A/n I will mention Quidditch here and there, however I will not be writing any games. Maybe some commentary, cause Luna was the best at it! (sorry Lee) If you are here for Quidditch, this isn't the story for you.
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5 September, 1998
Ron had glanced at Hermione, face still red as she sat back down. Luna nibbled on her apple, seeing the exchange in the way Luna did. Ron took his seat at the Gryffindor table and made a show of ignoring Hermione, along with all those around her. Hermione bit her lip hard, trying to reign in her desire to seek Ron out and make nice. She did not like when he was angry at her. It felt like third year all over again.
"What crawled up Ron's wizard buns and died?" Ginny joined them at the Slytherin table, taking up a seat beside Luna, who passed her a plate with all her favorite things. Hermione watched with a tipped head as Ginny kiss her whispering "thank you," before digging in. Hermione knew that Harry and Ginny had briefly flirted with getting back together. There were a few kisses, and long discussions, mostly Ginny talking. Harry had a hard time advocating for himself. Ginny never noticed how closed off he became as she talked more and more.
She quickly did realize that they would not work out, once they all returned to their homes, and Harry avoided her. Ginny had moved on, reconnecting with Luna. The two were a bit of an odd couple, but worked. Ginny defended Luna with the ferocity of a lioness and Luna help her see the world in a new way. They played off each other's strengths and accepted their weaknesses. Ginny was one of two people who understood Luna at all, and Harry was unlikely to get his head pulled out of the sand anytime soon. Hermione was happy for her friends.
Harry had made it a point, after the final battle, to get away from everyone, and wallow in his sorrow. Hermione tried her best to not let him. He had not made the disruption to his isolation easy for her. Luckily, Sirius had Keyed a number of the summer residents of Grimmauld into the house, and Harry had either not bothered to change it, or didn't want to. This allowed her to bombard him with her companionship.
Sirius had said he wanted to always have Grimmauld open to Harry and his family.
She took in a breath letting the thought go, this Sirius was not the Sirius she remembered. The Sirius who would find her crying in the library after a row with Ron and bring her tea. The Sirius she would rail against for mistreating Kreacher, but would always know when he went too far and leave books and other things around, he knew she'd like. The Sirius who would blow up at Mrs. Weasley to give them a break from having to clean for a while. The Sirius who was so torn up and lost, he would try to lose himself in his cups. She'd never forget the sounds of his sobs as he became lost in memories. He usually remembered to put up a Silencing Charm, or Remus would for him. However, every once in a while, she'd hear him.
"Draco and Hermione are friends." Luna's answer was wispy, but somehow carried over the room. Luna's declaration pulled Hermione out of her thoughts. She smiled at her friends, hoping Harry was doing well with his family returned to him. Sirius alone would have greatly improved the twisting emotions of her Best Friend. It took a few beats for the information to sinking.
"I didn't say we were friends!" Hermione angrily munched on a piece of toast.
"Oh?" Ginny cocked an eyebrow and turned to her girlfriend. Luna continued to maintain her expression of knowing the truth, regardless of what those around her said. Hermione could feel her face warming up as Ginny looked back at her with the accusation clear. Hermione blushed, embarrassed.
"I just gave him permission to called me Hermione." She blurted out, hoping that would be the end of it.
"And Draco reciprocated." Luna looked up at her. "New friends are so lovely." Ginny gave Hermione a knowing look, glancing between her two friends.
"Yes, they are." The three women continued their meal quietly. It was Saturday, so there were no classes and they would take their time eating. Hermione wondered for a moment, why Ron had come down so early would he didn't have to. She gazed over at the Gryffindor table and spotted Neville as well as Dean and Seamus. Neville was sitting away from his fellow eighth years, eating quickly.
"What are the boys doing up? It's barely eight." She turned back to her friends, looking for an answer.
"Professor Sprout is having Neville start his apprenticeship with her while he's not in class." Ginny replied with a satisfied huff. "He deserves it. Best Herbology student she'll ever see." She leaned forward conspiratorially, "I heard him talking to the plants more than a few times." Luna nodded sagely at her girlfriend's words.
"He understands them."
"He probably woke up the rest of them." Ginny waved off the rest of the question with her hand. "Neville has gotten more confident, but he's still Neville." They all smiled in affection, Neville was a breed on to himself. There was no one like him.
"When are you having Quidditch tryouts?" Hermione did not truly care herself, but she knew Ron would want to go, and she as his girlfriend would have to give her support. She didn't mind watching them play, but did certainly gave her a fright.
