Chapter 7
Second Attack
"HARRY, wake up," said Hermione. Harry sat up quickly, Hermione sat on his bed, "You're hard to wake up." Harry almost told Hermione what he dreamed, "Hermione," he started. "Yes?" she responded. "Never mind," replied Harry. "Harry?" she said in a low voice, "What?" "Well, I just had a weird dream," said Harry hesitantly he told her about it, "I was going to tell you but… I didn't want to worry you." "Harry," started Hermione, "Promise me you won't keep secrets from me." Harry paused for a moment, "Hermione, I can't say yes to that," he said. "Why?" she asked looking downcast. Harry sighed heavily, "Remember I told you about Sirius right?" "Yes," she replied. "Well, Dumbledore told me something, something I don't want to burden you with." He finished. "Harry, are you trying to protect me?" she asked with a little bit of a raised voice. Harry looked a little alarmed at the look on her face, "Yes, but it is for your good, not mine." He said defensively. "HARRY JAMES POTTER!" she started yelling at him. "Hermione, please." Harry pleaded. "NO! HARRY…" she turned very red. "Okay, okay just please don't yell at me," said Harry looking petrified, he felt like he was once again looking on the face of a Basalisk, "But you won't like it." She stopped yelling and looked at him silently. Harry looked at the floor, "When Professor Trelawney was first hired from the Hogs Head, she made a prediction," Hermione interrupted, "Harry, she's an old fraud." "Hermione, it was real, Dumbledore said so." Harry said. "Okay, then what did she say?" Hermione asked. "That when, not if … but when, Voldemort and I fight, only one will survive, in other words Hermione, I will become victim, or murderer," said Harry. The blood drained from Hermione's face and became silent for a moment, "Harry, even if it were true, I will never think of you as a murderer," said Hermione. "Thank you," Harry started but couldn't finish. Hermione was also speechless, They both felt their necklace grow warmer and warmer. She moved closer…
Voldemort raved to Wormtail, "HOW DID HE GET IN HERE!?! THERE IS AN ANTI-APPARATION CHARM AROUND THIS ROOM!!!!!!!!" he screamed, "CRUCIO!" he added in a shout pointing his wand at Wormtail, Wormtail fell screaming…
Harry and Hermione both turned red, "What just happened?" asked Harry. "I think we were just about to, umm," replied Hermione. "Yes, I know,… I mean… Did you feel what I felt?" Harry asked, changing the subject. "You mean the odd scream from somewhere." Hermione started. "Wormtail,… Voldemort is upset." "You and I felt it… when we were about to, you know." Harry said looking at his feet. "Harry?" Hermione asked. "Hermione, Herm." Harry started. "Herm, Harry?" Hermione asked. "Do you mind?" Harry asked. She thought for a moment, "No, I like it, however let's just keep it between us, I don't think that I would like Ron or anyone else to know your nickname for me." Hermione said, smiling and taking his hand into hers.
"Sure, Herm." Harry replied, smiling at her and looking in to her loving brandy brown eyes.
"Harry, can you now promise me?" she asked. "Yes, I will promise you if you promise me 2 things," replied Harry. "What?" she asked. "One you won't tell Ron, and two you don't keep any secrets from me either," Harry said. "Okay on both, on the condition you don't tell Ron anything that I don't want you too either," answered Hermione. "Deal," said Harry.
Harry got up and dressed, Hermione waited for him in the common room. Then proceeded to breakfast together. When they arrived Dumbledore was already eating with the other teachers and discussing the year's school plan. "Good morning Professors," said Harry and Hermione together. Then the Hall doors slammed shut, Neo stood before them, "Dumbledore, send them to the Headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix," he said. "Why? Who are you?" answered Dumbledore. "I am…" he paused, "a friend. You must begin their training…" "DUMBLEDORE, HE IS THE ONE THAT KIDNAPPED AMANDA!" Professor McGonagall shouted. "Yes, she is now where she belongs," said Neo calmly. "I'm afraid I cannot trust you," said Dumbledore gravely. "Then perhaps another time," said Neo. "Yes," said Dumbledore. "Professor, he saved both our lives," said Harry. Neo disapparated. "Well, can we trust him Harry?" asked Dumbledore. Harry looked down for a moment, "I don't know, but he wouldn't do us harm Professor," said Harry. Dumbledore sighed, "Take them Minerva," "You sure sir?" asked Professor McGonagall, she still looked suspicious. "Yes," said Dumbledore. "Very well. Come with me," Professor McGonagall said leading to the fireplace and handed them Floo powder, "Speak 'Phoenix' clearly," she said, they both went in together, They threw down the floo powder and spoke, "Phoenix."
