A/N: Gotta go now, but just to say, i hope you like the new chapter, and i hope this time i can get to 100 reviews! PARTY! Thanks to all my reviewer, and hope you can review again. Bye bye!


Chapter 12: The Begining of the End

Wednesday, May 20- Hermione- ?

A storm was coming, churning in the distance. A storm of violet and sapphire, a storm of beauty and rage. It's clouds tumbled over each other, trembling with thunder and scars of yellow fire.

And, there he was, flying above it all. Higher than the highest mast, stronger than the toughest wood. His hair flew around him, as he rode the open sky. From one cloud to another he surfed, carefree on the waves of the storm. And, below him was the sea. Gray, and white. Blue and black. But it was calm beneath the rage above it. Its milky, shadowed surface clearly reflected the sky, but in its own, darker colors. What was beautiful above became corrupted below.

And, so did he. In the surface of the sea, instead of flying free and smiling with a fierce passion, he was trapped. He was a shadow in himself, a blur, a bruise. He was writhing in pain, slashed through by gray flashes of angry light. He was sinking within himself never to rise again.

She looked up and saw beauty and passion. She looked below and she saw hate and fallen hope. She was trapped between two worlds, so different, but so similar. She was walking on the surface of the water, the two scenes splayed out before her, and she cried.

She reached up her arms, tears along her cheeks, and called out to him flying above her. She opened her mouth to call, but nothing came out past her lips. And, then her arms dropped, and the warm air turned cold.

Her legs felt heavy, and she could no longer move. She was sinking into the black crystal water. And, when she looked down to witness this, she found she couldn't look up again. She was sinking, falling, and she couldn't do anything about it. She didn't struggle, she didn't scream. She only stared at his anguished face in the water and thought, Why?


Wednesday, May 20-Hermione- Pirate ship

Hermione startled herself awake, and for what seemed like hours, she turned glazed eyes to the ceiling. His burning eyes were held there, captured in her mind. And, she couldn't make them go away, for they were burned into her memory.

Finally, giving a silent cry, she reached up and rubbed her eyes, trying to rub the image away, but it was burning beneath her eyelids too. She might never be rid of it.

But, maybe that was a small price to pay for the sudden realization that had seared itself into her soul just the day before. It required only three words to admit, but it had taken her so long to say them. And, now, strangely, they rolled off her tongue with an eerie, but lovely feeling.

I love him.

She wasn't sure if she wanted to smile at that or wince. She knew what all those nervous feeling were, and she understood her beating heart, and flushed cheeks. It was exhilarating in a way she had never felt before. Love? What did she know of love? All she knew now, was that she wanted it. She wanted to feel it truly. Not just a flame, or a fling, she had had those in the past. She wanted the real, pure thing.

And was she even sure she had it now? How could you ever be sure? And how could she ever be with him? Sure, Pansy was gone for good, and eventually, so would his father. But, he was a pirate, and she was a… a lady.

Hermione closed her eyes, and still the image of him was there. She wasn't sure what she would do. Talk to him, or try to avoid the truth. The truth. The truth of what she felt for him. It was so hard to hold on to. It had come to her so suddenly, and before she could deny it, she was repeating it over and over again. She loved him. She loved him, she loved him.

But with so many problems between them, what could she do? Did he even feel the same about her? She could have sworn he could that night. She thought it was clearly etched in his face then. But she was always doubting. She was forever confused. And she would never be sure of what was right…

The light of early dawn streamed through the window, and though it was early, she dressed and walked out into the chilly morning air. Only one man stood there, and in her dazed state, she walked towards him, looking for answers.


Wednesday, May 20-Higgs- Pirate ship

He was the old fool of the group. The man they turned to for history, the man they saw as beaten leather, still standing strong as he could. They saw him as so many things, but they would never, perhaps, know the truth.

True, he was withered and worn in body, and in years. But, in spirit? He was alive as any young man. His soul soared higher, and his wits burned brighter. His wits that circled around a talent for words, for truth, for hope.

With a smile, he nodded to Hermione as she came towards him. Up early, he could see the worry lines in her face. He could read them from experience.

Higgs liked to think of himself as a sly mentor, like the Athena of roman religion. Sure, he was old, and his mind constantly wandered, but he could put into words what few other people could. He was a sort of bard in his earlier days, and the talent had stuck with him so far. As she came out, worried and tired, he hoped that talent could do a little healing for her spirit.

