Chapter Ten – New Year, New Plans
BananaCarrot-Five
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter. Harry Potter is owned by Warner Bros. Entertainment and J.K. Rowling.
January 4, 1991
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Platform 9 ¾ was bustling with excitement, as the Hogwarts students who had went home for Holidays were back. Neville and Hermione found each other only after the train had departed Kings Cross, and both chatted happily about their Holidays and, of course, about the gifts they received from Harry.
"I appreciate the Remembrall, Neville, though why did you get it for me?" Hermione asked, attempting to hold back a chuckle. Neville responded, smiling.
"Well, with everything we've done this year, I was worried you might forget something. After all, Remembralls-"
"Help you to remember things you forget," Hermione smiled. "Thanks again."
"Anytime," a smiling Neville responded. "Also, thanks for the painting. I had Trudy help me get it on my wall with a very strong Sticking Charm."
Nodding, Hermione smiled again. "I'm glad you like it, Neville. It is one of my favourites. Also, after the Sunset painting, drawing a room with stars and windows didn't seem too bad."
"I hope you keep painting. I'm sure me and Harry would both appreciate more paintings from you in the future."
Rolling her eyes, Hermione nudged Neville's arm. "If you boys are lucky this year, I might."
That evening, the Hogwarts Express pulled into Hogsmeade Station. To Hermione and Neville's surprise, Harry did not meet them at the platform as they hoped. Taking the carriages back up to the Castle, they found Harry asleep in the Library.
Poking him softly, Hermione sat down in the adjacent chair. "Harry? Harry? Wake up."
Harry shuffled in his sleep and finally woke. He looked up at Hermione with tired yet relieved eyes, as if he had been waiting for them to come back to Hogwarts. He smiled at her and extracted himself from the chair and walked out of the Library, mumbling a "Hi, Neville," as he passed.
"What happened to him?" Neville asked a slightly puzzled Hermione.
"I… I don't know. I doubt that Ron could do this to him?" She peered at her watch and gasped. "We are about to miss the Feast! Go find Harry, he's probably on his way to your Dorm! Meet me in the Great Hall!" Hermione bolted off and towards the Great Hall while Neville ran towards the Common Room.
\-0-0-/
Harry was not headed for the Common Room. He was headed back to that small room which held the Mirror of Erised, the Mirror which showed his deepest desire, the Mirror which showed him his parents. Ever since Professor Dumbledore had caught him over a week ago, Harry had tried to maintain his promise to not look for it. However, seeing the Fireworks four days earlier, and seeing the comfort that the other students showed each other plus the fact that Crookshanks and Hedwig were with him, it made him snap. Despite logic telling him it wouldn't be there, He had visited the room every night since in the slim hope the Mirror was there, so he could be with his parents.
Entering the room that Logic had already dictated was empty, Harry still fell to the floor and cried. Despite everything he knew, despite everything he told himself, he wouldn't believe his conscious when it told him he would find nothing. After a few hours and dried cheeks, Harry propped himself up against the wall and fell asleep.
\-0-0-/
Disillusioned in the opposite corner of the room, Dumbledore looked at the boy with sadness on his face. If anything was happening, he had just sown the first, but very small, seed of doubt that told him it was wrong to send him to the Dursleys that night in 1981. Dumbledore conjured a blanket and pillow for the young boy and soon enough, he was kept warm where he slept.
January 5, 1991
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
"…and then, the Minister stands up and says, 'Ladies and Gentleman, as Minister of Magic, I welcome you to the annual Ministry Ball' and then he and his wife did some dancing. I don't remember much after. I ran out and hid for the last four hours." Seamus finished to Dean and Neville.
"Wow, and my Gran did her formalities and left a few hours later. I didn't go this year." Neville stated. He looked over at the empty bed of Harry Potter. After waiting in the Common Room for about twenty minutes, hunger beat out and Neville went to the Great Hall. Hermione didn't mention much, she was hyper focused on making sure Harry was there, to which he was not.
Now it was the next morning, and Harry was still missing. Heading down to breakfast, Neville didn't find Hermione, but saw Professor McGonagall.
"Professor McGonagall, have you seen Harry?" Neville asked.
Professor McGonagall, remembering what Albus had told her late the previous night, nodded. "Mr. Potter is fine. He will join you when he is ready to."
Nodding quickly, Neville thanked his Professor and ran out of the Great Hall and to the Library, to where he assumed Hermione would be at this time of morning.
\-0-0-/
To his disappointment, Hermione was not in the Library; she was running through the halls of Hogwarts, looking for her best friend. After last night, Hermione knew that Harry wasn't normally like this. She had asked Ron, who had woken earlier that morning, if Harry was there and he replied with a yawning "no."
After running herself ragged for nearly an hour, her stomach convinced her that she needed to eat. Walking into the Great Hall, her eyes snapped to the back corner of the Gryffindor Table. Because there, peacefully eating, was none other than Harry Potter.
Eye widening, Hermione ran over to him as fast as she could and plonked herself right next to him.
"Harry Potter! Where have you been?! You didn't meet us at the Station, and you disappeared before dinner!"
Harry exhaled and looked down at his food. Hermione tilted her head. "Is everything alright, Harry?"
