Title: Harry Potter and the Veneficus Quies (6)
Author name: atlantispotter
Author email: atlantispotter@yahoo.com
Category: Romance
Keywords: Year 5 Harry Hermione Ginny Petunia
Rating: R
Spoilers: SS/PS, CoS, PoA, GoF, FB, QTTA
Summary: Harry begins having strange dreams, telling him about future events. He finds help in a very surprising person and fights in his heart between Ginny and Hermione. A Prophecy, intensive training and whether or not a flock of owls is all that scary.
DISCLAIMER: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Harry Potter and the Veneficus Quies
Chapter Six: From Rags to Riches
Harry looked at the massive scarlet steam engine stretching in front of him. He balanced precariously on his left ankle, which he had injured in the fall from his broomstick yesterday. As much as Harry admired Mrs. Weasley, she was no Madam Pomfrey and could not properly mend his ankle. It was still touchy and slightly swollen, so he had been treading carefully for the past twenty-four hours.
Ginny stood next to him on Platform 9 ¾ as they waited for Hermione and Ron to step through the barrier. George and Fred had gone through before them and were already searching for their friends. Ron stepped through first, touting two tiny trunks. Hermione followed through after him. She looked exhausted and was favouring her right foot. The two walked up to Harry and Ginny.
"Hermione, we have to go to the front compartments. I guess there's a short meeting for prefects. Will you save us seats in the compartment?" he asked, turning to Ron.
"Sure. I guess we'll see you in a little bit then."
Mrs. Weasley then showered them all with kisses and hugs, having just appeared from the barrier. She wished them all a good school year and reminded them to owl her before waving them off. Ron and Ginny turned and walked to the back of the train and Harry guided Hermione to the front. They were careful not to stand too close to each other giving the episode yesterday.
Harry grimaced as he thought of last night. He had carried Hermione into the Burrow and deposited her on the couch in the living room. Mrs. Weasley had rushed into the room and began fretting over Hermione. Harry collapsed on the floor next to the couch and Hermione reached for his hand. They stayed that way while Mrs. Weasley fussed and prodded them. After she had finished administering to their cuts and bruises, she'd vacated the room for Ron and Ginny to come in.
They were both positively peeved. Ron because Harry had not let him anywhere near Hermione and Ginny because Harry had not checked on her after she had lost control of her broom. Ron began raving about what a complete, girl-friend stealing cad Harry was until Hermione had promptly slapped him.
"He saved my life, you prat! Where were you during all of this?"
"I'd collided with Harry and fallen off of his broom."
"Ah, so why is that you aren't standing here dead?"
"Because Harry cushioned my fall."
"Ron! You are the biggest arse I've ever met! He's saved my life and yours and all you can do is whine? Grow up!"
It was at this point that Harry stormed out of the room, followed closely by Ginny who was furious with him.
"Why is it always Hermione? I'm your girlfriend, remember?"
"I refuse to even give you the satisfaction of a response. I guess pig-headedness is in the Weasley blood!" Harry shouted, very uncharacteristically, before slamming his way upstairs.
By some unanimous decision, they had all acted like nothing had happened the next morning, especially in front of the rest of the family. Mrs. Weasley had done some last minute worrying about Harry and Hermione, giving them each small vials of a painkilling potion.
As soon as Mrs. Weasley disappeared, Ginny and Ron had made it a point to studiously ignore both Harry and Hermione. Harry was of course, angry as anything about it and Hermione wanted to give Harry a very wide berth.
Great, the whole world is against me. Bloody fantastic.
They entered the prefects' compartment. The other fifth year prefects were already waiting. Harry immediately noticed Draco Malfoy, who looked much less threatening without his thugs by his side. He also recognized a girl from Slytherin, though he could not remember her name. He also saw Stephen Cornfoot and Padma Patil from Ravenclaw and Susan Bones and Justin Finch- Fletchey of Hufflepuff.
Harry was surprised to see Professor McGonagall standing in the compartment.
"Ah, Mr. Potter, Ms. Granger, you've arrived. Excellent. Now we can begin. You have all been selected as Prefects for your respective houses because you are the top students in your houses for your year. You are all very intelligent and diligent and will bring much pride to your houses. Now, I'd like to introduce you all in case there are some of you who are not familiar with each other. From Gryffindor we have Hermione Granger and Harry Potter. Representing Hufflepuff House, we have Susan Bones and Justin Finch-Fletchey, from Ravenclaw, Stephen Cornfoot and Padma Patil and finally, from Slytherin, we have Draco Malfoy and Tracey Davis.
"As you very well know, you all have many important duties this year. You are in charge of your respective houses. When the head of your house is not present, you are the heads. You must enforce the school rules, issue detentions and deduct house points. I realize that for those of you that have been accepted into the Intensive Magical Study program, this will be a somewhat difficult task, particularly for Ms. Granger and Mr. Potter, seeing as both of you are in the program.
"We have devised a charm that will allow you to watch the goings-on in your common rooms and in your dooms the fireplaces have been linked directly to those in your common rooms.
"If you'll all come here, I will give you your prefect badges as well as the charms for those who will no longer be living in their houses."
Harry looked at Hermione and found a shocked expression that mirrored his own. They had very little knowledge of how the program would be run and by the looks of things, they would not be finding out until they arrived at Hogwarts.
***
Ron and Ginny sat opposite each other in the compartment. Ginny was angrily flipping through a copy of Witch Weekly and Ron was staring stonily at the trees whipping past the train.
The silence in the compartment was shattered by Ginny tearing a page in her magazine. Ron jumped at the racket and looked daggers at Ginny.
"What?"
"Could you keep it down?"
"Oh, stuff it Ron."
"Nice way to treat your brother, Gin."
"Yeah, well, if it wasn't for you, none of this would have happened."
"What the hell does that mean?"
"That means that if you weren't such an insufferable git, maybe Hermione wouldn't be so angry with you all the time and have to seek solace in my boyfriend."
"Well maybe if you were a better girlfriend--"
"Oh, that has nothing to do with it. You were the one who wasn't there to save her. Maybe if you were a little more like Harry, none of this would have happened."
"Bloody hell! I'm not Harry! Why doesn't anyone get that? What's so special about bloody Harry anyway?"
"Harry is only the greatest wizard of our time!"
"Oh, yeah, you would say that. You're all mushy-gushy in love with him, after all."
Ginny turned scarlet and whipped her magazine at Ron. "I am not in love with him!"
"You are so. It's all Harry this and Harry that. Frankly, I'm rather sick of it and one more thing--"
Ron never finished his sentence because at that moment the door to the compartment banged open and Harry stood at the door looking angry enough to spit nails.
"Enough! What on earth are you two arguing about?"
Ron and Ginny both reddened even deeper. Hermione shouldered her way into the room with a look that was distinctly reminiscent of Professor McGonagall. The anger in her eyes danced about dangerously and Ron turned purple with embarrassment.
"I am ashamed of you both! Fighting like this! Can't we just get beyond this? Ron, I have no feelings for Harry beyond the ones that are strictly platonic. Ginny, Ron does not have to be more like Harry; he's fine just the way he is. Harry is my best friend, as are you Ron and you need to learn to deal with that. Ginny, I'm sure you feel that I am deeply infringing upon your rights to Harry and I'm sorry about that. If something is bothering you, let me know. Now, let's just all say we're sorry and enjoy our last few hours of summer."
The tone in her voice left no room for debate and everyone in the small compartment grumbled their apologies.
Harry and Hermione settled into the compartment and eventually the tense atmosphere faded away. By the time the snack cart rolled around, everyone was anticipating the new school year and bantering jovially.
Harry and Ron stumbled back into the compartment with loads of Cauldron Cakes, Chocolate Frogs and Pumpkin Pasties. Ron dumped his pile of treats onto a seat and pulled four bottles of iced pumpkin juice from his robes.
"So, what was the prefects' meeting about?" He asked, looking at Harry.
"Oh you know, McGonagall giving us a lecture on the importance of following the rules. I really don't know why I got selected to be a prefect."
"Hey, you and me both," Ron chided.
"Did Professor McGonagall say anything about the program, Hermione?" asked Ginny.
"Not really. She gave Harry and I these so that we could keep an eye on the Gryffindor common room. From the sound of the things, I don't think we'll be living in Gryffindor Tower anymore."
"Wait a second. You mean that Gryffindor won't actually have any prefects living there?" Ron asked, looking as if he was developing a plan. "I should mention this to Fred and George."
"Well, it's not like we won't be watching you guys."
"Err, that's just creepy Hermione."
She playfully smacked Ron on the arm and he grinned at her before giving her a peck on the lips.
"Urgh! Get a room! Yuck!" cried Harry and Ginny, tossing various candies at the couple. This caused a fierce battle to rage inside the compartment until the compartment door slid open again.
"Oww! Damn it Potter! Can't you all act your ages for ten seconds?"
"Malfoy, sod off."
"As happy as I am to be here, Weasley, I came to collect your sister, Potter and Buckteeth over there. A message has been sent from Hogwarts that all the students in the Intensive Magical Study program meet up front. Guess that leaves you by yourself to wander in your neanderlithic thoughts, Weasel."
"Shut it."
"Your wit astounds me. Well then, let's go. Potter, Weasley, Granger, move along."
The three Gryffindors shot dirty looks at Malfoy as they gathered their things. They followed him out into the corridor after muttering goodbyes to Ron.
When the reached the front of the train, they were each handed a portkey. Harry felt the very familiar tugging behind his navel and found himself standing in a stately, yet comfortable room. A large fireplace took up most of the wall behind him. A fire burned cheerily in its hearth, but the room was surprisingly cool. A thick, plush grey carpet was laid on the floor and the richly appointed furniture had varying tones of deep reds and blues. Large windows added to the lightness and serenity of the room.
The room was very unfamiliar to Harry. He'd never seen anything like it in all of Hogwarts and seriously wondered where they were. It was then that he noticed the other nine students in the room. Before he began questioning who some of them were, he heard someone clear their throat and was surprised to see Albus Dumbledore standing in front of them, eyes twinkling joyously.
