Harry Potter and the Year of Discovery

by dbzdragonlanceman

Harry's sixth year at school. New connection to Voldemort. A budding romance with Ginny Weasley. It will be an interesting year. Complete.

18. DA on the Prowl

Chapter 18:

D.A. on the Prowl

The next morning Harry awoke to find the other four boys still asleep. He dressed and went downstairs to wait for Ginny in the common room. Hermione came through and went out the portrait hole without even acknowledging Harry's presence. Harry sighed. A short while later Ginny finally came down. Harry smiled at her. She smiled back. Harry got up and took her hand, and the two went out the portrait hole to go eat breakfast.

Harry finally spoke, "I saw Hermione earlier. She didn't even speak to me."

Ginny answered easily, "After I slapped her last night I'm not surprised."

Harry shrugged, "I suppose. I just wish that her and Ron would get over this idea that they need to know what's going on. If they knew, they wouldn't want to know."

Ginny nodded grimly, "They'll come around. Don't worry. If they don't, it's their loss."

Harry sighed, "It's still lonely."

Ginny punched his arm, "What do you mean lonely? You've got me."

"I know that, but you're in a different year. I don't really have anyone to talk to during class." answered Harry.

"Mr. Potter, you're not supposed to be talking in class. You're supposed to be paying attention to the professors." exclaimed Ginny playfully.

Harry snorted, "What do I need to listen in class for? I already know everything that the professors are going to teach."

Ginny replied, "Good point. The rest of them don't though. You shouldn't be distracting them."

Harry sighed, again, "I guess. It's still not any fun having your two best friends mad at you for doing the right thing."

"I thought I was your best friend." said Ginny.

Harry looked deep into her chocolate brown eyes, "Ginny, you are so much more than my best friend. I love you."

Ginny smiled and reached up to kiss Harry on the lips, "You're too sweet."

Harry grinned, "I know. Let's go ahead and go eat."

The two sat down at the Gryffindor Tower across from Neville. Luna was sitting beside him. "Hey, guys." Harry greeted them. Ron walked in a moment later and sat by Hermione a little ways down the table. Harry sighed, again.

Neville shook his head, "Don't worry, Harry. They'll get over it."

Harry chuckled, "That's what Ginny said."

Neville nodded wisely, "Sage advice."

The four talked over breakfast until it was time to go to class. Harry headed for Transfiguration. He walked in and decided to take a seat in the back by himself instead of going to Hermione and his normal table. Hermione strode past him a moment later and took her normal place at the front of the class. The rest of the class filed in, closely followed by Professor McGonagall. She swept up to the front of the class and then turned to insure that the entire class was present. She noticed that Hermione and Harry were sitting apart. She locked eyes with Harry, and raised her eyebrows in question. Harry just shrugged in response.

McGonagall nodded and then began her class, "Today, students we will begin studying Advanced Conjuration."

Hermione raised her hand. "Yes, Miss Granger."

"I thought that we were studying conjuration in Charms class, Professor?" asked Hermione.

"The study of Conjuration falls under the heading of Transfiguration. However, since there is great deal more information to cover at N.E.W.T. level in Transfiguration than there is in Charms, Professor Flitwick covers the rudiments of Conjuration for me." explained McGonagall.

Terry Boot raised his hand, "What if someone takes Transfiguration and doesn't take Charms."

"That is impossible, Mr. Boot. One of the prerequisites to enter my Transfiguration class at N.E.W.T. level is that you achieve an O.W.L. in Charms and continue it into N.E.W.T.'s." explained McGonagall.

The class chorused, "Oh."

"Now, onto Conjuration. We will be beginning with pillows. Everyone follow my wand movement." began McGonagall.

The class continued to practice conjuring pillows. Harry sat in the back and half napped, instead of practicing. McGonagall walked over to him, "Potter, I do not tolerate people sleeping in my class."

Harry answered, "I wasn't sleeping, I was just resting my eyes."

"How do you expect to learn how to do this if you don't open your eyes to look?" said McGonagall in a tight voice.

Harry took out his wand and waved it. A fluffy pillow appeared on the desk. "I already know how to do it."

McGonagall asked quietly, "Them, why are you in the class?"

Harry shrugged, "You never know when you might teach something that I don't know. I'll need to be here, then."

"Very well, Mr. Potter, just try not to doze so obviously. It sets a bad example for the rest of the class." McGonagall stated.

The class ended, and the only person to make any progress towards conjuring a pillow was Hermione. Although her pillow was lopsided and extremely lumpy. The bell rang and the students bolted from the class. Harry went outside and walked down to Hagrid's hut.

"Hey, Arry." shouted Hagrid.

Harry smiled, "Cheers, Hagrid."

"What'sa matter, Arry?" asked Hagrid.

Harry shrugged, "Not much. Hermione and Ron aren't talking to me, again."

Hagrid frowned, "Again?"

Harry nodded, "It seems to be a cycle. They keep getting upset with me, because I won't let them in on.." Harry paused while he looked around to make sure no one was within earshot. "Order business."

Hagrid nodded, "I understan'. They wanna know whats goin on, but you wanna protect' em."

Harry sighed, "It's not just that. I attacked Malfoy on the train and Hermione tried to give me a lecture about it. Ginny got mad at her, and slapped her."

Hagrid looked horrified, "She din't."

Harry nodded, "Yes, she did. Ginny gets really protective when it comes to me."

Hagrid grinned into his beard, "Yeah, she does. I saw her shout at sev' ral of her classmates las' year for makin fun of you."

Harry laughed, "That sounds like Ginny. Enough about that, though. Dumbledore told me that you were wanting to go into the forest. I'm supposed to be going with you to serve my detention."

Hagrid grinned, "Ye'll haf to wait an see. Meet me here at 8:00."

Harry nodded, "Alright, then. If you want to surprise me, then I'll just have to keep a few surprises in store for you."

Hagrid laughed, "Fair nough. See ya later, Harry."

Harry waved as he set off for the castle. He went to his common sword practice room. He began dueling two different statues. Ginny caught up with him a little later. She put her hands on her hips and called out his name, "Harry."

He stopped dueling, and asked, "What?"

"It's lunchtime, you know."

Harry looked down at his watch, and said sheepishly, "Oh. Sorry. I guess I let time get away from me."

