Chapter 15:
The Dreaded Return
By: Chronos the Fallen Angel
Author's Note: Damn you school, Damn you to hell. I've had about three hours of home work a day. Then I have to practice my instrument. Damn it all. Sorry for not updating sooner. Please Read and Review.
I'm sorry, again thanks to those who have read my story and review it. I just recently saw Spirited Away, good movie, rent it if you have the time. Gave me a few ideas. Probably won't use any of them, but still.
Go Mustangs, saw my school's football team win yesterday, Friday, September 05th, 2003 for those who don't know, win 49-6 against Maine East. And the marching band was great.
Again, J.K. Rowlings owns Harry and the gang, DC owns Supergirl and the Specter (Hal Jordan), and I own Roland Childe and the plot.
* * * * * *
The day they left for King's Cross came quickly. But Harry had some of the greatest days of his summer. He enjoyed his new friends' presence, but being back with people like Ron and Ginny was like being back at Hogwarts. They were laughing again, having fun. And all the memories, the good memories of Hogwarts came back. And Hermione, Harry was at a loss of words when it came to her. She was looking more stunning and beautiful every day that he saw her. And there weren't enough words to describe her.
Harry thought that it was best for Ginny to see some mutants control their powers, and so that was what Harry and Hermione did. Late on afternoon, Ron led them to a field near the burrow. The whole point of them doing this was to get away from his mother who was hovering over Ginny's shoulder, just 'checking up on her.' Harry knew better, she was worried about her as much as the rest of them. But they didn't constantly ask if she was okay, or felt sick or anything. In fact, Harry and Hermione treated her the best, as they knew what she was going through. But they couldn't teach her anything about transforming.
So they did their best and showed her that being a mutant wasn't so bad. Harry demonstrated his ability to manipulate the earth and create statues of him and his friends. Hermione created gusts of wind and changed the colors of the air, painting pictures. Ginny too was working on the abilities that she gained with her becoming a mutant. She was more agile and moved faster, and climbed up trees with her claws. She seemed more like her self then Harry had ever seen her before.
The day that they had to leave for King's Cross, every one was up early. Including Ron, who despite his protests, was forced out of his bed by his sister. Harry and Hermione were already dressed and talking in their room when Mrs. Weasley came by to wake them up. "Sorry, dears," she said, as she opened the door to see Hermione sitting on the bed, and Harry in a chair across from her. He had guitar out and was peacefully strumming the strings. "Didn't know that both of you were awake."
"It's alright, Mrs. Weasley," Harry replied, he calmly placed guitar back in its case. "Are we getting ready to go?"
"Yes, I'll send Ron up to help you with your trucks." Harry smiled; she still didn't know that they were both mutants.
"It's okay," Harry stood up and walked over to their trunks. He had brought his in early that morning. Hermione fixed the straps so that they were easier for Harry to carry. He grunted for a moment, before picking up both of them, barely straining. "See."
Mrs. Weasley was shocked by what Harry did, but didn't say anything about it. "Okay, Harry, if you say so." She walked off, still surprised at what he did. Harry sighed and placed the trunks back down.
"What's wrong," Hermione asked, she sat up, looking at him.
"Nothing," Harry replied, and picked them back up, "my grip was bad the first time, that's all." But that wasn't it. They felt heavier then the last time, but he didn't dare say anything about it. His strength quickly returned and they felt as light as a feather again. But Harry didn't just dismiss it, this wasn't the first time his powers stopped working. They always returned though, so he wasn't worried, just concerned. Harry walked toward the door, carefully maneuvering his way out of the small doorway. He walked down the stairs and placed them next to the rest of their trunks.
Harry couldn't believe after all the weight and muscle he had gained, he was still this skinny kid. He stopped in front of the mirror in the front hallway. It was a Muggle mirror, so it didn't say anything. Granted, he had broader shoulders and a bit bigger biceps, but that was about it. He was still this skinny kid, and if he had his glasses, you could barely notice the difference in appearance from last year. Hermione had changed a lot; she was about the same size, a bit bigger from growing into her body. She was still shorter then both him and Ron, and Harry thought that she was beautiful.
Harry walked back upstairs, and waited for Hermione to come. They fit all of their stuff in their trunks, including the cloths that they had brought with them. She came out carrying his guitar case and Hedwig's cage. "Hey, beautiful," Harry said, giving her a soft kiss on the cheek.
"Who me?" Hermione replied, smiling.
"of course you. Is there anyone else I know who is as beautiful?'
"Maybe," she said, "you could be cheating on me."
"now why would I go to another girl who isn't half as smart as you, a quarter as brave as you, and who can't even hold a flame to your beauty its so bright." Hermione blushed and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. Harry wrapped an arm around hers and led Hermione down the stairs. They took a seat next to their trunks, waiting for everyone else. Soon Ron came down, still yawning. Mrs. Weasley followed, then Mr. Weasley. Ginny was the last one to come down, a smile on her face. Harry was thankful that she had gotten over him. He knew that smile was there because she looked normal, like nothing had ever happened to her.
"Everyone ready?" Mr. Weasley asked, he was so excited. Roland had sent some computer parts the day before and he spent the entire day looking at them, trying to figure out how they work. "good, the ministry is supplying some cars this year. They should be here soon."
"The last time I did that was when they thought." Harry trailed off, he didn't feel like finishing the sentence, he didn't want to.
"I don't know," he replied. "But a gift's a gift. So why don't you boys help me get these outside and wait for the cars."
Once all the trunks were outside, the cars quickly arrived. Two to be exact. There were stretch limos that Harry and rarely seen, only when they were driving around in Uncle Vernon's, old SUV. Harry was worrying about it, but Hermione told him to forget it. He wanted to and god knows he tried, but he just couldn't get it out of his mind that there was something odd about it. Soon the trunks were load up and so were the remaining Weasleys. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley got into one limo, along with Fred and George. Ginny, Ron, Hermione and Harry got into the other one. They started to play a game of Exploding Snap the moment the limo began to move. Harry kept looking out the window, an arm around Hermione. He was worried for an odd reason, and why should he be. Everything that he cared about was with him, his friends, his family, his girlfriend.
the limo braked suddenly and began to spin out. Harry quickly braced himself, as did the rest of them in the car. None of them had seat belts on. Luckily, the limo regained control. But it didn't start moving again. Harry watched as the driver got out, drawing his wand. A loud thundering sound came from outside. Hermione curled into Harry's chest. "Shh," he whispered to her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. "It'll be alright." Harry looked up at Ron. "Watch both of them; I'm going to see if I can help."
"But Harry-" Ron started.
"No buts, Ron," Harry replied, "just stay in the limo." He returned to Hermione and rubbed her shoulders softly. "'Mione?"
"Hurry back, please," she whispered to Harry, "and just don't die, alright?"
"Alright," Harry kissed her head. Hermione slowly released Harry and stared at him as she moved toward the door, another thunder came from outside. Harry hoped that she was rushed to side, but Hermione just stayed still, shaking. He sighed and opened the door.
The sight he saw was truly a shock to see. A crater was in the center of the road, and the first car barely made it across. Another red lightning bolt came down from the sky, and crashed in the middle of the crater. Thunder quickly followed. Harry looked around for their driver to see him on the shoulder of the road, rubbing his head. Harry drew his wand from his pocket, and focused his powers. His body turned a dull gray, the color of granite. He felt his skin hardened, Harry rolled up his sleeves just in time before two large gauntlets could be formed beneath it. The hand that held his wand formed a case around the wand, pointing it straight forward. Harry smiled at his little transformation. He walked forward carefully and another lightning bolt crashed in front of him.
Harry looked down into the crater, trying to see what had happened. A cloud of dust and smoke was covering the bottom, and he couldn't see a thing. A body came flying out of the crater, landing hard behind Harry. He quickly turned around and pointed his wand at the body. It was just like the man he had seen when they went to Diagon Alley. The one Roland teleported away with. Odd, he thought. Another body came flying out, landing onto of it. It looked like a female, but its body was covered with chains. It landed hard, and the chains that covered it clattered. Harry rubbed his head with his free hand. Something had to do, Harry thought, but what?
