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Chapter Two
1.1 In the Line of Fire
(A/N In this part I-other less informed characters will but not me-never refer to Hermione in Herman Grunting form as him or her. I really don't know which one to use so I just use Bright Eyes. If you think about it, it's the only thing they have in common even though they are the same person. Would also like to say that I have never seen how a real army troop works so please, no flames. Also remember that this is Wizard Army so nothing is really physical work, more curse practice. That's why Hermione is so good at it and just remember that when you read this, especially at the end. Enjoy!)
It was raining a lot outside that day. It had been raining a lot for about a week now. Of course, it really didn't change the mood, dark and depressed was all it ever was. It's hard to be anything else when you were separated from all security that you've ever known.
If you weren't training for a mission you were gathered around the beat up wizarding wireless, praying that your family and friends wouldn't be in the news for bad purposes. All the boys gathered around the wireless and bowed their heads as the names were read praying that they didn't recognize any of them, but of course someone always did.
Not a day had gone by without one of the boys breaking something out of frustration or having gotten emotional. Emotional meaning throwing things and hexing people for no reason. That was the problem with boys, they never wanted to let anyone know that they felt pain, when they obviously did.
So every night the officers made up a secluded bedroom and put the emotional boy in there, taking their wands so they couldn't "Avada Kedarva" themselves. Just about all of the boys had been in that room, except one.
The same boy who never showed happiness or sadness, the boy who never even sat by the wireless to hear the news. The boy who ate lunch by himself and never talked to anyone.
"The boy" was what they knew him by. "The boy's" name was Herman Grunting, but no one knew him well enough to call him that. Only one person had heard "the boy's" nickname, and that was Bright Eyes. True, it was girlie, but then again no one would dare cross him about it. For Bright Eyes had perfect aim and Bright Eyes' curses were deadly and hard to escape.
There were only stories about how Bright Eyes got that nickname. Some said it was the look in Bright Eyes' eyes before Bright Eyes killed, some said it was the fact that Bright Eyes was the brightest of them all. Some hadn't a clue. Most wanted to leave it that way.
Bright Eyes never received visits or was ever snuck a letter. Some said it was because Bright Eyes had no friends, some said it was because Bright Eyes wanted to follow the rules about no letters, some said that Bright Eyes got them, but didn't show them. Of course, 'some' always said a lot of things, but 'some' are seldom right.
Bright Eyes didn't receive letters, but it wasn't because Bright Eyes wanted to follow the rules or Bright Eyes didn't have friends. It was because no one knew where to find Bright Eyes and it was because 'Herman Grunting' didn't really exist, however, Hermione Granger did and so did Bright Eyes.
"All up," loudly screamed from a magically magnified voice from somewhere in the War Camp.
All the sleepy boys arose and dressed. Bright Eyes dressed silently in the bathroom. Bright Eyes had never came and dressed with the rest of the boys. Everyone thought it was weird, but Bright Eyes had the general's favoritism, and he was one of their junior troop leader, so no one argued.
They lined up for inspection and waited as the commanding officers checked their uniforms and their bunks. The officers paced up and down the row, yelling at each person for wrinkled clothes and ruffled bedspreads. The officers passed by one Private Herman Grunting and simply nodded.
"See me in my office Private Grunting," said the officer.
"Sir, yes sir," Bright Eyes yelled.
The officer nodded again and moved on. Private Grunting had always been one of his best students. He was good, too good. War Training Camp was not the place for him. He needed to be out on the line of fire.
He might make it out there. Merlin knows they could use all the help they could get these days. Even if it was a shame to risk the life of such a young, talented, Private, at their current state, the rest of the trainees would not be ready for combat for at least another month.
So it had been that orders from the War Department had set up a trade. A young trainee at another War Camp needed much more time to prepare for any mission. His group was succeeding with flying colors and their mission would start soon. So they would trade.
A rap on the office door signified the Privates arrival. The officer sighed and looked at the transcripts once more. It was clear what he had to do, but it wasn't as if he wanted to have his most valuable soldier taken away from him. Of course, orders were orders. So what other choice did he have?
"Come in," said the officer.
Private Grunting came in and said in a military like voice, "Sir, you wanted to see me sir."
The officer sighed and replied, "At ease Private, have a seat."
Bright Eyes took a seat in the closest chair and the officer began, "Private Grunting, are you aware of how your progress is coming along?"
Bright Eyes soundly replied, "Sir, I find that is for you to decide as my commanding officer, sir."
The officer smiled and said, "That's what I like about you Private, you don't boast and you respect authority."
Bright Eyes said in a military like voice, "Sir permission to speak freely, sir."
"Permission granted," said the officer. Irritable
Bright Eyes hesitated and replied, "Sir, may I ask why I have come here? I doubt it was to pay me a compliment."
The officer smiled and said, "That's another thing about you I like, no time for bullshit, in and out, cut and dry. You'll make a fine soldier one of these days. You might want to think about a career in the military when this war is over. You have enough wits and the right attitude."
Bright Eyes remain emotionless by appearance and said, "Sir, why am I in your office?"
The officer stood up from his chair and went to the back of the room. He pulled down part of the blinds and looked at the group outside. They were doing exercises now and would soon be done. Soon they would begin curse practices. The first time Private Grunting had come here, he had known just about everyone there was. Even then he had been good. He let the blinds go and turned back to the Private, ready to answer his question.
"The fact is," the officer began, "you're here because you are one of the best. Your teammates are good, but you are the best. As you may know we are facing a very strong opponent. At the rate this war is going our side won't last much longer, but at the rate we are going we have not added in the new recruits. That is why I have called you here today. As I have said, your team is good, but not the best. Therefore we will not be going to the front lines anytime soon. However, you will."
The officer paused for a moment to see the reaction on the Privates face, it remained emotionless, so the officer continued, and "We have received a owl from the War Department of the Ministry of Magic. They have already selected the first team of new recruits to go on a mission. There is one soldier that will not go though. He is weak and needs more practice. Therefore the Ministry has set up a trade. You will be traded to that group and we will be receiving a Private Longbottom in return."
The officer stopped for a moment and almost thought he saw a smile cross Private Grunting's face but quickly dismissed the thought since he had not ever seen Private Grunting smiled and continued, "Pack your things Private, you leave at noon today."
Bright Eyes stood up and said in that military voice, "Sir, thank you, sir."
The officer stood up and replied in that military voice, "Dismissed."
Bright Eyes turned to walk out the door but the officer abruptly said to him, "And Private ...be careful.
Bright Eyes nodded and left the room. Bright Eyes was no longer going to stay in this war camp for now Bright Eyes was going to the lines of fire. Maybe now Bright Eyes had a chance of doing what 'Herman Grunting' had really come to do.
Bright Eyes finished packing and neatly did the bed. It really had not been Bright Eye's own bed. It had just been a bed. Nothing around here belonged to anyone. It was just used by them.
Bright Eyes lay down on the bed and stared at the bunk above that one. It had been empty for about a week now. The boy who had bunked with Bright Eyes was dead. He had died of a sickness. His girlfriend had died in an attack about two days before he did.
