Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or any of his friends, Ms. Rowling
does.
~*~*~*~*~*~*
sew2100 : Thanks! There will be loads of action.
roseman780: Consider this to be a premise for all the action to come.
athenakitty: Draco is never a bad guy. I guess you will find all your answers here.
takari4ever7: Right on target. However, considering the amount of action I planned, I decided to cut back on fluff between all pairs. Sure, there will be occasional kisses and hugs, nothing more.
Amber: Well, I wouldn't want to give anything away. Nice suggestion, though.
mis_witch O_O: Sorry if I did sound so. But come on, there got to be some romance between them. I am going to cut back on that and concentrate on Action/Adventure. Thanks for the comment.
Morgan Riordan: Harry is smart. He was just so pre-occupied with say, Voldermort*Hermione***Quidditch*Hermione***Training*Hermione...got the picture?
krazymelmo5385: That is still a secret. You'll find more about the secret person in the next two chapters.
coolone007: Come on. It's not Lucius. Dumbledore is not dumb. Try again before I reveal. I will have your name posted on top of the story (smirks...)
Lady Phoenix Gryffindor, ilo star: Thanx
Lilly Goddess: Guess I will have to start begging everyone for reviews(laughs!). Pls trust me for action, but for now I need to have a foundation with training and closing other loose ends.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~~*~*
Chapter 12: New Alliances and Order Members
* * *
Harry, Ron and Hermione were walking towards lunch laughing about Trelawney's class.
"Ron! Harry! Wait", shouted Neville running towards them.
The trio turned around to find Neville gasping for breath.
"Ginny! In the infirmary....unconscious...in the dungeons", was all Neville needed to say between breaths to make the trio run at full speed towards infirmary.
They rammed into the infirmary doors making madam Pomfrey jump from her chair.
"YOU THREE! OUT! NOW!" she barked making the trio control their noise.
"Madam Pomfrey! Please! Ginny! Where is she?" asked Ron breathing heavy.
"All right! No more sounds or else all of you will be out", warned Pomfrey.
They all nodded and accompanied her towards Ginny's bed. She slept on the bed peacefully, breathing slowly.
"What happened?" whispered Hermione to Pomfrey.
"Someone used a dark spell to put her to sleep forever. Luckily she didn't get the full blast of it, I believe. I was able to undo the curse. She will be up in a few minutes and She is going to be fine!" remarked Pomfrey.
They started thinking about who could have attacked her. Lavender pressed Ron's hand ensuring he doesn't go out attacking people out of anger. Ron, having understood this merely nodded his head at Lavender.
Harry started feeling that their happy days are only numbered before they encounter the ultimate evil. But Hermione seemed to be very calm. She wanted know more about the curse and maybe....the search would lead her somewhere.
'I will not leave them Ginny!' promised Hermione silently.
Before they could stay longer Pomfrey ushered them out. All four walked silently continued to their class.
Meanwhile, in the infirmary...
Ginny woke up feeling a bit dizzy, but as she started to walk, she felt much better. Madam Pomfrey gave her some yellow potion to strengthen her senses and let her go to the classes.
As soon as she came out into the corridor, Draco was standing there waiting for her.
"How are you feeling Gin?" he hugged her and started walking with her.
"Draco! What happened to me?" asked Ginny, still a bit unsure of events.
"I don't know. I came out of our common room and heard someone cursing and as I sped up I saw you dropping to the floor. I also saw someone rushing away very quickly. I didn't have time to chase them. Then I brought you to the infirmary." explained Draco stopping near Gryffindor common room.
"Thanks Draco!" smiled Ginny and kissed his lips lightly. He then moved forward to embrace her in a deep kiss.
* * *
As soon as they are at the main entrance Ron stopped.
"Oh no! I forgot my textbook in the dorm" Ron sighed before running back.
Shaking their heads, the rest of the three walked behind him, a bit slowly.
Ron quickly ran into the castle and as he whirred towards the common room, he slowed to see two familiar people kissing behind the statue with the armor. He peered carefully only to discover that they are Ginny and MALFOY! His eyes grew wide before spitting fire. He strode over to them and pulled Malfoy viciously.
Before both of them could say anything, he landed a few good punches on Malfoy. To his surprise, Malfoy didn't retaliate. But Ron was in no mood to consider that. Ginny however held Ron and pushed him to the wall.
"Ron! Listen! He didn't do anything to me", Ginny quickly explained.
"Ginny! How could you? How could you kiss him? Did you forget how he made fun of us? Did you forget how we hate each other?" asked Ron furiously.
Malfoy simply wiped dust off as he stood and looked intently at Ron and Ginny.
"Ron! I know he did all those things. But he is changed. Listen to me. I like him and he loves me. Please understand." Pleaded Ginny.
"Ginny! They are the Malfoys. They never change." Ron shouted. But he was not sure of his own allegations as well.
Meanwhile, Harry was explaining everything to Hermione and Lavender as they heard the commotion and shouts. They immediately ran towards the common room to find Draco bleeding and Ron pinned to the wall by Ginny.
Harry quickly ran to Ron and Ginny and Ginny launched explaining everything to him.
"She is right Ron! Malfoy is changing" and he continued retelling everything he told Hermione.
"Harry! You are supposed to be my best friend. Why didn't you tell me?" Ron shook Harry by shoulders.
"Ron! I wanted to tell you. But I never got a chance. I was not sure how you would take it. Please understand me Ron. I was also trying to make sure Malfoy is right before I reveal to you", Harry waited for Ron to talk.
Ron silently looked at them before sighing.
"Harry! If what you are telling is right, it is good. Otherwise, Malfoy is pulp."
