A/N: OK, right now this is just an experimental story. I have a very, very vague plot only. And a bunch of scattered ideas. The first chapter is basically nothing, I just sat down and started writing. *sighs* if anyone has any ideas to help me, please email me! Or if you have any funny incidents or if you have some cool class idea. Thanks! I'm not British either (too bad!) so feel free to correct me. Constructive criticism is also welcome. Um...thanks to all the people who reviewed the first time! You ppl are awesome...I'm just reposting this so new people will see it, I made tiny changes, and I HAD THE STUPID TITLE WRONG *smacks herself in the head* Champions? That's book four. This is the Guardians...
The Guardians
Chapter One
The early mists caressed her bare arms; she inhaled the salty air and smiled. It was so peaceful...the rhythmic singing of the waves cleansed her troubled thoughts. Ever since Dumbledore's announcement...Voldemort's back...she was so scared...
Right here, right now, everything seemed so far away. With George and Fred's newfound money, they had taken everyone on a little vacation-everyone meaning the Weasley family, Harry, and Hermione. Even Bill and Charlie were here. That is, when they weren't out on 'errands' and 'meeting friends'.
The rough sand under her was cool, and the birds' calls soothing. The sun's colored rays reached out to dapple the water's welcoming surface. Here, nothing was wrong. Everything was so basic and simple-the rising sun, the cold, clear water, the birds, the sand-everything was natural and magical, magical in a different way, no wands, no curses or charms.
She stared across the horizon, thinking, if only...
She saw a dark figure moving mechanically through the mists, towards the ocean. She sat up and squinted. Somehow, the figure was familiar, and yet-
The lonely figure stood at the edge of the ocean, water gently lapping his feet. And, as if held under a spell, he (for she could see no gentle curves) started walking into the purple water.
She shivered. This early, the ocean was always freezing-he would surely catch something if he stood there any longer. And he kept walking...knee deep, waist deep, now chest level. He just kept walking...and, with horror, she realized he was not intending to stop.
'Wait!' she yelled. She got up and ran towards him. 'Don't do it!'
Run faster, her mind urged her. You can't let him kill himself!
She dove into the water, heedless of the shallowness. The water slammed into her with a wave of icy pins. She gasped and surfaced for a breath, scanning the water's surface. She had never gone swimming much, since wizards and witches had broomsticks to fly. She fought against the waves pushing her back, straining to swim towards where she thought he had walked. Her back muscles were cramping already, sending hot needles of pain down her back.
Right now, she wished she had some gillyweed. She took another deep breath, here goes nothing, and opened her eyes underwater. It stung a bit at first, her brown eyes unused to the new environment, but the clarity of her sight was incredible. Admittedly, there wasn't much to see-just a rocky bottom and blobs of seaweed here and there, no interesting sea life-but she felt wonderfully proud to be able to see underwater.
Something bumped her, and she screamed. Nothing came out but a string of writhing bubbles. She very nearly choked-a shark!-when she finally saw that it was the guy, it was the figure that just attempted hara-kiri, it was
Harry. Oh my stars, Harry!
Harry-trying to kill himself? To drown himself?
She lurched forward and grabbed him-placed one arm under his neck, one under his knees-and kicked upward furiously, her breath running out dangerously fast, Harry a dead weight in her arms.
She broke the ocean's glassy surface, muscles aching, lungs screaming. She sucked in the fresh air-dry, life-giving air. The shore looked so very far away. How was she to get there?
With much wriggling and twisting, she finally succeeded in draping Harry on her back. She blushed when she thought of how many times she had longed for him to be on top of her. Not now! What the bloody hell are you doing, having sexual fantasies about him when he's-when he's unconscious! The silly git just tried to drown himself!
Resolutely, she started to swim. The cold was seeping into her very soul, her muscles were so tired and cramped, she could barely stay up-but she had to swim, she had to get back on land, she had to!
With enormous exertion, she managed to swim, bloody dolphin kicked towards the shore. Her arms were occupied with keeping Harry on her, and she kicked furiously, gasping for air.
She felt like leaving Harry out here. He tried to kill himself. He tried to end his life.
After what seemed an hour, her feet felt sandy bottom again. She stood up, and almost collapsed. Exhaustion was now swallowing her, and she staggered drunkenly onto the beach. She slung Harry down from her shoulders, threw him aside, and sat down.
'Harry,' she croaked. 'Harry!'
Of course he didn't respond. Frantically she racked her mind for some sort of healing charm, something to get him breathing. Or maybe some sort of basic Muggle skill, after all, she had taken Muggle Studies just last year. Something flickered dimly at the back of her mind.
Uncertainly, she pushed down on his stomach. There was a gurgling sound, and water rushed out of his mouth. She pushed again, and even more gushed out. But-was he breathing?
She put her ear by his mouth, trying to listen for breathing sounds, or trying to feel the air coming out.