"Welcome to the Hogwarts School of Intensive Magical Study. As you may have already noted, you are on the Hogwarts grounds. This will be your home for the next two terms. You will learn here, study here and sleep here. You are welcome to dine at Hogwarts with your fellow classmates, if you wish, but your dorms have fully appointed kitchens should you decide to stay here. I'm sure you're all wondering about the new program. IMS, as we like to call it, has been designed to accelerate the magical studies of our ten best students each year. We have at least one representative from each year, beginning with fourth, and representatives from each of the four houses.
"This year will be very busy for you. We have several prefects in our midst as well as Quidditch team members. I hope you all plan on continuing in your school activities. Now, I think it best that I turn the podium over to your teacher. The other students will be arriving shortly and I have to be present for the sorting ceremony. I hope that you all will join us in the Great Hall for the Welcoming Feast, which should begin in about half an hour," Dumbledore smiled at them, the child-like excitement visible in his eyes. He stepped to the side and revealed a door.
Harry nearly fell over when Arabella Figg walked through the door. The blond witch winked at he and Hermione and carefully ran her eyes over each student's face.
"Welcome. I'm sure you all have about a million questions, but let me explain a few things first. I'm Arabella Figg; just call me Arabella. I'm not one for all this Professor nonsense. We'll be studying Charms, Transfiguration, Potions, Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures, Divination, History of Magic, Muggle Studies, Apparition, Animagi and of course, Defense Against the Dark Arts. We will be studying these topics in six- week blocks. I'll be handing out the schedules tomorrow and we'll be starting in two days' time. In the two days before lessons we'll be starting Apparition lessons, which are going to be a crucial point in your studies. I'll also be running tests to see if any of you have Animagi capabilities, in which case, you'll begin learning the process.
"Alright, now, living arrangements. There are five dorms in this building. Each dorm consists of two bedrooms and a small common area with a kitchenette and bathroom. You may live with whomever you want, regardless of gender. Let's face it, you're all mature and smart enough to handle living more independently. Of course, there's a house kitchen that you all may use and a large common area. We will be studying from ten o'clock in the morning until four in the afternoon. This arrangement will be very different from what you are used to. There will be more independent studying, guest lecturers, projects, and field trips. Your house curfew will be midnight, but keep in mind that you are only allowed in the Hogwarts main building until eleven, when the library closes. You are allowed to go to Hogsmeade when you wish but it is preferable that you are not alone when doing so. Any questions?"
The ten students stared at her incredulously. Timidly, a girl Harry did not recognize raised her hand, "So we're pretty much free to do whatever we want?"
"Yes, but here's the catch. You're all required to keep top marks. If you slip one time, one time, you will be kicked out of the program. We have a waiting list and poor performance will not be tolerated. You are under vigorous training methods. We are training you in case of a Dark uprising. You are the ten most powerful witches and wizards, underage at least, in Britain. That's a heavy weight on your shoulders. Can you all accept that?"
They all looked at her and nodded unanimously, taking comfort in the support of each other.
"Great. Now, I believe Dumbledore said something about a welcoming feast? I know I'm hungry."
The air in the room lightened considerably as they all laughed. Arabella turned back to the door she had come from and held it open for them. Harry glanced through and saw the entrance hall. With a shrug in the general direction of Hermione, he walked through.
Ron was walking down the stairs from Gryffindor tower just as Harry entered the Entrance Hall. He dashed over and nearly knocked Hermione to the ground.
"Ow! Ron! Be careful!" Hermione winced in pain. Ron's face immediately fell and he looped an arm around her waist.
"Are you alright?" he asked, with a very concerned expression on his face. Ginny walked in, talking to the girl who had questioned Arabella earlier.
"Harry, Hermione, Ron this is Cadence. She's a Ravenclaw fourth year."
The trio nodded, as if this was not new information to them. The five IMS students began excitedly discussing the program with Ron as they entered the Great Hall.
Harry felt great warmth as he entered. Despite the many upheavals of the summer, Hogwarts still felt like home and he was glad to be back. With a sudden rush of excitement, he put his arm around Ginny and pulled her close. She seemed to sense the change in his apprehensive mood and grinned up at him before giving him a slight kiss on the cheek.
Dinner was a cheerful event. Everyone was glad to be back at Hogwarts. A feeling of safety and well being permeated the air. The food was as wonderful as ever and everyone chattered excitedly. The students in the IMS program were sought out and questioned immediately by the other Hogwarts students. Dumbledore gave the traditional opening speech and the Hogwarts school song rang throughout the hall in a cacophony of sound.
"Excellent! Extraordinary performance this year! I have a few last minute announcements before you all return to your houses for the night. As you know, last year, Hogwarts held a Yule Ball over Christmas holidays. We have decided to make it a tradition, though on a somewhat smaller scale. We will also be hosting a Halloween ball this year. All students are welcome at the Halloween ball, but the Yule Ball will only be open to fourth years and older. Now, everyone off to bed, you have an early start tomorrow!"
With that, the Great Hall began to clear out.
Hermione and Harry waved goodbye to Ginny, promising to meet her in the IMS common room later. They had to show the first years into Gryffindor Tower and make sure everyone was settled in.
"Gryffindor first years! Over here!" Hermione shouted. Ron and Harry looked at her and burst out laughing.
"What?"
"Loud enough, there Granger?" Draco Malfoy called, who was surrounded by Slytherin First years, who were looking rather terrified.
Hermione shut him up with a look as the Gryffindor First years began ambling around her. Quickly, she and Harry rounded them up and led the way to Gryffindor Tower. Harry turned to the Fat Lady and said the password ("Gobstones") and led the first year boys into their dormitories. They immediately settled into their dorms without so much as a fight. Harry asked them if they needed anything and showed them the small charm near the door that they needed to activate should they need anything.
Ron was sitting in the common room.
"Where's Hermione?"
"Dunno. I think she's still with the girls."
"Yikes. The boys were pretty good. Percy told us some horror stories about the boys he's had to show the ropes."
Ron grimaced. "So, who are you rooming with?"
"No idea. I don't think anybody's decided yet."
***
It didn't take long for Harry to find out how very wrong he was. While he had spent dinner talking and chatting with friends he had not seen since last term, nearly everyone else in IMS had paired up with a person to room with. Ginny would be rooming with the Ravenclaw she'd introduced them to earlier, Cadence. Hermione would be rooming with another Gryffindor fifth year named Akilah Jones (Harry had no idea who she was, but realized she had been his classes all five years, he mentally hit himself at this). Padma Patil would be rooming with Cho Chang and Katie Bell and Susan Bones being the last girls left had decided to room with each other. Harry realized this and quickly threw a temper tantrum to Hermione.
"But Draco Malfoy! Please Hermione! See if Akilah will switch with me! Please?"
"Oh, Harry, grow up! Its just Malfoy. He's the only other boy, what did you expect?"
"Just Malfoy? This is the Malfoy that calls you mudblood and regularly insults your boyfriend!"
Hermione gave him a measuring look before turning on her heel and walking into her room.
"Akilah?"
"What's up Hermione?"
"I have a favour to ask you."
"Sure."
"Do you know Draco Malfoy?"
"Yup, our families have been friends for ages. Draco and I practically grew up together."
"Really? That's so strange."
"Oh believe me, I know. It was such a huge scandal when I got into Gryffindor. My family nearly disowned me!"
Harry and Hermione looked at her in shock. "Well, in that case, do you think you might like to room with him?"
"Why, so you two can have a little love nest?" She cracked, her deep brown eyes beaming at the pair of them from her dark face.
"Er, no. Heh, well, er, Harry just doesn't get on well with Draco."
"I know, Hermione, I was just teasing. Sure, I'll room with him. Cheers, darling," Akilah said as she waved her wand in the room. Her things all flew into the trunk and with a wave of her hand, she was off with her trunk levitating behind her.
Harry sagged against the doorframe. "Thank Merlin. I would have killed that slimy prat if I had to share a room with him."
"Right, now, hurry up and unpack. Ginny and I wanted to go back to Gryffindor Tower to play Exploding Snap with Ron."
Harry went out into the common room where his trunk was still waiting. He quickly levitated it into his room and met Hermione and Ginny back in the common room.
***
The scarlet and gold common room was nearly deserted as Ginny, Hermione and Harry climbed through the portrait hole. Except for two people sitting at the far corner of the room, there was no one in sight.
"Ha! Checkmate!"
"What? How?"
"Look, both white rooks are set to take the king. Any retreat is impossible! Ha! I have beaten the great Ron Weasley!"
"Yeah, yeah. It's because you're so pretty that I let you win."
Hermione was across the room in a flash.
"Ron, perhaps if you'd been paying more attention to the game instead of Lavender you would have noticed that you easily could have taken her king about two turns ago with your Queen and rook."
Ron jumped at the sound of her voice and turned to look at her. "Hermione, love, heh, I, er, didn't hear you guys come in."
"Yes, well, how about that game of Exploding Snap!" Harry cut in, looking nervously between the two.
Hermione looked at Ron, fire dancing in her eyes as he completely avoided her gaze. Within seconds, Lavender has excused herself and dashed upstairs.
The tone lightened considerably, but occasionally, Harry caught Hermione looking daggers at Ron. After several games, Ginny was sleeping on Harry's shoulder and Hermione was dozing in a chair.
"I think I'm going to take these two back to IMS. They're exhausted."
"Do you need my help?"
"Yeah, just grab Hermione,"
Ron scooped Hermione off of the chair and she nuzzled into his chest. Harry gently woke Ginny up and she pulled herself off of the chair, stretching and groaning.
"What time is it?"
"About a quarter to eleven."
"Ooh, wait, Ron can't leave Gryffindor tower. He's not allowed out."
"It'll be alright. He has permission."
Ginny just looked at Harry, her eyes full of uncertainty. Finally she shrugged and followed after Ron, who was still carrying Hermione.
When they arrived at IMS, Ron looked around the common room.
"Well, this is a pretty nice set-up. Alright, we are you girls sleeping?"
Ginny just stared at Ron wide-eyed. "Err... well, I'm right over here. I'll head off now. Goodnight!" she said quickly, planting a kiss firmly on Harry's lips before going into her dorm.
"Alright, that was weird, where's Hermione sleeping?"
"She's right through here," Harry pointed, leading the way into the dorm room. He nodded to Ron before heading through the door opposite Hermione's.
"Harry? Where are you going?"
"To my room. You know, where my bed is? To sleep?" Harry prodded.