Harry nodded along with Hermione. Lavender adjusted Ron's robes before all of them walked towards the class.
Harry apologized to Ron again in their common room, after the class for keeping it from him.
"Harry! I am not angry mate! It's just that it surprised me very much. It's OK. Guess I will have to get over it now" assured Ron smiling.
A few days passed without any incident. The Quatro walked into the Transfiguration classroom after breakfast.
"Alright class! Go ahead and transform the quill in front of you into a raven and back", ordered McGonagall.
Obviously, Hermione did better than everyone. Harry also did it with less effort and with perfection earning a pat from Hermione. Surprisingly, Ron finished transfiguring exactly as needed. They earned 60 points for Gryffindor to everyone's pleasure. Lavender kissed Ron on the cheek making him turn red as Harry and Hermione laughed at him.
They walked out of the class towards the common room. Someone called them to stop. All four whirled around to see Malfoy running towards them. Involuntarily Hermione, Ron and Lavender drew their wands making Malfoy stop dead on tracks. Harry stopped them from doing anything stupid.
"What is it Malfoy?" asked Harry.
"I.....I wanted to talk to you. All of you", said Malfoy.
Harry breathed deep. He knows that Malfoy is not a prat anymore.
"What about?" asked Harry.
"I am here to apologize for all the things I did to you. I didn't mean any of those, but had to do. Hermione! I am really sorry for calling you by the obscene names and Ron, well, I am sorry for calling you 'Poor'''. He stopped.
Everyone was dumbstruck. Malfoy apologizing! Something that would never happens.
Before Ron could say something, Malfoy put his hand up and continued. "I know I cannot wipe everything off just by apologizing, but I wish you give me a chance and I shall make it up."
"Harry! You understand me, right?" he asked sincerely and Harry nodded surprising everyone.
"Guys! I have something else to tell you. It was Malfoy who was passing information Dumbledore about the Voldermort's activities", said Harry.
"But Harry! Why didn't he come out earlier and why didn't you tell us?" asked Hermione.
"He was afraid of his father. Secondly, I only knew about it a few days ago from Dumbledore" finished Harry.
Hermione walked towards Malfoy and looked straight into his eyes. She found no expressions that they are all familiar with. Instead, there was sorrow, guilt and sincerity. Hermione hugged him and said, "We forgive you Draco!"
Ron walked forward and shook hands with Malfoy. He just nodded in response. Lavender too nodded at him.
"One wrong step and you hurt my sister Malfoy! You will never see the day break again!" warned Ron.
Malfoy briefly smiled at them before continuing.
"I overheard a few people meeting at our manor talking about plotting against you Harry. So be careful. I will inform you once I discover more. Bye guys", he waved everyone and ran back to Slytherin common room.
"Wow! Malfoy becoming good! I never thought I would live to see that day." Said Ron and Lavender smiled at him.
But Hermione covered with fear held Harry hand tightly.
"Harry! Please be careful." Pleaded Hermione.
"Mione! Don't worry. I will be careful" assured Harry calming her, but she didn't let go of him till that night.
* * *
It's been a month since Hermione started with her training. It was a full moon and forbidden forest is looking better than ever, shining under the moon. A majestic lion walked in the forest relishing the atmosphere. Suddenly, a Lioness jumped onto the Lion and tried to tackle him. Both chased each other playfully for sometime, tackling each other. After an hour of playing they both changed their forms to Harry and Hermione. Hermione seemed to be tired but Harry seemed like he just woke up from sleep.
They both laughed and walked back to the castle holding hands.
"Harry!...Harry!" Hermione called him twice before he looked at her.
"What are you thinking?" asked Hermione resting her head on his shoulder.
Harry took a breath. "I had a meeting with Dumbledore." Harry paused.
"He told me that I was special and that I belong to an order called Order of Light" again stopped making Hermione look at him more puzzled.
"According to a prophecy, The Order of Light consists of 6 members who are its representatives and guardians of the magical world, all of who are chosen when they were born. Dumbledore wanted me to find the rest of the five."
"Oh!" gasped Hermione. "How are you going to find others?" asked interestingly.
"Well! Dumbledore gave me a crystal to find that out." Harry paused.
"Herm!" he called softly.
"Yes, Harry"
"I really, really want you to be with me. I mean in the Order too. But I don't know if I would be successful in that...." Harry stopped.
"Don't worry, Harry. I will be with you, in the Order or not. Ok?" smiled Hermione.
"Oh Mione! What am I going to do without you!" Harry hugged her.
"You will not get that chance Potter!" smirked Hermione catching Harry's lips with her own.
Finally they separated into their respective bedrooms.
Harry couldn't sleep in his dorm. His thoughts were all surrounding the crystal and Hermione.
'I got to know if she can be in the Order!' decided Harry and walked with the crystal into the girl's dorm. He located Hermione and whispered her awake.
"Harry! What the hell are you doing here?" hissed Hermione under whisper.
"Mione! I couldn't sleep without knowing if you can be in the order or not. Please touch this crystal and I shall know", said Harry hopefully.
"Wait! Let me enchant their sleep" muttered Harry and waved his wand, making the rest of the girls go to a deep slumber.
"Alright Harry! If you say so." Said Hermione and reached for the crystal tentatively.
She touched the crystal and nothing happened. Harry was dejected.
'How I wish....' he thought sadly. But before he could think further the crystal became brighter and emitted five different colors making Hermione squeal and Harry laugh out in delight.
He jumped and hugged Hermione.
"Hermione! I am so proud of you. You are in the order with me. We shall inform Dumbledore tomorrow", said Harry and kissed her goodnight.