Harry felt the familiar dizzy sensation as he spiraled out of control. Then with a pop he appeared beside Hermione, who was also looking dizzy, "I'll never get use to that," she muttered. Harry smiled. "Harry? Hermione? Where have you guys been?" asked Ron. Hermione and Harry looked at each other, they both gave a shook their heads very slightly at the same time, "Umm…" started Harry, "Hogwarts actually." "Really, did Hermione's parents make you go?" asked Ron, "Why?"
Harry was mortified by Hermione's facial expression. But Hermione answered calmly, "We were… invited by Professor Dumbledore." "Oh, okay, well Mum made dinner, I'll go tell her to set two more places," said Ron heading into the kitchen. Harry brushed off Hermione, then switched with her, "I hate ash in my hair," complained Hermione. "I hate getting it on me at all," laughed Harry. "Herm, I'm sorry about that crack, he doesn't know." Harry said sympathetically. "I guess I should tell him Herm?" Hermione looked at him for a second with a pained look, "No, not yet Harry."
A second later Mrs. Weasley came in and hugged them both, "Harry! Hermione! I was expecting you ages ago." "Yeah, so did we," said Hermione. Professor McGonagall popped out of the fireplace. "Minerva," said Mrs. Weasley with a pleased look, "Are you staying for lunch?" "Yes Molly," said Professor McGonagall. "Wonderful," said Mrs. Weasley as she headed for the kitchen, "Harry, Hermione dears could you please go and wash up for lunch? It will be ready in a few minutes." "Yes, Mrs. Weasley," replied Harry.
Harry and Hermione raced upstairs. "Herm, should we tell anyone what happened? Professor Dumbledore or McGonagall?" asked Harry. Hermione looked at him for a moment, "I think, especially what really happened in… in… Voldemort's dungeon should remain between us and us alone." Hermione and Harry took as long as they dared before heading down, by the time they arrived Mrs. Weasley was serving lunch. Ginny sat down next to Hermione, "So did you tell him?" she asked. "About what?" asked Hermione, going pink. "That you like him," she whispered lightly. "Of course he knows I like him," said Hermione going pinker, "He's my friend." "I'll ask you later," said Ginny as her mother sat next to her. After lunch, Professor McGonagall pulled Harry aside, "Harry, you and Hermione have been picked as Head Boy and Girl, please inform her," she said. "Yes Professor," he replied, "But…" Professor McGonagall interrupted, "Please inform her Mr. Potter and her alone." "Yes Professor," Harry said. Harry waited until the table was cleared and Professor McGonagall and all the others had left. When they were alone Hermione started to get up, Harry pulled her back down, "Herm, Professor McGonagall asked me to tell you, we've been picked as Head Boy and Girl," he said. Hermione nearly squealed with joy. Harry clapped a hand over her mouth, "Don't tell anyone, her request, okay Herm?" "Sure Harry," Hermione said, "Did I tell you how much I… never mind." She finished turning red. Harry hugged her, "Good night," he said. She stood up and kissed him on the cheek before he could reach the door. "Good night Harry," she smiled before running up the stairs.
Harry proceeded up the stairs after her and quietly entered his room, Ron was sitting up waiting, "Well? What took you so long?" he asked. "Nothing," said Harry not even close to wanting to tell him why. "Come on," Ron said. "Just discussing something with…" he paused, "Professor McGonagall." He finished. "Okay," said Ron shrugging. Harry undressed and got in bed, Ron turned out the lights, "Good night Harry," Ron said. "Good night Ron," replied Harry.
