The Guardians
Chapter Three
A/N: The third chapter! Finally! (Good thing you emailed me, Kelly, else I probably would never have posted this.) Well, in this chapter, Fire Life is going cuckoo, as you can see, and someone is added as a Champion! There's two mysterious figures... a little morning scene between Harry and Hermione...and you discover the playa side of Ron. Er, sort of, at least...oh yes, and there's a plant you learn about, called Hops.
Dearest Harry,
You still have not talked to me. You don't think I'm pretty enough? That crushes my fragile ego, you know. I always thought that I was fair. Harry, why are you ignoring me?
Fire-Life
You can't escape my love.
It was dinnertime, and the Great Hall was full of cheerful chatter and gossip. Ron, Harry, and Hermione were huddled together near the head of the Gryffindor table, whispering to each other about what would happen later.
Harry shook his head. 'We better be ready to hold Hagrid back when he first sees Sirius. He'll go bonkers at the sight of him!'
Hermione agreed. 'And we have to watch him and make sure he doesn't let anything slip about Sirius, or You-Know-Who!'
The trio exchanged dark looks. They knew Hagrid when he was drunk. He often let things slip, especially if there was some gruesome monster in the deal.
Suddenly the Great Hall quieted, and Hermione could see that Dumbledore had stood up.
'Good evening,' he smiled.
'I am glad to see that so many students have returned to Hogwart's welcoming bosom. Much more than I expected! Tonight I shall inform you on how things are to be.
'First of all, I have chosen three Guardians. It is their job to help protect the school, along with the staff and I. They are all students. Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, will you please come up?'
Harry, Ron, and Hermione all stood up and walked up to Dumbledore, who smiled warmly at them. Hermione could feel the entire school's eyes on them. She cleared her throat. 'Sonorus,' she muttered, pointing her wand at her throat. Her voice became magically magnified. 'We would like to say that we are honored to be chosen as the school's Guardians. We will certainly do our best, and if anyone might have a suggestion for either the faculty or us, feel free to talk to us about it. If you have any questions, you can also ask us. And now Headmaster Dumbledore will inform you about some new rules.'
Dumbledore's eyes were twinkling with amusement at Hermione's speech, and she blushed. 'First of all, you are all expected to behave as usual. All classes and tests are not only to continue, but they are intensified, as you may have surmised from looking at the textbook list.' Here a large groan filled the Hall. 'However, you can never go anywhere alone. You must always be accompanied by someone. I suggest making a buddy group. And if there are any instructions given, you are to comply immediately, no matter where you are or what you are in the process of doing. That is all, for now, there will be announcements such as this every week or so. You are dismissed.'
The students filed out of the Great Hall, much quieter then usual.
'By the way, there will be two balls this year. One will be on October 13th, to celebrate the Champions and all the students that have returned. The other will be sometime at the end of the year.'
Heads lifted, and faces cheered up, and once more, babble rose excitedly.
Draco frowned. So, now Potty, Weasel, and Grass had been chosen as Champions. How typical. Some people had all the luck and admirers, and of course Potty couldn't do anything without his precious sidekicks. What did he see in that broke, freckled Weasel or in Mudblooded Hermione? Admittedly, Hermione was awfully pretty...but no, the honorable Potter wouldn't take advantage of one of his best friends. Or would he? After all, he was 15 now, and hormones couldn't be avoided, and the wizarding world didn't have as many age restrictions as the Muggle world did.
Draco sighed.
Father,
You will not believe what has happened at this fool school. Dumbledore has decided to appoint Potter, Weasley, and that Mudblood Granger as Champions of Hogwarts. They are even having a ball in their honor. Supposedly, they are to 'assist' the staff in defending the school. Of course, they are all Gryffindors. I believe Dumbledore is rather particular to Gryffindors. I suggest you complain immediately to the Ministry, as Headmasters are not supposed to favor any student. I am having trouble getting any information as to what Dumbledore's plans of action are, since he despises Slytherins. Yes, I know you told me not to try, since Dumbledore reveals secrets as much as a clay sculpture would.
Your son,
Draco
Harry, Ron, and Hermione were sitting together in their cozy little room. Dumbledore had given them a secret room in the Gryffindor area, where they could sleep, study, and talk in private, so the other students wouldn't find out anything they weren't supposed to. It was also there as an extra safety measure, in case Voldemort or his followers dared enter Hogwarts.
Hermione yawned and stretched. 'Well, I'm finished. Let's see, I've finished all my homework, and that Arithmancy report, do you think a 10 scroll length is enough? The Professor only asked for 7 but I wanted to do well, and it was really very interesting to do, that's why I've finished today, even though it's not due till 4 days from now, but I like to stay on top of things...say, have you two anyone in mind to take to the ball?'
Ron was amused. 'Thinking about that already? I'm not sure yet of whom I might want to ask. But that transfer girl, Alayss, is awfully pretty. How about you?'
Hermione blushed. 'Oh, I don't know. I haven't really set my sights on anyone this year. But I wouldn't want to have to ask anyone, I'd much prefer the guy asking me.' She glanced at Harry quickly.
Ron made a face. 'Ya, we have to do all the hard work.'
'Ow!' exclaimed Harry.
Ron rolled his eyes. How could Harry be so stupid?
'Look, the jewel! It's glowing right through my robes! And it really does burn.'
Ron's eyes widened as his jewel proceeded to speak. It was Dumbledore's voice. 'Guardians, I have just invited Professor Sprout over. She is to meet Sirius. Go quickly to the Whomping Willow, and use Harry's invisibility cloak!'
'Right!' Harry quickly rifled through his trunk to withdraw the silvery material. He threw it over himself, Ron, and Hermione. 'Come one! Grab your wands...'
They sneaked out of the Gryffindor House and out to the grounds silently. Crossing the field, they finally ended up next to the Whomping Willow, a ferocious tree that had hurt many people...unless you knew how to calm it. Harry ducked under the flailing branches and pressed his hand to a knob on the trunk. The branches immediately stopped moving and a little hole appeared in the trunk. The hole led to a tunnel, which led to a deserted house known as the Shrieking Shack, located at the top of the hill at Hogsmeade. They smiled at a black dog, waiting for them. It's tail wagged. 'Hey, Sirius!' said Harry. 'It's good to see you again, you've been careful, haven't you?'
The dog's head nodded. 'Good,' said Harry, visibly relieved.
Just then, Professor Dumbledore appeared with a small witch, Professor Sprout.
'Hello, Guardians,' smiled Dumbledore. 'I trust you had a safe trip here?'
