Chapter Six beta'd 5/8/04
"Y-yes Headmaster," Harry nodded, trying to be nice, and patient to the old man. Who only twinkled at him. "Oh for crying out loud, please stop the twinkling!" Harry said, experhasted. Dumbledore only chuckled.
"You're not the only one to say that Harry," he said, twinkling even more. Harry only sighed.
"It's futile isn't it Professor?"
"In a sense, yes Harry," said Dumbledore. "Now, for the Prophecy, this was made only a year before you were even born. And believe it or not, it was made by Professor Trelawney." Harry coughed in half-surprised, and half-appalled.
"Wait, are you saying, everything in my life was because OF her?!" Harry asked, enraged by the fact that she made the prophecy. "Whatever she said, had ended in result of my parents?" He didn't need to say that his parents died because of the prophecy.
"You don't know what the prophecy is yet, and you're lacking maturity over it already. Maybe it is unwise to tell you right now," he made an attempt to get up.
"I'm sorry Professor, but, it's just that..." Harry began, wanting to know what the prophecy entails. He remember in his third year, when Trelawney had made a real prediction. The one that Wormtail, that stupid rat had run to his Dark Lord. "You know Professor, I remember when she made a prophecy in my thrid year..."
"Yes, you remember that don't you?" Dumbledore said, eyes twinkling even more. "Yes, well, when I had to find a Divinition teacher to recruit. But didn't want to continue Divination classes. When I spoke with her, I didn't want to hire her. However just as I was to make my leave, she make the prediction. And I'm sorry to say, that Hog's head isn't a place to have private conversation..." Harry knew what he was talking about, never assume that you won't be overheard in Hog's head. "I thought there would be nothing worth to be overhearing, so we had our interview there. Now, here's the prophecy Harry. The reason that you've been dreaming all these months about the corridor, and made some successful trips inside to see where the room is. I'm afraid that Voldemort might use you to get the Prophecy..."
"But Professor, I don't see how that can be a weapon."
"That's because it reveals on how to destroy you," Dumbledore said, looking over his glasses at him, not accompanying by a single flicker of twinkle.
"It-it does?" Harry asked, old man nodded at him.
"Yes, and it is as said like this."
'THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD APPROACHES . .
BORN TO THOSE WHO HAVE THRICE DEFIED HIM,
BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES . . .
AND THE DARK LORD WILL MAKE HIM AS HIS EQUAL,
BUT HE WILL HAVE THE POWER THE DARK LORD KNOWS NOT . . .
AND EITHER MUST DIE AT THE HAND OF THE OTHER
FOR NIETHER CAN LIVE WHILE THE OTHER SURVIVES . . .
THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD
WILL BE BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES. . .'
The either two hadn't spoke for fully two minutes, absorbing what the prophecy had told. Dumbledore finally looked at Harry, straight into the eyes, and flinched. At that moment, Harry felt snake-like feeling coursing through his veins, wanting to attack the Headmaster. Make him suffer, killing him. Harry also looked away, ashamed what he had just experinced.
"Harry, you see why Voldemort is after you? And what we just shared, is the reason I cannot look into the eyes of yours. It pains me so much Harry. I cannot stand it," Dumbledore said, frowning.
"I.. I don't understand the prophecy though..." Harry began, burrowing two eyebrows together in confusion.
"It means, that you have the power to defeat Him. Also, that your birthday was on July 31st, as it said. As the seventh month dies. Though, the prophecy was refering to two different people at the time when the prophecy was made."
"What do you mean sir?"
"It could have been talking about either you or Neville. Both of your parents had run from Voldemort three times. The Prophecy lies in the depths of Department of Mysteries at the Ministry. Anything you want to ask?"
"Yes sir, what if it's not me? What if it's Neville? Voldemort could have chosen the wrong person."
"Very good question, you see, the prophecy said that Dark Lord will mark him as his equal," as he said this, his eyes flicked up to his scar, lingering there. "He must have seen the similarity between you and himself. As he is the half-blood as you are. Neville is pure-blooded. So he saw you as more of a danger to him than the Longbottom did. Anything else?"
"How do I know what kind of power that Voldemort knows not?"
"In time, it will reveal itself to you. It lies in the Department of Mysteries."
"Okay . . . and, there's one more thing that's puzzling . . ." Harry began, hestiantly.
"Go on," pressed Dumbledore, watching Harry's mouth.
"The part about the 'Niether can live while'," Harry said.
"'--the other survives'," Dumbledore finished for him. "It means that either you or Him must finish . . ." he left it there, lingering. The two didn't need to know what had needed to be said. Harry understood what he said, but couldn't believe it.
'Me.. the murderer or the victim...' Harry thought, his own inner voice was screaming. Again, the two didn't talk for long time, the fire dying slowly into hot embers. Harry took this time to organize his thoughts. Without warning, Dumbledore stood up, and walked over to the door and said something that they were finished talking. The four came back in, taking their seats near Harry and Dumbledore. Harry didn't even register they were in the room now.
"Harry?" Sirius asked, looking at his state. "Headmaster, what did you tell him?" He switched from Harry to Dumbledore. The old man sighed, and shook his head.
"I'm sorry, but he will tell you in time. The only people who knows the full-prophecy is me and Harry. It's best to remain that way until he's ready to tell you."
"Albus . . ." Mrs. Weasley began, Dumbledore held his hand up.
"Please, for his safety and for the world's sake. If he knows, then we may be in trouble."
"Oh, alright," she said, disprovingly, and got up. "Harry, you need to sleep now."
"Yes Mrs. Weasley," he mumbled softly as Harry got up, "Good night everyone..." He went through his bedchambers, which the worn couch served as his bed for the night.
For the next several weeks, consisted of attending several classes, going to private Occulemency, which had finally progressed. Thanks to Professor Snape who took the time to explain few things on building mind defenses. But only once awhile, and that Harry practiced everyday, and before going to sleep. Harry had noted that he had very peaceful sleep he had in months, and never dreamt about the corridor or the Department of Mysteries. He had dreams where everyone actually have. Normal dreams. At times, Harry found them bizzare, but reassured.
One night, in Occulemency class, a week before the O.W.L.s started. Professor Snape spoke to him about the examination.
"Potter," he said, putting his wand down after casting a Legilimens. Harry didn't put his wand down, still being very cautious. "As you know, in two weeks are the O.W.L.s, and I have spoken to a trustworthy examination. Who, luckily for us," drawled Professor Snape. "He is willing to give himself time for your private examination. Due to your circumstances with Professor, and Headmaster," he spat at the name, "Umbridge."
"Oh thank you sir, I'll work hard for that effort Professor."
"Legilimens!" The two ensued their Occulemency.
Later that weekend, the Quidditch between Ron's team and against Ravenclaw. Harry had come to the match, particularly because of Hagrid wanted him to be there. But he would've went anyways.
"Hey Hermione," Harry whispered, sitting in the aisle, in one of the most empty-iest box on the pitch. True they didn't have good view on the game, at least no one will feel the odd sensation of feeling invisble cloak as they went by. Umbridge, and the Inquistorial Squad sat at another box, of about four boxes away where Harry and Hermione sat. No one thought that Hermione was sitting by herself in the box she is sitting in to be odd. Since she doesn't really show a lot of interest in Quidditch games except for matches between Gryffindor and Slytherin, where she would show her true team spirit. But not in matches with other houses.
