Harry appears in the dormitory Monday morning around eight. He's naked but carrying his backpack, among other things. Harry stores the items and crawls out of his bed to stand. Ron notices Harry. Seamus barges into the dormitory.
Seamus says, "Ah Ha! You are here."
"Yeah, so?" asks Harry.
Seamus looks at Harry and says, "Whoa, nice tan." Seamus leans to look at Harry's groin and remarks, "No tan line either."
Harry twists and moves his dick into Seamus' face. Harry says, "Back off Seamus."
"What potion did you use for it?" asks Seamus.
"Besides sunscreen?" asks Harry.
"It was fucking cloudy all day yesterday." says Seamus.
"Back off." says Ron.
"It's none of you business Ron." says Seamus.
"When you pester Harry, it is." says Ron.
"See you at breakfast." says Harry.
Seamus gets the drift from Ron's wand and he walks out of the dormitory.
Ron says, "Harry, I take it from the tan that you had a good time yesterday."
The cheerful Harry says, "Oh yes. It was beau-ti-ful. We hiked to this nice grassy knoll and sunbathed naked for most of the day. It was sunny and very warm."
"Snape was furious yesterday." says Ron.
Now dressed, Harry says, "Good thing I wasn't here to bear it out. Thanks for covering for me."
Harry grabs his bag. Ron puts his arm about Harry and says, "Well, as I see it, you're having fun. Snape and Malfoy are upset about that. Lupin is not sure. McGonagall and Dean are ticked that they are not in the know. Keep it up."
Harry and Ron descend the stairs.
Harry says, "It sounds like you had an interesting day yesterday." says Harry.
Ron says, "Yeah, while Hermione and me were busy elsewhere, the Tower was attacked."
"Attacked?" asks Harry.
Ron says, "Yes, lots of people were stunned. The word is that you were the likely target."
Harry says, "Well, it sounds like I had a better time. I might repeat it next month."
Ron says, "Which means Snape should schedule an appointment if he wants to see you on a weekend."
"Yes, I would love to relegate Snape to that." says Harry.
"He won't." says Ron. They enter the Common Room and Hermione is waiting.
"Nice tan Harry." says Hermione.
"Thank you for noticing." says Harry.
They exit through the portrait hole. The security trolls are walking the hallway.
Sir Nicholas says, "Good morning Mr. Potter."
"Hello." says Harry.
Ron says, "He is now standing guard over the Fat Lady too." says Ron.
They continue toward the Great Hall for breakfast.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione exit the Great Hall. Harry is grumbling.
"Why does Madam Pomfrey want to see me anyways?" asks Harry.
Ron sys, "Dunno, Hermione, could you save us a table in Potions?"
"Sure." says Hermione.
"Ron, you don't have to come." says Harry.
"If Madam Pomfrey is going to torture you, I'm going to come." says Ron.
"Thanks, but shouldn't you protect Hermione from Malfoy?" asks Harry.
"Good point." says Ron.
Harry heads to the Hospital Wing. Ron and Hermione enter the Potions classroom and take up a table.
Snape enters and notices. However, Snape goes through the formality of a roll-call. He reaches Potter.
Snape says, "Potter, if you are present, say so."
"Professor Snape, Harry is in the Hospital Wing." says Ron.
"I was not addressing you Weasley. Five points." says Snape.
Malfoy says, "Maybe the famous Harry Potter is too chicken. CLUCK CLUCK". Malfoy is flapping his arms about like wings.
Snape ignores this. Harry walks in ten minutes late.
Snape says, "Ten minutes late, so ten points." Harry hands the note to Snape. "I don't care how healthy you may or may not be Potter. You will be on time."
"Squawk! Squawk!" says Malfoy.
Snape walks to the front of the classroom and says, "For those not paying attention, your OWLs are next month. Today we will review antidotes."
Everybody is shocked by this.
Snape gets out a bottle of nasty green poison and says "At least one person might be poisoned." He sets the bottle down on the table in front of Malfoy and says, "Pass this around so everybody can look."
They start brewing the antidote. The vile of poison circulates around the classroom.
Snape comes over to Harry. "Potter, I do not appreciate having to schedule appointments to see you."
Harry says, "So? Why should I care?"
"Potter, your recent behavior is unacceptable." says Snape.
Harry says, "To you maybe. Are you annoyed that I still live?"
Harry drinks some of the water out of his cup.