Breathe air into him.
'How?' she asked. 'I'm no Madame Pom Pom, how do I get air back into him?'
Put your mouth over his, and blow into his mouth. Blow so that you see his chest rise. Do this again every 5 seconds.
She lowered herself over him, put her mouth on his. She blushed. My mouth is on Harry Potter's! Cautiously, she breathed.
Astoundingly, she saw his chest rise gently. Again she blew, and his chest rose once more. She tried it five more times, then stopped. Is he breathing now?
Once again she put her ear by his mouth. This time, she could hear faint, ragged breaths. Her heart jumped. She breathed into him 4 more times, and-yes-she could see it now-he was breathing on his own. She had saved him!
She shook him gently. 'Harry,' she pleaded. 'Harry, please wake up. Please.'
And then-he opened his eyes, his beautiful green eyes. 'Ginny-what? Where am I?'
All the morning's stress was now pushing for a way out, yelling to be set free. Tears rolled down her cheeks, and a few dropped onto Harry's face. 'How could you?' she yelled. 'How could you do that? How could you try and kill yourself? Harry!'
Now his face was sad. 'Ginny-' he began.
'I was so worried!' she ranted. 'I had to dive in and save you, and swim back here with you on my back, the water was freezing, I can't even swim, goddammit, and I had to breathe life back into you! I'm cold and I'm tired and I thought you were dead! You tried to kill yourself! There's no excuse for that! Imagine what Mum and Dad and Ron, for god's sake, think of Ron or Hermione or even me! And what about Fred and George? Or Hagrid! Think of how we would feel!'
Harry's eyes widened. 'I'm so sorry, Ginny, I didn't think, but you don't understand! You don't understand at all!'
She narrowed her eyes. 'I'm sorry I don't understand your woes, the bad things in your life so terrible you try to take it away!'
'You have never been through anything I have!' he yelled. 'You can't even imagine it! Your parents are alive! You have a loving family! You never had to face the murderer that killed your parents, that killed so many others! You never faced the person that betrayed your parents to that murderer! Goddammit, Ginny, don't start judging me when you don't know anything! Just leave me be, you should have let me drown!'
'I may have never been through any of the things you have, I may be younger than you, I may not be as brave or heroic, but I'm not stupid enough to kill myself! That's what you did! You killed yourself! Don't you realize that's no solution? And you're right, I should just throw you back into that ocean right now!'
He slumped. 'Ginny, it's no use fighting. And I really am grateful to you. I'm just-overwhelmed or something.'
She softened. 'Harry, I was so worried.'
He reached out and hugged her. 'Thank you. You're right. I should have never tried to kill myself. But I wasn't doing it for an escape.'
'Oh? Then what other reason would there be?'
'I just didn't want to burden other people and make messes out of their lives anymore.'
She blinked back tears and hugged him back, hard. 'Don't ever try it again. Too many people love you, you're never a burden.'
She felt love for him, love so strong. But was it sisterly? Romantic? Or just the bond that resulted from her saving his life? Was it just love for life?
She stood up and extended her hands back to him. 'Come, let's go back to the house.'
Ron's jaw dropped when he saw Harry walking in with Ginny, his arm draped over her shoulders. 'What happened? You're both sopping wet! Don't tell me you decided to take a dip this early!'
Ginny gently deposited Harry in a chair. 'Stop gaping, Ron, and make some hot tea for Harry. I want some too, come to think of it.'
Ron scowled. 'Not until I get an explanation!'
'Harry is very tired, as am I,' said Ginny shortly. 'He drowned himself and I went and saved him.'
'Oh,' said Ron dubiously. 'I'll start making that tea, then...'
Harry smiled weakly. 'Tell you more later.'
'Well, come on,' instructed Ginny. 'I'll help you upstairs, you need to get out of those clothes.'
Harry nodded. 'Yes'm.'
As the two walked upstairs, Ron cast a suspicious glance at their backs. 'Not even telling me anything,' he grumbled. 'Now they're just so close. He better not be getting any ideas about Ginny, not while she's MY sister!'
Hermione came down. 'What's wrong?' she asked. 'I saw Harry and Ginny, and they were both sopping wet. I decided to not ask anything for now.'
'You've got me,' Ron shrugged. 'What I got from them was that Harry went and drowned himself and Ginny went and rescued him.'
Hermione laughed. 'This early? They probably just decided to go skinny dipping together.'
'Skinny-dipping? What's that?'
'It's swimming naked. You didn't know?'
Ron's eyes widened. 'Of course they didn't! Don't be daft, this is Harry Potter and my sister you're talking about!'
Hermione shrugged. 'All right, we'll find out soon enough. When are we going to Diagon Alley?'
'In a couple of days, I think. Can you believe the number of required books this year? Fred and George certainly didn't have this many!'
'Well of course! After all...You-Know-Who has returned.'
