Dumbledore's Army
Chapter 7
Forging a name
- - - Hogsmeade - 5am - - -
Hermione was not sure of her reasoning. She acted so little on reason these days and relied more on instinct. Of course her logic was still there, anything academic was welcomed to her as it was a time when only her logic was important, not so much her instinct. Yet here she was. Hogsmeade at five in the morning on a school day. If only her friends could see her now.
She had no idea where to start. What was she to look for when trying to that mystery man? He certainly hadn't given any indication to his whereabouts. Perhaps the best place to start would be asking about, but at five am who was awake? Sighing, Hermione pulled her woollen scarf tighter around her neck. The nippy autumn air was closing in on the area, and darkness creeping slowly behind it. The days were short. Un-naturally short even for this time of year. Even now it was dark. Making the most of her three hours before Potions would be the key to success.
Wasting little time Hermione walked the streets, hoping to stumble across the strange enticing scent of the striking young man she had only ever seen twice. The air was dense and picking up scents was hard as the overpowering smell of freshly fallen leaves and bracken was too strong. What she needed was a clue, something to go off. She had two choices... Return to the sewer, or return to the alley. There was no doubt in her mind which choice she would take.
Chirpily Hermione made her way to the alley, the first place she had seen the stranger. Upon entering it she felt warmth from the sheltered alley wash over her. Cautiously she stepped into it. She felt nothing out of the ordinary. As she scoured the place she sensed nothing which would lead her too him either. Grumbling she spun on her heel slowly, in no hurry to make it back to Hogwarts. As she did she found herself slowly coming face to face with the very man she wanted to see. His fragrant scent followed him, surrounding Hermione.
He was standing only inches away from her. Hermione failed to notice herself flushing as she lost herself in his breath taking amber eyes. She couldn't speak. His striking beautiful face made tearing her eyes away from him near impossible. Only when his brow knotted into a frown did Hermione rip her eyes away from him and to the floor. Looking at him was dangerous. He made her forget who she was almost when he looked at her.
"Can I help you?" He asked as if he knew the reason she was here was because of him.
Bravely Hermione looked up at him. With complete self control she meditated her mind on her mission. "I was hoping so", she mumbled slightly embarrassed.
An intriguing smiled danced on his lips. "I suspected as much." He turned and began to leave the alley. "Follow me", he ordered.
Hermione had no idea why she was following him. It wasn't the wisest of things to do. Perhaps she should have asked him in the alleyway just then, but curiosity had the better of her, and so excitedly, she followed.
He led her to a flat above one of the shops. Hermione had not expected much from it, but upon entering it, just has he had, it took her breath away. It was not like the stuffy shop below, this place was spacious and light. The walls were white washed and plain. The decorations were few, and only the necessities in furniture. He pointed towards a seat motioning Hermione to sit down.
"Do you want anything to drink?" He offered charmingly yet keeping his distance from her.
"I'm fine thanking you", the slayer replied glancing about. On the coffee table before the couch she was sat on, there was a strangely carved stone tablet. The writing looked old, and was a language Hermione had never encountered before. She reached her hand out to touch it but before she could, the man was there, his hand around her wrist, holding it firmly in place. A little taken aback, Hermione pulled her hand away from the table and he gently let her wrist go.
"So", he said releasing her hand and sitting opposite her on the edge of the table. "What do you want?" Something about his face looked pained almost. Like he had a nasty smell under his nose. In fact, she had noticed this in the sewer but the expression down there hadn't been as visible. You would have thought that when she was covered in sewage she would have smelt more, but apparently not.
Frowning, Hermione answered, "I need your help". She regarded him for a moment preparing to ask. Just before she did ask she noticed how his nails were digging in to the table, almost like he was restraining himself. Probably trying to put up with her awful smell, she thought to herself. "You fight really really well...and... I was hoping you'd teach me to fight like that?"
The question hung in the air awkwardly. Hermione glanced up at the man expectantly waiting for his answer. His dazzling eyes looked her up and down critically, and somehow, his expression eased off a little. Instead of disgusted by her, he seemed to relax, and before long a crooked smile worked its way onto his lips. "You want me to teach you how to fight?" Hermione nodded uneasily. She felt ridiculous for having to ask. The man stood up and began to pace around the room. He went to the windows and opened every one of them.
'Isn't he cold?' Hermione wondered shivering herself. He noticed, but did not close them. Rather he continued to pace about considering what his reply would be.
"Tell me. Who are you?" He asked. "Why do you have so much power?"
Hermione's eyes narrowed at him. This was the tricky part. "Well", she began not entirely sure what excuse she would give. He smiled at her from across the room.
"So you really are the slayer?" He declared more to himself than to her. Hermione scowled, unsure of whether or not she had done the right thing in coming here? "I must admit I was curious about you. I never would have thought the council would appoint a young witch as the slayer."
Puzzled, Hermione asked, "Why?"
Smirking, he answered, "In the past few days have you tried casting a spell and it went hideously wrong?" Although she did not admit it, Hermione acknowledged that she had. It was only the day before in the sewer when she had cast a lumos and sent a fireball hurdling down the tunnel. He nodded as if reading her thoughts. "That's why. It will make your magic unpredictable. Particularly at times when your emotions are running wild. It could strengthen a spell, weaken it, or send an entirely different spell out". No one had ever told her this. Her thoughts immediately went to Nigel who had obviously kept this from her. The man however seemed somewhat sadden for her. "I wouldn't worry about it though", he reassured, "you'll begin to control it again".