Ginny nodded her head, "I'll just bet you did. Come on, hurry up."

"I've just got to tidy up in here." He vanished the swords, and sent the statues scurrying back into their niches along the wall.

Ginny looked at him proudly, "You know, you're starting to get really good at that."

"Which one? Conjuring the swords, Vanishing the swords, Sword fighting, or Animating objects?" asked Harry curiously.

Ginny paused in thought, "Well, actually, I was talking about the object animation and control, but come to think of it, you're really good at all of them."

Harry snorted, "Are you trying to score brownie points with the dueling club teacher, again?"

Ginny shook her head, "No, I just love you, and decided that I like giving you compliments."

Harry grinned playfully, "You like to fish for return compliments is what you like doing."

Ginny grinned, "Yeah, well, that too."

"Let's go eat."

Ginny pretended to pout, "Don't I get a compliment?"

Harry shook his head, "No, I think that I have been giving you too many recently. I'm going to have to start rationing out the compliments. I think that two a day is enough, don't you?"

Ginny turned red, "No, I don't think that is nearly enough. To maintain my affection, I need to hear at least ten."

Harry responded as the two walked into the Great Hall, "What is this, a negotiation? How about five?"

Ginny nodded, "That sounds pretty good. I guess that I can live with five."

Neville looked at them curiously, "What are the two of you going on about?"

Harry replied, "We were negotiating about how many compliments I have to give Ginny each day."

Ginny nodded, "Yeah, we decided on five."

Neville looked from one to the other, "Are you joking?"

Harry and Ginny both laughed at the expression on Neville's face, "Of course, we're joking."

"So, what were you really talking about?" asked Luna.

Ginny answered, "That's what we were really talking about. We were joking with each other."

Luna smiled dreamily, and poked Neville in the ribs, "Isn't that romantic?"

Neville looked panicked, "Yeah, I guess."

Harry and Ginny burst out laughing at him again. The four ate lunch quickly and then headed for class. Harry trudged off to Potions, while Neville headed for Care of Magical Creatures. Luna and Ginny went for Herbology.

Harry walked into the dungeon classroom, and again decided to sit near the back of the room. Hermione marched in and sat down in her customary place as usual. Snape swept into the room in his customary manner, but paused for just a moment beside Harry's table to unobtrusively drop a slip of parchment into his lap. Snape continued on to the front of the room, and began, "Today, we will be brewing a poison that is based on the seeds of a Venomous Tentacula. I have obtained the seeds that you will need to use from Professor Sprout." He waved his wand at the board, and the instructions for the potion appeared. "There are your instructions, the seeds are in the cupboard, you may begin."

While Snape was issuing the directions for the day, Harry inconspicuously opened the parchment. The note was simple and straightforward.

Double back after class. I need to speak with you.

Snape

Harry read the note twice to insure that it actually said what he thought it said. He shrugged and began preparing the potion for the day. He finished before anyone else, and sat watching the rest of the class after he had corked a vial for marking. He vanished the rest of the poison and finished cleaning up.

Snape walked by, and commented on Malfoy's potion. "Excellent brew, Mr. Malfoy."

Malfoy muttered softly, but loud enough for Snape and Harry to hear, "Keep your praise, you filthy traitor."

Harry almost gasped in shock at the statement. Snape's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing. He caught Harry's eye as he turned away, and gave him a warning glance. Harry nodded in understanding.

The rest of the class completed their poisons and turned in a vial. Snape took them all, and dismissed the class. Harry left at the front of the group, and took several meandering corridors to return to the dungeon classroom a few minutes later. He walked in to discover Snape still sitting behind his desk. "Close the door, Potter."

Harry shut the door and leaned against the edge of a table in front of Snape's desk, "So, what do you want to discuss with me?"

"I need to understand something, Potter. Do you really intend to go through with this plan of yours in Hogsmeade?"

Harry nodded, "I don't see that we have much of a choice. Voldemort wants Ginny, and I have to give him a reason to hesitate trying to take her."

"What if he takes her?" asked Snape.

"Then, I'll be dead and it will be up to someone else to save her. If I'm dead though, he doesn't have much reason to want her. The only reason that Ginny is important is me." answered Harry.

"What is that supposed to mean?" asked Snape.

"Exactly what I said. I couldn't figure out at first why Voldemort would want Ginny. Now, I know why."

"Why?" persisted Snape.

"He thinks that she has information about my powers. It didn't click in my mind until I found out that Draco had taken the Dark Mark." answered Harry.

Snape paled, "Draco has taken the Dark Mark?"

Harry nodded, "Over the holidays. I sensed it on the train ride back, and used a spell to check. The burning was fresh."

"How did you know how the Dark Mark was placed on a Death Eater." questioned Snape.

Harry replied easily, "You would be surprised at what I know, Professor."

"Perhaps." Snape replied cryptically. "The question is, do you know enough to challenge the Dark Lord?"

Harry shrugged, "I have no idea, but I expect that we will be finding out sooner than anyone would want. Is there anything else?"

Snape shook his head, "No, that is all."

Harry nodded, and left the room.

The dueling club that night was interesting. Ron and Hermione didn't show up. Harry began some simple sword and wand combination techniques that kept the students busy for awhile. He went to dinner with Ginny, and as soon as he was finished eating, stood up to join Hagrid. He leaned over and pecked Ginny on the cheek, "I've got to go and meet Hagrid in just a bit. Don't wait up. I don't know how long we will be."

Ginny shook her head, "You know that I am going to wait up. Nothing could make me go to sleep."

Harry sighed in defeat, "Alright, but at least try to take a nap. You need your sleep. You've got O.W.L.'s coming up."

Ginny nodded, "I'll try, but I don't know how I'm going to get any sleep knowing that you are going into the Forbidden Forest."

Harry grinned, "Don't worry. I'm not going to do anything stupid. I'll be careful."

"You better be, Mr. Potter." Ginny said sternly.

Harry grinned, and pecked her on the cheek again, "Bye, love. I'll be back later."

She nodded, but didn't respond. Ron sat down in the seat that Harry had just vacated. "Where is he going?"

Ginny snapped at Ron, "If Harry thought that it was any of your business, then he would have told you." She got up and stomped away.

Ron looked over at Neville, "What is her problem?"

