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A New School Year
Feeling something strange under his blanket, Harry opened his eyes. He felt something wet and slimy on his navel. Panicked, he waited a little, but then, it seemed having spread on his hips. It was hot, wet and oozy. Harry prayed, desperately wanting that it wouldn't be what he was thinking it was. But suddenly, it began MOVING. Panicked, Harry screamed and pulled the blanket away, waking up everybody.
-What's wrong??? asked Seamus, who always slept shirtless.
Harry looked; it was a slimy Trevor who managed to get in his bed and under his blanket. Every boys in the dormitory came and saw it.
-TREVOR! cried Nevile.
He picked him up, but Harry's pyjamas and exposed skins where gooey and smelly.
-Laugh it up, laugh it up!
-Come on Harry! Your first thought must have been that you had wet dreams!
They all laughed. Some girls came in, attracted by the scream and the laughing, but Ron kindly prevented them to see anything.
-Not a word about it guys! said Harry with a threatening look.
The still laughing boys nodded. Hermione, still in a night gown, pulled Ron away.
-What's wrong guys??? It's a quarter past six!
She saw Harry's pyjama.
-Harry, did you actually pee on yourself?!?
-No, Trevor slimed him, explained Nevile.
Hermione looked Harry, who's got pink.
-Those who want, get back to bed, other go to the common room and keep it quiet! No student allowed in the corridor before half past six, she said out loud. Harry, better get a shower, or others could actually believe what I said... And Mister Finnigan, I know you have a nice body, but cover it up in front of ladies.
-Come on, Herm! You must have already seen much more before and it's a boys' dormitory, he replied.
-What exactly do you mean? giving him a serious look.
-Well, you must have had a torrid summer with Viktor Krum.
She went white.
-Who told you about that??? she asked looking angrily Ron and Harry, who seemed as surprised as she was.
-Nevile told me!
-Mister Longbotom?!? she said looking at him even more angrily.
-When I couldn't owl you, I asked news of you from everybody, and Anna told me she heard Padma say to Justin that Cho heard you getting invited before entering the Hogwarts Express.
She was speechless.
-So... You say that Ravenclaws and Hufflepuff knows about it??? asked Ron.
-Well, usually Slytherins learns those things pretty fast! added Seamus. Come on Herm! Give us some details about it!
Still speechless, white and with eyes filled of tears of panic, Hermione kept looking everyone.
-I.. I... I don't... I.., she stuttered.
Crying out loud she ran to the girl's bathroom. Grabbing a towel Harry ran after her. He got inside before she could lock the door and she was desperately saying meaningless sentences and walking around pretty fast.
-Hermione! Calm down!
She fell on the ground, crying. Wrapping his towel around his waist and removing his dirty shirt, Harry took her in his arms. She kept crying on his shoulder. She tried to speak, but Harry told her to take it easy for a few seconds. However, the door was blasted opened by Professor McGonagall.
-Professor! It's not what you think! I've got an explanation!
-You'd better have! said the old witch giving him a mad I'm-gonna-kill-you look.
Hermione fell on the ground crying, sobbing and debating.
-She's gone hysteric. You'd better do something about it!
-Stupefy!
Hermione stopped moving.
-Take a shower and dress up Potter. Meet me in the hospital wing in fifteen minutes!
Harry obeyed and exited the girls bathroom under concerned eyes of the other Gryffindors, while Professor McGonagall Conjured a stretcher and leviated Hermione toward the hospital wing. When he arrived a few minutes latter, Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall and Nurse Pomfrey and the Traveler were waiting for him, gathered around Hermione, who had been revived, but was still only sobbing.
-So, Mister Potter, you've got to have a good explanation! said McGonagall.
-Minerva, please! Remain calm! said the nurse.
Harry explained them about the toad, Hermione's arrival, Seamus comments and Hermione having gone hysteric about it. When he finished, the Traveler was looking the floor muttering "Boys...", Professor McGonagall was definitely disappointed by Hermione's behavior and what she did last summer and Dumbledore was thinking.
-Is she okay, asked Harry to the nurse.
-Physically yes.
Harry got closer to his friend, but, shameful, she turned her back on him.
-For the very least, it will be quite embarrassing..., finally said Dumbledore.
-Albus! That kind of behavior is not prefect worthy!
-Minerva! It will be embarrassing for her! And besides that, in the summer, student a free to do whatever they want... We are not going to demote a prefect for something done when she was not in the school or representing it.
-Was a... a mistake..., said Hermione softly.
-And it looks like she's regretting it.
McGonagall seemed to agree with Dumbledore, but was still disappointed.
-Well, at least five points off Gryffindor, she said. Let's go Albus, we'd better not make the ministry waiting for us...
They both left with the Traveler, who, before reaching the door, said that they join them a little latter.
-I'd like a few words with her, alone.
The nurse and Harry went to her office.
-Do you think she'll got over it?
-You know, mister Potter, you'd better ask it to her.
The Traveler said something to Hermione and left. Hermione seemed rather pleased and stood up.
-Sounds like that mysterious one does much more than just magic! said the nurse.
Harry went to his friend.
-Are you alright?
-Yes... Sorry for what I've done.
-What happened this summer you don't want us to know?
-Some very very VERY stupid things I should never have done.
-Okay then, but what do you want to do today?
-Let's go to Hogsmead, I don't want to be here when the whole school will know about it.
Harry took his wand.
-Accio Invisibility Cloak!
He gave it to Hermione.
-You are still in a nightgown and you look terrible. I thought you would not have wanted the school to see you like that.
Hermione smiled and put it and the nurse seemed impressed by such a thoughtful attention. Then went back to the tower and Harry told everything to Ron.
-Whoa, pal! I believe she's done quite something with Krum or she would have agreed to tell it to us. We are still her friends!
The door opened.
-Who's here?
There was nobody. The door closed and Hermione took off the cloak.
-Thanks Harry.
She had taken a quick shower and put on some makeup to make her red eyes less visible.
-So! Let's get down and eat the breakfast! I'm starving! said Ron enthusiastically.
-Ehm, Ron? Why wouldn't we go to Hogsmead right now and take a breakfast at the three Broomstick? asked Hermione. I really want to leave before everyone know about it.
-You'll have to face them sooner or latter.
-Tonight, please!
-Okay then...
They took the Invisibility Cloak and tried to all get in it, but there were now to big for all three of them, so only Hermione wore it and they went to the secret passage. A little latter they arrived in Honeyduke's and left. As they got in the street, Hermione took off the cloak and all three went to the Three Broomstick. Once in, they ordered each a breakfast and a butterbeer. Eating and drinking would make much good to Hermione! They sat and waited.
-You know, Harry, you made a wiser choice to join us in Arythmancy, said Hermione.
-Why exactly?
-Well, you will finally learn something useful!
-That depends.., added Ron. What do you wanna do latter pal?
-Ehm, said Harry.
He had never actually thought about it.
-Perhaps try to continue playing Quidditch or try to become and Auror. What about you?
-Well, I'll try to find something in the next month, said Ron. Hermione?
-I though to graduate from a magical university and become a teacher...
They looked her.
-You know Herm, you could do much better than that!
She looked him.
-Ronald Weasley! Being a teacher is a very noble profession!
-Depends about which teacher we're talking about, he replied, obviously thinking of Professors Snape, Lockhart or Trelawney.
She seemed to think he could be right, so she didn't said anything more. Their food finally arrived. Ron and Harry were shocked to see them being brought by Fleur Delacour.
-Arry! So good to see you again! she said giving them their plates and drinks.
-Fleur! How are you! Come on, have a seat!
She went to the bar, served herself a butterbeer tin and joined them, almost making Ron glow of happiness.
-So I finally found someone to translate your letter.
She smiled.
-Sorry, she said, I thought you would understand French.
-Some does, and some doesn't, added Hermione.
-Oh! So you speak french? She asked her.
-Oui, mais très peu.
Impressed, Harry and Ron looked her.
-Next time I'll ask you to translate it! said Harry.
So, since there wasn't yet any other consumers, they all had fun together.
-So, Fleur, when will you return to France?
-I will take the train back to London next Friday and then take the plane to Paris Saturday. So it means I am here for another week.
Ron seemed rather pleased of it and Fleur wasn't looking like snubbing him anymore. An half an hour latter, Fleur asked what was bothering Hermione. She explained her what happened last summer and how most of the houses found out.
-Vwell, you know since they do not know what appened, you can hide the parts you are ashamed of and they would not know what you are not telling them, suggested Fleur.
-I can't. Someone heard us when he invited me on the platform, and he said that we would go much farther that we have had yet.
-How far was that? asked Ron.
Both girls ignored his question.
-Then, use your authority to make them shut up, she said. You are a prefect after all.
-I know, the Traveler suggested it.
-The Traveler? Who is it?
-Our knew DADA teacher. Dumbledore sometimes get some weird ones and that one is quite something!
-Ron! You saw her fighting back those Zombies and Bone Dragons!
-I know, but still, she is quite weird! Always hidden under her hood; nobody ever saw her face.
They knew Fleur was thinking that no one that strange would ever teach to Beaux Baton, but she didn't say anything.
-So! You've gotten better with your English, said Hermione.
-Vwell, I still sometimes have problems with the "H" and "W". But I think I got the accent.
They agreed. They left a little latter and made some window shopping.
-Ron, I believe that you're in love with her, said Hermione.
He went pink.
-What make you think so???
-It's written in your face! added Harry.
-Well! She's smart, beautiful and no longer snob. And bloody hell, she so sexy!
Hermione muttered "boys" and ran away.
-What's wrong with her???
-Ron, I think with what happened between her and Krum, you'd better avoid the three letters word.
-What? Her?
-No, sex!
-Oh! Okay...
They searched for her and found her an half an hour latter alone, laid on her back on the side of a stream, looking at it with her shades. When they arrived, she didn't bother to stand up and only turned her head towards them.
-If I'd drown, would it bother anyone?
-Well, the two of us for the very first ones, and then everyone else, cause I reckon you'd be a ghost like Myrtle, said Ron.
It made her laugh. Harry came closer.
-Hermione, you're scaring me! Please! Don't do something like that.
-What? You'd miss me? After what I did?
-I don't even know what you did, I was only jealous that you preferred him and forgot my birthday.
-Harry, I told you, ask anything you want... Anything...
Harry knew what she was meaning and he looked Ron, who was as surprised as he was.
-Hermione! Stop acting like that! It's not yourself!
