Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter. Not the rights not anything........yet. I may or may not be in JK's will; she hasn't responded to my letters or my telegrams yet.
Chapter 14
Ron and Harry were eating and discussing Quidditch when they were soon joined at the table by Ginny, who gave Ron a funny look.
"What?" asked Ron. "Do I have something on my nose?"
"No it's not that," replied Ginny, still looking at Ron like there was something amusing about him.
"Then what is it Gin?" asked Ron.
"Well, I was just told by Parvati and Lavender that you asked Hermione out," said Ginny.
"What?!" exclaimed Ron.
"Well, is it true Ron?" Ginny asked.
"NO! I didn't ask her out. We just made a bet and she lost, that's all."
"What did you win?" asked Ginny.
"Well she can't touch her homework today and she has to go everywhere I go," answered Ron.
Ginny raised her eyebrows and Harry sniggered.
"Well everywhere except the loo and the dormitory of course," added Ron.
"So you DID ask her out but -- "
"No, the bet was supposed to have Harry with me," said Ron cutting Ginny off.
"BUT," said Harry, "I'm not going to be tagging along so Ron's on his own with her."
Ron looked agitated at Harry as Ginny laughed at him. Ron really didn't like the idea that Harry was leaving him alone with Hermione like this. It was really not meant to be a date, but everyone seemed to be thinking that it was.
"Ginny why don't you tag along with us?" Ron said happily.
"Oh no. I'm not getting mixed up in this. I'm taking Harry's approach and letting you guys be," said Ginny, "besides, I'm sure you--"
"Fine, be that way," said Ron sulking.
"Hi Ronald," said a dreamy voice behind him.
"Oh, hi Luna," replied Ron in a bored voice.
"I hope you have a nice practice today. I hear there's going to be bad weather coming," said Luna.
Yeah, ok. Thanks for the tip Luna, see you later," Ron said annoyingly.
Ron was tired of being reminded of the storm. Not only did he already know about it, but Luna had always showed up at exactly the same time and place for the past 6 days giving him the same warning over and over again. Luna was a person that greatly annoyed Ron and he wished she would just leave him alone.
"That was rude Ron," said Ginny exasperated.
"Well she's always showing up telling me the same thing over and over and over again," said Ron enraged, "she's insufferable and damn near impossible to listen to."
Harry and Ginny both raised their eyebrows.
"What's that supposed to mean Ron? This is the first time I think she spoke to you today," asked Harry.
Ron wasn't in the mood to come up with another excuse and lie about his situation.
"You're right, I should have been nicer to her," said Ron, "Sorry."
With 20 minutes left to lunch, Hermione finally came down to the Great Hall and sat beside Ginny. She looked a bit flustered.
"Hi guys," she said, pulling a bowl of beef stew toward her.
"Where were you just now?" Ron asked.
"Oh, I just needed to take care of a few things before I came down to lunch. Besides I'm not really that hungry anyway," she said in a business like tone.
"Oh," said Ron. He decided to remind her of the bet she had lost.
"Doing a bit of homework before the school day is over?" joked Ron.
Hermione dropped her spoon and seemed startled at the fact that he had just reminded her of the bet she lost.
"Actually, no, I was in my dormitory doing something but it was not homework," said Hermione regaining her composure.
"I see, I hope you didn't forget that little wager we made today," said Ron, smiling.
"No I didn't," said Hermione simply, turning a little red.
"Good," replied Ron, and he went back to eating his tuna sandwich.
"I'll bet you didn't expect Ron to win that one, did you Hermione?" said Harry grinning.
Hermione frowned at Harry but didn't say anything, she just continued eating her stew.
"Yeah Ron, I've been meaning to ask you what the bet was made on," said Ginny
"Well--" said Ron.
"I wonder what Hagrid has in store for us today," said Hermione, quickly cutting in and hoping to change the subject.
"But--" said Ginny.
"I hope Hagrid has something really interesting set up today," said Hermione, once again cutting Ginny off in hopes of changing the subject. This time she was eating her stew at an incredible pace.
"But--" said Ginny.
"I forgot to bring my wand; I have to go back up my dormitory," added Hermione very quickly, putting down her spoon and getting up from the table.
"See you two in class. Bye Ginny," she said rushing off.
"What was that all about," said Ginny looking confused.
"You heard her, she forgot her wand," said Ron laughing.
"Why was she so jumpy? Are you going to tell me what that bet was about?" asked Ginny.
Ron let Harry tell Ginny the entire story of what happened in Potions and what brought about the bet. Meanwhile Ron was thinking about the next lesson. Hagrid's lesson plan was definitely going to include those Tongustian beasts again, there was no doubt about that. All Ron wanted to figure out was how he was going to avoid another scare and not have the same thing happen like the last time. Another rampage would ruin the day and could possibly injure others, thus, ruining Ron's plans.
"So that's why she's so jumpy," said Ginny interrupting Ron's train of thought.
"What do you mean?" said Ron.
"Well don't you see? She's either nervous about spending the day with you or she doesn't want to admit she lost," said Ginny.
"Or both," added Harry.
"Exactly," said Ginny.
"Well, I think its time we head down to Hagrid's," said Ron, looking at his watch.
"Yeah lets go, the lesson starts in 10 minutes," Harry added.
"I'll see you guys after school," said Ginny as the two boys grabbed their books.