"Oh hey Harry," she whispered back, watching the two teams assemble on the grass. "It's starting . . ." Harry watched the Quidditch match unfolding before him. For first several minutes, Ron wasn't doing so well. But soon, Ron seemed to have changed tactics. Because he looked much more confident, and a lot better at blocking the goals. The Gryffindors cheered loudly as Ron made a spectacularly great save from one of the Chaser's. Even Harry whooped, which caused a few Hufflepuff second years looking at Hermione warily but returned back to the match.
"Ron really did it this time!" Harry whispered excitedly.
"Maybe it's because the twins aren't here," Hermione whispered back, thoughtfully.
"Perhaps, oh look, there's Hagrid," Harry said. The Half-giant made his way towards seemingly lonely Hermione.
"Hey Hermione," then he whispered, "he's here isn' he?"
"Yeah Hagrid, what is it?" Hermione replied.
"Well, I was wonderin' if yeh two could come while everyone is distracted from the game . . ."
"But we wanted to watch Ron, he's doing loads better in this match!" Hermione said, half yelling, but still whispering all the same.
"But I'll tell yeh why I've been gettin' these," he pointed to his wounds. Hermione looked at where Harry would be, who only looked back at Hermione, but she didn't know. How was anyone to know where Harry is looking at.
"Are you really Hagrid?" Harry whispered..
"Yeh, please?" Hagrid pleaded. Hermione sighed, frowning.
"But Hagrid, what about tonight? We'll use his cloak..." Hermione said.
"Look, it's now or never," he said, getting impatient.
"Plus, Ron deserves to hear what you have to say Hagrid," Harry tried. Hagrid looked really displeased, and sat down in the bench behind them. Harry and Hermione won their little arguement.
"Alrigh, I'll show yeh tonight, but be careful. He's in loads more trouble now as he is now."
"I know Hagrid, did you get the news last night?" Harry whispered to the big ol' guy.
"Yes I did, clever place to hide into," Hermione stared at Hagrid and at the invisible place where Harry is sitting. Questioning them two, and shrugged.
"I'll let you know Hermione, tonight," Harry said, after awhile. He has his eyes set on the match. Which Ron is improving dramatically. Then suddenly, he heard the Gryffindors singing. "Huh?"
'WEASLEY IS OUR KING
WEASELY IS OUR KING
HE DIDN'T LET THE QUAFFLE IN,
WEASELY IS OUR KING. . .'
"No way," Harry said softly.
"Yes! And look at Ron, he's even better than before!" Hermione cried. Then the three began singing softly. Ron, out in the air was smiling widely as he spot the chaser, faking right and shot to the left and did a Sloth Grip roll, and kicked the Quaffle out of the way with his left foot. And the song by the Gryffindors continued to blare around the pitch.
"I guess yeh two are righ', Ron's certainly better than ever," Hagrid said, grinning.
"WAIT, I THINK GINNY WEASELY SPOTTED THE SNITCH! AND IS CLOSELY FOLLOWED BY RAVENCLAW SEEKER, CHANG. THEY'RE NECK TO NECK!" The commenter Lee screamed. Harry changed his focus from Ron to Ginny. Indeed, there is the snitch, but Cho almost had her fingers around the snitch. Harry's stomach tightened. The score was only 140 to 50 nil Gryffindor. But with sudden lurch, Ginny went faster and caught the sntch. "GINNY WEASLEY CAUGHT THE SNITCH! THE SCORE IS NOW 290 TO 50 TO GRYFFINDOR! WHAT A MATCH, RON DEFINETLY IMPROVED IN THIS MATCH! GIVE THEM AN APPLAUSE TO RON! AND TO GINNY FOR THE SPECTACULAR CATCH. GRYFFINDOR TEAM TODAY HAVE PROVED US ALL WRONG WHEN WE THOUGHT THAT--"
"That's enough!" McGonagall said, grabbing the mic. "We don't want to critize how badly Ron was doing in the past!"
"Oh alright Professor...." All the meanwhile, the Gryffindors had run on the field to congratulate on the team's effort. Though Harry had held back otherwise he would spook the other people. Hermione had joined the cheering Gryffindors. Then Lee Jordan took the mic. "WE'RE GOING TO PARTY TONIGHT IN THE COMMON ROOM! OF COURSE, GRYFFINDORS ONLY!" Then McGonagall took the mic and put it away, shaking her head. Heaven only knows how rowdy the Gryffindors can get tonight. Harry's face fell, when they are having the party.
"Harry, yeh'll come tonight to my hut along with Ron and Hermione?"
"Yeah Hagrid, but what time?" asked Harry.
"About midnight if yeh can," Hagrid said, getting up to walk back to his house. Harry looked at his watch, it was only 1 P.M. He had a while before heading down to Hagrids. He decided to crash the party, and maybe pull some pranks. Harry laughed at this. Maybe tonight he can have some fun with his housemates. But they had better keep their quiet about him. He slowly his made to the Gryffindor tower.
He stopped at the Purple Lady, "Solace," Harry said the password.
She looked around suspicously, "I don't see you but sorry, but that's not the password, it was changed three days ago," she said. Harry's stomach clenched. What was he supposed to do? Wait, of course. So Harry waited and saw a first year Gryffindor coming his way.
"Animagi," said the first year and the portrait swung open. Harry immediately went inside after the first year and found Ron, in the center of attention. He went over to Hermione who was standing a bit ways away from Ron.
"Hermione..."
"Harry!" she mouthed, "What're you doing here?! I heard Umbridge is coming here because Lee said there'll be a party!"
"Oh no.... and I wanted to have some fun too..."
"I guess we'll just have to wait 'til she leaves," Hermione frowned.
"Yeah... I guess I'll go up in the dorms. When she's finished inspecting or whatever she needed to do, get Ron to come to get me." Hermione gave a small nod. Just then, the portrait opened again, and this time was Umbridge. Harry decided to see what she would do, so he waited.
"Good afternoon Grffindors. . ." the common room fell into immediate silence "I see you are all being rowdy," she went around the room, looking as if she's searching for someone. "Of course, Gryffindors loves to party..." she smiled at a pair of first year who looked back at her nervously. "I should know, I once saw the full-fledge party when I was here, of course I wasn't a Gryffindor..."
"What house were you in Professor Umbridge?" a second year girl asked timidly.
She looked at her carefully, and grinned. "Why, I was in Slytherin." Soft murming went around the common room.
'Augh, no wonder. She just gave me all the more reason to hate her!' He thought bitterly. Dreaming of hexing her to Mercury and back. Or maybe somehow how to send her to the sun to burn her up instantly. His face screwed up into disgusted look, as she approached near Harry and Hermione.
"Now Gryffindors, if you party anymore, I will personally put you all in detention," she said, grinning even more widedly.
'Grr, abusing her position...' Harry clenched his fist so tightly, they began to bleed. The Gryffindors complained at this.
"Professor we always partied and nothing ever went wrong!"
"You can't do this!"
"Just because you were a Slytherin doesn't mean you can controll us!"
"Umbridge, you don't scare us! Get out of here or we'll hex you there and now!"
"Get out woman or we'll tie you up and put you in a secret tunnel where your beloved Minister won't ever find you!"
"Professor, you can't abuse your position from having our fun!"
"SILENCE!" It wasn't Umbridge, but McGonagall, who came into the room. Looking absolutely miffed. "Dolores, you do not have the authority to let students have parties or not in their own house!" Umbrdige glared at Minerva.