-With what I did, I'm just a...
-No you're not! Harry said, cutting her. Like you said, you made a mistake, but get a grip on yourself and pull yourself together!
-Why wouldn't you tell us what happened, asked Ron.
Her face twisted at that though.
-No, please! Don't make me do it!
Harry sat beside her.
-Ron, leave us for a few minutes...
He nodded and left.
-Hermione, you're ashamed of sex, aren't you?
She nodded crying.
-Well, you're fifteen years old!
-Fourteen, haven't yet have had my birthday...
-Well, you're a teenager, there's nothing wrong with your body or what you do with it!
She looked him.
-Then, why do you don't want of it?
-I told you, it's not yourself. Come on!
She sat and Harry hugged her, making her cry on his shoulder.
-Are you pregnant?
She shook her head negatively.
-Then what's wrong.
-Harry, my life is meaningless, I've ruined it and I...
Harry though of something.
-Wait, I know what you need.
She looked him.
-Put back the cloak on yourself and join us back at Honeyduke's.
She nodded, still crying and Harry ran back to Ron, who was holding a letter.
-Ron, we're going back to the castle, I know what she needs. What is that?
-Oh! Mom's worried after she heard of the train being attacked and owled me to write her we're alright.
So they all traveled back to the castle and once in the castle, Ron asked, loud enough to make Hermione hear it.
-So, where do we go now?
-Fallow me.
He went straight to the girls bathroom on the second floor.
-Harry, nooo! said Hermione.
He ignored her complaint and got in first.
-Myrtle?
Nothing happened.
-Myrtle, I need your help.
A ghostly face appeared from a cabin.
-Oh! Harry!
She flew to him and tried to hug him, but he felt like a very cold wind running on his skin and she went through him.
-Myrtle, I need your help, he repeated.
She looked like proud of it and listened.
-Look, my friend, Hermione, did a mistake and seems to regret it, but she is so depressed that we can't do anything about it. So could you have a word with her?
She looked him with confused eyes.
-Look, at least try, you'll understand.
-Okay, I'll do it for you...
She winked. Harry got out of the bathroom, guessed where Hermione was and pushed herself in. He then locked the door magically and both he and Ron waited on each side of the door, trying to listen, but they couldn't, the door being too heavy.
-Do you really think it will work? asked Ron.
-Listen, Myrtle died at about twelve and since she's a ghost she as been peeping and stuff like that, so she'll understand what it is and she can keep a secret.
-Well, on the other hand, she may also get mad and make Hermione even more depressed.
-I hope not, said Harry.
And half an hour passed, then it had been an hour she was in, then an hour and an half.
-Crap! What's taking them so long?
-I don't know.
They heard laughing inside and then decided to take a look. They unlocked the door and opened it. Hermione was sat on the floor and Myrtle was hovering a little over the floor in a sat position in front of her. They where talking slowly and were smiling to each other.
-Oh Harry! they both said. Thanks a lot!
He smiled. Hermione ran to hug him and Myrtle waved him a hand. They all got out of the bathroom beaming, only to face the caretaker, Mr Filch.
-So, It was true then... Mister Potter do not know that girls' bathroom are for girls only...
He went pink and looked the floor, only to see Myrtle's face coming out of it and grabbing the caretaker's feet, making him fall. She sank back into the floor while he yelled:
-PEEVES! I'LL GET YOU!!!
He ran after the poltergeist, which he though had made him fall and forgot about Harry and Ron.
-Thanks Myrtle, he said, as they all went back to the Gryffindor tower.
Once in, they sat in the common room and asked:
-So, are you feeling better now? asked Ron to his friend.
She was radiant.
-Yes, thank you very much Harry.
-What did she told you?
She bit her lips, obviously thinking about what she could tell them.
-To make a long story short, she taught me the true nature of life and if I'd die tomorrow that I'd regret even more my mistakes if I keep doing them.
The two boys looked each other.
-I mean that she said that her death prevented her from having fun and growing up, so she peeped on the other ones growing and stuff like that. I owe you one...
She grabbed Ron and kissed him on the cheek and then grabbed Harry and kissed him on the mouth, with her thong for a minute or so...
-Do you think the gave the schedules when we were away? asked Ron when they broke their kiss.
-No, most of the teachers were away, said Hermione. And I don't have to be proud of what I did in front of the first year. What will they think of me???
-Stop thinking about that. We'll help you face it.
-I love you! Both of you, but especially Harry.
He smiled. They went to Hagrid's, but he wasn't in his shack, so they decided to chill out a little more. While returning to the castle, Harry looked the Forbidden Forest. He still didn't know why it was THAT forbidden. There where indeed some dangerous creatures and wonderful ones too, but it was like walking in a normal forest, same risks but bigger consequences.
-Harry? asked Ron. Are you daydreaming?
-Ehm, yes. I was wondering why the Forbidden Forest is forbidden.
-Won't you two ever read Hogwarts: A History?
-No! they said.
-Well, that's because the woods are so deep and so old and that surveying it would be nearly impossible. And many magical creatures have been seen in it, some very dangerous!
-Such as?
-Black Hydras, Killing Spirits, Gorgons and even more...
Ron and Harry looked each other.
-So what? We're not talking about living in it, only taking a walk in!
-No!
-Come on Herm! We're in the middle of the day, everyone is away and yourself you don't want to face Malfoy right now. So why not? pleaded Ron.
Obviously both curious about the Forest and wanting to find out by herself and not willing to break school rules, Hermione seemed torn.
-What if anything goes wrong?
-It's daytime, most creatures will be sleeping and we've got our wands.
-Okay, but we stay on a trail and in an hour we...
-We'll leave the wonders we'll have found and walk back.
They agreed and stealthily walked behind Hagrid's cabin, then towards the wood. It was shady and fresh so it was rather pleasant. Like Hermione wanted they stayed on the path, but when it split, Ron made them turn on the older looking ones. When they reached a clearing, they sat and looked around. Hermione walked around them.
-We haven't seen anything..., that was just like the woods around home!
-But I like it! said Harry.
-And you like Degnoming a garden!
The two of them laughed, Hermione seemed busy.
-Ron, you saw nothing because you were not looking...
They looked her.
-Then what did you saw?
-Well, I see that we are not in a clearing...
They looked around.
-Were are we then?
-We're standing on some ruins. Very old ones!
They pulled away the dead leaves and saw a stone floor and some broken columns.
-Whoa! I've got to tell Ginny about, it said Harry. She like's it much!
-How do you know it?
-Well, after having learned that..., he stopped and chose to go straight to the point. She brought me to some Elfish ruins near the Burrow. She says she'd like to translate what was written on it, so perhaps she could find it interesting around here.
They decided to take a closer look so they pushed away the dead branches and leaves and swept away the dirt. It was about thirty feet long by fifteen wide. They even found the buried entry of a staircase. Hesitating, Hermione agreed to fallow them inside. Underground, there was a long corridor with some rooms on each side.
-Let's take a look... Lumos!
Most of the rooms where empty, beside some rotten roots from the ceiling or dirty pieces of fabric on the floor.
-Come here! said Hermione.
-What have you found?
There was a bookshelf. She went closer and looked each of them. Most where useless since they were rotten and in pieces, but there were still two or three in good shape.
-Holy cricket! Most Potente Potions! The Elfish Book of Nature! Harry, Ron! These are some of the rarest and most powerful books in the wizards world!
-Would make Madam Pince jealous, said Ron.
-You don't understand! We must be in some kind of wizard house. A powerful one! I'm pretty sure we could find other interesting things if we search more carefully!
-Let's take a look then.
She kept the newly found books and led the way. They found what was left of a kitchen and a potion cupboard, but the regents were spoiled. Hermione insisted on taking the still good looking potions with them and they kept searching. They found the bedroom, but the dressers were broken and the bed was undone dirty. What was left of the clothes were ripping upon touch, but they fond some jewelry. Since they've searched everywhere well, they decided to leave.
-Ehm, we walked half an hour to get here. We cleaned the ruins for an hour and we've spent about an hour and an half searching so we've obviously missed lunch and we'd better get back before anyone notice we're nowhere in sight, said Harry.
They agreed, but when they climbed up, and reached the clearing Hermione stopped them.
-Don't you smell it?
Harry and Ron smelled the air.
-Yeah, like if there would be a creature body nearby, dead for a long time, wanna have a look.
Harry and Hermione looked each other, panicked.
-Dead? THE ZOMBIES!
Ron understood.
-Better be going!
They ran to the path back towards the castle, Ron remembering it well. Harry looked behind him will running and saw some Zombies slowly walking towards them, about half a mile away, the trees being quite sparse there.
-We're almost there!
Through the trees, they indeed begin to see the castle. They now reached Hagrid's cabin and while looking behind them, they ran in something soft and tall. They fell on the ground and looked It was Hagrid himself.
-What are you three doing here???
-Hagrid! We're being fallowed! There are Zombies behind us! told Harry.
Hagrid looked.
-Well, you three better go back to the castle! How many were they?
-I saw four of them, said Harry.
-Don't tell anyone you were in the wood and that me haven't denounced you!
-Thanks Hagrid.
They ran back to Gryffindor tower, and once in the common room took time to breath.
-We did it! said Ron, almost beaming.
-Nothing to be proud of! replied Harry. We could have been killed and if Hermione wouldn't have smelled the Zombies, we could have been trapped! And you wanted to take a look! replied Harry.
Ron looked ashamed, but Hermione was rather please.
-Look, she said. We got excellent book, we came back alive and nothing bad happened, so there is no point fighting each other, but we'd better no do it again!
They agreed and Hermione began reading their new books, while Harry and Ron were studying the jewelry.
-Think they're magic?
-Dunno, better ask a teacher!
-Who?
-Dunno, we'll find one. What do you think Hagrid will do about the Zombies?
-Don't know, but I hope they don't reach the grounds!
The afternoon went by and soon they fallowed other Gryffindor to the Great Hall. All teachers we looking like having ran a Marathon and were talking pretty fast to each others. Soon, Dumbledore stood up.
-Students, we were able to defeat the Zombies, but I've been informed that some were seen near the school. The teacher of Care of Magical Creatures owled the Centaurs who were able to clean the woods, but it is possible that there are still some Undead, so I don't want ANY student int he Forbidden Forest or alone in the park. Your lives may depend on it!
The student looked frightened.
-However, the castle still remains safe and the Ministry of Magic opened a new Auror station in Hogsmead.