"I am the Hunter," a figure rose out of the cloud. Harry wiped around and pointed his wand at it. It was the creature that was fighting the other beast four days again. The skin was black and red, following a pattern of some sorts. It held a single broadsword, straight forward; black hair floated around its head. Two red iris eyes stared straight forward, right at the other creatures. The rest of the eyes were pitch-black. But it wasn't all that that worried Harry, it was the wings that made this creature fly. Two black crow-like wings were flapping behind him. Crow- like, Roland? Harry paused for a moment, thinking about what to do. "Thou have committed crimes against humanity in this realm. My judgment has past." The creature spoke like Fallen did, his voice dark and deep.
The woman in chains stood up. "How dare you forsake your own kind, demon?" she shouted. Odd, Harry thought again, the way she spoke was almost like this Hunter, but feminine.
"I have no kind." A red lightning bolt came from the creature's sword, and burned the woman to cinders. The body collapsed to the ground, and Harry heard weak breathing. "And no, devil's worker, I pass judgment on you." A red bolt of lightning came from the sword again, this time, the other creature dodged it.
"Sheria was right, you have for-" it started to say, but another bolt came from the sky, turning it to ash and dust.
"My judgment has past," the flying creature looked at the ground and then at Harry. "You there, boy?"
"You monster," Harry replied, "How dare you forsaken them?"
"I have simply brought out what has been decided." It replied.
"Who are you?" Harry replied, he was being careful, thought he wanted more, he didn't dare try to anger this creature; it was truly a force to be reckon with.
"For now, you can call me Exodus." He spun his broadsword, and placed in a sheath on his back. "My friend has informed me of a problem he has, the one including another boy named Steven." Harry nearly fell down. "This Steven is the first human to have judgment pasted on him in over a century. As to the reason for the wait in his punishment."
"You seem so certain that Steven is going to be punished," Harry asked. "But isn't he going to be given a chance?"
Exodus laughed, "my, aren't we naïve?" Harry frowned at this. "A man, let a lone a stubborn boy like Steven, couldn't change over a year. And the evil he committed can not go without being punished." He laughed again. "Roland is one lucky boy, having a chance to past judgment on a human. Your gods know what I would do for that chance." He started to fly away. And Harry cold only frown at the situation. There was nothing he could do as this Exodus was powerful, maybe more powerful then Voldemort. But that finally brought some sense into the picture, if Steven was the first human to have judgment, what ever that was, past on him in over a century, then that's why Voldemort was still alive. But why then?
The crater began to disappear, along with the ashes and cinders of the two bodies Exodus killed. The limos were placed slowly back onto the road. Harry calmed down and took a seat on the curb, thinking about what had happened. Hermione rushed out and hugged him. He smiled at her, and wrapped his arms around her waist. "You okay?" were the first words out of his mouth. Hermione nodded, and gave him a quick peck on the cheek.
"That was very brave of you," Hermione said softly, resting her head on his shoulder.
"And you were brave, too, 'Mione," Harry replied. He stood up, and she followed, slowly letting go of Harry. Her hand moved to his and they linked. They walked back over to the limos, Harry whispered something to her. "I'll talk to you about this later, alright?" Hermione just nodded, understanding what he wanted perfectly.
"What happened?" Mr. Weasley came running over, "I saw that creature attack the other two, but-" he looked at Harry and just stood there in silence, understanding everything. That four days Harry had spent with the Weasleys had many advantages. Mr. Weasley turned to the limo drivers, "c'mon let's get moving we can sort this out later." He motioned for them to get back in their seats and begin driving again. "We don't want to be late."
Harry heard Hermione sigh, and he quietly wrapped a shoulder around him. She looked up at him and understood what had occurred while she was inside the car. It was about a hunter and then Roland and Steven. "We really do need to talk, don't we?" Hermione asked quietly as they entered the car.
"Yes," Harry replied, "yes we do."
* * * * * *
Excluding that short little incident, the ride to King's Cross was uneventful. But that didn't stop them from talking. Ron wanted to know what exactly happened and so did Ginny. So Harry ended up explaining what Roland had told him that one night, and what occurred outside. Hermione sat calmly next to Harry, but she didn't' say anything about what Steven did to her. Harry didn't even want to talk about it. Instead, he promised that he would tell it when Hermione was ready.
They reached King's Cross and everyone was acting like there normal selves, happy and upbeat. Harry was excited to return to Hogwarts, and could see the glimmer in Hermione's eyes when she was thinking about Hogwarts. Harry and Ron got their trunks out, while Ginny and Hermione went looking for trolleys. "So what is this Roland character like anyway?' Ron asked. Harry sighed, he had asked that question so many times when he was over at the burrow.
"I told you Ron," Harry replied, "you can judge for yourself when you meet him. He's a nice guy and all, but-"
"Whose this nice guy," Roland came walking up, using his cane every other step. "Someone I know?"
"Certainly not you," Heather said from right behind him.
"Ha, ha," Roland replied, "you're just upset that I beat you again on our way here." He looked over at her and smiled, his sunglasses reflecting the light into Harry's eyes. "Hello, Ron, Harry," he turned back and smiled. Something was odd about Roland today, Harry felt like there was something wrong about him. Like this wasn't his first time meeting today.
"Hello, Roland," Harry replied none the less. He offered a smile. "Ron this is Roland, as you know." Ron stared jaw dropped. He was like this when he first met the Quidditch star.
"Close your mouth, Ron," Roland said, "I don't think you want to catch flies." Ron did as he was asked.
"Sir, its-it's," Ron stammered.
"An honor, I know," Roland replied. "Please, there is certainly no reason to call me sir. Roland will do just fine." He held out his hand and Ron took it, shaking it slowly. "Now about being afraid of me-"
"Roland," Heather slapped his arm, and he returned it with a playful smile. She turned around and saw Hermione with Ginny. "Hey, Hermione!" she ran over to her and greeted the small red head.
"So," Harry turned back to Roland, "are you two a couple yet?"
Roland sighed and rubbed the back of his head. "Not yet," he said, "haven't worked up the courage to ask her."
"You afraid?" Harry laughed, "I didn't think I'd see the day."
"I know, I know," Roland laughed too, "but the worse thing I can do is hurt her, and I don't want to do that." A frown came on his face as he was thinking. Harry understood what he was talking about. They worse thing he could do to Hermione was hurt he and he would never do that.
"Do what Roland?" Heather came back and looped a around one of his.
"Don't worry about it," he replied, "c'mon, let's go see the train." A smile came back to his face when he mentioned it and nearly dragged Heather off with him. Hermione and Ginny had the trolleys with them as the other two left.
"What did you think of him," Hermione asked. She knew that Ron wanted to meet Roland a lot. But he didn't answer. Ron just stared at forward. "Ron?"
Harry waved a hand in front of his eyes. Ron finally blinked and rubbed his eyes. He looked at his hand. "I actually met the greatest Quidditch player ever." Harry broke out laughing, and soon Hermione and Ginny joined in.
They all made their way to Platform 9 and ¾. Harry and standing next to Hermione, quietly talking to her about Exodus and everything. Despite the fact that he already here, he left some things out when he was talking to Ron and Ginny. "I swear," He added, "that was Roland."
"But it couldn't be," Hermione replied, "Roland's too kind, isn't he?" she stopped and began to think about her cousin. Harry paused right behind her, and slowly wrapped an arm around her waist.
"I don't know, 'Mione," Harry said, "it could go either way." He looked down at her, and saw that she was in deep thought. He heard a familiar voice off in the distance. Harry looked up and saw Roland talking to their new professor, Professor Jordan. "I don't give a damn," Professor Jordan said. They weren't too far away, but clearly caught up in a fight.
Harry pointed forward and said, "'Mione, look." She looked up and saw her cousin.
"Well, I do," Roland replied, sharply. "I have a job to do, one that I was given by your god damned master." He began to turn, but Professor Jordan.
"You won't be doing that job as long as you are going to the school," the teacher snapped. "I have thousands of wards around the castle, protecting them from your kind."
Roland turned sharply around and stared at the professor; he quickly removed his sunglasses and glared at him with his hollow eyes. But Harry could have sworn he saw a hint of red in them. "As I told that beast before I banished him, I have no kind." He stormed off, placing on his sunglasses, and his coat dancing right behind him.