The medical doctor had said it had been some type of yellow fever, but Bright Eyes knew that the sickness that had caused it was a broken heart. For yellow fever had a cure, but a broken heart has none. That's why he died. Not because of some fever, but because he had no reason to live. Bright Eyes knew the feeling well.
Many times Bright Eyes felt like committing suicide but Bright Eyes had a reason to live for or two reasons you could say. The chain Bright Eyes always wore reminded Bright Eyes of one reason. The other was an unspeakable reason. Bright Eyes would tell no one until the right person knew first.
Otherwise, Bright Eyes would search until death and if Bright Eyes died, then no one would be any the wiser. After the right person knew, then Bright Eyes would no longer need to be on the line of fire. After the right person knew. Bright Eyes would wait till then.
Bright Eyes clutched the chain and thought. It was hard for Bright Eyes to think that soon this would all be over because Bright Eyes knew that it was far from over. Even if Bright Eyes made it back home there was still the chance that he would not be there with Bright Eyes. Some many things could go wrong, but then again, so many things had already gone wrong.
There was a stir from the door and it opened. There were two people at the door. One of them Bright Eyes recognized as Private Longbottom the other was the recognizable too. Bright Eyes recognized this person. The pointed nose, the pale skin, the white blonde hair. Bright Eyes would have known this person anywhere. It was Private Malfoy.
"I am looking for a Private Grunting," said Private Malfoy.
Bright Eyes sat up and said, "Who wants to know?"
Private Malfoy smirked and said, "I do."
Private Longbottom walked and put his bag down on the bed. He bumped into Malfoy as he passed. It seemed that Private Longbottom was not the same as he had been. He had lost a considerable amount of weight and looked a lot more ...secure. He was taller and dressed in an army uniform. His eyes were not scared but more weathered. As if he now had seen many things he would like to forget.
Private Malfoy did not bother him as he bumped into him but just continued to talk to Bright Eyes, "Follow me. I am your contact. For the next few days you will travel with me until we meet up with our group. Get your things together, I'll be outside waiting."
Private Longbottom approached Bright Eyes and said, "I'm your replacement here. Is this the bed I will sleep on or is it the top one."
Bright eyes smirked, Private Longbottom had not referred to it as 'his bed' but rather as a bed he slept on, and replied, "Yes this is the bed but you may have the top bunk if you like, my bunkmate died."
Private Longbottom looked at the top bunk, made the sign of the cross and said, "I'll take the top."
He climbed onto the top bunk and said, "Give me that stuff will you?"
Bright Eyes looked at his bags and said, "Wingardium Leviosa", and with a graceful flick of Bright Eyes' wand the bags went to Private Longbottom.
No sooner had the spell been cast than Bright Eyes knew that a mistake had been made. Neville knew how Bright Eyes' style was and Bright Eyes was sure that Private Longbottom knew as well. Bright Eyes turned to leave but knew the damage had been done.
Bright Eyes walked away but was cut off but a statement from Private Longbottom, "What's you hurry ...Hermione."
Bright Eyes turned around and said, "What's your problem Private Longbottom? I don't know who your talking to."
Private Longbottom smiled and said, "You bloody well do. Unrecoveryuptio!"
Bright Eye's shape twisted and turned until it no longer represented the light-brown haired, chestnut eyed, average height wizard but to a bushy haired, deep chestnut eyed, very well fit, looking witch.
Neville smirked and said, "Couldn't keep away could you Hermione."
Hermione clutched her stomach and said, "Your going to get us caught."
Neville smiled and said, "Worried about me now are you, Hermione?"
Hermione stood up and said, "Not in the slightest. Now change me back."
Neville sighed and said, "Hermione, part of me wants to scream at you and part of me wants to thank you. Fortunately, the army has taught me to keep my emotions to myself therefore I remain where I am."
Hermione cast a warning glance back at him and said, "Do it now Neville or else."
"Or else what Hermione," Neville said, "I won't tell on you I just want you to know."
Hermione looked at him exasperated and said, "Well you see the group you are joining is very dangerous."
Hermione cast a warning glare and said, "So. I've held my own down here for a while."
Neville just smiled and came down from the top bunk enveloping Hermione in a hug saying, "Nice to see you Hermione. Ron will be thrilled"
Hermione's mind went to rest as she heard Ron's name. She remembered how his skin felt on hers and how his breath on her neck made her come to life. She remembered the night and shuttered. She remembered everything and missed him even more.
Neville let her go, took something out of his backpack, gave it to her, and said, "Here you are, Ron wanted me to get this to someone who could give this to you."
Hermione muttered a, "Thanks Neville" and Neville transformed her back into 'Herman Grunting'. Bright Eyes bounded out the door and joined Private Malfoy. They still had a long way before they were out of the line of fire.
Private Malfoy and Bright Eyes traveled in silence for a long time. Bright Eyes was stuck with him for three days. The first half-day was hard enough, neither of them talked to one another but only spoke when it was necessary. As night fell, however, it became increasing lonely. Bright Eyes knew they had to have some type of conversation.
"So," Bright eyes said as they ate their supper by the campfire, "how are things out there? I haven't been out of that War Camp for a while."
Private Malfoy leaned back and said running his hand through his white- blonde hair, "I wouldn't know, the only reason I got to come here is because I know this place better than anyone. This use to be my old village."
Bright Eyes looked at him and said, "What do you mean by use to?"
Private Malfoy looked into the darkness of the night sky and said, "This past year my home was destroyed. Death Eaters no doubt. My own father being one of them. They killed my mother and my father simply joined them in destroying the house. I still don't know why, all I have come to guess is that Voldemort told them to as some sort of sacrifice to keep him in good health."
Bright Eyes looked down and said, "Sorry to bring it up."
Private Malfoy shrugged and continued, "It's fine. You know the funny thing is that I planned on becoming a Death Eater like my father. Then I went to war camp planning to break out. It wasn't till a month after I had been here, did I realize where I was. Then I found my mother's grave and used a type of time charm to see what happened to her. After that I learned to hate Voldemort and devoted myself to the cause."
Bright Eyes smiled and said, "You call him Voldemort."
Private Malfoy replied, "There was a time when I called him master. Now I not only call him Voldemort, but also commend his soul to the depths of hell. You call him Voldemort too I notice."
Bright Eyes smirked and said, "I do."
Private Malfoy smirked back and said, "Why then? Even people at the War Camp call him He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named."
Bright Eyes stared into the night and said, "I figure if I'm going to be fighting him I might as well not be afraid of him. I'd rather look him, straight in the eyes if he kills me than be on the ground begging for mercy."
Private Malfoy looked at Bright Eyes and said, "There have only been four people to think like that, Dumbledore, Potter, Weasley, and Granger. They were my enemies at school. I treated them horribly. I regret some of the stuff I did, but not all of it."
Bright Eyes looked at him with conviction and said, "So they still are around?"
Private Malfoy looked back at Bright Eyes and said, "Well Dumbledore, I have no clue. For all the information we get from the outside world, we're just happy to know that there's still an outside world. Potter is at some other War Camp. They want to protect him so they put him at this need improvement center two months ago. Shame, he didn't need it. Weasley is one of my superiors. Funny as it may seem he is the best of all us. You might beat him though. He has a soft spot for Granger. Wears that damn Head Girl badge on his uniform. We don't know where Granger is. Everyone thought she'd get a job as some reporter or something safe like that, but we don't know where she got off to. Worries Weasley sick. Sits by the radio every night waiting for the list."