Ron said, apprehensively, 'Do-do you reckon we'll actually have to fight him? Do you think we're going to be meeting him anytime soon?'
Hermione shuddered. 'I hope not. From Harry's descriptions, I wouldn't want to.'
Ron sat back, dizzy. Too much was happening, too soon. He had wanted a peaceful, happy life. Then he went and made friends with Harry, who was like a magnet for evil. And now...
Shit.
HOGWARTS SCHOOL
of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: ALBUS DUMBLEDORE
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,
Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. Of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Potter,
Due to unfortunate circumstances of the past year, this year's studies shall
be particularity important. It is believed amongst the faculty at Hogwarts that the Dark Lord, Voldemort, has returned to his position of power. Thus we are justified in saying it is very important to learn your lessons this year. You are now required to take every class offered except Muggle Studies. There is a new class this year: Getting Away. Also, we would appreciate a notification by owl if you are returning this year. Rest assured we will be doing everything in our power to keep you safe.
On a brighter note:
Congratulations! You have been chosen as the new prefect of Gryffindor.
You are sharing this year's role with Mr. Ron Weasley, Miss Hermione
Granger, Mr. John Turnstand, and Miss Mariah Casey. Enclosed is a list of
your duties and our expectations. We look forward to your reply.
Term begins September 1st. We await your owl no
longer than July 30th.
Yours Sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall,
Deputy Headmistress
HOGWARTS SCHOOL
of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Dear Mr. Potter,
Here are some of our expectations of a Prefect at Hogwarts. You are to set a good example for everyone in your house. You are to keep up your current good grades. You are to help anyone who asks, and even if they don't ask. You will be like an older sibling to those younger than you. You are to mind the words of the Head Boy and Girl. You are allowed to use the prefect baths, which will be shown to you on October 30th, the day prefects are expected to show up.
You will, on that day, receive your house password. You will also be
further instructed.
HOGWARTS SCHOOL
of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
UNIFORM
Fifth year students will require:
1. Three sets of black robes, black, some alternations allowed.
2. One plain pointed hat (purple) for day wear
3. One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)
4. One pair of thick protective boots (dragon hide, flame retardant)
5. One winter cloak (green, silver fastenings)
6. One or more dress robes
COURSE BOOKS
The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 5)
The Intermediate-Advanced Guide to Transfiguration
Tips for Quick Transfiguration
Transfiguring Yourself
An Index of all the Plants and Herbs in the World
One Thousand Healing Magical Plants and Herbs
Recognizing Dangerous Plants, Herbs, or Fungi
Charms to Ward off Various Dangers
Reversal to Various Charms
Disarm with a Charm!
Potions: On A Whole New Level
Recognizing Deadly Potions
The Seer's Handbook to Divination
Prophecizing
History of Wizards: Interesting Patterns and Facts
Ancient Folklore and Wizard Myths
Defending Yourself Against Spells
Defending Yourself Against Magical Creatures
Getting Away Fast
Battle Tactics For Desperate Times
Book of Magical Creatures and How To Take Care of Them
How to Handle and Find Magical Creatures
Everything You Need to Know About Arithmancy
OTHER EQUIPMENT
2 wands
1 silver cauldron (standard size 4)
1 set crystal phials
2 pairs unbreakable waterproof smoke detecting safety goggles
3 ink bottles (black, blue, purple, or green)
feather quills (recommended number:13)
2 quick quotes quills
scrolls (at least 1000)
brass scales
level 5 potions ingredients
1 telescope
wizard calculator
basic healing set
Students may bring an owl OR cat
Students are required to bring their own broom, at least a Cleansweep 9 quality
The school realizes the expenses are high, so we are happy to help families out in relations to cost.
Harry stared at the list before him. Were they crazy? The number of textbooks was...ludicrous. There was no better word for it. His head hurt already, just looking at what he had ahead of him. His bank account would run out. Not to mention the Weasleys, if the 5th years' studies were intensified that much, imagine paying for Ron and Ginny and Fred and George-he was now gladder than ever that he had given his winnings to them. And the money Fred and George were bringing in was wonderful. The Weasleys had improved their home greatly. And now Ron could afford to get real dress robes, not the silly frilly ones he had last year. And perhaps now they could even all get the broomsticks that were on the list.
And he was a prefect! He honestly wasn't expecting this to happen. Hermione, sure, but him? At least Ron was a prefect, too. Mrs. Weasley would be so proud. Mrs. Weasley-the best mother he had ever had. While the Dursleys had hated him, and beat him, and locked him up, and underfed him, Mrs. Weasley was the one who always took care of him, loved him, fed him when he was visiting. Why, she was the 'family' to come and see him during the third task, last year, and afterwards in Madam Pomfrey's hospital, she had hugged him and held him when the hurt was over whelming. Mrs. Weasley gave him a homemade sweater each year, and food.
Harry smiled.