"Two or three weeks from now, depends on when they schedule Hogsmeade weekends." Ginny launched into her strategy for the upcoming year, knowing full well it would go over everyone's head.
Ginny had been offered the position of Head girl but turned it down. The returning 'Eighth years' were not eligible. Hermione had been angry at first, but after sitting down and speaking to the Headmistress, she understood. They all did, however have access to the Prefect's bathroom, as well as a later Curfew then the lower years. Ginny did get the Quidditch Captain badge, that she would kill anyone who tried to take it from her.
"Do either of you know what Ron did to Mal... Draco while on the Express?" Hermione had finished her meal, and allowed her thoughts to wonder back to the beginning of what caused her anger toward her boyfriend. Luna and Ginny exchanged a look and then both shrugged.
"Nothing happened that we saw." Ginny answered for them both. "But if I had to guess, I'd say he warned him off, Draco said something sarcastic in response, and then Ron took it to blows." Luna nodded beside her, pushing her plate away.
"Sounds like the best guess." Hermione sighed. "I should speak to him."
"Maybe wait? He looks pretty angry." All three looked toward him again. Nevile was gone, but Ron was glaring in their direction, leaving no doubt of his current feelings.
"Yeah, probably for the best." Just before Hermione left to the library with Luna, and Ginny went to find some friends for a Quidditch game, the post arrived. Hermione was surprised when a large black owl landed in front of her with a huff of indifference. She did not recognize him, but the large Black Crest gave away who he belonged to. She turned bright red first, unsure of how to feel if Sirius Black had written her. The second thought was a reassurance that it was likely from Harry. Luna made friends with the unfriendly owl almost immediately, giving him bacon and sausage.
Ginny rolled her eyes, affectionately at her. Ginny knew Luna could befriend anyone. Hermione wondered if Voldemort would even be immune to her way with others. Hermione took the letters from the leg he presented to her, and asked if he'd be willing to wait for her responses in the Owlery.
"I don't know if any of the school owls could find Harry and his family at Grimmauld." The Owl eyes her with disinterest before nipping her fingers as an affirmative and taking flight. She watched the owl fly over to Ron, presenting the other leg. So, Harry wrote Ron as well. With the post delivered and the owls gone. Hermione and Luna waved goodbye to Ginny and made their way to the shores of the Lake. Luna was certain that would be the best place to read, and Hermione didn't care enough to object.
Dear Hermione,
Meet Regulus! (the owl). Sirius was out with Remus to see to reinstating them to the land of the living and found him in that store where you got Crookshanks. He gave Sirius such a look, Remus swore he was Regulus reborn. I can't say anything one way or the other, since we never met Sirius's little brother. Through it does feel like we know him. It's strange hearing about him from the point of view of the Marauders. Kreacher painted him with such reverence I can barely imagine him as anything but Saintly. Apparently, he was like a mild form of Malfoy while at Hogwarts. He was known for throwing around harsh words and letting his friends do as they wanted. Sirius says he was a gentle child, but after he started Hogwarts, they drifted apart.
I haven't found the moment to let him know how he died. Kingsley is still having the cave excavated, but it's slow going. I was hoping he'd have something tangible to mourn after everything that happened.
Remus moved in with Mrs. Tonks, like before. He would not leave the room Teddy was in when he finally met him. It was a sight; when we went to leave and he flat out refused. Oreo, one of the Potter elves, agreed to retrieve his things so he could stay immediately. I know what you're going to say, "why didn't he just bring Teddy to Potter Palace?" Mrs. Tonks doesn't want him to magic travel while he is so small. He's barely half a year old, but he is already so big! He will have to be at least a year, before she'll let him Floo unless it's an emergency. Elf travel is fine though. I don't really know what the difference is between that and apparition. I can't ask; I feel enough out of my depth as is. I'll just wait for you to explain it when you visit.
Speaking of, you should come for every holiday! Or Christmas at least! I miss you and everyone wants to meet my Best Friends. Do you think Ron will want to come as well?
Hermione took a deep breath and looked away from the parchment. This was the longest letter Harry had ever written her, and she suddenly did not want to finish it. The fears she had pushed down that morning were bubbling up and choking her. She sniffled, biting back the tears. She scowled at herself, why am I crying? I have no reason to be crying!
"It'll be alright." Luna's serene voice wafted through the air, as she rubbed the older woman's back. She kept thinking if Ron and her were fighting, Harry would be better off with Ron visiting. He'd want Ron to visit. They always meshed better than herself and Harry. Hermione let out a few more tears, hastily wiping them. Taking a breath, she picked up the letter again.
