The Hits Just Keep Coming
Gaping mouths were every where you looked as the room turned towards the sound that rang in their ears. Dumbledore stood holding his cheek with his head turned after being hit by none other than…Molly Weasley. "How could you? All the summers we begged to take that boy in, all the times I begged for you to let us go to him. You knew! You knew and never said anything. Right now you are as much to blame for that boy's abuse as those wretched people are. Bloody hell Albus…what else have you hidden all these years? You should be ashamed of yourself!" With this Molly turned and left.
Arthur ran after her along with the twins. Bill gave Dumbledore a look that could kill and went to check on Ginny.
"Well, I guess this meeting is going to end early. Hope you feel better Harry, maybe next time we could do this in private." Dumbledore rubbed his cheek as he went into the office.
"Are you ok?"
Reaching for her hand he replied, "I'm fine Mi…just never expected that. I just wanted him to acknowledge that he made a mistake and feel bad about it so he would stop doing it." Remus noticing Hermione would be the best thing for him stood carefully trying not to distract them. He and the others began to ease out of the kitchen as the two continued talking. "What do I do now? I never meant for this to divide the Order, just didn't want him to lie anymore."
"This is not your fault Harry, maybe you just needed to let go of a few secrets of your own. How come you never told Ron and me?"
"Do you really have to ask? My life was humiliating already and then I enter a world were everyone claims I am a hero. How do you deal with that? It was bad enough wearing those clothes, at least in my uniform I was like everyone else and the other times I could hide behind robes and cloaks. But what do you say to people that believe you saved them all when you couldn't help yourself?"
Letting out a breath, "Oh Harry…I'm not sure what to say or do anymore than you but I think you proved tonight that you need to talk to somebody." She pulled him into an embrace. They both felt the comfort wash over them leaving behind a warm relaxing feeling. After awhile Hermione pulled apart. "You need to talk to someone about all this, especially Professor Dumbledore. He regrets it, you could see it more and more in his eyes with every word you said. Are you sure he didn't know? Are you really sure?" He just shook his head no and took a deep breath.
"You win, I'll go find him if you agree to come too."
"Alright." With this they stood up holding hands and left the kitchen.
As he stood lost in his own thoughts a knock came from the door. "It's open."
"Albus" Minerva McGonagall poked her head in, "I came to see if you needed a friend?"
"Do I have any left?" He gave a faint chuckle. "He succeeded didn't he? Wanted to show everyone how I get the needed results; only telling half truths." He was silent in thought until he turned to face her. Sighing with immense regret he continued, "I didn't know Minerva. I really didn't know it was that bad. I suspected neglect but never abuse. Emotionally maybe; but never mentally or physically. How do I ever make this better?"
"I don't think you can; only time can heal Harry's wounds. I do believe he is on his way though. They say the first step is to tell someone…he most certainly did that tonight."
Nodding, "Yes; yes he did. The real question is whether or not the Order will survive it though."
"It will Albus, just give them time. It may help if you start being completely truthful with us." She gave him her best no nonsense look where her lips formed a tight line almost becoming invisible. Then a knock sounded. "Come in."
Hermione walked in followed by Harry. Albus's head shot up hopefully and he steeled himself for whatever may come. "Lemon drop?" offering a crystal dish of candy towards the two youngsters. "No, alright then; what may I do for you?"
"I think I will just take my leave now…"
"You don't have to Professor, please stay. It would help." The three waited patiently as Harry gathered his thoughts. "I'm sorry I unleashed like that during the meeting. I am not sorry that I told but I know enough to realize the Order can not be divided at this time. Where we stand is still unknown to me but it has come to my attention," giving Hermione a wink, "that I should have at least asked if you knew. How much did you know?" Seeing Dumbledore's silent consideration he added, "How much truthfully did you know, deciphering what to and what not to tell me will only make me angrier."
Seeing the meaning in his face Albus decided to hold nothing back. "I knew you lived in the cupboard…I just thought that was a mild price to pay for your safety. I knew of limited proportions of food but knew it was enough to sustain you. I did not know about the withholding of it…for that I am deeply sorry." He sighed, the years showing on his face, no twinkle left in his eye. "I knew you had no friends, I thought you did well in school but did not know of the consequences. My dear boy, I hope you can accept my sincerest apologies. An old man's fear for saving you from one harm left me blind to the others. I can not change that for you, I can only promise to help make it better, to learn how to make amends to you."
"You want to make amends? Ok…I know what I want."
"Harry, what are you doing?" frantically Hermione asked knowing how Harry sometimes did not think things through.
"Making amends." Turning back to face his headmaster he squared his shoulders, crossed his arms, and continued, "I want you to use your legilimency skills to see the life you imprisoned me in."
"That is an unusual request; may I ask what this might prove for you Harry?"
"Simply knowing…for you to see why I resent you so much right now. I don't think you can truly know until you see what you forced upon me, only then can you truly regret it or understand it. Then you can explain to me why I was never allowed to go with friends even when I begged you. I want to see the pain I have felt in your face, I want you to see that your version of keeping me safe only made me want to kill myself, then you can explain how you planned on saving me from myself. Then you can explain to the Order why you only told half truths, but I want you to do it knowing what I went through! All of it, every painful day of wanting to die. Trust me when I say it will make your explanations seem down right stupid and selfish."
"I see you have given this some thought. I accept your offer; if you like we may begin next week."
"Next week then. I suggest you get back to your meeting." With this they proceeded back to the kitchen finding everyone else waiting.
Taking their seats again next to Remus and Tonks, several pairs of concerned eyes followed Harry. "Is everything alright? I saw you going into the office?"
"It's fine I just want to finish this and go on my date."
Remus smiled and gave him a nudge, "I see you still have your priorities intact."
"Shut up Moony," replying while rolling his eyes.
"Well, this has been eventful; Mr. Potter would like us to continue if that is alright." Seeing everyone agree he began. "Now that you all know the prophecy, you can understand why it is important to keep Harry as safe as possible and why I have never taken care of Voldemort myself. Are there any questions?"
