Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Harry Potter's characters. Everything
belongs to J. K. Rowling. Everything unfamiliar is mine. 9/1
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R. OKAY?
Thanks again for the reviewers. Love them all! Oh and check out my
other stories: "Models", "Last Chance", "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione the rest are Draco-Hermione), and my newest fics "The
Haunted" and "It's All About the Money".
Title: Summer Camp
Chapter18: The Quidditch Match
"I tried to reason with their queen that keeping her wouldn't bring her happiness because she belongs with us. She wouldn't hear any of it. Therefore, we came up with a compromise. A Quidditch match."
"What?" The three young ones were surprised.
"I couldn't very well ask for a magic related competition. We don't know the extent of their powers."
"I don't see the connection between Hermione and Quidditch."
"It's something like this. We're fighting with the purpose of finding out who'll try their hardest to keep her happy. I challenged their credibility so we have to do a better job in keeping her happy."
"And they agreed?" Draco doubted that the fairies would easily give up on Hermione.
"Yes Mr. Malfoy, although I don't know where they will get their players. Harry, I want you to set up your best players, we need to win this. Hermione's life depends on it."
"Professor!" Somebody was banging outside the door.
McGonagall hurriedly opened the door. "Goodness, Mr. Longbottom, what is the matter?"
"Professor, there's something wrong with the other students. They seem to be in a trance and they're heading for the forest!"
McGonagall turned into a cat once more as she headed towards her students. Sirius followed suit. Harry, Ron and Draco were about to follow when Lupin stopped them.
"Wait! I think I know now where they'll get their players."
~~~~~~~~~~
McGonagall went back to the room with what's left of the student population. They were mostly girls. Lavender and Parvati sat beside Ron and were shaking terribly.
"It looks like they're not giving her up without a fight." McGonagall sighed. "Remus, how are we doing with the Quidditch team?"
"Harry?" Lupin eyed him.
Harry looked around to see who was left. "Well, they got the three best chasers but we still have Dean. Both Crabbe and Goyle were taken. So far we only have one Beater."
"What are you talking about? We have two." Ron argued.
"Ron, I'm placing you as Keeper again. So I guess we lack two Chasers and One Beater." Harry summed up.
"Is there anybody here who's got potential?" Lupin asked hopefully.
"If Ginny was here-"
"Well she isn't Ron." Harry knew by now who among his team had potential. In his opinion there's nobody left in his team that would be up to par to those who were captured by the fairies. He looked at the group of Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. "Who among you have played Chaser or Beater?" He eyed them looking for anyone who would volunteer. "Come on Hermione's and your friends' lives are at stake!"
Lupin pulled him aside. He whispered so that only Harry could hear, "Padfoot has played Beater before."
"I would never ask him to play. I will not risk loosing him as well." He looked at the Slytherins.
"We could ask Snape to make a Polyjuice potion."
"It could work but would Professor McGonagall agree? Then there's also Snape and Padfoot."
"Padfoot would deem it an honor to help us out. Let me take care of the others." He was on his way to McGonagall when he turned around, "Harry! Ron! Hermione told me to tell you that she's fine and she misses you both."
Harry nodded and went back to the group of students only to find Draco standing up and was rather agitated. 'Who can blame him?' "What's going on here?"
"I got us two chasers." Draco said matter-of-factly. He was a bit upset when Lupin didn't mention his name. 'Maybe he forgot. What if she was the one who forgot?' Suddenly his heart sank even deeper.
"Good, we'll practice first thing in the morning." Harry looked at Lupin who was talking with McGonagall. He gave Harry thumbs up. "I got us a Beater."
~~~~~~~~~~
The week was made up of grueling sessions of Quidditch practices. Harry asked Seamus to help by contributing some hair for the Polyjuice potion so he was the only one relaxing.
Sirius was quite good with a Bludger. He could easily control it. And no one was the wiser.
Draco couldn't help but think that it was a good thing that Harry was still on their side. 'We can easily win this if Harry would catch the snitch as soon as possible.' This was the only time that he was going to praise Harry. He knew he needed him for Hermione's sake.
~~~~~~~~~~
The week felt more like minutes especially for Harry who was dead tired in training those who really weren't the best at their position. He actually dreaded to go against those who were taken by the fairies. He didn't know if the fairies did something to them but he did however have confidence on his capabilities. 'I only have to capture the snitch as soon as possible.'
The match was to be held in the pitch at the camp. Madame Hooch was refereeing the match. Everybody prepared for their so-called opponent. What Harry didn't anticipate on was the other team's Seeker.
