A moments touch

by Arosein1992

Hermione spends a year preparing for her new life as a witch. The years that follow challenge her. Her skills and 'gifts' secure the lives of her friends and herself. Being the friend of Harry Potter and eventually a hero who saves many lives almost caught in the cross hairs of death, With her gift which has been unheard of for many years and her possession of a time turner. HG/MM

4. Chapter 4

Hello! Back with another chapter. Surprisingly still complex to make it Hermione's point of view but it wasn't as likely to be confusing. I have new piece to the puzzle about her ability. She may have new pairing, might last longer but sadly ultimately not a final pairing just to be clear. I've done what I can to get myself back into all my stories. To be honest I ended up publishing a book on an app and had to transfer it to Amazon instead. The poem book is called silver linings if anyone was interested. Shortly after I had holiday things around every corner and then my grandmother broke an ankle and ended up passing away after her surgery. I've been dealing with my mother and had no mindset to write. Hopefully this is the start of getting in the swing again. There are details I thought was important and things I've decided to change I wasn't planning to until halfway through sooo I hope this is as well as I think it is.

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June and July flew by that summer. Mostly because she was focused. Ever since she told her parents about the year she had come to a realization. As always her parents were supportive of her decisions. Wanting to receive clearance for minimal time turner usage strictly for studying they were proud. If she wanted to dive into her old books once home they let her be. More over though they decided she was free to remain at whatever school she wanted. This however was not what drove these two months to breeze by.

Her gift had become relatively silent this past year. Rationally speaking since learning of magic and practicing it had been much easier to ignore thus she expected that to partly be the reason. Though she worried that as one book might suggest her gift would begin growing or changing but she told her parents the least troubling answer. They were not ignorant though and urged for the truth so that they could be as supportive as possible and help if they could. In fact with their help Hermione began to feel the growth for the first time.

"Hermione are you okay?" Her mother asks placing a hand on her daughter's shoulder. Surprisingly there is something different this time. What once was possible to not think about was strongly filling up Hermione. A patients visit (her mother's least favorite client), a flash of bills, and even a bickering debate with the neighbor.

"Uh.. Yeah im fine but did you block out thoughts before doing that mom?"

"Of course dear same as always." Her hand sprang back to her torso as concern stressed her face. Having seen this her father stopped what he was doing to see what was going on.

"I was worried that was the case.."

"Something you want to tell us pumpkin?" He said kneel by them on the steps where her mother had interrupted her starring out in thought.

"You guys were so happy to hear I hardly had any issues last year and even assumed my power was getting easier to control. I might actually have just been adjusting by the magic I've been doing. Now its growing. There is an ability most wizards have to learn to see inside anyone else's head. It takes practice to do as well as learn to block it. I think I need to learn this so I can make this…easier."

"Oh darling weither or not you learn to ease your end of things you don't have to worry about being so guarded around us. We aren't afraid of you seeing anything." Her dad says

"Well not everything." Hermione sees her mother press a kiss to her father which tells her exactly what she meant.

"Ughh! Gross ma!" They tackle her with a few kiss before she can escape. Straightening up she thanks them for once again supporting her and for helping get her mind off her troubles. Once in her room she decides to see how Ginny is. While debating to write a letter or use the floo she is startled by the poor old owl the Weasleys often use to send letters. Upon opening she is oddly surprised to have been invited to something over the summer.

Looking over the letter again she reads a world quidditch cup is going to be going to happen in August. It so famous its been a tasking tradition to cover up but it's a event not to be missed. She certainly wasn't going refuse the extended offer no matter how strange it is to invite someone whom usually is just supporting a friends not the sport itself. Honestly though any time with her friends she is more than happy to participate.

Taking Errol downstairs with her as she talks to her parents about the invitation. Harry once said Errol looked like a old feather dusty she was beginning to think he was right and she held him carefully.

"Ma and pa!" Having just seen them on the porch she assumed they may still be out there but instantly met alarmed faces in the kitchen "oh hi I just receive an invite to a big quidditch game in August also to stay for the week after until school begins. I was wondering if I can go?" She held up the letter explaining how the family was given tickets and how Molly wasn't going to be going and Harry was also invited.

"Gee they even have sports events how can they hide something like that if it's a big deal. Look dear it says its so big the minister is going."

"Well that's probably our minister but it sounds like a big deal I'm sure they have all sorts of procedures for it to work out."

"Sure you can go as long as we get you all ready for school. Should we plan an early trip to shop for school supplies this year?" Hermione has been waiting for approval for a time turner for a few months and no word has come back yet. She was hoping to hold out for a trip to Diagon Alley but she was afraid she was better off not waiting now. It didn't take long to send the own home with a confirmation from her and asking for their fireplace name.

It was only after the trip Hermione receive a letter explaining that her request was currently denied but would be re-evaluated for the next year. Although this was not a straight denial it was still perplexing why they would say no this year but possibly not next year. Had to many students requested and she was on some kind of waiting list or was there more to it. Hermione did not believe this was the nature of why she was denied and she couldn't help wondering why she was required to get a formal dress for this year.

As August crept closer she received the destination code "the burrow" to use in the fireplace with the floo from the Weasleys. However she had never used the fireplace like that so she asked for someone to come to her first. When she arrived at the burrow with Ginny's help she was expecting more ginger faces around but apparently she was not the only one that needed help arriving. Harry once had been taken in the middle of the night by the Weasley children it seemed Arthur was hoping for a proper retrieval this time.

Of which was not surprisingly a disaster. Having forgotten to remind Harry they would travel through the fireplace causing it to break open Arthur was rather disappointed in himself for not knowing muggles well enough. Hermione knew it wasn't his fault because Harry's family was not a normal muggle one. They were bitter and foul. Even if Arthur or Harry had reminded them they would have refused them. The fact that Arthur brought his boys to apologize for the last time was great in hindsight but dreadful at the time.

They were scolded and sent home for not only causing a fuss but teasing Dudley and his sweet tooth. They roared in laughter at first until the matriarch family towered over them asking what they had done. As soon as Hermione arrived she was lead to the kitchen for a small snack before dinner. As she heard the commotion and could see from the corner of her eye she now knew why Ron was terrified of his mother getting angry. Arthur apparated Harry into their home and explained their delay.

"They truly are the worst Harry. They didn't want to say goodbye or anything?" Ginny asked. Seeing that Ron and the twins were sent to do chores until dinner it was just the three inside. Molly and Arthur as well but they didn't bother them from the kitchen once they had moved to the sitting room. Harry often hated talking about his Aunt and Uncle due to how unfairly they had cared for him but the older he got the more he wished he could live with his best friend but as they already had a pretty full home he never asked.

"I can't wait for Sirius to be able to take me in." It wasn't alarming for Ginny to hear this since Dumbledore himself had expressed his opinions about Harrys godfather in their home. He swore if Harry forgot or slipped up about him that he was an innocent man. Harry however paled realizing he had not explained this to Ginny. As soon as they did even if it had not involved the time turner details Ginny was satisfied with the truth. "He asked me to live with him when his name is cleared."

"I think Dumbledore has had a reason of some sort for leaving you with blood family. Perhaps he will tell you now." Hermione mentioned having seen Dumbledores apprehension towards Harry knowing whatever it is he hides. That first emotional moment Dumbledore had exposed himself to her gift she felt the weight of his secrets. As Harry got older shouldn't he be able to take the truth now. This is only a small relief to Harry not only had Dumbledore understood his feeling but he didn't have to hide the truth from his friends family.

Hermione, Ginny, and Harry waited for dinner to be done after which it was no surprise the Weasley children found the best way to prepare for an exciting World Cup match was to play their own game of quidditch. Molly sweeps by with a tray of cookies that smell so delicious that Hermione happily grabs a few while watching them play. They have an early morning so the game is called short. That night anxious kids were all but ushered to bed.

Morning comes with a rush of things to do. Last minute packing, sibling bickering, and chores to do all before breakfast. Hermione was glad sleep came easy as much as she was that her and Ginny had not reached an awkward place due to them sharing a room once again. It was a fairly normal small talk before bed leaving both girls to feel comfortable just as friends were meant to.

Unlike Bill, Percy, and Charlie who had their own tickets the rest of the group could not apparate. Instead they had to leave to meet a designated neighbor also taking the alternate mode of transportation. If Mrs Weasley hadn't stopped them from leaving they may not have needed to rush but she and the twins fussed over the confiscation of their latest sweet-prank designs.

They make a large trip across the property to the neighbors and from there the end to the hike was just a short stop on the hill. A tall pale kid and short wide man greet them from the top of the hill. As introductions go it could have gone better. While the kid was familiar from school his father made sure to introduce him as the kid that won against Harry the year previously.

"No one has been able to beat Harry Potter from catching the snitch, nobody but my boy!" Mr. Diggory had a certain kind of pride even if his son blushed and ushered him to stop boasting.

"Its okay Cedric you won fair and square."

"No Harry I shouldn't have won you were clearly affected by the Dementors."

"Oh Cedric we all saw you trying to get them to set a rematch. No one cares, you won, it's just a game." Hermione says all her friends look at her like she has three heads. She waves her hands in surrender to avoid getting hounded by them.

Though they all chattered ahead of her she wasn't unhappy to see them all socializing while they waited to use the portkey to travel. Practically half expecting her friends enthusiasm would distract them. So much debating about favorite teams and players, things she had no idea about to even include and impute. Despite this she still shared in the laughs that they had about Fred and George teasing Ron about his bromance crush on famous player Victor Crum.

Ginny was finally openly talking to Harry, Fred and George had Ron weighed down on each should with his ears bright red as they told a tale of him adoring Victor Krum for everyone to hear. Cedric and Hermione stood side by side for a little while she wondered what type of person he was being in Hufflepuff he might as well have been a bit of every house. Was he truly kind like he appeared or was he secretly proud like his father.

"Thank you for understanding Quidditch is a game to me unfortunately it's more of a way to make a name for myself to my father." He says quite enough that his father much further ahead with Mr. Weasley cant hear.

"Of course my parents are dentists and though it's a wonderful job it was never where I wanted to go with myself. Learning I was a witch opened so many new doors for me. Not to brag though I know I'm not nearly the smartest witch out there but I feel I can do almost anything. If you love the game but not the career that means you are meant to do more."

"I'll keep that in mind." They share a silent pause before he starts up a new conversation. "Is it true you have a magical ability. My mum always says the abilities can be traced but they are getting more rare."

"What! I mean is she in that field of work?"

"Sort of I think it's been a passion of hers for a long time. She has ideas why some things appear deep into the line rather than in the most elite family's."

"Why is that? "

"She thinks it's about trails and journeys. Most purebloods are so arrogant and already get anything they want there is no fight or resistance from the normal." Hermione goes to answer in wonder when Arthur calls for a circle immediately. It's time and they are only told to touch the boot that Amos Diggory had upon their arrival.

3..2..1 All nine were pulled into a warp. The destination, though Arthur had explained where the event was as well as the endless protective processes to keep the location from muggles, was unknown. Once Hermione saw the control Cedric, Amos, and Arthur had during flight she tried to follow suite. It was impossible to relax but surprisingly she managed to land on her feet. Stumble more like it but it was hardly like Harry's landing.

Offering a hand to peel him off the ground they pulled him up and stared out at the moor around them. Given the steps to cover up the mass population of witches and wizards it was expected to see nothing starring back at them. When they made their way to the muggle in charge of directing them and taking fees for campsites it was obvious that 'measures being taken' meant taking his memories. Hurrying to their designated area once inside the warded area the children over heard a lot about the muggle and him needing more charms to make him forget and Ludo Bagman who was not being subtle enough around said muggle.

Afterward the two groups parted ways leaving Hermione unable to ask the question burning in her head. Cedric mentioned that his mother took it like a hobby to track these abilities. What if she could tell her where hers came from. None the less while Amos and Cedric went to there campsite Arthur rallied his kids, Harry, and herself to theirs. Arthur insisted it be done by hand it looked so ordinary compared to those around it.

No chimney or flashy colors. It was a lender from a coworker at the ministry very plain outside while inside it was much larger. Plenty of room for all the boys on one side and Ginny and Hermione to share the single room on the opposite side. The trio however were asked to fetch water food dinner so they set out over the campground.

Observing many fans with Irish music, decorations, and food along the way. They also saw plenty of familiar classmates. It was near the hill the divided the team fans that they ran into Seamus and Dean in particular. Over the hill were Bulgarian fans. Also not afraid to show pride for their team.

Posters of their star player were everywhere. To Hermione he looked scruffy and grumpy. Of which his biggest fan Ron was offended by though all Hermione meant was perhaps just as Cedric loved quidditch I was not always a happy career. Much like football or American football some players were to good to do anything else in life. Often it makes the player more 'grumpy' in her opinion.

Hermione helped build the fire once they got back. She'd been on so many camping trips it was easy. The elder sons arrived for lunch and just after everyone ate they headed to the stadium for seating. Just before however The man called Ludo came by soon followed by Mr. Crouch. Ludo came asking for bets of which Arthur refused to but the twins bet their entire savings. The peculiar terms were actually reasonable as the Irish team sounded like it house a playing advantage where as the Bulgarians really had Victor Krum. Much like when Gryffindor plays with harry some times the other time wins but Harry catches the snitch.

Meanwhile came to tell Arthur of someone needing to speak with him about illegal flying carpets. Mr. Crouch was offered tea by Percy whom he couldn't remember to call him anything other than Weatherby. After three or so months of working for the man and him clearly working with Arthur as well as knowing him he simply couldn't seem to realize they were of the same name.

Having arrangements for their own tickets the eldest Weasley boys each went separate ways. Percy insists that everyone have decorum while around his boss. Something about him needing to look good for a job. Probably thinking about making his way to assistant to the minister one day. Bill and Charlie however hugged their father and ran off as they had not won similar seats to the box office as Arthur had.

Even if Hermione had run the numbers on how likely it was that the Weasleys would win two ministry raffles in two years the results were clearly the same regardless of how impossible it should have been. As kid in the excitement it was easy to focus on other things. Aside from some poking and prodding from the Malfoy family the pre-game sales were so distracting. Arriving at the box and grabbing seats they planned checking out their purchases. Harry sees a certain familiar character in the box and approaches like an old friend as he calls out Dobby's name.

It's not Dobby but Winky a house elf. She looks terrified and exhausted. Not minding the mistaken identity she is more upset about Dobbys choice to be free. As she was his friend and he was finding work difficult to find since he wanted to be paid now. All of which many would say was Harry's doing but they all know the Malfoy were not the best of people to their house elf.

When asked why she was sitting alone she looked with her wide eyes to the chair beside her and around out towards the field before answering. Unlike Dobby she was proud to obey her master. Saying it's their life. It confused Hermione but Ron tried explaining it to her that they are magically bound to a family it's the act of obeying and serving that has given them the will to live and use magic to aid.

"I is waiting for master. Saving his seat. I don't like heights but I am happy to serve master." It is not an easy thing for her to leave be but after a half an hour in the box the real pre-game fun was about to start. Introductions of the teams were being done by Ludo whom even with the distraction of Cornelius Fudge, the Minister of Magic tried greeting Harry and showing him of to the Bulgarian Minister, couldn't have been more obvious that he was late. When the Bulgarian and Irish teams showed off their mascots Hermione was almost as affected by the Veela cheerleaders as everyone else until the leprechauns broke their charms with fireworks and coins.

Truthfully it was only halfway through the game she noticed the poor scared elf was still alone. never came and still the elf waited until the end of the game. Everyone left talking about the outcome. Though she hated to admit it she left thinking there was nothing she could do for Winky. Her friends were laughing and pulling all over each other in excitement. She was not excluded so it was only natural that her thoughts abandoned the house elf that left after them. Now that they were all settled at the tent talking before bed she was trying to get someone to agree with her about treatment to house elves should be better. Ron huffed his frustration and resumes his loud recaps with his brothers. The only sympathy she could find was in Ginny and Harry. Ginny maybe understands from her time being forced to do Voldemort's bidding. Harry on the other hand knew Dobby, though odd, his owners were ruthless to him. It was as much his right to escape as it was winky's. Lucius Malfoy was as foul as ever with or without his wife and son.

"Did you see Krum when he-"

"Yes!" everyone shouted at Ron mid sentence of an infatuated rant about the amazing quidditch player. In turn his ear burst into a bright red shade of color causing everyone to laugh. Not at him or his embarrassment simply his excitement and repetitive stories. Not long after everyone headed to bed trying their best to ignore all the noises of celebration from outside.

Hermione lay down thinking of a few things but none that she would expect to lead her dream about to one particular day. She remembers the day her parents took her to France, having found out a way to contact the French wizarding school, surprisingly that day flooded her thoughts that night. Transportation to was offered through the school it was unlike any they had ever seen or heard about

The dream began exactly the same as the visit began. The carriage that drove them softly drifted through the sky, wind in their hair, and clouds ascending as the carriage began to arrive at beautiful palace. It wasn't as rugged as the Scottish castle of Hogwarts. Not based on appearance alone but intelligence this school was intended to be different. striding gracefully toward them was a slim and vibrant black haired woman.

"Bonjour, je suis madame Bellamoore. J'ai reçu le mot de la directrice que vous recherchiez une visite. que vous recherchez une éducation plus sûre. Cependant, je dois voir à une question importante. ma gentillesse va vous donner la visite à la place." Having learned french, to her and parents, this was easy enough for them to follow and understand. If it was any faster however Hermione was not that good to keep up.

"C'est vrai, la défense contre la position des arts sombres semble toujours avoir une voie dangereuse pour les professeurs ainsi que pour les étudiants. comme si c'était-" her mother said

"maudit?" As madame Bellamoore most likely knew of the post position for the DADA rumors of being cursed.

"oui maudit." Her father chimed in.

"ah, la voici. C'est ma gentille Fleur Delacour. Fleur c'est Hermione Granger, M. et Mme Granger. Commencez par le hall principal et les dortoirs puis peut-être le jardin." While Madame Bellamoore was beautiful this young woman was stunning. Blonde hair shimmered causing her face to only be visible right before the small family. They looked oddly not related though. While one had dark hair versus lighter hair they didn't have the same skin tone or similar facial structures. As Fleur greets her "tante Bellamoore" they realize she must be a family friend.

