Hello again. To start I would like to apologize to my faithful readers. Six
months is way to long to wait for me to post.
My only excuse is the fifth book was less than inspirational. Heck with it, I did not like the fifth Harry Potter book. There I said it and can move on. I feel better.
Anyway that gives me no right to stop writing something that people enjoy. I have decided to stop moping and start writing.
"That's the spirit!" Merry smiles.
"Right oh!" Pippin agreed. "Wouldn't want you to stop writing this wonderful story just because the real creator of Harry Potter has gone and ruined it now would we?"
"Pip! You're not supposed to be saying that about Ms. Rowling's work. Just because we don't think this last book turned out well doesn't mean the WHOLE series is a waste."
"Umm..right. Anyway, can I get some more of these flapjacks?"
:: Hopeless..utterly hopeless:
If you guys get the urge to flame me for my immaturity of not writing just because I was a little put off by the fifth book I will accept it. I know how it feels to wait for an author to post let alone when they left you with a cliffhanger ending. So without further adieu on to the chapter.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ (Just wouldn't be right to break tradition.)
(Now a minor recap)
** "Can you believe her?" Ron laughed after they were well away from her tower. "I saw that this storm was caused by the evil one and that it will continue until sunset." He then mocked her misty voice, "Honestly, she calls that a revelation."
Harry smiled chuckling, "Yeah, it doesn't take a genius to know this storm was Voldemort's doing. I mean who else would do this to Hogwarts? Or, quite frankly, be able to do this to Hogwarts?"
"True, we know it requires a lot of power." Ron agreed. "I guess the only people who could do this would be you know who, Dumbledore, or you."
"Yeah, but no one knows I can and I hope to keep it that way." Harry stated meaningfully.
Ron nodded and saluted, "You can count on me."
"Good to hear." Harry laughed until he remembered something, "Hey Ron, you know what was even funnier about Trelawney's "prediction"?"
Ron smiled and asked, "What?"
"The whole time, she was trying to think of a way she could tell the teachers without McGonagall knowing she was faking it." Harry laughed as they passed the dungeon corridor.
"How would you know that Potter?" an icy voice questioned from behind Harry making him stop laughing in shock.
He whirled around to be greeted by the face of Professor Severus Snape.
**
'Oh bloody.' Harry thought as he stared up into the eyes of his extremely bias potions professor.
A sneer adorned the hooked nose face topped of with an award winning 'I hate your guts Potter scowl.'
Harry could see Ron visibly pale beside him. This situation could very well tip Snape off on Harry's little secret. Which in turn would most likely lead to the discovery of his three friends' talents!
There was only one thing to say about this situation. It was bad.
"Well," Snape scowled throwing Harry out of his doomsday thoughts. "Tell me how you became so enlightened to know what others think."
Harry had to keep himself from flinching. Snape was so close to the truth it was nerve wracking. Thankfully, the sensible part of Harry mind chided him. He knew that Snape would do anything to take Gryffindor house points. Punishing Harry for making fun of another teacher was even better.
What could he say? He could be a smart aleck, play dumb, or fess up. The third was not even an option in Harry's book. The first would land him a detention for sure so he went with the trademark fail safe maneuver.
Give him the blankest look you can manage and say something innocent.
Harry gave him the best Crabbe and Goyle impersonation he could manage and answered carefully, "She was divining about the storm for the headmaster and the outcome of her findings seemed a bit outrageous to the class. She just seemed worried that the other teachers wouldn't believe her. Especially Professor McGonagall since she doesn't believe in divination."
Snape arced an eyebrow at this comment giving him an 'is that so' kind of look.
Ron remained silent beside his best friend. He did not dare attest to the truth of Harry's story because that would definitely tip off the fact that they were lying. They could only wait and see what Snape would do next.
"Very interesting insight," the potions Professor stated in a sarcastic manner. "Next time keep it to yourselves." He gave the two of them one last meaningful glare then stalked past them cloak billowing behind him as he went.
His thoughts echoed back to Harry as he passed, 'Something very odd is going on and I am going to get to the bottom of it.'
Harry thought his knees were going to give out on him. That parting thought meant that they would have to be extra careful with their new secrets. Snape was on to them and if they weren't careful he would soon know the truth.
"I don't believe it," Ron whispered after he was sure their teacher was long gone. "That must be a school record. Snape passing up a chance to take away points."
He glanced over at Harry and was surprised at how pale and sick he looked. "Hey, are you alright?" Ron asked laying a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder.
