My Beta and I have decided that we thought it would be fun to start putting
fake conversations at the beginning and end of each chapter- to kind of
share some of the fun we have behind the scenes. Most of it's just really
silly stuff we made up. If you wish for us to remove this feature, just
say so!!!!
Twigs: So.without further ado I present to you Chapter 8.dah-dah-dah-dah!
Kanga: Hold on.not so fast. Weren't you going to thank your reviewers? I mean come on people, last chapter we got a pheominal 8 reviews! *chorus claps*
Twigs: Well you see I was going to.but than my computer broke and my dog ran away.
Kanga: Quit whining, you know what I told you about that habit. It's really gotta stop.
Twigs: Yes Mommy!!! Don't worry I'll be good, but since I don't think you need to hear me ramble on about how beautiful you all are, I saved that until the end of the chapter.
Kanga: Drumroll please..
Twigs: CHAPTER 8!!!
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Harry Potter or its surrounding properties; they belong to the wonderful JK Rowling. I own my computer and my brain.
Chapter 8 Love and Death
After our conversation over the thestrals, Ron, Hermione, Neville and I walked towards the Great Hall. The second I entered the room I could tell that something was amiss. Dumbledore and all of the other teachers were bustling around and whispering to each other. McGonagall had a look on her face of pure horror and Sprout didn't look too much better. Finally, McGonagall went to go collect the Sorting Hat and the stool.
It was always so reassuring to see the first years. For whenever I watched new things begin, good things begin, it was a constant reminder that life would go on and good would conquer over evil. It was similar to watching a mother give birth in the sense that it gave a renowned sense of competence in God and fate. What was meant to happen would happen.
"What do you think is getting the teachers so flustered?" Hermione asked. I shook my head.
"Your guess is as good as mine." I said, while Ron nodded in agreement. After all the first years were done being sorted, Dumbledore stood up and clapped his hands together once to get our attention.
"Welcome everybody to another year at Hogwarts. Last year left us on some bad notes and I am sorry to say that the state of the wizarding world has not improved. Two years ago we lost one of our own, and last year we lost a terrific man that was loved by all those who knew him. I am not going to lie to you and say that we are not at war, because we are. Some of you in upper years may one day be called to battle. I feel that it is my duty to prepare you all for whatever may be ahead though. In that light, I have a few announcements to make. Firstly I'd like you all to welcome our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Mr. Bill Weasley. A graduate of Hogwarts himself, I hope that you will all help to make Professor Weasley feel welcome." I clapped along with everyone else, as Bill stood up and took a bow. However happy he was making himself look though, I could tell his smile wasn't genuine. He, like all the other professors were very concerned with something.
"Hey, did you know your brother was going to be the DADA teacher this year?" I asked Ron. Ron shook his head, as he looked just as puzzled as I did.
"Personally I think it's wonderful. For once we have a competent DADA teacher that we can trust is not a death eater or out to get Harry." Hermione said. Ron and I took a moment before nodding in agreement.
"Quiet down now everyone; we are all excited to be having Professor Weasley with us this year. On to my second notice: Hogwarts will be hosting a series of balls this year. The first of which is to be called The Welcoming Ball and is going to take place on the 23rd of September. All the dances will be open to 4th year and above, though younger students may come if they're invited. I am of the belief that with all the terrible things happening these days, you young people still deserve to have a good time." Ron smiled at me, and lipped 'Hermione'. I blushed and smiled back at him. Dumbledore cleared his throat.
"Yes, I know all of you are very excited- as you should be. However, my last announcement is a rather grave one. There has been a battle a couple miles away from the ministry and as much as I wish this were not true, there were some casualties." A sudden look of horror flashed over my face, as tears started rolling down Hermione's face. Ron looked very worried, as well as apprehensive to see if any of the casualties were friends of ours.
"I will read the list of casualties aloud, and I hope you will respect the friends and family of these people. I am afraid that many of the casualties were people I, as well as some of you, held close to my heart.
Arabella Figg
Fleur Delacour
Cornelius Fudge
Percy Weasley
Mark Finch-Fletchley
And.
Amanda Bones
Please know that both I and your head of houses leave our arms open for those beginning to grieve. Don't be afraid to come to us, we are only here to help you through this difficult time. Thank-you, that is all. You may all eat, if that notion does still appeal to you." Dumbledore concluded, his own face plastered with the depth of their losses.
