Bah! What a week it's been. Finishing my science lab, and then my father
kicked me off the computer! So, of course, this chapter is belated by a
day or two. Depends on how much my computer hates me.uh.I mean loves me.
This chapter is much longer than the other two, but this to me shows signs
that I'm improving. This chapter features centaurs, a slightly insane
Harry, a jealous and caring (!_!) Draco, a confused Hermione, and...Ron.
So, you have been warned (sort of, I guess). Okay, I'll get to the usual
stuff and you can start the chapter. PLEASE REVIEW
Disclaimer: I don't own anything expect the plot and the OCs that tend to pop up at will *walks off whistling and reading Prisoner to Azkaban*
Thanks to: EVERYONE! There are too many of you out there who were nice enough to review (plus I can't get on the internet to look the names up @_@). So, all of you who reviewed chapter 2, I love you guys! You are the greatest!! *HUGS*
"blah" is talking ::blah:: is thinking
~*
Chapter 3
Sunlight barely peaked over the grounds that surrounded the castle. The castle was still slightly cast in shadow by the Forbidden Forest, and all the residents were asleep in their beds. In the 5th year boys Gryffindor dorm, Neville's snores were as loud as ever, and Seamus was curled up next to Dean in his bed. Ron was sleeping peacefully in his new, actual fitting pajamas, but Harry was far from content. He was fidgeting, his brow drenched in sweat. With a sudden gasp he shot straight up, his eyes wide and shocked. He was breathing heavily, and his eyes looked frantically around the room. When he realized where he was, he let out an explosive sigh of relief.
::Oh man, that dream was one of the worst I've ever had. And it was so real too!:: Harry shivered at the memory of the dream, ::Is this a sort of premonition? Too bad I dropped Divination this year, I heard we study those this year. Oh well, no use in grumbling about it now. I need to clear my head.::
Harry glanced at his clock and groaned softly. 5:30 am. The other residents of the castle wouldn't be up for at least another hour and a half. It was too late for Harry to fall back asleep, he was now wide awake with not a trace of sleep in his features. He glanced around at his sleeping friends, pondering what he could do to clear his thoughts. He finally decided a jog was the best thing. He needed a good work out where he could decide when to stop and where to go. It was warm out, so he stripped from his pajamas and put on a pair of shorts. He didn't care that his multiple bruises were exposed, no one would see them anyway. Besides, a long sleeve shirt would be too hot after working up a sweat. He opened his trunk, grabbed his invisibility cloak and started out. Being careful not to wake anyone, he slipped out through the portrait hole wearing the cloak, and headed to the entrance of the castle.
Once outside, Harry took a deep breath. The air there was fresh and clean, and it gave him a new found burst of energy. He set off first at a brisk walk, which slowly turned to a jog, then to full blown running. This run was not as cleansing as he thought, however. No matter how hard he pushed, he could somehow see Vernon's face in front of him, taunting him, mocking him. His legs pumped harder, running past the lake and the forest, looping around Hagrid's house and running along the edge of the lake. He was running faster than he normally would, but to no avail. The picture was still there. He stopped suddenly, realizing that blacking out from running too hard was NOT the thing he needed. He walked slowly to the castle, resting his back against the cool stone, trying to catch his breath.
Draco has not slept well. He'd been up late thinking, and had drifted in and out of sleep since 3am. He finally gave up on sleep and rose from his bed. He figured since no one was up, he might as well explore the grounds. Besides, the castle must be beautiful and the earliest of dawn. Not wanting to risk waking everyone else up, he slipped on a short sleeve green robe. He ran a brush through his hair, winked at the mirror, who whistled at him, and he left quietly.
He was right. The castle WAS beautiful at this hour. The temperature was so nice, he figured he'd take a quick jog around the lake. Once he got 10 feet out the entrance, however, all thoughts of a jog were lost from his mind. He heard someone talking off to his left side. It sounded an awful lot like.Harry Potter? What was he doing up so early? Draco walked over and found Harry glaring at a WALL. Draco hid best he could behind a bush and watched closely, one eyebrow raised.
::Why is he out here at 5:45 in the morning, talking at the wall no less. And.oh my God, is he only wearing shorts?!?!:: Draco thought, looking at Harry. Draco didn't have long to drool though.
He also noticed something else. It looked like Harry had been running hard, because he was covered in sweat. The sweat showed off the large number of bruises on Harry's body. They were a sickening bluish- black color, and he had them all over the place. On his arms, his legs and thighs, and many on his chest. Draco was shocked at the number of them. Where had Harry gotten them? They certainly couldn't have come from an accident, Draco just knew it. Draco was learning he knew less and less about Harry every day. He was pulled out of his thoughts as Harry's voice got louder. Draco made sure he was completely hidden and listened.
"Go away, please, go away. It's never enough! No matter how hard I try, I'll never be able to escape you! You're supposed to help me, damn it. You're supposed to be there for me! You're my fucking FAMILY for God's sake. I hate you!" Harry's voice grew louder with every sentence. Draco looked on, his eyes wide, but made no interference. What the hell was Harry talking about?
"I HATE YOU VERNON! You're my fucking UNCLE! You're supposed to love me, not BEAT ME! I HATE YOU AND MY SO-CALLED AUNT AND COUSIN! I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING WRONG!" he was screaming now, his voice trembling with a mixture of sadness, anger, and hate.