"I will not have you spoken to me like that. I do not approve your attitude towards me and the Ministry! Ah, ah, ah," Umbridge laughed in her mirth. "Perhaps it is time to..."
'No, not this soon! Damnit!' Harry thought, enraged all the more at the squat, frog-like woman.
"...leave Hogwarts?" Umbridge smiled at her. Who had her eyes even wider, horrorfied.
"You cannot do that, who will be the head of this house? What about the classes in Transfigiuration?"
"Don't worry Minerva, Professor Sinistra seem the best to do as the House of Gryffindor. As for Transfiguration, I will find one by this time tomorrow. Now pack away Minerva, you must leave the grounds in two hours." McGonagall, furious, took out her wand. "I wouldn't do that Minerva, you would have a nasty mark on your record." At this, she put her wand away, and turned to the students. Very embarrassed.
"Fellow Gryffindors," she sighed, "I will be back before you will know it!" She said, glaring at Umbridge, who smiled all the more at the taller woman. "You may contact me if you wish," with that, Minerva McGonagall, the House of Gryffindor, left the common room but not so silently. Harry stood next to Hermione, stunned at what he had witnessed. Hermione looked as she look she would cry. Ron came over to Hermione, and she threw her arms around Ron, sobbing that her teacher, Head of house had left.Umbridge was still there, looking around to see any troublemakers. When she saw none, she spoke again.
"Fine, as McGonagall last request, as she would have made if she was still here. You may party," Umbridge said, not smiling. "I'm only being nice to you all just this once," she said, taking on her smile again and left the common room. Hermione was still sobbing into Ron, who looked as if he didn't know how to comfort her. Harry went up to Ron.
"Hey mate," Harry whispered.
"Harry!" Ron and Hermione in their whisper.
"Yeah, I should have done something to her, like hex or curse her," Harry said darkly.
"Well, I'm glad you didn't!" Hermione reprimanded him.
"You think I can even trust these housemates from not revealing I was here tonight? I would like to party...."
"Oh I don't know Harry..." Hermione said, looking a bit worried. At that moment, Neville walked over to them.
"Who're you two talking to?" he asked.
"Nobody, just Ron."
"It's okay Hermione, we can tell him," Harry said.
"Harry?!" Neville asked, looking around for him.
"I'm invisble, don't try to find me," Harry said.
"Oh, why have you gone into hiding?" Neville asked.
"It's best if you don't know the reasons just yet Neville. I will tell you when it's all CLEAR of that stupid, predjuiced, ugly, old hat woman Umbridge!" Harry said, bitterly.
"Well, now that she's gone, why don't you party with us? I'm sure this is more of a celebration, and perk things up of what she damaged...."
"That's just it Neville, I'm afraid that any one of them will rat me out...." Harry said, "Plus, I'm attending some classes privately with you guys."
"Ah, that would explian why Hermione was so messed up the other day...." Neville said, making his conclusions.
"Er--yeah Neville," Harry replied.
"Well, since we're all against that stupid woman, I'm sure we won't rat you out..."
"Wait, I have a test for everyone." Harry said.
"What's that?"
"A survey," Harry replied.
"How? They won't be honest if they are supportive of Umbridge..."
"We're doing it annoymously," Harry explained. "On a piece of parchment, they can say yes or no if they like Umbridge. And Hermione, can you somehow make the parchment so it will only accept truth?"
"Hmm... yes I can do that," Hermione replied, thoughtfully.
"Great, well can we do it now so we can party sooner?" Harry said, sounding like grinning as well. Hermione got to charming the parchments, and cut them all into squares for everyone to write their answer on. Few minutes of that, Hermione finished.
"Okay Harry, ready Ron? Neville?"
"Yeah," chorused the three boys.
Hermione then stepped on the chair, and onto the table, towering over everyone. The room fell silent in shock, that Hermione would even stand on the table. "Okay guys, I just want to see if anyone supports Umbridge..."
Loud hissing, and murmuring went around the room. Hermione held her hand up for silence.
"The only way we can find out is that everyone is to fill out a yes or no on this parchment. You can still remain annoymous that way if you were to say yes that you support her," more hissing and jeering at that. "I know all Gryffindors are in here, and make no mistake, I will know if someone didn't fill out the small parchment." The air in the common room was tensed by now. In few moments time, they would know if anyone in their own house support the mad woman.
In the next few minutes of scribbling, and crisping of parchment, and putting in the box. Soon, from first years to seventh year put in the parchment. Hermione checked to make sure that EVERYONE had put in their answer. Then Hermione, Ron, and Neville tallied their 'surveys'. So far, half of the house said no. Hermione looked really hopeful, and few moments later. They've tallied their votes. She stood on the table again.
"Well, the surveys are in..." Hermione began, nervously.
"Well, are there anyone in here who likes that woman?!"
"Yeah, come on Hermione!"
"We wanna know!"
"Okay, I'll tell you! This house," she said, grinning, "is all against Umbridge!" The house cheered and whooped at this. "However, because of this, we ask of you to be complete, and an silence. Don't speak amongst yourselves out of this out. We have soemthing to tell of you guys... Please don't tell anyone else. But there is someone tonight who wishes to.. party with us."
"Who is it?" one asked.
"Come on, who is it?!"
"Is it someone who went into hiding?!" Lee asked, piecing things together.
"Yeah Lee, go ahead," Hermione nodded towards an empty spot, which confused the house for a second. But moment later, Harry took off the cloak, appearing in front of them next to Hermione, grinning.
"Hey guys, let's party!" Harry said. Then silence
....
....
...
"YEAH!" the housemates exploded, cheered in favor of Harry. For the next four hours of completely, hardcore party. Some of the Gryffindors swear that it must be shaking the very ground of Hogwarts. But no teachers came. There seem to have some firewhisky smuggled in. Which Hermione promptly took away, appalled that some would even get drunk. The chaos ensued well into the night without any sign of slowing. But with each hour, the chaos seem to have increased.
The teammates were having the time of their lives while Harry cheered, and drank a lot of butterbeer. Grinning stupidly at everyone. Ron had recited some of his quidditch matches with Harry and to anyone who would listen. Some had plot to prank against the Slytherins, that seemed unthinkable and were only dreaming to do so.
Then quarter to twelve with luckily not a single teacher showing up in the common room to keep quiet. Not even Umbridge. Harry excused himself along with Ron and Hermione. They said that they explained they had to help Harry to where he's sleeping at. The Gryffindors were a bit sad about it, but said their goodnights. They had said again they will keep their vows not to say that Harry was even in the common room partying with them. Harry swung the invibility cloak over himself, Hermione and Ron. They snuck out of the common room into the corridors. The purple lady asked who it was but got no answer. They went down to Hagrid's hut, and knocked on the door. Loud barkings of Fang started up, and heard Hagrid's voice.
"Back Fang, back," growled a voice. Then the big man opened the door. "Harry?"
"Yeah Hagrid, it's us," Harry replied.
"Good, I'm glad you kept your promise. A good compromise eh?"
"Yeah," Hermione replied, the three trooped in.
"Well, we're goin' inter the forest," Hagrid said, picking up his crossbow.
"What?!" The three asked increduosly.
"Do yeh want ter know what I keep gettin' these wounds or not?" Hagrid asked.
"Of course we do!" Hermione said, "fine, how far in?"
