A Moments Touch
First off this chapter can be a bit complicated I don't want that as I know from Hermione's point of view she is repeating up to 5 hours a day. I've looked into he Tme Turner an I now know the full spect of each version introduced and when they were. As its shown in the movies it implies you stay where you are and rewind around you in fact this is wrong. It is to bring you where you were 5 hours ago at max. Other versions as introduced in Cursed Child travel anywhere and in any time. One with a 5 minute limit and one with none. So as you read try to remember this and rely more on the books or authors info before saying it's all wrong.
Second pardon if it does jump. Also I personally like my pairing for this year and I hope you like the parts I added to the known story to make it fit but with the Time Turner I didn't want endless days of classes. Besides I've been following the day to day calendar on each book to get things right and they typically have bigger gaps than you expect.
Third the pairing as temporary as it is I believe it fits nicely as I explain later both women are looking for no commitment but also comfort.
Finally I know this would have been much more preferable to have posted a few weeks ago but I have it now. As hectic as it has been i am glad I got to finish it at all.
Please read and review
Tossing a large brown luggage bag on the bed Hermione Granger begins sorting though a pile of letters. They where delivered and left through the post slot at the front door. They had only been gone for a month and a half. The early return was because Minerva had sent word directly to her that she had solved their dilemma about her courses. Of course there was a bit of scare that she would even be returning to Hogwarts this year after Hermione told her parents everything. Not only did she have to show her excitement about all the courses this year offered she still needed to bust out some puppy dog eyes on her parents.
God forbid she had to suffer at Beauxbatons Academy or Durmstang institute those by far seemed the more uncomfortable to her. Sure she knew some French but the Academy had a certain look she just couldn't follow. While Durmstrang allowed girls they were a male dominated school. Their were many others options but Hermione was glad to have wormed out of it.
Her mail had letters from her friends. Ginny, Ron, and lastly but not least Harry seemed he had less chances to send anything than the Weasleys. Both Ginny and Ron wrote about winning a ministry drawing. Giving them enough money to vacation in Egypt to see his older brother Bill. Ginny said they would need to get Ron a new wand and given Percy being Percy he'd be getting head boy this year so he needed a gift too.
She chuckles at the similar disdain in both Weasley's letters. Harry was only able to briefly tell her about his new arrangements. It sounds ridiculously obvious how mistreated Harry is just by how now he has own room even though all his school supplies are locked up. She constantly felt bad that he had to live there and wondered why no other family was able to care fo him. It was only unfortunate for him to return home every year.
She was probably not alone in noticing his health whenever he made it back to school. Both years he was much smaller than was natural for a boy his age. Hermione was impressed by Ginny's second letter she hadn't mentioned Harry at all. Though returning for another year wasn't for another month and a half. She decided to respond back about her vacation and that she was going to visit the diagon alley. That is only after she discusses her year with her professor.
Minerva was adamant this was a topic her parents had to be apart of and that their approval was necessary. So before work becomes and everyday thing she has her teacher coming over by noon the next day. Her parents wanted the house to be nice but Hermione was more worried how she the year before's potion disaster she had been finding a way to control her hair.
Her frizzy untamable hair had been brought to a new level during the cat hair fiasco. After that she had it trimmed thinned and kept it that way. At least she was going to once she got to her hairdressers, friend of the family. The next day was a breeze with that out of the way. Minerva arrived by floo having filed for the network to be added. They kept the box of ash safely away incase guest came over.
"Professor McGonagall! Welcome again." Her father greeted ushering her over to a comfortable spot on the couch. First thing Minerva noticed and complimented was Hermione's hair. Even if no one else noticed she was happy that at least she did.
"Thank you for having me. I was sure after last year I wouldn't even get to see Ms. Granger this year."
"Oh they were tempted."
"Very tempted but our little girl promises she's going to focus on school this year."
"Quite so with the solution I have she should have time for all her desired classes, studying, and homework."
"Really how?" Hermione aspen excitedly. She had though maybe a few extra would be possible but all of them.
"There is a lot to go over perhaps we should have some tea and biscuits." Her mother jumps up to make it and Minerva offers to help. They return with tea. After a few sips Minerva pulls out a box and places it on the table. Seriousness sits in the air.
"Rules Hermione do you promise to follow them to the tee?"
"Absolutely." No hesitation she knows this is her one chance to make sure she can make the best of her education. "Anything for my education." She adds knowing her record isn't quite the best representation of her natural by the book standards.
"Quite right." Minerva says a bit proud she gets to offer this to her best student. "This is a device that will allow you to repeat your day." Allowing Hermione to open the box lid before continuing. "The ring spins the hour glass and for how ever many hours you wish to go back. The only thing with the models these days is they only allow five hours at a time. So at least you will get you classes in but nothing more. It brings you to the place you where 5 hours ago but you must never been seen by yourself or caught by someone else. Your academic history thus far is why the ministry approved this they request you do not mess this up by manipulating time."
Gently Hermione holds it in her hands make sure not to move anything. The red sand in the hour glass sat still and the rings around it gave a golden shine. A chain linked on it making it obvious the device was to be worn. An inscription caught her eye.
I mark the hours, every one, Nor have I yet outrun the Sun. My use and value, unto you, Are gauged by what you have to do.
It's small in size made the print hard to read but as she did she marveled over the quote wondering if this was a personal on or if this was on all of them. Carefully she placed it back in its box's and listened to Minerva's furthered rules and details. Things that made total sense to her but her parents had no idea half the things being said especially when it came to her class names and her suggested plans for avoiding similar routes. Divination and muggle studies seemed to be the two classes she was on the fence about but didn't want to give up the potential education they could off her.
Minerva expressed the dangers of doing more than five hours and if she was caught the repercussions that the ministry would enforce. Her parents had the final say and with ultimate trust in Hermione they gave their blessing. They already told her if her life in endangered this year she may need to be in another school away from dangerous friends but she has firmly expressed she wasn't going to be doing anything but school work all year.
With the tea and biscuits finished off and all the details gone over Hermione is given what's called the time-turner burrowed from the ministry and upon finishing her school year she knows must return it or make plans with their approval to keep it for more academic purposes. For safe keeping to packs it away right away. Minerva waits by the fire place for her return.
"I'm sorry if I seem so firm about this but it was serious business and I wish I had more time for you as I know you love a good conversation about the latest news in witch weekly. I must return as Albus is insistent I owe him a date to Honeydukes. Shoot I knew I forgot something." With a little digging in her robes she pulls out a paper handing it to Hermione. Her parents read it over her shoulder. "It's a permission slip for weekend trips to Hogsmead."
"Mum dad this is where we get dropped off from the train every year but we've never been able to go in. Can I please."
"Of course honey like we said as long as there is no mischief or injuries this year we just want you to enjoy you schooling." They sign it and return it to Minerva who then offers a big grin before she leaves. Looking at her parents she too is grinning. Yes this year was going to be intense but she was going to be thankful to even get the chance to have a full course. Sure most people avoid runes and arithmetic but she could not and though she felt she would regret enduring divination the most she needed to try it to be sure.
Hermione spent days reflecting over all the information she had about the device and found her stomach twisting in knots at the idea of keeping this secret all year long. Would her friends suspect her and she be punished anyways. It took her the whole next three weeks to feel her plans were solid enough. She had her schedule early for the purpose of making a personal choice of how she would make the perfect jump back in time.
Her parents work was just as busy as if they weren't on vacation thus when the time came to meet Ron and his family at the Leaky Cauldron she asked to just stay at the inn with the Weasleys and Harry. Allowing this they dropped her off early to spend the day there. Exchanging her early birthday money at gringotts and making her way back to meet the Weasleys she spotted them at the pet store already.
Stepping inside there was tons of choices all of which the ginger family was roaming through. Having spotted her they all greeted her as she entered. Currently they were by the owls. Where as she was thinking cat. Unfortunately all of them seemed plain and lazy, everything that the wizarding world saw muggles as.
"Excuse me these are magical cats aren't they?" She asks the woman in charge of the shop.
"Of course dearie where would we be if they weren't?"
"Right." She walks around to the Weasley's thinking maybe a cat isn't it. Percy has his owl even if Ron is scowling he at least is carefully holding his new hand-me-down pet. A rat, a bald patchy, skinny, and gross rat. She goes to leave the store while they pay when a commotion gets her full attention. A cat she hadn't seen before was chasing Ron's rat, scabbers.
Helping catch the furry cat he instantly curled up in her arm and purred not for very long though as she went to the owner to hand it over scabbers was still in sight. It was ready to go again if the lady had not hushed it. She curiously asked the age of the rat which was a bit odd but Ron seemed happy to say it was in there family for 12 years. That did sound quite long for such a small creature.
"And you say its magical?"
"well I've never seen it doing anything special but who cares it my pet." As if firmly okay with the hand me down pet now.
"What kind of cat is he?" Hermione asked to change the subject.
"Oh he isn't magical im afraid just a half-breed he's part kneazle." At once at hearing this had to have him. She asked for him and paid almost half of her birthday money for him. He was twice as special as the other cats and he was like her. She had to no matter how mad Ron was.
"I cant believe you got that thing. It tried to eat scabbers."
"It's name is Crookshanks and they will learn to get along Ron." She said with a huff before looking up and catching sight of harry. She beamed as he looked much more healthy than he normally did. Possibly due to his incident over the summer. She couldn't wait to hear more about his aunt and how he managed to escape punishment after she had been blown up like a ballon and spotted by multiple muggles.