"Why? Damn it, WHY? Why did you have to beat me?! I didn't do anything wrong! All I did was love him, IS THAT SUCH A CRIME?! I'll never be rid of you! I HATE EVERY SINGLE FUCKING PART OF YOU VERNON! Stay the hell out of my life." his voice cracked, and he was no longer shouting. The last line sounded a lot like a plea, as if he was begging to some unknown person.
With a sudden fury, Harry punched the stone wall with all his strength. A loud thud was heard as his fist came in contact with the wall, and blood slowly slid down the stone. Harry drew back his fist and looked at his now bloody knuckles. He looked at all his bruises, tears starting to form. With a strangled cry, he leaned against the wall slid down into a sitting position, sobbing. He put his face in his hands, ignoring the fact that his face was getting smeared with blood. He cried his heart out. He let out all of the anger, frustration, and sadness that had built up for 2 months in one long sob and an innumerable amount of tears.
Back in his hiding place, Draco could do nothing but gasp and stare in utter disbelief. That's where he had gotten the bruises. HIS UNCLE. Draco's father had never laid a hand on him unless it was to pretend he was a Death Eater. But that had only happened only twice before. Draco had heard Harry's relatives were cruel muggles, but abuse was something entirely different.
Draco had to use all of his endurance to stop himself from rushing over and hugging the breath out of Harry. It was so HARD though. The forlorn look on Harry's face was too much. His emerald eyes had gone dull and were bloodshot from all the crying. Harry had brought his knees up to his chest, making himself as small as possible. The anguish on his face was so intense, it seemed to radiate from his entire body. He started rocking back and forth, murmuring to himself. Draco felt his heart burst. He had to get out of here now. If he didn't, who knows what could happen.
::Gods, if someone doesn't do something, he's going to go insane. Or worse, kill himself. And if that happened, who knows what chaos will follow. For me and the entire wizarding community. I'll help you Harry. In anyway I can. Hold on,:: Draco thought desperately as he slipped away from the bush quietly.
But what to do? He had no idea how he could help Harry. After all, they had been worst enemies for 4 years! Who would believe Draco? He needed someone who was clever, practical, and observant. Who.who.then it hit him. HERMIONE GRANGER. Even if she didn't fully believe him, she was bound to pay more close attention to Harry. Draco ran all the way to his dorm and then to the owlery, parchment, a quill, and ink in his arms.
After scribbling a quick note, Draco tied it to the leg of a school owl. As he watched the owl float into the air, Draco prayed Hermione would believe him. She just HAD to. He checked his watch. 6:15am.
::Better get back to the commonroom,:: Draco thought, ::I only hope she comes and is as smart as they all say she is::
~Great Hall (breakfast - 7:30am)
Hermione entered the noisy Great Hall alone. Ron was still getting dressed, and Harry was taking a long shower. She sat down somewhere in the middle of the table and greeted her fellow house members. She filled her plate with bacon, eggs, and sausage. Propping a book up on her knee, she began to read and eat, being careful not to spill food on the book. After maybe 5 minutes, she heard a rush of wings. She looked up for her family's owl, which usually delivered the Daily Prophet. She was surprised, however, when 2 owls swooped to her, delivering their mail. One was the newspaper, but the other was a letter. She scanned through the headlines, but put the paper aside for later, and turned to her letter.
'To Miss Hermione Granger,
Your presence is requested at the Astronomy Tower at midnight tonight. I have something I need to tell you. COME ALONE. Do not bring Ron Weasley and especially not Harry Potter, it may effect our conversation drastically. You may bring your wand if you feel necessary, but I doubt you will need it. This is a very important matter, and you are the only one who I feel can help. This is anything but a joke, and it is not a duel. I hope to see you there.'
There was no signature on it. Hermione looked at it strangely. Who sent her this letter? And why would they want to talk to her? Most importantly, why couldn't she bring Ron or Harry? She shook her head. It sounded important, she might as well go. She would definitely bring her wand, just for safety. She swiftly hid the letter as Ron and Harry walked into the Hall, Ron looking happy and Harry looking sour. They sat down quickly, Harry letting his head hang forward. Hermione shot Ron a quizzical look, who answered with a helpless shrug.
"Harry? Are you okay?" Hermione asked softly.
"I'm fine," he said dully, his eyes focused on his plate. Hermione's brow was knit with worry, but he ignored it and grabbed a piece of bacon.
Harry was not having a good morning. After the breakdown this morning, he was physically and mentally exhausted. He had stayed sobbing on the wall for a half an hour. He finally realized that being caught in that position would only cause more trouble, he weakly pushed himself up. Throwing the cloak over him, he had scrambled back to the commonroom, nearly slamming into Filch on the way. Once he was back in the dorm, he had taken a long, hot shower. He then dressed, and gone down in time to see Ron practically bouncing off the walls. As they went down to the Great Hall, Ron chatted happily about classes and Quidditch, while Harry could only return a small smile. And now, Hermione was worried about him. Just peachy.
Harry looked up from his plate only to see most of the girls in the great hall sending him winks and puppy-dog eyes. He nearly threw up. Lucidia seemed to have forgotten last nights events, because she was openly staring at Harry with misty eyes. Harry shrank, trying to make himself as small as possible. He looked around the Hall, and his eyes settled on Draco. He was looking perfect, as usual. He was conversing with Blaise, throwing his head back slightly when he laughed. Harry was captivated by him. He saw Draco turn from Blaise and glance in his direction. Their eyes locked a look of concern flashed through Draco's face. Draco quickly looked away and at his plate, then put on his smirk and started talking with Crabbe. Harry raised an eyebrow, but shrugged it off, and began staring at his plate again.