"Oh about half an hour of walking, c'mon," Hagrid went out of the door and to the edge of the forest. The three followed and Harry took the cloak off just beyond the edge so no one could discover his precious cloak. Then the four went in, and they said their lumos to light their way on the trails. Then the trees that were thin, started to thicken. The roots became wild and untamed. Hagrid led to where they walked through the bushes. Every few seconds they had to untangle themselves from the bushes. After half an hour, they haven't even reached their destination. They were only two- thirds of the way in.
"How much longer Hagrid?" Hermione asked, experhasted, untangling herself. Hagrid stopped and turned around. Hestiating, he said.
"I guess I can fill in some for yeh three," he said.
"What is it Hagrid?" Ron asked, a bit spooked.
"Well, yeh know that I could ge' the sack any day now. And there's something I've been tryin' ter civilize. Could yeh three promise to take care of something that I have been?" Hagrid asked nervously.
The three looked at each other and then looked at Hagrid.
"Oh I don't know," Ron began, remembering of the times with Norbert and other dangerous animals. "If it's anything like Norbert..."
"Please, I need ter count on yeh guys!" Hagrid pleaded.
"So it IS some sort of an animal!" Ron said, widening his eyes in horror. "Is it the spiders that we've stumbled in our second year?!" he said in even higher pitch.
"No, not Aragog," Hagrid said, chuckling.Then Harry realized that this section of the forest have been quiet. Too quiet, it was abnormal. Not even a squirrel of skittering was about.
"Um, Hagrid, it sounds... too quiet here," Harry said, observing.
"Well, it's only natural," Hagrid explained not helpfully.
"What IS it you want to look after?" Hermione asked.
"Well, I'll show yeh, but will you take care of it if I get the sack?"
"Oh but you're so close Hagrid!" Hermione said. "It's near end of school year."
"That's not ter happen to stop Umbridge will it?"
"No..." Hermione replied softly.
"Then please?"
"We want to see for ourselves," Ron said.
"Guys, let's just promise him we'll take care of it. I'm sure we can do it," Harry said, getting tired of the arguement.
"Oh fine, I guess we can, but it better not be anything life- threatening! I mean, look at you. You're hurt! Obviously something has to be dangerous," Hermione said.
"Yea, well, it's gettin' loads better now. I mean, my wounds are fading now with none new. Haven't yeh notice?" The three examined more closely at his wounds.
"Oh you're right Hagrid, it's getting better," Hermione said.
"C'mon, it's not much further ahead," Hagrid said, turning around to lead the fifth year students from Hogwarts on. For next twenty minutes of grueling bushes and falling over roots of trees. They finally reached the clearing. Hagrid stopped and so did the other three.
"Hagrid wha--?" Harry began, but Hagrid held his hand up to be quiet. Up ahead, they saw a huge lump of something furry and moving.
"What's that?" Ron whispered. Hermione widened in her eyes in horror.
"Hagrid you didn't!" Hermione in high whisper.
"What is it Hermione?" Harry asked.
"I-it-it's a giant!" Hermione said, appalled at what she's looking at. "Hagrid, you said they wouldn't come!"
"Yeah, but I had ter!" Hagrid said, defensively.
"Why?!" she asked, incredously.
"Because the thing is.... he's my brother," Hagrid said, finished, sighing. "He was bullied by others because he was too small."
"Oh yes, too small!" Hermione said, panicking.
"He is compared ter others!" Hagrid said.
"Hermione, let it go, it's his brother for Merlin's sake," Harry said half bitterly, and half shock. She quieted down. "How did you bring him here?"
"Well, Maximine and I had split when she got tired of Grawp," Hagrid began.
"Who's Grawp?" Ron asked.
"Oh that's his name yeh see," Hagrid said. "Well, 'course he wanted ter go back with the others."
"Why didn't you?!" Hermione said. "He would've been happier!"
"Yeh don't understand, he could've died the next night if he stayed! I wanted my brother with me, yeh see..." he said. "Well, I've been trying to civilize him yeh see."
Then Harry remembered Firenze's message to Hagrid. The attempt's not working, he best to drop it. "Is it.. working?" Harry asked.
three could come here once a week to keep him company. No food or anything like that. He can get himself some food. Just teach him some english."
"Oh yes, have some english lessons with a giant, which took nearly an hour to get in here!" Hermione said, with some hint of sarcasm. Harry and Ron sighed, but still shocked at the idea of coming here once a week to civilize a giant .
"But o' course you may never have ter, yeh see, only when I get the sack. Can I count on you to keep him company?" Hagrid asked.
"Of course Hagrid," Harry said quickly, before his friends could argue.
"Thank yeh so much! But I'll have ter warn you, take Fang with you when coming here. Centaurs aren't so keen about humans since one of his kind left to come ter Hogwarts..."
"Oh.. so NOW we have to watch out for murdering centaurs too!" Hermione said, getting more sarcastic. Hagrid frowned at her for it.
"Hermione. Stop. That." Ron said through his clenching jaws. Getting more paranoid about the giant sleeping.
"Well, I suppose I could introduce yeh three to Grawp," Hagrid turned around and picked up a large stick to poke Grawp with. Hermione started to protest in no, but she was too late. Hagrid made a huge poke in the Grawp's shoulder blade. The giant let out a loud roar, and shook the ground.
"Hey Grawpy!" Hagrid said, smiling. Immediately, the giant focused on Hagrid.
"Hagger," said Grawp.
"I have yeh some company! You remember I said that I might have to go away? These three will keep you company!" Amazingly enough, Grawp understood what Hagrid said, and looked behind him.
"I see them, Hagger!"
"Yes, it's them!" Hagrid replied.
"Oh no Hagrid!" Hermione cried.
"This one," pionting to Ron, "is Ron."
" . . .Ron," he nodded, grinning, and his yellow teeth showed. Slavia drooping out of his mouth. Ron whimpered. Wondering if he was imagining him as dinner or as a friend.
"And this one is Harry," Hagrid explained pointing to Harry.
"Hairy!" Grawp said, grinning still.
"Yes, Harry!" Hagrid said, approving Grawp. "And this one, is Her-- er can he call you Hermy? Hermione's difficult..."
"Y-yes Hagrid," Hermione replied, eyes wide as saucer.
"Great! This one is named Hermy," Hagrid said, pointing to her. Grawp leaned into her.
"Hermy..." Grawp said, ready to pick her up.
"Grawpy no!" Gawp pulled his hand away from Hermione, who was now behind Harry.
"I am happy to see them Hagger!" Grawp said, grinning.
"Yes Grawpy, but we have ter go back to the castle now," he said sadly.
"Bye Hagger! Bye Ron! Bye Harry! Bye Hermy!" He walked over to a pine tree, and pulled it back to see how far it can go. Hagrid lead the three out of tthe forest with no trouble.
"I don't believe this!" Hermione said, as Harry picked his cloak up, and swung over themselves.
"Well, it's only until I have ter leave Hermione," Hagrid said, walking up the stairs to put his cross bow away, and came back out. The four trooped back to the castle. "Good nigh' yeh three." The three said their byes to him and went back to the common room. which was finally empty of any party. They came out of the cloak, and Hermione shook her head.
"Civilizing giants! I don't BELIEVE IT!" Hermione cried.
"But you have to admit, Grawp did seem civilized," Harry said.
"Hmm, I suppose you're right, but he's still tied up!"
"C'mon, let's just sleep now," Ron said, walking up to his dorms. "Night Hermione.
"Oh fine! Good night you two!" Hermione went up to her bed and the boys turned in for the night.