"Um, right, so then how is Hermione in this door? Wouldn't this be the boys' dorm?"
"No, this would be mine and Hermione's dorm."
Ron just sniffed, the anger flaring up in his eyes. "Ah, roomies, of course. Well, wait here, I'll be right back."
Ron whisked Hermione into the room and must have tossed her onto her bed, for he was back in the common room in a few seconds. Harry just looked at Ron, completely astounded.
"So, er, what's the problem?"
"I don't want you and Hermione living together."
"It's not like we share a bedroom or anything! We're just roomies!"
"Yeah, but... you might... you know..."
"Study together?" Harry offered.
"Well, what if you walked in on her while she was in the shower?"
"Are you trying to pick fights with everyone in Gryffindor today? Because you're doing a great job."
"Well, it's just, she's my girlfriend!"
"Yes, I know and she's my best friend. Just chill, ok?"
Ron looked Harry in the eyes, as if searching for some hidden meaning to the situation. Apparently, he was satisfied by whatever he saw and just gave Harry a curt nod before turning towards the door.
"Er, Ron, are you just going to stroll through Hogwarts?"
"Oh, right, um..."
"Here, let me get my Invisibility Cloak."
Harry returned with the silvery material in his hands. He handed it to Ron, who immediately covered himself and left.
Back in his dorm, Harry got a good look around the room.
He was somewhat glad to be back in a scarlet and gold atmosphere. His dorm room reminded him of the Gryffindor common room. A fire burned cheerfully in the small corner fireplace. There was a large, squishy armchair plunked next to the fire, complete with a small table. A few torches lit the stone walls and the only natural light came from the small windows near the ceiling. As it was dark, the windows did little to lighten the darkness of the room. A large four-poster bed was in the corner, flanked by a night table. Along one wall were a desk, a small table, a large bookcase and another chair. A large wardrobe completed the welcoming room.
"Harry?" came Hermione's soft voice, accompanied by a soft knock on the door.
"Come on in."
"I heard what Ron said to you and I'm sorry he acted like that."
"It's fine. I guess I sort of understand where's he coming from."
"Really?"
"No. But it doesn't matter. What's wrong?"
"Well, I was thinking at dinner, are you going to ask Dumbledore about your mum?"
"What about her?"
"Well surely she told him about the Mirror. Aren't you going to find out what she told him?"
"I guess that I haven't really thought about it. Well you're over there, can you put some water into Daryl's bowl?"
Hermione just nodded and picked up the water pitcher from the small table. She walked to the small bowls that were next to the desk and filled one. The small dog just looked up at her from its place on Harry's bed. "So, what do you think about the apparition lessons?"
"Well, it'll be interesting to learn how to do it, even if it's pretty useless for a few years."
"Maybe we'll get special permits or something?"
"Like what? We have to apparate with a licensed adult at all times?"
"I don't know. It's not important. I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I'm getting very excited about this program," Hermione said as she sat on Harry's bed, watching him unpack his trunk.
Harry was hanging all of his robes and clothing into the wardrobe. After finishing that task, he returned to the trunk and banished all of the books onto the bookshelves. He sent his cauldron and potion kit to the small table. Finally, he pulled out Chief Pip.
"Harry Potter! You said I wouldn't be in there for too long."
"Well, I'm sorry about that. It was out of my hands."
"Where's Miss Hermione?"
"Right there."
"And the pup?"
"With Hermione. Are you okay?"
"No. I was in that blasted trunk for nearly a week! Now, put me down."
Harry did as he was told and set the small bear down who immediately jumped onto the bed and with a pat on the head for Hermione, snuggled himself next to the dog.
Hermione laughed and shook her head. She quickly lost her amusement and turned to Harry. "Do you think Ron is cheating on me?"
Harry dropped Hedwig's cage with a clatter. "Er, I don't think so. Is this about the whole chess game with Lavender?"
"Yes."
"Oh, Hermione, I think that was just a game."
"But he said she was pretty..."
"Well, she is. Granted, not as pretty as some other bushy-haired girls I know, but she's got her good points," Harry answered as Hermione tossed a pillow at him. "I'll be right back."
Harry grabbed his pyjamas and headed into the bathroom to change.
When he entered his room again, Hermione, Daryl and Pip were heaped together on the bed, stretched out in languid comfort amongst the pillows.
"Hermione, I don't think you should stay here," Harry whispered as he gently shook her. However, she didn't wake and he just shrugged, climbing into bed. At least she's on top of the covers and the bed's rather big. Ron'll never know.
***
The next morning Harry awoke and found his arms wrapped around Hermione, who was snuggled closely against his chest. His breath caught in his throat as he looked at her thin form, tucked comfortably into his arms. He shot up. "Hermione!"
"Harry? Wha... is something wrong?"
"No, nothing, er, its morning. We'll be late for breakfast and I know you wouldn't want to miss Ron."
Hermione narrowed her eyes at him and suddenly the memory of the night before hit her. Eyes growing very wide, "Oh, Harry, did I actually sleep in here? We mustn't tell Ron! Oh no! Just forget that last night happened. Oh! Er, I'll just go get dressed. See you at breakfast," she said hurriedly as she dashed from his room.
Harry rubbed at his temples. Ron will kill me if he finds out. Shaking away his thoughts, Harry grabbed his school robes and headed into the bathroom to get ready for the day.
The plans to meet Ron at breakfast were dashed as soon as Harry arrived in the common room. Arabella was sitting in an armchair and the others were clustered in chairs around her.
"Ah, Harry, glad you could make it. We'll be having breakfast in here this morning, there's a lot I wanted to go over with everyone. I've finished the schedule for this year, as well as polished up the class curriculum. I want to discuss all that with you and also begin the Animagi tests before lunch.
"Starting the day after next, we're going to begin with Transfiguration. I'm going to warn you right now, you won't be transferring any buttons into beetles as long as I'm your teacher. We're going to be studying more useful Transfigurations, such as a stick into a sword. That can be very useful when your attacker has disarmed you and you don't have a weapon-Yes Hermione?"
"How would we transfigure a stick into a sword if our wands have been taken?"
"Will, Hermione. It's all about the intent. You're all strong enough that with practice you can do magic without a wand. For most of you, it will be limited, but for a few, it will come as naturally as breathing. We'll also be studying the theories of Transfiguration, as well Animagi and Apparition. Until mid-October, Transfiguration is the hot- topic around here. Afterwards, we'll be studying Divination and Defense Against the Dark Arts through mid-November. Charms and making another appearance, Defense Against the Dark Arts, will be our study until after Christmas. A mish-mashed block of Astronomy, Duelling and an Independent Study of DADA will occupy your time until the beginning of March at which point we'll be studying your favourite and mine, Potions. This will be studied jointly with Herbology. And of course, in mid-April, we're going to pick up Muggle Studies and the History of Magic, which will bring us right up to the OWLs, which you may or may not be excused from, I haven't decided yet. The useful little class of Care of Magical Creatures is scheduled for every other Wednesday, but I've decided to hold that at my discretion. Any other questions?"
The ten pupils seated around Arabella's high backed chair stared at her incredulously. Only Hermione raised her hand, "Could you repeat that last bit after Herbology?"
"Don't worry about it. Here-" and with a wave of her hand, pieces of parchment with a schedule appeared in each students hand. Arabella continued her lecture about each class they would be taking, with detailed commentary on the theories behind each course as well as the integrated study of Dark Arts into everything they would be studying. As she talked, the schedules filled themselves in with important points or dates.
Nearly an hour and a half later, Harry was beginning to get dizzy at the thought of the upcoming school year. Arabella had finished her general descriptions and had started on Apparition.
"Has anyone here ever tried to apparate? No? Well, then. Let me explain something, and this applies to Transfiguration as well.
"I doubt that any of you have ever taken any sort of physics classes, so I'll put this as simply as possible. Muggles are confined by physical limits. No muggle can turn a beetle into a button. They have a very sound belief in physical constraints. However, due to magical capabilities, we aren't confined such as Muggles. Unscientifically speaking, we have the ability to take all the little bits that make up a beetle and rearrange them into a button. We can alter even the tiniest characteristics with a thought.
"So, knowing that, apparition is simply rearranging ourselves to be somewhere else. There are no charms or wand waving or incantations for this. It's all in your head. That's why it's so carefully regulated and watched. Imagine if you were having a lousy day and weren't paying attention. You'd splinch yourself into a hutch. It'd take ages to sort out, believe me. Usually, we teach this to seventh years, but I think you all need to know how to do it. It's vital and anything that will increase your arsenal against the Dark forces is worth the effort of learning it. It's rather difficult to start Apparition, but once you've got it, it's a piece of cake. Now, I want you all to partner up. Stand facing your partner and study the area directly behind them. Picture it in your head and then simply will yourself there. Picture the area as you see it, and then imagine yourself in that area."
Hermione looked as if she didn't believe a word Arabella had said, but quickly pulled Harry off the chair he was sitting on.
"Ok, you go first."
Harry simply shrugged and looked at the area behind Hermione. He memorized it for a few seconds and closed his eyes, the image burned against his eyelids. He willed himself there and when he opened his eyes was standing behind Hermione. He tapped her on the shoulder and she spun around wide-eyed. "I don't think we're supposed to grasp it that fast!"
"Go on! Try it, Mione."
She looked at him with worry in her eyes, but appeared to be studying intently the scene behind him. She too shut her eyes and after only a few seconds, Harry heard a soft pop. Hermione was standing directly behind them. The grin on her face was wiped away as Arabella rushed over.
"Both of you! Front and centre. I want you to show everyone else what you just did."
Harry found himself being crowded around by his classmates as he stood face to face with Hermione. They ran through the exercises again as everyone watched.
"Now, its very unusual that anyone should grasp this so quickly. However, Harry and Hermione here are the two most powerful students in all of Britain. In fact, compared with other MQ tests from other countries in the world, I think it's safe to say that these two are the most powerful underage wizards in the world. With some training, you two will be right up there with the best of the best."
Harry and Hermione both blushed furiously as everyone stared at them. Arabella dissipated the group and told Harry and Hermione to try apparating to other places in the IMS building.
Harry successfully found himself lying in his bed, standing on Hermione's trunk, facing the shower in Ginny's bathroom and in the middle of the kitchen before he headed back to the common room.
