Title: Prince of the Light
Author: Mysterious Phantom Shyraz
Disclaimer: Works of Harry Potter and related characters belong to J.K.Rowling and Warner Bros. Most of the sets belong to the great works of Rowling-sensei (means teacher/professional person for those not proficient in Japanese). The realms belong to me, as do some of the characters. I've too the privilege in changing a few personalities.
Forth Night-Invitations
The week after the moonlight talk passed by quite successfully without much incident. For the pass week, the twins didn't return back to the Burrow until nearly midnight. Mr Weasley had to attend quite a few meetings and had quite a lot of follow up work to do after Fudge had handed over the work just last month. Ron kept to himself in his room for most of the time, either doing work or reading. Ginny sat in the lounge room often to stare out into the sky for any signs of an owl from Harry. Both of the siblings continue to write to Hermoine and Harry, but it seems that Harry didn't have time to write back. Then one sunny morning, in the early daylight where the birds chirped melodiously their song. There suddenly was a loud sound.
KABOOM!
The Burrow shook the still sleeping occupants, Ron and Ginny, awake with a loud bang and a burst of smoke. Then came the loud scream from their mother.
"FRED! GEORGE!" Mrs. Weasley's voice rang in a not so melodious tone. Then came the sound of people going down the steps.
"Yes mum??" Both the twins answered in front of their mother in an innocent tone.
"WHAT DID I TELL YOU ABOUT EXPERIMENTING IN THE HOUSE?!"
"Not to do it again??"
"EXACTLY! THEN WHY DID I HEAR THE SOUND OF EXPLOSION JUST THEN? YOUR FATHER JUST CAME BACK AND NEEDS REST, AND THAT DOES NOT INCLUDE A HOUSE THAT CONSTANTLY GOES BANG. AND NEED I TO MENTION THAT BOTH OF YOU DID NOT RETURN TILL LATE LAST NIGHT?? DON'T THINK THAT I DIDN'T KNOW. I'VE ALREADY KEPT MY HANDS OFF YOU BUSINESS WITH RUNNING THE JOKE SHOP, BUT ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. YOU MIGHT HAVE A SHOP BUT YOU ARE BOTH STILL YOUNG. AND THAT MEANT YOU SHOULD COME BACK HOME FOR DINNER."
"But mum." Fred answered "there's still a lot of work to be done at the shop."
"Besides," George took over "it's not as if we're not coming back home for much longer."
"Also," Fred took back the right to speak "it's just for a couple more days, then everything will be finally on track."
By this time, Ron and Ginny entered the kitchen to find a breakfast has been laid out and two soot covered twins sitting at the table, ready to dig into the meal.
"Ah! That reminds me." Mr Weasley "you two boys better not have anything planned for the next few weeks."
"Eh?" Both the twins raised their eye brows in question.
"It seems that as a Minister of Magic, there are a few 'functions' that are compulsory to attend." Mr Weasley drank the coffee from his mug, then fiddled with what seemed to be like a CD on the table. Because of the extended amount of time that needs to be spent in the Ministry, Arthur Weasley used any available time at home taking up his hobby, research muggle 'artfacts'
"And these 'functions'" Mr Weasley continued as he looked up at his children, including Ron and Ginny who just joined in for breakfast, sitting at the table "were to not only be attended by the Minister, but also his family."
Suddenly, one of their neighbours appeared at the backdoor of their kitchen.
"Hey, Arthur" He was one of the many that live in the same hilltop as the Weasley, with crisp light brown hair, same chestnut eyes and works in the Ministry as well. "Congratulations on the promotion! Last time I heard you were the Under-Secretary."
"Yea, it happened after the attack."
A week just after the summer holiday had started for Ron and Ginny, and just when the Weasley twins had begun their preperation for their joke shop, there had been an attack on the Ministry of Magic. It caught many of the wizards and Aurors unprepared as they have just finished clearing up the mess after the Department of Mysteries incident. The Ministry was going quite well, with the new Minister and Mr Weasley there to help. But their luck ran out. All of a sudden, out of the blue, some unknown wizards struck the ministry. It was not the work of 'You-Know-Who', that they were sure of. As there were no Dark Marks in the air, and the attack had been very specific. It was an attack to deprive the wizarding world in England of any hope, law and order. It was an attack to bring chaos. Fortunately, for the ministry, the Order was still active and had helped but quite a few lives had been lost. One of which was the newly appointed Minister of Magic. There was no debate what-so-ever after the attack that Arthur Weasley should become the next Minister of Magic, as he was already the Under- Secretary.
"Daniel, do you want to come in and join us for breakfast" Molly suggested
"No, no, I have to go back to the ministry to tidy a few loose ends. After so long, you'd think all the loose ends have been tied up.Besides, I came by to congratulate Arthur! I'll see you later than" With a pop, Daniel disappeared in the thin air.
