Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Harry Potter's characters. Everything
belongs to J. K. Rowling. Everything unfamiliar is mine. 5/12/04
A/N: '' – Basically means that the character is thinking
"" – Basically means that the character is speaking
This is the continuation to "Models".
I wanted to thank everyone who reviewed. Loved everything! I was
horrible to Ginny in this story so I thought I'd at least make up for
it in my new story, "The Haunted". Check out my other stories:
"Summer Camp" (Draco-Hermione fic) and "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione fic).
Title: Last Chance
Chapter 11
The Etheral
Ginny slumped into her bed shaking from the incident earlier. She was close to tears but had managed to restrain them until she was alone.
"Ginny dear, are you alright?" Lavender tried to be sympathetic. She knew the reason why Ginny changed. She knew how important Harry was to her.
"I'll be much better if you leave me alone!" The tone she used when shouting at Dale hasn't changed yet. This caused Lavender to step away.
"Ginny, you are alone. We are the only ones sticking with you. Stop pushing us away." Parvati hit a nerve.
"Who said I didn't like being alone? We may have talked once in a while but that doesn't mean you know me!" Ginny barked at them.
Without another word, Parvati and Lavender made their way out leaving Ginny all alone in the big "empty" room.
Ginny watched her "friends" as they closed the door behind. When she was sure that Parvati and Lavender were out of hearing range, she let the tears fall down. Parvati was right she was now all alone. She couldn't help herself; she didn't want anybody to see her cry. In front of everybody, she was strong and she'd like to keep it that way. However, the truth was she ached; she was dying slowly inside.
It all started when the Gryffindor trio decided that there weren't going to be an opening for another member. It was much too risky and very dangerous to involve other people. Ginny knew about the risks and the dangers behind the group but she felt prepared for them. Therefore, upon realizing that fact she felt hurt and left out. She felt like an outcast. She wanted terribly to be with her brother and his friends. Back at their house (Burrow?), she and Ron were the closest especially since their age gap is just one year and they were the only Weasleys left in Hogwarts. It didn't really matter to her whether she was with Harry or not as long as she can spend time with her brother. However, there was a time when her brother started keeping secrets from her, of course for her own good. Then, time also came when she would find the trio in the library talking enthusiastically with each other but when she sat with them they would become tense and Hermione would conveniently change the topic into nagging the boys about putting off their assignments. She had tried to make Hermione confess and include her with the secret but Hermione was a tough shell to crack. With the failure with Hermione she turned her attention elsewhere and started to annoy her brother. Yet again, it was fortunate for Ron that Hermione was always close. For Ginny, the last way in was Harry. Harry seemed too nice and less harsh than Ron. Ginny desperately wanted a connection with the group and decided that her only way in was Harry.
Harry on the other hand was merely acting nice toward his best friend's sister. He knew early in their years in Hogwarts that Ginny was already a fan of his. He appreciated the gesture but he couldn't reciprocate the feeling and so he decided to give her an act of kindness instead.
Ginny read his actions the wrong way. She liked the fact that Harry was giving her attention when her brother just so easily abandoned her (sort of anyway). Harry's actions only encouraged her to be, let's see how shall I say it... more active because through Harry, Ginny became a fourth wheel (ok I made that up, but I hope you guys get the picture). She loved hanging out with the trio; they seemed more mature than of her own peers. She admired Hermione for her intelligence, Ron for his easy-going attitude, and Harry for his self-righteousness. However, things got a little bit different. The brain that was Hermione started to change into a gorgeous witch year after year. Ginny knew that Ron was very much taken with her since fourth year. Ginny watched as the relationship between the trio changed. Hermione acquired finesse and earned attention from wizards from all levels, including Harry Potter.
Ginny was ok with the idea at first. She respected the older witch but when Harry stopped paying attention to her, respect turned to jealousy. She was afraid that now that Harry spent his free time staring at his best friend, she would turn invisible. Actually, she really didn't mind the changes in Harry and Ron (maybe a little) but she was more concerned that the Golden trio would disappear and would then be replaced as Hermione's fan club. If this was to happen then there would certainly no hope for her to enter the prestigious club. The mere fact that Hermione and Harry became an item also had a big impression on her. Hermione being with Harry seemed to her that the older witch robbed her of her chance to be with the group. She treated her as a sister, which made it worse. It is much easier to forgive someone you are not close to (an acquaintance for instance) than someone you've trusted only to be betrayed.
Now she cried alone in the big empty room.
Dale stared at the place where Ginny once stood. He was brought back to reality by a familiar sound, although it did not register to him at that time. He glanced around and saw witches and wizards staring at him. He glared at each of them conveying the message to leave him alone. The young ones understood and quickly gathered their things and started to move out of the room. Some of the older witch and wizards marched to their rooms as well while the others left the Gryffindor tower entirely. When the room cleared, Dale's face formed into a smirk. He liked having power especially power to control his peers.
He had the whole common room to himself, which gave him time to analyze the situation. Hermione avoided him like the plague. She was now more likely to fall into the arms of poor, helpless Draco Malfoy who was 'playing sick' in the hospital wing. He could picture Hermione cuddling up to Draco Malfoy who wore a smirk on his face. He shook his head to erase the picture. He couldn't bear to think that Hermione chose Draco over him. It was like Krum competition all over.
Having Viktor for a brother was hard on him. Like for example when they were young, the brothers were sent to Quidditch camp for the sheer entertainment of their parents. Dale was the one who was interested in going serious as a Seeker. He loved the speed that came with it and the challenge of searching for the Snitch. There are times though when we loved something but lack the talent for it. This was Dale's problem. He loved to be a Seeker but Viktor got the talent. No matter how hard Dale trained to keep up with Viktor, Viktor just keeps on improving with half as much training. Time passed and he finally accepted the fact that he will never beat his older brother and this started his life as second best.
In the eyes of their parents, Viktor did everything right while Dale was considered the black sheep. Moreover, when it came to the female crowd Viktor's name was very popular while Dale's name only came up in conversation when the two were seen together. In addition, the talent scouts knew only one Krum and it was Viktor's.