He told them everything. She sounded like she was a evil woman and by the end of the story she couldn't have been more proud Harry had stood up for himself and was able to make it safely to the Leaky Cauldron especially with Sirius Black on the run. She and her parents had hear about this character on muggle tv first before she had seen the news in the daily prophet. It was quite dangerous for Harry to be wondering around just in case this madman wizard was near by.
Sure it bothered her parents to think such a disaster had been from this man. They were much to young when it happened to really care about the details but they remembered it was a all over the news. A gas leak explosion that had killed so many but if he was here it was highly reasonable to say he would never head to Hogwarts. So they would be very safe.
Crookshanks still laid in her lap where she enjoyed running her fingers through his fur. Just what she had hoped for so far no effects with her gift. She felt its complete dislike of scabbers but she would never tell Ron as she hoped that he would learn to leave the poor rat alone. Hardly looked like it was going to live much longer anyways.
"I cant wait for the Hogsmead trips." Ron says as he ate a chocolate frog. "Honeydukes is very good for sweets I hear."
"I didn't get my slip signed."
"maybe Professor McGonagall will let you go anyways. She knows what your family is like." The boys agreed with Hermione's reasoning as they continued playing their game of chess. Hermione wondered off to see Ginny because after all this time she hadn't heard one pep from her. She had hoped for a different girl this year. As she knocked on her own door to let Ginny know she was there she was getting her own cot ready for bedtime.
"Hermione!" She was happy to see her. With a quick hug she pulls back smiling. That was more like it.
"Oh thank Merlin I was so sure you was still afraid to be open with everyone." She shakes her head and lets Hermione sit on her bed as she explains.
"Its just Harry I cant take him, he actually acts like nothing happened but he saved my life." Pretty much understanding that but thought shouldn't that not matter if they want to move past that or at least Ginny does. "I just have no idea how I can look at any of you guys an not think I owe you my life. You're the only one that makes me feel normal..I even wondered.. Anyways I'm so glad you are staying the night too."
"Ha well this is great then because I was afraid I'd end up sharing with no one. Its to early to go to bed still. Are you going to try getting some guys attention on your first day maybe we can mess with each other's hairdos." Never having been able to do what she wanted to her hair but now with the thinning and a little help with magic she would have a much better look this year. Ginny beams at the change in topic as well as the idea gets her excited.
"No I don't think I need any other boys Harry is amazing but obviously I'm not his type. I will not try impressing anyone I can do with a new look though. Only if you help me and approve."
"You don't need my approval for a new look I think you look great already. If I was a boy it would matter more I know." Using her brush Hermione starts smoothing out her small waves. She would look stunning with her straight hair down with pins instead of up like she usually has it. Regardless she leaves a loose braid of her hair to one side so it sits over her shoulder.
"Looks nice like this but I think you look amazing with your hair straightened and down." Hermione looks in the mirror.
"It gets in my face to much." She says. Without hesitating Hermione brushes a few strands back and places a bobble pin Just above her ear to hold it there. "Oh." She blushes as she sees how easy it was.
"There is a thinning spell I've been practicing so I can keep my hair as it is. I wonder if you can help me practice." They spend some time on this and eventually Ginny can brush Hermione's hair with ease. Much to the latter's relief as the gentle touch felt like a tingle instead of the normal painful tugs to get through the bushiness.
Some time durning this Hermione gives a noise and feels her head fall back. It's resting on Ginny's shoulder. Obvious as it was that one of them should move or lift her head neither do. The small fingers grip the brush tightly before both brush and hand falls loosely to their side. Deep green eyes close and they feel light tickling of falling hair as their lips closed the distance.
"Mm." The same noise Hermione gave now escapes Ginny. As they part and collide again and again few thoughts cross about if this was okay. Actually In the moment they knew they were the closest of anyone else either one knew. None more deserved the beautiful contact so they didn't stop. Maybe they shifted to face one another but nothing else.
That night as their hands threaded loosely through each others hair was a new found connection. Even as they talked about it that night they weren't sure where it would lead an Hermione told Ginny this year was not a year for a devoted romantic relationship but that didn't mean they couldn't explore it and the interesting feelings that came with it. As they had kissed each other goodnight and spooned each other Hermione knew she would have to work hard at forcing not to seeing anything personal.
Thankfully when they woke Hermione only remembered a few things mostly minor moments from the year before that must often bother Ginny. They didn't drag out another long conversation about what happened but there was a small notion taken to heart that no matter what they would be friends. Up early for breakfast the whole group was ready to head to the train.
"They look very on edge Ron what is going on you think?" Arthur and Molly paced as if on guard they even whispered every so often drawing more attention to their behavior.
"I heard them arguing this morning about this Sirius Black guy. He was a huge Voldemort supporter. He wants some kind of revenge on me. So I guess that's why I got off so easy before." He tell them. Subconsciously Hermione wonders why he can't have one normal year but externally she says.
"makes sense Hogwarts is easy the safest place for you then. They wouldn't want to expel you only for you to die. You're a legend they cant let anything happen to you." Both boys look a her like she just rubbed something the wrong way. As she thought about it she realized Harry was still to sensitive to praise. Of course he was or he would look at Ginny as the pretty girl she was.
While on the topic Harry says he wants to show Sirius Black how rubbish his loyalty turned out to be but that was just tough boy talk Hermione could tell he was a least a little bit worried about being hunted for being the downfall of some lunatics leader. She let the boys boast but when they got ready to leave she was sure to tell them this was no game that they all needed to stay safe this year. She was happy to let them think about the risks as they made there way to the train. She joined Ginny who was wearing her hair straightened and down just like Hermione said looked great the night before.
"The boys still acting tough?" She asks as they crossed the platform together. Once on the other side Hermione nods but says.
"Yeah but hopefully they will see how dangerous this guy is before they go looking for trouble. I'll be focused on school this year and I wont be there to save them all year."
"Me too I'm ready to have a year without any major distractions."
"Well hopefully not every distraction. I feel like if in not distracted just a little I wont be much fun all year." They share a blush.
"Don't worry if I cant get your attention by the end of the night I'll make sure you can't ignore me." She winks before going rigid. Harry and Ron walk past with their things. Ron gets a look of protectiveness about him as he inspects her while they pass. Probably looking for anything out of place or extra like last year. His rat squirms in his hands as it passes Crookshanks. The awkward moment subsides when Hermione comforts Ginny with a slight touch on her arm. "He can't find out though he's not the only one acting like I need protection but he's basically the worst."
"I promise not a word." They climb aboard after hugging Mrs. Weasley goodbye and thanking them for letting her stay the night. The two girls don't have to ride separately but they do as the boys find their own compartment and as of the last year she was invited, practically expected, to sit with them. It didn't matter that there was a teacher sleeping in the corner just that they didn't wake him if they could help it. She felt she owed them the one uninterrupted single day and night of her year. The moment the morning came she would be twice as busy than normal.
They shared treats from the trolley and talked about all the fun of the Hogsmead trips. As disappointed as Harry was before he hoped Professor McGonagall would still let him go. He wanted to got to the sweet shop called Honeydukes. They laughed over the way Ron retold his story of the trip to Egypt. The way he talked about the tour guide woman was especially funny as his ears were constantly red. Aside from Harry's aunts visit that ended poorly Harry had nothing to tell. Hermione wanted to talk about her summer beyond the family vacation to France. Though it was cut short she couldn't tell them why so she made up some things that they could have done. Some of it was obviously a bore to them but hearing she had really gone to check out the school there was enough to have them on the edge of their seats.
"That's why this year I need to show my parents I can finish a whole year without trouble. So if you want to find danger or trouble don't expect me to be part of it."
"Okay Hermione we can handle things by ourselves anyways." They all looked to the corner which they had almost forgotten about. He didn't move a muscle making Ron curious if he was even breathing. The man was as ragged as a homeless man which did seem odd but when Ron said he wondered who it was she said his name without hesitation.
"How do you know that did you..?" He gestures to her hands causing she rolls her eyes.
"I read his briefcase Ronald. See Remus Lupin."
"Oh." They laughed then suddenly the train began to stop. The brakes squealed heavily dragging the train to a gradual stop. Ron gasped as he noticed the thick fog outside the window. It was dark so they were suppose to be close to Hogwarts but not there just yet. The glass ticked loudly as ice crept from one corner of the window a crossed the surface. Ron gulped as Harry gets up to open the door only to see a figure just outside. Its hovering and hooded. Hermione feels all kinds of misery she has ever felt in her own life as well as the many times she has felt someone else's.
She has had many years of practice acting and pushing through those feelings of dread. She could see from Harrys face he had not an something was begin to overwhelm him. Ron looked pale but fine and so she focused on Harry. The figure pulled open the compartment door revealing a skeleton like hand. The closer it came in the worse Harry got. She had no idea what to do but as she was about to give in to those deep sorrows inside herself she saw from the corner of the compartment the teacher jumped up. He sprang into action and flung some kind of bright spell at the creature chasing it back.
Not nearly quick enough for Harry to be spared from collapsing with a scream. Had he been more weighed down than she ever imagined by the kind of feelings she had just re-experienced. None the less she jumped to catch him, only in time to catch his head. Moments later he was awake looking exhausted. Handing him a chocolate the man named Remus said they should be safe from the Dementors now but he needed to check on the rest of the train.