I hope Ron wasn't very upset that I won't be attending Hogwarts with him this year. How'd he take the news of what happened? Bet he was put out that he wasn't there for it. I'm sorry if it ends up causing you problems. Just tell Ron to talk to me, it's hardly your fault.
Mum is trying to get permission for you both to spend Halloween with us. I can't help but feel like something bad is going to happen. Something bad always happens on Halloween, and I'd like us to be together. Watching each other's backs like always; I'll let you know what ends up being agreed to.
I visited Gringotts with my parents. Well, after they settled everything with our break in. From what Dad says, we lost a bit of gold (Nothing we can't deal with) as well as some Goblin made items. They made sure House Potter took the blame for everything, so you and Ron shouldn't have issues getting a vault there. Dad wanted me to tell you, if you do have problems let him know. He's been "Trained" in Goblin dealings by his family's vault manager. Whatever that means. I apparently will have to learn it as well. Joy.
How are you doing? Are things going well there? I want to be there to help you fulfill my wish of House Unity, but I just got my family back. I know that out of anyone in the world, you'd understand. Mum and Dad included a letter of their own. If they say anything embarrassing, please ignore it! Hope to hear from you soon.
Thanks for always standing with me,
Harry James Potter
Potter Palace
OH! Only our owls can find Potter Palace. Sirius threatened to buy you your own owl. I figured you'd hate that, so he agreed to 'lend' you Regulus for as long as you need. He'd find you wherever you are.
Hermione laughed. She would not put is passed the star named Marauder to buy her, her own owl. She couldn't forget the old Sirius offering to get them everything from chocolate to broomsticks. Mrs. Weasley would never let them take him up on his offer, but Hermione knew that some of the books she talked about wanting to read, would suddenly be in the Black Library. She smiled at the memory and opened the next letter. Both had been sealed with the Potter Family Crest.
Salutations Hermione Granger,
Our son has not stopped talking about how wonderful you are and how much he wanted you to feel welcome at our home. He made sure you had the room closest to the library, which annoyed Sirius greatly. I appreciated the laugh! Ignore James he keeps trying to take this away from me. Trying, please I have succeeded at least three times. I've told him to sod off, with a well-placed Hex.
Anyway, we are looking forward to spending the Holidays with you! Anyone who can brew the Polyjuice potion in year two, is worth knowing. Plus, Harry keeps starting to tell the story revolving around you, Severus, and fire without finishing. He wanted you to tell it, I suppose.
See you for Halloween,
Lily Potter (nee Evans)
Potter Palace
Hermione put both letters in her pockets, making a mental note to speak to Headmistress McGonagall sooner rather than later.
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10 September, 1998
Harry bit into a cookie his father had made and was pleasantly surprised. It was good. James had spent a large chuck of yesterday trying to convince his son that he could bake. Harry learned that only Remus was able to cook in any capacity. Sirius and James had relied heavily on House-Elves throughout their lives. Lily had picked up a bit after they went into hiding and left Oreo, Minty, and Basil at Potter Palace. James had tried to help, but after setting the kitchen on fire for the fifth time. He was told to mind Harry and stay out of the space. James couldn't really explain why he could bake and not cook, but had learned to just not question it.
Harry was looking forward to a reply from Hermione and Ron. He wanted to know how House Unity was developing. He trusted Hermione to do what was best, but Ron would put up at least a bit of a fuss, he was certain. He would come around eventually; Ron always came back.
"Harry, what do you think?" James had his eyes locked on Harry with a fragile hope. He nodded and took another bite. The quiet content atmosphere settled in, and the two male Potters ate cookies and basked in each other's company.
"HARRRRY!" Sirius practically skipped into the room, ignoring James and his plate of cookies. "Do we REALLY have to wait for Hermy to remove old Mother dearest?" He sat on chair next to his Godson.
"Calling her that will land you back in the grave, or worse." Harry gave Sirius a look that screamed of warning. Sirius made a face, and looked at James for more information.
"What's worse than death?" James ignored his friend, more interested in the girl Harry called family, who made crossing her seem worse than death. They had heard about the girl grassing up their defense group. She would have sneak written across her face until she felt remorse. James admired the poetic cure, Sirius figured she should carry the mark of her betrayal for the rest of her life, and Lily wanted to know how she did it. Lily always was an academic. Remus reacted as a cross between James and Lily.
"You'll have to ask Hermione." Harry's response had a light giggle to it, like he could not wait to see what she'd do to the man who tried to call her Hermy.