Mrs. Weasley looked worried. 'Are you sure you'll be all right on your own?'
'Yes, Mum,' Ron reassured her for the ten thousandth time.
'Remember, Ron, your vault is 264, and Ginny's is 365, and Fred, you and George have vault 10,327. And do lend your sister and brother some money.'
Fred looked impatient. 'Mum, relax. Of course we're lending Ron money! In fact, we're only charging him 50% interest per day!'
Mrs. Weasley was outraged. 'Don't you dare! I did not raise my boys to be so selfish!'
'He was joking, Mrs. Weasley,' Hermione said soothingly.
Mrs. Weasley smiled. 'You can never be too sure with these two. Oh, Hermione, dear, you do remember your vault number? And Harry? What about you?'
'Yes,' they chorused.
Ron glanced at his list despondently. 'Come on, then,' he said. 'We've got a ton of things to get...'
George nodded. 'This list goes on forever.'
'I wonder what the dress robes are for? Perhaps there'll be another ball this year!' said Hermione eagerly.
'Yeah, or perhaps we're dressing up to meet Voldemort and his Death Eaters in a civilized manner,' said Ron sarcastically. 'What else would dress robes be for?'
'Ron!' scolded Mrs. Weasley. 'Mind your manners!'
At the same time, everyone leaned in to touch the portkey they had set up. 'Goodbye, Mum,' said Ginny.
'You have a good trip, dear.'
After they arrived, George asked 'Hey, Hermione, what happened with Viktor? Are you two still together?'
Ron stiffened at the memory. 'Yes, Hermione, did you end up going to his Bulgarian home this summer?'
Fred's jaw dropped. 'He invited you to his home? Viktor Krum? Why didn't you take us along?'
Ginny frowned. 'You git, they wanted to spend some quality romantic time together.'
'Actually,' said Hermione casually, 'I didn't go. I didn't want to, I preferred coming here.'
Ron smiled inside. Perhaps...perhaps he had a chance, this year.
'Ahem,' said Harry. 'Let's get to Gringotts, shall we?'
They set off for the wizarding bank. A goblin greeted them suspiciously.
'Vault 13,000,' said Harry.
'264 and 365,' said Ron.
'10,327,' said Fred and George.
'1,517,' said Hermione.
'Have you all your keys?' the goblin snapped.
In response, they all dug around in their pockets and flourished the small, golden keys. The goblin scowled as he examined them. 'A little dirty, but they seem to be fine. Codbait will take you. Codbait!'
Another goblin came over. He led them to a tunnel like place, where Ron knew little mine carts would zoom them around underground. The ride was dizzying but exhilarating, much like a Muggle roller coaster. Earlier in the summer, Hermione had taken him, Harry, Ginny, Fred, and George to an amusement park. They all enjoyed it immensely; though Harry had claimed it to be a little tame compared to broomsticks. Ron had retorted he was becoming insufferable like Lockhart.
They all retrieved a considerable amount of money.
'Want to go to the Parlor for a bit of ice cream first?' offered Fred. 'It's on us.'
'Oh, I couldn't,' said Hermione. 'We've stayed at your house all summer, me and Harry will pay.'
'We will?' said Harry innocently.
Hermione gave him a warning look. 'Yes, we will.'
Ron looked eager. 'Do you think they'll have Dippin' Dots?'
Ginny said anxiously, 'Let's go to Patrick's later. We really should get our school things first.'
Ron turned to his sister, concerned. 'Ginny! You're acting like Hermione! Don't do it!'
Hermione stuck out her tongue. 'Don't be childish, Ron, Ginny is quite right.'
Harry raised his eyebrows. 'Childish?'
George put an arm around Hermione, and Fred put his arm around Ginny. 'Right, then, we'll take the ladies for fittings of their dress robes now...'
'Don't you dare!'
Three hours and one ice cream each later (except Hermione, who was still at Flourish and Blotts), the sextuplet was tired and ready to go.
'My arms are falling off,' groaned Ginny. 'I can't believe how many textbooks I have!'
'Not to mention girly things,' retorted Ron. 'Look at me and Harry!'
George snorted. 'You think you have a lot? Fred and I have filled up 3 bags each!'
Hermione came in then, breathlessly dumping her books on the table. 'Sorry I'm late, I just had to pick up some extra reading books...' She looked around blankly at the speechless people before her. 'What's the matter? You look like fish, gaping like that!'
Fred shook his head. 'I think Hermione's won the battle.'
Hermione had successfully filled 5 bags worth of books.
Harry laughed. 'That's our Hermione.'
She blushed. 'I just wanted to be prepared.'
Ginny smiled at her. 'Just you guys wait till you see her new dress robes! You'll be 5 times more astonished than you are now!'
George was immediately interested. 'What are they like? Low cut and snug?'
Hermione smiled bewitchingly. 'You'll see! Ginny looks great, too.'