"Bonjour." Instantly Hermione felt her cheeks flush but refused to look guilty for it. Taking the time her parents inadvertently given by excepting the girls presence as if it were a learning experience for her. They explained Hermiones interest in a big library hoping to include it. Likely wishing that seeing it she'd decide to change schools.

In that next moment her dream flourished into its own. She stood before the library empty of anyone but herself and Fleur. Pale hands took hers leading her through a maze of bookcases. Heart racing as fleur guided her to a long study table. There is a flutter of her eyes lids seeing Fleur's porcelain skin lean closer. The moment her lips press to Hermione's there is a frantic scream.

While the kiss was part of the dream, the scream was not, this alone startles her awake. Its not long after Arthur is hurriedly telling everyone to get up and leave the tent with him. Once outside its clear whats happening. People are running from masked men, the masked men are levitating people, and those not utterly in panic are either affiliated or trying to stop those doing dark acts. All the older Weasleys are charged with joining their father in aiding the ministry. Arthur however tells everyone from the twins and younger that they need to leave in a group.

"Fred and George you're in charge, head for the trees and don't come back I'll find you." In all the panic those cream colored lips were lost in a far away dream. She'd not known her interest back then but seeing the Veelas at the game must have reminded her for some reason. Ron and Harry's attention is pulled as the twins grabbed Ginny and lead the way.

The six of them however couldn't stay together in the crowd. Knowing Ginny had Fred an George Hermione didn't hesitate to regroup with Ron first who yelped in the dark falling over himself. Not far away Harry is trying to get his glasses from the ground which had been knocked down in the commotion. Hermione realizes what to do and draws her wand to help.

"Lumos" she says finding him as well as coming across Malfoy who states she might be next if they don't hurry and hide.

"Really well I have a feeling your parents are behind those masks so no surprise." Not soon enough to stop Harrys retort she gets them back into the tide of people leaving. Along the way they here so French girls looking for Madame Maxime. Knowing this name as the headmistress of Beauxbatons Hermione shares this information so they can move on. All while the campsite is clearer and not far, the trio have paused as Harry stopped abruptly finding his wand gone, and while he is thinking where it'll be they see something in the distance.

Harry now has his eye not on them or his pants but following a strange man. He is creeping or dodging between tents before he disappeared in the distance. From a near by bush comes a rustle, with or without the wand they know these dark wizards are dangerous. They tense up only to strangely see Winky who is struggling between hiding or staying but beyond being terrified she eventually manages to leave them where they are. Surrounded by bushes and trees but still not quite hidden, though not on the main pathway anymore.

"She probably hasn't ask permission to hide or something." Harry says after moving past a group of boys trying to impress a group of veela girls they may be safe to wait there than move. The former comment however unsettled Hermione immensely. She felt it was a terrible working conditions for elves.

Shear shock comes when out of nowhere Ludo bagman appears. The moment he hears there is riots or chaos he disappears again. Hermione has no relief in his presence as she had not expected much else from the man.

Yet there in the dark silence surrounding them there is a presence unseen but sensed. They then hear a second rustle in a bush follow by someone shouting "Morsmordre" an running. No one knew what they looked like since their eyes followed the spell casted into the sky.

A giant skull with a snake weaving through the eye socket an mouth appeared. It glowed like green aura. At first it bright but then it was darker and more creepy than interesting. Screams begin flooding the entire areas around them.

"Whats going on?" Harry yells above the noise.

"That's the dark mark!" Hermione claims now panicked knowing they need to run.

Before they can a flock of wizards surrounded them wand at the fire. The trio duck curses flying over head. Its only when they hear Mr Weasley's familiar voice call for them to stop.

Though throughly alarmed by flying curses and accusations Hermione manages to inform Mr. crouch that they did not cast the mark as the person who did was by the bushes, to which she pointed. A few men went to look through them are only to come back with a small body in their arms. It was Winky. Hermione was the only one that felt sick at the turn of events. It was impossible she told herself. Of course others felt it was so impossible for Winky to do this just as impossible as it was for Harry (the boy who lived) to be the one to cast the mark of the man responsible for his parents death but the truth was she was found with a wand.

Being told this Mr. Crouch seemed more upset that anyone would suggest he taught his own elf to used a wand or the curse. When they woke her Winky was crying hysterically almost to much for them to hear her swear she didn't cast the mark. The wand is shown to her to learn why she had it when Harry says its his wand he was missing it. Mr. Diggory much like Crouch tries asking if he had cast it but realizes this is less likely than Winky.

"That is ridiculous!" Mr. Crouch says while Arthur also says that is a stretch even with the proof of testing the last spell used with the wand.

"Do you mind telling us how you got the wand?" Arthur asks her nicely in hopes this helps calm her down. She says she found it in the bushes just before being cursed. "Did you see anyone else?" At this, she trembles and can't seem to answer fully.

"Can I personally deal with her instead of the ministry. I'll give her clothes for this." Hermione gasps at this as she knows like Dobby it would free her and while she would love to see better treatment would instant freedom be wise for unprepared and actually devoted elf such as Winky she wondered this to herself knowing it would be brushed off due to the importance of the events that evening. However even in this bitter moment it gave way to brilliant idea, one she'd begin working on as soon as possible.

After all the investigating was over despite no culprit being found the trio walked back to their tent trying not to be delayed further by other curious campers asking for information. No successful captures of any masked men had been made as each and every figure disapperated once the Mark appeared. Everyone else was already settled inside waiting for them to return. A round of hugs made settling down and talking about the frightening evening much easier.

"I don't get it what's the dark mark?" Ron asks. Hermione read about it in a history of magic ages ago but obviously it hadn't been a threat in such a long time that even Ron was confused of its purpose.

"It's you-know-who's followers. They have this mark to identify each other." She started Arthur nodded in agreement before he added.

"It was also used to announce a death over a place they had..." he didn't need to finish for the point to be made. "There wasn't any though that's the strange thing."

"Could it have been another follower calling out the others for their lack of action?" Hermione asks "I feel like it was done to frighten those using the guise of He-Who-Must-Not-be-Named as if to say act as a follower or feel his wrath or something."

"That is a chance that we have considered but other than the usual suspects everyone is put away or dead it would be impossible." They all have a cup of calming tea before bed and find that talking eventually leads to them feeling comfortable enough to get some sleep for even a few hours. Hermione is unsure how she could ever get rest that night but as soon as her head hits the pillow she mumbles a goodnight to Ginny.

The next morning despite less sleep no one slept in so the tent was cleaned up an shrunk down just in time for them to head out for their portkey home. Mrs. Weasley was a mess with worry even though as they had left the older boys arrived home before the others. They told her they were fine. Mrs. Weasley however is holding the daily prophet which reads much worse than the event were. There were not dead bodies yet Rita skeeter, the Author, quotes there were.

This forces both Percy and Arthur to go in to work to damage control and help as much as possible. Fred and George were under their mother's attention because they had fought before last night more than likely that had been her worrying thought the entire night. Harry asked about Hedwig again but at another "no dear" he takes Ron and hermione upstairs.

"I'm worried I owled Sirius about my scar hurting. It's just a mark it has never hurt." He seams to be on a ramble but they keep up. "I had a dream about Voldemort and now his mark and my scar what if it's all connected? What if something happened to Sirius?" It's all real concerns to which they have no real way of assuring Harry it will all be okay.

"Why don't we go play some quidditch. Get your mind off of all that and I'm sure you'll have an answer soon." Like a switch Harry get all bright eyed about this idea and they disappear down stairs. Feeling him push off the bed beside her she watches them go but feels the slowly fading worries creep into her mind at the fairly brief contact.

Taking her time leaving the room Hermione feels her head fog slightly and she sees a glimpse of a huge house on a hill she senses it's a moment from Harry's dream but it means nothing alone and so she has no desire to solve the riddle behind it. Harry had probably seen the home somewhere and only dreamt of it in relation to Voldemort due to his own dark an creepy nature.

Over the next week there was much quidditch watching for her with a book in hand and still no intention of joining in. Harry loved his new broom from Sirius this fact alone often reminded him he still hadn't heard from him yet. Periodically when Percy or Arthur arrived home from the ministry Hermione would ask if Winky was okay. Though none of them knew for certain Arthur would try to assure Hermione she will be fine while Percy liked to state that it was the way things were done. Once when Percy was home and Arthur was not he noted that he was working harder to make up for the public statement that Rita skeeter had written about.

The journalist seemed know to much that shouldn't have been public knowledge. The ministry was dealing with the World Cup but now she claims, as mentioned the day before, the person Percy was replacing was now being considered missing. However no one was too worried as she was old and easily lost tract of days from time to time. Rita Skeeter was reporting it as the most incredulous piece of information she had and was saying Bertha Jorkins was missing and no one was concerned of the information she knew being used. While true inciting fear with little to almost no evidence was a bit much. Arthur couldn't figure out how she knew as this was supposed to be a need to know issue, one that he now had to help fix adding more work to his load.

The night before leaving for school Hermione and Percy have a debate about house elf rights to which got so heated Molly broke it up and told everyone to make sure they were all packed for the next morning. It was then that Ron found a packaged formal robe though it looked more than a century old Molly had said his was all they had to offer him. This wasn't as embarrassing as he was making it but it was a bit hard to handle knowing Harry and even herself had been able to buy a nice formal outfit as per this years requirements.

"I'm sure we can do something to make it look a bit better before we need it." Hermione tries to say despite knowing Ron and knowing he is not listening when he is mad. In fact the anger he felt seemed to be to much for Hermione though she was no where near him. Groaning through the feelings she forced herself out of the boys room and went to find Ginny. There was no talking him down and no sense bringing his jealousy of Harry to the surface while he was angry. Harry was his friend and could make him feel better at a time like this she on the other hand was not able to think clearly to offer advice that he would not even listen to.

Ginny thankfully was happy to show of her dress which as the only daughter had to be bought. It looked lovely and Hermione was sure that weather it was Harry or not someone was going to be very enthralled at whatever occasion they were wearing these dresses to. Hermione was already all pack as she barely unpacked her suitcases without remembering to return all the items over the week. She however was willing to help Ginny whom through no fault of her own was just as messy as the rest of her brothers.

"Gin what in merlins name are you doing with this!" She hissed quietly the last word trying not to bring it to anyone's attention but the young redhead. Had she been wearing these when they.. She couldn't imagine without turning pink. Clearly Ginny was more grown now than she thought.

A gasp exploded from Ginny as she bolted to grab the thin green fabric. A deep red crosses her check as she shoves it deep in her luggage. Entirely oblivious of Hermiones own cheeks. Raising her eyebrow at her friends reaction she waits for an answer.

"Will you not! I thought I could have myself something to help make me feel more confident. Clearly we are doing something special this year."

"Yeah." She agrees disheartened as she remembers her denial of a time turner. "Anyway that's great. I guess your mom would lose it if she thought you bought that."

"Well I made it I've been learning all sorts from mom when she is tending to things around the house and with our clothes. Well Ron's I haven't been able to learn much before with the other boys they are a little older."

"Right hence why I'm here. Ronald is upset about his robes and unfortunately my ability has been adapting to the magic I've been using."

"Oh is it that bad now?"

"Not really just he was a bit to much just now so I'm here to help you since I know you're just as bad about being ready." She looked around the room which was still full of school supplies. "Besides I have something in mind to learn so that I can make it easier on everyone."

The rest of the night though tense whenever Hermione passed Percy in the halls went extremely better. It was on her mind the entire week that Winky was fired and unlike Dobby she didn't want to be nor did she deserve it. She wrote a list the first night after the Quidditch World Cup, then she asked Molly a bit about her magical knitting spells, and finally she spoke to Arthur about the ministry's possibility of change before her turn to graduate.

The purpose of talking about it was on all the things so far that she knew of that needed changing for better rights. She only figured knitting a few socks would help free any elves she came a cross that wanted to be free but couldn't themselves. Arthur Essentially said the British ministry was a bit stuck in the old ways. She knew this as of last year when no one checked their memories as a way of taking statements like they did in America. Nor did anyone upon given a second theory of how the potters died did they look into it.

'Hermione Granger was going to make the changes necessary to help other magical creatures even those like Remus Lupin' she told herself. She couldn't image doing it at a desk in the ministry but somehow she knew she would find a way. As bed time rolled in these thoughts fell away just enough for sleep to come but not enough to make her dreams less driven.

Emerald robes fluttered on a hill top of green field as far the eye could see. Minerva smiles back at her holding out a hand as if to say come. Come look her eyes said as they glinted with glee. Approaching the top of the hill she looked out an saw there at the bottom a village of elves free and happy.

Blinking awake the sun was up just barely. Had she thought Minerva would be a big help and share in the vision. Clearly the fields were a gesture towards the woman's homeland of Scotland. Once again since getting to know Minerva Hermione has to remind herself as her professor she might never be that close of a friend even after graduating.

"Ginny? Hermione? Breakfast is ready and remember we need everything brought downstairs and ready to go." The pair or them dressed and did as they were asked only finally making signs of glee when finally getting food in there stomachs. Normally Hermione wasn't this gloom but her week had been so full of fights with Percy and worrying about Winky. She would be glad to go to school to focus and even have a whole year to work on her elf rights ideas. That was not the only thing on her mind though. She was worried about Harry and his dreams about his certainty that Voldemort was up to something.

"You've barely eaten dearie, you okay?" Molly held a hand on her shoulder there was no images flooding Hermione. Perhaps she was one of those whom learned to guard themselves.

"Yes I'm sorry about last night is all. I happen to get set in my ways and I forget I'm not the only person who has to deal with my stubbornness once I've decided something. It was rude…" she started but for her efforts she received a shaking clap on the back and a gentle peck on her head.

"Non sense child I raised Percy better than that. I don't know what has gotten into him lately. Coming home talking down about his father and pushing himself in the center of all those political shark waters. He is going to become a parrot of the minister and what good is that." She seemed flustered about his behavior but now that she's said something she looked torn as he was her son. Truth was Percy was saying very harsh things and neither of them were doing anything to stop him.

"He'll come round." Hermione said not to worried because the Weasleys aside from her own parents were amazing.

"Come around-" "-to what?" The twins said walking into the kitchen suddenly. They hadn't been rowdy like normal but chipper.

"Nothing." Their mum said getting them each a dish.

"Talking about Percy-" "-being a royal prat?" They asked earning a scolding look from Molly and a scowl from Percy where as Charlie and Bill grinned behind their food or hands. Molly didn't like hearing her own children talk about one another. Hermione nor Ginny said anything on this and turned the subject to something a bit more interesting. They discussed what were this years school year concerning. It was something so important Hermione couldn't get her time turner and they all had formal dress robes. Hermione wouldn't be surprised if there was no Hogsmead trip this year either.

Arthur greets everyone takes a dish from Molly placing a loving kiss on her cheeks. Before he can get more than a few bites in he is called away to the fireplace he is urgently responding to Mr. Diggory who as an Auror was dealing with a situation pertaining to "please-man" this however Hermione knew was really policemen as did Arthur due to his job. He was at the fire talking to Amos Diggory's head when eventually Harry and Ron could be heard bang down the stairs with their bags.

They came into the kitchen to find Arthur busy but by the time they sat down he was explaining he had to go help a retired Auror named Alastor Moody. Mr. Diggory said only moments ago he was startled by them it seemed and he has various things rigged to attack intruders which happened to be the police It was Arthur's job to help them fix the muggle items and they will wipe memories. Grabbing some toast for both of them they leave immediately. Not much else could be explained as he left so quickly.

Harry and Ron were so late for breakfast they had to eat quick as Molly was now responsible of getting them all to the train.

"he's a bit crazy." George says while they are still sitting in the kitchen.

"But he is close friends to Dumbledore." Bill says whom had not actually said much about why he was staying so long after the situation at the World Cup. He was not the only one as Charlie to added something. He told Harry all about how though he caught dark wizards he was a bit paranoid now and was often attracting attention.

"Don't bother with all that we've got to get going." Molly cut in the Weasley family as a whole head out shortly after. That morning unlike how her parents would drive her they all took three separate cabs to Kings Cross station. This was not strange unless you made it obvious you couldn't act or talk like muggles. Aside from the twins they all remained relatively quite.

Harry was thinking about the Auror's job, chasing dark wizards, and if he could do that one day. Ron wasn't really thinking of much just wondering if this year he'd make something momentous happen an he could be important for once. They had Charlie in their car. Ginny was in a car with Hermione and Bill also separate from Percy, the twins, and Molly. they too did their best to remain quite during the ride Hermione could imagine trying to discuss things like a muggle and Ginny being perplexed just as most of the Weasley's were about muggle terms and technology.

Once at the station and through the platform the bunch of them began excitedly talking to other housemates or the eldest Weasleys about what could be going on this year. In no certain terms did Charlie or Bill say anything specific but strangle suggested the likelihood of see them all soon. And that the year would be interesting. Neither said anything else as they were ushered to catch the train.

Even before boarding they could hear Malfoy trying to get people to be impressed by him. Talking of his fathers wishes for him to go to Durmstrang. This however his mother refused, to keep him close. Hermione could tell his father had only said it as threat. She knew Malfoy was only boasting in front his housemates but in reality his father had remarked that Draco was not as malicious as he had to be. Hermione said nothing and wouldn't because his behavior wouldn't change from people knowing nor would many even care

Of course once on the train Malfoy then began to intrude on them with his goons. He slightly mocked the old dress robe Ron had and then asked vaguely if they were entering but none of them knew what he was talking about. Laughing as he left he said he knew as his father worked high up in the ministry. The only people who really cared were his practically bogus friends. They boosted his ego with awe but Hermione could see a jealousy of his power and desire for them to be him. If only they knew Hermione thought.

The rest of the trip was dull and quiet from all parties. The carriage ride seemed all the same as they shared with Neville. Making it through poring rain they began running to the castle doors as soon as the carriages stopped. They were already soaked but that didn't stop Peeves from pelting water bombs at students as they entered the main hall.

