Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter.
Foreword: Another chapter! I have to admit that this is unedited somewhat. I have a dental surgery to go to soon and I'm not sure if I will have the capacity to look over it once it is over, so I decided to put it up now. However, despite its flaws, I personally like this chapter.
From the End to the Start
Chapter XII
It had been five days since the incident at Borgin and Burkes. Hermione was spread out on Harry's bed, her head laying on top of Harry's single pillow that was now charmed to increase comfort. Alongside that were the sheets and mattress and were now magically cleaned from all stains that had previously been there permanently. Above her and held by her two hands was the Daily Prophet. On the cover of the newspaper that had once scorned Harry and now labeling him a hero was the new piece, "Borgin and Burkes in Flames!"
It was a sensationalized – of course it was, the Daily Prophet wrote it after all – account of what 'truly' happened in Borgin and Burkes. It was purportedly believed that Mr. Borgin, being a stand-up and model wizard despite his penchant for selling dark artifacts, was boldly denying service to Death Eaters who had been trying to coerce him into letting go several dangerous objects for their use. Mr. Borgin took a stand against these terrifying adversaries and set fire to his own shop. Unfortunately, Mr. Borgin was struck unconscious by a spell and was burned in the flames himself. He was a true hero and a martyr for the people.
Hermione had to roll her eyes at that. She was surprised it had taken several days for the Daily Prophet to publish the article concerning the destruction of the store. Nevertheless, she knew the truth behind that entire debacle. Mr. Borgin and his loathsome shop was no more thanks to her. At first, Hermione felt she should have grieved over taking another human's life. In reality though, she felt no reaction or extreme emotions that she expected to have. Only the satisfaction that she had done a service for the good of society was there in her heart. Though concerned, Hermione pushed away those thoughts as quick as they came. Dwelling on it would do no good.
She shifted her focus away from the article and to the young man that sat at his desk diligently writing. Harry was finishing up with what remained of his summer assignments. Hermione had suggested she looked over it, but to her surprise, Harry insisted that he did so on his own. Harry's new proactive stance was remarkable and a bit refreshing considering the amount of times she had been his human spellchecker. Though she deftly wondered what brought this subtle change, Hermione wasn't one to look at a gift horse in the mouth.
It was only when the frantic scratching of Harry's quill died down that Hermione spoke up from the bed, "Are you finished Harry?"
"Almost," came the immediate reply, "I just need to write a concluding paragraph for the Transfiguration paper and then I'll be all set to enjoy the rest of my summer."
Hermione smiled, her tone cheerful, "That's wonderful Harry! Are you sure you don't need my help?"
"I'm fine Hermione, but thank you for offering. I have this under control."
Though pensive at first, Hermione simply relented and went back to her reading. According to the political section of the Daily Prophet, there were rumors that Fudge was to soon step down from his position as Minister of Magic. Hermione was convinced that it wasn't purely fabrication considering the events of the previous continuity. As she continued on with the section, there was speculation on who was the most likely candidate for Minister. The names Bones, Scrimgeour, and Thicknesse were all accounted for, but to her surprise, Arthur Weasley was also amongst the names of potential Ministers.
Now that was an interesting thought. Hermione supposed it wouldn't be too bad to have Ron's father as the Minister of Magic. He was a well-meaning family man who would often try to do the right thing. With that in mind, Arthur would do wonders as the leader of Magical Britain. But – there was always a but – was he capable of being a suitable chief in wartime? Sure his personality traits and morals would no doubt make him an astounding Minister during peacetime, but given the rising crisis of Voldemort and Death Eaters, was he truly suitable? Then again, Hermione thought, he certainly held it together at Hogwarts even when Fred died. Hermione did recall during her many conversations with Molly that when he had been younger, Arthur was the spitting image of his son, Bill. Handsome, cool, intelligent, and with an air of absolute confidence? No wonder strong-willed women such as Fleur and Molly fell for them.
Other than the speculation of candidates, there was nothing else worthwhile to read in the Daily Prophet. There had been a gossip column where the writer rambled on and on about celebrities in the wizarding world, but Hermione was not one to read such trivialities. Although, it did amuse her to find that there was a mention of Harry within its musings. She made the exception and read that tiny tidbit. Much to her amusement, she found theories of Harry's relationship status. Once again, the Daily Prophet had painted her as the number one mistress of Harry's love life. Someone from Hogwarts must have tipped the Daily Prophet that Harry deliberately left his date with Cho to meet her from a few months ago. While it was true, there was little to no context as to his reasons. Nevertheless, it was entertaining to read about society's profound absorption over a lad's love life like a couple of school girls.