"You're out here early. Couldn't sleep?" His rotting teeth pronounced the syllables as best they could, but his speech would be forever slurred. She looked at him for a long moment, sighed, and turned her young, troubled face to the sea. She winced, and looked back.

Opening her mouth and taking a quick breath, she began, "Higgs, have you ever…" He tilted his head in a kindly confused manner. Poor girl. She couldn't get the right words out.

Finally mustering her strength, she tried again, but this time in a hushed tone. "Have you ever been afraid to love someone?" He nodded sagely, but before he could answer her, she went on. "No, I don't mean just anyone. Not just a little fear, and not all the time…" She looked down, ready to cry. "Have you ever been so terrified that…"

He cut her off gently by laying a hand on her shoulder. He knew a great many things, Higgs. He knew more than most, and plenty to get by. But one thing he didn't know… was love. Higgs had never known real love. He could only imagine the feelings spiraling through her heart.

Rubbing her shoulder gently, and in a comforting manner, Higgs tried to settle her down. Finally, having her take a couple strong breaths, he began.

"Hermione, I won't ask who it is, or when it happened. I don't need to know. I don't know very much, but I'm happy you came to me. I can't give you great advice, because I don't have that kind of experience, but hopefully, I can comfort your heart a little."

Higgs looked off into the distance, hoping what he would say could help her, hoping he could find the right things to say. Words of strength and comfort rolled through his mind. There was so much to say, what was ever right? He could inspire her with words, and he could guide her, too.

A bit of his old self came back to him. "I know so little about love, I never had the chance to feel it truly. All I now is what I've heard, all I understand is what I know. But love can be like other things too. Hope, forgiveness, and faith. And when it comes to hope, you don't want to give up. Don't give up on love, Hermione, that's the best I can say."

None of what he said made sense, even to him. Words could be his specialty, but the truth was, he was getting old. So, racking his brain he tried another approach.

"How can you be afraid of love, Hermione? What is so terrifying about it?"

The girl beside him shook her head of curls. "I'm not sure. Maybe I'm afraid that he won't love me back, or that he wont see me in the same way. Maybe I'm afraid of losing him."

"Whether you're afraid or not, what are you going to do about it?"

She shook her head again and closed her eyes. "I don't know, I just don't know. What can I do? Loving him was easy, telling him would be difficult, and having him love me back would be impossible."

Higgs sighed. This was hard. But, at the very least, he knew who the man was. Draco. There was no one else. And. although she may not see it, he certainly could. The man loved her back. Deep in his heart, Draco felt something for her. Something special. But, honestly, what could happen between them? Was it possible at all? How could he comfort her?

"Well, you can't give up on him, if that's what you're thinking." Screw comforting her, I'll tell her the dead truth.

She turned angry eyes at him, and he realized that his tone had been condescending. "Oh, yea? And why not? You said yourself, you don't know anything about love. I should give it all up, it's too hard to continue, so don't tell me what to do, like that. You don't know what its like. You don't know what I'm feeling, the pain I'm going through. I should give it up, so don't tell me not to."

He winced at his own words and hers, but defended himself just the same. "But, how can you? Love can be the greatest thing if you work hard enough for it. I may not have known true love, but I've seen plenty of it. I mean, why would it be easy? Since when is anything easy? Hermione, I'd never have thought you'd be one to quit so easily. Don't give up, or you'll spend the rest of your life wondering what would have happened if you had stuck around. What would have happened if you faced your fears and went for it, and if you would have been happier.

And that's one thing I do know about. Regret. I've known plenty of it, and that's what will follow you for the rest of you life if you leave the one thing that could fill your heart to the brim, and make you cry tears of joy. If you love him as much as you say, isn't it worth a little blood and tears to stay with him? If not, then maybe you don't know what love is, either. Pain is something we know about, something we all know about. Don't let it conquer you or take you from the path that leads to happiness."

She stood aghast at his speech, and he held his head high. Every word was true, every word he felt from his heart. He regretted most of his life, and he didn't want that for her, or anyone else.

Tears formed at the corners of her eyes. " But… why did it have to be him? Why couldn't I love someone else this way? It would have been so much easier."

Higgs turned her towards him. "Love isn't something you can choose. Love is random, but love is great. It's a matter of hide and seek, and now that you've found him, I can only advise you to catch him. Don't give up. You're young and you have time to go for it. You have strength, Hermione, and I believe in you."

She nodded her head in thanks, and bit her lower lip. He smiled gently at her, "Now go, get some more sleep, and later this morning, wake up again, and go get Draco. He's a good man, and a good choice. I wish you the best of luck."