"Dad," Ron spoke up "does these.functions.extend their invitation to our friends?" The reason why he asked was because Hermoine was to arrive at the Burrow this afternoon, to stay over for the rest of the summer holiday.
"Yes, the invitation extends to friends of the family."
"Aw, how sweet dear brother" George spoke up
"Yes, our dear little brother worried about his 'special' friend" Fred replied in more or less the same teasing manner.
But Ron didn't feel any anger, only annoyance that both of his brother liked to make fun of the situation. Fortunate, Mrs. Weasley knew how to change the subject to avoid an outbreak of an argument from erupting in the house.
"Ron, did you ask when Hermoine would come?"
"Around noon, that is from what I last heard of her, which as three days ago."
"Actually, 12:30 to be more exact" Ginny spoke up, she had just received a letter from Hermoine yesterday, telling Ginny to tell her mother when she would arrive with an addition of few other things included in the letter.
The morning ended without much more incidents. The twins didn't try to blow the house up, but they went to their store in Diagon Alley in stead. Saying something along the lines of 'starting the year off with a bang' and 'those lucky new ones'. Though, Ron had no idea what they were trying to say. The afternoon soon came, and along with it came Hermoine and her parents arriving at their doorsteps. The Weasley's had said they would pick her up but the Grangers insisted they would be able to make it without much of a fuss. After meeting up in Ron's second year, the Granger parents and his own parents were developing a close friendship. Often exchanging phone calls, now that Mr. Weasley knew how to operate a telephone. With a knock, Mrs. Weasley answered the door whilst Mr. Weasley lounged at the comfort chair.
"Ah, Mr. And Mrs. Granger! How good it is to see you again. I thought we had to wait until the end of the month to meet up with you."
"Mrs. Weasley, you're too kind" Mr Granger spoke. "If it hadn't been for another conference at the other side of the globe we would not like to trouble you with Hermoine." This conference, which the two dentists were speaking of, lasts for a month and tracks around the world. Both parents were not going to leave their daughter alone in the house in England with a Dark Wizard that may one day target their daughter for knowing Harry Potter.
"It is no trouble at all. Would you like to come in a join us for lunch?" Mrs. Weasley gestured into the room.
"We'd love to, but I am afraid that we have to take our leave as our flight leaves tonight and we need to make preparation for departure." Mr. Granger said apologetically then turned back at Hermoine "Now you behave here, don't go looking for trouble and don't make trouble for Mr. And Mrs. Weasley"
"Dad! I'm old enough already. I won't be of any trouble. I've been here quite a few times if you remember"
"We remember darling," Mrs Granger spoke "But still, be careful. We might not understand the wizarding world as much as you do, but we do know that there are certain troubles looking for you."
"Really mum, I'll be fine. Now you two better go back home and pack."
"Are you sure honey?"
"I'm very sure dad, now both of you go back home already!" Hermoine insisted on both her parents to leave to give her peace. Hermoine was somehow tired of her parents fussing over her as they gave the same 'speech' last summer holiday when she came to stay at the Weasley in the early summer, then ending up at Grimmauld place.
Both of her parents, seeing the frustration level creeping up in their daughter, decided to leave.
"We'll leave Hermoine in your care then Mrs. Weasley."
"It's alright, Hermoine will be fine here. Both of you have a good trip" And then, the Granger parents turn and walked down the road of the Burrow, heading for the nearest bus station.
"Hermoine dear, why don't you take your trunk up to Ginny's room?"
"Thank you Mrs Weasley" Hermoine tugged her trunk up the front porch, into the living room. Ron, seeing the effort Hermoine used to pull the trunk, decided it was time to break away from his chess game to help her.
"Need any help?"
"Thanks Ron"
Both of them started to climb the set of stairs leading to Ginny's room.
"So." Ron decided to break the awkward silence "did you hear from Harry lately?"
"No, he didn't reply the letter I've sent to him. Probably busy trying to do the homework."
"Really Hermoine, don't you think that Harry had other things to worry about other than homework? Besides, we've just had our O.W.Ls, teachers didn't even give us any work!"
"Yea, well, there's still the N.E.W.T.S to begin to study for!"
"Hermoine!" Ron exclaimed "For Merlin's sake, as I've just said, we've just done our O.W.Ls! There's no need to worry about the N.E.W.T.S, it's not till seventh year!"
"But it doesn't hurt to be prepared!" Hermoine rebutted, knowing Ron, being a non-studious student, would never prepare.
"Sheesh, you and your books" Then both fell silent for a couple of seconds. Afterwards, Ron decided to speak again.