Neville looked at him, and waited a moment to speak, "I would say that she's upset about the fact that her brother is acting like a prat concerning his best friend and her boyfriend." Neville got up and walked away from the table, leaving Ron gaping. Luna followed him shooting Ron a dirty look as she passed.

Hermione came over and sat down beside Ron. "What was that all about?"

Ron looked grim, "I just got told off by Ginny and Neville."

"Harry?" asked Hermione expectantly.

Ron nodded, "Of course. You know, Hermione, maybe Ginny's right."

"About what?"

Ron hesitated, but finally said, "About Harry. Maybe we don't need to know. Maybe there is a really good reason that he's not telling us anything."

Hermione sniffed, "No reason is good enough for him to leave us in the dark."

Ron replied sagely, "We left him out in the dark last summer."

Hermione protested, "That was different. We wanted to tell him. Dumbledore made us swear that we wouldn't tell him anything."

Ron nodded, "So, that was a good reason. Maybe he has one too."

Hermione sighed, "I want to know what is going on."

"So do I, Hermione, but I don't think that not talking to Harry is going to accomplish anything. He sure isn't going to tell us anything when we're acting like spoiled brats."

Hermione let out a long breath, "Alright, we can apologize at breakfast in the morning if we don't see him tonight."

Meanwhile, Harry had walked down to Hagrid's hut on the edge of the Forbidden Forest. Hagrid was just emerging from his front door, carrying his crossbow and a lantern. Fang was with him. Fang bounded forward to Harry, who smiled and scratched him behind the ears. "So, what are we going into the forest to do, Hagrid?"

"We're settin traps, Arry. Dumbledore wants em just in case the Death Eaters try summat in the forest." answered Hagrid. "Ye'll need a lamp."

Harry shook his head, "No, I won't. I'll be running scout while you set each trap. The less light the better."

"Ye canta see without sum light, Arry." protested Hagrid.

Harry smiled, "That's what you think, Hagrid. The moonlight is plenty of light for me. Wait until we're under cover in the trees and I'll show you the surprise I have in store for you."

Hagrid nodded, "Alrigh, Arry. Let's go."

The two walked into the forest. As soon as they were out of sight of prying eyes, Harry transformed into a panther. Hagrid gave a strangled gasp, and Fang howled in terror at the sight of the panther. Harry quickly transformed back so that he could talk. "You see, I don't need a light."

Hagrid looked amazed, "I din't know ye could do that, Arry."

Harry grinned, "Not many people do. It's supposed to be a secret, but I figured that we could trust you with it. Now, let's get busy. Ginny is going to be waiting up for me, so I don't want to be too late getting back in."

Hagrid nodded as Harry transformed back into the panther. The two set off into the forest with Fang following at a skittish distance. They finished setting traps in one quadrant of the forest, and Harry left Hagrid at his hut around midnight. Harry loped up to the castle on four legs. He transformed at the door, and walked in. Harry walked up to the portrait hole, and gave the Fat Lady the password. He walked in to discover Ginny lying asleep over her books. Harry smiled, and picked her up. He walked over to the stairs leading to the girl's dormitory. He cast a levitation spell on himself and moved up the stairs. They flattened into a chute beneath his feet, but since he wasn't actually touching them his forward progress wasn't impeded. Harry found the door for the fifth-year girls dormitory. He cast a Silencing Charm on its hinges and opened the door slowly. He found the empty bed and sat Ginny on it. He pulled back the covers, and slid her under them. He tucked the covers up underneath Ginny's chin, and kissed her on the nose. He walked out of the room and removed the Silencing Charm from the door. He slid down the chute into the common room, and packed up Ginny's books. He took them up to his dormitory with him, and fell onto his bed and went quickly to sleep.

The next morning, Harry was the first one up in his dormitory as usual. He dressed and went down to the common room. Hermione was sitting on the couch looking at the fire. Harry hesitated, and then walked over to the couch and sat down beside her. Hermione looked over to him and said, "Good morning."

Harry looked hopeful, "Does this mean that you're talking to me, again?"

Hermione nodded, "Yes. Harry, I'm sorry, but its just frustrating."

Harry smiled, "I know the feeling well. It builds character, so you'll just have to learn to live with it, or let it go."

Hermione looked confused, "How am I supposed to stop feeling frustrated?"

"Stop worrying about what is frustrating you." stated Harry simply.

Hermione shook her head, "I can't. I want to know what is going on."

Harry nodded, "I know that. However, there are reasons that it is better for you not to know for the time being. I can tell you this, however. The next time we go to Hogsmeade, keep your hand on your wand."

Hermione raised her eyebrows, "Does this mean that there is going to be an attack?"

Harry nodded, "Don't spread that information around, though. The last thing we need is a panic among the students and their parents."

Hermione nodded soberly, "Are they going to be after you?"

Harry shook his head, "No, they have a very different target. They're going to have to go through me to get to the target, however."

"Can you tell me who it is?" asked Hermione.

Harry shook his head, "No, but it shouldn't be too difficult for someone as smart as you to figure it out."

"Ginny." stated Hermione firmly.

Harry merely shrugged, but Hermione knew that she was right. Ginny came down the stairs a moment later, "Harry Potter, you were supposed to wake me up when you got back last night. How did I get up into my room anyway?"

Harry chuckled, "I'm sorry, but you just looked so cute sleeping that I didn't have the heart to wake you."

Ginny nodded, "Okay, but how did I get up to my room?"

"I carried you up there." answered Harry.

Hermione spluttered, "That's impossible. Boys can't walk up the girl's stairs."

"Very true, Hermione. However, I floated up the stairs, so that doesn't count." answered Harry.

Hermione continued to splutter, "How did you float up the stairs? You can't maintain a levitation spell on yourself. No one can."

Harry asked with a smirk on his face, "Why not?"

"You.. You just can't." stammered Hermione.

Harry leaned forward all traces of amusement or playfulness gone, "Hermione, the word can't does not apply to me." He got up and took Ginny's hand, "Let's go eat breakfast."

Hermione just stared after them in consternation. Ron came down a minute later to find Hermione staring off into space. "What's wrong with you?" Ron waved a hand in front of Hermione's face.

She looked at him and said, "Harry just told me that the word can't doesn't apply to him."

Ron looked confused, "What the bloody hell is that supposed to mean?"

