Disclaimer: I own none of J.K. Rowlings characters or previous stories!!
I hope you all enjoy!! Sorry it took so long, I'm sooooo busy.
Chapter 5
Harry sputtered, "The WHAT??"
"The secret to the veil," Hermione responded quietly, "Of course I haven't gotten it all figured out yet, and it looks like some dangerous stuff but with any luck..."
"Let me see that!" Harry ripped the book out of her hands and flipped through it. "Why didn't I take ruins?" He moaned.
"Chill Harry, I've been copying it all down on some parchment, here..." she handed him a roll of parchment which Harry immediately seized, Ron read over his shoulder.
"Don't you think this looks kinda dangerous Hermione?" He asked.
"Don't be silly. It's just a lot of careful work, and with any luck we'll get him back by Christmas."
"Christmas!! You really think so Hermione?" Harry asked, giving her a hug, "That would be wonderful."
"Don't thank me yet, I still have to finish translating..."
At that point a knock came at the door, "Mum says you better get down here if you want any dinner..." one of the twins called.
The four looked at each other, a secret hid between them, before standing up and making for the door and down to dinner.
OOO
The next month passed quickly. The Grangers left, leaving Hermione behind and the four Hogwarts students spent much time doing homework before the next year. Staring at his Potions essay had the continued effect of reminding him of what horror lay ahead of him- Ron's continual laughing didn't seem to help, neither did Hermione's words of comfort, "You'll be glad you did, you know." Harry continued with Occlumency multiple times a week and was continually getting better. Without so many things on his mind like in the school year, he found it a lot easier to concentrate. Luckily, Cho only came by three times when her dad was stopping in between missions. Harry and Ron managed to avoid her by playing chess while Hermione engaged her in some lively conversation. In their free-time, they took to floo-ing to the Burrow for Quidditch often and spent one memorable day in Diagon Alley shopping for school supplies. Thankfully, this trip held no run-ins with Malfoy. Before they knew it, it was September 1st and the Grimmauld Place was chaos.
"Ginny, how many times do I have to remind you to pack your books away into your trunk!" Mrs. Weasley cried as Ginny jotted a few last sentences onto a History of Magic essay.
"Have fun at school!" Fred and George continually mocked them, stroking their dragon skin jackets as they headed off to work.
"Where's my badge?" Ron cried, frantically searching everywhere for his Prefect Badge which he eventually found under his mattress.
"The Ministry cars are still not here!" Mr. Weasley said, glancing out the window for the hundredth time.
Finally, what seemed like ages later, everybody was outside the front door and loading into the Ministry Cars on their way to the train station.
The Ministry had agreed to loan cars to them since their recent acknowledgement of Voldemort's return and their renewed concern for The-Boy- Who-Lived's safety. Thus they made it in record time and had a quarter of an hour before the train left to make it on. As they made to step on the train, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley smothered them with hugs and kisses. "Be careful Harry," Mr. and Mrs. Weasley both told him. "I will," Harry had quickly assured them before hopping on the train.
As they hopped on the train, Harry and Ginny found an empty compartment and Ron and Hermione stowed their bags away before hurrying off to the prefect's cabin. Luckily Luna wasn't there this time. Soon, the train pulled out of the station and they were off. Ginny busied herself with a book and Harry took to reading a book about Quidditch he had received for his birthday.
His last birthday had been about the best ever.
Harry awoke to a loud blow horn, only to look up and see Ron standing over his bed with a party favor in his mouth blowing into it.
"Wake up Harry! You don't want to sleep your birthday away do you?"
Harry had excitedly gotten out of bed and changed quickly into clothes before heading downstairs where Mrs. Weasley had some fresh eggs and toast waiting for him. The kitchen was decked out in balloons, streamers and dissolving confetti (it dissolved half way down and continuously came).
The rest of the day was great. Harry and Ron played chess and followed it up with a visit to the Burrow for some Quidditch. When they returned, Mrs. Weasley had prepared a big birthday dinner and Tonks, Moody, Lupin, Mundungus Fletcher and Kingsly were all there. A delicious color- changing cake was served after dinner, followed by presents.
Hermione had given him a Quidditch book with a comment about needing it soon, Ron gave him a model Quidditch set, Mrs. Weasley gave him a scarf, "I dare say you need a new one," Lupin gave him a book about the dark arts, Fred and George gave him a stash of pranks from their joke shop which resulted in Mrs. Weasley yelling at them, "You're going to hinder their education with those toys!" Alongside the wonderful gifts, Harry received cards with songs and spraying confetti (one singing card in particular reminded him of the singing card he had once received from Ginny). Hagrid also had sent him a fresh batch of Rock Cakes and a picture of Grawp, "He's doing great!" He mentioned in his card.
All in all it had been about the best birthday ever and Harry went to bed happier than he had been in a while. The only thing that could have made it better would have been the company of Sirius...