I looked to my side where Ron sat- a look mixed of horror and tragedy written over his face. Ginny was seated down the row a little bit. A few seconds afterwards, the brunt of what happened must have hit both of them because Ron got up and bolted out of the room in one direction and Ginny ran out sobbing in the other.
I didn't think twice. I looked at Hermione and told her to follow Ginny before chasing my best friend out of the great hall. I was surprised at how far ahead he was, and it wasn't for many paces until I grasped site of him. He had run himself out and was now collapsing in the corridor. I cautiously approached him. He was sprawled out on the ground, pounding his fist on the ground and cursing. When he noticed me, he turned himself on me.
"Get the bloody hell away from me." Ron said, before attempting to swing at me. I knew that he had a lot of pent up anger and that if I didn't make an effort to restrain him, we could both get hurt. I tackled him to the ground and held him there.
"Ron, you have every right to be upset. I only want to help you, I'm on your side, you need to stop attacking me." I said, truly welling to give whatever to took to help my best friend, to help my brother.
"I'll attack whomever I bloody well want to. I'm not upset, I don't need your help!" He screamed at me, before taking off and running down the corridor. I was fast though, and jumped up immediately and followed him. Ron ran to the Gryffindor common room and I followed him. He murmured the password and ran in, as I followed, close behind him. When he got up to the dorm he collapsed on his bed and closed the hangings. I heard sobbing, and I stood back for a little bit. I knew that I needed to let him release some of his anger before I approached him again. I drew back the hangings on his bed and watched as my best friend sobbed into his pillow.
I sat down next to him on the bed and rubbed circles on his back in a soothing motion while murmuring words of encouragement. He made no move to stop me and I took this as a good sign.
"Ron, I'm not going to pretend that I know how you feel because that's not true. I will however say that I feel for your loss and am prepared to support you in your grieving process. Losing those we love is never easy Ron and I figured out the hard way that without the love and help of those who care for you bad things can happen." I explained to him in a soft voice. He tilted his head up and my heart reached out for him, right than and there, as my eyes hooked up with his big, red puffy ones.
"Harry." He whispered, before collapsing onto me. I felt his sorrow flow through me as he cried against my shoulder. I continued the soothing motions on his back; it seemed to make him relax a little. Finally, after what seemed like a century (but was probably closer to 5 minutes) his sobs quieted a bit.
"What am I going to do?" Ron said, as he drew away from me, his breath becoming more regular. I didn't feel that was a question that I was supposed to answer, and so I kept quiet. "My brother is dead and I don't know how to feel. If it was George or Fred or Charlie I'd be upset beyond repair and I thank the heavens that it wasn't one of them, but I loved Percy too- as much as we disagreed on small and large levels, deep down he was my brother and I loved him. Right or wrong, sensible or not, I loved him and that is very confusing, Harry. Another part of me is mad- mad at myself for not realizing that he would once give his life to the light".
"I hear you mate." I said. I think that was all I could tell him at that moment, the best thing for me to do right than was to reassure and listen to him.
"What will Mom say when she hears the news, she'll just die." Ron said. He than started bashing his head into his pillow. "Look, I don't really think I'm ready to talk just yet, I have to figure out some stuff for myself, could you allow me a minute to sort things out? It's not that I don't believe that I need to talk about it, just not right now. Give me an hour or so?" Ron requested.
"Do you want me to come back in that hour or so, or would you prefer I sent Bill up?" I asked him, thinking that maybe what he really wanted was his big brother.
"I want to talk to you Harry. Bill is probably in the process of grieving himself and although I have no doubt that he'd come in a second if I called on him, I don't want to ask that of him right now. Whether he realizes it or not, he has a lot of stuff to figure out for himself." Ron said. "By the way- I'm sorry for trying to hurt you, I'm really glad you followed me."
"Anytime, anywhere mate." I said, walking up to give him a large hug before exiting. He mumbled back 'anytime, anywhere' before sitting himself upon his bed and closing the hangings. I walked out of the dormitory and down the stairway to the common room. I saw Hermione sitting at the table with her head in her hands.
"How'd it go with Ginny 'mione?" I asked. She shrugged.