"Did you know that my sister sent Harry a present on his birthday?"
"Yea, I heard"
"What?" Ron exclaimed "How?"
"What do you mean 'How'?" Hermoine looked directly at Ron's eyes. Through the holiday, she had done some growing as well, and is now becoming quite a fine young women. "Besides, it's none of your business if Ginny decided to send Harry a gift."
"Well." Ron hesitated "true. But I'd still like to know why Ginny told you and not the rest of the family."
"That's the reason, because you're an over-protective brother."
"Am not"
Suddenly, Ginny opened the door of her room just when Ron and Hermoine reached the place.
"Were you talking about me?" And Ginny took notice of Hermoine standing next to Ron "Hermoine! You came!" Ginny gave Hermoine a big hug. Ron settled Hermoine's trunk in Ginny's room and came back out.
"Kids. Lunch" Was the notice Mrs. Weasley gave to the three on the second floor.
The day passed by and soon, a week had passed. The Twins were coming back earlier now, mostly before dinner, with the store becoming more stable. Same with their father, it seems that there were not much more work after the first month or so as the other Ministry members had finally came to their senses and started to prepare for the worst case scenario after the second attack. Ginny seemed to spend quite a lot of time with Hermoine once she had arrived. Hermoine, on the other hand had been busying herself with trying to convince Ron to think more seriously about the N.E.W.T.S that were to come next year, but as usual, Ron paid no attention. What he was more curious about was a certain Harry Potter and Professor Dumbledore not replying any mail. One night, shortly after the arrival of Hermoine, when nearly everyone's asleep apart, the three youngest occupants of the house had a talk in the lounge room. Both Mr and Mrs Weasley had retire to bed early. The former was because he had an early morning meeting, the latter was because of the seemingly growing headache formed by the twins yet another prank on the household as well as the neighbourhood.
Sitting at the table was Ginny, with a glass of warm milk, Hermoine, with the second spell book of the week and a cup of tea in front of her and Ron, with the latest issue of Quidditch Quip in front of him and a cup of pumpkin juice.
"What do you think happened to him?" Ron directed his question to Hermione, thinking that she might have the answer. The 'him' that he was asking was Harry Potter who seems to have suddenly disappeared.
"Really Ron, as you've once said 'don't you think Harry had other things to do?'" Hermoine replied without looking up from her book.
"Besides, if anything had happened, don't you think the Daily Prophet or Professor Dumbledore, for that matter, would not inform us?"
Ginny felt as though she might be out of place during this conversation, but she can't help but be curious on the speculation of the two closest friends of Harry Potter. Hermoine, sensing this uneasiness from Ginny, decided to include her in the conversation.
"What do you think Ginny?"
"Well.I'm not sure, I mean I don't know him as much as you two." Ginny trailed off.
"Take a lucky guess Gin." Ron called Ginny using one of the many nicknames the brothers invented for young Ginny. He really didn't mean to call Ginny that, but it came out of his mouth easily.
"Well." Ginny hesitated again "he might have been cut off from the wizarding world like last summer."
"True, remember last summer Ron?" Hermoine nodded at the statement. Both of the friends remembered quite well what had happened once Harry set foot in Grimmauld place. He blew off like both had never seen before. Normally, Harry is quite good tempered, but after last year, they weren't so sure.
'But then again, you can't blame him for exploding like that' Ron thought 'I might do the same if in that situation.'
Ron looked sideway to his sister, sitting there, doing nothing. Then he tried and concentrated on his magazine.
"Ginny," Hermoine asked, thinking that it was time to change the topic "don't you need to study for your O.W.Ls this year?"
"Great Hermoine. First it was me, now it's my sister?? What's become of you lately?" stared at Hermoine in surprise.
"What do you mean Ron?" Hermoine asked in what seemed to be an innocent tone. "I'm only worried about her as a friend. It doesn't mean anything."
"Whatever, I'm going to bed." Ron headed off to his room on the third floor. Leaving the two girls sitting at the table.
"Geez, what's set him off?"
"Beats me! Even though he's my brother, I have no idea. Sometimes I even think if we're actually related"
"I'm guessing that Harry didn't reply your letters as well, Ginny"
"Yea." Ginny trailed off
"It's rather late right now," Hermoine closed her book and put away the cup she was using "you want to head off for bed now?"
"Sure," Ginny took her cup and left it soaking in the sink where the dishes are still washing themselves.
The morning progress was somewhat strained between Hermoine and Ron. But overall, it went fine and by afternoon, everything was back to normal between the two friends. That night, Mr. Weasley came back with an invitation. It was a white card with a gold border and silver writings. Just from a glance of the white card, Hermoine deduced to be some sort of function for important guests. Mrs. Weasley read out for the benefit of the people present, which included Fred and George, who came back just before dinner, Bill, who came back because the goblins at Gringotts needed extra help because of a recent break-in, and of course Ginny, Hermoine and Ron sitting at the table.
