Games Are Afoot Chapter 15
Letters (1)
Disclaimer: JKR owns it; I just play.
August 5th
Dear Charlie,
Your letters were such a joy to read. The first one I was eager to read and so I slipped out of the kitchen to read it directly. I thought that reading it in the place I had received it would be appropriate, but was surprised to find the space already occupied. I am certain you can guess by whom. Alas, I had to wait to find a private place. Then, as I am sure you heard, nearly immediately after you left, we learned of the dementor attack against Harry. The household was in an uproar. I still can't believe that they threatened him with expulsion. Of all the unfair, inappropriate things the ministry has done…well, you know I can't really get into details, but suffice it to say I was not pleased.
Back to your letter though. I love surprises. Finding the box you left for me lifted my spirits more than you will ever know after such a traumatic day. Ginny was obviously more than upset so I remained with her until she fell asleep. I snuck away to find my surprise because I wanted to find it alone and think of you. I hope that isn't too forward of me to say. I have not had the opportunity to spend time with my gifts as your mum has kept us working hard. She doesn't want us catching on to something not meant for our ears, so she is keeping us frightfully busy. You well know how she can be. However, despite her efforts, we are not completely ignorant of what's going on.
Currently we are awaiting Harry's arrival. Ron and I are concerned that he will be very angry with the events of the summer. Fortunately, school will resume before too much longer and we will have a little more freedom.
The house is much quieter with you gone and Bill has not been around much since then either. Something about English lessons, I believe. See, I told you we were more knowledgeable than some think! I enjoyed our evening conversations as well. Though owl post is not as immediate for response, I look forward to keeping up our discussions.
I will write again when I have time to study my surprises, but it may not be until I return to Hogwarts. Letters should be here in a couple of days. I can't wait to get my books! I usually have them read a couple of times before school so that the work makes more sense. I am so looking forward to O.W.L. year and all of the exciting things we will learn. I have been looking into some N.E.W.T. level spells, though Ron and the twins tease me mercilessly for it. I just can't help being intrigued though. I love to learn and challenge myself.
Hopefully, your trip to Romania was quick and your dragons are happy to have their favorite trainer back. Incidentally, what is the name of the Chinese Fireball that is your favorite?
Until next time, your friend,
Hermione
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August 19
Hiya Hermione!
Wow! You responded faster than I thought you would. Made my whole day. It's great and terrible to be back. I love seeing my dragons, but I miss EVERYONE at home. I am glad you enjoyed your treasure hunt. Your letter made you sound intrigued. After all the game playing this summer, I am glad we found something to challenge that brilliant mind of yours.
Yes, I heard about Harry. How long has he been able to do a patronus? That is a charm many fully qualified wizards have trouble with. Are you all so much smarter than I was at school? Can you do a patronus too? If you can, what shape does yours take? Was Harry as angry as you thought he would be?
Congratulations on being made a prefect. You were a shoo-in. Still not sure what Dumbledore was thinking when he picked Ronniekins, but all the same I am sure you'll help keep him up to snuff. Were your parents pleased? I am sure this is something that they can understand. It must be a challenge for them to have such a talented daughter and not truly understand the full impacts of her talent. I am sure they love you, but it has to be hard on them. Who brought your first Hogwarts letter? How did Dad and Mum respond? Fred and George told me about the awful people Harry got left with, but I doubt your parents would be like that.
O.W.L. year is exciting, but be prepared. They really pile on the work. That's only part of it though. I thought the worst part was when they spent so much time lecturing about their importance. I mean, really, it's not like we weren't already stressed out! Having Bill be the Head boy that year added a bit of pressure as well. I think they all thought I should follow in his footsteps, you know? Guilt by association. I certainly did fine in my classes, but Bill was always exceptional. I guess that is what made me want to find my own thing so much. Has Ron ever told you about the summer I left for Romania the first time?
So N.E.W.T. level appeals to you does it? What sorts of spells and/or charms are you attempting? Nothing dangerous I hope. Don't let Fred and George give you a hard time. They have been doing N.E.W.T. level charms for years. They are quite gifted. They just don't want anyone to know how smart they really are. Takes the pressure off after Percy, I guess. But, we aren't supposed to talk about that ungrateful bugger of a brother now are we? It still makes my blood boil to think to what a traitor he is.
I just reread your letter to make sure I responded to all your questions. Ah, Bill and his English lessons. I am sure there is a very happy French damsel about now…but I really shouldn't say anymore. I am sure you are clever enough to figure it out though. (Smile!)
So have you figured out why the Chinese Fireball is my favorite dragon yet? Have you finished the book yet? My favorite is named Matilda. We joke a lot about waltzing with her. Not a very Chinese name I know, but I am not sure I could pronounce one correctly anyhow. She is pedigreed and has an official title so I guess Matilda is just a nickname, but she responds so it's all good.
Have a safe trip back to Hogwarts! Look forward to hearing from you soon.
Your friend, Charlie