A soft breeze caused him to shiver at its touch; he rubbed his sides in attempt to stay warm. Fears of a slow cold death crept into his mind, his body screaming at him to find shelter but he remained on the old wooden bench. He glanced about trying to remember his reasoning for being there, until he took notice of a bush that suddenly grew two glowing orbs inside it. Out of the bush came a shaggy black dog, he quickly recognized it "Sirius! It's you…" it began to growl at Harry. He took a few steps away from it growing ever so nervous at the sight of its sharp teeth. Reasoning with him was not possible, he resembled a rabid animal. Harry slowly reached for his wand in an attempt to defend himself but the moment he felt the holly, Sirius pounced at him.
He launched himself from his sheets, relieved that it was all a dream. Recollecting previous nights he mentally noted that this was his fifth night terror. The first couple times he brushed them off as they passed, but he took note that each time he felt pain from his scar. His first instinct was to tell somebody of his troubles mainly Hermione but he didn't want to stir worry for him. So he kept to himself about it, fearing that others might believe he's losing his sanity or the nightmares would soon become a distant memory of his.
Grabbing his glasses from the table he turned his attention to his dorm mates. Looking around he felt relieved that no one was woken up by him. Each one was huddled against their sheets ignoring him with snores and mumbled words. Putting his glasses back he yanked the sheets back around him, he attempted to fall back to sleep but was awoken by a sudden chill that ran through his body. Rest was not an option but he had to try, someone might take notice of him.
It was breakfast and Harry was nervously tapping against the table, which didn't take long to catch Hermione's attention. His eyes stung a little as he ate his plate full of eggs, he could sense Hermione's eyes on him. "This food oh my… I feel like the luckiest lad around right now!" Seamus joyfully spoke across from him. "You're gonna be an unlucky lad real soon! If you don't quit talking with so much food in your mouth!" Ginny glared at him, Harry had hoped the chatter would steer Hermione's attention away from him but he was wrong. Attempt at joining in small talk prove not to be an option. He tried to avoid her suspicion by excusing himself after he finished his plate "See you guys later…" he took off, walking past the Great Hall doors he didn't look back to the others. He told himself that he needed to find answers without alerting the others.
"That was odd." Seamus was a keen observer indeed; Ginny punched him on the shoulder tilting her head towards Hermione whose eyes were fixed to her lap. Ever since that very night when she came to him broken and he picked up the pieces they have been inseparable, being in close proximity was a natural thing between them. Even when they were off with friends It made them both feel happy and warm knowing they were there for each other. But this was different, now with him gone it left her feeling a little cold and hollow inside, she shot a glance at the direction he had headed. Ginny patted her shoulder signaling her to rise "Come on, let's go." Seamus rose with loaves of bread in each hand "Where are you two going! We haven't finished our breakfast yet!" he was yanked down by Dean who just shook his head "Idiot!" he whispered to his friend.
Harry sat across from the fireplace examining books he borrowed from the library. Scanning every page to help him understand what exactly was happening to him. It was a very odd sensation, it felt as if someone had their hands wrapped around his neck almost choking him and there also was this chill that usually came with it. It made no sense to him, a few weeks ago he was fine what could be happening to him. He could hear Hermione and Ginny getting closer, hearing their voices made him tense he didn't want to provoke any suspicion. His eyes avoided hers as she sat next to him on the couch. Her gentle touch made her way to his hand, she initially made the move to intertwine them but she then noticed slight bruising and scratches on his hand. "Harry your hand… what happened?" he had been nervously scratching at it for a few days, it had become habit to the point where he hardly noticed its scarred appearance.
Her soft hands began caressing his and it brought small comfort to Harry. But then his body tensed breathing started to get harder for him knowing Hermione's eyes were fixed on him. "Harry is something the matter? Please talk to me…" his fears forced him to act; forcefully taking his book away he stood and walked away from her. His heart ached, he couldn't believe he had just done that to her. Racing out of the common room he mentally cursed at himself for what he had done, he needed to speak to somebody. As his mind searched and searched he found the one person who could fit his needs.
She slowly gathered herself after Harry just got up and left her. "There's something wrong Gin… I know there is." She was angry at herself for losing sight of him but Hermione Granger always had a plan b. Making her way up to the boy's dormitories she pulled the Marauder's Map from Harry's trunk. "I solemnly swear I am up to no good." She spoke the words revealing the map; she quickly unraveled it and searched for Harry's name. Scanning the map for only a few minutes she found Harry's name, he was heading towards the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom. Many thoughts filled her head trying to answer what he could be possibly up to.
A voice jarred Hermione away from her thoughts "Hermione… how did you…. You're not supposed to be up here." She got up taking the map with her, gently smiling at Neville who was trying to find words to say "Sorry Nev I gotta run!" leaving him bewildered as she zoomed past him. Hermione knew the fastest route to Harry because she knew Hogwarts inside in out. Getting past the charms set on the boy's staircase was child's play to her, she figured out how to counteract them during her third year. In the same time she threatened the twins to tell her how the map worked. But that was in the past her main focus was Harry right now.
"Dark magic is tricky business Harry, are you sure it's not just seasonal?" Remus' slight joke was more implied than forced "No Professor, I'm quite sure it is Dark Magic but there wasn't anything in any of the books." The old marauder started pacing around his desk in deep thought "Those books rarely document every… especially on a topic such as the Dark Arts most people would like to keep it a secret, Harry have you spoken to Dumbledore about this?" He had thought about it many times before but he feared the possibility of being vigorously examined.
The both of them had their attention taken away by Hermione storming into the room. She quickly made her way to them looking crossed "Professor, Harry is coming with me." She said sternly, both men were bewildered "Ms. Granger I won't be keeping Harry for long I assure you." Hermione crossed her arms and started tapping her foot. "Professor Lupin, Harry is coming with me and that's final!" the old marauder was shocked at Hermione's outburst. Snatching Harry's arm she stormed off with him in tow, "Hermione! What are you doing?" Harry tried to keep up with her but she quickened her pace.
Fred and George walked the halls conversing between each other. "Weasley Magic Emporium?" "What was that Freddie? Sorry didn't hear your boring old man title; we need something that will pop!" The twins stopped talking as they were bewildered at the sight of Harry being dragged by Hermione. His face read help me, but the two of them had learned a long time ago not to mess with Hermione. They awkwardly waved goodbye to Harry until he was out of sight. "Wheezes! Weasley Wizard Wheezes!" the two said in unison, high fiving each other. "We need to celebrate Fred." His brother smiled devilishly at him "Already ahead of you Georgie." He held up a single firecracker that sparkled at the fuse tip "Brilliant!" they quickly apparated away to the dismay of Mr. Filch and Ms. Norris who planned to sneak up on the two.