Dale never did recover from his second best state. He wanted to prove that he was as good if not better than his brother. Hermione sure was a special witch and he was interested with her but his aggressiveness toward her was due to Viktor's interest with her as well. Viktor was way off finished with his studies and he knew he finally had a chance to top his brother with this girl. His reason for Hogwarts was not only rooted in Hermione but also in his brother. Now, not only did he lose Hermione but he also lost to his brother, again. He did find comfort in the thought that Viktor also did not get her.
After Arithmancy class, Hermione sought out her friends to ask their help for the project. She looked for them in the Great Hall but there was no red hair around. She then left for the Quidditch pitch and there she found flying on their broomsticks, Harry and Ron. She wanted to scold the two for choosing fooling around than finishing the potion.
Harry has eagle eyes and saw Hermione almost immediately but his eyes didn't see her expression or he wouldn't have dive enthusiastically to greet her. "Hey Hermione!"
Hermione just arched an eyebrow in reply.
Ron dropped to the ground as well. "Hey Herm!"
"I'm sorry am I interrupting you?" Hermione asked sarcastically.
"Lighten up Herm. What's wrong?" Ron formed a ridiculous smile on his face.
"Isn't it nice to have some free time?" She asked some more.
"Well now that you've mentioned it. The weather's great for a few passes around the pitch. Plus there's still light so Harry could still look for the snitch and..."
"Ron quit it!" Harry scolded his friend. "Um we just thought a few minutes of practice wouldn't hurt." Harry mumbled to Hermione.
"Oh that's great! Tell me how your practice turns out cause I'll be hanging in the dungeon!" Hermione turned quickly and headed inside.
Harry smacked Ron at the back of his head.
"Ow! What was that for?" Ron tried to smack Harry but he was quick.
"You're real sensitive sometimes." Harry rolled his eyes as he started to march up back inside the castle.
"Now what did I do wrong?" Ron asked himself as he followed his best friend.
Hermione was on her way to the dungeon thinking about what just happened.
'You should've just asked them you know. It's not like they would show any initiative in doing school projects on their own anyway.'
'You're right. They are big procrastinators. It's their nature.'
'They're not like Draco. He was thinking about the project even when he was in pain.'
'Yeah but he's not like Harry or Ron either.'
'Was that a good or a bad thing?'
She walked while battling in her head about the answer to the last question and was surprised when she realized that she was nowhere near the dungeons but instead a few feet away to the hospital wing.
'Why don't you find out if it was a good or bad thing?'
'Yeah and then feel more guilty about his condition.'
'Why is it that you ignore your feelings for him?'
'Because he would only get hurt.'
'Why is it that you think of him all the time?'
'Because he's different?'
Hermione stood stiff a few feet to the door. She really wanted to see him, even take care of him. However, one side of her wanted to protect him to even more pain.
'Stop being selfish. What he needs now is time to rest.'
'No, what he needs now is someone to care for him.'
'That's what a school nurse is for.'
'I just want to see if there's any improvement. I'll just ask Madam Pomfrey about his status and maybe take a peek if his sleeping.'
'Yeah and she'll gladly entertain your questions because?'
'Um, I'm head girl and I need to know the welfare of my fellow schoolmates.'
'Right! She'll buy that one!'
"Ms. Granger? Are you here to check up on Mr. Malfoy as well?" Professor Dumbledore appeared suddenly behind her.
"Professor. I didn't see you?" She blushed at being caught off guard.
"Mr. Malfoy doesn't have many visitors. I thought it would make him feel better to know that somebody was checking up on him, that somebody cares." He gave her a wink.
"Um, I was um, on my way to the dungeon to finish our project for Professor Snape."
"You do know that the dungeons are on the other side of the castle? Why don't you join me in my visit with Mr. Malfoy?"
"I would but the project..." She was blushing.
"Why don't you just take a peek or something. I know it would mean a lot to Mr. Malfoy."
"Um, I already visited him earlier professor." She blushed even more at the confession.
"My point exactly." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled.
Hermione knew she could never win against the older wizard and decided to give up. She nodded and followed the older wizard to Draco Malfoy's bed where he was sleeping. Before she could touch him though, Madam Pomfrey was there to stop her.
"Headmaster, I think you should've known by now Mr. Malfoy is my patient and he needs to rest!" Somehow, she managed to scold them without raising her voice.
"I know, I know but his case is different and..." Professor Dumbledore started to argue.
"That's what you said about Harry Potter." Madam Pomfrey cut him and was on the verge of pushing him out.
"Mr. Potter was a different case as well."
"I will only allow this little visit if Ms. Granger would leave."
"I'm afraid I won't agree to that. You see Ms. Granger is..."
Dumbledore and the good nurse argued until finally Draco woke up. His eyes fell upon Hermione's silhouette. Eager to find out if her image was just a dream or for real, he blinked furiously to get a better look at her. "Hermione?"
Hermione heard someone whisper her name and turned to face the owner of the voice. "Draco."
Draco's heart did a summersault upon hearing her voice. 'She's back! She's not mad at me!' "Missed me already?" He was in such a good mood that he teased her.
Hermione raised an eyebrow playfully and smiled. "Actually the headmaster forced me to come here with him." She pointed to the arguing couple.
"Forced?" He managed to tease some more.
Hermione just blushed at the overtone.
"Did I do something?" Draco changed the subject as he was puzzled at the idea that Dumbledore here with him. "What's he doing here?"
"Oh you mean Professor Dumbledore?" She thanked her stars for the sudden change in topic. She inched closer mesmerized by his eyes.
"Yeah." He was lost in her eyes as well.
"He just wanted to check up on you I guess. He did that a lot when Harry was on that bed."
"Even with you?" Draco couldn't think of what else to say.
"I suppose. He really cares about his students." She couldn't help but inch closer to him.
"Even Slytherins?"
"He's here isn't he?"
Draco grew bolder with each step she took. "What about you? Do you visit every student stuck in here?"