'Yes, no problem at all,' replied Hermione.
Professor Sprout looked about suspiciously. 'Well hello, Hermione, Harry, Ron. Why are you here? And who is this -achoo!- nice dog? Surely you three aren't the people I'm supposed -achoo!- to meet, I already know you. Albus, am I to meet this black -achoo!- dog here?' she squeaked. 'I'm allergic to dogs, you know.'
'My dear Sprout, do sit down.' said Dumbledore pleasantly. 'This is not a real dog. I am pleased to introduce Sirius Black!'
Professor Sprout screamed and toppled over. 'EEEEEEEEEE! SIRIUS BLACK! Oh, Albus, how'd you find him? Augh! Help! It's Sirius Black! Dear me, where is my wand?'
The black dog changed into a human with scraggly black hair. Sirius looked a lot better than the last time Ron had seen him. He wasn't as skinny.
'Professor Sprout, it's ok!' said Ron. 'Don't worry, he won't hurt you, he's on our side.'
'Yes,' agreed Harry. 'He's never killed anyone. That was Peter Pettigrew. Sirius is my godfather, did you know?'
Is it really that important that he's your godfather? thought Ron resentfully. Must you always be in the spotlight?
Professor Sprout looked ready to faint. 'He's-good? Oh, I'm feeling dizzy.'
Sirius bowed low. 'Professor Sprout, I guarantee you that I am one hundred percent true to Dumbledore.'
'Now, Sprout, do listen,' said Dumbledore sternly. 'If we are to oppose Lord Voldemort, we must all be united. Black is, indeed, on our side, and I trust him. Really now, he's been helping me for months. Forget all those silly stories about Sirius murdering 12 people, because he did not. Why don't you allow the Guardians explain?'
And so the three Guardians-Ron, Hermione, and Harry- proceeded to explain what had happened in their third year, when Harry and Hermione had rescued Sirius, what the real story was, how even Snape had put aside his dislike to unite.
By the end, the Guardians were exhausted. Sirius looked anxious. 'Professor Dumbledore, I think they have explained quite enough. They should be going to bed now, they need their rest-'
'Quite right,' agreed Dumbledore amiably. 'That will be enough, you three should go and get some rest now. Sleep well, and be careful going back. Good night. I will take care of the rest.'
'Good night, Sirius,' said Harry.
Sirius gave him a hug. 'Watch out now,' he warned Harry. 'You too, Ron, Hermione.'
Harry, Ron, and Hermione slipped on the invisibility cloak and snuck back across the grounds to their new room.
Once they checked that the door was sound proofed and locked, Ron shook his head. 'It just seems so hard to accept, that You-Know-Who is back...after all these years...tonight made it more real, more believable, and yet-yet-I still can't...oh, I don't know!'
Hermione nodded. 'I know exactly what you mean, Ron. It's there, you believe it, but you still feel untouched. Despite all that happens every year at Hogwarts, because even then, Voldemort wasn't really back, he still wasn't so powerful.'
Ron winced. 'Please, Hermione, do you have to say his name?'
Harry broke in. 'Look, Ron, I know it's hard for you to say it, but you've got to. You need to say his name-calling him You-Know-Who doesn't do anything to help you face him. Dumbledore said so himself, to me. Anyway, when we meet up with him, you can't call him You-Know-Who! I mean, 'Hey, You-Know-Who, yeah you, I'm talking to you! In the black robes! You're going down, there's no denying it, come back here! Chicken, You-Know-Who?'''
They laughed at the image, Ron a bit resentfully.
'You're right,' admitted Ron. 'I'll try to say his real name now. VOLDEMORT.'
Hermione smiled encouragingly. 'There, you've got it. Well, we should sleep now, after all, you want to stay up in classes, otherwise you won't learn anything.'
Harry and Ron groaned, then laughed. 'Right, g' night, Hermione, good night, Harry.' said Ron.
'Good night,' they echoed.
The Guardians each went to their separate beds.
The hooded figure watched them in his Witessen. 'Sleep well, my children,' he hissed. 'Your time is coming...'
She walked through the mists, head held high. No, not walked-drifted. Floated. Harry couldn't find the word to describe it. Her soft strawberry hair, in curls around her milky white face, gleamed in the faint, rosy dawn light. Her brown eyes looked soft and open, yet there was a mystical quality behind them, a concealed secret. She had pouty, full lips-not to mention a full figure-and she wore simple robes of sea-green and white. Harry drank in every feature of her with veneration. He started towards her. 'Miss-do you need some help? What's your name?' he asked timidly.
The girl turned towards him, and reached out. 'Oh, Harry, do look out. There's evil in the air-pain-suffering-oh, I can taste it, feel it, coming closer and closer-' the girl sighed. 'The times are not good, Harry, but I trust you to fulfill your prophecy. Make your parents proud of you, make all your ancestors proud, make me proud-' and she vanished into the mists, with Harry still tingling where her hand had touched his face so tenderly. A small, delicate hand-but he had felt the pulsing strength-flowing into him-feeding him courage-and her words- fulfill your prophecy, make your parents proud of you-
Harry drifted off into darkness, slumbering peacefully once again, dreamless. A figure watched him from afar.
'Oh, Harry,' she said, sadly. 'Oh, Harry.'
Harry woke up the next day, feeling disturbed. What was that dream last night? A beautiful woman...telling him something...did she mention danger? He searched his memory.
'Morning,' mumbled Ron sleepily. ' 'S time to get up already?'
'Yea,' said Harry. 'Where's Puriadne?'
Ron frowned. 'Who the hell is Puriadne?'
Harry flushed. 'Oh,' he said. 'Hermione. I don't know why I said Puriadne, it just popped out.'
Hermione came out of their private bathroom, a fluffy green towel wrapped around her slim figure. Her eyes widened. 'You're up already?'
Harry looked away. 'Yea, we just woke up.'
Ron stared openly, and then blushed. 'Er, are you done with the bathroom?' he asked, looking furiously at the floor.
Hermione nodded, then remembered that they weren't looking at her, so they couldn't see. She cleared her throat. "Yes, go ahead."
Ron went in, sneaking a sideways glance at Hermione as he passed her.
'Er,' said Harry awkwardly. 'Did you just take a shower?'
Of course she just did, thought Harry. Why else would she be wrapped in a towel, smelling like fresh flowers?