"Bloody hell!" Draco gasped at the their opponent's Seeker.
Everybody's mouth was left hanging at the sight they saw.
"Wait a minute!" Lupin faced the Queen fairy. "Why is Hermione playing in your team?"
"There wasn't any rule prohibiting her to play."
"Ugh!" Lupin screamed in frustration.
"Sir, what's going on?" Ron was curious.
"There's nothing that I can do. She's playing for them."
"But that's not fair!" Ron started whining. "What position is she playing then?"
"Seeker." Harry mumbled out loud.
"But that's good isn't it? She's afraid of speed." Ron interrupted Harry's thoughts.
"It's bad." Draco answered for Harry.
"Excuse me?" Ron raised an eyebrow.
"She was afraid of speed but now that she's under the fairies' control there's no telling what she can do." Draco explained. "And I believe Harry knows this as well."
Harry was studying Hermione as she circled the pitch at an incredible pace. He then turned to his team, "Listen all of you. We don't know to what extent their talent has grown with the help of the fairies. I want all of you to do more than their best. Ron, I'm expecting you to prevent those Quaffles to pass through those hoops. Seamus, Malfoy, kick their butts!" Harry turned his attention back to their opponents and then added a few words to his team, "Good luck out there. We're gonna need it!"
Harry mounted his broom and headed to his position.
His teammates followed suit.
Harry planned on talking to Hermione before the Snitch appeared. He thought that it might jog her memory back.
"I want a good and clean fight from all of you!" Madame Hooch released the balls.
As soon as the Quaffle got into the air, a Ravenclaw Chaser caught it and started heading towards Ron. Ron eyed his every movement as he anticipated what hoop the Quaffle would enter. Ron was a bit tense and wasn't quick enough to realize that it was a faint. The fairies' team scored 10 points.
Draco and Sirius were doing a great job at being Beaters but Dean was having a hard time in acquiring the Quaffle. The other Chasers weren't good enough that it looked like Dean was the only Chaser in Harry's team. Ron was able to block most of the Quaffles thrown at him though. It would have been enough if their team could also score but Dean couldn't get the Quaffle. It was merely 15 minutes in the game and the fairies lead 30 to nothing.
Harry skimmed through the players looking for the Snitch and Hermione. She seemed to be flying at a great speed that it was hard to locate her especially when he was also searching for a very fast and very small ball. But then Harry felt a breeze by his side. He turned to see brown hair flying past him. 'Hermione!' He rushed beside her. "Hermione wait!" 'Yeah, as if she would just stop for you.'
Harry increased his speed to try to overtake her. "Hermione!"
Hermione had no other choice but to stop. Harry was blocking her way.
"Hermione, don't you recognize me?" Harry asked desperately.
She just looked at him without any expression on her face.
"Hermione, it's me Harry. I'm your best friend!"
Hermione only returned a stony gaze.
"Hermione, you're being controlled again. Look at me please," Harry pleaded but she just wouldn't respond.
"Harry look OUT!" Sirius shouted at the top of his lungs.
Harry saw the bludger heading their way. His instincts made him evade it without any trouble. Then it hit him, "Hermione!" He looked at the spot where she was positioned earlier. All he saw was two brooms.
"HARRY! DOWN THERE!" Sirius was racing downward as he shouted for him.
Harry didn't waste any second. At full speed, he dived towards the falling Hermione - and Draco.
Harry didn't see what happened but he didn't care. All he wanted was to rescue Hermione.
Sirius was damn good with a broom as well. He reached the falling couple before Harry. Draco being a Seeker was also quick with his hands. He got hold of Sirius' broom with his right hand. His left arm enveloped Hermione. Draco was dangling for their lives with one arm and it wasn't easy. He could feel himself slipping. "Seamus take her!" He ordered Sirius. (Remember Sirius used Seamus' appearance for the benefit of the team.)
Sirius was reaching for her when Harry arrived. "Need a lift?"
"What the bloody hell took you so long Potter?" Draco shouted at him.
"What the bloody hell are you complaining about, I'm here aren't I?" Harry saw Hermione's eyes were closed and there were tears coming out from it. "Hermione?"
Hermione opened her eyes and saw Harry. "I'm alive?"
"Can we leave the questions later, my hand is really starting to slip." Draco was having a hard time balancing two weights with one hand.
Harry went a little lower so that he could take Hermione from Draco. "Are you alright?"
Hermione sat in front of him and flung her arms around Harry. "I thought I was a goner."
"It's a good thing we have Seamus and Malfoy on our side." Harry was ever so happy that Hermione was back. He couldn't help but tease her.