"Bye Ginny," said Ron and Harry as they left the Great Hall and made their way to the grounds.
"Shouldn't we wait for Hermione?" asked Ron, walking down the stone steps.
"She said she would meet us down there, remember?" said Harry.
"Oh, right," replied Ron.
As the two walked along the grass on their way to Hagrid's cabin they were again approached by Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson along with their regular goons Crabbe and Goyle . This time Pansy didn't have that look of pure hatred on her face that Ron noticed she was wearing last time. It was probably due to the fact that Malfoy didn't get detention this time like yesterday and Harry had gotten it instead.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't our hero Potty and his sidekick Welfare-boy," said Malfoy as Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle roared with laughter.
Ron thought for sure that Harry still remembered the comments Malfoy made about Sirius earlier and he looked as though he was going to try and hex him once again. Surprisingly, Harry kept his cool and just told Malfoy to "bugger off," through clenched teeth.
Malfoy smirked as Pansy turned her attention toward Ron.
"Word has it that you are dating that mudblood Granger. Is that true Weasley?"
"His name is Welfare boy," whispered Malfoy to Pansy, but Ron could hear him as clear as day.
"No, Hermione and I are not dating, Pansy," Ron said, trying to stay calm.
"Smart choice, wouldn't want your name to be embarrassed any further by dating her, Weasley," retorted Pansy.
"His name is Welfare boy," whispered Malfoy once again to Pansy. Ron knew what Malfoy was trying to do, but he wasn't going to give the satisfaction. Harry however pulled put his wand and pointed straight at Malfoy's heart which caused him to gulp. Harry had the look of pure hatred and actually looked like he was going to curse Malfoy when Ron quickly put Harry's arm down and said "No, it's not worth the trouble,"
Malfoy and Pansy laughed at this and made a motion to walk away when Ron asked, "How's daddy Death Eater doing in Azkaban?"
Malfoy stopped, turned around and said venomously, "What did you say, Weasley?"
"I asked, how is daddy Death Eater doing in Azkaban?" Ron repeated grinning. "If you want to talk about wizarding families that's names are embarrassing, I'm open for discussion on yours, Malfoy."
Malfoy's face scrunched in anger and turned red.
"Lets go," Malfoy muttered to the rest of his group. Ron had had the last word and Malfoy knew it was time to stop.
"Are you ok?" asked Harry as they continued walking to Care of Magical Creatures.
"Yeah I'm fine. The question is are YOU ok?" asked Ron.
"Fine, thanks for that back up there. I would have done it to if you hadn't stopped me," said Harry.
"I know," said Ron, grinning.
When they reached Hagrid's hut, they were greeted by their Care of Magical Creatures teacher who beamed at the sight of the pair of them.
"Same exact reaction as last time," thought Ron, feeling bewildered.
"Lo you two, ready ter get dis lesson started?" asked Hagrid.
"Sorry we were late Hagrid," Harry responded.
"Oh das alright 'arry. Besides I jus got ere late meself," said Hagrid chuckling.
"This is amazing, nothing really changes much," thought Ron. "Unless I do something big enough,"
Hagrid turned around and faced the rest of the class "Well now, today we're goin to start the study of a new magical creature," said Hagrid as he picked up the same large crate. Hermione was off in a distance from Ron and Harry and once again in the company of Parvati and Lavender. They giggled when Ron looked their way and Parvati waved at him. Ron felt an odd sensation in the pit of his stomach and felt rather flattered that she waved to him. He returned a wave much to the scowl of Hermione.
When Hagrid picked up the large crate and set it down in front of the students a loud howl came from the box and it rumbled very violently. Everyone instinctively stepped away from the box as quick as they could. This rumble from the box didn't surprise Ron at all, he was still trying to think of a way for Hagrid to pull off this lesson without it being turned into another disaster like the last time.
"Er . . . well, no harm's been done to it. It's fairly harmless," said Hagrid. "C'mon gather roun' now, gather roun', don' be scared."
Ron was the only one to actually step forward and when none of the others made a move to go closer to Hagrid and the crate, Hagrid said, "Err, well I guess it's better ter keep a little distance jus ter be safe. Ron, you can aid me if yeh like."
Ron nodded his head but was still felt frightened inside. It was highly unlikely that the Tongustian would transform and go on a rampage now, but Ron, knowing what it was capable of, still didn't help matters.
"Well, err, what I'm about ter show you guys is a mountain creature. It's rather cute if you ask me, but I'll let yeh guys see fer yer-selves. Ron could yeh help me open the crate?"
Ron nodded and went on the other side of the crate to help Hagrid open the box. When the box was opened Ron looked inside and saw the exact same cat-like creature that he saw once before. It looked as harmless as it did last time, but Ron knew all to well. Hagrid very carefully grabbed the creature and showed it to the entire class. The class' initial reaction to the creature was the same as before, which didn't surprise Ron.
The girls again said 'awww' at the sight of it. To them and to the rest of the class it didn't look like a dangerous beast at all. The class looked like they felt safe and stepped in closer to get a better look at the beast.
"Yeah, awwwww," said Ron sarcastically to himself.
"Now who 'ere can tell me what this is?" asked Hagrid.
"It looks like a normal cat," said Harry.
"No, no I can assure you it's not a normal cat Harry," chuckled Hagrid.