Harry jumped at the touch giving Ron a startled look as he did so. He took a deep breath and stated ruefully, "Yeah must be a record." Then in a lower whisper he stated, "He knows something is up."
Ron furrowed his brow then gave Harry's shoulder a reassuring squeeze and smiled "Then I guess we'll just have to stay on our toes."
Smiling back Harry replied, "Indeed."
With that they both started to head for defense against the dark arts.
**
They made it to the classroom in plenty of time and found Hermione in the front row waiting for them.
"How was class?" Hermione smiled at them. "She didn't predict too many painful deaths did she?"
"None today actually," Ron stated pleasantly.
"We were meditating while the Professor divined about the storm." Harry smiled indicating the window.
"Or used to be storm." Harry's voice took on a confused tone as the sky outside began to clear rapidly.
Hermione and Ron soon matched Harry's confused look with a bit more curiosity in their faces. The rest of the class began notice and after a brief shout from the second Gryffindor prefect, Dean Thomas, the rest of the fifth years were talking loudly about the strange occurrence.
Fleur chose that moment to walk in from her office. She eyed the commotion then used her wand to make a shrill whistle. The class quickly scurried back to their seats in silence though many still glanced out the window in disbelief.
Pleased with the results Professor Decalour picked up her attendance roster and began to call names.
Once that task was completed she smiled at the class speaking with her apparent French accent, "Welcome to your fifth year of Defense against zee dark arts."
Most of the male portion of the class sat taller in their seats and hung on her every word. Surprisingly enough Ron seemed to be in control of himself; though he did seem to be paying more attention than usual.
"To start with we will be covering information about some of zee more advanced curses and counter-curses." Fleur continued as she moved to write on the chalkboard. "You will work in class today reading and taking notes to hand into me at the zee end of class on zee first thirty pages in your text. Next class we will begin to put these new spells into practice." She dusted of her hands after she finished writing up the assignment. "I will be walking around to answer any questions you have. Please begin."
With that there was a flurry of movement as the eager male part of the class got out their books to start.
Harry had a feeling that Fleur would have quite a few questions soon whether they had to do with the assignment or not.
Sure enough not five minutes after they had started the first hand had already shot into the air with at least seven more behind it.
Harry watched as Hermione dove into her work and Ron gingerly began to read. Harry turned away from them knowing he had better get started if he was going to get these notes done before the end of class.
Time slipped by and Harry was almost finished. He had one more counter- curse left and there was about three minutes of class time remaining.
The spell in itself was simple in theory but Harry simply could not grasp what Latin roots the spell was based on.
'Come on Potter you know this,' Harry growled to himself as he kneaded his temple in agitation.
A strange feeling possessed him and Harry suddenly had the feeling that he was going to faint when suddenly everything went black.
**
Hermione had been observing her friend's agitation after she had finished helping Ron and he had gone to turn in his assignment. She had been about to offer Harry some help when he suddenly lost the frustrated look. It was replaced with a confident smile and the sound of a rapidly scratching quill.
'That was odd,' Hermione thought eyeing her friend curiously as he finished his last word with a flourish and walked his paper up to put on the stack of completed works.
Her black-haired friend came back and grabbed his bag as the bell rang for them to go to lunch. Hermione picked her own things and followed him out of the classroom with Ron bringing up the rear.
"That was hard for just being a note- taking assignment," Ron said as the three of them made their way to the great hall.
"It wasn't that bad Ron," Hermione stated absently still eyeing Harry. "Except for maybe the last spell..." She added thoughtfully.
"It was quite difficult at the end," Harry finally spoke turning to look at his friends with glowing emerald eyes.
Hermione and Ron took a step back as they observed the strange transformation of their friend. Glancing around quickly "Harry" grabbed the two of them and drug them into an empty classroom.
As soon as they had entered he shut the door and settled himself on a desk. Hermione and Ron kept their distance still looking a bit shaken.
"You again," Ron recovered himself and stepped in front of Hermione protectively.
"Yes, me again!" The strange presence that was currently talking through Harry stated happily.
"What do you want with Harry?" Hermione asked angrily. "Why do you keep doing this to him?"
"What do you mean?" The voice asked playfully.
"You know what she means." Ron growled at him.
"Oh you mean this." It gestured indicating Harry. "I was only helping out."
"Taking over his body is your way of being helpful! Don't you even ask him if he wants your "help"?" Hermione scolded.
"This better not hurt him." Ron threatened giving "Harry" an angry look.
Suddenly his friends face took on a very serious look, "I would never harm Harry." It stated with such conviction that Ron was a little taken aback.
Hermione found her voice and asked, "What are you exactly?"