"See, Exodus told the demon before he killed that creature," Harry replied, he looked back up and saw Professor Jordan gone. He was rather surprised that they heard the conversation.
"But still, that couldn't be Roland," Hermione denied, "Roland's too kind." She paused for a moment, thinking again. "But from the way you described this person, it sound like someone else we know."
"Who," Harry asked.
"Fallen." Harry was ready to reply, but Hermione was right. When he saw Fallen defeat the death eaters, it was with ruthless efficiency, and the same voice. He was about to ask Hermione another question before Mr. Weasley came up behind them, telling them to get moving. He was right the train as leaving at ten o'clock sharp. Harry wanted to talk about this some more, but they had to get to Hogwarts Express.
The quickly pasted through the portal to the train, and got their trunks aboard it. Harry saw Ginny talking to some of her friends. He saw Ron with an arm around lavender talking to Dean, Seamus, and Parvati. The three boys laughed, while Parvati shook her head. Harry sighed and decided that this year was going to be one of the best he had at Hogwarts. And with Hermione as his girlfriend, he wasn't going to allow Voldemort to ruin his fun.
Once Hermione got her trunk aboard the train, she was immediately back at Harry's side. He looked down at her with a simple smile on his face, and she gladly returned it. Harry slowly grabbed her hand and they walked over to one of the car, climbing into it. Thank god, he thought, no one had said anything yet about me and Hermione.
Harry knew that Ron would find them once the train gets moving, and Lavender would probably join him when Hermione and Ron went off to do prefect things. He was beginning to become decent friends with her, but he was still best friends of Ron and Hermione. Roland and Heather would obviously find them, as they were the only ones they knew. So they search the train for an open cabin. Instead, Harry found Roland and Heather first. Hermione was right behind him, she was scolding a second year for tricking some of the new students. The train jerked forward and they were off.
"Hey Harry," Roland said as he stopped in front of the door. He and Heather were playing a game of magic. Roland had about twice as many cards out as Heather did, but Harry didn't know much about the game.
Harry was reluctant to enter, as he had this new image of Roland to worry about. "I don't bite, Harry." Damn it, he thought, Roland had his empathic abilities, and if he wanted to he could read my mind, after all. He decided to wait for Hermione, and Roland turned back to the game. "Suit yourself, then."
"Oh," Harry replied, "it's not you; I'm just waiting for Hermione."
"Whatever," if it was meant to sound hurt, Roland didn't do a good job of it. He sounded normal, like his happy self. But Harry felt something weird, like he knew about Harry knowing that he knew. Harry heard a card being slapped onto the table, "and that Heather is the end of your life points."
"Damn it, Roland," she replied, Harry turned back and saw that both of them were smiling at each other. "Why do you have to win all the time?"
"I don't like to lose." Was the reply and Harry turned back to the corridor, he saw Hermione walking down to him. But something was wrong. She looked paler then normal, and looked like she'd seen a ghost. Harry rushed over to her side.
"Hermione what's wrong?" he asked, placing a hand on her shoulder. Almost immediately, she had her arms around his chest, and was sobbing. "What happened?"
"He's here, Harry," Hermione sobbed, "he's actually here, I can't-"
"Shh," Harry said, rubbing her back, trying to calm her down. "It's alright. C'mon." He led her over to the compartment that Roland and Heather were in. Roland was laughing about something as they were entering. But the laughter stopped the moment they did enter. Roland's head snapped to where they were. "Something happened," Harry said, knowing what he was about to ask. He took a seat near the door, Hermione sitting on his lap, still sobbing
"I know," Roland replied, "and I have a pretty good idea as to what it is." He pulled out something from his pocket, a little fortune cookie. "Have her eat this half of this. You the other half." Roland handed it to Harry.
"What?" Harry asked, it didn't make sense.
"Don't worry about the why," Roland said, "just do as I asked." He was calm and collect, and Harry still didn't trust him. But he did as he was asked. He broke the fortune cookie in have, and placed the fortune on the seat next to him. His first thing was to get a half in Hermione's mouth. She seemed to know what was going on even though she refused to move from his chest. Hermione opened her mouth and Harry placed a half in her mouth. Harry then ate his half. The reaction was immediate; Hermione calmed down and was no longer sobbing. She still had tears in her eyes, and the sobs turned to sniffles, but it was better. Harry still didn't understand why he ate his half though.
"You okay," Harry asked, rubbing her shoulders with his hands. She nodded and hugged his tightly. He turned to Roland with a puzzled look.
"That was a Calming Fortune," Roland replied. "Picked up a few of them from China last year. Take forever to rot." He leaned back in his seat. "Mostly they calm people down, and don't tell me that you weren't panicking, Harry. I'm an empath remember."
Harry sat back in his seat, and thought about what Roland said, he was right. He was panicking. He was worried about Hermione and what had occurred. "who'd' you see?' Harry asked. but when Hermione was about to say something, he saw who it was.
"Hello, there, Harry," that voice, Harry recognized it immediately. It belonged to the demon that hurt his girlfriend. He looked up and saw Steven standing there, smiling. Draco was right next to him and Crabbe and Goyle were behind both of them.
"It seems the little Mudblood has moved on, Steven," Draco said, smirking.
"Mudslut, Draco," Steven corrected, "remember, she's a-" he didn't get another word out.
Roland's right hand had met its destination and smashed into Steven's jaw. He fell to the ground. Heather was at Roland's side, helping him stand. He wasn't using a cane any more, and had an evil glare. "I resent all forms of bigotry and stupidity," Roland replied, and was clearly holding his anger in. "You damned dumb-ass bigot."
"Damn little-" Draco tried to take a swing at Roland, but he ducked and gave the Slytherin perfect two shot to his kidneys. A quick left upper-cut followed, and he was on the floor. Roland was standing straight up and smirked at the two fallen students.
Steven got to his feet and drew his wand, pointing it at Roland. "I don't think you know who I am," Steven said, he spat onto the floor, a red spot appeared.
"No," Roland replied, taking a step forward, not showing he was a cripple. "I don't think you know who I am."
"I'm the Head boy." Hermione grasped but didn't say anything.
Roland took a few steps forward and was standing nearly nose to nose with Steven. He leaned forward and whispered so only he could hear, "I am the Fallen." Harry heard it oddly enough, but didn't say anything. Steven just stood there, a blank stare and jaw-dropped. Roland took a step back and crossed his arms, waiting for a reply.
Draco stood up, holding his jaw. His mouth was bleeding too. "c'mon, Steven, blast him out the wall." Steven didn't move. "C'mon, hurt that Muggle-Loving bastard."
Roland pointed a finger at Draco, "Another comment like that and I'll hurt you so bad that you'll be eating your meals through a straw for the rest of your life." Harry was worried that Roland would give away his mutant abilities but he was at least calm enough to not do that.
"C'mon," Steven motioned for them to move away, he was in deep thought. Draco didn't move he just stared at Roland. Crabbe and Goyle followed
"This isn't over," Draco said, pointing a finger at him.
"Count on it," Roland replied, a slick smile crossing his face. He crossed his arms, and sunglasses dropped down from his face. Draco nearly jumped out of his shoes when he saw the hollowness and quickly ran off. Roland exhaled deeply before he nearly collapsed onto the ground. Heather grabbed his arm and pulled Roland up.
"Normally," she said to him, smiling, "I'd stop you, but."
"I was right for once," Roland coughed again, pulling out his handkerchief. He coughed into it a few more times, then was lead over to a seat by Heather.
Harry had Hermione lap, she was still upset, but that fortune cookie calmed her down a lot. Its effect had lasted pretty long, as he didn't feel upset or angry. Harry knew that he should be with what both Draco and Steven said, but he just couldn't. But that feeling of calmness was disappearing. "You know that he was coming, didn't you?" Roland shrugged his shoulders and began to cough violently again. "But you know about the effects that it had right?" Roland nodded, coughing some more.
"You sure you're alright?" Heather asked, taking a seat next to him.
"My body," Roland coughed, "is just tried." He coughed some more, "don't worry about me, I'll-" a long string of coughs followed, and finally Roland stopped. He took deep breaths and looked up. "I felt Steven walking down the hallway, but I didn't know he was coming. And I knew about the effects of the Calming Fortune. As for me being alright." he spit into his hand and showed what was in it. A red liquid was mixed into the spit. "I don't know."