Trying to change the topic, Hermione asked, "So who are you? Or what are you? You're not human."
A weak smile crossed his lips. He began to pace about again. "If I told you I was a vampire what would you think?"
Hermione's heart leapt. This had been her first instinct in the tunnel, that he was a vampire, yet he was not like any other vampire she had encountered. "You're different from the others,.. That's what I'd think. Why is that?"
He moved to sit on the couch opposite hers, on the other side of the coffee table. "The man who made me was made by one of the oldest vampires to walk this earth. My blood is therefore not as diluted as the newer vampires. I have my soul. I can walk in sunlight-"
Hermione cut him off. "What?"
A will-shattering smiled played about his face. Hermione found herself almost breathless a he spoke, he words elegant and musical. "I can walk in the sun. It does not burn me as it would another vampire. Of course there is always some kind of draw back to it all." He leant back, into his chair. "One of them is that I dream..."
Entranced by him, Hermione moved closer to the edge of her couch. "Why is that bad?"
"I see all the remnants of my human life, and the things I could have had. I sometimes dream of the things I have done as a vampire, or things which will come."
To be honest, Hermione thought he was being a tad bit dramatic, but she had noted the dramatic flare of the un-dead. It was something she wouldn't have thought to attribute to them. "Any other draw backs?" She asked, looking again at the stone carving.
His eyes lingered on her dangerously. "The thirst..." She did not look up, but he saw the colour leave her cheeks. "Everyday minute of the day I crave blood, even after I have just fed. There's no end to it." There was sadness to his voice, and at the same time longing.
"What do you drink from? " She enquired, hoping the answer wouldn't be too threatening to the human species.
He laughed softly. "I drink from animals mostly", he admitted. "The odd human every now and then if they push the wrong buttons", he added playfully. Hermione kept her eyes on the mysterious slab on the table not entirely satisfied by his answer.
"So you're a good vampire?" The slayer asked confused.
The corners of the vampire's mouth twitch and he smiled a weak smile, bearing the tips of his fangs. "No. Far from it. But, I'm not bad either. I take no sides. That's why it's not safe for you to be here. Your scent is so intoxicating…. I might not be able to help myself"; he teased with an underlying desire.
Hermione felt her cheeks redden. Shakily, she changed the topic. "So will you help me?" She asked running the tips of her fingers over the stone carving curiously and trying to avoid his penetrating gaze. His stare was both alluring and hard to ignore. Hermione looked up. His eyes were piercing, and hungry. Hermione didn't feel as scared as perhaps she should. In fact she didn't feel any negative feeling at all. Rather, she felt herself melting, wanting to take a step closer too him.
He considered her for a moment, intentionally trying to draw her in. "I'll help you", he assured in a tone almost menacing. Hermione was sure her face lit up. "On one condition", he added carefully. Hermione raised her brow. "Never go near me if you're bleeding. The temptation would be too much. I might do something I'd regret…" Gulping, Hermione nodded slowly not entirely certain of what she had gotten her self in to,
"So what's your name anyway?" She asked on a lighter note with a slight quiver in her voice.
"Jasper. And yours?"
Hermione liked his name; it suited his mysterious nature that the slayer was feeling more and more attracted to. "I once had a cat called Jasper", she chirped, although he didn't seem to find it as amusing as she did. With a sheepish expression she answered, "My name's Hermione".
- - - Harry - - -
Hermione was not the only one up and about early. Harry, who was unable to sleep, had been examining the Marauders Map, and a little set of footprints named 'Draco Malfoy' caught his eye. Curiosity, as always, won the better of him, and as such Harry set off, invisibility cloak in hand, to follow Draco. Within ten minutes he found himself creeping behind Draco, under the disguise of the cloak, following him down a quite third floor corridor.
Draco seemed on edge. His eyes darted about the room, and he was constantly looking behind him. Harry was unsure what exactly to make of this. On one hand it was Malfoy, and whatever he was doing was probably up to his usual standards of obstructive. But, on the other hand, he seemed frightened, as if he would rather be anywhere but here.
Cautiously Malfoy tiptoed towards the main stairs, and as Harry tried to follow he felt a gentle tug pull him backwards, yet when he turned there was no one to be seen. Harry's eyes darted back towards Malfoy's direction only to see to the billows of his cloak as he descended the steps. Bemused, Harry tore himself out of the invisible grasp. As he stumbled backwards the image of Albus Dumbledore fluttered into his sight.
Dumbledore smiled fondly, his eyes narrowing with a twinkle. "Let him be Harry. You are not meant to follow this time."
Words failed Harry for all of a minute. "B-but professor! He's-"
Dumbledore chuckled cutting Harry off. "Fulfilling his own destiny Harry. Do not concern yourself with it just yet. Let it blossom first."
Slightly put out, Harry resigned.
- - - Malfoy- Entrance Hall - - -
Draco's heart was pounding so loud in his head that he could not concentrate. Why his father had insisted that he spy on Snape he did not know. It wasn't exactly the easiest thing to do, or the nicest. In fact, it was nerve racking. Especially when Snape was no where to be found and Draco was positive that he had just followed him down a dead ended corridor. What if now Snape was spying on him…? The thought alone sent shivers down his spine.
Scared and frustrated, Draco let out a loud sigh. Grumbling, he was just about to turn and head down to the dungeon, when he heard the sound of someone struggling, as if they were grappling with someone of some thing. Draco ducked into the shadows and waited nervously to see who exactly it was creeping around at this time.
His eyes flickered with delight when he saw Hermione Granger sneaking back in through a window that ran on the same wall as the main door.