He scrutinized her then stated, "I will tell you scholar but you must not tell the seer until he is ready." The glowing eyed figure eyed her as she nodded that she understood than relaxed again, "I am merely a guide chosen to aid the seer in his fight."
"Chosen? Who chose you?" Ron asked confused.
"Harry" simply winked and shrugged his eyes going back to the normal emerald green.
**
Harry's first thoughts as he opened his eyes were, 'I hope I'm not in the hospital wing.'
He found himself sitting on a desk looking into the worried and slightly agitated faces of his friends.
"What happened?" Harry asked eyeing his surroundings in surprise. "Weren't we just in defense against the dark arts?"
Hermione quickly jumped into explaining mode. "You passed out and Miss. Decalour wanted us to take you to the hospital wing. We were headed there when you started to come to so we brought you in here instead."
Ron nodded confirming her story.
Harry rubbed his head absently then thanked them for sparing him from the trip to the infirmary. He was not up for playing games of twenty questions with Madame Pomfrey.
"It's no problem," Ron smiled as the three of them left the classroom continuing their journey to the Great Hall. "We knew you would rather skip out of any visit to the wing if you could."
**
The Great Hall was bustling with students eating and loud talking as the Gryffindor trio took their seats and began to get food on their plates.
No sooner had they settled to eat Professor Dumbledore had stood up and used some purple sparks from his wand to gain the students attention.
The hall quieted as everyone turned to listen to the headmaster.
"Thank you for abiding with the inconvenience of having to stay indoors," He began. "Thankfully, the danger has passed and all outdoor classes shall commence as scheduled. Thank you." With that said the headmaster sat down and the student body burst into excited whispers and conversation.
"Darn and I thought we weren't having Care for Magical Creatures," Pavarti sulked.
"We really could have used the time for gazing with the Professor," Lavender sighed just as moodily.
Hermione snorted earning herself some glares from the two girls.
"I wonder what we're studying," Harry stated thoughtfully.
"Something dangerous for sure," Ron stated without looking up from his plate.
"I hope we won't have to run from anything," Neville stated looking pale in fright. "On that wet grass we won't have a chance."
**
"Hello class!" Hagrid boomed cheerfully as the Slytherins and Gryffindors made their way down to his hut.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione stood towards the back of the group of students waiting to hear what was in store for them today.
Draco slid beside them noiselessly Harry glanced his way without turning his head and gave him a brief smile.
Draco nodded acting disinterested and slipping his patented sneer on his face. This Slytherin had a reputation to uphold and wasn't about to drop it.
"Today we have a real treat." Hagrid beamed at the class. "As see 'in you lot are getting up into fifth year I thought it'd be a good time to test yer capabilities."
The class shifted nervously, so far this did not sound good.
"That's why startin' today you will each be assigned a kneazle to care for." Hagrid smiled as he led them around back to a group of crates covered by a large tent.
Hermione's hand was in the air before Hagrid could touch the first crate. After he called on her she asked, "Aren't we required to have a license to raise a kneazle?"
Hagrid nodded as he began to open the first crate, "That is true Hermione, but this here is a special case. The ministry found these little uns being sold in the black market and requested that I take care of um. Seeing as how I have a class to run I requested that I let my upper grade students raise them. Now make a line and I will give you yer charge."
"Makes sense," Ron murmured as the students complied with Hagrid's request. "I heard that kneazle kittens are hard to care for."
"Only if you don't know what you're doing Weasley." Draco snapped sliding back into his old habit.
Some of the nearby Slytherins snickered and Ron glared at Draco. Beneath the superior look Ron saw the apology written in the blonde boy's eyes. He would let it slide for now after all they couldn't have people being suspicious.
Harry could have sighed in relief as Ron turned back to watch Hagrid crack into more crates ignoring Draco's remark. He also remained impassive as another verbal assault was directed his way. Draco had to keep up this façade. If anyone learned they had become friends everyone would figure out something was up and with Snape watching their every move they could not afford something like that.
It was Hermione's turn to receive a kitten and she smiled as Hagrid handed her a small white and grey female with blue eyes. She cooed over it as she wrapped in her cloak going to where other students had already gotten food for their charges.
Ron received a chocolate brown male with sleepy brown eyes. As soon as he settled it in his cloak it yawned then began to nap. Ron shifted the kitten to his pocket and went to get some food for when it woke up.
Draco ignored the look Hagrid gave him as he handed him a slate gray female with fiery golden eyes. She was alert and pounced on his scarf sinking her teeth into the cloth with relish. Draco eyed her with feigned look of disdain that melted into a loving fondness as soon as he was away from the other students.