Once in the great hall and at the Gryffindor table Sir Nicolas greeted them while Colin Creevy told Harry excitedly about his brother. They didn't have to wait long to warm up or for the first years to be led in the hall. Despite so many empty chair added to the head table that sat all the teachers.

The hat made its usually adjusted song that always referred to each house, It's role as sorting hat, and even spoke of unity as a school. Then quite typically began sorting. Colins brother Dennis has Hagrid's cloak on up until he was called up and given the house of Gryffindor. Once done the feast begins. As magical as even it appears and all the cold and rain has been forgotten.

"Certainly lucky to have a feast at all. Peeves caused quite the ruckus in the kitchens earlier frightened the house-elves terribly I suspect." Hermione's silverware clatters only the Weasley bunch, Harry, and Neville seem to notice. She never… her thoughts were reeling.

"Do they get paid? Time off? What about retirement?" Hermione jumbled out cause the ghost to stutter on his laugh. He shook his head.

"Of course not they have never been why would they?!" He was unsure why the brightest witch in her age didn't know this. Hermione however was furious and huffed that she wasn't going to eat. This was not an easy task to follow through with as dinner and desert passed slowly. Finally though Dumbledore stood up and the dishes cleared. He faintly smiled ready to address the school.

"Welcome! This year is to be an interesting year to all. The Quidditch cup won't be happening this year however in its place-" As he explains through a bunch of groans a loud bang cuts him off far behind them a wild grizzly man enters the dinning Hall soaked obviously the storms are still ceiling that mimic the outside sky though not pouring appears incredibly dark. "Ah professor Moody, your new Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor."

The man had walked to him limping from his wooden leg. Shook Dumbledore's hand with one eye on him while his other roamed wildly pausing on Harry. Professor Moody took his seat and Dumbledore began again. Every student speechless from the startling moment he without further interruption says.

"Hogwarts has the honor of hosting the Triwizard Tournament this year for the first time in centuries. The competing schools Beauxbatons and Durmstrang will be arriving October 31st. Due to its deaths in previous years we have made adjustments. No one under the age of seventeen can enter." As of aware of the uproar he adds the restriction last. "It would be in all's best to know it will be impossible to hoodwink the impartial judge."

Fred and George swear they are going to enter anyways regardless of being sixteen until April. Ron and Neville are also so inclined to enter but Neville understands he nor the rest in their class can possibly know enough. Hermione we glad she didn't need to say it as all she could think of the enter walk to the common room was the elf's. "Slave labor" she muttered before heading to bed while literally everyone else Discusses the tournament.

Sure she had added a few things to the topic while walking but now Hermione was determined to get started on her personal project right away. She hadn't gone to sleep right away in fact she had come up with a brilliant way to introduce her idea all she needed now was data, research, and support. The latter would hopefully come with enough of the first two.

The next few days had gone by in a flurry. Hermione had decided not eating was a terrible way to protest and aside from the classes she shared with the boys she had no intention of sitting around while they were in divination. Of course over an over there were bumps in the road with Malfoy and his blatant disrespect of Hagrid's class, his tactless habit of fueling a fight with Ron or Harry, even if it meant falling in bed with Rita Skeeter's followers.

The same journalist as before had once again wrote about Mr. Weasley this time about Professor Moody actually. Hermione was sure this was not that last they'd hear of her. Having never met the woman or not she was pretty sure she disliked her about as much Harry disliked Malfoy.

Trying not to get in the middle of Malfoy, Ron, and Harry's current tit for tat she dips into the dinning hall hoping the boys will come along soon. With all the commotion behind she turned to see Professor Moody turn Malfoy into a ferret. Clearly having missed what he had done to deserve it still she was shocked. Thankfully before it went on to long Professor McGonagall steps in an berates Professor Moody for using transfiguration to punish a student.

After Malfoy is turned back the defense teacher says loudly he'll be talking to Professor Snape about it. Hermione gladly sits with the boys quickly eats dinner an hurries to the library once more. As she leaves Fred and George sit talking about how great their DADA class was. Which she would be more than happy to hear about but she's been busy looking into rules on making a club.

If she could get people to join her then maybe there is hope for elves. Earlier that week she had written her parents to tell them of her latest goals. She was sure they would be proud to know she was standing up where others would not. Seeing how she wanted to gather others for her platform she'd have to take any free time to the library.

A few days later when they had actually had a class with Professor Moody what began as illuminating was quickly turning to disturbing. Unforgivable curses while important to learn was not the most amazing thing in watch. When Neville had answered the name of a second unforgivable curse after Ron's first Professor Moody went as far as taking the recently imperius cursed spider and enlarging it.

The moment it grew the class heard the spell casting word "crucio" just before a high pitch screeching sound that indicated the spiders pain. Where everyone else was staring at the spider Hermione had noticed Nevilles uneasiness at his answer. She also saw the flinching the crosses his face at the sound. Only intending to calm him she puts a hand on his arm and yells for Professor Moody to stop.

"Right.." he says relieving the spider of its pain and shrinking it back to its normal size. "Then I suppose you can tell me the last one?" While her hands had been on Neville she hadn't let her self dwell on anything she saw as all she had seen was a hospital. She looks to Harry and back Professor Moody.

"Avada Kedavra." She says pointedly before getting back in her seat fully. Watching the look of realization etched a crossed Harry face at seeing the green flash made her heart sink. Thankfully despite a small note taking to distract the rest of class is forbidden curse free. Upon leaving class she lead the boys straight away to Neville their sympathy unhelpful especially when Professor Moody asks his to join him for a cup of tea to calm down.

It is now free time again so Hermione tells the boys she'll be at the common room later for sure. Not headed to the library this time though she heads to see Professor McGonagall. Knowing she could convince her Head of house to let her start a club she. Brought everything she had with her. Being not quite after hours she tries her classroom first and runs into her packing up. She looks over to Hermione as she flicks her wands to straighten the chairs and blow out the candles.

"Ms. Granger what can I do for you?"

"Professor I'm here so get permission for a new club." Hermione follows her out of her classroom until they are clearly headed for her office and chambers.

"Interesting. What kind of club?" It doesn't take long for them to arrive and Hermione walks much fast to keep up with her Professor McGonagall's long strides.

"Well Professor its not a club exactly more like an awareness group. Its for elf rights. I call it S.P.E.W." It definitely didn't have the best acronym but S.P.E.W was going to be the best thing for her all year. She'd duplicated pamphlets detailing her groups mission and ideals. Taking one out she handed it Minerva as they sat in her office. Green eyes skimmed the pamphlet with wonder as there had never been a student with this sort of initiative before. While Lily potter would have joined something like this even she had not come to this idea on her own. Knowing how close Hermione was with Harry and Ron she knew they would be in the club. She'd imagine quite a few students would join.

"Well done. It looks very informative and interesting I will endorse this club so you can get members. I suspect a number of the students agree with these notes but a dream like this takes money and a position in the ministry Im afraid. You would be a great member but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to you teaching one day."

"I could never work in the ministry it sounds so boring and half corrupt if Lucius Malfoy can be working there."

"True true, he wasn't always a bad one just got as much sucked in to all that dark lord shit as much as he was born into it. No getting him away from it and no way digging him out but he was always a scared little man."

"Minerva can I ask you something. Cedric diggory's mother did you teach her?" Hermione while thinking of the ministry thought of Amos Diggory amongst a number of other names in the ministry she'd learned this year. However her mind once on Amos was stuck thinking about what Cedric said.

"I did.. she's a great woman why?"

"Just Cedric was telling me she does traces of abilities through history. I don't want to bother Cedric but does she have anything published or is it all personal still? If she could track my ability back to someone else then I can figure out its purpose."

"I don't think I heard of her publishing anything. She was into that while here but she wasn't in my house. She and Amos were in Hufflepuff together." Minerva seemed to be intrigued by talking about this topic once more. Comfortable to leave the former topic behind.

"I will have to ask him then in the mean time I have to ask since I don't have a time turner this year is it still possible to learn something after hours with you that I think will help."

"It depends on what you want to learn."

"Occlumency and Legilimency." There was silence. Hermione wrung her hands a little thinking she finally asked to much of her friend, teacher, she sometimes forgot. Why her professor could never let her dig into her mind. A friend would right, maybe she'd ask Harry to help.

"I can help only so far. In this there is someone much better you should ask."

"Really? Who?"

"Professor Snape." It was Hermione's turn for shocked silence. "I'll teach what I can but he should teach you the fullest extent of those skills. He's not an easy teacher Hermione especially when it comes to those kinds of lessons." She sounded worried for just a moment and then it was gone hurried under a sort of excitement. "Your ability allows you a moment when touching someone with high emotions so it should interesting how you do without contact."

"Actually I've had some changes this Summer which is why I thought to ask for help. I have had no contact when I see somethings it's still related to high emotions but I suspect that too may grow."

"How marvelous you dear are brilliant and amazing always on top of things. Awareness is key to growth and you have a natural talent for observation. With all you have been through in three years having no practice before arriving here it's no wonder your ability has grown. Thus the need to learn to block when discretion is needed but first you'll need to learn to activate the skill with and then without the wand to learn to block."

"Thank you Minerva I just knew I had to ask you first before trying on my own. I know with what I can do it's not easy to let someone like me in."

"Like you?"

"A student." Hermione whispers knowing that is the truth to their relationship. No matter how nice they were to each other, excited from discussing knowledge, or often they called one another by name they were only to be teacher and student.

"Oh..yes..well I've got no intentions of letting my personal life get read that easily so you'll have to work hard and earn it." She gives Hermione a smirk that say she's only teasing but her eyes are saying she wants her to try. Hermione isn't sure if this an invitation to friendship if she can break through her guard or not but now she has to give it her all to find out.

She doesn't get to respond when behind her the grandfather clock dongs. She had to head to the common room. They decided a first meeting and Hermione ran all the was to the Fat Lady portrait. Gave the password and barreled in quite happy. Once inside she noticed Ron and Harry sat doing divination homework. Only upon asking where more people were did the boys mention Fred and George's strange behavior muttering in whispers. They'd only heard just before they left the room them say the word "accusatory" which was yet more strange as they haven't social really that much in their down time like normal.

Hermione couldn't keep the grin off her face even if she tried to feel bad for the twins and whatever they were dealing with. Harry asked Hermione where she'd been pulling her right into an excited and long explanation then gave them each a badge from her box of pamphlets and badges. After some time she paused it was only then she saw how baffled they looked. She hadn't given them the chance to say no before including them in the club. Nor did they get a chance to turn her down as Hedwig was spotted waiting at the window to deliver the letter in her beak immediately to Harry.

After petting her for making the trip he began reading it out loud. Catching easily his carefully read regrets for the delayed answer ended up being he easy part as the more furious Harry sounded the faster it came out making it just barely understandable that Sirius was informing Harry he was making his way north to be closer to the school and that Dumbledore is in fact reading the signs. Though Harry stormed off to bed quite angry with Sirius for risking getting caught to be nearer. Hermione watched as Ron followed his best friend but she was to curious what Sirius meant by Dumbledore was reading the signs. Was there more going on than Harry's dream, the World Cup, and the scar burning.

The more she tried to make sense of it the less it did and so she was about to head to bed herself when she noticed Neville muttering away about his book. He seemed so taken with it. Even asking him if he was okay didn't interrupt him. She places a pamphlet and badge by him and offered him a good night to which she received an answer to at least.

The next morning she woke up early to make a sign up sheet for S.P.E.W at the top it read 5 Knuts to join. She asked around her dorm getting mixed signals either they were interested or not but those interested didn't want to pay to join. The money was to help pay for elf's seeking fair pay.

By the time she had gotten to the great hall she had wrestled Ginny and Neville in. While Ginny paid happily to help a friend Neville and the boys seemed to just think Hermione would leave them be. However even she had talked of Neville ear regardless all the way to breakfast.

Harry told her and Ron he had sent a letter back telling Sirius not to worry about coming. Though he can't say his name they know exactly who he means. Just like they had said the twins were acting strange an distant. Mentioning needing to write a letter.

"Who you writing to?" Ron asked.

"Non ya business!" They said together and left quickly. They all share a look of confusion then dig into breakfast. Once they finish and start classes that day there is a shift in lessons. Hermione would say she knew it was coming but she was just as surprised at the mention of important exams in at the end of their 5th year. it was so soon but like it or not the workloads got bigger and homework got longer. Hermione was barely ever able to have time to get no members for S.P.E.W though no one else seemed interested once they hear it cost something.

October was approaching fast. One day after a long and grueling class with Professor Moody trying to get everyone to resist the imperius curse. Harry had been the only one from their class at first then near the end a few others managed even minor break in the curse. The talk was that Harry was skilled or really miraculous to be able to defend against not one but two unforgivable curses in his life.

This however was out washed by chatter of the schools arrivals approaching. The notice that read the day before Halloween had been in the main hall which Ron had read out loud. To Hermione this was less important news than several teachers informing the fourth years of Ordinary Wizarding Levels fast approaching. There are more tests and homework. Double potions days quickly became the day that everyone dreads with a test of antidotes.

The concept being for a week and a half professor Snape challenges each student to know they've been poisoned and to remedy it promptly. Hermione had cleared hers with flying colors. After she'd finished she was free for two hours the last few days before any guests came. As such she used that time to practice with Professor McGonagall the skill of blocking mental intrusion also known as occlumency.

Her goals so far was defining the go pared to barrier as a fence usually meant access via a gate. A wall described as a brick wall might mean crevices which are weaker. The perfect barrier to Hermione was a thick metal. She'd seen some before with X-rays at her parents office. The room was safe from leakage as they often did new customer X-rays. Hermione explained how she could imagine the company that makes sheets like that start with a large amount to make it exactly the size you need.

Once her concept was laid they practiced the mental imagery of it going up. It wasn't lay by layer like a brick wall as that seemed to time consuming. It flowed into place as if sealed smooth and quickly like applying a sticker. Her guard has been up for many years. She figured she didn't know it because she grew so use to reactions her mind adapted for her.

She understands the ground work now to put it to its first test. It crunches up like tinfoil almost right away. A flash of her summer comes forth making it clear what was being protected or currently not as it would seem. Within seconds she was back in the office chambers obviously once she broke through Professor McGonagall stopped.

"Wow so that's what it's like. Why didn't it work on my end though?" Hermione although surprised about realizing what it felt like to know someone has read your mind she's even more determined to figure out her faults and try again.

"Could be number of reasons. One your not imagining the firmness of your barrier or perhaps you are thinking to much on our friendly relationship. Not putting your best foot forward." Her tone not as kind as it usually was with her but as it naturally was with all her students. As intended Hermione took the next attempt more seriously and imagined a large truck banging into her metal wall and not even denting it. Inhaling one more she told Professor McGonagall to try again.

This time after a few minutes of silence the weight Hermione began to feel made her hands shake before a massive gasp and inhale filled the room. This time fields of green came to mind and then suddenly a fearful Hermione from the night at the quidditch cup. Her dream had almost been seen making her wonder if even that was at risk of being observed.

"Wonderful! I knew you had it in you. Now we do this for a little while until I believe you are sufficient in it that we can begin legilimency. Just to say that level of prodding is not something most can hold off for long if they don't practice every day. You may one day want to protect your mind for hours, days, or weeks."

"Let's hope not but prepare for it I suppose. I know people who use things that mentally drain them as a tool for sleeping better or relaxing their mind. Thank you for going so far to teach me." Hermione says set herself to go another round. They go for an hour with only just few breaks. Hermione feels the creative ways her Professor breaks through her barrier. A pressing weight at first, then large pointed pickaxe, finally to banging wrecking ball. Shaking the metal until the imagined sound forced into her head made her focus drop. Each time Hermione tried to prepare a thought so it wasn't anything embarrassing that was seen. Unfortunately the process was so fast that Hermione was sure she thought of what she didn't want seen and thus that was what came to mind.

"I believe that's all we can fit today next time we'll be practicing using your wand to protect your mind so you need to be a bit faster on the redirecting or pushing me out. Naturally you'd learn to use wandless magic for this but we'll do what we can first."

"I've been practicing wandless magic since the beginning of this year actually it's interesting and since I couldn't take extra classes I thought that would be easy to do whenever I can."

"I'd be lying if I said I was surprised. You seemed to be making the most of your time again this year." Hermione blushed at the impressed tone.

"I don't expect another year like last year but I want stay busy learning even when everyone else seems to be focused on the triwizard tournament."

"A dash of fun can still be tremendously good on your studies. None the less I suspect your current level of wandless magic may be enough."

"I haven't done much just a touch of levitation and first year spells."

"Hermione dear I'm already throughly impressed with your wits no need to try harder. Truly if it was safe you would be the perfect student to show off at the triwizard tournament." Hermione felt her cheeks turn fire hot. "Now then before I embarrass you further head to lunch I'll see you again soon."

It was obvious that the next lesson would be after guests arrived this afternoon but also after Halloween too. Descending the stairs she passed Cedric talking to a girl. Trying not to interrupt to much she made a gesture that she wanted a moment.

"I um don't want to bother you but I haven't had any luck at tracking my gift by family tree or blood I was really hoping you could ask your mom for a copy of the book she's put her maps in so I can see them."

"She hasn't published anything actually but I'll ask her to send you anything she can. I uh gotta go." His girl companion is many steps ahead but shyly waiting for him to catch up.

"Yeah of course sorry to stop you and your girlfriend."

"Oh gosh no not Cho she's sweet but a friend.. I mean I would but I'm not her type."

"Okay. Anyways bye and thanks." She spun off skipping her way down the stairs feeling happy to get somewhere. Even if it took weeks she knew he would come through like promised.

Meanwhile with all preparations done and Halloween night drawing near and guests begin arriving after lunch. Everyone look presentable having had a few hours to get ready. The boys wasted there time while Hermione and Ginny both tried doing something with there hair. Receiving a glare and magical tucking of there shirts from Professor McGonagall they ended up red in the face until a flying carriage came into view.