"Five points for your cheek." says Snape.
Harry says, "Everybody knows you want me dead. Do you plan on poisoning me?"
Snape says, "Potter, another five points. I will not be spoken to like that."
"Better hurry up, I'm not getting younger." says Harry, finishing his cup.
Snape says, "Another five points Potter. I do not want you dead."
"Funny way of showing it. Are you researching execution methods for the Death Eater Conference?" asks Harry, a bit wobbly.
Draco takes his opportunity and sends a curse to Harry. Harry collapses to the floor. Snape, shocked, grabs his wand and points it at Harry.
Ron is quicker and shouts, "Expelliarmus!". Snape's wand goes flying. Ron asks, "Have you not done enough Death Eater?" Ron picks up Harry in a firemen carry. Hermione quickly packs their bags.
Neville says loudly, "This poison is just water!"
Ron carries Harry out the classroom door. The rest of the Gryffindors are following him.
Snape shouts, "Hundred points for this!"
The group is halfway up the stairs when McGonagall comes across them. She does not see Harry, so she says, "You are supposed to be in Potions."
Seamus says flatly, "We do not stay when the teacher assaults a student."
McGonagall sees Ron carrying Harry. She gasps, "My goodness!"
Ron carries Harry into the Hospital Wing and sets him down onto an empty bed. Pomfrey comes over.
Pomfrey asks, "What happened this time?"
Ron gives a brief account of the events of the Potions class.
Pomfrey tries to awaken Harry with "Ennervate!"
Harry does not stir.
Pomfrey says, "What else may have happened?"
Neville speaks up and says, "Poison. We were supposed to do antidotes. The vile only contained water when I last saw it."
McGonagall gasps. "Severus poisoned him?"
"Likely, yes." says Dean.
"With what?" asks Pomfrey.
Hermione says, "Professor Snape didn't elaborate. The vile was bright green to start. However, that did not correspond to the antidote we were supposed to be making."
Pomfrey draws the curtains about Harry's bed. Everyone else is outside.
Seamus says, "Professor Snape did threaten to poison one of us. He looked at Harry."
McGonagall says, "Excuse me." She walks out of the Hospital Wing.
Snape enters the Hospital Wing carrying the vile. Ron sees this.
Ron asks, "Haven't finished your dirty work, have you?"
Snape says, "I would think your friend's life would be your first concern."
Ron says, "Much more than you. Second time in a week you've sent him here."
"Use your brains Weasley. I'm not after his life." says Snape.
Imitating a fake brain-wave, Ron says, "Let's see, you encounter Harry in the hall, Harry is knocked unconscious. You and Harry have a heated discussion in Potions, Harry is poisoned and knocked unconscious. Award points to Malfoy for the curse. What should I make of that?"
Lupin enters the Hospital wing and says, "Severus! What have you done to Mr. Potter this time?"
Hermione says, "Professor Lupin, don't be so harsh on Snape. He's just trying to make sure the Slytherins win the Quidditch Cup."
"They're already out of the running." says Lupin.
Ron says, "Not quite. The Slytherins are a bit ahead point wise. If Ravenclaw were to cream us, Slytherin would get the cup."
Snape says, "I'm giving this vile to Pomfrey. Out of my way!" He heads to Pomfrey's office.
"What happened?" asks Lupin.
Hermione gives him an account of the Potions lesson.
Snape leaves the Hospital Wing Pomfrey comes over and ushers Ron, Hermione, and Lupin into her office and closes the door.
"How is he?" asks Ron.
Pomfrey says, "Not good. I won't know for a while. Severus has provided the name of the likely poison. However, there is no antidote for it. I've pumped out the contents of his stomach, so that should help. Mr. Potter has little chance of surviving it for more than an hour."
Lupin says, "Poppy, if you'll give us a moment please. Ron and Hermione will be seeing Mr. Potter shortly."
Pomfrey exits the office and closes the door.
Lupin turns to Ron and asks, "How quickly can you fetch her?"
Ron says, "Not within an hour. She would be at her school."
"Ron does not have the time." says Hermione.
Lupin says, "I'll escort your fellow classmates to DADA. You two should remain with Harry. Guard him. Somebody might want to take advantage of this."
The three exit Pomfrey's office. Lupin exits the Hospital Wing. The other Gryffindors exit and head to DADA. Ron and Hermione sit aside a motionless Harry, they hold his hands.