"Bit of a stick in the mud, sounds like." Sirius grumbled; his small smile told James that the first thing he intended to do was give it a go. Sirius was never one to shy away from a challenge.
"Pads..." James eyed his friend in warning. Hermione was Harry's best friend, and he would not do something to jeopardize that.
"What?! She can take care of herself." Sirius stood up, pausing while looking out the window. James noticed that every once in a while, he would get an off in the distance look in his eyes. He shook himself like his pup counterpart and looked at Harry with a thoughtful expression. "I... I didn't get a trial... did I?" Harry took a breath and felt the air grow cold. Winfred, the Druid, said the four of them would slowly get their memories back. Lily had nightmares of Tom Riddle killing her, the fear of Harry dying dragging her to his room. Harry had been happy to let his mum wrap her arms around him to reassure herself that he had in fact lived.
James was the first to die and thus had no new memories enter his mind. He still felt the horror of death and knowing his family would follow him. Returning to life was not for the weak, became the motto of the residents of Potter Palace.
Remus kept his memories to himself, but Harry guessed it was long days of loneliness and struggling to stay alive. Teddy helped a great deal; Harry was certain as well as Mrs. Tonks promising to brew the Wolfsbane potion.
Sirius had started remembering slower than the others. No one knew why this was, and with no one to ask, it would remain a mystery.
"No." James gasped eyes locking on Harry in disbelief. "Barty Crouch and Fudge just threw you in Azkaban." James was angry; he wanted to storm into the Ministry and demand justice. Harry was looking down, sorrow coloring his posture. Sirius was surprisingly calm. It was as if he accepted it. James watched his brother, begin to shake.
"How... how long was I there?" He swallowed, drawing his arms around his chest, refusing to look at either James or Harry.
"Twelve years..." James cursed at Harry's answer, practically climbing the table between them to wrap his own arms around Sirius. Sirius continued to shake, James holding him tighter.
"We're here for you Pads. Whatever you need." There was a pause as Sirius seemed to gather himself.
"I'd feel better if..."
"Yeah?"
"If you'd..."
"What? I'll do anything."
"Call Hermione... Hermy for me." There was a pause, then a crash as James smashed the plate that once held cookies onto his friend's head. Laughter quickly followed as the two men slammed into the floor and started wrestling. Harry silent ate the cookies sprawled across the table, watching the fight, unsure what to do. He had lived with them less than two weeks and this had become the norm.
"WHAT IS GOING ON!?" Lily was standing in the doorway leaning into the room. "Why? Why is there broken glass?!" She scowled at the two men as they untangled themselves and stood like boys in trouble with their mother.
"Sorry Lily." They spoke in tandem, telling Harry this had been a common occurrence and likely would continue to be so. She demanded they clean up the mess and start giving Harry a better example of adult men. Harry watched with Lily as they repaired the plate and put the cookies back. James happily followed his wife out of the room, going where, Harry did not want to know. Sirius's eyes never left the cookies.
"Padfoot?" Harry spoke softly, wondering why James had just let the moment go. Sirius was clearly hurting and afraid.
"I'm fine Prongslet." Sirius shifted from foot to foot, looking serious for a second before shaking himself again as if dislodging something from his head. "I lived through it once. I will again." He turned sharply before Harry could say anything and was gone. Harry resolved himself to keep an eye on his godfather.
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12 September, 1998
It took a week for Ron to approach Hermione. She had attempted a few times, but was always met with silence on the verge of red-hot fire. She had accepted that she would have to wait for him to be ready to have a conversation.
Ginny and Luna had made a point of joining her at the Slytherin table with Draco for breakfast. Hermione would sit at the Hufflepuff table at Lunch and Ravenclaw at dinner as well as be available in the Gryffindor common room at night. She did her best to answer questions about her year on the run without revealing more then she knew the boys wanted her to. She wanted to make Harry's desire for Unity a reality, using her best efforts.
She barely saw Neville; he would be in classes and meals, but would leave quickly to work in the green houses. This left Hermione forced to wait for Ron to talk to her, if she wanted to know about what happened on the train. Seamus and Dean didn't feel comfortable telling her without Ron's permission.
"It's his story to tell." Hermione rolled her eyes, but agreed to wait. Ron had walked up to her after transfiguration and asked to speak to her. She felt her face flush, and her heart pound. She wanted to go back to how it was, easy hugs and kisses. He led her out of the classroom and down the hall. The quiet was deafening.