"Roland," Heather said, staring at the palm of his hand. "That might be-"
"I know," he replied, placing his other hand on her shoulder, "I know." He looked at Hermione; Harry was wiping some of her tears away. "She better?"
"I think so," Harry said, he kissed her forehead softly and looked into her eyes. "You okay?"
"Yeah," was the reply, and she rested her head on his shoulder. Roland wiped the spit on his shirt, watching them carefully.
"Don't you have prefect duties to do?" Harry asked.
"I'm not moving," Hermione said softly, "I'm not going anywhere near that, that-"
"Demon?" Roland finished, but the normal smile was missing from his face. "Yes, I believe that that is the appropriate word for our dear friend Steven." He nodded and reassured himself. "But," Roland stood up slowly, with much effort. "A job's a job." He looked at Hermione, "and you got to do yours, despite-"
"No, I won't go," she snapped and hugged Harry tighter.
"Your fears." Roland summoned a cane for the shadows. "Life is filled with problems and challenges, many of them created by the doings of others. Steven may have done something horrible to you, but you can't let him control your life. You must say, do your worst for I will do mine." Roland held out his hand for Hermione to take and get up from Harry's lap.
As much as he didn't want it, Harry knew that Hermione need to face her fears. Roland had this aura about him, one that seemed so just and right, that brought out the best in people. That was probably why people trusted him so easily. And knowing Roland he way he does, Harry knew that he would never take advantage of this ability.
Hermione looked at the hand then to Harry. He nodded and she took it, slowly getting up. But she refused to release Harry's neck, pulling him up with her. "I doubt Harry wouldn't like to come and protect you, but."
"I know, I know," Hermione replied, "I just don't want to go yet." Harry kissed her but quickly pulled away. Hermione moved in closer for another one, but Harry pulled away.
"Later, when you come back." He gave her a sweet smile, and kissed her forehead. "Now go one, and if you feel really bad, just ask Ron to look after you. He's our best friend after all." Hermione retuned the smile. "Remember, you are as brave as you want to be, 'Mione." Hermione let go of him, slowly, and began to walk toward the door. Ron came walking down the hallway. Hermione looked at Harry one more time, he just nodded. She hung her head and began to walk down where the prefects were meeting.
"I know you hated doing that-" Roland started.
"Shut up, just shut up," Harry snapped. He hated Roland for this right now, but knew that he was right.
"You don't get it, do you Harry," Roland asked, "after all that I told you, you still don't get it. She has to face this fear, this-this-" he began to stumble on his words, moving his hands in circles. Roland was searching for his word. "This barrier that she created for herself. I thought it was already broken down when we left the mansion, but it seems not." He leaned back against his seat, and exhaled deeply. "Seems I've been wrong," Roland took another deep breath, "Again." He chuckled to himself for a few seconds before had another coughing fit. Heather leaned Roland forward and hit his back a few times. Roland coughed up more blood, and some began to spill out of his mouth. Roland started to stand up, and nearly collapsed.
Heather quickly reached his side and felt his forehand. "My god, he's burning up." Harry was down on the ground, too, crouching next to his fallen friend.
She picked up his shoulders, then his legs, and ran down the hallway. Harry stood up and started to follow, but a hand stopped him. "Easy there," a familiar voice said, "she's going to do the best she can."
"Professor Jordan?" Harry asked.
"Roland will be fine, hopefully," but that last part was added quickly. "I fear that he hasn't been doing well. And with the amount of pressure he places on his body, healing will be long and hard."
"What are you talking about professor?" Harry asked, he didn't know whether or not this new professor should know about Roland's job.
"I mean his job, Harry," Professor Jordan replied, Harry gave this new professor a look of shock. He just laughed. "Professor Dumbledore told us about Roland's job a few weeks ago. I was rather surprised at how many people sympathized with him. Professor Snape was one of the people who wanted to actually help that-that.." He trailed off, and quickly changed the subject. "I hope you got that book I told you about?"
"I did, professor," Harry said, "I found it rather interesting."
"Good, I hope you will enjoy my class this year." He began to turn. "May I ask, what weapon did you get?"
"A war hammer," Harry said, "Roland said it was a dwarven one."
"Odd," Professor Jordan walked off, down where Heather went with Roland. "Take care Harry."
Harry walked back into the cabin, knowing that Hermione would come and find him when she was done with her prefect duties. But what the professor said about Roland, how the teachers sympathized with him and everything. Even Snape was on his side. But how could they, how could they agree with what he was doing. He was killing creatures. "Harry," Hermione said, he looked up and dropped his train of thoughts. She ran into his arms, hugging him tightly. "I missed you."
"I can see that, 'Mione," Harry replied. He kissed her forehead softly and she rested her head on his shoulder.
Ron came walking in, holding hands with Lavender. "Get a room you two," he said, smiling.
"So we can have this one," Lavender quickly added, Ron got a laugh out of it. Hermione giggled and Harry laughed along. He was just happy that Hermione was back with him, smiling.
"So," Harry asked, "how were prefect duties?"
"Fine, except-" Ron started.
"Steven kept on wanting to be partnered with me," Hermione said, worried and concerned. "Roland showed up, though. He stood at the back of the room, and kept a close eye on Steven."
"I didn't think he should be standing after what happened to him," Harry replied. Hermione cocked an eye brow. "He collapsed a bit earlier in here, blood coming out of his mouth. Had another coughing fit just before had too."
"Sounds like tuberculosis," Hermione rubbed her small chin. "Harry, that's deadly if untreated."
"So Roland could die," Ron asked. She nodded, and Harry noticed the concern in her eyes.
"Who's this Roland?" Lavender asked.
"He's a friend we meet in America, and my legal guardian," Hermione replied.
"He's pretty nice," Ron said, "I've talked to him a few times, but-"
"There's something about him, something." Harry started to finish, but couldn't. He didn't know what to say.
"What's there about him?" Lavender asked.
"It's like he has too completely different personalities," Hermione finished for both of them. "I seen only one, but Harry, I think, has seen both of them."
"Yeah," he replied, "and the second one, you don't want to cross." He hated to see Fallen work and with this Exodus exactly like it, he could have sworn that it was Roland.
"Oh," lavender replied, "it seems like he's pretty mean then."
"No, not all the time," Hermione said, "most of the time, Roland's a nice guy, but he just has his problems."
"But I always survive," Roland said, he appeared out of nowhere and had a smile on his face. He wasn't as pale as he was when he left, but he looked better. "Hello and how are you?" he asked to Lavender.
"I'm fine, thanks," Lavender replied, "who are you?"
"Why, I'm the new exchange student," Roland said, still smiling. "Name's Roland Childe," he gave a large bow, quite comically when he finished. Lavender laughed, and so did Hermione. Harry smiled at his girlfriend. "At your service."
"Really, Roland," Heather appeared next to him. "I hate it when you do that."
"Part of the reason why I do it, my dear Heather," he replied, still speaking in his comical voice. "The reason is to see smiles and hear laughter. Both a great thing." At the end of his small speech, Roland was calm and collect, almost wise. "Now I believe the cart that was filled with candy has left already, so if you excuse me." Roland started to walk off, but Heather grabbed his coat.
"I think you've eaten enough sweets for the day," she replied, smiling at him.
"Besides, Roland," Hermione shifted off Harry's lap, much to his dislike, "there a feast when we reach Hogwarts."
"fine, then," he huffed. Roland turned to Heather, pulling her down the hallway. "Let's go see the engine of this old train then." They disappeared down the hallway.
"Engine?" Lavender asked, both Harry and Hermione shrugged their shoulders.
"He must like trains or some dear," Ron said. "C'mon, Harry, we should change soon."
"as much as I hate to agree with Ron," Hermione smiled, and Ron shot a glare at her, "he's right." She pushed Harry toward the door, "So go, the sooner you leave, the sooner you can come back." Harry kissed Hermione on forehead and said good-bye. Ron did the same with his girlfriend. The two boys disappeared out the door. Hermione smiled and began to change into her schools cloths thinking about the happy times that she was going to have with Harry this year
By: Chronos the Fallen Angel
Author's Note: Damn you school, Damn you to hell. I've had about three hours of home work a day. Then I have to practice my instrument. Damn it all. Sorry for not updating sooner. Please Read and Review.