Ron says, "Come on Harry, You can make it."
"Ron, you realize he's unconscious, don't you?" asks Hermione.
Ron says, "True, but maybe it'll help somehow. I did this to you when you were petrified."
"You're quite silly." says Hermione.
"Maybe, but unless you can make a real quick trip to her, this is the most we can do." says Ron.
"Your Firebolt!" says Hermione.
Ron says, "What? In broad daylight? Even if I could, I don't know where to go. Imagine me asking for directions on a broomstick. Unless you're going to fly it."
"Why is this happening to Harry anyways?" asks Hermione.
Ron says, "You know the animosity between Harry and Snape. It's festering. I'll discuss this with you later when Harry makes it."
Pomfrey comes in and checks Harry.
"How is he?" asks Hermione.
Pomfrey says, "Not good. Based on the symptoms, an hour or two at the most. Keep him company." Pomfrey exits the curtains.
Ron whispers, "Harry, come on, you want to see her again don't you?"
Hermione whispers to Harry's ear. Ron sits on the bed and stares into Harry's eyes, hand resting on Harry's chest.
Pomfrey comes in and checks Harry. Though Ron's behavior is a bit strange, she doesn't interfere with it.
She says, "Still, not good." Pomfrey leaves.
Hermione is sitting there quietly. She's holding Harry's hand and watching both Ron and Harry. Ron stares into Harry's comatose eyes for nearly an hour. A smile comes over Ron's face. Hermione is baffled by this.
"Why the smile?" asks Hermione.
"He'll make it." says Ron.
"What makes you think that?" asks Pomfrey, coming in.
Ron says, "Harry is conscious."
Pomfrey examines Harry and says, "People's eyes do flutter a bit in the last stages of the poison. That does not mean they're conscious."
Ron says, "Harry is conscious."
"While I'm grateful for your prognosis Dr. Weasley, I assure you, I'm well trained in these matters." says Pomfrey.
Harry's expression changes. "See?" says Ron.
"Like I said, this is common in the last stages." says Pomfrey.
Ron stares into Harry's eyes.
Harry they says, "Of course I'm conscious. Why are you crowding around me like that?"
Pomfrey says, "In these matters, I like being proven wrong." Pomfrey starts giving Harry a more extensive check.
Harry exclaims, "Watch it where you poke that thing! I do have nerves."
Hermione quickly wipes the tears off her face. She chuckles.
Pomfrey says to Ron and Hermione, "Please excuse us."
Harry says, "What? They can stay to make sure I can keep my tan."
Pomfrey groans. "Not that again!"
Ron says, "It took him all day to get it since no potion was involved."
Pomfrey is fed up and shouts, "Out!"
Ron and Hermione get the hint and exit the curtains to wait.
Harry exclaims, "Why should I do that? It's humiliating!"
"Mr. Potter, you need to. I have to be sure." says Pomfrey.
"No." says Harry.
"Do I have to force it?" asks Pomfrey.
"But you're watching!" says Harry.
"Fine, I'll turn my head." says Pomfrey.
Moments later, Pomfrey exits the curtains carrying a urine sample for testing.
While Pomfrey is in her lab, Harry comes out of the curtains with his bags. Harry exits the Hospital Wing with Ron and Hermione in tow.
"Are you supposed to?" asks Hermione.
Harry says, "Don't ask. I am hungry and it's almost time for Hagrid's lesson."
They head to the kitchens for lunch. Dobby is very thrilled to provide a quick lunch to the three.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione approach Hagrid's Hut. Most of the Slytherins are already there.
"Fast recovery." remarks Malfoy.
Ron says, "It's better than whining for months about a scratch on the arm."
The rest of the class shows up.
Hagrid says, "Your OWLs are in a month, so we're going to review a bit. I'd like you all to pass of course; but still, you must know certain things."
Hagrid reviews the Flubberworms, the Blast-Ended Skwerts, Hippogriffs, and Unicorns.
At the end of the lesson, the Gryffindors head for the castle. Slytherins head for the greenhouses. Hagrid follows Harry, Ron, and Hermione.
Hagrid says, "'arry, glad to see yeh doing better."
"Thanks. Hagrid" says Harry.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione are walking along the third floor corridor to Charms. They are several minutes late. Harry pulls them behind a statue.
"What?" asks Ron. Harry silences him with a look.
Several footsteps approach.