"No, but it's fine."
Hermione huffed slightly. "How can you not be fine and fine? That isn't possible."
Harry winced slightly. "Don't ask me about it, Hermione. Please?"
Hermione's first instinct was to repeat her question, but she took a second to think over what happened. Making her decision, she scooted a bit closer to Harry.
"Whatever it is, it'll be fine. Right, friend?"
Harry turned his head towards her, and her smile was one he couldn't ignore. Breaking into a small smile himself, he thanked her and continued to eat his breakfast. Hermione pulled some food for herself, and the two ate in peace.
\-0-0-/
Neville wasn't happy that Hermione didn't look for him when she had found Harry but understood when the pair continually interrupted the other when saying that they were eating breakfast.
The trio left the Library after a few minutes of back and forth conversation, intent on retelling each other of their Holiday.
\-0-0-/
January 10, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Hermione was exhausted, mentally and physically. It had been a rough week, not only for her, but for most of the school. It all started last week when she, Harry, and Neville started retelling stories from Holiday. It started out simple enough, but soon turned into a game of will he won't he with Harry. His story was broken, and Harry still seemed out of focus with everything. She couldn't put a finger on what was bothering him, however she didn't want to make him worry. By the end of their conversation, Harry was smiling a bit, even if his eyes showed it was almost forced. Damn her mother for doing that every time she came home from school; it made her automatically look to the eyes for honesty.
When Harry had told them he had gotten an Invisibility Cloak for Christmas, she had nearly squealed in surprise. Then, his arm was smacked by her when he told them about how he narrowly escaped Filch that same night in the Restricted Section of the Library.
That turned out to be the wrong thing to do, because Harry had rounded on her quicker than ever before when he had reminded him just who had recommended him to do that. Cheeks red, she nodded, apologized, and looked at her feet. Harry was calm after that.
Neville regaled tales of his Estate's Greenhouses, and thanked Harry for the Encyclopedia on the different plants. Hearing this and mentally kicking herself, she gushed to Harry about the notebook, and how she had started to write in it. Harry smiled slightly at that, a genuine small smile, at that.
Classes began like normal the next day. It was as if 1992 did something to the faculty, and every teacher assigned some sort of assignment due within various time periods over the next two weeks. It had taken her nearly ten minutes to convince the boys that she would help them with the work as long as they made a decent effort on it themselves.
That evening, Harry had smiled widely as he recalled the brilliant fireworks display on New Years by Professor Flitwick. How Crookshanks and Hedwig were with him. Talking about Crooks brought the furry orange half-kneazle out of his "room" (the space under her bed) where he rested peacefully on her lap until she carried him back to the dorm to sleep.
Tuesday had been similar, except she had been thinking about the fireworks show that Harry had told her and Neville about the night before. Classes were about the same, however, thankfully, no more homework was assigned. Her new notebook was used again, the vanishing Quill trick was something she wanted to know more about, but Harry remained tight-lipped on that. It was simply another thing that she thought he wasn't telling them.
Wednesday was slow, considering she found herself at the Quidditch Pitch, with Neville, at 6:00 in the morning, waiting for the Quidditch team to get out of the locker room. They did, of course, and she was starting to get used to seeing Harry do ungodly acts on his broom, such as barrel rolls, dives, sprints, and hard breaking. The fact that she got Potter Smiles almost all throughout now gave her the needed confidence to not stay afraid.
Unfortunately, she, again, saw how much he hated the day, despite it being Quidditch practice when she felt, no, knew that he loved flying without resistance. Double Potions, Defense, and History of Magic, all right after another. However, he pushed through like always. In the two months of their friendship, she had noted that he didn't exactly complain anymore, unlike the beginning of the year, where he had talked back to Professor Snape on several occasions. It was something that he was adapting to. Then again, she was adapting too. All in good ways.
Thursday was brilliant. Getting the hang of flying wasn't easy but being next to Harry while she was felt calming, and honestly, relaxing. Neville watching along was nice too.
And now, today. At least there wasn't Potions. However, she could still see that Harry was bothered and troubled by something. Logic dictated she should find out what was bothering him, and while she wanted to corner him to get him to tell her, her memory flashed to October, and shivers briefly went down her spine. No, she did not want to repeat that.
When Harry tossed himself onto one of the couches in the Common Room while the rest of the First Years went up to sleep, she decided to join him. The pair sat in near silence for about five minutes, before Harry spoke.
"I saw them."
"Them?"
"My parents."
She didn't know what to say, so she waited patiently.
"I saw them, and I felt… I felt… whole. Like I was reconnected to a lost part of me that I didn't know I lost until I got it back."
Her gaze softened. "What happened?"
Harry looked down in silence. The dim light of the fireplace almost hid his sad face. He struggled internally; she could see his mouth moving without words coming out.
"Dumbledore took them away." His voice was quiet but was loud enough for her to hear.
"Dumbledore took them away?" she repeated, getting a single nod in response.
"He said it was bad to dwell on dreams. Then he took it away," Harry responded.
She looked at him for a few seconds before softly asking, "What was it?" She had noticed he said "it" instead of "them."