Meanwhile, Hermione opened her bedroom door to find Ginny, "Did you?" she asked again. Hermione closed the door and started undressing, "Did I what?" asked Hermione. She finished and turned off the lights, "Did you kiss him?" she asked. "Who?" asked Hermione going so red, she hoped she wasn't lighting up the room. "Harry," said Ginny exasperatedly. "Why do you ask?" asked Hermione in a higher pitched voice than usual. "Well, Ron may be clueless, but I'm not blind, deaf and dumb you know, even though he is, I saw the way you guys looked at each other." Ginny said patiently, "Any more obvious and Ron would've picked it up." "What do you mean by that?" asked Hermione. "Oh give it up Hermione," said Ginny laughing, "Any more obvious and you two would have been making out." Hermione turned even redder, "Oh get off it Ginny." Ginny started giggling but stopped for a second, "Hey Hermione, one more question," she said. "What Ginny?" said Hermione her face finally feeling normal, but she was now dreading this one. "Where did you kiss him?" she asked with emphasize. Hermone didn't answer; it reminded her of something that happened between them in Voldemort's dungeon, something she never wanted to admit to anyone even though it wasn't really… bad per say, she was turning red again. They had kissed each other on the lips, but they had also thought they were going to die... Hermione didn't know if it had really meant anything to Harry. Uncertainty plagued her. Did Harry really love her? Or had it been because he just cared for her as a friend and this was an act of compassion? The pain of the possibility that Harry had thought all the little kisses they had shared since were of friendship made Hermione's heart burn with shame and humiliation, tears near… Ginny had waited a few seconds, "No way," she said whistling. "I haven't kissed him at all!" Hermione lied insistently, feeling like a red beacon. Ginny got up and sat on the edge of Hermione's bed, "Really?" Ginny with a smile. "What really?" she asked. "You didn't kiss him…" she paused and giggled, "I don't believe you Hermione." Hermione tried to kick Ginny, a difficult proposition considering it was dark, Ginny laughed as she felt Hermione try. "Good night Hermione," said Ginny with laughter still evident in her voice. Hermione felt hopeless about keeping Ginny out of her… whatever it was, because even with her insistence, Ginny could figure it out.
The next morning as Hermione woke up, Ginny winked at her as she closed the door. Hermione got up and dressed. When she started down the stairs, Harry stopped her, "Good morning Herm," he said quietly, "Professor McGonagall wants us." Hermione turned a little pink with shame at her thoughts the night before. "You know Herm," Harry started, "You look beau…" Harry stopped as Ron and his room door opened. Hermione glanced at Harry, was he trying to tell her he loved her? Dare she hope? Her pulse went up. She wished he would finish, she didn't care what Ron thought, if Harry told her he loved her; that would be worth everything she had suffered since summer and everything she could ever suffer for her entire life. Ron started down the stairs and didn't notice them, as soon as he was out of earshot Harry finished as he brushed her hair out of her eyes, "tiful and I love you.", Hermione felt her doubts faded into nothingness, Harry did care for her; not just as a friend either, it had not been a kiss of compassion, it had truly meant something to him. They both felt what was growing between them. Hermione's doubts faded into nothingness, Harry did care for her; not just as a friend either, it had not been a kiss of compassion, it had truly meant something to him. She smiled as Harry took her hand and led her up the stairs to Sirius' room. "Mr. Potter, Miss. Granger, this is where I will be teaching you," said Professor McGonagall, "Remember tell no one." Both Harry and Hermione nodded.
A few hours later, Harry and Hermione went down to cold sandwiches, but it didn't matter to either of them, everyone had left on various jobs, Professor McGonagall had told them that Mrs. Weasley, Ron and Ginny went to Diagon Ally and added that Mrs. Weasley would pick up Harry's books, (Hermione had found hers in her trunk when they were at Hogwarts) the rest were either at work or on some job for the Order, now including Professor McGonagall. "Herm, what do you think about our Animagii lessons?" Harry asked. "Great," said Hermione, almost dreamily. They finished, Hermione started picking up plates, but Harry stopped her, "I'll do it," said Harry. Hermione smiled at him, "Let's both do it, you wash, I'll dry," she said. Then there was a knock at the door, Mrs. Black started screaming, "YOU FILTHY, MUDBLOODS HOW DARE YOU BESMIRCH…" Hermione yelled above Mrs. Black, "I'LL GET IT." Harry put their dishes in the sink and quickly helped Hermione close the curtains around the picture. Then opening the door, they found Dobby, "Hello, sirs," said Dobby, "Professor Dumbledore asked me to help around." Hermione frowned and Harry remembered S.P.E.W. "Oh no," he groaned softly. "What?" asked Hermione as she let Dobby in. Harry regained his composure quickly and turned red, "Oh nothing," Her eyes had a dangerous glint in them, "Harry… what?" she asked. "Okay, okay, I just remembered spew," replied Harry. "HARRY, IT'S NOT SPEW," she started to yell. "Sorry," said Harry cringing. "What is it?" asked Hermione. "Society for the Protection of Elfish Welfare," replied Harry. "Good," she said as the anger drained from her face. Dobby started washing dishes, "Dobby, we can get that," she said. "No thank you sirs, Dobby likes to wash dishes," replied Dobby, "Dobby would like to work sirs." Hermione gave up, "Okay," she said.