"Don't think of Sirius!" Harry told himself, shaking the thoughts out of his head, and continued to read the section on 15th century Quidditch tactics.
About half past two, the food trolley rolled around, just as Ron and Hermione returned.
"Their worse than last year, honest!" Ron complained, sitting down on a seat after buying some food.
"We got held up sorting out a problem between some first years." Hermione explained, "I can already tell which one's will be in Slytherin." She rolled her eyes.
"Is there something wrong with that Mudblood?" a voice came from outside the door.
"Shut it Malfoy," Ron growled.
"Don't believe I can do that weasel," he replied.
"Aren't we getting a little old for such insults?" Hermione inquired of Malfoy.
"Uh, don't think so, never too old." Malfoy sneered, "Anyways, just preparing to make your lives a living hell. You don't mess with You-Know- Who's followers."
"Ha! So you admit it!" Ron spat at him.
"What makes you think that? Anyways, if you claim my father is a supporter and land him in jail, I sure will act as a supporter's son. It's not me who said it, it's you."
Harry slowly pulled his wand out, "Get out Malfoy, you wouldn't want a repeat of the end of last year would you? What did your mother say when she found you?"
Malfoy glared at him, "Never mind what my mother said, you just wait, you'll wish you'd never come back to Hogwarts." And with that he turned around and left.
"Oh, I highly doubt that, quite the opposite actually," Hermione grinned mischievously.
"We really have been an awful influence," Harry muttered to Ron, looking at Hermione, who nodded fervently in reply. They turned and sat down again.
"So what have you been doing?" Hermione asked Harry.
"Reading that Quidditch book you gave me, it's really quite interesting. Maybe, when I find out who's captain this year, I'll suggest some of the ideas."
"Good idea," Ron said, "I'm not playing though."
"What?" Harry asked, "You have to play Ron!! You're good. Remember? You helped win the Quidditch Cup last year."
"Honestly Ron," Ginny broke in, "You really must play!"
Ron shifted in his seat, "Well, I'll think about it."
"You better play mate," Harry said.
The rest of the train ride went smoothly. They played exploding snap and talked about pranks to use on Malfoy if needed "I'm sure they'll be needed," Ron readily said.
In no time, they were once again at the Hogsmeade station. Harry climbed out after Ron and Hermione, who didn't have to help this year, like last year. As they made their way to the carriages, Harry took notice of the thestrals and his heart throbbed. If he hadn't seen Cedric's death, he'd still see them now, he saw Sirius die. "He's not dead!" Harry told himself firmly. No matter how many times he was told that Sirius was dead, he wouldn't believe it. He climbed into the carriage and they started off.
As they pulled up to the school and Harry entered inside, he was pulled from Ron and Hermione. It was Professor McGonagall.
"Professor! Don't you have to greet the First Years?"
"Professor Flitwick is covering for me. I only hope he doesn't get lost among them." She said. "I have some matters to discuss with you however."
Harry arched his eyebrows, "what sort of things?"
"Wait until we reach my office." Harry shut his mouth and hurried to keep up with the brisk pace McGonagall was at. When they reached her office, she shut the door and turned around.
"It seems that many of our students are...well...on the Dark Side I guess you could say. I can't say I haven't known this for many years, but now that You-Know-Who has returned, well, it seems some of them may perhaps not be afraid to cause trouble for you. They know that if expelled the," and at the next word she grimaced, "Dark Lord will provide for their education and protection..."
"And they believe him?" Harry interrupted.
"That's not the point, but I personally can't see how they could. At any rate, I believe it's best for you to be on guard. Do not wander the halls alone and if you must," she hesitated, "wear that invisibility cloak of yours. Do not stall in the halls and ignore any remarks made by, well...you know who I'm talking about, certain people. We, the headmaster, other teachers and I, will try to keep an eye on you and your friends. I understand that you've already had a few run-ins this summer?" Harry nodded, "Well, keep away from them. We will not hesitate to punish those who make infractions to the rules. Please tell me that you will not go looking for trouble Potter."
"I promise," Harry said, though thoroughly displeased with the idea of an "eye" being kept on him at all times.
"Good. Now, let's head to the feast, I daresay there's a great amount of food awaiting us."
They left the room and headed for the Great Hall. As Harry and Professor McGonagall parted ways, she nodded to him, "Be wary Potter," and returned to the Head Table. Harry entered the Great Hall, with the expectation that the feast had begun. However, to his unpleasant surprise, he found that Professor Dumbledore was merely just finishing a speech. Therefore, upon his entrance, all heads turned to him. He lowered his head and went to sit between Ron and Hermione. Though Dumbledore was still speaking, many eyes lingered on Harry. Many first years eyes in particular.
"Where were you?" Hermione hissed.
"Oh, McGonagall had to talk to me. Tell you about it later," he whispered. Ron raised his eyebrows and they turned to the Head Table.