'What is she up to?' he pondered with a slight feeling of gratification. Naturally Potter and Weasley would be behind her, He'd wait, just until they were all in sight, then call for Filch. Smirking, he watched as she clambered into the hall and brushed herself off. She didn't look behind her; rather she glanced about then began walking towards the main staircase.
Halfway there, she stopped dead. Draco watched as she stood still, to him making no noticeable movement. His eyes widen with fear as she turned slowly to face where he was hiding. For a moment it seemed she was unsure of whether or not to approach, however curiosity must have gotten the best of her as slowly she edged towards him. Draco knew that she would eventually find him. With some trepidation he appeared out of the shadows.
- - - Hermione - - -
Hermione's breath caught in her throat as she saw Draco emerge from the shadows. This was going to be an awkward conversation whichever way it went. "What are you doing here Malfoy?" She asked, trying to sound tiresome of his presence.
Draco shrugged and regarded her as he leant against the statue of a gargoyle. "What's that to you Mudblood?"
Hermione twitched with anger, but tried to remain calm, "You're right. It's nothing to do with me. Morning", She turned sharply on her heel and began to walk off.
In a mood to irritate and take his frustration out on her, Draco ran to stand in her way. "Well perhaps you should care" He teased. "Are you just too scared to find out, without Potter and Weasel here to protect you?"
Perplexed, a look of confusion swept across Hermione's face. "If I didn't know better Malfoy, I'd say you were playing hard to get. But you should know, I really don't care what you're doing, and I don't think I ever really will. So! Move out of my way…"
Put out, Draco snapped. "And what exactly were you doing Mudblood? Wonder what Filch would say if he knew you were creeping in through a window at six in the morning?"
Hermione gritted her teeth. She was in no mood to play Malfoy's games today. "Oh just move will you?"
Draco tried not to let his anger show. "I don't know what you're up to, but I'm going to find out. And when I do I'm going to tell everyone", he warned maliciously.
Sighing Hermione barged past him. "Well have fun doing that Malfoy. Really!"
Fed up, she ran up the first flight of stairs, heading towards the Gryffindor Tower to get ready for lessons. These days nothing was straight forward. But, there was no point feeling hard done by. Malfoy was the least of her worries.
- - - Friday Afternoon - - -
The week had passed relatively drama free for the students of Hogwarts. For Hermione training and work had taken up most of her time. Harry had spent a great deal of time pestering Remus trying to find answers regarding his deceased godfather. Ron had been practising for the Wizard chess tournament for the latter half of the week determined to get through the first round. All had been made aware of the Wizard Chess Tournament starting that weekend through the medium of dancing house elves over dinner on Tuesday night. It had been the hot topic of the week. Most were excited to know that the trouble making twins would still play a part in their Hogwarts lives.
"Dumbledore wasn't impressed that they had drugged the elves you know…" Ron mused somewhat in a daze.
Seamus sniggered, "I still remember the look on Snape's face when that one carrying the gravy jug did a pirouette on the table in front of him splattering gravy all over him". A wave of delight washed of the Gryffindor's faces.
"Is that a fact?" A cold voice drawled before them. Gasps of astonishment cut through the air before an uneasy silence descended on the corridor. Snape stood before them, his face like stone, and his eyes piercing everyone of them. Behind him was Malfoy, carrying a stack of books, which all later noted to be very out of character. He scowled at them all, but reserved a nasty smirk for Hermione. Rising above it, she shared a knowing look with Ron.
"Fifteen house points from Gryffindor for your sense of humour", Snape sneered. "Enjoy your little frivolities if you must. Your fun will end soon enough", he warned. The students frowned unsure of what he meant by that.
"Ahhh Miss Granger!"
All turned to see Nigel approach. He seemed a little flustered, which Lavender later described as a 'handsome rugged-ness' much to the boys dismay. Hermione smiled at him faintly, trying not to betray a connection to him. He regarded the group before addressing Professor Snape.
"Is there a problem Severus?" He asked warmly, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. Stood next to Snape, Nigel's gentle warm hearted nature was even more apparent. His smile was amused, knowing that he was clearly irritating Snape.
The look of disgust on Snape's face was evident. "Nothing to concern yourself with", he replied bitterly. With one long last disgusted look at the students before him, Snape glided off down the corridor.
Nigel watched Snape disappear before turning to the students. "He's quite the pessimist", he chuckled. The students looked at him, most quite impressed.
"Thanks Professor!" Ginny chirped admiring him somewhat.
"Yea", her brother Ron continued. "You've got a point there. He's a right old git."
Nigel nodded while cleaning his reading glasses. "No problem. I don't suppose I could have a word with you Hermione regarding your question about the theory of wand creation…"
Hermione nodded and stepped towards him, expecting her friends to run off and tell her to catch up with them later, but they didn't. They all waited there also expecting to hear the answer to Hermione's question.
Nigel and Hermione immediately felt awkward. "W…w…well, the thing is… I definitely do believe that wands probably became popular, as erm, well, tools for killing vampires." Hermione frowned, trying to decode the message that Nigel was obviously trying to conceal. Behind her, her fellow peers looked not only bemused at this far fetched idea, but their opinion of Nigel as a sane human being were beginning to diminish. "For example, if loads of vampires were going to attack Hogsmead tonight and you happened to be walking through at say… eight forty five, then you could easily use your wand as a stake." Nigel cringed at his own attempts. He laughed nervously. "Obviously you would of course need to be superman to defeat a vampire, but, that's just my idea about the origins of wand culture…" he looked to Hermione for a reply.