"Why did you wait to tell him? He spent all last summer here and we could have been giving him extra lessons."
"Because of the underage magic law I am sure you are familiar with Miss Tonks."
"Oh please Albus, these kids and every other generation has found a loop hole to that, these kids did their own rooms using magic, did you think any of us had that much time to spare?"
"Alastor, surely you aren't suggesting…"
"You know damn well what I am suggesting Albus! These kids aren't stupid; you should have let them in the Order last year. What I saw that night at the ministry was remarkable; very few aurors could have done what those kids did. Bloody hell, they aren't even afraid to say his name; most of the adults in this room can't do that. As for Potter, that boy needs more dueling skills if he is going to go up against Voldemort. Oh stop your shuddering it's nonsense people!'
"Alastor, are you suggesting Albus initiates these kids?"
"That's exactly what I am saying; I am also telling him to turn around when I give my spare wand to Harry for practice!"
Harry's eyes went wide, "Are you serious Mad-eye?"
"Of course boy, don't you want this to end sooner rather than later?"
"You can't do that Moody…"
"Don't give me that crap Arthur, you ran around with your father's spare wand every summer causing mayhem."
Mr. Weasley turned several shades as an explosion took place among the Weasley children. "How could you never tell us…"
"Why didn't you let us use yours…"
"That's unfair…"
The room really broke out in laughter as Ginny simple walked over to her dad and stuck out her hand. "Fine, but you better not get into any trouble with it." His little girl just gave a smirk and walked back to her seat.
Fred said, "Man, the girl always gets…"
"…everything." George finished.
"I'll just pretend I didn't see that along with all the aurors in the room. Now, getting back on track again, Alastor I have asked the children to stay to do just that. Join the Order if they wish…"
"WE DO!" Ginny and Ron shouted at the same time.
The adults chuckled at their anticipation; Dumbledore, Remus, Tonks, and the Grangers noticed Harry and Hermione looking anxious and talking to each other in hushed voices. "Isn't this what you wanted?" Tonks asked.
"I thought you would be more excited." Remus stated.
Taking a deep breath Hermione looked each of them in the eye before speaking, "I'm sorry, but we must decline your invitation at this time." The room sat still.
Ron immediately reacted, "What do you mean? We have been wanting this since last year. Have you gone mad?"
"No Ron, we just don't feel…that it is right at this time."
"What are you talking about mate?"
Hermione giving him a warning look that this conversation was for another time replied, "Ron, this isn't the time."
"What she is trying to say is…I don't think I am in the right frame of mind to pledge loyalty to people I don't trust." Once again the room was shocked and whispering. "Albus and I have some…issues…to resolve. This does not mean I will not help or would like to know whatever information is given. Matter of fact, earlier today Remus helped me make a transfer into the Order's account at Gringotts."
"You are just full of surprises lately boy, care to give us more details?" grunted Moody.
Remus spoke up, "I'll be happy too. Harry was very generous with his inheritance and his desire to help us fight Voldemort by donating one million galleons to our cause." The room broke out in excitement as Ron and Ginny's faces fell. "The money to buy extra wands, more invisibility cloaks or whatever might be most useful to us. Maybe this action and now knowing the prophecy, we could make an exception for Harry. Maybe he could help us and we can share information with out him taking the oath as long as he promises to train harder now knowing what his destiny is."
Dumbledore gave this great consideration, "Harry did you make this donation to help or to buy your way into the Order?"
"To help, otherwise I wouldn't have declined your membership offer."
Smiling, the twinkle returned to his eyes, "You understand I had to ask; just to be safe and clear any wrong ideas some may have."
"Yes sir, I figured you would or that some may think that."
"Shall we continue, Mister Weasleys and Miss Weasley; that is if you still wish to join, would you come up here please." The four red heads nodded and walked towards the front. "If you would be so kind as to pull out your wands. Arthur, Molly would you like to help with the honors?" They nodded and came to the front, Arthur looking very proud and Molly with sadness on her face at the eagerness her children showed to join a deadly war. "Remus, since you were their teacher would you join us." Remus walked to Hermione and Harry instead.
"Are you sure about your decisions?"
"I think I have enough of a roll in this war with out taking an oath thanks," Harry replied giving a small smile. "Hermione can choose to take it if she wants." Turning to look at her again, "I am ok if you do, don't feel you shouldn't because of me."
Smiling at Remus, Hermione turned her eyes to Harry, "No thanks Remus; I have enough to do with out an oath as well. I will be helping Harry learn everything he can as well as school work too. Besides, I don't think I am in the correct frame of mind to pledge loyalty when I have so many negatives feelings. Although, I wouldn't mind the exception being extended to include me as well; I do care about each of you and want to help." She paused and looked Remus in the eyes. "I don't need an oath or the Order to help fight Voldemort; I have been doing it beside Harry for almost six years now…my loyalty is to him."
Remus smiled and placed a hand on her arm, "You always were wise beyond your years." With this Remus joined the group at the front.
"Now if you four will each grab the other end of one of the children's wands…and if you kids would repeat after me."
As the four youngest Weasleys pledged their loyalties to the Order of the Phoenix by repeating the oath after it was said by each order member a golden glow began to surround their hands connected to the wands. Fascinated by this, Hermione and Harry watched their closest friends pledge to fight Voldemort. Hermione squeezed his hand assuring him he had made the right decision when she saw doubt appear in his eyes. "Second guessing yourself isn't good for you."
Slightly winking, "I know, can't help it though a lot of my good ideas have been very wrong. I'll be fine." Leaning over closer to her ear he added; "To be honest, I didn't really think Ron would do it. He usually talks real big, but sometimes you never know. He was amazing our first year when he sacrificed himself during that chess match. Things like that he's really good at, but other times, like when the Order does stake outs or something…I just don't know. I hope he realizes how serious this is, it's so much more than our little adventures around school. This is life or death stuff every time he is called."