Hermione was very aware of the tension in the room. She smiled seductively, enjoying Harry's embarrassment. 'Yes, I wanted to make myself...fresh.' She said throatily. She sashayed across the room, hips swaying. She sat down in Harry's lap, crossing one leg over the other. She put one arm around his shoulder, and stroked his face with her other hand. She tilted her head forward so that her hair created a curtain on one side. She leaned forward, Harry closed his eyes, and-
She laughed and slapped him gently. 'Eager little puppy, aren't we?' she cooed.
Harry grinned. 'Hey, can't blame me. I just woke up.'
She gave him a knowing look.
Harry slipped into his robes as Ron came out of the bathroom. Ron was still blushing, and Harry slipped in to brush his teeth.
Breakfast was not quite up to its usual standards. Harry couldn't help but feel slightly disappointed. Hermione finished early and excused herself to go to the library.
Ron nudged him. 'Wow, Hermione looked awfully sexy this morning, didn't she?'
Harry agreed. 'Yea, I almost couldn't believe my eyes. There she was, standing in nothing but a towel...'
Ron smirked. 'I'll be waking up earlier every day from now on!'
Harry told Ron what Hermione had done to him.
They laughed, then Harry grew serious.
'Last night I had a dream. I was going to tell you and Hermione at breakfast, but since she dashed off already, I'll tell you first. Well, there first was this girl...she was even prettier than Herm...' and Harry proceeded to tell Ron the rest. 'So, what do you make of it?'
Ron was pale. 'Aw, it was probably just a dream, and dreams aren't real, right? I mean, your scar didn't hurt, so it wasn't You- and sign of Voldemort or anything.'
Harry sighed. 'I guess we should go tell Sirius today. He'll have something to say.'
'Yea,' Ron agreed. 'He always does.'
Gin, want to come to the ball with me?
I'll have to think about it. Mind waiting a week?
Do you have anyone else in mind?
No. I just want to think.
Come on. I don't bite. I'm even writing really neat for you.
I'm flattered, but don't sound too eager.
Ginny looked appraisingly at Paul, across the Hall. They had been writing quick messages in the air. He was a Ravenclaw 5th year, and was awfully sweet. They had talked a couple of times in the hallway. He wasn't exactly handsome, but was nice looking. His warm brown eyes always locked onto Ginny's whenever they talked, and he had a smooth complexion along with soft hands. He was taller, of course, but not so much that her neck hurt, like it did whenever she talked to her brother Bill.
I'd love to.
Yea! Love ya; I knew you'd come around!
Look out, Paul; she's a knockout in her dress robes.
Ginny looked across the table, where Hermione was smiling mischievously. 'That was private business, Hermione!' Ginny scolded.
Hermione snorted. 'Yes, but half the hall saw!'
It was true. The people that had heard were all 'awwwwwwwwww'ing and applauding.
Ginny blushed furiously, but grinned with all the attention.
From the Ravenclaw table, Paul smiled at her, a secret, just-between-the-two-of-us smile that warmed her insides, made her feel as if she hade just sunk into a warm, bubbly bath with a soft, cushiony bottom. Her stomach turned. I guess I did like him more than a friend, after all.
A few seats away, Harry was not smiling.
Dumbledore sighed wearily. Lucius was really such a pain. Always insisting the Malfoy honor being upheld-poor Draco. Dumbledore had no doubt in his mind that Lucius was serving under Voldemort again. And the demand of Draco being made a Champion? It was preposterous. Unthinkable. But maybe...he sat up straighter.
What if he could turn Draco to his side? A spy, just like Snape was? Of course, it was extremely dangerous, and he was just a boy, but Dumbledore only wanted some low-level spying. Nothing as tricky and detailed as Snape had done, just an idea of what the Dark side was planning. And all that was needed was-yes, that would be enough-
Ron awoke to a burning feeling at his shoulder. It took him a moment to realize that it was the emblem on his shoulder. He sighed. The demands of a Guardian were really very harsh. What with these super early morning calls-hey, a guy needed energy to be a good Guardian! All those girls in the halls that admired him and attacked him whenever he appeared, and living in the same luxurious room with a very sexy girl (at least, when she had only a towel wrapped around her) and a depressed, rejected guy as roommates.
'Hey, Harry, Hermione,' he said loudly, wrinkling his nose at all the 'H's in the sentence.
He heard a groan. 'Ugh, what?' said Harry, sounding very disgruntled.
'Dumbledore's signaling us.'
'This early?'
'Yea. Get up, get up, we need to get dressed. It's cold in the halls.'
Hermione said sensibly, 'Why don't we just talk into the emblems?'
Ron felt stupid. 'Oh, yea, I guess we could do that.'
Harry sat up, his hair sticking out on one side and flat on the other. Ron stifled a laugh-Harry looked completely ridiculous. 'And hooooooooow do we do that, anyway? he drooled.
Suddenly, Dumbledore's voice filled the room, startling them all. 'Just press the center jewel and then speak in that general direction, if you want to talk. When you're done, just press it again. I can hear everything between the times that you press it.'
Hermione looked cross. 'Well, mine's on my stomach, and that's pretty annoying. Ron, you do it.'
'Why not Harry?' he complained.
'Because he can't talk without drooling. Makes me wonder what he was dreaming about.'
Ron awkwardly lifted his arm slightly, pressed the center, then spoke to his arm, feeling extremely foolish. 'Er, can you hear me?'
'Yes.'
Harry laughed crazily. 'You look like you're sniffing your armpit!'
Hermione abruptly fell off her bed. 'Ouch.' she said, very seriously. 'I'm fine, don't mind me, keep sniffing-aah-talking, I mean.'
Ron was beet red, but he asked Dumbledore, 'What's wrong?'
'It's Lucius Malfoy. Apparently, Draco owled him about the fact that you three were selected as Guardians. Now, Lucius wants me to appoint Draco as one, too, accusing me of House bias. He also blithered on a bit about the Malfoy family honor. He tried to bribe me, saying that if I made Draco a Guardian, he would direct a little scare towards Fudge to convince him that Voldemort is really back. Therefore giving us a little nudge-supposedly. I'm not buying any of it, however, I've decided to appoint Draco as a Guardian alongside you.'
Harry spluttered madly. 'What? Malfoy? A Guardian? That's not even funny, he's nothing but a whining little ninny who's nothing without his hulking sidekicks Crabbe and Goyle at his side. And he's a Slytherin, and he's the son of a devoted Death Eater! Lucius, by god! He's right up there with Voldy, and I've no doubt that Malfoy has always been bred to grow up as the next Dark Lord. You can't make him a Guardian, that's just plain crazy!'