Hermione just shrugged, "I don't know exactly, but I intend to find out."

The two got up, and walked out the portrait hole. They met up with Harry and Ginny. Neville and Luna joined them a few minutes later. As usual Hermione was chattering about class. "I wonder what Professor Flitwick is going to begin in Charms, now."

Neville laughed, "Why don't you just wait and find out when we get there?"

Hermione pouted, "I don't want to wait."

Ron inserted, "Well, speculating about it isn't going to make you find out any sooner."

The four sixth years headed for Double Charms, and Ginny and Luna headed off for their classes. The four took seats at the front of the class. Professor Flitwick climbed up onto his desk, and began class. "Today, we will begin object animation. We will start small. I have provided a box of toy soldiers. Everyone get one, and we will begin. The class got up and each of them took one toy. Harry waited until everyone had one, and then grabbed the remaining six.

Flitwick began talking, "The wand movement for this spell is a triangle followed by a whipping stab like this." He demonstrated. "The incantation is Animata, and then what you are attempting to animate. Like this." He pointed to one of the toy soldiers. "Animata soldier." The soldier marched around the desk. Then, it stopped and fell over onto its side. Flitwick continued, "Once the spell has been cast, you can maintain the object's movement through concentration. It does not require you to keep your wand pointed at it. This spell is very demanding, and few wizards can perform other magic while doing it. Some really powerful wizards can maintain the spell on multiple objects at the same time."

At this time Flitwick noticed what Harry was doing. He gave a squeak, and shouted, "Mr. Potter, what are you doing?" The rest of the class turned to look at Harry.

Harry had six of the toy soldiers and was watching them fight. They were pulling off some impressive martial arts feats, and the rest of the class stared in awe. Harry looked up, "I'm sorry, Professor. I was playing. I guess you shouldn't have given me a toy."

Professor Flitwick shook his head and blinked his eyes to make sure that he was seeing what he thought he was seeing. He finally managed to find his voice, "Mr. Potter, do you realize what you are doing?"

Harry nodded, "Yes, I was playing."

Professor Flitwick shook his head, "No, I mean the fact that you are animating multiple objects."

Harry nodded, again, "I know. I do it all the time."

Professor Flitwick fell off his desk in shock. He staggered back to his feet and asked in amazement, "What do you mean, you do it all the time?"

Harry answered, "I use statues to practice my swordplay, so I had to learn the object animation spell early. I got the idea from Professor Dumbledore."

"When did Professor Dumbledore use the object animation spell in front of you?" asked Flitwick.

Harry replied stiffly, "Last summer, in the Ministry of Magic. He animated all the statues in the fountain."

Professor Flitwick nodded, "Yes, Professor Dumbledore is very gifted. He is one of the few people alive that can manipulate multiple objects and still perform other magic. Enough of that, however." Flitwick climbed back up onto his desk. "The rest of you will attempt this now."

The rest of the class attempted to animate their soldiers. Hermione managed to get hers to take one step. No one else got the slightest movement from their soldier. Harry continued to play with his six soldiers. The class ended, and the students filed out either complaining about their lack of progress, or commenting about Harry's ability in jealousy.

"Mr. Potter, may I have a word with you?" asked Professor Flitwick.

Harry turned around, "Of course, Professor."

Flitwick waited until the rest of the class had left, and then he asked, "Can you do magic, while you are animating objects?"

Harry nodded, "I haven't practiced it much, but I know that I can."

Flitwick grinned eagerly, "Could you demonstrate?"

Harry nodded, again, "Sure, Professor." Harry turned and performed the wand motion, "Animata soldiers." Then, he looked around the room while the soldiers marched around in formation. "Wingardium Leviosa." He levitated Flitwick's desk.

While he was doing this, Flitwick decided to test his concentration and skill. "Tarantellegra."

Harry shifted slightly, "Protego." The shield flared into existence and deflected the curse into the wall. Harry waited a moment, and then allowed the soldiers to stop marching, and the desk to settle back to the floor. "I'm afraid you will have to do a little better than that to get the jump on me, Professor."

Flitwick smiled, "I see that, Mr. Potter. I am very impressed. You may go."

Harry picked up his stuff and left the classroom. The rest of the day passed without anything out of the ordinary occurring. After dinner, Harry pecked Ginny good-bye and headed out of the castle to aid Hagrid again. The two entered a different section of the forest, and Hagrid began setting traps while Harry kept watch for other creatures. About four hours later, they completed this section of the forest and Harry loped back up to the castle. He transformed at the doors, and then walked up to Gryffindor tower.

He was stopped by Filch, "Well, Mr. Potter, you are going to be in a spot of trouble aren't you?"

Harry turned to the caretaker, coolly and asked, "Why is that?"

Filch frowned, "You are out after hours, and I will have you polishing silver for this."

Harry grinned, "I think not. The headmaster knows that I am out. I was just returning from helping Hagrid in the forest. Since I have permission to still be out, I don't see that you have any reason to delay me further. I was returning to the tower." Harry turned and began walking away.

Filch grabbed his arm, "I will be taking you to the headmaster, boy. We will see if he really knows you are out and about."

Harry gazed coldly at Filch, "I suggest you take your hands off of me if you know what's good for you. You can go speak to the headmaster if you wish. I am returning to Gryffindor tower."

Filch tightened his grip on Harry, "You will be coming with me, boy."

"I warned you." stated Harry simply. An electrical jolt ran up Filch's arm. He released Harry quickly. "Now, I will be returning to Gryffindor tower. If you know what is good for you, I suggest you leave me alone." Harry spun on his heal and walked away. Filch made no attempt to stop him. Harry walked up to the Fat Lady, and gave her the password. Harry climbed through the portrait hole to find Ginny lying on the couch. He smiled down at her, and she opened her eyes.

She stretched languidly and said, "It's about time that you got back."

Harry snorted, "Sorry. I ran into that idiot Filch or I would have been back a little earlier."

Ginny smiled, "No matter. Come here."

Harry laid down on the couch beside her, and wrapped his arms around her. Ginny laid her head on his shoulder and said, "Let's just sleep down here tonight."

Harry replied, "Okay." He conjured a blanket for them, and the two quickly fell asleep.