"I think you've all had enough practice apparating for now. You're all free to do whatever you'd like while I test for Animagi abilities. I'll call you one at a time and we'll try a few things out."
Harry and Hermione both apparated back to their dorm room.
"Harry! I can't believe it. We're the top students in the world."
"Maybe. Probably not a good idea to let it get to your head though. So, what do you think of the Animagi stuff?"
"I'm not sure. From what I read, if you have the abilities, the animal you become is a representation of your most innate capabilities. It'll be interesting to find out whether or not we can do it."
On cue, a sound like a switch clicking echoed in the room.
"Hermione, if you could, please come to my office."
"I'm on my way." With a pop, Hermione was gone. Harry wandered into his dorm room, searching for some form of entertainment. He found it in the form of Daryl, Pip and Crookshanks, who were crowded onto Harry's bed. Pip had drawn up some sort of elaborate diagram and was gesturing wildly to Crookshanks and Daryl, who were doing great impersonations of very confused statues. Crookshanks was watching the small teddy bear with an emotion that could only be described as amusement in his eyes. Daryl had her head cocked to the side and broke the statuesque pose with an occasional tail wag. Furious, the ten-inch teddy bear tore his drawing in half and threw it onto the floor. Languidly, Crookshanks swiped a paw gently at the bear, knocking him to the side. Daryl jumped to her feet and began barking at Pip, who was lying on his head on the floor.
Crookshanks slid off the bed and under it, in search of something to play with as Daryl barked at Pip who was brushing himself off. Harry moved aside as the bear and dog slinked past him.
"Pip!"
"Yes, Harry Potter?"
"What are you doing?"
"Daryl and I were going to, er, outside?"
"Um, no. You two stay in here. Don't make me put you on top of the bookshelf."
They came sheepishly back into the room as Harry heard the click again, with a simultaneous pop.
"Hermione, who let the bear out of the trunk?" at the same time that Arabella called Harry to her office.
"Er, I did. He was making such a racket that I couldn't stand it any longer. Sorry."
"Hmm… maybe Pip could live in your room!
"Er, no. I got him for you Harry! He's your bear."
"I'm so lucky. Alright, I'll be right back." And Harry popped away before he remembered to ask Hermione what the test had been like.
"Hello, Harry."
"'Lo Arabella."
"Alright, let's begin. Give me your right hand."
Harry did so. Arabella slathered his hand in some sort of black ink.
"Now, just press your hand on this parchment."
Again, Harry followed her instructions. The black hand on the paper slowly turned a deep red colour and quickly turned into a sort of claw with what looked like golden nails. Harry was surprised when the image changed again, this time to a massive golden paw, followed by a black paw, a black hoof, a grey paw and ended with a human hand.
"Harry, do you know what this means?"
"Should I be afraid to find out?"
"It looks like you're a multiple shaped Animagi. Phoenix, Lion, Dog, Horse, and Cat. You have a very deep soul Harry. Hermione has been the only other student to test positively so far and she is a panther. Shows how strong her mind is. However, this just shows that you have a soul that is deeply intertwined with magic. You are very powerful Harry."
"I'm beginning to see that."
"Yes, well, I'm just running tests today. I only have a few more to test and we'll start practicing tomorrow. You all have the afternoon off by the way. Make sure you use it wisely. It'd be a good time to take a look at some of your transfiguration texts."
"I'll do that. Right now, I'm going to see if I can see the headmaster. I'll let Hermione know, though."
"See you at dinner."
"See you."
Harry apparated back to his dorm, where he relayed the message about the textbooks to Hermione, who immediately dashed into her room to grab the books.
"I'm off to see Dumbledore. I'm going to ask him about my mum."
"Right. I'll talk to you later, then."
Harry didn't try apparating to the Headmaster's office, but rather walked the long passage to the stone gargoyle. When he reached the statue, he stared at him, stumped as to his next course of action.
Without warning, the gargoyle jumped back and the door opened, Severus Snape appearing at the entrance to Dumbledore's office, "Ah, Potter. I thought I heard someone down here. Go on up. I daresay you'll be pleased to see Dumbledore's visitors."
Harry just nodded and was followed up to Dumbledore's door by Snape. He knocked on the door and it opened, revealing the circular office that Harry had grown to love.
Dumbledore was seated at his desk and Molly Weasley, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin and a blond wizard that Harry didn't know were seated on the opposite side.
"Ah, Harry, I just spoke with Arabella and she was telling us of your abilities regarding the Animagus Transformation. Very interesting, indeed. Oh, allow me to introduce Mundugus Fletcher. He has been assisting us in this latest fight against Voldemort. Now, is there anything I can help you with?"
"Er, actually, I have a rather private matter to discuss with you."
"Ah, yes, well, why don't you have a seat? We were actually just finishing our meeting. Sirius, go ahead with what you were saying."
"Well, none of the other operatives have turned up anything. We don't know where's he hiding."
"He hasn't summoned the Death Eaters since the beginning of the summer. It's been eerily quiet for some time," added Snape. "It seems that he's up to something, but as far as I know, only Lucius Malfoy, Peter Pettigrew and a few others know what it is. As far as I can tell, he's hiding someone, or at least, something, from the majority of the Death Eaters."
"Any idea what is it?" asked Remus.
"None. It's being held very close to the chest, so to speak."
Everyone just nodded as they took in the latest news. Harry's eyes jumped from face to face, as he looked around the room. As nervous as the talk about Voldemort made him, he was rather relieved to hear that Dumbledore's operatives were searching for Voldemort. They seemed to be operating under the assumption that it was safer to find him before he attacked the school or any other part of the wizard world.
"Well then, if no one has anything else to add, I think it's time we adjourn for this week. Remus, should you hear back from Hagrid, notify me immediately."
The werewolf nodded and stood as the others began to exit the office, offering goodbyes and well wishes for the upcoming school year to Harry. Harry waved goodbye rather absentmindedly as it dawned on him that Hagrid had not been at the Welcoming Feast. He silently wondered where Hagrid was, but Dumbledore interrupted his thoughts. "Would you like to see it?"
Harry turned to the old wizard, who knew without asking why Harry was there. Harry just nodded his agreement and Dumbledore stood and walked to the cabinet where Harry had seen the Pensieve last year. He opened the left door and hanging on the inside was a medium sized mirror. The frame was dark-green in colour and intricately carved. Moving closer, Harry noticed the outline of a dragon, which covered the frame. The head and tail were on opposite sides of some intricate symbol that Harry did not recognize.
"What-- what did she see?"
"Your mother saw her death, and your father's. I interrupted her view of the mirror and she only saw as far as Voldemort attempting to kill you. Before her death, your mother saw you live."
"May I look into the mirror?"
"I don't think that I can allow that Harry. The most important thing that one must know about seeing the future is that it can often be changed. If you were to see something that was terrible, you might not see it possible for it to be changed, and you'd expect the worst."
Harry nodded. A sudden flapping of wings sounded in the room as a great Eagle owl flew in through an open window. Dumbledore went to it and left Harry standing in front of the cabinet.
As discreetly as possible, Harry peered into the mirror and was surprised by what he saw.
Hermione, looking much older was sitting at a table staring at a decrepit piece of parchment in front of her. She appeared to be puzzling something out, when suddenly, she started. Grasping her quill, she began furiously writing on another parchment as he gaze shifted between the old parchment and a book lying open on the table.
Before he saw anything else, Harry moved from the mirror as he heard Dumbledore moving behind him. The Headmaster was standing at his desk, rummaging through the drawers. He found whatever it was he was looking for and placed it into a book that had not been on the desk before.
"Harry, I'm afraid that I'm going to have to cut this meeting short. I have been summoned to London on urgent ministry business. If you should need me, Hedwig will know where to find me." Dumbledore disappeared with a pop, leaving Harry muttering about the impossibility of apparating off of Hogwarts grounds.
***
Harry stared out the window by the fireplace. He was waiting for Hermione to finish dressing so that they could go to breakfast in the Great Hall. He yawned as he looked at the dark clouds looming in the distance. He had been practicing Transfiguration methods until two o'clock in the morning. They had a short exam after breakfast this morning that would involve changing a rock into a broomstick and a saltshaker into a compass. Personally, Harry thought the objects they were transfiguring were rather random but Arabella had explained that when you were in a cell being held by a Death Eater, you never knew what would be in there and had to be able to transfigure any object into something useful. Harry hadn't had much trouble with it, but Hermione was struggling slightly "Harry, it makes no sense! Why would there be a salt shaker there?"
"I think you're missing the point. She wants us to be able to make any object we come across into something useful."
"Bloody hell," Hermione swore as the saltshaker began spinning around on the table top, before point directly out a north window.
Breakfast was uneventful. Ron complained loudly about Potions class as Harry, Hermione and Ginny transfigured the saltshakers on the table. They only stopped when one that Harry had been practicing on turned into a compass that exploded in a flurry of salt when the needle began to spin.
***
Luckily, everyone passed the Transfiguration test. Apparition lessons had followed lunch and Harry was lying in his dorm room preparing to settle in for the night when his door flew open.
"Harry! You must see this!"
Hermione jumped on the bed waving an Evening Prophet article in Harry's face. He grabbed it from her and his mouth dropped in shock as he read the headline.
MINISTER FUDGE DISAPPEARS
Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge disappeared this afternoon. He was seen leaving a conference with Professor Albus Dumbledore when a bright flash of purple light blinded everyone in the immediate vicinity. When the light dimmed, Cornelius Fudge had disappeared, leaving a disturbed Albus Dumbledore standing alone on the front steps of the Ministry of Magic. In an emergency meeting of the Wizards' Council, Bernard Conley was appointed the temporary Minister of Magic.
The temporary Minister of Magic is a virtually unknown paper pusher at the Ministry. He started his job at the Ministry in mid-July. When asked about this unprecedented decision, the head of the Wizards' Council, Lucius Malfoy proclaimed that the unknown Ministry worker was proclaimed as Minister so that the other Heads of Departments may continue their work in these changing times. Other members of the Council proclaimed it was a safety measure.
The new Minister will be making an address to the wizarding community of Great Britain tomorrow afternoon on the Hogwarts' grounds. It will be broadcast over the WWN at three o'clock in the afternoon.
