Practice

He couldn't stop now. He closed his tired eyes and rested for only the briefest of moments. He needed to keep moving. They were closing in on him.

A scraping noise in the distance snapped his eyes open, and quickened his already fast beating heart. He looked around again, and raced down the dark alleyway staying out of the light. He needed to hurry. Turning the corner, he found himself at the doorway. Taking another quick look around, he entered the shop.

The shop owner looked up and his face paled instantly, "Y… y… you," he stammered.

"Yes, it's me," he said half annoyed, and half angry, "Do you have it?"

The shop owner visibly swallowed hard and nodded nervously, "Yes, but you have to understand that it still doesn't function…,"

"I don't care!" he spat out interrupting, flecks of spittle landing on the other man, "I can fix it."

The other man reached down under the counter, and brining out a plain box, waved his wand over it. A loud click came from it and the cover opened. He reached in and with shaking hands, held out the golden object.

He snatched it out of the shopkeeper's hands with a snarl. He looked at it and his mouth curled into a sneer.

A small cough from the owner brought his eyes up to regard the other man from beneath his eyebrows, "Yes?" he held onto the word for a beat, leaving a sinister edge to it.

"You promised to pay…"

"I know I promised to pay, you small little man," he spat out venomously.

The shop owner's face paled even more and a bead of sweat rolled down his face, but he was too terrified to wipe it off.

"Here," he tossed a bag of galleons at the owner, "Your payment."

The owner caught the bag and stammered, "Th… thank you."

He looked the golden object in his hand, "If you tell anyone I was here…," he let the comment hang for a moment and looked at the other man expectantly.

"Of course I won't say anything!" he said, quickly nodding at the man in front of him, "You have my word! Please just go and I won't tell anyone."

He heard the genuine pleading come from the other man and decided he had wasted enough of his precious time with such an insignificant. He thrust the object into a pocket in his robes and quickly turned to leave, "I know you won't say anything," he turned to look at the man, "I intended to ensure that."

The other man's eyes widened at the realization, "No! Wait!"

"Avada Kedavra!"

A flash of green light illuminated the shop before quickly fading as fast as it had appeared. A loud, heavy thunk from behind the counter was the only sound from the dead owner. Quickly, he rushed behind the counter, and ripped the bag of galleons from the dead man's hands. With a quick flick of his robes he was out of the door, slamming the door so hard upon his exit that the Borgin & Burkes sign rattled above him.

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Hermione dived behind the column, barely avoiding the spell. It hit the column instead, and exploded a chunk off of it, showering her with dust. She coughed, waved her hand to try and clear the air, and peaked out quickly to find her adversary. It almost cost her, as another spell whizzed by her face. She was blinded as the bright red light flashed by. She threw herself back and closed her eyes, shaking her head to clear her vision while at the same time listening to her surroundings. All she heard was silence and the rapid thumping of her heart against her ribs, which at this moment felt like it was going to burst out through her chest.

A scuff sound to her left snapped her eyes opened, and she turned to the source sound. She never saw what it was. A flash of white, and she was blown back hard 10 feet and into the neighboring column. She impacted against it so hard, her wand flew from her grip and her breath was knocked from her, and stars replacing the blindness in her eyes. She coughed hard, trying to get her breath back. She saw her opponent approaching slowly to her with his wand outstretched. There was nothing she could do.

She was still gasping for breath while looking up at the man. His wand was pointed at her and severe disappointment was evident in his expression.

"I expected better from you," was all he said.

She closed her eyes.

"You are indeed out of practice," he said and put his wand away, "I'd expect more of a fight from you," he paused and shrugged, "Well more of anything really."

Aberforth kneeled down and helped her sit up against the column she had been blasted into, "A first year could have little trouble with you."

She gave him a dark look as she regained her breath. Looking into her flushed face, he gave her an encouraging smile.

"But I do sense a lot of potential," he said and put his hand on her shoulder, "You need work yes, but you also need something else."

"What's that?" she gasped, wiping the sweat from her forehead.