"Guys, I'm going to head back now. I need to go collect my stuff for our first class," Harry said, suddenly losing his appetite, "What is our first class again?"
"Herbology. It's okay Harry, we have plenty of time. Besides, you've hardly eaten a thing this morning and you didn't eat anything at the feast last night!" Hermione said, putting on a slightly motherly tone.
"I ate. You just weren't paying attention. And anyways, I'm not that hungry," Harry said swiftly, a slightly cold edge in his voice. He then muttered under his breath, "It's not like you actually care."
Both Ron and Hermione heard the last comment, and Hermione was about to interject when Ron placed a hand on her arm. Harry stood up and slowly made his way out of the Hall. His expression was still sour and he shot a few people glares that said 'If-you-mess-with-me-I'll-kill-you'. Hermione turned to Ron angrily.
"What did you stop me for?! You heard what he said!" she said loudly and angrily.
"Keep your voice down, Hermi. Harry's in a really bad mood, that much is obvious. Let's try and keep the arguments to a minimum for a day or two until he cools down. Okay?" Ron said softly.
Hermione sighed and returned to her breakfast. Her thoughts wandered back to the letter. 'And especially not Harry Potter' it had said. Was there a connection there in any way? ::Well,:: she thought to herself, ::guess I'll just have to wait until tonight to find out::
~*
Harry's day didn't improve a bit when the afternoon rolled around. Herbology was an near disaster. His concentration had been shot to hell after his jog, and he had slashed his hand on a large thorn located on the side of the Emilia plant he had been pruning. Charms was no better. They did a review of basic spells, and he had accidentally sent Flitwick flying out the window. Both events had resulted in double homework for him. After a quick lunch, where he finally ate something of an appropriate amount, it was back to the commonroom for 10 minutes and then off to Care of Magical Creatures.
The Slytherins were already gathered in front of Hagrid's house. They were talking and snickering, all except for Draco. He was watching the Gryffindors come down the lawn, or, he was watching Harry come down the lawn. He was trying extremely hard to hide his concern, and so far he was succeeding. As the 2 houses met, Harry stayed off to the side and sat down. He plucked at the sun-kissed green grass and began shredding it. Just then, Hagrid came out.
"Alright class, gather round 'ere," he called.
Harry reluctantly rose and stood with the group. As Hagrid started to describe the day's lesson, he tuned everything out. He just stood there, looking at his feet. His head snapped forward as he felt someone shaking him lightly.
"Come on Potter, time to head out into the forest," Draco said, removing his hand from Harry's shoulder. There was no malice in his voice, nor should there be, considering the truce that was called.
"Forest? WHAT?" Harry said stunned.
"The Forbidden Forest, Harry. Weren't you paying attention?" Hermione asked as Draco walked off.
"Not really," he mumbled, embarrassed.
"Oh Harry! You should try listening to Hagrid. We're going into the forest to meet up with some centaurs. Said it was a sort of first day treat," Hermione explained.
"Did.did he pair us up with one of the centaurs yet?" Harry asked, still a little bit embarrassed.
"Not yet. We better hurry up, or we're going to loose the class," Hermione said grabbing Harry's arm and dragging him off.
They quickly caught up with the class and they went deeper into the forest. They soon entered a clearing, with the sun just peaking through the trees. Harry gasped.
"What is it?" Ron asked.
"This.this is where me and Malfoy found the dead unicorn back in our first year. This is also where I saw.saw." he trailed off as his voice failed him.
Ron nodded and they turned their attention to Hagrid, who was beaming.
"Now, usually centaurs keep themselves to themselves," Harry smiled as he remembered that line from his first year, "But they've agreed to come out for a day or two. They already know who their partner is, and they'll be tellin' you about what they read, and maybe they'll give you a few clues about the upcomin' year. That is, if you can decipher what they day. Centaurs, in my opinion, are just ruddy stargazers, but if you can work out what they're sayin', they can be very helpful. Be sure to keep that in mind."
Just then the centaurs arrived. Harry had never seen so many together at once. He recognized Bane, who was standing at the back, looking gruff. He also saw Ronan, who gave him a small smile. Harry smiled back, and bit back a laugh when he saw the other students, whose, with the exception of Hermione, eyes happened to be popping out of their heads. Hagrid cleared his throat, getting the attention of both the students and the centaurs.
"Now, lets get you all paired off. For starters, Hermione, you've got Bane. Bane, be nice, you know this one," Hagrid smiled as Bane gave a nod, "Ron, you've got the chocolate colored one, her name is Miaza."
A chocolate colored centaur stepped forward. She had black hair that seemed to shine on it's own tied back in a ponytail, and was wearing a shirt made out of brown cloth. She smiled at Ron and they went to where Hermione and Bane were standing. They continued to be paired off, until only Ronan, Draco, Harry, and a slightly familiar looking centaur with blonde hair remained.
"Draco, you're paired with Ronan, so that leaves you with Firenze, Harry. Now, you all have some time, so get to talking!" Hagrid finished.
Harry was shocked. This was Firenze? No wonder he looked familiar! Only, his hair had grown more blonde instead of white. Firenze walked over and Harry stared.
"Hello Harry Potter. It's been quite a while hasn't it?" Firenze said, his voice a little misty.
"You bet! Almost four years in fact. You look different. When did you go full blonde?" Harry asked.
"They say that maturity does things to one," Firenze answered, smiling slightly. Harry snorted and his features turned cold for a moment.
"You can say that again," Harry said, a little coldly. Firenze smiled turned to a frown.