So he misses her," Bright Eyes said.
Private Malfoy smirked, "Misses is just wanting her to be there. Weasley needs her you could say. He dreams about her, and just stares at that badge sometimes wishing she was there. When Potter moved he was all alone. Of course, even Potter didn't make him feel any better. Sometimes I wish I had what he had."
Bright eyes looked at him in shock and said, "You wish you had Granger?"
Private Malfoy looked back at him and said, "No, I wish I had a love like that. Of course, my ex girlfriend Pansy and I got along fine, but when the war came she cried a bit and moved on. She now lives with some old man in his 30's. He keeps her safe, she gives him what he wants, but Granger and Weasley are different. If Granger wanted, she could have just about anyone, if not for her looks then for her talent. Weasley has talent too and he had always been the hero type at our old school, even Pansy had to admit that she though that he was somewhat of a ladies man and without even trying to be. However, they each have their flaws, Weasley isn't the best when it comes to money. Granger isn't the best when it comes to blood, but neither of them care. They love each other, even I can see that."
Bright eyes felt the chain grow heavy. But not heavy in a bad way, more like a reminder that helped Bright Eyes get through the day. It reminded Bright Eyes that no matter how bad it got, someone loved Bright Eyes and it reminded Bright eyes that Hermione Granger loved someone who loved her back.
Bright Eyes got up and started to put out the fire saying, "We better get to bed Private Malfoy, long day tomorrow."
Private Malfoy helped him put out the fire and said, "Private Grunting".
"Yes," Bright Eyes said.
Private Malfoy gave him a vague smile and said, "Call me Draco."
Bright Eyes smiled back and said, "Call me ...Herman."
"Night Herman," Draco said as he went into his tent.
"Night Draco," Bright Eyes said as Bright Eyes went into the tent.
Bright Eyes walked into his tent and felt something in the pocket of the jacket. Bright Eyes took it out and smiled. Bright Eyes knew what it was. It was the letter from Ron. Bright Eyes looked over to the other tent to see the light go out. Bright Eyes took grabbed the wand and in a cloud of smoke transformed in Hermione Granger.
Hermione ripped open the letter and saw the note within. Ron's handwriting was on it. Hermione had longed to see that writing from the day he left. She brought the paper up to her face and smelt it. It smelt like Ron. Hermione feverishly unfolded it and read:
My Bright Eyes,
It is my only hope that this gets to you. We aren't allowed to write letters here or communicate with the outside world so I am sorry you have had to wait. Please don't be mad at me for breaking the rules but I had to write you. Your memory has been one of the only things that have kept me together these past four months.
I listen to the radio at our War Camp every night and pray that your name is not on the list. However, I wish I would here something from you. I wrote Ginny and her and my parents are fine. Mum is cracking up though. Since she has six boys in the war it's hard for her sometimes. None of us are lost yet but none of the real fighting has taken place.
Ginny has not heard from you ever since the train-ride back. I have talked to everyone I can but n one knows where you have gone. This letter is my last hope. I am sending it with Neville. He is being transferred to another camp. I hope this reaches you. You don't know how hard it is to know that you are missing and I can't do a bloody thing about it.
Please Hermione write me and tell me if you are OK. I want you to go and stay with my parents. They need help and maybe you being there will help Ginny. Obviously her and Harry were together at some point and we missed it. She misses him almost as much as I miss you.
Please go and stay with my parents and if ...when I come back we'll go from there. I don't know where you are but please let me know you're OK. I think I'll go insane if I don't hear from you. I've seen many people lose loved ones. I don't think I could go on living if I lost you. I miss you with all my heart.
You're my love, my life, my ...everything. I don't want you in the line of fire. I want you safe and waiting for me when I return. I love you my Bright Eyes. I'll find a way to you soon. Good-bye for now my Bright Eyes.
Ron
Hermione hugged the letter to her chest and took the ring out from her shirt. She looked at it and remembered the way it had always been between them before the war. They had always fought a lot about the silliest things, but when one of them was hurt the other would be there to tell them it was all right.
Hermione rocked back and forth. She wanted to be with Ron and Ron wanted to be with her but this war was in the way. It seemed strange that it had taken them till the last day they could be together to tell one another.
Hermione picked up her wand and transformed herself back into Herman Grunting and winced a bit. Transformation was getting harder with her condition but soon Ron would know and soon it would be all over. Soon she wouldn't have to be Herman Grunting anymore. When this was over she would be Ron's Bright Eyes forever.
The next day was not as bad as the first had been. Bright Eyes thought it hard to think of Draco as anything but a stuck-up brat. However, something had changed about him. He was no longer arrogant and snobbish. He had developed humility to his personality and Bright Eyes was grateful for it.
Bright Eyes saw how war had changed him. There was something in him that was more perceptible to people. His hair was no longer slicked back and oily but now hung in his face and was mostly clean except for the dirt from the ground where they slept. His steel gray eyes didn't have the look of arrogance that they once held but rather a look of weathering.
War had done this to Draco. However, Draco wasn't the only one that this war had affected. Neville was totally different too. No longer the scared little boy but now grown. Bright Eyes realized that war changed everyone. That included Bright Eyes.
Bright Eyes once walked with what was though an understanding of everything. A sense that Bright Eyes knew how things worked and how people were, but now things were different. Bright Eyes knew that there was more to everything than it seemed. Bright Eyes knew now how easy it was to make a mistake. War seemed to change everyone. Bright Eyes just hoped that it wouldn't change Ron.
Another day went by and this was the third and final day of the trip to Bright Eyes' new War Camp. The journey had been long and physically as well as mentally trying, but the thought of being close to Ron and having completed her task gave her strength to make it through.
Bright Eyes must have walked through at least 100 trenches in the past three days but it was all worth it when Bright Eyes saw the Camp. It wasn't anything special and looked the same as every other Camp they had been to but this camp held Ron and that made it different from every other camp Bright Eyes had been to.
As Bright Eyes looked at it Draco came up behind him and said, "Let's in then, shall we Herman."
"Right Draco," Bright Eyes replied.
Bright eyes nodded and Draco signaled for the gates to open. As they did, Bright Eyes saw the same gray painted walls as in Bright Eyes' old War Camp. Draco confronted the guard and waved at Bright Eyes to walk through. The halls were dark and damp as in Bright Eyes' old War Camp.
As they entered the bunks, Bright Eyes searched the bed trying to find the one that belonged to Ron. Draco saw Bright Eyes looking around and smirked. Perhaps thinking that he wanted to see the other soldiers outside or any other reason like that, but Bright Eyes knew that the time spent in War Camp would soon come to an end and the sooner Ron was found the sooner Bright Eyes' soul would be at rest.
"Your bunks over here. After you put down your stuff see the officers over there," Draco said while pointing to a bunk.
"Thanks, I'll see you in a bit. Don't have any fun without me OK mate," Herman said in a non-interested voice, still looking over the bunks.
Draco smirked again and said while leaving, "OK, see you."