"Okay, I guess. She didn't want to talk much, cried a lot. She seems to regret how she was mean to Percy, I think she blames herself for his death. Like, if his whole family hadn't doubted him, he wouldn't have felt the need to go throw his life away for the cause they were so avid towards. I reassured her that she did nothing wrong. She ended up falling asleep in exhaustion. I put a small charm on her so that she'll remain that way and sleep dreamlessly until morning. She needs her sleep" Hermione said. I smiled at her, trust Hermione to know the right spell at the right time. Just than Bill Weasley came through the portrait hole and up to the table where we sat. His eyes were red and I knew that he too had been crying.
"How are my brother and sister doing?" Bill asked. I looked at Hermione before I replied.
"Well, Ginny cried herself to sleep after talking with Hermione a bit. She's out like a light and probably will be asleep until morning. Ron and I talked a bit about Percy's death before he said he wanted an hour alone to sort out his thoughts. I'm going back to him in an hour's time, to talk about what he's been feeling. How are you holding up?" I asked.
"I'm okay.okay, never mind, you two are practically family. I'm not okay, and quite frankly, I am far from it. I'll be okay though, Dumbledore's really been great about it all, he's offered to tell Fred, George, Charlie, Mum and Dad for us. I was just making sure that my two youngest siblings were okay." Bill said.
"You don't worry for a second about them Bill. We'll take good care of them, we promise. You just go ahead and take care of yourself- that's all you need to worry about right now." Hermione said. I nodded in agreement.
"Thanks, I'll just be going then. You'll let me know if either of them mentions for a second that they want me. You won't convince them out of it?" Bill confirmed.
"Of course not, if they ask for you, we'll come and get you." I said. Although, I knew that both of them wouldn't be calling on him any time soon. Bill nodded at us and left. Hermione turned to me and tried to lighten the mood.
"Well, I think that we have 45 minutes to burn. I know that everything that happened with Percy and Fudge was really sad and all but what'd you think about the other announcement. Another ball has come to Hogwarts." Hermione said. She smiled at me, and I knew that the next question that would come up would be who I was going to bring, so I decided I'd bring up the subject first.
"Umm.about that Hermione. I kind of had a question for you." I stumbled for the right words. Finally, I gulped and took a deep breath before continuing. "I know you probably wouldn't want to, but I was wondering.well maybe.you know.Hermione will you go to the Welcoming Back Ball with me?" I asked. I looked down and could feel my heart beat as I waited for her to answer. I finally had the courage to look into her eyes and I could read nothing but pure joy and excitement.
"As a friend or as a.well, you know, date?" Hermione asked. I didn't know how to answer, if she was expecting to just go as friends, I could ruin our friendship. But knowing that I must go all the way with this I said with confidence:
"As a date, Hermione, I want you to come with me to the ball as my date." I completed, really taking an all or nothing approach on it. I know that, no matter what her feelings were, I needed to not send mixed messages with mine.
"Oh Harry! I thought you'd never ask!" Hermione said while launching herself into my open arms. "Oh Harry, I've known about my true feelings for you for quite some time, I just didn't want to ruin our friendship. You know, I think that before this gets any farther we need to agree that we won't let this relationship get in the way of our friendship." Hermione said. "Deal?" she asked, backing away from me and sticking out her hand for me to shake.
"Deal. I'm so excited you said yes. I've felt this way about you for a long time too. Let's try it out, and if it doesn't work than we'll be friends again." I said. Hermione smiled and gave me a hug, before planting a kiss on my cheek. She than skipped up the stairs leading to the girl's dormitory and disappeared from sight. As much as I wanted to make out with her I agreed that we should take it slow. That way, nobody ends up doing anything that they might regret. I looked at my watch and realized that it was time I go up and check on Ron. Just as I was about to head up the stairs, the majority of the Gryffindor students started walking through the portrait hole, their bellies full in the way that only a Hogwart's feast could make them. I saw Seamus, Dean and Neville enter. I walked up to them.
"Look, can you give me like a half hour with Ron before you come on up guys?" I asked.
"Sure, his brother died, didn't he?" Seamus asked. I nodded and gave them all a sorrowful look before trudging up the stairs to check on my best mate.
"Hey mate, how're you doing?" I asked, walking over the cowered figure of my best friend sitting on the bed. I could tell, by the look in his eyes when his eyes met mine that he had done that bulk of thinking that he thought he needed to do.