The students applauded, relieved.
-Class schedules will be given tomorrow morning. I guess I've said everything, so fill it up!
It was like a second welcome feast, so Ron didn't complain about it! After having eating too much a second day in a row, the trio was rather happy even if their lives had be a few times those last days. Harry looked at the teacher tables. They looked worried. And were still arguing about something.
-What d'you think is wrong? Think it's about today? asked Ron between stew and pumpkin juice.
-Dunno, said Harry.
Hermione bit her lips. It was obvious for her two friends that she didn't knew as much about Undead as she'd like.
-I'll try to take a look at it at the library.
-You know you can't, said Ginny. Necromancy is a Forbidden Art and of course there are no such book in the school!
Hermione seemed disappointed.
-Let's ask the Traveler..., she said.
-We haven't had our first classes with her yet and we even haven't got our schedules!
-I know, I know! Let's see her in her office then...
They waited until most of the students left and then fallowed the Traveler to the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher's office. It had changed much since what he remembered. When is was Lockhart, the narcissistic teacher had disposed countless picture of himself, when it was Lupin, he had displayed some minor creatures, when there was an imposter posing as Mad-Eye, he displayed Auror's magical instruments, but now, the Traveler had placed odd and frightening stuff in her office, making it looks like catacombs.
-May I help you? she asked, looking towards them
-Ehm, we were wondering what went wrong today, risked Harry.
She stopped pacing around.
-How exactly do you know something went not as planned?
-We saw the teachers' worried expressions, replied Hermione.
The Traveler sat down and waved her arm towards the other seats, inviting them to do the same.
-You three... I know that you always try to solve each school's problems on your own... But you are still young! You should avoid this; you could get killed!
They knew her look must have been severe under her hood.
-Voldemort killed my parents! shouted Harry.
-I know, Mister Potter. And he killed many of my friends, ruined my future and made terrible things to me and people I used to care about.
Harry seemed to doubt about what she was saying but said nothing. The Traveler took a deep breath and added:
-Sorry, I tend to over react about this...
-We were asking what went wrong...
-Well, if I answer this question, will stop asking and wait for the answer to come in classes?
The trio looked each others and agreed.
-Okay then, we've seen odd things about these Undead. First they we not hiding in daylight, then they were not moving or doing anything, but staying where they were. Second, there was both Zombies and Skeleton. Third, there was no traces of Nearby Necromancers. And last, there was some in Forbidden Forest. Now, I know you must not see what's odd about it, but wait until our first lesson together. And, which extra book did you choose?
-The Werewolves, said Ron.
-Forgotten Creatures and What We Know about Them, added Hermione.
-The Book of Death, added Harry.
-Interesting. We'll meet again pretty soon.
They returned to the Gryffindor tower and sat in the common room.
-What do you think she meant? asked Harry.
-I don't know, but she makes my skin crawl! added Ron.
Hermione seemed to be thinking.
-Harry? Could I borrow your Book of Death?
He went to his dormitory and handed her the book. No mater how much light there was in the room, the pages were all shady and a strange whisper was coming from it.
-I've seen worst, she said beginning to read it.
Like usual, she left them to read and the two played Wizards Chess. The following morning, although there was no classes to help the teachers recover, each students received their schedules.
-Blimey! Look! DADA is first thing int he morning Monday! said Ron.
-She must have known it, that's why she said that we would meet pretty soon.
The day and the weekend went by slowly and peacefully; the student's seemed all to be using there last free time to relax and take it easy, like the ending of the summer and the trio visited Fleur and took it easy. Even Malfoy was nowhere in sight! On Monday morning, the trio ate and went to the Defense Against the Dark Arts room. Everyone was there a quarter before time.
-Greeting every one!
They muttered some polite greetings.
-I already know each of your names and I know you are all there, so let's begin at once!
The student seemed to be impressed, how the hell could she know each of them???
-First, she began speaking fast, our classes will be mostly practical, so it is doubtful that you'll require much parchment for notes. ACCIO!
Lavender's Divination summer homework flew from across the room and landed in the teacher hand, which, as usual, was covered by her too long sleeves.
-Miss Brown, could I get your full attention please? And it will be given back to you at the end of the lesson, she said posing both her wand and the homework on her desk. So! For the first month will see various kind of "monsters" and then we'll face some of them, one new every two weeks and we'll try to find their weaknesses. Also, It was written to get, if possible, an encyclopedia about any kind of evil creatures. I see that each of you got a different one. Most of you are typical books, like your care of magical creatures book, some of you even brought your care of magical creatures book, but some got interesting ones... Mister Potter, could you show us which one you got?
He handed her his Book of Death.
-Interesting..., she said giving him back. So, your final exam will be to face a creature of my choice and for that, you will all work together on finding the more weaknesses about each creatures we'll see and face during the year. Teamwork is important!
They looked each others; teamwork was obviously something new in Defense Against the Dark Arts.
-Also, each of you have much more knowledge that what you imagine. So I'm also going to make you figure out things by yourself and use your mates knowledge and your own to answer questions and to deal with the creatures will face. Okay, now a little about me. I'm a female, half human, I once attended Hogwarts, but I had to leave before my sixth grade because of what Voldemort did to me and my friends. I then studied elsewhere and now, I master Necromancy and combat spells.
Seamus raised his hand.
-Okay, but what's your name?
She slowly walked to her desk.
-Sorry, but for some reasons, I can't tell it, so you are free to address me as you wish, but keep in mind that I am your teacher, so address to me accordingly.
They smiled.
-Okay then! First of all, since what happened those last days, the first kind of creatures we'll see are the Undead. What do you know about them? she asked.
Neville raised his hand.
-They are not dead...
-Indeed mister Longbottom, so, let say, one point to Gryffindor. But could someone be more specific? What characteristics do they share? Where they're from? What are their main strengths and weaknesses?
Hermione raised her hand.
-Well, ehm, their are made from dead remains, more likely human remains, she tried.
-Five points to Gryffindor. Tell me as much Undead creature you know about..., she said posing a chalk on the blackboard.
The student started naming some, such a Zombies, Skeletons, Vampire, Werewolves, Ghosts and more, which the chalk wrote all. After about twenty creatures, the Traveler looked the list.
-Well, twenty two points to Gryffindor. Now, how would you sort them out? Which of them share traits with others?
Hermione raised her hand.
-Some are animated dead bodies and some are spirits?
-Five points to Gryffindor. Latter this year will see why the word animated isn't accurate, but that makes two kinds of Undead creatures. But keep up making your brain work...
-Some are cursed humans..., said Nevile.
-Five points to Gryffindor. And I'm sure one of you can figure out now where each of them goes... But, you'll see that many can be put at two different places, but the three kinds of Undead are the Living Dead, the Lost Souls and the Cursed Ones...
Now, everyone stand up and try to sort out everyone on the board, and I'm adding new ones... Liches, Echoes and Dementors. Try to do this in less than ten minutes...
Harry's skin crawled upon hearing their name, but soon all student were around the board, telling the chalk were to put each creatures. Soon, it was over...
-Well, let see then... In the Living Dead, you put the Skeletons, Zombies, Liches, Mommies, Bone Dragons, various animated dead animals and Death Worms. Death Worms are not Living Dead, who can tell us about them?
Hermione and Nevile raised their hands. The Traveler pointed Neville.
-They are ordinary worms that have eaten Cursed flesh and they become Death Worms.
-Good enough! Five points to Gryffindor. But Hermione is dying of telling us a little more about them, she added friencly...
-There are afraid of light, highly poisonous, carry strong diseases and they lives mostly in forgotten centuries old graveyards.
-Yes. Let's keep going, we'll come back to them latter... In the Souls, you placed the Ghosts, Spirits, Specters, Poltergeists and... No more, she said stopping, as if she was disappointed. In the cursed ones, you put the Ghouls, Zombies again, Dementors, Werewolves, Dementors again, Vampires and Necrophages. And you left behind the Wraiths, Echoes and Heucuvaes... So, why did you put Zombies at two different places?
Like usual, Hermione raised her hand.
-Because is a Zombie kills someone and eat some of his body, that body will become another Zombie, so it spreads like a curse.
-A good point, but Zombies are considered Living Deads. Why Dementors twice in the Cursed Ones?
-A mistake, said Harry. One should have gone to the Living Dead.
-Well, Dementors are right now the only creature which are sorted in two kinds; the Cursed Ones AND the Living Dead. So, five points to Gryffindor. And why have you left behind the Wraiths, Echoes and Heucuvaes?
Pavarti raised her hand.
-No one knew what Echoes and Heucuvaes are!
-And for the Wraiths, we didn't knew wether they were Curses or Souls, pointed out Seamus.
-Okay... Most things about Wraiths are myths. A Wraith is much like a Specter, except that it can fly and move pretty fast in the night. And Echoes... They are, like Ghost, like they were when they were alive. One of you met many of them; could you tell us about them, Mr Potter?
-Me? When did I met them??
-Last year, in the dome created by your wand...
-Oh! Well, they came out of Voldemort's wand. Kind of remains of his victims...
-Rather a cold but accurate description... One point to Gryffindor. Echoes are created when a spell which kills the soul of someone is inverted. The more common case is when the Aveda Kedavra spell is used, and then the Priory Incantatem or Inverses Incantatem spells are used.
Harry looked the floor upon hearing of that spell.
-And Heucuvaes are Cursed Ones. It's a killing curse, but unlike with the Living Dead, the Undead keeps his memory and most of his personality traits of when he was alive. If he was a wizard, he can even use magic, like a Liche. So, for the next class, I want each of you to chose one of these creatures and find out how they are created, what is their purpose and their main weaknesses and strengths. Also, with the Headmaster's approval I've set up an optional class, it is Combat Spells. It's for fifth years and up, on Thursday evenings, in the under grounds, next to your Potions classroom. You're free to join, but no fooling around and we are free to exclude students who make dangerous things. We have a deal with most teachers and the students who will join will have a little less homework. So that's it. And, Miss Brown, I'd like a word with you.
The student stood up and left, rather pleased with the large amount of points gathered and the small amount of homework. Harry and Hermione went to the Traveler, who handed the summer homework to Lavender, making her promise to pay more attention next time and asking her something that Harry did not understand. When she left, they were only three left.
-Yes, Miss Granger and Mr Potter?
-You said you would answer our questions...
-Not exactly... Next classes, on Thursday afternoon I think, will be about Necromancers and you will find out everything you need.