***
End Chapter Six
Author name: atlantispotter
Author email: atlantispotter@yahoo.com
Category: Romance
Keywords: Year 5 Harry Hermione Ginny Petunia
Rating: R
Spoilers: SS/PS, CoS, PoA, GoF, FB, QTTA
Summary: Harry begins having strange dreams, telling him about future events. He finds help in a very surprising person and fights in his heart between Ginny and Hermione. A Prophecy, intensive training and whether or not a flock of owls is all that scary.
DISCLAIMER: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Harry Potter and the Veneficus Quies
Chapter Six: From Rags to Riches
Harry looked at the massive scarlet steam engine stretching in front of him. He balanced precariously on his left ankle, which he had injured in the fall from his broomstick yesterday. As much as Harry admired Mrs. Weasley, she was no Madam Pomfrey and could not properly mend his ankle. It was still touchy and slightly swollen, so he had been treading carefully for the past twenty-four hours.
Ginny stood next to him on Platform 9 ¾ as they waited for Hermione and Ron to step through the barrier. George and Fred had gone through before them and were already searching for their friends. Ron stepped through first, touting two tiny trunks. Hermione followed through after him. She looked exhausted and was favouring her right foot. The two walked up to Harry and Ginny.
"Hermione, we have to go to the front compartments. I guess there's a short meeting for prefects. Will you save us seats in the compartment?" he asked, turning to Ron.
"Sure. I guess we'll see you in a little bit then."
Mrs. Weasley then showered them all with kisses and hugs, having just appeared from the barrier. She wished them all a good school year and reminded them to owl her before waving them off. Ron and Ginny turned and walked to the back of the train and Harry guided Hermione to the front. They were careful not to stand too close to each other giving the episode yesterday.
Harry grimaced as he thought of last night. He had carried Hermione into the Burrow and deposited her on the couch in the living room. Mrs. Weasley had rushed into the room and began fretting over Hermione. Harry collapsed on the floor next to the couch and Hermione reached for his hand. They stayed that way while Mrs. Weasley fussed and prodded them. After she had finished administering to their cuts and bruises, she'd vacated the room for Ron and Ginny to come in.
They were both positively peeved. Ron because Harry had not let him anywhere near Hermione and Ginny because Harry had not checked on her after she had lost control of her broom. Ron began raving about what a complete, girl-friend stealing cad Harry was until Hermione had promptly slapped him.
"He saved my life, you prat! Where were you during all of this?"
"I'd collided with Harry and fallen off of his broom."
"Ah, so why is that you aren't standing here dead?"
"Because Harry cushioned my fall."
"Ron! You are the biggest arse I've ever met! He's saved my life and yours and all you can do is whine? Grow up!"
It was at this point that Harry stormed out of the room, followed closely by Ginny who was furious with him.
"Why is it always Hermione? I'm your girlfriend, remember?"
"I refuse to even give you the satisfaction of a response. I guess pig-headedness is in the Weasley blood!" Harry shouted, very uncharacteristically, before slamming his way upstairs.
By some unanimous decision, they had all acted like nothing had happened the next morning, especially in front of the rest of the family. Mrs. Weasley had done some last minute worrying about Harry and Hermione, giving them each small vials of a painkilling potion.
As soon as Mrs. Weasley disappeared, Ginny and Ron had made it a point to studiously ignore both Harry and Hermione. Harry was of course, angry as anything about it and Hermione wanted to give Harry a very wide berth.
Great, the whole world is against me. Bloody fantastic.
They entered the prefects' compartment. The other fifth year prefects were already waiting. Harry immediately noticed Draco Malfoy, who looked much less threatening without his thugs by his side. He also recognized a girl from Slytherin, though he could not remember her name. He also saw Stephen Cornfoot and Padma Patil from Ravenclaw and Susan Bones and Justin Finch- Fletchey of Hufflepuff.
Harry was surprised to see Professor McGonagall standing in the compartment.
"Ah, Mr. Potter, Ms. Granger, you've arrived. Excellent. Now we can begin. You have all been selected as Prefects for your respective houses because you are the top students in your houses for your year. You are all very intelligent and diligent and will bring much pride to your houses. Now, I'd like to introduce you all in case there are some of you who are not familiar with each other. From Gryffindor we have Hermione Granger and Harry Potter. Representing Hufflepuff House, we have Susan Bones and Justin Finch-Fletchey, from Ravenclaw, Stephen Cornfoot and Padma Patil and finally, from Slytherin, we have Draco Malfoy and Tracey Davis.
"As you very well know, you all have many important duties this year. You are in charge of your respective houses. When the head of your house is not present, you are the heads. You must enforce the school rules, issue detentions and deduct house points. I realize that for those of you that have been accepted into the Intensive Magical Study program, this will be a somewhat difficult task, particularly for Ms. Granger and Mr. Potter, seeing as both of you are in the program.
"We have devised a charm that will allow you to watch the goings-on in your common rooms and in your dooms the fireplaces have been linked directly to those in your common rooms.
"If you'll all come here, I will give you your prefect badges as well as the charms for those who will no longer be living in their houses."
Harry looked at Hermione and found a shocked expression that mirrored his own. They had very little knowledge of how the program would be run and by the looks of things, they would not be finding out until they arrived at Hogwarts.
***
Ron and Ginny sat opposite each other in the compartment. Ginny was angrily flipping through a copy of Witch Weekly and Ron was staring stonily at the trees whipping past the train.
The silence in the compartment was shattered by Ginny tearing a page in her magazine. Ron jumped at the racket and looked daggers at Ginny.
"What?"
"Could you keep it down?"
"Oh, stuff it Ron."
"Nice way to treat your brother, Gin."
"Yeah, well, if it wasn't for you, none of this would have happened."
"What the hell does that mean?"
"That means that if you weren't such an insufferable git, maybe Hermione wouldn't be so angry with you all the time and have to seek solace in my boyfriend."
"Well maybe if you were a better girlfriend--"
"Oh, that has nothing to do with it. You were the one who wasn't there to save her. Maybe if you were a little more like Harry, none of this would have happened."
"Bloody hell! I'm not Harry! Why doesn't anyone get that? What's so special about bloody Harry anyway?"
"Harry is only the greatest wizard of our time!"
"Oh, yeah, you would say that. You're all mushy-gushy in love with him, after all."
Ginny turned scarlet and whipped her magazine at Ron. "I am not in love with him!"
"You are so. It's all Harry this and Harry that. Frankly, I'm rather sick of it and one more thing--"
Ron never finished his sentence because at that moment the door to the compartment banged open and Harry stood at the door looking angry enough to spit nails.
"Enough! What on earth are you two arguing about?"
Ron and Ginny both reddened even deeper. Hermione shouldered her way into the room with a look that was distinctly reminiscent of Professor McGonagall. The anger in her eyes danced about dangerously and Ron turned purple with embarrassment.
"I am ashamed of you both! Fighting like this! Can't we just get beyond this? Ron, I have no feelings for Harry beyond the ones that are strictly platonic. Ginny, Ron does not have to be more like Harry; he's fine just the way he is. Harry is my best friend, as are you Ron and you need to learn to deal with that. Ginny, I'm sure you feel that I am deeply infringing upon your rights to Harry and I'm sorry about that. If something is bothering you, let me know. Now, let's just all say we're sorry and enjoy our last few hours of summer."
The tone in her voice left no room for debate and everyone in the small compartment grumbled their apologies.
Harry and Hermione settled into the compartment and eventually the tense atmosphere faded away. By the time the snack cart rolled around, everyone was anticipating the new school year and bantering jovially.
Harry and Ron stumbled back into the compartment with loads of Cauldron Cakes, Chocolate Frogs and Pumpkin Pasties. Ron dumped his pile of treats onto a seat and pulled four bottles of iced pumpkin juice from his robes.
"So, what was the prefects' meeting about?" He asked, looking at Harry.
"Oh you know, McGonagall giving us a lecture on the importance of following the rules. I really don't know why I got selected to be a prefect."
"Hey, you and me both," Ron chided.
"Did Professor McGonagall say anything about the program, Hermione?" asked Ginny.
"Not really. She gave Harry and I these so that we could keep an eye on the Gryffindor common room. From the sound of the things, I don't think we'll be living in Gryffindor Tower anymore."
"Wait a second. You mean that Gryffindor won't actually have any prefects living there?" Ron asked, looking as if he was developing a plan. "I should mention this to Fred and George."
"Well, it's not like we won't be watching you guys."
"Err, that's just creepy Hermione."
She playfully smacked Ron on the arm and he grinned at her before giving her a peck on the lips.
"Urgh! Get a room! Yuck!" cried Harry and Ginny, tossing various candies at the couple. This caused a fierce battle to rage inside the compartment until the compartment door slid open again.
"Oww! Damn it Potter! Can't you all act your ages for ten seconds?"
"Malfoy, sod off."
"As happy as I am to be here, Weasley, I came to collect your sister, Potter and Buckteeth over there. A message has been sent from Hogwarts that all the students in the Intensive Magical Study program meet up front. Guess that leaves you by yourself to wander in your neanderlithic thoughts, Weasel."
"Shut it."
"Your wit astounds me. Well then, let's go. Potter, Weasley, Granger, move along."
The three Gryffindors shot dirty looks at Malfoy as they gathered their things. They followed him out into the corridor after muttering goodbyes to Ron.
When the reached the front of the train, they were each handed a portkey. Harry felt the very familiar tugging behind his navel and found himself standing in a stately, yet comfortable room. A large fireplace took up most of the wall behind him. A fire burned cheerily in its hearth, but the room was surprisingly cool. A thick, plush grey carpet was laid on the floor and the richly appointed furniture had varying tones of deep reds and blues. Large windows added to the lightness and serenity of the room.
The room was very unfamiliar to Harry. He'd never seen anything like it in all of Hogwarts and seriously wondered where they were. It was then that he noticed the other nine students in the room. Before he began questioning who some of them were, he heard someone clear their throat and was surprised to see Albus Dumbledore standing in front of them, eyes twinkling joyously.