She locked the two of them in an abandoned classroom, Harry detested wanting out but Hermione stood her ground. "Harry Potter, you tell me what is going on right this instant!" her frustration could be felt by him. But this what he was afraid of, if he told her she would think differently of him. Seeing her like this told Harry he had to act fast otherwise Hermione would jinx him with many spells.
Ashamed at himself he avoided her gaze "Hermione… I can't." he muttered to her. He awaited her answer half of him expecting to be yelled at or jinxed by one of the many spells she knew but there was nothing. Silence was unexpected; worried he turned to her to see her give him mixed expressions. She was either angry at him or sad he couldn't tell from the look she gave him.
"Harry stopped being so selfish, I love you remember… please tell me what's wrong." She pleaded to him resisting the sudden urge to start sobbing. Not wasting time Harry pulled her into a hug "I'm sorry Hermione, please don't…." she let loose a sobbing cough in which he cursed himself for making her this way. Not being able to forgive himself he gave in and told her the truth, about his many sleepless nights and all these nightmares.
Being Hermione she offered him her help but Harry told her that he thinks he's getting better and that all he needs right now is her. Using his thumb he wiped her tears away from her cheeks, he then kissed her forehead and held her there with him. He ran his hands through her hair soothing her, he knew that whatever this was they will fight it together. They stayed there for a few more minutes before returning to the Gryffindor Tower, Harry carrying a sleepy Hermione. She snuggled closer to his chest entering the common room "Harry…" she mumbled with a sleepy voice. He smiled looking at the angel he held in his arms "Yes?" whispered softly to her.
"Too sleepy… couch… now." Not wanting to disappoint her, he took her to the couch slowly laying her down. Harry levitated a pair of chairs and tables making an improvised walkway towards the girl's dormitory, his plan was to make Hermione as comfortable as she can. Hopping onto the levitated chairs and tables he made his way up. Setting foot atop the staircase he marveled at his achievement losing his concentration the chairs and tables started to fall. Quickly realizing this he dove against the barrier pointed his wand catching the chairs and tables before they collided onto the floor. Harry sighed at the close call, using his wand he gently returned them to their original positions. He entered the dorm sneaking past the sleeping girls. It didn't take him long to find Hermione's bed mainly because there was a stack of books around it.
Spotting the object of his desires he took hold of Hermione's throw blanket. He then tiptoed his way towards the door silently laughing at the thought of Seamus being jealous that he got into the girl's dormitory "Harry?" he froze. Turning around he saw Ginny rubbing her eyes looking straight at him "What are you doing here and where is Hermione? Is everything okay with you two?" she whispered to him. Harry reassured her that all was well and that he was bringing Hermione her blanket to be comfortable. This brought a smile to Ginny "That's sweet… now get out of here before McGonagall sees you in here." He could not agree more, he took the staircase as a slide back down to the common room.
Placing the blanket over her she snuggled close to it, a smile illuminating on her face. Now that was done Harry tried to get to his own bed but she had hold of his arm. "Harry… stay." Didn't take long to comply as she tugged him down to her. He made his way around her hugging her tight, the warmth of the fire made Harry's eyes drop slowly. His last thought before falling asleep was Vanilla the scent of Hermione's hair shoved against his nose.
Later that night, he felt the same shiver go down his spine, he could see yet his eyes were not his. The head had turned revealing a giant snake slithering on a tile floor. Soon he faded into a dark room filled with glowing orbs and a single wizard walking past them. As he got closer he could see that it was Mr. Weasley, fearing for the worse Harry tried to warn him by screaming his name. But instead the snake pounced at him, with each strike scratching his body even more. The fear in the eyes of Mr. Weasley made Harry struggle harder to break free, feeling another attack he used everything he had to wake up.
"Professor! We need help!" Hermione barged into McGonagall's office tugging Harry. Minerva paced to their side her mind filling with worry at the sight of Harry. He was drenched in sweat and had trouble breathing "He said that he saw Mr. Weasley being attacked!" 'How could this be?' McGonagall thought to herself "Thank you for bringing this to my attention Ms. Granger please escort Mr. Potter to the headmaster's office… I will acquire the Weasley children who are in the castle and meet you there." She understood tugging at Harry she rushed with him at tow towards Dumbledore's office.
The room was silent except for Dumbledore who asked Harry several questions. "In the dream were you standing next to the victim or looking down at the scene?" he could not understand why Dumbledore wouldn't look him in the eye "Neither… sir?" he paid Harry no mind giving instructions to nearby portraits to help out with the situation. "Professor… I?' Harry attempted to get the headmaster's attention again but to no avail.
Being ignored by Dumbledore only frustrated him further, "Look at me!" he snapped at the headmaster. Everyone in the room was startled, the Weasley children sat silently beside each other Hermione ached to be closer to him. "What's happening to me…?" his frustration slowly diffusing but his mind still kept him a bit tense. Behind him Snape had arrived "You called for me… Headmaster?" "Yes Severus the situation is more dire than we had originally anticipated we need to do it now… we have not a single moment to waste." Dumbledore gave instructions to Snape taking Harry to his potions classroom, as always Hermione fought to be by his side but was talked down by McGonagall.
"Where are you taking me?" Harry could hardly keep up with Snape's quickened pace down the spiral staircase. Pulling from his shirt his grip nearly tore at his skin "The headmaster has instructed me to prepare you." Impatient Harry cut him off "Prepare me for what?" Snape threw him to the chair; the sheer force nearly toppled Harry. Snape took out a scroll and rolled it out choosing from an assortment of equipment cleanly placed in pockets "The Dark Lord has many abilities back in the past he was known for invading his victim's minds turning their fears and dreams against them, until they were driven mad."
Harry shivered at the thought of him growing insane and locked in a cell in Azkaban. "I will penetrate your mind and you must! You will block me out otherwise the dark lord will have control of you do I make myself clear?" Sweat continued to pour down Harry's collar exposing his weak state but he nodded confirming he was ready. Snape stood back readied a stance and aimed his wand at Harry "Legilimens!" he didn't know that it would cause him such pain. It was as if someone drilled into his forehead, his eyes replaced by visions of his past. His broom ride beside the waters of London, the dementor attack, the growing face of a death eater dummy and a door 'I have never seen this door before?' Sirius as an animagus growled at him and then pounced. "Concentrate! Potter… Focus!"
Hermione rested her head against her pillow, shifting in her bed more than once. She couldn't sleep; she was so worried about Harry. Where could Snape have taken him? It's been hours since she last saw him and with every passing minute she grew more worried. "Harry please be okay…" she whispered to herself, she gasped remembering Harry snapping at Dumbledore. A single tear flowed past her cheek; she hugged her pillow hard trying to calm herself.
His memories blurred as Snape entered most of them, Harry saw more and more glimpses of Hermione the deeper Snape went. Was he counteracting his false memories? He could see Hermione's beautiful face radiating with the sun behind her "Pathetic…." Snape's voice pulled him out, Harry grew restless "That's private." The professor only gave him a blank stare "Not to me and not to the dark lord, every memory you have is a weapon he can use against you… you wouldn't last two seconds if he invaded your mind." It looked as if Snape thought for a moment and then a look of disgust appeared on his face "You're just like your father… lazy! Arrogant!" every word spat out with pure disgust.