"You, your family and friends are co-ordinally invited to attend a ball on the Eleventh of August at Seven Thirty in the Convention Centre."
"It just said we're invited, it doesn't mean we have to go" Ron spoke out.
"Ron, the main emphasis was on the word 'co-ordinally' meaning compulsory." Hermoine gave insight to the situation for the sake of Ron.
"That's tomorrow night isn't it mum?" Bill looked up from the report that had came through this afternoon. Lately, since Bill had arrived back to the Burrow, there had been more mail than ever. Mainly due to the fact that there were quite a few security problems with London's Gringotts branch. His unconventional hairstyle and earring still unnerved Mrs Weasley a bit, but she had learnt to put it aside.
"Hm.so it is." Mrs. Weasley considered the possibilities of not taking ALL of her kids, but there was no way that the neighbours would take care of them since most are high officials of the Ministry. "Well, kids, looks like we're going out tomorrow. And Bill, loose the earring for tomorrow night will you?" Since the Mr. Weasley is now officially the Minister of Magic, the whole family has a high reputation to live up to. Ginny, on the other hand, was not worrying about upholding the reputation, but more of which dress she should wear. After all, she is a teenage girl and image IS everything.
That night, Hermoine and Ginny stayed up until quite late at night with their discussion of what to wear. Ginny, having decided to wear the dress robe that she tried earlier in the week, was helping with Hermoine. Hermoine on the other hand, was wondering what makeup to apply for tomorrow.
Ron sat in his room, looking at one of his many Quidditch books again for the umpteenth time that day, was quite honestly missing the company of Harry. As Dumbledore had mentioned in his latest letter to the Weasleys that it was best for Harry to stay at the Dursley's for the whole summer up until their visit to Diagon Alley, when Harry would be staying for the last few days. Ron was sadden at first, to hear that Harry had to go through those muggles of all muggles and sympathise for him. But he had was not the one that govern things around here, so he has no say. To make better use of his time, he decided that it was a good time to call it a night and slept whilst the girls downstairs talk their way through to midnight.
Next morning, the girls spent their time preparing of the night's ball whilst Mr. Weasley went back to the Ministry to make a few preparations for both the upcoming ball and the transportations. Mrs. Weasley was busy with the ironing and by four o'clock, she was frantic in trying to make the twins presentable and trying to reverse the spell on Ron. Bill was doing some last minute checkups with reports before settling down to look at the effects of the Twin's newly developed 'Ani-chocs' that somehow makes the unfortunate victim, Ron, sprout what appeared to be dog ears and tails. At precisely six o'clock, Mr. Weasley came back to the Burrow with the Ministry cars that would take them to the Convention Centre.
A/N: I know the chapter is going a bit slow, even I'm agitated, but I promise to speed up the pace a little. To tell you all the truth, I have ideas, but it needs to be sorted. This chapter took me 3 days to write. That's because:
I don't have the five Harry Potter books with me currently, so it makes the situation harder (if I made a mistake at any point, inform me. Also, could someone pleeeaaassseee tell me who is the Quidditch captain last year and who are on the team? Or I'm gonna mix the up and create new characters instead.)
I don't know how to get Hermoine into the fic. It seemed to me she just 'appears' at the Weasley household whenever Rowling-sensei feels like it.
Anyways, reviews are always appreciated and I apologize once again for the prolonging of this chapter as well as the repetition of quite a few issues. Now for some behind the sneak peaks:
Lily: I believe that Hermoine had asked you before, but I'm going to ask you one more time. What do you have in store for our baby Phantom?
Harry: MUM! I'm not a baby anymore. Please notice that I'm already 16!
Sena: Master Harry, Lady Lily is just concerned about your welfare!
Harry: How many times did I tell you don't add 'master' in front of it??
Sena: Sorry Master Harry.old habits die hard.
Harry: Sheesh.
James: Now, tell us what will happen.
Phantom: Both father and son likes the 'wand-pointing' thing don't you?
Lily: Now, tell us before we hex you to the otherworldly realms that you're going to create.
Phantom: You just answered your own question!-o-
James: Quit playing games will you?? , Hey, what are these costumes for? That reminds me, I still have a debt to settle with you! How come I have to sit in the makeup room for hours on end whilst Harry and James gets to go frolicking around?
Dumbledore: Lily, James, I though I'd find you here.Harry told me to tell you he's going out to Diagon Alley.
Lily: Why that boy.How many time did I tell him not to go out by himself!
Dumbledore: Like father like son.