Ron knew the class wasn't going to respond to Hagrid's question. They didn't before and they certainly weren't going to this time. When Hagrid realized that nobody knew the name of the creature, he said, "No one?"
But this time the cat like creature once again started roaming around in Hagrid's arms trying to either get free, or was just rather curious. Ron knew that he had to prevent the Tongustian from reaching Hagrid's facial area so he abruptly said, "er, Hagrid, why don't you let me hold onto the Tongustian while you explain it to the class."
Hagrid looked happily at Ron and said, "well done Ron! Yes this creature IS called a Tongustian. Five points to Gryffindor." Ron didn't really care about the amount of points, all he cared about was not letting the Tongustian become vicious like before. He put on a fake smile and reached out for the creature.
"Are you sure you want ter hold it Ron? It can get a bit tricky," asked Hagrid.
"Yeah, I know what it's capable of, don't worry Hagrid," replied Ron.
Hagrid hesitated, but finally gave in and handed the Tongustian to Ron to hold. Ron took the creature with ease as it was only as heavy as an ordinary house cat and just as big as well. He couldn't believe Hagrid would just hand a dangerous beast over to him like that. "What would happen if I didn't really know what it was capable of? Hagrid sure puts too much faith into his pet beasts," Ron said to himself.
As Ron stroked the creature, he could hear girls in the back cooing over the cute creature he was now holding. Ron felt a little red over the amount of sudden whispers he was now catching from the girls in the crowd. "Reckon they think you're cute little fella. I don't understand how you are the same giant ferocious beast that tried to eat me just yesterday," said Ron talking very quietly as he stroked the Tongustian.
Hagrid smiled at Ron's ability to handle the Tongustian and turned his attention back onto the class. "Well like Ron said this 'ere creature is called a Tongustian. It lives mostly in the mountains and there are about six thousand of em' living in Great Britain alone. Now don't let the size of this creature fool yeh, they're extremely efficient at and defendin themselves. They 'ave dis' special ability ter transform whenever they feel the need ter defend themselves or feel the need to hunt fer food. They can get a bit nasty if provoked." At this point, most of the class gasped and took a few more steps back.
Ron was shaking his head as he mused to himself, "Way to go, terrify the entire class Hagrid, if I didn't already know what this Tongustian was capable of, I would have dropped this thing right away after what you just said."
"Now don' be scared. It's quite fed and I'm sure Ron's not goin ter harm the fella," said Hagrid, trying to reassure the class.
"You know Hagrid, this little thing is kinda cute to tell you the truth," said Ron
Hagrid gave Ron a warm smile and said, "she seems ter have taken a likin ter ya Ron."
It was true, the Tongustian had taken a liking to Ron. It was not roaming around wildly like it was when it was in Hagrid's arms. The Tongustian purred affectionately as Ron scratched behind it's ear and Hagrid asked other students to come up to see the Tongustian up close. A few of the students who weren't afraid of the Tongustian had now gathered around Ron. Malfoy and some other Slytherins chose not to go.
"C'mon now don' be shy," said Hagrid as he pushed Neville and Dean closer to Ron and the Tongustian.
"Kinda looks like Crookshanks a bit doesn't it?" asked Harry, petting the creature.
"Oh I'll bet this thing can give Crookshanks a run for its money" said Ron.
"How so?" asked Hermione, now joining in on the petting.
"Erm...well you heard what Hagrid said. He can get quite dangerous when he transforms; he totally transfigures into another animal with razor sharp teeth and 12 inch long fangs, not to mention his wicked sharp claws. He's like the size of a tiger too, but about 5 or 6 feet longer and can run like. . ."
Ron was now getting carried away with his describing of the Tongustian and was beginning to frighten the people around him. Lavender quickly stopped petting the Tongustian and left the group. Several people backed away slowly leaving only Harry, Hermione and Hagrid left to eye the Tongustian Ron was still holding.
"Wow Ron, great job on describin the transfigured Tongustian. Take another ten points fer Gryffindor," said Hagrid merrily.
Thankfully, Harry and Hermione smiled and didn't notice why Ron had actually known about the description of the transfigured Tongustian. Normally earning 15 points for Gryffindor would make Ron delighted but this time however, it no longer transmitted that feeling of vanity.
Hagrid spent the rest of the class talking about, and describing the habits of the Tongustian. Ron too was still holding onto the creature and it didn't seem to want to come down off of him. While Ron was listening to Hagrid's discussion and would often deviate his attention and look down at the Tongustian he was holding, he noticed that Tongustian spent a vast amount of time tugging and playing around with a loose thread hanging from the cuff of his robe. He thought it was rather cute the way it played with the loose thread.
When the bell rang ending the lesson, Ron gave the Tongustian back to Hagrid who was very grateful, "Thanks for yer assistance today Ron, appreciate it."
"No problem," said Ron happily. Relief now washed all over him like a big tidal wave; the Tongustian didn't go berserk like the last time and all in all, it was a very good Care of Magical Creatures class. Ron had done just what he was hoping to do and the lesson turned out to be one of the few lessons he enjoyed today.
"Say Hagrid, do you have a name for it?" asked Harry, who stayed behind with Ron.
"Yeah, her name's Tango," said Hagrid putting Tango the Tongustian back into her crate.