Harry grew in frustration "Do not say a word against my father!" Snape was obviously unphased by this "Weak." He spoke under his breath "I'm not weak!" he yelled back at the Professor. "Then prove it! Control your emotions! Discipline your mind!" Harry prepared himself knowing another spell was coming; he wanted to prove Snape wrong. The memories he saw were of his parents, Sirius and of the burrow Harry chose these powerful memories in hopes of blocking him out but Snape broke through nonetheless. "Stop it! It's been hours if only I could just rest!" Snape came at him Harry stood back "The dark lord isn't resting… you children always whining about how bitterly unfair you're lives have been… it may have escaped you but life isn't fair… your father knew that and he gladly sought after it."
All these words against his father angered Harry more "My Father was a great man!" Snape grabbed him by the shirt and threw him back into the chair "Your father was a swang!" Harry quickly regained his balance he had noticed Snape's actions before and was now ready for the spell. Anger and frustration controlled his actions as he readied his wand. "Legilimens!" that same instance Harry countered the spell "Protego!" Harry hadn't known the effects of legilimency on others as he entered Snape's mind. He saw flashes of an older Hogwarts and a much younger Snape, laughter was muffled around the halls; he huddled by a tree reading a book until a group of students came towards him.
"Come on Moony and Padfoot!" Harry didn't recognize the voice but he knew those names. He stood astonished "Dad." Seeing his father like this, like a bully made Harry feel heart broken. All these good things people would tell him about his father was a lie, "Expelliarmus!" Snape was defenseless but he persisted "Nice one James!" laughed Sirius "Impedimenta!" now Snape hovered in the air upside down he threw a fit of anger "So who wants to see me pull down Snivelus' trousers!" He actually smiled while he did so. "James Potter! You stop that right now!" he swirled around to spot a redhead storming his way to them. But before Harry could get a good look at her Snape pulled him out "Enough!", Harry knew he saw something that he wasn't supposed to see so he tried to apologize "Get out." Slowly he said it with hidden anger, Harry raced up the stairs away from the classroom.
A few days later Christmas came around Harry, Hermione and the Weasleys were in Grimmauld Place. Shielding themselves from the cold by the fireplace, next to it was a Christmas tree that had snowy tips and a magical Santa flying around in a broomstick. Ginny, the twins and even Ron stood by as they watched their father being seated by their mother "Here we go! Daddy's back!" as a joke Fred jinxed the Santa to fly at Mrs. Weasley's head she instantly ducked but instead of glaring at the twins she shared a laugh with them. "Sit! Everyone sit!" commanded Mrs. Weasley and everyone did.
Ron got a big box of new sweaters and scarves knitted by his mother, Ginny got new quidditch gear from diagon alley and the twins got matching scarves. Harry walked in slowly as Hermione opened hers revealing beautifully hand knitted fingerless gloves, she had the biggest smile on her face thanking Mrs. Weasley. Ginny then gave her a smaller box with a magnificent charm bracelet inside of it, she reached over and hugged Ginny to show her thanks.
"Oh Harry!" Mrs. Weasley flustered running to the tree to hand him his present. Delighted he accepted the gift and a hug from Mrs. Weasley. "Always lovely to have you with us." He thanked her for the comment that made him feel all warm and happy, the loving mother returned to her family making sure everyone got something. Hermione smiled watching Harry open his present, he held a long red knitted scarf. After admiring it he locked eyes with Hermione and Sirius who both showed their approval.
"A Christmas Toast! To Harry, without whom I would not be here." The thought of the complete opposite of what he was seeing everybody happy and together made his stomach ache. He could not imagine how this scenario would play out without Mr. Weasley and thankfully he doesn't have to. They toasted him and he felt the gratitude they shared for him but something was still bothering him. He went to go speak with Sirius in a secluded area. Harry arrived in his study which was being cleaned by creature "Harry Potter, the boy who destroyed the Dark Lord." Harry just stood in silence not wanting to provoke anything "Creature away with you!" commanded Sirius. Creature bowed in front of Sirius "Of course master, Creature lives to serve the house of Black." He exited the study, Sirius shut the door behind him "Sorry about that he's never been kind, not to me anyway."
Harry marveled at a large portrait that resembled a family tree "Ah! The house of Black… I hated the lot of them, especially my deranged cousin." Walking over he pointed to a blacked out spot that shared his name "My mother did this right after I ran away at sixteen, Charming Woman." Hearing this for the first time Harry asked him where he went "Round your dad's. I was always welcomed at the Potters', I see him so much in you, Harry. You are so very much alike." almost instantly his feelings fell "I'm not so sure." Sirius eyed him as if he was trying to decipher what was wrong "What did you want to talk about Pup?" Harry was internally conflicted in what to discuss with Sirius "Back to what happened to Mr. Weasley" he said on impulse "I wasn't just watching… it was like I was the snake."
"And this wasn't the first time I… there was a moment in Dumbledore's office where I wanted to… I…. this connection I have with Voldemort what if somehow I'm becoming more like him?" he could feel his feelings getting stronger inside "I just feel so angry all the time, what if something wrong is happening inside me what if I'm becoming bad?" Sirius instantly put his hands on Harry giving him a reassuring squeeze "Harry listen to me very carefully, you're not a bad person… you're just a very good person that bad things have happen to, you understand?" he did as he felt himself slowly calm down as Sirius continued "You know who you are Harry, don't ever forget that." They both shared a hug relieving some of Harry's worries.
The next morning she had heard news that Harry was back in his room. Cautiously Hermione peeked into the room and spotted Harry sitting on his bed. "Expecto… Patronum." he mumbled as silver mist grew from the tip of his wand, Hermione sat next to him. She pondered what could possibly be bothering him to barely even notice her presence.
"Harry you okay?" she spoke gently to him, his breath hitched trying to speak. Hermione gave her a reassuring smile subtly telling him to take his time. He took off his glasses and just looked at them; in the many pictures he's seen they were the same, Harry's hand shook with anger. Gently Hermione touched his hand calming him down then she carefully guided his glasses back to where they were.
His eyes looked hollow "I've always imagined my dad to be this great guy, but… today I saw him when I reversed Snape's spell I saw his memory and my dad… he was a bully." The hurt in his voice was obvious to anyone, but his expression didn't show much sadness more of confusion. Harry took Hermione back to the memory, every detail that stood out to him.
Speaking in a pained voice "Him, Sirius, Remus they cornered Snape… I feel like my memories of him and how I see him now has changed." The great wizard image that his father had created was built up by hidden lies. A part of Harry felt betrayed the other struggled to understand. Hermione reached over and took him into her arms, she hugged him tight.