Hermione watched as Draco swung himself onto Seamus' broom. "You have a knack of saving me from a Bludger eh?"
Draco's spirits lifted as he saw her grinning at him. "You have a knack for Bludgers don't you?" He teased back.
Harry then heard a whistle. Ron called for a timeout. "Hey don't leave me here all alone!"
Harry took Hermione back to where her broom was. Sirius did the same thing. When all four were back on their brooms they came down to strategize.
"Welcome back Hermione!" Ron gave her a big hug.
"Thanks Ron. Glad to be back."
Lupin joined the group. "Hermione what about joining our team?"
"Yeah, we could really use help with the Quaffle." Dean looked harassed.
"I'm not playing Chaser." She clarified.
"Don't worry, I'll play Chaser." Ron gave her a smile.
"Fine, as long as we're not breaking any rules."
Lupin then marched towards the queen fairy and Madame Hooch. They were talking for a long time. Then he came back to the team.
"What happened?" Harry asked curiously.
"Well the queen wasn't at all pleased. But then I asked her what would happen if their Seeker refused to catch the Snitch? I don't know if she cursed me after because she started speaking in her native tongue before she agreed."
"What if I get controlled again?" Hermione didn't want to ruin the game.
"You can't. There was a pact made that they wouldn't try to control anyone during this match so you're free today." Lupin explained to her.
"Then there's no reason why I shouldn't play?" She clarified yet again.
"Yes, there's no reason."
Hermione felt glad that she could fight for her own freedom.
When the match started, Harry's team didn't seem to have any problem. Hermione was able to block the Quaffles stopping their lead of 80 to 0. Ron and Dean were doing their best as Chasers. They were still having a hard time stealing them from the other team but at least there was better movement. The Seeker who replaced Hermione wasn't doing all too good. She was slow compared to Harry. So, when the Snitch finally appeared, Harry had no trouble catching it. The match ended with 180-90 in favor of Harry's team. (There were three goals where Dean and Ron carefully placed with the help of a few Bludgers.)
As soon as the match ended, the controlled students regained their senses. The queen fairy stepped forward to talk to Hermione.
"Hermione, I will ask you for the last time, where would you rather go? Would you rather stay in a world that's full of misery and pain with your friends or would you rather stay in a world full of beauty and happiness?"
"No offense your highness, but I believe everything that you are offering to me is nothing short of a façade." She sighed then continued, "As much as I want to be happy for the rest of my life, I would rather be with my family and friends."
"Are you sure?" The Queen fairy seemed quite disappointed.
"Yes your highness." She thought carefully before she asked, "I don't want to be rude or anything but may I ask why did you want me?"
"You see, I had a daughter once. She was quite handful really. She was just like you. She was next to the throne. We gave her everything that we can think of that would make her happy. Everybody loved her. She was satisfied with all the attention until one day; a human came into the island and stole her heart away. She chose to be with him and all the pain the world can offer rather than the safety of our land. I didn't think that you'd have the same result."
"Excuse me?" Hermione didn't understand this line.
"You still chose the man who stole your heart."
"What? I don't understand."
"The moment you stepped into this island I felt the attraction running between you two. We agreed to let Draco Malfoy join you if that's the price to keep you here with us. We thought that if Draco would join you then there's no reason for you not to stay with us. I mean you have all the happiness in the world plus your lover."
This made Draco, Hermione, Harry and Ron blush. The first two blushed because of embarrassment since they haven't used that word to describe one another before. The latter two blushed out of anger. They didn't want to think that Hermione and Draco were lovers.
"But didn't they like each other because of you all?" Ron wanted to clarify things.
"You see we really can't control human emotions. We only magnified their dormant feelings for each other. With or without our help, they will recognize these feelings eventually."
Draco and Hermione exchanged worried glances. They didn't think of such possibilities. I mean enemies falling for each other were very unlikely. I mean the possibilities were close to none.
Hermione couldn't look at Draco. 'Does this mean I really like him? When did that all happen?'
Draco recovered fairly quickly. He already admitted that he liked Hermione even without the help of the fairies. He watched Hermione who was blushing a deeper shade of red than that of Ron's hair. He wanted to see her reaction now that they both know that their feelings for each other are mutual.
Harry and Ron looked at Hermione in shock. They believed that the fairies were the ones responsible for Hermione's weird actions. They believed Lupin's words. They expected this to pass. They thought that when they went back to Hogwarts she'd return to her old self.