"Mr. Potter is supposed to be in Charms now." says McGonagall.
Pomfrey says, "Minerva, I can't believe he'd walk out on me like that. Mr. Potter is the most difficult of patients."
"If Mr. Potter is not in Charms, you can nab him before Quidditch Practice. Watch the Entrance Hall later."" says McGonagall.
Pomfrey says, "Quidditch Practice? That is out of the question until I see Mr. Potter."
Their voices trailed off and head down a flight of stairs. Harry, Ron, and Hermione enter the Charms classroom seven minutes late.
Flitwick says, "Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, and Miss Granger, it's nice for you to join us. Mr. Potter, Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey wanted to see you."
"We saw them in the hallway." says Harry.
Flitwick says, "As I was saying, we need to review some of the Charms for your OWLs."
After Charms, Harry and Ron are up in their dormitory. They are changing into their Quidditch robes.
Ron says, "Blimey! You skipped out on Pomfrey."
Harry says, "She is a bit over protective. Besides, I feel fine."
Ron says, "Harry, you nearly died! So, you're going to play doctor?"
Harry says, "Who better than me to know when I'm feeling fine? Should we consult Witch Weekly first?"
"Harry, if you die because of negligence, I will not forgive you." says Ron.
Harry is holding his Firebolt and says, "Then write it on my tombstone. I'll meet you out there."
Ron shakes his head as he walks out the dormitory and down to the Gryffindor Common Room. The rest of the team is waiting.
Fred asks, "Where is Harry?"
Ron notices a red streak fly past the window and says, "Probably down on the Quidditch pitch by now."
The team exits the Tower and heads toward the field.
"We heard that Snape poisoned him." says George.
"Harry was poisoned." says Ron.
Josh asks, "And they're letting him practice tonight?"
Ron says, "Umm, deny that to Pomfrey."
Alicia says, "Ron, we need him Saturday. Make sure he's healthy for that."
As the six cross the Entrance Hall, Pomfrey is waiting.
"Where is Mr. Potter?" she asks.
"Not with us." says Angelina.
Pomfrey mutters, "Humph!".
The team walks past the frustrated Pomfrey. They exit the castle and head for the field.
Alicia says, "I think Harry has successfully irritated Madam Pomfrey."
"Probably." says Ron.
They arrive at the field and are joined by Harry on his Firebolt.
George says, "Nice to see you. Are you going to use that coupon yet?"
Harry says, "Certainly. Maybe at our next lesson as his ego needs some deflating."
Fred says, "Yours does too. We have never before seen the staff buzzing like this about a student."
Harry says, "That's good. They need the occasional buzz, otherwise they get a bit dull. If only we could get History to liven up a bit."
The team laughs. The Slytherin team approaches. Alicia sees this.
"What is going on?" demands Alicia.
Draco says with much relish, "Slytherins have booked for this time."
"Your games are over for the season!" protests Fred.
Draco says, "Still, we must start practicing for next year. I'm now captain."
Ron laughs, "You? Captain?" How much did you pay for it?"
"Not like you could afford it." says Draco.
Madam Hooch comes over to sort this squabble out. She asks,"Why is the Slytherin team here?'
"We booked for today." says Draco.
"Your last game was Saturday." says Hooch.
"We are getting an early start for next season." says Draco.
Alicia says, "We have a game this Saturday. We need to practice daily."
Draco says, "It's not our fault that you don't book."
Hooch ponders this and says, "Miss Spinnet, you should have booked earlier. However, your need is greater. Therefore, the Slytherins can practice in the morning. If they still wish to practice this week."
As Draco starts to leave, he says to Ron and Harry, "This isn't over yet."
After a couple hours of practice, the team heads back for the castle. Harry lingers a bit. They other six enter the castle.
"Where is Mr. Potter?" asks Pomfrey.
"Not with us." says George.
"Madam Hooch assured me that Mr. Potter was at the Quidditch practice." says Pomfrey.
"You must have missed him then." says Fred.
'Excuse me for trying to keep the kid healthy." says Pomfrey in frustration. She walks back into the Hospital Wing.
Shortly later, the team walks into the Gryffindor Common Room. Ron climbs the stairs to the fifth year boys' dormitory. Harry is already there.
"I assume you flew?" asks Ron.
"It's Quidditch, of course I flew." says Harry.
Ron says, "Pomfrey is really angry. Don't duck out if she catches you."