Bright Eyes went over to the bunk Draco pointed to and placed the bag Bright Eyes carried on it. Bright Eyes looked around and saw a familiar hanging on one of the bottom bunk's top bunk bottom. Bright Eyes went over and saw three people on it, all of whom she recognized. That picture had been taken not too long after they had taken the N. E. W. T. 's.
It depicted Ron, Harry, and Hermione outside by the lake at Hogwarts. All three of them had their arms around each other. Bright Eyes smiled and though back to that day. It had been so much fun. Ginny had insisted on them taking that picture, but it was not so much for memories, but just an excuse to use her new magic camera.
The Ron in the picture laughed and tucked a piece of hair behind the picture Hermione's ear. The picture Hermione giggled and blushed. Bright Eyes wondered if it had been that obvious about liking Ron all the time. It certainly seemed it was in the picture. The picture Harry smirked and suppressed a laugh. Bright Eyes smiled remembering the event.
"You there, what are you doing?" a voice sounded from behind Bright Eyes.
Bright Eyes stood up at attention and said in a military voice not daring to look at the person, "Sir, just looking sir."
The sir she was speaking to took the picture and tucked it back where it was saying, "Private Grunting, I hear you're good. Private Malfoy has said good things about you."
Bright Eyes looked at the wall across the room and replied, "Sir thank you, sir."
"At ease Private," said the sir and continued, "I am one of the junior leader. My name is Private Weasley. By the way that is my bunk you're sitting on and my girl you're looking at. I advise you not to look at that picture in the future."
Bright Eyes dropped from attention and got a look at Private Weasley. He looked exactly like Bright Eyes remembered him but, like the rest, more weathered. He wore the same green gray uniform as everyone and still had the same red hair, which was easily his best feature compared to the draft uniform. His skin was sunburned and his shirt was drenched with sweat sticking to his lightly defined torso.
This was Hermione's Ron.
Bright Eyes' heart was pounding but Bright Eyes knew that this wasn't the time or the place for revelations to take place. It was too soon and Bright Eyes didn't want to transform right here. Instead Bright Eyes looked at Ron and weakly smiled behind his back. Resisting the urge to collapse in his arms.
"So," Bright Eyes said, "that's your girl."
Ron straightened the picture and said, "She's beautiful, smart, and all the above basically. Someday she'll be my wife."
At this Ron's face relaxed and he stared at the picture staring at the picture Hermione who was smiling at the picture Ron, "So no ideas," he added after he was done looking at it.
Ron looked at Bright Eyes almost daring him to try anything, but sighed and sat down on his bed. Bright Eyes sat beside him and watched as Ron picked on something attached to his uniform. Ron sighed to himself.
"See this?" he said.
Bright Eyes looked and saw a Head Girl Badge on his uniform and replied, "Yeah, I never knew you were so talented."
Ron smirked and said, "Private Grunting may I remind you that I am a squad officer and that you don't know me."
You may be surprised, Bright Eyes thought but said, "Sorry sir."
Ron again scratched at the pin and said, "It belongs to her. Hermione's her name, beautiful isn't it? I was never good in school. She used to tutor me. Probably the only reason I passed, but I'll guarantee I've shaped up now. Anyway I've come here to escort you to the commanding officer's office."
Bright Eyes watched as Ron got up and walked to the door and signaled for him to follow. Bright Eyes followed him through the gray halls and into another section of the camp. This War Camp was sure bigger than Bright Eyes' old one. After a few twists and turns they came to the officers offices and Ron stopped.
He looked at Bright Eyes and said, "They will assign you to a team. I suspect you'll be in Private Malfoy's or mine. We're divided into four groups here and my group is the best or so I have been told. My name again is Private Weasley but you seem like a nice enough guy. Call me Ron."
Bright Eyes looked at Ron and said, "My name is Private Grunting, but call me Herman or maybe ...Bright Eyes."
Ron's eyes narrowed and Bright Eyes quickly said; "It's just a nickname. Ron, just call me Herman."
Bright Eyes walked into the office and faced the officers. After an hour of testing Bright Eyes came out. He had made Ron's team. Bright Eyes knew that it would be hard to keep the act together but just a little longer and it would all be over. September 21st to be exact, their teams first mission, one week from today.
That week passed slowly. Bright Eyes could hardly stand to be around Ron so Bright Eyes took advantage of the friendship developed with Draco. It seemed strange to hang around him, but he was different from Hogwarts. Even Ron tolerated him. On some occasions they were even caught having friendly conversations.
Finally the day came. It had been hard to last a week but no it was time to act. The night before their first mission was it. Bright Eyes found Ron sitting outside the bunks looking into the stars.
"Ron," Bright Eyes said quitely.
"Herman," Ron answered.
Herman shifter uncomfortably and handed him a letter before pulling out Hermione Granger's wand and stepping into the shadows. Ron opened the letter and read aloud:
"Turn Around"
Ron turned around and Hermione Granger stepped out of the shadows. Ron looked at her in disbelief. It took him a second to take in the sight before him. It was Hermione she was dressed in an army uniform and her hair was a mess. She was smiling at him and Ron was still shocked but soon enough he was holding her in a tight embrace.
"How ...what ...who..." Ron stuttered.
Hermione let a sob out and said, "Ron I missed you."
"Hermione, god! Are you OK?" Ron asked holding her so tight Hermione though he would never let go.
"Yes," Hermione said, "I'm fine but I need to tell you something first."
Ron smiled and cupped Hermione's face in his hands saying, "What ever it is I'm sure it can wait. Right now we have to get you on the first car out of here. I don't know how you're here but it's not safe here on the front lines."
Hermione smile faded and she said, "Ron sit down."
Ron knew Hermione was serious and sat quietly and Hermione began, "I have been here under the alias of Herman Grunting. After you left I couldn't stand it and I followed. My mum and dad are practically dead and I felt so empty."
She stopped, drew a shuttering breath, and continued, "Then a week ago I transferred. Neville found out about me and gave me the letter. Then I came here. Tomorrow we have our first mission and during that I'll escape. I'll go home after that, but you just had to know something first."
"What is it?" Ron asked her now pressing her forehead against his.
"I can't go back," Hermione cried.
"Of course you can. Like my letter said. You can go home, to the Burrow. I've been so worried."
"Ron …I can't." Hermione said as she began to cry.
"Why not?" Ron asked, wiping her tears away with his thumb, "You can stay with Ginny, and mum and dad."
"I can't," replied Hermione, "what would they think of me?"
"Nothing," said Ron, "They'll be fine with you staying with them. I'll be happier just to know you're with them"
"I can't because ...because..." Hermione sobbed into Ron's chest and finally regaining control forced herself to put her heart in the line of fire saying, "because I'm pregnant..."
(A/N Well, do you like? Yes? No? The next part will be up soon because it's already written. I just need to edit it. Thanks for reading and PLEASE, PLEASE REVIEW and if you peeked, all I can say is tut, tut, tut, but still review me!)
If the review thingy isn't working, e-mail me your review at aerabalais@petronet.net
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Hope I didn't miss anyone. If I did, then I'm sorry!
You don't know how much it means to me that you review my work. I had just about given up on this piece until I posted it here, but with everyone giving me such good comments about it, I just could not refuse to continue.