The two looked each others.
-And, how was it? asked their teacher. Not bad, I hope!
-Very cool! replied Ron, who was waiting in the doorframe.
-Thanks Mr Weasley.
-Why were you disappointed when I told about the echoes, asked Harry.
The Traveler slowly turned her head back on him.
-You'd better be going, she said slowly and full of sadness. You'll be late for your next classes.
All three sprinted to the Dungeon, were they had Potions classes with Slytherin. Snape looked them.
-Too bad you are not late..., he said like a whisper. Sit down and get ready...
He walked to his desk, his robes floating behind him and sat down.
-Now, before beginning this year, it had come to my attention that some of you are in possession of various Love Potions. I'd like to remind you that most Love Potions are strictly forbidden in this school. How unfortunate would it be if I would find some in your belongings.
Harry and Ron exchanged a panicked look. That Snape did not notice, but that Hermione did.
-Boys, please tell me that you DON'T have some! she whispered them.
They went pink and she raised her eyes to the ceiling with despair.
-Prefect Granger, I wonder what makes you look the ceiling that way; after all, the school year just began, asked Snape.
It was the very first time he asked her something in classes. She did not answer.
-Come on, share it with us...
She looked him pink.
-Five points of Gryffindor, so will you tell us?
She took a deep breath and gave a "sorry" look to Harry and Ron.
-Me and Harry and Ron had an argument and I can believe they are that stubborn.
They looked her; after all, chat she just said saved them and was part true and Snape looked disappointed that it wasn't more compromising, but some Slytherins laughed.
-Well, well, well... Let's begin then...
His class was as boring and insulting as usual for the trio, but they went through it. When they finished their hyper-aging potion, Snape criticized them as always.
-It is not thick enough Mr Weasley... And Mr Potter, you obviously put too much purple sand in it, I doubt would work... Let's try it...
-How? asked Harry.
-You put a few drips in your mouth and swallow it..., said Snape with a convincing look.
Harry hesitated, but then complied under the open laughs of the Slytherins. He then felt his chest burn and his face scratch. Soon, the pain was too much and he collapsed on the floor; everybody was looking at him: the Gryffindor with concern and the Slytherins with triumph. After a few seconds, a very, very, very old looking Harry stood up. Snape was furious that it worked, but said nothing and returned to his desk and the class was over.
-Antidote, please, muttered the aged Harry to Snape.
-Sorry Potter, I ran out of it last year. Go to the hospital wing.
-Every one will... will see me..., he pleaded with an exhausted voice.
-None of my concerns...
Harry felt ashamed and return to his desk, where his friends and already cleared hi stuff.
-Come on pal, we'll bring you to the hospital wing.
They went on each of his side and put his arms on their shoulders and carried him. "I hope I'll be in better shape when I'll be old!" he though.
-Are you okay? asked Hermione.
-I... feel like... like if I'd be a hundred years old...
-You LOOK like being that old!
A crowd gathered around them and Collin Creevy came closer and took a picture of them.
-Blimey, Harry, what happened? He asked
-Potions..., he managed to say.
Three shapes irrupted from the crowd.
-Well! Poor Weasel, Old Potty and Easy Mudblood! What an interesting scene! I'll buy you a copy of that picture, Creevy.
-Get out of the way, Malfoy! told Ron with threatening eyes.
-No...
They left Harry sat on the ground and the back on a wall. Hermione stepped forward, grabbed Ron and pulled him behind. She then came face to face to Malfoy, their nose a inch away.
-How did you called me?
He smirked and told something to his bullies. They all laughed.
-Look, Easy Mudblood, you're not frightening me...
-Five points off Slytherin. Malfoy, I though you'd know that you'd better not insult a Prefect!
They stopped talking and looked her. The Slytherins in the crowd shouted.
-It's not a Mudblood who will...
-Ten points off Slytherin, keep going and you'll get a detention.
-A MALFOY WILL NOT COMPLY TO A MUDBLOOD!
-Ten more points off Slytherin and a detention tonight. You were warned.
The goons looked Hermione with threatening eyes and made sure she'd see their muscles.
-If you don't take that detention off, you'll regret it, Mudblood, said Draco with a furious look.
Everyone knew it was at a breaking point.
-Oh! You're threatening a Prefect Malfoy? she said upholding his look. Then it will be a week worth of detentions, one for each of your goons and the Headmaster will hear about that for sure.
Malfoy tried to grab his wand, but Goyle caught his arm and showed him the crowd. Harry heard him say something like "... too much witnesses..." and the three left, with dangerous look on their eyes. Hermione watched them leave and seemed rather pleased of herself. She then turned back to her friend, only to see Professor McGonagall dispersing the crowd.
-Prefect Granger, she said, for the very least, you impressed me!
Hermione smiled.
-And we will meet the Headmaster at once!
-And Ron and Harry? she asked.
The deputy Headmistress saw them.
-My goodness! What happened?
-Snape made him test his potion, but didn't provided him an antidote, explained Ron.
-Professor Snape, corrected Professor McGonagall. I see, Weasley, bring him back to the Hospital Wing and Creevy help him.
She left with Hermione and the three Gryffindor brought Harry to the nurse.
-What now, she asked impatient... What Potion was that???
-Hype-raging, explained Ron.
The nurse ran to her office, then to the medicine cabinet and came back carrying a clear blue potion.
-It will stop the effect and your aching will stop. But you'll have to shave your beard yourself. But, don't worry; in a day or two your face hair will be black again and your beard will grow like was before taking that ... potion.
Harry touched his face. He sensed his newly grown beard. He grabbed the potion and drank it. Unlike the other potion he tried, that one tasted like strawberries and was sweet. He liked it and felt healthy like the teenage boy he was.
-Wow! Thanks; I fell great!
-Easy! told the nurse. Now, go to the great hall and eat something, shave yourself and I'll make sure everything is okay...
He accepted and went back to the Gryffindor tower, fallowed by Ron, Collin got straight to the Great Hall. When Harry saw himself in the mirror, he laughed; he couldn't believe it. His hair, and face hair was all white! He never actually shaved himself so Ron explained him how his father showed him of to.
-Okay! First you take the Magic Blade and put it where you want it to shave.
Harry put the razor like blade on his cheek and looked Ron.
-Okay then. Now you take your wand and show it where to go.
Harry took his wand and directed the blade.
-OUCH!
-Come on Pal! Be more careful!
Harry did his best and only got three more minor cuts, but hesitated to shave is new mustache. He looked Ron.
-Are you really thinking of keeping THAT?
Harry laughed and shaved it too. He then hurried back to the Great Hall. Most students were surprised by his still white hair and his minor cuts and looked him, half laughing. Even Dumbledore winked at him! He ate very fast and returned to the Hospital Wing, where the nurse healed his cuts and confirmed him he was okay, before going to the Transfiguration Classes.
-A few more seconds, Potter, and you would have been late! Have a seat we are about to begin.
He sat between Ron and Hermione. Professor McGonagall morphed to a cat, which ran to her chair and morphed back to her usual shape, under the clapping of her student. Then, they learned how to Transfigure bigger things and each changed their desk to a horse which was then Transfigured back to a desk. Then, their first Herbology lesson was less warm, obviously the Hufflepuffs were still thinking Harry was responsible for Diggory's death, but they did their best not to show it too much. However, when the classes were over, and the trio headed back to the school, Harry came face to face with Cho, who still had red eyes. Obviously, everything was set up to make him remember what happened in the graveyard.
-Cho, how are you?
She sobbed and Harry deciphered it as "Not so well and you?".
-Well, he said turning to his friends, I'll meet you back at the tower.
They nodded and left.
-Cho, listen; I am sorry for what happened to Diggory.
She hugged him and Harry felt her tears on his shoulder.
-That's why I like you, Harry. You're so...
She hesitated and Harry waited saying nothing.
-You're so cute... And sweet and I'm sure you'll make a girl happy one day...
She kissed him on the cheek and ran away. Looked her leaving and returned to the Gryffindor Tower. After explaining everything to his friend, they went downstair to eat, but Hermione looked him and told him softly in the ear:
-She was right Harry.
He looked her, she was half smiling and looked so desirable. Pretending of having forgotten something, Harry ran upstairs and drank a mouthful of Ginny's potion. It made him fell... peaceful and serene, before returning to the Great Hall. He sat between Hermione and Ron, in front of Ginny, Colin and his little little brother, Denis.
-What do you think of the new DADA teacher? asked Ginny.
-Haven't had him yet! told little Denis.
-It's a female, corrected his brother.
-She's strange..., said Hermione.
–What d'you mean, asked Ron.
-Well, look her.
They turned their heads towards her. She was talking with Professor Sprout, sometimes drinking some pumpkin juice.
-What's wrong? asked Harry.
-Look longer.
-I see what you mean, said Ginny first.
-I think I get it, added Collin.
Harry looked and soon understood; most of the other teachers were looking like hungry and were eating and drinking while talking and she hadn't touched her plate yet.
-I see it too.., added Harry.
-What? asked Ron.
-Ron, she is drinking, but she isn't eating at all!
He looked.
-So what?
Hermione seemed to be thinking.
-I'm not sure, but there's something odd about her.
-Perhaps she's eating only some sort of special food which the house elves prepare for her.
-Maybe, but still I don't know...
-But still, she's brilliant! Which creature did'you choose? asked Harry.
-Zombies, said Ron. What about you?
-Vampires, said Hermione. Did you know that it first was a curse on a single man who created them?
Nobody seemed interested by that and Ron turned his head to Harry.
-You, pal?
-Liches...
-I thought you'd choose the Dementor, said Hermione. After all, you managed to defeat plenty of them a two years ago!
-I know, but still, I preferred to take a new one. And you? I'd thought you'd take a rarer one!
She went pink.
-I don't like the Undead... That's why I took the least frightening one and made the best possible with it.
Ron turned his head to his sister.
-How is she with the second years classes?
-Well, she brought in some pixies and told us about them. She said that next week she'll open the cage and see how we'd handle them, explained Ginny.
The trio looked each other.
-As long as she doesn't run away! Like a former teacher did, said Ron.
They all laughed loudly, and then shared some funny memories about things they witnessed in Hogwarts. Soon, they realized that all six were the only ones left in the Great Hall and Collin looked his watch.
-Blimey! We'll soon be breaking curfew if we're not back to the tower!
The Great Hall went pitch black and the door closed.
-Now what?? asked Hermione.