Harry awoke the next morning to a soft touch upon his arm. He looked over to find Hermione staring at him disapprovingly. "You know," she said, "the two of you can't make a habit of this. I'm going to have to start giving you detention if you continue."

Harry shook his head, "We are not making a habit of it. This is only the second time."

Hermione nodded, "True, but unless you want Ron to see you in this position with his sister, then I suggest that you get up."

Harry nodded, "Good point. Gin, hon, wake up."

Ginny stirred, "Do I have to?"

"Unless you want Ron to kill me for sleeping with his sister." Harry answered dryly.

Ginny jumped up and grinned, "Well, we can't have that, now can we?" She looked at Hermione, "Morning." Then, she raced up the stairs to the girl's dormitory.

Harry muttered under his breath, "That girl is completely mental."

Even though the statement was made so softly, Hermione still heard it and smiled at Harry's back as he trekked up the stairs to his room.

The rest of the week passed quickly. Harry continued his detentions with Hagrid. They finished setting traps in the forest on Friday. The dueling club met on Thursday, and continued practicing basic wand and sword combinations. The weekend was filled with homework and play. Ginny especially was starting to feel the stress of O.W.L. year. Harry helped her as much as he could. With Monday, came another dueling club meeting. Then, finally it was Tuesday, and time for the first Gryffindor Quidditch practice of the term.

The team met in the changing rooms at five o'clock. Harry came out of the captain's office, and said, "Alright, we have five weeks until we play Hufflepuff. I'm not terribly worried about winning, here. I don't really intend to insult anyone, but after the way Ravenclaw steamrolled them last term, I really don't see them being much of a challenge. They have got a pretty weak side this year. So, what I want us to do is concentrate on running the score up. Slytherin is playing Ravenclaw, and whichever of them win will be in second place in the standings behind us. If its Ravenclaw, we will play them next term for the cup. If Slytherin wins, we are going to have to watch the score differentials. If we beat Ravenclaw by the skin of our teeth and they hammer Hufflepuff, then we could be looking at a close run on points. So, let's get fired up and see if we can't pad our position a little bit against Hufflepuff. We're going to change strategy a little bit. Dean, I want you to cover the Chasers. Play defensive. We don't really have to worry about hammering their Chasers much. Ron can handle them at goal. Seamus, I want you to mark their Seeker. They are playing Eleanor Branstone. She has the making of a really good Seeker, but she just doesn't have the confidence, yet. Don't try to actually hit her with the Bludger, but hammer it in her direction every chance you get. I want her rattled and wary, so that I can hold off catching the Snitch until our magic trio run the score up a bit. I don't want to give those Slytherin's a chance at the Cup. It's going to be ours again."

The group of players cheered at Harry's speech. Then, they went out onto the pitch and practiced every play, flawlessly. Harry was extremely proud of his team. He stopped in the air and blew his whistle. "Alright everyone, its time to quit. Let's head in."

The Gryffindors entered the Great Hall in buoyant spirits that evening to eat dinner.

The rest of this week and then the next one passed in much the same manner. On Mondays and Thursdays, they had dueling club. On Tuesday, they had Quidditch practice. Finally, it was the end of the third week, and the first Hogsmeade weekend of the term. After dinner, on Friday Harry and Ginny turned away from their friends, and began walking in a different direction. Ron hollered after them, "Hey, where are you two going?"

Harry waved him off, "Ginny and I are going to talk to the Headmaster. We'll meet up with you later in the common room." The two of them arrived at the gargoyle leading to Dumbledore's office. "Honeydukes." Harry said. The gargoyle leaped to one side, and Harry led Ginny up the circular stairs into Dumbledore's office. Dumbledore had not returned from dinner, yet. So, Harry and Ginny each took a seat to wait for him.

A few minutes later, Dumbledore strode in and smiled at the two teenagers, "Ah, Harry, I expected you to be here. I am surprised that Miss Weasley is accompanying you, however."

Harry shrugged as Dumbledore took his seat behind his desk, "The only thing that I really came here to discuss was the plan for tomorrow, and since she's the main thing that we are protecting, I figured she had a right to be here."

Dumbledore nodded, "Quite right. Quite right. Miss Weasley, the battle plan is quite simple. We want you to stick as close as possible to Harry. We have numerous Order members and Aurors that will be stationed and ready for the attack. However, when the Death Eaters do show up, most of the people in the village are going to panic. There is going to be a great deal of confusion. So, you are going to have to stay ready to defend yourself in the event that any of the Death Eaters manages to get to you. I know you have been trained well for this. However, I must ask you one last time. Are you sure you want to go through with this?"

Ginny nodded, "I agree with Harry. This is the only real option that we have."

Harry squeezed Ginny's hand, and then turned to Professor Dumbledore, "Are all the people that we discussed going to be present in the village?"

Dumbledore nodded, "Yes, all of them will be there. I just hope its enough."

Harry consoled him, "Don't worry, Professor, it will be."

The next morning Harry awoke and picked up his wand from his bedside table. He played the conversation from the night before over in his mind. He breathed deeply. Ron woke up and looked over at him, "What's the matter, mate?"

Harry shook his head, but finally spoke, "Ron, promise me something."

Ron nodded, "Sure. Anything."

"When the curses start flying, today, promise me that you will grab Hermione and stay low." said Harry.

"Okay. I'll do it, but I want to know why they are attacking." said Ron.

Harry shrugged, "They want the key to defeating me."

"What's that?" asked Ron.

"They think that it is your sister." responded Harry.

Ron's eyes narrowed, "They're after my sister?"

"Unfortunately. They think that since she is my girlfriend, that she will know enough about my abilities to give Voldemort an edge when he fights me." explained Harry.

Ron looked thoughtful, "Does she?"

Harry shook his head, "No, Voldemort doesn't need any advantages to beat me. He thinks that he does, which is why he hasn't already busted up into the castle with all his Death Eaters and dark creatures to take over. Voldemort knows that if he takes Hogwarts, he will have eliminated the only two enemies that he has to worry about."

"Are you saying that You-Know-Who is afraid of you?" asked Ron incredulously.

Harry nodded, "Yes, Ron, that is exactly what I am saying."

"Why?"

Harry sighed, "That's not something that I'm prepared to tell you, yet. You'll just have to wait and be patient."

"Alright, but I don't have to like it." muttered Ron.