Hermione just stood, and nodded more out of sympathy. "Of course!" She jittered. "It makes perfect sense…"
Ron nearly choked on his own saliva. He nudged Harry sharply and threw him a questioning look. Harry shrugged and knew questions would be asked later.
"Well, good. Good." Nigel finished. "I guess I'll see you later then." With a smile and a nod Nigel took off back to his office.
The minute he left, all her friends seem to jump on her. "What was that?" "What a nut job!" "Please tell me you don't honestly believe that". Hermione couldn't work out who said what, but in her defence replied, "I think it's plausible. Obviously there is a lot of reading involved, but I understand where he's coming from…" She trailed off.
Her tone was convincing, but Harry and Ron detected the lie. They shared a quick doubtful look but decided to question her in private.
- - - 8:15 pm that night outside Nigel's office - - -
Assuming that Nigel actually meant something along the lines of, 'go to Hogsmead tonight and save the village from vampires around eight forty five' she turned up outside his office half an hour before. Pushing the door open she was not prepared for what she saw. Nigel was pacing about his room, a rucksack full of weapons on the desk, some conceal on his person. What took her by surprise was that in only a few short hours, Nigel seemed to have gained two stone and was wearing a gum shield.
He saw her and smiled, attempting to wave. Curiously closing the door behind her, Hermione asked, "What are you wearing?"
Nigel tried to speak but his voice was muffled by the gum shield. After removing it he answered, "I've padded up." He moved towards her and punched his own stomach. "I borrowed some of the house elves bedding. And before you say anything, I slipped a duvet or few into their quarters that I borrowed from the store room." Hermione's objection was cut short, but her perplexity wasn't.
"So you get to pad up, and I…?"
Nigel handed her the rucksack of weapons. "You get first pick!" He explained, trying to stuff escaping bedding back under his clothes. "Like to see them try and hurt me now!" He declared triumphantly. Hermione only raised her eyes. She looked to the back of weapons. In there was an axe, a few swords, a strange looking ball on chain, and a crowbar. Taking it out of the bag, Hermione held it up and before she could ask, Nigel explained, "Oh, it's for breaking into the underground tunnel. If I'm not mistaken we enter through a tomb in the cemetery… quite curious to be honest that they have been using that tomb."
Hermione looked to Nigel, "why?"
"Well", he began, "It's actually the tomb of the first headmaster of Hogwarts. Whoever he was. He wanted to be buried near his school. It's interesting because, it is rumoured that his tomb held hidden doors and traps which if activated correctly would lead you right under Hogwarts."
Hermione had read Hogwarts: A History so many times she could recite it in her sleep, but never before had she heard mention of this. "Why would he have done that? If he's dead why would he want an underground maze, just to get back to this place?"
"You of all people Hermione should appreciate that the dead don't always stay dead."
A little bit spooked Hermione zipped up the bag. "Anyway, it was only a rumour. Chances are it's just been made up by a few of the elders to add dept to the story of his death. People do love a good mystery."
Sitting on the edge of the desk Hermione sighed and looked to Nigel. "Nigel…. How many vampires are you expecting to be there?"
Nigel edged closer to her sensing her unease. "Oh you know the odd few… To be honest", he confessed, "I don't know if they are vampires. I got a report in today." He picked something out of his top drawer. "Here, you read it".
Hermione looked at the paper in her hands.
Dear Nigel Cavill,
I am writing to inform you that I received a report from my sources in Oxford stating that there have been recent migrations of the monitored demon and vampire populations to the village of Hogsmead. As of last night a state of emergency was declared by my agent there. He reported witnessing an increasing number of vampire activity, maybe demonic, around the graveyard and in focused areas in the Forbidden Forest. Please investigate this phenomenon with the help of Miss Granger and report back as soon as possible.
If my source is to be believed, you should expect some resistance. Best of luck
Reginald Howard
Head of Watchers Council
The slayer laid the paper down on the desk beside her. Determined to beat the feeling of anxiety and frustration she always felt just before slaying, Hermione looked up at Nigel and jumped off the desk.
"Who's this agent?"
Nigel put down his cup of tea. "I don't have a clue. I'd like to find out myself to be honest."
"Hmm, lets get going then."
- - - Library 10pm - - -
Lavender, Harry and Ron all slumped back on the bench. "I give up", Lavender moaned. "We've had no word from the others and we've looked everywhere she usually hangs out. Face it… she doesn't want to be found… again!"
Harry looked to Ron for his opinion. "Mate, I think she's probably, you know, doing girly stuff…. She has been flirting with that Ravenclaw for the past few weeks. Who knows?" Ron muttered somewhat dejectedly.
Harry sighed frustrated. "This isn't the first time she's disappeared though. It's happening more and more. I think next time we see her we just ask her out right. She isn't even on the Marauders map!"
Ron nodded in agreement. "Yea, all we can do really". He noted Lavender looking strangely at him, but chose to ignore it.
"Right, I'm off to finish off that assignment for Flitwick. Guess I'll see you later Ron. I'IL see you at the tournament tomorrow Lavy". Pensively, Harry sauntered away, leaving Ron and Lavender alone.
The way she was looking at him was starting to make him feel slightly uneasy. In an attempt to make the moment less thorny, Ron asked, "Don't suppose you've ever seen an angry hob goblin wearing your grandma's clothes have you?"
- - - Cemetery - - -
Hermione and Nigel had been trying to locate the tomb of the first headmaster of Hogwarts for quite some time. Although Hogsmead was only a small town, centuries of deaths soon mounted up to a large graveyard. It was a clear night, and the crisp cold nipped at Hermione's cheeks and ears.