"He'll be ok, he has to be."
As the wands stopped glowing the members let go and told the four younger ones to look at their wands. It was magnificent, on the bottom tip of their wands was a minute phoenix engraved in gold, barely visible. Dumbledore explained, "This will allow us to reach you when you are needed. Barely noticeable vibrations will alert you to our desire to reach you. Do not worry about what happens if your wand is not near by, I have here bracelets that are in tune with your wands to alert you at all times. As soon as the clasp is latched it will become invisible and unbreakable. Congratulations and welcome to the Order. We will discuss the arrangements later to work around school. This meeting is adjourned."
Everyone crowded around to welcome the newest members, Harry and Hermione waited in the back of the kitchen patiently. As the crowd cleared Hermione rushed over hugging all four each in turn. "We're so proud of you. I know how much you wanted this; I am amazed your mom didn't argue anymore." Turning to the twins she added, "How did you get your dad to agree this afternoon."
Grinning ear to ear they answered, "We showed him…"
"…exactly how useful our inventions could be…"
"…and that our store was a good cover for them to enter and exit…"
"…Diagon Alley with out much suspicion." Ending with high fives to each other, they joined Bill in the corner.
"So what do you guys want to do now? We have to do something to celebrate."
"Bloody hell mate, I never thought I would be joining and you wouldn't. It feels different. Weird in away…how come you never told us?" he looked down afraid of Harry's temper.
He knew this was coming, he was just hoping to put it off longer, "I didn't want anyone to know. I was so grateful when you and the twins saved me in our second year, but I was extremely embarrassed by it too. I don't want your pity anymore than you would want it for not having a lot of money. I hope you understand, mate."
Placing a hand on his arm Ginny asked, "Why would you think we wouldn't understand? Besides, we care about you Harry…you're like family. I just hope you aren't as jealous as bozo here." She punched Ron in the arm and smiled, "So it's true, you're the one to finish it. Guess you were right Hermione…"
"Wait a minute; you two talked about this?"
"Duh…after what happened first year Hermione suspected it. Then I told her I could hear you and Tom talking in the chamber…I knew you were the target and just confirmed it for her; every year after that was just more and more proof. I hope you're not mad that I never told you that…you know about hearing and stuff." She looked down at her shoes while her cheeks turned red.
"So, what are we doing to celebrate…"
Bill interrupted the foursome, "Mum and Dad said they want to take you two out to eat ice cream, Charlie is going to meet us. Harry, Hermione ya'll are welcome to come as well."
"Thanks but I think I just want to hang out here. Harry's free to go though."
"Thanks but this has been a really long week so I think I am going to hang here as well, maybe some other time."
"Ok suite yourselves. Let's go…everyone is waiting." With this Bill led Ron and Ginny to the fireplace. After the last Weasley left Hermione turned to Harry with her eyebrow raised and mischievous grin, "So Mr. Potter, where are you taking me on our date?"
Barreling thru the door around two in the morning Remus tried to quiet the group. "People…sleeping…hate to wake them."
"Moony it doesn't work when you are laughing just as hard! Bugger, I stubbed my toe." Unfortunately this set the others off again as she stumbled. "Shameful, all of you are just shameful." She claimed trying to keep a straight face.
"Who's hungry? I am headed to the kitchen for a snack."
"I think I'll join you love," with this the Granger's headed off.
"Hey Tonks, how about we grab that bottle of Firewhiskey and all join them for another drink?"
"Cor!" Tonks headed up the stairs as the remaining three headed towards the kitchen.
"EWW! SO GROSS! MUST YOU TWO DO THAT IN FRONT OF ME?" Hermione had just caught her parents at another serious round of snogging. "First in the club and now here too!" She threw her hands in their air in the sat down with a thump.
"Look who's talking! I have caught you and Harry twice already…I swear you two are just like your parents." Remus fell off the bench laughing.
"What did I miss?" Tonks asked as she placed the bottle on the table and summoned glasses over to her. "Everyone up, come on…how about a toast?"
"To a fun filled evening of dancing, may my daughter realize how lucky she is that Harry is a fast learner." The group giggled as they cried out in a chorus of hear hear.
"Hold up have to add another one, Tonks filled the glasses again. "To…come on lift your glasses, we know you do this at school, trying to act all innocent, HA…where was I? Oh yes, to Harry and Hermione, might their new relationship be happy and prosperous…but if you touch her in any manner that is unbecoming of a gentleman…I will have to hurt you. CHEERS!" The adults laughed at seeing the terrified expressions on the two teen's faces.
"Calm down, he's only joking…that's just what a father does. Now I believe I have had more than enough and need to go sleep. Good night." She hit the floor as soon as she stood tripping again. "BLOODY HELL!"
Trying to control the laughter, "Come on Nymphadora…I'll help you." He ducked as she took a swing for using her first name. "Going to have to be quicker than that." he teased.
"I think we are going to bed too. Take this away dear, they have had enough. Don't stay up to late. Night." With this only Harry and Hermione remained. Having watched her parents leave she turned around to find emerald eyes locked on hers.
"Did you want to head up too?"
"No, I've got to much energy left, besides…I'm not too sure about those stairs." She giggled. "I had fun tonight. Thanks."
"My pleasure…how about we help each other with those stairs? I still can't believe they let us drink…do you really get to have wine at dinner and all?" Hermione just nodded her head up and down while she propped up on her elbow watching him. "Come on, up you go Mi." he held out his hand to help her up trying to balance the both of them; leading her up the stairs.
"Want to sit up in your room and talk? I don't think I could sleep yet." Entering his room he took a seat on the couch pulling her into his lap.
"So, care to tell me where you learned those moves Mi?" he lifted an eyebrow in curiosity as he twirled her hair around his fingers.
"How come you call me that? You never did before."
"I'm sorry; I can stop if you want. To be honest I don't really know, but I think you are avoiding my question."
"Alright, my favorite movie was Dirty Dancing. I also took a lot of classes before Hogwarts, my parents won a salsa contest one time, I guess I get it from them. You surprised me tonight by dancing as much as you did…you're good!"