Harry replied, "I'm not asking you to like it. I'm asking you to accept it." Harry got up and walked out of the dormitory to get ready for the day.

The five Gryffindors met Luna downstairs in the Great Hall for a late breakfast. After they were done, they got up to head down to Hogsmeade. They stood in line in the entrance while Filch checked each student off the list. When Harry and his friends got up to the door, Filch stopped them. "You are not allowed to go into Hogsmeade today, Potter. You will be serving detention with me all day."

Harry snorted, "By whose authority do you think that you are going to stop me from going into the village?"

Filch turned red with rage, "By mine, boy. You will do as I say."

"I think that you better go back and check your job description. You are only allowed to recommend punishment. You have to have a professor to back you up to actually assign a punishment. Since I do not see a professor with you, I suggest that you step back out of my way." Harry said coldly.

Filch struck Harry across the face, "You will not talk back to me, boy."

Harry pulled his wand out and yelled, "Stupefy." Filch fell over backwards.

"Potter, what do you think that you are doing?" rang out the oily voice of Snape.

"Filch hit me, Professor. I retaliated." answered Harry simply.

Snape looked skeptical, "Why would Filch hit you, Harry? He knows that striking a student is cause for Dumbledore to dismiss him."

Harry waved his wand over Filch's body. It glowed red. "There's your answer. He is under the influence of the Imperious Curse."

Snape stared in shock as Dumbledore walked into the Entrance Hall. "What is going on, Harry?"

Harry pointed to Filch's glowing body, "I would say that someone is trying to stop me from going into the village, today."

Dumbledore nodded, "I see. Well, this is nothing for you to concern yourself with. Go ahead and enjoy your day in the village, Harry." Dumbledore said all of this in a loud voice, for the benefit of the surrounding students. His eyes, however, held a grim look that Harry locked onto. He nodded to Dumbledore in reassurance of the fact that he understood the significance of the matter.

The group walked out of the castle and headed down the path to the village. Neville looked over at Harry, "Harry, do you have an idea of why anyone would want to stop you from getting into the village?"

Harry nodded, "Yes, I do." He checked to make sure none of the other groups of students around them were too close. Then, he whispered, "There is going to be an attack in a little while in the village. Someone wanted to make sure that I was still in the castle when the attack happened."

Hermione leaned closer to Harry, "Who would want to do that?"

Harry snorted, "Malfoy."

Hermione looked skeptical, "Malfoy may be a pain, but he doesn't take an active hand in his father's business. There must be somebody else."

Harry shook his head, "No, it was Malfoy. He has the Dark Mark, now. He's actually been accepted as a Death Eater."

The rest of the group looked horrified. Ron stammered, "Are you sure?"

Harry nodded, "I saw the mark on his arm while we were on the train."

Ginny looked as if she suddenly understood something, "That's why you were so savage with him."

Harry smirked, "Yeah, I guess. Anyway, when the attack starts today, I want all of you to take cover. I've got Auror backup so there's no reason for you to get out in the middle of things. Just stay down. If the fight comes to you, though. Give them everything that you've got."

Ron grinned, "That's what I'm talking about."

Harry looked at him sharply, "No heroics, Ron. I'm serious. I'll stun you myself if you do anything stupid."

Hermione asked, "What if you do something stupid?"

Harry shrugged, "I'm allowed."

Ron protested, "If you're allowed to do something stupid, why can't I?"

Harry snickered, "Trademark infringement. I've got the monopoly on doing stupid stuff to get landed in the hospital wing."

All of them laughed except for Ginny. "It's not funny. Harry gets put in the hospital wing all the time."

Harry smiled at her, "Gin, it was just a joke. Everyone knows that I get put in the hospital wing all the time. I'm always okay, though."

Ginny subsided, "Alright, just don't make jokes about you getting hurt. I don't like it."

The rest of the group hid grins from Ginny while Harry said, "Okay, Gin. I promise not to make anymore jokes about it."

They spent the morning wandering around Hogsmeade. They ate lunch at the Three Broomsticks. After they were finished eating, they walked back outside and suddenly there were several pops. Six Death Eaters appeared with a whole group of Dementors. Several of the villagers screamed and fled along with a number of the students.

Harry shouted at the others. "Get down. Expecto Patronum." Three Patroni exploded from the end of his wand and headed for the Dementors. They were quickly joined by several more. Harry turned his attention to the group of Death Eaters. He began hurling hexes at them. Harry took cover by an overturned trash bin. He was quickly joined by the Weasley twins. Harry looked over, "How are we doing?"

Fred Weasley shook his head, "Not good. Sturgis and that Adams bloke are already down. Those Death Eaters hit fast and hard with those Dementors. Lupin, Kingsley, and Amos Diggory are keeping the Dementors at bay. Two of the Death Eaters have got Mad- Eye and Bill pinned down behind the Post Office, and Dawlish is trying to herd students."

George chimed in as he sent a stunner sailing at the Death Eaters. "That leaves four of these idiots for us."

Fred spoke again, "Can't say that I like the odds. He sent a couple of Disarming Charms flying."

Harry grinned, "I guess its time to even the odds. Ron, Hermione, Ginny, Luna, Neville, Patronus Charms right at the fold of Dementors. Stay down." Harry nodded to the twins. "See you on the other side." He jumped up and began raining curses at the four Death Eaters. Fred and George tried to cover him. Harry took out one of the Death Eaters with a Full-Body Bind. He tackled one of the Death Eaters that was pinning down Mad-Eye and Bill.

Alastor sent an Explosion Hex at the overhang above the second one. It fell down on him, smashing the Death Eater. Harry clubbed the one he tackled over the head with a rock that he summoned to himself, and then snapped his wand. He blocked a couple of curses with a Shield Charm and then dove behind cover with Moody and Bill. Bill was bleeding from a cut on his arm. Harry ripped off the sleeve of his robes, and said, "Hold pressure on it with this. What happened?"

Bill grunted in pain, "I took a Cutting Curse from one of them."

Harry nodded, "Stay here, then. Come on, Mad Eye. There are still three of them out there. Not to mention those damn Dementors."

Moody flashed a feral grin, "Lead the way, Potter."

Harry spared Bill one last glance, "Be careful." Bill nodded in response. Harry popped up, "Expecto Patronum." This sent three more silver stags to try and repulse the Dementors. He shot a look over his shoulder at Moody, "What the hell has Voldemort done to those Dementors. Those Patroni should have sent them packing by now."