Harry went back and thought about Ron. Harry knows that if Ron touches it and does not get selected, he would be very unhappy being separated from Harry. So, Harry thought of masquerading the crystal into some normal object and let Ron touch it. Being satisfied, Harry went and hit the sack soon.
The next morning, Harry told Hermione about his plan. He transfigured the crystal to a book, his charms book, and placed it on Ron's books.
"Ron! Let's go to the breakfast and let's take our books with us. I don't want to walk back to the dorm soon." Said Harry feigning a yawn.
Ron simply nodded and started sorting his books.
"Hey! Harry you seem to have misplaced your book... whoa! What the hell are the colors!" shouted Ron getting scared.
"Wow Ron! It's really great", praised Harry. He was very happy for Ron.
"But Harry! Why is your book emitting colors?" asked Ron surprised.
Harry quickly transfigured the book back into crystal and explained Ron everything about the Order as they walked to the Great hall.
"Cool! You mean, we get to save the world. you mean You, Me and Hermione?" asked Ron feeling proud of him.
"Yes Ron. But, there are three more to go. Now I am not sure who to consider." Wondered Harry.
"Maybe, we should try Seamus, Dean or Neville", suggested Ron enthusiastically.
Harry grinned. He changed the crystal to an apple and placed it on the table. Soon people started filling the great hall. Harry waited patiently for anyone to touch the apple, but everyone was busy with his or her bacon and eggs.
'Damn it!' thought Harry.
"Hey! Seamus. Catch this" and threw the apple to him. Nothing happened.
"Thanks Harry!" he was about to bite it.
"No Seamus! Let's play. Throw it to someone" said Harry hopeful of finding someone who might trigger the colors.
Seamus shrugged and threw it to Dean, nothing happened, who threw it to Neville, nothing happened and finally it landed into Ginny's hand that was sitting next to Lavender. Immediately the crystal started emitting colors. Ginny gasped and dropped it into Lavender's lap. Lavender was busy cutting her bacon and she felt something in her lap. She involuntarily took it making the crystal emit colors again.
Lavender shrieked and threw it on the floor, which rolled all over the place and finally stopped near the entrance. Harry, Ron and Hermione were very happy. They found two more people and all of them were Gryffindor. Harry walked to the entrance and was about to pick it up when Malfoy, who was walking in picked it up. The crystal immediately gave different colors. Harry grabbed it from Malfoy and smiled sheepishly.
"Err! Sorry! It was my new toy from Zonko's", said Harry running back to the table.
Everyone was laughing about the toy while Ron and Hermione whispered to Harry.
"What the hell was that Harry? Why did it give colors with Malfoy?" asked Ron.
"That means he is also a member of the Order" shrugged Harry.
Dumbledore walked to Harry after the breakfast.
"Harry! I want to see you in my office immediately. Bring other members with you too" said Dumbledore and walked off.
"Alright Ron! Go get Ginny. I will get Malfoy. Hermione! You get Lavender", said Harry walking towards Slytherin table.
Draco Malfoy was thinking about the apple that emitted colors. He didn't get why an apple should emit colors. He did read about certain magical objects that emit colors when touched by....
His thoughts were disturbed by Harry's approach.
"Malfoy! Dumbledore wants to see you. Now!" ordered Harry using his Prefect powers, just to put up an act for the rest of the Slytherins.
Malfoy simply nodded and walked with him. Once away in the corridors alone he turned towards Harry.
"What is it Harry? Is this about the apple?" asked Malfoy
"I can explain. But Dumbledore will be a better person to do that. And yes, it is. How did you know what it is?" asked Harry surprised. Malfoy simply smiled and walked with him silently.
At the Gargoyle, Harry found Ron, Hermione, Lavender and Ginny waiting.
"We didn't know the password mate!" shrugged Ron.
"Sugar Quill" muttered Harry making Lavender laugh. Ginny already held hands with Draco and Ron was raising his eyebrow at them.
"Hi Harry! I see that you already got all the members. Impressive" smiled Dumbledore.
"Members Professor?" asked Ginny and Draco in unison.
Dumbledore simply nodded and repeated everything he mentioned to Harry.
"That is the reason why Voldermort wanted to kill Harry and get you Mr. Malfoy, as a death eater. Once he is able to split you two from others, it will become easy for him to kill others, clearing any challenges he might face", said Dumbledore. Ron gulped.
"Professor! What happens now?" asked Hermione.
"Let me explain. All of you are members of the Order of Light, as spoken by founders. You will keep peace and defend the light from dark.
Your training is two fold. First, you will all train under Remus, Arabella, Severes, Sirius, Minerva and Harry", making everyone gasp in surprise.
"HARRY?" asked everyone except a smiling Harry.
"Yes! Did I mention that Harry is the master of the Order of Light?" said Dumbledore
"Great! Bossy Potter to deal with. I am sure he will make my day", grunted Malfoy.
Dumbledore smiled. "Still having prejudice, Mr. Malfoy?" asked chuckling.
"Sorry professor. Old habits, I guess. No hard feelings." Smiled back Malfoy.
"Later on you will train according to your discovered specialties. But now you must pledge yourselves to the Order of Light", said Dumbledore carefully peering at each one, to judge if they are tentative.
All six were determined more than ever making Dumbledore nod in satisfaction.
"The crystal you used to find the other members is not an ordinary one Harry. In fact, the crystal belonged to Rowena Ravenclaw herself. She and Gryffindor put their magic into the crystal to help keep the members on the light strong", said Dumbledore.
Dumbledore led all of them into a circle and let them hold the crystal in the middle.
"Now! Please repeat the spell together to complete the pledge to the Order of Light", said Dumbledore.