"Faith," he said, "Faith in yourself. You were hesitating, and you can't do that too often and expect to live."

She groaned in pain, wrapping her arms around of her middle. She knew she must have broken or damaged some ribs from the impact. Closing her eyes, she rested her head back against the column. She stayed like that for several minutes and he waited patiently next to her.

"I'm dreadful," she whispered, "I should have known what you were doing."

"Oh?" he said with surprise, "And what makes you say that?"

She looked at him, "I just should have known. That's how Harry trained me. To anticipate and know my opponent."

"Hmmm," he nodded his head in understanding, "I think that's some of the problem."

She regarded him quizzically, "What do you mean?"

He sat down next to her and held his hands upwards, "I think you're trying to force something that you thought you knew."

Her dark look returned, "Are you suggesting Harry taught me wrong?"

"I didn't say that, did I?" he replied in a calm voice, "I merely suggested that you are forcing it. Harry was not wrong to teach you to anticipate and know your opponent. But you have to relearn what was taught to you."

She nodded, understanding what he meant.

"And you need to learn to be you," he added.

She looked at him dumbfounded. He sighed, "Hermione, you have spent the majority of your life thinking and fighting in ways which were taught to you by others. You never really found out what really works for you."

She looked away and stared at the far way in contemplation. Was he right? She cast her mind back and began to see his point. She couldn't remember a time when she wasn't coached or taught to fight in a certain way.

Seeing her mind working he pressed onwards, "Between Albus, Minerva, Harry, and others, you have learned how they think you should fight, but that's not your way."

He paused, before adding, "You need to start from the beginning and build you up to what you can be. Do you understand that Hermione?"

She nodded, "Yes. I just don't know if I know who I am anymore."

He smiled sadly at her, his eyes regarded her with care, "Ahhh my child. You have what it takes to find that out," he pointed at her heart, "But it's locked up in there. Break the lock that binds it and release that strength that's yours and yours alone."

He paused and let his words sink in. He watched her and the emotions running through her.

She closed her eyes tight and fought back the tears, "It's been so long…" she breathed.

He just nodded and remained silent. She was fighting two battles in front of his eyes and he could only watch.

She wiped a tear that fell from her eye and looked up at the ceiling, "I don't know if I can do this without him," she looked at him, "He was my strength."

"You don't have to," he replied and with earnest in his voice he continued, "He is always with you in here," he pointed at her heart, "Don't ever forget that."

She looked at him and admitted something she had only ever told Harry, "I'm scared."

He patted her arm gently, "I know you are, but that's what protects you. Guides you. Fear is a friend too Hermione. Don't treat it like an enemy. Otherwise it will defeat you long before your opponents do."

She closed her eyes and nodded, "I understand," she said, and then suddenly felt woozy from her injuries, "I feel lousy."

"And no surprise too," he quickly replied, "You were dreadful."

"Thanks," she said wincing as she tried to sit up more.

He got up and helped her to her knees, "But not completely hopeless."

She chuckled and then gave a small cry of pain. She placed a hand on her side and muttered quietly for a few moments. Aberforth's eyebrows shot up in surprise at the language she used.

"You have a couple of cracked ribs," he said and then pointed at the column, "Probably from when you decided to use the column as your way to stop yourself."

She shook her head, "That wasn't my idea."

"You get to Poppy," he helped her slowly to her feet, "She'll fix you up in no time. Just tell her you fell down the stairs or something."

Hermione nodded, "Thank you Aberforth."

He smiled, "Ahh… you say that now. We haven't even begun."

Her eyes widened at his comments, "Oh," was all she was able to say.

He winked at her with a smile and turned to the portrait to take him back to the Hog's Head, "Rest up my child. I'll see you tomorrow evening."

She watched as the portrait closed behind him, wondering if she would survive to the end of the week. She grabbed her wand and groaned in pain as she slowly made her way out of the Room of Requirements towards the Infirmary. She knew she needed to get better. She clenched her jaw with determination and made her decision. She was going to improve and she knew what she needed to do.