The huge carriage was brought in by beautiful yet large horses. Hagrid's all but fawned at them and the headmistress. Being she never met the woman on her tour she was surprised seeing her in person verses pictures the height she has. Nothing was as shocking however how many students came from inside the carriage. All those hoping to enter the tournament she assumed. There were still to many to count and it appeared some were just support or perhaps representing their school.

Not long after Beauxbatons arrived the second school could be seen creeping in from the far waterfront while less marvelous it was a manly and memorable way to do it for a generally boys school. The water poured off the massive ship allowing the headmaster and students to disembark once ashore. Fur coats, hats, and scowling stern faces from each Durmstrang greet all of Hogwarts.

As everyone files inside guest first followed by hosts Ron is unable to process witnessing Viktor lead his classmates into the castle. Once they are in there is a blend of students all trying to get close and see the beautiful girls of Beauxbotons or the handsome boys of Durmstrang but the distinctions can be made as the tables fill in for feast and mingling. The prim and proper girls all sit with the Ravenclaws while the Definitely rough and mischievous boys sit with the Slytherins.

Harry is in awe to even see other schools truly exist despite her telling him. Ron is apologizing to a group of girls for knocking one of them over while trying to get close to Viktor crum. Hermione has her eyes on the only other table not sat with and both Gryffindor and Hufflepuff are offended but trying not to show it.

The only time Harry took his eyes off the guests was once new chairs were brought in for the headmasters. There were two spare making not just him but everyone curious. Who else was coming. It was with that moment Dumbledore had everyone's attention. So he began his introduction speech about how three schools can come together to learn a lot from one another and pretty much what he loved saying so far to all the houses. He then concludes by introducing the other guests as new judges Barty Crouch Sr and Ludo Bagman. The trio remember them from the World Cup and not much else is given on the topic

After all the glamor and reveals of the trophy and the winning one would receive the feast was on. There was a bit more chatter than ever before but no one seemed to mind all that much. Ron barely in two bites without mentioning something Viktor was doing. He was obvious that as prided as he was to be his fan than he felt the need to support his classmates that enter.

As the night winds down Hermione turns herself in for the night. She's not the first to leave but she did leave alone so she was surprised when she felt a hand stop her just outside the great hall. Turning she expected a young student looking for help instead she faced a stunning blonde from the guest school of Beauxbotons this silver blue eyed girl stood taller than her but had a light touch she barely felt her hand still on her wrist.

"Hi." Hermione says not sure how to start this conversation.

"Hello" she says with thick accent. "I know we have a guide already but perhaps you might be willing to give me personal tour as well in return for mine?" Knowing how the language can be tricky Hermione thinks she's misheard but just then she realizes she's seen this girl before.

"Fleur wow I cant believe it you look stunning.. I mean still, you look stunning still but you haven't changed a bit, just a little taller though. Oh and your English is really coming along."

"Well I learned after you left mostly because I was practicing for this visit but also because I hoped I'd see you again and I didn't want to be unprepared." They both laugh yet when silence creeps up Fleur makes sure it not long. "We are staying in our carriage I wish I could show you inside but perhaps you'd like to show me around when you have time?"

"I.. have time Saturday or Sunday but aren't you focused on entering the tournament?"

"It's just my name on a piece of paper Hermione, I've already been practicing. The only thing I'd like more than winning is to spend time with someone as unique and wonderful as you. This year is about mingling as much as it is about making our schools proud."

"Then I would love to, to be honest."

"Fantastic meet me at the carriage at 10 tomorrow." Fleur waves a kiss before turning and heading outside. It seemed she was quite bold in doing as she pleased as the school she was with practically did everything as a unit. It made her wonder what would they possibly say to her showing up tomorrow morning.

Determined to find out then and not worry about it now she headed back to the dorms. Her side table held books she wanted to focus on. Climbing in bed after getting ready she plucked a how to knit for witches book. Ginny was showing her technique she learned from her mother but Hermione needed more practice. She started with a ball of yarn in her drawers and mimicked each loop till she'd had it rhymed out.

Even though she was tired she wanted to finish a certain length of rows before setting it aside again. Before long a hand sat on hers that weight she knew it instantly. Following the delicate fingers to see Fleur's face she was speechless. Had she been there long.

"Thank you for taking us somewhere private." The French girl mused. "We haven't a moment alone this whole tour but you deserve a thank you" Without a pause she clasped her closer and laid her lips on Hermione's. They break and come together again. A noise escapes her but it's not to stop in fact Fleur presses her back onto the bed and -WHAM!

Hermione groans in pain as the book levitating for her fell onto her face. She curses in frustration as she make her way to the bathroom to make her face isn't bleeding. She was really happy in the dream not to mention excited. That however didn't mean Fleur wanted her in that way. It simply meant Hermione was interested in a very attractive upperclass woman. Sure she dreamt about her before but it was almost innocent this was not.

"Merlin how am I to face her now." She mumbled to herself. There was no nose bleed just some redness. Now she went straight to sleep afterwards thankful without further dreams of the blonde. She woke up had early breakfast then went to send a letter to her parents. She already told them about the tournament for the upperclassman but she wanted to tell them how the guest schools arrived and how magical their arrivals were.

By the time she finished and made it down to the main entrance the boys were asking her along for a bit of fun outside. She'd exited with them but told them she was meeting a friend. They shrugged and ran off towards the lake. Her gut clenched standing by the carriage not sure how to ask if Fleur was there. The moment she went to speak however the French blonde came out with a big smile.

"Oh fantastic you came!" Hermione grins and looks up into those blue to see how sincere she is being. A few girls who looked similar in hair color called out just behind her. They looked a few years young maybe her own year. "I know I made the request sound like it was for just me but my leader wants us to include my fellow students in mingling."

"T-that's fine." Hermione looked at the girls, compared to Fleur they were pretty but she was marvelously drop dead gorgeous actually. "I haven't had any practice in French lately I might be rubbish."

"Nonsense you were pretty good last time. I can translate anyhow. This is Sophia, Daphne, and Bianca. C'est Hermione."

"Bonjour Hermione!" The three says a bit to happily.

Hermione ends up showing them around outside while it's nice out even though there isn't much to it just the forest which is forbidden, Hargid's hut, which always puts people in an awkward place thinking of living in such a cluttered space, and the whomping willow. The tree actually looked loving in the right season other times it would appear frightening when bare.

She felt the pressure to show interesting places. But nothing at Hogwarts really made her feel as amazed as the beauty at the academy. Looking to see if they were still interested Hermione caught Fleur's eyes on her. Quickly she lead them to the castle bringing her own eyes forward again.

"Daphne was wondering last night about more of the ghosts. I'm sure you know where they get to all day right?"

"Yes I do. We can stop around some and let them see what they do. Some are a bit strange to be honest."

"That's alright." Fleur says leaning much closer than she was at first time she spoke but it didn't scare Hermione. In fact the way the her breath brushed against the base of her ear a crossed her neck made her shiver but with excitement.

They weren't alone and hadn't even talked as if it was to get to know one another better so being excited felt strange as she didn't even know what she was hoping for. As she thought this Fleur made her way beside her.

"We don't have such historical things like you do here. We have pretty things and while they have meaning or purpose to us as students of the school we don't have much variety like you do. Such character."

"I guess one gets too use to what they see so often that we forget the beauty in it and find things of opposite so appealing." They trade telling what they thought was most lovely or unique with each other's school. Fleur loved the staircases and how the moved. Hermione liked the elegant collection of statues at the Academy. Fleur said she also loved the gargoyles outside while Hermione expressed how much she loved the library.

Saying it alone made Hermione remember her dreams but the soft expression that sat of Fleur's face made her unable to say more without stuttering. Clearing her throat she'd hope Fleur hadn't noticed. Once they'd gone to several locations including Hogwarts's own library they had lunch separately. Fleur said she'd meet her afterwards and so Hermione figured that with half the day gone there couldn't be more to this tour like she had thought.

When the boys sat with her they asked why she was hanging with some French girls earlier and she told them a girl asked to see the school better yesterday and she agreed because that's what a host school is supposed to do. That was the end of their questions and she left to wait on a bench in the hall for the four to return. Sitting there mentally she told herself to get it together as it was obvious by now Fleur is just doing what she needs to involve her classmates in getting to know the students of Hogwarts.

"I'm back." Pulled from her thoughts she found just Fleur standing before her. "So don't you have somewhere quite in this place. Even the library is full of people as big as it is an you have a crazy shushing lady in there." This causes Hermione to blush and let out a chuckle. "Oh good you can laugh still I was thinking you'd forgotten how to have fun."

"I haven't forgotten just thought we were touring to learn about the school." They've begun climbing the stairs not yet certain what the next location would be.

"Yes and no. It was supposed to be just me and you getting to know each other while touring but headmistress heard of the tour thought it was good I already knew someone and made the others come along. You are well guarded naturally but I saw how happy you were seeing something new back home so I know it's just by nature."

"We'll sort of I guess I have to be guarded normally. Everyday I risk peaking into others personal thoughts if I am not." They reach several floors and still no new destination is clear.

"How do you mean?"

"I have a gift or ability to see people's memories or what they are thinking. It once was just with high emotions now it's growing."

"You must be pretty strong then."

"I think it's more because I'm a muggle-born so when I started using magic I figured it began growing. I still don't know where it originated from."

"Well you're brilliantly clever I hear so you will find out one day." Now with no other interesting places to go being mostly classrooms and such Hermione lead the way to probably the best view in the entire place.

"I suppose so. Anyways I don't know why I said anything because I usually only tell people when I know I might have physical contact with them." Climbing up the steps onto the empty roof of the astronomy tower. Just below them sat a huge telescope that reached through the roof now but that was overlooked by the open scene before them.

"What makes you think I don't want physical contact with you? This is really something. Quite and alone perfect actually. You can see everything." As Hermione hears the simple comment she goes deep red in her face. Did she mean that in some way that foreign language normally made it sound better.

"I um..ha yeah such a good view." Fleur looks directly at her. Walks towards her again almost as light as air. Standing in front of her she is fairly taller

"I'm sure you're aware normally it's customary for French greetings to have a bit more contact but that's if someone is open and aware to it. I actually wanted to avoid it so this was more clear what it meant."

There wasn't much time to react but enough that if Hermione wasn't comfortable that she could let her down. Instead of stopping the kiss the smell of her perfume filled her personal space and the taste of peach met her lips. It was definitely not a greeting and very clearly a soft long personal kiss. A few fingers grazed her ear in an attempt to tangle them in her hair and hold her in place. In that moment she knew it wasn't a dream it was real as her often messy hair tugged gently.

They melted together the sun getting lower the longer that stood toe to toe. Several minutes pass before they look at each other having to breath. There is a fire in those blue eyes now. Hermione is feeling a fire in her gut wondering what is next. Lead by hand to the ledge they lean on the balcony an look out.

The moment isn't lost despite actually talking because all the while their fingers are laced a thumb pads over her knuckles. Hermione can only think mentally what the heck is going on. Not intending to stop it she keeps calm slowly feeling a sense of joy at the reality of the single most wonderful moment of her night.

The truth was Fleur's kiss wasn't like Ginnys, in a good way. Ginny was a great friend and like a sister now, a kiss between them was young and innocent but still not like this one. There was real passion behind this kiss. The kiss made the question of being into women disappear entirely. She was no doubt about being into the fairer sex and wanted more.

"Mon chéri, I must head back to the carriage I'm sure the girls have reported back by now and we have a lights out policy." Her accent sends shivers down Hermione's spine as it's practically a whisper in her ear. "If you might like a next time I'll find away to meet with you again."

"Are you not out with your classmates?"

"Non, they wouldn't understand. My gran taught me to love everyone as you never know who is the one but we also have a piece of culture that my mother expects marriage to a man and children. I haven't the heart to tell her it might not be that way." Careful not to let go of her hand until completely down the stairs once more Hermione got the impression she was telling the truth.

"I get that, mostly anyways. I've told friends but I'm not really one to go out of my way to express it. My parents are cool with it but I have no clue how most in the magical world feel about it. I've noticed in Britain we tend to do things a bit backwards still." With them in agreement they wouldn't want someone to think why were two girls in the astronomy tower so they quickly made their way down a few floors. Down on the first floor there were still a number of guests inside but just as Fleur turned to say goodbye Madame Maxime swiftly exited the great hall. By one look alone the girls in blue knew to step up behind her no questions asked. The apologetic look fleur wore said it all there wasn't a moment left.

"Go…next time." Hermione said giving her what she needs without much fight. Aside from a brush of skin across her hand there was no sign that they were just together for hours by themselves. There were no suspicious glances from anyone as if to ask why a bookworm like Hermione was with a stunning woman like Fleur.

As Saturday ended considerably more casual than the night before the Halloween feast aside formal wear wasn't mandatory. The following day was more leisure and fun for the entire student body but this time there was no blonde found near Hermione. During breakfast a younger kid mentions how all the Durmstrang kids entering had done so early. Cedric had been subtle but was the majority favored champion for Hogwarts. Fleur entered the Room with a train of girls behind her. Her long arms reached up and dropped in her name. There were others periodically but these two along with the obvious Viktor Krum made the largest impressions. Fleur's eyes fell on the trio before taking her leave.

There was something about Fleur that Hermione couldn't put her finger on that made everyone lock on to her. As she speculates the reason of this Fred and Goerge come busting in each have a piece of paper and a vial in hand. Though this the first time since school started she'd seen them behaving like normal she has an urge to say something to stop them. Knowing they won't listen doesn't matter as she says whatever they are planning won't work.

"Why not?"they ask making her roll her eyes before reasoning that Dumbledore himself made the preventive age line he wouldn't be easily fooled by some stupid aging potion. Instead of giving up they brushed off her warning. They didn't change much if any but they still cross the age line. Nothing happens for a moment then suddenly the pair are shot away from the goblet. They now looked aged greatly making everyone laugh this to included Professor Dumbledore who must have found the similarities of their grey hair and beards to his own most amusing.

The trio ended up heading to Hagrid's after the boys scurry to complete their homework, unsurprisingly. Once at Hagrid's they talked about the tournament though he wouldn't share the first task he was clearly relieved Harry was underaged and effectively safe from the tournament. Hermione knew Harry could care less but that didn't ever change the way people saw him.

The night closed gradually in making them return to the castle Hagrid following behind them doused in cologne while Madame Maxime strode ahead from the carriage. In the great hall not a seat was empty. All through dinner the excitement was building. Who would be the champion of the schools. Of those who entered who would be likely to win. Many more questions and conversations circulated before the end of dinner at which time Dumbledore stood claiming silence from everyone.

The champions drawn were told to head into a private room once called for a clue to the first task. The goblet erupted a red flame from its calm blue one before spitting out a name. Viktor Krum leapt from his seat right away and followed his headmaster in to the room they both looked smug and confident but all eyes diverted back to the once again red flame. This time Fleur Delacour was called and she fluttered daintily behind her own headmistress. Cedric Diggory was the third and final Champion called and he went rather shyly. The schools cheered at the marvelous trio set to face each other in this dangerous trial of skills.

Dumbledore began to close the nights festivities so he too could join the group as Hogwarts headmaster but he was stopped short. A fourth red flame spit out another name. No one expected this not even the officials from the ministry. Dumbledore gave a stuttered whisper but everyone heard him. Still he said it once more louder. 'Harry Potter!" All eyes was on him if he could he would be looking to from the surprise on his face.

Realizing he was frozen Hermione pushed him to get up after Dumbledore called out once more. He tripped getting to his feet but he made it to him but was pointed to go to the back just like the others. Hermione watched on as Minerva bit her lip in distress and Hagrid looked as if his heart had been pulled out. Dumbledore said nothing except for everyone to stay to give cheers once the champions returned.

Dumbledore was followed by half the table of teachers, Barth Crouch Sr, and Ludo Bagman. Ron looked a mixture of furious and proud. He hadn't a clue Harry had entered his name which upset him that his best friend hadn't told him but Hermione was not convinced Harry had entered his name. Why would he? He hated the attention he got most of the time this would add too it. Knowing this made her feel quite bad for her friend and rather annoyed with the other.

Beyond Harry she was waiting for Fleur even Cedric as they all were people she knew unlike Viktor. Aside from the deeply rooted strong guy image she wasn't sure how confident any other contestant were in comparison. That made her fear for their lives. The contract was completed the moment their names flew out of the goblet of this she was sure.

Eventually the group filed out and each champion stood front and center a moment and the parted to their tables. Minerva looked to Dumbledore with a seriousness still in her eyes. Something was discussed because between her, mad-eye, and Professor Snape the suspicious glares would make any student wet themselves if they'd been pointed at them. The heads of the other schools looked more furious than anything else while Barty Crouch Sr and Ludo Bagman were the odd men out and each wore a different expression.

The former had a look of nerves and fear if Hermione were any closer she thought she might be able to even see what he was thinking with how strong it set on his face. Ludo looked over joyed though she couldn't imagine why if everyone else was not but this man hardly seemed the type to be up to something foul. He was driven by money not revenge like the situation might suggest to the right people. Of these people it seemed there were very few. The Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and the Hufflepuff houses looked on harry with green jealous eyes or anger. Gryffindor was naturally proud to have a champion but lacked the decency to keep this subtle until the appropriate time. The great hall cleared feeling even more divided than before.

The staff looked flustered but began wearing their masks as soon as it was obvious it would be a long night of dealing with the responses they'd now need to give to the students as to why four names came out? Why Harry Potters name? Finding her way across the hall to the Professors might have been easy but none of them looked willing to talk to anyone else before talking to each other. So she went slowly to the dorm. Along the way she passed Fleur who was explaining in French to some girls what happened. Though a bit to fast to catch it all Hermione heard a few things clearly. One the goblet was tricked and two Harry wasn't old enough or strong enough to do the magic it would have taken to trick the goblet.

This was true and though Fleur was mad Hermione was happy to see she wasn't entirely blaming Harry. The real question was if the goblet was a magical item that made a magical contract with its champions who did have enough power to trick such an item. Voldemort was the only person out for Harry even if his servant Peter Petigrew was free to find whatever truly remained of Voldemort somehow or even attempted to honor him by doing this not that she could believe the small frightful man would have the guts to sneak around Dumbledore again.