"Why don't you climb on my back, just like in your first year. We'll go somewhere more secluded and I will tell you what I have seen," Firenze offered.
Harry blinked, but gladly climbed up on Firenze's back. They heard a snort from Bane's direction, but ignored it. Firenze moved swiftly to the outer corner of the clearing and for a moment they were silent.
"You know don't you," Harry said suddenly, "You know about Vernon."
"The sky tells all, if you know how to look," came the reply.
"What else have you seen?" Harry asked.
"I have seen many things in my lifetime Harry Potter. Many things," Firenze answered.
Harry sighed mournfully. He had hoped that he could maybe get some answers about his future, but the prospects didn't look good. Harry leaned up against Firenze's neck and stroked the blonde hair, a painfully sad look on his face.
"Oh Firenze, what's going to happen to me? I wake up each day not knowing where life is taking me. Lately, things seem to be tearing me apart. It's like.two paths have been lain out before me, and I want to go down both. What will happen with Voldemort? What will happen to all my friends, to everyone? And most of all, will.will.will it ever work out?" as Harry spoke the last line, he looked over at Draco, tears shimmering in his eyes.
Firenze was surprised. He knew all about what was happening with Harry, even his feelings about Draco Malfoy. But, Harry was not taking it as well as he suspected. The strong Harry Potter had been torn apart by sorrow and depression. The stars had not predicted this in quite such a manner. Firenze hesitated, but he eventually caved in. He knew he was supposed to be keeping this a secret, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. Besides, what was the harm in dropping a few hints?
"Harry Potter, you must remember to stay strong. If you fall, others will fall with you," Firenze said. Harry sighed again.
"Isn't that the way it always is? It's like I'm the pillar that the structure depends on to stand. It's not all that easy you know, doing this all alone," Harry said sadly.
"So why do it alone?" Firenze asked.
"What do you mean?" Harry inquired.
"I mean, why do it alone? Harry Potter, your destiny is intertwined with another. Think of it as you are the Yin, the light, and you are looking for the Yang, the dark. You will find your Yang very soon. Cherish that person. Depend on them and let them depend on you," Firenze said softly.
As Harry and Firenze continued to talk, others were having interesting conversations with their centaurs. Draco watched as Harry gave Firenze a hug, and felt a twang of jealousy in his stomach. He turned to Ronan.
"Harry and Firenze are very close," he commented.
"So they are. Ever since Firenze saved Harry, they've had a bond," if this confused Draco, he did not show it, "You observe Harry Potter much Draco Malfoy."
"Well.I.um.that is." Draco stuttered, blushing lightly.
"Keep what you learn close. What you see may be of use to you in the near future," Ronan said.
Draco thought of his meeting with Hermione tonight, and nodded. Over with Miaza and Ron, they had been having a nice conversation about Hermione. Remembering something, Ron changed the subject.
"What about Harry? He's been acting strange lately," Ron admitted.
"Keep your eyes and your mind open Ronald Weasley. You may not know it, but words do have an effect on Harry Potter. You are his best friend, are you not?" Miaza asked. She had a sweet voice that almost rang out.
"Yes," Ron replied.
"And you would accept anything he told you?" she continued?
"Absolutely," Ron said confidently.
"Never be so sure. Keep your words in you mind. Remember them in times of trouble," Miaza said mysteriously.
Ron could do nothing else but nod. Near them, Hermione and Bane had gotten along fairly well, despite the tension that hung in the air. Bane felt that Hermione -who never believed in divination- compromised his entire belief, but said nothing.
"Keep your eyes open Hermione Granger. You know that things are never what they seem," Bane said in a gruff voice.
"I've had plenty experience to know that fact, yes," Hermione answered.
"Always try to see things with a clear eye. Do not let emotions blind your perception. Even the simplest of things -or people- hold something deeper. Help them with the knowledge you posses and even the knowledge you never knew you had. Do not let courage and bravery get in the way of things. Step back when you know you are not needed, but be there when you are," Bane said, looking up at the trees.
"Something is going to happen to drastically change everything we ever knew, isn't there," Hermione said softly.
"Good girl. Do not try and pry too much, you will be finding out sooner than you think. Remember my words. Use them in any way you can," Bane said, his tone softening, thinking about the future ahead for Hermione and her friends.
"Alright! Time to be headin' out! The lesson is over for today. You'll see your centaurs again next lesson and various times throughout the year. Let's get goin'," Hagrid's voice boomed from behind them.
The students bid farewell to their centaurs, and Harry gave Firenze another hug, who gladly nuzzled Harry's neck. Harry grinned and went to meet up with Ron and Hermione, who were holding hands and talking. The three made their way out of the forest and back to the castle for their last class of the day.
Draco felt another twang of jealousy when he saw Harry and Firenze so close, but pushed it aside. He had more important things to worry about. Like his meeting tonight. Heading back to his dorm to get his Transfiguration books, he thought deeply about the episode that would surely take place at the Astronomy Tower later that night.
~*
Six: My goodness, wasn't that long? My hand is all cramped now.
Harry: Those centaurs are smart creatures. Hm.intertwined destinies, got any hints for us Six?
Six: Sorry guys, you'll have to find that out later.
Draco: Ronan confused me... *sweatdrop*
Harry: It's okay, Firenze can be confusing too.
Six: Will you two shut up? I'm trying to end the damn chapter!