"Maybe your mum got through to him, Harry your father was a great man and you know it in your heart. He was a great wizard who knew to protect the more important things in life." She assured him, 'maybe she was right' he thought. The man who tried to protect him and his mother from Voldemort and the boy he saw were surely two different people.
He decided to let all his conflicts out "But these dreams… every day I just get angrier and angrier." The silent truth was what it was, his temper flaring more and more. She was the only one who could calm him because he feared to harm her. "What if I'm turning bad… like him?" he was scared that was true, his fears surfaced into the open. She gently brushed the top of his head, his eyes closed at her touch. Taking in deep breaths to calm himself down, "Harry I know you, you're a good person."
Hermione looked deeply into his eyes and spoke lovingly "It's the good person; it's you who I fell in love with all those years ago." To help clear his mind of any worries she began telling parts of their story from her perspective.
When she was paralyzed there wasn't much to do at her state, so most of the time she dreamt. She would usually see her parents and relive happy memories of her childhood. But when he visited she heard him, every word that he spoke to her and every touch. Harry had visited her many times compared to Ron who she rarely saw. He would tell her about recent events to keep her in the loop and every time before he left he would caress her hand as a soothing goodbye. This sparked new thoughts into her head from what she gathered he truly cared for her.
"Harry! It's Hermione!" Neville spoke to him from across the table, hearing this he turned and looked at her. Her heart filled with joy and pride after she heard the news that they have solved the mystery, so much so she sprinted down the hall. Quickly she engulfed Harry in a hug that nearly knocked him flat, they shook side to side laughing amongst each other. "I can't believe you solved it!" she couldn't stop smiling at him "We couldn't have done it without you!" her heart fluttered at what Harry had told her.
"Form a line! I want everyone to picture the thing they fear the very most and turn it into something funny!" the crowd of students stumbled around her, Professor Lupin turns on some music to set the mood I guess. He calls Ron forth hearing Harry's laughter she realized how close she was to him, she had her hand on his shoulder to keep her balanced. Thankfully Harry was more amused by Ron facing the boggart to not notice her pink cheeks, she lowered her hand while glancing at him to see if he had noticed it was there. She sighed to herself as the whole class watched Ron give a spider roller skates. The room filled with laughter, Parvati was called up next Harry gave Ron a high five Hermione laughed alongside the class to conceal her nervous feelings of being so close to Harry.
"Ron!" they found him upon a rusty old bed really scared holding scabbers. "Harry It's a trap, he's a dog! He's an animagus!" following where Ron pointed they both saw paw prints that led up to a shaggy clothed looking man. This was Sirius Black a murderer! And he was after Harry, as if by instinct she appeared in front of him attempting to guard him. "If you want to kill Harry, you'll have to kill us too!" he looked unphased as he proclaimed "Only one will die tonight!" hearing that she felt Harry run past her and pounced at Sirius.
She was so scared when they were being chased by Lupin; she had read that werewolves had no control over their actions and that they could be very vicious. They were hopefully hidden behind a huge tree in the forbidden forest, waiting to see if they had evaded him. Believing that they had indeed led him astray Hermione tugged at Harry to back up slowly. A snarl came from behind them, their worst fears realized as behind them was indeed Lupin. Her heart had raced turning off her mind and acting on instinct believing this to be the last possible moments of her life she kissed him hard. She poured everything into that kiss for it would maybe be her last kiss, her first kiss. Her dreams from previous nights could not compare to how she felt. But it seemed Buckbeak had fought Lupin off, she hid in his chest "Oh that was so scary!" she felt warm and safe feeling his arms around her.
"The Yule Ball is first and foremost a dance!" hearing this the girl's half of the room flooded with dress ideas and possible dates. But Hermione knew she only had eyes for one, oh why does he have to be so heroic she thought seeing him with cuts and a broken arm with a sling. He then locked eyes with her which caused butterflies in her stomach; they just stared at each other from across the room. After Ron's utter humiliation Professor McGonagall announced for everyone to pair up, Hermione was quick on her feet not wanting any girl to take Harry. She made her way to him, but somehow Ginny had appeared before her. The sight of this made her heart fell as she walked away from his sight.
Later that evening, he had asked her what she thought about the ball. Her nervousness appeared to outweigh her ability to speak as she simply muttered "Uh… I think it will be nice…" she giggled to herself as Harry had a bewildered expression. She smiled at him to hide her inner turmoil "Yeah… and besides why aren't you excited? You have to dance the opening dance with the other champions." Trying to change the attention away from her, he groaned and proclaimed that he would have trouble. She offered her help rather quickly and so they did practice right there as Neville took a break on the armchair. It was nice; she couldn't deny it made her giggle every time he would be flustered about messing up. Their practice session made her anxious to dance with him for real at the ball.
Hermione had messed with her hair for hours; her heart was racing hearing the voices of the other students down at the great hall. Hoping to sneak in without getting noticed she peeked from beside the wall and spotted Harry. Her heart quickened in pace at the sight of him. He was clearly drooling over Cho; this made her even more nervous. Mainly because she knew how strongly she felt for him, 'it's now or never' she reassured herself. Taking a deep breath she stepped into view, taking her time down the steps her eyes were set on Harry. Even with his back turned she still smiled at the sight of him being there as if he was waiting for her.
Victor had already seen her and was getting closer 'Oh no' the Bulgarian quidditch player looked as if he'd won the biggest prize of them all. Soon Parvati had seen her with eyes as wide as bowling balls, she laughed to herself Parvati was never one to be easily shocked. Unexpectedly, it seemed that her position caught Harry's interest, now it was his eyes finally on her. Finally their eyes met and Hermione felt her body tense nearly losing her footing. The smile he gave her gave her butterflies; she was so happy that her smile grew wider naturally. She was clearly only a few steps away but then again Krum was her date, she blushed at his bow. From the corner of her eye she could still see Harry's eyes on her which made her cheeks burn more, she took Victor's arm and was taken into the Great Hall.
She was not an experienced dancer but she took it upon herself to learn as much as she could, in hopes of dancing with Harry. Ginny had ruined her chances before and well she was there with Neville so she's out of the equation. The music picked up and she grew to lose herself in it, dancing frantically around the dance floor. Victor impressed her by keeping up with the quick rhythm of the song; she took her hand and spun her around.
Regaining her balance she laughed at how clumsily she spun out of the crowd. Her eyes fell to Harry who sat by himself; feeding off her fun state she giggled and offered Harry her hand. "Care to dance with me Harry? Promise I won't bite." He took her hand and she gladly led them back into the crowded dance floor. Hermione noticed Harry being hesitant when they danced to ease him she led him "One, two, three, One, two there you go Harry!" They swayed about the music drowning out everybody else but them. She gasped when he spun her around, she couldn't stop smiling and laughing. It was real, it was true, their love was there.