I also want to say in case there is any confusion that this story is far from over. I already have chapters three, four, and five done and am currently working on chapter six. I suspect that there will be about seven chapters plus an epilogue all a bit longer than the first chapter one in length, but I promise that they are going to be as good-if not better-than the first one.
! Just do me a favor when you read this chapter, DON'T PEEK! Some of my friends-and best critics-peeked at the end and ruined everything. So do yourself and me a favor and read every word as it comes. You'll be glad that you did!
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Chapter Two
1.1 In the Line of Fire
(A/N In this part I-other less informed characters will but not me-never refer to Hermione in Herman Grunting form as him or her. I really don't know which one to use so I just use Bright Eyes. If you think about it, it's the only thing they have in common even though they are the same person. Would also like to say that I have never seen how a real army troop works so please, no flames. Also remember that this is Wizard Army so nothing is really physical work, more curse practice. That's why Hermione is so good at it and just remember that when you read this, especially at the end. Enjoy!)
It was raining a lot outside that day. It had been raining a lot for about a week now. Of course, it really didn't change the mood, dark and depressed was all it ever was. It's hard to be anything else when you were separated from all security that you've ever known.
If you weren't training for a mission you were gathered around the beat up wizarding wireless, praying that your family and friends wouldn't be in the news for bad purposes. All the boys gathered around the wireless and bowed their heads as the names were read praying that they didn't recognize any of them, but of course someone always did.
Not a day had gone by without one of the boys breaking something out of frustration or having gotten emotional. Emotional meaning throwing things and hexing people for no reason. That was the problem with boys, they never wanted to let anyone know that they felt pain, when they obviously did.
So every night the officers made up a secluded bedroom and put the emotional boy in there, taking their wands so they couldn't "Avada Kedarva" themselves. Just about all of the boys had been in that room, except one.
The same boy who never showed happiness or sadness, the boy who never even sat by the wireless to hear the news. The boy who ate lunch by himself and never talked to anyone.
"The boy" was what they knew him by. "The boy's" name was Herman Grunting, but no one knew him well enough to call him that. Only one person had heard "the boy's" nickname, and that was Bright Eyes. True, it was girlie, but then again no one would dare cross him about it. For Bright Eyes had perfect aim and Bright Eyes' curses were deadly and hard to escape.
There were only stories about how Bright Eyes got that nickname. Some said it was the look in Bright Eyes' eyes before Bright Eyes killed, some said it was the fact that Bright Eyes was the brightest of them all. Some hadn't a clue. Most wanted to leave it that way.
Bright Eyes never received visits or was ever snuck a letter. Some said it was because Bright Eyes had no friends, some said it was because Bright Eyes wanted to follow the rules about no letters, some said that Bright Eyes got them, but didn't show them. Of course, 'some' always said a lot of things, but 'some' are seldom right.
Bright Eyes didn't receive letters, but it wasn't because Bright Eyes wanted to follow the rules or Bright Eyes didn't have friends. It was because no one knew where to find Bright Eyes and it was because 'Herman Grunting' didn't really exist, however, Hermione Granger did and so did Bright Eyes.
"All up," loudly screamed from a magically magnified voice from somewhere in the War Camp.
All the sleepy boys arose and dressed. Bright Eyes dressed silently in the bathroom. Bright Eyes had never came and dressed with the rest of the boys. Everyone thought it was weird, but Bright Eyes had the general's favoritism, and he was one of their junior troop leader, so no one argued.
They lined up for inspection and waited as the commanding officers checked their uniforms and their bunks. The officers paced up and down the row, yelling at each person for wrinkled clothes and ruffled bedspreads. The officers passed by one Private Herman Grunting and simply nodded.
"See me in my office Private Grunting," said the officer.
"Sir, yes sir," Bright Eyes yelled.
The officer nodded again and moved on. Private Grunting had always been one of his best students. He was good, too good. War Training Camp was not the place for him. He needed to be out on the line of fire.
He might make it out there. Merlin knows they could use all the help they could get these days. Even if it was a shame to risk the life of such a young, talented, Private, at their current state, the rest of the trainees would not be ready for combat for at least another month.
So it had been that orders from the War Department had set up a trade. A young trainee at another War Camp needed much more time to prepare for any mission. His group was succeeding with flying colors and their mission would start soon. So they would trade.
A rap on the office door signified the Privates arrival. The officer sighed and looked at the transcripts once more. It was clear what he had to do, but it wasn't as if he wanted to have his most valuable soldier taken away from him. Of course, orders were orders. So what other choice did he have?
"Come in," said the officer.
Private Grunting came in and said in a military like voice, "Sir, you wanted to see me sir."
The officer sighed and replied, "At ease Private, have a seat."
Bright Eyes took a seat in the closest chair and the officer began, "Private Grunting, are you aware of how your progress is coming along?"
Bright Eyes soundly replied, "Sir, I find that is for you to decide as my commanding officer, sir."
The officer smiled and said, "That's what I like about you Private, you don't boast and you respect authority."
Bright Eyes said in a military like voice, "Sir permission to speak freely, sir."
"Permission granted," said the officer. Irritable
Bright Eyes hesitated and replied, "Sir, may I ask why I have come here? I doubt it was to pay me a compliment."
The officer smiled and said, "That's another thing about you I like, no time for bullshit, in and out, cut and dry. You'll make a fine soldier one of these days. You might want to think about a career in the military when this war is over. You have enough wits and the right attitude."
Bright Eyes remain emotionless by appearance and said, "Sir, why am I in your office?"
The officer stood up from his chair and went to the back of the room. He pulled down part of the blinds and looked at the group outside. They were doing exercises now and would soon be done. Soon they would begin curse practices. The first time Private Grunting had come here, he had known just about everyone there was. Even then he had been good. He let the blinds go and turned back to the Private, ready to answer his question.
"The fact is," the officer began, "you're here because you are one of the best. Your teammates are good, but you are the best. As you may know we are facing a very strong opponent. At the rate this war is going our side won't last much longer, but at the rate we are going we have not added in the new recruits. That is why I have called you here today. As I have said, your team is good, but not the best. Therefore we will not be going to the front lines anytime soon. However, you will."
The officer paused for a moment to see the reaction on the Privates face, it remained emotionless, so the officer continued, and "We have received a owl from the War Department of the Ministry of Magic. They have already selected the first team of new recruits to go on a mission. There is one soldier that will not go though. He is weak and needs more practice. Therefore the Ministry has set up a trade. You will be traded to that group and we will be receiving a Private Longbottom in return."
The officer stopped for a moment and almost thought he saw a smile cross Private Grunting's face but quickly dismissed the thought since he had not ever seen Private Grunting smiled and continued, "Pack your things Private, you leave at noon today."
Bright Eyes stood up and said in that military voice, "Sir, thank you, sir."
The officer stood up and replied in that military voice, "Dismissed."
Bright Eyes turned to walk out the door but the officer abruptly said to him, "And Private ...be careful.
Bright Eyes nodded and left the room. Bright Eyes was no longer going to stay in this war camp for now Bright Eyes was going to the lines of fire. Maybe now Bright Eyes had a chance of doing what 'Herman Grunting' had really come to do.
Bright Eyes finished packing and neatly did the bed. It really had not been Bright Eye's own bed. It had just been a bed. Nothing around here belonged to anyone. It was just used by them.