Hermione thought of this as she entered the dorm and stumbled in on a party. Her classmates hid no excitement of one of their own getting to be part of the tournament. Harry had a Gryffindor banner over his shoulders but she could tell he didn't want to be there. When he does eventually leave she knows from looking that Ron is probably waiting for him to go to bed. She hoped the two would talk now an still be friendly in the morning.

This turned out to be to much to ask for. Ginny was the first one to catch her coming down the stairs the next morning. She looked hurried as if intending to find her. Not leaving her waiting she asked her what was wrong.

"Ron just stormed of grumbling when I mentioned Harry." Hermione wondered if he'd even be up yet.

"What did you ask?"

"If he told him what the first task was." Ginny was probably just worried and was hoping he'd figured out the first clue yet.

"I guess that means he doesn't believe Harry didn't put his own name in." Hermione says more as an observation to herself.

"Why would he? It's no question he hates all this attention."

"You brother has a hard time seeing it that way I'll wait for Harry though and try talking to Ron later."

"Yeah let him cool off but um are you okay? Haven't seen you this week much." Hermione nodded but decided to explain her practice sessions with Professor McGonagall. She told her about showing a group of French girls the school. Then she let her leave for breakfast unlike herself who was waiting for Harry. Before long though she decides he might not end up wanting food in the great hall so she runs to grab some toast and hurry's back before too long.

When she returned Harry was leaving the common room running into her with toast in hand. He looked barely rested and surprised to see her. Accepting the toast though Hermione thought since they were already out of the tower why stop there.

"Want to go for a walk?" He nodded and they both went on down to the lake. Once there food all gone and the weather looking well Hermione started. "Tell me what happened in the room."

"Fleur, Cedric, and Viktor all wanted to know why I was there I told them and the headmasters got furious. When Dumbledore came in he just asked me once if I put my name in which of course I didn't and he believed me. Snape and Professor McGonagall said it must be true as Dumbledore is too smart to be tricked. Then mad-eye suggested a manipulator looking to endanger Harry's life which despite his normal paranoia was believed by most everyone there. The only ones not on board was Ludo who seemed uninterested in the news and Madame Maxime.

She was to proper to lose her temper in plain public but she sounded more than a little mad as Harry told told her every detail. This would certainly make mingling difficult for a while let alone having a chance to sneak away with certain blonde champion. Harry then told her about Ron's reaction.

"Why would he be so happy if I told him I put my name in anyway. Sounds like I'm not even close to skilled enough for the whole thing. Does he want me to die?"

"No Harry he's jealous. He was hoping you'd tell him so he can be apart of your popularity. He's the youngest boy in his family, never having enough attention. His older brothers get the attention for antics or perfect behavior he's neither. His sister gets everything he should as younger child so he feels more like a middle child over looked. He just wanted to be included."

"Well that's stupid he could be included if he came round to the fact I didn't ask for this. He's mad I won't say I did it then he believes I did and I thought he knew me better." There was no gentle way to get Ron back on their side than being the better one and taking the high road by saying sorry. Harry didn't need to do that though Ron should see he's wrong and if he doesn't she'll have to speak to him herself. In the mean time Harry looked more stressed having told her everything so she tried changing the topic.

"Maybe you should write Sirius and see what he says about this."

"No he is adding to much risk as it is for me."

"He will want to hear it from you Harry." He pauses knowing she's right.

"Fine."

They spend much of the day in classes after breakfast. Not a single student soul expresses they believe Harry didn't put his name in the goblet. Any Hufflepuff wears clear distain on their faces making some classes harder than others. Malfoy teases Harry on how well he'll do which in his opinion isn't well at all.

Being in Hagrid's class was easiest as he believed Harry but he didn't actually think he had much of a chance in winning. They were working this one species since the start of the year and skrewt's were turning out to be a lot to handle. Taking them for walks was a task in its self and the bigger they got the more work they might take Hermione wasn't sure why Hagrid had this one animal in mind for the whole semester or year. It seemed like it was gonna be that long before they'd be done with them.

The rest of the week consisted of avoiding anyone wearing a new badges when she was with Harry. They were point blank against his inclusion to the tournament. The badges had a unique feature by switching back and forth from one design and phrase to another. When she wasn't with Harry she was with Ron trying to get him to stop fighting with Harry.

Harry got so distracted dealing with the whirlwind of things that as much as he brushed off everyone's foul talk he couldn't let a word from Draco slide. The Slytherin laugh as they wear the badges but Ron still ignores the lot leaving Hermione alone to defend Harry. She can see it ending badly but still tries to settle the situation. Essentially this back fires.

"You can say what you want about it but Harry still had no choice but honor the rules of the tournament." She says not aware there is now a duel of spells casted which she wouldn't have thought any student would be willing to do while in class. Professor Snape not having arrived yet was not able to stop them but a moment later Hermione is struck. Her face grows warm on contact and her hands raise to her face. It is instant not even a hesitation in the side effects beginning. Her front teeth are growing.

At the startling outcome the boys stop their duel. Harry turns to check on Hermione while Draco and his boys scurry off to Professor Snape as he enters where he then blames Harry for Goyle also being stuck with something. He sends him off to the infirmary.

"Professor I think Hermione needs to see the nurse." He sounds alarmed and yet his face is calmly on hers. The larger than reasonable teeth quake as they grow a little more again. Ron is now showing concern not just at Harry but surprisingly at her.

"What is the matter here?" As if he is not completely aware of what is going on. Hermione doesn't want to show him her teeth right away much like the time he saw her cat fur accident. When she does though he looks so indifferent.

"Malfoy has struck her teeth to grow. Look at her." Professor Snape looks over to her and slides a hand through his greasy hair with a sneer aimed at Harry.

"I see no difference." Hermione cries out as he says this and decides not to sit around and wait for a pass to leave class. She runs and runs all the way to the infirmary. She can hear Ron and Harry are both giving Professor an ear full as she leaves which means probably detention but she cant stop imaging her teeth growing further past her hands more than they were. Once at the nurses she burst in and sees Goyle being treated. Harry's must have been less severe.

"Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear what happened child?" Hermione explains she was hit with a hex in her face but that she hadn't been the one fighting. The boys give a chuckle causing them to be kicked out now that they had no need to be there. "We will have to find out if your parents need to be notified. I'll hurry Minerva down."

Asking her not to get the head of her house was as impossible as the point was moot with how incoherent she now sounded. A patronus later and they expected Minerva to burst in like mama defending her Cubs any moment. It took several minutes however by which time Madame Pomfrey had stopped the hex but is waiting from word from Minerva to see if the parents should be informed or if the issue is considered a non invasive procedure thus not requiring clearance.

"Morgana's- cauldron. I'm going to make sure I get to punish Severus's student for this." Minerva was briskly walking towards the pair whom were now chuckling themselves at her lost temper. "Oh hush you two now as its not going to break or cut her open its not pertinent to give the parents notice and receive word on if they approve but I will have to report the incident can you fix this quickly though?"

"Well fix it yes quickly no. She has to let me know when its just right as I cant grow them again it has to be precise." They did as she said with a mirror in hand watching the exact size shrink to her normal. Hermione had never been able to convince her parents she needed braces but her normal size was never like everyone else. She let her teeth be shrunk a little more not trying to make her intentions obvious. The moment they sat perfectly with the others she put down the mirror and gave Madame Pomfrey a grin.

"Thank you so much that was not as terrible as the last time but definitely not wanted just as much. I know my parents would have wanted it fixed they are dentists and though good at the jobs not skilled enough to fix that." With that Madame Pomfrey left Hermione with Minerva who would have gotten her student to class either way.

"I don't doubt your parents would have accepted the help but was the enhancement necessary?" Minerva tried not to make a point to appear to have noticed but she'd seen Hermione more consistently the last several years than most other students. It was not likely she would miss this. Hermione looked guilty but still gave her reasoning.

"If my parents could have given me braces to fix that they would have because its their life. There is no such thing though to make such a small difference in the muggle world." It really wasn't something she thought anyone but her would notice. Minerva had a faint look of concern.

Without contact Hermione felt a insecure emotion that wasn't hers and saw a glimpse of one ebony girl in pain clenching her own leg. The amount of pain she was in reached Hermione in a way she almost cried out herself but she was quickly cut off from this memory. She found herself facing the almost youthful but older version of that girl. She was neither mad nor insecure now. She gives a brief hum before speaking.

"As I know you saw something just now by the shock on your face, I've grown familiar though our training of your presence as well, let's talk about what you saw."

"I'm so sorry Professor it's why I need more practice to learn to control it."

"It's quite alright dear. Just tell me what you saw and how you saw it."

"Well it varies sometimes I see thing in first person but other times it's like im just there in the room. I saw you in pain and holding your legs what happened?"

"I was very tall for my age in school use to get made fun of for it but I never though anything of it until someone I liked said something. I thought I was skilled enough at transfiguration or charms I could pull off a relatively reasonable adjustment. Typically even as witches and wizards making modifications is not often done let alone on your own. I failed I wasn't focused and my bones and muscles were seriously injured but thankfully I was given correct care and was fixed in no time. Ive had more serious injuries preventing me from getting back into quidditch but that one hurt the most. To this day I'm thankful it wasn't irreparable." Having said so much minerva looks hopeful at Hermione.

"The pain you felt was enough to stop the consideration of doing anything like that but I swear I was never intending to do anything. I wouldn't have fixed my teeth or say my hair if magical events hadn't made them fixable I myself wouldn't have done it but I'm glad I had a great healer help me and support in each of those incidents. Thank you for everything this is just another one of those occasions you seem to always be around to help me out." Hermione feels her now healed mouth go dry at the words she's said. In a friendly kind of way Minerva was always around. "I mean as our head of house you are always looking out for your students."

"Certainly that's my job." Unconvincingly she is suggesting this is right. "I find you have been were I have been and I can offer you much in terms of my help. All though Mr potter comes with a knack for trouble you seem to not be far behind. If I didn't have the twins and numerous other students that loved to keep me on my toes I'd say you two are always up to something." Even in this moment Hermione notices the lapse in mentioning Ron making her frown slightly. "What have I said it was in joking I jest."

"Its not you Minerva its you forgot Ronald he's been feeling a little over looked and he's been taking it out on Harry. The attention he gets puts Ron on edge but that's not your problem im working on it."

"Well it doesn't seem to be yours either. In fact you look overly stressed about it. Why don't you join me for a spot of tea and we can work on your training. Get your mind on something else." They both share a smile and walk towards her office. Being so similar meant her teacher knew exactly what help get her mind off things. Even if it was just for the hour that that minerva had no class before lunch. When Hermione leaves to meet back up with the boys she only finds Ron who explains Harry getting called away just after they'd been given detention. Asking where he had to go makes him grumble but he says pictures for the daily profit. Inwardly Hermione cringes.

"Ron are you sure you can't-"

"Yes Hermione I'm sure I cant forgive him. He's a prat and he knows it." His face turns red as he tries not to yell this but he storms off not listening to another word. They finish classes in silence and with no sign of harry until after dinner back at the dorm. While sitting up an owl arrives for him holding a letter obvious to them it's from Sirius. Ron notions to it when Harry arrives even filling him in about their detention but says nothing else and in turn he gets the same from Harry. Hermione shakes her head at the pair but this doesn't stop her from supporting either one. They have to come around eventually she tells herself.

The next morning another weekend arrives this time more hostility greets Harry and even Hermione. She hasn't a clue what for but an article is in front of everyone talking about Harry as Hogwarts champion makes it pretty clear pretty fast. Not only did Hermione read the spelling errors of the other schools champions she noticed there was no mention of Cedric. How foul this journalist was to write such lies. She made sure people heard her opinions costing her some bad reactions.

It seemed some people were noticing how much time together Harry and she were spending together but no one mentioned it outside of whispering. They hid away to the library to avoid most people but also to study and though Hermione knew Harry only wanted to go to Ron and play quidditch he stuck near her and only wore his gloomy face when he thought she was focused on a book. If he knew more about Ginny he'd probably be having more fun with her than here but Hermione tried her best. With Cedric being left out of the paper article and being friends with Harry particularly she had a feeling he was not going to be having his mother help her.

Normally the library was quite and a nice place to escape but of all the people to be in the library several times that weekend it had to be Viktor Krum. Had to be the guy with the most girls circling him and the guy that should be attractive to even her but even if he was a big teddy bear she wouldn't like him. The night harry has to serve his detention with Ron she tries burring herself in books only to leave angry. Then Sunday he was back with an even bigger group.

Over the next week she'd met Minerva for practice, been buried in books at the library, or fuming mad by the rumors getting worse about her and her best friend. Finally after a class she snuck in to the practically silent library. The librarian looked relieved at her presence and not Victor's. A dark hair strange girl looked up at her as she passed. Down several isles she picked up a book and jumped seeing Viktor Krum's face greeting her between the gap.

"Hi" he grinned.

"uh hi."

"Are you dating that little boy?" He asks looking over his shoulders hoping no one has noticed him yet.

"No, he's just a friend." Hermione says with a roll of her eyes.

"Mm good, I've got a friend you see."

"I'm sorry but I'm not looking for anyone actually." She half wished she was because Fleur was likely as mad at her as everyone else was at the moment.

"My friend wants to meet you like you did at the astronomy tower. Alone." He says this and waits for the pieces to fall into place for her. Once the realization hits she looks at him with hope. "Soon a date would be nice. I'll get you two alone." Not a second later he had been caught. A squeal of glee heard from behind him made Hermione slam the book back into place so not to have been seen with him.

With no hope of focus now she left and met up with the Harry to go to Hogsmeade. It took some convincing as Harry really didn't want further attention. Under the guise of the invisible cloak they arrive just in time to see Rita Skitter. Obviously she is looking for more stories.

Once there they decide to go to three broomsticks where they run into Hagrid and Mad-eye Moody whom immediately reveals he can see Harry. Hagrid invites Harry to his hut after mentioning if Ron had asked him for him. He hadn't but he had gone a round about way of telling Harry Hagrid might want to see him. Hence why they were talking there to see if he really did need Harry for something.

Moody whispered to Hagrid and left to grab a drink. Hagrid in turn asked Harry quietly to come by with his cloak by 11:30. On the way back to school Harry confesses that he hopes Hagrid's don't take long because somehow Sirius is going to fire call him early in the morning. He disappears just after dinner probably so no one is looking for him.

When she finishes herself she's leaving the great hall to meet up with Minerva for a lessons and finds Fleur looking at her. She's not angry in fact she looks like she misses her. Viktor has no reason in her mind to help them but perhaps she promised him something. She hadn't even noticed they talked.

Once at Minerva's office they get started right away. She has a strong barrier when she's forcing it up. Obviously she has no need normally as she's just a teacher and her private life is of no interest to students. Still she feels a fight in Minerva as if she has been pushed before. Knowing her experience isn't all that makes this difficult Hermione tries harder. She's been learning to be either delicate or abrupt and as they talk with tea she's been delivering as much pressure as she can.

Picking up the tea pot she fills her cup and realizes much like the water through the filter in the pot she has to gradually seep into Minerva's barrier. Untraceable. As she try's this she's talking to Minerva about Rita Skeeter's article and how much trouble it's been causing. Just mentioning the woman Hermione feels a slack on the barrier. It's enough that like spilling water on clothes she feels her mind stretch over the barrier.

Not letting herself be distracted by the progress or the conversation she stays natural and at ease. Until eventually she feels what Minerva is feeling and sees a memory of Rita being her student. Smiling at Minervas stern yet appalled expression towards something she has done she knows Minerva understands her own frustrations with the witch. She tries finding something unrelated to their topic something she can say was not just her gift prying but the moment she has hold of that possible memory she is shut out from the wooden and green manor where a young Minerva stood in the garden with a young man.

Being pushed out wasn't as violent as she expected but her head took a moment to clear up and the emotions settled as her own again. Curiosity mostly as Hermione felt they had been together. What was that moment? A first date, a special day, maybe even a proposal.

"Fantastic you are coming along well and that was right dirty of you bringing up Rita Skeeter."

"I had no clue you disliked her! Her article is just causing some issues for me. It's literally like everyone is just now aware I've been friends with Harry. Outside of our house and the few that know us better but still I'm thankful Ginny doesn't think it's true as she knows I know how interested in him she is."

"True friends defy petty and trivial attempts to raise chaos."

"Well it's that and she knows I'm a lesbian so I believe Rita will have to try harder to piss off my best friends."

"Most certainly then." There was no hesitation not even a shocked look from Minerva. It was as if Hermione had mentioned it before or she'd read her mind. "If I might suggest not dating such close friends in the future."

"Did you see that?" At first the Scottish tone sounded almost jealous but Hermione felt she was just giving her a hard time for some reason.

"No but I saw your relationship your third year and it was a lot of back and forth between the two of you."

"Oh that's because she an I had a moment. Even though she still liked Harry she wanted to try something different and I was focusing on school we weren't committed to anything if it worked a few days at a time we enjoyed it but then I got tied up with the boys and their troubles."

The tone slipped away as they talked but Minerva asked herself why she had it in the first place. The only plausible reason was she thought Hermione was smarter than that and deserved better than a quick fling. Hermione wondered if Minerva knew about Fleur but the more they talked the less she thought she might.

"I hadn't thought I'd have any relationship before that due to my ability but Ginny needed me as much as I needed her it was my first attempt at forcing myself to shut off my power. Sometimes it worked and others it didn't. Now if I have alone time again with F- I mean a girl I feel confident this time I can stop myself."

'Fleur from your dream was younger but knowing who she is I recognize her, no need to worry about me."

"Nothing like my dream has even happened she just spent some time alone with me. Besides I can't imagine the backlash of that in the papers. She's not really able to come out and I can't possible expect her too just because." Before she could talk herself in trouble for being on the astronomy tower outside of class time she bid her good nights and went to the dorm where she knitted till late in her bed as she wasn't expecting news from Harry that night.