A New School Year
Feeling something strange under his blanket, Harry opened his eyes. He felt something wet and slimy on his navel. Panicked, he waited a little, but then, it seemed having spread on his hips. It was hot, wet and oozy. Harry prayed, desperately wanting that it wouldn't be what he was thinking it was. But suddenly, it began MOVING. Panicked, Harry screamed and pulled the blanket away, waking up everybody.
-What's wrong??? asked Seamus, who always slept shirtless.
Harry looked; it was a slimy Trevor who managed to get in his bed and under his blanket. Every boys in the dormitory came and saw it.
-TREVOR! cried Nevile.
He picked him up, but Harry's pyjamas and exposed skins where gooey and smelly.
-Laugh it up, laugh it up!
-Come on Harry! Your first thought must have been that you had wet dreams!
They all laughed. Some girls came in, attracted by the scream and the laughing, but Ron kindly prevented them to see anything.
-Not a word about it guys! said Harry with a threatening look.
The still laughing boys nodded. Hermione, still in a night gown, pulled Ron away.
-What's wrong guys??? It's a quarter past six!
She saw Harry's pyjama.
-Harry, did you actually pee on yourself?!?
-No, Trevor slimed him, explained Nevile.
Hermione looked Harry, who's got pink.
-Those who want, get back to bed, other go to the common room and keep it quiet! No student allowed in the corridor before half past six, she said out loud. Harry, better get a shower, or others could actually believe what I said... And Mister Finnigan, I know you have a nice body, but cover it up in front of ladies.
-Come on, Herm! You must have already seen much more before and it's a boys' dormitory, he replied.
-What exactly do you mean? giving him a serious look.
-Well, you must have had a torrid summer with Viktor Krum.
She went white.
-Who told you about that??? she asked looking angrily Ron and Harry, who seemed as surprised as she was.
-Nevile told me!
-Mister Longbotom?!? she said looking at him even more angrily.
-When I couldn't owl you, I asked news of you from everybody, and Anna told me she heard Padma say to Justin that Cho heard you getting invited before entering the Hogwarts Express.
She was speechless.
-So... You say that Ravenclaws and Hufflepuff knows about it??? asked Ron.
-Well, usually Slytherins learns those things pretty fast! added Seamus. Come on Herm! Give us some details about it!
Still speechless, white and with eyes filled of tears of panic, Hermione kept looking everyone.
-I.. I... I don't... I.., she stuttered.
Crying out loud she ran to the girl's bathroom. Grabbing a towel Harry ran after her. He got inside before she could lock the door and she was desperately saying meaningless sentences and walking around pretty fast.
-Hermione! Calm down!
She fell on the ground, crying. Wrapping his towel around his waist and removing his dirty shirt, Harry took her in his arms. She kept crying on his shoulder. She tried to speak, but Harry told her to take it easy for a few seconds. However, the door was blasted opened by Professor McGonagall.
-Professor! It's not what you think! I've got an explanation!
-You'd better have! said the old witch giving him a mad I'm-gonna-kill-you look.
Hermione fell on the ground crying, sobbing and debating.
-She's gone hysteric. You'd better do something about it!
-Stupefy!
Hermione stopped moving.
-Take a shower and dress up Potter. Meet me in the hospital wing in fifteen minutes!
Harry obeyed and exited the girls bathroom under concerned eyes of the other Gryffindors, while Professor McGonagall Conjured a stretcher and leviated Hermione toward the hospital wing. When he arrived a few minutes latter, Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall and Nurse Pomfrey and the Traveler were waiting for him, gathered around Hermione, who had been revived, but was still only sobbing.
-So, Mister Potter, you've got to have a good explanation! said McGonagall.
-Minerva, please! Remain calm! said the nurse.
Harry explained them about the toad, Hermione's arrival, Seamus comments and Hermione having gone hysteric about it. When he finished, the Traveler was looking the floor muttering "Boys...", Professor McGonagall was definitely disappointed by Hermione's behavior and what she did last summer and Dumbledore was thinking.
-Is she okay, asked Harry to the nurse.
-Physically yes.
Harry got closer to his friend, but, shameful, she turned her back on him.
-For the very least, it will be quite embarrassing..., finally said Dumbledore.
-Albus! That kind of behavior is not prefect worthy!
-Minerva! It will be embarrassing for her! And besides that, in the summer, student a free to do whatever they want... We are not going to demote a prefect for something done when she was not in the school or representing it.
-Was a... a mistake..., said Hermione softly.
-And it looks like she's regretting it.
McGonagall seemed to agree with Dumbledore, but was still disappointed.
-Well, at least five points off Gryffindor, she said. Let's go Albus, we'd better not make the ministry waiting for us...
They both left with the Traveler, who, before reaching the door, said that they join them a little latter.
-I'd like a few words with her, alone.
The nurse and Harry went to her office.
-Do you think she'll got over it?
-You know, mister Potter, you'd better ask it to her.
The Traveler said something to Hermione and left. Hermione seemed rather pleased and stood up.
-Sounds like that mysterious one does much more than just magic! said the nurse.
Harry went to his friend.
-Are you alright?
-Yes... Sorry for what I've done.
-What happened this summer you don't want us to know?
-Some very very VERY stupid things I should never have done.
-Okay then, but what do you want to do today?
-Let's go to Hogsmead, I don't want to be here when the whole school will know about it.
Harry took his wand.
-Accio Invisibility Cloak!
He gave it to Hermione.
-You are still in a nightgown and you look terrible. I thought you would not have wanted the school to see you like that.
Hermione smiled and put it and the nurse seemed impressed by such a thoughtful attention. Then went back to the tower and Harry told everything to Ron.
-Whoa, pal! I believe she's done quite something with Krum or she would have agreed to tell it to us. We are still her friends!
The door opened.
-Who's here?
There was nobody. The door closed and Hermione took off the cloak.
-Thanks Harry.
She had taken a quick shower and put on some makeup to make her red eyes less visible.
-So! Let's get down and eat the breakfast! I'm starving! said Ron enthusiastically.
-Ehm, Ron? Why wouldn't we go to Hogsmead right now and take a breakfast at the three Broomstick? asked Hermione. I really want to leave before everyone know about it.
-You'll have to face them sooner or latter.
-Tonight, please!
-Okay then...
They took the Invisibility Cloak and tried to all get in it, but there were now to big for all three of them, so only Hermione wore it and they went to the secret passage. A little latter they arrived in Honeyduke's and left. As they got in the street, Hermione took off the cloak and all three went to the Three Broomstick. Once in, they ordered each a breakfast and a butterbeer. Eating and drinking would make much good to Hermione! They sat and waited.
-You know, Harry, you made a wiser choice to join us in Arythmancy, said Hermione.
-Why exactly?
-Well, you will finally learn something useful!
-That depends.., added Ron. What do you wanna do latter pal?
-Ehm, said Harry.
He had never actually thought about it.
-Perhaps try to continue playing Quidditch or try to become and Auror. What about you?
-Well, I'll try to find something in the next month, said Ron. Hermione?
-I though to graduate from a magical university and become a teacher...
They looked her.
-You know Herm, you could do much better than that!
She looked him.
-Ronald Weasley! Being a teacher is a very noble profession!
-Depends about which teacher we're talking about, he replied, obviously thinking of Professors Snape, Lockhart or Trelawney.
She seemed to think he could be right, so she didn't said anything more. Their food finally arrived. Ron and Harry were shocked to see them being brought by Fleur Delacour.
-Arry! So good to see you again! she said giving them their plates and drinks.
-Fleur! How are you! Come on, have a seat!
She went to the bar, served herself a butterbeer tin and joined them, almost making Ron glow of happiness.
-So I finally found someone to translate your letter.
She smiled.
-Sorry, she said, I thought you would understand French.
-Some does, and some doesn't, added Hermione.
-Oh! So you speak french? She asked her.
-Oui, mais très peu.
Impressed, Harry and Ron looked her.
-Next time I'll ask you to translate it! said Harry.
So, since there wasn't yet any other consumers, they all had fun together.
-So, Fleur, when will you return to France?
-I will take the train back to London next Friday and then take the plane to Paris Saturday. So it means I am here for another week.
Ron seemed rather pleased of it and Fleur wasn't looking like snubbing him anymore. An half an hour latter, Fleur asked what was bothering Hermione. She explained her what happened last summer and how most of the houses found out.
-Vwell, you know since they do not know what appened, you can hide the parts you are ashamed of and they would not know what you are not telling them, suggested Fleur.
-I can't. Someone heard us when he invited me on the platform, and he said that we would go much farther that we have had yet.
-How far was that? asked Ron.
Both girls ignored his question.
-Then, use your authority to make them shut up, she said. You are a prefect after all.
-I know, the Traveler suggested it.
-The Traveler? Who is it?
-Our knew DADA teacher. Dumbledore sometimes get some weird ones and that one is quite something!
-Ron! You saw her fighting back those Zombies and Bone Dragons!
-I know, but still, she is quite weird! Always hidden under her hood; nobody ever saw her face.
They knew Fleur was thinking that no one that strange would ever teach to Beaux Baton, but she didn't say anything.
-So! You've gotten better with your English, said Hermione.
-Vwell, I still sometimes have problems with the "H" and "W". But I think I got the accent.
They agreed. They left a little latter and made some window shopping.
-Ron, I believe that you're in love with her, said Hermione.
He went pink.
-What make you think so???
-It's written in your face! added Harry.
-Well! She's smart, beautiful and no longer snob. And bloody hell, she so sexy!
Hermione muttered "boys" and ran away.
-What's wrong with her???
-Ron, I think with what happened between her and Krum, you'd better avoid the three letters word.
-What? Her?
-No, sex!
-Oh! Okay...
They searched for her and found her an half an hour latter alone, laid on her back on the side of a stream, looking at it with her shades. When they arrived, she didn't bother to stand up and only turned her head towards them.
-If I'd drown, would it bother anyone?
-Well, the two of us for the very first ones, and then everyone else, cause I reckon you'd be a ghost like Myrtle, said Ron.
It made her laugh. Harry came closer.
-Hermione, you're scaring me! Please! Don't do something like that.
-What? You'd miss me? After what I did?
-I don't even know what you did, I was only jealous that you preferred him and forgot my birthday.
-Harry, I told you, ask anything you want... Anything...
Harry knew what she was meaning and he looked Ron, who was as surprised as he was.
-Hermione! Stop acting like that! It's not yourself!