Harry took a deep breath. "The Mirror of Erised."
Before she had a chance to respond, Harry started talking again.
"It shows your deepest desire. It was my parents. When I lost them, I lost a part of me, too. Then I got it back. Then, I lost it again. Now, I am here. What am I supposed to do, Hermione?"
They sat in silence for several minutes as she came up with a response. "I honestly don't know, Harry. But you have me and Neville, you can talk to us about it more, right?"
He shrugged. "I don't know. Anyways, sorry for doing this to you. I'm heading to bed. Goodnight, Hermione."
She wanted to stop him, but words failed her. She silently watched as he walked up the stairs to his shared dorm. She remained in that seat for a while before she too retired to her shared dorm, where she reflected on the week.
January 11, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry woke up feeling a lot lighter than before. It turns out that maybe his conversation with Hermione last night was what he needed. Exhaling deeply, he sat up. Pulling out a stack of papers from the adjacent table, he went over the three essays that were due next week.
Not able to focus, he put the papers down and rubbed his eyes. He was at a loss for what to do. There was a whole list of things that he could do, though none of it seemed appealing. Deciding what to do, he got himself up and changed into some warmer clothing. He headed to the Great Hall, grabbed a few pieces of toast and bacon and walked out the doors, around the Castle's walls to where his igloo was. Thankfully, more snow had fallen, so the roof was reinforced to a degree. He crawled in and leaned against the back wall. He munched on the food and closed his eyes when he finished.
Becca was going to ask Hermione for another art lesson, but the girl in question looked a bit off. Her hair was messier than before, and her eyes looked sad. Becca nudged Lavender awake and both girls went down to the Great Hall to grab a few mugs of hot chocolate for the whole dorm. The two sleeping girls awoke to the sweet smell of hot cocoa, and the five of them left the dorm warm, full of hot chocolate, and with smiles on their faces.
Hermione later intercepted Neville at breakfast, and both asked each other if they had seen Harry. That smile vanished when neither knew where Harry was. Percy, hearing the two talking about looking for Harry, spoke up.
"I don't know if this'll help, but Harry might be outside in an igloo he dug out over Holiday. He took me and Penny to see it."
Hermione's eyes widened slightly as she nudged Neville to finish his food before running out of the Great Hall. Thankfully, she was smart enough to bring her cloak with her to breakfast, so when the cold air met her face it didn't really affect her. Noticing a lone set of footsteps in the snow, she took off in that direction, and a few minutes later was greeted by a massive snow drift with a hold near the bottom of it. That's when she saw Harry sleeping inside.
Hermione carefully climbed in; her movements woke Harry up. A bit surprised, however as chocolate met emerald, he smiled and scooted over to make space.
\-0-0-/
January 18, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Neville was currently in the Greenhouses helping Professor Sprout plant some bushes. It was dawning on him that ever since Term resumed, he had been at a distance from Harry and Hermione. Not this it was anything bad, at least. It occurred to him that Harry didn't exactly open up to him, and since he had been spending more time with Hermione since they got back, he had come up with the logical conclusion that he had told her stuff.
He knew that he wasn't the best with words, but he always told Harry that he was there if he needed him. However, no one could discount him for not being observant. For starters, their researching rampage had come to a near halt. It was so un-Hermione-like to not spend the weekend studying, but she had done just that. His stomach didn't let him leave the Hall with Hermione that day, but after about an hour, when he decided to go looking for his friends, didn't find them until it was nearly the Feast.
The pair had stayed in an igloo. Harry's igloo. He didn't ask what they talked about, but he did silently walk with them back to the Feast. Before he and Harry fell asleep later on, Harry promised that he would talk to him about what was going on.
That was a week ago. School had been mostly a blur, filled with lessons, essays, and demonstrations. Harry's Quidditch practice and their weekly flying lesson were little blips in his mind. Harry seemed to walk slower; his eyes seemed to be filled with something. Hermione's flickering gaze between him and Harry didn't help either.
Now, Hermione was once again, in the Library, researching for the three-headed-dog, and Harry was probably with her, helping. Neville stood up and smiled. The bush looked straight, and Professor Sprout gave him ten points for the work. Thanking his Professor, Neville cleaned himself up. Walking out of the Greenhouse, Neville breathed in a bit of fresh air. Maybe he'll join Hermione rea-
"Neville!?" Neville jumped in shock before turning around.
"Hey, Harry, what's up?" Neville looked calmly at his friend.
"Well, if you want to talk, I'm ready."
\-0-0-/
Neville's head was spinning rapidly. No wonder Harry had been out of whack! He had seen his parents, and then the… the "Mirror of Erised" had been taken away, none other than by Professor Dumbledore himself. Of course, "not dwelling on false realities" was a legitimate reason to be in a bit of a fit. He thought of the fact that he even had parents to see, granted even in their condition.
The Feast was a bit better for the Trio, while they had been in a minor rift, all was well, and of course, research would continue. As would school, life, and Quidditch.
Oh yeah, Harry's team had just been saddled with another two weeks straight of Quidditch Practice, courtesy of Oliver, starting bright and early tomorrow morning, for their upcoming match against Ravenclaw on February first.