Nigel was only a few paces ahead. He had decided that based on knowledge of how cemeteries were laid out, the tomb should be towards the back, close to the wall at the far end. He could hear his slayer close behind, shuffling her feet and mumbling. It brought a fond smile to his lips. As he skirted around one half subsided grave and ducked under branch, he felt a wave of satisfaction wash over him. There in front of him was the tomb they had been searching for.
He walked towards the tomb of calling, "Hermione-". Before he could finish his foot slipped, and before he knew it he was tumbling in to a pit. His stomach did somersaults in the split seconds it took for him to hit the ground. His head smashed against the floor sharply. He didn't feel much, in fact, he felt nothing. He was out.
Hermione could have sworn Nigel had called her. Where he was she did not know. She hadn't heard or seen him in a while. Scared, she scoured the graveyard, trying to find her watcher. She knew now where the tomb was. Upon hearing her name being called, she assumed that Nigel had found it too. It was a tomb that emitted a sense of grandeur and intrigue. It was still unknown who exactly the first headmaster of Hogwarts was, and the inscription above the door gave no clues. The tomb simply bore the crest of Hogwarts, and the carvings on either side of the door matched the statue of the first headmaster found in Hogwarts.
It was pitch black, and Nigel wasn't replying. She had walked around the tomb now a few times without hearing a single ounce of movement. Worry was taking its toll on her, so when she heard the shuffling of feet, she felt relieved and annoyed all in one. After all, Nigel had just wandered off, leaving her in this gothic cemetery all on her own, with the wind making wailing sounds between the graves, and the possibility of vampire attack at any minute.
She was currently stood hidden from view of the tomb they had been looking for behind a tall gravestone. More annoyed now than relieved she stepped to the side of the grave stone. The mystery 'shuffler' was not Nigel however. Her breath caught in her throat, and instinctively, she dodged back behind the grave.
In front of the marvellous gothic tomb was a cluster of strangely cloaked figures. The only light was that of the moon. It bathed the figures in a serenity their faces contradicted. From the quick glimpse she caught, their faces were deformed, resembling the snout of a pig, with tiny hollow sunken eyes. Their mouths were large with blunt fangs as far as the slayer could tell. She had never seen anything like it on this scale before. Pixies were one thing, these were another. They seemed to be dragging a weak, gangly body behind them. Hermione was sure she recognised the bikers' boots and the blazer. In fact, if she wasn't mistaken, she was sure that it was Badger they were kidnapping.
Perplexed as to why anyone would want to kidnap the most annoying prisoner they could find was beyond the slayer, but in the absence of Nigel, she felt it was regrettably her duty to find out. Though when she found him he was in big trouble!
- - - Few minutes later - - -
Hermione had waited patiently, listening carefully to the voices of the strangers. From what she could gather Badger had woken up and they had simply knocked him straight out again. Other than that, the language they spoke was old and prevented the slayer from making any sense of their words. It had been a few minutes since they had closed the door behind them. Common sense told Hermione that it was better to wait a while before running straight in after them.
When she finally plucked up the courage to emerge from behind the gravestone, she was greeted by one of the demons who was patrolling the outside of the tomb. All the hairs on her body stood still. Without even having to think, she pulled out her wand and whispered "Immobulus". This demon she wanted to keep quite. Any sound might alert the others to her presence. As Hermione intended the demon's body stiffened, and he fell to the floor. Creeping forward with the bag of weapons on her back she approached her victim and examined him. The only movement that he could manage was a desperate pleading of the eyes. Hermione wasn't one to kill an unarmed opponent, or anyone if she could avoid it.
"Sorry", she apologised before withdrawing her wand again. "Confundo". A cloak of confusion fell over the immobilised foe. Hermione wasn't sure due to the inefficiency of her new slayer magic how strong the spell would be. Now all she had to do was issue instructions and hope the spell was strong enough for him to follow them. But what exactly do you ask a strange demon to do? In a clear apologetic voice, she began, "When you are able to move again, you will leave and find nice demony vampire things to be friends with. Then perhaps you could do good instead of doing horrible bad things! Okay?" She asked, forgetting he was unable to reply. Regarding him, she 'hmmm-ed' doubtfully.
The slayer knew it was going to be a long night, and she was hardly prepared. Ignoring the dopey eyes of the demon on the floor beside the tomb, she lowered the rucksack and withdrew the axe. It was ancient by the looks of it. It was double bladed, with an intricate design and strange symbols. With no time to admire and using the strap she attached it to her back. The crow bar she managed to fit down her socks, Taking the sword into her hand she debated whether or not to cast the accio charm on the bag not. For if Nigel did decide to show up, he may need the remaining weapons. To err on the side of caution, Hermione tossed the bag to one side and out of view.
Bravely, she pushed open the door with the help of the alohamora charm. From a quick examination, this chamber had been locked by powerful magic, but brute demonic force seemed to have opened it after numerous attempts. Their attempt to keep the door locked was feeble in comparison to the original seal. As she poked her head around the door, Hermione felt dread tug at her insides from the untold enemies hidden inside. Much to her amazement however, the spacious tomb was empty.