"Last thing before we begin our feast, I would like to introduce you to the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Wert."
For the first time, they noticed a figure towards the end of the table lower his hood on his cloak and smile to the crowd.
"Looks kinda creepy, wouldn't ya say?" Ron whispered. Harry nodded, the once hooded person did look creepy. Dark brown hair hung tangled around his face, his nose was pointed and his eyes flickered around the room.
"Reminds me of Moody in a way, and Snape at the same time," Hermione commented. Harry shuddered, if he was like Moody, it would be fine, but Snape...
"Now that business is all taken care of...let's eat!" Professor Dumbledore said.
Suddenly food magically appeared in front of them and they dug in.
After the food was all cleared from the plates and Dumbledore dismissed them, they quickly made their way to the common room where Ron told them the password, "Dumbledore's Army," and they entered.
"So Harry," Ron began, as Ginny went to join some friends, "What was McGonagall talking to you about?"
Harry shrugged, "not much, she was telling me to be extra wary. She believes that some students, and you know who, may be out to get me with the idea that Voldemort will reward them if they harm me and take care of them if they are expelled."
"Not surprising," Hermione surmised, "You really should be wary. Really Harry, be careful."
"Don't worry," Harry said, "C'mon, do you think I'd actually go looking for trouble?"
Ron and Hermione exchanged looks.
"I really don't think so," Harry answered his own question.
"I reckon not," Hermione said, though her face remained concerned.
Harry and Ron involved themselves in playing a game of wizarding chess while Hermione sat in front of the fire and read a book. As soon as their game was finished (Ron won of course), Ron stood up and yawned. "Well, I'm zonked. G'night."
"I 'spose I'll go up too," Harry sighed. "Night Hermione."
"Good night," she said in reply before turning around and heading up into the girl's dormitory.
Harry and Ron turned around and climbed up the stairs to the boys. Seamus, Dean and Neville were already there, ready for bed. Harry quickly changed into his nightclothes and drifted off into a dreamless sleep.
Harry awoke the next morning ready to go. He quickly dressed, then, meeting Ron and Hermione by the portrait, they made for the Great Hall. McGonagall was walking up and down the table, as usual, handing out schedules.
Harry groaned when he saw his. Every class was double something for the most part and he had Potions that afternoon. He looked over at Ron's and noticed it the same, except there was a blank where Harry had potions.
"So not fair," Harry complained.
"Don't see why not," Ron commented, "I'm quite happy with it."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "Well, we've got Transfiguration first. Shall we head off soon?"
Harry shrugged, "sure, let me finish this toast first though." He shoved the food down his throat, stood up and followed Hermione and Ron to Transfiguration.
They entered to find a slightly larger class than normal. "Looks like not many people decided to drop Transfiguration," Hermione commented.
"Cept a lot of Slytherins," Harry commented happily. It was true, while the class was larger due to all four houses being together, not many had dropped it, save the Slytherins. However, Harry was unhappy to note, Malfoy was still there.
"Good Morning," Professor McGonagall greeted them, "Glad to see you all back and alive. As you can see, not many of your classmates have chosen to drop this class, you all did quite well on your O.W.L.S. You will now be enjoying entire mornings in my classroom, as the spells we will be learning are more difficult than one's in the past. Now, if you will take out your books and parchment paper, we will begin taking notes on animal transformations." They spent the rest of the class period scrupulously taking notes and were allowed to attempt to transfigure a goldfish into a tadpole by the of the class, Hermione, once again was the only one able to. They left the class at the end of the period with aching hands from writing and foot long essay to write about animal transformations.
"Lunch!" Ron groaned happily as they entered the Great Hall. Their classes lasted entire mornings now and lunch was a much anticipated meal. They hurriedly took their seats and scarfed down a short meal before heading off to their afternoon class, potions.
"See you later!" Ron said happily to Harry and Hermione. Harry glared at him.
"This is so not fair," he groaned, "I have to spend another two years with Snape while you..."
"Take accounting."
"Accounting?"
"Yes, apparently, I have to still take another class and as I am going to go into the Ministry, this is the only class available."
Harry smirked, "Well, have fun with that..."
"It's not Snape!"
Harry shook his head, "I still can't believe I have to spend another year with that..."
"Would you care to finish that sentence Potter, or would you just like me to deduct points now?"
Harry froze and turned around. Snape.
"That'll be twenty points from Gryffindor, never insult a teacher Potter, I would have thought you'd know better by now."
Harry saw Malfoy a few feet behind him grinning, he scowled and turned and stomped down the stairs, Hermione hurrying right behind him. The end of the previous year was still fresh in his mind, he hated Snape, hated him with a passion.
They reached the classroom and Harry slumped down in the third row back, Hermione joined him on the right. The rest of the class filed in shortly behind.