Ron and Hermione stared at him, openmouthed. 'You noodle-tongued git,' Hermione hissed. 'May I remind you that that's Dumbledore you're talking to?'
Dumbledore said on the other side, 'I can still hear everything. Let me remind you, Harry, that you were almost a Slytherin yourself. I don't think you're the one to go around insulting Slytherins. It's common prejudice, and I have high-all right, not high-some hopes for Draco. He could be very valuable. He just needs a push in the right direction, and think about it, he could become a spy for us. Very low-level, of course, I wouldn't want to risk his life that much, he's just a teenager, but even some spying is very useful.'
Ron had not said anything all this time, but his face was admirably red, and he looks even madder than Harry. Ron was boiling inside. Malfoy? A Guardian alongside him? The two families had been sworn enemies for generations.
Dumbledore said very firmly, 'That is all. My mind is made up. I bid you a good rest after this.'
Hermione looked at him sympathetically. 'I'm sure we can work this out. After all, you don't want Voldemort to win, do you?'
The next day, every time Hermione passed Draco in the hallway, she could see a triumphant smirk on his pale face. Dumbledore was going to announce to the school the new addition at dinner. How was she supposed to put up with Draco? Not to mention Draco, Harry, and Ron all in the same room. She sighed. Dumbledore had decided that all Champions should room together, for maximum safety and contact. He had put them in a new secret room, somewhere between the two houses, for Draco had absolutely put his foot down at the idea of spending his nights in the Gryffindor House area.
She walked into Herbology and squeezed through the crowd of adoring girls to sit next to Harry and Ron. The girl that was sitting in her seat was now in Ron's lap. He grinned at her and she rolled her eyes.
'Enjoying yourself?' she said dryly.
'Hermione, you're living with such sweethearts.' cooed the girl sitting in Ron's lap. 'Especially Ron here.'
Ron's ears grew pink with pleasure, as Harry usually got the attention. However, not many girls were around Harry, since his eyes looked so sad and angry.
'Is it true?' asked another girl, whom Hermione recognized as Laurel. 'I heard that Draco Malfoy is now a Guardian, and he's moving in with you guys!'
Now all the Ravenclaws and Gryffindors around the room were listening.
'Yes,' sighed Hermione. 'It's true. I couldn't believe it at first, either.'
Everyone looked pityingly at Hermione, especially the people who had witnessed some of Draco, Harry, and Ron's fights.
'That must suck,' said a guy across the room.
'Not too much,' giggled Lavender. 'Draco is pretty handsome. And come on, Hermione, you and three guys in a secluded room?'
Hermione gave Lavender a withering look. 'I'm not like that.'
Harry smiled slyly. 'How about that time you came out in a towel and sat down and seduced me?'
There were exclamations of delight all over the room, and collectively, they all leaned in.
Hermione rolled her eyes. 'You know I was just baiting you, Harry. And you jumped to it, you should have seen yourself, lips puckered and eyes closed. I could even feel...oh, never mind that detail.'
'What!' exclaimed Harry.
Everyone laughed.
Professor Sprout, looking just as entertained as everyone else, cleared her throat. 'Time for class. Lulu, get off Ron's lap, please.
'Today we are learning about Hops, a very interesting plant. Inside the seed lives a woodland creature. For the boys, you get a nymph, and for the girls, you get a satyr. It's opposite sex because the nymphs and satyrs serve only the opposite sex. They help you think clearly and remember things, and in addition they enhance your magical powers-that is, if you can get them to like you. Of course, oftentimes this means some-' she cleared her throat in discomfort '-slight seduction involved. But it's how much you pay attention to them that really matters.'
'Sure it is,' muttered Ron to Hermione and Harry.
'The plant itself is also quite helpful. It is a vine, from 15-30 feet long. The vine is very strong, and the more your little immortal creature likes you, the longer and stronger the vine is. Same goes with the leaves-the more the immortal likes you, the stronger the scent is. The scent befuddles your enemies slightly. Nothing that great, it just causes their reflexes to slow down a little, and causes their mind to become slightly muddled and confused.'
'Awesome!' said Neville excitedly.
Everyone agreed. 'Sounds pretty cool,' said Seamus.
The girls nudged each other, and the guys giggled.
Hermione frowned. Wasn't this a little backwards?
'Well, what are we waiting for?' asked Mike. Hermione noticed he was sitting next to Paul, Ginny's dance date. She immediately mouthed to him, work with you!
He looked surprised, but nodded.
Sprout smiled. 'Not so fast. There's a little complication.'
The class groaned.
'Now start taking notes. First of all, remember how I told you that the immortals started out in the seed, right? The problem is, they're dormant. That means they're sleeping. In order for the plant to grow properly, and the immortal as well, you must wake it up. Are you all taking notes? Record these steps: First, you and you partner will drop 5 seeds into a container of water. Some of the seeds will sink. The ones that float are the ones you want. If you have extras, hand them to me. Let's see-the satyr seeds are brown, and the nymph seeds are green. Take you and your partner's seeds, skim them off, and put them in another container filled with water. Not too cold or hot, mind you-they should be 27°c, give or take a little. You better be taking notes, this is important. You must soak the seeds for 24-40 hours. We will be soaking them for 32 hours. After you have sufficiently soaked the seeds, mix them with damp peat/dragon dung moss. There they will finally grow. Be sure to talk to it for at least 4 hours a day, feeding them much promises of the world out there. Water them every three days, thoroughly. Oh, yes, and whenever you want to call on your immortal's powers, say humulus lupulus. Bring them to class the day after tomorrow.
'Now, pick out your partners and start soaking.'
Hermione walked over to Paul. 'Hi, I'm Hermione.'
He smiled. 'I know.'
Wow, he's got gorgeous eyes. Ginny was right.
'I'm very serious about school,' she warned him.
He laughed. 'Yea, Ginny told me.'
'She's very excited about the dance. Actually, that's mainly why I wanted to be your partner. You know, making sure you're not a total creep.'
He raised his left eyebrow. 'So, am I?'
She raised her own left eyebrow. 'You're all right. Do something to convince me of what a man you are.' She added suggestively.
He stared.
She laughed. 'There, now I know you're not a total creep. You passed the test.'
'Why, cause I didn't make a move on you?'
'Yup. Come on, let's go get the seeds.'
Thanks goes to: Pottermouth (have you read any of the people on my fav authors list? They're my idols, and are mature, too ;) ), Czarina of the pink squirrels (thanks, deah), Lady Elanor, AJaKe (you'll see! Sometimes in chapter.....7? I dunno yet), and DreamStella. Thanks for reading!