"Maybe I just had a good teacher, besides dancing like that with you was enough to make anyone want to dance all night." He kissed her soundly and thoroughly leaving both of them gasping for air. "Wow, I still haven't gotten used to that. Hell, I still haven't gotten used to you letting me do that." They laughed.
"Dance with me?" the softness in her eyes would have made him say yes to do anything. He could stare at them forever; he still couldn't believe that he had never noticed them before.
"Mi, there's no music."
"You have a wireless over on your shelf Harry" giving him that look she always had when she stated what should have been obvious. "We're sure to find something; do you know how Tonks even knew about that underground club? I hear they constantly move."
"No idea, but it was really cool. Here how about this?" he had it tuned to a popular dance station. "May I have this dance mi lady?"
"But of course."
Placing his hands on her hips as hers wound around his neck the two began to sway to the rhythm. Feeling brave after all those shots he began to vary his movements. As she moved closer to him he began a small thrusting motion, she changed with him. She grabbed his arms and leaned backwards deciding to swivel her hips against his, he followed her rhythm as he placed a hand behind her neck bringing her back up. His nose lightly brushed hers as he slowly and teasingly leaned in to kiss her. Never missing a beat. She traced his lips with her tongue; he opened them to allow her tongue entrance to his. The song sped up again as their tongues entwined fighting for possession of ownership to his mouth. She was driving him crazy the way she moved her hips. As she broke the kiss she turned putting her back against his chest. He grabbed her hands, placing one on her stomach and leaving the other at their side. As she circled her hips he began to kiss her neck, slowly licking and nibbling; not missing an inch. She let go of his hand at the side deciding to place it in his hair. Slowly reaching behind her, his hand decided to rub her side that was left exposed as her hips did a taunting figure eight against his hips. Twisting her upper body she captured his mouth in a ravishing kiss as they continued dancing, grinding their hips in time to the music…
Harry moaned as the bright light began to creep in thru the windows. Deciding to close the drapes around the bed to continue sleeping he went to move. What the bloody hell…He froze as he looked down to see the top of Hermione's head. She looks so peaceful. She had one arm across his waist and the other curled up under her chin as her head rested on his chest, one leg in between his. I could get used to this. Her weight feels…comfortable on top of mine, she seems to fit in every curve of my body, like a puzzle. Why is she here though, in my bed…what if someone catches her here? Ok, I remember dancing; we had a few shots, then more dancing, then the kissing. Who could forget the snogging? A smirk full of mischief appeared as he began to feel his body grow warm. Bending he gave her a sweet kiss on her forehead. Without realizing he was even doing it he began stroking his fingers thru her hair. Just a few more minutes of sleep, then I will wake her so she can sneak back to her room. Bloody hell... this must be a hangover. He drifted into a deep sleep.
"Where is she? She should be in her room? Did you check every room?"
"Yes we checked every room. We even tried to ask Tonks but we couldn't find her either."
"Did you ask Harry, he'd know."
"He isn't up yet. Where did they go last night anyway, all of them are asleep, even the Grangers?"
He thought he heard foot steps, or was it a dream, he wasn't sure but his head was splitting. I'll just stay here, I am comfortable. Suddenly remembering Hermione was with him, he pulled her closer. "Mi, Mi you have to get up. Come on." Gently shaking her, "Mi, hey sleeping beauty, wake up."
"Maybe my prince should try a kiss; works better." She said groggily placing her chin on his chest to kiss him. It was a sweet gentle kiss that grew to ravishing; until she pulled away instantly. "Oh Merlin, we're in your bed…together."
Silently laughing, "Glad you noticed. I was beginning to wonder if this was new for you since you were acting so calm about it."
She playfully slapped his chest, "Please. What time is it anyway?"
"According to the clock…almost noon. Does your head usually hurt this much afterwards?"
"No, mum and dad usually stop me after one or two…but since they were a bit sloshed they didn't seem to care. Or, they just didn't notice." Laying her head back down she moaned; "hurts to move."
"Aren't you worried about getting caught here? Granted I could get used to this but after your dad caught us in your room…"
Sighing, "Maybe your right, but I think I like this a lot. It's like your shoulder was made just for me. Very comfort…able." She yawned, "besides your arms have become my favorite place. Could you do me a favor?"
Feeling larger than life at that comment he asked, "What?"
"Hold me like you don't want me to leave." This request he was glad to accommodate as he tightened his embrace.
"HERMIONE JANE GRANGER WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?" Both teens shot up as the door slammed open, apparently having fallen back asleep. Hearing shouting half the house came running into his room as Mrs. Weasley stood in his door way. Madder than ever!
"Uh, good morning Mrs. Weasley…"
"Don't give me that. Your parents will be furious when they hear about this."
"Mrs. Weasley I promise…"
"If I were you Harry I would keep my mouth shut, you'll be in enough trouble as well."
From the hallway Harry heard Remus trying to get thru as the room became crowded causing Hermione to throw the covers up over her head. "What the hell is going on Molly…Oh…Good morning Harry, sleep well?" Moony was trying hard to keep a stern expression on his face.
"Mornin' Moony, nice sheet, sleep well?"
Remus realizing he was wrapped only in a sheet grinned wickedly, "what sleep?"
As most of the house broke out in laughter and began to disburse Molly did not seem pleased. "Remus, this is not appropriate it for these two. You are incorrigible!"
"Molly, calm down. I know they shouldn't have but seeing Harry is fully clothed I doubt much happened. Besides, don't you think this is a little out of your place since I am his guardian? Thanks for being concerned though, I'll take it from here." With this Mrs. Weasley turned around and stormed out. "It's safe to come out now Hermione."
Very timidly Hermione's head slowly appeared, "Good morning Remus?" her voice was shaky after seeing his anger last night. "How much trouble are we in?"
Finding this amusing he laughed softly, "Not to bad, but would somebody explain to me how this came to be?"