"Welcome to the Hogwarts School of Intensive Magical Study. As you may have already noted, you are on the Hogwarts grounds. This will be your home for the next two terms. You will learn here, study here and sleep here. You are welcome to dine at Hogwarts with your fellow classmates, if you wish, but your dorms have fully appointed kitchens should you decide to stay here. I'm sure you're all wondering about the new program. IMS, as we like to call it, has been designed to accelerate the magical studies of our ten best students each year. We have at least one representative from each year, beginning with fourth, and representatives from each of the four houses.
"This year will be very busy for you. We have several prefects in our midst as well as Quidditch team members. I hope you all plan on continuing in your school activities. Now, I think it best that I turn the podium over to your teacher. The other students will be arriving shortly and I have to be present for the sorting ceremony. I hope that you all will join us in the Great Hall for the Welcoming Feast, which should begin in about half an hour," Dumbledore smiled at them, the child-like excitement visible in his eyes. He stepped to the side and revealed a door.
Harry nearly fell over when Arabella Figg walked through the door. The blond witch winked at he and Hermione and carefully ran her eyes over each student's face.
"Welcome. I'm sure you all have about a million questions, but let me explain a few things first. I'm Arabella Figg; just call me Arabella. I'm not one for all this Professor nonsense. We'll be studying Charms, Transfiguration, Potions, Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures, Divination, History of Magic, Muggle Studies, Apparition, Animagi and of course, Defense Against the Dark Arts. We will be studying these topics in six- week blocks. I'll be handing out the schedules tomorrow and we'll be starting in two days' time. In the two days before lessons we'll be starting Apparition lessons, which are going to be a crucial point in your studies. I'll also be running tests to see if any of you have Animagi capabilities, in which case, you'll begin learning the process.
"Alright, now, living arrangements. There are five dorms in this building. Each dorm consists of two bedrooms and a small common area with a kitchenette and bathroom. You may live with whomever you want, regardless of gender. Let's face it, you're all mature and smart enough to handle living more independently. Of course, there's a house kitchen that you all may use and a large common area. We will be studying from ten o'clock in the morning until four in the afternoon. This arrangement will be very different from what you are used to. There will be more independent studying, guest lecturers, projects, and field trips. Your house curfew will be midnight, but keep in mind that you are only allowed in the Hogwarts main building until eleven, when the library closes. You are allowed to go to Hogsmeade when you wish but it is preferable that you are not alone when doing so. Any questions?"
The ten students stared at her incredulously. Timidly, a girl Harry did not recognize raised her hand, "So we're pretty much free to do whatever we want?"
"Yes, but here's the catch. You're all required to keep top marks. If you slip one time, one time, you will be kicked out of the program. We have a waiting list and poor performance will not be tolerated. You are under vigorous training methods. We are training you in case of a Dark uprising. You are the ten most powerful witches and wizards, underage at least, in Britain. That's a heavy weight on your shoulders. Can you all accept that?"
They all looked at her and nodded unanimously, taking comfort in the support of each other.
"Great. Now, I believe Dumbledore said something about a welcoming feast? I know I'm hungry."
The air in the room lightened considerably as they all laughed. Arabella turned back to the door she had come from and held it open for them. Harry glanced through and saw the entrance hall. With a shrug in the general direction of Hermione, he walked through.
Ron was walking down the stairs from Gryffindor tower just as Harry entered the Entrance Hall. He dashed over and nearly knocked Hermione to the ground.
"Ow! Ron! Be careful!" Hermione winced in pain. Ron's face immediately fell and he looped an arm around her waist.
"Are you alright?" he asked, with a very concerned expression on his face. Ginny walked in, talking to the girl who had questioned Arabella earlier.
"Harry, Hermione, Ron this is Cadence. She's a Ravenclaw fourth year."
The trio nodded, as if this was not new information to them. The five IMS students began excitedly discussing the program with Ron as they entered the Great Hall.
Harry felt great warmth as he entered. Despite the many upheavals of the summer, Hogwarts still felt like home and he was glad to be back. With a sudden rush of excitement, he put his arm around Ginny and pulled her close. She seemed to sense the change in his apprehensive mood and grinned up at him before giving him a slight kiss on the cheek.
Dinner was a cheerful event. Everyone was glad to be back at Hogwarts. A feeling of safety and well being permeated the air. The food was as wonderful as ever and everyone chattered excitedly. The students in the IMS program were sought out and questioned immediately by the other Hogwarts students. Dumbledore gave the traditional opening speech and the Hogwarts school song rang throughout the hall in a cacophony of sound.
"Excellent! Extraordinary performance this year! I have a few last minute announcements before you all return to your houses for the night. As you know, last year, Hogwarts held a Yule Ball over Christmas holidays. We have decided to make it a tradition, though on a somewhat smaller scale. We will also be hosting a Halloween ball this year. All students are welcome at the Halloween ball, but the Yule Ball will only be open to fourth years and older. Now, everyone off to bed, you have an early start tomorrow!"
With that, the Great Hall began to clear out.
Hermione and Harry waved goodbye to Ginny, promising to meet her in the IMS common room later. They had to show the first years into Gryffindor Tower and make sure everyone was settled in.
"Gryffindor first years! Over here!" Hermione shouted. Ron and Harry looked at her and burst out laughing.
"What?"
"Loud enough, there Granger?" Draco Malfoy called, who was surrounded by Slytherin First years, who were looking rather terrified.
Hermione shut him up with a look as the Gryffindor First years began ambling around her. Quickly, she and Harry rounded them up and led the way to Gryffindor Tower. Harry turned to the Fat Lady and said the password ("Gobstones") and led the first year boys into their dormitories. They immediately settled into their dorms without so much as a fight. Harry asked them if they needed anything and showed them the small charm near the door that they needed to activate should they need anything.
Ron was sitting in the common room.
"Where's Hermione?"
"Dunno. I think she's still with the girls."
"Yikes. The boys were pretty good. Percy told us some horror stories about the boys he's had to show the ropes."
Ron grimaced. "So, who are you rooming with?"
"No idea. I don't think anybody's decided yet."
***
It didn't take long for Harry to find out how very wrong he was. While he had spent dinner talking and chatting with friends he had not seen since last term, nearly everyone else in IMS had paired up with a person to room with. Ginny would be rooming with the Ravenclaw she'd introduced them to earlier, Cadence. Hermione would be rooming with another Gryffindor fifth year named Akilah Jones (Harry had no idea who she was, but realized she had been his classes all five years, he mentally hit himself at this). Padma Patil would be rooming with Cho Chang and Katie Bell and Susan Bones being the last girls left had decided to room with each other. Harry realized this and quickly threw a temper tantrum to Hermione.
"But Draco Malfoy! Please Hermione! See if Akilah will switch with me! Please?"
"Oh, Harry, grow up! Its just Malfoy. He's the only other boy, what did you expect?"
"Just Malfoy? This is the Malfoy that calls you mudblood and regularly insults your boyfriend!"
Hermione gave him a measuring look before turning on her heel and walking into her room.
"Akilah?"
"What's up Hermione?"
"I have a favour to ask you."
"Sure."
"Do you know Draco Malfoy?"
"Yup, our families have been friends for ages. Draco and I practically grew up together."
"Really? That's so strange."
"Oh believe me, I know. It was such a huge scandal when I got into Gryffindor. My family nearly disowned me!"
Harry and Hermione looked at her in shock. "Well, in that case, do you think you might like to room with him?"
"Why, so you two can have a little love nest?" She cracked, her deep brown eyes beaming at the pair of them from her dark face.
"Er, no. Heh, well, er, Harry just doesn't get on well with Draco."
"I know, Hermione, I was just teasing. Sure, I'll room with him. Cheers, darling," Akilah said as she waved her wand in the room. Her things all flew into the trunk and with a wave of her hand, she was off with her trunk levitating behind her.
Harry sagged against the doorframe. "Thank Merlin. I would have killed that slimy prat if I had to share a room with him."
"Right, now, hurry up and unpack. Ginny and I wanted to go back to Gryffindor Tower to play Exploding Snap with Ron."
Harry went out into the common room where his trunk was still waiting. He quickly levitated it into his room and met Hermione and Ginny back in the common room.
***
The scarlet and gold common room was nearly deserted as Ginny, Hermione and Harry climbed through the portrait hole. Except for two people sitting at the far corner of the room, there was no one in sight.
"Ha! Checkmate!"
"What? How?"
"Look, both white rooks are set to take the king. Any retreat is impossible! Ha! I have beaten the great Ron Weasley!"
"Yeah, yeah. It's because you're so pretty that I let you win."
Hermione was across the room in a flash.
"Ron, perhaps if you'd been paying more attention to the game instead of Lavender you would have noticed that you easily could have taken her king about two turns ago with your Queen and rook."
Ron jumped at the sound of her voice and turned to look at her. "Hermione, love, heh, I, er, didn't hear you guys come in."
"Yes, well, how about that game of Exploding Snap!" Harry cut in, looking nervously between the two.
Hermione looked at Ron, fire dancing in her eyes as he completely avoided her gaze. Within seconds, Lavender has excused herself and dashed upstairs.
The tone lightened considerably, but occasionally, Harry caught Hermione looking daggers at Ron. After several games, Ginny was sleeping on Harry's shoulder and Hermione was dozing in a chair.
"I think I'm going to take these two back to IMS. They're exhausted."
"Do you need my help?"
"Yeah, just grab Hermione,"
Ron scooped Hermione off of the chair and she nuzzled into his chest. Harry gently woke Ginny up and she pulled herself off of the chair, stretching and groaning.
"What time is it?"
"About a quarter to eleven."
"Ooh, wait, Ron can't leave Gryffindor tower. He's not allowed out."
"It'll be alright. He has permission."
Ginny just looked at Harry, her eyes full of uncertainty. Finally she shrugged and followed after Ron, who was still carrying Hermione.
When they arrived at IMS, Ron looked around the common room.
"Well, this is a pretty nice set-up. Alright, we are you girls sleeping?"
Ginny just stared at Ron wide-eyed. "Err... well, I'm right over here. I'll head off now. Goodnight!" she said quickly, planting a kiss firmly on Harry's lips before going into her dorm.
"Alright, that was weird, where's Hermione sleeping?"
"She's right through here," Harry pointed, leading the way into the dorm room. He nodded to Ron before heading through the door opposite Hermione's.
"Harry? Where are you going?"
"To my room. You know, where my bed is? To sleep?" Harry prodded.