"Are you planning on going to Harry's place for Halloween?" His question caught her so off guard she stumbled. She had expected him to confront her about Draco again. He was watching her with his crystal blue eyes she loved. She glanced down at her hands, surprised to see they were not shaking with how nervous she was feeling.
"I don't think so..." She tried to find a way to explain herself, as she looked up and his expression of relief silenced her.
"Alright." He nodded and turned to walked away. "I just wanted to check." Hermione let him get a few steps before snapped back to attention.
"RON!" He turned at his name, eyes clouded with emotion.
"I... What... Are we breaking up?" She took a sharp breath, as he just stood there and blinked at her.
"Course not 'Mione." She tensed at the nickname she had told him many times that she hated. "I just... I need some time." She nodded in agreement and watched him walk away. She let her shoulders sag for a moment before growling to herself. She had meant to find out about the Express. She looked down the hall, debating chasing him down. She ran her hand through her curls deciding that she'd rather not make things worse. She could be patient. She took a breath and rubbed her eyes as the burning threat of tears settled in. She swore she was done crying.
She took one last look toward where Ron vanished and managed to bite back a sob, turning toward Gryffindor Tower. The halls mixed together and before she knew, it she was in front of the Fat Lady, gasping out the password. She was thankful for the emptiness of the common room, as she charged up the stairs leading toward the girls' dormitory. She tossed open the door and ran to her bed in a rush as tears began rolling down her face, as she sobbed. A quick waved of her wand, locked the door and silenced the room. No one would hear her lose her cool again.
"Hermione?" Hermione whipped her head toward the voice and saw Lavender Brown. She was in a worn-out uniform; Hermione guessed from the previous year. She had on tights, without shoes, and the winter sweater. Lavender's normally luscious and well-maintained tight ringed curls sat upon her head, frizzy to the point that they would look more accurate on Hermione's head. She had her hair thrown to one side of her head, covering the left side of her face.
The sudden appearance of her old roommate shocked Hermione, stopping the tears from falling. She had been informed that Lavender had decided to remain at home as she came to grips with her 'half-breed' status. Greyback had ravaged her at the Battle of Hogwarts to the point that many did not know if she would survive the night. There was nothing to do for the scars. Wounds given by a werewolf transformed or not, left a permanent mark. Luckily, when she was attacked it was not a full moon, she was not a True werewolf.
Hermione may have not seen eye to eye with the other Gryffindor, but she would never say she did not belong to the correct house. She had stayed and fought ready to die to defend more than herself. As a pureblood not born to a 'blood traitor' family, Lavender had a choice. Hermione would always respect her for the one she ended up choosing.
"Lavender?" Lavender smiled weakly at Hermione who had sat up and stared at her wide-eyed in surprise.
"Surprise?" Lavender lacked the volume of personality that Hermione had come to recognize throughout their six years together. Her voice was soft as if she was attempting to make herself as small and unimportant as possible. A difference so vast as to make her almost unrecognizable. Hermione stood, feeling joyful at seeing her alive and well. It was startling enough that she didn't stop herself from launching her arms around the younger Gryffindor.
"I'm so happy you're alright." Hermione laughed as Lavender's hair got caught in her lips. Lavender took a moment, but returned the hug, sighing into the weight of her dormmate. They stood clinging to each for several minutes until both girls started to cry; each for different reasons.
"My parents didn't want me around anymore." Lavender practically screamed between sobs. "They say a monster can't be their little girl." Hermione hugged her tighter, fighting her own sobs, wanting to comfort a woman in just as much pain, if not more than herself. Her problems seemed small in comparison.
"I... I erased my parents' memories..." Hermione's voice was softer than Lavenders screams of rejection and pain. She hoped that Lavender would take the confession for what it was, a declaration that she was not the only orphan in their generation. Whether abandoned or lost, they were without family together.
"WHAT!?" Lavender pulled back from Hermione, eyes red, face wet. Hermione saw the old Lavender for a minute, shining through her beaten down face. "OHMYGOD, are you alright?!" She glared around the room looking for what Hermione didn't know. "Where're those boys? You kept those gits alive for a whole year, and they can't hold their best friend while she's upset? I'll hex them! Don't think I won't!" Hermione fought back a laugh as the Lavender she remembered burst through. The same intense, narrowed emotional range. Hermione let the warmth spread from her chest to her limbs, knowing that for a moment, Lavender cared more about her roommate than herself.
"Lavender..." She tried to reign her in as she yanked on the door, clearly intending to do exactly as she threatened.
"Bunch of useless..." Hermione would not catch everything as she went on a long-winded rant about how useless wizards could be.