Harry would have like to go on a rampage about Snape, however he quickly turned his attention to instead who had just begun talking about the importance of keeping up in his class and getting N.E.W.T.S. in Potions, his eyes continuously flickering to Harry. Soon, they got started taking notes on Sleeping Potions and by the end of class had begun the first steps (the potions had to sit a few nights). When the bell rang, Harry and Hermione made their way to the Great Hall, meeting Ron on the way. As it turned out, his class was only half a period and he had spent the latter part of the afternoon practicing Quidditch.
"You could have worked on homework you know!" Hermione scolded.
"Nah," Ron replied, "then I'd be ahead of you!"
Hermione raised her eyebrows at him but said no more.
"Well, we better get eating so we can do some homework tonight," Hermione informed them quickly as they sat down and ate. Harry glanced around the Great Hall, an odd feeling in his heart. He took notice that Malfoy wasn't present, nor were Crabbe and Goyle. He also took note that Ginny was no where to be seen.
"Ron, where's Ginny?"
Ron shrugged, "How am I supposed to know? She's probably in the library, she just started her O.W.L.S. this year."
"I dunno, I think we should go find her," Harry said nervously. Neither she nor Malfoy and his gang are here."
Ron took the last bite of his potato pie.
"I think Harry's got a point Ron, let's go." Hermione said nervously.
They got up and made for the stairs.
However, before they could reach the top, Professor McGonagall and Dumbledore came down the stairs, a grim look upon both faces.
"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, could you please follow me to my office?" McGonagall asked.
Harry and Ron looked at each other, and then at Hermione, before turning and following McGonagall.
"I'll look for her," she whispered to them.
"Na-ah Miss Granger, I need you to go to the hospital wing with Professor Dumbledore, there is someone you need to see." She pursed her lips.
"But-."
"No."
Hermione nodded and turned, heading for the hospital wing. Harry and Ron followed McGonagall who was walking at a brisk pace.
"What is it professor?" Harry asked breathlessly as they made it through the corridors.
She said nothing. Harry and Ron looked at each other. They couldn't be in trouble all ready, could they?
They walked on and reached McGonagall's office shortly. She walked in, beckoned them and shut the door briskly. Pointing to a plate of cookies and pumpkin juice, she motioned for them to help themselves, however they were too nervous to.
"What is it professor?" Harry asked once more.
"Potter, I've got good news and bad news. The good news is, you've just been made captain of the Quidditch Team.
"But, I was kicked off last year!"
"No matter, you're back on. Dumbledore has removed the ban."
Ron grinned at Harry, "congratulations!"
"Thanks," Harry said in reply.
"Now, the bad news...You remember Potter, when I warned you yesterday of trouble brewing?"
"Yes,"
"It turns out that they weren't waiting, in either worlds. Somebody, I'm not sure who at the moment, but somebody, attacked your sister," she turned to Ron.
"Is she okay?" Ron gasped, his eyes wide.
"Thankfully, yes, she has a few burns, she was in an empty corridor when the ambush occurred. I will take you to visit her shortly."
Ron nodded, his face stunned. "You don't know who did it then?"
"As I said, I do not. I found her lying in the fourth floor corridor near the end of dinner, I was heading around the castle doing a nightly check before heading to my sleeping quarters. I immediately contacted Dumbledore and Madame Pomfrey, who came immediately. She is on the mend.
"Unfortunately, many in the outside world have not been so lucky. None who concern you, however, Professor Dumbledore wanted me to share this with you. A muggle school was attacked. Luckily, school had been let out early and there were few children, yet six were killed and ten suffered injury. Remus Lupin was among the Aurors who went to the site, what he saw was awful. The school was in ruins, the Dark Mark in the sky, and bodies. Because of recent events, you will only be allowed to attend Hogsmeade with a teacher and in your invisibility cloak Potter, as well as you and Miss Granger." She nodded to Ron, "I do not want any of you wandering the hallways alone, an announcement will be made to the whole school by each House's individual Head later on. Be wary." They shortly made their way to the Gryffindor Common Room where many students listened horrified to the news, the fifth years especially.
Harry and Ron made their way to the hospital wing after retrieving the invisibility cloak, when they entered the room they first saw Hermione, her face was solemn. They walked towards the bed and for the first time they noticed Mrs. Weasley, her eyes red and full of tears.
Ron ran to her, glancing at Ginny as he passed her. She looked healed from any affliction now, but was sleeping. "What's wrong mum?"
She looked up at Ron, "I have some bad news..."
Ooooh, cliffie!! I know this has taken centuries to write, but I seriously don't have time. I hope you liked this chapter. Please Review and send me ideas, that might help to get the chapters up faster. Also, let me know if you'd rather have chapters this length spaced out, or shorter chapters less spaced out. Prongs.
Thanks to:
Gkey: they might come back...you'll see
Natalie: Maybe next chapter or so...
Crystal: Thanks!
Bookworm: we'll see...