It was curious how familiar he was with Harry saying his name without any prompting but as he was skilled enough to know what they were dealing it's she was glad to let hm go. Closing the compartment door from now peering classmates they sit Harry up in the seats again. He rubs his arm as he nibbles on the chocolate.
"S everyone one okay?" He asks as if he had not been the one on the floor screaming.
"Yeah mate you're the only one we heard scream. How are you feeling."
"I screamed? No I heard a woman screaming." The three sat perplexed at what each other meant only to feel the train begin going again. They changed for school and as they arrived at the station they did not see the man again not even to grab his suitcase. At the dinner they sat with their house friends. Neville and Ginny closest to Hermione. It was durning the introduction speech after the first years got sorted that they learned Professor Remus Lupin was the new DADA teacher.
Dumbledore spoke more on the Dementors that boarded the train which neither Harry nor Hermione was familiar with. That meant that Ron had to explain. As he did though taunting from the Slytherin table got louder. Draco's mimicking of Harrys scream as a girly wail and dramatic fainting was only funny to him and his goons. Dementors being creatures that feed of negative memories and feelings made it all to clear why Harry suffered the most between the three of them.
Professor Lupin and Professor Dumbledore were not the only ones to speak to them of the dementors on the train. Professor McGonagall requested their presence just before dinner began having been owled ahead about the incident. She sent Harry off to be checked by Poppy and as he had been in the great hall when she arrived she assumed all was well. Minerva however wanted to ensure she was ready for the new year as well as make sure she too was okay. She told her about her repeated emotions from her gift they talk in some length about how she felt having all those former losses and pain overcome again.
After talking with Minerva and hearing Dumbledores speech it was a relief to know that the castle was free of these dark creatures. That as dangerous as they and Sirius Black were they would be keeping them safe from the criminal after Harry but not risking the student body or any of their emotions if possible. The fact that they sucked the soul of the prisoners they typically guarded was unsettling but that meant only one thing for sure. Basically you would have to be a really bad guy to go to wizarding jail. It was a flawed system if you went by the fact Hagrid was framed so easily and stripped of his wand but with his accusations were bad. The fact remained there was not much of a punishment for minor crimes except removal of their wand. Hermione was sure her punishment for failing to keep her time Turner a secret would still be severe.
As the night came to a close she went to bed early where she was alone in the girls dorm as she unpacked. It didn't take long for her senses to tell her when she wasn't alone anymore making her leave the secret box in her trunk for now. As she climbed up from her knees she closed her trunk to find Ginny sitting across from her on her bed. Whom sat on her hands biting her lip. Obviously she was trying to stop herself from doing something she clearly want to do.
Closing her curtains she strides over to Ginny silently. Without much holding back Hermione shrouds the rest of the room from them an kisses her. Its then she realizes she has wanted to do that all day. How she has grown fond of her best friend's sister she doesn't know. She knows Ginny needs someone to be there for her an Hermione needed someone to keep her from being to absorbed in school.
"I've wanted to do that all day." Ginny confesses.
"Me to strangely I have never thought before I'd like kissing you so much."
"It doesn't bother you I'm Ron's younger sister?"
"Not really. I'm not sure if this is just a temporary thing or if something will come of this but for now I just want to enjoy it."
"No strings?"
"None. Am I the first girl you have liked?"
"Yes and no. I didn't think I ever liked another girl unless you count this one girl I use to play with as a kid but I still cant tell if I just thought she was pretty or if I had Interests in her. What about you?"
"Oh definitely attracted nothing more than thinking she was pretty. Really I'm open to love anywhere all I look for is a nice personality and some smarts. I have to be able to keep a conversation with someone I like." Ginny nods Hermione runs her fingers through her smooth straight hair to cup her neck an pull her close again.
Silence fills the room except for the sound of their lips colliding to break it up occasionally. As they hear giggling come up the stairs they remain silent move to the headboard of the bed. Hermione held Ginny in her arms as they listened to the girls around the room chatter on about their experiences on the train. The mention of it triggered a momentary chain of thoughts of Ginny's and though neither broke the silence to talk about it Hermione let her hand trail over her back to comfort her. Letting her know she understood an was there for her.
Falling asleep there hadn't originally been the plan but because they were so comfortable and the other girls sat up quite longer than normal that was how they woke up. Or at least Hermione did. Nit waste time shed pecked Ginny goodbye before grabbing a change of clothes for the shower. As she did shower she was caught in her though wondering why she had decided now was a good time to be feeling any Interest in Ginny.
She saw how funny an smart she was. Even the year before when she wasn't herself, underneath all that complicated stuff, Hermione still saw it. Was she just hoping to keep Ginny distracted and get her back to being normal or was this going to last beyond this year? She asked herself.
Stepping out of the shower she changed and immediately grabbed her time Turner. She wanted to head to breakfast early so when other cam they didn't notice if she got her scheduler or not. She expected some needing to change plans depending on her classmates schedules too. As she left the room a few of the girls started to wake. Quickly she tucked the necklaces inside her shirt hoping no one would notice the chain.
Her first class was triple booked, it was hearing her friends classes she realized this was going to be a lot more difficult than she expected. Perhaps it was her house and the time allotted to each house and how it would look if she didn't take those specific spots. A few other doubles but nothing she couldn't managed it was the three she was a bit worried about running into someone twice.
Eating her meal and purposely taking extra she found herself in the second floor bathroom. Familiarly empty due to the events of the year before. This is where she would return if she was correct. She placed the extra food in a bag and left it in a stall certain only she would dare to come in here all day if not all year.
She went to her first class ready to begin the cycle that was about to become a regular occurrence. First she took her Arithmancy class as she wouldn't be facing Ron or Harry Right away after that she kept on with her day sometimes doing her classes solo and some with the boys. She had lunch and then headed off to an empty classroom to turn back her time. She arrived as she expected in the second floor bathroom just before her first class. This time she had muggle studies and ancient ruins which was easy enough to get to without the boys where as her third trip back was for divination. harry and Ron of course had taken up a conversation while heading to lunch with together. She casually fell back and hid in a class let a few seconds pass and turned back once again.
This time she was starving and hurriedly ate a little before running to divination. Ron as inattentive as he usually was surprised her by asking when she had gotten there. Playing it off as them not noticing her she successfully endures her third morning class. Later as she heads to care for magical creatures class she has time to actually walk with them. Though a conversation about Harry seeing the grim is not how she wanted to spend it.
She jokes that Divination was a bust of a course where as ancient ruins was fun. Once again Ron surprises her by asking how that would be possible as ancient ruins was the same time as Divination. Internally she smacks her head. Outwardly she rolls her eyes and says.
"Dont be ridiculous how can someone be in two places at once?" To throw him off. In class Hagrid explains how to open the book of monsters without getting attacked. Not that she didn't know but she actually finds it is quite cute and funny.
Draco of course loves to get a rile out of Harry but thankfully the teasing doesn't get far as Hagrid begins his lesson. The lesson was honestly going so well. The introduction to Buckbeak the Hippogriff was stellar. The raw meat bait did make having a Volunteer pet it hard but it was quite funny that unknowingly to Harry but Unanimously everyone else stepped back making him the only one to look like he was Volunteering.
He was Hagrid best friend right so it was fine. It was because as he got past greeting him and getting to pet him Hagrid excitedly told Harry he could ride him. It was truly wonderful watching him gain the animals trust but in all seriousness they were told it wasn't easy. It took patience and being kind. Draco was the only one that failed to believe him.
After purposely taunting Buckbeak Hermione thought his injuries where his own fault but no matter how it looked or actually was Draco was hardly the kind of kid to let it go without forcing his father to make a bigger problem about something first. True a Hippogriff probably wasn't meant for students as young as third years but clearly he felt a need to teach about them.
Class was cut short as Hagrid had to take Draco who just had a small gash on his arm from Buckbeak's hoof. Everyone left talking about how overdramatic Draco was being and how rude he had been to the animal. Did it matter by the end of the day? No. Nor did it seem to matter that Hagrid warned the whole class not to be rude to the Hippogriff.
"Of course he ran to his daddy." Harry an Ron said in agreement. "He just wants to ruin Hagrid's new job." Hermione had heard them but she had a lot of homework so as she sat buried in the common room arm chair in books and parchment she hadn't given them the same verbal agreement.
Of course they were right but she had an ancient ruins homework to finish still. Her Professor wanted to see what the class could identify on instinct or rational thinking. Deducing the obvious from the most basic symbols.
"Hermione! Geez how can you have so much homework it's only day one."
"I just want to finish it now I cant let it get behind like you two." They foreign offense at the statement. They didn't always get there homework done right away but they weren't that bad. Clearly she was more familiar with helping them finish their work than they liked to remember.
The worse piece of homework by the end of the night was Divination. She simply couldn't see the sense. It was obvious by how the Professor liked to claim death prophecies about at least one student a year. Minerva had warned her an first thing in Divination she made that claim about Harry.
He was the only clear choice as Sirius Black was after him. Somehow she was the only one that thought it was rubbish yet she wasn't going to give up right away or at all if she could help it. Her homework was giving her a headache just thinking about what she actually saw versus what she knew her crazy teacher wanted as an answer.