Bright Eyes lay down on the bed and stared at the bunk above that one. It had been empty for about a week now. The boy who had bunked with Bright Eyes was dead. He had died of a sickness. His girlfriend had died in an attack about two days before he did.
The medical doctor had said it had been some type of yellow fever, but Bright Eyes knew that the sickness that had caused it was a broken heart. For yellow fever had a cure, but a broken heart has none. That's why he died. Not because of some fever, but because he had no reason to live. Bright Eyes knew the feeling well.
Many times Bright Eyes felt like committing suicide but Bright Eyes had a reason to live for or two reasons you could say. The chain Bright Eyes always wore reminded Bright Eyes of one reason. The other was an unspeakable reason. Bright Eyes would tell no one until the right person knew first.
Otherwise, Bright Eyes would search until death and if Bright Eyes died, then no one would be any the wiser. After the right person knew, then Bright Eyes would no longer need to be on the line of fire. After the right person knew. Bright Eyes would wait till then.
Bright Eyes clutched the chain and thought. It was hard for Bright Eyes to think that soon this would all be over because Bright Eyes knew that it was far from over. Even if Bright Eyes made it back home there was still the chance that he would not be there with Bright Eyes. Some many things could go wrong, but then again, so many things had already gone wrong.
There was a stir from the door and it opened. There were two people at the door. One of them Bright Eyes recognized as Private Longbottom the other was the recognizable too. Bright Eyes recognized this person. The pointed nose, the pale skin, the white blonde hair. Bright Eyes would have known this person anywhere. It was Private Malfoy.
"I am looking for a Private Grunting," said Private Malfoy.
Bright Eyes sat up and said, "Who wants to know?"
Private Malfoy smirked and said, "I do."
Private Longbottom walked and put his bag down on the bed. He bumped into Malfoy as he passed. It seemed that Private Longbottom was not the same as he had been. He had lost a considerable amount of weight and looked a lot more ...secure. He was taller and dressed in an army uniform. His eyes were not scared but more weathered. As if he now had seen many things he would like to forget.
Private Malfoy did not bother him as he bumped into him but just continued to talk to Bright Eyes, "Follow me. I am your contact. For the next few days you will travel with me until we meet up with our group. Get your things together, I'll be outside waiting."
Private Longbottom approached Bright Eyes and said, "I'm your replacement here. Is this the bed I will sleep on or is it the top one."
Bright eyes smirked, Private Longbottom had not referred to it as 'his bed' but rather as a bed he slept on, and replied, "Yes this is the bed but you may have the top bunk if you like, my bunkmate died."
Private Longbottom looked at the top bunk, made the sign of the cross and said, "I'll take the top."
He climbed onto the top bunk and said, "Give me that stuff will you?"
Bright Eyes looked at his bags and said, "Wingardium Leviosa", and with a graceful flick of Bright Eyes' wand the bags went to Private Longbottom.
No sooner had the spell been cast than Bright Eyes knew that a mistake had been made. Neville knew how Bright Eyes' style was and Bright Eyes was sure that Private Longbottom knew as well. Bright Eyes turned to leave but knew the damage had been done.
Bright Eyes walked away but was cut off but a statement from Private Longbottom, "What's you hurry ...Hermione."
Bright Eyes turned around and said, "What's your problem Private Longbottom? I don't know who your talking to."
Private Longbottom smiled and said, "You bloody well do. Unrecoveryuptio!"
Bright Eye's shape twisted and turned until it no longer represented the light-brown haired, chestnut eyed, average height wizard but to a bushy haired, deep chestnut eyed, very well fit, looking witch.
Neville smirked and said, "Couldn't keep away could you Hermione."
Hermione clutched her stomach and said, "Your going to get us caught."
Neville smiled and said, "Worried about me now are you, Hermione?"
Hermione stood up and said, "Not in the slightest. Now change me back."
Neville sighed and said, "Hermione, part of me wants to scream at you and part of me wants to thank you. Fortunately, the army has taught me to keep my emotions to myself therefore I remain where I am."
Hermione cast a warning glance back at him and said, "Do it now Neville or else."
"Or else what Hermione," Neville said, "I won't tell on you I just want you to know."
Hermione looked at him exasperated and said, "Well you see the group you are joining is very dangerous."
Hermione cast a warning glare and said, "So. I've held my own down here for a while."
Neville just smiled and came down from the top bunk enveloping Hermione in a hug saying, "Nice to see you Hermione. Ron will be thrilled"
Hermione's mind went to rest as she heard Ron's name. She remembered how his skin felt on hers and how his breath on her neck made her come to life. She remembered the night and shuttered. She remembered everything and missed him even more.
Neville let her go, took something out of his backpack, gave it to her, and said, "Here you are, Ron wanted me to get this to someone who could give this to you."
Hermione muttered a, "Thanks Neville" and Neville transformed her back into 'Herman Grunting'. Bright Eyes bounded out the door and joined Private Malfoy. They still had a long way before they were out of the line of fire.
Private Malfoy and Bright Eyes traveled in silence for a long time. Bright Eyes was stuck with him for three days. The first half-day was hard enough, neither of them talked to one another but only spoke when it was necessary. As night fell, however, it became increasing lonely. Bright Eyes knew they had to have some type of conversation.
"So," Bright eyes said as they ate their supper by the campfire, "how are things out there? I haven't been out of that War Camp for a while."
Private Malfoy leaned back and said running his hand through his white- blonde hair, "I wouldn't know, the only reason I got to come here is because I know this place better than anyone. This use to be my old village."
Bright Eyes looked at him and said, "What do you mean by use to?"
Private Malfoy looked into the darkness of the night sky and said, "This past year my home was destroyed. Death Eaters no doubt. My own father being one of them. They killed my mother and my father simply joined them in destroying the house. I still don't know why, all I have come to guess is that Voldemort told them to as some sort of sacrifice to keep him in good health."
Bright Eyes looked down and said, "Sorry to bring it up."
Private Malfoy shrugged and continued, "It's fine. You know the funny thing is that I planned on becoming a Death Eater like my father. Then I went to war camp planning to break out. It wasn't till a month after I had been here, did I realize where I was. Then I found my mother's grave and used a type of time charm to see what happened to her. After that I learned to hate Voldemort and devoted myself to the cause."
Bright Eyes smiled and said, "You call him Voldemort."
Private Malfoy replied, "There was a time when I called him master. Now I not only call him Voldemort, but also commend his soul to the depths of hell. You call him Voldemort too I notice."
Bright Eyes smirked and said, "I do."
Private Malfoy smirked back and said, "Why then? Even people at the War Camp call him He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named."
Bright Eyes stared into the night and said, "I figure if I'm going to be fighting him I might as well not be afraid of him. I'd rather look him, straight in the eyes if he kills me than be on the ground begging for mercy."
Private Malfoy looked at Bright Eyes and said, "There have only been four people to think like that, Dumbledore, Potter, Weasley, and Granger. They were my enemies at school. I treated them horribly. I regret some of the stuff I did, but not all of it."
Bright Eyes looked at him with conviction and said, "So they still are around?"