Harry was the one who took the news hardest. He believed that he had a chance with Hermione. He wanted to end the camp as soon as possible so that once they get back to Hogwarts he'd be able to make his move.
Hermione felt more confused than ever, "How could this have happened?"
The Queen fairy eyed her affectionately, "You can blame that to the world you belong in. Your world is full of prejudice. Instead of showing who you really are, you are taught to hide and wear masks. The need to belong is a powerful need and this is responsible in clouding who you really are. We merely took your masks off of you so that you can see the real person."
Hermione felt that she understood her. She looked at Draco and she couldn't see the arrogant, self-centered prick. All she could see was his humane self, the one that she was attracted to. Without his mask she saw a very caring, loyal and lonely boy. 'He needs me, and I need him.'
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry and Ron have learned to accept the fact that Hermione was with Draco. They didn't want to lose Hermione. They knew that if they continue to aggravate Draco, they'd only push her to him. They're not going to let go of their hold on her, but they didn't want to hold her too tight or else she'd only leave them. So tonight at the victory party at the beach they have reaffirmed their truce with Draco.
Hermione and Draco spent most of the night together. They missed each other's company. If you all would remember, Draco was craving for something a week before. They haven't really talked about what they were going to do when they get back to Hogwarts although they were pretty much determined to continue their so-called relationship.
Draco and Hermione sat under the most memorable tree in the beach. They watched as crazed witches and wizards from different houses playing with each other on the muggle-typed games. Hermione smiled to herself. "Maybe this is the reason why Dumbledore paired our houses."
Draco didn't expect another talk about houses. He was planning on changing the topic to talk about their relationship. "Huh?"
Hermione giggled at his reply, "I mean, haven't you wondered why Dumbledore paired Gryffindor and Slytherin?"
"I guess."
"Maybe he wanted us to see past our masks so that we can work together." She motioned towards the people partying. "Look at them, it's as if the barriers resulting from conflicting houses has been destroyed. Look at us, who would've imagined a Gryffindor and a Slytherin to have this kind of relationship?"
'Finally, us.' "What is our relationship?"
Hermione eyed him, "I don't know. What do you think?" She challenged.
"I think that since the fairies sped things up for us, maybe we should slow it down. You know, to let the feeling sink in."
"I agree. It was really fast." She gave a deep sigh. "Does that mean we'll keep away from each other?"
Draco looked at her incredulously. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. "What makes you think I can stay away from you? I barely survived last week without you."
"You're such a charmer Draco. You've been avoiding me for years."
"Not really, technically I've been a jerk with you before but still I didn't stay away from you."
Hermione couldn't help but smile. She cuddled closer to him feeling a breeze pass her. She didn't mind people looking at them. There were only a few weird glances that came their way. Most of the students were getting used with the idea.
Draco's craving still hasn't subsided and feeling her against him wasn't helping. He searched for her face and leaned for a kiss. . .
"Ehem!" Somebody cleared his throat.
The couple broke off. Hermione lowered her head to hide her blush while Draco glared at the source of the interruption, "WHAT?"
"Mr. Malfoy, Ms. Granger. It's a beautiful night isn't it?"
Draco dropped his mouth open as he saw who caught them, "Professor Dumbledore?"
"I came as quick as I could. I heard you two had quite an adventure."
Both Draco and Hermione felt embarrassed.
"I see that you both found out my true intent in this camp."
Hermione nodded, her voice failed her.
"Our world is like a big masquerade ball. You have to remove each mask to see the person within. I am counting on you both to set an example to the lower years. As time passes the masks gets harder to remove. You can help loosen it for them."
Draco and Hermione saw the insinuation that he projected and they both nodded. They watched the headmaster as he walked away. The couple faced each other.
"So I guess our faith is already decided?" Hermione caught Draco's eyes.
"Are you disappointed?" Draco teased.
"Let me get back to you." She tilted her face up to capture Draco's lips. Finally Draco's craving was put to an end.
TBC
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: I'm really sorry if this took so long. I'm having a hard time
adjusting with my new schedule. I didn't anticipate that my new
subjects would require more pressure as before. I might not be able
to update as frequently as before. Sorry! And to all those who
reviewed, thank you and please be patient! I'm starting to lose my
inspiration and I'm having a hard time thinking of plots to make my
story interesting so please review. It would help me a lot.
Oh and my priorities are as follows, 1) Last Chance, 2) Summer
Camp, 3) Picture Perfect, 4) The Haunted, 5) It's All About the Money.
The top three would be given my full attention and the other two
might be updated let's say once a month or so. The last two are
something I just felt writing, no plot but with an ending of getting
Draco and Hermione together.
