A/N: Well, it's about time I have a new chap up! I hope you like it. Thanks to all my reviwers and other readers.

Chapter 8: Vows and Tears

Amber was in the Headmaster's office. She was the only one he would trust for some unknown task. Now that she knew what it was going to be she wasn't so sure she wanted to do it either. She looked from the impassive face of her Potions Master to the understanding look she received from her great-great-great-grandfather. She closed her eyes and then got up drawing her wand as she did so.

Both men knelt and she raised her wand to their clasped hands. Albus asked the questions, "Severus will you do whatever I ask of you?"

"Yes, Headmaster"

"Will you do what ever you deem necessary to further the cause of the Order of the Phoenix?"

"Yes, Headmaster"

"Even if that means ending my life will you do as I ask?" Severus didn't answer for a moment, "Severus you must answer me."

"Yes Headmaster I will."

Amber stepped back from them as they got to their feet. Her face contorted with the effort of holding back her tears. Severus merely nodded to Albus and then exited. The old man stepped towards his granddaughter. She shook her head holding out an arm to stop him. Then she shut her eyes and stepped forward to hug him for a moment. She pulled back and walked out of the office.

The headmaster sighed, "He's the only one who will do it when the time comes. I know you care for him, but it has to be done."

"Yes, well, why she would even bother is beyond me," said a portrait behind him on the wall.

"Phineas, it isn't for you to say. She is not you; thank Merlin, and personally I think it may be good for him."

"Whatever you say Headmaster, I still don't agree."

Amber was crossing the entrance hall when a voice stopped her, "Ms. Hursman a moment of your time." It wasn't a question and she sighed. Then she turned to face him.

"Yes, Professor?" she said stressing the last word. He did not fail to notice it and scowled.

"Don't act like I want to do it!" He hissed at her. Her lips tightened and he was forcibly reminded of her great-great-great-grandmother. Her eyes flashed but she turned to walk away rather then argue with him.

She looked over her shoulder, "No, it's not that, I just don't think you realize how much…" then she shook her head and he thought he saw a tear slide down her cheek. Then she held up a hand and in a burst of flame her phoenix Ember was there. Then in the next moment they were gone leaving him standing there alone.

Harry sat brooding in Sirius' old room. Even though it was really his now, he would never forget sitting in here with Sirius last year. He sighed and looked back out the window at the chilling mist which hovered beyond. He looked up when the door opened. Amber and Hermione came in. He made to get up and leave but Amber shook her head. It was then that he noticed she'd been crying.

"What happened?" was all he asked as he stood upagain. Her eyes glimmered and then she closed them. Harry walked over to her concern written all over his face.

"No Harry it's ok, I'm fine don't worry. Hermione was looking for you and I suggested we come up here together." Then Amber looked at Hermione and with a nod and a smile she left the room.

"Are you ok, Harry?" she asked looking at him in concern. He shook his head and then walked back across the room. He was quiet for so long that she was about to go.

"I just, can't believe he's gone. You know, that he's not coming back?" He turned to look at her before returning his gaze to the window. Hermione bit her lip and took a few steps closer. She placed a hand on his arm.

"I know, I felt the same way when I read that letter." It took him a moment to realize what she was talking about then he turned to face her.

"Hermione," he held out his hand and placed a hand on her cheek, "I… when I wrote that I wasn't…" he trailed off not knowing what he was saying. She nodded as if she understood and then lent up and kissed his cheek.

"I know, remember Harry that we'd be lost with out you. I… I couldn't bare it if…" she shook her head unable to continue. He inhaled sharply and with trembling fingers reached out to touch her face. The door opened and they jumped away from each other.

Remus was standing there looking at them quizzically, "Am I interrupting something?" he asked a smile crossing his face.

"No" they answered at once.

He laughed and then stepped into the room, "Where have I heard that before? That's right Harry your parents told Sirius and I the exact same thing when we asked. The only reason I came up her was to tell you dinner's ready. Molly was worried about both of you. She says you're being very antisocial."

He then walked back into the hall and out of sight. This left Hermione and Harry in a very awkward silence. Harry finally broke it, "Let's go down stairs." She nodded and followed him as he headed to the kitchen.

A/N Well, I hoped you liked it. I'm sorry if there were any mistakes but I felt I'd withheld the chapter too long from you. Razz I'll get it to you as soon as I can.