Since Dobby was washing the dishes, Hermione and Harry went to her room, "Want to study the rest of the book, we've only got 4 days left," said Hermione. Harry whispered something in her ear, she turned pink again, "Harry, are you trying to get yourself out of trouble?" she asked. "Yes, if I'm in any," he said. "Why?" she asked with a smile. "Umm… because…" he started but before he could continue Hermione started to laugh, "Oh Harry, I'm not mad at you anymore," she said she kissed him on his cheek, he turned a little crimson, "I don't know if I could stay mad at you for long." She finished.
They finished the book, laughing and poking fun at each other. They heard the door open downstairs, Harry opened the door for Hermione, she kissed him lightly on the way out. Harry followed her downstairs stunned; he still couldn't get use to her kissing him. Ron looked at the pair of them, "Had fun?" he asked lightly. Hermione turned a little pink, and Harry answered, "You know, reading books, getting ready for school," he leaned down and whispered in a very low voice to Hermione as Ron put down the stuff he was carrying, "and kissing." Hermione stepped hard on his foot; it was all Harry could do not to yelp in pain. Ron looked up, "Why are you guys reading schoolbooks? Hogwarts isn't for four days!" Ron said looking skeptical, "I mean Hermione, yeah, but you Harry?" "It's fun," said Harry as he tried to rub his foot. Now Ron looked positively incredulous, "Fun?" he muttered as he left the room. Hermione turned on Harry, "Harry!" she whispered, "Don't do that." Harry smiled, "I wouldn't really tell him Herm." "That was close, Harry don't do that again okay?" "Okay, okay Herm, just don't step on my foot like that again," Harry replied as Hermione turned a delicate pink and studied the floor, Harry lifted her chin, "You know how truly lovely you are…" he started. "Harry!" she whispered, "Stop it." She smiled lovingly at him none the less. Ginny walked in, "Hey guys, lunch is ready, okay?" she said, she winked at Hermione, "Am I interrupting something?" "No, you weren't," said Hermione quickly. That didn't lessen the smile on Ginny's face as she left.
Voldemort paced, "Wormtail, is everything ready? We only have little time," he said. "Yes my Lord, everything is prepared," replied Wormtail still twitching, the damage seemed to be getting permanent. "Good Wormtail, then we will skip the punishment," said Voldemort his lip curling, "This time. Now go, I must rest."
Hermione and Harry sat next to each other during lunch, "Hey Harry, what you guys really doing?" asked Ron, "I can't imagine you wanting to do schoolwork." "It's better than lots of reading when we're at Hogwarts," replied Harry. "Okay," Ron shrugged, "Well I guess it's not like you two are doing anything disgusting." "Like what?" asked Hermione with a strange look. "Oh, I don't know, like kissing." Hermione and Harry both choked on their drinks at the same time, Ron looked concerned, "You okay?" he asked, "I was just saying that I'd hate to think you two were kissing, disgusting thought isn't it?" Ginny giggled, "I don't know Ron, they look good together." "Oh lay off it Ginny, you've got bad taste," Ron replied. Harry and Hermione glanced at each other and turned red.
Moody came in after they had finished, "Potter, Granger, come with me," he said. Ron got up with them, "Sorry Weasley, not this time," Moody said. Ron looked disappointed. Moody led them to the same room they had learned animagii, "Dumbledore has asked me to help you with some newer spells, some of these things you shouldn't learn until at least after your seventh year," said Moody. For a few hours Moody taught them the Repulsion Spell, a spell that allowed you to push your attacker back, and an invisibility spell, one that didn't require a cloak and some other more dangerous ones. "That could be handy," said Harry. Moody left after dinner, Hermione and Harry had not missed lunch, but they were starving. But before Moody left, he gave Hermione and Harry a book with advanced spells for many things. "This will come in handy for the D.A.," said Moody with a smile, "Dumbledore wants you to continue it, but he also wants you to select a different spot. One where you will not be found." As he turned to leave, "Harry, Hermione, do not teach them the ones I taught you, keep those to yourselves." Harry and Hermione agreed to this, Ron was waiting, "Well? What did Moody want?" he asked. "He taught us some spells out of this book," said Hermione smoothly. "Yep," Harry agreed. "What aren't you guys telling me?" asked Ron suspiciously. "Nothing," said Harry a little guiltily.