Chapter Three
A/N: The third chapter! Finally! (Good thing you emailed me, Kelly, else I probably would never have posted this.) Well, in this chapter, Fire Life is going cuckoo, as you can see, and someone is added as a Champion! There's two mysterious figures... a little morning scene between Harry and Hermione...and you discover the playa side of Ron. Er, sort of, at least...oh yes, and there's a plant you learn about, called Hops.
Dearest Harry,
You still have not talked to me. You don't think I'm pretty enough? That crushes my fragile ego, you know. I always thought that I was fair. Harry, why are you ignoring me?
Fire-Life
You can't escape my love.
It was dinnertime, and the Great Hall was full of cheerful chatter and gossip. Ron, Harry, and Hermione were huddled together near the head of the Gryffindor table, whispering to each other about what would happen later.
Harry shook his head. 'We better be ready to hold Hagrid back when he first sees Sirius. He'll go bonkers at the sight of him!'
Hermione agreed. 'And we have to watch him and make sure he doesn't let anything slip about Sirius, or You-Know-Who!'
The trio exchanged dark looks. They knew Hagrid when he was drunk. He often let things slip, especially if there was some gruesome monster in the deal.
Suddenly the Great Hall quieted, and Hermione could see that Dumbledore had stood up.
'Good evening,' he smiled.
'I am glad to see that so many students have returned to Hogwart's welcoming bosom. Much more than I expected! Tonight I shall inform you on how things are to be.
'First of all, I have chosen three Guardians. It is their job to help protect the school, along with the staff and I. They are all students. Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley, will you please come up?'
Harry, Ron, and Hermione all stood up and walked up to Dumbledore, who smiled warmly at them. Hermione could feel the entire school's eyes on them. She cleared her throat. 'Sonorus,' she muttered, pointing her wand at her throat. Her voice became magically magnified. 'We would like to say that we are honored to be chosen as the school's Guardians. We will certainly do our best, and if anyone might have a suggestion for either the faculty or us, feel free to talk to us about it. If you have any questions, you can also ask us. And now Headmaster Dumbledore will inform you about some new rules.'
Dumbledore's eyes were twinkling with amusement at Hermione's speech, and she blushed. 'First of all, you are all expected to behave as usual. All classes and tests are not only to continue, but they are intensified, as you may have surmised from looking at the textbook list.' Here a large groan filled the Hall. 'However, you can never go anywhere alone. You must always be accompanied by someone. I suggest making a buddy group. And if there are any instructions given, you are to comply immediately, no matter where you are or what you are in the process of doing. That is all, for now, there will be announcements such as this every week or so. You are dismissed.'
The students filed out of the Great Hall, much quieter then usual.
'By the way, there will be two balls this year. One will be on October 13th, to celebrate the Champions and all the students that have returned. The other will be sometime at the end of the year.'
Heads lifted, and faces cheered up, and once more, babble rose excitedly.
Draco frowned. So, now Potty, Weasel, and Grass had been chosen as Champions. How typical. Some people had all the luck and admirers, and of course Potty couldn't do anything without his precious sidekicks. What did he see in that broke, freckled Weasel or in Mudblooded Hermione? Admittedly, Hermione was awfully pretty...but no, the honorable Potter wouldn't take advantage of one of his best friends. Or would he? After all, he was 15 now, and hormones couldn't be avoided, and the wizarding world didn't have as many age restrictions as the Muggle world did.
Draco sighed.
Father,
You will not believe what has happened at this fool school. Dumbledore has decided to appoint Potter, Weasley, and that Mudblood Granger as Champions of Hogwarts. They are even having a ball in their honor. Supposedly, they are to 'assist' the staff in defending the school. Of course, they are all Gryffindors. I believe Dumbledore is rather particular to Gryffindors. I suggest you complain immediately to the Ministry, as Headmasters are not supposed to favor any student. I am having trouble getting any information as to what Dumbledore's plans of action are, since he despises Slytherins. Yes, I know you told me not to try, since Dumbledore reveals secrets as much as a clay sculpture would.
Your son,
Draco
Harry, Ron, and Hermione were sitting together in their cozy little room. Dumbledore had given them a secret room in the Gryffindor area, where they could sleep, study, and talk in private, so the other students wouldn't find out anything they weren't supposed to. It was also there as an extra safety measure, in case Voldemort or his followers dared enter Hogwarts.
Hermione yawned and stretched. 'Well, I'm finished. Let's see, I've finished all my homework, and that Arithmancy report, do you think a 10 scroll length is enough? The Professor only asked for 7 but I wanted to do well, and it was really very interesting to do, that's why I've finished today, even though it's not due till 4 days from now, but I like to stay on top of things...say, have you two anyone in mind to take to the ball?'
Ron was amused. 'Thinking about that already? I'm not sure yet of whom I might want to ask. But that transfer girl, Alayss, is awfully pretty. How about you?'
Hermione blushed. 'Oh, I don't know. I haven't really set my sights on anyone this year. But I wouldn't want to have to ask anyone, I'd much prefer the guy asking me.' She glanced at Harry quickly.
Ron made a face. 'Ya, we have to do all the hard work.'
'Ow!' exclaimed Harry.
Ron rolled his eyes. How could Harry be so stupid?
'Look, the jewel! It's glowing right through my robes! And it really does burn.'
Ron's eyes widened as his jewel proceeded to speak. It was Dumbledore's voice. 'Guardians, I have just invited Professor Sprout over. She is to meet Sirius. Go quickly to the Whomping Willow, and use Harry's invisibility cloak!'
'Right!' Harry quickly rifled through his trunk to withdraw the silvery material. He threw it over himself, Ron, and Hermione. 'Come one! Grab your wands...'
They sneaked out of the Gryffindor House and out to the grounds silently. Crossing the field, they finally ended up next to the Whomping Willow, a ferocious tree that had hurt many people...unless you knew how to calm it. Harry ducked under the flailing branches and pressed his hand to a knob on the trunk. The branches immediately stopped moving and a little hole appeared in the trunk. The hole led to a tunnel, which led to a deserted house known as the Shrieking Shack, located at the top of the hill at Hogsmeade. They smiled at a black dog, waiting for them. It's tail wagged. 'Hey, Sirius!' said Harry. 'It's good to see you again, you've been careful, haven't you?'
The dog's head nodded. 'Good,' said Harry, visibly relieved.
Just then, Professor Dumbledore appeared with a small witch, Professor Sprout.
'Hello, Guardians,' smiled Dumbledore. 'I trust you had a safe trip here?'