She smiled at him, a little confused. She might not have realized how transparent she was being. But, nevertheless, she went back in through the door she had come out of. He sighed again, thinking after she left.

Maybe I did help. I hope I did. And I really do wish her luck. Perhaps if this is pulled off, I can start believing in miracles again. Maybe…

The sun rose higher in the sky, a sign of new beginnings.


Sunday, May 25-Harry- The Gryffindor

A ship, tall and grand sailed calmly, but swiftly through crystal blue waters. It's sail was unfurled and blowing like a shadow in the wind. Enormous black canvas, but without the traditional sign of a skull. It wad the best they had on such short notice, and it would have to do.

The letter came two days ago, telling them where and when to meet. An anonymous source that supplied them with the biggest bust ever, (if they could pull it off) And, the other ship they were meant to meet sat floating comfortably in a concealed bay. Perfect.

As they moved in, if the pirates realized who they weren't, or who they were, there was no place to run. Their own ship blocked the entrance. All an enormous trick, they all prayed this would go well. They had more men, and they had the element of surprise, but nevertheless, it was intimidating.

Luscious Malfoy and his gang of pirates hadn't even come close to capture so far. They were slippery, and sly. As well as ruthless. Finally being rid of this monster would save all the lives of future victims. He was anxious for the day to end, and the results to come for, however things may turn.

Finally, turning around, Harry barked orders to his crew. Everything had to be perfect. Everything had to work out right. But, no matter how fuzzy the plan was, the determination was strong, and so were his men.

They neared the pirate ship, and before Luscious could act upon realizing this wasn't his son's ship, they shot their canons. Blast after blast resounded, speaking no mercy for their opponents. And, few shots were fired back, for already half their canons had been destroyed. And, just when the opposite ship was ready to sink, it's mast already fallen into the water, and half its occupants wounded or dead, they boarded.

Naturally, Harry and his first mate, Ron went first, leading the others. They swung from ropes to the other deck, dodging thrown knives, or even bullets. But, they made it across safely, and the battle began.

And, the battle ended. So much damage had been wrought during the canon fire, that its took less than an hour to round up the survivors, and kill the ones who wouldn't be rounded up.

Harry wiped his forehead, where the telltale scar still stood. The sky slowly darkened, perfect for the end of a successful gamble. All went well, so few died. He was proud, and extremely grateful. Grateful to his crew, grateful to his friends, and grateful to Luscious's son, Draco. Draco was a pirate as well, and nothing changed in the aspect that they were enemies, or that if they met, one would die. But, if it hadn't been for Draco, this day wouldn't have happened.

Smiling, Harry nodded to Ron and they entered the nearby cabin, knowing exactly who they would meet there. Honestly, they entered only to gloat at the fact that they had him cornered, finally, that he was bound in chains, and would remain that way.

Luscious gargled through the fabric around his mouth. One needed only his imagination to know what the man was saying. And, luckily he was injured, and tired, and tied to the desk, otherwise, both Harry and Ron might be dead.

He walked up to the man and untied the fabric. A stream of angry curses flowed out, loud and almost incomprehensible. Ron sneered at him, and Harry just smiled. But, finally the noise stopped, and the pirate captain caught his breath.

"How?" It was amazing how much malice and contempt could be forced into one little word.

"Interesting story, actually," began Ron, enjoying this. So, Harry let him tell all. "You're son wrote for you to meet him, probably telling you some great excuse. Then, he wrote to us about the meeting, telling us he had set the trap to catch you. And… I think that's about it" Ron grinned, seeming very proud of himself.

Harry shook his head, and turned back to Malfoy. "Any last words?" The man just glared at him, so he replaced the fabric around his mouth, and stood up to leave. He'd had his fun. But, before he left through the door he added, "If you're lucky, you might get a death sentence, otherwise you're spending the rest of your miserable life in a shitty cage." The man started to writhe in his bondage, shaking the desk back and forth.

"I've always heard that pirates were fearless. You look pretty damn scared to me." Harry grinned mockingly at his long time opponent one last time before closing the door.

The sun above him set slowly, a sign of happy endings.


Hey All! Finally I have time to say special hellos to all my reviewers. I looked back, and i havent given specific thanks to anyone since chapter 8! So, here you go, and sorry for the wait:

Prettyinpink09: Your last name is Higgs? Thats so kool. Yeah, and pirates rock. Just like in Pirates of the Carribean. Thanks so much for your review, and i'm so happy you like my story:)

Pink-Bunny-Love00: Make the chapters longer? I can try, but if i want to update every weekend, then I dont think I can. I want to! But, anyways, I should be finishing this fic kinda soon, so I hope you dont mind too much. But, thank you for your review! And, thanks for reading.