All six nodded and firmly held the crystal in the middle.
"Adstringo Liber Luxlucis" (Bind us, the children of light)
They all said in unison after Dumbledore. The crystal glowed so bright that even Dumbledore closed his eyes. As a display of wonder, the light separated itself into six glowing orbs and merged with all six members. There was still some light glowing from the crystal making the members standing nearby close their eyes.
Dumbledore looked at them proudly. "Now you are all part of Order of the Light. You are all bound to defend the Light and I believe you share certain link with each other from now on", concluded Dumbledore.
'Great! One more power to show off', thought Harry sarcastically.
'Stop showing off, Potter. I still wonder how you became the leader of the Order', responded Draco.
Ron furiously glared at Draco while Hermione shouted 'Guys! Calm down. Don't be prats!'
Lavender laughed and Dumbledore looked at her, confused.
"Sorry! Professor. They always argue like that", said Ginny sheepishly.
"What are you talking about Ms. Weasley?" asked Dumbledore.
Hermione looked alarmed. Then it struck her. They were all talking in their minds and could listen to each other.
"Professor! I guess we discovered the 'link' you were talking about. We are all telepathic now", she squealed like a kid.
'What?' thought Harry.
'Is that you Harry?' asked Ron
'Oh! Grow up Harry. No wonder you need Hermione's help for everything', smirked Draco in his mind.
Before they could jump into an argument, Dumbledore caught their attention.
"Now that the link has been established, practice on controlling the link. After sometime you will be able to communicate with only those you want to", answered Dumbledore to their unasked questions.
They all simply nodded, but had arguments storming in their minds. Dumbledore took the crystal back from them.
"Ok children. Harry will fill you in with the details. Your training starts from tomorrow. Rest well tonight", suggested Dumbledore with a smile.
That evening after their dinner, Harry led them towards the prefect's bathroom. However, before they reached it, Harry took a turn towards a sparsely used corridor and stopped near the picture of the founders. Harry looked in the Marauder's map found no one around.
He knocked on each founder's feet and murmured, "founders". Immediately the wall opened up to lead them into a large room, similar to the common room. Everyone gasped looking inside. There was a big fireplace and huge, plush couches along with chairs arranged circularly. The floor was matted and the walls are painted Gold and crimson. A silver and green color ran on the ceiling, satisfying Malfoy. There was a big table in the center.
"Welcome to the common room of Order of Light", Harry proudly announced.
"Harry! How is it possible? This place was never mentioned in the books", gasped Hermione.
"No! That's because Dumbledore made it, just for us. No one knows it and even if someone sees us coming inside, no one can open it except for the members." Finished Harry. He walked forward and sat in a couch.
"From now on our meetings will take place in this room" said Harry. Hermione walked to him and sat on his lap.
Malfoy nodded at the room satisfied. "Not bad Potter!" he smirked.
"Draco! Stop acting like a prat. We are not in the Great hall", said Hermione smiling.
"Sorry Hermione! Just used to it", laughed Draco.
"Guys! I just wanted to prep you for tomorrow. If you permit?" said Harry.
Lavender and Ron sat on a couch while Ginny and Draco occupied the other.
"Each one of us represents a Mastership of an Element and a partial expertise with another. We also hold some specialties for each." Said Harry.
"What are they?" asked Hermione.
"Water, Earth, Air, Time and Fire. I control all the elements and Life" finished Harry.
"Nothing new there. What about specialties?" asked Draco, earning a glare.
"I guess there are Mind reading, Beast speaking, Soul searching, Medic, Divination, Curse absorption and some more"
"Wow! That's a load of abilities", laughed Draco.
"What about Animagi?" asked Ginny.
"Yes! That will be identified as well", said Harry.
"What is your Animagus form, Harry?" asked Lavender.
"Well, I am a Polymagi. I can shift into any animal", said Harry smiling. Everyone except Hermione gasped. Hermione smiled and kissed him.
"And Hermione is a Lioness", concluded Harry making Hermione pink.
"What? You guys! I can't believe you two. I demand to become Animagus NOW!" yelled Ron playfully at Harry and Hermione.
"Sure Ron!" agreed Harry.
"Ok! I guess our trainers will inform us further. Here is our schedule for each day." Harry handed fliers to everyone.
06:00 am - 08:00 am - Muggle exercise, Dueling and Elemental Magic
10:00 am - 11:00 am - Potions / Herbology
11:00 am - 12:00 pm - Transfiguration
01:00 pm - 02:00 pm - Charms
02:00 pm - 03:00 pm - DADA / Ancient Runes
03:00 pm - 04:00 pm - Care of Magical creatures / Arithmancy
09:00 pm - 11:00 pm - Wandless Magic / Animagus training
( A/N: DADA and Ancient Runes are on alternate days, same applies to others )
"What? When do we eat, sleep and play Quidditch?" asked Ron.
"Sorry Ron! We have to accommodate Quidditch somewhere in between." Said Harry
"No way mate! I will die", said Ron exasperated.
"Ron! You are not the only one playing Quidditch. We have three more people here who play regular. So suck it up" hushed Harry.
Everyone nodded and went back to their dorms getting ready for hard work.
That night Harry dreamed....something bad.
Voldermort was cackling with laughter infront of his death eaters.
"Lucius! Get ready. We will attack Azkaban tomorrow and free all my loyal followers. Then I will make the Dementors join us and we shall be unstoppable."
"But master! We do not have enough death eaters", said Lucius
"Shut up fool! Never question my judgment. CRUCIO!" shouted Voldermort......
Harry woke up with a startle and his brow filled with sweat.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/N: Thanks everyone for your support. Please continue your suggestions, good or bad; as long as they are constructive, I love them all.