Harry woke in the middle of the night, three words echoed in his brain, "Harry, come here." He got up and went upstairs, Hermione came out of her room, "Did you call me?" she asked yawning. "No, did you call me?" asked Harry. "No," said Hermione, "but… maybe… this way?" she finished. They went to the top room, the one where they had never been. A lone figure stared out the window, "Welcome," he said. "Neo?" they asked at the same time. "Yes, I called both of you, there are things I want you to know before you return to Hogwarts, but I waited until last because I can teach them to you very quickly, come here." He said. They approached him, he laid his hands on their heads, when he lifted them, they felt as though they had been there for years. "Wow," said Hermione, "What happened?" "You have been taught in our way, do not teach others any of it, understood?" said Neo they nodded, "This is the last time you will see me for a while, do you have any questions?" They looked at each other, "We have the halves don't we?" asked Hermione. Neo looked directly at her, "Correct, Harry you know what it is yet?" turning his gaze to him. "No, I don't think so," said Harry, "but it might be…" Neo nodded, "Go on," "Does it connect us in a way that we don't understand?" he asked. "Exactly, do you wish to venture a guess as to what it does? It will be extremely important to you in the coming year, guess how…" said Neo. "Does it give us the ability to communicate… I don't know telepathically?" asked Harry. Hermione looked at him, "Where did you come up with that?" she asked. "Well, remember when we… um…" he glanced at Neo who smiled quietly, "We both saw the same thing, remember?" Hermione thought for a moment, "You're right, Wormtail," she said. Neo smiled at both of them, "In a manner, but not quite. That is all for now, remember, not all is what it seems," Neo disapparated, it still echoed in their brains, 'not all is what it seems'.
Harry awoke four days later, Ron was still asleep, Hermione snuck in quietly, "Good morning Harry," she said grinning, "You know what day it is?" "The most important day in the year, save one," replied Harry. "What would the most important one be?" she asked. "Your birthday Herm," said Harry smiling back. She blushed and this time he gave her a kiss on the cheek, "It was interesting what Neo taught us isn't?" asked Hermione. "Yes," said Harry, "But strange, I always thought muggle fighting was worthless in the magical world. "Well, he told me that… well… it's not the fighting; it's the mental discipline that really helps. But he also taught us to do other things; I don't know if I could ever teach anyone. It was beyond teachable …" she said. They made their way down to the kitchen, Dobby was already making breakfast, "Good morning sirs!" said Dobby happily, "Here is your breakfast sirs, Dobby thought you would get up earlier today." Harry and Hermione ate quickly, thanked Dobby and quickly disappeared up the stairs. They were already packed, everything was still at Hogwarts! They practiced the fighting techniques Neo had taught them and successfully preformed their animagii transformations in the upstairs room for a few minutes until they heard Mrs. Weasley call them. "Good morning dears," said Mrs. Weasley. Ron sat between Harry and Hermione, "Harry," he whispered, "Why did you get up last night?" "I had a nightmare," replied Harry. "About what?" asked Ron. "Something that I don't want to discuss," replied Harry. Ron didn't push further.
They barely made the Hogwarts Express on platform 9 ¾. Harry and Hermione got split up from the rest, when they entered the train they were ushered to the Head Boy and Girl car. After receiving their instructions and badges, they were sent to the Prefect car. "Hey Harry, what are you doing in here?" asked Ron, "You're not a …" Ron looked at the badge stunned, "Head Boy?" Harry studied his feet, "Why didn't you tell me?" said Ron as he patted Harry on the back. "I was told not to," replied Harry. Hermione bumped into him, "Sorry Harry," he heard,. For the next few hours were giving instruction. By the time the train ride was over they had finished answering questions. "Firs' years this way," called Hagrid. Harry and Hermione waved, Hagrid smiled and waved back. "Guys, you have been distracted this entire time, what the heck is going on?" asked Ron. Hermione went completely red. Harry without glancing at her and knew what she was feeling, "Nothing, Ron," he replied. Ron looked disbelieving as he exited. "Herm," Harry said thoughtfully, "Should we tell him?" Hermione shook her head, "No, but we have to set the date of the next D.A. meeting." Harry nodded, "As soon as we get up for breakfast," he said.
Dumbledore watched from a glowing crystal ball, "Hello," said a quiet voice. Dumbledore turned around, "Hello Neo," he replied. "You are thinking about how remarkable it is aren't you?" Neo asked. "How what is remarkable?" asked Dumbledore. Neo smiled, "How much they are like Lily and James Potter," he said. "How would you know?" asked Dumbledore. "I've known them for 16 years," replied Neo. "They never mentioned you," said Dumbledore. "That's because that was before I met them," smiled Neo. "You are the last guardian and Ancient One?" asked Dumbledore. "Yes, the rest of my kind have ascended beyond the stars," said Neo, "I am the last that interferes in the future." Dumbledore sighed, "If I remember correctly then, something must be seriously wrong," he said. Neo shrugged, "Perhaps," he replied. "What is it?" asked Dumbledore. "One of them will die Dumbledore," replied Neo, "Which one is not clear, yet."