"Y-yes Headmaster," Harry nodded, trying to be nice, and patient to the old man. Who only twinkled at him. "Oh for crying out loud, please stop the twinkling!" Harry said, experhasted. Dumbledore only chuckled.
"You're not the only one to say that Harry," he said, twinkling even more. Harry only sighed.
"It's futile isn't it Professor?"
"In a sense, yes Harry," said Dumbledore. "Now, for the Prophecy, this was made only a year before you were even born. And believe it or not, it was made by Professor Trelawney." Harry coughed in half-surprised, and half-appalled.
"Wait, are you saying, everything in my life was because OF her?!" Harry asked, enraged by the fact that she made the prophecy. "Whatever she said, had ended in result of my parents?" He didn't need to say that his parents died because of the prophecy.
"You don't know what the prophecy is yet, and you're lacking maturity over it already. Maybe it is unwise to tell you right now," he made an attempt to get up.
"I'm sorry Professor, but, it's just that..." Harry began, wanting to know what the prophecy entails. He remember in his third year, when Trelawney had made a real prediction. The one that Wormtail, that stupid rat had run to his Dark Lord. "You know Professor, I remember when she made a prophecy in my thrid year..."
"Yes, you remember that don't you?" Dumbledore said, eyes twinkling even more. "Yes, well, when I had to find a Divinition teacher to recruit. But didn't want to continue Divination classes. When I spoke with her, I didn't want to hire her. However just as I was to make my leave, she make the prediction. And I'm sorry to say, that Hog's head isn't a place to have private conversation..." Harry knew what he was talking about, never assume that you won't be overheard in Hog's head. "I thought there would be nothing worth to be overhearing, so we had our interview there. Now, here's the prophecy Harry. The reason that you've been dreaming all these months about the corridor, and made some successful trips inside to see where the room is. I'm afraid that Voldemort might use you to get the Prophecy..."
"But Professor, I don't see how that can be a weapon."
"That's because it reveals on how to destroy you," Dumbledore said, looking over his glasses at him, not accompanying by a single flicker of twinkle.
"It-it does?" Harry asked, old man nodded at him.
"Yes, and it is as said like this."
'THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD APPROACHES . .
BORN TO THOSE WHO HAVE THRICE DEFIED HIM,
BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES . . .
AND THE DARK LORD WILL MAKE HIM AS HIS EQUAL,
BUT HE WILL HAVE THE POWER THE DARK LORD KNOWS NOT . . .
AND EITHER MUST DIE AT THE HAND OF THE OTHER
FOR NIETHER CAN LIVE WHILE THE OTHER SURVIVES . . .
THE ONE WITH THE POWER TO VANQUISH THE DARK LORD
WILL BE BORN AS THE SEVENTH MONTH DIES. . .'
The either two hadn't spoke for fully two minutes, absorbing what the prophecy had told. Dumbledore finally looked at Harry, straight into the eyes, and flinched. At that moment, Harry felt snake-like feeling coursing through his veins, wanting to attack the Headmaster. Make him suffer, killing him. Harry also looked away, ashamed what he had just experinced.
"Harry, you see why Voldemort is after you? And what we just shared, is the reason I cannot look into the eyes of yours. It pains me so much Harry. I cannot stand it," Dumbledore said, frowning.
"I.. I don't understand the prophecy though..." Harry began, burrowing two eyebrows together in confusion.
"It means, that you have the power to defeat Him. Also, that your birthday was on July 31st, as it said. As the seventh month dies. Though, the prophecy was refering to two different people at the time when the prophecy was made."
"What do you mean sir?"
"It could have been talking about either you or Neville. Both of your parents had run from Voldemort three times. The Prophecy lies in the depths of Department of Mysteries at the Ministry. Anything you want to ask?"
"Yes sir, what if it's not me? What if it's Neville? Voldemort could have chosen the wrong person."
"Very good question, you see, the prophecy said that Dark Lord will mark him as his equal," as he said this, his eyes flicked up to his scar, lingering there. "He must have seen the similarity between you and himself. As he is the half-blood as you are. Neville is pure-blooded. So he saw you as more of a danger to him than the Longbottom did. Anything else?"
"How do I know what kind of power that Voldemort knows not?"
"In time, it will reveal itself to you. It lies in the Department of Mysteries."
"Okay . . . and, there's one more thing that's puzzling . . ." Harry began, hestiantly.
"Go on," pressed Dumbledore, watching Harry's mouth.
"The part about the 'Niether can live while'," Harry said.
"'--the other survives'," Dumbledore finished for him. "It means that either you or Him must finish . . ." he left it there, lingering. The two didn't need to know what had needed to be said. Harry understood what he said, but couldn't believe it.
'Me.. the murderer or the victim...' Harry thought, his own inner voice was screaming. Again, the two didn't talk for long time, the fire dying slowly into hot embers. Harry took this time to organize his thoughts. Without warning, Dumbledore stood up, and walked over to the door and said something that they were finished talking. The four came back in, taking their seats near Harry and Dumbledore. Harry didn't even register they were in the room now.
"Harry?" Sirius asked, looking at his state. "Headmaster, what did you tell him?" He switched from Harry to Dumbledore. The old man sighed, and shook his head.
"I'm sorry, but he will tell you in time. The only people who knows the full-prophecy is me and Harry. It's best to remain that way until he's ready to tell you."
"Albus . . ." Mrs. Weasley began, Dumbledore held his hand up.
"Please, for his safety and for the world's sake. If he knows, then we may be in trouble."
"Oh, alright," she said, disprovingly, and got up. "Harry, you need to sleep now."
"Yes Mrs. Weasley," he mumbled softly as Harry got up, "Good night everyone..." He went through his bedchambers, which the worn couch served as his bed for the night.
For the next several weeks, consisted of attending several classes, going to private Occulemency, which had finally progressed. Thanks to Professor Snape who took the time to explain few things on building mind defenses. But only once awhile, and that Harry practiced everyday, and before going to sleep. Harry had noted that he had very peaceful sleep he had in months, and never dreamt about the corridor or the Department of Mysteries. He had dreams where everyone actually have. Normal dreams. At times, Harry found them bizzare, but reassured.
One night, in Occulemency class, a week before the O.W.L.s started. Professor Snape spoke to him about the examination.
"Potter," he said, putting his wand down after casting a Legilimens. Harry didn't put his wand down, still being very cautious. "As you know, in two weeks are the O.W.L.s, and I have spoken to a trustworthy examination. Who, luckily for us," drawled Professor Snape. "He is willing to give himself time for your private examination. Due to your circumstances with Professor, and Headmaster," he spat at the name, "Umbridge."
"Oh thank you sir, I'll work hard for that effort Professor."
"Legilimens!" The two ensued their Occulemency.
Later that weekend, the Quidditch between Ron's team and against Ravenclaw. Harry had come to the match, particularly because of Hagrid wanted him to be there. But he would've went anyways.
"Hey Hermione," Harry whispered, sitting in the aisle, in one of the most empty-iest box on the pitch. True they didn't have good view on the game, at least no one will feel the odd sensation of feeling invisble cloak as they went by. Umbridge, and the Inquistorial Squad sat at another box, of about four boxes away where Harry and Hermione sat. No one thought that Hermione was sitting by herself in the box she is sitting in to be odd. Since she doesn't really show a lot of interest in Quidditch games except for matches between Gryffindor and Slytherin, where she would show her true team spirit. But not in matches with other houses.