"Lavender... it's okay... Harry didn't come back and Ron... We... umm... he's upset with me." Lavender stopped at the mention of Ron. Hermione bit her lip, trying to figure out the best way to keep their comradery, while knowing Lavender would be upset when she heard about her and Ron's relationship. Hermione wondered if Lavender blamed her for the failure of their relationship. Hermione knew that she was at least responsible in part. She had not supported the relationship and went so far as to attack Ron in a jealous rage at his inability to understand why she was upset. She told herself that he was poking a sleeping bear and should have been prepared for when it woke up. Hermione was many things and spiteful was one of them. She knew that was something she would have to work on in the coming years.
"It's alright." Lavender was shaking with unshed tears. "He liked you..." Her shoulders sagged. "What... why is he upset with you?" Hermione debated telling her everything. She did not know what Lavender would do with the information. She was a good person, but love made people stupid. She would know.
Lavender seemed to forget her question, abandoned her attempt to open the door, and flopped on her bed in a dramatic fashion. "How was your summer?" Lavender's voice was muffled by her pillow. Hermione laughed. It was a strange sound, mixed with what was left of her sorrow.
"Lonely." Hermione sat on Lavender's bed, near her feet and really thought about the summer. Ron and the other Weasley's had their own mourning to do, and Harry retreated to Grimmauld more often than not. She was left fighting to keep Harry sane, while dealing with her own loss. She gripped her knees and steadied her breathing. "I haven't told them about my parents." She curled into Lavenders side, surprising them both.
"Well, I know. And I'm here. We can figure out things together." Lavender wrapped an arm around Hermione's waist, hugging her. "We might not have gotten along before, but we can try again." She patted Hermione's head, "Hello, I'm Lavender Brown. I'm prone to experiencing emotion so intensely I can only have one at a time. I'm part werewolf? Still not sure exactly how all that..." She made a wild motion with her free hand. "...works. I like my meat barely cooked and cannot sleep during a full moon." Hermione pulled her face away and smiled.
"I'm Hermione Granger... I mostly read; research is my greatest pleasure. I'm stubborn and have a vindictive streak that would make old Voldy blush." She buried her face back into Lavender's shoulder. "I have a hard time expressing my feelings, and once you're my friend, there's no escape." They both settled in the bed, warm with emotion.
"Nice to meet you 'Mione."
"Hermione Please." Lavender laughed.
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1 October, 1998
Dear Harry,
I am sorry it has taken me so long to reply to you. Everything at Hogwarts is going well...
Harry had read the long letter from Hermione at least six times since he had received in the day before. It was longer than any other letter he had gotten in recent memory, but there was nothing in it worth much. She talked about her classes, homework, and the castle. He didn't know how Ron was doing, or anyone else. She barely mentioned House Unity, beyond "It was going well". It was as If she was trying to be vague on purpose. Harry was worried.
"What's on your mind pup?" Sirius had been a constant companion. His parents disappeared sometimes to spend time together alone, but Sirius could always be found nearby. Harry knew it was most likely because he did not wish to be alone himself. His nightmares had gotten worse, even if he hide them as best as he could. Silencing charms and locked doors to keep the Potters from finding him in the throes of reliving Azkaban. Harry wished he knew what to do to help his Godfather.
"Hermione's letter..." He held up the book long parchment. "It's a novel, but there's nothing here." Sirius sat on the floor next to the Wingback Harry had chosen to curl up on.
"May I?" He presented his hand for the parchment. Harry hesitated a moment before handing over the letter. Harry watched Sirius's eyes move back and forth over the pages, showing nothing on his face. Sirius ran a hand through his hair, eyes rereading the letter. Harry wondered if he would see something he could not.
"She's struggling with something. Probably whatever she doesn't bring up. Ron maybe? You said she was dating him, right?" Harry nodded, unsure what else to do. She had spent a lot of time during the summer helping him come to grips with everything he had lost, while putting herself and her relationship on the back burner. Harry felt guilt surging up his throat. She gave up so much because of their friendship.
Harry thought back to when Ron was certain Hermione favored himself over Ron. He thought back to when Ron abandoned them while on the hunt for that very reason. He was thankful and happy when Ron returned. Everyone makes mistakes was how he justified the act to himself. He even went as far as to reassure Ron that Hermione loved him and not Harry. However, there was a part of him that knew on some level, Hermione would choose him over Ron again; but he did not want to drive a wedge further between himself and his first friend, so he had kept the thought to himself, even going so far as to deny it in his mind.