Private Malfoy looked back at Bright Eyes and said, "Well Dumbledore, I have no clue. For all the information we get from the outside world, we're just happy to know that there's still an outside world. Potter is at some other War Camp. They want to protect him so they put him at this need improvement center two months ago. Shame, he didn't need it. Weasley is one of my superiors. Funny as it may seem he is the best of all us. You might beat him though. He has a soft spot for Granger. Wears that damn Head Girl badge on his uniform. We don't know where Granger is. Everyone thought she'd get a job as some reporter or something safe like that, but we don't know where she got off to. Worries Weasley sick. Sits by the radio every night waiting for the list."
So he misses her," Bright Eyes said.
Private Malfoy smirked, "Misses is just wanting her to be there. Weasley needs her you could say. He dreams about her, and just stares at that badge sometimes wishing she was there. When Potter moved he was all alone. Of course, even Potter didn't make him feel any better. Sometimes I wish I had what he had."
Bright eyes looked at him in shock and said, "You wish you had Granger?"
Private Malfoy looked back at him and said, "No, I wish I had a love like that. Of course, my ex girlfriend Pansy and I got along fine, but when the war came she cried a bit and moved on. She now lives with some old man in his 30's. He keeps her safe, she gives him what he wants, but Granger and Weasley are different. If Granger wanted, she could have just about anyone, if not for her looks then for her talent. Weasley has talent too and he had always been the hero type at our old school, even Pansy had to admit that she though that he was somewhat of a ladies man and without even trying to be. However, they each have their flaws, Weasley isn't the best when it comes to money. Granger isn't the best when it comes to blood, but neither of them care. They love each other, even I can see that."
Bright eyes felt the chain grow heavy. But not heavy in a bad way, more like a reminder that helped Bright Eyes get through the day. It reminded Bright Eyes that no matter how bad it got, someone loved Bright Eyes and it reminded Bright eyes that Hermione Granger loved someone who loved her back.
Bright Eyes got up and started to put out the fire saying, "We better get to bed Private Malfoy, long day tomorrow."
Private Malfoy helped him put out the fire and said, "Private Grunting".
"Yes," Bright Eyes said.
Private Malfoy gave him a vague smile and said, "Call me Draco."
Bright Eyes smiled back and said, "Call me ...Herman."
"Night Herman," Draco said as he went into his tent.
"Night Draco," Bright Eyes said as Bright Eyes went into the tent.
Bright Eyes walked into his tent and felt something in the pocket of the jacket. Bright Eyes took it out and smiled. Bright Eyes knew what it was. It was the letter from Ron. Bright Eyes looked over to the other tent to see the light go out. Bright Eyes took grabbed the wand and in a cloud of smoke transformed in Hermione Granger.
Hermione ripped open the letter and saw the note within. Ron's handwriting was on it. Hermione had longed to see that writing from the day he left. She brought the paper up to her face and smelt it. It smelt like Ron. Hermione feverishly unfolded it and read:
My Bright Eyes,
It is my only hope that this gets to you. We aren't allowed to write letters here or communicate with the outside world so I am sorry you have had to wait. Please don't be mad at me for breaking the rules but I had to write you. Your memory has been one of the only things that have kept me together these past four months.
I listen to the radio at our War Camp every night and pray that your name is not on the list. However, I wish I would here something from you. I wrote Ginny and her and my parents are fine. Mum is cracking up though. Since she has six boys in the war it's hard for her sometimes. None of us are lost yet but none of the real fighting has taken place.
Ginny has not heard from you ever since the train-ride back. I have talked to everyone I can but n one knows where you have gone. This letter is my last hope. I am sending it with Neville. He is being transferred to another camp. I hope this reaches you. You don't know how hard it is to know that you are missing and I can't do a bloody thing about it.
Please Hermione write me and tell me if you are OK. I want you to go and stay with my parents. They need help and maybe you being there will help Ginny. Obviously her and Harry were together at some point and we missed it. She misses him almost as much as I miss you.
Please go and stay with my parents and if ...when I come back we'll go from there. I don't know where you are but please let me know you're OK. I think I'll go insane if I don't hear from you. I've seen many people lose loved ones. I don't think I could go on living if I lost you. I miss you with all my heart.
You're my love, my life, my ...everything. I don't want you in the line of fire. I want you safe and waiting for me when I return. I love you my Bright Eyes. I'll find a way to you soon. Good-bye for now my Bright Eyes.
Ron
Hermione hugged the letter to her chest and took the ring out from her shirt. She looked at it and remembered the way it had always been between them before the war. They had always fought a lot about the silliest things, but when one of them was hurt the other would be there to tell them it was all right.
Hermione rocked back and forth. She wanted to be with Ron and Ron wanted to be with her but this war was in the way. It seemed strange that it had taken them till the last day they could be together to tell one another.
Hermione picked up her wand and transformed herself back into Herman Grunting and winced a bit. Transformation was getting harder with her condition but soon Ron would know and soon it would be all over. Soon she wouldn't have to be Herman Grunting anymore. When this was over she would be Ron's Bright Eyes forever.
The next day was not as bad as the first had been. Bright Eyes thought it hard to think of Draco as anything but a stuck-up brat. However, something had changed about him. He was no longer arrogant and snobbish. He had developed humility to his personality and Bright Eyes was grateful for it.
Bright Eyes saw how war had changed him. There was something in him that was more perceptible to people. His hair was no longer slicked back and oily but now hung in his face and was mostly clean except for the dirt from the ground where they slept. His steel gray eyes didn't have the look of arrogance that they once held but rather a look of weathering.
War had done this to Draco. However, Draco wasn't the only one that this war had affected. Neville was totally different too. No longer the scared little boy but now grown. Bright Eyes realized that war changed everyone. That included Bright Eyes.
Bright Eyes once walked with what was though an understanding of everything. A sense that Bright Eyes knew how things worked and how people were, but now things were different. Bright Eyes knew that there was more to everything than it seemed. Bright Eyes knew now how easy it was to make a mistake. War seemed to change everyone. Bright Eyes just hoped that it wouldn't change Ron.
Another day went by and this was the third and final day of the trip to Bright Eyes' new War Camp. The journey had been long and physically as well as mentally trying, but the thought of being close to Ron and having completed her task gave her strength to make it through.
Bright Eyes must have walked through at least 100 trenches in the past three days but it was all worth it when Bright Eyes saw the Camp. It wasn't anything special and looked the same as every other Camp they had been to but this camp held Ron and that made it different from every other camp Bright Eyes had been to.
As Bright Eyes looked at it Draco came up behind him and said, "Let's in then, shall we Herman."
"Right Draco," Bright Eyes replied.
Bright eyes nodded and Draco signaled for the gates to open. As they did, Bright Eyes saw the same gray painted walls as in Bright Eyes' old War Camp. Draco confronted the guard and waved at Bright Eyes to walk through. The halls were dark and damp as in Bright Eyes' old War Camp.
As they entered the bunks, Bright Eyes searched the bed trying to find the one that belonged to Ron. Draco saw Bright Eyes looking around and smirked. Perhaps thinking that he wanted to see the other soldiers outside or any other reason like that, but Bright Eyes knew that the time spent in War Camp would soon come to an end and the sooner Ron was found the sooner Bright Eyes' soul would be at rest.