"I've been thinking about a lot of things Harry. I've been thinking of Percy, at all his different stages of life. From the know-it-all older brother to the defiant adult and I've reached no certain solution," Ron told me. "I know that in hindsight we should have given Percy a chance to repent his sins after the truth was displayed but after how he had treated us, how could we have known? We expected him to come to us, he's the one that owed us an apology. In a way I'm still mad at him," Ron stated, his voice rising "I mean he put my family through a lot. He made my mother cry and now he's gone and gotten himself killed. I'm mad, I'm upset and, most of all I'm just confused".
"I can only imagine what you must be going through. Just know that not all of the answers will come to you today. You'll still be thinking about it many days from now, but you'll get through this. Hermione and I will help you, we promise!" I said. He smiled at me.
"I couldn't ask for better friends, I'll admit that much. By the way, are you going to ask Hermione to the dance?" Ron asked, his mood perking up a bit.
"I already did." I said.
"What'd she say?" Ron asked, with as much anticipation as a young child on Christmas morning.
"Yes! She said yes, even after I answered her question and confirmed that it would be as a date, not a friend. She likes me too!" I said, jumping up and down. Ron grabbed my hands and shook them in an over excited notion.
"Well done mate, well done, did you guys kiss?" Ron asked. I blushed a little.
"Well, she gave me a little peck on the cheek, but I'm glad. The first kiss should be special, and I plan to make it so" I said. Just as Ron was about to reply, Dumbledore walked into the room.
"How are you doing Mr.Weasley?" Dumbledore asked.
"Much better I think, Sir, I mean it'll take a while but I'm heading in the right direction" Ron replied.
"Well, that's always good to hear- this weekend both you and Harry will return to your home for the funeral and other stuff of that sort. I also have a question to ask of you both. In light of the recent attack and the prophecy containing Harry, I think that it is essential that both you two and some of your previously selected classmates go through some extra training. Would you be willing to take part in some additional training, both physical, magical and mental?" Dumbledore asked.
"Of course, of course we would." I answered, while Ron nodded in agreement. Dumbledore smiled at them.
"I'll take that eagerness as a good sign. You'll be contacted about the details post Percy's funeral. I wish your whole family strength in that." Dumbledore concluded before exiting. I looked at Ron a little worried.
"You don't suppose he meant that Hermione would be part of those training? I don't want her fighting." I said.
"Harry, I know you must feel protective of her but you can't possible be with her at all moments, aren't you happy knowing that she can defend herself? I know you'll do all you can, but if it was just Hermione it's best she be prepared." Ron said. I nodded, thinking about the problem from a new level.
"You're right." I said to Ron. "I'm tired and I'm sure you are too. We should probably both turn in for the night". Ron nodded in agreement, after all it had been a very big day and classes started tomorrow.
Okay, so concludes chapter 8! I hope none of you were disappointed. Old Percy died a hero. Anyways, next chapter is Percy's funeral and the wizarding world gets a new minister of magic (beta says yay). Tune in for it, it should be up within the next couple of days. As we approach Thanksgiving, I wish you all the best ( I don't do Thanksgiving but.CHRISTMAS IN 32 DAYS!!!!!!!{by the way she's a Brit guys}). One thing I have to be thankful for this year is all of you. Not just you guys in general but the fact that I'm able to write Harry Potter stories and that when I do people read them and enjoy them. The right for free speech and free writing. The right to be obsessed with Harry Potter. As we clink our apple cider this holiday silently give thanks for the right to be obsessed with Harry Potter. You can add it to the long list I'm sure all of you have. Friends, Family and Education are among my personal ones. Anyways, REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW!!! (I still have the bruises from the last beating) I'll see you all after Thanksgiving for chapter 9. My 15 birthday is on the 29, (everyone sing out of tune, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Twigs, Happy Birthday to you!!!) so I dunno exactly when that's gonna be.
Luv,
Twigs
Twigs: Well that's a wrap Kanga, what'd you think?
Kanga: Brilliant Twigs- as always.
Twigs: So, you think they're gonna review?
Kanga- Please, please, please do! She's gonna use the whip again!
Twigs- Quit exaggerating, I only used the whip once- besides I'm sure they'll do better.
Kanga- You trust too easily, you do not know the power of Mr.Whippy. *makes begging and pleading gestures to reviewers*
Twigs- *waxes whip on board* It's ready just in case.