Inside the tomb was not what the young witch had expected of the first headmaster of Hogwarts. It was not lavish, or full of busts of himself. In fact, if anything, it was rather plain. A simple stone tomb lay in the centre of the room, of which the lid had been removed. Floating balls of fire lit up the room. The walls bore no decoration, only the roof, which had a pyramid type structure bore any glyphs. Four small gargoyles heads were present in each corner of the roof, all their eyes bearing down into the tomb. Silently closing the door behind her, Hermione ventured further in to the tomb. She peered into where the coffin and body should have been laid to rest. Where the body and coffin had once laid, was a staircase. Where the coffin was, Hermione had no idea.
At the bottom of the stairs, as far as the slayer could make out, was another chamber. Feeling a surge of strength and bravery, Hermione carefully stepped onto the staircase. She had two options. Approach slowly and run the risk of having her legs cut out from underneath her, or jump down the stairs quickly and face her opponent. The decision was obvious. With feline prowess, the slayer effortlessly leapt down the stairs to land flawlessly at the bottom. Quickly assessing her situation, she was stunned to find herself once again alone. A little confounded, the slayer held her sword defensively and elegantly crept down the poorly lit corridor. It seemed that the corridor went on for ages! There was no noise from ahead, not even the muffling of footsteps. Nothing. No doors or other corridors branched off it. The suspense was making her more anxious by the footstep. It was only when the glimmer of a waving light ahead caught her sight, that Hermione felt able to devise a plan.
Even to her the plan seemed ridiculous, but it was all she could manage to think of. Her mind seemed to block all other thoughts from her head. It was as if it had a will of its own. With stubborn one track thinking Hermione had no choice but to carry on, drawing nearing to the light. As she did, she could hear the strange language of the demons. With little idea of what they were saying, Hermione hid in the shadows biding her time to evaluate how many demons were there, and the best plan of attack.
From what she could gather through the suffocating darkness, there were only two demons. They appeared to be stood, guarding something. A doorway most likely. She could take two. Her body was urging her into the fight with arrogant confidence. This wasn't like her at all. Almost enjoying the surging power, Hermione stepped out of the shadows towards the demons.
"Hello boys", she chimed, uncertain of why she had just said that. The only reason she could think of, was that it felt more empowering. If she acted like they were a breeze, then perhaps she could trick herself into believing them to be.
Startled, and temporarily stunned into a late response, the Demons could only gaze at the slayer with their gnarled mouths open. Smiling, Hermione spun her sword which she had concealed behind her back around in a swift movement. The demon closest to her doubled over and fell to the floor motionless. His companion looked down at his friends limp body and then back to the slayer. Too late. She was already descending on him. With the sword above her head, Hermione had leapt towards the second demon. She plunged it through him, and he too fell to the floor.
She was filled with guilt, but also a different emotion. It felt like justice. Where the demons had once laid was a pool of golden liquid. "Awww, bugger!" Hermione complained examining her gooey feet. "Oh well", she sighed. She had more important things to worry about. Hermione opened the door to the room the demons had been guarding. Inside was another empty room, bar one hunched over figure curled up on the floor. It was snivelling and whimpering to itself. Daringly Hermione stepped closer.
The figure suddenly stopped its self pity and looked Hermione dead in the eyes. What was at first a vicious cold glare, turned into almost adoring puppy dog eyes. "Crazy bambina! You've come to rescue me!"
Before Hermione could register Badgers voice, the vampire had descended on her, enveloping her in a tight embrace. He was almost squeezing the life out of her. Spluttering, Hermione forced herself out of his grip. "I thought it was you they were carrying", she explained.
"Oh you would not believe it! There I was doing my evening shopping; about to steal a gritty bit of leather jacket, and next thing you know, these guys jump on me. I thought they were just jealous of my superior fashion sense, but then they got nasty and whacked me one!"
Hermione listened half sympathetically, and half bemused as to why she was stood in an underground chamber listening to the woes of a vampire, that she, the vampire slayer, appeared to have just rescued. "Ahh…" Hermione nodded. "Mmmm" She hummed as he continued his story. "Aww no…"
Time was of the essence. The slayer didn't have time for this. "I'm sorry badger, but I have to get on. I need to find out what these guys are up to you see…" She trailed off hoping her would understand and leave. But no!
"Okay, so, what are we looking for then?"
Hermione raised her brow, "Erm… well. It's just; it's something I was kind of going to do alone. You know?"
Badger looked appalled at the idea. "If you think I'm going back out there on my own you can think again missy!"
Rolling her eyes in dismay, Hermione declared, "Fine! But don't lag behind or make too much noise. I want this over and done with as soon as possible. Badger nodded obediently. "Here", Hermione said as handed over her sword. "You take that. I'll use the axe". She un-strapped her axe and wielded it in front of her. "Shall we go then?"
Badger nodded timidly. "Don't worry girlie! If things get messy I'll scream like a girl and warn you to run away." Hermione groaned mentally.
Here we go….
- - - Boys Dormitory - - -
The occupants of Harry's dormitory watched uncomfortably as Harry writhed and shouted in his sleep. Whatever he was dreaming it was a nightmare. Ron looked up at Neville who was watching Harry a little fearfully.
"Do you think we should get McGonagall?" Seamus asked quietly. "I mean if that spell you cast didn't work Ron I don't know what will…"
Ron shook his head. "Nah mate. I think we should leave it. Harry's dreams always have some sort of meaning. I think it's a sign that he won't wake up. Give it a few more minutes."
Dean shivered and wrapped his blanket tighter around himself. It was awful watching his friend suffer like this.