Groaning, Harry pulled out a few chocolate frogs from his bag and tossed them to his teammates, Hermione, and Neville. It was going to be another rough two weeks after all.
\-0-0-/
January 19, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry woke up early for his Quidditch Practice, surprisingly light. His talk with Neville yesterday had wrapped up his to-do list. Telling his friends his worries was still difficult for him to do, and unfortunately the concerned looks he got from Hermione daily since he had told her wasn't helping. Unfortunately, his courage didn't let him ask her to stop. He didn't want to lose his best friend, even after all that has happened.
Every day, a small voice would yell at him that he didn't belong at Hogwarts, that he should be at Privet Drive, alone, without friends, without joy, without happiness. Thankfully, everything that has happened had allowed him to quash that thought into the deepest parts of his head. Seeing his parents in that mirror, though, was the hardest thing to put behind him. They looked so… inviting… as if he could step through the glass and join them.
Shaking those thoughts from his dizzy head, he headed out to the Pitch. Quidditch practice was about the same, Neville and Hermione were in the stands when he flew out of the locker room, and the team was tired as they entered the Great Hall two hours later.
Some toast, eggs, bacon and juice later, the Trio headed to the Library. The three silently and mentally agreed to not mention the elephant in the room, the Mirror of Erised. It caused Harry pain, and either friend seeing their friend sad was not something they wanted to deal with.
Reading seemed like a calming activity to do.
The trio went to sleep that night, Hermione dreaming up a new concept for a painting: the Library.
\-0-0-/
January 24, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry wanted to sleep. He had school, Quidditch, more homework, and his brain all hammering him simultaneously. Nevertheless, he got himself up and ready for practice.
Monday
Normally, Harry could handle Potions. Except, today was a day that would test his nerve. Professor Snape started off casually enough, before insulting how his potion were worse than his friends. He had almost just jumped up and screamed, had it not been for both Neville and Hermione's gazes on him.
Tuesday
Handing in his Transfiguration paper got a nod and a smile out of Professor McGonagall. Hermione's smile and Neville's thumbs up felt good too. The Evening Feast was rough though, Harry started to fall asleep towards the end of it. Thankfully, his friends had kept him alert enough to get him to his dorm, where he promptly fell asleep.
Wednesday
Today was different. He was alert for the entire practice. He waved and smiled to Hermione and Neville in the stands. His expression remained neutral throughout Potions and Defense, and he slept in History of Magic, despite Hermione's weak protests. Astronomy was better, instead of constellations, they were focusing on planets. Planets fascinated him. Maybe because there were worlds beyond this one.
Thursday
He felt better waking up, went to Quidditch, all the stuff. It wasn't until right after Flying that Harry seemed to crash. Rubbing his eyes and nodding off to sleep, both had to nudge him several times before he would shake himself and remain awake for another ten or so minutes.
\-0-0-/
Entering the Great Hall, Hermione filled his plate high with food.
"There isn't Potions class today. You need to eat to stay awake. Plus, your sleeping pattern has been out of whack for a few days now."
Hermione stated as she scooped more eggs on his plate.
Managing a weak "Thank you," he dug into the food on his plate.
Harry managed to get through his classes without incident. After Astronomy, he informed Neville and Hermione to let him be on his own tomorrow. Reluctantly, they agreed.
\-0-0-/
January 25, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Following Quidditch Practice, Harry separated from the team and headed to his igloo. Even in late January, the temperatures were still in the middle teens. Harry crawled into the small space, popped open a chocolate frog, made sure he was wrapped up tight, ate the frog and closed his eyes for some well-deserved sleep.
\-0-0-/
January 31, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Hermione was in the Library when she should've been at the Feast. Her eyes were scanning one of the older books. She read through a page before she stopped, re-read it again, and smiled.
Rare sightings of what appeared to be Three-Headed dogs were confirmed after four sightings occurred outside of a magical district in Athens, Greece. The Three-Headed dog is most known for its mythological roots: the guards to the Underworld. It is known, as an alias, as a Cerberus.
This was it! After months of searching, she finally found what she was looking for! Quickly checking the book out and bookmarking the page, Hermione made a mad dash to Astronomy.
Panting, she smiled at both boys and twirled the book in her hands. Their work was done, for now.
February 1, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Magical animals claimed spots all over the Pitch that morning, Hedwig and Crookshanks included. Today would be a great match. Hogwarts' two strongest Chaser trios were going against each other. This was, of course, Gryffindor versus Ravenclaw. After Harry's earlier victory against the Slytherins back in November, today was sure to be a great match.
Thankfully, Oliver didn't drag the team to the Pitch that morning. Instead, the House was cheering on the team as they ate breakfast. Boosting morale brought smiles to all seven members, and soon enough they were on their way to the Pitch.
It was ten minutes till start time. Lee was in the commentator's box hyping up the stadium, much to the protests from Professor McGonagall. In the younger years, laughs and "good luck's were given out, while some of the older students exchanged money on the game.
Because Ravenclaw played most recently, they had been called out first. Following them came Gryffindor. Madam Hooch did her inspections, her prior play warnings, and started the match.