"Well not exactly."
"So you're saying you've never visited someone here twice a day before?" Draco was in a cloud he wasn't thinking straight.
"Well, um, there was a time when I stayed all day watching Harry." She turned her head away as she said his name, embarrassed.
His mood dropped a little lower, "oh! Right! Potter."
"He is one of my best friends you know." She noticed his reaction and added, "I don't know if this would interest you but usually when I spent my day here, Ron was with me. We would study here and watch him. Ron saw it as a sacrifice kind of thing. Harry was suffering so we should suffer with him in the form of studying." She loved talking about her friends and that brought a smile to her lips.
"So basically that means you've never..." Draco wasn't able to finish.
"Now see what she's done!" Madam Pomfrey's voice raised a notch higher.
"Now, now you don't have to blame Ms. Granger. I believe it was our discussion that woke him up. Am I right Mr. Malfoy?" Dumbledore interceded.
Draco nodded quickly.
"Look my patient needs lots of rest and I would have to insist that you two to leave at once!" Madam Pomfrey was starting to see red.
"Why don't we ask the boy's opinion shall we?" Dumbledore insisted.
"I wouldn't mind the company sir." Draco answered quickly. Any time with Hermione whether alone or not was a good thing.
"You heard the boy. It's not healthy to be left alone for a long time." Dumbledore quickly added.
"But..." Before Pomfrey could start, Dumbledore was ushering her out of the room for privacy.
Hermione took a seat on his bed as she watched Madam Pomfrey out. She stifled a giggle and watched the headmaster head back to them.
"So," Dumbledore started. "Mr. Malfoy, how is everything?"
"I'm fine now sir." He didn't lie, Hermione was close.
"Good, good. So now that the formalities are done why don't we get down to business." Dumbledore drew out his wand and cast a spell so that no one from outside will hear their conversation. Hermione stole a glance from Draco.
"You must be wondering why I wanted to talk to you both." Dumbledore watched each head nodded. "Well Mr. Malfoy and I never had a close relationship." He aimed that to Hermione. "I needed to know the truth and that's where you come in Ms. Granger."
'So he wanted me to come with him all along.' Hermione's mind started flying for the reason why Dumbledore needed her.
"Mr. Malfoy, in all my years here in Hogwarts I have never encountered a case similar that of yours."
"What do you mean sir?" Draco was getting uneasy, afraid of the topic at hand.
"I have never encountered a student more particularly a Slytherin to get in between a dueling match of adult wizards." Dumbledore was patient.
Draco glanced to Hermione for a cry of help. Hermione couldn't do anything but squeeze his hand.
"Mr. Malfoy why don't you run your story by me again."
Hermione had a very long day and all she wanted now was to go to her dorm and sleep the night away but she couldn't do that. She was dedicated to her schoolwork and decided to head for the dungeon instead. Before reaching her destination, she remembered that she needed to get a book out of the library. She rushed to her sanctuary and found not only the book but also her two best friends.
She moved toward the table they were occupying. "Hey guys."
Harry and Ron looked up at the same time. "Hey."
"What are you two doing?" Hermione was curious at their attitude. The two guys were burying their nose on books. She also wanted to apologize for the way she acted earlier.
"We're doing our History assignment. We would ask for your help but it seems you're too busy today." Ron explained.
"I was, I mean I am." Hermione was surprised of what he was accusing.
Harry watched as the threat of argument danced in the air.
"Really? We were in the dungeon all afternoon but you didn't show up. We looked all over for you but we couldn't find you. Actually, no one knew were you were! We could've done more productive things!"
"Like a game of Wizard's Chess for example?" Hermione was tired and wished nothing else but to gauge her friend's eyes out in her irritation.
"We could've finished this assignment!" Ron was jealous because he had a feeling she was with Malfoy. He felt like Malfoy was stealing her away from them.
"Wait, does this mean you just hanged inside the dungeon?" Hermione was more than upset now. She asked for their help but it seemed like they didn't do anything.
"Keep it down everybody's looking at us now." Harry finally intervened.
"Harry, tell me why didn't you at least try to help me with our project? Draco gave more of support and concern about it, and he was lying in a hospital bed!" Hermione didn't mind the stares; she was used with it.
"So you were with Malfoy! And here I thought you were busy... with schoolwork!" Ron was now more direct in his accusations. It was also evident that Harry looked hurt.
"That's none of your business." Hermione continued. "And what if I visited him, there's nothing wrong with visiting a friend. Or don't you remember the times when I visited you guys there?"
"That's beside the point Hermione, we haven't spent time together..." Ron started to concede.
"What's that suppose to mean? We're working on a project together, am I right?" Hermione started lowering her tone. 'Where have I heard that line before?'
"I mean just like in our earlier years, hang out as friends with Hagrid maybe." Ron let his feelings out.
"Maybe if you helped me with the project then maybe I'd have enough time to hang." Hermione turned her heels and started to walk out of the room.
"Maybe if you were there we would know what to do!" Ron shouted at her back.
'I'm so messed up! How can I have time to hang? For starters, I'm the Head Girl, then there's this project and now I have to manage my three very different friends? I didn't ask for this!' Hermione suddenly didn't feel tired anymore. She actually had more stamina to burn right now.
It was a long walk to the dungeon from the library. Her mind had decided to recount the things that were said in the hospital wing earlier with the headmaster.
'Dumbledore shouldn't leave. Draco would be much safer with him here and Harry too.'
'But at least he can make sure this doesn't happen again.'
'What will happen to Draco? He can't go back to Malfoy manor if Dumbledore continues this plan. I can't possibly ask Harry even if he's obsessed with helping people. His aunt and uncle would not allow it. My mum could be persuaded but I doubt that dad would agree. Actually, Draco may not like it there, my family being muggle and all. Ron and his family will need a lot or persuading to do. Maybe if Dumbledore talked with them...'