And all my other reviewers!!!!!
I hope you all enjoy!! Sorry it took so long, I'm sooooo busy.
Chapter 5
Harry sputtered, "The WHAT??"
"The secret to the veil," Hermione responded quietly, "Of course I haven't gotten it all figured out yet, and it looks like some dangerous stuff but with any luck..."
"Let me see that!" Harry ripped the book out of her hands and flipped through it. "Why didn't I take ruins?" He moaned.
"Chill Harry, I've been copying it all down on some parchment, here..." she handed him a roll of parchment which Harry immediately seized, Ron read over his shoulder.
"Don't you think this looks kinda dangerous Hermione?" He asked.
"Don't be silly. It's just a lot of careful work, and with any luck we'll get him back by Christmas."
"Christmas!! You really think so Hermione?" Harry asked, giving her a hug, "That would be wonderful."
"Don't thank me yet, I still have to finish translating..."
At that point a knock came at the door, "Mum says you better get down here if you want any dinner..." one of the twins called.
The four looked at each other, a secret hid between them, before standing up and making for the door and down to dinner.
OOO
The next month passed quickly. The Grangers left, leaving Hermione behind and the four Hogwarts students spent much time doing homework before the next year. Staring at his Potions essay had the continued effect of reminding him of what horror lay ahead of him- Ron's continual laughing didn't seem to help, neither did Hermione's words of comfort, "You'll be glad you did, you know." Harry continued with Occlumency multiple times a week and was continually getting better. Without so many things on his mind like in the school year, he found it a lot easier to concentrate. Luckily, Cho only came by three times when her dad was stopping in between missions. Harry and Ron managed to avoid her by playing chess while Hermione engaged her in some lively conversation. In their free-time, they took to floo-ing to the Burrow for Quidditch often and spent one memorable day in Diagon Alley shopping for school supplies. Thankfully, this trip held no run-ins with Malfoy. Before they knew it, it was September 1st and the Grimmauld Place was chaos.
"Ginny, how many times do I have to remind you to pack your books away into your trunk!" Mrs. Weasley cried as Ginny jotted a few last sentences onto a History of Magic essay.
"Have fun at school!" Fred and George continually mocked them, stroking their dragon skin jackets as they headed off to work.
"Where's my badge?" Ron cried, frantically searching everywhere for his Prefect Badge which he eventually found under his mattress.
"The Ministry cars are still not here!" Mr. Weasley said, glancing out the window for the hundredth time.
Finally, what seemed like ages later, everybody was outside the front door and loading into the Ministry Cars on their way to the train station.
The Ministry had agreed to loan cars to them since their recent acknowledgement of Voldemort's return and their renewed concern for The-Boy- Who-Lived's safety. Thus they made it in record time and had a quarter of an hour before the train left to make it on. As they made to step on the train, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley smothered them with hugs and kisses. "Be careful Harry," Mr. and Mrs. Weasley both told him. "I will," Harry had quickly assured them before hopping on the train.
As they hopped on the train, Harry and Ginny found an empty compartment and Ron and Hermione stowed their bags away before hurrying off to the prefect's cabin. Luckily Luna wasn't there this time. Soon, the train pulled out of the station and they were off. Ginny busied herself with a book and Harry took to reading a book about Quidditch he had received for his birthday.
His last birthday had been about the best ever.
Harry awoke to a loud blow horn, only to look up and see Ron standing over his bed with a party favor in his mouth blowing into it.
"Wake up Harry! You don't want to sleep your birthday away do you?"
Harry had excitedly gotten out of bed and changed quickly into clothes before heading downstairs where Mrs. Weasley had some fresh eggs and toast waiting for him. The kitchen was decked out in balloons, streamers and dissolving confetti (it dissolved half way down and continuously came).
The rest of the day was great. Harry and Ron played chess and followed it up with a visit to the Burrow for some Quidditch. When they returned, Mrs. Weasley had prepared a big birthday dinner and Tonks, Moody, Lupin, Mundungus Fletcher and Kingsly were all there. A delicious color- changing cake was served after dinner, followed by presents.
Hermione had given him a Quidditch book with a comment about needing it soon, Ron gave him a model Quidditch set, Mrs. Weasley gave him a scarf, "I dare say you need a new one," Lupin gave him a book about the dark arts, Fred and George gave him a stash of pranks from their joke shop which resulted in Mrs. Weasley yelling at them, "You're going to hinder their education with those toys!" Alongside the wonderful gifts, Harry received cards with songs and spraying confetti (one singing card in particular reminded him of the singing card he had once received from Ginny). Hagrid also had sent him a fresh batch of Rock Cakes and a picture of Grawp, "He's doing great!" He mentioned in his card.
All in all it had been about the best birthday ever and Harry went to bed happier than he had been in a while. The only thing that could have made it better would have been the company of Sirius...