They got into a carriage, no one else joined them, so they sat together, it almost seemed strange, "Doesn't it seem strange, almost like coming home?" asked Harry. Hermione understood, "Yeah," she said, "By the way we get our own room." Harry wasn't thinking and stopped, "What? We're going to share a room?" Hermione laughed, "No silly, you really think Dumbledore would do that? Not that'd I'd mind," she said slyly, "We each get our own room." "Oh, I didn't know that," Harry said, "Where are they?" "Oh, I think just above the other rooms," she replied then smiling quietly, "right across from each other." Harry smiled back, then the carriage stopped, "Herm, after you…" he said. She smiled, it had started raining hard as they stepped out of the carriage. As they entered the hall Harry pushed Hermione out of the way, SPLAT! "PEEVES!" Harry angrily shouted at him as water landed on the spot Hermione had been moments before and flooded his shoes, the ghost was laughing hysterically while holding his water balloons, they all fell at once and water ran down the stairs. "Thanks," said Hermione as he helped her up, "That was close." Professor McGonagall slipped, "PEEVES!" she shouted, "THIS IS THE SECOND TIME YOU HAVE DONE THAT!" Peeves looked a little peeved, "Already wet aren't they?" said Peeves. Peeves flew through the wall and disappeared, Harry helped Hermione up the slippery steps. They sat down together and waited for the sorting, Hagrid sat down in his normal seat, that meant it wasn't long now. Professor McGonagall brought in the sorting hat and stool. The first years gathered around it. Everyone waited for the hat to sing.
Before I was newly sewn, before the great four, lived the Ancient Ones who had magic of great renowned; Beyond fear, beyond time, beyond power, beyond greed and anger.
The Great Hogwarts four knew of magic old and sought this of great renowned, Slytherin said 'I am the greatest of the Hogwarts four. Mine is it for I seek it.' Each in turn did the Great Four seek, each returning in defeat, empty handed were they but empty headed not. Found the magic of great renowned that did tell them to stay, for future would find it for second war abhorred.
I cannot guess what find did they, other than what they say, 'It is held within.' Now let the sorting begin!
The hat grew silent, there was a shocked silence, then everybody clapped, while whispering to their neighbors, all except Harry and Hermione, they looked at each other in surprise, "Perhaps… Neo?" asked Hermione anxiously. Harry thought for a minute, Hermione waited quietly. "I don't know," replied Harry, "Maybe it lies within in the castle." The sorting ended, they just realized they hadn't been paying attention! Dumbledore stood, "Just a few announcements before we begin our wonderful feast, start of term notices are; First years the Dark Forest is strictly forbidden to all students, including, dare I say, to a few of the older ones who should know by now." He glanced with a smile at Harry, Hermione and Ron, "There will be an end of term dance so please pick your partners, it is open to anyone and everyone; Professor Snape will be teaching Defense against the Dark Arts in addition to Potions," Dumbledore glanced at Snape, who was looking particularly smug, "Until I can find a suitable replacement. Now," he looked fondly at the students, "tuck in." food bloomed before them, Harry and Hermione dug in.