Draco and Harry: *clamps hands over mouths*
Six: Good. Now, I hope you enjoyed this belated, long chapter. I feel that my writing is improving, but I would LOVE your opinion. You know what that means. PLEASE GIVE FEEDBACK! I'm starting the next chapter right away, and hopefully my father won't kick me off the internet. And that reminds me, I have to go finish that homework *sweatdrop*, review please. See ya!
Disclaimer: I don't own anything expect the plot and the OCs that tend to pop up at will *walks off whistling and reading Prisoner to Azkaban*
Thanks to: EVERYONE! There are too many of you out there who were nice enough to review (plus I can't get on the internet to look the names up @_@). So, all of you who reviewed chapter 2, I love you guys! You are the greatest!! *HUGS*
"blah" is talking ::blah:: is thinking
~*
Chapter 3
Sunlight barely peaked over the grounds that surrounded the castle. The castle was still slightly cast in shadow by the Forbidden Forest, and all the residents were asleep in their beds. In the 5th year boys Gryffindor dorm, Neville's snores were as loud as ever, and Seamus was curled up next to Dean in his bed. Ron was sleeping peacefully in his new, actual fitting pajamas, but Harry was far from content. He was fidgeting, his brow drenched in sweat. With a sudden gasp he shot straight up, his eyes wide and shocked. He was breathing heavily, and his eyes looked frantically around the room. When he realized where he was, he let out an explosive sigh of relief.
::Oh man, that dream was one of the worst I've ever had. And it was so real too!:: Harry shivered at the memory of the dream, ::Is this a sort of premonition? Too bad I dropped Divination this year, I heard we study those this year. Oh well, no use in grumbling about it now. I need to clear my head.::
Harry glanced at his clock and groaned softly. 5:30 am. The other residents of the castle wouldn't be up for at least another hour and a half. It was too late for Harry to fall back asleep, he was now wide awake with not a trace of sleep in his features. He glanced around at his sleeping friends, pondering what he could do to clear his thoughts. He finally decided a jog was the best thing. He needed a good work out where he could decide when to stop and where to go. It was warm out, so he stripped from his pajamas and put on a pair of shorts. He didn't care that his multiple bruises were exposed, no one would see them anyway. Besides, a long sleeve shirt would be too hot after working up a sweat. He opened his trunk, grabbed his invisibility cloak and started out. Being careful not to wake anyone, he slipped out through the portrait hole wearing the cloak, and headed to the entrance of the castle.
Once outside, Harry took a deep breath. The air there was fresh and clean, and it gave him a new found burst of energy. He set off first at a brisk walk, which slowly turned to a jog, then to full blown running. This run was not as cleansing as he thought, however. No matter how hard he pushed, he could somehow see Vernon's face in front of him, taunting him, mocking him. His legs pumped harder, running past the lake and the forest, looping around Hagrid's house and running along the edge of the lake. He was running faster than he normally would, but to no avail. The picture was still there. He stopped suddenly, realizing that blacking out from running too hard was NOT the thing he needed. He walked slowly to the castle, resting his back against the cool stone, trying to catch his breath.
Draco has not slept well. He'd been up late thinking, and had drifted in and out of sleep since 3am. He finally gave up on sleep and rose from his bed. He figured since no one was up, he might as well explore the grounds. Besides, the castle must be beautiful and the earliest of dawn. Not wanting to risk waking everyone else up, he slipped on a short sleeve green robe. He ran a brush through his hair, winked at the mirror, who whistled at him, and he left quietly.
He was right. The castle WAS beautiful at this hour. The temperature was so nice, he figured he'd take a quick jog around the lake. Once he got 10 feet out the entrance, however, all thoughts of a jog were lost from his mind. He heard someone talking off to his left side. It sounded an awful lot like.Harry Potter? What was he doing up so early? Draco walked over and found Harry glaring at a WALL. Draco hid best he could behind a bush and watched closely, one eyebrow raised.
::Why is he out here at 5:45 in the morning, talking at the wall no less. And.oh my God, is he only wearing shorts?!?!:: Draco thought, looking at Harry. Draco didn't have long to drool though.
He also noticed something else. It looked like Harry had been running hard, because he was covered in sweat. The sweat showed off the large number of bruises on Harry's body. They were a sickening bluish- black color, and he had them all over the place. On his arms, his legs and thighs, and many on his chest. Draco was shocked at the number of them. Where had Harry gotten them? They certainly couldn't have come from an accident, Draco just knew it. Draco was learning he knew less and less about Harry every day. He was pulled out of his thoughts as Harry's voice got louder. Draco made sure he was completely hidden and listened.
"Go away, please, go away. It's never enough! No matter how hard I try, I'll never be able to escape you! You're supposed to help me, damn it. You're supposed to be there for me! You're my fucking FAMILY for God's sake. I hate you!" Harry's voice grew louder with every sentence. Draco looked on, his eyes wide, but made no interference. What the hell was Harry talking about?
"I HATE YOU VERNON! You're my fucking UNCLE! You're supposed to love me, not BEAT ME! I HATE YOU AND MY SO-CALLED AUNT AND COUSIN! I DIDN'T DO ANYTHING WRONG!" he was screaming now, his voice trembling with a mixture of sadness, anger, and hate.
"Why? Damn it, WHY? Why did you have to beat me?! I didn't do anything wrong! All I did was love him, IS THAT SUCH A CRIME?! I'll never be rid of you! I HATE EVERY SINGLE FUCKING PART OF YOU VERNON! Stay the hell out of my life." his voice cracked, and he was no longer shouting. The last line sounded a lot like a plea, as if he was begging to some unknown person.