"That's the kind of foggy now that you mention it."
"Not sure myself either…bloody hell my head hurts." Harry nodded gently in agreement.
"Drink much you two? Here let me help…guess I don't have my wand on me." Remus realized amused at himself. "Guess me being dressed like this is more incriminating than you two in bed. Probably should leave now." He was gradually backing towards the door. "I do suggest you return to your room Hermione and please get to your parents before Molly does…I should probably go smooth things over with her. Is she always this over excited?"
"YES" they said simultaneously.
There's eyes widened as Remus bumped into something…make that someone. "Nice attire Lupin? Get any sleep? By the way, Molly already beat you too it." Mrs. Granger peered around from behind. "Good morning Harry, Hermione" raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms across her chest she asked, "care to explain?"
"Not what it looks like?" Hermione answered wearily.
"I did hope to have at least one more year before I heard that line." Remus laughed as he crossed the hall. "Seeing how you are both still wearing clothes from last night I would assume you stayed up talking and fell asleep. If I am wrong…please don't tell me."
Getting out from under the covers, "No mum, you're not wrong…I just wish everyone would lower their voices."
"Yes, I guess that could be your father's and my fault…we did not realize we gave you that much. What is that stuff made of…potent! Tonks assures me her and Remus can cure our hangovers with some spell. Although I should let you suffer thru it like most of us do when we get sloshed for the first time." Seeing their terrified faces she giggled, "but I won't. Just don't let this happen again. Need to go wake your father seeing that we have already slept thru the day. Harry, I like you but if something…unexpected did ever occur…I trust you are responsible enough. I am too young to be a grandmother." She turned and exited gracefully laughing as she heard. "MUUUM!" as Hermione dived back under the blankets.
Harry laughed trying to coax her out from the covers again. "Mi, come on…it could have been worse."
"How? This is so humiliating. How could it be worse?"
As if on cue the door swung open to reveal a very mad Ron. "Like this" is all Harry said. Hermione groaned and threw the covers back over her head.
"What the bloody hell do you think you are doing mate? How could you? What the hell happened that set my mother off in a right state? Well, are you going to answer me?"
"If you would just stop yelling long enough I would."
"Hermione, don't you think you should get out of his bed now?" he glared barely holding his temper in tact.
This just added to her anger, "First of all Ronald, I am not your sister and you need to get over this tantrum…and soon! You're just jealous. Harry and I are together and you need to accept that. We can do as we please." With this she turned and ravishly kissed Harry. Pulling away Harry tried to smooth things over between his best friends.
"Hermione, I don't think that helps."
"So, he is just acting childish."
"I am not!"
"You are too! You are still sore about me turning you down in our fourth year…it infuriated you that I still wrote to Viktor and now you are mad because I chose Harry. Get over it!"
"ENOUGH ALREADY!" he put both hands on his forehead trying to ease the pain. "Can't you two stop this bickering all the time?"
"She is in your bed, mate. I think that says a lot!'
"You are making more out of this than it seems. Stop jumping to conclusions. It was all innocent if you want to know."
"What I would like to know is where you were? You turn a celebratory dinner down with us saying you're tired, having sworn all day nothing was going to change and then you aren't even here when we get back, only to find you waking up in the middle of the day…in the same bed."
"Hi guys, sorry…he can be a little uptight sometimes."
They waved at Ginny. "Ron I think you should leave it alone."
Turning to glare at her, "You can't be serious? This doesn't bother you…they lied to us!"
"We didn't lie to you! Our parents didn't want us sitting alone while you guys were out and offered to take us to some club Tonks said we could go dancing at."
"HA, he doesn't even like to dance!"
Wickedly grinning, "Oh I can't say that now mate…dancing is very nice." Hermione blushed as he winked.
Ginny giving a curious grin asked, "Showing Harry some moves Hermione? Maybe we should talk in your room? Meet you there in five." As she walked by her brother she placed a hand on his shoulder, "By the way brother dear…if you would ever get a girlfriend you would know that waking up in your honey's arms is the best!" She winked and walked out swinging her hips.
"Bloody hell! If I get my hands on him…GINNY!" he turned running after her.
"Guess Ginny really saved us there."
"Yeah, but it doesn't look so good for Dean," he was remembering the wonderful feeling thinking Ginny had to be right. Turning to embrace her he leaned back on a pile of pillows, "I still had a great time though."
"Me too," she said smiling again and cuddling closer to him. "Too bad we had to wake up to all of this." They sat there for a few minutes quietly, "maybe we should go get that spell from Remus, he's probably still across the hall getting dressed." Harry stood and helped her up. Never letting go of her hand they went to find Moony.
"Oh bugger!" they suddenly found the door slammed in their faces after having been screamed at.
Hermione gave him a surprised look, "Was that Tonks?"
Trying to stop laughing, "I think so. Explains the sheet…guess we aren't the only ones that had too much to drink." He knocked as he opened the door. Remus was laughing and trying to coax Tonks from out of the covers.
"So, this is why you weren't too hard on us? Hermione, don't you find this funny?"
Catching on she chimed in, "I find it ironic myself." Suddenly throwing her hands over her eyes, "Don't you dare get up Moony!"
Harry and Remus laughed both already knowing Remus had found some of his clothes and was already dressed. "It's alright to look – I already showered and got something on Hermione."
Blushing, "Oh sorry"
"Now, would you mind letting me know what you came in here for?"
"We came to get the cure for our splitting headaches. Please, we're begging"
"They do look a bit green, what do you say Nymph, should we?"
She popped out of the covers glaring at Remus as if a single look could kill. The two teens laughed uncontrollably at this pet name. "Sure…Wolfie." With this Moony attacked full force tickling her. One look gave Hermione all the encouragement she needed. Jumping on the bed to help him out a tickling war began . "Not fair, not fair!" is all one could hear from Tonks.