I'm sorry, again thanks to those who have read my story and review it. I just recently saw Spirited Away, good movie, rent it if you have the time. Gave me a few ideas. Probably won't use any of them, but still.
Go Mustangs, saw my school's football team win yesterday, Friday, September 05th, 2003 for those who don't know, win 49-6 against Maine East. And the marching band was great.
Again, J.K. Rowlings owns Harry and the gang, DC owns Supergirl and the Specter (Hal Jordan), and I own Roland Childe and the plot.
* * * * * *
The day they left for King's Cross came quickly. But Harry had some of the greatest days of his summer. He enjoyed his new friends' presence, but being back with people like Ron and Ginny was like being back at Hogwarts. They were laughing again, having fun. And all the memories, the good memories of Hogwarts came back. And Hermione, Harry was at a loss of words when it came to her. She was looking more stunning and beautiful every day that he saw her. And there weren't enough words to describe her.
Harry thought that it was best for Ginny to see some mutants control their powers, and so that was what Harry and Hermione did. Late on afternoon, Ron led them to a field near the burrow. The whole point of them doing this was to get away from his mother who was hovering over Ginny's shoulder, just 'checking up on her.' Harry knew better, she was worried about her as much as the rest of them. But they didn't constantly ask if she was okay, or felt sick or anything. In fact, Harry and Hermione treated her the best, as they knew what she was going through. But they couldn't teach her anything about transforming.
So they did their best and showed her that being a mutant wasn't so bad. Harry demonstrated his ability to manipulate the earth and create statues of him and his friends. Hermione created gusts of wind and changed the colors of the air, painting pictures. Ginny too was working on the abilities that she gained with her becoming a mutant. She was more agile and moved faster, and climbed up trees with her claws. She seemed more like her self then Harry had ever seen her before.
The day that they had to leave for King's Cross, every one was up early. Including Ron, who despite his protests, was forced out of his bed by his sister. Harry and Hermione were already dressed and talking in their room when Mrs. Weasley came by to wake them up. "Sorry, dears," she said, as she opened the door to see Hermione sitting on the bed, and Harry in a chair across from her. He had guitar out and was peacefully strumming the strings. "Didn't know that both of you were awake."
"It's alright, Mrs. Weasley," Harry replied, he calmly placed guitar back in its case. "Are we getting ready to go?"
"Yes, I'll send Ron up to help you with your trucks." Harry smiled; she still didn't know that they were both mutants.
"It's okay," Harry stood up and walked over to their trunks. He had brought his in early that morning. Hermione fixed the straps so that they were easier for Harry to carry. He grunted for a moment, before picking up both of them, barely straining. "See."
Mrs. Weasley was shocked by what Harry did, but didn't say anything about it. "Okay, Harry, if you say so." She walked off, still surprised at what he did. Harry sighed and placed the trunks back down.
"What's wrong," Hermione asked, she sat up, looking at him.
"Nothing," Harry replied, and picked them back up, "my grip was bad the first time, that's all." But that wasn't it. They felt heavier then the last time, but he didn't dare say anything about it. His strength quickly returned and they felt as light as a feather again. But Harry didn't just dismiss it, this wasn't the first time his powers stopped working. They always returned though, so he wasn't worried, just concerned. Harry walked toward the door, carefully maneuvering his way out of the small doorway. He walked down the stairs and placed them next to the rest of their trunks.
Harry couldn't believe after all the weight and muscle he had gained, he was still this skinny kid. He stopped in front of the mirror in the front hallway. It was a Muggle mirror, so it didn't say anything. Granted, he had broader shoulders and a bit bigger biceps, but that was about it. He was still this skinny kid, and if he had his glasses, you could barely notice the difference in appearance from last year. Hermione had changed a lot; she was about the same size, a bit bigger from growing into her body. She was still shorter then both him and Ron, and Harry thought that she was beautiful.
Harry walked back upstairs, and waited for Hermione to come. They fit all of their stuff in their trunks, including the cloths that they had brought with them. She came out carrying his guitar case and Hedwig's cage. "Hey, beautiful," Harry said, giving her a soft kiss on the cheek.
"Who me?" Hermione replied, smiling.
"of course you. Is there anyone else I know who is as beautiful?'
"Maybe," she said, "you could be cheating on me."
"now why would I go to another girl who isn't half as smart as you, a quarter as brave as you, and who can't even hold a flame to your beauty its so bright." Hermione blushed and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. Harry wrapped an arm around hers and led Hermione down the stairs. They took a seat next to their trunks, waiting for everyone else. Soon Ron came down, still yawning. Mrs. Weasley followed, then Mr. Weasley. Ginny was the last one to come down, a smile on her face. Harry was thankful that she had gotten over him. He knew that smile was there because she looked normal, like nothing had ever happened to her.
"Everyone ready?" Mr. Weasley asked, he was so excited. Roland had sent some computer parts the day before and he spent the entire day looking at them, trying to figure out how they work. "good, the ministry is supplying some cars this year. They should be here soon."
"The last time I did that was when they thought." Harry trailed off, he didn't feel like finishing the sentence, he didn't want to.
"I don't know," he replied. "But a gift's a gift. So why don't you boys help me get these outside and wait for the cars."
Once all the trunks were outside, the cars quickly arrived. Two to be exact. There were stretch limos that Harry and rarely seen, only when they were driving around in Uncle Vernon's, old SUV. Harry was worrying about it, but Hermione told him to forget it. He wanted to and god knows he tried, but he just couldn't get it out of his mind that there was something odd about it. Soon the trunks were load up and so were the remaining Weasleys. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley got into one limo, along with Fred and George. Ginny, Ron, Hermione and Harry got into the other one. They started to play a game of Exploding Snap the moment the limo began to move. Harry kept looking out the window, an arm around Hermione. He was worried for an odd reason, and why should he be. Everything that he cared about was with him, his friends, his family, his girlfriend.
the limo braked suddenly and began to spin out. Harry quickly braced himself, as did the rest of them in the car. None of them had seat belts on. Luckily, the limo regained control. But it didn't start moving again. Harry watched as the driver got out, drawing his wand. A loud thundering sound came from outside. Hermione curled into Harry's chest. "Shh," he whispered to her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. "It'll be alright." Harry looked up at Ron. "Watch both of them; I'm going to see if I can help."
"But Harry-" Ron started.
"No buts, Ron," Harry replied, "just stay in the limo." He returned to Hermione and rubbed her shoulders softly. "'Mione?"
"Hurry back, please," she whispered to Harry, "and just don't die, alright?"
"Alright," Harry kissed her head. Hermione slowly released Harry and stared at him as she moved toward the door, another thunder came from outside. Harry hoped that she was rushed to side, but Hermione just stayed still, shaking. He sighed and opened the door.
The sight he saw was truly a shock to see. A crater was in the center of the road, and the first car barely made it across. Another red lightning bolt came down from the sky, and crashed in the middle of the crater. Thunder quickly followed. Harry looked around for their driver to see him on the shoulder of the road, rubbing his head. Harry drew his wand from his pocket, and focused his powers. His body turned a dull gray, the color of granite. He felt his skin hardened, Harry rolled up his sleeves just in time before two large gauntlets could be formed beneath it. The hand that held his wand formed a case around the wand, pointing it straight forward. Harry smiled at his little transformation. He walked forward carefully and another lightning bolt crashed in front of him.
Harry looked down into the crater, trying to see what had happened. A cloud of dust and smoke was covering the bottom, and he couldn't see a thing. A body came flying out of the crater, landing hard behind Harry. He quickly turned around and pointed his wand at the body. It was just like the man he had seen when they went to Diagon Alley. The one Roland teleported away with. Odd, he thought. Another body came flying out, landing onto of it. It looked like a female, but its body was covered with chains. It landed hard, and the chains that covered it clattered. Harry rubbed his head with his free hand. Something had to do, Harry thought, but what?