Harry says, "I feel fine and she's so meddlesome. If I stub a toe, it's like a freaking stay over night!"
"That was no stubbed toe earlier." says Ron.
Harry says, "You get my point. I don't want to be poked and prodded twenty four hours a day!"
They grab their bags and head back to the Common Room. Hermione is sitting at a table. Ron and Harry sit down. Dobby delivers dinner. They quickly finish their essays. Harry and Ron head toward the stairs to their dormitory. The portrait hole opens, several figures come through.
Pomfrey says, "Mr. Potter, I need to see you."
Harry and Ron turn to look. Standing there is Dumbledore and Lupin.
"Can we do this in the dormitory?" asks Harry.
Dumbledore says, "Yes." Harry, Ron, Pomfrey, Dumbledore, and Lupin climb the stairs into the dormitory.
Pomfrey says, "Mr. Potter, this is going to be a full examination."
Harry realizes he's trapped, and complies by undressing.
Lupin looks at his watch. "It's about nine. So, that makes eight hours? I think that's a record."
Pomfrey says, "Remus, that is not a record I encourage people to break."
"Poppy, be considerate. It seems that Mr. Potter does not like taking his medicine." says Dumbledore.
"Albus, I've read the journal. Your name came up frequently." says Pomfrey.
Dumbledore looks at Harry. "Harry, what happened today was very serious."
"You nearly died." says Lupin.
"Rumors of my death have been greatly exaggerated." jokes Harry.
"Not by much. We are being serious." says Dumbledore.
"Sorry Professor. Hard to be serious when I'm naked." says Harry.
"He's got a point there." says Lupin.
"I do want him under observation tonight." says Pomfrey.
"What sort of observation?" asks Ron.
"Close observation in case any symptoms creep up." says Pomfrey.
"This poison is very nasty. Side effects can occur." says Dumbledore
"Should a side effect occur, say up here, would he be able to travel to the Hospital Wing in time? Or, using one of the Firebolts?" asks Ron.
"How long until it's out of my system?" asks Harry.
Pomfrey says, "Most of the poison will be gone in two days. However, the effects may linger for a while."
"I feel fine." says Harry.
Pomfrey says, "For now, yes. As to where you sleep, I'd prefer the Hospital Wing. Somehow I doubt you'll agree to that."
"Uh-oh Harry, she's catching on." says Ron.
"Of the most likely side effects, the dormitory would be adequate. However, if you linger, the effects will be irreversible." says Pomfrey.
Dumbledore says, "Poppy, have you completed the examination? Not that I'm pressuring you." he adds.
Pomfrey finishes the examination.
"What ever happened to doctor-patient privacy?" asks Harry.
"Walked out when you left the Hospital Wing earlier." says Lupin.
Pomfrey says, "Mr. Potter is alright now. However, I do want to see him daily until further notice."
"Lunch is the easiest, schedule wise." says Harry.
"Fine, drop by the Hospital Wing daily for lunch." says Pomfrey.
Dumbledore says, "Harry, you will show up for it. If you skip, I will have to disqualify you from playing in the final Saturday."
Harry is startled by this and exclaims, "What?"
Dumbledore says, "Your health comes first, period. You have collapsed twice in two weeks. You have been poisoned. You will not play if I feel you are not taking this seriously. Keep your appointments."
"If you're done Poppy...." Lupin starts.
"Certainly." Pomfrey says, she leaves and closes the door.
"Which leaves the matter of our arrangement." says Dumbledore.
"Professor, Hermione and I will accompany Harry tonight." says Ron.
"What?" Harry says to Ron.
Ron says, "Harry, they're right! Hermione and I will keep an eye on you until Pomfrey says you're fine."
"Which would help for the immediate concern." says Lupin.
Dumbledore says, "However, there is an increase in attacks. I'm starting to worry about your safety there Harry."
Ron says, "Well, we do have those enhancements in the house. However, she would have to come here for Harry to agree with this."
"I still have that trial I need to attend in three weeks." says Harry.
"Trial?" asks Lupin.
Harry says, "Yes, saw a Muggle incident Friday. They want me as a witness. Of course, that was before the Death Eater attack at the dance."
Lupin asks, "Attack? Why didn't you tell me?"
Dumbledore says, "Harry told me Saturday. That was right before he asked about the hike."
"Well, you seem to have had some sunshine." says Lupin.
