last night anyway."
"Then I wouldn't leave this room."
"It's funny how fast you change your mind."
~~~~~~~~~~
When Ginny finished her long bath, somebody knocked on the door.
"Who is it?" Hermione asked as she drew her wand.
"Wina mistress."
Hermione opened the door to let her in. "What is it?"
"I thought mistress would like some breakfast."
Ginny looked at Hermione and shook her head vigorously. One thing she had in common with Ron was they both have an appetite.
"That would be great Wina."
"Breakfast is served downstairs mistress." Wina opened the door for the two ladies. "Mistress!" She called after Hermione.
"What is it Wina?"
"Wina has cleared the other rooms. Mistress doesn't have to share a small room no more. Mistress can choose to her own liking."
"We'll think about it Wina." Hermione gave her a smile.
"Wina has put effort in cleaning them rooms as fast as possible for your liking mistress."
"Don't worry Wina, we'll choose our rooms later."
"Yes mistress. Call Wina again if you need anything else."
"Oh, I seem to misplace a small mirror last night. Is there any chance you found it?"
"No mistress. But I will look again if that is your wish."
"Thank you Wina."
Wina nodded in reply. She took out a small packet from her clothes. 'Wina recognizes this mirror. Mistress cannot leave Manor just yet. This is all for young master.'
~~~~~~~~~~
When Hermione got to the stairway both girls caught their breath at the sight they saw. All the darkness last night was replaced with light. The hall was bright with flowers at each corner. The floors were polished. There were paintings hanging on the wall but there were no portraits. Hermione still doesn't know who owns the place but with all the surprises it has shown them, she was falling in love with the house.
Ginny on the other hand could not believe that this was the same house that they entered last night. "Hermione, pinch me. I think I'm dreaming."
"If you can see the chandelier hanging there then you're not dreaming, unless we're having similar dreams." Hermione closed her eyes and pictured a guy waiting at the end of the steps waiting for her. She smiled dreamily.
"I see you got romance in there." Ginny noticed her smile. "I wouldn't blame you. I mean this is only a stairway, I can't wait to explore the whole house."
Wina seemed to be everywhere. She was waiting for them at the foot of the stairs. "Wina is sorry for last night. Wina wasn't sure when visitors would come. Wina was able to clean house last night. I hope mistress wasn't displeased last night."
"You don't have to apologize Wina. You've done great."
"Wina is pleased. Mistress, food is getting cold. If you would follow me please."
Hermione and Ginny exchanged pleased glances. "This is too good to be true!"
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: Cathyhb is begging for reviews. Please review! Cathyhb now is
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