Finally after they were all showered and dressed, Tonks having removed their hangovers, Ginny and Hermione's chat, Remus smoothing over things with Molly, the teens sat in the parlor. Ron and Harry playing chess, Ginny and Hermione sitting on the floor talking; Kingsley brought in the owl post. "Hogwarts letters arrived this morning."
"Thanks Kingsley!" The teens gathered around him ripping open their letters.
"What classes did you take, mate? This is going to be an easy two years. I have Divination, Care of Magical Creatures, and DADA. Lots of time for Quidditch!"
"Three classes, that's it?"
"It was all I could take Gin, besides I'm going to go work with Charlie afterwards or maybe the twins."
"What do you have Harry, do we have any classes together? Let's see." She stuck hers next to his.
Ancient Runes, Arithmancy, Astronomy, Care of Magical Creatures, Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Herbology,
Potions, and Transfiguration. "Just three classes different but you will have Quidditch, I am sure Dumbledore will reinstate you. I can't believe you took all those advanced classes."
"Yeah Harry, were you drunk then too?"
"Very funny Ron, keep laughing. Just remember you have to deal with my bad moods after potions with Snape."
"I don't think so…that's your girlfriends job!"
"Is not! Speak for your self Ron; I have more classes than both of you together. Hey Gin, if you want all my notes you can borrow them, you have a rough year ahead."
"Hey guys, aren't you over looking something?" Seeing the famous trios confused expressions, she smiled, "School supplies? Diagon Alley?" Excitedly they went to find the adults.
The Leaky Cauldron was full of patrons as the group entered from muggle London. Remus kept Harry close to him as they walked out into the courtyard only having spoken to Tom the bartender. "Now remember stay together, you kids don't go off with out taking one of us with you. Have your wands?"
"Come on Moody, they know…they also have the wands we borrowed. We'll all meet up at Fortuna's ice cream parlor." With this they walked thru the archway. Hermione and Tonks went into the pet emporium to buy items for Crookshanks and Hedwig some owl treats. The Weasleys went to Gringotts while Lupin and Harry headed over to the apothecary where they bought his and Hermione's supplies plus some extra for the Order. It was a beautiful day as Remus, Tonks, Harry and Hermione sat outside having ice cream and telling stories from the night before. "So did you guys have a good date? Have to hand it to you Harry – you got some moves."
Meekly he said thanks. "Hermione gets all the credit for that one, before last night I couldn't dance at all."
"You better learn quick since your supplies list included dress robes, which usually means a ball." Hermione's face lit up as Harry's looked a little panic. "You'll be fine, you already have a date." Realizing this he smiled and took Hermione's hand.
"Tonks is right; will you go with me if there is a ball?"
"I would love to. So how exactly did you two end up together anyways?" She asked feeling brave.
Smiling like a devil Remus decided to answer, "Oh, she just wanted to see how page 22 was done right!" Harry laughed as Tonks hit Moony square in the chest turning red. "Watch it, that hurt Nymph."
"You better be careful Wolfie, I may have to kill you next time you call me that."
"You sure didn't mind last night when you were thanking Merlin over and over." With this Hermione and Harry both almost came out of their seats laughing.
"What is this about?" Molly asked as they approached the table ice cream in hand.
Tonks quickly answered, "Nothing, absolutely nothing." The other three continued to wipe tears out of their eyes. "So how did the trip to the bank go?"
"Fine." Harry gave Remus a cautious look.
Ginny, Hermione, Harry and Ron saw several friends from school while they enjoyed their treats. Surprised that Neville and Luna were now a couple, Ginny asked them to pull up a chair and join them. They also spoke to the Patil twins, Pavarti and Padma; Lavender Brown, Susan Bones, Justin Finch-Fletchy, Michael Corner with Cho Chang, and a few other friends from the DA group they formed last year to practice defense. Several asked if they would be continuing it. Harry shrugged unsure of the answer. After the ice cream parlor, the group headed to the Quidditch shop where Harry bought a new set of Quidditch balls for the house and a broom servicing kit when a thought struck. "Remus, do you think it would be ok if I bought a new broom?"
"Firebolt isn't good enough for you anymore or what?
"It's just…it was from Sirius and…I would hate it if something happened to destroy it." Seeing the guilt rise in his eyes, Remus agreed remembering what happened to his Nimbus 2000. Upon asking the sales clerk, they discovered it was still the best broom and only had a few additional charms that you could purchase. Harry asked Remus to buy it for him trying not to get a scene from Ron. "He's my best friend but when it comes to money, he can kind of be embarrassing, especially with the shopping we already did."
"Not a problem, I'll just say I need to run an errand for the Order and need your help ok?"
"Thanks. Can we go then to get Hermione's birthday present?"
"That would probably be a great time; do you know what you are going to get her?"
"Not a clue!" Moony gave him a pat on the back while grinning, remembering the awkwardness at that age.
Harry and Remus met the others at Madam Malkins where everyone was busy trying on dress robes. "Where were you guys?"
"We had some errands to run. Did you find something to wear, Mi?"
"Still looking, I have been helping Ginny more than looking for myself. Do you know what you are getting yet?"
"No, why don't I let you pick it out."
"Really? I guess I could get Tonks to help me. Did you want to coordinate our robes or just pick whatever?"
"Whatever you want Mi, dress me oh mighty one I am in your hands." He grabbed her playfully as she squealed giggling.
Chaos filled the house as the group arrived home sending everyone running into the kitchen. It was then that they learned two of their own were missing…Dung and Kingsley. Surprisingly Ginny and Ron were immediately sent out on a mission with Amos Diggory and Madam Bones. Hermione and Harry stood against the far wall trying to be out of the way as they watched their friends leave by floo. Remus had orders to leave with a second group and Tonks was in turn staying to relay information. As the final group left, Tonks sat at the table with Harry and Hermione. "Parents still upstairs?" She only received a nod yes. "Tea anyone? I'm going to be making some any way."
"That sounds nice, need some help? URGH! I hate this part, the waiting, not knowing. Can't we come up with something better than just waiting?"
"What else could be done?"