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R. OKAY?
Thanks again for the reviewers. Love them all! Oh and check out my
other stories: "Models", "Last Chance", "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione the rest are Draco-Hermione), and my newest fics "The
Haunted" and "It's All About the Money".
Title: Summer Camp
Chapter18: The Quidditch Match
"I tried to reason with their queen that keeping her wouldn't bring her happiness because she belongs with us. She wouldn't hear any of it. Therefore, we came up with a compromise. A Quidditch match."
"What?" The three young ones were surprised.
"I couldn't very well ask for a magic related competition. We don't know the extent of their powers."
"I don't see the connection between Hermione and Quidditch."
"It's something like this. We're fighting with the purpose of finding out who'll try their hardest to keep her happy. I challenged their credibility so we have to do a better job in keeping her happy."
"And they agreed?" Draco doubted that the fairies would easily give up on Hermione.
"Yes Mr. Malfoy, although I don't know where they will get their players. Harry, I want you to set up your best players, we need to win this. Hermione's life depends on it."
"Professor!" Somebody was banging outside the door.
McGonagall hurriedly opened the door. "Goodness, Mr. Longbottom, what is the matter?"
"Professor, there's something wrong with the other students. They seem to be in a trance and they're heading for the forest!"
McGonagall turned into a cat once more as she headed towards her students. Sirius followed suit. Harry, Ron and Draco were about to follow when Lupin stopped them.
"Wait! I think I know now where they'll get their players."
~~~~~~~~~~
McGonagall went back to the room with what's left of the student population. They were mostly girls. Lavender and Parvati sat beside Ron and were shaking terribly.
"It looks like they're not giving her up without a fight." McGonagall sighed. "Remus, how are we doing with the Quidditch team?"
"Harry?" Lupin eyed him.
Harry looked around to see who was left. "Well, they got the three best chasers but we still have Dean. Both Crabbe and Goyle were taken. So far we only have one Beater."
"What are you talking about? We have two." Ron argued.
"Ron, I'm placing you as Keeper again. So I guess we lack two Chasers and One Beater." Harry summed up.
"Is there anybody here who's got potential?" Lupin asked hopefully.
"If Ginny was here-"
"Well she isn't Ron." Harry knew by now who among his team had potential. In his opinion there's nobody left in his team that would be up to par to those who were captured by the fairies. He looked at the group of Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. "Who among you have played Chaser or Beater?" He eyed them looking for anyone who would volunteer. "Come on Hermione's and your friends' lives are at stake!"
Lupin pulled him aside. He whispered so that only Harry could hear, "Padfoot has played Beater before."
"I would never ask him to play. I will not risk loosing him as well." He looked at the Slytherins.
"We could ask Snape to make a Polyjuice potion."
"It could work but would Professor McGonagall agree? Then there's also Snape and Padfoot."
"Padfoot would deem it an honor to help us out. Let me take care of the others." He was on his way to McGonagall when he turned around, "Harry! Ron! Hermione told me to tell you that she's fine and she misses you both."
Harry nodded and went back to the group of students only to find Draco standing up and was rather agitated. 'Who can blame him?' "What's going on here?"
"I got us two chasers." Draco said matter-of-factly. He was a bit upset when Lupin didn't mention his name. 'Maybe he forgot. What if she was the one who forgot?' Suddenly his heart sank even deeper.
"Good, we'll practice first thing in the morning." Harry looked at Lupin who was talking with McGonagall. He gave Harry thumbs up. "I got us a Beater."
~~~~~~~~~~
The week was made up of grueling sessions of Quidditch practices. Harry asked Seamus to help by contributing some hair for the Polyjuice potion so he was the only one relaxing.
Sirius was quite good with a Bludger. He could easily control it. And no one was the wiser.
Draco couldn't help but think that it was a good thing that Harry was still on their side. 'We can easily win this if Harry would catch the snitch as soon as possible.' This was the only time that he was going to praise Harry. He knew he needed him for Hermione's sake.
~~~~~~~~~~
The week felt more like minutes especially for Harry who was dead tired in training those who really weren't the best at their position. He actually dreaded to go against those who were taken by the fairies. He didn't know if the fairies did something to them but he did however have confidence on his capabilities. 'I only have to capture the snitch as soon as possible.'
The match was to be held in the pitch at the camp. Madame Hooch was refereeing the match. Everybody prepared for their so-called opponent. What Harry didn't anticipate on was the other team's Seeker.
"Bloody hell!" Draco gasped at the their opponent's Seeker.