"Ugh i can't.. I'm going to bed goodnight." She didn't mean to loose her temper but with all her homework finished last being tea leaf reading she was desperate to get rest. Her load of books and papers followed her to her bed. She sorted her things and flopped on her bed beside Crookshanks. He purred as she pet him before playing with her hand. She chuckled at him and how adorable he was.
"He is such a sweet cat." Ginny's voice surprises her causing her to jump up to face her. "Hey."
"Hey." She says in return with a blush. "He's really sweet and smart. I cant believe the lady thought he was just a plain old cat." Her curled up on her lap where she pet him.
"Well he seems to really like you. I wonder if he has walked around the school at all." It is surprising that most animals don't get lost but if that is the only magical thing Crookshanks can do is always find her then she will be happy. Sure enough like any cat one second he is loving on her and the next he rolls off and is running out of the room without looking back. She and Ginny laugh before Ginny swoops beside her and asks how her day was. Desperately wanting to tell her it was crazy and how much she did instead she told her it was really great to be learning so much again.
"I heard Draco was a pain today."
"One day I hope someone socks him right in the face. He is putting Hagrid's job at risk as well as the life of Buckbeak."
"I'd pay to see that!" Hermione then asks her about her day. "Eh not much I mean Dean complimented my hair but nothing else really did my homework on my lunch break' by the way how come you have so much?"
"Well I'm trying to make sure I get a lot done and keep ahead I told you I gotta make my parents see im focused on school or I'll get sent to beauxbatons."she gives a shiver at how prim and proper she saw they were on some posters in the magical communities. Her tour wasn't as bad thanks to her guide but she was more concerned persuading her parents to give Hogwarts another chance.
"They are very pretty can you imagine being close to a Veela."
"I doubt I would find them very impressive If I saw them all the time. I hate stuck up people."
"Oh that is just school hype we might not have a specific classification but that's because when Professor Dumbledore became headmaster he wanted to change the segregation in this school. I doubt he has made much progress. Everyone is so stubborn."
"Says the ginger."
"Hey I am not as bad as Ron." She exclaims.
"You're worse in the best ways." This causes Ginny to blush. She kisses Hermione softly for the compliment. This night they don't get to spend much time because they jump apart as another girl, a first year, came in she walks past them to another part of the dorm yet the nerves of getting caught is high and so they both brush off the urge to cuddle again that night. Saying goodnight Hermione closes her curtains where as she changes she places her time turner away. When she draws the curtain back a little she can see Ginny's red hair peeking from the bundle of blankets on her bed. Knowing she was in bed she laid down herself
The next morning was as much of a repeat as the first. A few different classes but then it was the weekend. Finishing her homework on Friday night she tried to not become over confident at how smooth the first few days had gone. Saturday the boys wanted to go by the lake so they went Scabbers in hand and Crookshanks following behind if only to get outside. Sunday they crammed homework.. well she went with them into the library but left with her own interest of books. Running into Ginny was a great way to spend the day so she tucked away her books and followed Ginny out to see the pixies and even played gobstones before supper.
The week that followed was very repetitive. She would spend the whole day to herself only occasionally having time to contribute a bit of dialogue to a conversation with the boys or Ginny. Her plan with the bathroom had only one flaw. She hasn't expected Ginny to come in. She was startled apparently have just seen her mere minutes ago.
"Well I came here before class because..I needed to practice a spell in private."
"Oh if you dont wanna say that's okay. I honestly was just coming to try getting some closure form last year."
"Oh Gin, are you okay?"
"Of course it's just I get some bad dreams I still get all caught up in being the one that did things for Tom Riddle."
"He made you I know a few pieces but if you need me to listen I'm here." She'd be late to Divination if she stayed but Ginny was worth it.
"Not today I can tell you have to go, you are very obvious."
"I'll work on that." Hermione says sweeping past her placing a kiss on her lips as she did. That night she made sure she held Ginny as she slept. Ginny shifted in her arms dragging her night gown up slightly. Thinking about her smooth legs against hers made channeling her emotions harder but Hermione closed her eyes trying not to think about either.
The next day was a week since Draco was injured. Who was released after lunch As such he was still soaking up attention. Complaining Madame Pomfrey didn't fix something which everyone knew was absurd. Luckily he wasn't around until after lunch and they had DADA. During this class the finally had a good teacher. Hermione was running late but was just in time to answer the first question. A big wardrobe rattled as a creature banged around inside trying to get out. Professor Lupin's was unnecessary but she was sure once she heard it that it was a bogart.
This lesson was about facing your worst fears and disabling the creature able to take the shape of that which you fear the most. Neville was marvelous at it with the perfect coaching Professor Lupin gave him. The were three steps think of your worst fear, think of something funny, and cast the spell. As she thought about what she feared she couldn't think of anything actually as bad as Ron's spider fear. When her turn came she for a moment lingered on a single thought and truly felt silly for being afraid of Professor McGonagall giving her and failing grade.
I was neither a good sign that she was brave enough to not have a fear nor was it bad enough to frighten anyone. When harry's turn had come no one knew what to think his biggest fear was. Wasn't his life that miserable he could be afraid of anything. In the last second Professor Lupin stood in front of him as if he knew what his fear was and might be afraid to see but his bogart turned into the least expected thing. A moon, specifically a full moon, and clouds. This quickly changed into deflating ballon.
As everyone laughed instantly forgetting the peculiar scene. Hermione however could not and although the obvious answer was there she decided to analyze. She'd read before starting school about all the blood purity levels, then the creatures of near human or human intelligence, but she also learned about the changed wizards or witches into vampires or werewolves.
Werewolves were not given the same rights as normal wizards. They didn't have jobs often so they worked odd jobs to get money. They were not allowed the same comforts so often it was likely that they lived in a pack an then biggest one she heard of was not a good guy from the sounds of it. Other signs were around the time of the full moon often looking sick many people who tried to hide their condition would get caught by simply taking off to many days near the full moon. Until the next full moon she would just suspect it but that was all. She respected the man way to much since his teachings were much better than those few they had before.
Despite this she had become so busy with her classes she forgot almost anything else. Even her birthday which was only a little over a week after that DADA class. She was trying to keep a head of her classes work load as much as possible and if her birthday hadn't been on a Sunday she would have missed it.
Needing to wake up early but also trying to keep the habit she was up well before everyone else. Including Ginny who was resting soundly in her arms. A small spell got her in her own bed and she headed to the showers. She needed to make it to Minerva's office before she left for breakfast for her weekly report of her time Turner usage.
Knocking on her door she didn't have to wait long as Minerva was expecting her. Hermione felt glad she could show she was capable of doing this. Minerva originally felt bad for piling her first hour with three classes but Hermione told her was alright. They talked about her decision to stay with the classes or not which of course she was stubborn wanting to keep trying. Even as she was going to leave she still had one thing on her mind.
"Minerva how come Professor Lupin stopped Harry from using the bogart."
"Well I cant say for sure his reasoning but if I had to guess it was on impulse that his fear might be similar to anyone that endured the last war. He-who-must-not-be-named was a fear for many people. Perhaps he suspected with his past he might animate a fear to take his image."
"Wow yes that's much more clear. I suppose exposing his own fear was worth it. Although I'd say his biggest fear at the moment are those Dementors. Which I suppose is fairly bad as well."
"Quite. Try not to put to much thought into it though if his problem persists I'll request Professor Lupin to teach him something to help. For now stay focused and I'll see you later or tomorrow." She had never been so firm about her leaving something alone. It made Hermione question all the more if they knew his secret. Was he safe to trust then? She wondered.
Thankfully her day was only going to headed in the right direction as she arrived for breakfast to find Ginny waiting with a cupcake. This one was different than any they were made before. But similar that she could tell she asked for this one specially for was a sweet thought. Ron and Harry sat beaming and wished her a great birthday as well.
"Thank you guys. Really its sweet."
"Are you two coming to tryouts today." Harry asks knowing Ginny liked quidditch even if Hermione didn't they were friends so she might go anyways. The two in question looked to each an barely having to speak to her to know that Ginny was thinking of going so Hermione agreed she'd like to go as well. Not even sure what happened the boys just accept that they are going.
Surprisingly Ginny had only minor distractions watching Harry. She actually seemed quite happy watching her brothers and everyone else tryout. As they finished she even looked a bit gloomy as if she wished it was her. As they walked back Ron and Harry talked excitedly while Ginny walked with Hermione explaining how she would have handled some of those trick shots or steals. On the way back Hermione saw from the corner of her eye Crookshanks heading away from the whomping willow.
It was actually strange knowing her cat was outside so far from the castle but he wouldn't have any problems making it back in at night to be there with her through the night. The only one nights he wandered was when she had Ginny to keep her company with a little making out and sleep. They hadn't dared to go much further as she was sure Ginny was still going to move back on to liking Harry. They had grown to second base. A little caressing under their gowns and almost more but they hadn't yet. As they headed in the boys were starving and ran off to the great hall for lunch Hermione and Ginny took their time almost not wanting the day to end so soon.
As night time drew closer though Ginny became distracted with her brothers antics and jokes while Hermione and the boys sat by the fire. She was not the only one to go to bed early on Sundays as everyone had early days on Monday. Due to everyone going to bed there was not sharing the bed that night which Hermione secretly thought would be a nice way to end her birthday.