"Um, right, so then how is Hermione in this door? Wouldn't this be the boys' dorm?"
"No, this would be mine and Hermione's dorm."
Ron just sniffed, the anger flaring up in his eyes. "Ah, roomies, of course. Well, wait here, I'll be right back."
Ron whisked Hermione into the room and must have tossed her onto her bed, for he was back in the common room in a few seconds. Harry just looked at Ron, completely astounded.
"So, er, what's the problem?"
"I don't want you and Hermione living together."
"It's not like we share a bedroom or anything! We're just roomies!"
"Yeah, but... you might... you know..."
"Study together?" Harry offered.
"Well, what if you walked in on her while she was in the shower?"
"Are you trying to pick fights with everyone in Gryffindor today? Because you're doing a great job."
"Well, it's just, she's my girlfriend!"
"Yes, I know and she's my best friend. Just chill, ok?"
Ron looked Harry in the eyes, as if searching for some hidden meaning to the situation. Apparently, he was satisfied by whatever he saw and just gave Harry a curt nod before turning towards the door.
"Er, Ron, are you just going to stroll through Hogwarts?"
"Oh, right, um..."
"Here, let me get my Invisibility Cloak."
Harry returned with the silvery material in his hands. He handed it to Ron, who immediately covered himself and left.
Back in his dorm, Harry got a good look around the room.
He was somewhat glad to be back in a scarlet and gold atmosphere. His dorm room reminded him of the Gryffindor common room. A fire burned cheerfully in the small corner fireplace. There was a large, squishy armchair plunked next to the fire, complete with a small table. A few torches lit the stone walls and the only natural light came from the small windows near the ceiling. As it was dark, the windows did little to lighten the darkness of the room. A large four-poster bed was in the corner, flanked by a night table. Along one wall were a desk, a small table, a large bookcase and another chair. A large wardrobe completed the welcoming room.
"Harry?" came Hermione's soft voice, accompanied by a soft knock on the door.
"Come on in."
"I heard what Ron said to you and I'm sorry he acted like that."
"It's fine. I guess I sort of understand where's he coming from."
"Really?"
"No. But it doesn't matter. What's wrong?"
"Well, I was thinking at dinner, are you going to ask Dumbledore about your mum?"
"What about her?"
"Well surely she told him about the Mirror. Aren't you going to find out what she told him?"
"I guess that I haven't really thought about it. Well you're over there, can you put some water into Daryl's bowl?"
Hermione just nodded and picked up the water pitcher from the small table. She walked to the small bowls that were next to the desk and filled one. The small dog just looked up at her from its place on Harry's bed. "So, what do you think about the apparition lessons?"
"Well, it'll be interesting to learn how to do it, even if it's pretty useless for a few years."
"Maybe we'll get special permits or something?"
"Like what? We have to apparate with a licensed adult at all times?"
"I don't know. It's not important. I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I'm getting very excited about this program," Hermione said as she sat on Harry's bed, watching him unpack his trunk.
Harry was hanging all of his robes and clothing into the wardrobe. After finishing that task, he returned to the trunk and banished all of the books onto the bookshelves. He sent his cauldron and potion kit to the small table. Finally, he pulled out Chief Pip.
"Harry Potter! You said I wouldn't be in there for too long."
"Well, I'm sorry about that. It was out of my hands."
"Where's Miss Hermione?"
"Right there."
"And the pup?"
"With Hermione. Are you okay?"
"No. I was in that blasted trunk for nearly a week! Now, put me down."
Harry did as he was told and set the small bear down who immediately jumped onto the bed and with a pat on the head for Hermione, snuggled himself next to the dog.
Hermione laughed and shook her head. She quickly lost her amusement and turned to Harry. "Do you think Ron is cheating on me?"
Harry dropped Hedwig's cage with a clatter. "Er, I don't think so. Is this about the whole chess game with Lavender?"
"Yes."
"Oh, Hermione, I think that was just a game."
"But he said she was pretty..."
"Well, she is. Granted, not as pretty as some other bushy-haired girls I know, but she's got her good points," Harry answered as Hermione tossed a pillow at him. "I'll be right back."
Harry grabbed his pyjamas and headed into the bathroom to change.
When he entered his room again, Hermione, Daryl and Pip were heaped together on the bed, stretched out in languid comfort amongst the pillows.
"Hermione, I don't think you should stay here," Harry whispered as he gently shook her. However, she didn't wake and he just shrugged, climbing into bed. At least she's on top of the covers and the bed's rather big. Ron'll never know.
***
The next morning Harry awoke and found his arms wrapped around Hermione, who was snuggled closely against his chest. His breath caught in his throat as he looked at her thin form, tucked comfortably into his arms. He shot up. "Hermione!"
"Harry? Wha... is something wrong?"
"No, nothing, er, its morning. We'll be late for breakfast and I know you wouldn't want to miss Ron."
Hermione narrowed her eyes at him and suddenly the memory of the night before hit her. Eyes growing very wide, "Oh, Harry, did I actually sleep in here? We mustn't tell Ron! Oh no! Just forget that last night happened. Oh! Er, I'll just go get dressed. See you at breakfast," she said hurriedly as she dashed from his room.
Harry rubbed at his temples. Ron will kill me if he finds out. Shaking away his thoughts, Harry grabbed his school robes and headed into the bathroom to get ready for the day.
The plans to meet Ron at breakfast were dashed as soon as Harry arrived in the common room. Arabella was sitting in an armchair and the others were clustered in chairs around her.
"Ah, Harry, glad you could make it. We'll be having breakfast in here this morning, there's a lot I wanted to go over with everyone. I've finished the schedule for this year, as well as polished up the class curriculum. I want to discuss all that with you and also begin the Animagi tests before lunch.
"Starting the day after next, we're going to begin with Transfiguration. I'm going to warn you right now, you won't be transferring any buttons into beetles as long as I'm your teacher. We're going to be studying more useful Transfigurations, such as a stick into a sword. That can be very useful when your attacker has disarmed you and you don't have a weapon-Yes Hermione?"
"How would we transfigure a stick into a sword if our wands have been taken?"
"Will, Hermione. It's all about the intent. You're all strong enough that with practice you can do magic without a wand. For most of you, it will be limited, but for a few, it will come as naturally as breathing. We'll also be studying the theories of Transfiguration, as well Animagi and Apparition. Until mid-October, Transfiguration is the hot- topic around here. Afterwards, we'll be studying Divination and Defense Against the Dark Arts through mid-November. Charms and making another appearance, Defense Against the Dark Arts, will be our study until after Christmas. A mish-mashed block of Astronomy, Duelling and an Independent Study of DADA will occupy your time until the beginning of March at which point we'll be studying your favourite and mine, Potions. This will be studied jointly with Herbology. And of course, in mid-April, we're going to pick up Muggle Studies and the History of Magic, which will bring us right up to the OWLs, which you may or may not be excused from, I haven't decided yet. The useful little class of Care of Magical Creatures is scheduled for every other Wednesday, but I've decided to hold that at my discretion. Any other questions?"
The ten pupils seated around Arabella's high backed chair stared at her incredulously. Only Hermione raised her hand, "Could you repeat that last bit after Herbology?"
"Don't worry about it. Here-" and with a wave of her hand, pieces of parchment with a schedule appeared in each students hand. Arabella continued her lecture about each class they would be taking, with detailed commentary on the theories behind each course as well as the integrated study of Dark Arts into everything they would be studying. As she talked, the schedules filled themselves in with important points or dates.
Nearly an hour and a half later, Harry was beginning to get dizzy at the thought of the upcoming school year. Arabella had finished her general descriptions and had started on Apparition.
"Has anyone here ever tried to apparate? No? Well, then. Let me explain something, and this applies to Transfiguration as well.
"I doubt that any of you have ever taken any sort of physics classes, so I'll put this as simply as possible. Muggles are confined by physical limits. No muggle can turn a beetle into a button. They have a very sound belief in physical constraints. However, due to magical capabilities, we aren't confined such as Muggles. Unscientifically speaking, we have the ability to take all the little bits that make up a beetle and rearrange them into a button. We can alter even the tiniest characteristics with a thought.
"So, knowing that, apparition is simply rearranging ourselves to be somewhere else. There are no charms or wand waving or incantations for this. It's all in your head. That's why it's so carefully regulated and watched. Imagine if you were having a lousy day and weren't paying attention. You'd splinch yourself into a hutch. It'd take ages to sort out, believe me. Usually, we teach this to seventh years, but I think you all need to know how to do it. It's vital and anything that will increase your arsenal against the Dark forces is worth the effort of learning it. It's rather difficult to start Apparition, but once you've got it, it's a piece of cake. Now, I want you all to partner up. Stand facing your partner and study the area directly behind them. Picture it in your head and then simply will yourself there. Picture the area as you see it, and then imagine yourself in that area."
Hermione looked as if she didn't believe a word Arabella had said, but quickly pulled Harry off the chair he was sitting on.
"Ok, you go first."
Harry simply shrugged and looked at the area behind Hermione. He memorized it for a few seconds and closed his eyes, the image burned against his eyelids. He willed himself there and when he opened his eyes was standing behind Hermione. He tapped her on the shoulder and she spun around wide-eyed. "I don't think we're supposed to grasp it that fast!"
"Go on! Try it, Mione."
She looked at him with worry in her eyes, but appeared to be studying intently the scene behind him. She too shut her eyes and after only a few seconds, Harry heard a soft pop. Hermione was standing directly behind them. The grin on her face was wiped away as Arabella rushed over.
"Both of you! Front and centre. I want you to show everyone else what you just did."
Harry found himself being crowded around by his classmates as he stood face to face with Hermione. They ran through the exercises again as everyone watched.
"Now, its very unusual that anyone should grasp this so quickly. However, Harry and Hermione here are the two most powerful students in all of Britain. In fact, compared with other MQ tests from other countries in the world, I think it's safe to say that these two are the most powerful underage wizards in the world. With some training, you two will be right up there with the best of the best."
Harry and Hermione both blushed furiously as everyone stared at them. Arabella dissipated the group and told Harry and Hermione to try apparating to other places in the IMS building.
Harry successfully found himself lying in his bed, standing on Hermione's trunk, facing the shower in Ginny's bathroom and in the middle of the kitchen before he headed back to the common room.