With a sudden fury, Harry punched the stone wall with all his strength. A loud thud was heard as his fist came in contact with the wall, and blood slowly slid down the stone. Harry drew back his fist and looked at his now bloody knuckles. He looked at all his bruises, tears starting to form. With a strangled cry, he leaned against the wall slid down into a sitting position, sobbing. He put his face in his hands, ignoring the fact that his face was getting smeared with blood. He cried his heart out. He let out all of the anger, frustration, and sadness that had built up for 2 months in one long sob and an innumerable amount of tears.
Back in his hiding place, Draco could do nothing but gasp and stare in utter disbelief. That's where he had gotten the bruises. HIS UNCLE. Draco's father had never laid a hand on him unless it was to pretend he was a Death Eater. But that had only happened only twice before. Draco had heard Harry's relatives were cruel muggles, but abuse was something entirely different.
Draco had to use all of his endurance to stop himself from rushing over and hugging the breath out of Harry. It was so HARD though. The forlorn look on Harry's face was too much. His emerald eyes had gone dull and were bloodshot from all the crying. Harry had brought his knees up to his chest, making himself as small as possible. The anguish on his face was so intense, it seemed to radiate from his entire body. He started rocking back and forth, murmuring to himself. Draco felt his heart burst. He had to get out of here now. If he didn't, who knows what could happen.
::Gods, if someone doesn't do something, he's going to go insane. Or worse, kill himself. And if that happened, who knows what chaos will follow. For me and the entire wizarding community. I'll help you Harry. In anyway I can. Hold on,:: Draco thought desperately as he slipped away from the bush quietly.
But what to do? He had no idea how he could help Harry. After all, they had been worst enemies for 4 years! Who would believe Draco? He needed someone who was clever, practical, and observant. Who.who.then it hit him. HERMIONE GRANGER. Even if she didn't fully believe him, she was bound to pay more close attention to Harry. Draco ran all the way to his dorm and then to the owlery, parchment, a quill, and ink in his arms.
After scribbling a quick note, Draco tied it to the leg of a school owl. As he watched the owl float into the air, Draco prayed Hermione would believe him. She just HAD to. He checked his watch. 6:15am.
::Better get back to the commonroom,:: Draco thought, ::I only hope she comes and is as smart as they all say she is::
~Great Hall (breakfast - 7:30am)
Hermione entered the noisy Great Hall alone. Ron was still getting dressed, and Harry was taking a long shower. She sat down somewhere in the middle of the table and greeted her fellow house members. She filled her plate with bacon, eggs, and sausage. Propping a book up on her knee, she began to read and eat, being careful not to spill food on the book. After maybe 5 minutes, she heard a rush of wings. She looked up for her family's owl, which usually delivered the Daily Prophet. She was surprised, however, when 2 owls swooped to her, delivering their mail. One was the newspaper, but the other was a letter. She scanned through the headlines, but put the paper aside for later, and turned to her letter.
'To Miss Hermione Granger,
Your presence is requested at the Astronomy Tower at midnight tonight. I have something I need to tell you. COME ALONE. Do not bring Ron Weasley and especially not Harry Potter, it may effect our conversation drastically. You may bring your wand if you feel necessary, but I doubt you will need it. This is a very important matter, and you are the only one who I feel can help. This is anything but a joke, and it is not a duel. I hope to see you there.'
There was no signature on it. Hermione looked at it strangely. Who sent her this letter? And why would they want to talk to her? Most importantly, why couldn't she bring Ron or Harry? She shook her head. It sounded important, she might as well go. She would definitely bring her wand, just for safety. She swiftly hid the letter as Ron and Harry walked into the Hall, Ron looking happy and Harry looking sour. They sat down quickly, Harry letting his head hang forward. Hermione shot Ron a quizzical look, who answered with a helpless shrug.
"Harry? Are you okay?" Hermione asked softly.
"I'm fine," he said dully, his eyes focused on his plate. Hermione's brow was knit with worry, but he ignored it and grabbed a piece of bacon.
Harry was not having a good morning. After the breakdown this morning, he was physically and mentally exhausted. He had stayed sobbing on the wall for a half an hour. He finally realized that being caught in that position would only cause more trouble, he weakly pushed himself up. Throwing the cloak over him, he had scrambled back to the commonroom, nearly slamming into Filch on the way. Once he was back in the dorm, he had taken a long, hot shower. He then dressed, and gone down in time to see Ron practically bouncing off the walls. As they went down to the Great Hall, Ron chatted happily about classes and Quidditch, while Harry could only return a small smile. And now, Hermione was worried about him. Just peachy.
Harry looked up from his plate only to see most of the girls in the great hall sending him winks and puppy-dog eyes. He nearly threw up. Lucidia seemed to have forgotten last nights events, because she was openly staring at Harry with misty eyes. Harry shrank, trying to make himself as small as possible. He looked around the Hall, and his eyes settled on Draco. He was looking perfect, as usual. He was conversing with Blaise, throwing his head back slightly when he laughed. Harry was captivated by him. He saw Draco turn from Blaise and glance in his direction. Their eyes locked a look of concern flashed through Draco's face. Draco quickly looked away and at his plate, then put on his smirk and started talking with Crabbe. Harry raised an eyebrow, but shrugged it off, and began staring at his plate again.
"Guys, I'm going to head back now. I need to go collect my stuff for our first class," Harry said, suddenly losing his appetite, "What is our first class again?"
"Herbology. It's okay Harry, we have plenty of time. Besides, you've hardly eaten a thing this morning and you didn't eat anything at the feast last night!" Hermione said, putting on a slightly motherly tone.