Moody shrugged as the two stayed low to the ground and headed for the twins. Harry saw Dawlish and Diggory go down. However, by now several of the villagers had gotten organized and had fired Patroni into the group of Dementors. The Dementors were finally backing off from Lupin and Kingsley, both of which looked as if they had been through the mill.

Harry heard a familiar scream and looked quickly for the source. Two more Death Eaters had Apparated beside Ginny and had grabbed her. Harry took off running in anger. One of the Death Eaters sent an Avada Kedavra Curse sailing at him. Harry dove under it and resorted to martial arts to get the Death Eaters away from Ginny. To give her credit, Ginny was fighting against them tooth and nail. Harry caught one of the two with a snap kick to the side of the head. He staggered back while Harry spun and hammered a knife hand strike to the other's throat. Harry grabbed Ginny and threw her bodily behind him. He whipped his wand up and around and shouted, "Explodra."

The two Death Eaters flew backwards from the force of the explosion. Their tattered bodies hit the ground like sacks of potatoes and lay still. Harry spun to block two more curses, "Protego."

Ginny screamed, "Harry, look out."

Harry spun, but was just a split second too late. The Death Eater was too close as he said, "Cuttera." The Cutting Curse caught Harry from his right shoulder to his left hip.

Harry screamed in pain, as Fred Weasley yelled out, "Stupefy." The stunner caught the Death Eater and he flopped to the ground. Ginny noticed that as he fell, his mask came off. She recognized him as Lucius Malfoy. Two more Death Eaters ran up, but Lupin and Kingsley were right behind Ginny by this time. The two Death Eaters grabbed Lucius and Disapparated away.

Lupin shook his head, "We have to get Harry up to the castle."

Harry shook his head, "See to the others, first. I'm fine. I'll get back up to the castle myself."

Kingsley looked amazed that the boy was still on his feet. "Potter, you can't even walk. How are you going to get back up to the castle?"

Harry slumped down to his knees, and picked up a piece of wood that had broken off from the force of the Explosion Hex. He looked at it, and then waved his wand, "Portus." He looked up, "Come on, Ginny. We have to get you out of here or they'll be back with reinforcements while I'm weak." Ginny placed a finger on the piece of wood and she and Harry disappeared.

Kingsley and Remus exchanged surprised glances, but Lupin grinned, "Well, I don't guess that we should be surprised. That young man can do anything."

Kingsley smiled back, "Yes, he can. I've always heard people say that with him around, I'm not worried. The him in question was always Albus Dumbledore. Now, its Harry. I think we might win this yet."

Moody limped up to them with Bill Weasley and the twins at his side. Moody growled, "You bet we'll win it. I'd follow that Potter boy into the bowels of hell if he asked it of me. You just can't go wrong with him."

The twins bubbled with enthusiasm from their first battle, "He's dating our sister. That means he's like family."

Bill Weasley grinned, "He was family long before he started dating Ginny. Anyone should be proud to know that young man." The group shared one last grin and then set to work cleaning up the mess. Several more Ministry Aurors and personnel showed up on the scene.

Ron, Hermione, Neville, and Luna came running up to Lupin, "Where's Harry and Ginny?" they chorused.

Lupin held up his hands, "Harry was injured, so they took a Portkey back up to the castle."

Hermione paled, while Neville asked, "Is he going to be okay?"

Lupin nodded, "He's had worse many times over. He'll be fine. The four of you need to head back up to the castle with the other students."

They nodded and started up the road back towards Hogwarts.

Harry and Ginny appeared in the floor of the Hospital Wing. Madam Pomfrey gasped in surprise, "Mr. Potter, what do you think you are doing. You scared the life out of me." She paused as she noticed the blood dripping from Harry's robes and chest onto the floor. She immediately sprang into action, "Miss Weasley, help me get him onto the bed."

Ginny and Madam Pomfrey wrestled Harry onto the bed, and Madam Pomfrey quickly pulled his robes from his upper body. Ginny blushed slightly at seeing Harry's bare chest, but she said nothing. "Is he going to be alright, Madam Pomfrey?" asked Ginny, tears beginning to form in her eyes.

Madam Pomfrey began spreading some pungent salve onto the wound. "I daresay that he will be fine. I've cured worse. I'm afraid that the cut is deep enough that it is going to scar, however." She continued to work diligently, while Ginny stood by and watched. Finally, the wound was closed and the blood cleaned up. Madam Pomfrey looked over to Ginny, "I'm sure that he will sleep for a little while. You may remain at his side until he wakes up."

Ginny nodded, mutely. A moment later Dumbledore walked in looking very weary. "How is he, Poppy?"

Madam Pomfrey replied, "He's going to be just fine, Albus. He'll probably sleep for awhile."

Dumbledore nodded, and then turned to Ginny, "Miss Weasley, how are you doing?"

Ginny sniffled, "I'm okay, but I'm worried about Harry. Why does he do the things that he does, sir?"

Dumbledore sighed, "I don't know, Ginny. He feels that it is his responsibility to save the world."

Ginny grinned ruefully, "Doesn't he?"

"In a manner of speaking, yes. However, he doesn't have to try and do it everyday."

The other four came rushing into the Hospital wing at this moment. They all began babbling at once. "Where is Harry? Is he okay? How about Ginny? Is she alright? What happened?"

Madam Pomfrey descended on the four of them wrathfully, "What do the four of you think you are doing? Be quiet. You are going to wake him up."

They all subsided under her furious gaze. Dumbledore smiled at them, "Miss Weasley and Mr. Potter are just fine. There is no need to worry. I must be going. I have other matters that require my attention." He turned to Madam Pomfrey, "Poppy, I will be returning later to check on Mr. Potter." He walked out of the Hospital Wing with a nod at the students.

Madam Pomfrey eyed them critically, "You may all wait for Mr. Potter to awaken, as long as you are quiet."

Neville spoke for the group, "We'll be quiet, Madam Pomfrey. We promise."

She nodded, and the group of students sat down around Harry's bed and watched him rest. Hermione blushed when she noticed that he had nothing covering his upper body. She caught Ginny's eyes and then flicked her eyes to Harry's well muscled chest. Ginny followed Hermione's gaze and smiled. Then, she shook her finger at Hermione. Hermione giggled as silently as possible. Ron looked back and forth between the two girls, but merely scratched his head in confusion.