"I am the Hunter," a figure rose out of the cloud. Harry wiped around and pointed his wand at it. It was the creature that was fighting the other beast four days again. The skin was black and red, following a pattern of some sorts. It held a single broadsword, straight forward; black hair floated around its head. Two red iris eyes stared straight forward, right at the other creatures. The rest of the eyes were pitch-black. But it wasn't all that that worried Harry, it was the wings that made this creature fly. Two black crow-like wings were flapping behind him. Crow- like, Roland? Harry paused for a moment, thinking about what to do. "Thou have committed crimes against humanity in this realm. My judgment has past." The creature spoke like Fallen did, his voice dark and deep.
The woman in chains stood up. "How dare you forsake your own kind, demon?" she shouted. Odd, Harry thought again, the way she spoke was almost like this Hunter, but feminine.
"I have no kind." A red lightning bolt came from the creature's sword, and burned the woman to cinders. The body collapsed to the ground, and Harry heard weak breathing. "And no, devil's worker, I pass judgment on you." A red bolt of lightning came from the sword again, this time, the other creature dodged it.
"Sheria was right, you have for-" it started to say, but another bolt came from the sky, turning it to ash and dust.
"My judgment has past," the flying creature looked at the ground and then at Harry. "You there, boy?"
"You monster," Harry replied, "How dare you forsaken them?"
"I have simply brought out what has been decided." It replied.
"Who are you?" Harry replied, he was being careful, thought he wanted more, he didn't dare try to anger this creature; it was truly a force to be reckon with.
"For now, you can call me Exodus." He spun his broadsword, and placed in a sheath on his back. "My friend has informed me of a problem he has, the one including another boy named Steven." Harry nearly fell down. "This Steven is the first human to have judgment pasted on him in over a century. As to the reason for the wait in his punishment."
"You seem so certain that Steven is going to be punished," Harry asked. "But isn't he going to be given a chance?"
Exodus laughed, "my, aren't we naïve?" Harry frowned at this. "A man, let a lone a stubborn boy like Steven, couldn't change over a year. And the evil he committed can not go without being punished." He laughed again. "Roland is one lucky boy, having a chance to past judgment on a human. Your gods know what I would do for that chance." He started to fly away. And Harry cold only frown at the situation. There was nothing he could do as this Exodus was powerful, maybe more powerful then Voldemort. But that finally brought some sense into the picture, if Steven was the first human to have judgment, what ever that was, past on him in over a century, then that's why Voldemort was still alive. But why then?
The crater began to disappear, along with the ashes and cinders of the two bodies Exodus killed. The limos were placed slowly back onto the road. Harry calmed down and took a seat on the curb, thinking about what had happened. Hermione rushed out and hugged him. He smiled at her, and wrapped his arms around her waist. "You okay?" were the first words out of his mouth. Hermione nodded, and gave him a quick peck on the cheek.
"That was very brave of you," Hermione said softly, resting her head on his shoulder.
"And you were brave, too, 'Mione," Harry replied. He stood up, and she followed, slowly letting go of Harry. Her hand moved to his and they linked. They walked back over to the limos, Harry whispered something to her. "I'll talk to you about this later, alright?" Hermione just nodded, understanding what he wanted perfectly.
"What happened?" Mr. Weasley came running over, "I saw that creature attack the other two, but-" he looked at Harry and just stood there in silence, understanding everything. That four days Harry had spent with the Weasleys had many advantages. Mr. Weasley turned to the limo drivers, "c'mon let's get moving we can sort this out later." He motioned for them to get back in their seats and begin driving again. "We don't want to be late."
Harry heard Hermione sigh, and he quietly wrapped a shoulder around him. She looked up at him and understood what had occurred while she was inside the car. It was about a hunter and then Roland and Steven. "We really do need to talk, don't we?" Hermione asked quietly as they entered the car.
"Yes," Harry replied, "yes we do."
* * * * * *
Excluding that short little incident, the ride to King's Cross was uneventful. But that didn't stop them from talking. Ron wanted to know what exactly happened and so did Ginny. So Harry ended up explaining what Roland had told him that one night, and what occurred outside. Hermione sat calmly next to Harry, but she didn't' say anything about what Steven did to her. Harry didn't even want to talk about it. Instead, he promised that he would tell it when Hermione was ready.
They reached King's Cross and everyone was acting like there normal selves, happy and upbeat. Harry was excited to return to Hogwarts, and could see the glimmer in Hermione's eyes when she was thinking about Hogwarts. Harry and Ron got their trunks out, while Ginny and Hermione went looking for trolleys. "So what is this Roland character like anyway?' Ron asked. Harry sighed, he had asked that question so many times when he was over at the burrow.
"I told you Ron," Harry replied, "you can judge for yourself when you meet him. He's a nice guy and all, but-"
"Whose this nice guy," Roland came walking up, using his cane every other step. "Someone I know?"
"Certainly not you," Heather said from right behind him.
"Ha, ha," Roland replied, "you're just upset that I beat you again on our way here." He looked over at her and smiled, his sunglasses reflecting the light into Harry's eyes. "Hello, Ron, Harry," he turned back and smiled. Something was odd about Roland today, Harry felt like there was something wrong about him. Like this wasn't his first time meeting today.
"Hello, Roland," Harry replied none the less. He offered a smile. "Ron this is Roland, as you know." Ron stared jaw dropped. He was like this when he first met the Quidditch star.
"Close your mouth, Ron," Roland said, "I don't think you want to catch flies." Ron did as he was asked.
"Sir, its-it's," Ron stammered.
"An honor, I know," Roland replied. "Please, there is certainly no reason to call me sir. Roland will do just fine." He held out his hand and Ron took it, shaking it slowly. "Now about being afraid of me-"
"Roland," Heather slapped his arm, and he returned it with a playful smile. She turned around and saw Hermione with Ginny. "Hey, Hermione!" she ran over to her and greeted the small red head.
"So," Harry turned back to Roland, "are you two a couple yet?"
Roland sighed and rubbed the back of his head. "Not yet," he said, "haven't worked up the courage to ask her."
"You afraid?" Harry laughed, "I didn't think I'd see the day."
"I know, I know," Roland laughed too, "but the worse thing I can do is hurt her, and I don't want to do that." A frown came on his face as he was thinking. Harry understood what he was talking about. They worse thing he could do to Hermione was hurt he and he would never do that.
"Do what Roland?" Heather came back and looped a around one of his.
"Don't worry about it," he replied, "c'mon, let's go see the train." A smile came back to his face when he mentioned it and nearly dragged Heather off with him. Hermione and Ginny had the trolleys with them as the other two left.
"What did you think of him," Hermione asked. She knew that Ron wanted to meet Roland a lot. But he didn't answer. Ron just stared at forward. "Ron?"
Harry waved a hand in front of his eyes. Ron finally blinked and rubbed his eyes. He looked at his hand. "I actually met the greatest Quidditch player ever." Harry broke out laughing, and soon Hermione and Ginny joined in.
They all made their way to Platform 9 and ¾. Harry and standing next to Hermione, quietly talking to her about Exodus and everything. Despite the fact that he already here, he left some things out when he was talking to Ron and Ginny. "I swear," He added, "that was Roland."
"But it couldn't be," Hermione replied, "Roland's too kind, isn't he?" she stopped and began to think about her cousin. Harry paused right behind her, and slowly wrapped an arm around her waist.
"I don't know, 'Mione," Harry said, "it could go either way." He looked down at her, and saw that she was in deep thought. He heard a familiar voice off in the distance. Harry looked up and saw Roland talking to their new professor, Professor Jordan. "I don't give a damn," Professor Jordan said. They weren't too far away, but clearly caught up in a fight.
Harry pointed forward and said, "'Mione, look." She looked up and saw her cousin.
"Well, I do," Roland replied, sharply. "I have a job to do, one that I was given by your god damned master." He began to turn, but Professor Jordan.
"You won't be doing that job as long as you are going to the school," the teacher snapped. "I have thousands of wards around the castle, protecting them from your kind."
Roland turned sharply around and stared at the professor; he quickly removed his sunglasses and glared at him with his hollow eyes. But Harry could have sworn he saw a hint of red in them. "As I told that beast before I banished him, I have no kind." He stormed off, placing on his sunglasses, and his coat dancing right behind him.