Ginny looked up. 'Do you really think so? Maybe someone else besides Neville will take me this year.'
Harry glanced at her quickly before looking away. 'I'm sure someone will.'
Ron glared suspiciously at Harry. Oh, no you don't. Not with Ginny. I don't care if you're my best friend or not, we're talking about this later.
The Guardians
Chapter One
The early mists caressed her bare arms; she inhaled the salty air and smiled. It was so peaceful...the rhythmic singing of the waves cleansed her troubled thoughts. Ever since Dumbledore's announcement...Voldemort's back...she was so scared...
Right here, right now, everything seemed so far away. With George and Fred's newfound money, they had taken everyone on a little vacation-everyone meaning the Weasley family, Harry, and Hermione. Even Bill and Charlie were here. That is, when they weren't out on 'errands' and 'meeting friends'.
The rough sand under her was cool, and the birds' calls soothing. The sun's colored rays reached out to dapple the water's welcoming surface. Here, nothing was wrong. Everything was so basic and simple-the rising sun, the cold, clear water, the birds, the sand-everything was natural and magical, magical in a different way, no wands, no curses or charms.
She stared across the horizon, thinking, if only...
She saw a dark figure moving mechanically through the mists, towards the ocean. She sat up and squinted. Somehow, the figure was familiar, and yet-
The lonely figure stood at the edge of the ocean, water gently lapping his feet. And, as if held under a spell, he (for she could see no gentle curves) started walking into the purple water.
She shivered. This early, the ocean was always freezing-he would surely catch something if he stood there any longer. And he kept walking...knee deep, waist deep, now chest level. He just kept walking...and, with horror, she realized he was not intending to stop.
'Wait!' she yelled. She got up and ran towards him. 'Don't do it!'
Run faster, her mind urged her. You can't let him kill himself!
She dove into the water, heedless of the shallowness. The water slammed into her with a wave of icy pins. She gasped and surfaced for a breath, scanning the water's surface. She had never gone swimming much, since wizards and witches had broomsticks to fly. She fought against the waves pushing her back, straining to swim towards where she thought he had walked. Her back muscles were cramping already, sending hot needles of pain down her back.
Right now, she wished she had some gillyweed. She took another deep breath, here goes nothing, and opened her eyes underwater. It stung a bit at first, her brown eyes unused to the new environment, but the clarity of her sight was incredible. Admittedly, there wasn't much to see-just a rocky bottom and blobs of seaweed here and there, no interesting sea life-but she felt wonderfully proud to be able to see underwater.
Something bumped her, and she screamed. Nothing came out but a string of writhing bubbles. She very nearly choked-a shark!-when she finally saw that it was the guy, it was the figure that just attempted hara-kiri, it was
Harry. Oh my stars, Harry!
Harry-trying to kill himself? To drown himself?
She lurched forward and grabbed him-placed one arm under his neck, one under his knees-and kicked upward furiously, her breath running out dangerously fast, Harry a dead weight in her arms.
She broke the ocean's glassy surface, muscles aching, lungs screaming. She sucked in the fresh air-dry, life-giving air. The shore looked so very far away. How was she to get there?
With much wriggling and twisting, she finally succeeded in draping Harry on her back. She blushed when she thought of how many times she had longed for him to be on top of her. Not now! What the bloody hell are you doing, having sexual fantasies about him when he's-when he's unconscious! The silly git just tried to drown himself!
Resolutely, she started to swim. The cold was seeping into her very soul, her muscles were so tired and cramped, she could barely stay up-but she had to swim, she had to get back on land, she had to!
With enormous exertion, she managed to swim, bloody dolphin kicked towards the shore. Her arms were occupied with keeping Harry on her, and she kicked furiously, gasping for air.
She felt like leaving Harry out here. He tried to kill himself. He tried to end his life.
After what seemed an hour, her feet felt sandy bottom again. She stood up, and almost collapsed. Exhaustion was now swallowing her, and she staggered drunkenly onto the beach. She slung Harry down from her shoulders, threw him aside, and sat down.
'Harry,' she croaked. 'Harry!'
Of course he didn't respond. Frantically she racked her mind for some sort of healing charm, something to get him breathing. Or maybe some sort of basic Muggle skill, after all, she had taken Muggle Studies just last year. Something flickered dimly at the back of her mind.
Uncertainly, she pushed down on his stomach. There was a gurgling sound, and water rushed out of his mouth. She pushed again, and even more gushed out. But-was he breathing?
She put her ear by his mouth, trying to listen for breathing sounds, or trying to feel the air coming out.
Breathe air into him.
'How?' she asked. 'I'm no Madame Pom Pom, how do I get air back into him?'
Put your mouth over his, and blow into his mouth. Blow so that you see his chest rise. Do this again every 5 seconds.
She lowered herself over him, put her mouth on his. She blushed. My mouth is on Harry Potter's! Cautiously, she breathed.