"Your bunks over here. After you put down your stuff see the officers over there," Draco said while pointing to a bunk.
"Thanks, I'll see you in a bit. Don't have any fun without me OK mate," Herman said in a non-interested voice, still looking over the bunks.
Draco smirked again and said while leaving, "OK, see you."
Bright Eyes went over to the bunk Draco pointed to and placed the bag Bright Eyes carried on it. Bright Eyes looked around and saw a familiar hanging on one of the bottom bunk's top bunk bottom. Bright Eyes went over and saw three people on it, all of whom she recognized. That picture had been taken not too long after they had taken the N. E. W. T. 's.
It depicted Ron, Harry, and Hermione outside by the lake at Hogwarts. All three of them had their arms around each other. Bright Eyes smiled and though back to that day. It had been so much fun. Ginny had insisted on them taking that picture, but it was not so much for memories, but just an excuse to use her new magic camera.
The Ron in the picture laughed and tucked a piece of hair behind the picture Hermione's ear. The picture Hermione giggled and blushed. Bright Eyes wondered if it had been that obvious about liking Ron all the time. It certainly seemed it was in the picture. The picture Harry smirked and suppressed a laugh. Bright Eyes smiled remembering the event.
"You there, what are you doing?" a voice sounded from behind Bright Eyes.
Bright Eyes stood up at attention and said in a military voice not daring to look at the person, "Sir, just looking sir."
The sir she was speaking to took the picture and tucked it back where it was saying, "Private Grunting, I hear you're good. Private Malfoy has said good things about you."
Bright Eyes looked at the wall across the room and replied, "Sir thank you, sir."
"At ease Private," said the sir and continued, "I am one of the junior leader. My name is Private Weasley. By the way that is my bunk you're sitting on and my girl you're looking at. I advise you not to look at that picture in the future."
Bright Eyes dropped from attention and got a look at Private Weasley. He looked exactly like Bright Eyes remembered him but, like the rest, more weathered. He wore the same green gray uniform as everyone and still had the same red hair, which was easily his best feature compared to the draft uniform. His skin was sunburned and his shirt was drenched with sweat sticking to his lightly defined torso.
This was Hermione's Ron.
Bright Eyes' heart was pounding but Bright Eyes knew that this wasn't the time or the place for revelations to take place. It was too soon and Bright Eyes didn't want to transform right here. Instead Bright Eyes looked at Ron and weakly smiled behind his back. Resisting the urge to collapse in his arms.
"So," Bright Eyes said, "that's your girl."
Ron straightened the picture and said, "She's beautiful, smart, and all the above basically. Someday she'll be my wife."
At this Ron's face relaxed and he stared at the picture staring at the picture Hermione who was smiling at the picture Ron, "So no ideas," he added after he was done looking at it.
Ron looked at Bright Eyes almost daring him to try anything, but sighed and sat down on his bed. Bright Eyes sat beside him and watched as Ron picked on something attached to his uniform. Ron sighed to himself.
"See this?" he said.
Bright Eyes looked and saw a Head Girl Badge on his uniform and replied, "Yeah, I never knew you were so talented."
Ron smirked and said, "Private Grunting may I remind you that I am a squad officer and that you don't know me."
You may be surprised, Bright Eyes thought but said, "Sorry sir."
Ron again scratched at the pin and said, "It belongs to her. Hermione's her name, beautiful isn't it? I was never good in school. She used to tutor me. Probably the only reason I passed, but I'll guarantee I've shaped up now. Anyway I've come here to escort you to the commanding officer's office."
Bright Eyes watched as Ron got up and walked to the door and signaled for him to follow. Bright Eyes followed him through the gray halls and into another section of the camp. This War Camp was sure bigger than Bright Eyes' old one. After a few twists and turns they came to the officers offices and Ron stopped.
He looked at Bright Eyes and said, "They will assign you to a team. I suspect you'll be in Private Malfoy's or mine. We're divided into four groups here and my group is the best or so I have been told. My name again is Private Weasley but you seem like a nice enough guy. Call me Ron."
Bright Eyes looked at Ron and said, "My name is Private Grunting, but call me Herman or maybe ...Bright Eyes."
Ron's eyes narrowed and Bright Eyes quickly said; "It's just a nickname. Ron, just call me Herman."
Bright Eyes walked into the office and faced the officers. After an hour of testing Bright Eyes came out. He had made Ron's team. Bright Eyes knew that it would be hard to keep the act together but just a little longer and it would all be over. September 21st to be exact, their teams first mission, one week from today.
That week passed slowly. Bright Eyes could hardly stand to be around Ron so Bright Eyes took advantage of the friendship developed with Draco. It seemed strange to hang around him, but he was different from Hogwarts. Even Ron tolerated him. On some occasions they were even caught having friendly conversations.
Finally the day came. It had been hard to last a week but no it was time to act. The night before their first mission was it. Bright Eyes found Ron sitting outside the bunks looking into the stars.
"Ron," Bright Eyes said quitely.
"Herman," Ron answered.
Herman shifter uncomfortably and handed him a letter before pulling out Hermione Granger's wand and stepping into the shadows. Ron opened the letter and read aloud:
"Turn Around"
Ron turned around and Hermione Granger stepped out of the shadows. Ron looked at her in disbelief. It took him a second to take in the sight before him. It was Hermione she was dressed in an army uniform and her hair was a mess. She was smiling at him and Ron was still shocked but soon enough he was holding her in a tight embrace.
"How ...what ...who..." Ron stuttered.
Hermione let a sob out and said, "Ron I missed you."
"Hermione, god! Are you OK?" Ron asked holding her so tight Hermione though he would never let go.
"Yes," Hermione said, "I'm fine but I need to tell you something first."
Ron smiled and cupped Hermione's face in his hands saying, "What ever it is I'm sure it can wait. Right now we have to get you on the first car out of here. I don't know how you're here but it's not safe here on the front lines."
Hermione smile faded and she said, "Ron sit down."
Ron knew Hermione was serious and sat quietly and Hermione began, "I have been here under the alias of Herman Grunting. After you left I couldn't stand it and I followed. My mum and dad are practically dead and I felt so empty."
She stopped, drew a shuttering breath, and continued, "Then a week ago I transferred. Neville found out about me and gave me the letter. Then I came here. Tomorrow we have our first mission and during that I'll escape. I'll go home after that, but you just had to know something first."
"What is it?" Ron asked her now pressing her forehead against his.
"I can't go back," Hermione cried.
"Of course you can. Like my letter said. You can go home, to the Burrow. I've been so worried."
"Ron …I can't." Hermione said as she began to cry.
"Why not?" Ron asked, wiping her tears away with his thumb, "You can stay with Ginny, and mum and dad."
"I can't," replied Hermione, "what would they think of me?"
"Nothing," said Ron, "They'll be fine with you staying with them. I'll be happier just to know you're with them"
"I can't because ...because..." Hermione sobbed into Ron's chest and finally regaining control forced herself to put her heart in the line of fire saying, "because I'm pregnant..."
(A/N Well, do you like? Yes? No? The next part will be up soon because it's already written. I just need to edit it. Thanks for reading and PLEASE, PLEASE REVIEW and if you peeked, all I can say is tut, tut, tut, but still review me!)
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