Kanga- *now down on her knees* COME ON PEOPLE!!! Save Kanga from Mr.Whippy and JUST REVIEW!!! *runs squealing from room*
Twigs- Yeah- what she said! *runs off of stage after Kanga- skipping rope over Mr.Whippy on the way out*
Twigs: So.without further ado I present to you Chapter 8.dah-dah-dah-dah!
Kanga: Hold on.not so fast. Weren't you going to thank your reviewers? I mean come on people, last chapter we got a pheominal 8 reviews! *chorus claps*
Twigs: Well you see I was going to.but than my computer broke and my dog ran away.
Kanga: Quit whining, you know what I told you about that habit. It's really gotta stop.
Twigs: Yes Mommy!!! Don't worry I'll be good, but since I don't think you need to hear me ramble on about how beautiful you all are, I saved that until the end of the chapter.
Kanga: Drumroll please..
Twigs: CHAPTER 8!!!
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Harry Potter or its surrounding properties; they belong to the wonderful JK Rowling. I own my computer and my brain.
Chapter 8 Love and Death
After our conversation over the thestrals, Ron, Hermione, Neville and I walked towards the Great Hall. The second I entered the room I could tell that something was amiss. Dumbledore and all of the other teachers were bustling around and whispering to each other. McGonagall had a look on her face of pure horror and Sprout didn't look too much better. Finally, McGonagall went to go collect the Sorting Hat and the stool.
It was always so reassuring to see the first years. For whenever I watched new things begin, good things begin, it was a constant reminder that life would go on and good would conquer over evil. It was similar to watching a mother give birth in the sense that it gave a renowned sense of competence in God and fate. What was meant to happen would happen.
"What do you think is getting the teachers so flustered?" Hermione asked. I shook my head.
"Your guess is as good as mine." I said, while Ron nodded in agreement. After all the first years were done being sorted, Dumbledore stood up and clapped his hands together once to get our attention.
"Welcome everybody to another year at Hogwarts. Last year left us on some bad notes and I am sorry to say that the state of the wizarding world has not improved. Two years ago we lost one of our own, and last year we lost a terrific man that was loved by all those who knew him. I am not going to lie to you and say that we are not at war, because we are. Some of you in upper years may one day be called to battle. I feel that it is my duty to prepare you all for whatever may be ahead though. In that light, I have a few announcements to make. Firstly I'd like you all to welcome our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Mr. Bill Weasley. A graduate of Hogwarts himself, I hope that you will all help to make Professor Weasley feel welcome." I clapped along with everyone else, as Bill stood up and took a bow. However happy he was making himself look though, I could tell his smile wasn't genuine. He, like all the other professors were very concerned with something.
"Hey, did you know your brother was going to be the DADA teacher this year?" I asked Ron. Ron shook his head, as he looked just as puzzled as I did.
"Personally I think it's wonderful. For once we have a competent DADA teacher that we can trust is not a death eater or out to get Harry." Hermione said. Ron and I took a moment before nodding in agreement.
"Quiet down now everyone; we are all excited to be having Professor Weasley with us this year. On to my second notice: Hogwarts will be hosting a series of balls this year. The first of which is to be called The Welcoming Ball and is going to take place on the 23rd of September. All the dances will be open to 4th year and above, though younger students may come if they're invited. I am of the belief that with all the terrible things happening these days, you young people still deserve to have a good time." Ron smiled at me, and lipped 'Hermione'. I blushed and smiled back at him. Dumbledore cleared his throat.
"Yes, I know all of you are very excited- as you should be. However, my last announcement is a rather grave one. There has been a battle a couple miles away from the ministry and as much as I wish this were not true, there were some casualties." A sudden look of horror flashed over my face, as tears started rolling down Hermione's face. Ron looked very worried, as well as apprehensive to see if any of the casualties were friends of ours.
"I will read the list of casualties aloud, and I hope you will respect the friends and family of these people. I am afraid that many of the casualties were people I, as well as some of you, held close to my heart.
Arabella Figg
Fleur Delacour
Cornelius Fudge
Percy Weasley
Mark Finch-Fletchley
And.
Amanda Bones
Please know that both I and your head of houses leave our arms open for those beginning to grieve. Don't be afraid to come to us, we are only here to help you through this difficult time. Thank-you, that is all. You may all eat, if that notion does still appeal to you." Dumbledore concluded, his own face plastered with the depth of their losses.