~*~*~*~*~*~*
sew2100 : Thanks! There will be loads of action.
roseman780: Consider this to be a premise for all the action to come.
athenakitty: Draco is never a bad guy. I guess you will find all your answers here.
takari4ever7: Right on target. However, considering the amount of action I planned, I decided to cut back on fluff between all pairs. Sure, there will be occasional kisses and hugs, nothing more.
Amber: Well, I wouldn't want to give anything away. Nice suggestion, though.
mis_witch O_O: Sorry if I did sound so. But come on, there got to be some romance between them. I am going to cut back on that and concentrate on Action/Adventure. Thanks for the comment.
Morgan Riordan: Harry is smart. He was just so pre-occupied with say, Voldermort*Hermione***Quidditch*Hermione***Training*Hermione...got the picture?
krazymelmo5385: That is still a secret. You'll find more about the secret person in the next two chapters.
coolone007: Come on. It's not Lucius. Dumbledore is not dumb. Try again before I reveal. I will have your name posted on top of the story (smirks...)
Lady Phoenix Gryffindor, ilo star: Thanx
Lilly Goddess: Guess I will have to start begging everyone for reviews(laughs!). Pls trust me for action, but for now I need to have a foundation with training and closing other loose ends.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~~*~*
Chapter 12: New Alliances and Order Members
* * *
Harry, Ron and Hermione were walking towards lunch laughing about Trelawney's class.
"Ron! Harry! Wait", shouted Neville running towards them.
The trio turned around to find Neville gasping for breath.
"Ginny! In the infirmary....unconscious...in the dungeons", was all Neville needed to say between breaths to make the trio run at full speed towards infirmary.
They rammed into the infirmary doors making madam Pomfrey jump from her chair.
"YOU THREE! OUT! NOW!" she barked making the trio control their noise.
"Madam Pomfrey! Please! Ginny! Where is she?" asked Ron breathing heavy.
"All right! No more sounds or else all of you will be out", warned Pomfrey.
They all nodded and accompanied her towards Ginny's bed. She slept on the bed peacefully, breathing slowly.
"What happened?" whispered Hermione to Pomfrey.
"Someone used a dark spell to put her to sleep forever. Luckily she didn't get the full blast of it, I believe. I was able to undo the curse. She will be up in a few minutes and She is going to be fine!" remarked Pomfrey.
They started thinking about who could have attacked her. Lavender pressed Ron's hand ensuring he doesn't go out attacking people out of anger. Ron, having understood this merely nodded his head at Lavender.
Harry started feeling that their happy days are only numbered before they encounter the ultimate evil. But Hermione seemed to be very calm. She wanted know more about the curse and maybe....the search would lead her somewhere.
'I will not leave them Ginny!' promised Hermione silently.
Before they could stay longer Pomfrey ushered them out. All four walked silently continued to their class.
Meanwhile, in the infirmary...
Ginny woke up feeling a bit dizzy, but as she started to walk, she felt much better. Madam Pomfrey gave her some yellow potion to strengthen her senses and let her go to the classes.
As soon as she came out into the corridor, Draco was standing there waiting for her.
"How are you feeling Gin?" he hugged her and started walking with her.
"Draco! What happened to me?" asked Ginny, still a bit unsure of events.
"I don't know. I came out of our common room and heard someone cursing and as I sped up I saw you dropping to the floor. I also saw someone rushing away very quickly. I didn't have time to chase them. Then I brought you to the infirmary." explained Draco stopping near Gryffindor common room.
"Thanks Draco!" smiled Ginny and kissed his lips lightly. He then moved forward to embrace her in a deep kiss.
* * *
As soon as they are at the main entrance Ron stopped.
"Oh no! I forgot my textbook in the dorm" Ron sighed before running back.
Shaking their heads, the rest of the three walked behind him, a bit slowly.
Ron quickly ran into the castle and as he whirred towards the common room, he slowed to see two familiar people kissing behind the statue with the armor. He peered carefully only to discover that they are Ginny and MALFOY! His eyes grew wide before spitting fire. He strode over to them and pulled Malfoy viciously.
Before both of them could say anything, he landed a few good punches on Malfoy. To his surprise, Malfoy didn't retaliate. But Ron was in no mood to consider that. Ginny however held Ron and pushed him to the wall.
"Ron! Listen! He didn't do anything to me", Ginny quickly explained.
"Ginny! How could you? How could you kiss him? Did you forget how he made fun of us? Did you forget how we hate each other?" asked Ron furiously.
Malfoy simply wiped dust off as he stood and looked intently at Ron and Ginny.
"Ron! I know he did all those things. But he is changed. Listen to me. I like him and he loves me. Please understand." Pleaded Ginny.
"Ginny! They are the Malfoys. They never change." Ron shouted. But he was not sure of his own allegations as well.
Meanwhile, Harry was explaining everything to Hermione and Lavender as they heard the commotion and shouts. They immediately ran towards the common room to find Draco bleeding and Ron pinned to the wall by Ginny.
Harry quickly ran to Ron and Ginny and Ginny launched explaining everything to him.
"She is right Ron! Malfoy is changing" and he continued retelling everything he told Hermione.
"Harry! You are supposed to be my best friend. Why didn't you tell me?" Ron shook Harry by shoulders.
"Ron! I wanted to tell you. But I never got a chance. I was not sure how you would take it. Please understand me Ron. I was also trying to make sure Malfoy is right before I reveal to you", Harry waited for Ron to talk.
Ron silently looked at them before sighing.
"Harry! If what you are telling is right, it is good. Otherwise, Malfoy is pulp."