Everybody's mouth was left hanging at the sight they saw.
"Wait a minute!" Lupin faced the Queen fairy. "Why is Hermione playing in your team?"
"There wasn't any rule prohibiting her to play."
"Ugh!" Lupin screamed in frustration.
"Sir, what's going on?" Ron was curious.
"There's nothing that I can do. She's playing for them."
"But that's not fair!" Ron started whining. "What position is she playing then?"
"Seeker." Harry mumbled out loud.
"But that's good isn't it? She's afraid of speed." Ron interrupted Harry's thoughts.
"It's bad." Draco answered for Harry.
"Excuse me?" Ron raised an eyebrow.
"She was afraid of speed but now that she's under the fairies' control there's no telling what she can do." Draco explained. "And I believe Harry knows this as well."
Harry was studying Hermione as she circled the pitch at an incredible pace. He then turned to his team, "Listen all of you. We don't know to what extent their talent has grown with the help of the fairies. I want all of you to do more than their best. Ron, I'm expecting you to prevent those Quaffles to pass through those hoops. Seamus, Malfoy, kick their butts!" Harry turned his attention back to their opponents and then added a few words to his team, "Good luck out there. We're gonna need it!"
Harry mounted his broom and headed to his position.
His teammates followed suit.
Harry planned on talking to Hermione before the Snitch appeared. He thought that it might jog her memory back.
"I want a good and clean fight from all of you!" Madame Hooch released the balls.
As soon as the Quaffle got into the air, a Ravenclaw Chaser caught it and started heading towards Ron. Ron eyed his every movement as he anticipated what hoop the Quaffle would enter. Ron was a bit tense and wasn't quick enough to realize that it was a faint. The fairies' team scored 10 points.
Draco and Sirius were doing a great job at being Beaters but Dean was having a hard time in acquiring the Quaffle. The other Chasers weren't good enough that it looked like Dean was the only Chaser in Harry's team. Ron was able to block most of the Quaffles thrown at him though. It would have been enough if their team could also score but Dean couldn't get the Quaffle. It was merely 15 minutes in the game and the fairies lead 30 to nothing.
Harry skimmed through the players looking for the Snitch and Hermione. She seemed to be flying at a great speed that it was hard to locate her especially when he was also searching for a very fast and very small ball. But then Harry felt a breeze by his side. He turned to see brown hair flying past him. 'Hermione!' He rushed beside her. "Hermione wait!" 'Yeah, as if she would just stop for you.'
Harry increased his speed to try to overtake her. "Hermione!"
Hermione had no other choice but to stop. Harry was blocking her way.
"Hermione, don't you recognize me?" Harry asked desperately.
She just looked at him without any expression on her face.
"Hermione, it's me Harry. I'm your best friend!"
Hermione only returned a stony gaze.
"Hermione, you're being controlled again. Look at me please," Harry pleaded but she just wouldn't respond.
"Harry look OUT!" Sirius shouted at the top of his lungs.
Harry saw the bludger heading their way. His instincts made him evade it without any trouble. Then it hit him, "Hermione!" He looked at the spot where she was positioned earlier. All he saw was two brooms.
"HARRY! DOWN THERE!" Sirius was racing downward as he shouted for him.
Harry didn't waste any second. At full speed, he dived towards the falling Hermione - and Draco.
Harry didn't see what happened but he didn't care. All he wanted was to rescue Hermione.
Sirius was damn good with a broom as well. He reached the falling couple before Harry. Draco being a Seeker was also quick with his hands. He got hold of Sirius' broom with his right hand. His left arm enveloped Hermione. Draco was dangling for their lives with one arm and it wasn't easy. He could feel himself slipping. "Seamus take her!" He ordered Sirius. (Remember Sirius used Seamus' appearance for the benefit of the team.)
Sirius was reaching for her when Harry arrived. "Need a lift?"
"What the bloody hell took you so long Potter?" Draco shouted at him.
"What the bloody hell are you complaining about, I'm here aren't I?" Harry saw Hermione's eyes were closed and there were tears coming out from it. "Hermione?"
Hermione opened her eyes and saw Harry. "I'm alive?"
"Can we leave the questions later, my hand is really starting to slip." Draco was having a hard time balancing two weights with one hand.
Harry went a little lower so that he could take Hermione from Draco. "Are you alright?"
Hermione sat in front of him and flung her arms around Harry. "I thought I was a goner."
"It's a good thing we have Seamus and Malfoy on our side." Harry was ever so happy that Hermione was back. He couldn't help but tease her.