"Don't think of Sirius!" Harry told himself, shaking the thoughts out of his head, and continued to read the section on 15th century Quidditch tactics.
About half past two, the food trolley rolled around, just as Ron and Hermione returned.
"Their worse than last year, honest!" Ron complained, sitting down on a seat after buying some food.
"We got held up sorting out a problem between some first years." Hermione explained, "I can already tell which one's will be in Slytherin." She rolled her eyes.
"Is there something wrong with that Mudblood?" a voice came from outside the door.
"Shut it Malfoy," Ron growled.
"Don't believe I can do that weasel," he replied.
"Aren't we getting a little old for such insults?" Hermione inquired of Malfoy.
"Uh, don't think so, never too old." Malfoy sneered, "Anyways, just preparing to make your lives a living hell. You don't mess with You-Know- Who's followers."
"Ha! So you admit it!" Ron spat at him.
"What makes you think that? Anyways, if you claim my father is a supporter and land him in jail, I sure will act as a supporter's son. It's not me who said it, it's you."
Harry slowly pulled his wand out, "Get out Malfoy, you wouldn't want a repeat of the end of last year would you? What did your mother say when she found you?"
Malfoy glared at him, "Never mind what my mother said, you just wait, you'll wish you'd never come back to Hogwarts." And with that he turned around and left.
"Oh, I highly doubt that, quite the opposite actually," Hermione grinned mischievously.
"We really have been an awful influence," Harry muttered to Ron, looking at Hermione, who nodded fervently in reply. They turned and sat down again.
"So what have you been doing?" Hermione asked Harry.
"Reading that Quidditch book you gave me, it's really quite interesting. Maybe, when I find out who's captain this year, I'll suggest some of the ideas."
"Good idea," Ron said, "I'm not playing though."
"What?" Harry asked, "You have to play Ron!! You're good. Remember? You helped win the Quidditch Cup last year."
"Honestly Ron," Ginny broke in, "You really must play!"
Ron shifted in his seat, "Well, I'll think about it."
"You better play mate," Harry said.
The rest of the train ride went smoothly. They played exploding snap and talked about pranks to use on Malfoy if needed "I'm sure they'll be needed," Ron readily said.
In no time, they were once again at the Hogsmeade station. Harry climbed out after Ron and Hermione, who didn't have to help this year, like last year. As they made their way to the carriages, Harry took notice of the thestrals and his heart throbbed. If he hadn't seen Cedric's death, he'd still see them now, he saw Sirius die. "He's not dead!" Harry told himself firmly. No matter how many times he was told that Sirius was dead, he wouldn't believe it. He climbed into the carriage and they started off.
As they pulled up to the school and Harry entered inside, he was pulled from Ron and Hermione. It was Professor McGonagall.
"Professor! Don't you have to greet the First Years?"
"Professor Flitwick is covering for me. I only hope he doesn't get lost among them." She said. "I have some matters to discuss with you however."
Harry arched his eyebrows, "what sort of things?"
"Wait until we reach my office." Harry shut his mouth and hurried to keep up with the brisk pace McGonagall was at. When they reached her office, she shut the door and turned around.
"It seems that many of our students are...well...on the Dark Side I guess you could say. I can't say I haven't known this for many years, but now that You-Know-Who has returned, well, it seems some of them may perhaps not be afraid to cause trouble for you. They know that if expelled the," and at the next word she grimaced, "Dark Lord will provide for their education and protection..."
"And they believe him?" Harry interrupted.
"That's not the point, but I personally can't see how they could. At any rate, I believe it's best for you to be on guard. Do not wander the halls alone and if you must," she hesitated, "wear that invisibility cloak of yours. Do not stall in the halls and ignore any remarks made by, well...you know who I'm talking about, certain people. We, the headmaster, other teachers and I, will try to keep an eye on you and your friends. I understand that you've already had a few run-ins this summer?" Harry nodded, "Well, keep away from them. We will not hesitate to punish those who make infractions to the rules. Please tell me that you will not go looking for trouble Potter."
"I promise," Harry said, though thoroughly displeased with the idea of an "eye" being kept on him at all times.
"Good. Now, let's head to the feast, I daresay there's a great amount of food awaiting us."
They left the room and headed for the Great Hall. As Harry and Professor McGonagall parted ways, she nodded to him, "Be wary Potter," and returned to the Head Table. Harry entered the Great Hall, with the expectation that the feast had begun. However, to his unpleasant surprise, he found that Professor Dumbledore was merely just finishing a speech. Therefore, upon his entrance, all heads turned to him. He lowered his head and went to sit between Ron and Hermione. Though Dumbledore was still speaking, many eyes lingered on Harry. Many first years eyes in particular.
"Where were you?" Hermione hissed.
"Oh, McGonagall had to talk to me. Tell you about it later," he whispered. Ron raised his eyebrows and they turned to the Head Table.