Harry says, "It was sunny and warm. That made for a nice day."
Ron says, "Which was better than here. It was cloudy and cool."
"We want to do it again early next month." says Harry.
"Can't believe it. You have OWLs, finals, and Voldemort might attack." says Lupin.
Ron says, "That's true, but we can't let it spoil the social life now, can we?"
"Remus, consider their age for a moment." says Dumbledore.
"I just thought you were more mature than that. You're buying this Albus?" says Lupin.
Harry says, "When the OWLs and finals come, I'll be ready. Should Voldemort attack, we'll do something. Until then, I want some fun."
"Harry, will you bring her to watch the final?" asks Ron.
Lupin asks, "You want to do that? Have you even thought about the consequences?"
Harry says, "Professor, there was a Death Eater attack Friday. Everybody else is in nearly as much danger as she is. If I wasn't there, she'd be dead right now."
"Remus, we knew from the start that secrecy would only last so long in this matter." says Dumbledore.
Ron says, "From the sound of it, the time of secrecy has nearly expired. Most likely, we would use the cloak."
"That will be hard in the crowded Quidditch stadium." says Lupin.
Harry says, "Ron, Hermione, and I will find a way. One excuse could be a new niece Professor Lupin."
Dumbledore says, "Back to the topic on hand, your arrangement."
Harry says, "Well Professor, as I understand it, Ron and Hermione should come on my commute until Madam Pomfrey says I don't need to be observed."
Ron says, "If Hermione or I notice anything out of the ordinary, we will return with Harry."
"Albus, are you going to endorse this madness?" asks Lupin.
"Remus, it seems reasonable. Except for Mr. Potter's fleeing the Hospital Wing, they have been trying to stay within the arrangements." says Dumbledore.
"Professor Lupin, remember my warning." says Ron.
Harry says, "Warning? What warning?" Ron and Harry exchange looks.
Ron says, "Harry, I warned them that if they pit Hogwarts against Gia, you would very likely pick Gia."
"Which is something I do not want to fool with." says Dumbledore, a bit shocked by this statement.
"So, we are going to let this happen?" says Lupin.
Dumbledore warns, "Yes, but I will be very cross if they cross me."
"We understand." says Harry and Ron.
"It's getting late." says Lupin.
With that, Dumbledore and Lupin open the door to the dormitory. Hermione comes in.
She turns to them and asks "Can you ward off the people on the stairs for a bit?"
The door closes.
"Nice tan Harry, no line." remarks Hermione, looking at the still naked Harry.
"Hermione, we're going with Harry tonight." says Ron.
"What?" says Hermione.
"Yes." says Harry.
"Harry, hide your Firebolt in your trunk." says Ron. Both Ron and Harry bury their Firebolts into their trunks.
"Why?" asks Hermione.
Ron says, "The others will notice us gone, this gives them a plausible explanation."
Ron opens several of the windows in the dormitory. A nice chilly breeze flows through. Harry shivers as he grabs his Portkey and wand. They vanish.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione pop into Gia's bedroom. Gia is a bit shocked at the three of them.
Harry says, "Hi. Yes, they have to come."
Snuffles sniffs Harry and is alarmed. Quickly, he moves to the bedroom door.
Brian almost enters the bedroom. The door is shut in his face and he exclaims,. "Hey!"
Snuffles transforms.
Sirius says, "What is wrong? I can sniff strong poison from Harry's skin."
Ron explains the incident in Potions and Harry's avoidance of Pomfrey.
Sirius says, "Harry, do not fool around in this matter. Did Pomfrey want you to stay in the Hospital Wing?"
Ron says, "We talked her out of it. That's why Hermione and me are here."
Gia asks, "Poison? Harry was poisoned?"
"Yes." says Hermione.
Sirius says, "A dangerous substance with no antidote."
Ron says, "Pomfrey almost thought Harry was a goner for a moment."
Sirius, "See Harry? I can't believe Snape would let something like this happen."
"Harry and Snape do not get along." says Hermione.
"What else is new? James and Snape hated each other too." says Sirius.
"It's getting worse." says Hermione.
"That's been going on for ages." says Sirius.
Harry says, "If you don't mind, I'd like to get some sleep here."
Sirius says to Harry, "Take a shower now, before bed."
Gia protests, "I like him a bit sweaty."
"Not this sweat." says Sirius.
"Okay." says Harry.
Sirius transforms.