Finally, Harry received his kitten an intelligent looking black male with bright green eyes. Harry smiled at the little creature and stroked its head as he went to join his friends.
Hagrid called the class together near the end of the period, "Now I expect you to take proper care of these kneazles if you expect to pass this class." He stated sternly then smiled, "Go on inside you're dismissed."
The class made its way up to the castle some students trying to keep their rowdy kittens from running away.
A bout of laughter caused Harry and company to turn around and witness stupidity in motion. That is Crabbe and Goyle running after their charges. Both of them had lost their kitten and were chasing them as the little runaways ran back to Hagrid's hut.
Ron laughed heartily, as Hermione giggled, and Harry chuckled at the spectacle as they made there way up towards Gryffindor tower.
Another laugh made them turn around. Draco was snickering softly as he followed them indoors.
Harry smiled at him and nodded his head towards the empty classroom they had occupied just this morning. The four of them slipped into the room silently settling on the desks.
It was actually a nice classroom now that they got to see it when it was dust free. The desks were a bit old but still had a nice oak finish look. The walls were a gentle blue that was easy on the eyes.
Hermione let her kitten settle on the desk next to Ron's to snooze. Draco's kitten sniffed at everything she could find and pounced on anything that moved. While Harry's kitten sat beside him sagely eyeing the room like a king.
Draco was first to speak, "I'm sorry if I offended you Ron but."
Ron cut him off, "I know we can't let anyone know that hell has frozen over and we are now on friendly terms."
Hermione giggled at this comment and Draco smiled.
"Just no digs on my family or things will get ugly." Ron warned eyeing the Blonde.
"No worries there." Draco held up his hands in surrender, "I dare not tread in those waters."
"Glad that's settled," Harry nodded scratching his kneazle behind the ears.
"Speaking of settling things our kittens need names." Hermione stated in a getting down to business tone.
Draco raised an eyebrow, "Such as?"
"That's easy," Ron gestured to his still snoozing pet. "He's snoozer."
Hermione gave him a scathing look, "Just kidding, sheesh can't take a joke."
Draco smiled at his charge, "She has to be blaze."
Hermione nodded approval then voiced her choice smiling at her kitten, "Her name is sleet."
Ron shrugged and looked thoughtfully at his kneazle, "Well then you must be Dune."
"What about yours Harry?" Hermione queried as she approved of Dune's name.
Looking into the intelligent green eyes of his new companion Harry carefully scrutinized him.
"Storm," He stated softly. Hermione approved and began rambling to the other two boys about care for kneazles.
Harry continued to look into Storm's eyes and he asked softly, "Did I do good?"
Storm smiled a catty smile then giving his approval and as Harry turned back to listen to his friend he swore he saw him wink.
**
After they had left the room Draco pulled them aside. "I think that room is just what we need."
Hermione nodded, "We'll just have to lie low for awhile just in case Filch checks there again to see if anyone comes back."
"We can start in three days," Ron stated. "That should be enough time to through him off our sent."
"We'll have to be really careful though he might still show up." Draco cautioned.
Harry smirked, "No worries we can check to see if anyone's here with out being caught easily."
Draco gave him a questioning look, "How?"
Harry smiled back, "Just wait and see my friend. Just wait."
********
Yahoo!!!!
I typed this in one night just for you guys. Sorry it's shorter than normal but it is really late right now so I have to sleep.
Chp 12 will come soon. I'm starting on it tomorrow. Yeah!!!
Replies
Lady Abbey Bartlet - Thank you for the kick-in-the-pants review you gave me. It got me going again and here is the next chapter. Thanks for the motivation.
Iggit- Here it is now stop bothering me. Sheesh!
Anarian- Thanks for saying that this is brilliant I always appreciate compliments. As for Hermione and Harry action I don't do that relationship. Sorry, Ron and Hermione all the way!
Serpent of Light- Yeah I always knew Draco was good deep down. Snape was kinda mad. *Laughs* Oh well I like him that way
Iniysa- Here is the update for your enjoyment!
Bukama- Thanks for catching that detail. I chose Dean because I couldn't very well pick Ron now. *sigh*
Dinkum- I love receiving input on my reviews to. I just want to make sure you guys know how much your support means to me. Thanks for the compliment!
Tempest Valentine- Here's the update hope you like it!
Amythest- Yeah the voice is my pride and joy. Totally annoying yet totally useful. Too much fun!