Hearing all this Harry was put at ease, Hermione was glad until she realized something. "Oh almost forgot something, your present!" Harry tried to tell her it was fine but she just simply ignored him. She reached into her pocket and pulled out string that looked like brown vines, she began wrapping against his wrist "This Harry is a magical band that has a lot of charms on it meant to give you luck. So you can always come back to me." He thanked her with a kiss, after all the years he's spent at Hogwarts he could use all the luck he could get.
The holiday had ended the following day the room was almost completely empty, Hermione waited for him by the door. "Harry, time to go." He reached for his trunk following Hermione down the stairs of the black house. Hermione stacked her trunk upon other trunk next to the door. Sirius examined the trunks in which Hermione has been keeping track off since she woke up.
"Got everything packed and sorted?" he teased her, she didn't recognize his humorous tone instead she said triumphly "Yep everything packed and sorted, we're good!" Sirius had a good laugh at the young witch's enthusiasm of keeping things in check. "Brilliant Hermione! my godson is lucky to have you." Hermione's cheeks turned crimson at the comment by Sirius, Harry appeared beside her.
"I'll be seeing you Sirius…" he spoke in a sad tone, saying goodbye to him always proved difficult. Sirius was one of the few people that truly knew him and loved him. He stood a close second to his list seeing that Hermione had swept the lead. The two of them shared a long hug to bid farewell, "This isn't goodbye, this is just farewell for now. You understand Harry?" he nodded at Sirius, there were still things he had to do and they will see each other again.
Sirius guided Harry and Hermione towards the door "After all of this is done we'll be a proper family, all of us you'll see." He made an obvious move to include Hermione in the discussion, realizing this Harry was overjoyed. "You mean it?" was a natural question spoken with honesty, Sirius landed a reassuring hand on Harry's shoulder and smiled "Count on it, pup." All three of them shared a group hug, one of a family.
Back at Hogwarts whistles and cheering could be heard from the Great Hall, the two sprinted down the grand staircase to find out what was happening. There was a supposed final exam held there at this hour. "Wahoo!" they instantly recognized the cheer of the Weasley twins, entering the Great Hall it was filled with sparks, fireworks, all sorts of vibrant colors and cheering students. They had left early before Harry and Hermione did and it was obvious that they had been busy. Fred and George flew like a blur around the Hall "We own this school!" "And none of you forget it! Hahahaha!" Harry and Hermione were stump at how they could have pulled this off without getting in trouble.
Ginny appeared beside them "I can't believe they bought off McGonagall! It's unbelievable!" she cheered well that made some sense. Harry spotted McGonagall at the corner of the hall holding a rather heavy bag of galleons. Hermione totally forgot about the exam due to the colorful display of fireworks and her cheering happy friends. A few stray fireworks attacked Malfoy and his crew much to the amusement of Harry and his friends.
Filch arrived and he wasn't pleased, he yelled at the twins "Stop this right now you Weasleys!" Stomping his feet and flaying his arms around. "Did you hear something Fred?" "No did you Georgie?" they laughed, Filch had enough he ran to the Great Hall doors and closed them to prevent further damage for him to clean up. "Oh now I hear something." "A challenge?" "Accepted!" reaching into his sling George took out a huge firework that resembled a dragon. He laughed as he tossed it up for Fred to light it midair. To Filch's horror a huge red cloud turned into an animated dragon, he spread his arms wide against the door as the dragon came near. In a matter of seconds it barged through the door knocking Filch to the ground.
The twins flew out past the courtyard releasing fireworks that made a sparkling W in the air. Crowds gathered about the courtyard still cheering, fireworks and crackers exploding in tremendous display. "Weasley! Weasley!" they chanted, Ginny stood there smiling at the illuminated W in the air "Can't wait to tell mum about this, mark that down as two howlers!" Neville overheard her and tried to bail them out "Can you let this one slide Ginny?" she shook her head "No sorry Nev, this is too perfect an opportunity to pass." Hermione appeared next to her friend laughing with her.
Harry's body grew cold, his knees buckling forcing him onto the floor. "You will tell me where it is!" slithered the Dark Lord. Sirius came into view being tied to a chair, Harry's worries grew. It was like he was just standing there watching the entire thing unfold "You will have to kill me." Hearing those words Harry's breathing became strained fear entering his heart "Oh I plan to! Hahahaha!" the Dark Lord arched his wand firing multiple cruciatus curses at Sirius' helpless body.
Regaining his eyes Hermione appeared before him "Sirius…" he muttered to her. Rushing to his feet he ran past the crowd. Hermione shoved a few students away to catch up to Harry, Ginny and Neville followed behind her. "What's happening?" asked Neville trying to keep up with his friends up at the Grand Staircase. "Harry slow down!" Hermione called out to him, he shifted his attention to her.
The staircase moved as he tried his best to explain "Sirius spoke of him wanting something, something he didn't have before." His tone made it obvious to her that he wasn't thinking straight more on emotion. He couldn't have possibly thought of every reason as to why he saw what he did. She attempted to reason with him "Harry you have to think rationally, he could be luring you into a trap!" Neville and Ginny agreed with her as it made sense, unexpectedly Harry snapped at her "Hermione you don't understand! He's the only family I have left!" His sudden outburst caught off her guard she felt pain in her heart, she regained herself slowly reminding herself that this was Sirius and Harry was on edge.
The others met up with them at the wooden bridge, Harry filled Luna and the twins in on the situation. But it didn't take long for Hermione to notice another red head with them, she instantly snapped at him. "What's he doing here?" Hermione spoke with anger, there stood the boy who made her feel like nothing. Harry glared at his former friend who stood beside Luna, he wished he knew how much he had hurt Hermione how broken she was. He was ready to jump him, to release all his rage but then Luna stepped in front of him.
Luna defended Ron "I thought Ronald could be a great help." Her words sounded so naïve but in some small way they both had good intentions. "Is this true?" Harry asked with a stern voice, Ron didn't say a word to him but in his own way he confirmed he was there to help. Now that was done they had to figure out how to get to the ministry in time. The twins told the others that they could use brooms that were stored in a nearby closet; they had stolen the keys for their elaborate celebration earlier.
They took to the sky; the skies of London were dark and stormy. Harry glanced at Hermione who was riding a broom by herself even though he offered to take her on his. "Harry… I can do this, I'll be fine come on let's go get Sirius." Her words caused him to smile seeing as how she was able to look past her fear of flying to get to Sirius. He felt very thankful to her, for her devotion and loyalty which he easily overlooked the past few years.
Oddly the Ministry was empty which sent off a few signals for the others but Harry's determination didn't allow them to act on them. They reached the elevator, the gate closed and Harry's anticipation grew 'Sirius… come on go faster!' his mind screamed. When the gates finally opened everyone broke into a jog towards the door that Harry saw in his visions multiple times. The knob felt oddly cold when Harry turned it, the room barely lit by small glowing orbs.