"She, maybe, wants Ron tell me himself?" Harry spoke slowly letting his thoughts out. "Ron's... always been a bit... jealous of me..." He shifted uncomfortable with the direction of his own thoughts. He wanted to continue living on the high of getting people back.
"Think they broke up?" Harry gasped in a mix of surprise and panic.
"NO!" Harry almost jumped up in distress. He did not think their three-way friendship would survive the break-up. At least not easily and without a lot of effort from everyone involved.
"Calm down Pup, I'm sure they're doing fine." Sirius was shaking his head slightly, a small humorous smile on his face. "You're likely right; she wants him to share his own life with you... She seems the logical sort." Sirius handed back the parchment. "You'll just have to talk to her about it on Halloween. You invited her here yeah?" Harry nodded holding the letter tightly in his hands.
"She didn't say whether or not she was coming..." Harry let the tension of Hermione and Ron breaking up leave him, and the defeating thought that she would not be visiting him on the day when everything always seemed to go wrong. Halloween was marred with his parents' death, a troll, attacks in the common room, Goblets of Fire, and so much more. Harry wanted those most important to him, nearby. He wanted them all to be together to confront whatever happens. He would not be able to live with himself if something happened and Hermione was without him in the Castle. They survived everything Voldy threw at them by standing together.
"I'm sure she understands how important it is to you." Sirius stood up and patted Harry on the head running his hand through his hair, like he had many times when he was little. "Real friends are like that." Harry nodded, letting the comfort Sirius was giving him settle into his chest. Hermione had never let him down when it mattered. She had done things he didn't approve of, but it was always with his best interests at heart. She put her comfort and everything behind her friendship with him, and sometimes he took that for granted. Frowning, Harry decided in that moment that he would do everything in his power to show her how much her sacrifice and friendship meant to him.
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29 October, 1998
It was nearing dinner with Hermione and Ron due to arrive in an hour or so. Hermione had not indicated whether or not she would be visiting Potter Palace. Harry hoped so. Oreo had set up her room with her favorite candy treats, and books Lily suggested from the library and trunk retrieved from Godric's Hallow. Minty had set Ron up in a guest room on the first floor, as far from Sirius as possible. She did so at the request of Sirius, who did not want anyone to be kept up with his need to get up constantly. Harry reassured him that Ron was a heavy sleeper and would sleep through an explosion. It didn't work.
Minerva had made exceptions for both Hermione and Ron for Halloween. Harry had wanted several others to attend the holiday at Potter Palace, such as Luna, Ginny, and Neville as well as others. However, she could not justify allowing so many students to leave the school with classes still occurring. Molly and Arthur gave their approval for Ron, but did not wish for Ginny to leave Hogwarts. Both for her own safety as well as her education.
The fear of attacks was still present despite most of the Death Eaters either dead or imprisoned. The Ministry was still working on a solution for the Dementors, that did not require they feed on those trapped in the prison. Many wanted to find a way to kill the creatures, but as of now, resources to find a place for them was all that was available.
The Weasleys knew on some level that school for Ron was a technicality and his education would not suffer by missing two days of classes. The trio did not need to take the tests or attend their eighth year. The wizarding world was open to them in whatever they wished to do with their lives going forward.
Sirius was shifting from foot to foot in the entry way, waiting for Minerva to drop off Hermione and Ron. James was still uncomfortable opening the Floo up to the network, regardless of Kingsley reassurance that the security around the transportation was greater than any time before. Lily was incline to agree with her husband. They also were trying to keep their return to as few as possible. The Ministry had their Deaths removed from the records, quickly and quietly. No one wanted to experience the backlash or attempt to explain their sudden return so soon after they returned to the world. They knew eventually they would have to face the music, but it would be on their terms and not a moment sooner.
Minerva was kind enough to bring any guests for Halloween from Hogwarts herself. This was for the safety of the students as well as to protect those residing in Potter Palace.
Harry was stone still, eyes locked on the door, a large part of him worried that something had happened and they would never make it to his home. In his life, if anything good happened it was often immediately followed by bad. Lily did her best to keep his spirits up with conversation around everything he and his friends would do once they arrived. Not if they arrive, once they arrived. The word distinction seemed to help, as Harry's shoulder softened while speaking to her. James would switch from the door, his family, and Sirius. Sirius had debated hiding in his room, while the two friends of his Godson were here. He was finding daily interaction were straining the small amount of control he had over his emotions.