Arizosa- Glad you enjoyed it! Oh and Snape will have a bigger part than you can imagine. Thanks for saying I'm cute. *smile*
My only excuse is the fifth book was less than inspirational. Heck with it, I did not like the fifth Harry Potter book. There I said it and can move on. I feel better.
Anyway that gives me no right to stop writing something that people enjoy. I have decided to stop moping and start writing.
"That's the spirit!" Merry smiles.
"Right oh!" Pippin agreed. "Wouldn't want you to stop writing this wonderful story just because the real creator of Harry Potter has gone and ruined it now would we?"
"Pip! You're not supposed to be saying that about Ms. Rowling's work. Just because we don't think this last book turned out well doesn't mean the WHOLE series is a waste."
"Umm..right. Anyway, can I get some more of these flapjacks?"
:: Hopeless..utterly hopeless:
If you guys get the urge to flame me for my immaturity of not writing just because I was a little put off by the fifth book I will accept it. I know how it feels to wait for an author to post let alone when they left you with a cliffhanger ending. So without further adieu on to the chapter.
/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\ (Just wouldn't be right to break tradition.)
(Now a minor recap)
** "Can you believe her?" Ron laughed after they were well away from her tower. "I saw that this storm was caused by the evil one and that it will continue until sunset." He then mocked her misty voice, "Honestly, she calls that a revelation."
Harry smiled chuckling, "Yeah, it doesn't take a genius to know this storm was Voldemort's doing. I mean who else would do this to Hogwarts? Or, quite frankly, be able to do this to Hogwarts?"
"True, we know it requires a lot of power." Ron agreed. "I guess the only people who could do this would be you know who, Dumbledore, or you."
"Yeah, but no one knows I can and I hope to keep it that way." Harry stated meaningfully.
Ron nodded and saluted, "You can count on me."
"Good to hear." Harry laughed until he remembered something, "Hey Ron, you know what was even funnier about Trelawney's "prediction"?"
Ron smiled and asked, "What?"
"The whole time, she was trying to think of a way she could tell the teachers without McGonagall knowing she was faking it." Harry laughed as they passed the dungeon corridor.
"How would you know that Potter?" an icy voice questioned from behind Harry making him stop laughing in shock.
He whirled around to be greeted by the face of Professor Severus Snape.
**
'Oh bloody.' Harry thought as he stared up into the eyes of his extremely bias potions professor.
A sneer adorned the hooked nose face topped of with an award winning 'I hate your guts Potter scowl.'
Harry could see Ron visibly pale beside him. This situation could very well tip Snape off on Harry's little secret. Which in turn would most likely lead to the discovery of his three friends' talents!
There was only one thing to say about this situation. It was bad.
"Well," Snape scowled throwing Harry out of his doomsday thoughts. "Tell me how you became so enlightened to know what others think."
Harry had to keep himself from flinching. Snape was so close to the truth it was nerve wracking. Thankfully, the sensible part of Harry mind chided him. He knew that Snape would do anything to take Gryffindor house points. Punishing Harry for making fun of another teacher was even better.
What could he say? He could be a smart aleck, play dumb, or fess up. The third was not even an option in Harry's book. The first would land him a detention for sure so he went with the trademark fail safe maneuver.
Give him the blankest look you can manage and say something innocent.
Harry gave him the best Crabbe and Goyle impersonation he could manage and answered carefully, "She was divining about the storm for the headmaster and the outcome of her findings seemed a bit outrageous to the class. She just seemed worried that the other teachers wouldn't believe her. Especially Professor McGonagall since she doesn't believe in divination."
Snape arced an eyebrow at this comment giving him an 'is that so' kind of look.
Ron remained silent beside his best friend. He did not dare attest to the truth of Harry's story because that would definitely tip off the fact that they were lying. They could only wait and see what Snape would do next.
"Very interesting insight," the potions Professor stated in a sarcastic manner. "Next time keep it to yourselves." He gave the two of them one last meaningful glare then stalked past them cloak billowing behind him as he went.
His thoughts echoed back to Harry as he passed, 'Something very odd is going on and I am going to get to the bottom of it.'
Harry thought his knees were going to give out on him. That parting thought meant that they would have to be extra careful with their new secrets. Snape was on to them and if they weren't careful he would soon know the truth.
"I don't believe it," Ron whispered after he was sure their teacher was long gone. "That must be a school record. Snape passing up a chance to take away points."
He glanced over at Harry and was surprised at how pale and sick he looked. "Hey, are you alright?" Ron asked laying a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder.
Harry jumped at the touch giving Ron a startled look as he did so. He took a deep breath and stated ruefully, "Yeah must be a record." Then in a lower whisper he stated, "He knows something is up."