"Cool, well we gotta head off to Herbology see ya around Hagrid," said Harry.
"Yeah, bye Hagrid," said Ron as he left with Harry.
"That was some class huh?" asked Harry
"Yeah, lucky for us 'Tango didn't try and eat us this time," said Ron jokingly. "Damn," Ron said to himself realizing his mistake.
Harry looked perplexed,"What do you mean THIS time?"
"Oh... I meant that...she's probably tried before with other classes," said Ron, ears turning red and knowing very well that was a horrible excuse to feed Harry for his mistake. Lucky for Ron, Harry bought it and didn't question Ron's blunder.
"Tango seemed keen on you today, Ron. You held onto her for the entire class," said Harry.
"She didn't want me to put her down," said Ron, "and even when I had to after class she was still reluctant."
"I guess you have a way with the ladies," said Harry laughing.
"Well if Tango is all I can attract then I'm in big trouble, mate," said Ron laughing too.
When they arrived at Green house 3, Hermione was sitting at their table but she wasn't alone. Ernie Macmillan and Justin Finch-Fletchley was sitting where Ron and Harry usually sat. She was blushing for some reason and Ron thought Justin was acting a bit too friendly around Hermione than he should be.
"Hey guys what's up?" asked Harry.
"Oh nothing much, just having a chat with Hermione," said Justin winking at her.
Ron was furious, "Uh huh, mind if I ask what you guys were chatting about?" asked Ron putting on a fake friendly smile, trying his very best to calm down and not explode.
Hermione however spoke, "It's nothing, just talking about homework."
Ron opened his mouth and was about to snoop further but Harry abruptly cut him off and nudged Ron in the ribs .
"Well class is about to start so--" said Harry, "--would you please move," finished Ron heartily, but in a odd tone in which Hermione caught on to and gave Ron a cold look.
"Oh yes, of course, sorry. We'll just be on our way, see you guys around," said Ernie.
"Bye, Hermione," said Justin. Hermione smiled and Justin went off to sit at his own table with Ernie.
"What was that all about?" asked Ron.
"What do you mean?" replied Hermione.
"I mean, what did those idiots want?" said Ron.
"Ron! They are not idiots, they just came by and we had a small chat," said Hermione.
Ron saw that Professor Sprout was just getting in so he decided to continue this later.
"Settle down class. Now today we're going to continue with our lesson on the Verennial Vertanna. Each member from their group can come up and get their Verennial Vertanna from last class. Just do the same thing I taught you before, and I'll come around to check."
It was the exact same order of things as before. Professor Sprout finished her small speech and Hermione once again volunteered to go get the plant.
Hermione had hardly spoken at all during the first 30 minutes of the class. Ron and Harry tried to include her in to their conversations but Hermione's mind seemed to be someplace else, and not just on their Verennial Vertanna.
"What's on your mind?" asked Ron, "yeah, you're awful quiet Hermione," added Harry.
"Oh nothing I was just thinking, that's all," responded Hermione.
"About?" asked Harry.
"This afternoon," answered Hermione. Ron grinned and said "Don't think I'm going to let you off the hook Hermione."
"No I wasn't, I was just. . .just what do you have planned today?" she asked.
Ron thought about it for a few seconds and decided to try the 'Lavender' approach again. He was going to try and get to know Hermione better than he already did. As much as Ron and Hermione were best of friends, Ron had to admit he didn't know Hermione as well as he did Harry.
"Well how about after lessons we take a walk around the grounds," Ron suggested, trying not to sound nervous.
Hermione's face turned crimson at Ron's suggestion. "Isn't it a bit cold for a walk today?" she asked.
"Nonsense, it's perfect out there today, the weather couldn't be better," said Harry suppressing his laughter.
"What about you Harry? Ron did invite you too right?" asked Hermione.
"Well yeah he did but I can't, I have other arrangements made," said Harry.
"Like what?" asked Ron
"Oh don't worry about me I'll find something to do; perhaps I'll go out flying today," said Harry.
"As long as you don't go out tonight that's all," said Ron.
"Yeah detention with Snape, oh joy," said Harry sarcastically.
"That's not what I was thinking of mate," Ron thought to himself.
"How did you manage to get a detention?" asked Hermione.
"Long story, I'll explain later," said Ron, wanting to spare Harry's feelings.
"Oh, well looks like it's just you and I." said Hermione.
Ron smiled almost mischievously and said "Yeah, just you and I, it's going to be a riot."
Hermione smiled and returned to working on their plant.
20 minutes later, Harry looked at his watch and said he'd had enough with the Verennial Vertanna for one day. Ron was counting on Harry to do that again, just to make sure it was still going to happen. Ron, as always was keeping a close eye on things that were suppose to happen in his presence.
But Ron didn't want to think about his time disability. Class was over soon enough and that walk with Hermione was dawning closer.
If his earlier encounter with Lavender had any indication of what could possibly happen while walking with a girl, then this walk with Hermione was going to be a walk in the park. . . or in this case, a walk around the lake.
A/N: Thanks for all the reviews for the last chapter. THAT WAS AWESOME!
The next chapter is looking to be a long one. Probably along the lines of Order of the Phoenix.
Hahaha, no just kidding, I'd die. But seriously, it will be about the length of chapter 11.
Five thousand words plus.
Again thanks for the wicked reviews!!!!!!