Author: Mysterious Phantom Shyraz
Disclaimer: Works of Harry Potter and related characters belong to J.K.Rowling and Warner Bros. Most of the sets belong to the great works of Rowling-sensei (means teacher/professional person for those not proficient in Japanese). The realms belong to me, as do some of the characters. I've too the privilege in changing a few personalities.
Forth Night-Invitations
The week after the moonlight talk passed by quite successfully without much incident. For the pass week, the twins didn't return back to the Burrow until nearly midnight. Mr Weasley had to attend quite a few meetings and had quite a lot of follow up work to do after Fudge had handed over the work just last month. Ron kept to himself in his room for most of the time, either doing work or reading. Ginny sat in the lounge room often to stare out into the sky for any signs of an owl from Harry. Both of the siblings continue to write to Hermoine and Harry, but it seems that Harry didn't have time to write back. Then one sunny morning, in the early daylight where the birds chirped melodiously their song. There suddenly was a loud sound.
KABOOM!
The Burrow shook the still sleeping occupants, Ron and Ginny, awake with a loud bang and a burst of smoke. Then came the loud scream from their mother.
"FRED! GEORGE!" Mrs. Weasley's voice rang in a not so melodious tone. Then came the sound of people going down the steps.
"Yes mum??" Both the twins answered in front of their mother in an innocent tone.
"WHAT DID I TELL YOU ABOUT EXPERIMENTING IN THE HOUSE?!"
"Not to do it again??"
"EXACTLY! THEN WHY DID I HEAR THE SOUND OF EXPLOSION JUST THEN? YOUR FATHER JUST CAME BACK AND NEEDS REST, AND THAT DOES NOT INCLUDE A HOUSE THAT CONSTANTLY GOES BANG. AND NEED I TO MENTION THAT BOTH OF YOU DID NOT RETURN TILL LATE LAST NIGHT?? DON'T THINK THAT I DIDN'T KNOW. I'VE ALREADY KEPT MY HANDS OFF YOU BUSINESS WITH RUNNING THE JOKE SHOP, BUT ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. YOU MIGHT HAVE A SHOP BUT YOU ARE BOTH STILL YOUNG. AND THAT MEANT YOU SHOULD COME BACK HOME FOR DINNER."
"But mum." Fred answered "there's still a lot of work to be done at the shop."
"Besides," George took over "it's not as if we're not coming back home for much longer."
"Also," Fred took back the right to speak "it's just for a couple more days, then everything will be finally on track."
By this time, Ron and Ginny entered the kitchen to find a breakfast has been laid out and two soot covered twins sitting at the table, ready to dig into the meal.
"Ah! That reminds me." Mr Weasley "you two boys better not have anything planned for the next few weeks."
"Eh?" Both the twins raised their eye brows in question.
"It seems that as a Minister of Magic, there are a few 'functions' that are compulsory to attend." Mr Weasley drank the coffee from his mug, then fiddled with what seemed to be like a CD on the table. Because of the extended amount of time that needs to be spent in the Ministry, Arthur Weasley used any available time at home taking up his hobby, research muggle 'artfacts'
"And these 'functions'" Mr Weasley continued as he looked up at his children, including Ron and Ginny who just joined in for breakfast, sitting at the table "were to not only be attended by the Minister, but also his family."
Suddenly, one of their neighbours appeared at the backdoor of their kitchen.
"Hey, Arthur" He was one of the many that live in the same hilltop as the Weasley, with crisp light brown hair, same chestnut eyes and works in the Ministry as well. "Congratulations on the promotion! Last time I heard you were the Under-Secretary."
"Yea, it happened after the attack."
A week just after the summer holiday had started for Ron and Ginny, and just when the Weasley twins had begun their preperation for their joke shop, there had been an attack on the Ministry of Magic. It caught many of the wizards and Aurors unprepared as they have just finished clearing up the mess after the Department of Mysteries incident. The Ministry was going quite well, with the new Minister and Mr Weasley there to help. But their luck ran out. All of a sudden, out of the blue, some unknown wizards struck the ministry. It was not the work of 'You-Know-Who', that they were sure of. As there were no Dark Marks in the air, and the attack had been very specific. It was an attack to deprive the wizarding world in England of any hope, law and order. It was an attack to bring chaos. Fortunately, for the ministry, the Order was still active and had helped but quite a few lives had been lost. One of which was the newly appointed Minister of Magic. There was no debate what-so-ever after the attack that Arthur Weasley should become the next Minister of Magic, as he was already the Under- Secretary.
"Daniel, do you want to come in and join us for breakfast" Molly suggested
"No, no, I have to go back to the ministry to tidy a few loose ends. After so long, you'd think all the loose ends have been tied up.Besides, I came by to congratulate Arthur! I'll see you later than" With a pop, Daniel disappeared in the thin air.