"Last thing before we begin our feast, I would like to introduce you to the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Wert."
For the first time, they noticed a figure towards the end of the table lower his hood on his cloak and smile to the crowd.
"Looks kinda creepy, wouldn't ya say?" Ron whispered. Harry nodded, the once hooded person did look creepy. Dark brown hair hung tangled around his face, his nose was pointed and his eyes flickered around the room.
"Reminds me of Moody in a way, and Snape at the same time," Hermione commented. Harry shuddered, if he was like Moody, it would be fine, but Snape...
"Now that business is all taken care of...let's eat!" Professor Dumbledore said.
Suddenly food magically appeared in front of them and they dug in.
After the food was all cleared from the plates and Dumbledore dismissed them, they quickly made their way to the common room where Ron told them the password, "Dumbledore's Army," and they entered.
"So Harry," Ron began, as Ginny went to join some friends, "What was McGonagall talking to you about?"
Harry shrugged, "not much, she was telling me to be extra wary. She believes that some students, and you know who, may be out to get me with the idea that Voldemort will reward them if they harm me and take care of them if they are expelled."
"Not surprising," Hermione surmised, "You really should be wary. Really Harry, be careful."
"Don't worry," Harry said, "C'mon, do you think I'd actually go looking for trouble?"
Ron and Hermione exchanged looks.
"I really don't think so," Harry answered his own question.
"I reckon not," Hermione said, though her face remained concerned.
Harry and Ron involved themselves in playing a game of wizarding chess while Hermione sat in front of the fire and read a book. As soon as their game was finished (Ron won of course), Ron stood up and yawned. "Well, I'm zonked. G'night."
"I 'spose I'll go up too," Harry sighed. "Night Hermione."
"Good night," she said in reply before turning around and heading up into the girl's dormitory.
Harry and Ron turned around and climbed up the stairs to the boys. Seamus, Dean and Neville were already there, ready for bed. Harry quickly changed into his nightclothes and drifted off into a dreamless sleep.
Harry awoke the next morning ready to go. He quickly dressed, then, meeting Ron and Hermione by the portrait, they made for the Great Hall. McGonagall was walking up and down the table, as usual, handing out schedules.
Harry groaned when he saw his. Every class was double something for the most part and he had Potions that afternoon. He looked over at Ron's and noticed it the same, except there was a blank where Harry had potions.
"So not fair," Harry complained.
"Don't see why not," Ron commented, "I'm quite happy with it."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "Well, we've got Transfiguration first. Shall we head off soon?"
Harry shrugged, "sure, let me finish this toast first though." He shoved the food down his throat, stood up and followed Hermione and Ron to Transfiguration.
They entered to find a slightly larger class than normal. "Looks like not many people decided to drop Transfiguration," Hermione commented.
"Cept a lot of Slytherins," Harry commented happily. It was true, while the class was larger due to all four houses being together, not many had dropped it, save the Slytherins. However, Harry was unhappy to note, Malfoy was still there.
"Good Morning," Professor McGonagall greeted them, "Glad to see you all back and alive. As you can see, not many of your classmates have chosen to drop this class, you all did quite well on your O.W.L.S. You will now be enjoying entire mornings in my classroom, as the spells we will be learning are more difficult than one's in the past. Now, if you will take out your books and parchment paper, we will begin taking notes on animal transformations." They spent the rest of the class period scrupulously taking notes and were allowed to attempt to transfigure a goldfish into a tadpole by the of the class, Hermione, once again was the only one able to. They left the class at the end of the period with aching hands from writing and foot long essay to write about animal transformations.
"Lunch!" Ron groaned happily as they entered the Great Hall. Their classes lasted entire mornings now and lunch was a much anticipated meal. They hurriedly took their seats and scarfed down a short meal before heading off to their afternoon class, potions.
"See you later!" Ron said happily to Harry and Hermione. Harry glared at him.
"This is so not fair," he groaned, "I have to spend another two years with Snape while you..."
"Take accounting."
"Accounting?"
"Yes, apparently, I have to still take another class and as I am going to go into the Ministry, this is the only class available."
Harry smirked, "Well, have fun with that..."
"It's not Snape!"
Harry shook his head, "I still can't believe I have to spend another year with that..."
"Would you care to finish that sentence Potter, or would you just like me to deduct points now?"
Harry froze and turned around. Snape.
"That'll be twenty points from Gryffindor, never insult a teacher Potter, I would have thought you'd know better by now."
Harry saw Malfoy a few feet behind him grinning, he scowled and turned and stomped down the stairs, Hermione hurrying right behind him. The end of the previous year was still fresh in his mind, he hated Snape, hated him with a passion.
They reached the classroom and Harry slumped down in the third row back, Hermione joined him on the right. The rest of the class filed in shortly behind.