"I don't know…I just hate this." She leaned her head on Harry's shoulder as he placed and arm around her waist. The minutes turned to hours, hours seem to take years. Still nothing, not even an update report. "How did this happen? What were they doing tonight?" All conversation stopped as the flames turned green. "Tonks?"
"SNAPE! What is it? I thought you were…"
"No time, Kingsley is at Malfoy Manor, dungeon on the third floor of the basement, he won't last much longer. Six guards, anti-apparition wards, no portkeys, the air is being watched too but not closely, and twenty two death eaters in all. Mundungus is dead." With this he was gone. Harry released a crying Hermione to be comforted by her parents as he helped Tonks call everyone back by using the fireplace in the office while she spoke to Dumbledore in the kitchen. Order members began returning instantly to regroup and come up with a plan to rescue Kingsley. He was one of their strongest; everyone knew but no one spoke about the well known fact he would take death before giving up information, time was of the essence. As Remus exited the floo Harry immediately started in, "I want to go. I want to be in on this Lupin…please?"
"Not now Harry, don't you think that is what they want. I won't let you; I will personally stun you if that is what it takes to keep you here."
"You can't be serious." With the glare that Remus shot at his direction left little doubt. Anger was beginning to build rapidly as Harry grabbed a vase smashing it against the opposite wall. In the kitchen the plan was forming. Portkeys would be used to get to the nearest town and brooms would be used from there. The mission would include ten members; Bill, Tonks, Remus, Dumbledore, Elphias Doge, Emmeline Vance, Mr. Weasley, the twins, and Ron. Ron looked nervously at Harry and Hermione. He had never fought with out them…his face was tight with anxiety.
"Be careful mate," was all Harry could say.
Hermione, Ginny and Mrs. Weasley each hugged his neck tightly.
Remus seeing the nervous look on Harry's face hugged Harry and whispered, "I promise to bring him home." Harry could only nod as he exited the kitchen. I should be going with him. He was half way up the stairs when they left.
Silence filled the night sky as ten brooms flew swiftly to Malfoy Manor. Tension surrounded them as they each prepared for what they were about to face. Seeing the enormous house in the distance they began to descend. As soon as they touched down they hid their brooms in the surrounding brush. "Ron, whatever you do stay with me!" Ron nodded as Moony joined the others. Dumbledore turned addressing the group, "Meet back here, we'll have maybe twenty minutes before more Death Eaters can show up. Try to stay together, stunners are our safest bet. Ron, stay close to Remus, you two will be looking for Kingsley. The rest of you give them as much cover a possible. Stay alert; we are going in blind as to what traps might be layed. With this he turned and cast a charm to unlock the door. Instantly hexes and curses began flying between the Order members and the Death Eaters. Taking cover at every turn, they made their way to the basement. Unknown to Ron they were actually being led by a battle between Dumbledore and a Death Eater. Snape. How Dumbledore knew was anyone's guess but it seemed to be working. Emmeline Vance cried out in pain as two death eaters hit her with the cruciatus curse. Tonks stunned one while Doge threw a sleeping curse at the other. The group was under heavy attack as they dodged trying to keep moving forward. Ron took out two death eaters before being hit with a slicing hex. The twins were held up in a hallway fighting Bellatrix, Tonks was throwing curses in every direction trying to cover Dumbledore and Snape with out blowing his cover, Remus was battling against one trapped in the hallway, and Ron was being attacked by two very burly men that he knew instantly as Goyle and Crabbe Sr. when he heard a voice he knew. Malfoy. Ron began shooting stunners as quickly as he could trying to get to Malfoy Jr. who was using crucio on Tonks.
"My poor poor cousin, chose the wrong side didn't you? You are as worthless as a mudblood…" Tonks was screaming in pain as her body felt like hot knives stabbing her every nerve. Ron charged straight at yelling, "Incendio!" The curse was lifted off of Tonks as Draco Malfoy's robe ignited in flames. Grabbing Tonks by the arm Ron helped her down the hallway where they found Lupin still trapped. Quickly shooting a bat bogey hex off Ron finally caught him in the shoulder. The three continued to run after Dumbledore finally reaching the third floor dungeons. The guards caught Remus with a stunner. Tonks was immediately engaged in battle ducking and rolling. Shooting off spells faster than Ron could count. A Death Eater managed to apparate behind Ron placing a dagger in his side. "Looky here, another Weasley comes to play…"
"Sod off" Ron yelled as he fought to break free from the death eaters grasp. Throwing his weight back he slammed his capturer into the wall repeatedly before being released where he turned quickly firing off a stunning spell. A blast sounded as Dumbledore blew open the cell door. Ron quickly cast the ennervate spell to revive Remus as Tonks held the other guards back. Coming to Dumbledore's aid, Remus threw Kingsley over his shoulder stunning Snape to cover their tracks. "Let's get out of here." The group ran back up to the main floor as quickly as possible just in time to see the fire ignite in green flames. Doge, being near by having dropped his wand, grabbed a fire poker and swung as soon as the first death eater stepped out. "Hurry." Everyone ran as fast as they could to their brooms, before kicking off Dumbledore silently counted heads to make sure no one was left behind.
The flight was silent and cold. Vance continuously threw curses over his shoulder in case of being followed. Ron kept one hand on his broom while he held his side to try and stop the bleeding.
Ginny paced. Mrs. Weasley cleaned. Hermione sat curled up rocking. Harry sat upstairs alone. All waiting for news; for some sign of hope. Nothing came; the fire burned, they still breathed, but the thoughts of those inside wandered to death. These were their friends and family; sons and daughters; brothers and sisters. They were their best friends.
So this is how Hermione and Ron felt at the end of the tournament. What do you do when you feel helpless? How do you help someone when you have no idea what they are going thru? Come home. Come home safe.
First Harry, now Ron. How much more waiting and wondering will there be until Voldemort is defeated. Can Harry defeat him? Can Harry live thru it? I wish he would let me be with him…he needs time. Time alone. Hurry up Ron, What is taking you so long?