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Hermione took a sip of her orange juice as she unrolled her copy of The Daily Prophet and immediately spit it out. Her breakfast companion looked up in shock at the orange explosion and then at Hermione.

"Taste bad?" Luna asked.

Hermione did not reply. She was too focused on reading the front-page story. Luna watched the look of surprise turn to shock on her friend's face and became concerned.

"Hermione, what's wrong?"

Hermione's only reply was to read the article.

Knockturn Alley Murder!

The Daily Prophet is sad to report that the Borgin in Borgin & Burkes has been found dead in his shop this morning. His body was discovered by his partner, Mr. Burke, and aurors were immediately called to the scene. Based on a preliminary investigation given to this reporter from a confidential source, the Auror Department has ruled the death suspicious and likely the result of the killing curse.

At this time, The Prophet is unable to definitively report how or what happened to Mr. Borgin as the Ministry is keeping the circumstances surrounding Mr. Borgin's death a secret. However, The Prophet was able to speak to Mr. Burke, who confirms that there was nothing stolen and all the money in the till was accounted for, which rules out a simple robbery. When asked by this reporter about any secret dealings his partner may have had, Mr. Burke was unable to shine any light as to what his partner and friend might have been involved in, but assured both the aurors and The Prophet that he would cooperate fully with the Ministry's investigation. The Prophet was unable to get a comment from Amelia Bones, the head of the D.M.L.E., regarding this death prior to this printing. A full statement is due to be released very soon according to her office.

With all of this secrecy and lack of communication, this reporter begins to wonder if Mr. Borgin's suspicious death is not related to the recently escaped Severus Snape, the former Death Eater and Hogwarts Potions Master. More details will of course be reported to our faithful readers the moment The Prophet learns them.

Hermione looked at Luna after finishing the article with a look for pure dumbfounded surprise. Luna's expression was more incredulous.

"Poor Mr. Borgin," Luna sighed.

"'Poor Mr. Borgin?'" Hermione asked, surprised that this was Luna's first comment and said so, "I just read you Snape's first action after escaping Azkaban and that's the first thing you think of?"

Luna blinked her surprise at her friend, "Of course," she replied evenly, "I believe it is sad when someone dies. I'm sorry if I don't have the history that you do, not to feel sorrow at his death."

Hermione groaned inside because Luna was right. Her friend was far more empathetic than Hermione was. And while yes, Luna was right that she didn't have the knowledge or history of Borgin like Hermione did, it still did not mean that Hermione should have dismissed or mocked her friend's feelings and thoughts.

"I'm sorry, Luna," Hermione said, "You're right. I got caught up with the story, and what it could mean I didn't mean to belittle your feelings."

Luna nodded, "It's okay. I understand how you feel."

A few quiet moments fell between them.

"It would be logical to think Snape was involved," Luna stated, ending the tension.

Hermione looked at her friend and nodded, "It couldn't be anyone, but," she replied, "What was he doing there?"

"Borgin's & Burke's does deal in dark magic and dark magical objects," Luna said, "Maybe they had something Snape wanted."

Hermione concentrated on the glass of juice in front of her and nodded, her mind lost in thought, "But what?" she whispered.

Neither woman could answer, but both were left puzzling what could be worth killing for.

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"Okay class… quills down. Let's see how you all did."

The students let out a collective breath and a rustling of bodies shifting in their seats was heard. This was Hermione's last class of day, Advanced Arithmancy, which ordinarily was a pleasure to teach, but she was still not quite as calmed down as Luna had suggested she become. She was angry at how Snape's disappearance and now this murder were being handled. Not that she blamed Kingsley, quite the opposite, but she was angry nevertheless.

She turned to her star pupil, "Miss. Hartwell," she motioned her to the board, "Let's see what you've got."

Chandra smiled and confidently approached the board. On her way by Jackson, a small snort and a quiet, "Suck-up," was heard.