Everyone entered amazed by the contents of the room; there were rows and rows of these orbs. But Harry was restless he quickened his pace to the spot his vision showed Sirius, as he got closer his breathing got faster. When he arrived at the spot he couldn't understand why nothing was there, there were no marks… nothing. "They were here… right here!" his frustration grew as he realized that Hermione was indeed right Voldemort had tricked him.
"Harry. It's got your name on it." Neville stared at a glowing orb that was smaller than the others and he was write the tag that was connected to the stand had his name on it. He cautiously took it in his hand looking deep in to the swirling mist inside. A face appeared and it began to speak "The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches. And the Dark Lord shall mark him as his equal but he shall have power the Dark Lord knows not. For neither can live while the other survives." The voice and face disappeared leaving Harry very confused.
"Harry!" cried out Hermione, he ran to her side noticing that her wand was at the ready. He looked to where she pointed but it was just darkness "Someone's here with us…" Ginny squealed firing a reducto down an empty row, but then it expanded making contact with the darkness. The entire group grew alerted as they huddled close to each other wands pointed at every direction. "Deatheaters!" Harry heard Neville yell out loud, everyone ducked as their apparitions flew past their heads.
It was a scare tactic; they were like dark trails of smoke surrounding them filling their ears with taunts and devilish laughter. Hermione took Harry's hand and gripped tightly; he glanced at her and saw that she had her wand pointed at the cloud of Death Eaters above them. "Everyone get ready!" Harry yelled to the others, he nodded at Hermione "Expulso!" A bright blue light shot from her wand when it hit the Death Eaters it caused them to scatter. Everyone stood back up and hastily looked around for any sign of them.
"Do you see them?" Neville sounded so scared but no one could see them in the darkness. Harry looked at the prophecy; he saw that there was no damage inflicted on it. Laughter alerted them to the presence of Lucius Malfoy "Where's Sirius!" Harry demanded, "You need to know the difference between dream and reality, the Dark Lord showed you what he wanted you to see." His eyes quickly fell onto the prophecy "Now hand me the prophecy!" realizing he had a bargaining chip "If you do anything to us, I'll break it." He threatened the Death Eater "Why did Voldemort want me to get this?"
"You dare speak his name? You filthy half-blood!" came a voice behind Lucius, Neville recognized her as Bellatrix Lestrange. "Everyone just calm down, he's a curious lad you see prophecies can only be retrieve by whom they were made for. All the answers to your questions are in your hand Potter, all you have to do is give it here. I can show you everything." Harry could sense they were being surrounded "I've waited for so long so many years; I guess I can wait a little longer… Now!" he signaled his friends who casted Stupefy at the surrounding Death Eaters. "Everyone! Run down the rows and meet at that door! Let's not be an easy target for them!" They broke off into groups sprinting every which way, Harry with Hermione, Ron and Luna, Ginny with Neville and the twins.
"Let's brighten up their day shall we?" joked George to his brother. "Already with you Georgie!" they reached into their pockets and threw small balls that created bright flashes of light blinding a few death eaters into colliding into the shelves "You break it, you take it!" "No Return Policy!" "Haha!"
Harry had his eyes focused on the door he missed the death eater apparating towards him "Harry!" Hermione casted a strong spell that sent a Death Eater flying away. "Thanks!" told her, they soon regrouped with the others nearly colliding. A Death Eater apparated behind Harry and Hermione, Ron took notice "Stupefy!" the act didn't leave only the Death Eater stunned but Harry and Hermione as well. "Uh… Thanks Ron." spoke Harry, the Death Eaters grew frustrated not being able to catch children. The tall cases holding the prophecies started to collapse around them, Ron stumbled a bit as an orb shattered nearby "Be careful Ron!" cried out Luna grabbing his arm. Shelves upon shelves collapsed behind them there was no turning back.
Everybody ran through the door that opened to practically nothing, Harry and his friends were in free fall. Wondering if there was somewhere to land Hermione pointed out a fairly lit piece of rock that started to grow bigger. Closer and closer they went in free fall, each prepping themselves for a hard landing but was caught off guard when they were magically halted before touching the ground. Harry sighed seeing that the prophecy had not been broken by his fall, getting up he noticed a giant structure in front of him that was surrounded by mist. Knowing they had to get to high ground he made his way up to the structure. "Harry we need to find a way out of here!" but he was deep in thought to notice his friends' pleas to leave. Mystified by the structure he was trying to answer all the questions in his head.
Reaching the top of the rock, he could see the entirety of the structure "Please Harry!" Hermione pleaded, he quickly drifted away from his thoughts his eyes met hers. She had a worrying expression that made him nervous. An air swooshing sound filled the room and Harry could see dark clouds of Death Eaters heading their way.
He took out his wand and stood ready "Get behind me!" he told his friends who had their wands ready as well. The Death Eaters weren't playing around this time, they swarmed the young wizards scratching and tearing at them. In the midst of all the chaos Harry ducked down to protect the prophecy from getting into the Death Eater's hands. When they cleared he noticed that he was now alone his friends had disappeared, the only sound he could hear was Lucius Malfoy's mocking laughter.
Lucius Malfoy made his way to him with the aid of his cane; he scoffed at Harry "Did you really think that a bunch of children could defeat us?" a mocking laugh escaped him. Reaching Harry he looked down at him triumphaly, his eyes saw his desire the prophecy that was snug in the boy's hand.
His friends struggled amongst their captors; Hermione shook violently fearing for Harry. Lucius was delighted at the sight of defeat of the boy who lived. A smirk appeared on his face, gracefully he reached his hand out "Now be a good boy and hand it over." He desperately tried to find a way to not let them win but at what cost. Realizing this he reluctantly gave the prophecy to Lucius.
The Death Eater admired the orb from every angle, lifting it waiting to hear the prophecy itself. "You will tell me what it said and then I will take you to the Dark Lord where he… well pray he will be merciful Potter." 'This was it' Harry thought he had lost, every Death Eater in the room had devilish smiles on their faces. About to drop his wand and give himself for capture, Harry reminded himself that he could not risk them hurting his friends so he had to give himself in.
A bright light appeared behind Lucius; Harry was in shock to see his godfather arrive. "Stay away from my godson." Sirius gave Lucius a right hook that caused him to fall to the ground. Other Aurors started apparating into the room releasing Harry's friends. The room was filled with both dark and light wizards battling back and forth. Lucius rose in anger the prophecy had been smashed in front of him when he dropped it.
Malfoy fired spells at a boulder that Sirius and Harry hid behind, "You've done beautiful Harry, now let the order take care of the rest." He placed a reassuring hand Harry's shoulder, he could run but this was all his fault. His friends were fighting against Death Eaters because of him; he had to own up to it. Peeking around the boulder Harry shot off a few Stupefies at Lucius, Sirius smirked at his Godson "Just like your father." Both wizards came out of hiding raising their wands firing spells at Lucius Malfoy.