Harry nodded along with Hermione. Lavender adjusted Ron's robes before all of them walked towards the class.
Harry apologized to Ron again in their common room, after the class for keeping it from him.
"Harry! I am not angry mate! It's just that it surprised me very much. It's OK. Guess I will have to get over it now" assured Ron smiling.
A few days passed without any incident. The Quatro walked into the Transfiguration classroom after breakfast.
"Alright class! Go ahead and transform the quill in front of you into a raven and back", ordered McGonagall.
Obviously, Hermione did better than everyone. Harry also did it with less effort and with perfection earning a pat from Hermione. Surprisingly, Ron finished transfiguring exactly as needed. They earned 60 points for Gryffindor to everyone's pleasure. Lavender kissed Ron on the cheek making him turn red as Harry and Hermione laughed at him.
They walked out of the class towards the common room. Someone called them to stop. All four whirled around to see Malfoy running towards them. Involuntarily Hermione, Ron and Lavender drew their wands making Malfoy stop dead on tracks. Harry stopped them from doing anything stupid.
"What is it Malfoy?" asked Harry.
"I.....I wanted to talk to you. All of you", said Malfoy.
Harry breathed deep. He knows that Malfoy is not a prat anymore.
"What about?" asked Harry.
"I am here to apologize for all the things I did to you. I didn't mean any of those, but had to do. Hermione! I am really sorry for calling you by the obscene names and Ron, well, I am sorry for calling you 'Poor'''. He stopped.
Everyone was dumbstruck. Malfoy apologizing! Something that would never happens.
Before Ron could say something, Malfoy put his hand up and continued. "I know I cannot wipe everything off just by apologizing, but I wish you give me a chance and I shall make it up."
"Harry! You understand me, right?" he asked sincerely and Harry nodded surprising everyone.
"Guys! I have something else to tell you. It was Malfoy who was passing information Dumbledore about the Voldermort's activities", said Harry.
"But Harry! Why didn't he come out earlier and why didn't you tell us?" asked Hermione.
"He was afraid of his father. Secondly, I only knew about it a few days ago from Dumbledore" finished Harry.
Hermione walked towards Malfoy and looked straight into his eyes. She found no expressions that they are all familiar with. Instead, there was sorrow, guilt and sincerity. Hermione hugged him and said, "We forgive you Draco!"
Ron walked forward and shook hands with Malfoy. He just nodded in response. Lavender too nodded at him.
"One wrong step and you hurt my sister Malfoy! You will never see the day break again!" warned Ron.
Malfoy briefly smiled at them before continuing.
"I overheard a few people meeting at our manor talking about plotting against you Harry. So be careful. I will inform you once I discover more. Bye guys", he waved everyone and ran back to Slytherin common room.
"Wow! Malfoy becoming good! I never thought I would live to see that day." Said Ron and Lavender smiled at him.
But Hermione covered with fear held Harry hand tightly.
"Harry! Please be careful." Pleaded Hermione.
"Mione! Don't worry. I will be careful" assured Harry calming her, but she didn't let go of him till that night.
* * *
It's been a month since Hermione started with her training. It was a full moon and forbidden forest is looking better than ever, shining under the moon. A majestic lion walked in the forest relishing the atmosphere. Suddenly, a Lioness jumped onto the Lion and tried to tackle him. Both chased each other playfully for sometime, tackling each other. After an hour of playing they both changed their forms to Harry and Hermione. Hermione seemed to be tired but Harry seemed like he just woke up from sleep.
They both laughed and walked back to the castle holding hands.
"Harry!...Harry!" Hermione called him twice before he looked at her.
"What are you thinking?" asked Hermione resting her head on his shoulder.
Harry took a breath. "I had a meeting with Dumbledore." Harry paused.
"He told me that I was special and that I belong to an order called Order of Light" again stopped making Hermione look at him more puzzled.
"According to a prophecy, The Order of Light consists of 6 members who are its representatives and guardians of the magical world, all of who are chosen when they were born. Dumbledore wanted me to find the rest of the five."
"Oh!" gasped Hermione. "How are you going to find others?" asked interestingly.
"Well! Dumbledore gave me a crystal to find that out." Harry paused.
"Herm!" he called softly.
"Yes, Harry"
"I really, really want you to be with me. I mean in the Order too. But I don't know if I would be successful in that...." Harry stopped.
"Don't worry, Harry. I will be with you, in the Order or not. Ok?" smiled Hermione.
"Oh Mione! What am I going to do without you!" Harry hugged her.
"You will not get that chance Potter!" smirked Hermione catching Harry's lips with her own.
Finally they separated into their respective bedrooms.
Harry couldn't sleep in his dorm. His thoughts were all surrounding the crystal and Hermione.
'I got to know if she can be in the Order!' decided Harry and walked with the crystal into the girl's dorm. He located Hermione and whispered her awake.
"Harry! What the hell are you doing here?" hissed Hermione under whisper.
"Mione! I couldn't sleep without knowing if you can be in the order or not. Please touch this crystal and I shall know", said Harry hopefully.
"Wait! Let me enchant their sleep" muttered Harry and waved his wand, making the rest of the girls go to a deep slumber.
"Alright Harry! If you say so." Said Hermione and reached for the crystal tentatively.
She touched the crystal and nothing happened. Harry was dejected.
'How I wish....' he thought sadly. But before he could think further the crystal became brighter and emitted five different colors making Hermione squeal and Harry laugh out in delight.
He jumped and hugged Hermione.
"Hermione! I am so proud of you. You are in the order with me. We shall inform Dumbledore tomorrow", said Harry and kissed her goodnight.