'Yes, no problem at all,' replied Hermione.
Professor Sprout looked about suspiciously. 'Well hello, Hermione, Harry, Ron. Why are you here? And who is this -achoo!- nice dog? Surely you three aren't the people I'm supposed -achoo!- to meet, I already know you. Albus, am I to meet this black -achoo!- dog here?' she squeaked. 'I'm allergic to dogs, you know.'
'My dear Sprout, do sit down.' said Dumbledore pleasantly. 'This is not a real dog. I am pleased to introduce Sirius Black!'
Professor Sprout screamed and toppled over. 'EEEEEEEEEE! SIRIUS BLACK! Oh, Albus, how'd you find him? Augh! Help! It's Sirius Black! Dear me, where is my wand?'
The black dog changed into a human with scraggly black hair. Sirius looked a lot better than the last time Ron had seen him. He wasn't as skinny.
'Professor Sprout, it's ok!' said Ron. 'Don't worry, he won't hurt you, he's on our side.'
'Yes,' agreed Harry. 'He's never killed anyone. That was Peter Pettigrew. Sirius is my godfather, did you know?'
Is it really that important that he's your godfather? thought Ron resentfully. Must you always be in the spotlight?
Professor Sprout looked ready to faint. 'He's-good? Oh, I'm feeling dizzy.'
Sirius bowed low. 'Professor Sprout, I guarantee you that I am one hundred percent true to Dumbledore.'
'Now, Sprout, do listen,' said Dumbledore sternly. 'If we are to oppose Lord Voldemort, we must all be united. Black is, indeed, on our side, and I trust him. Really now, he's been helping me for months. Forget all those silly stories about Sirius murdering 12 people, because he did not. Why don't you allow the Guardians explain?'
And so the three Guardians-Ron, Hermione, and Harry- proceeded to explain what had happened in their third year, when Harry and Hermione had rescued Sirius, what the real story was, how even Snape had put aside his dislike to unite.
By the end, the Guardians were exhausted. Sirius looked anxious. 'Professor Dumbledore, I think they have explained quite enough. They should be going to bed now, they need their rest-'
'Quite right,' agreed Dumbledore amiably. 'That will be enough, you three should go and get some rest now. Sleep well, and be careful going back. Good night. I will take care of the rest.'
'Good night, Sirius,' said Harry.
Sirius gave him a hug. 'Watch out now,' he warned Harry. 'You too, Ron, Hermione.'
Harry, Ron, and Hermione slipped on the invisibility cloak and snuck back across the grounds to their new room.
Once they checked that the door was sound proofed and locked, Ron shook his head. 'It just seems so hard to accept, that You-Know-Who is back...after all these years...tonight made it more real, more believable, and yet-yet-I still can't...oh, I don't know!'
Hermione nodded. 'I know exactly what you mean, Ron. It's there, you believe it, but you still feel untouched. Despite all that happens every year at Hogwarts, because even then, Voldemort wasn't really back, he still wasn't so powerful.'
Ron winced. 'Please, Hermione, do you have to say his name?'
Harry broke in. 'Look, Ron, I know it's hard for you to say it, but you've got to. You need to say his name-calling him You-Know-Who doesn't do anything to help you face him. Dumbledore said so himself, to me. Anyway, when we meet up with him, you can't call him You-Know-Who! I mean, 'Hey, You-Know-Who, yeah you, I'm talking to you! In the black robes! You're going down, there's no denying it, come back here! Chicken, You-Know-Who?'''
They laughed at the image, Ron a bit resentfully.
'You're right,' admitted Ron. 'I'll try to say his real name now. VOLDEMORT.'
Hermione smiled encouragingly. 'There, you've got it. Well, we should sleep now, after all, you want to stay up in classes, otherwise you won't learn anything.'
Harry and Ron groaned, then laughed. 'Right, g' night, Hermione, good night, Harry.' said Ron.
'Good night,' they echoed.
The Guardians each went to their separate beds.
The hooded figure watched them in his Witessen. 'Sleep well, my children,' he hissed. 'Your time is coming...'
She walked through the mists, head held high. No, not walked-drifted. Floated. Harry couldn't find the word to describe it. Her soft strawberry hair, in curls around her milky white face, gleamed in the faint, rosy dawn light. Her brown eyes looked soft and open, yet there was a mystical quality behind them, a concealed secret. She had pouty, full lips-not to mention a full figure-and she wore simple robes of sea-green and white. Harry drank in every feature of her with veneration. He started towards her. 'Miss-do you need some help? What's your name?' he asked timidly.
The girl turned towards him, and reached out. 'Oh, Harry, do look out. There's evil in the air-pain-suffering-oh, I can taste it, feel it, coming closer and closer-' the girl sighed. 'The times are not good, Harry, but I trust you to fulfill your prophecy. Make your parents proud of you, make all your ancestors proud, make me proud-' and she vanished into the mists, with Harry still tingling where her hand had touched his face so tenderly. A small, delicate hand-but he had felt the pulsing strength-flowing into him-feeding him courage-and her words- fulfill your prophecy, make your parents proud of you-
Harry drifted off into darkness, slumbering peacefully once again, dreamless. A figure watched him from afar.
'Oh, Harry,' she said, sadly. 'Oh, Harry.'
Harry woke up the next day, feeling disturbed. What was that dream last night? A beautiful woman...telling him something...did she mention danger? He searched his memory.
'Morning,' mumbled Ron sleepily. ' 'S time to get up already?'
'Yea,' said Harry. 'Where's Puriadne?'
Ron frowned. 'Who the hell is Puriadne?'
Harry flushed. 'Oh,' he said. 'Hermione. I don't know why I said Puriadne, it just popped out.'
Hermione came out of their private bathroom, a fluffy green towel wrapped around her slim figure. Her eyes widened. 'You're up already?'
Harry looked away. 'Yea, we just woke up.'
Ron stared openly, and then blushed. 'Er, are you done with the bathroom?' he asked, looking furiously at the floor.
Hermione nodded, then remembered that they weren't looking at her, so they couldn't see. She cleared her throat. "Yes, go ahead."
Ron went in, sneaking a sideways glance at Hermione as he passed her.
'Er,' said Harry awkwardly. 'Did you just take a shower?'
Of course she just did, thought Harry. Why else would she be wrapped in a towel, smelling like fresh flowers?