After drawing that comparison, the image of Lavender and Parvati huddling together in a corner whispering and giggling came to mind. Hermione heartily chuckled at that picture. Harry stopped his writing once more and turned his head towards Hermione, he asked, "What's so funny?"
"Oh, nothing Harry. Just an amusing thought popped into my head." Hermione felt no need to elaborate, "Harry, have you gotten a letter from either Ginny or Ron yet?"
"Now that you mention it, I haven't. They should already be in Romania aren't they? Are you worried about something?"
Hermione shook her head, "No, I was just curious. They did promise to write."
"Maybe," Harry grinned, "They're having too much fun to even bother sending us an owl."
"Probably. Maybe Ron found himself a nice girl while he is there."
Harry snorted, "Doubtful. He's not exactly suave."
"True." Suddenly, mischief appeared in her eyes, "But he is becoming quite the attractive bloke. I've noticed a few girls from Hogwarts who were somewhat interested in him."
"You're kidding."
"Nope." She smiled, "For a time, even I was a little smitten."
"Okay, now you're taking the mickey out of me." Harry abruptly accused, "You really had a crush on Ron?"
"I have two best friends who are boys, it can't be helped if I start developing feelings for one of them."
The two friends shared a knowing grin before the two of them. The banter ended but the two were left feeling content. Over the course of the past several days, they had settled into a comfortable level of their newfound relationship; the awkwardness at the beginning ended as soon as it began, something which surprised Hermione. It made Hermione realize how easy it was being with Harry. The two of them had no expectations for one another and they were free to be who they truly are without feeling judged. There was no need to try to be someone they were not.
Knock. Knock.
"Harry. Door." Hermione mentioned as she turned the page of the Daily Prophet.
"Can you get it? I'm almost done writing."
Silently getting up from his bed, Hermione closed the magical newspaper and placed it on top of the bed. Swinging her feet across the mattress, she stepped onto the floor and took the few steps towards Harry's door. Hermione unlocked it and opened it, revealing Harry's enormous cousin, Dudley, on the other side. His eyes were furrowed into a glare, but Hermione recognized that it was more out of concentration rather than actual malice. Hermione crossed her arms, raising an inquisitive eyebrow and asked, "Can I help you?"
Dudley was clearly surprised that Hermione was in Harry's room. She questioned why he would be in the first place considering her father's car was parked just outside. Unfortunately for her, he began acting like a regular teenage boy and started leering at her lustfully. He tried to hide it, but she was far too perceptive for it to be effective. Mentally, she cringed in disgust. Finally, he sputtered out, "I'm here to talk to Potter."
"Finished." Harry exclaimed from his desk. He then turned around, curiously watching his cousin, "What is it Dud?"
"I...er..." As Dudley tried to find the words, Hermione took the opportunity to flop back to Harry's bed. She was worried that if she didn't get away from the boy soon, Hermione would remember all the nasty things he had done to Harry and she would then would have the untamed urge to eviscerate the tub of lard on the spot. Dudley calmed down and slowly said, "I wanted to say thanks for...for last year. You know...saving me from those...things."
Hermione surmised that Dudley was talking about the dementors that visited Privet Drive last summer. Harry, noticeably surprised by Dudley's gratitude, awkwardly replied, "Oh, well, no problem Dud."
"Well, that's all I wanted to say." Dudley turned to leave hurriedly
Hermione had other plans. She affixed a glare upon Dudley's retreating form and called out to him, "Wait."
Harry's cousin stopped and turned around, he had a look that could be described as both confusion and apprehensive fear. Meanwhile, Harry stared at Hermione curiously. Hermione did not let up on her glower and resumed speaking, "Is that all you have to say to Harry?"
"W-what do you mean?" Dudley stammered, intimidated by Hermione's threatening voice.