One thing became painstakingly obvious during the match: Cho Chang, the Ravenclaw Seeker, was flirting with Harry, while said boy was slowly receding into his shell due to the unwanted attention. He couldn't gather the courage to ask her to stop, so he started flying away from her. Unfortunately, she wouldn't give up. She kept following him for nearly an hour, while the game below stayed almost even. By the time either of them saw the Snitch, the score was 130 – 140, Ravenclaw.
Almost as if a switch was flipped in his head, Harry shot off, ignoring everything else around him. Glancing towards where Neville and Hermione sat, their cheers and smiles prompted Harry to soar through the sky. Twenty seconds later, the game was finished. Harry had the Snitch in hand, and Gryffindor was cheering like crazy, while Ravenclaw politely applauded his skills.
Lee Jordan's voice could be heard clear as day. "GRYFFINDOR WINS! GRYFFINDOR WINS 280 – 140!"
\-0-0-/
After the match, Harry had a headache from Cho's constant presence during the game. Citing it on the manouvers he had done on the broom earlier, he had excused himself from Neville and Hermione to take a fly to clear his head. Coincidently, he ended up flying over the Forbidden Forest. As he flew, he noticed an anomaly with sound. He noted that there was a person talking, and it made sense as he was flying just over the tops of the trees.
He got closer, and realized that without seeing them, there were two occupants: Severus Snape and Quirinius Quirrell.
"Again, S-Severus-s, I d-don't know what you are t-talking ab-bout."
"You know perfectly well what I am talking about, Quirrell."
Harry could hear Quirrell struggling to formulate a response.
"You should be careful, Quirrell, or some… unfriendly spells… might come your way if you feel like… mis-stepping again." Snape's cold tone of voice made Harry's spine shiver.
"I… I" Quirrell stammered.
"I'll be watching you. Don't give me a reason to-" He was cut out by Quirrell.
"Yes! Yes! I-I un-understand, S-Severus!" Quirrell cried out.
"Fine. We will have another little… chat… when you have sorted out where your loyalties lay."
From his position above, Harry heard the retreating footsteps of Professor Snape and the heavy breathing of his Defense Professor.
Harry panicked. He flew as fast as he could out of the Forest and to the Gryffindor Common Room, where he could digest the conversation he had overheard.
\-0-0-/
February 2, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Today was a whirlwind of breakthroughs for the Golden Trio. For starters, Hermione announced happily that the three-headed-dog was a Cerebus, an ancient mythological creature that guarded the Underworld. Harry's announcement consisted of Snape's threat to Quirrell, and that seemed to solidify his position that Snape was who they had to stop.
"Snape is bullying Quirrell," Harry exclaimed. "This isn't new, because Snape hates everyone, but why is Snape so focused on Quirrell?"
Hermione interjected. "Professor Snape, Harry. Also, how can you say that he is focusing on Professor Quirrell? You did hear that by chance, so for all we know he does this to all the teachers."
Harry shook his head. "It doesn't make sense, though. He was talking to Quirrell in the middle of the Forbidden Forest. Who does that?"
Neville's eyes widened. "That's where you flew off too? Merlin, Harry! You could have died! The Forbidden Forest is forbidden for a reason!"
Harry looked down and shrugged. "I flew above the treetops."
Hermione grumbled. "We're getting off topic here. What do we know? Professor Snape had a talk with Professor Quirrell about loyalties and stuff. This was done in the Forest. We know that Professor Snape tried to kill you last November during the match. We know Professor Snape hates Harry for his fame. Anything else?"
"He's trying to steal whatever is here in the school?" Neville asked.
Huffing, Hermione nodded. "Yes, that too." Retracting a bit, she sighed. "Look, why don't we just tell Professor Dumbledore or Professor McGonagall about this?"
"Because we don't want to get in trouble?" Harry voiced, causing Hermione to drop her shoulders and nod in agreement.
"I suppose," Hermione started, remembering how Harry was after his detention, along with their friends a few months later, "However, we really aren't supposed to be looking into this anyways. I mean, the only reason we are is because we talked to Hagrid about it."
Harry's face brightened. "Hagrid! We can talk to him! He'll tell us if we tell him what we know!"
Neville shrugged. "I'm all in. Hermione?"
Said girl looked between her best friends before nodding. "Alright, but I really don't like this feeling."
"Neither do I, Hermione. But I think that Hagrid is our best bet," Harry reasoned.
"How about right now?" Neville asked, "We have no classes, it is a Sunday after all. Then we can hang out in your igloo."
Harry nodded. "Sure. Don't know how stable the igloo is though. Might have to reinforce it a bit."
\-0-0-/
The Trio made their way to Hagrid's Hut, where Hagrid was currently cooking up some hot chocolate. Knocking loudly, Hagrid welcomed the three kids into the Hut and offered them some hot chocolate. When the four of them had their cocoas and were sitting down, Hagrid smiled at them.
"Now. What can I do for yer' today?"
"Hagrid, we think that Snape is trying to steal whatever it is that in the school!" Harry exclaimed.
Hagrid frowned. "What did I tell yer' three? Stop meddlin' in things that aren't to be meddled with!"
"But Hagrid, this is serious! He was threatening Quirrell!" Harry continued.