-With what I did, I'm just a...
-No you're not! Harry said, cutting her. Like you said, you made a mistake, but get a grip on yourself and pull yourself together!
-Why wouldn't you tell us what happened, asked Ron.
Her face twisted at that though.
-No, please! Don't make me do it!
Harry sat beside her.
-Ron, leave us for a few minutes...
He nodded and left.
-Hermione, you're ashamed of sex, aren't you?
She nodded crying.
-Well, you're fifteen years old!
-Fourteen, haven't yet have had my birthday...
-Well, you're a teenager, there's nothing wrong with your body or what you do with it!
She looked him.
-Then, why do you don't want of it?
-I told you, it's not yourself. Come on!
She sat and Harry hugged her, making her cry on his shoulder.
-Are you pregnant?
She shook her head negatively.
-Then what's wrong.
-Harry, my life is meaningless, I've ruined it and I...
Harry though of something.
-Wait, I know what you need.
She looked him.
-Put back the cloak on yourself and join us back at Honeyduke's.
She nodded, still crying and Harry ran back to Ron, who was holding a letter.
-Ron, we're going back to the castle, I know what she needs. What is that?
-Oh! Mom's worried after she heard of the train being attacked and owled me to write her we're alright.
So they all traveled back to the castle and once in the castle, Ron asked, loud enough to make Hermione hear it.
-So, where do we go now?
-Fallow me.
He went straight to the girls bathroom on the second floor.
-Harry, nooo! said Hermione.
He ignored her complaint and got in first.
-Myrtle?
Nothing happened.
-Myrtle, I need your help.
A ghostly face appeared from a cabin.
-Oh! Harry!
She flew to him and tried to hug him, but he felt like a very cold wind running on his skin and she went through him.
-Myrtle, I need your help, he repeated.
She looked like proud of it and listened.
-Look, my friend, Hermione, did a mistake and seems to regret it, but she is so depressed that we can't do anything about it. So could you have a word with her?
She looked him with confused eyes.
-Look, at least try, you'll understand.
-Okay, I'll do it for you...
She winked. Harry got out of the bathroom, guessed where Hermione was and pushed herself in. He then locked the door magically and both he and Ron waited on each side of the door, trying to listen, but they couldn't, the door being too heavy.
-Do you really think it will work? asked Ron.
-Listen, Myrtle died at about twelve and since she's a ghost she as been peeping and stuff like that, so she'll understand what it is and she can keep a secret.
-Well, on the other hand, she may also get mad and make Hermione even more depressed.
-I hope not, said Harry.
And half an hour passed, then it had been an hour she was in, then an hour and an half.
-Crap! What's taking them so long?
-I don't know.
They heard laughing inside and then decided to take a look. They unlocked the door and opened it. Hermione was sat on the floor and Myrtle was hovering a little over the floor in a sat position in front of her. They where talking slowly and were smiling to each other.
-Oh Harry! they both said. Thanks a lot!
He smiled. Hermione ran to hug him and Myrtle waved him a hand. They all got out of the bathroom beaming, only to face the caretaker, Mr Filch.
-So, It was true then... Mister Potter do not know that girls' bathroom are for girls only...
He went pink and looked the floor, only to see Myrtle's face coming out of it and grabbing the caretaker's feet, making him fall. She sank back into the floor while he yelled:
-PEEVES! I'LL GET YOU!!!
He ran after the poltergeist, which he though had made him fall and forgot about Harry and Ron.
-Thanks Myrtle, he said, as they all went back to the Gryffindor tower.
Once in, they sat in the common room and asked:
-So, are you feeling better now? asked Ron to his friend.
She was radiant.
-Yes, thank you very much Harry.
-What did she told you?
She bit her lips, obviously thinking about what she could tell them.
-To make a long story short, she taught me the true nature of life and if I'd die tomorrow that I'd regret even more my mistakes if I keep doing them.
The two boys looked each other.
-I mean that she said that her death prevented her from having fun and growing up, so she peeped on the other ones growing and stuff like that. I owe you one...
She grabbed Ron and kissed him on the cheek and then grabbed Harry and kissed him on the mouth, with her thong for a minute or so...
-Do you think the gave the schedules when we were away? asked Ron when they broke their kiss.
-No, most of the teachers were away, said Hermione. And I don't have to be proud of what I did in front of the first year. What will they think of me???
-Stop thinking about that. We'll help you face it.
-I love you! Both of you, but especially Harry.
He smiled. They went to Hagrid's, but he wasn't in his shack, so they decided to chill out a little more. While returning to the castle, Harry looked the Forbidden Forest. He still didn't know why it was THAT forbidden. There where indeed some dangerous creatures and wonderful ones too, but it was like walking in a normal forest, same risks but bigger consequences.
-Harry? asked Ron. Are you daydreaming?
-Ehm, yes. I was wondering why the Forbidden Forest is forbidden.
-Won't you two ever read Hogwarts: A History?
-No! they said.
-Well, that's because the woods are so deep and so old and that surveying it would be nearly impossible. And many magical creatures have been seen in it, some very dangerous!
-Such as?
-Black Hydras, Killing Spirits, Gorgons and even more...
Ron and Harry looked each other.
-So what? We're not talking about living in it, only taking a walk in!
-No!
-Come on Herm! We're in the middle of the day, everyone is away and yourself you don't want to face Malfoy right now. So why not? pleaded Ron.
Obviously both curious about the Forest and wanting to find out by herself and not willing to break school rules, Hermione seemed torn.
-What if anything goes wrong?
-It's daytime, most creatures will be sleeping and we've got our wands.
-Okay, but we stay on a trail and in an hour we...
-We'll leave the wonders we'll have found and walk back.
They agreed and stealthily walked behind Hagrid's cabin, then towards the wood. It was shady and fresh so it was rather pleasant. Like Hermione wanted they stayed on the path, but when it split, Ron made them turn on the older looking ones. When they reached a clearing, they sat and looked around. Hermione walked around them.
-We haven't seen anything..., that was just like the woods around home!
-But I like it! said Harry.
-And you like Degnoming a garden!
The two of them laughed, Hermione seemed busy.
-Ron, you saw nothing because you were not looking...
They looked her.
-Then what did you saw?
-Well, I see that we are not in a clearing...
They looked around.
-Were are we then?
-We're standing on some ruins. Very old ones!
They pulled away the dead leaves and saw a stone floor and some broken columns.
-Whoa! I've got to tell Ginny about, it said Harry. She like's it much!
-How do you know it?
-Well, after having learned that..., he stopped and chose to go straight to the point. She brought me to some Elfish ruins near the Burrow. She says she'd like to translate what was written on it, so perhaps she could find it interesting around here.
They decided to take a closer look so they pushed away the dead branches and leaves and swept away the dirt. It was about thirty feet long by fifteen wide. They even found the buried entry of a staircase. Hesitating, Hermione agreed to fallow them inside. Underground, there was a long corridor with some rooms on each side.
-Let's take a look... Lumos!
Most of the rooms where empty, beside some rotten roots from the ceiling or dirty pieces of fabric on the floor.
-Come here! said Hermione.
-What have you found?
There was a bookshelf. She went closer and looked each of them. Most where useless since they were rotten and in pieces, but there were still two or three in good shape.
-Holy cricket! Most Potente Potions! The Elfish Book of Nature! Harry, Ron! These are some of the rarest and most powerful books in the wizards world!
-Would make Madam Pince jealous, said Ron.
-You don't understand! We must be in some kind of wizard house. A powerful one! I'm pretty sure we could find other interesting things if we search more carefully!
-Let's take a look then.
She kept the newly found books and led the way. They found what was left of a kitchen and a potion cupboard, but the regents were spoiled. Hermione insisted on taking the still good looking potions with them and they kept searching. They found the bedroom, but the dressers were broken and the bed was undone dirty. What was left of the clothes were ripping upon touch, but they fond some jewelry. Since they've searched everywhere well, they decided to leave.
-Ehm, we walked half an hour to get here. We cleaned the ruins for an hour and we've spent about an hour and an half searching so we've obviously missed lunch and we'd better get back before anyone notice we're nowhere in sight, said Harry.
They agreed, but when they climbed up, and reached the clearing Hermione stopped them.
-Don't you smell it?
Harry and Ron smelled the air.
-Yeah, like if there would be a creature body nearby, dead for a long time, wanna have a look.
Harry and Hermione looked each other, panicked.
-Dead? THE ZOMBIES!
Ron understood.
-Better be going!
They ran to the path back towards the castle, Ron remembering it well. Harry looked behind him will running and saw some Zombies slowly walking towards them, about half a mile away, the trees being quite sparse there.
-We're almost there!
Through the trees, they indeed begin to see the castle. They now reached Hagrid's cabin and while looking behind them, they ran in something soft and tall. They fell on the ground and looked It was Hagrid himself.
-What are you three doing here???
-Hagrid! We're being fallowed! There are Zombies behind us! told Harry.
Hagrid looked.
-Well, you three better go back to the castle! How many were they?
-I saw four of them, said Harry.
-Don't tell anyone you were in the wood and that me haven't denounced you!
-Thanks Hagrid.
They ran back to Gryffindor tower, and once in the common room took time to breath.
-We did it! said Ron, almost beaming.
-Nothing to be proud of! replied Harry. We could have been killed and if Hermione wouldn't have smelled the Zombies, we could have been trapped! And you wanted to take a look! replied Harry.
Ron looked ashamed, but Hermione was rather please.
-Look, she said. We got excellent book, we came back alive and nothing bad happened, so there is no point fighting each other, but we'd better no do it again!
They agreed and Hermione began reading their new books, while Harry and Ron were studying the jewelry.
-Think they're magic?
-Dunno, better ask a teacher!
-Who?
-Dunno, we'll find one. What do you think Hagrid will do about the Zombies?
-Don't know, but I hope they don't reach the grounds!
The afternoon went by and soon they fallowed other Gryffindor to the Great Hall. All teachers we looking like having ran a Marathon and were talking pretty fast to each others. Soon, Dumbledore stood up.
-Students, we were able to defeat the Zombies, but I've been informed that some were seen near the school. The teacher of Care of Magical Creatures owled the Centaurs who were able to clean the woods, but it is possible that there are still some Undead, so I don't want ANY student int he Forbidden Forest or alone in the park. Your lives may depend on it!
The student looked frightened.
-However, the castle still remains safe and the Ministry of Magic opened a new Auror station in Hogsmead.