Gia yells, "Brian, you may enter."
Brian and Celeste open the door enter.
"Will there be enough room?" asks Brian.
Celeste says, "It's a bit tight. We can manage."
Harry exits the room for the shower.
Celeste says, "Oh, we need to introduce. Brian, this is Ron. Ron, this is Brian."
Ron and Brian shake hands.
"So, you are Hermione's boyfriend?" asks Brian.
Hermione says, "Of course he is. Nice to see you two getting along."
Gia says, "Brian, Ron, will you excuse us? Have Harry wait outside too, enjoy the living room."
Brian and Ron walk to the living room. They sit on the sofa.
"So, what was that all about?" asks Brian.
"Girl stuff likely." says Ron.
"I meant earlier." says Brian.
Ron says, "Brian, don't worry about it. It wasn't personal, we needed a bit of privacy for a moment."
"And?" asks Brian.
Ron says, "Drop it. So, why are you here?"
Brian says, "We were studying a bit late with Gia. Celeste and I stay over occasionally."
Ron hears the sound of Harry getting out of the shower and asks, "Harry, down here!" yells Ron.
Harry walks down with just a towel. He asks, "Brian, where's Kevin anyways?"
"Oh, he and Ane are on a trip to Liverpool. They'll be back Wednesday evening." says Brian.
Harry lays the towel onto the sofa and sits on it, between Ron and Brian.
"Girls wanted to talk." says Ron.
"Actually, I am curious how you do it Harry." says Brian.
"Do what?" asks Harry.
Brian says, "You have Gia practically begging you for sex, but Celeste is shunning me. I'm surprised that you haven't fucked her yet."
Ron says, "Trust. Knowing Harry, it has to be trust."
"Can I hide anything from you Ron?" asks Harry.
"Possibly." says Ron.
Brian says, "Trust? Celeste trusts me."
Harry says, "Brian, not completely. From what I've seen, she doesn't quite trust you, not enough for sex."
Ron asks, "Have you done something? To her or another girl?"
"Anything?" asks Harry.
Brian reluctantly says, "Yes, I did try to double date both Celeste and Gia."
"They found out?" asks Ron.
Brian says, "At a certain point, it gets tricky. I'm still friends with both."
"There's your answer." says Harry.
"I made up for that ages ago." says Brian.
Ron says, "You made up enough for friendship, not enough for sex. You need to convince Celeste."
Brian says, "It's more than that though, at least for Gia. She's flirted a bit with some other guys. Nothing really took hold, until she met you Harry."
"Dunno exactly. I guess we just connect." says Harry.
"You are a bit of a protector, that's for sure." says Brian.
"It's not that really. Snuffles is better." says Harry.
"Harry, don't undercut yourself." says Ron.
Brian says, "It's funny how you managed with Derek Spaath. The school's still talking about that one."
"What happened?" asks Ron.
Brian explained the Derek's bad luck that day; the pants, chemistry, algebra, and the locker room incident.
Ron says to Harry "You didn't, did you?"
"What'd I miss?" asks Brian.
"Harry's hand in it." says Ron.
"He's good then. Nobody picked up on it." says Brian.
"Ron, Rita Skeeter did show up that day." says Harry.
"She did?" asks Ron.
"Harry seemed afraid of her and so we hid in the girl's bathroom." says Brian.
Harry says, "Brian, I can't explain it to you, but she posed a bigger threat to all of you than Derek Spaath did."
"She's dangerous?" asks Brian.
"If she had spotted me, yes." says Harry.
Ron says, "A so-called journalist with no ethics. You should've read the libel she published about Hermione last year."
"Libel against Hermione?" asks Brian.
"Yes." says Harry.
Hermione walks down the stairs. She says, "You guys may come to the bedroom now."
Harry, Ron, and Brian follow Hermione back up the stairs.
Ron says to Brian, "Be aware that Harry and I may have to leave early. Depends on what happens."
"Why?" asks Brian.
Ron says, "Nurse's orders. If Harry has any problems, we'll disappear immediately."
"Ron, will you shut up about that?" asks Harry.
"Harry, you heard Pomfrey. Hermione and I take this matter very seriously." says Ron.
They enter the bedroom. There's six teens and Snuffles present.
Brian says, "Can we make this any more crowded? Dunno, add somebody dangerous like Sirius Black or something?"
Snuffles leaves the bedroom, but waits in the hall. Ron closes the door.