Harry would have like to go on a rampage about Snape, however he quickly turned his attention to instead who had just begun talking about the importance of keeping up in his class and getting N.E.W.T.S. in Potions, his eyes continuously flickering to Harry. Soon, they got started taking notes on Sleeping Potions and by the end of class had begun the first steps (the potions had to sit a few nights). When the bell rang, Harry and Hermione made their way to the Great Hall, meeting Ron on the way. As it turned out, his class was only half a period and he had spent the latter part of the afternoon practicing Quidditch.
"You could have worked on homework you know!" Hermione scolded.
"Nah," Ron replied, "then I'd be ahead of you!"
Hermione raised her eyebrows at him but said no more.
"Well, we better get eating so we can do some homework tonight," Hermione informed them quickly as they sat down and ate. Harry glanced around the Great Hall, an odd feeling in his heart. He took notice that Malfoy wasn't present, nor were Crabbe and Goyle. He also took note that Ginny was no where to be seen.
"Ron, where's Ginny?"
Ron shrugged, "How am I supposed to know? She's probably in the library, she just started her O.W.L.S. this year."
"I dunno, I think we should go find her," Harry said nervously. Neither she nor Malfoy and his gang are here."
Ron took the last bite of his potato pie.
"I think Harry's got a point Ron, let's go." Hermione said nervously.
They got up and made for the stairs.
However, before they could reach the top, Professor McGonagall and Dumbledore came down the stairs, a grim look upon both faces.
"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, could you please follow me to my office?" McGonagall asked.
Harry and Ron looked at each other, and then at Hermione, before turning and following McGonagall.
"I'll look for her," she whispered to them.
"Na-ah Miss Granger, I need you to go to the hospital wing with Professor Dumbledore, there is someone you need to see." She pursed her lips.
"But-."
"No."
Hermione nodded and turned, heading for the hospital wing. Harry and Ron followed McGonagall who was walking at a brisk pace.
"What is it professor?" Harry asked breathlessly as they made it through the corridors.
She said nothing. Harry and Ron looked at each other. They couldn't be in trouble all ready, could they?
They walked on and reached McGonagall's office shortly. She walked in, beckoned them and shut the door briskly. Pointing to a plate of cookies and pumpkin juice, she motioned for them to help themselves, however they were too nervous to.
"What is it professor?" Harry asked once more.
"Potter, I've got good news and bad news. The good news is, you've just been made captain of the Quidditch Team.
"But, I was kicked off last year!"
"No matter, you're back on. Dumbledore has removed the ban."
Ron grinned at Harry, "congratulations!"
"Thanks," Harry said in reply.
"Now, the bad news...You remember Potter, when I warned you yesterday of trouble brewing?"
"Yes,"
"It turns out that they weren't waiting, in either worlds. Somebody, I'm not sure who at the moment, but somebody, attacked your sister," she turned to Ron.
"Is she okay?" Ron gasped, his eyes wide.
"Thankfully, yes, she has a few burns, she was in an empty corridor when the ambush occurred. I will take you to visit her shortly."
Ron nodded, his face stunned. "You don't know who did it then?"
"As I said, I do not. I found her lying in the fourth floor corridor near the end of dinner, I was heading around the castle doing a nightly check before heading to my sleeping quarters. I immediately contacted Dumbledore and Madame Pomfrey, who came immediately. She is on the mend.
"Unfortunately, many in the outside world have not been so lucky. None who concern you, however, Professor Dumbledore wanted me to share this with you. A muggle school was attacked. Luckily, school had been let out early and there were few children, yet six were killed and ten suffered injury. Remus Lupin was among the Aurors who went to the site, what he saw was awful. The school was in ruins, the Dark Mark in the sky, and bodies. Because of recent events, you will only be allowed to attend Hogsmeade with a teacher and in your invisibility cloak Potter, as well as you and Miss Granger." She nodded to Ron, "I do not want any of you wandering the hallways alone, an announcement will be made to the whole school by each House's individual Head later on. Be wary." They shortly made their way to the Gryffindor Common Room where many students listened horrified to the news, the fifth years especially.
Harry and Ron made their way to the hospital wing after retrieving the invisibility cloak, when they entered the room they first saw Hermione, her face was solemn. They walked towards the bed and for the first time they noticed Mrs. Weasley, her eyes red and full of tears.
Ron ran to her, glancing at Ginny as he passed her. She looked healed from any affliction now, but was sleeping. "What's wrong mum?"
She looked up at Ron, "I have some bad news..."
Ooooh, cliffie!! I know this has taken centuries to write, but I seriously don't have time. I hope you liked this chapter. Please Review and send me ideas, that might help to get the chapters up faster. Also, let me know if you'd rather have chapters this length spaced out, or shorter chapters less spaced out. Prongs.
Thanks to:
Gkey: they might come back...you'll see
Natalie: Maybe next chapter or so...
Crystal: Thanks!
Bookworm: we'll see...
And all my other reviewers!!!!!