Keep it up!
Take Care
Chapter 14
Ron and Harry were eating and discussing Quidditch when they were soon joined at the table by Ginny, who gave Ron a funny look.
"What?" asked Ron. "Do I have something on my nose?"
"No it's not that," replied Ginny, still looking at Ron like there was something amusing about him.
"Then what is it Gin?" asked Ron.
"Well, I was just told by Parvati and Lavender that you asked Hermione out," said Ginny.
"What?!" exclaimed Ron.
"Well, is it true Ron?" Ginny asked.
"NO! I didn't ask her out. We just made a bet and she lost, that's all."
"What did you win?" asked Ginny.
"Well she can't touch her homework today and she has to go everywhere I go," answered Ron.
Ginny raised her eyebrows and Harry sniggered.
"Well everywhere except the loo and the dormitory of course," added Ron.
"So you DID ask her out but -- "
"No, the bet was supposed to have Harry with me," said Ron cutting Ginny off.
"BUT," said Harry, "I'm not going to be tagging along so Ron's on his own with her."
Ron looked agitated at Harry as Ginny laughed at him. Ron really didn't like the idea that Harry was leaving him alone with Hermione like this. It was really not meant to be a date, but everyone seemed to be thinking that it was.
"Ginny why don't you tag along with us?" Ron said happily.
"Oh no. I'm not getting mixed up in this. I'm taking Harry's approach and letting you guys be," said Ginny, "besides, I'm sure you--"
"Fine, be that way," said Ron sulking.
"Hi Ronald," said a dreamy voice behind him.
"Oh, hi Luna," replied Ron in a bored voice.
"I hope you have a nice practice today. I hear there's going to be bad weather coming," said Luna.
Yeah, ok. Thanks for the tip Luna, see you later," Ron said annoyingly.
Ron was tired of being reminded of the storm. Not only did he already know about it, but Luna had always showed up at exactly the same time and place for the past 6 days giving him the same warning over and over again. Luna was a person that greatly annoyed Ron and he wished she would just leave him alone.
"That was rude Ron," said Ginny exasperated.
"Well she's always showing up telling me the same thing over and over and over again," said Ron enraged, "she's insufferable and damn near impossible to listen to."
Harry and Ginny both raised their eyebrows.
"What's that supposed to mean Ron? This is the first time I think she spoke to you today," asked Harry.
Ron wasn't in the mood to come up with another excuse and lie about his situation.
"You're right, I should have been nicer to her," said Ron, "Sorry."
With 20 minutes left to lunch, Hermione finally came down to the Great Hall and sat beside Ginny. She looked a bit flustered.
"Hi guys," she said, pulling a bowl of beef stew toward her.
"Where were you just now?" Ron asked.
"Oh, I just needed to take care of a few things before I came down to lunch. Besides I'm not really that hungry anyway," she said in a business like tone.
"Oh," said Ron. He decided to remind her of the bet she had lost.
"Doing a bit of homework before the school day is over?" joked Ron.
Hermione dropped her spoon and seemed startled at the fact that he had just reminded her of the bet she lost.
"Actually, no, I was in my dormitory doing something but it was not homework," said Hermione regaining her composure.
"I see, I hope you didn't forget that little wager we made today," said Ron, smiling.
"No I didn't," said Hermione simply, turning a little red.
"Good," replied Ron, and he went back to eating his tuna sandwich.
"I'll bet you didn't expect Ron to win that one, did you Hermione?" said Harry grinning.
Hermione frowned at Harry but didn't say anything, she just continued eating her stew.
"Yeah Ron, I've been meaning to ask you what the bet was made on," said Ginny
"Well--" said Ron.
"I wonder what Hagrid has in store for us today," said Hermione, quickly cutting in and hoping to change the subject.
"But--" said Ginny.
"I hope Hagrid has something really interesting set up today," said Hermione, once again cutting Ginny off in hopes of changing the subject. This time she was eating her stew at an incredible pace.
"But--" said Ginny.
"I forgot to bring my wand; I have to go back up my dormitory," added Hermione very quickly, putting down her spoon and getting up from the table.
"See you two in class. Bye Ginny," she said rushing off.
"What was that all about," said Ginny looking confused.
"You heard her, she forgot her wand," said Ron laughing.
"Why was she so jumpy? Are you going to tell me what that bet was about?" asked Ginny.
Ron let Harry tell Ginny the entire story of what happened in Potions and what brought about the bet. Meanwhile Ron was thinking about the next lesson. Hagrid's lesson plan was definitely going to include those Tongustian beasts again, there was no doubt about that. All Ron wanted to figure out was how he was going to avoid another scare and not have the same thing happen like the last time. Another rampage would ruin the day and could possibly injure others, thus, ruining Ron's plans.
"So that's why she's so jumpy," said Ginny interrupting Ron's train of thought.
"What do you mean?" said Ron.
"Well don't you see? She's either nervous about spending the day with you or she doesn't want to admit she lost," said Ginny.
"Or both," added Harry.
"Exactly," said Ginny.
"Well, I think its time we head down to Hagrid's," said Ron, looking at his watch.
"Yeah lets go, the lesson starts in 10 minutes," Harry added.
"I'll see you guys after school," said Ginny as the two boys grabbed their books.