The dark wizard seemed overwhelmed till an unknown Death Eater apparated to his aid. Now it was a fair fight, Sirius matched Malfoy and Harry was strong enough to keep up with the other Death Eater. They pushed them further and further to the edge, Sirius and Harry pressed hard on the attack. Harry saw the Death Eater lose his footing, taking this chance "Expelliarmus!" his wand flew into the darkness and so did he. "Nice one James!" Confusion hit Harry his thoughts trying to explain why Sirius would call him by his father's name. While his eyes saw an astonishing display by him taking on Lucius solo and winning. Malfoy was thrown back out of sight, Harry smiled at his Godfather they did it they were safe. A sharp whipping sound filled his ears; his eyes saw Sirius wince in pain. At first he hadn't a clue what was wrong with him until he heard Bellatrix's horrific cackle. He watched in horror as Sirius floated away into oblivion, his body felt numb for a second until anguish consumed him. Lupin tried to calm him down but Harry's screams filled the room.
Hermione wept for Sirius also but she mostly wept for Harry. She could see how much pain he was in and it tore her up inside. Lupin did his best but Harry's anger blinded his judgement making him rush after Bellatrix. Everyone else who was left in the room gathered, the young wizards were wondering why Harry just ran out like that. Remus filled them in slowly; Hermione couldn't take waiting so she ran after him.
He couldn't think everything rash move was out of emotion, out of pure anger. "Crucio!" the curse that he's only heard in his nightmares; to him he was now stuck in a nightmare of his own. He didn't care if the curse was unforgivable, what she did was more, she had to pay. Harry gripped his wand tight pointing it sharply at Bellatrix. His thoughts whispered to him "Do it Harry… she killed him, say the words…" the voice fed his temptations but he still hesitated. He felt the same shiver he always felt and that's when he knew. The Dark Lord appeared behind him his eyes burned red "Do it!" he commanded Harry. Using his last remaining strength he resisted and threw his wand at the Dark Lord.
His body was exhausted; he couldn't bring himself to get his wand back. Voldemort sneered at the boy "Weak… so weak!" the Dark Lord mocked Harry. Out of the many floo fireplaces nearby came Dumbledore, without fear the headmaster approached the Dark Lord. Voldemort glared at the old man walking away from Harry.
"Foolish of you to come here Tom, the order is on its way." Dumbledore stated, acknowledging a weak Harry behind him. The old wizard stood defiantly in front of the Dark Lord, guarding Harry. Voldemort took out his wand, his body grew weary of talk he finally has a chance to kill Dumbledore and he will not waste this chance.
"They shall arrive at the sight of your corpse old man!" Voldemort spit angrily wands raised against each other, the first few spells flew. Not wanting to interfere Harry slid beside a nearby fireplace to regain his strength as Dumbledore fought the dark wizard. Their spells seemed to have connected the same way it did in the graveyard, the combatants seemed closely matched, a battle against the light and the darkness. Dumbledore took to a more defensive approach which frustrated Voldemort. He flicked his wand in an attempt to redirect parts of the spell to Harry, realizing this Dumbledore pushed forward even more to keep Harry out of danger. As a fear tactic as soon as the spells faded Voldemort summoned a Fire Serpent but Dumbledore took it down with ease slashing at with his wand. Taking advantage of the fountain Dumbledore trapped the dark lord in a bubble of water. Voldemort attempted to claw his way out but then the elder wizard had dropped his concentration to check on Harry. Taking this chance Voldemort summoned his darkness and shot it at Dumbledore who used a shield charm to defend against it.
Absorbing the power from the darkness he released a burst of energy that shattered the glass into a million shards in which he levitated to face the two wizards. Harry feared for the upcoming attack ducking his head for cover, amazingly Dumbledore diffused the shards into dust. Angered by the relentless defense of Dumbledore the dark lord knew he could not defeat the headmaster but Harry was still weak beside him. He appeared to have disappeared in the midst of defeat the dust where he stood fell back down.
Harry felt a tug at his feet his legs grew weak; he dropped to the ground within feeling sharp pains rise from his feet to his scar. The pain kept surging within him, as if there was an internal war within him. He could not move as his body felt rigid and stiff he saw visions as Voldemort attacked his memories one by one. He screamed as he began to twist and turn on the marble floor, Dumbledore knelt next to him his eyes wide of shock.
"It's over, you've lost old man." Slithered Voldemort's voice from Harry, it shocked the elder wizard. It seemed like Dumbledore had no hope of helping him as his body continued to lash out on the floor. He could not see, only the visions the Dark Lord decided to thrash at. "Lily take Harry upstairs now!" he could see his father standing in front of a wooden door, the edges illuminated by a green light. The door flew from its hinges James ducked down quick and fired spells at the Dark Lord. He could hear him just laugh at the feeble attempts of his father, with a powerful burst of dark magic James was flown against the wall. His body ached with pain; his eyes looked up at the Dark Lord looking down at him. "You will never get my son!" he spat blood at the Dark Lord before he ended it.
"I hated the lot of them…" Sirius stood with him against Lucius "Nice one James!" Malfoy became unmatched by Sirius' pursuit "Especially my deranged cousin." His voice echoed "Avada Kedavra!" Harry reached his hand out to Sirius; his body flew backwards into the veil Harry desperately trying to grab him. His ears ringed with the satisfied cackle of Bellatrix Lestrange.
"It's a pity that you didn't put up much of a fight, your mother and father would surely be disappointed." Voldemort taunted Harry
"Harry be strong…" came the voice of his mother, it awoken Harry's will. He could feel himself regaining some control over his body. The Dark Lord hardly took notice of this as he continued to corrupt his mind. Even with his relentless attack Harry broke free, "No! You're the weak one… you're a coward, you hide behind fear!" he yelled at the Dark Lord. He could feel his hold slowly decline as Harry fought against him.
"Harry potter has caught the snitch Gryffindor Wins!" Lee's voice echoed across the stadium, Harry glanced at the Golden Snitch in his hands. His body was instantly filled with happiness as his team crowded around him cheering his name.
"This whole potion thing is so easy!" Seamus reached for a batch of powder and Boom! His face was covered in sot; his hair was spiked up and probably burned with fire tips on each end. The entire room burst out in laughter.
Neville dreamily danced around the Gryffindor Common room "Don't you just think this whole dancing thing is amazing Harry?" he lifted his broken arm with a smirk, Neville apologized and continued on with practicing his footwork humming ballroom music.
"Ron what are you doing here?" the Weasley looked at him past his barred window, "Rescuing you of course! Go get your trunk!" he attached a hook that took down the bars, the ruckus surely woke up the Dursleys. Harry gave him his trunk and took hold of the car door but Uncle Vernon had gripped his ankle. "Drive!" the car flew farther away from the window causing Uncle Vernon to fall into a bush below much to Harry's amusement. Harry laughed as they drove away from privet drive "Oh and by the way Harry happy birthday!"