Ron furrowed his brow then gave Harry's shoulder a reassuring squeeze and smiled "Then I guess we'll just have to stay on our toes."
Smiling back Harry replied, "Indeed."
With that they both started to head for defense against the dark arts.
**
They made it to the classroom in plenty of time and found Hermione in the front row waiting for them.
"How was class?" Hermione smiled at them. "She didn't predict too many painful deaths did she?"
"None today actually," Ron stated pleasantly.
"We were meditating while the Professor divined about the storm." Harry smiled indicating the window.
"Or used to be storm." Harry's voice took on a confused tone as the sky outside began to clear rapidly.
Hermione and Ron soon matched Harry's confused look with a bit more curiosity in their faces. The rest of the class began notice and after a brief shout from the second Gryffindor prefect, Dean Thomas, the rest of the fifth years were talking loudly about the strange occurrence.
Fleur chose that moment to walk in from her office. She eyed the commotion then used her wand to make a shrill whistle. The class quickly scurried back to their seats in silence though many still glanced out the window in disbelief.
Pleased with the results Professor Decalour picked up her attendance roster and began to call names.
Once that task was completed she smiled at the class speaking with her apparent French accent, "Welcome to your fifth year of Defense against zee dark arts."
Most of the male portion of the class sat taller in their seats and hung on her every word. Surprisingly enough Ron seemed to be in control of himself; though he did seem to be paying more attention than usual.
"To start with we will be covering information about some of zee more advanced curses and counter-curses." Fleur continued as she moved to write on the chalkboard. "You will work in class today reading and taking notes to hand into me at the zee end of class on zee first thirty pages in your text. Next class we will begin to put these new spells into practice." She dusted of her hands after she finished writing up the assignment. "I will be walking around to answer any questions you have. Please begin."
With that there was a flurry of movement as the eager male part of the class got out their books to start.
Harry had a feeling that Fleur would have quite a few questions soon whether they had to do with the assignment or not.
Sure enough not five minutes after they had started the first hand had already shot into the air with at least seven more behind it.
Harry watched as Hermione dove into her work and Ron gingerly began to read. Harry turned away from them knowing he had better get started if he was going to get these notes done before the end of class.
Time slipped by and Harry was almost finished. He had one more counter- curse left and there was about three minutes of class time remaining.
The spell in itself was simple in theory but Harry simply could not grasp what Latin roots the spell was based on.
'Come on Potter you know this,' Harry growled to himself as he kneaded his temple in agitation.
A strange feeling possessed him and Harry suddenly had the feeling that he was going to faint when suddenly everything went black.
**
Hermione had been observing her friend's agitation after she had finished helping Ron and he had gone to turn in his assignment. She had been about to offer Harry some help when he suddenly lost the frustrated look. It was replaced with a confident smile and the sound of a rapidly scratching quill.
'That was odd,' Hermione thought eyeing her friend curiously as he finished his last word with a flourish and walked his paper up to put on the stack of completed works.
Her black-haired friend came back and grabbed his bag as the bell rang for them to go to lunch. Hermione picked her own things and followed him out of the classroom with Ron bringing up the rear.
"That was hard for just being a note- taking assignment," Ron said as the three of them made their way to the great hall.
"It wasn't that bad Ron," Hermione stated absently still eyeing Harry. "Except for maybe the last spell..." She added thoughtfully.
"It was quite difficult at the end," Harry finally spoke turning to look at his friends with glowing emerald eyes.
Hermione and Ron took a step back as they observed the strange transformation of their friend. Glancing around quickly "Harry" grabbed the two of them and drug them into an empty classroom.
As soon as they had entered he shut the door and settled himself on a desk. Hermione and Ron kept their distance still looking a bit shaken.
"You again," Ron recovered himself and stepped in front of Hermione protectively.
"Yes, me again!" The strange presence that was currently talking through Harry stated happily.
"What do you want with Harry?" Hermione asked angrily. "Why do you keep doing this to him?"
"What do you mean?" The voice asked playfully.
"You know what she means." Ron growled at him.
"Oh you mean this." It gestured indicating Harry. "I was only helping out."
"Taking over his body is your way of being helpful! Don't you even ask him if he wants your "help"?" Hermione scolded.
"This better not hurt him." Ron threatened giving "Harry" an angry look.
Suddenly his friends face took on a very serious look, "I would never harm Harry." It stated with such conviction that Ron was a little taken aback.
Hermione found her voice and asked, "What are you exactly?"