The students applauded, relieved.
-Class schedules will be given tomorrow morning. I guess I've said everything, so fill it up!
It was like a second welcome feast, so Ron didn't complain about it! After having eating too much a second day in a row, the trio was rather happy even if their lives had be a few times those last days. Harry looked at the teacher tables. They looked worried. And were still arguing about something.
-What d'you think is wrong? Think it's about today? asked Ron between stew and pumpkin juice.
-Dunno, said Harry.
Hermione bit her lips. It was obvious for her two friends that she didn't knew as much about Undead as she'd like.
-I'll try to take a look at it at the library.
-You know you can't, said Ginny. Necromancy is a Forbidden Art and of course there are no such book in the school!
Hermione seemed disappointed.
-Let's ask the Traveler..., she said.
-We haven't had our first classes with her yet and we even haven't got our schedules!
-I know, I know! Let's see her in her office then...
They waited until most of the students left and then fallowed the Traveler to the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher's office. It had changed much since what he remembered. When is was Lockhart, the narcissistic teacher had disposed countless picture of himself, when it was Lupin, he had displayed some minor creatures, when there was an imposter posing as Mad-Eye, he displayed Auror's magical instruments, but now, the Traveler had placed odd and frightening stuff in her office, making it looks like catacombs.
-May I help you? she asked, looking towards them
-Ehm, we were wondering what went wrong today, risked Harry.
She stopped pacing around.
-How exactly do you know something went not as planned?
-We saw the teachers' worried expressions, replied Hermione.
The Traveler sat down and waved her arm towards the other seats, inviting them to do the same.
-You three... I know that you always try to solve each school's problems on your own... But you are still young! You should avoid this; you could get killed!
They knew her look must have been severe under her hood.
-Voldemort killed my parents! shouted Harry.
-I know, Mister Potter. And he killed many of my friends, ruined my future and made terrible things to me and people I used to care about.
Harry seemed to doubt about what she was saying but said nothing. The Traveler took a deep breath and added:
-Sorry, I tend to over react about this...
-We were asking what went wrong...
-Well, if I answer this question, will stop asking and wait for the answer to come in classes?
The trio looked each others and agreed.
-Okay then, we've seen odd things about these Undead. First they we not hiding in daylight, then they were not moving or doing anything, but staying where they were. Second, there was both Zombies and Skeleton. Third, there was no traces of Nearby Necromancers. And last, there was some in Forbidden Forest. Now, I know you must not see what's odd about it, but wait until our first lesson together. And, which extra book did you choose?
-The Werewolves, said Ron.
-Forgotten Creatures and What We Know about Them, added Hermione.
-The Book of Death, added Harry.
-Interesting. We'll meet again pretty soon.
They returned to the Gryffindor tower and sat in the common room.
-What do you think she meant? asked Harry.
-I don't know, but she makes my skin crawl! added Ron.
Hermione seemed to be thinking.
-Harry? Could I borrow your Book of Death?
He went to his dormitory and handed her the book. No mater how much light there was in the room, the pages were all shady and a strange whisper was coming from it.
-I've seen worst, she said beginning to read it.
Like usual, she left them to read and the two played Wizards Chess. The following morning, although there was no classes to help the teachers recover, each students received their schedules.
-Blimey! Look! DADA is first thing int he morning Monday! said Ron.
-She must have known it, that's why she said that we would meet pretty soon.
The day and the weekend went by slowly and peacefully; the student's seemed all to be using there last free time to relax and take it easy, like the ending of the summer and the trio visited Fleur and took it easy. Even Malfoy was nowhere in sight! On Monday morning, the trio ate and went to the Defense Against the Dark Arts room. Everyone was there a quarter before time.
-Greeting every one!
They muttered some polite greetings.
-I already know each of your names and I know you are all there, so let's begin at once!
The student seemed to be impressed, how the hell could she know each of them???
-First, she began speaking fast, our classes will be mostly practical, so it is doubtful that you'll require much parchment for notes. ACCIO!
Lavender's Divination summer homework flew from across the room and landed in the teacher hand, which, as usual, was covered by her too long sleeves.
-Miss Brown, could I get your full attention please? And it will be given back to you at the end of the lesson, she said posing both her wand and the homework on her desk. So! For the first month will see various kind of "monsters" and then we'll face some of them, one new every two weeks and we'll try to find their weaknesses. Also, It was written to get, if possible, an encyclopedia about any kind of evil creatures. I see that each of you got a different one. Most of you are typical books, like your care of magical creatures book, some of you even brought your care of magical creatures book, but some got interesting ones... Mister Potter, could you show us which one you got?
He handed her his Book of Death.
-Interesting..., she said giving him back. So, your final exam will be to face a creature of my choice and for that, you will all work together on finding the more weaknesses about each creatures we'll see and face during the year. Teamwork is important!
They looked each others; teamwork was obviously something new in Defense Against the Dark Arts.
-Also, each of you have much more knowledge that what you imagine. So I'm also going to make you figure out things by yourself and use your mates knowledge and your own to answer questions and to deal with the creatures will face. Okay, now a little about me. I'm a female, half human, I once attended Hogwarts, but I had to leave before my sixth grade because of what Voldemort did to me and my friends. I then studied elsewhere and now, I master Necromancy and combat spells.
Seamus raised his hand.
-Okay, but what's your name?
She slowly walked to her desk.
-Sorry, but for some reasons, I can't tell it, so you are free to address me as you wish, but keep in mind that I am your teacher, so address to me accordingly.
They smiled.
-Okay then! First of all, since what happened those last days, the first kind of creatures we'll see are the Undead. What do you know about them? she asked.
Neville raised his hand.
-They are not dead...
-Indeed mister Longbottom, so, let say, one point to Gryffindor. But could someone be more specific? What characteristics do they share? Where they're from? What are their main strengths and weaknesses?
Hermione raised her hand.
-Well, ehm, their are made from dead remains, more likely human remains, she tried.
-Five points to Gryffindor. Tell me as much Undead creature you know about..., she said posing a chalk on the blackboard.
The student started naming some, such a Zombies, Skeletons, Vampire, Werewolves, Ghosts and more, which the chalk wrote all. After about twenty creatures, the Traveler looked the list.
-Well, twenty two points to Gryffindor. Now, how would you sort them out? Which of them share traits with others?
Hermione raised her hand.
-Some are animated dead bodies and some are spirits?
-Five points to Gryffindor. Latter this year will see why the word animated isn't accurate, but that makes two kinds of Undead creatures. But keep up making your brain work...
-Some are cursed humans..., said Nevile.
-Five points to Gryffindor. And I'm sure one of you can figure out now where each of them goes... But, you'll see that many can be put at two different places, but the three kinds of Undead are the Living Dead, the Lost Souls and the Cursed Ones...
Now, everyone stand up and try to sort out everyone on the board, and I'm adding new ones... Liches, Echoes and Dementors. Try to do this in less than ten minutes...
Harry's skin crawled upon hearing their name, but soon all student were around the board, telling the chalk were to put each creatures. Soon, it was over...
-Well, let see then... In the Living Dead, you put the Skeletons, Zombies, Liches, Mommies, Bone Dragons, various animated dead animals and Death Worms. Death Worms are not Living Dead, who can tell us about them?
Hermione and Nevile raised their hands. The Traveler pointed Neville.
-They are ordinary worms that have eaten Cursed flesh and they become Death Worms.
-Good enough! Five points to Gryffindor. But Hermione is dying of telling us a little more about them, she added friencly...
-There are afraid of light, highly poisonous, carry strong diseases and they lives mostly in forgotten centuries old graveyards.
-Yes. Let's keep going, we'll come back to them latter... In the Souls, you placed the Ghosts, Spirits, Specters, Poltergeists and... No more, she said stopping, as if she was disappointed. In the cursed ones, you put the Ghouls, Zombies again, Dementors, Werewolves, Dementors again, Vampires and Necrophages. And you left behind the Wraiths, Echoes and Heucuvaes... So, why did you put Zombies at two different places?
Like usual, Hermione raised her hand.
-Because is a Zombie kills someone and eat some of his body, that body will become another Zombie, so it spreads like a curse.
-A good point, but Zombies are considered Living Deads. Why Dementors twice in the Cursed Ones?
-A mistake, said Harry. One should have gone to the Living Dead.
-Well, Dementors are right now the only creature which are sorted in two kinds; the Cursed Ones AND the Living Dead. So, five points to Gryffindor. And why have you left behind the Wraiths, Echoes and Heucuvaes?
Pavarti raised her hand.
-No one knew what Echoes and Heucuvaes are!
-And for the Wraiths, we didn't knew wether they were Curses or Souls, pointed out Seamus.
-Okay... Most things about Wraiths are myths. A Wraith is much like a Specter, except that it can fly and move pretty fast in the night. And Echoes... They are, like Ghost, like they were when they were alive. One of you met many of them; could you tell us about them, Mr Potter?
-Me? When did I met them??
-Last year, in the dome created by your wand...
-Oh! Well, they came out of Voldemort's wand. Kind of remains of his victims...
-Rather a cold but accurate description... One point to Gryffindor. Echoes are created when a spell which kills the soul of someone is inverted. The more common case is when the Aveda Kedavra spell is used, and then the Priory Incantatem or Inverses Incantatem spells are used.
Harry looked the floor upon hearing of that spell.
-And Heucuvaes are Cursed Ones. It's a killing curse, but unlike with the Living Dead, the Undead keeps his memory and most of his personality traits of when he was alive. If he was a wizard, he can even use magic, like a Liche. So, for the next class, I want each of you to chose one of these creatures and find out how they are created, what is their purpose and their main weaknesses and strengths. Also, with the Headmaster's approval I've set up an optional class, it is Combat Spells. It's for fifth years and up, on Thursday evenings, in the under grounds, next to your Potions classroom. You're free to join, but no fooling around and we are free to exclude students who make dangerous things. We have a deal with most teachers and the students who will join will have a little less homework. So that's it. And, Miss Brown, I'd like a word with you.
The student stood up and left, rather pleased with the large amount of points gathered and the small amount of homework. Harry and Hermione went to the Traveler, who handed the summer homework to Lavender, making her promise to pay more attention next time and asking her something that Harry did not understand. When she left, they were only three left.
-Yes, Miss Granger and Mr Potter?
-You said you would answer our questions...
-Not exactly... Next classes, on Thursday afternoon I think, will be about Necromancers and you will find out everything you need.