Hagrid sighed. "Listen ter' me, 'Arry. What you three are lookin' for is way outta your control. Yer' gotta understan' that. Dumbledore trusts Professor Snape. And I trust Dumbledore. He isn't tryin' ta steal it."
"How do you know?" Hermione piped up.
"Well, because Professor Snape is one of the teachers protectin' it. You gotta understand that it's heavily guarded. Anyone wantin to steal it'll have to first get through Fluffy, and no one knows how 'cept me an' Dumbledore. Ah, I shouldn't a told you that."
"Heavily guarded?" Neville asked.
"Yes. I want you lot ter' promise me you'll stop trying to solve this. The less you know, the better. Focus on school, classes, your friends."
Harry sighed. "We'll see you later, Hagrid. Come on, Hermione, Neville. Let's go."
Hermione nodded and stood up. "Bye Hagrid, and thanks."
Neville stood up too. "Yeah, thanks."
The Trio walked out in silence, leaving Hagrid sighing in sadness.
\-0-0-/
February 3, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry mind was swimming with everything that had happened since the Quidditch match. It was bad, bad to the point that he had almost zoned out in Transfiguration. Thankfully, Hermione was good at keeping him focused. However, she didn't look any better. Neville was concerned for his friends, even though his mind was much where Harry and Hermione's were.
Unfortunately, Potions for Harry didn't fare well either. Harry continually sent angry looks towards Professor Snape, and Professor Snape sneered in return and failed him for the day. Harry walked out of Potions shrugging off Hermione and Neville's words of reassurance.
Harry managed to keep it together for the rest of classes before the evening feast, though by then Hermione and Neville too had stopped trying to not think about the weekend.
Hermione huffed. "We'll start doing more research on Nicholas Flamel."
Neville shook his head. "No, Hermione. You saw what loads of research did to us before Holidays. I really don't think I could go anymore."
Hermione looked down and frowned. "Sorry. Both of you."
Harry put his hand on her shoulder and smiled slightly. "Don't worry, Hermione."
Classes seemed to be a bit easier after that.
\-0-0-/
February 8, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
The Twins were in Hogsmeade with the rest of the older students. Their priority was simple: find a book for Harry that taught him how to play the wooden flute. Unfortunately for them, it wasn't as easy as they originally hoped.
Back in the Castle, Hermione was in the Library while Harry and Neville were playing Wizard's Chess in Harry's Igloo. Winter was starting to fade out, and with it, Harry's igloo. Harry considered asking the Twins to charm the snow to stay frozen, but ultimately decided against it. Winter would fade. There was always next year.
Harry and Neville honestly were tired of research. Both were also worried for Hermione, both knew the girl could overwork herself if she wasn't kept in line. About an hour before the feast, the boys wandered into the Library and got Hermione away from reading after seeing that she was slightly stressed about not finding anything on Nicholas Flamel.
"So, Hermione. I'm guessing no luck on Nicholas Flamel?" Harry asked.
Hermione groaned. "No luck. It's almost as if there isn't anything in the Library to help us."
Neville smiled. "Well, you have your large book. You can read that to not get stressed, and you won't have to worry about Flamel."
Hermione's face sported a smile. "Thanks, Neville. Plus, that read is amazingly awesome. I'm currently reading about the different British Ministers and their biographies. It really is quite fascinating."
Harry chuckled loosely. "I'm glad that you are enjoying that book, Hermione. Please try to enjoy that and don't let Nicholas Flamel kill your love for reading."
Hermione nodded eagerly. "Of course, Harry. Thanks, both of you."
"Anytime," both boys responded simultaneously.
\-0-0-/
February 9, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
The Twins struck gold and found a book that would help Harry learn the flute. Beaming from end to end with their goal accomplished, the Twins headed to Zonko's to stock up on pranking supplies.
Harry and Hermione were in the Common Room, Hermione trying to teach Harry to paint as she had promised him a while back. To the surprise of both of them, Harry was a really good artist. His sketches of Privet Drive looked amazing. Sod if that was what his house really looked like, Hermione fell in love with his sketches.
Harry didn't know how to explain it either. To him, when he started to sketch, it just flowed. Harry smiled to himself at his newfound talent that he must have possessed already and thanked Hermione for his "lesson."
Hermione had asked him to let her keep his sketch, and as awkward as Harry was, he smiled and let her keep it. He shook his head as she giggled in happiness and hugged the sketch.
"Sorry Harry. I just love it. And I might be a bit jealous." Hermione smiled at him.
Chuckling, Harry waved her off. "Enjoy my drawings, Hermione!"
From the top of the stairs, Hermione hollered back with "I will!" before disappearing into her Dorm.
\-0-0-/
Harry was in the Great Hall working on a History of Magic essay when the Twins sat themselves down on either side of him.
"Here, Harry," Fred started.
"We found this for you, hope it works!" George handed Harry the book, and Harry smiled in gratitude.
"Thanks guys. This will help a lot!" Harry smiled as he pocketed the book.
\-0-0-/
Minerva was in her office, having received more complains about Severus. It was tiring for her, she had gone through all the trouble before Holiday and it was all for nothing. She catalouged the memory strands in her undetectable expanded drawer box. When a time again would arise, she would again try to send out memory copies. Until then, she had to continue sucking it up and letting him be.