"See, Exodus told the demon before he killed that creature," Harry replied, he looked back up and saw Professor Jordan gone. He was rather surprised that they heard the conversation.
"But still, that couldn't be Roland," Hermione denied, "Roland's too kind." She paused for a moment, thinking again. "But from the way you described this person, it sound like someone else we know."
"Who," Harry asked.
"Fallen." Harry was ready to reply, but Hermione was right. When he saw Fallen defeat the death eaters, it was with ruthless efficiency, and the same voice. He was about to ask Hermione another question before Mr. Weasley came up behind them, telling them to get moving. He was right the train as leaving at ten o'clock sharp. Harry wanted to talk about this some more, but they had to get to Hogwarts Express.
The quickly pasted through the portal to the train, and got their trunks aboard it. Harry saw Ginny talking to some of her friends. He saw Ron with an arm around lavender talking to Dean, Seamus, and Parvati. The three boys laughed, while Parvati shook her head. Harry sighed and decided that this year was going to be one of the best he had at Hogwarts. And with Hermione as his girlfriend, he wasn't going to allow Voldemort to ruin his fun.
Once Hermione got her trunk aboard the train, she was immediately back at Harry's side. He looked down at her with a simple smile on his face, and she gladly returned it. Harry slowly grabbed her hand and they walked over to one of the car, climbing into it. Thank god, he thought, no one had said anything yet about me and Hermione.
Harry knew that Ron would find them once the train gets moving, and Lavender would probably join him when Hermione and Ron went off to do prefect things. He was beginning to become decent friends with her, but he was still best friends of Ron and Hermione. Roland and Heather would obviously find them, as they were the only ones they knew. So they search the train for an open cabin. Instead, Harry found Roland and Heather first. Hermione was right behind him, she was scolding a second year for tricking some of the new students. The train jerked forward and they were off.
"Hey Harry," Roland said as he stopped in front of the door. He and Heather were playing a game of magic. Roland had about twice as many cards out as Heather did, but Harry didn't know much about the game.
Harry was reluctant to enter, as he had this new image of Roland to worry about. "I don't bite, Harry." Damn it, he thought, Roland had his empathic abilities, and if he wanted to he could read my mind, after all. He decided to wait for Hermione, and Roland turned back to the game. "Suit yourself, then."
"Oh," Harry replied, "it's not you; I'm just waiting for Hermione."
"Whatever," if it was meant to sound hurt, Roland didn't do a good job of it. He sounded normal, like his happy self. But Harry felt something weird, like he knew about Harry knowing that he knew. Harry heard a card being slapped onto the table, "and that Heather is the end of your life points."
"Damn it, Roland," she replied, Harry turned back and saw that both of them were smiling at each other. "Why do you have to win all the time?"
"I don't like to lose." Was the reply and Harry turned back to the corridor, he saw Hermione walking down to him. But something was wrong. She looked paler then normal, and looked like she'd seen a ghost. Harry rushed over to her side.
"Hermione what's wrong?" he asked, placing a hand on her shoulder. Almost immediately, she had her arms around his chest, and was sobbing. "What happened?"
"He's here, Harry," Hermione sobbed, "he's actually here, I can't-"
"Shh," Harry said, rubbing her back, trying to calm her down. "It's alright. C'mon." He led her over to the compartment that Roland and Heather were in. Roland was laughing about something as they were entering. But the laughter stopped the moment they did enter. Roland's head snapped to where they were. "Something happened," Harry said, knowing what he was about to ask. He took a seat near the door, Hermione sitting on his lap, still sobbing
"I know," Roland replied, "and I have a pretty good idea as to what it is." He pulled out something from his pocket, a little fortune cookie. "Have her eat this half of this. You the other half." Roland handed it to Harry.
"What?" Harry asked, it didn't make sense.
"Don't worry about the why," Roland said, "just do as I asked." He was calm and collect, and Harry still didn't trust him. But he did as he was asked. He broke the fortune cookie in have, and placed the fortune on the seat next to him. His first thing was to get a half in Hermione's mouth. She seemed to know what was going on even though she refused to move from his chest. Hermione opened her mouth and Harry placed a half in her mouth. Harry then ate his half. The reaction was immediate; Hermione calmed down and was no longer sobbing. She still had tears in her eyes, and the sobs turned to sniffles, but it was better. Harry still didn't understand why he ate his half though.
"You okay," Harry asked, rubbing her shoulders with his hands. She nodded and hugged his tightly. He turned to Roland with a puzzled look.
"That was a Calming Fortune," Roland replied. "Picked up a few of them from China last year. Take forever to rot." He leaned back in his seat. "Mostly they calm people down, and don't tell me that you weren't panicking, Harry. I'm an empath remember."
Harry sat back in his seat, and thought about what Roland said, he was right. He was panicking. He was worried about Hermione and what had occurred. "who'd' you see?' Harry asked. but when Hermione was about to say something, he saw who it was.
"Hello, there, Harry," that voice, Harry recognized it immediately. It belonged to the demon that hurt his girlfriend. He looked up and saw Steven standing there, smiling. Draco was right next to him and Crabbe and Goyle were behind both of them.
"It seems the little Mudblood has moved on, Steven," Draco said, smirking.
"Mudslut, Draco," Steven corrected, "remember, she's a-" he didn't get another word out.
Roland's right hand had met its destination and smashed into Steven's jaw. He fell to the ground. Heather was at Roland's side, helping him stand. He wasn't using a cane any more, and had an evil glare. "I resent all forms of bigotry and stupidity," Roland replied, and was clearly holding his anger in. "You damned dumb-ass bigot."
"Damn little-" Draco tried to take a swing at Roland, but he ducked and gave the Slytherin perfect two shot to his kidneys. A quick left upper-cut followed, and he was on the floor. Roland was standing straight up and smirked at the two fallen students.
Steven got to his feet and drew his wand, pointing it at Roland. "I don't think you know who I am," Steven said, he spat onto the floor, a red spot appeared.
"No," Roland replied, taking a step forward, not showing he was a cripple. "I don't think you know who I am."
"I'm the Head boy." Hermione grasped but didn't say anything.
Roland took a few steps forward and was standing nearly nose to nose with Steven. He leaned forward and whispered so only he could hear, "I am the Fallen." Harry heard it oddly enough, but didn't say anything. Steven just stood there, a blank stare and jaw-dropped. Roland took a step back and crossed his arms, waiting for a reply.
Draco stood up, holding his jaw. His mouth was bleeding too. "c'mon, Steven, blast him out the wall." Steven didn't move. "C'mon, hurt that Muggle-Loving bastard."
Roland pointed a finger at Draco, "Another comment like that and I'll hurt you so bad that you'll be eating your meals through a straw for the rest of your life." Harry was worried that Roland would give away his mutant abilities but he was at least calm enough to not do that.
"C'mon," Steven motioned for them to move away, he was in deep thought. Draco didn't move he just stared at Roland. Crabbe and Goyle followed
"This isn't over," Draco said, pointing a finger at him.
"Count on it," Roland replied, a slick smile crossing his face. He crossed his arms, and sunglasses dropped down from his face. Draco nearly jumped out of his shoes when he saw the hollowness and quickly ran off. Roland exhaled deeply before he nearly collapsed onto the ground. Heather grabbed his arm and pulled Roland up.
"Normally," she said to him, smiling, "I'd stop you, but."
"I was right for once," Roland coughed again, pulling out his handkerchief. He coughed into it a few more times, then was lead over to a seat by Heather.
Harry had Hermione lap, she was still upset, but that fortune cookie calmed her down a lot. Its effect had lasted pretty long, as he didn't feel upset or angry. Harry knew that he should be with what both Draco and Steven said, but he just couldn't. But that feeling of calmness was disappearing. "You know that he was coming, didn't you?" Roland shrugged his shoulders and began to cough violently again. "But you know about the effects that it had right?" Roland nodded, coughing some more.
"You sure you're alright?" Heather asked, taking a seat next to him.
"My body," Roland coughed, "is just tried." He coughed some more, "don't worry about me, I'll-" a long string of coughs followed, and finally Roland stopped. He took deep breaths and looked up. "I felt Steven walking down the hallway, but I didn't know he was coming. And I knew about the effects of the Calming Fortune. As for me being alright." he spit into his hand and showed what was in it. A red liquid was mixed into the spit. "I don't know."