Hermione was very aware of the tension in the room. She smiled seductively, enjoying Harry's embarrassment. 'Yes, I wanted to make myself...fresh.' She said throatily. She sashayed across the room, hips swaying. She sat down in Harry's lap, crossing one leg over the other. She put one arm around his shoulder, and stroked his face with her other hand. She tilted her head forward so that her hair created a curtain on one side. She leaned forward, Harry closed his eyes, and-
She laughed and slapped him gently. 'Eager little puppy, aren't we?' she cooed.
Harry grinned. 'Hey, can't blame me. I just woke up.'
She gave him a knowing look.
Harry slipped into his robes as Ron came out of the bathroom. Ron was still blushing, and Harry slipped in to brush his teeth.
Breakfast was not quite up to its usual standards. Harry couldn't help but feel slightly disappointed. Hermione finished early and excused herself to go to the library.
Ron nudged him. 'Wow, Hermione looked awfully sexy this morning, didn't she?'
Harry agreed. 'Yea, I almost couldn't believe my eyes. There she was, standing in nothing but a towel...'
Ron smirked. 'I'll be waking up earlier every day from now on!'
Harry told Ron what Hermione had done to him.
They laughed, then Harry grew serious.
'Last night I had a dream. I was going to tell you and Hermione at breakfast, but since she dashed off already, I'll tell you first. Well, there first was this girl...she was even prettier than Herm...' and Harry proceeded to tell Ron the rest. 'So, what do you make of it?'
Ron was pale. 'Aw, it was probably just a dream, and dreams aren't real, right? I mean, your scar didn't hurt, so it wasn't You- and sign of Voldemort or anything.'
Harry sighed. 'I guess we should go tell Sirius today. He'll have something to say.'
'Yea,' Ron agreed. 'He always does.'
Gin, want to come to the ball with me?
I'll have to think about it. Mind waiting a week?
Do you have anyone else in mind?
No. I just want to think.
Come on. I don't bite. I'm even writing really neat for you.
I'm flattered, but don't sound too eager.
Ginny looked appraisingly at Paul, across the Hall. They had been writing quick messages in the air. He was a Ravenclaw 5th year, and was awfully sweet. They had talked a couple of times in the hallway. He wasn't exactly handsome, but was nice looking. His warm brown eyes always locked onto Ginny's whenever they talked, and he had a smooth complexion along with soft hands. He was taller, of course, but not so much that her neck hurt, like it did whenever she talked to her brother Bill.
I'd love to.
Yea! Love ya; I knew you'd come around!
Look out, Paul; she's a knockout in her dress robes.
Ginny looked across the table, where Hermione was smiling mischievously. 'That was private business, Hermione!' Ginny scolded.
Hermione snorted. 'Yes, but half the hall saw!'
It was true. The people that had heard were all 'awwwwwwwwww'ing and applauding.
Ginny blushed furiously, but grinned with all the attention.
From the Ravenclaw table, Paul smiled at her, a secret, just-between-the-two-of-us smile that warmed her insides, made her feel as if she hade just sunk into a warm, bubbly bath with a soft, cushiony bottom. Her stomach turned. I guess I did like him more than a friend, after all.
A few seats away, Harry was not smiling.
Dumbledore sighed wearily. Lucius was really such a pain. Always insisting the Malfoy honor being upheld-poor Draco. Dumbledore had no doubt in his mind that Lucius was serving under Voldemort again. And the demand of Draco being made a Champion? It was preposterous. Unthinkable. But maybe...he sat up straighter.
What if he could turn Draco to his side? A spy, just like Snape was? Of course, it was extremely dangerous, and he was just a boy, but Dumbledore only wanted some low-level spying. Nothing as tricky and detailed as Snape had done, just an idea of what the Dark side was planning. And all that was needed was-yes, that would be enough-
Ron awoke to a burning feeling at his shoulder. It took him a moment to realize that it was the emblem on his shoulder. He sighed. The demands of a Guardian were really very harsh. What with these super early morning calls-hey, a guy needed energy to be a good Guardian! All those girls in the halls that admired him and attacked him whenever he appeared, and living in the same luxurious room with a very sexy girl (at least, when she had only a towel wrapped around her) and a depressed, rejected guy as roommates.
'Hey, Harry, Hermione,' he said loudly, wrinkling his nose at all the 'H's in the sentence.
He heard a groan. 'Ugh, what?' said Harry, sounding very disgruntled.
'Dumbledore's signaling us.'
'This early?'
'Yea. Get up, get up, we need to get dressed. It's cold in the halls.'
Hermione said sensibly, 'Why don't we just talk into the emblems?'
Ron felt stupid. 'Oh, yea, I guess we could do that.'
Harry sat up, his hair sticking out on one side and flat on the other. Ron stifled a laugh-Harry looked completely ridiculous. 'And hooooooooow do we do that, anyway? he drooled.
Suddenly, Dumbledore's voice filled the room, startling them all. 'Just press the center jewel and then speak in that general direction, if you want to talk. When you're done, just press it again. I can hear everything between the times that you press it.'
Hermione looked cross. 'Well, mine's on my stomach, and that's pretty annoying. Ron, you do it.'
'Why not Harry?' he complained.
'Because he can't talk without drooling. Makes me wonder what he was dreaming about.'
Ron awkwardly lifted his arm slightly, pressed the center, then spoke to his arm, feeling extremely foolish. 'Er, can you hear me?'
'Yes.'
Harry laughed crazily. 'You look like you're sniffing your armpit!'
Hermione abruptly fell off her bed. 'Ouch.' she said, very seriously. 'I'm fine, don't mind me, keep sniffing-aah-talking, I mean.'
Ron was beet red, but he asked Dumbledore, 'What's wrong?'
'It's Lucius Malfoy. Apparently, Draco owled him about the fact that you three were selected as Guardians. Now, Lucius wants me to appoint Draco as one, too, accusing me of House bias. He also blithered on a bit about the Malfoy family honor. He tried to bribe me, saying that if I made Draco a Guardian, he would direct a little scare towards Fudge to convince him that Voldemort is really back. Therefore giving us a little nudge-supposedly. I'm not buying any of it, however, I've decided to appoint Draco as a Guardian alongside you.'
Harry spluttered madly. 'What? Malfoy? A Guardian? That's not even funny, he's nothing but a whining little ninny who's nothing without his hulking sidekicks Crabbe and Goyle at his side. And he's a Slytherin, and he's the son of a devoted Death Eater! Lucius, by god! He's right up there with Voldy, and I've no doubt that Malfoy has always been bred to grow up as the next Dark Lord. You can't make him a Guardian, that's just plain crazy!'