Astoundingly, she saw his chest rise gently. Again she blew, and his chest rose once more. She tried it five more times, then stopped. Is he breathing now?
Once again she put her ear by his mouth. This time, she could hear faint, ragged breaths. Her heart jumped. She breathed into him 4 more times, and-yes-she could see it now-he was breathing on his own. She had saved him!
She shook him gently. 'Harry,' she pleaded. 'Harry, please wake up. Please.'
And then-he opened his eyes, his beautiful green eyes. 'Ginny-what? Where am I?'
All the morning's stress was now pushing for a way out, yelling to be set free. Tears rolled down her cheeks, and a few dropped onto Harry's face. 'How could you?' she yelled. 'How could you do that? How could you try and kill yourself? Harry!'
Now his face was sad. 'Ginny-' he began.
'I was so worried!' she ranted. 'I had to dive in and save you, and swim back here with you on my back, the water was freezing, I can't even swim, goddammit, and I had to breathe life back into you! I'm cold and I'm tired and I thought you were dead! You tried to kill yourself! There's no excuse for that! Imagine what Mum and Dad and Ron, for god's sake, think of Ron or Hermione or even me! And what about Fred and George? Or Hagrid! Think of how we would feel!'
Harry's eyes widened. 'I'm so sorry, Ginny, I didn't think, but you don't understand! You don't understand at all!'
She narrowed her eyes. 'I'm sorry I don't understand your woes, the bad things in your life so terrible you try to take it away!'
'You have never been through anything I have!' he yelled. 'You can't even imagine it! Your parents are alive! You have a loving family! You never had to face the murderer that killed your parents, that killed so many others! You never faced the person that betrayed your parents to that murderer! Goddammit, Ginny, don't start judging me when you don't know anything! Just leave me be, you should have let me drown!'
'I may have never been through any of the things you have, I may be younger than you, I may not be as brave or heroic, but I'm not stupid enough to kill myself! That's what you did! You killed yourself! Don't you realize that's no solution? And you're right, I should just throw you back into that ocean right now!'
He slumped. 'Ginny, it's no use fighting. And I really am grateful to you. I'm just-overwhelmed or something.'
She softened. 'Harry, I was so worried.'
He reached out and hugged her. 'Thank you. You're right. I should have never tried to kill myself. But I wasn't doing it for an escape.'
'Oh? Then what other reason would there be?'
'I just didn't want to burden other people and make messes out of their lives anymore.'
She blinked back tears and hugged him back, hard. 'Don't ever try it again. Too many people love you, you're never a burden.'
She felt love for him, love so strong. But was it sisterly? Romantic? Or just the bond that resulted from her saving his life? Was it just love for life?
She stood up and extended her hands back to him. 'Come, let's go back to the house.'
Ron's jaw dropped when he saw Harry walking in with Ginny, his arm draped over her shoulders. 'What happened? You're both sopping wet! Don't tell me you decided to take a dip this early!'
Ginny gently deposited Harry in a chair. 'Stop gaping, Ron, and make some hot tea for Harry. I want some too, come to think of it.'
Ron scowled. 'Not until I get an explanation!'
'Harry is very tired, as am I,' said Ginny shortly. 'He drowned himself and I went and saved him.'
'Oh,' said Ron dubiously. 'I'll start making that tea, then...'
Harry smiled weakly. 'Tell you more later.'
'Well, come on,' instructed Ginny. 'I'll help you upstairs, you need to get out of those clothes.'
Harry nodded. 'Yes'm.'
As the two walked upstairs, Ron cast a suspicious glance at their backs. 'Not even telling me anything,' he grumbled. 'Now they're just so close. He better not be getting any ideas about Ginny, not while she's MY sister!'
Hermione came down. 'What's wrong?' she asked. 'I saw Harry and Ginny, and they were both sopping wet. I decided to not ask anything for now.'
'You've got me,' Ron shrugged. 'What I got from them was that Harry went and drowned himself and Ginny went and rescued him.'
Hermione laughed. 'This early? They probably just decided to go skinny dipping together.'
'Skinny-dipping? What's that?'
'It's swimming naked. You didn't know?'
Ron's eyes widened. 'Of course they didn't! Don't be daft, this is Harry Potter and my sister you're talking about!'
Hermione shrugged. 'All right, we'll find out soon enough. When are we going to Diagon Alley?'
'In a couple of days, I think. Can you believe the number of required books this year? Fred and George certainly didn't have this many!'
'Well of course! After all...You-Know-Who has returned.'
Ron said, apprehensively, 'Do-do you reckon we'll actually have to fight him? Do you think we're going to be meeting him anytime soon?'
Hermione shuddered. 'I hope not. From Harry's descriptions, I wouldn't want to.'
Ron sat back, dizzy. Too much was happening, too soon. He had wanted a peaceful, happy life. Then he went and made friends with Harry, who was like a magnet for evil. And now...