Chandra's face went red and she scowled at the boy. Hermione quickly jumped on the exchange, "Did you have something to say, Mr. Mitchell?"

"Of course not, Professor," came the boy's sarcastic reply, matched with a sarcastic look.

She held out her hand and stopped Chandra, "Actually Miss. Hartwell, have a seat," she looked at Jackson with a cold expression, "I think Mr. Mitchell just volunteered," she motioned him towards the board, "Well?"

Chandra, smiling, returned to her seat while Jackson sat up straighter in his, "What?" he exclaimed with all sarcasm lost, "Are you serious?"

"Very," came Hermione's cold reply.

"What if I don't want to?" he asked with a bit of his pompous and cockiness nature returning.

"I wasn't asking you," came Hermione's reply, "I was telling you."

The room was silent as the two squared off.

"I think this is harassment," he said to Hermione.

"Fine, as long as you come up here and answer the questions," Hermione said.

A couple of people in the class sniggered at her reply, but were immediately silenced by Jackson's glare. Hermione's patience was quickly running out, especially with this boy.

"Would you care for detention?"

He sat back in his chair with a confident grin, "I won't be serving detention."

There were several gasps and Chandra's face went white at his reply.

"Oh really?" Hermione calmly said.

"I'm sick of this class," he said and stood and grabbed his books, "My father will have me out of here by the end of the day."

"Sit down," Hermione said sternly.

"Make me," he said, as he started walking out of class.

"Mr. Mitchell, if you leave you'll be getting more than just one night's detention. I will immediately speak to the Headmistress about a more formal suspension."

He stopped and snorted, "My mother and father serve on the school board. I don't think you or she can make that stick."

"You think you're above the rules don't you," Hermione coldly asked.

He smiled, "Not above them, but just they just don't really apply."

Hermione's reaction to his comment surprised everyone. She laughed out loud.

"My God, you really are him reincarnated," she said, "You are such a sad little boy."

His faced flushed with anger, "I'm not the sad one here, Professor," his tone very derogatory with her title, "I'm not the one who's been locking herself away from the world after her supposedly brave boyfriend went and got his mind wiped."

Chandra tuned and saw her professor's face go white one second, then bright red in anger the next. Hermione took one step forward and Chandra could feel the magical energy in the room increase exponentially. She was suddenly afraid Hermione might actually unleash that power on Jackson.

"I beg your pardon you inconsiderate and rude little arse?" Hermione spoke with a slight echoing if power in her voice.

This tone actually made Jackson take a step back in fear. He wondered if he'd overstepped the line, "My family told me that you were a hermit and that McGonagall offered you this job out of sympathy."

The class looked back at Hermione and now they all could feel the energy she was radiating. As a class, they all, in that moment, silently vowed never to anger Professor Granger… ever.

Several tense moments passed before Hermione, through gritted teeth just said, "Get out."

Jackson, trying to regain his composure sneered, "With pleasure," and left.

Hermione stayed still, trying to calm herself. After what seemed like hours a soft voice spoke up.

"Professor?"

Hermione blinked and realized the class was still in session and she shook her head, "I'm sorry to you all for that immature display from myself," she returned to the front of the room and looked back at the door, "Mr. Mitchell's immature behavior abhorrent."

The class remained silent. Hermione decided that enough was enough for the day. She knew that within an hour this confrontation would be all over the school and she needed to speak to McGonagall before it blew up beyond control.

"You all know your next assignments," she said, "Please make sure you double-check your work and pass it in with your papers for the next lesson. Have a good rest of your day."

The class quickly stood and as fast as they could, vacated the room. Hermione sat down at her desk, head in her hands, and calmed herself.

"Are you okay Professor?"

Hermione's head whipped up at the voice and saw Chandra standing at her desk with a worried expression.

Hermione gave the girl a small smile, "Yes, Miss. Hartwell. I'll be fine."

"I'm sorry."

Hermione shook her head, "Nothing for you to apologize for," she indicated the door, "He was the one being rude."