February 12, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Practice was slightly off today. For starters, Oliver didn't nearly spend as much time in his lecture, in fact, his lecture barely lasted ten minutes before he ordered everyone out of the locker room and onto the field.
Hermione and Neville were surprised when Harry zoomed passed them at a high speed about half an hour earlier than normal. Hermione's book fell from her hands and Neville's eyes were snapped open.
Harry flew over to Fred and George who were hanging out with Angelina and Alicia.
"Hey guys, anyone notice that Oliver feels different today?" Harry asked.
"Well, Oliver asked Katie out for Valentines day, and she said yes!" Angelina happily replied.
"Wait, when's Valentine's day?" Harry asked, confused.
"Friday, but Dumbledore is giving us another weekend in Hogsmeade" Fred responded.
"That's really awesome of them, too. Katie's been crushing on him since the second week of school in her First Year." Alicia recalled.
Fred giggled. "Still wish you would be asked out?"
George interrupted. "Alicia, do you wanna go to Hogsmeadeeeee?"
Fred elbowed his brother. "Unlike my dumber brother, I'm not going to make myself into a buffoon for this." He bowed mockingly and looked towards Harry.
Alicia, by now, flew over to George's side. "Sure, Mr. Weasley. You can take me to Hogsmeade."
"Now, look here Harry. When you ask your witch to Hogsmeade, do this exactly." Fred winked at him before flying level to Angelina.
"Oh amazing Angelina, will you do me this honour of accompanying me, the smarter of me and my brother, to Hogsmeade this weekend?"
Angelina erupted into a bout of laughter. "Cut the formalities, and yes."
Fred smiled wide and turned to face Harry. "That's how it's done!"
"I don't think I can do that, Fred," Harry said, honestly.
"Why not, Harry?"
"Don't have anyone to ask, and plus I can't even go to Hogsmeade." Harry reasoned.
Fred looked him over and nodded in understanding. "Practice, then. Nothing wrong with that!"
Harry rolled his eyes. "Sure. Sure."
By now, Oliver and Katie had flown over.
"What's with the congregation? We're here to play Quidditch!" Oliver yelled, a smile on his face.
The five remaining members rolled their eyes and joined their captain for practice.
\-0-0-/
Harry joined Neville and Hermione for breakfast later on and the trio went to Potions with their homework, high spirits, and full stomachs. Professor Snape was in a foul mood, most likely because of Valentine's Day approaching. Defense and History went by smoothly, and that night the Trio was in the Common Room before Astronomy.
"Hey, Harry, what happened earlier at Quidditch? Why were you all in a little group?" Hermione asked, calmly.
Harry shrugged. "Oh, Fred asked out Angelina and George asked out Alicia. That was because Oliver asked out Katie. Now Fred. George, Alica, and Angelina are going to Hogsmeade this weekend, on dates. Oliver and Katie will probably do something here."
"Isn't Katie a bit… young for Oliver?" Hermione asked slowly.
Harry shrugged again. "No idea. I mean, all of us on the team are like friends, and Ollie isn't a bad person. And I think the pair likes each other back anyways."
Hermione eyed him carefully. "Do you like any of the girls on the team?"
Harry thought. "I mean, Katie was my first friend out of the team, then Fred and George showed us the ropes and that was that. It took me a while, but all of them are my friends."
Neville looked between his friends. "Why? What's up, Hermione?"
Hermione shook her head. "Nothing. Anyways, we'll be late for Astronomy if we don't leave soon."
\-0-0-/
"What's up with Hermione?" Harry asked as the Dorm's occupants were getting in bed.
"Hermione? What about her?" Neville responded.
"I dunno. She's been acting weird all week, And then tonight. It seems weird, doesn't it?"
Seamus cut in. "If a girl is nervous then she prolly likes one of you. My Da' told me that one. If it's Hermione, then good luck with that."
"No way Seamus. Chill out," Neville stated, tossing a pillow on his face in an attempt to sleep.
"Aight mate. Night all."
Ron remained sitting up and silent. After the rest of the occupants were tucked into bed, he exhaled quietly and retired to bed himself.
\-0-0-/
February 15, 1991
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Valentine's Day was upon Hogwarts. While many couples headed to Hogsmeade for the day, some, particularly Katie and Oliver, headed towards the Black Lake to enjoy the crisp cold air of retreating winter. By now, the snow had been reduced to nothingness, with only the snow drifts remaining, while even those continued to melt away under the February sun.
Harry was in the Dorm, alone, trying to teach himself to play the wooden flute that he received as a Christmas present from Hagrid. It was pretty simple; he blew in the mouthpiece and moved his fingers over specific holes to create the notes. The book from Fred and George was a godsend.
After about three hours of practice, when Neville came to bring him to the Great Hall, Harry managed to loosely play a scale. It was by no means perfect, but it was a start.
"You sound great, mate. When did you get it?" Neville asked.
"It was a gift from Hagrid for Christmas."
Neville grinned. "Brilliant!"
The duo then made their way to the Great Hall for the evening feast, and after meeting up with Hermione outside the Library, entered the Great Hall.