I looked to my side where Ron sat- a look mixed of horror and tragedy written over his face. Ginny was seated down the row a little bit. A few seconds afterwards, the brunt of what happened must have hit both of them because Ron got up and bolted out of the room in one direction and Ginny ran out sobbing in the other.
I didn't think twice. I looked at Hermione and told her to follow Ginny before chasing my best friend out of the great hall. I was surprised at how far ahead he was, and it wasn't for many paces until I grasped site of him. He had run himself out and was now collapsing in the corridor. I cautiously approached him. He was sprawled out on the ground, pounding his fist on the ground and cursing. When he noticed me, he turned himself on me.
"Get the bloody hell away from me." Ron said, before attempting to swing at me. I knew that he had a lot of pent up anger and that if I didn't make an effort to restrain him, we could both get hurt. I tackled him to the ground and held him there.
"Ron, you have every right to be upset. I only want to help you, I'm on your side, you need to stop attacking me." I said, truly welling to give whatever to took to help my best friend, to help my brother.
"I'll attack whomever I bloody well want to. I'm not upset, I don't need your help!" He screamed at me, before taking off and running down the corridor. I was fast though, and jumped up immediately and followed him. Ron ran to the Gryffindor common room and I followed him. He murmured the password and ran in, as I followed, close behind him. When he got up to the dorm he collapsed on his bed and closed the hangings. I heard sobbing, and I stood back for a little bit. I knew that I needed to let him release some of his anger before I approached him again. I drew back the hangings on his bed and watched as my best friend sobbed into his pillow.
I sat down next to him on the bed and rubbed circles on his back in a soothing motion while murmuring words of encouragement. He made no move to stop me and I took this as a good sign.
"Ron, I'm not going to pretend that I know how you feel because that's not true. I will however say that I feel for your loss and am prepared to support you in your grieving process. Losing those we love is never easy Ron and I figured out the hard way that without the love and help of those who care for you bad things can happen." I explained to him in a soft voice. He tilted his head up and my heart reached out for him, right than and there, as my eyes hooked up with his big, red puffy ones.
"Harry." He whispered, before collapsing onto me. I felt his sorrow flow through me as he cried against my shoulder. I continued the soothing motions on his back; it seemed to make him relax a little. Finally, after what seemed like a century (but was probably closer to 5 minutes) his sobs quieted a bit.
"What am I going to do?" Ron said, as he drew away from me, his breath becoming more regular. I didn't feel that was a question that I was supposed to answer, and so I kept quiet. "My brother is dead and I don't know how to feel. If it was George or Fred or Charlie I'd be upset beyond repair and I thank the heavens that it wasn't one of them, but I loved Percy too- as much as we disagreed on small and large levels, deep down he was my brother and I loved him. Right or wrong, sensible or not, I loved him and that is very confusing, Harry. Another part of me is mad- mad at myself for not realizing that he would once give his life to the light".
"I hear you mate." I said. I think that was all I could tell him at that moment, the best thing for me to do right than was to reassure and listen to him.
"What will Mom say when she hears the news, she'll just die." Ron said. He than started bashing his head into his pillow. "Look, I don't really think I'm ready to talk just yet, I have to figure out some stuff for myself, could you allow me a minute to sort things out? It's not that I don't believe that I need to talk about it, just not right now. Give me an hour or so?" Ron requested.
"Do you want me to come back in that hour or so, or would you prefer I sent Bill up?" I asked him, thinking that maybe what he really wanted was his big brother.
"I want to talk to you Harry. Bill is probably in the process of grieving himself and although I have no doubt that he'd come in a second if I called on him, I don't want to ask that of him right now. Whether he realizes it or not, he has a lot of stuff to figure out for himself." Ron said. "By the way- I'm sorry for trying to hurt you, I'm really glad you followed me."
"Anytime, anywhere mate." I said, walking up to give him a large hug before exiting. He mumbled back 'anytime, anywhere' before sitting himself upon his bed and closing the hangings. I walked out of the dormitory and down the stairway to the common room. I saw Hermione sitting at the table with her head in her hands.
"How'd it go with Ginny 'mione?" I asked. She shrugged.
"Okay, I guess. She didn't want to talk much, cried a lot. She seems to regret how she was mean to Percy, I think she blames herself for his death. Like, if his whole family hadn't doubted him, he wouldn't have felt the need to go throw his life away for the cause they were so avid towards. I reassured her that she did nothing wrong. She ended up falling asleep in exhaustion. I put a small charm on her so that she'll remain that way and sleep dreamlessly until morning. She needs her sleep" Hermione said. I smiled at her, trust Hermione to know the right spell at the right time. Just than Bill Weasley came through the portrait hole and up to the table where we sat. His eyes were red and I knew that he too had been crying.