"I ate. You just weren't paying attention. And anyways, I'm not that hungry," Harry said swiftly, a slightly cold edge in his voice. He then muttered under his breath, "It's not like you actually care."
Both Ron and Hermione heard the last comment, and Hermione was about to interject when Ron placed a hand on her arm. Harry stood up and slowly made his way out of the Hall. His expression was still sour and he shot a few people glares that said 'If-you-mess-with-me-I'll-kill-you'. Hermione turned to Ron angrily.
"What did you stop me for?! You heard what he said!" she said loudly and angrily.
"Keep your voice down, Hermi. Harry's in a really bad mood, that much is obvious. Let's try and keep the arguments to a minimum for a day or two until he cools down. Okay?" Ron said softly.
Hermione sighed and returned to her breakfast. Her thoughts wandered back to the letter. 'And especially not Harry Potter' it had said. Was there a connection there in any way? ::Well,:: she thought to herself, ::guess I'll just have to wait until tonight to find out::
~*
Harry's day didn't improve a bit when the afternoon rolled around. Herbology was an near disaster. His concentration had been shot to hell after his jog, and he had slashed his hand on a large thorn located on the side of the Emilia plant he had been pruning. Charms was no better. They did a review of basic spells, and he had accidentally sent Flitwick flying out the window. Both events had resulted in double homework for him. After a quick lunch, where he finally ate something of an appropriate amount, it was back to the commonroom for 10 minutes and then off to Care of Magical Creatures.
The Slytherins were already gathered in front of Hagrid's house. They were talking and snickering, all except for Draco. He was watching the Gryffindors come down the lawn, or, he was watching Harry come down the lawn. He was trying extremely hard to hide his concern, and so far he was succeeding. As the 2 houses met, Harry stayed off to the side and sat down. He plucked at the sun-kissed green grass and began shredding it. Just then, Hagrid came out.
"Alright class, gather round 'ere," he called.
Harry reluctantly rose and stood with the group. As Hagrid started to describe the day's lesson, he tuned everything out. He just stood there, looking at his feet. His head snapped forward as he felt someone shaking him lightly.
"Come on Potter, time to head out into the forest," Draco said, removing his hand from Harry's shoulder. There was no malice in his voice, nor should there be, considering the truce that was called.
"Forest? WHAT?" Harry said stunned.
"The Forbidden Forest, Harry. Weren't you paying attention?" Hermione asked as Draco walked off.
"Not really," he mumbled, embarrassed.
"Oh Harry! You should try listening to Hagrid. We're going into the forest to meet up with some centaurs. Said it was a sort of first day treat," Hermione explained.
"Did.did he pair us up with one of the centaurs yet?" Harry asked, still a little bit embarrassed.
"Not yet. We better hurry up, or we're going to loose the class," Hermione said grabbing Harry's arm and dragging him off.
They quickly caught up with the class and they went deeper into the forest. They soon entered a clearing, with the sun just peaking through the trees. Harry gasped.
"What is it?" Ron asked.
"This.this is where me and Malfoy found the dead unicorn back in our first year. This is also where I saw.saw." he trailed off as his voice failed him.
Ron nodded and they turned their attention to Hagrid, who was beaming.
"Now, usually centaurs keep themselves to themselves," Harry smiled as he remembered that line from his first year, "But they've agreed to come out for a day or two. They already know who their partner is, and they'll be tellin' you about what they read, and maybe they'll give you a few clues about the upcomin' year. That is, if you can decipher what they day. Centaurs, in my opinion, are just ruddy stargazers, but if you can work out what they're sayin', they can be very helpful. Be sure to keep that in mind."
Just then the centaurs arrived. Harry had never seen so many together at once. He recognized Bane, who was standing at the back, looking gruff. He also saw Ronan, who gave him a small smile. Harry smiled back, and bit back a laugh when he saw the other students, whose, with the exception of Hermione, eyes happened to be popping out of their heads. Hagrid cleared his throat, getting the attention of both the students and the centaurs.
"Now, lets get you all paired off. For starters, Hermione, you've got Bane. Bane, be nice, you know this one," Hagrid smiled as Bane gave a nod, "Ron, you've got the chocolate colored one, her name is Miaza."
A chocolate colored centaur stepped forward. She had black hair that seemed to shine on it's own tied back in a ponytail, and was wearing a shirt made out of brown cloth. She smiled at Ron and they went to where Hermione and Bane were standing. They continued to be paired off, until only Ronan, Draco, Harry, and a slightly familiar looking centaur with blonde hair remained.
"Draco, you're paired with Ronan, so that leaves you with Firenze, Harry. Now, you all have some time, so get to talking!" Hagrid finished.
Harry was shocked. This was Firenze? No wonder he looked familiar! Only, his hair had grown more blonde instead of white. Firenze walked over and Harry stared.
"Hello Harry Potter. It's been quite a while hasn't it?" Firenze said, his voice a little misty.
"You bet! Almost four years in fact. You look different. When did you go full blonde?" Harry asked.
"They say that maturity does things to one," Firenze answered, smiling slightly. Harry snorted and his features turned cold for a moment.
"You can say that again," Harry said, a little coldly. Firenze smiled turned to a frown.
"Why don't you climb on my back, just like in your first year. We'll go somewhere more secluded and I will tell you what I have seen," Firenze offered.
Harry blinked, but gladly climbed up on Firenze's back. They heard a snort from Bane's direction, but ignored it. Firenze moved swiftly to the outer corner of the clearing and for a moment they were silent.