"Bye Ginny," said Ron and Harry as they left the Great Hall and made their way to the grounds.
"Shouldn't we wait for Hermione?" asked Ron, walking down the stone steps.
"She said she would meet us down there, remember?" said Harry.
"Oh, right," replied Ron.
As the two walked along the grass on their way to Hagrid's cabin they were again approached by Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson along with their regular goons Crabbe and Goyle . This time Pansy didn't have that look of pure hatred on her face that Ron noticed she was wearing last time. It was probably due to the fact that Malfoy didn't get detention this time like yesterday and Harry had gotten it instead.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't our hero Potty and his sidekick Welfare-boy," said Malfoy as Pansy, Crabbe and Goyle roared with laughter.
Ron thought for sure that Harry still remembered the comments Malfoy made about Sirius earlier and he looked as though he was going to try and hex him once again. Surprisingly, Harry kept his cool and just told Malfoy to "bugger off," through clenched teeth.
Malfoy smirked as Pansy turned her attention toward Ron.
"Word has it that you are dating that mudblood Granger. Is that true Weasley?"
"His name is Welfare boy," whispered Malfoy to Pansy, but Ron could hear him as clear as day.
"No, Hermione and I are not dating, Pansy," Ron said, trying to stay calm.
"Smart choice, wouldn't want your name to be embarrassed any further by dating her, Weasley," retorted Pansy.
"His name is Welfare boy," whispered Malfoy once again to Pansy. Ron knew what Malfoy was trying to do, but he wasn't going to give the satisfaction. Harry however pulled put his wand and pointed straight at Malfoy's heart which caused him to gulp. Harry had the look of pure hatred and actually looked like he was going to curse Malfoy when Ron quickly put Harry's arm down and said "No, it's not worth the trouble,"
Malfoy and Pansy laughed at this and made a motion to walk away when Ron asked, "How's daddy Death Eater doing in Azkaban?"
Malfoy stopped, turned around and said venomously, "What did you say, Weasley?"
"I asked, how is daddy Death Eater doing in Azkaban?" Ron repeated grinning. "If you want to talk about wizarding families that's names are embarrassing, I'm open for discussion on yours, Malfoy."
Malfoy's face scrunched in anger and turned red.
"Lets go," Malfoy muttered to the rest of his group. Ron had had the last word and Malfoy knew it was time to stop.
"Are you ok?" asked Harry as they continued walking to Care of Magical Creatures.
"Yeah I'm fine. The question is are YOU ok?" asked Ron.
"Fine, thanks for that back up there. I would have done it to if you hadn't stopped me," said Harry.
"I know," said Ron, grinning.
When they reached Hagrid's hut, they were greeted by their Care of Magical Creatures teacher who beamed at the sight of the pair of them.
"Same exact reaction as last time," thought Ron, feeling bewildered.
"Lo you two, ready ter get dis lesson started?" asked Hagrid.
"Sorry we were late Hagrid," Harry responded.
"Oh das alright 'arry. Besides I jus got ere late meself," said Hagrid chuckling.
"This is amazing, nothing really changes much," thought Ron. "Unless I do something big enough,"
Hagrid turned around and faced the rest of the class "Well now, today we're goin to start the study of a new magical creature," said Hagrid as he picked up the same large crate. Hermione was off in a distance from Ron and Harry and once again in the company of Parvati and Lavender. They giggled when Ron looked their way and Parvati waved at him. Ron felt an odd sensation in the pit of his stomach and felt rather flattered that she waved to him. He returned a wave much to the scowl of Hermione.
When Hagrid picked up the large crate and set it down in front of the students a loud howl came from the box and it rumbled very violently. Everyone instinctively stepped away from the box as quick as they could. This rumble from the box didn't surprise Ron at all, he was still trying to think of a way for Hagrid to pull off this lesson without it being turned into another disaster like the last time.
"Er . . . well, no harm's been done to it. It's fairly harmless," said Hagrid. "C'mon gather roun' now, gather roun', don' be scared."
Ron was the only one to actually step forward and when none of the others made a move to go closer to Hagrid and the crate, Hagrid said, "Err, well I guess it's better ter keep a little distance jus ter be safe. Ron, you can aid me if yeh like."
Ron nodded his head but was still felt frightened inside. It was highly unlikely that the Tongustian would transform and go on a rampage now, but Ron, knowing what it was capable of, still didn't help matters.
"Well, err, what I'm about ter show you guys is a mountain creature. It's rather cute if you ask me, but I'll let yeh guys see fer yer-selves. Ron could yeh help me open the crate?"
Ron nodded and went on the other side of the crate to help Hagrid open the box. When the box was opened Ron looked inside and saw the exact same cat-like creature that he saw once before. It looked as harmless as it did last time, but Ron knew all to well. Hagrid very carefully grabbed the creature and showed it to the entire class. The class' initial reaction to the creature was the same as before, which didn't surprise Ron.
The girls again said 'awww' at the sight of it. To them and to the rest of the class it didn't look like a dangerous beast at all. The class looked like they felt safe and stepped in closer to get a better look at the beast.
"Yeah, awwwww," said Ron sarcastically to himself.
"Now who 'ere can tell me what this is?" asked Hagrid.
"It looks like a normal cat," said Harry.
"No, no I can assure you it's not a normal cat Harry," chuckled Hagrid.