"How are my brother and sister doing?" Bill asked. I looked at Hermione before I replied.
"Well, Ginny cried herself to sleep after talking with Hermione a bit. She's out like a light and probably will be asleep until morning. Ron and I talked a bit about Percy's death before he said he wanted an hour alone to sort out his thoughts. I'm going back to him in an hour's time, to talk about what he's been feeling. How are you holding up?" I asked.
"I'm okay.okay, never mind, you two are practically family. I'm not okay, and quite frankly, I am far from it. I'll be okay though, Dumbledore's really been great about it all, he's offered to tell Fred, George, Charlie, Mum and Dad for us. I was just making sure that my two youngest siblings were okay." Bill said.
"You don't worry for a second about them Bill. We'll take good care of them, we promise. You just go ahead and take care of yourself- that's all you need to worry about right now." Hermione said. I nodded in agreement.
"Thanks, I'll just be going then. You'll let me know if either of them mentions for a second that they want me. You won't convince them out of it?" Bill confirmed.
"Of course not, if they ask for you, we'll come and get you." I said. Although, I knew that both of them wouldn't be calling on him any time soon. Bill nodded at us and left. Hermione turned to me and tried to lighten the mood.
"Well, I think that we have 45 minutes to burn. I know that everything that happened with Percy and Fudge was really sad and all but what'd you think about the other announcement. Another ball has come to Hogwarts." Hermione said. She smiled at me, and I knew that the next question that would come up would be who I was going to bring, so I decided I'd bring up the subject first.
"Umm.about that Hermione. I kind of had a question for you." I stumbled for the right words. Finally, I gulped and took a deep breath before continuing. "I know you probably wouldn't want to, but I was wondering.well maybe.you know.Hermione will you go to the Welcoming Back Ball with me?" I asked. I looked down and could feel my heart beat as I waited for her to answer. I finally had the courage to look into her eyes and I could read nothing but pure joy and excitement.
"As a friend or as a.well, you know, date?" Hermione asked. I didn't know how to answer, if she was expecting to just go as friends, I could ruin our friendship. But knowing that I must go all the way with this I said with confidence:
"As a date, Hermione, I want you to come with me to the ball as my date." I completed, really taking an all or nothing approach on it. I know that, no matter what her feelings were, I needed to not send mixed messages with mine.
"Oh Harry! I thought you'd never ask!" Hermione said while launching herself into my open arms. "Oh Harry, I've known about my true feelings for you for quite some time, I just didn't want to ruin our friendship. You know, I think that before this gets any farther we need to agree that we won't let this relationship get in the way of our friendship." Hermione said. "Deal?" she asked, backing away from me and sticking out her hand for me to shake.
"Deal. I'm so excited you said yes. I've felt this way about you for a long time too. Let's try it out, and if it doesn't work than we'll be friends again." I said. Hermione smiled and gave me a hug, before planting a kiss on my cheek. She than skipped up the stairs leading to the girl's dormitory and disappeared from sight. As much as I wanted to make out with her I agreed that we should take it slow. That way, nobody ends up doing anything that they might regret. I looked at my watch and realized that it was time I go up and check on Ron. Just as I was about to head up the stairs, the majority of the Gryffindor students started walking through the portrait hole, their bellies full in the way that only a Hogwart's feast could make them. I saw Seamus, Dean and Neville enter. I walked up to them.
"Look, can you give me like a half hour with Ron before you come on up guys?" I asked.
"Sure, his brother died, didn't he?" Seamus asked. I nodded and gave them all a sorrowful look before trudging up the stairs to check on my best mate.
"Hey mate, how're you doing?" I asked, walking over the cowered figure of my best friend sitting on the bed. I could tell, by the look in his eyes when his eyes met mine that he had done that bulk of thinking that he thought he needed to do.
"I've been thinking about a lot of things Harry. I've been thinking of Percy, at all his different stages of life. From the know-it-all older brother to the defiant adult and I've reached no certain solution," Ron told me. "I know that in hindsight we should have given Percy a chance to repent his sins after the truth was displayed but after how he had treated us, how could we have known? We expected him to come to us, he's the one that owed us an apology. In a way I'm still mad at him," Ron stated, his voice rising "I mean he put my family through a lot. He made my mother cry and now he's gone and gotten himself killed. I'm mad, I'm upset and, most of all I'm just confused".