"You know don't you," Harry said suddenly, "You know about Vernon."
"The sky tells all, if you know how to look," came the reply.
"What else have you seen?" Harry asked.
"I have seen many things in my lifetime Harry Potter. Many things," Firenze answered.
Harry sighed mournfully. He had hoped that he could maybe get some answers about his future, but the prospects didn't look good. Harry leaned up against Firenze's neck and stroked the blonde hair, a painfully sad look on his face.
"Oh Firenze, what's going to happen to me? I wake up each day not knowing where life is taking me. Lately, things seem to be tearing me apart. It's like.two paths have been lain out before me, and I want to go down both. What will happen with Voldemort? What will happen to all my friends, to everyone? And most of all, will.will.will it ever work out?" as Harry spoke the last line, he looked over at Draco, tears shimmering in his eyes.
Firenze was surprised. He knew all about what was happening with Harry, even his feelings about Draco Malfoy. But, Harry was not taking it as well as he suspected. The strong Harry Potter had been torn apart by sorrow and depression. The stars had not predicted this in quite such a manner. Firenze hesitated, but he eventually caved in. He knew he was supposed to be keeping this a secret, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. Besides, what was the harm in dropping a few hints?
"Harry Potter, you must remember to stay strong. If you fall, others will fall with you," Firenze said. Harry sighed again.
"Isn't that the way it always is? It's like I'm the pillar that the structure depends on to stand. It's not all that easy you know, doing this all alone," Harry said sadly.
"So why do it alone?" Firenze asked.
"What do you mean?" Harry inquired.
"I mean, why do it alone? Harry Potter, your destiny is intertwined with another. Think of it as you are the Yin, the light, and you are looking for the Yang, the dark. You will find your Yang very soon. Cherish that person. Depend on them and let them depend on you," Firenze said softly.
As Harry and Firenze continued to talk, others were having interesting conversations with their centaurs. Draco watched as Harry gave Firenze a hug, and felt a twang of jealousy in his stomach. He turned to Ronan.
"Harry and Firenze are very close," he commented.
"So they are. Ever since Firenze saved Harry, they've had a bond," if this confused Draco, he did not show it, "You observe Harry Potter much Draco Malfoy."
"Well.I.um.that is." Draco stuttered, blushing lightly.
"Keep what you learn close. What you see may be of use to you in the near future," Ronan said.
Draco thought of his meeting with Hermione tonight, and nodded. Over with Miaza and Ron, they had been having a nice conversation about Hermione. Remembering something, Ron changed the subject.
"What about Harry? He's been acting strange lately," Ron admitted.
"Keep your eyes and your mind open Ronald Weasley. You may not know it, but words do have an effect on Harry Potter. You are his best friend, are you not?" Miaza asked. She had a sweet voice that almost rang out.
"Yes," Ron replied.
"And you would accept anything he told you?" she continued?
"Absolutely," Ron said confidently.
"Never be so sure. Keep your words in you mind. Remember them in times of trouble," Miaza said mysteriously.
Ron could do nothing else but nod. Near them, Hermione and Bane had gotten along fairly well, despite the tension that hung in the air. Bane felt that Hermione -who never believed in divination- compromised his entire belief, but said nothing.
"Keep your eyes open Hermione Granger. You know that things are never what they seem," Bane said in a gruff voice.
"I've had plenty experience to know that fact, yes," Hermione answered.
"Always try to see things with a clear eye. Do not let emotions blind your perception. Even the simplest of things -or people- hold something deeper. Help them with the knowledge you posses and even the knowledge you never knew you had. Do not let courage and bravery get in the way of things. Step back when you know you are not needed, but be there when you are," Bane said, looking up at the trees.
"Something is going to happen to drastically change everything we ever knew, isn't there," Hermione said softly.
"Good girl. Do not try and pry too much, you will be finding out sooner than you think. Remember my words. Use them in any way you can," Bane said, his tone softening, thinking about the future ahead for Hermione and her friends.
"Alright! Time to be headin' out! The lesson is over for today. You'll see your centaurs again next lesson and various times throughout the year. Let's get goin'," Hagrid's voice boomed from behind them.
The students bid farewell to their centaurs, and Harry gave Firenze another hug, who gladly nuzzled Harry's neck. Harry grinned and went to meet up with Ron and Hermione, who were holding hands and talking. The three made their way out of the forest and back to the castle for their last class of the day.
Draco felt another twang of jealousy when he saw Harry and Firenze so close, but pushed it aside. He had more important things to worry about. Like his meeting tonight. Heading back to his dorm to get his Transfiguration books, he thought deeply about the episode that would surely take place at the Astronomy Tower later that night.
~*
Six: My goodness, wasn't that long? My hand is all cramped now.
Harry: Those centaurs are smart creatures. Hm.intertwined destinies, got any hints for us Six?
Six: Sorry guys, you'll have to find that out later.
Draco: Ronan confused me... *sweatdrop*
Harry: It's okay, Firenze can be confusing too.
Six: Will you two shut up? I'm trying to end the damn chapter!
Draco and Harry: *clamps hands over mouths*
Six: Good. Now, I hope you enjoyed this belated, long chapter. I feel that my writing is improving, but I would LOVE your opinion. You know what that means. PLEASE GIVE FEEDBACK! I'm starting the next chapter right away, and hopefully my father won't kick me off the internet. And that reminds me, I have to go finish that homework *sweatdrop*, review please. See ya!