"Oh hey Harry," she whispered back, watching the two teams assemble on the grass. "It's starting . . ." Harry watched the Quidditch match unfolding before him. For first several minutes, Ron wasn't doing so well. But soon, Ron seemed to have changed tactics. Because he looked much more confident, and a lot better at blocking the goals. The Gryffindors cheered loudly as Ron made a spectacularly great save from one of the Chaser's. Even Harry whooped, which caused a few Hufflepuff second years looking at Hermione warily but returned back to the match.
"Ron really did it this time!" Harry whispered excitedly.
"Maybe it's because the twins aren't here," Hermione whispered back, thoughtfully.
"Perhaps, oh look, there's Hagrid," Harry said. The Half-giant made his way towards seemingly lonely Hermione.
"Hey Hermione," then he whispered, "he's here isn' he?"
"Yeah Hagrid, what is it?" Hermione replied.
"Well, I was wonderin' if yeh two could come while everyone is distracted from the game . . ."
"But we wanted to watch Ron, he's doing loads better in this match!" Hermione said, half yelling, but still whispering all the same.
"But I'll tell yeh why I've been gettin' these," he pointed to his wounds. Hermione looked at where Harry would be, who only looked back at Hermione, but she didn't know. How was anyone to know where Harry is looking at.
"Are you really Hagrid?" Harry whispered..
"Yeh, please?" Hagrid pleaded. Hermione sighed, frowning.
"But Hagrid, what about tonight? We'll use his cloak..." Hermione said.
"Look, it's now or never," he said, getting impatient.
"Plus, Ron deserves to hear what you have to say Hagrid," Harry tried. Hagrid looked really displeased, and sat down in the bench behind them. Harry and Hermione won their little arguement.
"Alrigh, I'll show yeh tonight, but be careful. He's in loads more trouble now as he is now."
"I know Hagrid, did you get the news last night?" Harry whispered to the big ol' guy.
"Yes I did, clever place to hide into," Hermione stared at Hagrid and at the invisible place where Harry is sitting. Questioning them two, and shrugged.
"I'll let you know Hermione, tonight," Harry said, after awhile. He has his eyes set on the match. Which Ron is improving dramatically. Then suddenly, he heard the Gryffindors singing. "Huh?"
'WEASLEY IS OUR KING
WEASELY IS OUR KING
HE DIDN'T LET THE QUAFFLE IN,
WEASELY IS OUR KING. . .'
"No way," Harry said softly.
"Yes! And look at Ron, he's even better than before!" Hermione cried. Then the three began singing softly. Ron, out in the air was smiling widely as he spot the chaser, faking right and shot to the left and did a Sloth Grip roll, and kicked the Quaffle out of the way with his left foot. And the song by the Gryffindors continued to blare around the pitch.
"I guess yeh two are righ', Ron's certainly better than ever," Hagrid said, grinning.
"WAIT, I THINK GINNY WEASELY SPOTTED THE SNITCH! AND IS CLOSELY FOLLOWED BY RAVENCLAW SEEKER, CHANG. THEY'RE NECK TO NECK!" The commenter Lee screamed. Harry changed his focus from Ron to Ginny. Indeed, there is the snitch, but Cho almost had her fingers around the snitch. Harry's stomach tightened. The score was only 140 to 50 nil Gryffindor. But with sudden lurch, Ginny went faster and caught the sntch. "GINNY WEASLEY CAUGHT THE SNITCH! THE SCORE IS NOW 290 TO 50 TO GRYFFINDOR! WHAT A MATCH, RON DEFINETLY IMPROVED IN THIS MATCH! GIVE THEM AN APPLAUSE TO RON! AND TO GINNY FOR THE SPECTACULAR CATCH. GRYFFINDOR TEAM TODAY HAVE PROVED US ALL WRONG WHEN WE THOUGHT THAT--"
"That's enough!" McGonagall said, grabbing the mic. "We don't want to critize how badly Ron was doing in the past!"
"Oh alright Professor...." All the meanwhile, the Gryffindors had run on the field to congratulate on the team's effort. Though Harry had held back otherwise he would spook the other people. Hermione had joined the cheering Gryffindors. Then Lee Jordan took the mic. "WE'RE GOING TO PARTY TONIGHT IN THE COMMON ROOM! OF COURSE, GRYFFINDORS ONLY!" Then McGonagall took the mic and put it away, shaking her head. Heaven only knows how rowdy the Gryffindors can get tonight. Harry's face fell, when they are having the party.
"Harry, yeh'll come tonight to my hut along with Ron and Hermione?"
"Yeah Hagrid, but what time?" asked Harry.
"About midnight if yeh can," Hagrid said, getting up to walk back to his house. Harry looked at his watch, it was only 1 P.M. He had a while before heading down to Hagrids. He decided to crash the party, and maybe pull some pranks. Harry laughed at this. Maybe tonight he can have some fun with his housemates. But they had better keep their quiet about him. He slowly his made to the Gryffindor tower.
He stopped at the Purple Lady, "Solace," Harry said the password.
She looked around suspicously, "I don't see you but sorry, but that's not the password, it was changed three days ago," she said. Harry's stomach clenched. What was he supposed to do? Wait, of course. So Harry waited and saw a first year Gryffindor coming his way.
"Animagi," said the first year and the portrait swung open. Harry immediately went inside after the first year and found Ron, in the center of attention. He went over to Hermione who was standing a bit ways away from Ron.
"Hermione..."
"Harry!" she mouthed, "What're you doing here?! I heard Umbridge is coming here because Lee said there'll be a party!"
"Oh no.... and I wanted to have some fun too..."
"I guess we'll just have to wait 'til she leaves," Hermione frowned.
"Yeah... I guess I'll go up in the dorms. When she's finished inspecting or whatever she needed to do, get Ron to come to get me." Hermione gave a small nod. Just then, the portrait opened again, and this time was Umbridge. Harry decided to see what she would do, so he waited.
"Good afternoon Grffindors. . ." the common room fell into immediate silence "I see you are all being rowdy," she went around the room, looking as if she's searching for someone. "Of course, Gryffindors loves to party..." she smiled at a pair of first year who looked back at her nervously. "I should know, I once saw the full-fledge party when I was here, of course I wasn't a Gryffindor..."
"What house were you in Professor Umbridge?" a second year girl asked timidly.
She looked at her carefully, and grinned. "Why, I was in Slytherin." Soft murming went around the common room.
'Augh, no wonder. She just gave me all the more reason to hate her!' He thought bitterly. Dreaming of hexing her to Mercury and back. Or maybe somehow how to send her to the sun to burn her up instantly. His face screwed up into disgusted look, as she approached near Harry and Hermione.
"Now Gryffindors, if you party anymore, I will personally put you all in detention," she said, grinning even more widedly.
'Grr, abusing her position...' Harry clenched his fist so tightly, they began to bleed. The Gryffindors complained at this.
"Professor we always partied and nothing ever went wrong!"
"You can't do this!"
"Just because you were a Slytherin doesn't mean you can controll us!"
"Umbridge, you don't scare us! Get out of here or we'll hex you there and now!"
"Get out woman or we'll tie you up and put you in a secret tunnel where your beloved Minister won't ever find you!"
"Professor, you can't abuse your position from having our fun!"
"SILENCE!" It wasn't Umbridge, but McGonagall, who came into the room. Looking absolutely miffed. "Dolores, you do not have the authority to let students have parties or not in their own house!" Umbrdige glared at Minerva.