After breakfast Harry had brought up the details of his late night meeting with Hagrid and how it was a rouse to show him what the first task was. Dragons. He wasn't the only one that knew seeing how Hagrid took Maxime as well and Karkaroff was sneaking around in the forest too. It was quickly eating at him. Sirius's suggested concerns about karkaroff were more important to him but eventually Hermione convinces Harry to head to the library to find a spell he could use against dragons.

Despite trying there wasn't much that could be used that Harry could learn in the next few days. It was obvious that he was feeling inadequate after just one day of knowing what he was up against. The next morning he looked so focused but not on his breakfast. It doesn't take long for Hermione to notice that the other Hogwarts champion is heading out of the hall. This suddenly has Harry chasing after him.

Cedric often told people to not keep on with the badges but it didn't mean he expected Harry to help him by informing him what the first task was. This doesn't surprise Hermione though because she figured Harry was to nice of a guy and eventually he would have realized and done it. The most surprising thing told to her of this and two other things was that Mad-Eye Moody was condoning cheating. He not only supplied Harry with an idea to learn the full extent of the summoning charm but also said cheating was normal.

The day of the task flashed by. McGonagall gathered Harry just before the task and hermione though she was worried about him she couldn't get close enough to wish him luck now. She sat next to Ron expecting a lot of animosity. However after watching Cedric, Fleur, then Krum all struggle to complete the challenge he actually looked seriously worried.

Harry had learned his summon spell though. He had managed to get his broom to the arena and flew so fast into get the golden egg. Despite getting a slight scrap he lured the dragon from its egg just enough to dive in and get it. After the scores were given they found Harry. Hermione hugged him thankful his plans work and nothing worse than a scrap came from it.

Ron and Harry easily patched things up with just a few words making hermione tear up and leave the two alone to catch up. As she's by herself she comes a crossed Krum. He gives her a look and slowly begins to approach her. She's not interested in him but if what he said before was true she would like a cover to see Fleur more.

"Would you like to meet later this week I think with the immediate finishing of the task we have some freedom." He isn't actually looking at her she can tell as his eyes are just over her shoulder where the boys behind her are. To anyone else it would appear he was looking at her. Not wanting to get in his head she speaks up to get his full attention.

"Yes id love to as long as you true to your word before." He nods as Karkaroff takes him away. Probably to figure out the egg clue right away. When he leaves a small blonde is hugging Fleur with a huge grin. Walking over she asks who it is that's looks almost just like her.

"This is mon sister Gabrielle." Her accent slips but Hermione knows she's trying. "Did I see Viktor and you talking?" She asks.

"yeah he wanted to meet up sometime. I told him yes as long as it's a little more private than his fan girls hanging all over him." She hopes Fleur is truly okay with the pretense. She beams at the confirmation as if waiting to hear back from Viktor was going to be too long. After saying a direct hello to Gabrielle she leaves towards the castle. Waiting for her in the great hall was a sturdy black owl he had rolls upon rolls of parchment.

One look and Hermione knew it was charts from Cedric's mother. It was all related to her gift. Anyone with lost members of family could be a distant relative in her family. Harry helping Cedric through the first task must have made him give in or change his mind. In her excitement she scratched out a ver nice thank you note for the copies of the most relevant information after which she flew up the floors to see if Minerva was interested in helping.

In Minerva's office was Professor Sprout toasting their champions health. Spotting Hermione sporting a huge smile and a pile of papers she invited her in to see what she needed. Sprout wasn't completely nosy but she looked just as curious as as Minerva.

"A personal project I'm working." Hermione mentions as Minerva opens a scroll. Losing interest Professor Sprout bid them a nice evening with their studies.

"This is wonderful I guess Cedric's mother came through then." Minerva said swishing the door closed with a flick of her wand.

"Yes it's everything I was not able to Compile with out years of effort like her."

"So what's the objective tonight." There was no need to ask if Hermione wanted to stay. She summoned a tea pot and they got to work. Only making a dent in the papers just before dinner.

"Dinner here can be done here if you don't want to stop just yet?" Hermione pauses before saying yes because she isn't sure if this is okay to make the elves work harder. Her stomach is begging as Minerva tells her it's not a problem.

"I think I was so excited about this I didn't realize how much was actually here to look through. Thank you."

"Of course this will ultimately make you feel better." Minerva says not thinking the size of the task was to much. "The Blacks have a misplaced member of there family. An older sister of Bellatrix it seems. I wonder what the Malfoys would think if that one ever turned out to be the link."

"I don't even want to consider it. Seriously I'd rather not find an answer than that." Its said lightly to seem humorous but in light of all she knows so far about the Blacks and Malfoys she's not sure she's entirely joking.

"Sirius included they were just born into the dark wizarding family's it's hard to imagine Sirius and Andromeda were the only one that deviated since they all had the potential."

"Still." Looking at the lists of family's and bloodlines Hermione finds herself thinking out loud. "I think it's rotten that Harry can't just have one living magical relative connected to his mother's blood. If it was his father Sirius wasn't blood but Arthur Weasley has some ties to the potter name."

"Blood magic Albus always did say that was what saved Harry though he kept me to secrecy. Lily was a muggle born like you but you have a stronger likelihood on magical blood history she had talent but not like yours that's a distinct trait to pass down." Even with the food come and gone they kept working and talking like this about family names and their connections.

Eventually Hermione had to ask Minerva to keep the papers until the next day since they had personal information. She knew the boys would be done with dinner and heading back any minute. They ran into her and explained they were going to send a letter out to Sirius to let him know Harry had safely made it through the first task. Getting back to the dorm this party for Harry was much happier for the three of them because Ron and Harry had made up.

After the good win there wasn't as much hate from other houses. Yet of course Slytherin loved any excuse for a fight. Them aside the number of potter stinks badges went down and he was finally able to focus on the egg that sounded like banshees dying if last nights attempt had anything to offer.

Instead of returning to the common room the next night after dinner with the boys she had Cedrics mothers work to look through. Eventually she found a name, Hector Dagworth, in her family there was Granger after Dagworth. The dead ringer felt like the anticipation was much higher than it needed to be but she knew this didn't stop with just his name. Following his name back he made a good name for himself as a extraordinary potionieer. His family tree however showed more potential in connection to her gift. Hector, on her fathers side, had a grandmother whom held a gift much like Hermiones but then the family line was lost through numerous sides.

This made sense to Hermione as most of her family was a case of mysterious has beens. Only pictures and nothing more. Her more close relatives were all muggles maybe even just squibs all along. Sending what papers she didn't need anymore back she begged to keep the one family tree of Hector just a little longer. The furthest it seemed could be traced was as far as hectors great grandfather. His mother, father, and obviously his wife were all a mystery.

The names varied from all over to Britain the closer you looked to her father and his parents. The several hours committed to this instead of her training while worth it was not over looked by Minerva. Helping Hermione was the goal so regardless it was fine but she missed the younger woman's strength and wits challenging her own.

"Mind that any further investigation may be difficult as you're talking before many things were set in place maybe even when we did mingle freely with muggles. It certainly could be a witch whom felt she couldn't risk her future line being hunted or a number of other reasons." Minerva said looking at Hermiones determined expression.

"I could look for great witches and see if they had familiarity with any of these names. I can only hope the brilliance came from someone notable if I hope to find answers." It wasn't having a name or blood status that appealed to her it was answers. "I can also look up middle names of those here. Muggles weren't the only ones to believe names held power by naming someone after someone else."

"Yeah we believe that too." Minerva opens the door to her office to help Hermione. "Next time more training less books."

"Absolutely see you next week." Sprinting off Hermione made it to the common room just in time. A week later Hermione was one day away from a secret date with Fleur. She had been sewing a lot of clothing article and through asking the twins found the kitchen. With Fleur in her mind and working on Her blocking skills this time a few moments were exposed. The dreams from the quidditch World Cup muddled with the secret trio to the astronomy tower.

Being off her game normally didn't happen so forced her mind to be clear as she doubled down. The recognition in Minerva's emerald eyes told her she was doing better. Their session was cut short however by a situation. Dumbledore had knocked gently and greeted Hermione upon seeing her there. Not forgetting it seemed the contact they once shared he didn't instinctively reach out to leave a support touch on her shoulder as he told Minerva he needed her.

But she still felt his uneasiness about her. As if seeing her remind him of what she saw. His feelings seemed protective and much more evolved now. Perhaps noticing her curiosity he began closing himself off to her. Before he could she heard a grief stricken name that frightened her. Grindelwald. It turned to whisper as she watched Minerva run to the door immediately asking Hermione to head to bed now.

"Goodnight Miss Granger. Keep learning your way with your talent but kindly forgive me. I weigh much on my mind at any given time. Why the paths we follow exist if not to warn us to not make similar mistakes." Giving her a twinkling gaze he hurried off as if that explained everything. In someway it did she read Dumbledore and Grindelwald once were close and then turned rivals. Over what she didn't know neither did anyone except either one of them.

The next day despite the lack of sleep she meet with Viktor. Ron scoffed as Hermione said he didn't seem so bad. Harry seemed indifferent. Viktor lead Hermione to the black lake were near the far side sat a group of trees. As they walked he brought up his interest in making friends with someone in Gryffindor who didn't seem to like him much.

"Vhat should I do?" He asked terrible concerned making his Russian dialect overbearing to his English words.

"Just try saying a few nice words all Gryffindors are stubborn but not cruel."

"Not to stubborn I hope." A more familiar feminine voice interrupted from behind a tree. Fleur Hermione tried not to responded with twist of her head or running to close the gap but she did walk over and prayed she disappeared behind the tree before taking her in her arms. Krum played along well for being a third wheel.

Holding his arms over and behind his head while laughing so it looked like an innocent scenario from afar the two thanked him profusely before Hermione sat on the ground letting her feet stick out. He did the same but just in front of the tree his eyes never on them but to the other side of the lake were Hermione knew her friends to be. It was hard to make it out but it looked as though he was looking at Ron.

When it seemed long enough to not be considered bad he went ahead and pulled his shirt off claiming to need a swim. Though it was nearing winter Hermione knew he endured colder days. Thus she and Fleur were alone. Not a critter or sound could be heard besides Viktor's splashes. Looking at each other Fleur now leaning her back on the tree so Hermione could keep her position yet get more comfortable by laying back and looking up at her.

"He really is a sweet guy. If he wasn't so gay he'd make one of those fan girls real happy." Fleur says running a few fingers through Hermione's brown locks.

"That's what I thought but what did you promise him so he'd help?"she leans up with interest.

"To get him closer to your redhead friend." This makes Hermione choke on air.

"Ron? he's not gay exactly. I think he takes things to literally with old fashioned rules."

"I've noticed with him and his friend Harry but I really think with a little gesturing he will see he definitely is gay. He seems to keen on his looks or acting like other boys to not be." Hearing this Hermione looks out at the water where Viktor was and realized Ron was totally interested in him when it came to the World Cup. She could see him getting together with Viktor eventually. She laid back down.

"This is nice and was especially sweet of you to try so hard." She says watching Fleur smile brightly. "Does your sister know?"

"Yeah I didn't want her to not learn it was okay to find love anywhere. We are part Veela so unfortunately we'll never know until we know but we can find our soulmates in anyone. It might not ever happen being we are only a quarter but still it's important to see potential in everyone."

"Must be really a unique family you have with loads of culture. Wish I had something more sometimes but I'm not not happy with what I've found out about my gifts origins."

"Tell me more. Really the only gift a Veela has is to look super freaky when angry and a very good sense of orientation." Not sure if she was joking or not she told her everything she found so far and when she was done Fleur said. "I bet even if you can't find more you're probably a Morgana heir."

"Why would you think that."

"My gran says it was said she had a seer gift. She was wonderfully brilliant too." Hermione blushes with the compliment but can tell she's not just say it to sweet talk. She actually heard her an talked to her grandmother for a clue. However tempting the idea was there was never going to be proof. That long ago witches were loved and appreciated for their gifts and abilities to make anything happen.

That was before going underground. Any old articles such as Morgana's family tree would not be simply found. If it wasn't destroyed it would've been somewhere only that family would did like the idea but who wouldn't. Learning ancient family magic would be anyone's dream.

"You're thinking of all the things you could learn if It was true aren't you."

"Maybe." Her face grew red once more.

"Well you're not wrong but it's just a thought." There's a pause but it's obvious she needs to say something else. "I hate to cut this short but I have to go."

"It's only..been two hours? How?" It felt like Viktor had just gone to the water but even he look ready.

"I know but I can't disappear to long or Madame Maxime will come looking." Getting up from her lap for the last time to let Fleur stand Viktor spotted the movement and came in land. As he did he walked straight towards them Hermione now getting up quickly hugging Fleur goodbye. Not exactly expecting a pair of thin light hands to hold her face to claim a kiss before leaving. It was quick but felt like a million moments of sweet nothing's being shared between them.

Left beside Viktor she felt the need to blush but pushed it down. They were in this plan together no need to be embarrassed. He took her by arm, though not dry, and they began walking back. His shirt wet and stuck to his skin so Ron couldn't miss it. Hermione waved at Ron and Harry as they walked by having decided lunch would be great way to end their 'date.'

That day ended with Ron looking more pissed than ever. Though it looked aimed at Viktor Hermione began to wonder if her friend really knew he was jealous of her not at her. She truly believed if he had any clue he'd throughly see it for what it was, all for show. One Hermione had almost never shown interest in a guy. The closest she had being Harry but more as a brother. Second Ron had never showed a hint of kindness to Hermione beyond a minimum friendship.

First week of December Rita Skeeter makes an appearance once more now directed towards Hagrid but none of them get to tell him it's a bad idea to talk to her. Evidently he didn't need much help as he was able to catch on quick. Hermione made Harry and Ron visit the kitchens with her. Doing so proved so informative to a number of things in her mind with S.P.E.W lately. After the three of them had a real discussion of would Winky whom now worked in the kitchens ever get over being fired.

Later that same week she'd been asked to the Yule ball after it had been announced by Minerva. As pleasant the idea of a formal dance and keeping tradition alive was she was sure her teacher would rather not be showing Ron Weasley how to dance. Every boy except Neville was to embarrassed to dance with a girl let alone ask any to the dance.

Viktor asked her and gave a her very good reason why they should go together. Seeing as the champions would be dancing first she could probably sneak in a dance or two if they appeared to just be near by. Girls do it all the time he said and she could see herself casually going over to Fleur and dancing near her but she could only hope they would be able to dance for real one time.

Though two weeks was suppose to be a lot it wasn't enough. Harry had sworn he had gotten his egg clue figured out leaving her free to focus on other things. The question being what was more important. While she needed her training in gift she also needed training learning the dances that were expect to be done by the champions and their dates. Fleur picked a guy slightly shorter than her as If to make transition from him to Hermione that much easier. Though she practiced both it seemed the dancing took precedence in the moment.

"Rodger! Focus on your feet not her face." Minerva chided causing the Ravenclaw boy to stumble. Fleur on her part looked terribly sorry to be the reason they were stuck practicing still. "Ive got an idea Fleur you know how to dance but lets make sure with a skilled partner. Hermione you're the same height take his place." The others all stepped back leaving Hermione and Fleur alone.

"Hi." None of them or wearing formal clothes yet and still they draw closer carefully in awe of how pretty one another is in this moment. All while trying to act normal.

"Hi." As if this was their first time talking they began. Strangely dancing in a room full of people looking almost seemed simple. None of them aside from Minerva, Viktor, and the two dancing knew better. Madame Maxime only seemed proud her student was not the one at fault as clearly the boy was not a great dancer.

"See clearly my girl is good its Mr. Rodgers that needs help." She fussed. Minerva couldn't help but force the two to return to their dates and focus on making Rodger better. Viktor leaned in closer and whispered to Hermione.

"I think you both look great together." He smiled but this made her feel sad for him because though she might get a real chance to dance with Fleur she knew he was not going to get a dance with Ron. From then on she vowed weither or not she and Fleur danced he would have a good night with a friend. Though Harry hadn't asked anyone yet he was still there and hopefully learning the steps. Every time they worked a new song minerva made sure he danced with her to get the steps down. With her focus now off everyone else she walks over to him and sits down.

"You really like all this don't you. Even with Fleur you looked comfortable." He notes

"Well it helps I know her a little."

"I'd say more than a little.. but I wont ask here. You'll tell me though later?" Hermione nods before turning to watch the others. Quiet as ever Cedric practice his steps. Hermione already told him thank You for his help she wanted to do something in return though. Now that she knew Harry liked cho a lot she could hardly encourage that. Thankfully when the practice ends he is distracted with getting Harry's attention. Telling him something and wandering off. She waves at Fleur and her date her headmaster all but ushers them out the room. While Karkaroff is less pushy he does the same with Viktor.

The Gryffindors left in the room all struggle to see why the other schools act just so but leave the room. While Minerva moves everything back to it place before exiting too. Hermione tells Harry she's not really dating Viktor. He looks shocked but listens. She don't have time to say much more when Minerva locks the room and tells them they did good today.

"Thank you for before Professor." Hermione says not only implying Minerva knew but that Minerva was meddling in student affairs. Harry laughed and found it endearing that as head of house she was looking out for her students personal troubles.

"Certainly. Now Harry I mean it get a dancing partner or I'll pick one for you." She said sternly before leaving with a swish of her robes much like Professor Snape. They walk to the common room to put there textbooks away from the last day of classes before vacation.

"Is it a beard thing or is he just nice." He says randomly but Hermione understands his question.

"Both I guess he likes someone else but also just want to help us."

"Weird but if you're sure it's okay I'm happy for you."

"Weird but not to weird?"

"No. Just he's been eyeing Ron like he's gonna come swooping in and take you but I guess it's not that at all. "

"No but we both know Ron."

"Stubborn." They say together. Climbing in through the portrait they found Ron working on a chess game with Dean.

"Finally I'm starving." He says looking at them like they'd been gone a week. "Let me just finish this game."

"Dance practice mate but we need to get asking someone soon."