"I can only imagine what you must be going through. Just know that not all of the answers will come to you today. You'll still be thinking about it many days from now, but you'll get through this. Hermione and I will help you, we promise!" I said. He smiled at me.
"I couldn't ask for better friends, I'll admit that much. By the way, are you going to ask Hermione to the dance?" Ron asked, his mood perking up a bit.
"I already did." I said.
"What'd she say?" Ron asked, with as much anticipation as a young child on Christmas morning.
"Yes! She said yes, even after I answered her question and confirmed that it would be as a date, not a friend. She likes me too!" I said, jumping up and down. Ron grabbed my hands and shook them in an over excited notion.
"Well done mate, well done, did you guys kiss?" Ron asked. I blushed a little.
"Well, she gave me a little peck on the cheek, but I'm glad. The first kiss should be special, and I plan to make it so" I said. Just as Ron was about to reply, Dumbledore walked into the room.
"How are you doing Mr.Weasley?" Dumbledore asked.
"Much better I think, Sir, I mean it'll take a while but I'm heading in the right direction" Ron replied.
"Well, that's always good to hear- this weekend both you and Harry will return to your home for the funeral and other stuff of that sort. I also have a question to ask of you both. In light of the recent attack and the prophecy containing Harry, I think that it is essential that both you two and some of your previously selected classmates go through some extra training. Would you be willing to take part in some additional training, both physical, magical and mental?" Dumbledore asked.
"Of course, of course we would." I answered, while Ron nodded in agreement. Dumbledore smiled at them.
"I'll take that eagerness as a good sign. You'll be contacted about the details post Percy's funeral. I wish your whole family strength in that." Dumbledore concluded before exiting. I looked at Ron a little worried.
"You don't suppose he meant that Hermione would be part of those training? I don't want her fighting." I said.
"Harry, I know you must feel protective of her but you can't possible be with her at all moments, aren't you happy knowing that she can defend herself? I know you'll do all you can, but if it was just Hermione it's best she be prepared." Ron said. I nodded, thinking about the problem from a new level.
"You're right." I said to Ron. "I'm tired and I'm sure you are too. We should probably both turn in for the night". Ron nodded in agreement, after all it had been a very big day and classes started tomorrow.
Okay, so concludes chapter 8! I hope none of you were disappointed. Old Percy died a hero. Anyways, next chapter is Percy's funeral and the wizarding world gets a new minister of magic (beta says yay). Tune in for it, it should be up within the next couple of days. As we approach Thanksgiving, I wish you all the best ( I don't do Thanksgiving but.CHRISTMAS IN 32 DAYS!!!!!!!{by the way she's a Brit guys}). One thing I have to be thankful for this year is all of you. Not just you guys in general but the fact that I'm able to write Harry Potter stories and that when I do people read them and enjoy them. The right for free speech and free writing. The right to be obsessed with Harry Potter. As we clink our apple cider this holiday silently give thanks for the right to be obsessed with Harry Potter. You can add it to the long list I'm sure all of you have. Friends, Family and Education are among my personal ones. Anyways, REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW!!! (I still have the bruises from the last beating) I'll see you all after Thanksgiving for chapter 9. My 15 birthday is on the 29, (everyone sing out of tune, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Twigs, Happy Birthday to you!!!) so I dunno exactly when that's gonna be.
Luv,
Twigs
Twigs: Well that's a wrap Kanga, what'd you think?
Kanga: Brilliant Twigs- as always.
Twigs: So, you think they're gonna review?
Kanga- Please, please, please do! She's gonna use the whip again!
Twigs- Quit exaggerating, I only used the whip once- besides I'm sure they'll do better.
Kanga- You trust too easily, you do not know the power of Mr.Whippy. *makes begging and pleading gestures to reviewers*
Twigs- *waxes whip on board* It's ready just in case.
Kanga- *now down on her knees* COME ON PEOPLE!!! Save Kanga from Mr.Whippy and JUST REVIEW!!! *runs squealing from room*
Twigs- Yeah- what she said! *runs off of stage after Kanga- skipping rope over Mr.Whippy on the way out*