"Dad," Ron spoke up "does these.functions.extend their invitation to our friends?" The reason why he asked was because Hermoine was to arrive at the Burrow this afternoon, to stay over for the rest of the summer holiday.
"Yes, the invitation extends to friends of the family."
"Aw, how sweet dear brother" George spoke up
"Yes, our dear little brother worried about his 'special' friend" Fred replied in more or less the same teasing manner.
But Ron didn't feel any anger, only annoyance that both of his brother liked to make fun of the situation. Fortunate, Mrs. Weasley knew how to change the subject to avoid an outbreak of an argument from erupting in the house.
"Ron, did you ask when Hermoine would come?"
"Around noon, that is from what I last heard of her, which as three days ago."
"Actually, 12:30 to be more exact" Ginny spoke up, she had just received a letter from Hermoine yesterday, telling Ginny to tell her mother when she would arrive with an addition of few other things included in the letter.
The morning ended without much more incidents. The twins didn't try to blow the house up, but they went to their store in Diagon Alley in stead. Saying something along the lines of 'starting the year off with a bang' and 'those lucky new ones'. Though, Ron had no idea what they were trying to say. The afternoon soon came, and along with it came Hermoine and her parents arriving at their doorsteps. The Weasley's had said they would pick her up but the Grangers insisted they would be able to make it without much of a fuss. After meeting up in Ron's second year, the Granger parents and his own parents were developing a close friendship. Often exchanging phone calls, now that Mr. Weasley knew how to operate a telephone. With a knock, Mrs. Weasley answered the door whilst Mr. Weasley lounged at the comfort chair.
"Ah, Mr. And Mrs. Granger! How good it is to see you again. I thought we had to wait until the end of the month to meet up with you."
"Mrs. Weasley, you're too kind" Mr Granger spoke. "If it hadn't been for another conference at the other side of the globe we would not like to trouble you with Hermoine." This conference, which the two dentists were speaking of, lasts for a month and tracks around the world. Both parents were not going to leave their daughter alone in the house in England with a Dark Wizard that may one day target their daughter for knowing Harry Potter.
"It is no trouble at all. Would you like to come in a join us for lunch?" Mrs. Weasley gestured into the room.
"We'd love to, but I am afraid that we have to take our leave as our flight leaves tonight and we need to make preparation for departure." Mr. Granger said apologetically then turned back at Hermoine "Now you behave here, don't go looking for trouble and don't make trouble for Mr. And Mrs. Weasley"
"Dad! I'm old enough already. I won't be of any trouble. I've been here quite a few times if you remember"
"We remember darling," Mrs Granger spoke "But still, be careful. We might not understand the wizarding world as much as you do, but we do know that there are certain troubles looking for you."
"Really mum, I'll be fine. Now you two better go back home and pack."
"Are you sure honey?"
"I'm very sure dad, now both of you go back home already!" Hermoine insisted on both her parents to leave to give her peace. Hermoine was somehow tired of her parents fussing over her as they gave the same 'speech' last summer holiday when she came to stay at the Weasley in the early summer, then ending up at Grimmauld place.
Both of her parents, seeing the frustration level creeping up in their daughter, decided to leave.
"We'll leave Hermoine in your care then Mrs. Weasley."
"It's alright, Hermoine will be fine here. Both of you have a good trip" And then, the Granger parents turn and walked down the road of the Burrow, heading for the nearest bus station.
"Hermoine dear, why don't you take your trunk up to Ginny's room?"
"Thank you Mrs Weasley" Hermoine tugged her trunk up the front porch, into the living room. Ron, seeing the effort Hermoine used to pull the trunk, decided it was time to break away from his chess game to help her.
"Need any help?"
"Thanks Ron"
Both of them started to climb the set of stairs leading to Ginny's room.
"So." Ron decided to break the awkward silence "did you hear from Harry lately?"
"No, he didn't reply the letter I've sent to him. Probably busy trying to do the homework."
"Really Hermoine, don't you think that Harry had other things to worry about other than homework? Besides, we've just had our O.W.Ls, teachers didn't even give us any work!"
"Yea, well, there's still the N.E.W.T.S to begin to study for!"
"Hermoine!" Ron exclaimed "For Merlin's sake, as I've just said, we've just done our O.W.Ls! There's no need to worry about the N.E.W.T.S, it's not till seventh year!"
"But it doesn't hurt to be prepared!" Hermoine rebutted, knowing Ron, being a non-studious student, would never prepare.
"Sheesh, you and your books" Then both fell silent for a couple of seconds. Afterwards, Ron decided to speak again.