Shit.
HOGWARTS SCHOOL
of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: ALBUS DUMBLEDORE
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,
Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. Of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Potter,
Due to unfortunate circumstances of the past year, this year's studies shall
be particularity important. It is believed amongst the faculty at Hogwarts that the Dark Lord, Voldemort, has returned to his position of power. Thus we are justified in saying it is very important to learn your lessons this year. You are now required to take every class offered except Muggle Studies. There is a new class this year: Getting Away. Also, we would appreciate a notification by owl if you are returning this year. Rest assured we will be doing everything in our power to keep you safe.
On a brighter note:
Congratulations! You have been chosen as the new prefect of Gryffindor.
You are sharing this year's role with Mr. Ron Weasley, Miss Hermione
Granger, Mr. John Turnstand, and Miss Mariah Casey. Enclosed is a list of
your duties and our expectations. We look forward to your reply.
Term begins September 1st. We await your owl no
longer than July 30th.
Yours Sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall,
Deputy Headmistress
HOGWARTS SCHOOL
of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Dear Mr. Potter,
Here are some of our expectations of a Prefect at Hogwarts. You are to set a good example for everyone in your house. You are to keep up your current good grades. You are to help anyone who asks, and even if they don't ask. You will be like an older sibling to those younger than you. You are to mind the words of the Head Boy and Girl. You are allowed to use the prefect baths, which will be shown to you on October 30th, the day prefects are expected to show up.
You will, on that day, receive your house password. You will also be
further instructed.
HOGWARTS SCHOOL
of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
UNIFORM
Fifth year students will require:
1. Three sets of black robes, black, some alternations allowed.
2. One plain pointed hat (purple) for day wear
3. One pair of protective gloves (dragon hide or similar)
4. One pair of thick protective boots (dragon hide, flame retardant)
5. One winter cloak (green, silver fastenings)
6. One or more dress robes
COURSE BOOKS
The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 5)
The Intermediate-Advanced Guide to Transfiguration
Tips for Quick Transfiguration
Transfiguring Yourself
An Index of all the Plants and Herbs in the World
One Thousand Healing Magical Plants and Herbs
Recognizing Dangerous Plants, Herbs, or Fungi
Charms to Ward off Various Dangers
Reversal to Various Charms
Disarm with a Charm!
Potions: On A Whole New Level
Recognizing Deadly Potions
The Seer's Handbook to Divination
Prophecizing
History of Wizards: Interesting Patterns and Facts
Ancient Folklore and Wizard Myths
Defending Yourself Against Spells
Defending Yourself Against Magical Creatures
Getting Away Fast
Battle Tactics For Desperate Times
Book of Magical Creatures and How To Take Care of Them
How to Handle and Find Magical Creatures
Everything You Need to Know About Arithmancy
OTHER EQUIPMENT
2 wands
1 silver cauldron (standard size 4)
1 set crystal phials
2 pairs unbreakable waterproof smoke detecting safety goggles
3 ink bottles (black, blue, purple, or green)
feather quills (recommended number:13)
2 quick quotes quills
scrolls (at least 1000)
brass scales
level 5 potions ingredients
1 telescope
wizard calculator
basic healing set
Students may bring an owl OR cat
Students are required to bring their own broom, at least a Cleansweep 9 quality
The school realizes the expenses are high, so we are happy to help families out in relations to cost.
Harry stared at the list before him. Were they crazy? The number of textbooks was...ludicrous. There was no better word for it. His head hurt already, just looking at what he had ahead of him. His bank account would run out. Not to mention the Weasleys, if the 5th years' studies were intensified that much, imagine paying for Ron and Ginny and Fred and George-he was now gladder than ever that he had given his winnings to them. And the money Fred and George were bringing in was wonderful. The Weasleys had improved their home greatly. And now Ron could afford to get real dress robes, not the silly frilly ones he had last year. And perhaps now they could even all get the broomsticks that were on the list.
And he was a prefect! He honestly wasn't expecting this to happen. Hermione, sure, but him? At least Ron was a prefect, too. Mrs. Weasley would be so proud. Mrs. Weasley-the best mother he had ever had. While the Dursleys had hated him, and beat him, and locked him up, and underfed him, Mrs. Weasley was the one who always took care of him, loved him, fed him when he was visiting. Why, she was the 'family' to come and see him during the third task, last year, and afterwards in Madam Pomfrey's hospital, she had hugged him and held him when the hurt was over whelming. Mrs. Weasley gave him a homemade sweater each year, and food.
Harry smiled.
Mrs. Weasley looked worried. 'Are you sure you'll be all right on your own?'
'Yes, Mum,' Ron reassured her for the ten thousandth time.
'Remember, Ron, your vault is 264, and Ginny's is 365, and Fred, you and George have vault 10,327. And do lend your sister and brother some money.'