Hermione watched as Draco swung himself onto Seamus' broom. "You have a knack of saving me from a Bludger eh?"
Draco's spirits lifted as he saw her grinning at him. "You have a knack for Bludgers don't you?" He teased back.
Harry then heard a whistle. Ron called for a timeout. "Hey don't leave me here all alone!"
Harry took Hermione back to where her broom was. Sirius did the same thing. When all four were back on their brooms they came down to strategize.
"Welcome back Hermione!" Ron gave her a big hug.
"Thanks Ron. Glad to be back."
Lupin joined the group. "Hermione what about joining our team?"
"Yeah, we could really use help with the Quaffle." Dean looked harassed.
"I'm not playing Chaser." She clarified.
"Don't worry, I'll play Chaser." Ron gave her a smile.
"Fine, as long as we're not breaking any rules."
Lupin then marched towards the queen fairy and Madame Hooch. They were talking for a long time. Then he came back to the team.
"What happened?" Harry asked curiously.
"Well the queen wasn't at all pleased. But then I asked her what would happen if their Seeker refused to catch the Snitch? I don't know if she cursed me after because she started speaking in her native tongue before she agreed."
"What if I get controlled again?" Hermione didn't want to ruin the game.
"You can't. There was a pact made that they wouldn't try to control anyone during this match so you're free today." Lupin explained to her.
"Then there's no reason why I shouldn't play?" She clarified yet again.
"Yes, there's no reason."
Hermione felt glad that she could fight for her own freedom.
When the match started, Harry's team didn't seem to have any problem. Hermione was able to block the Quaffles stopping their lead of 80 to 0. Ron and Dean were doing their best as Chasers. They were still having a hard time stealing them from the other team but at least there was better movement. The Seeker who replaced Hermione wasn't doing all too good. She was slow compared to Harry. So, when the Snitch finally appeared, Harry had no trouble catching it. The match ended with 180-90 in favor of Harry's team. (There were three goals where Dean and Ron carefully placed with the help of a few Bludgers.)
As soon as the match ended, the controlled students regained their senses. The queen fairy stepped forward to talk to Hermione.
"Hermione, I will ask you for the last time, where would you rather go? Would you rather stay in a world that's full of misery and pain with your friends or would you rather stay in a world full of beauty and happiness?"
"No offense your highness, but I believe everything that you are offering to me is nothing short of a façade." She sighed then continued, "As much as I want to be happy for the rest of my life, I would rather be with my family and friends."
"Are you sure?" The Queen fairy seemed quite disappointed.
"Yes your highness." She thought carefully before she asked, "I don't want to be rude or anything but may I ask why did you want me?"
"You see, I had a daughter once. She was quite handful really. She was just like you. She was next to the throne. We gave her everything that we can think of that would make her happy. Everybody loved her. She was satisfied with all the attention until one day; a human came into the island and stole her heart away. She chose to be with him and all the pain the world can offer rather than the safety of our land. I didn't think that you'd have the same result."
"Excuse me?" Hermione didn't understand this line.
"You still chose the man who stole your heart."
"What? I don't understand."
"The moment you stepped into this island I felt the attraction running between you two. We agreed to let Draco Malfoy join you if that's the price to keep you here with us. We thought that if Draco would join you then there's no reason for you not to stay with us. I mean you have all the happiness in the world plus your lover."
This made Draco, Hermione, Harry and Ron blush. The first two blushed because of embarrassment since they haven't used that word to describe one another before. The latter two blushed out of anger. They didn't want to think that Hermione and Draco were lovers.
"But didn't they like each other because of you all?" Ron wanted to clarify things.
"You see we really can't control human emotions. We only magnified their dormant feelings for each other. With or without our help, they will recognize these feelings eventually."
Draco and Hermione exchanged worried glances. They didn't think of such possibilities. I mean enemies falling for each other were very unlikely. I mean the possibilities were close to none.
Hermione couldn't look at Draco. 'Does this mean I really like him? When did that all happen?'
Draco recovered fairly quickly. He already admitted that he liked Hermione even without the help of the fairies. He watched Hermione who was blushing a deeper shade of red than that of Ron's hair. He wanted to see her reaction now that they both know that their feelings for each other are mutual.
Harry and Ron looked at Hermione in shock. They believed that the fairies were the ones responsible for Hermione's weird actions. They believed Lupin's words. They expected this to pass. They thought that when they went back to Hogwarts she'd return to her old self.
Harry was the one who took the news hardest. He believed that he had a chance with Hermione. He wanted to end the camp as soon as possible so that once they get back to Hogwarts he'd be able to make his move.