Realizing how she may appeared to Dudley, Hermione knew that her current state was counterproductive to what she intended. Stopping herself from speaking any further before things got out of her control, Hermione took in a deep breath and calmed herself. Politely, Hermione answered, "Harry literally saved your life. Those things are called dementors and they literally suck the soul out of you. If it wasn't for Harry, you would have been left in a catatonic state and have a fate much worse than death."
Dudley's eyes widened at the realization, making Hermione wonder if he was actually more perceptive than Harry made him out to be. He looked at Harry, "Is that true?"
"Hermione doesn't lie about that sort of thing." Harry confirmed, interested in what Hermione was trying to do.
"So, what are you trying to say then?" Dudley questioned Hermione.
"An apology for one thing," Hermione stated icily, "I know all about Harry's home life. I know for a fact that you used to bully him when he was younger. Not only that, I also know your parents have neglected Harry ever since he was a toddler. This place," She gestured the entire house, "Is nothing more than a prison to Harry. He could have grown up to be the vilest person I have ever met due to the horrid upbringing that had went on here. But he didn't. Harry is the most caring man I have ever had the pleasure to meet. If he was anything less, he could have left you to rot in that alley."
"Hermione," Harry interrupted, his voice soft that hinted concern for her well-being, "I think that's enough."
Hermione shook her head and regarded Harry, "No. He has to hear this. His mother and father are terrible people and he has to see reality." She turned back to a stunned Dudley, "Your mother and father are vindictive people. As much as they try to be normal, what they have done to Harry is largely considered abuse."
"B-but, dad said it was just punishment! What abuse was there!"
"What you think is 'punishment' is abuse in the eyes of the law. You are an intelligent boy aren't you? Surely you can see this?" Hermione inquired him calmly, subtly stroking his ego, "You know what you saw was not right. I do not blame you for having harmed Harry in the past. You were ignorant and that can be forgiven. However, now that you know. What are you going to do?"
"M-mum a-a-always said that you m-magical folks were b-bad and that you were always out to h-hurt us."
Hermione took Dudley's statement and analyzed it. As she had thought, Dudley's was woefully nescient on his knowledge of magical society. But who could blame him? His parents were prejudice and distrusting people. Having grown up in his environment for so long, of course Dudley would believe whatever his parents said about magic and magical people in general. It wasn't too late to change his opinion. Dudley was young and was still questioning the world around him. It would only take a push in the right direction. Hermione was aware that she may not change Dudley's bullying of other children or other flaws in his personality, but she can ensure that Dudley would never treat Harry badly ever again. She capitalized on his gratitude in order to try and achieve that desired result.
"Look at Harry and I. Aren't we teenagers just like you?"
"Y-yeah."
"Did you know that we're also considered one of the most powerful wizard and witch of our age group?"
Dudley gulped.
"No, that wasn't a threat." Hermione chuckled disportedly, "I am just informing you that aside from our ability to do magic, magical teens are just like regular teens. I know two girls from my dorm who could do nothing but gossip about the latest trends. We sometimes get the urge to snog every now and then." She winked, causing Dudley to blush.
"But those red-haired guys and that big, hairy man did those things where they changed me!" Dudley accosted angrily, "I mean, I didn't even do anything to them and they just went ahead and..."
"I know," Hermione frowned, "I am not saying that all wizard and witches are all nice and kind. For the most part, a lot of them don't have the common sense that you, Harry, and I have. They have a different way of thinking that can be odd to you. In fact, I won't lie and say that it's peaceful either. Like in non-magical society, there are those who would wish to do harm to others. There are bad people out there who want to exterminate people with no magic. But on the other end of the spectrum, there are also people like Harry who are truly kind and generous. And like Harry, they will not hesitate to help you out if you are ever in need of it."
Hermione could see the gears turning in Dudley's head. She had given him enough information to mull over. What he did with that information was entirely up to him, "Think over it Dudley."
Dudley opened his mouth to speak further but stopped. Instead, he took one last glance at Harry before scurrying off, closing Harry's door along the way. Hermione, satisfied, melted into the bed. As she grew comfortable in her position, Hermione glimpsed at Harry. He was frowning as he was lost in thought. She called out to him, "Harry? Are you okay?"
"I'm fine." Harry sighed heavily, "But I wish you hadn't done that."
"Why not?" Hermione was more bewildered than angry, "I thought I did the right thing."