"I know, but," she stopped.

"But what?" Hermione asked, already knowing the question.

"Is what he said true?" Chandra asked almost hoping the answer would be a no.

Hermione gazed at her student for a moment and then answered, "Yes Chandra, he was right to a point. I did shut myself away after my boyfriend's mind was wiped. The rest of what he was alluding to was made up for whatever reasons to try and hurt me."

Chandra nodded sadly, "I'm sorry."

Hermione stood, still smiling, "It's okay, but thank you. Now run along, I have to see the Headmistress about this before it blows up beyond proportion."

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Hermione had been half right in her prediction. It was within thirty minutes after class ended that the school knew what had happened, not the hour she had predicted. Of course, everyone on the school board's reactions were exactly how she expected it to go. After two hours in McGonagall's office she made her way down to dinner, weary and having a pounding headache. The Great Hall quieted down when she entered and returned to its full volume when she reached her chair. She sat down next to Luna, who stopped talking with Valdore.

"Don't," Hermione said immediately as she heard Luna take a breath, "I'm not in the mood."

Luna and Valdore gave each other worried looks. Valdore decided to break the tension.

"Did you get sacked?" he asked.

Hermione took a long drink from her glass and almost slammed the cup on the table, "No, but it was close," she said through clenched teeth.

"How close?" Luna asked.

Hermione looked over at Jackson, who was laughing and joking with his fellow Slytherins, "His parents tried to get me sacked, but McGonagall managed to remind everyone who I was and that she would support me."

Valdore's eyebrows went up, "That is a very impressive defense," he said with admiration in his voice, "Between what you did years ago, your Order of Merlin, your book, the support from the Hogwarts staff and both the power of the Black and Potter names and estates behind you…," he paused and looked at Luna with respect, "They would not have had a chance to sack you. It would be the equivalent of Lucius Malfoy trying to sack Dumbledore and arresting Harry Potter at the same time."

Hermione swallowed her mouthful of food and muttered quietly, "Not that the arsehole didn't try."

Luna placed a calming hand on her friend's arm, "Well at least it's over now and no damage was done."

"Yes," Valdore agreed and tried to pile on to Luna's positive outlook, "And you don't have the reincarnated white ferret in your class anymore."

Hermione shot him with a dark look before returning to her meal. She stabbed a carrot onto her fork, "He's still in my class."

"What?!" Luna and Valdore asked at once.

Hermione gripped her utensils hard and in a slightly exasperated voice explained, "I couldn't convince the board to kick him out of my class because of his attitude. Apparently, he's 'brilliant' at arithmancy and passing my class will help him get a Ministry job."

"Is he 'brilliant' at arithmancy?" Luna asked.

Hermione shook her head and grumbled, "Not that brilliant."

Valdore looked over Jackson, "Does the kid know he's still in your class?"

Suddenly a barn owl flew into the Great Hall and swooped down towards the Slytherin table.

Hermione watched the owl's flight path and swallowed a sip of her drink, "I think he's about to find out."

The owl was indeed delivering a letter for the boy in question, and from the look on Jackson's face when he read the letter, Hermione's prediction came true. The boy looked at Hermione and gave her the darkest scowl he could muster. He crumpled the letter and threw it angrily in the fire as he stormed out of the Great Hall.

Valdore suddenly chuckled. Luna looked at him then at Hermione with confusion. Hermione shrugged her shoulders.

Luna leaned in close to him, "Valdore?"

Valdore looked at her and paused in his chuckling, "Sorry. I was just thinking...," he paused and chuckled more, "That boy is in trouble."

"Why?" Luna asked.

"You know Hermione better than I do, but I do know she's angry," at Luna's confirming nod he jerked his thumb at the hall entrance, "And now that Snape's escaped and plotting something, the boy doesn't have a clue what dragon he just poked," he finished pointed at Hermione.

Luna looked at Hermione and smiled at her friend's scowl, "Oh that boy's in serious trouble."

Hermione just kept eating, ignoring her friend's conversation.