"Yeah if you don't no one will be left." She notes still a bit upset that Ron was so rude when trying to ask her. She storms off to dinner not wanting to wait around but when's she done they never made it down. Climbing back through the portrait she wasn't expecting to see that Ginny was oddly consoling Ron and Harry looked mad and hurt.

Asking what happened Ginny says Harry asked Cho but she said she was already going with Cedric. While Ron asked Fleur she wasn't mean about it but told him no. Of course because she already had a date but also because she knew it would upset Viktor.

Letting the boys sift through this one by themselves she wrote to her parents to tell them about the ball and how simply easy her classes were being this year despite the future huge tests for continued school their fifth year. They would love to hear this news. She didn't want to explain her feelings about Fleur deciphering if they are dating or just meeting for dates and eventually ending things or not. It was something her mother and father would tell her to be smart about but ultimately understand. Even if the equation involved Viktor now it wasn't always going to be that way.

Just under a week later the Yule ball was practically in full swing. Decorations were more tied to traditional formal dances done between the three schools. No one schools colors but elegant reds and greens. For everyone Christmas or not this was the biggest things anyone had done the last several years no one sat idle with anticipation.

Christmas break was as uncomfortable as it was delightful. For every day Hermione had to pretend to be interested in Viktor she had so much fun as his friend but preferred the hour exchanges at a time with Fleur before she had to get back to her classmates. Hermione wondered if this treatment was normal and if it was why Fleur's confidence was so low when it came to using her magic.

None the less with Viktor on her arm, her hair done perfectly by Ginny, and a dance with Fleur fast approaching as each moment passes the time was now. The two stepped down the stairs, Viktor slightly taller than her even with heels on. Harry stood with his date Pavartti whom he asked as a last resort and even got Ron a date with her twin sister in a separate house. He wasn't looking at her but the moment he did take his eyes away from cho he beamed at her as if quietly telling her he that she looked beautiful and so would Fleur.

There wasn't much time to appreciate everyone's outfits. Ron's dress robes had been fixed up but his face soured the whole thing anyways. Ginny and Neville looked sweet together. Coming next to the three other champions they began. Harry's nerves of eyes all on him got the best of him but his date took lead.

Viktor for his part was skilled making it questionable who did it better between the remaining couples. Cedric and Cho appeared to the only truly loving couple thus making theirs sweet though not as skilled. Fleur leads Rodger around masterfully maybe even lulling him as he's not doing much but gliding with her and staring at her.

Viktor was happy to dance with Hermione as was she him after the formal dances finished. Over and over showing each other moves just biding time for it to appear natural when they began dancing separately. To be less obvious they stayed moving unlike Ron and Harry. Their dates long gone just a few hours later probably because they hadn't stopped staring at the dates they wished they had while sitting near a sculpture. .

The second part of the plan was as Viktor offered to get drinks Hermione would get closer to Fleur. They shared complements about each other's dresses earlier over the load music. Now not knowing how to start a conversation to separate Fleur from her date she slowly waded closer to her. Looking over to the blonde she all but raked her eyes over the tight dress to see the blonde batting poor Rodgers off.

Passing the boys without comment wouldn't be normal for Hermione. Slight out of breath mere feet away from Fleur she stops just in front of them. Looking more to Harry she grins. She can see Ron's frustrations were still there but he was looking in Viktor's direction.

"Viktor went to get drinks." A laugh rolls out because through all the nerves she is having loads of fun. She turns to face Fleur only be accosted by Ron.

"Why are you fraternizing with the enemy?!"

"Excuse me!" She seethes not believing his attitude.

"The point of the tournament is to win. He only asked you to the dance to get to Harry through you. Jinx him, get information from you or ask Harry for help even." Appalled at this Hermione look toward Fleur and Viktor and back at Ron. Rodger is gone and Viktor is slowly getting closer to the table for drinks

"He's not like that." She says.

"I don't mind if they're here together." Harry shrugs as he says this. From the corner of her eye Hermione can see a seen looking Madame Maxime dragging and pushing Rodger back into Fleur's arms. The headmistress is off almost immediately as if aware Fleur wouldn't dare fail her. Seeing this Hermione suddenly begins to see red.

"No you know what! Maybe if you opened your eyes and realized you're not jealous of Viktor that you're jealous of me you would be happier." Knowing where she was when saying this she tried to keep her tone down but needed to leave she stormed off for some air. Now she'd never have that opportunity again tonight

It's not long before Viktor finds her and urges her to tell him what happened. He's a little surprised to hear her claiming Ron has feelings for him but when she explained it he asks if she'll be okay for a little. He heads back inside where she realizes either he is going to deny everything to make friends with Ron or he's going to confess everything.

Sitting outside she walks over to a tree pacing near a bush. She hope Viktor gets his man honestly even if she has to keep sneaking around. After a few minutes a flash of blonde comes at her. She's tackled against the tree legs slowly falling into the bush. The lightness of the kiss that all but knocked the breath out of her made her weak in the knees.

"Viktor said you needed me and that he would occupy my date for me. Said you told him Ron likes him. Is it true?" She asks after giggling at their position now in the bush entirely.

"Yes he is oblivious to it but I can tell his eyes are always on him even though he's mad at me, he fan girled over him right up until his best friend was up against him. He couldn't admit it to himself but it's there."

"Wow Hermione you're so brilliant and beautiful." She captures her face again this time more takes several minutes if not a long while until a noise springs them apart. Despite their position neither can be seen very well. All the better as they hear Hagrid talking with Madame Maxime some trees away near a different courtyard entrance. After some time trying to tune them out are left alone again.

Sensing the coast was clear they find Viktor and explained almost getting caught. The debris removal obviously half hazardously done Viktor pulled a Twix from Hermiones hair. The pair blush an further tell him they were stuck in a bush together. The three laugh and part ways for the remainder of the night feeling slightly better than before. Hermione allows visitors to walk her to her dorm and wishes him a good night before kissing his cheek.

Once inside she bumps into Ron who looked to be eating for Harry. He says Cedric asked to talk to him. Not looking at her. Even so Hermione can tell he hasn't been able to process what was said earlier until now. Being alone and able to think he was struggling to accept it. Having said her but before she wasn't liking to add mire.

"Give anything away did ya?"

"What?!"

"He went after you and comforted you to get on your good side for answers and help." Ron accuses again.

"He's a great guy. In fact he's the one helping me."

"Oh yeah how by holding doors open, snogging, or maybe like you said he's great for fashion advice."

"How dare you! If you must know I'm secretly dating a girl and he's gotten us time together." She hisses keeping her voice lower before rising it again to make a separate comment very clear. "If you were more in tune with your emotions you'd realize you have some for him. Just because you hold everything to a guideline of how things should be if you're a boy doesn't mean you have to follow it. You made up boys don't need emotion, boys play rough, and all that for yourself to follow deep down you don't want to."

"I-I'm not gay." He grows flaming red across his face. "You think you know everything you're wrong!"

"Fine don't be I don't care!" She yells neither stop though Harry has arrived. "Viktor really like you too if you really do think about it. You don't want to, just don't break his heart." She takes off then to bed expecting Ron to really think things over.

The next morning she's as stiff with him as he is her. Still however they share breakfast with Harry and they even tell her what they over heard the night before. It's obvious that though Harry and Ron saw Fleur they didn't notice she was also there. Additionally that meant later on after term started again, when they found out Hagrid was not coming to teach because of an article written about him being half giant which he had discussed with Madame Maxime, that hopefully Rita did not also know about them as they were hidden not very far away from the pair when they did come outside.

Hermione begins to wonder how she did it. How she got the information without being spotted. The only possible way would be an invisibility cloak and that was easy to prove if given the right opportunity. This was not the primary concern though as they spent many visits trying to get Hagrid to let them in and talk. Confronting Rita in the Three Broomsticks was not enough for her she wanted to prove the sneaky witch was a fraud after the article about Hagrid. She wanted revenge.

Ron for all their awkwardness urges her to let it go Rita is to much and could do much worse he's seen it before. Even though he won't admit it yet she knows he will realize it soon. He'd already noticed Viktor jumping from their school's ship on their way into hogsmeade. His comment aside he seemed more willing to look than before.

The trio finally are able to see Hagrid after two weeks of trying when they come back because Dumbledore lets them in. Hermione strangely has no problem in his presence. Had he spoken with Minerva after learning of their training. Does he know her gift or is he simply not weighed down by his thoughts in that moment as he showed Hagrid kindness.

Eventually Hagrid decided to came back to classes and they went on as if everything was all well and good. Come to find out despite being given help with the clue Harry had never used it. Harry decided having heard Hagrid's high hopes he would give it a try and let them know how it went. Having to meet Minerva for a session she tell Harry to be careful.

Arriving at her office Minerva looks troubled. She asks Hermione to sit and fixes her robes as she sits across from her. Without a word Hermione waits clearly it's serious. Still after a minute nothing then suddenly Minerva speaks sounding as if she is fighting her anger from bringing out a accent.

"It's become clear to Dumbledore I've been teaching you to guard your mind and enter others. He feels you too personably of me I've explained your power and while he does see the importance and that it's just training he feels it's time Severus step in now."

"He read my mind?" Hermione feels violated but then realizes that she once did the same thing. Though hers was on accident.

"He is gifted man an that is just one thing he can do. I don't like being told how to teach but I have to agree you're far enough along Snape would be most practical." A knock at the door brings Minerva to it and Hermione quickly pushes up her wall knowing now were this is headed. Snape loomed in the door way.

"Is she ready for me now?" He drawls sharing the care that Minerva put into not just sending her a letter. Hermione stands for him and immediately offers to follow him but not before looking to Minerva.

"Thank you for everything Professor. I'll let you know the progress."

"Insufferable know it all." Snape mumbles walking briskly down the corridor forcing Hermione to hurry off even though she wants to give Minerva a hug. Thus the toughest training begins once a week strongly suggested with little to no talking. Details were talked over that night ensuring Hermione was as expected. Always on time, ready with her barrier upon entry, and practiced several times a day train her mind as he told her. It was made very clear that if she failed to hold her barrier they would only work occlumency all night not legimency.

After an eventful night Friday morning Harry told the pair what all happened. It was appalling that now mid January no one was interested in truly exposing whomever put Harry's name in the cup. They all fussed over the past or catching some student out of bed. Barty Crouch being in the castle after "being ill" was a bit odd and more so that he would be sneaking around Severus Snape's office.

For the trio a search was on but not for the culprit. It was crunching time to help Harry though his next task which sounded difficult enough but to add a stolen possession of something he loved most felt impossible. From what Harry said anyways he needed to be able to breath under water for an hour. Try an try they did but nothing come up.

Between classes, training, and helping with the task there was no time for much else. Viktor kept his visits short of only to get a few words out of Ron. Fleur made sure to stop her any chance she could either to compliment her or to have quick conversation if she was alone. Professor Snape begrudgingly shared his thoughts about Fleur not being more open when realizing the situation once but he never mentioned it again despite seeing how often Hermione caught herself think about it.

More often than not her barrier was no match for Professor Snape. He would bombard her until she got her mind more clear. She didn't want him to see what he was seeing. It was her life. How could he be so good she wondered. As he broke in once more.

"Fleur I don't understand why we are still doing this dance. I feel happy with you I think I love you don't you feel something with your Veela thing." Hermione knew the right term but in her frustration she can't seem to form the right one.

"I..Hermione my gran said I'd know or maybe it will never happen. Either way she said never ever let that keep me from enjoying happiness with someone I might love. I just want to be with you until I can't. Does that make sense." Though this was a week ago it still stung hear the words repeated again in her own head. It was then that Hermione released herself from Professor Snape's mental readings.

The silence was awkward for her but he seemed unfazed. A moment ago having felt she had settled her mind she would have gone all night but now how could she. Professor Snape was a hundred times better than her at this. Hadn't Minerva even pushed her enough to make a little difference. Standing up she grabbed her bag ready to save herself the embarrassment of getting tossed out.

"Where do you think you're going Ms. Granger? I don't believe I told you it was time. However if you truly have no desire to best me in time then by all means do leave."

"You think I can?" Sounding surprised she looked over her shoulder from the door.

"I do. You're the brightest witch of your age as poorly deceptive as those words are. They still mean you have greater potential than most. Don't squander it by behaving like a child." He snarked making a face of disgust as if the words burned like acid coming from his mouth.

"If you really think I can make it to what you can one day I'll stay. Thank you sir. Do you mind if I ask how it is you got so good." Sitting down again she perks up.

"I do." Nothing else is said between them Hermione actually feels more focused than ever that he fails to break her barrier again that night. The more they meet the better she feels she is getting. Not long after starting with Professor Snape the second task is upon them. Even though they had no reason to need to call Ron and Hermione away from harry they were asked to both come to their head of house. After offering to come back as soon as they could he was left in the library.

Though Hermione didn't know it this was a lie. They walk in the room where it seems not only Minerva is but everyone involved in the tournament. Everyone except their champions. Cho so far had just been a date but harry liked her, she herself had been a date but secretly with another, Ron hadn't been a date and it was doubtful that anyone suspect him as Krum's greatest love right now, and finally the young Gabrielle Delacour was their to clear up who was to be each champions goal target. It was not the complex nature that it was to each of them but to what the teachers saw and was willing to allow without revealing secrets it seemed.

Dumbledore as the strongest wizard in the room offered each of them comfort about the spells used to suspend their body's underwater for an hour. Their would be no damage to their health but they would have to get ready now. Unlike Ron who was practically oblivious to the tangles of relationships and connections Hermione felt extremely nervous. Not for herself but Fleur who under Madame Maxime's care struggles to do her best verses following orders. Hermione was sure Fleur knew how to get the task done her way. The question was would she be confident enough to do it her own way or listen to eloquent and etiquette advice.

The last thought on her mind was she hope Gabrielle wasn't to scared. Just as they had been told the spells felt like going to sleep. While nothing could be done about the feeling of anxiety of being responsible for as she imagined someones difficult choice there was some solace in the fact they would be completely unaware. Waking up afterwards she expected what she found Krum had saved her.

She had not expected however for Fleur to be sitting alone. Sitting with her sister she was hopeful but not alone. Krum is easing her fog away by talking gently beside her. He was not mean when he explained why Fleur had lost. Though he still had trouble with some words Hermione was beginning to understand him a lot. Hearing that under stress due to some grendylow her initial spell broke and once she returned to surface she was unable to give it a second try. Her bubble head charm was an impressive idea seeing how it wasn't in any books they had found.

Viktor was going on to say he used a shark head but the thought alone was strange so she focused on her girlfriend while nodding along occasionally to Viktor. She must have been pressured into the bubble head charm from her headmistress making her confidence lower on completing the task. Eventually as Harry is the only one left finally he surfaces Hermione feels relief for both Harry and Fleur because he had saved Gabrielle as well.

Saved was not quite the necessary term seeing as none of the headmasters or judges would leave a student to die. Yet Harry had believed it so to him it was a save. Ron and Harry dragged Gabrielle in. All of them was warmed up and given a potion before they could talk.

Viktor must of seen a look in Harry's eye that Hermione did not. A look of heightened interest or revelation. The moment Harry tried to share with her he had help from Dobby Viktor pulled her attention away with a remark about a water beetle in her hair. As she did look to him she saw Harry's embarrassment that he tried to impress her. It was for the best she mentally noted. He knew about the situation she already had between Fleur and Viktor why would he want to be tangled in all that.

The kiss of gratitude Fleur gave both her friends were filling her heart with fire she just wanted the scores and to leave now. To have moment alone with Fleur to make she was okay that Gabrielle was okay too. Only then could she celebrate Harry's completion of the task.

Over the thumping in her ears of her heart racing she can hear Harry receiving a high score for his moral fiber. She'd have get the details later. Fleur and Gabrielle are all but dragged off but Hermione gets to her feet and calls out to them. Madame Maxime steps round the girls an faces her. A scowl on her face as she approached.

"Marvelous work Fleur I know you tried."

"And failed you mean." The headmistress huffs. "Typical Hogwarts students."

"She's not like that Madame."

"Oh is she not you were an embarrassment to your school out there. Why would she be here to compliment your skill."

"Because I believe her skill would have worked. You pressed her to use that charm so elegance wasn't forgotten. You made her fail. My friend tried and you can't say anything to make me leave her to think otherwise."

Stricken to silence at this Hermione moves around Madame Maxime and starts walking her back to her school herself. Gabrielle is beaming at the two together. As they approach the school there are class mates ready to celebrate so while she can't congratulate her with a kiss she feels better knowing she's safe and not thought she was not good enough fir Hermione to date.

It's not far off from the lake so she hurry's back to find Viktor liking for her. He takes her aside says he'd like to invite her to his home over the summer. Taken aback she has no answer right away. As she is thinking that he must have a reason to ask her she notices Ron looking at Viktor's back. Though he was wet he didn't seem to bothered to wear the towel over his shoulders.

She couldn't possibly say yes seeing this but she told Viktor she definitely did want to once they finished the year and wrote out all the details. Harry was so glad he completed his task he'd forgotten all about his gullible embarrassment an was now enjoying some cheers with Fred, George and all their crowd thins and everyone is heading back to their schools before dinner. Feeling exhausted she actually heads to bed to recuperate not long after celebrations begin.

The next day she received a letter addressed to her. Fleur's handwriting though she'd never received one from the blonde before she could assume the French dictations and elegant script was none other. Carefully she read the few lines now understanding what Viktor had tried to do. Inviting her and Fleur and eventually Ron if he ever just voiced his feelings to his home was meant be a double date. As Fleur was for now free to mingle again but her headmistress made it very clear she had no intention of letting Fleur lose.

This made her so happy she didn't care Madame Maxime was watching her beam. She clearly was steamed at how Hermione spoke to her. This didn't change anything though they weren't openly dating and Hermione was still finding it hard to go all in for someone even as sweet as Fleur who wasn't all in herself. Ginny often reminded just the year before she wasn't taking dating seriously either.