The girls are still wearing their bras and underwear. Harry doesn't mind as he scrambles to Gia on the bed and kisses her. He lets her play with his nut-sack.
Hermione says, "See you two, we knew Harry would be first."
Ron strips to his T-shirt and underwear. He climbs onto the bed with Hermione. Ron kisses her.
Brian takes the hint. He climbs into bed next to Celeste. But she only accepts a kiss on the cheek.
Friday afternoon, Ron and Hermione are loitering at their favorite pond in the forest.
Hermione says, "Why was Potions canceled? Not that I'm complaining."
Ron says, "Simple, they don't want Gryffindor's Seeker being injured right before the game tomorrow."
Hermione says, "You can't be serious."
"Hermione, the last two encounters with Snape sent Harry to the Hospital Wing."
"That's true."
"Of course it is, you were there."
"So, why did Snape poison Harry? I don't get it.
"Hermione, we do not know for a fact that Snape did it."
"Ron, you were there."
"Hermione, did you see Snape administer the poison?"
"No."
"All we do know is that the poison in the vile was switched for water."
"But your behavior..."
"How often do I have a good reason to do that to Snape?"
"Ronald Weasley, you are taking advantage of it!" says Hermione.
"At the time, I did not know why. For Harry's sake, I had to assume Snape was responsible." says Ron.
"Nice cover store. So, where is Harry anyways?"
"Let's see, he's finished his homework. No Quidditch Practice today."
"So, he's left already?"
"Harry is actually safer there." says Ron.
"Hogwarts is the safest place." says Hermione.
"Not with Snape around."
"You suggested that Snape might not have poisoned ... oh no. Are you suggesting?"
"Hermione, a number of people were present who had the access and capability to perform a Switching Spell. Letting Harry spend time with her is very beneficial."
"Ron, you can't be serious! I mean, leaving his marks aside, Harry is now getting into nasty squabbles with Snape."
"Hermione, you are perfectly aware the hatred between them has existed long before her. The thing that saved Harry was her, he wanted to see her again."
"Then why did he avoid Pomfrey?"
"Since when has Harry liked going to the Hospital Wing?"
"But..." Hermione stammers.
Ron says, "Listen, I do not know exactly what is happening. Snape is aggravating and Gia is helping. These incidents have at least been triggered by Snape, even if Snape had no intention of doing so."
Hermione asks, "What are you suggesting?"
Ron grins and replies, "That we should focus on each other."
"Ron!"
"What?" says Ron. He opens his fly to expose his penis.
"Prat! What are you suggesting about Snape and Harry?"
"You look beautiful!"
"Ron! What about Snape?"
"What about him?"
"He's approaching." says Hermione.
Ron closes his fly and they dash behind a tree, under the brush, and into a small hollow. They lie onto the ground. Ron covers him and Hermione with the Invisibility Cloak.
Snape approaches the edge of the pond. Another figure approaches.
Snape says, "Good Afternoon Mulciber."
Mulciber says, "Snape, Master is pleased that you attempted on Potter. However, he is displeased that you have not succeeded."
"Mulciber, I cannot appear to kill Potter. I would lose the valuable position I hold."
"Which would be irrelevant with the death of Potter. Master would prefer it look like a suicide."
"Why?"
"The disgrace of a suicide would shatter the Potter legend. If Master's hand is not detected, our cause is boosted."
"Is that why you broke into Gryffindor Tower? To force Potter into suicide?"
"I never."
"From the description, one of you did. Security is beefed up after each of your failures."
"We want Potter's girlfriend."
"Girlfriend?"
"Snape, are you blind? It is very apparent he has one. We need her."
"Mulciber, the rumors do state that. However, I have not seen Potter with a girlfriend."
"Snape, would Potter show you? Have you personally checked all the closets in Hogwarts for the pimp?"
"Mulciber, have you found out why you're encountering difficulties?"
"Snape, find out where Potter and his girlfriend are. We do not yet know why we seem to be encountering resistance in Noigate. However, we hope to find out if this is related to Potter."
"Mulciber, that is difficult. The only person who seems to know Potter's whereabouts is Weasley. He clamps up."
"Snape, are you a Potions Master or not? Veritaserum should be trivial to make. Until we meet again in the Master's service."
Snape departs the forest. Mulciber retreats back through the forest. Ron and Hermione get up and walk out of the forest and return to the castle.