Ron and Hermione stared at him, openmouthed. 'You noodle-tongued git,' Hermione hissed. 'May I remind you that that's Dumbledore you're talking to?'
Dumbledore said on the other side, 'I can still hear everything. Let me remind you, Harry, that you were almost a Slytherin yourself. I don't think you're the one to go around insulting Slytherins. It's common prejudice, and I have high-all right, not high-some hopes for Draco. He could be very valuable. He just needs a push in the right direction, and think about it, he could become a spy for us. Very low-level, of course, I wouldn't want to risk his life that much, he's just a teenager, but even some spying is very useful.'
Ron had not said anything all this time, but his face was admirably red, and he looks even madder than Harry. Ron was boiling inside. Malfoy? A Guardian alongside him? The two families had been sworn enemies for generations.
Dumbledore said very firmly, 'That is all. My mind is made up. I bid you a good rest after this.'
Hermione looked at him sympathetically. 'I'm sure we can work this out. After all, you don't want Voldemort to win, do you?'
The next day, every time Hermione passed Draco in the hallway, she could see a triumphant smirk on his pale face. Dumbledore was going to announce to the school the new addition at dinner. How was she supposed to put up with Draco? Not to mention Draco, Harry, and Ron all in the same room. She sighed. Dumbledore had decided that all Champions should room together, for maximum safety and contact. He had put them in a new secret room, somewhere between the two houses, for Draco had absolutely put his foot down at the idea of spending his nights in the Gryffindor House area.
She walked into Herbology and squeezed through the crowd of adoring girls to sit next to Harry and Ron. The girl that was sitting in her seat was now in Ron's lap. He grinned at her and she rolled her eyes.
'Enjoying yourself?' she said dryly.
'Hermione, you're living with such sweethearts.' cooed the girl sitting in Ron's lap. 'Especially Ron here.'
Ron's ears grew pink with pleasure, as Harry usually got the attention. However, not many girls were around Harry, since his eyes looked so sad and angry.
'Is it true?' asked another girl, whom Hermione recognized as Laurel. 'I heard that Draco Malfoy is now a Guardian, and he's moving in with you guys!'
Now all the Ravenclaws and Gryffindors around the room were listening.
'Yes,' sighed Hermione. 'It's true. I couldn't believe it at first, either.'
Everyone looked pityingly at Hermione, especially the people who had witnessed some of Draco, Harry, and Ron's fights.
'That must suck,' said a guy across the room.
'Not too much,' giggled Lavender. 'Draco is pretty handsome. And come on, Hermione, you and three guys in a secluded room?'
Hermione gave Lavender a withering look. 'I'm not like that.'
Harry smiled slyly. 'How about that time you came out in a towel and sat down and seduced me?'
There were exclamations of delight all over the room, and collectively, they all leaned in.
Hermione rolled her eyes. 'You know I was just baiting you, Harry. And you jumped to it, you should have seen yourself, lips puckered and eyes closed. I could even feel...oh, never mind that detail.'
'What!' exclaimed Harry.
Everyone laughed.
Professor Sprout, looking just as entertained as everyone else, cleared her throat. 'Time for class. Lulu, get off Ron's lap, please.
'Today we are learning about Hops, a very interesting plant. Inside the seed lives a woodland creature. For the boys, you get a nymph, and for the girls, you get a satyr. It's opposite sex because the nymphs and satyrs serve only the opposite sex. They help you think clearly and remember things, and in addition they enhance your magical powers-that is, if you can get them to like you. Of course, oftentimes this means some-' she cleared her throat in discomfort '-slight seduction involved. But it's how much you pay attention to them that really matters.'
'Sure it is,' muttered Ron to Hermione and Harry.
'The plant itself is also quite helpful. It is a vine, from 15-30 feet long. The vine is very strong, and the more your little immortal creature likes you, the longer and stronger the vine is. Same goes with the leaves-the more the immortal likes you, the stronger the scent is. The scent befuddles your enemies slightly. Nothing that great, it just causes their reflexes to slow down a little, and causes their mind to become slightly muddled and confused.'
'Awesome!' said Neville excitedly.
Everyone agreed. 'Sounds pretty cool,' said Seamus.
The girls nudged each other, and the guys giggled.
Hermione frowned. Wasn't this a little backwards?
'Well, what are we waiting for?' asked Mike. Hermione noticed he was sitting next to Paul, Ginny's dance date. She immediately mouthed to him, work with you!
He looked surprised, but nodded.
Sprout smiled. 'Not so fast. There's a little complication.'
The class groaned.
'Now start taking notes. First of all, remember how I told you that the immortals started out in the seed, right? The problem is, they're dormant. That means they're sleeping. In order for the plant to grow properly, and the immortal as well, you must wake it up. Are you all taking notes? Record these steps: First, you and you partner will drop 5 seeds into a container of water. Some of the seeds will sink. The ones that float are the ones you want. If you have extras, hand them to me. Let's see-the satyr seeds are brown, and the nymph seeds are green. Take you and your partner's seeds, skim them off, and put them in another container filled with water. Not too cold or hot, mind you-they should be 27°c, give or take a little. You better be taking notes, this is important. You must soak the seeds for 24-40 hours. We will be soaking them for 32 hours. After you have sufficiently soaked the seeds, mix them with damp peat/dragon dung moss. There they will finally grow. Be sure to talk to it for at least 4 hours a day, feeding them much promises of the world out there. Water them every three days, thoroughly. Oh, yes, and whenever you want to call on your immortal's powers, say humulus lupulus. Bring them to class the day after tomorrow.
'Now, pick out your partners and start soaking.'
Hermione walked over to Paul. 'Hi, I'm Hermione.'
He smiled. 'I know.'
Wow, he's got gorgeous eyes. Ginny was right.
'I'm very serious about school,' she warned him.
He laughed. 'Yea, Ginny told me.'
'She's very excited about the dance. Actually, that's mainly why I wanted to be your partner. You know, making sure you're not a total creep.'
He raised his left eyebrow. 'So, am I?'
She raised her own left eyebrow. 'You're all right. Do something to convince me of what a man you are.' She added suggestively.
He stared.
She laughed. 'There, now I know you're not a total creep. You passed the test.'
'Why, cause I didn't make a move on you?'
'Yup. Come on, let's go get the seeds.'
Thanks goes to: Pottermouth (have you read any of the people on my fav authors list? They're my idols, and are mature, too ;) ), Czarina of the pink squirrels (thanks, deah), Lady Elanor, AJaKe (you'll see! Sometimes in chapter.....7? I dunno yet), and DreamStella. Thanks for reading!