"I don't want to be reminded what my aunt and uncle did. I don't even want to acknowledge it. I just want to get out of here and never confront them ever again. Dudley included."
"That's silly."
"Is it Hermione?" Harry flippantly asked, "You weren't the one who had to go through living them for most of your life."
Hermione was silent. She mused over what Harry had said. It was true, she hadn't gone through what he did and she would never understand the emotional pain that Harry had underwent during his time with the Dursleys. But she was baffled as to why he was so set against her lecture. Then, flashbacks of Harry's opinion over the Dursleys over the years occurred in her mind.
"Proud of me? My aunt and uncle would be disappointed that I hadn't gotten myself killed!"
"My aunt has a horse-like face and my uncle is as big as a whale! My cousin has the qualities of both!"
"Uncle Vernon didn't sign my permission slip. Can't say I wasn't surprised."
"To be honest, I don't know why I saved Dudley. I just knew I had to. He was...always there."
"You never thought of them as human did you?"
"Of course I do!"
"No, that's not what I meant. I mean, to you, they were nothing more than just something that was part of our life. Always there, always stagnant. In truth, you really hate them don't you?"
"I..."
"And because you hate them, you dehumanize them. You don't think of your relatives as human beings. Because if you do, then you would feel guilty for hating them for what they did to you."
"No...I..."
Hermione reached out to Harry and pulled him to her. He resisted at first, but soon relented. Harry fell onto the bed, his head resting on her lap. Soothingly, she ran her fingers softly through his messy hair. She tipped her head, gazing directly into Harry's eyes, "It's okay Harry. It's okay to hate the Dursleys for what they did. It's okay to have that feeling. It only makes you human. I know you love me. I know you love the Weasleys. I know you love Dumbledore, McGonagall, Hagrid, Remus, Sirius, and all those people you care for. You don't have to love your relatives, they were cruel and vindictive to you in ways that should never be condoned. Hate them Harry, feel free to hate them for the rest of your life. You have to accept it. But don't let it consume you. You're a better person than they could ever be so have this reprieve."
Harry's lips trembled. Then, forcefully, he declared, "I hate them. I hate them so much. My parents are dead. They were supposed to take care of me. Instead, I was starved, locked in a cupboard, and was showered with nothing but neglect. I bet I can cast the Killing Curse on all of them and not even feel anything." Harry gazed at Hermione solemnly, "But I won't do anything to them. I'm not Voldemort. I'm not going to go down that path."
"Good." She smiled.
Hermione knew Harry well. Despite his bravery and the charisma that made others want to follow him, he did not have the heart to kill someone. He was far too forgiving. Even if his naivety were to vanish, his morals stopped him from committing the act of murder even if it was out of self-defense. This was Harry's best and worst trait. A war loomed over the horizon. Harry could never bring himself to kill not even if it was Voldemort. This facet of his personality was not advantageous when struggling for life and death.
She will not have Harry be placed in that position. Even if it was his destiny to fell Voldemort, it would not be Harry, personally, that will cause his downfall.
The one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches...
born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies...
and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have power the Dark Lord knows not...
and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives...
She will become the hand that Harry will use to vanquish his nemesis.
That much was certain.
Afterword: If one has the capacity to love, then one also has the capacity to hate. Hermione tells Harry that it's alright for him to hate his relatives for that they did to him. It's a perfectly natural reaction. However, the key is that Harry should not be consumed by it. He acknowledges this. I wanted to show that sometimes dark thoughts aren't evil. I am sure some of us entertained some rather bad thoughts before that would never be uttered vocally. Anyway, that's a little depressing, so enjoy this little sketch.
What If Ron and Hermione Dated and Broke Up in Sixth Year!
Hermione: "Look Ron, I'm sorry that things didn't work out between us."
Ron: "..."
Snape: "Now, does anyone have the faintest idea of how to efficiently defend oneself from a..."
Ron: [Raises hand]
Snape: "...Weasley?"
Ron: "I'm sorry Professor, I don't know the answer. However, I DO know that Hermione Granger is a spiteful tart."
Snape: "..."
Hermione: "..." [Readies fist]
Ron: [Relaxes into chair]
Snape: "Excellent Weasley, 10 Points to Gryffindor!"
Hermione: "What!"
Ron: u_u
Guess what this was parodied of.