He scrutinized her then stated, "I will tell you scholar but you must not tell the seer until he is ready." The glowing eyed figure eyed her as she nodded that she understood than relaxed again, "I am merely a guide chosen to aid the seer in his fight."
"Chosen? Who chose you?" Ron asked confused.
"Harry" simply winked and shrugged his eyes going back to the normal emerald green.
**
Harry's first thoughts as he opened his eyes were, 'I hope I'm not in the hospital wing.'
He found himself sitting on a desk looking into the worried and slightly agitated faces of his friends.
"What happened?" Harry asked eyeing his surroundings in surprise. "Weren't we just in defense against the dark arts?"
Hermione quickly jumped into explaining mode. "You passed out and Miss. Decalour wanted us to take you to the hospital wing. We were headed there when you started to come to so we brought you in here instead."
Ron nodded confirming her story.
Harry rubbed his head absently then thanked them for sparing him from the trip to the infirmary. He was not up for playing games of twenty questions with Madame Pomfrey.
"It's no problem," Ron smiled as the three of them left the classroom continuing their journey to the Great Hall. "We knew you would rather skip out of any visit to the wing if you could."
**
The Great Hall was bustling with students eating and loud talking as the Gryffindor trio took their seats and began to get food on their plates.
No sooner had they settled to eat Professor Dumbledore had stood up and used some purple sparks from his wand to gain the students attention.
The hall quieted as everyone turned to listen to the headmaster.
"Thank you for abiding with the inconvenience of having to stay indoors," He began. "Thankfully, the danger has passed and all outdoor classes shall commence as scheduled. Thank you." With that said the headmaster sat down and the student body burst into excited whispers and conversation.
"Darn and I thought we weren't having Care for Magical Creatures," Pavarti sulked.
"We really could have used the time for gazing with the Professor," Lavender sighed just as moodily.
Hermione snorted earning herself some glares from the two girls.
"I wonder what we're studying," Harry stated thoughtfully.
"Something dangerous for sure," Ron stated without looking up from his plate.
"I hope we won't have to run from anything," Neville stated looking pale in fright. "On that wet grass we won't have a chance."
**
"Hello class!" Hagrid boomed cheerfully as the Slytherins and Gryffindors made their way down to his hut.
Harry, Ron, and Hermione stood towards the back of the group of students waiting to hear what was in store for them today.
Draco slid beside them noiselessly Harry glanced his way without turning his head and gave him a brief smile.
Draco nodded acting disinterested and slipping his patented sneer on his face. This Slytherin had a reputation to uphold and wasn't about to drop it.
"Today we have a real treat." Hagrid beamed at the class. "As see 'in you lot are getting up into fifth year I thought it'd be a good time to test yer capabilities."
The class shifted nervously, so far this did not sound good.
"That's why startin' today you will each be assigned a kneazle to care for." Hagrid smiled as he led them around back to a group of crates covered by a large tent.
Hermione's hand was in the air before Hagrid could touch the first crate. After he called on her she asked, "Aren't we required to have a license to raise a kneazle?"
Hagrid nodded as he began to open the first crate, "That is true Hermione, but this here is a special case. The ministry found these little uns being sold in the black market and requested that I take care of um. Seeing as how I have a class to run I requested that I let my upper grade students raise them. Now make a line and I will give you yer charge."
"Makes sense," Ron murmured as the students complied with Hagrid's request. "I heard that kneazle kittens are hard to care for."
"Only if you don't know what you're doing Weasley." Draco snapped sliding back into his old habit.
Some of the nearby Slytherins snickered and Ron glared at Draco. Beneath the superior look Ron saw the apology written in the blonde boy's eyes. He would let it slide for now after all they couldn't have people being suspicious.
Harry could have sighed in relief as Ron turned back to watch Hagrid crack into more crates ignoring Draco's remark. He also remained impassive as another verbal assault was directed his way. Draco had to keep up this façade. If anyone learned they had become friends everyone would figure out something was up and with Snape watching their every move they could not afford something like that.
It was Hermione's turn to receive a kitten and she smiled as Hagrid handed her a small white and grey female with blue eyes. She cooed over it as she wrapped in her cloak going to where other students had already gotten food for their charges.
Ron received a chocolate brown male with sleepy brown eyes. As soon as he settled it in his cloak it yawned then began to nap. Ron shifted the kitten to his pocket and went to get some food for when it woke up.
Draco ignored the look Hagrid gave him as he handed him a slate gray female with fiery golden eyes. She was alert and pounced on his scarf sinking her teeth into the cloth with relish. Draco eyed her with feigned look of disdain that melted into a loving fondness as soon as he was away from the other students.