Draco was forced to tell his story to Dumbledore. Hermione's theory was confirmed about his father's involvement. Dumbledore promised Draco secrecy. Dumbledore also reassured her that it was not her fault. Now she can look him in the eye once again without guilt. Any romantic feelings between the two Hogwarts students were put off with Dumbledore's plan on seeking the perpetrator and duly punishing him. Both students doubted the plan but there was nothing to say to dissuade the headmaster.
Within a few minutes, she was in front of the door to the dungeon. She stepped inside the now familiar room and left all her other concerns outside the door as her mind focused on the matter at hand, which was the potion. She seemed to be in her zone. She worked through the night with no thoughts of giving up for the night to rest or being caught by Filch. She didn't want to leave especially since she's in the zone. She didn't let anything distract her but she wasn't prepared when someone cleared his throat behind her.
"Ms. Granger? Might I ask why you're still up?" Professor Snape was on patrol too that night.
"Professor, I was um... finishing the project." She was a little jumpy and had knocked a bottle down.
"I can't say I'm pleased with your dedication Ms. Granger but you have to abide by the Hogwarts' rules and finish your project within the day and not within the wee hours of the night."
"But professor," Hermione tried to argue.
"No buts Ms. Granger or I would have to take off points from Gryffindor and give you detention."
Hermione was surprised at what he said, 'He's still thinking of giving me detention.' She would have loved a tape recorder and share the moment with her friends. "But professor I was just on my way to get you." She tried to get every word out before he could stop her.
Snape raised an eyebrow he wasn't expecting that answer. "And why would that be?"
"I believe that the potion is ready sir." She stepped away from the table to reveal a cauldron brewing blue liquid over a fire.
Snape was hesitant. Sure, she was Hermione Granger but he didn't think a student would concoct a potion to stop a powerful spell. He thought that Hermione would at least scratch the surface and he would finalize the potion. "Are you sure Ms. Granger?"
"I'm not quite sure that's the reason I wanted to call you sir, to perform an experiment."
Snape thought it through and wanted to prove to the Gryffindor that the potion wasn't finished. "Very well, bring your potion to my office and I will get some specimen to try it out."
Hermione couldn't contain her excitement beaming to her professor. She scooped some of the potion into a small container. She examined the dungeon remembering all the time she spent there. She thought it was her last time there. She felt relieved that she wouldn't have to tolerate the cold temperature. She also felt sad because the greatest challenge she's ever had in Hogwarts was soon over. She then moved toward the door to meet her professor. Before she closed the door, she had a final glimpse of the room.
Hermione walked to Snape's office with a glint in her eyes. Before she could reach for the doorknob, it turned and Snape walked out with a cage of spiders.
"Uh, professor, are those the specimen you were talking about?" Hermione was a little nervous. She wasn't prepared to see the spiders being killed.
"Yes Ms. Granger or would you have preferred a human specimen?"
"Um, I guess it's alright professor. I was just shocked at the idea of spiders..."
"I would have preferred larger specimen but then you'd be able to see all the symptoms of death. If you'd like I can get bigger specimen." He used a sarcastic tone.
Hermione was taken aback by his concern. 'He was trying to protect me, that's so sweet.' "I'm fine with the spiders professor. But, isn't the Avada Kedavra Curse banned? Wouldn't you get in trouble?"
"The headmaster had given me permission but only for class purposes. He also insisted that I should use the Room of Requirement so that no one will see." Snape explained.
'So that's where we're going.' That was the first question that invaded her thoughts on their way to the Room of Requirement.
Inside, Snape didn't waste time. He willed a small stage where the spider could stand and await its fate. Snape put one in the middle and ordered Hermione, "Ms. Granger, pour some of the potion onto its path."
Hermione did as was told and watch the spider drink the bluish liquid drop. In the back of her mind, she pictured Ron's nervous face. She almost laughed but realized the seriousness of the moment. She prayed that all her efforts would be successful. Then her gaze turned to the green light aiming toward the spider. Everything happened so fast she didn't hear her professor speak.
The spider twitched and Hermione feared for the creature's life. Then to both her and Snape's surprise, the gangly spider stood still. Hermione smiled at her success and turned to face her professor who didn't seem too happy with the results. "Professor?"
"What is it Ms. Granger? I don't see any reason for smiling." Snape pointed back to the spider.
Hermione put her attention back to the spider. Her eyes widened when the spider's legs began to tremble. She was then shocked upon noticing the spider's body bulging. Soon enough each of the eight legs shattered from the weight of its body. Within minutes, the spider merely exploded.
Hermione grimaced at what took place. Ron would've shrieked at the sight as well. Her face was pale and full of beads of cold sweat.
"Oh I forgot to name that spider. There are four spiders left Ms. Granger. I would like to name them as Harry, Ronald, Draco and Hermione. How does that sound?" Snape was glad that the potion was a failure but he was also irritated by the fact that it almost worked. "Ms. Granger, next time don't waste my time again. Now go back to your dorm and that is not a request." He turned and flipped his robe carrying Harry, Ronald, Draco, and Hermione in one hand.
Hermione was disappointed at the outcome. She willed the room to replay what had happened to watch what she missed. Replaying only made it worst. The death of the spider was now embedded in her memory. She didn't think she could bear another explosion especially since her professor was happy enough to name each spider her friends' names and hers included. 'I could never kill Harry, Ron, or Draco. Hey, at least he called me Hermione.'
A/N: Here I am apologizing once more for being so darn late. I'm
really sorry. There was a major case of mental block, difficulty in
schedule and lack of inspiration in my part. I will try to do better
next time. One thing I can say is that this fic is about to end soon.
One more thing, this is the sequel to my first fanfic and I love
that story that's why this is the one I prioritize among the rest.
Even if it only gets a few reviews I'll never stop updating this story
unless of course I end it...
So please be kind review even if you just tell me you spent some
of your time reading this story. That'll be enough for me.
Plus a big thanks to my beta, Toni!
Oh and there was someone who said in my review that she emailed me but
I didn't get anything. I didn't want to look like I didn't appreciate
your reviews because I do. So if there's anyone who wants to email
for anything well except maybe for flames try this address:
cathyhb20yahoo.com
Thanks again!