Periodically Hermione would become so focused on classes she wasn't surprised when she felt the week flew by. Weeks though that was surprising she had done her paperwork and meeting but had she simple auto-piloted through weeks. She was oddly reminded of the day due to Lavender proclaiming Professor Trelawney gave her a true prediction.
Divination was not a false magic It simply had lot of fakers and Hermione was sure the Professor wasn't very in tune with her inner eye as much as she swore she was. This may have been the only reason Hermione left the class. She gave it up as an elective just the day before. Having seen enough but clearly as Lavender boasted she couldn't escape hearing about it. Hermione could take no more she walked over to as nicely as she could talk with Lavender.
"What happened you say she predicted something for you? "
"Remember in the first class she predicted a few things. I mean she did say someone wouldn't be with the class very long and you've left but she said what I dreaded the most would happen today. I've just got word my rabbit has died."
"Oh I'm sorry." Hermione says not really almost feeling bad for asking. "Was she sick?"
"Well no she was young but a fox got her. I've been dreading something would happen with me gone."
"I guess that's fair." Like a word vomit she couldn't stop herself from going just a bit more. "But then that couldn't have happened today could it. I mean you've only just received the news but it happened a few days ago right."
At this Lavender looked royally pissed she huffed and stormed off with two other girls. Ginny having overheard much like the rest of the common room came over to Hermione to take her mind off it. She obviously had been so busy with classes she'd forgotten the date was already the 16th of October and soon Halloween would be here. Hermione sat in a corner with the boys and Ginny. Ron never went anywhere without his rat anymore these days. He loved to blame Crookshanks for his rats traumatic behaviors.
"For the last time Ron Crookshanks would hurt a fly. They simply are species that tend to not get along." Ron huffed as he held Scabbers close to his chest. The rat looked like death but Hermione had only seen Crookshanks near him a few rare times. He had a whole castle to roam why would he stick to just one critter.
Of course the next thing she knew it was Halloween. First trips to Hogsmeade were here and the trip bounded to the courtyard where Mcgonagall was taking any an all left permission slips. The two waited as Harry tried to gain permission to go but as he was firmly denied she and Ron went without him. It was dreadful at first but as the day went on they spent the day enjoying the shops and having a some sweets. They were sure to bring something back for Harry but it was only to strange to not have him there. She supposed with the danger of a wanted man still at large that only needed him away from school was a fine reason to not want him to go.
As they returned Harry was glad to see them back and they had made it just in time for the feast. He tells them about his conversation with Professor Lupin an it was now clear why he seemed so familiar with Harry. He had known his parents, he had been one of his father's friends, and known Lily. He wasn't the first person to say he looked exactly like his father except from his eyes but he clearly was the first one Harry felt said it out of true affection for his parents and with a bit of grief.
After the feast they headed to the dorm to try lightening the mood with a game of chess but it was like there was a line to get in. Trying to joke that it might be Neville having forgotten the password again only for said boy to take a minor offense from just behind them. Curiously as Dumbledore came through they followed closely just to get a better look. The picture where the fat lady sat was shredded. There was not fat lady yet thankfully she was only in another picture. Once Dumbledore had found her thanks to some knight in a painting the headmaster asked her what happened.
"It was HIM Headmaster!" She exclaimed only just peeking from her hiding spot. Hermione didn't need to know more to know she meant Sirius Black. Neither did Dumbledore but he coaxed the answers out of her like why he attacked her. "I wouldn't let him enter. He was so mad. A MADMAN!" She wailed before disappearing again.
Brought to the great hall after being unable to console the fat lady the teachers were charged with guarding and preparing sleeping arrangements. Everyone receives a sleeping bag and are still separated from boys and girls. Hermione finds ginny who is as freak out by the whole thing as everyone else if not worse. Hermione spends half the night telling her everything was going to be okay. Minerva hadn't minded seeing her comfort Ginny in fact she probably expected her to need comfort in light of the previous year. She did however tell them to get to bed soon. Ginny wasn't expecting to be possessed or anything but the simple fact was she knew the experience she had was with same man that Sirius Black was devoted to.
Holding her crept in a lot of memories but Hermione pushed through to be there for her friend. Kissing her forehead she finally laid down with her. Everyone else though shaken up had gone to sleep long ago. She was sure harry would be up trying to hear if they had caught him or not but Ron she suspected he would be sound asleep. She wished she could help more than just hold and comfort Ginny but she knows there is nothing else to be done except let the teachers do what they can.
As Ginny falls asleep she cant help but focus her worry on what if Minerva crosses paths with that mad man. She barely gets any sleep thinking of this but as Minerva passes by to check the students she feels relief and quickly falls asleep. The next morning everyone is in uncomfortable pain due to sleeping not in a bed rather along the floor of the great hall. It is merely a simple task to clean up and get everyone to eat breakfast. As soon as they head up to the dorm expecting to find the fat lady the find another man the knight from the night before. He was very long winded and and made it difficult to get it just by give a password but it seemed to work for now.
As the week rolls on thing get back to normal quickly. One Thursday though they enter DADA thinking it would be just another day to find the room is set up much like the potions room. Dark and broody which fits as Professor Snape is actually substituting the class. Its durning this class that Hermione knows shes right an she now knows all the teachers are aware that Professor Lupin is in fact a werewolf. She does her homework assignment that Ron so stubbornly got detention for saying he couldn't give them homework. Truthfully Hermione was confident in not saying word about their teachers afflictions as she trusted the teachers and headmaster knew best.
It came as a no surprise she has finished the long assignment by the next day which is the first quidditch match of the year. It was suppose to be against the Slytherin but instead the news that they are facing Hufflepuff makes the team a bit nervous the weather is terrible and so rainy that Hermione helps harry spell his glasses and goggles. This is not as helpful against the Dementors that sweep in out of no where.
As many people the see it happen their os only one that acts quickly as Harry falls from the sky. His broom lost with a gust of wind Dumbledore saves him from a fall to his death. In the commotion its announced that Hufflepuffs seeker wins the game. Clearly seeing the situation though he tries to make the referee take it back have a redo but the rules stand and Harry who is out is rushed to the hospital wing. He is cared for immediately but he doesn't wake up right away.
He is expected to stay overnight and the entire team is told to leave before he wakes bit just as Hermione and Ron get told to go he wakes up. They have the unfortunate task of telling him the bad news that the whomping willow destroyed his broom. He was devastated naturally but there was nothing that could fix it. They know the only broom other than the nimbus is the Firebolt but he wouldn't be able to right away if at all.
Having Professor Lupin back to class that next morning seemed to cheer him up though. Him and everyone else. Professor Snape might make a good teacher but he seemed to take it to a gloomy level. Hermione was the only one broken up about the homework not being necessary.
"Professor if you would take my homework anyways I simply think it's a waste of parchment if no one else reads it and I'd personally like to know if it is accurate or not." As she left class Ron joked about her being a teachers pet. In truth she would only admit that in reference to Minerva as she was much like herself she felt she had so much to prove. When Professor Lupin got back to her he was adamant that he wanted it to count as extra credit and he gave the house points for her effort.
Over the next month her classes were only a little easier as she didn't have divination to take. There was also less homework an more studying for midterms. There was a winter Hogsmeade which Ron and Hermione promised to be back soon from. They wandered to the shrieking shack but only to cross paths with Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle. At which point she almost panicked that the shack was truly haunted but acting rationally she saw just a glimpse of Harry under his invisible cloak.
Ron's panic really sold it to the trio that was running off scared. Harry jokingly still under the cloak picked up her hair. She laughed at his antics and child like behavior. He reveals himself in a laughing fit. Happy to have scared the boys away. Acting tough Ron plays it off that he knew making both Harry and Hermione to laugh some more
After finding out the only way Harry was even there was because Fred and George gave him a map. A secret map Hermione was impossibly trying to say that he should turn it in as it might help find Sirius Black. Ron was upset his brothers hadn't give it to him. Neither one cared about the dangers or the benefits that she list off for handing out over to Mcgonagall. Ultimately she let it go.
Harry still had to hide under the cloak to see more of Hogsmeade. Only after being denied entrance to the Hogshead did they think heading back to the castle was in order. Walking away Hermione over heard so mention of Sirius. The minister, Minerva, and Hagrid all stood there talking with Rosemertta before the minister requested to go inside and talk more about it in case they were overheard. It might have been because Minerva saw Ron and herself close by that she whispers young ears were around and it should get back to Harry himself.
Neither Ron nor Hermione could catch Harry at the mention of this. He had dipped into the bar before they could catch him. Once again they were quickly turned out by the shrunken heads at the door. Sitting outside for almost half an hour the door to Hogshead flys open without a visible reason. A set of tracks stretch quickly across the snow. They follow causing a bit of commotion with carolers to far ahead of them.
Finding Harry by his tracks he sat on a bolder crying. Hermione carefully approaches him. Whispering his name to catch his attention to see if he minded her comfort he yelled his bubbling frustrations. Tears poured down but as he looked at her his eyes burned with anger. She hushed softly as she wrapped him in her arms. She could see the moment as he began explaining what he over heard.
"He was their friend. They trusted him and he betrayed them." In his anger Hermione was shocked by the truth revealed to her. Harry however wasn't done. "I hope he comes for me I hope he comes so I can kill him myself." She knows he could never but that let his vent her own tears welled up as hey sat there. Eventually they had to head back to school but so far each trip to Hogsmeade proved to bare I'll events after.