Finally, Harry received his kitten an intelligent looking black male with bright green eyes. Harry smiled at the little creature and stroked its head as he went to join his friends.
Hagrid called the class together near the end of the period, "Now I expect you to take proper care of these kneazles if you expect to pass this class." He stated sternly then smiled, "Go on inside you're dismissed."
The class made its way up to the castle some students trying to keep their rowdy kittens from running away.
A bout of laughter caused Harry and company to turn around and witness stupidity in motion. That is Crabbe and Goyle running after their charges. Both of them had lost their kitten and were chasing them as the little runaways ran back to Hagrid's hut.
Ron laughed heartily, as Hermione giggled, and Harry chuckled at the spectacle as they made there way up towards Gryffindor tower.
Another laugh made them turn around. Draco was snickering softly as he followed them indoors.
Harry smiled at him and nodded his head towards the empty classroom they had occupied just this morning. The four of them slipped into the room silently settling on the desks.
It was actually a nice classroom now that they got to see it when it was dust free. The desks were a bit old but still had a nice oak finish look. The walls were a gentle blue that was easy on the eyes.
Hermione let her kitten settle on the desk next to Ron's to snooze. Draco's kitten sniffed at everything she could find and pounced on anything that moved. While Harry's kitten sat beside him sagely eyeing the room like a king.
Draco was first to speak, "I'm sorry if I offended you Ron but."
Ron cut him off, "I know we can't let anyone know that hell has frozen over and we are now on friendly terms."
Hermione giggled at this comment and Draco smiled.
"Just no digs on my family or things will get ugly." Ron warned eyeing the Blonde.
"No worries there." Draco held up his hands in surrender, "I dare not tread in those waters."
"Glad that's settled," Harry nodded scratching his kneazle behind the ears.
"Speaking of settling things our kittens need names." Hermione stated in a getting down to business tone.
Draco raised an eyebrow, "Such as?"
"That's easy," Ron gestured to his still snoozing pet. "He's snoozer."
Hermione gave him a scathing look, "Just kidding, sheesh can't take a joke."
Draco smiled at his charge, "She has to be blaze."
Hermione nodded approval then voiced her choice smiling at her kitten, "Her name is sleet."
Ron shrugged and looked thoughtfully at his kneazle, "Well then you must be Dune."
"What about yours Harry?" Hermione queried as she approved of Dune's name.
Looking into the intelligent green eyes of his new companion Harry carefully scrutinized him.
"Storm," He stated softly. Hermione approved and began rambling to the other two boys about care for kneazles.
Harry continued to look into Storm's eyes and he asked softly, "Did I do good?"
Storm smiled a catty smile then giving his approval and as Harry turned back to listen to his friend he swore he saw him wink.
**
After they had left the room Draco pulled them aside. "I think that room is just what we need."
Hermione nodded, "We'll just have to lie low for awhile just in case Filch checks there again to see if anyone comes back."
"We can start in three days," Ron stated. "That should be enough time to through him off our sent."
"We'll have to be really careful though he might still show up." Draco cautioned.
Harry smirked, "No worries we can check to see if anyone's here with out being caught easily."
Draco gave him a questioning look, "How?"
Harry smiled back, "Just wait and see my friend. Just wait."
********
Yahoo!!!!
I typed this in one night just for you guys. Sorry it's shorter than normal but it is really late right now so I have to sleep.
Chp 12 will come soon. I'm starting on it tomorrow. Yeah!!!
Replies
Lady Abbey Bartlet - Thank you for the kick-in-the-pants review you gave me. It got me going again and here is the next chapter. Thanks for the motivation.
Iggit- Here it is now stop bothering me. Sheesh!
Anarian- Thanks for saying that this is brilliant I always appreciate compliments. As for Hermione and Harry action I don't do that relationship. Sorry, Ron and Hermione all the way!
Serpent of Light- Yeah I always knew Draco was good deep down. Snape was kinda mad. *Laughs* Oh well I like him that way
Iniysa- Here is the update for your enjoyment!
Bukama- Thanks for catching that detail. I chose Dean because I couldn't very well pick Ron now. *sigh*
Dinkum- I love receiving input on my reviews to. I just want to make sure you guys know how much your support means to me. Thanks for the compliment!
Tempest Valentine- Here's the update hope you like it!
Amythest- Yeah the voice is my pride and joy. Totally annoying yet totally useful. Too much fun!
Arizosa- Glad you enjoyed it! Oh and Snape will have a bigger part than you can imagine. Thanks for saying I'm cute. *smile*