Ginny whispered to Harry "Get out of here before McGonagall sees you in here." The thought of McGonagall transforming him into a cup left him wanting to sprint out of there quickly. "Boys, why do you all have to be so weird?" Ginny whispered before returning to her sheets.
Fred and George still had him trapped in the locker room "Harry you sly devil you!" they teased him, Harry pointed out a box that was hidden from view "Oh that's where we either won or lost depending on what we betted." The box had a considerable amount of weight on it maybe it could balance out a scale with Aunt Marge on the other end.
"There's no Hogwarts without you Hargrid!" he hugged his friend hard, those weren't merely words he spoke everyone in the Great Hall knew that truth. Hagrid's giant hands came around him tapping him gently on the back.
"You've never known friendship… "He told the Dark Lord whose grip was slowly loosening. The look on his face showed his disbelief of Harry's attempts of pushing him out. Harry knew he had to dig deeper so he did, making Voldemort regret entering his mind.
A baby cry rang into the hallway a soft voice could be heard "It's okay sweetheart, there will be times when you feel alone and different but sweetheart remember this. Harry you are so loved, so loved. Harry sweetheart mamma loves you, dada loves you. Be safe Harry, Be strong. " his mother took one last look at him with her glistening green eyes.
"Harry, it's Hermione!" his eyes looked towards the Great Hall doors and there stood Hermione. Hermione, hearing her name flooded his mind with strong emotions.
"You're a great wizard you really are." "It's my fault Professor McGonagall… if Harry hadn't had found me I'd possibly be dead." "It's spooky! She knows more about you than you do." "Harry I don't like flying!" "Harry I'm scared for you." "If you want to kill Harry you'd have to kill us too!" "Books and cleverness there are more important things…" "Harry I love you."
"Or love." Harry had shown the Dark Lord what he feared the most, the emotion of love. Somehow Harry understood that Voldemort's evil was purely a result of rage for not being shown any affection "And I feel sorry for you."
The Dark Lord escaped his body Harry felt like he ripped himself out of his chest. His escape created a cloud of dust surrounding them; he stood above Harry his wand dangling from his hand "Bold words Harry Potter; everything will change for you as of right now you will lose everything. You will suffer and when the day comes you will come before me begging for me to end your pathetic life!" Those words echoed in his head as the Dark Lord raised his wand.
Puffs could be heard as the whole of the ministry arrived at the scene, Fudge ahead of them was astonished at the sight. Fudge's hat fell when he spat "He's back!" his mouth was wide open pulled down by the shock of his errors. Doing his best to hide his inner turmoil of being wrong he crowded around with the other members of the ministry.
Hermione and the others ran to check on Harry, he was slow to get up regaining his strength slowly. She sped past the others "Harry are you okay?" no reply was heard from him she was met with wide eyes that stared back at hers "Hermione I think I remember…. Everything." He told her, mixed feelings brewed inside of Hermione but she just brushed them off instead, hugging Harry tight.
It didn't take long for the press to appear, news reporters and journalists from every magical publishing. Hermione instantly recognized Rita Skeeter of the Daily Prophet shove her way around the others. She wasn't very successful though because both Hermione and Dumbledore knew Harry needed to rest, they disappeared quickly before any of the reporters could interview them.
Back at Hogwarts Madam Pomfrey tended to Harry healing his wounds and magical core which took a toll from his battle with Voldemort. She even slipped in a joke about Harry being in her hospital wing so many times that she was never out of practice. She worked around the clock keeping track of his recovery progress. it took Harry two full days to recover; at McGonagall's request Hermione was quickly alerted.
Hermione sat on a chair next to Harry's bed, it was nothing but silence since she arrived her worries taking the best of her "Wanna talk about it?" she asked softly, Harry told her that he'd rather not, well not now. A concern hand fell upon his, he glanced at Hermione who leaned forward and said "Harry, you're stuck with me…" there was a slight humorous tone to it but Harry understood what she truly meant by that.
Trying to avoid anymore silence and moping, Hermione sprang up from her seat "Come on before we leave I want to go get some light reading done." She tugged him away from the bed towards the door. "I know what that means…" Harry groaned, a smile on her face didn't fade "Come on!" she said exiting the hospital wing with Harry in tow.
Water poured onto a magical plant that was being taken care of by Neville "Ginny you reckon if Harry's alright?" the young Weasley girl stopped writing with her quill "Yeah Nev, Hermione already went up to see him. When she heard the news she was gone like a chaser on an invisible broom." They both laughed, she returned to her homework, Neville thought about for a minute and asked "You want to go see him?" she gave him a stern look "Neville, think about it do you really want to bother Hermione right now?" he shrugged off the suggestion fearing for his life.
"Going to miss this place…" "I'm with you Freddie…" they both sighed standing by the entrance to the school. The doors looked enormous compared to them being in the middle, it was time to move on for the Weasley troublemakers. "Wonder where the kids are, the ones to carry on our legacy?" "Well Ron is off with that Ravenclaw Luna chick and our wittle sister is stuck with homework." George shook his head in disapproval "Homework what a shame." "Hey Fred still got Wood's keys to the pitch?" a childish grin appeared on his brother's face "He didn't even see me coming, you grab Lee and I'll call in Dean and Seamus!" they high fived each other before disappearing to their mischiefs.
Hours spent in the library was not an easy task for the Boy Who Lived, he sometimes glanced out the window watching his friends in the Quidditch Pitch having fun. He could imagine himself now flying around laughing with them. Hermione would smack him with a book to regain his attention on the topic she was discussing. Much to Harry's delight Lupin appeared at the library telling them that they were both summoned by Dumbledore.
Dumbledore examined a ring that he kept in a box; it was one that he acquired during his travels away from the castle its a relic of dark magic and it needs to be destroyed. Hearing the two students enter he had magically put the box away, he appeared before them pacing as he discussed adding more protective measures for the summer at hand. Hermione couldn't bare letting Harry return to those vile people the Dursleys, she needed to be with him to make sure he was okay. "Professor there is no reason why you can't install the same wards on my house." Dumbledore was brought to a halt; she was right in that statement the headmaster grew curious as to why she had spoken of it.
Hermione took one good look at Harry and said "Harry you're coming with me for the summer." with high determination in her voice. Harry didn't argue as the thought of not returning to the Dursleys made him happy and the thought of a whole summer with Hermione made him even happier. She discussed with Dumbledore for ages until she finally got her way, Dumbledore complied. "I will inform Professor McGonagall to do so at a moment's notice." Hermione gladly thanked the Headmaster and left with Harry.
Harry took her to the astronomy tower where they had time alone, after everything that has happened Harry couldn't fight the urge to finally confess something. "Hermione there's something I have to tell you…" the sunset lit her curls appearing to be golden as her face turned to his "What is it Harry?" he intertwined their fingers to soothe them both, things are going to be different "Hermione what do you know about horcruxes?"