"Did you know that my sister sent Harry a present on his birthday?"
"Yea, I heard"
"What?" Ron exclaimed "How?"
"What do you mean 'How'?" Hermoine looked directly at Ron's eyes. Through the holiday, she had done some growing as well, and is now becoming quite a fine young women. "Besides, it's none of your business if Ginny decided to send Harry a gift."
"Well." Ron hesitated "true. But I'd still like to know why Ginny told you and not the rest of the family."
"That's the reason, because you're an over-protective brother."
"Am not"
Suddenly, Ginny opened the door of her room just when Ron and Hermoine reached the place.
"Were you talking about me?" And Ginny took notice of Hermoine standing next to Ron "Hermoine! You came!" Ginny gave Hermoine a big hug. Ron settled Hermoine's trunk in Ginny's room and came back out.
"Kids. Lunch" Was the notice Mrs. Weasley gave to the three on the second floor.
The day passed by and soon, a week had passed. The Twins were coming back earlier now, mostly before dinner, with the store becoming more stable. Same with their father, it seems that there were not much more work after the first month or so as the other Ministry members had finally came to their senses and started to prepare for the worst case scenario after the second attack. Ginny seemed to spend quite a lot of time with Hermoine once she had arrived. Hermoine, on the other hand had been busying herself with trying to convince Ron to think more seriously about the N.E.W.T.S that were to come next year, but as usual, Ron paid no attention. What he was more curious about was a certain Harry Potter and Professor Dumbledore not replying any mail. One night, shortly after the arrival of Hermoine, when nearly everyone's asleep apart, the three youngest occupants of the house had a talk in the lounge room. Both Mr and Mrs Weasley had retire to bed early. The former was because he had an early morning meeting, the latter was because of the seemingly growing headache formed by the twins yet another prank on the household as well as the neighbourhood.
Sitting at the table was Ginny, with a glass of warm milk, Hermoine, with the second spell book of the week and a cup of tea in front of her and Ron, with the latest issue of Quidditch Quip in front of him and a cup of pumpkin juice.
"What do you think happened to him?" Ron directed his question to Hermione, thinking that she might have the answer. The 'him' that he was asking was Harry Potter who seems to have suddenly disappeared.
"Really Ron, as you've once said 'don't you think Harry had other things to do?'" Hermoine replied without looking up from her book.
"Besides, if anything had happened, don't you think the Daily Prophet or Professor Dumbledore, for that matter, would not inform us?"
Ginny felt as though she might be out of place during this conversation, but she can't help but be curious on the speculation of the two closest friends of Harry Potter. Hermoine, sensing this uneasiness from Ginny, decided to include her in the conversation.
"What do you think Ginny?"
"Well.I'm not sure, I mean I don't know him as much as you two." Ginny trailed off.
"Take a lucky guess Gin." Ron called Ginny using one of the many nicknames the brothers invented for young Ginny. He really didn't mean to call Ginny that, but it came out of his mouth easily.
"Well." Ginny hesitated again "he might have been cut off from the wizarding world like last summer."
"True, remember last summer Ron?" Hermoine nodded at the statement. Both of the friends remembered quite well what had happened once Harry set foot in Grimmauld place. He blew off like both had never seen before. Normally, Harry is quite good tempered, but after last year, they weren't so sure.
'But then again, you can't blame him for exploding like that' Ron thought 'I might do the same if in that situation.'
Ron looked sideway to his sister, sitting there, doing nothing. Then he tried and concentrated on his magazine.
"Ginny," Hermoine asked, thinking that it was time to change the topic "don't you need to study for your O.W.Ls this year?"
"Great Hermoine. First it was me, now it's my sister?? What's become of you lately?" stared at Hermoine in surprise.
"What do you mean Ron?" Hermoine asked in what seemed to be an innocent tone. "I'm only worried about her as a friend. It doesn't mean anything."
"Whatever, I'm going to bed." Ron headed off to his room on the third floor. Leaving the two girls sitting at the table.
"Geez, what's set him off?"
"Beats me! Even though he's my brother, I have no idea. Sometimes I even think if we're actually related"
"I'm guessing that Harry didn't reply your letters as well, Ginny"
"Yea." Ginny trailed off
"It's rather late right now," Hermoine closed her book and put away the cup she was using "you want to head off for bed now?"
"Sure," Ginny took her cup and left it soaking in the sink where the dishes are still washing themselves.
The morning progress was somewhat strained between Hermoine and Ron. But overall, it went fine and by afternoon, everything was back to normal between the two friends. That night, Mr. Weasley came back with an invitation. It was a white card with a gold border and silver writings. Just from a glance of the white card, Hermoine deduced to be some sort of function for important guests. Mrs. Weasley read out for the benefit of the people present, which included Fred and George, who came back just before dinner, Bill, who came back because the goblins at Gringotts needed extra help because of a recent break-in, and of course Ginny, Hermoine and Ron sitting at the table.