A/N: '' – Basically means that the character is thinking
"" – Basically means that the character is speaking
This is the continuation to "Models".
I wanted to thank everyone who reviewed. Loved everything! I was
horrible to Ginny in this story so I thought I'd at least make up for
it in my new story, "The Haunted". Check out my other stories:
"Summer Camp" (Draco-Hermione fic) and "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione fic).
Title: Last Chance
Chapter 11
The Etheral
Ginny slumped into her bed shaking from the incident earlier. She was close to tears but had managed to restrain them until she was alone.
"Ginny dear, are you alright?" Lavender tried to be sympathetic. She knew the reason why Ginny changed. She knew how important Harry was to her.
"I'll be much better if you leave me alone!" The tone she used when shouting at Dale hasn't changed yet. This caused Lavender to step away.
"Ginny, you are alone. We are the only ones sticking with you. Stop pushing us away." Parvati hit a nerve.
"Who said I didn't like being alone? We may have talked once in a while but that doesn't mean you know me!" Ginny barked at them.
Without another word, Parvati and Lavender made their way out leaving Ginny all alone in the big "empty" room.
Ginny watched her "friends" as they closed the door behind. When she was sure that Parvati and Lavender were out of hearing range, she let the tears fall down. Parvati was right she was now all alone. She couldn't help herself; she didn't want anybody to see her cry. In front of everybody, she was strong and she'd like to keep it that way. However, the truth was she ached; she was dying slowly inside.
It all started when the Gryffindor trio decided that there weren't going to be an opening for another member. It was much too risky and very dangerous to involve other people. Ginny knew about the risks and the dangers behind the group but she felt prepared for them. Therefore, upon realizing that fact she felt hurt and left out. She felt like an outcast. She wanted terribly to be with her brother and his friends. Back at their house (Burrow?), she and Ron were the closest especially since their age gap is just one year and they were the only Weasleys left in Hogwarts. It didn't really matter to her whether she was with Harry or not as long as she can spend time with her brother. However, there was a time when her brother started keeping secrets from her, of course for her own good. Then, time also came when she would find the trio in the library talking enthusiastically with each other but when she sat with them they would become tense and Hermione would conveniently change the topic into nagging the boys about putting off their assignments. She had tried to make Hermione confess and include her with the secret but Hermione was a tough shell to crack. With the failure with Hermione she turned her attention elsewhere and started to annoy her brother. Yet again, it was fortunate for Ron that Hermione was always close. For Ginny, the last way in was Harry. Harry seemed too nice and less harsh than Ron. Ginny desperately wanted a connection with the group and decided that her only way in was Harry.
Harry on the other hand was merely acting nice toward his best friend's sister. He knew early in their years in Hogwarts that Ginny was already a fan of his. He appreciated the gesture but he couldn't reciprocate the feeling and so he decided to give her an act of kindness instead.
Ginny read his actions the wrong way. She liked the fact that Harry was giving her attention when her brother just so easily abandoned her (sort of anyway). Harry's actions only encouraged her to be, let's see how shall I say it... more active because through Harry, Ginny became a fourth wheel (ok I made that up, but I hope you guys get the picture). She loved hanging out with the trio; they seemed more mature than of her own peers. She admired Hermione for her intelligence, Ron for his easy-going attitude, and Harry for his self-righteousness. However, things got a little bit different. The brain that was Hermione started to change into a gorgeous witch year after year. Ginny knew that Ron was very much taken with her since fourth year. Ginny watched as the relationship between the trio changed. Hermione acquired finesse and earned attention from wizards from all levels, including Harry Potter.
Ginny was ok with the idea at first. She respected the older witch but when Harry stopped paying attention to her, respect turned to jealousy. She was afraid that now that Harry spent his free time staring at his best friend, she would turn invisible. Actually, she really didn't mind the changes in Harry and Ron (maybe a little) but she was more concerned that the Golden trio would disappear and would then be replaced as Hermione's fan club. If this was to happen then there would certainly no hope for her to enter the prestigious club. The mere fact that Hermione and Harry became an item also had a big impression on her. Hermione being with Harry seemed to her that the older witch robbed her of her chance to be with the group. She treated her as a sister, which made it worse. It is much easier to forgive someone you are not close to (an acquaintance for instance) than someone you've trusted only to be betrayed.
Now she cried alone in the big empty room.
Dale stared at the place where Ginny once stood. He was brought back to reality by a familiar sound, although it did not register to him at that time. He glanced around and saw witches and wizards staring at him. He glared at each of them conveying the message to leave him alone. The young ones understood and quickly gathered their things and started to move out of the room. Some of the older witch and wizards marched to their rooms as well while the others left the Gryffindor tower entirely. When the room cleared, Dale's face formed into a smirk. He liked having power especially power to control his peers.
He had the whole common room to himself, which gave him time to analyze the situation. Hermione avoided him like the plague. She was now more likely to fall into the arms of poor, helpless Draco Malfoy who was 'playing sick' in the hospital wing. He could picture Hermione cuddling up to Draco Malfoy who wore a smirk on his face. He shook his head to erase the picture. He couldn't bear to think that Hermione chose Draco over him. It was like Krum competition all over.
Having Viktor for a brother was hard on him. Like for example when they were young, the brothers were sent to Quidditch camp for the sheer entertainment of their parents. Dale was the one who was interested in going serious as a Seeker. He loved the speed that came with it and the challenge of searching for the Snitch. There are times though when we loved something but lack the talent for it. This was Dale's problem. He loved to be a Seeker but Viktor got the talent. No matter how hard Dale trained to keep up with Viktor, Viktor just keeps on improving with half as much training. Time passed and he finally accepted the fact that he will never beat his older brother and this started his life as second best.
In the eyes of their parents, Viktor did everything right while Dale was considered the black sheep. Moreover, when it came to the female crowd Viktor's name was very popular while Dale's name only came up in conversation when the two were seen together. In addition, the talent scouts knew only one Krum and it was Viktor's.