"Roland," Heather said, staring at the palm of his hand. "That might be-"
"I know," he replied, placing his other hand on her shoulder, "I know." He looked at Hermione; Harry was wiping some of her tears away. "She better?"
"I think so," Harry said, he kissed her forehead softly and looked into her eyes. "You okay?"
"Yeah," was the reply, and she rested her head on his shoulder. Roland wiped the spit on his shirt, watching them carefully.
"Don't you have prefect duties to do?" Harry asked.
"I'm not moving," Hermione said softly, "I'm not going anywhere near that, that-"
"Demon?" Roland finished, but the normal smile was missing from his face. "Yes, I believe that that is the appropriate word for our dear friend Steven." He nodded and reassured himself. "But," Roland stood up slowly, with much effort. "A job's a job." He looked at Hermione, "and you got to do yours, despite-"
"No, I won't go," she snapped and hugged Harry tighter.
"Your fears." Roland summoned a cane for the shadows. "Life is filled with problems and challenges, many of them created by the doings of others. Steven may have done something horrible to you, but you can't let him control your life. You must say, do your worst for I will do mine." Roland held out his hand for Hermione to take and get up from Harry's lap.
As much as he didn't want it, Harry knew that Hermione need to face her fears. Roland had this aura about him, one that seemed so just and right, that brought out the best in people. That was probably why people trusted him so easily. And knowing Roland he way he does, Harry knew that he would never take advantage of this ability.
Hermione looked at the hand then to Harry. He nodded and she took it, slowly getting up. But she refused to release Harry's neck, pulling him up with her. "I doubt Harry wouldn't like to come and protect you, but."
"I know, I know," Hermione replied, "I just don't want to go yet." Harry kissed her but quickly pulled away. Hermione moved in closer for another one, but Harry pulled away.
"Later, when you come back." He gave her a sweet smile, and kissed her forehead. "Now go one, and if you feel really bad, just ask Ron to look after you. He's our best friend after all." Hermione retuned the smile. "Remember, you are as brave as you want to be, 'Mione." Hermione let go of him, slowly, and began to walk toward the door. Ron came walking down the hallway. Hermione looked at Harry one more time, he just nodded. She hung her head and began to walk down where the prefects were meeting.
"I know you hated doing that-" Roland started.
"Shut up, just shut up," Harry snapped. He hated Roland for this right now, but knew that he was right.
"You don't get it, do you Harry," Roland asked, "after all that I told you, you still don't get it. She has to face this fear, this-this-" he began to stumble on his words, moving his hands in circles. Roland was searching for his word. "This barrier that she created for herself. I thought it was already broken down when we left the mansion, but it seems not." He leaned back against his seat, and exhaled deeply. "Seems I've been wrong," Roland took another deep breath, "Again." He chuckled to himself for a few seconds before had another coughing fit. Heather leaned Roland forward and hit his back a few times. Roland coughed up more blood, and some began to spill out of his mouth. Roland started to stand up, and nearly collapsed.
Heather quickly reached his side and felt his forehand. "My god, he's burning up." Harry was down on the ground, too, crouching next to his fallen friend.
She picked up his shoulders, then his legs, and ran down the hallway. Harry stood up and started to follow, but a hand stopped him. "Easy there," a familiar voice said, "she's going to do the best she can."
"Professor Jordan?" Harry asked.
"Roland will be fine, hopefully," but that last part was added quickly. "I fear that he hasn't been doing well. And with the amount of pressure he places on his body, healing will be long and hard."
"What are you talking about professor?" Harry asked, he didn't know whether or not this new professor should know about Roland's job.
"I mean his job, Harry," Professor Jordan replied, Harry gave this new professor a look of shock. He just laughed. "Professor Dumbledore told us about Roland's job a few weeks ago. I was rather surprised at how many people sympathized with him. Professor Snape was one of the people who wanted to actually help that-that.." He trailed off, and quickly changed the subject. "I hope you got that book I told you about?"
"I did, professor," Harry said, "I found it rather interesting."
"Good, I hope you will enjoy my class this year." He began to turn. "May I ask, what weapon did you get?"
"A war hammer," Harry said, "Roland said it was a dwarven one."
"Odd," Professor Jordan walked off, down where Heather went with Roland. "Take care Harry."
Harry walked back into the cabin, knowing that Hermione would come and find him when she was done with her prefect duties. But what the professor said about Roland, how the teachers sympathized with him and everything. Even Snape was on his side. But how could they, how could they agree with what he was doing. He was killing creatures. "Harry," Hermione said, he looked up and dropped his train of thoughts. She ran into his arms, hugging him tightly. "I missed you."
"I can see that, 'Mione," Harry replied. He kissed her forehead softly and she rested her head on his shoulder.
Ron came walking in, holding hands with Lavender. "Get a room you two," he said, smiling.
"So we can have this one," Lavender quickly added, Ron got a laugh out of it. Hermione giggled and Harry laughed along. He was just happy that Hermione was back with him, smiling.
"So," Harry asked, "how were prefect duties?"
"Fine, except-" Ron started.
"Steven kept on wanting to be partnered with me," Hermione said, worried and concerned. "Roland showed up, though. He stood at the back of the room, and kept a close eye on Steven."
"I didn't think he should be standing after what happened to him," Harry replied. Hermione cocked an eye brow. "He collapsed a bit earlier in here, blood coming out of his mouth. Had another coughing fit just before had too."
"Sounds like tuberculosis," Hermione rubbed her small chin. "Harry, that's deadly if untreated."
"So Roland could die," Ron asked. She nodded, and Harry noticed the concern in her eyes.
"Who's this Roland?" Lavender asked.
"He's a friend we meet in America, and my legal guardian," Hermione replied.
"He's pretty nice," Ron said, "I've talked to him a few times, but-"
"There's something about him, something." Harry started to finish, but couldn't. He didn't know what to say.
"What's there about him?" Lavender asked.
"It's like he has too completely different personalities," Hermione finished for both of them. "I seen only one, but Harry, I think, has seen both of them."
"Yeah," he replied, "and the second one, you don't want to cross." He hated to see Fallen work and with this Exodus exactly like it, he could have sworn that it was Roland.
"Oh," lavender replied, "it seems like he's pretty mean then."
"No, not all the time," Hermione said, "most of the time, Roland's a nice guy, but he just has his problems."
"But I always survive," Roland said, he appeared out of nowhere and had a smile on his face. He wasn't as pale as he was when he left, but he looked better. "Hello and how are you?" he asked to Lavender.
"I'm fine, thanks," Lavender replied, "who are you?"
"Why, I'm the new exchange student," Roland said, still smiling. "Name's Roland Childe," he gave a large bow, quite comically when he finished. Lavender laughed, and so did Hermione. Harry smiled at his girlfriend. "At your service."
"Really, Roland," Heather appeared next to him. "I hate it when you do that."
"Part of the reason why I do it, my dear Heather," he replied, still speaking in his comical voice. "The reason is to see smiles and hear laughter. Both a great thing." At the end of his small speech, Roland was calm and collect, almost wise. "Now I believe the cart that was filled with candy has left already, so if you excuse me." Roland started to walk off, but Heather grabbed his coat.
"I think you've eaten enough sweets for the day," she replied, smiling at him.
"Besides, Roland," Hermione shifted off Harry's lap, much to his dislike, "there a feast when we reach Hogwarts."
"fine, then," he huffed. Roland turned to Heather, pulling her down the hallway. "Let's go see the engine of this old train then." They disappeared down the hallway.
"Engine?" Lavender asked, both Harry and Hermione shrugged their shoulders.
"He must like trains or some dear," Ron said. "C'mon, Harry, we should change soon."
"as much as I hate to agree with Ron," Hermione smiled, and Ron shot a glare at her, "he's right." She pushed Harry toward the door, "So go, the sooner you leave, the sooner you can come back." Harry kissed Hermione on forehead and said good-bye. Ron did the same with his girlfriend. The two boys disappeared out the door. Hermione smiled and began to change into her schools cloths thinking about the happy times that she was going to have with Harry this year