A month passed and while Hermione had seen Fleur things otherwise had become almost too complicated. The Daily Prophet let Rita Skeeter write gossip about her once more. How she broke Harry potter's heart and Viktor has asked her to his house over the summer. Not that she could figure out how. After all her hate mail she determined a real try at figuring out how she learn this without being allowed on school property was the only way to settle the issue.

That being said finding the truth was difficult even asking teachers like Moody possible things such as was Rita using an invisibly cloak to hide on grounds didn't work. If anything talking about this sort of thing put Moody on edge. Being an already paranoid guy this reaction seemed strange but maybe he was rubbing off on his students.

Truly Rita was turning into the bane of her existence. She'd received boils from hate mail, she couldn't risk spending time alone with Fleur often, and though Molly would never say so to her she to fell for the rumors about her resulting in an Easter gift that was clearly smaller on purpose.

Thankfully her training with Professor Snape never changed due to his hearing rumors and her mind was more focused on the right things. Surprisingly neither then needed to talk anymore. She'd learned to adjust and fix her focus or guard all based on feeling it in her mind. He began teaching her the more in-depth skills it took to reach a mind that Minerva mentioned. He was a natural and for that she felt better because so it seemed she was as well. Now that she could control her mind reading and guarding she needed practice with someone emotional and unaware of her practice that might not mind once she explained herself.

It was a hard choice between Ron, Ginny, Harry of which one would understand more but Ginny would be most forgiving once she explained. Harry was also busy with tournament stuff like discussing their third task. So finding Ginny in the bathroom of the common room she made a comment slightly under breath but loud enough Ginny may hear it.

"Another Weasley mad at me."

"What was that?" Ginny asks looking perplexed.

"Oh just clearly you lot really don't like me very much."

"You lot? What makes you think that?"

"Fleur says your just jealous and your mom is dumb for listening to Rita." Nothing was breaking in her thoughts even as Ginny began fuming.

"How dare she! My mom is none of her busy and why would I be jealous?"

"We didn't work but she and I are." She knew Ginny would get madder using Fleur's name.

"Of all the- you're fucking with me aren't you!" She wasn't smiling but a small laugh came from her. This however Hermione didn't know if she was caught or if Ginny was in denial that Hermione would be willing to say such things normally. Over the years she had to say she was more and more bold breaking rules and doing the brave things . This however she caved unable to keep the charade any longer.

"Only just slightly. I'm a little upset your mom clearly doesn't think a great girl to Harry or Ron not that I'm trying to get their interest I swear."

"Then why would you do that?" Some hurt crossed Ginny's face making Hermione feel terrible.

"Well I've done everything I needed to train my ability and block out emotional visions from others. Granted I have one more thing to do before Professor lets me finish."

"What's that then?" She wasn't fuming anymore but actively listening.

"Read something deeply locked away I suppose"

"Isn't that crossing a line?"

"Kinda but it's for educational purposes so I doubt it." Beside Hermione knew Professor Snape knew everyone knew his secret. He used to be death eater. He was a changed man a deep locked away memory would certainly make that true right. What made him change sides is what most anyone wanted to know.

That aside he was expecting her back today and with this test out she needed to make peace and head over straight away. Determined to succeed she confronted him in his off office. The moment she knocked she struck her hardest it was only seeing no one in the room she ripped open the wall he had up constantly. She had surprised him though and with not enough time to kick her out she pushed into he deep memories and saw one from his days in school.

"Snape! Let's go you need to stand for your own house more. What are you a mud-blood lover?" A young Lucius Malfoy said turning up his noise at him.

"No of course not." He scrambled to collect his things there on a bench near the great hall. One notebook had a noticeable scribble parchment of the name Lily Evans. If the others had seen it they didn't say anything. Coaxing him on they said of course a real Slytherin would just say something to them make Lily and her friends see who was superior.

"Let's leave the wanna be alone surely he'll see his way." In some way Malfoy did not sound mean. In fact he was older than Snape and yet his tone seemed to be like a peer. Encouraging and respectful. He was friendly but trying to get the fire in his friend burning.

Something shifted as if the memory came with others often remembered together. Like muscle memory. She had a feeling Professor Snape would not be happy one bit once he broke the connection. In this memory though Hermione saw a setting sun and boys bulling Snape. A second glance Snape was much older now and the bullies were clearly James and his friends. Them and Lily who stopped the torment only for silly Snape to burn her with the phrase Mud-blood in return.

Just before she was pulled out of his mind she saw a dark rook with infant Harry being shielded from his mother's body… by Snape who was in tears. Why she asked herself. In reality she needn't say a thing out loud because Professor Snape though furious with her early arrive, underhanded tactics, and her invasion of privacy he still answered her.

"I regretted my whole life the day she died. I regretted feeling pressured into sticking to my house. Much like James I had the wrong influences at home or in my friends. Sirius and him were as thick as thieves but bad for each other's ego. I on the hand knew if I couldn't escape my house Lily was as good as dead anyways. So of course I ruined our friendship as cruelly as I could. Enough for her to forget about me. Move on right into James faithful hands. I trusted his guts and friends to keep her safe. They all failed."

"So you hate and ultimately love Harry. I swear I won't say a word. Such a thing alone is not a terrible thing to tell people but I can see you are more than just a professor. There is more to it but if the day comes we're you are nothing more that a dark image to him I will tell him the truth he's burdened enough with everyone else's plots and ploys he will need to know one day."

"Excuse me I have other places to be and you have no need to be in my presence any further." The way she took it was not like it was supposed to have sounded. There was no bite or fire behind his words. He tried to finish stronger by adding in her insufferableness this once she took it as a compliment.

Later that night she along with everyone else heard of the chaos near the woods while showing the champions the next task some say they saw Harry away as if he had attacked Krum. Some said Harry and Krum were attacked someone that wanted the Beauxbatons to win. . The truth in which Harry told was Mr. Crouch was there and attacked them. Trying to get to Dumbledore with a strange confession. From Harry's side of things Mr. crouch was a bit delirious but it's was suspicious all the things that were mentioned. Confessions to do with his secretary who was missing, Voldemort, and Barty Crouch.

What made sense to Hermione was his assistant and his son. Not knowing anything about his son other than they had the same name. If she had done her own research much sooner she now believed she could have prevented somethings. None the less time had gone by after this situation with Dumbledore seemingly more concerned about Mr. Crouch's presence and how dangerous he might be to the relationship and safety of his students and guest.

There was a sign or two right in front of them all along but the day Harry mentions his experience in Professor Dumbledore's pensive with Barty Crouch Jr in it she has some inkling and all this time she hadn't managed to see the connection. Now however she was hurrying to the maze for the finale trial. It was going to be a little early but she knew Dumbledore would be there. He had to have better answers. Harry might not have mentioned it to Dumbledore but when he spoke of the memory he saw he had flashed an image a cross his mind. It was the same face from his dream how could harry not remember.

The days leading to the day of the final trial Hermione thought about what pieces were missing. Finally though she had noticed and article several days after their sons death his wife had died too. All this was so far was a great theory on how or why Barty crouch jr was still alive enough to be in Harry's nightmare. Would it just be taken as a silly joke or dismissed because it was to impossible. Yet this was bigger than even Hermione figuring out how Rita Skitter was getting her information.

As she got to the maze on the Quidditch pitch she saw family of the champions, students, and teachers beginning to find their way to seats. Dumbledore was sweet talking parents and the judges with easy light conversation. They had all been there most of the day by now but probably needed adult time. Thinking about stepping in she looked down at her hands. However before she could make a peep Professor Moody stepped up to her. He could probably see her papers no point in hiding them.

"Ms. Granger a little early for grabbing seats but I suppose supporting your friend must be a priority." He said. "Or was there something you needed I can inform Professor Dumbledore before the trial begins."

"He does look a little busy." Not seeing a pause anytime soon. "I was just thinking about somethings concerning the situation with Mr. Crouch. It's rather silly but his wife an son died so close together and when Harry saw Mr. Crouch's name on the map he might not have noticed the suffix. Could it have been his son not truly dead."

"While I'd love to see that boy to handle him myself he's been dead. However I'll pass your thoughts along shortly." He sent her on her way where she then sat with the Ron who was holding seats for Mr. and Mrs. Weasley who'd been allowed to come to support Harry. Stuffing her papers in her pockets she greeted everyone when they all sat and watched the start of the final trail just like everyone else.

Harry had practiced and practiced his hexes and curses. She had helped because ever since the incident at the woods Krum had been off and practiced mostly as well Fleur ultimately met with her but found no privacy for them. Not with what happened and Beauxbatons being suspected in theory to have a hand in it. That was just school talk she assured her but still Fleur was under 12 watchful eyes at all times.

Currently there was a lot more than that as the spokesman goes over the details with the champions and the crowd alike. They all watched in awe as parts of the maze had some sort of creature noise, booms, or even flashes of light. Once far enough in though it was difficult to keep track of who you wanted to. So most people sat in silence.

Eventually silence came. After both Fleur and Krum were brought from the maze to out of it have been able to save themselves Harry and Cedric must have sent up the sparks necessary. The remaining two were nearly there it had to be one or the other but who no one know. Finally a loud pop occurred causing a great amount of concern and confusion. As if this was not meant to happen. No one could discern what was happening but Hermione felt a pit in her stomach.

Suddenly after twenty minutes of silence in the maze, the teachers entering and coming back empty handed, and Mr. Weasley and Amos Diggory beckoning for answers Harry comes back. Cedric is laying on the ground. Panic ensues as Harry calls for help.

His hands on Cedric's face and chest. His hands shaking maybe from pain maybe from shock. Was he dead? Harry was pulled off as he was making claims of Voldemort's return. It all happened so quickly she tried to see where Harry had gone but saw nothing except Snape and Dumbledore hurry off.

"Professor!" She called out making an attempt to cut them off but not prevent them if it was urgent. It looked urgent. "Did Professor Moody inform you of my theory? Was it Barty jr? is he helping You Know Who?"

"I was not told but not worry we'll settle all questions tonight." They rushed off.

"Oh Cedric!" Fleur calls out. Hermione turns to see him wake up.

"What happened?" Minister of magic Cornilus Fudge is asking demanding really. As harry had already been bombarded with the same questions.

"Give him a minute." His mother exclaimed.

"We reach it together but it took us somewhere..a graveyard. I-" he coughs and reaches for his father while looking around. "where is Harry?"

"He's fine boy just tell us what happened."

"Some guy Started coming at us. Me with a killing curse, called me a spare."he says. "I tried to avoid it by getting behind some headstones. Harry made it to me after I had dived. I hit my head and passed out. I know Harry's head was in pain before I blacked out and I know he paralyzed me so I wouldn't move. They were after him. I heard them doing some fighting when I came to again and suddenly Harry was back at my side with the cup so we could get back here."

"I'm sure we all are glad you both are well and good and that Harry may have saved your life by making sure you weren't involved but who was it? Didn't you hear a name?" Fudge pulled in close so he might hear.

"Sir!" His father exclaimed.

"Yes yes sorry."

"I didn't hear anything useful sir." Cedric said. The field began emptying out some called out to Cedric telling their joy of his safety. His father is clearly happy he made it home and won till he adds "I have to concede I would have died tonight if not for Harry so the win is all him."

Amos Diggory boasts that if he to touched the cup he won too but is then settled by his wife who doesn't want him being more concerned about that versus what's really important. Their son was alive. Had it gone any other way maybe not. Hermione was sure what made it go this way at all knowing that Harry was and on the toes thinker most time but not that on his toes.

Much later on the school began crawling with more officials. Fudge personally had his own dementor guard and after being spoken to everyone involved or aware of part of the situation we free to go. Except their was a big commotion inside.

"Ron where is Harry has anyone seen him."

"No he came in with Moody but… a few students come by from his classroom said that Dumbledore and Snape had burst in to his office. They were calling out for Harry. You don't think?"Hermione bit her lip had she just told Professor Dumbledore herself maybe he would have see this sooner. How had she not see it. She'd been so focused on shutting down incoming thoughts from others she hadn't seen any of Professor Moody's panicked thoughts lately.

"He has been acting stranger than usual lately but I didn't think he was the one behind everything."

"It's always the D.A.D.A. Post." He said.

It was true the post was cursed or always causing Harry problems. It took Harry all night to get back to them in Dumbledore's presence. At which time she is with everyone else looking for harry in the infirmary. They find nothing but Mrs. Weasley is demanding to know all the same. Dumbledore and harry enter but Professor asks that they all just let him sleep.

That next day they talked about a lot and when things got plenty revealing and potentially even like plotting Hermione saw something out the corner of her eye. She hadn't shown her full attention to it because it could disappear just like that. Taking a cup up out of no where she slammed it atop the window sill to catch what she thought was going to be Rita Skitter.

Looking at the beetle after she put it in a jar it was definitely her. She spoke to her firmly and explained wether she could hear her or not she had one way of getting out. Told her intentions on keeping her for the summer, telling the ministry of her illegal activities, and make her never write one sour word about anyone ever again. Only the truth and nothing about harry or herself specifically.

Harry had revealed a lot and so had Dumbledore but nothing was going to get out for some time at least. For the last several weeks the whole school gave Harry a girth of space. Mostly because they were told to but also because no body wanted to think about the words Harry had uttered. The only people he showed everything and explain everything to was Ron and Hermione. The scar had healed on his arm but they could see a feint line of fresh skin. The dark mark, the new body, the calling of death eaters, even the ghost during the duel fight.

It was getting back to Cedric to check he still lived that made him push harder than he thought he could to get back in time to grab the portkey. Not that his being alive and there really helped because if he had involved himself he would have died and every time Hermione saw his face she knew he knew that. Harry had still seen death but at least it wasn't Cedric's. A less than loyal death eater it seemed lost his life.

Over the next few weeks free from the infirmary Harry tried to split or give the winning wholly to Cedric and his family but they weren't having it. Cedric conceded and the tournament that was magically binding responded to he's words by making Harry the true winner. As much as Hermione and Ron wanted to give their support to their best friend he also wanted alone time so they gave was a lot to take in having your mortal enemy take your blood to return his body. Having nearly lost not only his life but a comrade and friends on top of the strange exchange between his wand and Voldemort's.

Hermione used the time to study and take what exams were left to be taken. Hagrid was preparing for some sort of trip for some reason. DADA was canceled as no one knew if they had spent the whole year learning what was on the curriculum or just what Barty Crouch Jr wanted them too learn. Dumbledore was being lenient with all exams given the turn of events. Sure no deaths had come but there was a lot to sort out but much like her second year she insisted and the teachers obliged.

Once they were finally of the way she had time to see fleur before she left and told her she couldn't wait to write her over the summer. Maybe meet up at Krum's home. He was better and no longer under a curse so Fleur forgave him and gave the same promise of keeping in touch. There was the small issue of Harry looking quite distraught but the more time he spent with Ron and Hermione the better he faired. Sirius wasn't able to write anymore before the year closed and the feast hit off.

Harry still doesn't trust Professor Snape even though Hermione tells him that Snape has no reason to betray Dumbledore. The real Moody is sitting at the staff table. He isn't the same teacher everyone liked, doesn't even look the same at the moment. Everyone can see the grim look and about him. His eye and leg gave the same old feelings when you heard him walking or if you knew he could see you doing something bad.

Its mostly unexpected when Dumbledore starts talking about what happen. Not what happened to Harry entirely but how a man of great power has returned attacked Harry but as result of their chivalry Cedric was there as well thankfully saved nearly from death. Unfortunately knocked out and bound still instead he had no way of telling the details of the events. Between Harry, the imposter, and himself he hoped the school could see the truth. Voldemort was back and though outside no one would except it they needed to know.

It was a fair idea but the impact was mixed between frightened and hardly believing. Sure something happened and sure it was impacting the entire school but not in the way it should have. No one openly doubted now but you could see in some people's eyes they weren't willing to imagine the impossible being possible. Hermione knew because Harry shared with her and Ron Cedric often looked as though he needed to talk about it but had no idea how to approach Harry about it.

The normal carriage ride to the train on the last day was strange without Harry but he had Viktor come up as well as Fleur so they last carriage went without him. He made it by walking to Hogsmead but still he wasn't alone. Malfoy and his boys openly mocked him and said the first to be taken or killed if it was all true should be mud-bloods and sympathizers.

A scuffle went down but with plenty of help even from the twins it was settled. Instead of joining them Harry we to thank the twins and asked them why they tried blackmailing Ludo Bagman. When he came back Hermione noticed his winnings were finally gone. Ron hadn't but knowing the twins situation now Hermione gathered Harry let them have it. What they might do with it she had no idea.

By the time the train reached home everyone was ready to leave as fast as possible. Harry only just saying he'd write hoping to hear from them. Ron was taken in by their parents arms right away with Ginny and they had to wrestle away to say goodbye. Her parents looked perplexed and even questioned that behavior as soon as they made it home know Hermione never liked to discussing anything of importance in the car.

Telling them a big bad dark wizard was back didn't seem the best way to start the conversation. That wasn't the whole year anyways that was just the most weighing news lately. She wanted to tell them all about the tournament, the guests, the dance, and even the family line she found. After talking to Cedrics mother in person she gave her permission to have her own copy and duplicated it to be sure Hermione got what she needed. They were all sorts of things to talk about at home all Hermione needed to do was find the right approach to the subject.

She was very thankful that she had the car ride home to think. Think she did on what a year they had. Gradually that turned into thinking about the year to come and the complications possible with that. Yet when her parents heard everything and she reasoned the plus and minus of what she knew they were thinking. They inevitably asked once more for her to go to a different school but the truth was that wasn't going to change anything. As scary as it was to know she was friends with the one person who this big bad guy wanted dead. That even just as a kid he wasn't safe and especially if she got in this guys way neither would she. The next year may hold no dangers or it may just be the beginning she told them but their was no running or hiding she could do now.

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Review please! I like knowing what you guys think and that I am what I want a crossed. my wife had some say in parts of this because i am a bit of a softy for her I made a change or two for her. poor Cedric and some other details. Hope you enjoyed! The next chapter shouldn't be very long to come up or to read as this one.. there was some deviating to show he interest in Fleur and they had some reason to be together in this story. anyways stay tuned I will do my best.