Dale never did recover from his second best state. He wanted to prove that he was as good if not better than his brother. Hermione sure was a special witch and he was interested with her but his aggressiveness toward her was due to Viktor's interest with her as well. Viktor was way off finished with his studies and he knew he finally had a chance to top his brother with this girl. His reason for Hogwarts was not only rooted in Hermione but also in his brother. Now, not only did he lose Hermione but he also lost to his brother, again. He did find comfort in the thought that Viktor also did not get her.
After Arithmancy class, Hermione sought out her friends to ask their help for the project. She looked for them in the Great Hall but there was no red hair around. She then left for the Quidditch pitch and there she found flying on their broomsticks, Harry and Ron. She wanted to scold the two for choosing fooling around than finishing the potion.
Harry has eagle eyes and saw Hermione almost immediately but his eyes didn't see her expression or he wouldn't have dive enthusiastically to greet her. "Hey Hermione!"
Hermione just arched an eyebrow in reply.
Ron dropped to the ground as well. "Hey Herm!"
"I'm sorry am I interrupting you?" Hermione asked sarcastically.
"Lighten up Herm. What's wrong?" Ron formed a ridiculous smile on his face.
"Isn't it nice to have some free time?" She asked some more.
"Well now that you've mentioned it. The weather's great for a few passes around the pitch. Plus there's still light so Harry could still look for the snitch and..."
"Ron quit it!" Harry scolded his friend. "Um we just thought a few minutes of practice wouldn't hurt." Harry mumbled to Hermione.
"Oh that's great! Tell me how your practice turns out cause I'll be hanging in the dungeon!" Hermione turned quickly and headed inside.
Harry smacked Ron at the back of his head.
"Ow! What was that for?" Ron tried to smack Harry but he was quick.
"You're real sensitive sometimes." Harry rolled his eyes as he started to march up back inside the castle.
"Now what did I do wrong?" Ron asked himself as he followed his best friend.
Hermione was on her way to the dungeon thinking about what just happened.
'You should've just asked them you know. It's not like they would show any initiative in doing school projects on their own anyway.'
'You're right. They are big procrastinators. It's their nature.'
'They're not like Draco. He was thinking about the project even when he was in pain.'
'Yeah but he's not like Harry or Ron either.'
'Was that a good or a bad thing?'
She walked while battling in her head about the answer to the last question and was surprised when she realized that she was nowhere near the dungeons but instead a few feet away to the hospital wing.
'Why don't you find out if it was a good or bad thing?'
'Yeah and then feel more guilty about his condition.'
'Why is it that you ignore your feelings for him?'
'Because he would only get hurt.'
'Why is it that you think of him all the time?'
'Because he's different?'
Hermione stood stiff a few feet to the door. She really wanted to see him, even take care of him. However, one side of her wanted to protect him to even more pain.
'Stop being selfish. What he needs now is time to rest.'
'No, what he needs now is someone to care for him.'
'That's what a school nurse is for.'
'I just want to see if there's any improvement. I'll just ask Madam Pomfrey about his status and maybe take a peek if his sleeping.'
'Yeah and she'll gladly entertain your questions because?'
'Um, I'm head girl and I need to know the welfare of my fellow schoolmates.'
'Right! She'll buy that one!'
"Ms. Granger? Are you here to check up on Mr. Malfoy as well?" Professor Dumbledore appeared suddenly behind her.
"Professor. I didn't see you?" She blushed at being caught off guard.
"Mr. Malfoy doesn't have many visitors. I thought it would make him feel better to know that somebody was checking up on him, that somebody cares." He gave her a wink.
"Um, I was um, on my way to the dungeon to finish our project for Professor Snape."
"You do know that the dungeons are on the other side of the castle? Why don't you join me in my visit with Mr. Malfoy?"
"I would but the project..." She was blushing.
"Why don't you just take a peek or something. I know it would mean a lot to Mr. Malfoy."
"Um, I already visited him earlier professor." She blushed even more at the confession.
"My point exactly." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled.
Hermione knew she could never win against the older wizard and decided to give up. She nodded and followed the older wizard to Draco Malfoy's bed where he was sleeping. Before she could touch him though, Madam Pomfrey was there to stop her.
"Headmaster, I think you should've known by now Mr. Malfoy is my patient and he needs to rest!" Somehow, she managed to scold them without raising her voice.
"I know, I know but his case is different and..." Professor Dumbledore started to argue.
"That's what you said about Harry Potter." Madam Pomfrey cut him and was on the verge of pushing him out.
"Mr. Potter was a different case as well."
"I will only allow this little visit if Ms. Granger would leave."
"I'm afraid I won't agree to that. You see Ms. Granger is..."
Dumbledore and the good nurse argued until finally Draco woke up. His eyes fell upon Hermione's silhouette. Eager to find out if her image was just a dream or for real, he blinked furiously to get a better look at her. "Hermione?"
Hermione heard someone whisper her name and turned to face the owner of the voice. "Draco."
Draco's heart did a summersault upon hearing her voice. 'She's back! She's not mad at me!' "Missed me already?" He was in such a good mood that he teased her.
Hermione raised an eyebrow playfully and smiled. "Actually the headmaster forced me to come here with him." She pointed to the arguing couple.
"Forced?" He managed to tease some more.
Hermione just blushed at the overtone.
"Did I do something?" Draco changed the subject as he was puzzled at the idea that Dumbledore here with him. "What's he doing here?"
"Oh you mean Professor Dumbledore?" She thanked her stars for the sudden change in topic. She inched closer mesmerized by his eyes.
"Yeah." He was lost in her eyes as well.
"He just wanted to check up on you I guess. He did that a lot when Harry was on that bed."
"Even with you?" Draco couldn't think of what else to say.
"I suppose. He really cares about his students." She couldn't help but inch closer to him.
"Even Slytherins?"
"He's here isn't he?"
Draco grew bolder with each step she took. "What about you? Do you visit every student stuck in here?"
"Well not exactly."