"I will not have you spoken to me like that. I do not approve your attitude towards me and the Ministry! Ah, ah, ah," Umbridge laughed in her mirth. "Perhaps it is time to..."
'No, not this soon! Damnit!' Harry thought, enraged all the more at the squat, frog-like woman.
"...leave Hogwarts?" Umbridge smiled at her. Who had her eyes even wider, horrorfied.
"You cannot do that, who will be the head of this house? What about the classes in Transfigiuration?"
"Don't worry Minerva, Professor Sinistra seem the best to do as the House of Gryffindor. As for Transfiguration, I will find one by this time tomorrow. Now pack away Minerva, you must leave the grounds in two hours." McGonagall, furious, took out her wand. "I wouldn't do that Minerva, you would have a nasty mark on your record." At this, she put her wand away, and turned to the students. Very embarrassed.
"Fellow Gryffindors," she sighed, "I will be back before you will know it!" She said, glaring at Umbridge, who smiled all the more at the taller woman. "You may contact me if you wish," with that, Minerva McGonagall, the House of Gryffindor, left the common room but not so silently. Harry stood next to Hermione, stunned at what he had witnessed. Hermione looked as she look she would cry. Ron came over to Hermione, and she threw her arms around Ron, sobbing that her teacher, Head of house had left.Umbridge was still there, looking around to see any troublemakers. When she saw none, she spoke again.
"Fine, as McGonagall last request, as she would have made if she was still here. You may party," Umbridge said, not smiling. "I'm only being nice to you all just this once," she said, taking on her smile again and left the common room. Hermione was still sobbing into Ron, who looked as if he didn't know how to comfort her. Harry went up to Ron.
"Hey mate," Harry whispered.
"Harry!" Ron and Hermione in their whisper.
"Yeah, I should have done something to her, like hex or curse her," Harry said darkly.
"Well, I'm glad you didn't!" Hermione reprimanded him.
"You think I can even trust these housemates from not revealing I was here tonight? I would like to party...."
"Oh I don't know Harry..." Hermione said, looking a bit worried. At that moment, Neville walked over to them.
"Who're you two talking to?" he asked.
"Nobody, just Ron."
"It's okay Hermione, we can tell him," Harry said.
"Harry?!" Neville asked, looking around for him.
"I'm invisble, don't try to find me," Harry said.
"Oh, why have you gone into hiding?" Neville asked.
"It's best if you don't know the reasons just yet Neville. I will tell you when it's all CLEAR of that stupid, predjuiced, ugly, old hat woman Umbridge!" Harry said, bitterly.
"Well, now that she's gone, why don't you party with us? I'm sure this is more of a celebration, and perk things up of what she damaged...."
"That's just it Neville, I'm afraid that any one of them will rat me out...." Harry said, "Plus, I'm attending some classes privately with you guys."
"Ah, that would explian why Hermione was so messed up the other day...." Neville said, making his conclusions.
"Er--yeah Neville," Harry replied.
"Well, since we're all against that stupid woman, I'm sure we won't rat you out..."
"Wait, I have a test for everyone." Harry said.
"What's that?"
"A survey," Harry replied.
"How? They won't be honest if they are supportive of Umbridge..."
"We're doing it annoymously," Harry explained. "On a piece of parchment, they can say yes or no if they like Umbridge. And Hermione, can you somehow make the parchment so it will only accept truth?"
"Hmm... yes I can do that," Hermione replied, thoughtfully.
"Great, well can we do it now so we can party sooner?" Harry said, sounding like grinning as well. Hermione got to charming the parchments, and cut them all into squares for everyone to write their answer on. Few minutes of that, Hermione finished.
"Okay Harry, ready Ron? Neville?"
"Yeah," chorused the three boys.
Hermione then stepped on the chair, and onto the table, towering over everyone. The room fell silent in shock, that Hermione would even stand on the table. "Okay guys, I just want to see if anyone supports Umbridge..."
Loud hissing, and murmuring went around the room. Hermione held her hand up for silence.
"The only way we can find out is that everyone is to fill out a yes or no on this parchment. You can still remain annoymous that way if you were to say yes that you support her," more hissing and jeering at that. "I know all Gryffindors are in here, and make no mistake, I will know if someone didn't fill out the small parchment." The air in the common room was tensed by now. In few moments time, they would know if anyone in their own house support the mad woman.
In the next few minutes of scribbling, and crisping of parchment, and putting in the box. Soon, from first years to seventh year put in the parchment. Hermione checked to make sure that EVERYONE had put in their answer. Then Hermione, Ron, and Neville tallied their 'surveys'. So far, half of the house said no. Hermione looked really hopeful, and few moments later. They've tallied their votes. She stood on the table again.
"Well, the surveys are in..." Hermione began, nervously.
"Well, are there anyone in here who likes that woman?!"
"Yeah, come on Hermione!"
"We wanna know!"
"Okay, I'll tell you! This house," she said, grinning, "is all against Umbridge!" The house cheered and whooped at this. "However, because of this, we ask of you to be complete, and an silence. Don't speak amongst yourselves out of this out. We have soemthing to tell of you guys... Please don't tell anyone else. But there is someone tonight who wishes to.. party with us."
"Who is it?" one asked.
"Come on, who is it?!"
"Is it someone who went into hiding?!" Lee asked, piecing things together.
"Yeah Lee, go ahead," Hermione nodded towards an empty spot, which confused the house for a second. But moment later, Harry took off the cloak, appearing in front of them next to Hermione, grinning.
"Hey guys, let's party!" Harry said. Then silence
....
....
...
"YEAH!" the housemates exploded, cheered in favor of Harry. For the next four hours of completely, hardcore party. Some of the Gryffindors swear that it must be shaking the very ground of Hogwarts. But no teachers came. There seem to have some firewhisky smuggled in. Which Hermione promptly took away, appalled that some would even get drunk. The chaos ensued well into the night without any sign of slowing. But with each hour, the chaos seem to have increased.
The teammates were having the time of their lives while Harry cheered, and drank a lot of butterbeer. Grinning stupidly at everyone. Ron had recited some of his quidditch matches with Harry and to anyone who would listen. Some had plot to prank against the Slytherins, that seemed unthinkable and were only dreaming to do so.
Then quarter to twelve with luckily not a single teacher showing up in the common room to keep quiet. Not even Umbridge. Harry excused himself along with Ron and Hermione. They said that they explained they had to help Harry to where he's sleeping at. The Gryffindors were a bit sad about it, but said their goodnights. They had said again they will keep their vows not to say that Harry was even in the common room partying with them. Harry swung the invibility cloak over himself, Hermione and Ron. They snuck out of the common room into the corridors. The purple lady asked who it was but got no answer. They went down to Hagrid's hut, and knocked on the door. Loud barkings of Fang started up, and heard Hagrid's voice.
"Back Fang, back," growled a voice. Then the big man opened the door. "Harry?"
"Yeah Hagrid, it's us," Harry replied.
"Good, I'm glad you kept your promise. A good compromise eh?"
"Yeah," Hermione replied, the three trooped in.
"Well, we're goin' inter the forest," Hagrid said, picking up his crossbow.
"What?!" The three asked increduosly.
"Do yeh want ter know what I keep gettin' these wounds or not?" Hagrid asked.
"Of course we do!" Hermione said, "fine, how far in?"