Harry felt tears stream down his face as he relived the moment his god father Sirius died. Panic stricken and in turmoil, Harry ran towards Sirius' body. But once again he was transported to a different moment in time and space. This time Harry was crouched down in an oh too familiar place. The Forbidden Forest. There was no wind blowing through the trees. Only scraps of moonlight broke through the dense canopy of the forest and an eerie sound of a bird cawing cut through the air. Something about this place felt like home. Like he belonged here. His tears ceased. A beam of moonlight was disturbed. A shadow moved through the forest parallel to him.
Harry lifted his wand and cast a flare off into the direction of the shadowy figure. Stood proudly between two enormous trees was the animagus form of his late godfather, Padfoot! The eyes of the shaggy dog fixed on Harry and bore longingly in to him. Gasping Harry cried out. "Sirius!"
"Harry! Harry! Are you okay?" Asked Ron, trying to hold his friend down to prevent him tumbling out of bed. His forehead was drenched in cold sweat, and his cheeks stained with tears.
Harry gasped, unsure of if he was really awake or not. His friends were all stood around his bed, looking over him with concerned expressions.
As Harry lay shivering in bed, his complexion sickly, his friends listened carefully to his words. " I need to speak to Dumbledore…"
- - - Morning - - -
Dawn soon approached, and with it so did Nigels' consciousness. His muffled awakening was long drawn out and remarkably painful. His body was stiff, cold and aching all over. His head was pounding and his vision was blurred. It took him two minutes nearly of laying still just to regain his sight and sense of awareness. Shakily, he pushed himself up to sitting. It seemed he had been lying in this pit all night. But what about the slayer? Why hadn't she found him? Where was she? With thoughts only of finding Hermione, he tried his hardest to stand and then recover enough strength to pull himself out of the ditch. It took many attempts, but eventually Nigel was free of the ditch. Once he was on ground level he stood to look at where he had fallen.
Hyacinth Yolanda
Born 1967
Died _
Nigel stood temporarily frozen. He had been laid in the grave of Hyacinth Yolanda, who apparently was not yet deceased. Puzzled, grumpy and concerned, he felt a sudden sympathy for the vampires that had to claw their way out of their own grave.
Close by Nigel caught sight of the weapons bag they pair had dragged with them last night. The watcher's first thoughts were to try the door on the tomb, but it was stuck fast. Obviously Hermione didn't get in last night. This was probably for the best considering. In which case Nigel turned and picked up the bag. Perhaps the slayer had returned to school, unable to find him in the dark? Hopeful, Nigel began to slowly make his way towards Hogwarts. Every step induced more pain, but he had to find out what happened to Hermione. The pain didn't matter.
- - - Hermione and Badger - - -
Hermione, who had no concept or idea of the time, had been vigilantly making her way through the labyrinth that herself and Badger had uncovered beneath the tomb. It felt like they had been searching and clambering about for hours, and without a glimpse of the world above. There had been no sign of anyone else in the tunnels what so ever. It seemed that whatever those demons were doing down here, it was something they didn't want others to find. The pair had given up ages ago trying to find the demons, and had spent what seemed like an eternity trying to find their way out.
"You know, I definitely think I recognise this rock. I swear we passed it a few hours ago…" Badger chirped, taking this as a positive thing. Hermione didn't say a word.
"I take it your lost?" An alluring voice echoed through the tunnel. Hermione lit her wand up and came face to face with none other than Jasper. A devilish smile played on his lips, enticing her at once. Even Badger seemed to fall under his spell.
" He could bite me any day", he whispered to Hermione, who blushed both for Badger and herself.
"I don't suppose you want some help?" He asked charmingly. Speechless both Hermione and Badger nodded. Smirking at them, Jasper strode beyond them, leading the way.
- - - Chess Tournament - - -
No one had seen Hermione since dinner yesterday, and no matter how hard her friends tried, they could not find sight of her anywhere. Ron was scheduled in for a chess tournament in the first round, and his best friend was no where to be seen. The Gryffindor's were all gathered in the entrance hall, hoping to catch Hermione on her way to the great hall to watch Ron. Alas, she never showed.
"Could all student taking part in the chess tournament or spectating please make their way to the Great Hall now please", rang McGonagall's voice throughout the school. The friends looked at each other worried.
Lune approached the group and shook her head. "She's not in the greenhouses either, or outside."
"This is ridiculous!" Ginny cried. "I say we talk to Dumbledore. Or- Professor Cavill!" Ron furrowed his brow with a degree of absurdity.
"Why would he know where she is?" He asked his younger sister.
"No!" Ginny exasperated. "Look!" She pointed to the main doors were a battered and fragile looking Nigel stumbled in to the Hall. Concerned the students approached him.
"Professor!" Harry exclaimed. "What happened?"
Nigel tried his hardest to stand straight and ignore the pain. His raspy voice was quivering as he replied. "Oh you know. Thought I'd give camping a try…" He laughed awkwardly. "Never again…" The students didn't seem at all convinced. "Aren't you missing one?" Nigel asked slyly, trying to acquire information about Hermione.
A glum look fell on to their faces. "We haven't seen Hermione since last night professor", Ron explained, worry evident on his face. "Don't suppose you've seen her?" He asked Nigel not expecting much of a reply.
Nigel's stomach flipped with disappointment and fear. "No….I hasn't. But don't worry. She'll be fine. I'm sure", he lied.
"We're your guest commentators, Fred and George Weasley! Welcome to the Hogwarts Chess Tournament!" The voices of Ron's elder brothers rang through out the school. The friends all looked to each other uncertain of what to do.
After hearing about Ron's chess skills from Hermione, Nigel immediately picked up on his current situation. "Shouldn't you be getting to the Great Hall?" He asked them. "Don't worry. I'll go and speak to a few of the professors and we'll look for Hermione."