"So you're saying you've never visited someone here twice a day before?" Draco was in a cloud he wasn't thinking straight.
"Well, um, there was a time when I stayed all day watching Harry." She turned her head away as she said his name, embarrassed.
His mood dropped a little lower, "oh! Right! Potter."
"He is one of my best friends you know." She noticed his reaction and added, "I don't know if this would interest you but usually when I spent my day here, Ron was with me. We would study here and watch him. Ron saw it as a sacrifice kind of thing. Harry was suffering so we should suffer with him in the form of studying." She loved talking about her friends and that brought a smile to her lips.
"So basically that means you've never..." Draco wasn't able to finish.
"Now see what she's done!" Madam Pomfrey's voice raised a notch higher.
"Now, now you don't have to blame Ms. Granger. I believe it was our discussion that woke him up. Am I right Mr. Malfoy?" Dumbledore interceded.
Draco nodded quickly.
"Look my patient needs lots of rest and I would have to insist that you two to leave at once!" Madam Pomfrey was starting to see red.
"Why don't we ask the boy's opinion shall we?" Dumbledore insisted.
"I wouldn't mind the company sir." Draco answered quickly. Any time with Hermione whether alone or not was a good thing.
"You heard the boy. It's not healthy to be left alone for a long time." Dumbledore quickly added.
"But..." Before Pomfrey could start, Dumbledore was ushering her out of the room for privacy.
Hermione took a seat on his bed as she watched Madam Pomfrey out. She stifled a giggle and watched the headmaster head back to them.
"So," Dumbledore started. "Mr. Malfoy, how is everything?"
"I'm fine now sir." He didn't lie, Hermione was close.
"Good, good. So now that the formalities are done why don't we get down to business." Dumbledore drew out his wand and cast a spell so that no one from outside will hear their conversation. Hermione stole a glance from Draco.
"You must be wondering why I wanted to talk to you both." Dumbledore watched each head nodded. "Well Mr. Malfoy and I never had a close relationship." He aimed that to Hermione. "I needed to know the truth and that's where you come in Ms. Granger."
'So he wanted me to come with him all along.' Hermione's mind started flying for the reason why Dumbledore needed her.
"Mr. Malfoy, in all my years here in Hogwarts I have never encountered a case similar that of yours."
"What do you mean sir?" Draco was getting uneasy, afraid of the topic at hand.
"I have never encountered a student more particularly a Slytherin to get in between a dueling match of adult wizards." Dumbledore was patient.
Draco glanced to Hermione for a cry of help. Hermione couldn't do anything but squeeze his hand.
"Mr. Malfoy why don't you run your story by me again."
Hermione had a very long day and all she wanted now was to go to her dorm and sleep the night away but she couldn't do that. She was dedicated to her schoolwork and decided to head for the dungeon instead. Before reaching her destination, she remembered that she needed to get a book out of the library. She rushed to her sanctuary and found not only the book but also her two best friends.
She moved toward the table they were occupying. "Hey guys."
Harry and Ron looked up at the same time. "Hey."
"What are you two doing?" Hermione was curious at their attitude. The two guys were burying their nose on books. She also wanted to apologize for the way she acted earlier.
"We're doing our History assignment. We would ask for your help but it seems you're too busy today." Ron explained.
"I was, I mean I am." Hermione was surprised of what he was accusing.
Harry watched as the threat of argument danced in the air.
"Really? We were in the dungeon all afternoon but you didn't show up. We looked all over for you but we couldn't find you. Actually, no one knew were you were! We could've done more productive things!"
"Like a game of Wizard's Chess for example?" Hermione was tired and wished nothing else but to gauge her friend's eyes out in her irritation.
"We could've finished this assignment!" Ron was jealous because he had a feeling she was with Malfoy. He felt like Malfoy was stealing her away from them.
"Wait, does this mean you just hanged inside the dungeon?" Hermione was more than upset now. She asked for their help but it seemed like they didn't do anything.
"Keep it down everybody's looking at us now." Harry finally intervened.
"Harry, tell me why didn't you at least try to help me with our project? Draco gave more of support and concern about it, and he was lying in a hospital bed!" Hermione didn't mind the stares; she was used with it.
"So you were with Malfoy! And here I thought you were busy... with schoolwork!" Ron was now more direct in his accusations. It was also evident that Harry looked hurt.
"That's none of your business." Hermione continued. "And what if I visited him, there's nothing wrong with visiting a friend. Or don't you remember the times when I visited you guys there?"
"That's beside the point Hermione, we haven't spent time together..." Ron started to concede.
"What's that suppose to mean? We're working on a project together, am I right?" Hermione started lowering her tone. 'Where have I heard that line before?'
"I mean just like in our earlier years, hang out as friends with Hagrid maybe." Ron let his feelings out.
"Maybe if you helped me with the project then maybe I'd have enough time to hang." Hermione turned her heels and started to walk out of the room.
"Maybe if you were there we would know what to do!" Ron shouted at her back.
'I'm so messed up! How can I have time to hang? For starters, I'm the Head Girl, then there's this project and now I have to manage my three very different friends? I didn't ask for this!' Hermione suddenly didn't feel tired anymore. She actually had more stamina to burn right now.
It was a long walk to the dungeon from the library. Her mind had decided to recount the things that were said in the hospital wing earlier with the headmaster.
'Dumbledore shouldn't leave. Draco would be much safer with him here and Harry too.'
'But at least he can make sure this doesn't happen again.'
'What will happen to Draco? He can't go back to Malfoy manor if Dumbledore continues this plan. I can't possibly ask Harry even if he's obsessed with helping people. His aunt and uncle would not allow it. My mum could be persuaded but I doubt that dad would agree. Actually, Draco may not like it there, my family being muggle and all. Ron and his family will need a lot or persuading to do. Maybe if Dumbledore talked with them...'