Silverbunnie: Hey! Thank you thank you thank you for always reviewing my chapters. You rock! Oh, and a pansy pairing? with ron? That WOULD be funny, but i'm not very good with humor. I could do a pansy pairing, we'll see. I just wanna focus on this one for now!

weeping eyes of babylon: Thanks so much for reviewing my story. Very very much appreciated. Oh, and I love your name. : )

aperfectattitude: Hey! Thanks for your reviews, Your so nice! Hope you keep reading.

prettigurl7: Hello! And, thank you for taking the time to review my story. You're awesome, and please keep reading!

Vivi575: Thank you. thank you. I treasure your compliments! lol : )

AmethystNox: Thanks for reviewing. Please keep reading!

Beth: Hey! long time, no see! Thanks for coming back, and i hope its to stay. You're revies just plain rock, thanks for taking the time. Oh, and the advice rocks. I'll use it well, lol. Please keep reading, I look forward to what you have to say. Oh, and i hope you like how i got rid of Pansy, haha. Yea, i kionda made her super-evil, but oh well. : ) And, yes, i LOVE rain. Whenit rain, usually i go outside just to get soaked, and dancing in it is even better. I went to a theme park once, and got so "high" off of it, that i just stood in the rain and danced and ran, and people were looking at me funny. Hahaha, it was the best. Ok, so, montague has a small part as one of Draco "friends", but i cant rememeber where. And, sorry about bringing up hermione loving him so sudden, i tried to hint a lot, and have her just realize it. Sorry! but thanks for your reviews! By the way, i hope you understand what the plan is now! (for getting rid of Luscious)

Lauressa: Thank you thank you thank you! Hope you read my story to the end.

regina-terrae: Thanks a bunch for reviewing, you rock! Oh, and they dont remmeber each other, because, i dont want to put iot in yet. It might not be a big deal, but it might. But either way, it'll happen soon!

julie: Thanks for your compliments, they warm my heart! Really, though, thanks again.

mrs skywalker : By the way, i like your name. Do you love luke, or something? Awesome, but back to the point. Thank you for reviewing so miuch! Thanks a bunch.

kat : Thank you Kat. You're too good. Hope you keep reading.

carla : Yo carla, wat up? Thanks for reviewing, and i hope you finally ipdate something! lol, ur a great writer, and thanks again!

midnight solitaire: Hello! Ummm, not sure if i answered your question yet, but, no, so far they dont remember each other yet. But, soon they will. Thank you for your updates! Hope toi hear from you again.

Aurum Potestas Est: You stayed up to read my story? Awwww, thank you. I hope i update quiock enough. It's honestly the best i can do! Thank you for your reiews. You rock!

hiddendisatser : Lauren! Thanks for all ur updates, much appreciated. lol, so, how'r you? Its so funny hearing you read my chapters. Thanks for beign there for me! Love ya.

mouse10: Hello! And thank you for reviewing. Hope you stick around to read this to the end!

Mimiru Chan : Thank you thank you! Hope you keep reading!

angiegator: Yeah, i love pirates! But thanks for your review, you rock!

HermioneandMarcus: Thank you for your review, much appreciated.

Lauressa: Aw! Thanks for helpoing me bring the reviews to 100! I really hope it will happen in this chapter! I'm so happy about it. lol. Thanks for your reviews!

lughnasadhfirecat: Thank you too for helping me get to 100! Thanks for all your help, and your reviews! You rock!

Author by Night: I tried, i really did, but its just so frustrating, i would have screwed the whole thing. If your still readikng, then thank you for sticking around. Adn, no, i probably wont make an original story. Not my type, but thanks for the advice.

Whisper's Song: Thanks for the overdue review, it was sweet. And, yes, bloody damn, i lov ehtat phrase. Keep iup the great work with your stories, too! They're awesome!

Not so sour Lemons: Thank you thank you thank you. Your reviews rock, and so does your name! lol. I love .lemons.

DarknessWolf : lol. Thank you so much:sqeels: You rock! thanks for the review, byebye!

Lena : Sorry ofr cutting it off. Thanks for reviewing! Hope you stay to read the rest.

BeckiSoup: Yea, pansy sucks. But, anyways, thanks for the review! You rock!