As soon as the last crumb disappeared Hermione and Ron led the first years to Gryffindor tower, Harry made his way up slowly, "Ron, can you take over?" she asked feeling something was wrong with Harry. "Why?" replied Ron. "Because I asked you to nitwit," Hermione snapped. "Okay, gee," said Ron, "Yes." "Good," Hermione said still a little snappish, she hung back until they all disappeared around the corridor. Then she ran back downstairs, "Harry?" she called softly. Harry wasn't there. She was now scared, "Harry?!" she called desperately. There was no reply. She wandered around the castle. "Miss. Granger," sneered Snape, "Patrolling already? Sure you're not above that now?" Hermione had it on her mind to slap him, but held back. "No, I'm not, excuse me, I'm in a hurry," replied Hermione brushing past him. Snape watched her disappear. "NEO! PLEASE HELP!" Hermione called silently. 'What?' came a mental reply, 'I'm rather occupied at the moment. Can I get back to you?' 'NO!' Hermione bellowed at him, 'I can't find Harry, where is he?' Neo was silent for a moment. 'What am I a missing person's bureau?' he muttered irritably. 'If that's what thrills you, then YES,' she replied 'He is depressed?' Neo asked after a few moments of silence. 'I don't know,' she replied, 'What difference does that make?' 'Well, considering he is on top of the castle on the West tower on the edge… Well a lot.' Neo said. 'WHAT!' she shrieked. 'Don't worry too much; it's just not a good idea to sit on the edge of a very high tower when you're depressed.' Neo replied without noticing her panic. 'HOW DO YOU REMAIN CALM WHEN SOMEONE IS ABOUT TO… TO…' She ran down the corridor, and up the West tower stairs. "Harry," she started quietly, Harry kept looking down, "Is something wrong?" she sat down beside him silently, watching him. "Something hit me again, something I hadn't thought of in a while," replied Harry. "What?" she asked in a concerned tone. "Your parents… They died because of me, Sirius died because of me, people are dying, because of me," he looked into her eyes, tears dangerously close. "Harry, none of that was your fault," Hermione whispered, "Please don't blame yourself." "But Hermione, it is my fault! Look at the last two years, fourth year, Cedric died, fifth year; Sirius died, several hurt; now sixth year, Mr. and Mrs. Granger killed. All of this could have been prevented, if Voldemort had succeeded 17 years ago." Harry said, tears started to overwhelm him. "Harry," her voice compassionate, "it would have happened sooner, think about it. Voldemort would have had 17 years to get around to it; it wouldn't have taken him that long." Hermione put her arms around him, "Hey, don't save Voldemort the trouble, or else I'm coming after you…" she said. Harry gave a choking laugh, "Herm, I wouldn't, I couldn't leave you," he said, "I promise while you're alive, I won't ever save Voldemort any trouble." Hermione looked up towards the sunset. "You want to go in?" asked Harry wiping away tears. "No, I want to sit here a while," replied Hermione, "It's beautiful." Harry looked at her, "Yes, beautiful, the most beautiful sight in the world," he said. Hermione turned pink, "Really?" she asked lamely. Everything disappeared, except them; they started to lean into each other getting closer and closer…
"Harry, Hermione what are you guys doing up here?" asked Ron. Hermione rounded on Ron, "RON!!" Hermione yelled sounding very cross. "What?" asked Ron. "Perfect timing… you big git," she said sounding furious. "What? Did I interrupt something? I mean it's not exactly like you and Harry are on intimate terms, are you?" asked Ron. "No… Of course not," said Hermione in a higher pitched voice than normal. "Well, good, it's my turn to patrol," Ron said. "Ron, you are such an," she said her voice low, "INSENSITIVE, TACTLESS, INCONSIDERATE, GAUCHE, THOUGHTLESS, THICK-SKINNED MORON!" she shrieked. Harry hadn't seen her face so red since he had picked her up in her parents' house. Ron jumped, "Well excuse me," he said. Harry started laughing, "Come on Hermione; it's okay calm down," he said as they started down the corridor and added in a whisper, "We'll finish later," then called back to Ron, "Sorry Ron." Ron looked at Harry for a moment, "What's going on?" he asked. But they were already out of sight.
They walked up the stairs, Harry spoke first, "Herm, would you like to continue?" he asked. Hermione sighed, "Sorry Harry, I'm not in the mood," she said looking downcast. "That's fine, maybe another time," Harry smiled at her, she looked into his eyes, they got closer and closer, they both felt their necklaces grow warmer and warmer… She slid her arms around Harry's neck…
Ginny walked up the staircase, she saw what they were doing… 'Oops," she thought, she walked down slowly and carefully, but one of the stairs cracked. Hermione pulled back and groaned, she ran into her room and slammed the door. Ginny looked a little upset, so did Harry, 'Great,' he thought. He opened his room and got undressed, he waited a few minutes, then he walked to the edge of the stairs leading down. He looked over to make absolutely sure that no one was there. He then knocked on the door softly, "What?" came the answer. "Hermione, do you mind company?" he whispered through the door. "Oh Harry! Just a moment," she said sounding a little happier. She opened the door and let him in, "Want to come in?" she asked. "Yes," he answered. She closed the door behind him, "I'm sorry," said Harry, "I guess I have bad timing." Hermione looked Harry in the eye, "No, it's not your fault," then she started laughing, "I guess it is kind of funny though, every time we get interrupted." Harry sat down on her bed, Hermione sat next to him. "The only thing that worries me is your safety," said Harry. "Hey, I can take care of myself you know," Hermione answered. "Yeah, well you have had plenty of danger," said Harry, "I don't want you to have more than your share." Hermione now looked positively frightening. "HARRY POTTER!" she started. "I know you can take care of yourself Herm," said Harry carefully, "but that doesn't mean that I don't care." Hermione quieted down, "Harry, I'm glad you care, but I would rather follow you into danger than be left behind." Harry looked up, "True, I can understand that, I still don't like to have you in danger." Hermione snorted, "Well, I have my own knack for attracting trouble." Harry met her eyes, "Not enough to kill your parents; that I did." "Harry," she said, "That wasn't your fault, that was Voldemort's fault, just do one thing for me." "Anything," said Harry. "Kiss me, before we get interrupted," Hermione smiled. Harry laughed, but it died quickly, they moved closer and closer…
There was a knock at the door, "GO AWAY!" roared Hermione, "BEFORE I STRANGLE YOU!!"