In there decision to stay over the break Hermione and Harry find the usually kids packing to leave the next morning. The common room was empty as they stayed up talking about the day. Ron was still not filled in fully so Harry told him everything trying not to loose his temper in the late hour. Of course they went to bed with heavy thoughts of the mad man but also a bit of hope the break would be great.
She knew her parents wouldn't mind her staying in school for the winter break to which Hagrid seemed glad that she, Harry, and Ron would be around as he needed helps their help with a good defense for Buckbeak. Hermione loves helping even if she is add to her already full table but as the second day of break closes she isn't as busy with her homework or studying.
The map stayed in Harry's hands to which both boys showed her gratitude. Christmas day how ever when Harry was gifted an anonymous Firebolt Hermione could sit back and watch as a hexed broom might be the end of her best friends. Who ever tried that broom first might be at risk especially if that broom was from Sirius Black.
Against her inner guilt she hurried to Minerva. She didn't know where she would be but she hoped her office was a good bet. The boys were getting changed and she couldn't waste a moment. Knocking on the door thankfully Minerva answered.
"Professor I hate to break a code between friends but I must. Harry he received the Firebolt I'm sure you noticed at breakfast."
"Certainly a wonderful replacement for his broken one."
"That's just it he doesn't even know who gave it to him. I fear the worst." She wrings her hands in anticipation.
"As you should be! Thank you for bringing this to my attention I'll confiscate it an run thorough tests. Where is he now?"
"He's going to try it out right now."
Both Minerva and herself quickly take to the main entrance. As they got to the floor it appeared to late but with cat like reflexes Minerva swept in front of the two boys who were beaming with excitement. The moment she walked away with the Firebolt in hand she felt the burning eyes of both her best friends. She was berated even by Harry and they left her there where she became to upset to hide her tears.
Against the wall with reddened cheeks is how Ginny found her. With a sweet smile and a kind touch she led her up to the dorms. Explaining that Ron was whining when he to made it to the common room an Ginny suspected it had been a bit painful so she went to find her. For that Hermione was grateful. She was sure she had drawn a bit attention to herself and was glad to be in her bed now.
For a few weeks all her time was spent in the library only on occasion was Ginny free to meet her. Other times she would spend time with Ginny doing something she wanted. She was her only friend at the moment so she was sure Ginny would be tired of her presence soon. Thankfully break ends and class are back in full swing. Hagrid isn't happy as he teaches because as he loves showing the creatures off he knows he has to do something easy not big an as not dangerous as possible. Salamanders seemed to be his only path.
Though she hadn't hears it straight from Harry or Ron she did overhear Professor Lupin was going to start teaching Harry something called a potronus charm. She quickly learned this was the same charm Professor Lupin used on the bus. It can take a corporal form but she did not notice what his was. She also found out it was suppose to be extremely difficult to learn at the their current age.
She tried a few times to cast the charm but when she couldn't make more than a small shimmering yet bright light escape her wand she figured there had to be a trick to casting the spell something that Professor Lupin was going to teach Harry and if she every got them to forgive her she would have to ask him what the trick was. She began to doubt this would ever happen though as one quidditch game passes making the next match extremely important to have his broom back.
When Harry finally gets his broom back it two days before the last game of the year giving him time to practice. Even after his talk that same day about the dementors kiss with Professor Lupin he seem comfortable with playing again as he was promised there would be no issues. Dumbledore having made a huge fuss over the ordeal. Bygones being bygones was not including Ron as he currently blamed her and her cat for the killing of Scabbers. Him having found blood on the sheets he was sure Crookshanks finally got him.
It's not long though that his temper is off Hermione and solely on Crookshanks whom even though she defends Harry must have Bridged the gap and told Ron they've spent enough time mad at her for only worrying about his safety. So at the match they sat together with their friends and housemates to cheer Harry on. Gryffindor won even with the attempt to sabotage him from Malfoy and his goons.
Celebrations went on most of the night yet still the night didn't finish with any cheer. The common room was filled with all the Gryffindor students as the teachers searched everywhere once again for Sirius Black. Harry was fine while Ron was shaking his courting having been slashed at mistaking him for Harrys bed. They had no idea how he made it in this time seeing as he would need a password. When questioned it was a shock to everyone that Neville as at fault.
He had left a list of passwords somewhere. Upon hearing that Sirius Black had a list of passwords through the replacement portrait of sir Cadogan she demanded to know who was foolish enough to do that. Neville was not punished with a quick detention or point deduction in fact the whole house was told to not tell Neville the password for any reason.
It was only with troll guards did that fat lady get rehung. She was repaired and though skittish she wasn't so impossible that she couldn't open the entrance to the common room. Neville however every night was sitting outside the tower waiting for some to let him in.
This punishment was not enough for his Gran who sent a howler with a few days. The echo of her aged voice full of anger filled the great hall where Neville was completely embarrassed by her tone and words that dug at his ineptitude or talent. Claiming he was nothing like his father was which no one could understand but him it seemed. Luna and Ginny were there for him they told him she was wrong he had plenty of time to grow still and be better. He would show her one day.
As the week dragged on it was clear it wasn't going to end with good new. Hagrid sent a letter tear drop soaked that Buckbeak was to be sentenced to be executed. Almost they could do was sit at his cabin and watch him sob and try comforting him. They had no official date yet so Hermione suggested a second appeal. They focused all there weekend free time that wasn't studying, Harry's charm practice, or the final quidditch game of the year. Hermione found it harder to keep up with the need to help Hagrid while still looping her days for classes but some how she managed. Ginny really only saw her at night. they were close like friends still but hadn't done much kissing or cuddling in weeks. She didn't blame her and the whole reason Ginny had looked to her in that way was because she was someone's focus. Maybe not all day long but she knew Hermione was going to be there at the end of the night. It seemed now she was ready to find a proper relationship maybe not this year as it was nearing its end soon but she wouldn't hold back from now on.
Weeks of still no signs of the wanted madman nor any signs Buckbeak would be free to go. Exams came and they finished without fault. Hermione having chosen to drop divination and eventually muggle studies only got ten O.W.L.S had she kept on through the last two months she might have passed the exam. The boys kept to the basics and passed all their classes. The day of the last exam they as a group decided to visit Hagrid before the execution.
Getting down there was going quickly as the time approached faster they stumbled a crossed Malfoy an his own duo he was going on about Hagrid and how Buckbeak was to die Hermione lost it. She charged him with her wand in hand. She had been so stress all year trying helping while he kept egging the issue on if he hadn't lied dramatically overreacted they wouldn't have had to work so hard.
With a little reminder from Harry and Ron he wasn't work the trouble she turned to leave him. His fowl tongue couldn't help but mock her which in return received a forceful punch in the face. His head clanged from her fist in to the stone behind him. He and his mates didn't hesitate to run off. It would be then that she was proven not one to be messed with again. Even Harry and Ron didn't ever want to cross her. The feeling of euphoria followed her until they reach Hagrid's hut. He fussed they they shouldn't have come but was happy to see the nonetheless.
"Oh and Ron I have something that I think belongs to you." He got up and grabbed from a container Scabbers. "Keep a better on your pets will ya."
"I suppose that means you owe someone an apology." Hermione stated.
"You're right. Next time is see Crookshanks I'll say sorry." Sarcastically having forgotten the fact her ignored her for it.
"not him I mean me you arse." She wanted him to respect her cat from now on but she deserved something too. He waved his hand up in surrender. Suddenly a vase of grain exploded then Harry got hit in the head causing him to look outside which led to seeing company about Buckbeak was on the way. They had to leave.
Out the back door like they had done in the passed this time however they sat behind the huge pumpkin patch that was still growing. Hearing a snap from behind them Hermione could have sworn she just saw herself in which case she knew they had to move. Harry lead the way to a hill where they waited and watched. The axe falls after forever and the echo makes Hermione turn into her friend for comfort. What comfort she did find vanishes after scabbers nips Rons finger.
He chases his loose rat, its as if he refuses to be Ron's pet with how often he runs. Down that same hill rests the whomping willow. Though its resting no one is fooled. Harry calls out to Ron to sure if he got closer would the tree spring to life. Harrys fear was not the same fear that flooded Ron's face as he pointed behind them. Spinning round to see a dog, a big black dog, freezing them in place. It jumps clear over them as Ron claims it's the Grimm Harry has been seeing all year. In fact its not aiming for him but Ron ripping int his leg and dragging him in the the base of the whomping willow. It was as if he knew it was there planned it but as screams escaped Harry and Hermione dodged the now restless tree branches.
It was with luck and determination to get in to save their friend did they tumble in. Silence greets them and Hermione wonders out loud where the tree leads too. Harry didn't know but he was thinking of the shrieking shack she saw this as she held on to him in the dark. Climbing from a floor door to find a set of stairs this was in fact the shrieking shack. Ron screened again making them hurry up the steps.
When they found him he told them it was a trap. The concern of where the dog was now became what was going to happen next. At least for Hermione and Ron. Harry seemed shaken but confident as he faced the infamous Sirius Black face to face. Shagged and wild was one way to describe him. Much like his dog form he was dirty and unkept. His gaze shifted between Harry an Ron and I who sat back more unsure of the situation than Harry.
The longest initial moment they saw him an fear froze her Hermione felt herself break free stepping in front of Harry and Ron. Her on voice echoing words that she merely thought in her head.