Draco was forced to tell his story to Dumbledore. Hermione's theory was confirmed about his father's involvement. Dumbledore promised Draco secrecy. Dumbledore also reassured her that it was not her fault. Now she can look him in the eye once again without guilt. Any romantic feelings between the two Hogwarts students were put off with Dumbledore's plan on seeking the perpetrator and duly punishing him. Both students doubted the plan but there was nothing to say to dissuade the headmaster.
Within a few minutes, she was in front of the door to the dungeon. She stepped inside the now familiar room and left all her other concerns outside the door as her mind focused on the matter at hand, which was the potion. She seemed to be in her zone. She worked through the night with no thoughts of giving up for the night to rest or being caught by Filch. She didn't want to leave especially since she's in the zone. She didn't let anything distract her but she wasn't prepared when someone cleared his throat behind her.
"Ms. Granger? Might I ask why you're still up?" Professor Snape was on patrol too that night.
"Professor, I was um... finishing the project." She was a little jumpy and had knocked a bottle down.
"I can't say I'm pleased with your dedication Ms. Granger but you have to abide by the Hogwarts' rules and finish your project within the day and not within the wee hours of the night."
"But professor," Hermione tried to argue.
"No buts Ms. Granger or I would have to take off points from Gryffindor and give you detention."
Hermione was surprised at what he said, 'He's still thinking of giving me detention.' She would have loved a tape recorder and share the moment with her friends. "But professor I was just on my way to get you." She tried to get every word out before he could stop her.
Snape raised an eyebrow he wasn't expecting that answer. "And why would that be?"
"I believe that the potion is ready sir." She stepped away from the table to reveal a cauldron brewing blue liquid over a fire.
Snape was hesitant. Sure, she was Hermione Granger but he didn't think a student would concoct a potion to stop a powerful spell. He thought that Hermione would at least scratch the surface and he would finalize the potion. "Are you sure Ms. Granger?"
"I'm not quite sure that's the reason I wanted to call you sir, to perform an experiment."
Snape thought it through and wanted to prove to the Gryffindor that the potion wasn't finished. "Very well, bring your potion to my office and I will get some specimen to try it out."
Hermione couldn't contain her excitement beaming to her professor. She scooped some of the potion into a small container. She examined the dungeon remembering all the time she spent there. She thought it was her last time there. She felt relieved that she wouldn't have to tolerate the cold temperature. She also felt sad because the greatest challenge she's ever had in Hogwarts was soon over. She then moved toward the door to meet her professor. Before she closed the door, she had a final glimpse of the room.
Hermione walked to Snape's office with a glint in her eyes. Before she could reach for the doorknob, it turned and Snape walked out with a cage of spiders.
"Uh, professor, are those the specimen you were talking about?" Hermione was a little nervous. She wasn't prepared to see the spiders being killed.
"Yes Ms. Granger or would you have preferred a human specimen?"
"Um, I guess it's alright professor. I was just shocked at the idea of spiders..."
"I would have preferred larger specimen but then you'd be able to see all the symptoms of death. If you'd like I can get bigger specimen." He used a sarcastic tone.
Hermione was taken aback by his concern. 'He was trying to protect me, that's so sweet.' "I'm fine with the spiders professor. But, isn't the Avada Kedavra Curse banned? Wouldn't you get in trouble?"
"The headmaster had given me permission but only for class purposes. He also insisted that I should use the Room of Requirement so that no one will see." Snape explained.
'So that's where we're going.' That was the first question that invaded her thoughts on their way to the Room of Requirement.
Inside, Snape didn't waste time. He willed a small stage where the spider could stand and await its fate. Snape put one in the middle and ordered Hermione, "Ms. Granger, pour some of the potion onto its path."
Hermione did as was told and watch the spider drink the bluish liquid drop. In the back of her mind, she pictured Ron's nervous face. She almost laughed but realized the seriousness of the moment. She prayed that all her efforts would be successful. Then her gaze turned to the green light aiming toward the spider. Everything happened so fast she didn't hear her professor speak.
The spider twitched and Hermione feared for the creature's life. Then to both her and Snape's surprise, the gangly spider stood still. Hermione smiled at her success and turned to face her professor who didn't seem too happy with the results. "Professor?"
"What is it Ms. Granger? I don't see any reason for smiling." Snape pointed back to the spider.
Hermione put her attention back to the spider. Her eyes widened when the spider's legs began to tremble. She was then shocked upon noticing the spider's body bulging. Soon enough each of the eight legs shattered from the weight of its body. Within minutes, the spider merely exploded.
Hermione grimaced at what took place. Ron would've shrieked at the sight as well. Her face was pale and full of beads of cold sweat.
"Oh I forgot to name that spider. There are four spiders left Ms. Granger. I would like to name them as Harry, Ronald, Draco and Hermione. How does that sound?" Snape was glad that the potion was a failure but he was also irritated by the fact that it almost worked. "Ms. Granger, next time don't waste my time again. Now go back to your dorm and that is not a request." He turned and flipped his robe carrying Harry, Ronald, Draco, and Hermione in one hand.
Hermione was disappointed at the outcome. She willed the room to replay what had happened to watch what she missed. Replaying only made it worst. The death of the spider was now embedded in her memory. She didn't think she could bear another explosion especially since her professor was happy enough to name each spider her friends' names and hers included. 'I could never kill Harry, Ron, or Draco. Hey, at least he called me Hermione.'
A/N: Here I am apologizing once more for being so darn late. I'm
really sorry. There was a major case of mental block, difficulty in
schedule and lack of inspiration in my part. I will try to do better
next time. One thing I can say is that this fic is about to end soon.
One more thing, this is the sequel to my first fanfic and I love
that story that's why this is the one I prioritize among the rest.
Even if it only gets a few reviews I'll never stop updating this story
unless of course I end it...
So please be kind review even if you just tell me you spent some
of your time reading this story. That'll be enough for me.
Plus a big thanks to my beta, Toni!
Oh and there was someone who said in my review that she emailed me but
I didn't get anything. I didn't want to look like I didn't appreciate
your reviews because I do. So if there's anyone who wants to email
for anything well except maybe for flames try this address:
cathyhb20yahoo.com
Thanks again!