"I think you've all had enough practice apparating for now. You're all free to do whatever you'd like while I test for Animagi abilities. I'll call you one at a time and we'll try a few things out."
Harry and Hermione both apparated back to their dorm room.
"Harry! I can't believe it. We're the top students in the world."
"Maybe. Probably not a good idea to let it get to your head though. So, what do you think of the Animagi stuff?"
"I'm not sure. From what I read, if you have the abilities, the animal you become is a representation of your most innate capabilities. It'll be interesting to find out whether or not we can do it."
On cue, a sound like a switch clicking echoed in the room.
"Hermione, if you could, please come to my office."
"I'm on my way." With a pop, Hermione was gone. Harry wandered into his dorm room, searching for some form of entertainment. He found it in the form of Daryl, Pip and Crookshanks, who were crowded onto Harry's bed. Pip had drawn up some sort of elaborate diagram and was gesturing wildly to Crookshanks and Daryl, who were doing great impersonations of very confused statues. Crookshanks was watching the small teddy bear with an emotion that could only be described as amusement in his eyes. Daryl had her head cocked to the side and broke the statuesque pose with an occasional tail wag. Furious, the ten-inch teddy bear tore his drawing in half and threw it onto the floor. Languidly, Crookshanks swiped a paw gently at the bear, knocking him to the side. Daryl jumped to her feet and began barking at Pip, who was lying on his head on the floor.
Crookshanks slid off the bed and under it, in search of something to play with as Daryl barked at Pip who was brushing himself off. Harry moved aside as the bear and dog slinked past him.
"Pip!"
"Yes, Harry Potter?"
"What are you doing?"
"Daryl and I were going to, er, outside?"
"Um, no. You two stay in here. Don't make me put you on top of the bookshelf."
They came sheepishly back into the room as Harry heard the click again, with a simultaneous pop.
"Hermione, who let the bear out of the trunk?" at the same time that Arabella called Harry to her office.
"Er, I did. He was making such a racket that I couldn't stand it any longer. Sorry."
"Hmm… maybe Pip could live in your room!
"Er, no. I got him for you Harry! He's your bear."
"I'm so lucky. Alright, I'll be right back." And Harry popped away before he remembered to ask Hermione what the test had been like.
"Hello, Harry."
"'Lo Arabella."
"Alright, let's begin. Give me your right hand."
Harry did so. Arabella slathered his hand in some sort of black ink.
"Now, just press your hand on this parchment."
Again, Harry followed her instructions. The black hand on the paper slowly turned a deep red colour and quickly turned into a sort of claw with what looked like golden nails. Harry was surprised when the image changed again, this time to a massive golden paw, followed by a black paw, a black hoof, a grey paw and ended with a human hand.
"Harry, do you know what this means?"
"Should I be afraid to find out?"
"It looks like you're a multiple shaped Animagi. Phoenix, Lion, Dog, Horse, and Cat. You have a very deep soul Harry. Hermione has been the only other student to test positively so far and she is a panther. Shows how strong her mind is. However, this just shows that you have a soul that is deeply intertwined with magic. You are very powerful Harry."
"I'm beginning to see that."
"Yes, well, I'm just running tests today. I only have a few more to test and we'll start practicing tomorrow. You all have the afternoon off by the way. Make sure you use it wisely. It'd be a good time to take a look at some of your transfiguration texts."
"I'll do that. Right now, I'm going to see if I can see the headmaster. I'll let Hermione know, though."
"See you at dinner."
"See you."
Harry apparated back to his dorm, where he relayed the message about the textbooks to Hermione, who immediately dashed into her room to grab the books.
"I'm off to see Dumbledore. I'm going to ask him about my mum."
"Right. I'll talk to you later, then."
Harry didn't try apparating to the Headmaster's office, but rather walked the long passage to the stone gargoyle. When he reached the statue, he stared at him, stumped as to his next course of action.
Without warning, the gargoyle jumped back and the door opened, Severus Snape appearing at the entrance to Dumbledore's office, "Ah, Potter. I thought I heard someone down here. Go on up. I daresay you'll be pleased to see Dumbledore's visitors."
Harry just nodded and was followed up to Dumbledore's door by Snape. He knocked on the door and it opened, revealing the circular office that Harry had grown to love.
Dumbledore was seated at his desk and Molly Weasley, Sirius Black, Remus Lupin and a blond wizard that Harry didn't know were seated on the opposite side.
"Ah, Harry, I just spoke with Arabella and she was telling us of your abilities regarding the Animagus Transformation. Very interesting, indeed. Oh, allow me to introduce Mundugus Fletcher. He has been assisting us in this latest fight against Voldemort. Now, is there anything I can help you with?"
"Er, actually, I have a rather private matter to discuss with you."
"Ah, yes, well, why don't you have a seat? We were actually just finishing our meeting. Sirius, go ahead with what you were saying."
"Well, none of the other operatives have turned up anything. We don't know where's he hiding."
"He hasn't summoned the Death Eaters since the beginning of the summer. It's been eerily quiet for some time," added Snape. "It seems that he's up to something, but as far as I know, only Lucius Malfoy, Peter Pettigrew and a few others know what it is. As far as I can tell, he's hiding someone, or at least, something, from the majority of the Death Eaters."
"Any idea what is it?" asked Remus.
"None. It's being held very close to the chest, so to speak."
Everyone just nodded as they took in the latest news. Harry's eyes jumped from face to face, as he looked around the room. As nervous as the talk about Voldemort made him, he was rather relieved to hear that Dumbledore's operatives were searching for Voldemort. They seemed to be operating under the assumption that it was safer to find him before he attacked the school or any other part of the wizard world.
"Well then, if no one has anything else to add, I think it's time we adjourn for this week. Remus, should you hear back from Hagrid, notify me immediately."
The werewolf nodded and stood as the others began to exit the office, offering goodbyes and well wishes for the upcoming school year to Harry. Harry waved goodbye rather absentmindedly as it dawned on him that Hagrid had not been at the Welcoming Feast. He silently wondered where Hagrid was, but Dumbledore interrupted his thoughts. "Would you like to see it?"
Harry turned to the old wizard, who knew without asking why Harry was there. Harry just nodded his agreement and Dumbledore stood and walked to the cabinet where Harry had seen the Pensieve last year. He opened the left door and hanging on the inside was a medium sized mirror. The frame was dark-green in colour and intricately carved. Moving closer, Harry noticed the outline of a dragon, which covered the frame. The head and tail were on opposite sides of some intricate symbol that Harry did not recognize.
"What-- what did she see?"
"Your mother saw her death, and your father's. I interrupted her view of the mirror and she only saw as far as Voldemort attempting to kill you. Before her death, your mother saw you live."
"May I look into the mirror?"
"I don't think that I can allow that Harry. The most important thing that one must know about seeing the future is that it can often be changed. If you were to see something that was terrible, you might not see it possible for it to be changed, and you'd expect the worst."
Harry nodded. A sudden flapping of wings sounded in the room as a great Eagle owl flew in through an open window. Dumbledore went to it and left Harry standing in front of the cabinet.
As discreetly as possible, Harry peered into the mirror and was surprised by what he saw.
Hermione, looking much older was sitting at a table staring at a decrepit piece of parchment in front of her. She appeared to be puzzling something out, when suddenly, she started. Grasping her quill, she began furiously writing on another parchment as he gaze shifted between the old parchment and a book lying open on the table.
Before he saw anything else, Harry moved from the mirror as he heard Dumbledore moving behind him. The Headmaster was standing at his desk, rummaging through the drawers. He found whatever it was he was looking for and placed it into a book that had not been on the desk before.
"Harry, I'm afraid that I'm going to have to cut this meeting short. I have been summoned to London on urgent ministry business. If you should need me, Hedwig will know where to find me." Dumbledore disappeared with a pop, leaving Harry muttering about the impossibility of apparating off of Hogwarts grounds.
***
Harry stared out the window by the fireplace. He was waiting for Hermione to finish dressing so that they could go to breakfast in the Great Hall. He yawned as he looked at the dark clouds looming in the distance. He had been practicing Transfiguration methods until two o'clock in the morning. They had a short exam after breakfast this morning that would involve changing a rock into a broomstick and a saltshaker into a compass. Personally, Harry thought the objects they were transfiguring were rather random but Arabella had explained that when you were in a cell being held by a Death Eater, you never knew what would be in there and had to be able to transfigure any object into something useful. Harry hadn't had much trouble with it, but Hermione was struggling slightly "Harry, it makes no sense! Why would there be a salt shaker there?"
"I think you're missing the point. She wants us to be able to make any object we come across into something useful."
"Bloody hell," Hermione swore as the saltshaker began spinning around on the table top, before point directly out a north window.
Breakfast was uneventful. Ron complained loudly about Potions class as Harry, Hermione and Ginny transfigured the saltshakers on the table. They only stopped when one that Harry had been practicing on turned into a compass that exploded in a flurry of salt when the needle began to spin.
***
Luckily, everyone passed the Transfiguration test. Apparition lessons had followed lunch and Harry was lying in his dorm room preparing to settle in for the night when his door flew open.
"Harry! You must see this!"
Hermione jumped on the bed waving an Evening Prophet article in Harry's face. He grabbed it from her and his mouth dropped in shock as he read the headline.
MINISTER FUDGE DISAPPEARS
Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge disappeared this afternoon. He was seen leaving a conference with Professor Albus Dumbledore when a bright flash of purple light blinded everyone in the immediate vicinity. When the light dimmed, Cornelius Fudge had disappeared, leaving a disturbed Albus Dumbledore standing alone on the front steps of the Ministry of Magic. In an emergency meeting of the Wizards' Council, Bernard Conley was appointed the temporary Minister of Magic.
The temporary Minister of Magic is a virtually unknown paper pusher at the Ministry. He started his job at the Ministry in mid-July. When asked about this unprecedented decision, the head of the Wizards' Council, Lucius Malfoy proclaimed that the unknown Ministry worker was proclaimed as Minister so that the other Heads of Departments may continue their work in these changing times. Other members of the Council proclaimed it was a safety measure.
The new Minister will be making an address to the wizarding community of Great Britain tomorrow afternoon on the Hogwarts' grounds. It will be broadcast over the WWN at three o'clock in the afternoon.
***
End Chapter Six