There were several small vases of roses along the spines of each of the tables and present was a light hue of red that was the ceiling. Hermione started to giggle while both boys looked at each other with questionable glances.
"It's so red! And it's perfect!" Hermione smiled softly and detached herself from the boys, who quickly followed her to their normal seats in the Hall.
When the trio was seated, Hermione finally noticed the clueless looks on Neville and Harry's faces.
"Oh!" Hermione exclaimed. "It's Valentine's Day, and Professor Dumbledore must have had this set up!"
"Come again?" Neville asked.
"Only thing I know about Valentine's Day is that people give chocolate. At least I think it was," Harry stated.
Hermione smiled. "Well, yes, chocolate is common, but not this time." She proceeded to pull out two pieces of red paper from a pocket in her robes that were cut in the shape of a heart.
"Happy Valentine's Day boys! I haven't done this before like this, so I hope you like them! And even though Valentine's Day was technically yesterday, everyone's celebrating it today. So, here you go!"
Harry and Neville received identical valentines. Harry smiled as he read his.
Thanks for being my best friend!
Happy Valentine's Day!
From, Hermione.
Hermione smiled brighter when both boys happily thanked her for the valentine. Thankfully, she was able to calm them down when the boys realized that hadn't gotten her a valentine.
"Well, there is a plus to all of this!" Hermione began happily.
"What?" Neville asked, receiving a nod from Harry.
"You know what to get me next year!" Hermione replied, grinning.
Both boy's eyes rolled at that as the three of them ate dinner with smiles on their faces.
\-0-0-/
February 19, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Harry enjoyed Quidditch, particularly listening to Fred and George retell their dates, while the girls interjected periodically. Oliver was a lot less talkative, and Katie had gushed to her friends just how great a picnic Oliver could make up.
Quidditch felt lighter, and the team didn't feel as exhausted when they entered the Great Hall later on. Hermione and Neville chatted with Harry and spirits remained positive, even through Potions and Defense. The three kept their eyes on both Snape and Quirrell, looking for a sign that something happened. Alas, no sign was found.
February 23, 1992
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Hermione and Neville were in the Library again, while Harry was continuing to teach himself the flute. Neville had to constantly talk to her, as she was angering herself over not finding anything on Flamel. She wasn't happy with herself and Neville had to constantly reminder her that it wasn't her fault she wasn't finding the knowledge she so craved. She pulled out her notebook that she got for Christmas and started flipping through pages.
"What're you doing?" Neville asked, slightly puzzled at her sudden change in mood.
"Updating our review for our exams this year," she replied, without looking up and continuing to flip through pages.
"Didn't you do that yesterday?" Neville asked.
"Yes. I'm doing it again." Hermione's eyes focused on their notes from the past week – the same notes she had rehashed the night prior – and she began pulling out her review she had been making.
Neville stuck his head far over the table to see Hermione's face. "You alright?"
Hermione rapidly nodded and smiled. "Thanks, I'm fine."
Neville sighed in defeat.
\-0-0-/
Harry was disappointed in himself. He felt that he had stepped backwards! Last week he was able to loosely do a scale. Now he completely forgot everything he had taught himself! Harry sighed in anger and put his flute and book away.
He had way too much on his mind; namely Nicholas Flamel, Snape and Quirrell's meeting, and schoolwork.
School. It was easy to forget that he had classes. He would go to classes, write whatever their Professor said, then do an assignment based on that. Said assignment would be looked over by Hermione, and with a dazzling smile of encouragement, he and Neville would hand their essays and papers in to accepting Professors.
Harry shook his head. It was easy to get distracted, with everything going on. At least his flute would be a distraction now.
\-0-0-/
February 29, 1992
Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry
"It's a Leap Day," Hermione announced at breakfast.
"What?" Harry asked calmly.
Hermione smiled. "It's when the calendars add an extra day every four years to make up for lost time, I think. We could ask Professor Sinistra about it!"
"Okay, that makes sense," Neville said, "After all, she is our Astronomy Professor, and she does say stuff about planets, constellations, and time and such. She would know."
"Or we could ask Professor Burbage, the Muggle Studies Professor?" Hermione suggested.
"Maybe. We should totally look into it. I want to look in the library," Harry announced before standing up.
Neville chuckled. "You sure you haven't turned into Hermione? She normally does that."
Hermione swatted him lightly on the arm. "I do not!"
They all laughed before Harry excused himself to the library. Hermione promised that she would join him when she finished her breakfast, and Neville assured her that he would be following her. Smiling, Harry stood up and walked towards the doors of the Great Hall.
"I still say that he is turning into you, Hermione," Neville remarked as Harry hopped out the doors. Hermione giggled and rolled her eyes.
Hermione tilted her head and smiled at him about twenty seconds later. "You want to know too."
Neville nodded slowly, which prompted Hermione to latch onto his arm. "Off to the Library, then! "And she promptly pulled him out of the Great Hall.
Author's Note: I would like to thank my friends who beta'd this chapter before I released it: Madlad, Silo, and Ciago. You three combined helped spot errors I wouldn't find myself. Until next time, Au Revoir!
BC5