"If you want to kill him you're going to have to get through me." As she said this an she felt sad for her parents for not keeping her promise. Harry who wouldn't want that pushed past her with his wand drawn forcing Sirius who none back ready to kill him first not that he nor them really knew how. There were very strong spells they knew and Hermione had read the worst spell created book but nothing about how to do them. It was simply stupid bravery but for a moment he had the upper hand. Professor Lupin enters disarming Harry perhaps to save him for the dark deed. Sirius is now laying on the floor having been tossed back.
Happy to see the skilled teacher she pulls Harry closer leaving his wand for now. Professor Lupin would restrain him an Harry needed to not act with impulse. Towering over him Professor Lupin mentioned his mad appearance matching his madness inside. This came odd to her as Sirius retorted a comment about Lupin knowing what madness was. It was friendly much like how he was addressing Harry by name like they were old friends.
Staring in surprise the watch Lupin help him up. Hermione is furious she trusted him have such a risky life and having all his coworkers trust regardless.
"I trusted you!" She points her finger at him then shouting to Harry. "He's a werewolf he's been helping him all along."
A dark look presses on him as he asks her how long she's known. She says since the paper but shes suspected before that. He finds it impressive making her gut clench in guilt. As the teacher and madman begin bickering about what they are planning the trio sees Professor Snape revealed at the doorway clearly Harry had his cloak in his pocket. Trying to not mentally wonder why they had to hide but focus on the scene before her Hermione senses a story here between the three adults.
Professor Snape explains his seeing Lupin headed to the womping willow without taking his potion and was going to bring it but now its wasted on the ground due to his surprise entrance. He sneered as lupin chided ate him for being wrong as always about lupin helping his old friend.
Though Harry never trusted Professor Snape it was as much a surprise to her as it was to Lupin and Black that her now using Hermione's wand attacked the obvious Professor there to help them.
"Explain what you mean." At the chance Lupin tries to say that he thought until Harry said he saw it too, Peter Pettigrew, was dead and Sirius was guilty. Where now he in fact was sure that he was alive. The raggedy pair claimed he betrayed the Potters. "Show me."
Hermione watches as they force Scabbers from Ron they chance him with spells as her tried to escape but once struck he springs to a full sized man. Balding and disgusting with long brown nails. In her face true. She knew the term animagus but didn't think this was how she would truly learn what it meant. First with Sirius and not with this Peter Pettigrew guy.
After he tried to plead for his life to Harry he gets pulled back an cornered again Lupin only ties him up once Harry intervenes from them killing the man. I know it's not for any of them it's for himself. He wants to do the right thing. He wants to clear Sirius Blacks name so he can have someone else in his life. High Hope's of a new hope lingers in his mind as he and Hermione help Ron while they secure Peter. Then Sirius and Hermione trade places with levitating Professor Snape and helping Ron. He is now talking with Harry as the exit the tree.
Touching a knot in the trunk freezes the tree. Perplexed she asks how they knew that or how they managed it. Apparently even though they had Peter when they were younger Sirius had been using it all year with the help of Crookshanks who had sensed him right away. He trust Sirius so much he wanted to help with Scabbers as he already knew he was not just a rat as well. This was a surprise to Hermione that her cat had been going after Scabbers to protect them, her, or help Sirius. It seemed she too owed Ron an apology but she now cared more for her cat knowing it was helping.
She wondered if an animangus form would be achievable for her if she tried. Would she try before she finished her 7th year or would she take much longer to understand such an complicated spell. As the exit the tree and made their way to the school after a moments rest and letting Harry talk privately with Sirius for a moment. When they returned and everyone was ready to go again Hermione turned to resume levitating Professor Snape when she heard Ron's panicked voice call out. Everyone looked to find Professor Lupin stiff, growing clammy, and changing.
At first it was his eyes in the moonlight swept completely black. Sirius tried to talk to him her shoulders hunched forward and a loud cracking followed. Then it was his face and hands that changed more and more like a werewolf. As Sirius was focused on his friend Peter leapt for a chance at a wand but Harry stopped his retrieval of it only to see him shift once again into a rat an run away. Neither knew the spells to cast nor could they think clearly enough to stop him as they attention was torn to the man howling in pain at his transformation.
It was with the complete change that Sirius was knocked aside. This left Harry, Hermione, and Ron standing before the creature whom had no conscious humanity inside die to not having his potion. It wasn't that is was not terrifying but Hermione hoped that their Professor was still in there. She lightly stepped forward and gently called out to him.
A small whine later she though perhaps he was and as she tried to calmly talk another form jumped between them unaware of the obvious creature. Professor Snape, he looked as though he wanted to scold them but was promptly interrupted by a snarl behind him making him aware of the dangers. He protectively as odd as it was threw his hand out to hold his students back while he stood totally in front of the werewolf. A flash of his younger years strikes Hermione. A time where he was lead to find Remus by Sirius and almost died from fright as well as the real consequences of being near a werewolf. He was now the only one that offered him a chance to remain conscious due to his potion. Each of them shook in fear them suddenly the dog form of Sirius lunges at Professor Lupin.
They fight, roll, and move further away. not only does Professor Snape breath a sigh of relief at this but so does Ron. Neither Hermione especially Harry can believe the sight. As they get further away Harry chases after them. Hermione knows he has no idea how dangerous this is but right now no one can stop him. Professor Snape grumbles as faces Hermione and Ron.
"I know you want too want to run off but I refuse to be at fault for three children deaths. I'm taking you up to the castle you will go to the hospital wing and I will search for Harry and the criminal." They suspect as their is a howl in the distance of the forest that Professor Lupin has left the fight and entered the forest for the night. Hermione Hope's that with a little time Sirius can escape so they walk with Professor Snape up to the castle it's not hard to help Ron by herself and she watches her Professor leave. He had been thinking while they made their way up to the castle and though Hermione wanted to know more she saw only snips. What looked like a woman in his arms, him distraught at her lifeless body, and guilt as he faced the child. It was Harry as the child had his scar. She suspected he had cared for his mother an now wished to protect her son which after all these years of him being hard on him was hard to believe but now she did.
Seeking out Madame Pomfrey for Ron's leg was easy explaining the situation how ever was not. She hardly believed Sirius Black was innocent because Peter Pettigrew faked his death. Ron although rambled about his pet rat the wasn't a rat Hermione tried to explain and then once again when the headmaster came. None of them understood the facts just what they could see. Harry had been returned within an inch from his death due to Dementors Snape having brought both him and Sirius back to the castle exclaiming he didn't know how they were not already dead but that he found them at the lake on the brink of death.
Unfortunately once Professor Snape had returned he was going on an on about finding Sirius and knowing he personally was the reason any of them were alive. Nothing about Peter because he had be knocked out and nothing about Lupin as possibly he knew Dumbledore would not want that.
When he arrived he spoke to Dumbledore promptly a look in his eyes that said he believed himself wrong was visible but as they spoke Hermione watched him grow tall and more sure of himself. He was more pompous as the minister of magic arrived probably having been in the headmaster's office since the execution a few short hours ago. Now it was nearly midnight and as everyone left to take care of the situation Hermione and Harry tried one last time with Professor Dumbledore.
He was the last one to leave and only then did he reveal he believe them but unfortunately he was the only one that would be able to do so as they were merely children and there was not enough time to fix things. Perhaps it was the way he said this but Hermione felt something stir in her at the word time. She stopped her urge to retort and let Professor Dumbledore continue on. He spoke only to her as he riddled a solution only using her time Turner could offer. Three turns, three hours, and more than one life saved by the end of the night.
Harry looked as confused Ron but as Ron was in a bed bandaged up while she and Harry were not she had to leave him behind. What would merely be a second to home would be three hours for the pair. As she threw the chain around Harry too Ron asked what all Dumbledore meant. She momentarily explained he was hurt and could go before looking back at the time Turner. Smacking Harry curious hand away she turned back three hours. They appeared just behind themselves. They dived behind a Bush not far behind be enough to at least hear Everything. Any peaking was merely to relive the moment she punched Malfoy in the face. She whispered how good that felt.
It was then though that she had to explain what was going on to Harry. He was baffled and oblivious wanted to go tell himself what to do but she stopped him. Of course it was hard to understand the reason but only one he agreed he understood did they continue to head to Hagrid's. They used a different path than theirselves as well as a different way than the minster and Dumbledore would.
Saving Sirius was the obvious main goal but as they realized Buckbeak was the second life they need to time his escape perfectly. Harry was the only one of the two that could get his trust quickly enough. So as they waited behind the pumpkin patch for themselves to leave they talked about it. As the hour went by it was time to leave but they weren't yet. Hermione looked down to see a familiar stone. The same that broke the grain pot.
It was clear now that this was why she thought she had seen herself. Not only that but she had cast the stone to alert them to company coming. Tossing the first stone in fright of being seen she missed Harry. The second struck him causing both versions to say 'ow' the Harry beside her commented how that really hurt.
"Now we have to get out of here Hermione. Look." Sure enough there trio was headed to their current spot. Quickly they dash into the tree lining. Hermione having never been this close to herself Is curious and terrified. Causing a twig to snap catching her own attention.