It took some persuading, but Nigel finally managed to encourage Hermione's friends to attend the tournament. This was his responsibility. He would find Hermione.
- - - Jasper, Hermione and Badger - - -
Hermione and Badger had followed Jasper rather aimlessly. Both were too pre-occupied with Jasper to appreciate their previous duties. Jasper must have been aware of it Hermione had thought. Whenever he was around her, she felt like a mess. He emitted a sense of awe.
"Here we are!" He declared. "Can you both feel it?"
Badger sniggered childishly, "I can try!" Hermione elbowed him sharply. She felt a sense of deja-vu. She had felt this presence before on the train to Hogwarts. Whatever lay ahead in the tunnel must have been the item that was transported on the train. Curiously, she found herself walking down the tunnel to find a heavy wooden door at the end. She laid her hand on it and felt ripples of power surging through her.
"What is it?" She asked out loud.
Jasper stood close behind her. "A very ancient power. Perhaps the rawest form of magical energy which has been harnessed. How they managed it I do not know. But they've have been storing it here for a few weeks now. This is what you are here for."
Badger appeared alongside the two, un-unnervingly close. "So, what's behind the door then? Or who?"
Hermione looked at the smaller vampire she had found herself befriending. "Want to find out?" She asked him with a dangerous smile on her face. Badger returned it.
"As long as you two go first and do all the dirty work, I'm game!"
Smiling fondly Hermione pushed open the door expecting to see some kind of giant floating orb of magical energy. However when the three adventurers entered the room, they found it empty.
"They've moved it!" Jasper griped kicking a stool over. "Those demons must have been here for the task."
"But how can we still feel the energy?" Hermione questioned, trying not to find his brief moment of anger frightening.
"It's only residual energy. It's like when you put your hand on a steamed over mirror. Once the steam has gone, you can still see the hand print smear."
Badger was about to retort with something witty he hoped would lighten the mood, when voices rung out from above. "Shhh!" Jasper ordered. The trio carefully made their way to a makeshift ladder of metal pegs. Whoever was conversing above was stood beyond the trap door at the top of the ladder. All it took was a quick glance at each other and the decision was made. Taking the lead Jasper ran effortlessly up the metal pegs and burst through the trap door.
Immediately light flooded through the door and much to Hermione's amazement, did not scold Badger. For a second forgetting herself, she made an inquisitive face at Badger. "What?" He shrieked. "Sun cream is the best thing you know to stop aging! My mum swears by it…I spray myself all over everyday. Bloody UVB rays!"
Deciding that words would not surmise how she felt, Hermione took her slayer duties upon herself and ran up the steps, emerging in the forbidden forest. Without hesitation she sprung in to action. Badger was close behind her, trying to stay mostly in the shade. The demons they had been following appeared to have taken a quick nap above the surface. In the daylight Hermione noted that their faces were yellow and orange. They were strong fighters, but not strong enough. Every time one was vanquished they melted into gold liquid.
Jasper had already defeated a few, leaving slim pickings for Badger and Hermione. Not that either minded too much. Badger was too busy dodging the falling bodies and throwing rocks at those attacking Hermione. It wasn't that Hermione minded, but on the odd occasion that they hit her, she did find herself quite put out and stumbling somewhat. She drove her fist through the chest of one demon, which hadn't actually been intentional. Gold fluid clung too her hand, as she lower her body to lift her right leg high and swing, hitting one demon square in the face, sending him flying back on to the sword Badger was holding.
"Ha! Look! I got one!" He declared proudly.
Hermione didn't have time to reply. She ducked to the ground and swung her leg around knocking over one demon that had been about to plunge a dagger into her shoulder. He fell to the floor and as she raised her axe, Jasper finished the job before she could.
"Oi!" She moaned. "I had that".
He glided past her throwing an arrogant look her way. "If you say so slayer."
Frustrated, Hermione attacked a near by demon who had been busy trying to find his weapon somewhere in his robes. Believing him to be distracted, Hermione tried to punch him but he was very alert and blocked her punch, then back handed her. Hermione fell to the floor and rolled onto her back. The demon ran at her. Using her feet, Hermione pushed him back and then sprung onto her feet. She was quick enough on her feet to kick him back again. They exchanged a few punches, before Hermione retrieved her axe and swung it, planting it in his back.
She spun on her heel quickly to survey the battlefield, but only herself, Jasper and Badger who was cowering behind a tree remained. Looking a little worse for wear the three met by Badger. "So…." Badger began, not entirely sure what to finish with.
"I guess we won!" Beamed Hermione feeling proud.
Jasper chuckled and shook his head. "This was nothing. Just a hiccup, All we've found out is that whatever weapon it is they have was being held here, and now it's been moved. It means work will have to start all over again."
Badger and Hermione looked to each other feeling embarrassed by their pride. "Way to kill the morale", he uttered under his breath. Jasper shot him an unimpressed glare, In an attempt to move on badger declared, "Well, isn't it a lovely day? I haven't seen midday in years!" He remarked.
Hermione smiled at him before realisation dawned on her. "Crap! Ron!" Without a moments look back, the slayer darted off through the forest.
"Whose Ron?" Jasper asked Badger perplexed?
Badger shrugged retreating into the shadows. "Don't look at me!"
Concealed beneath the twisting exposed roots of a tree, the scruffy shaggy dog watched intrigued as the girl darted off and the two males fell to an underground cavern.
'Fancy that'
Hey guys. Thanks for reading if you've gotten this far. Hope you enjoyed it. Please review.