Ron knew the class wasn't going to respond to Hagrid's question. They didn't before and they certainly weren't going to this time. When Hagrid realized that nobody knew the name of the creature, he said, "No one?"
But this time the cat like creature once again started roaming around in Hagrid's arms trying to either get free, or was just rather curious. Ron knew that he had to prevent the Tongustian from reaching Hagrid's facial area so he abruptly said, "er, Hagrid, why don't you let me hold onto the Tongustian while you explain it to the class."
Hagrid looked happily at Ron and said, "well done Ron! Yes this creature IS called a Tongustian. Five points to Gryffindor." Ron didn't really care about the amount of points, all he cared about was not letting the Tongustian become vicious like before. He put on a fake smile and reached out for the creature.
"Are you sure you want ter hold it Ron? It can get a bit tricky," asked Hagrid.
"Yeah, I know what it's capable of, don't worry Hagrid," replied Ron.
Hagrid hesitated, but finally gave in and handed the Tongustian to Ron to hold. Ron took the creature with ease as it was only as heavy as an ordinary house cat and just as big as well. He couldn't believe Hagrid would just hand a dangerous beast over to him like that. "What would happen if I didn't really know what it was capable of? Hagrid sure puts too much faith into his pet beasts," Ron said to himself.
As Ron stroked the creature, he could hear girls in the back cooing over the cute creature he was now holding. Ron felt a little red over the amount of sudden whispers he was now catching from the girls in the crowd. "Reckon they think you're cute little fella. I don't understand how you are the same giant ferocious beast that tried to eat me just yesterday," said Ron talking very quietly as he stroked the Tongustian.
Hagrid smiled at Ron's ability to handle the Tongustian and turned his attention back onto the class. "Well like Ron said this 'ere creature is called a Tongustian. It lives mostly in the mountains and there are about six thousand of em' living in Great Britain alone. Now don't let the size of this creature fool yeh, they're extremely efficient at and defendin themselves. They 'ave dis' special ability ter transform whenever they feel the need ter defend themselves or feel the need to hunt fer food. They can get a bit nasty if provoked." At this point, most of the class gasped and took a few more steps back.
Ron was shaking his head as he mused to himself, "Way to go, terrify the entire class Hagrid, if I didn't already know what this Tongustian was capable of, I would have dropped this thing right away after what you just said."
"Now don' be scared. It's quite fed and I'm sure Ron's not goin ter harm the fella," said Hagrid, trying to reassure the class.
"You know Hagrid, this little thing is kinda cute to tell you the truth," said Ron
Hagrid gave Ron a warm smile and said, "she seems ter have taken a likin ter ya Ron."
It was true, the Tongustian had taken a liking to Ron. It was not roaming around wildly like it was when it was in Hagrid's arms. The Tongustian purred affectionately as Ron scratched behind it's ear and Hagrid asked other students to come up to see the Tongustian up close. A few of the students who weren't afraid of the Tongustian had now gathered around Ron. Malfoy and some other Slytherins chose not to go.
"C'mon now don' be shy," said Hagrid as he pushed Neville and Dean closer to Ron and the Tongustian.
"Kinda looks like Crookshanks a bit doesn't it?" asked Harry, petting the creature.
"Oh I'll bet this thing can give Crookshanks a run for its money" said Ron.
"How so?" asked Hermione, now joining in on the petting.
"Erm...well you heard what Hagrid said. He can get quite dangerous when he transforms; he totally transfigures into another animal with razor sharp teeth and 12 inch long fangs, not to mention his wicked sharp claws. He's like the size of a tiger too, but about 5 or 6 feet longer and can run like. . ."
Ron was now getting carried away with his describing of the Tongustian and was beginning to frighten the people around him. Lavender quickly stopped petting the Tongustian and left the group. Several people backed away slowly leaving only Harry, Hermione and Hagrid left to eye the Tongustian Ron was still holding.
"Wow Ron, great job on describin the transfigured Tongustian. Take another ten points fer Gryffindor," said Hagrid merrily.
Thankfully, Harry and Hermione smiled and didn't notice why Ron had actually known about the description of the transfigured Tongustian. Normally earning 15 points for Gryffindor would make Ron delighted but this time however, it no longer transmitted that feeling of vanity.
Hagrid spent the rest of the class talking about, and describing the habits of the Tongustian. Ron too was still holding onto the creature and it didn't seem to want to come down off of him. While Ron was listening to Hagrid's discussion and would often deviate his attention and look down at the Tongustian he was holding, he noticed that Tongustian spent a vast amount of time tugging and playing around with a loose thread hanging from the cuff of his robe. He thought it was rather cute the way it played with the loose thread.
When the bell rang ending the lesson, Ron gave the Tongustian back to Hagrid who was very grateful, "Thanks for yer assistance today Ron, appreciate it."
"No problem," said Ron happily. Relief now washed all over him like a big tidal wave; the Tongustian didn't go berserk like the last time and all in all, it was a very good Care of Magical Creatures class. Ron had done just what he was hoping to do and the lesson turned out to be one of the few lessons he enjoyed today.
"Say Hagrid, do you have a name for it?" asked Harry, who stayed behind with Ron.
"Yeah, her name's Tango," said Hagrid putting Tango the Tongustian back into her crate.
"Cool, well we gotta head off to Herbology see ya around Hagrid," said Harry.