"Oh about half an hour of walking, c'mon," Hagrid went out of the door and to the edge of the forest. The three followed and Harry took the cloak off just beyond the edge so no one could discover his precious cloak. Then the four went in, and they said their lumos to light their way on the trails. Then the trees that were thin, started to thicken. The roots became wild and untamed. Hagrid led to where they walked through the bushes. Every few seconds they had to untangle themselves from the bushes. After half an hour, they haven't even reached their destination. They were only two- thirds of the way in.
"How much longer Hagrid?" Hermione asked, experhasted, untangling herself. Hagrid stopped and turned around. Hestiating, he said.
"I guess I can fill in some for yeh three," he said.
"What is it Hagrid?" Ron asked, a bit spooked.
"Well, yeh know that I could ge' the sack any day now. And there's something I've been tryin' ter civilize. Could yeh three promise to take care of something that I have been?" Hagrid asked nervously.
The three looked at each other and then looked at Hagrid.
"Oh I don't know," Ron began, remembering of the times with Norbert and other dangerous animals. "If it's anything like Norbert..."
"Please, I need ter count on yeh guys!" Hagrid pleaded.
"So it IS some sort of an animal!" Ron said, widening his eyes in horror. "Is it the spiders that we've stumbled in our second year?!" he said in even higher pitch.
"No, not Aragog," Hagrid said, chuckling.Then Harry realized that this section of the forest have been quiet. Too quiet, it was abnormal. Not even a squirrel of skittering was about.
"Um, Hagrid, it sounds... too quiet here," Harry said, observing.
"Well, it's only natural," Hagrid explained not helpfully.
"What IS it you want to look after?" Hermione asked.
"Well, I'll show yeh, but will you take care of it if I get the sack?"
"Oh but you're so close Hagrid!" Hermione said. "It's near end of school year."
"That's not ter happen to stop Umbridge will it?"
"No..." Hermione replied softly.
"Then please?"
"We want to see for ourselves," Ron said.
"Guys, let's just promise him we'll take care of it. I'm sure we can do it," Harry said, getting tired of the arguement.
"Oh fine, I guess we can, but it better not be anything life- threatening! I mean, look at you. You're hurt! Obviously something has to be dangerous," Hermione said.
"Yea, well, it's gettin' loads better now. I mean, my wounds are fading now with none new. Haven't yeh notice?" The three examined more closely at his wounds.
"Oh you're right Hagrid, it's getting better," Hermione said.
"C'mon, it's not much further ahead," Hagrid said, turning around to lead the fifth year students from Hogwarts on. For next twenty minutes of grueling bushes and falling over roots of trees. They finally reached the clearing. Hagrid stopped and so did the other three.
"Hagrid wha--?" Harry began, but Hagrid held his hand up to be quiet. Up ahead, they saw a huge lump of something furry and moving.
"What's that?" Ron whispered. Hermione widened in her eyes in horror.
"Hagrid you didn't!" Hermione in high whisper.
"What is it Hermione?" Harry asked.
"I-it-it's a giant!" Hermione said, appalled at what she's looking at. "Hagrid, you said they wouldn't come!"
"Yeah, but I had ter!" Hagrid said, defensively.
"Why?!" she asked, incredously.
"Because the thing is.... he's my brother," Hagrid said, finished, sighing. "He was bullied by others because he was too small."
"Oh yes, too small!" Hermione said, panicking.
"He is compared ter others!" Hagrid said.
"Hermione, let it go, it's his brother for Merlin's sake," Harry said half bitterly, and half shock. She quieted down. "How did you bring him here?"
"Well, Maximine and I had split when she got tired of Grawp," Hagrid began.
"Who's Grawp?" Ron asked.
"Oh that's his name yeh see," Hagrid said. "Well, 'course he wanted ter go back with the others."
"Why didn't you?!" Hermione said. "He would've been happier!"
"Yeh don't understand, he could've died the next night if he stayed! I wanted my brother with me, yeh see..." he said. "Well, I've been trying to civilize him yeh see."
Then Harry remembered Firenze's message to Hagrid. The attempt's not working, he best to drop it. "Is it.. working?" Harry asked.
three could come here once a week to keep him company. No food or anything like that. He can get himself some food. Just teach him some english."
"Oh yes, have some english lessons with a giant, which took nearly an hour to get in here!" Hermione said, with some hint of sarcasm. Harry and Ron sighed, but still shocked at the idea of coming here once a week to civilize a giant .
"But o' course you may never have ter, yeh see, only when I get the sack. Can I count on you to keep him company?" Hagrid asked.
"Of course Hagrid," Harry said quickly, before his friends could argue.
"Thank yeh so much! But I'll have ter warn you, take Fang with you when coming here. Centaurs aren't so keen about humans since one of his kind left to come ter Hogwarts..."
"Oh.. so NOW we have to watch out for murdering centaurs too!" Hermione said, getting more sarcastic. Hagrid frowned at her for it.
"Hermione. Stop. That." Ron said through his clenching jaws. Getting more paranoid about the giant sleeping.
"Well, I suppose I could introduce yeh three to Grawp," Hagrid turned around and picked up a large stick to poke Grawp with. Hermione started to protest in no, but she was too late. Hagrid made a huge poke in the Grawp's shoulder blade. The giant let out a loud roar, and shook the ground.
"Hey Grawpy!" Hagrid said, smiling. Immediately, the giant focused on Hagrid.
"Hagger," said Grawp.
"I have yeh some company! You remember I said that I might have to go away? These three will keep you company!" Amazingly enough, Grawp understood what Hagrid said, and looked behind him.
"I see them, Hagger!"
"Yes, it's them!" Hagrid replied.
"Oh no Hagrid!" Hermione cried.
"This one," pionting to Ron, "is Ron."
" . . .Ron," he nodded, grinning, and his yellow teeth showed. Slavia drooping out of his mouth. Ron whimpered. Wondering if he was imagining him as dinner or as a friend.
"And this one is Harry," Hagrid explained pointing to Harry.
"Hairy!" Grawp said, grinning still.
"Yes, Harry!" Hagrid said, approving Grawp. "And this one, is Her-- er can he call you Hermy? Hermione's difficult..."
"Y-yes Hagrid," Hermione replied, eyes wide as saucer.
"Great! This one is named Hermy," Hagrid said, pointing to her. Grawp leaned into her.
"Hermy..." Grawp said, ready to pick her up.
"Grawpy no!" Gawp pulled his hand away from Hermione, who was now behind Harry.
"I am happy to see them Hagger!" Grawp said, grinning.
"Yes Grawpy, but we have ter go back to the castle now," he said sadly.
"Bye Hagger! Bye Ron! Bye Harry! Bye Hermy!" He walked over to a pine tree, and pulled it back to see how far it can go. Hagrid lead the three out of tthe forest with no trouble.
"I don't believe this!" Hermione said, as Harry picked his cloak up, and swung over themselves.
"Well, it's only until I have ter leave Hermione," Hagrid said, walking up the stairs to put his cross bow away, and came back out. The four trooped back to the castle. "Good nigh' yeh three." The three said their byes to him and went back to the common room. which was finally empty of any party. They came out of the cloak, and Hermione shook her head.
"Civilizing giants! I don't BELIEVE IT!" Hermione cried.
"But you have to admit, Grawp did seem civilized," Harry said.
"Hmm, I suppose you're right, but he's still tied up!"
"C'mon, let's just sleep now," Ron said, walking up to his dorms. "Night Hermione.
"Oh fine! Good night you two!" Hermione went up to her bed and the boys turned in for the night.