Everyone gathered at the lake. Hermione stood in front of them all. Ron, Harry and Ginny stood behind her. There were forty-five students, fifth, sixth, and seventh years.
"Hello." she began. "You all know that you are here because you want to start up the D.A. again." There were some hoots and cheers. "Well, as you know, our last attempt at keeping it a secret didn't turn out too well for us. Which is why I came up with a new solution." she held up her necklace.
"What exactly is that supposed to do?" Seamus called from the front of the group.
"Come up here. I'll show you." He hesitated and someone behind him pushed him forward, laughing. "Come on, we haven't got all night." He moved forward cautiously. "What does this say?" She asked and held out the necklace.
"It says Hermione Granger."
"Yes because this is mine. Now, when I put it on, ask me why I bought it. Ask about the D.A." she instructed and slipped it over her head.
"Why did you buy the necklace?" Seamus asked her.
"Because it's pretty." She smiled. Showing him a small bottle. "This is Veritessillum. The truth potion." She drank it and nodded for him to continue.
"What is Dumbledore's Army? Are you part of it?"
She smiled sweetly. "How can I be part of something that doesn't exist?" They stared at her in disbelief. "Now, try to take the necklace."
He reached for it. He pulled but it wouldn't move. She took the necklace off and handed it to him. "Try to put it on." When he tried to pull the necklace over his head, it shot out of his hands and landed in Hermione's hand.
"I have enough for everyone here. They are charmed with charms that I put on them myself. There are four stones. Luck, wisdom, strength and courage. They each contain a silencing charm which will forbid you from speaking about the D.A. to anyone who isn't wearing a necklace. They also contain a binding charm. Once you put it on, it will be yours. Only you may wear it, but only I an remove it. It is the simplest way to ensure that our secret is kept. If anyone asks where you got them from, it was a gift that I gave to my friends."
There was a stunned silence. Finally, Neville stepped forward. "Her…Hermione? Can I have one of those courage necklaces?"
That was all it took. A line formed immediately. Half an hour later, everyone had a necklace.
"Hermione," Harry exclaimed, "This is absolutely brilliant!" His decree was followed by a roar of agreement.
"Okay everyone. One last thing. We will be meeting in the Room of Requirements every Tuesday and Thursday night at eight."
Slowly, everyone made their way back to the castle. As Hermione started back, she felt a hand on her arm. She turned to see Ginny behind her.
"Hey Gin, what's up?"
"Oh, I wanted to talk to you about something. I was wondering if you would be able to teach me a little extra. You know, private lessons? That way I can continue the meetings after you guys leave."
Hermione stared at her. "Okay Ginny. Meet me in the Room of Requirements an hour before each meeting and I'll teach you then."
"Thanks Hermione." The younger witch smiled. "I know you're really busy, but I really appreciate it.