Harry went back and thought about Ron. Harry knows that if Ron touches it and does not get selected, he would be very unhappy being separated from Harry. So, Harry thought of masquerading the crystal into some normal object and let Ron touch it. Being satisfied, Harry went and hit the sack soon.
The next morning, Harry told Hermione about his plan. He transfigured the crystal to a book, his charms book, and placed it on Ron's books.
"Ron! Let's go to the breakfast and let's take our books with us. I don't want to walk back to the dorm soon." Said Harry feigning a yawn.
Ron simply nodded and started sorting his books.
"Hey! Harry you seem to have misplaced your book... whoa! What the hell are the colors!" shouted Ron getting scared.
"Wow Ron! It's really great", praised Harry. He was very happy for Ron.
"But Harry! Why is your book emitting colors?" asked Ron surprised.
Harry quickly transfigured the book back into crystal and explained Ron everything about the Order as they walked to the Great hall.
"Cool! You mean, we get to save the world. you mean You, Me and Hermione?" asked Ron feeling proud of him.
"Yes Ron. But, there are three more to go. Now I am not sure who to consider." Wondered Harry.
"Maybe, we should try Seamus, Dean or Neville", suggested Ron enthusiastically.
Harry grinned. He changed the crystal to an apple and placed it on the table. Soon people started filling the great hall. Harry waited patiently for anyone to touch the apple, but everyone was busy with his or her bacon and eggs.
'Damn it!' thought Harry.
"Hey! Seamus. Catch this" and threw the apple to him. Nothing happened.
"Thanks Harry!" he was about to bite it.
"No Seamus! Let's play. Throw it to someone" said Harry hopeful of finding someone who might trigger the colors.
Seamus shrugged and threw it to Dean, nothing happened, who threw it to Neville, nothing happened and finally it landed into Ginny's hand that was sitting next to Lavender. Immediately the crystal started emitting colors. Ginny gasped and dropped it into Lavender's lap. Lavender was busy cutting her bacon and she felt something in her lap. She involuntarily took it making the crystal emit colors again.
Lavender shrieked and threw it on the floor, which rolled all over the place and finally stopped near the entrance. Harry, Ron and Hermione were very happy. They found two more people and all of them were Gryffindor. Harry walked to the entrance and was about to pick it up when Malfoy, who was walking in picked it up. The crystal immediately gave different colors. Harry grabbed it from Malfoy and smiled sheepishly.
"Err! Sorry! It was my new toy from Zonko's", said Harry running back to the table.
Everyone was laughing about the toy while Ron and Hermione whispered to Harry.
"What the hell was that Harry? Why did it give colors with Malfoy?" asked Ron.
"That means he is also a member of the Order" shrugged Harry.
Dumbledore walked to Harry after the breakfast.
"Harry! I want to see you in my office immediately. Bring other members with you too" said Dumbledore and walked off.
"Alright Ron! Go get Ginny. I will get Malfoy. Hermione! You get Lavender", said Harry walking towards Slytherin table.
Draco Malfoy was thinking about the apple that emitted colors. He didn't get why an apple should emit colors. He did read about certain magical objects that emit colors when touched by....
His thoughts were disturbed by Harry's approach.
"Malfoy! Dumbledore wants to see you. Now!" ordered Harry using his Prefect powers, just to put up an act for the rest of the Slytherins.
Malfoy simply nodded and walked with him. Once away in the corridors alone he turned towards Harry.
"What is it Harry? Is this about the apple?" asked Malfoy
"I can explain. But Dumbledore will be a better person to do that. And yes, it is. How did you know what it is?" asked Harry surprised. Malfoy simply smiled and walked with him silently.
At the Gargoyle, Harry found Ron, Hermione, Lavender and Ginny waiting.
"We didn't know the password mate!" shrugged Ron.
"Sugar Quill" muttered Harry making Lavender laugh. Ginny already held hands with Draco and Ron was raising his eyebrow at them.
"Hi Harry! I see that you already got all the members. Impressive" smiled Dumbledore.
"Members Professor?" asked Ginny and Draco in unison.
Dumbledore simply nodded and repeated everything he mentioned to Harry.
"That is the reason why Voldermort wanted to kill Harry and get you Mr. Malfoy, as a death eater. Once he is able to split you two from others, it will become easy for him to kill others, clearing any challenges he might face", said Dumbledore. Ron gulped.
"Professor! What happens now?" asked Hermione.
"Let me explain. All of you are members of the Order of Light, as spoken by founders. You will keep peace and defend the light from dark.
Your training is two fold. First, you will all train under Remus, Arabella, Severes, Sirius, Minerva and Harry", making everyone gasp in surprise.
"HARRY?" asked everyone except a smiling Harry.
"Yes! Did I mention that Harry is the master of the Order of Light?" said Dumbledore
"Great! Bossy Potter to deal with. I am sure he will make my day", grunted Malfoy.
Dumbledore smiled. "Still having prejudice, Mr. Malfoy?" asked chuckling.
"Sorry professor. Old habits, I guess. No hard feelings." Smiled back Malfoy.
"Later on you will train according to your discovered specialties. But now you must pledge yourselves to the Order of Light", said Dumbledore carefully peering at each one, to judge if they are tentative.
All six were determined more than ever making Dumbledore nod in satisfaction.
"The crystal you used to find the other members is not an ordinary one Harry. In fact, the crystal belonged to Rowena Ravenclaw herself. She and Gryffindor put their magic into the crystal to help keep the members on the light strong", said Dumbledore.
Dumbledore led all of them into a circle and let them hold the crystal in the middle.
"Now! Please repeat the spell together to complete the pledge to the Order of Light", said Dumbledore.
All six nodded and firmly held the crystal in the middle.