"You, your family and friends are co-ordinally invited to attend a ball on the Eleventh of August at Seven Thirty in the Convention Centre."
"It just said we're invited, it doesn't mean we have to go" Ron spoke out.
"Ron, the main emphasis was on the word 'co-ordinally' meaning compulsory." Hermoine gave insight to the situation for the sake of Ron.
"That's tomorrow night isn't it mum?" Bill looked up from the report that had came through this afternoon. Lately, since Bill had arrived back to the Burrow, there had been more mail than ever. Mainly due to the fact that there were quite a few security problems with London's Gringotts branch. His unconventional hairstyle and earring still unnerved Mrs Weasley a bit, but she had learnt to put it aside.
"Hm.so it is." Mrs. Weasley considered the possibilities of not taking ALL of her kids, but there was no way that the neighbours would take care of them since most are high officials of the Ministry. "Well, kids, looks like we're going out tomorrow. And Bill, loose the earring for tomorrow night will you?" Since the Mr. Weasley is now officially the Minister of Magic, the whole family has a high reputation to live up to. Ginny, on the other hand, was not worrying about upholding the reputation, but more of which dress she should wear. After all, she is a teenage girl and image IS everything.
That night, Hermoine and Ginny stayed up until quite late at night with their discussion of what to wear. Ginny, having decided to wear the dress robe that she tried earlier in the week, was helping with Hermoine. Hermoine on the other hand, was wondering what makeup to apply for tomorrow.
Ron sat in his room, looking at one of his many Quidditch books again for the umpteenth time that day, was quite honestly missing the company of Harry. As Dumbledore had mentioned in his latest letter to the Weasleys that it was best for Harry to stay at the Dursley's for the whole summer up until their visit to Diagon Alley, when Harry would be staying for the last few days. Ron was sadden at first, to hear that Harry had to go through those muggles of all muggles and sympathise for him. But he had was not the one that govern things around here, so he has no say. To make better use of his time, he decided that it was a good time to call it a night and slept whilst the girls downstairs talk their way through to midnight.
Next morning, the girls spent their time preparing of the night's ball whilst Mr. Weasley went back to the Ministry to make a few preparations for both the upcoming ball and the transportations. Mrs. Weasley was busy with the ironing and by four o'clock, she was frantic in trying to make the twins presentable and trying to reverse the spell on Ron. Bill was doing some last minute checkups with reports before settling down to look at the effects of the Twin's newly developed 'Ani-chocs' that somehow makes the unfortunate victim, Ron, sprout what appeared to be dog ears and tails. At precisely six o'clock, Mr. Weasley came back to the Burrow with the Ministry cars that would take them to the Convention Centre.
A/N: I know the chapter is going a bit slow, even I'm agitated, but I promise to speed up the pace a little. To tell you all the truth, I have ideas, but it needs to be sorted. This chapter took me 3 days to write. That's because:
I don't have the five Harry Potter books with me currently, so it makes the situation harder (if I made a mistake at any point, inform me. Also, could someone pleeeaaassseee tell me who is the Quidditch captain last year and who are on the team? Or I'm gonna mix the up and create new characters instead.)
I don't know how to get Hermoine into the fic. It seemed to me she just 'appears' at the Weasley household whenever Rowling-sensei feels like it.
Anyways, reviews are always appreciated and I apologize once again for the prolonging of this chapter as well as the repetition of quite a few issues. Now for some behind the sneak peaks:
Lily: I believe that Hermoine had asked you before, but I'm going to ask you one more time. What do you have in store for our baby Phantom?
Harry: MUM! I'm not a baby anymore. Please notice that I'm already 16!
Sena: Master Harry, Lady Lily is just concerned about your welfare!
Harry: How many times did I tell you don't add 'master' in front of it??
Sena: Sorry Master Harry.old habits die hard.
Harry: Sheesh.
James: Now, tell us what will happen.
Phantom: Both father and son likes the 'wand-pointing' thing don't you?
Lily: Now, tell us before we hex you to the otherworldly realms that you're going to create.
Phantom: You just answered your own question!-o-
James: Quit playing games will you?? , Hey, what are these costumes for? That reminds me, I still have a debt to settle with you! How come I have to sit in the makeup room for hours on end whilst Harry and James gets to go frolicking around?
Dumbledore: Lily, James, I though I'd find you here.Harry told me to tell you he's going out to Diagon Alley.
Lily: Why that boy.How many time did I tell him not to go out by himself!
Dumbledore: Like father like son.