"Yeah, bye Hagrid," said Ron as he left with Harry.
"That was some class huh?" asked Harry
"Yeah, lucky for us 'Tango didn't try and eat us this time," said Ron jokingly. "Damn," Ron said to himself realizing his mistake.
Harry looked perplexed,"What do you mean THIS time?"
"Oh... I meant that...she's probably tried before with other classes," said Ron, ears turning red and knowing very well that was a horrible excuse to feed Harry for his mistake. Lucky for Ron, Harry bought it and didn't question Ron's blunder.
"Tango seemed keen on you today, Ron. You held onto her for the entire class," said Harry.
"She didn't want me to put her down," said Ron, "and even when I had to after class she was still reluctant."
"I guess you have a way with the ladies," said Harry laughing.
"Well if Tango is all I can attract then I'm in big trouble, mate," said Ron laughing too.
When they arrived at Green house 3, Hermione was sitting at their table but she wasn't alone. Ernie Macmillan and Justin Finch-Fletchley was sitting where Ron and Harry usually sat. She was blushing for some reason and Ron thought Justin was acting a bit too friendly around Hermione than he should be.
"Hey guys what's up?" asked Harry.
"Oh nothing much, just having a chat with Hermione," said Justin winking at her.
Ron was furious, "Uh huh, mind if I ask what you guys were chatting about?" asked Ron putting on a fake friendly smile, trying his very best to calm down and not explode.
Hermione however spoke, "It's nothing, just talking about homework."
Ron opened his mouth and was about to snoop further but Harry abruptly cut him off and nudged Ron in the ribs .
"Well class is about to start so--" said Harry, "--would you please move," finished Ron heartily, but in a odd tone in which Hermione caught on to and gave Ron a cold look.
"Oh yes, of course, sorry. We'll just be on our way, see you guys around," said Ernie.
"Bye, Hermione," said Justin. Hermione smiled and Justin went off to sit at his own table with Ernie.
"What was that all about?" asked Ron.
"What do you mean?" replied Hermione.
"I mean, what did those idiots want?" said Ron.
"Ron! They are not idiots, they just came by and we had a small chat," said Hermione.
Ron saw that Professor Sprout was just getting in so he decided to continue this later.
"Settle down class. Now today we're going to continue with our lesson on the Verennial Vertanna. Each member from their group can come up and get their Verennial Vertanna from last class. Just do the same thing I taught you before, and I'll come around to check."
It was the exact same order of things as before. Professor Sprout finished her small speech and Hermione once again volunteered to go get the plant.
Hermione had hardly spoken at all during the first 30 minutes of the class. Ron and Harry tried to include her in to their conversations but Hermione's mind seemed to be someplace else, and not just on their Verennial Vertanna.
"What's on your mind?" asked Ron, "yeah, you're awful quiet Hermione," added Harry.
"Oh nothing I was just thinking, that's all," responded Hermione.
"About?" asked Harry.
"This afternoon," answered Hermione. Ron grinned and said "Don't think I'm going to let you off the hook Hermione."
"No I wasn't, I was just. . .just what do you have planned today?" she asked.
Ron thought about it for a few seconds and decided to try the 'Lavender' approach again. He was going to try and get to know Hermione better than he already did. As much as Ron and Hermione were best of friends, Ron had to admit he didn't know Hermione as well as he did Harry.
"Well how about after lessons we take a walk around the grounds," Ron suggested, trying not to sound nervous.
Hermione's face turned crimson at Ron's suggestion. "Isn't it a bit cold for a walk today?" she asked.
"Nonsense, it's perfect out there today, the weather couldn't be better," said Harry suppressing his laughter.
"What about you Harry? Ron did invite you too right?" asked Hermione.
"Well yeah he did but I can't, I have other arrangements made," said Harry.
"Like what?" asked Ron
"Oh don't worry about me I'll find something to do; perhaps I'll go out flying today," said Harry.
"As long as you don't go out tonight that's all," said Ron.
"Yeah detention with Snape, oh joy," said Harry sarcastically.
"That's not what I was thinking of mate," Ron thought to himself.
"How did you manage to get a detention?" asked Hermione.
"Long story, I'll explain later," said Ron, wanting to spare Harry's feelings.
"Oh, well looks like it's just you and I." said Hermione.
Ron smiled almost mischievously and said "Yeah, just you and I, it's going to be a riot."
Hermione smiled and returned to working on their plant.
20 minutes later, Harry looked at his watch and said he'd had enough with the Verennial Vertanna for one day. Ron was counting on Harry to do that again, just to make sure it was still going to happen. Ron, as always was keeping a close eye on things that were suppose to happen in his presence.
But Ron didn't want to think about his time disability. Class was over soon enough and that walk with Hermione was dawning closer.
If his earlier encounter with Lavender had any indication of what could possibly happen while walking with a girl, then this walk with Hermione was going to be a walk in the park. . . or in this case, a walk around the lake.
A/N: Thanks for all the reviews for the last chapter. THAT WAS AWESOME!
The next chapter is looking to be a long one. Probably along the lines of Order of the Phoenix.
Hahaha, no just kidding, I'd die. But seriously, it will be about the length of chapter 11.
Five thousand words plus.
Again thanks for the wicked reviews!!!!!!
Keep it up!
Take Care