"Hermione?" came Professor McGonagall's strict voice. Hermione went white, "Oops," she said to Harry, Harry looked close to laughter. "Just a moment Professor," Hermione answered. "I'll go through the other door," said Harry nodding at the door opposite. Hermione looked very aggravated, "No, this will only take a minute," she said. She opened the door a crack and stepped out, "Yes Professor?" she asked. "What was that about?" Professor McGonagall replying in a question. "Oh sorry Professor, I was err… busy at the moment," Hermione answered, "What can I do for you?" "What was so terribly important that you would scream about strangling somebody?" asked Professor McGonagall. "Oh nothing important, I can get back to it," said a very red Hermione, "Now, what can I do for you?" "Harry and you, actually, have you practiced Animagii?" Professor McGonagall asked. "Yes, it's almost second nature to Harry and I now." "Good," said Professor McGonagall, "We think we have a problem."
After a lengthy discussion, during which Harry watched Hermione's leg (which she had stuck in the door) constantly twitching impatiently. After they finished Hermione looked very grumpy. "You okay?" asked Harry, "What's wrong?" She checked to make sure Professor McGonagall was out of earshot. "That is the, what, third time we've been interrupted," said Hermione, "Don't people have something else to do other than bug us? I don't care if Voldemort himself is at the castle gates, I want to have one minute of peace. Is that too much to ask?" "No, Herm," replied Harry, "What did Professor McGonagall want?" "Oh, something stupid about Voldemort may be planning to attack the school," replied Hermione, "So she wants us to start D.A. up like two weeks ago." "Well the date is set to tomorrow, and I still have to find a good place to hold it," Harry said concerned. "Well, maybe you should just find us a hiding spot where no one can find us, that way we can finish!" Hermione said quite upset. "Well, want to make it four times we were interrupted?" asked Harry with a smile. "Harry!" replied Hermione turning pink. "You know you turn a very delicate pink?" asked Harry, "A wonderful lovely pink." Hermione went a little pinker. Harry pulled her down on her bed, "Come on, don't worry about it, our time will come," he said pulling closer. Hermione looked back into his green eyes, 'loving…' her thoughts trailed off, closer and closer…
Somebody knocked at the door, Hermione pushed Harry back and walked toward the door with the clear intention of slugging whoever was behind the door, "Herm, honey, please, just ask who it is," said Harry softly in her ear as he pulled her back. She stopped at the word honey, "Yes?" she asked in a very strained voice, "Can this wait until tomorrow, Please." "It's Ron, your turn. I'm going to bed." Came a voice. "RON YOU'D BETTER RUN BEFORE I SLUG YOU," she started to shriek. Harry heard Ron start running down the stairs as he held her back, "I'M GONNA SLUG YOU SOOOOO BAD!!!!" she shrieked. Harry turned her around, "Hey calm down, Herm please." Harry said in a calming voice. "HARRY, I'VE HAD ENOUGH OF PEOPLE INTERRUPTING ME!!!!!" she continued. Harry kissed her on the cheek, she stopped. "I'll help you with your next shift Herm," said Harry. "No, Harry, go to bed okay?" Hermione replied. "No, not until you do," said Harry quietly into her ear. He started whispering in her ear "Harry! Not now I've got go…" she trailed off giggling and turning red. She couldn't stand it, Harry was being so wonderful. "Fine, you can go," she said, "but only," she lowered her voice and whispered into Harry's ear, "if you can catch me." Then laughing ran from the room and down the stairs. Harry in close pursuit. At the end of the stairs Hermione stopped and let Harry catch her, who wrapped his arms around her and gave her a kiss. Then they started their patrol. Hermione and Harry talked up a storm on the way around Hogwarts. Then when Hermione's shift ended they parted and went each to their own bed.