Why couldn't I go? I could have helped? I did just fine at the Ministry last year…I could have helped my brothers; my dad… Urgh!
How could he have let those two join? How could he put them in this danger? If he comes back…no when he comes back I have a few things to tell that man. Why did my babies want to join a war? Don't they know this could mean…I won't think about that! I'll just…bloody hell, why can't I get this clean."
The fires still burned lower and lower. The clocks ticking rang in the silence. Then it happened. Yelling erupted as the returning portkey arrived; Doge calling out orders for helping the injured. The girls leaped up to help. Harry ran down the stairs three at a time. Kingsley was badly beaten and shaking having barely lasted thru the last rounds of the cruciatus curse. Tonks was bruised, weak, but fine. Some not so well. As Ginny ran to her brothers, Mrs. Weasley ran to Arthur and then in turn her children. Hermione ran to Ron seeing Harry run to Remus. Hermione kept a firm hold on Ron's neck 'til Harry arrived. "You ok mate?" Ron nodded obviously shaken and pale. As Hermione let him go she cried out. Everyone turned to see her clothes covered in Ron's blood as he collapsed onto the hallway floor. The rest was in slow motion to Harry…
Hermione sat holding his hand as Harry continued to read quidditch stats in a hushed whisper. Ginny paced in between the room with Ron and the room where George laid. Both were in a coma, both injured badly. Remus entered Ron's room, "You need to eat…Ron would." This gained a small smile from the two friends by his side. "This won't help him wake up, you know that right?"
Barely heard, a voice spoke, "I didn't know this was how awful it felt. All those times he sat by my bed and waited. Just waited. How do you do it? How do you just sit helplessly by and just wait?"
Hermione and Lupin's eyes met in deep concern. Harry wasn't taking this well and after Sirius, they didn't know if he could handle another loss. It was usually Harry everyone was praying for, not him alive and well praying for someone else. After all, he had lost his godfather just two months ago. Hermione gathering her strength and tightening her grip on Harry spoke. "You get used to it. Ron does what you do, he talks to you about quidditch, I worry and try to think of the better memories and pray. Ginny normally paces cursing worse than a sailor. Mrs. Weasley cleans; we all have a way to handle it. It's all different ways but it helps us. You, you are going to hold my hand, you are going to talk to Remus as much as you can, and when Remus isn't by your side…you'll tell Ron quidditch stats for the Cannons. It's the only thing you can do." With this Harry squeezed the hand he was holding of hers and gave Remus's hand on his shoulder a pat. Then he began with this week Cannons game stats.
It had been three days; George was up and about although weak. Fred was taking care of him with Angelina's and Alicia's help at their apartment above the store. Ron still slept. Ginny, Hermione, and Harry had all taken to sleeping in the room huddled together for support. Mrs. Weasley sat at Ron's bed brushing his hair out of his face. Tonks would bring meals to them when she could. The attacks had stepped up. Voldemort was attacking openly in muggle communities all over. Harry had begun his extra training with different order members who had time; surprisingly Moody took the time more than anyone.
"How's he doing Alastor?"
"The boy has a power I have never seen before Albus? Where it comes from is hard to tell. You should have been training this boy six years ago; we may not have come to this point again."
"I know; I know. It was foolish on my part to believe I could at least give him his childhood, whatever was left of one. I don't want to lose him Alastor…I see great things in him. I see myself in him. I do not wish upon his fate what I have been thru. He is just sixteen."
"Albus, you have to let it go. All those deaths were not your fault. They were so many years ago. Can he win Albus is the question; can he defeat Voldemort and keep his soul?"
The twinkle no longer showed in his eye, "That remains to be the unknown. That is my fear. That is what haunts my dreams. If we lose him…"
"We won't Albus, the consequences are too great."
"RON!" Ginny leaped on the bed hugging her brother as his eyes opened. Hermione was instantly calling down stairs to anyone that could hear. "You're awake. We have waited for days, how are you feeling?"
"Like hell! What happened?"
"Don't get up. You're kidneys are still healing; the poison is still in your blood as well. Although not as high as it was, you still have a fever."
Mrs. Weasley came in as a blur hugging Ron tightly to her. As the other Weasleys arrived Hermione and Harry took their leave. Harry had never felt such relief, not sure of what to do he grabbed her by the waist spinning her around and immobilizing her with a heated kiss. They pored all their feeling of relief, happiness, days of worry and everything else into that kiss; holding on for life as if the world's hope depended on it. As long as they could always find their way back here, life would still exist.
Everyone including Kingsley was in full recovery, the house buzzed with laughter and heartache as the attacks continued but Harry was faced with more agony. Lord Voldemort haunted his dreams, his scar continued to burn. Blood sometimes ran down into his eye. The Order had taken to watching him sleep to help break the connection to Voldemort when needed. The shakes left him more tired with each new attack but none watched him as close as Hermione. She could tell by the way he looked who Voldemort taunted his dreams with, she new the calendar was not on their side. She supported him while trying to get him to tell her. She sat and held his hand every night, refusing to leave. She was worn out and malnourished, her parents offering to watch Harry themselves if she would go get some rest. They finally compromised by watching as she slept next to Harry; it was these times that his night was peaceful.
"Remus it is you! You may not want to believe but I know Harry…I know him as well as I know myself. I watch him look at you, it is you this time, Voldemort knows! You have to believe me."
"It's not that I don't believe you Hermione, but what has Harry said to make you think this? I will be in a secure location, watched by a few members of the Order just incase. That is all any of us can do…unless Harry decides to tell us what he sees."
"DON'T YOU GET IT? HE CAN'T…if he speaks of it, he will be accepting it, it is what he doesn't want to do. The idea of losing you will be the end of him. Can't you see? Whatever he is seeing happens when you are gone for the full moon…when you are alone. Please Remus…I can't lose him to his guilt again, he won't survive if he loses you." Tears ran down her face.
"I'll talk to Dumbledore; that is all I can promise."