About an hour later, Harry finally woke up, "So, what happened? Has Dumbledore been here yet?"

Ginny leaned forward and said, "Yes, Professor Dumbledore has been here. He said that he would be back later."

Harry nodded, "I'm sure that there will be an Order meeting this evening. I have to figure a way to get Madam Pomfrey to let me out of here to go to it."

"That will not be necessary, Harry." Dumbledore walked around the corner. "I will speak to Poppy. We are meeting in my office in just a few minutes. The rest of the Order is waiting for us."

Madam Pomfrey cam bustling out of her office at the sound of Dumbledore's voice, "Albus, what is the meaning of this? The boy needs rest."

Dumbledore raised his hands, "I understand that, Poppy. However, I must insist that Harry be allowed to accompany me to my office for a while."

Madam Pomfrey began to protest, but Harry broke in, "Please, Madam Pomfrey. I feel fine. As soon as we are through, I promise I'll come back down here, and I'll stay all night without complaint."

Poppy sighed, "Oh, alright. I expect you to return as soon as you leave the Headmaster's office."

Harry smiled, "Thank you." Harry waved his wand at his body and fixed his robes back around him. He slipped his wand back into his pocket as he got out of the bed. "Let's go, Professor." He quickly strode from the Hospital Wing with a surprised Dumbledore hot on his heels. They reached the gargoyle that guarded the stairs, and gave the password, "Honeydukes." They walked up the circular stairs into the office. Dumbledore sat at his desk while Harry took the last remaining chair. There was a sizeable group of people in the room. Elphias Doge, Severus Snape, Minerva McGonagall, Bill, Fred, George, Arthur, and Molly Weasley, Remus Lupin, Dedalus Diggle, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Dawlish, Tonks, Hestia Jones, Sturgis Podmore, Amos Diggory, Alastor Moody, and Mundungus Fletcher.

Dumbledore cleared his throat. "I think that it is obvious as to why we are all here. The attack on Hogsmeade today by the Death Eaters rattled everyone, I am sure. Luckily we were prepared for it and there were no casualties on our side. Dawlish, I believe that you wished to ask Mr. Potter something."

Dawlish turned to Harry with a look of awe, "What did you do to those two Death Eaters that tried to take your girlfriend, Mr. Potter?"

Harry glanced at Dumbledore and raised his eyebrows at the tone of respect in Dawlish's voice. Dumbledore merely smiled. Harry replied, "Explosion Hex at close range. I assume that they were tore up pretty badly."

Lupin answered, "They were dead, Harry. We checked them right after you port keyed away. They were most likely dead when they hit the ground."

Harry nodded, "Good. Did we get anymore?"

Moody growled, "One more was killed. We captured another two. The one that hit you with the cutting curse and two more got away."

Kingsley Shacklebolt jumped in, "The one that cut Harry was Lucius Malfoy."

Dumbledore raised his eyebrows, and asked, "Are you sure, Kingsley?"

Kingsley nodded, "His mask slipped off after one of the Weasley twins stunned him. I got a good look at his face."

Harry sighed, "I guess that's one more that I owe Lucius Malfoy. Now, I really have a score to settle with him."

Fred Weasley looked at Harry, "I'm sorry, Harry. I was just a little too slow. I couldn't get him in time."

Harry waved a hand at him, "Don't worry about it. I'm still here. I think the day was a success. Voldemort obviously has been magically enhancing his Dementors. Today we showed that we can handle them. Three dead Death Eaters and two captured is good news. I take it that the captured Death Eaters are going to be kept somewhere other than the Ministry, Dawlish?"

Dawlish answered quickly, "Yes, sir. We have a secure location set up. No one, but the Aurors that rotate guard duty know the location. That should prevent leaks."

Dumbledore looked to Harry, "Do you think that Voldemort will try to capture Miss Weasley, again?"

Harry nodded, "I'm almost sure of it. However, he's not going to try anything as open as an attack on Hogsmeade. He's either going to try something subtle, or he's going to attack the castle outright. I expect the former. I don't think that Voldemort's desperate enough or stupid enough to try a direct assault on the castle, yet."

The rest of the Order nodded in agreement. Dumbledore stood, "Very well, I believe that is all for now. Mr. Potter needs to return to the Hospital wing before Madam Pomfrey storms in here after him."

The rest of the group chuckled appreciatively at the joke. As everyone filed out, Molly grabbed Harry in a hug. "The boys told me what you did for Ginny. I don't know how I am ever going to thank you."

Harry grinned as he hugged Molly back, "Just don't have a fit when I finally ask Ginny to marry me, and we'll call it even."

Molly pulled back from him as the Weasley men grinned, "Are you planning to ask her anytime soon?"

Harry shook his head, "I was thinking after I have defeated Voldemort, or my graduation from Hogwarts if I happen to kill him before then."

Molly said severely, "I think that the two of you will be somewhat young."

Harry stopped her by pointing at her, "You can't complain. That's the deal." Harry flashed one last smile and then headed down the stairs.

Molly looked to Arthur in consternation, "Aren't you going to say something to him? He can't propose to Ginny in a year and a half."

Arthur shrugged, "I have no intention of stopping him. I don't think that our daughter could find a finer man. If she wants to marry him at the end of next year, I will be walking her down the aisle."

The twins and Bill cheered, "Here, Here."

A/N: I have been informed that I had my settings such that anonymous reviewers could not review. I apologize for the inconvenience, and the settings have been corrected. You may review normally, now.

Captuniv: Obviously, Draco wasn't revealed to everyone. That will be saved for a much later date. It's still going to take a little bit for Ron and Hermione to come around. They are going to be upset with him yet again.

Zeromaru: Chaos Mode: Thanks for the ideas, and the review.

Athena kitty: Thanks for the review.

Dragonstorm316: I hope you continue to enjoy.

Jeangab057: Thanks for the review.

Solar1: Thanks for the review.

IllyAden: Harry is getting a bit conceited, but that is something that goes along with being extraordinarily powerful. He will mellow as he gets used to his powers.

Thirdxdimension: Thanks for the review.

Taruial: Thanks for the review.