When the trio leave up the path the hidden pair return to the same spot. Realizing everyone in the hut need to see Buckbeak they wait. As if already if this Dumbledore manages to make this happen. It's a small window but Harry gets to work bowing to get Buckbeaks trust again. He tries to not shake but Hermione doesn't blame him for being nervous she is to. The moment he is he leads him away from the hut only pausing to untie him. As he reached the forest where Hermione was they waited. No search came but they still tried not to let their guard down. Hermione wondered if she could reach Lupin make home drink his potion but there quickly was less an less time as they saw themselves get hauled into the trees trunk.
In no time Professor Lupin came easily followed by Professor Snape who tossed a rock at the knot to still the tree. When he entered they waited again this time the feeling of guilt set in them knowing the mess about to occur. Stay far enough away to not be seen including Buckbeak they hear Ron yell about the moon. Its only when they hear the commotion between Sirius an Lupin they try keep an out for the wolf they heard break them up. When nothing come Hermione places her hand around her lips an try howl only for Harry to stop her
"What are you doing."
"Saving us." She howls again
"Well now he's coming straight here.."
"Let's move." They try distracting Buckbeak far away with meat long enough for them to hide too near by as they get behind thick trees. They hear the werewolf smelling them out. They were mere breaths away from being caught when Buckbeak saved them by chasing Lupin away. It was greatly known that werewolf didn't need to kill nor really wan to attack anything but humans. This meant that they were free to wait until after everyone had returned to the castle to break Sirius free.
That was until she was chasing after Harry where they stopped at the lake no to far from where they were. Buckbeak nuzzles into Hermione who was paralyzed at the sight of her friend dying. How had they survived at all since they were alone. Harry was sure that his father as bizarre at it sounded was coming to save them. Hermione shook her head as tears escapes her watching Harry suffer.
Suddenly Harry jumps from their spot and cast a full patronus a stag. It's pushing and radiating a field of warmth and light. Obviously too bright to see them clearly but thankfully it saved both of them. Harry figured it out just in time that wasn't his father I was his exhausted mind saying that but it was really himself. This time it was a waiting game. Like before no matter how much they wanted to change things like Pettigrew getting away they knew they couldn't. Professor Snape came and instantly check on Harry. He bound Sirius and levitated both him and Harry.
"So now we wait for the right time everyone will be down talking with us so a quarter before midnight is our best chance." Hermione says beginning to take the lead. Harry flew them on Buckbeak when the time came. They burst open Sirius's tower windows and hurried away with him to a better place to see him off. Picking a spot as close as they could to the hospital wing they ran. Seeing Dumbledore as they entered whom played dumb when said they did it.
The door locked behind them proving they were there when officials came with questions. With a sigh of relief Hermione presses her hand over her time Turner. It will always be a wonder how they survived this night and as they told Ron the truth the begged for him to not say anything. He was speechless and although a bit upset that Hermione hadn't told them he understood now why this year had been so strange.
"It really wasn't that I didn't want to tell you but there are very serious punishments for not following the rules of time." She told the after they retold the events of the night.
"We know 'mione. We won't say a word to anybody just thank you for helping Sirius. He's my godfather and he didn't deserve to die."
"All right children. Time for rest. If you do you'll be free to go early morning." The trio said goodnight after this as Madame Pomfrey wouldn't have it any other next day was only a week before school ended but there was no more exam so they didn't want to miss a bit of it. When they woke the wounds on Ron were healed and Harry was replenished. Hermione had been kept to ensure she to at least got fully tested. Ginny was waiting at the door to the hospital wing when they left. She hugged Hermione and then both the boys glad to see they were all okay.
Hermione was glad to see that as promised there was nothing damaged with there friendship because she was to busy with classes, helping Hagrid, and stress about the boys safety to maintain a decent relationship with her. There was no longer a huge pull to be that close to each other but as friends often did they were still close. They looped arms when heading to the great hall for breakfast. Unlike when there really had been something between them neither worried what others might think.
The whole Gryffindor table wanted to know what happened but the truth was impossible to tell. They didn't say anything about Professor Lupin but Professor Snape did having felt the sting of not getting a merlin for his help to catching Sirius. That of which he tried to blame Harry but thanks to the Time Turner and Dumbledore promptly locking the door after seeing us there was no proof.
Naturally Hermione was riddled with worry as she had to hand in the Time Turner. She did ask for approval to have one throughout her schooling as she wanted to keep her education at top level but for now she would have to hand it in. No one was to know of her use of the Turner so no one could go with her. Imagining the Minerva was not aware of Dumbledore's decision she didn't mention it.
"Its alright dear no need to fret. Professor Dumbledore has told me what occurred last night. An though I don't approve of sending a child to do such dangerous things it seems he asked the right ones this time."
"If he hadn't mentioned it I probably would have thought of it but not done quite as much. Buckbeak and Sirius both deserve freedom." Hermione said trying to defend her own actions. She know she broke her promise to her parents and she knows the risk it took but as she was clear of the danger there was this hope that she wouldn't have to admit it just yet to her parents. "I know I choked at the finish line but I'm really hoping that I don't need to talk them it's not like I even came back hurt."
"I do believe that I will leave to you dear. I dont want to not see you next year that would be something we can agree on." Minerva sounded almost disheartened by the idea.
"Me too am going to apply to use a Time Turner again for education purposes of course but not exactly for just classes. I have so much I still need to learn. I feel school is not only going by so fast but that its distractions keep me from finding more to learn on my own time. I didn't know much about animagus but now I know more. Harry can perform a Patronus which I'm finding difficult. I wish I could study under you if I'm being honest but you I'm sure have so much to do everyday."
"I do but if you are approved or not I would love to further your knowledge we can begin with tea next term. I'll let you know when I know a good day. There is hopefully minimal distractions next year."
"You wont regret it if you give your time I'll give you my undivided attention." They share a grin and Hermione stands to give her last report to hand in. It mentions nothing of her trip to Hagrid's hut but that they where prevented from returning to the castle from getting a bit of fresh air and the events that occurred in the redo were as if they were the one an only way it went.
She was tired of using the time Turner all year but once a week for a few hours she could learn to like that. If she only used it for a short tutor session or an occasional extra trip to the library she was confident she would find plenty to do if approved. That however would not be until later in the summer or even later. When she left she found her friends in the still playing at the quidditch pitch. Ron, who she'd never seen play except whenever Harry has a new broom, was on Firebolt while Harry played on a older broom.
"You should get out there one day and play its obvious you like it." Hermione said to Ginny as she said down beside her. Ginny jumped but easily relaxed seeing it was her friend. Smiling she nods admitting she did love the sport. "Ginny I need to say how sorry I am this last few months I let school and helping Hagrid or the boys take me from spending time with you too. I truly wanted to just I couldn't and the more I did my thing you seemed to be fine with it."
"Its really ok 'mione I actually had a lot of funny this year but I eventually had to get back out there and make more friends. You did everything that helped me the most. We came together when we both need support but not to much and we seemed to go back to friend when we really needed it."
"So we're still friends?"
"Of course I'm not embarrassed I spent this year with you and I'm happy nothing has changed between us." A huge sigh of relief comes from Hermione.
"Me too it just happened needing each other and then not. You're my best friend you know like you I've struggled to make friends and as you saw your brother even Harry at times is never on my side. You have been on my side since I met you." They interlace fingers and with a soft gaze they drop it there with a deep warmth knowing that they have a strong connection. Once the plays before them cause for cheers they simply let go hold on one another with no need or urge to reclasp their hands again.
That night they hear Professor Lupin has returned. They race to his chambers to see what he has to say about the night. When they arrived they find him packing. It's almost saddening knowing a good teacher is leaving but Hermione understands the amount of back lash he or Dumbledore must be facing with the news out. Harry is intubated with the map he was given from the twins as it turned out the good friend of his father we're part makes of said map. Her concern over the map was put at easy now. Aside from Pettigrew there was no way the passages could be misused but he wouldn't return knowing they had the map.
Aside from losing a pet and all the stuff that occurred Ron was the only one not upset once again proving his emotional ineptitude. Harry wanted to know where his godfather was but expected him to be in hiding. Another person he found a connection to was leaving so Hermione tried to distract him from his loss the rest of the we taking the initiative to find something fun to do. Visiting Hagrid to explain the events in which Buckbeak escaped was as fun for Harry as it was for Hermione even Ron was happy to see he was happy.
Over the last days Harry received a letter from Sirius under the name Padfoot, his animagus alias. In this letter he expressed his joy in being free and thanked them for their help. Also he told Harry to keep the firebolt safe. All though she is proud of herself for being right she tries not to rub it in. This wasn't the time not as the final week school closed with a bit of joy finally. They planned a hopeful summer gathering or at least letters. Personally Hermione was glad to be heading home with no ill news. That next year looked relatively normal for now. It was only wishful thinking as she knew her boys were major attractors to danger.
However next year started or ended she was happy to know her best friend would still be there. Ginny wasn't at all strange with her as they climbed on the train together and shared a compartment until they arrived in London. They hugged and pecked each other's cheek in parting like best friends do. Harry deserved a long hug after all his up and downs this year. He grinned at his friends before hugging them goodbye as is family stood petrified behind him.
"Told them I know that Sirius Black is my godfather and that he is going to be checking in that im happy from now on. That he escaped jail to make sure." He says noting their curiosity. This causes a bit of chuckling between the trio as they part ways.
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Again hope you all enjoy this chapter despite how long it took to put up.