Fred looked impatient. 'Mum, relax. Of course we're lending Ron money! In fact, we're only charging him 50% interest per day!'
Mrs. Weasley was outraged. 'Don't you dare! I did not raise my boys to be so selfish!'
'He was joking, Mrs. Weasley,' Hermione said soothingly.
Mrs. Weasley smiled. 'You can never be too sure with these two. Oh, Hermione, dear, you do remember your vault number? And Harry? What about you?'
'Yes,' they chorused.
Ron glanced at his list despondently. 'Come on, then,' he said. 'We've got a ton of things to get...'
George nodded. 'This list goes on forever.'
'I wonder what the dress robes are for? Perhaps there'll be another ball this year!' said Hermione eagerly.
'Yeah, or perhaps we're dressing up to meet Voldemort and his Death Eaters in a civilized manner,' said Ron sarcastically. 'What else would dress robes be for?'
'Ron!' scolded Mrs. Weasley. 'Mind your manners!'
At the same time, everyone leaned in to touch the portkey they had set up. 'Goodbye, Mum,' said Ginny.
'You have a good trip, dear.'
After they arrived, George asked 'Hey, Hermione, what happened with Viktor? Are you two still together?'
Ron stiffened at the memory. 'Yes, Hermione, did you end up going to his Bulgarian home this summer?'
Fred's jaw dropped. 'He invited you to his home? Viktor Krum? Why didn't you take us along?'
Ginny frowned. 'You git, they wanted to spend some quality romantic time together.'
'Actually,' said Hermione casually, 'I didn't go. I didn't want to, I preferred coming here.'
Ron smiled inside. Perhaps...perhaps he had a chance, this year.
'Ahem,' said Harry. 'Let's get to Gringotts, shall we?'
They set off for the wizarding bank. A goblin greeted them suspiciously.
'Vault 13,000,' said Harry.
'264 and 365,' said Ron.
'10,327,' said Fred and George.
'1,517,' said Hermione.
'Have you all your keys?' the goblin snapped.
In response, they all dug around in their pockets and flourished the small, golden keys. The goblin scowled as he examined them. 'A little dirty, but they seem to be fine. Codbait will take you. Codbait!'
Another goblin came over. He led them to a tunnel like place, where Ron knew little mine carts would zoom them around underground. The ride was dizzying but exhilarating, much like a Muggle roller coaster. Earlier in the summer, Hermione had taken him, Harry, Ginny, Fred, and George to an amusement park. They all enjoyed it immensely; though Harry had claimed it to be a little tame compared to broomsticks. Ron had retorted he was becoming insufferable like Lockhart.
They all retrieved a considerable amount of money.
'Want to go to the Parlor for a bit of ice cream first?' offered Fred. 'It's on us.'
'Oh, I couldn't,' said Hermione. 'We've stayed at your house all summer, me and Harry will pay.'
'We will?' said Harry innocently.
Hermione gave him a warning look. 'Yes, we will.'
Ron looked eager. 'Do you think they'll have Dippin' Dots?'
Ginny said anxiously, 'Let's go to Patrick's later. We really should get our school things first.'
Ron turned to his sister, concerned. 'Ginny! You're acting like Hermione! Don't do it!'
Hermione stuck out her tongue. 'Don't be childish, Ron, Ginny is quite right.'
Harry raised his eyebrows. 'Childish?'
George put an arm around Hermione, and Fred put his arm around Ginny. 'Right, then, we'll take the ladies for fittings of their dress robes now...'
'Don't you dare!'
Three hours and one ice cream each later (except Hermione, who was still at Flourish and Blotts), the sextuplet was tired and ready to go.
'My arms are falling off,' groaned Ginny. 'I can't believe how many textbooks I have!'
'Not to mention girly things,' retorted Ron. 'Look at me and Harry!'
George snorted. 'You think you have a lot? Fred and I have filled up 3 bags each!'
Hermione came in then, breathlessly dumping her books on the table. 'Sorry I'm late, I just had to pick up some extra reading books...' She looked around blankly at the speechless people before her. 'What's the matter? You look like fish, gaping like that!'
Fred shook his head. 'I think Hermione's won the battle.'
Hermione had successfully filled 5 bags worth of books.
Harry laughed. 'That's our Hermione.'
She blushed. 'I just wanted to be prepared.'
Ginny smiled at her. 'Just you guys wait till you see her new dress robes! You'll be 5 times more astonished than you are now!'
George was immediately interested. 'What are they like? Low cut and snug?'
Hermione smiled bewitchingly. 'You'll see! Ginny looks great, too.'
Ginny looked up. 'Do you really think so? Maybe someone else besides Neville will take me this year.'
Harry glanced at her quickly before looking away. 'I'm sure someone will.'
Ron glared suspiciously at Harry. Oh, no you don't. Not with Ginny. I don't care if you're my best friend or not, we're talking about this later.