The two looked each others.
-And, how was it? asked their teacher. Not bad, I hope!
-Very cool! replied Ron, who was waiting in the doorframe.
-Thanks Mr Weasley.
-Why were you disappointed when I told about the echoes, asked Harry.
The Traveler slowly turned her head back on him.
-You'd better be going, she said slowly and full of sadness. You'll be late for your next classes.
All three sprinted to the Dungeon, were they had Potions classes with Slytherin. Snape looked them.
-Too bad you are not late..., he said like a whisper. Sit down and get ready...
He walked to his desk, his robes floating behind him and sat down.
-Now, before beginning this year, it had come to my attention that some of you are in possession of various Love Potions. I'd like to remind you that most Love Potions are strictly forbidden in this school. How unfortunate would it be if I would find some in your belongings.
Harry and Ron exchanged a panicked look. That Snape did not notice, but that Hermione did.
-Boys, please tell me that you DON'T have some! she whispered them.
They went pink and she raised her eyes to the ceiling with despair.
-Prefect Granger, I wonder what makes you look the ceiling that way; after all, the school year just began, asked Snape.
It was the very first time he asked her something in classes. She did not answer.
-Come on, share it with us...
She looked him pink.
-Five points of Gryffindor, so will you tell us?
She took a deep breath and gave a "sorry" look to Harry and Ron.
-Me and Harry and Ron had an argument and I can believe they are that stubborn.
They looked her; after all, chat she just said saved them and was part true and Snape looked disappointed that it wasn't more compromising, but some Slytherins laughed.
-Well, well, well... Let's begin then...
His class was as boring and insulting as usual for the trio, but they went through it. When they finished their hyper-aging potion, Snape criticized them as always.
-It is not thick enough Mr Weasley... And Mr Potter, you obviously put too much purple sand in it, I doubt would work... Let's try it...
-How? asked Harry.
-You put a few drips in your mouth and swallow it..., said Snape with a convincing look.
Harry hesitated, but then complied under the open laughs of the Slytherins. He then felt his chest burn and his face scratch. Soon, the pain was too much and he collapsed on the floor; everybody was looking at him: the Gryffindor with concern and the Slytherins with triumph. After a few seconds, a very, very, very old looking Harry stood up. Snape was furious that it worked, but said nothing and returned to his desk and the class was over.
-Antidote, please, muttered the aged Harry to Snape.
-Sorry Potter, I ran out of it last year. Go to the hospital wing.
-Every one will... will see me..., he pleaded with an exhausted voice.
-None of my concerns...
Harry felt ashamed and return to his desk, where his friends and already cleared hi stuff.
-Come on pal, we'll bring you to the hospital wing.
They went on each of his side and put his arms on their shoulders and carried him. "I hope I'll be in better shape when I'll be old!" he though.
-Are you okay? asked Hermione.
-I... feel like... like if I'd be a hundred years old...
-You LOOK like being that old!
A crowd gathered around them and Collin Creevy came closer and took a picture of them.
-Blimey, Harry, what happened? He asked
-Potions..., he managed to say.
Three shapes irrupted from the crowd.
-Well! Poor Weasel, Old Potty and Easy Mudblood! What an interesting scene! I'll buy you a copy of that picture, Creevy.
-Get out of the way, Malfoy! told Ron with threatening eyes.
-No...
They left Harry sat on the ground and the back on a wall. Hermione stepped forward, grabbed Ron and pulled him behind. She then came face to face to Malfoy, their nose a inch away.
-How did you called me?
He smirked and told something to his bullies. They all laughed.
-Look, Easy Mudblood, you're not frightening me...
-Five points off Slytherin. Malfoy, I though you'd know that you'd better not insult a Prefect!
They stopped talking and looked her. The Slytherins in the crowd shouted.
-It's not a Mudblood who will...
-Ten points off Slytherin, keep going and you'll get a detention.
-A MALFOY WILL NOT COMPLY TO A MUDBLOOD!
-Ten more points off Slytherin and a detention tonight. You were warned.
The goons looked Hermione with threatening eyes and made sure she'd see their muscles.
-If you don't take that detention off, you'll regret it, Mudblood, said Draco with a furious look.
Everyone knew it was at a breaking point.
-Oh! You're threatening a Prefect Malfoy? she said upholding his look. Then it will be a week worth of detentions, one for each of your goons and the Headmaster will hear about that for sure.
Malfoy tried to grab his wand, but Goyle caught his arm and showed him the crowd. Harry heard him say something like "... too much witnesses..." and the three left, with dangerous look on their eyes. Hermione watched them leave and seemed rather pleased of herself. She then turned back to her friend, only to see Professor McGonagall dispersing the crowd.
-Prefect Granger, she said, for the very least, you impressed me!
Hermione smiled.
-And we will meet the Headmaster at once!
-And Ron and Harry? she asked.
The deputy Headmistress saw them.
-My goodness! What happened?
-Snape made him test his potion, but didn't provided him an antidote, explained Ron.
-Professor Snape, corrected Professor McGonagall. I see, Weasley, bring him back to the Hospital Wing and Creevy help him.
She left with Hermione and the three Gryffindor brought Harry to the nurse.
-What now, she asked impatient... What Potion was that???
-Hype-raging, explained Ron.
The nurse ran to her office, then to the medicine cabinet and came back carrying a clear blue potion.
-It will stop the effect and your aching will stop. But you'll have to shave your beard yourself. But, don't worry; in a day or two your face hair will be black again and your beard will grow like was before taking that ... potion.
Harry touched his face. He sensed his newly grown beard. He grabbed the potion and drank it. Unlike the other potion he tried, that one tasted like strawberries and was sweet. He liked it and felt healthy like the teenage boy he was.
-Wow! Thanks; I fell great!
-Easy! told the nurse. Now, go to the great hall and eat something, shave yourself and I'll make sure everything is okay...
He accepted and went back to the Gryffindor tower, fallowed by Ron, Collin got straight to the Great Hall. When Harry saw himself in the mirror, he laughed; he couldn't believe it. His hair, and face hair was all white! He never actually shaved himself so Ron explained him how his father showed him of to.
-Okay! First you take the Magic Blade and put it where you want it to shave.
Harry put the razor like blade on his cheek and looked Ron.
-Okay then. Now you take your wand and show it where to go.
Harry took his wand and directed the blade.
-OUCH!
-Come on Pal! Be more careful!
Harry did his best and only got three more minor cuts, but hesitated to shave is new mustache. He looked Ron.
-Are you really thinking of keeping THAT?
Harry laughed and shaved it too. He then hurried back to the Great Hall. Most students were surprised by his still white hair and his minor cuts and looked him, half laughing. Even Dumbledore winked at him! He ate very fast and returned to the Hospital Wing, where the nurse healed his cuts and confirmed him he was okay, before going to the Transfiguration Classes.
-A few more seconds, Potter, and you would have been late! Have a seat we are about to begin.
He sat between Ron and Hermione. Professor McGonagall morphed to a cat, which ran to her chair and morphed back to her usual shape, under the clapping of her student. Then, they learned how to Transfigure bigger things and each changed their desk to a horse which was then Transfigured back to a desk. Then, their first Herbology lesson was less warm, obviously the Hufflepuffs were still thinking Harry was responsible for Diggory's death, but they did their best not to show it too much. However, when the classes were over, and the trio headed back to the school, Harry came face to face with Cho, who still had red eyes. Obviously, everything was set up to make him remember what happened in the graveyard.
-Cho, how are you?
She sobbed and Harry deciphered it as "Not so well and you?".
-Well, he said turning to his friends, I'll meet you back at the tower.
They nodded and left.
-Cho, listen; I am sorry for what happened to Diggory.
She hugged him and Harry felt her tears on his shoulder.
-That's why I like you, Harry. You're so...
She hesitated and Harry waited saying nothing.
-You're so cute... And sweet and I'm sure you'll make a girl happy one day...
She kissed him on the cheek and ran away. Looked her leaving and returned to the Gryffindor Tower. After explaining everything to his friend, they went downstair to eat, but Hermione looked him and told him softly in the ear:
-She was right Harry.
He looked her, she was half smiling and looked so desirable. Pretending of having forgotten something, Harry ran upstairs and drank a mouthful of Ginny's potion. It made him fell... peaceful and serene, before returning to the Great Hall. He sat between Hermione and Ron, in front of Ginny, Colin and his little little brother, Denis.
-What do you think of the new DADA teacher? asked Ginny.
-Haven't had him yet! told little Denis.
-It's a female, corrected his brother.
-She's strange..., said Hermione.
–What d'you mean, asked Ron.
-Well, look her.
They turned their heads towards her. She was talking with Professor Sprout, sometimes drinking some pumpkin juice.
-What's wrong? asked Harry.
-Look longer.
-I see what you mean, said Ginny first.
-I think I get it, added Collin.
Harry looked and soon understood; most of the other teachers were looking like hungry and were eating and drinking while talking and she hadn't touched her plate yet.
-I see it too.., added Harry.
-What? asked Ron.
-Ron, she is drinking, but she isn't eating at all!
He looked.
-So what?
Hermione seemed to be thinking.
-I'm not sure, but there's something odd about her.
-Perhaps she's eating only some sort of special food which the house elves prepare for her.
-Maybe, but still I don't know...
-But still, she's brilliant! Which creature did'you choose? asked Harry.
-Zombies, said Ron. What about you?
-Vampires, said Hermione. Did you know that it first was a curse on a single man who created them?
Nobody seemed interested by that and Ron turned his head to Harry.
-You, pal?
-Liches...
-I thought you'd choose the Dementor, said Hermione. After all, you managed to defeat plenty of them a two years ago!
-I know, but still, I preferred to take a new one. And you? I'd thought you'd take a rarer one!
She went pink.
-I don't like the Undead... That's why I took the least frightening one and made the best possible with it.
Ron turned his head to his sister.
-How is she with the second years classes?
-Well, she brought in some pixies and told us about them. She said that next week she'll open the cage and see how we'd handle them, explained Ginny.
The trio looked each other.
-As long as she doesn't run away! Like a former teacher did, said Ron.
They all laughed loudly, and then shared some funny memories about things they witnessed in Hogwarts. Soon, they realized that all six were the only ones left in the Great Hall and Collin looked his watch.
-Blimey! We'll soon be breaking curfew if we're not back to the tower!
The Great Hall went pitch black and the door closed.
-Now what?? asked Hermione.