Hermione felt more confused than ever, "How could this have happened?"
The Queen fairy eyed her affectionately, "You can blame that to the world you belong in. Your world is full of prejudice. Instead of showing who you really are, you are taught to hide and wear masks. The need to belong is a powerful need and this is responsible in clouding who you really are. We merely took your masks off of you so that you can see the real person."
Hermione felt that she understood her. She looked at Draco and she couldn't see the arrogant, self-centered prick. All she could see was his humane self, the one that she was attracted to. Without his mask she saw a very caring, loyal and lonely boy. 'He needs me, and I need him.'
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry and Ron have learned to accept the fact that Hermione was with Draco. They didn't want to lose Hermione. They knew that if they continue to aggravate Draco, they'd only push her to him. They're not going to let go of their hold on her, but they didn't want to hold her too tight or else she'd only leave them. So tonight at the victory party at the beach they have reaffirmed their truce with Draco.
Hermione and Draco spent most of the night together. They missed each other's company. If you all would remember, Draco was craving for something a week before. They haven't really talked about what they were going to do when they get back to Hogwarts although they were pretty much determined to continue their so-called relationship.
Draco and Hermione sat under the most memorable tree in the beach. They watched as crazed witches and wizards from different houses playing with each other on the muggle-typed games. Hermione smiled to herself. "Maybe this is the reason why Dumbledore paired our houses."
Draco didn't expect another talk about houses. He was planning on changing the topic to talk about their relationship. "Huh?"
Hermione giggled at his reply, "I mean, haven't you wondered why Dumbledore paired Gryffindor and Slytherin?"
"I guess."
"Maybe he wanted us to see past our masks so that we can work together." She motioned towards the people partying. "Look at them, it's as if the barriers resulting from conflicting houses has been destroyed. Look at us, who would've imagined a Gryffindor and a Slytherin to have this kind of relationship?"
'Finally, us.' "What is our relationship?"
Hermione eyed him, "I don't know. What do you think?" She challenged.
"I think that since the fairies sped things up for us, maybe we should slow it down. You know, to let the feeling sink in."
"I agree. It was really fast." She gave a deep sigh. "Does that mean we'll keep away from each other?"
Draco looked at her incredulously. He wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. "What makes you think I can stay away from you? I barely survived last week without you."
"You're such a charmer Draco. You've been avoiding me for years."
"Not really, technically I've been a jerk with you before but still I didn't stay away from you."
Hermione couldn't help but smile. She cuddled closer to him feeling a breeze pass her. She didn't mind people looking at them. There were only a few weird glances that came their way. Most of the students were getting used with the idea.
Draco's craving still hasn't subsided and feeling her against him wasn't helping. He searched for her face and leaned for a kiss. . .
"Ehem!" Somebody cleared his throat.
The couple broke off. Hermione lowered her head to hide her blush while Draco glared at the source of the interruption, "WHAT?"
"Mr. Malfoy, Ms. Granger. It's a beautiful night isn't it?"
Draco dropped his mouth open as he saw who caught them, "Professor Dumbledore?"
"I came as quick as I could. I heard you two had quite an adventure."
Both Draco and Hermione felt embarrassed.
"I see that you both found out my true intent in this camp."
Hermione nodded, her voice failed her.
"Our world is like a big masquerade ball. You have to remove each mask to see the person within. I am counting on you both to set an example to the lower years. As time passes the masks gets harder to remove. You can help loosen it for them."
Draco and Hermione saw the insinuation that he projected and they both nodded. They watched the headmaster as he walked away. The couple faced each other.
"So I guess our faith is already decided?" Hermione caught Draco's eyes.
"Are you disappointed?" Draco teased.
"Let me get back to you." She tilted her face up to capture Draco's lips. Finally Draco's craving was put to an end.
TBC
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: I'm really sorry if this took so long. I'm having a hard time
adjusting with my new schedule. I didn't anticipate that my new
subjects would require more pressure as before. I might not be able
to update as frequently as before. Sorry! And to all those who
reviewed, thank you and please be patient! I'm starting to lose my
inspiration and I'm having a hard time thinking of plots to make my
story interesting so please review. It would help me a lot.
Oh and my priorities are as follows, 1) Last Chance, 2) Summer
Camp, 3) Picture Perfect, 4) The Haunted, 5) It's All About the Money.
The top three would be given my full attention and the other two
might be updated let's say once a month or so. The last two are
something I just felt writing, no plot but with an ending of getting
Draco and Hermione together.