"Adstringo Liber Luxlucis" (Bind us, the children of light)
They all said in unison after Dumbledore. The crystal glowed so bright that even Dumbledore closed his eyes. As a display of wonder, the light separated itself into six glowing orbs and merged with all six members. There was still some light glowing from the crystal making the members standing nearby close their eyes.
Dumbledore looked at them proudly. "Now you are all part of Order of the Light. You are all bound to defend the Light and I believe you share certain link with each other from now on", concluded Dumbledore.
'Great! One more power to show off', thought Harry sarcastically.
'Stop showing off, Potter. I still wonder how you became the leader of the Order', responded Draco.
Ron furiously glared at Draco while Hermione shouted 'Guys! Calm down. Don't be prats!'
Lavender laughed and Dumbledore looked at her, confused.
"Sorry! Professor. They always argue like that", said Ginny sheepishly.
"What are you talking about Ms. Weasley?" asked Dumbledore.
Hermione looked alarmed. Then it struck her. They were all talking in their minds and could listen to each other.
"Professor! I guess we discovered the 'link' you were talking about. We are all telepathic now", she squealed like a kid.
'What?' thought Harry.
'Is that you Harry?' asked Ron
'Oh! Grow up Harry. No wonder you need Hermione's help for everything', smirked Draco in his mind.
Before they could jump into an argument, Dumbledore caught their attention.
"Now that the link has been established, practice on controlling the link. After sometime you will be able to communicate with only those you want to", answered Dumbledore to their unasked questions.
They all simply nodded, but had arguments storming in their minds. Dumbledore took the crystal back from them.
"Ok children. Harry will fill you in with the details. Your training starts from tomorrow. Rest well tonight", suggested Dumbledore with a smile.
That evening after their dinner, Harry led them towards the prefect's bathroom. However, before they reached it, Harry took a turn towards a sparsely used corridor and stopped near the picture of the founders. Harry looked in the Marauder's map found no one around.
He knocked on each founder's feet and murmured, "founders". Immediately the wall opened up to lead them into a large room, similar to the common room. Everyone gasped looking inside. There was a big fireplace and huge, plush couches along with chairs arranged circularly. The floor was matted and the walls are painted Gold and crimson. A silver and green color ran on the ceiling, satisfying Malfoy. There was a big table in the center.
"Welcome to the common room of Order of Light", Harry proudly announced.
"Harry! How is it possible? This place was never mentioned in the books", gasped Hermione.
"No! That's because Dumbledore made it, just for us. No one knows it and even if someone sees us coming inside, no one can open it except for the members." Finished Harry. He walked forward and sat in a couch.
"From now on our meetings will take place in this room" said Harry. Hermione walked to him and sat on his lap.
Malfoy nodded at the room satisfied. "Not bad Potter!" he smirked.
"Draco! Stop acting like a prat. We are not in the Great hall", said Hermione smiling.
"Sorry Hermione! Just used to it", laughed Draco.
"Guys! I just wanted to prep you for tomorrow. If you permit?" said Harry.
Lavender and Ron sat on a couch while Ginny and Draco occupied the other.
"Each one of us represents a Mastership of an Element and a partial expertise with another. We also hold some specialties for each." Said Harry.
"What are they?" asked Hermione.
"Water, Earth, Air, Time and Fire. I control all the elements and Life" finished Harry.
"Nothing new there. What about specialties?" asked Draco, earning a glare.
"I guess there are Mind reading, Beast speaking, Soul searching, Medic, Divination, Curse absorption and some more"
"Wow! That's a load of abilities", laughed Draco.
"What about Animagi?" asked Ginny.
"Yes! That will be identified as well", said Harry.
"What is your Animagus form, Harry?" asked Lavender.
"Well, I am a Polymagi. I can shift into any animal", said Harry smiling. Everyone except Hermione gasped. Hermione smiled and kissed him.
"And Hermione is a Lioness", concluded Harry making Hermione pink.
"What? You guys! I can't believe you two. I demand to become Animagus NOW!" yelled Ron playfully at Harry and Hermione.
"Sure Ron!" agreed Harry.
"Ok! I guess our trainers will inform us further. Here is our schedule for each day." Harry handed fliers to everyone.
06:00 am - 08:00 am - Muggle exercise, Dueling and Elemental Magic
10:00 am - 11:00 am - Potions / Herbology
11:00 am - 12:00 pm - Transfiguration
01:00 pm - 02:00 pm - Charms
02:00 pm - 03:00 pm - DADA / Ancient Runes
03:00 pm - 04:00 pm - Care of Magical creatures / Arithmancy
09:00 pm - 11:00 pm - Wandless Magic / Animagus training
( A/N: DADA and Ancient Runes are on alternate days, same applies to others )
"What? When do we eat, sleep and play Quidditch?" asked Ron.
"Sorry Ron! We have to accommodate Quidditch somewhere in between." Said Harry
"No way mate! I will die", said Ron exasperated.
"Ron! You are not the only one playing Quidditch. We have three more people here who play regular. So suck it up" hushed Harry.
Everyone nodded and went back to their dorms getting ready for hard work.
That night Harry dreamed....something bad.
Voldermort was cackling with laughter infront of his death eaters.
"Lucius! Get ready. We will attack Azkaban tomorrow and free all my loyal followers. Then I will make the Dementors join us and we shall be unstoppable."
"But master! We do not have enough death eaters", said Lucius
"Shut up fool! Never question my judgment. CRUCIO!" shouted Voldermort......
Harry woke up with a startle and his brow filled with sweat.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/N: Thanks everyone for your support. Please continue your suggestions, good or bad; as long as they are constructive, I love them all.