Blacks had always been unstable. He and Andy had escaped the worse of it, but still experienced some of the Black madness. With the nightmares representing his memories keeping him from a consistent sleep, coupled with his usually wild personality, made him lash out more than once at those present. He would be calm one second, then screaming, crying, or breaking things in a fit of rage the next. James expressed more than a little concern for his friend, but had no way to help him. Harry told them that over time away from the Dementors Sirius found a balance again. He didn't know a whole lot about them, but knew that living with them in his sleep was the main thing to blame for his imbalance. Remus agreed and suggested Sleepless Draught, until the memories settled into memories rather forcing him to relive his time in prison nightly.
"Harry!" Ron waved sheepishly from Minerva's side, his posture giving away his discomfort. Harry knew that Ron was uncomfortable with the wealth Harry inherited from his family. He was also unsure of Ron's reaction to both Harry having his family returned to him as well as not being there when it happened.
They had debated Harry going to the Burrow, but decided against it. He would stay with his parents and Sirius as well. The three adults did not want to move away from Potter Palace where they felt safe in the familiar. They also worried Sirius's condition would deteriorate if he moved somewhere new.
Harry was smiling, eyes locked on his friend and returned his greeting. Harry moved closer to them, but stood a few feet away, eyes darting around quickly.
"Where Hermione?" His voice was soft, trying to not offend Ron. He was happy he was here, but it felt like something was missing. Ron's ears turned red, and he looked down, embarrassed or angry Harry couldn't guess. Silence filled the air. Lily glancing at her husband to do something.
Sirius watched the red head, turning redder and redder. He had to fight down the urge to turn into Padfoot and growl. He wondered what triggered such a feeling. Annoyance mixed with anger pulsed passed Sirius's temple, taking all his will power to not act on it.
"Miss Granger opted to stay at Hogwarts." Minerva broke the silence distracting those present from the tension building in the room.
"Did she say why?" Harry was still looking to Ron for answers, which was reasonable, since they were supposed to be dating. Lily, James, and Sirius shared a look as Ron paled, ears red huffing slightly before answering.
"She said she didn't wanta." The reaction from Harry was immediate. He looked as if he had been punched in the gut.
"Oh..." Harry tried to rally and half-heartedly smiled at his friend. "Maybe she'll visit for Christmas." Lily practically ran up and placed her arm around Harry's waist, in an attempt to save the situation.
"Hello, I'm Harry's mother, Lily Potter." Lily introduced Sirius and James as well, but nothing seemed capable of break them out of the thoughts and feelings keeping them frozen in their emotional reaction. Lily removed her arm slowly, before suggesting Harry show Ron where he would be staying. She hoped a change in scenery would help ease the friends into another state of mind. It would also give them time to question Minerva without Harry and Ron overhearing. Harry nodded and with another weak smile, gestured for Ron to follow him. Lily, Minerva, James, and Sirius remained in the entry way, watching the two boys disappear through a door. Lily let out a huff first, eyeing the Headmistress with a questioning gaze.
"I approached her to set a departure time." Minerva pushed her hair back behind her ears. "She informed me that she would be staying at the castle, nothing further."
"No reason?" Sirius snapped at the information. Hermione being here was important to his Godson. Harry was happy Ron was here, but clearly, he felt there was something missing. Sirius fought back a growl, angry and annoyed at anyone who caused his family pain.
"None beyond her saying she would not be accepting the invitation." Lily let out a sigh, running her hands through her long red hair.
"It'll be alright... If you could have Hermione, send an owl the day after Halloween... It would certainly ease Harry's worries." Minerva nodded and took her leave.
"What reason could she have?" Sirius snapped at the air, well after James and Lily had taken their leave. He couldn't imagine the same girl that connected her fist with his face in defense of her friend, would simply not want to spend time with said friend. There had to be a real reason.
Dinner had been awkward, since Harry was disappointed Hermione had not wanted to be here, and Ron looking annoyed at his friend's disappointment. Lily and James did their best to keep the conversation light and friendly with minimal success.
Harry and Ron retired to a sitting room on the first floor to play chess. Harry was so terrible; he clearly was only playing because Ron wished to. James and Lily sat with them a while, taking note of their improving moods. Sirius stayed for a few minutes before leaving for his room. He was feeling the strain of not only a new face, but the high-strung emotions of Harry and Ron.
Sirius tossed and turned throughout the night, a mix of thoughts and dreams keeping him awake. He dreamed of a library, Firewhiskey, the smell of vanilla, and warmth.
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30 October, 1998
Hermione sat through her classes for the day, avoiding speaking to anyone at meals. Lavender did her best to head off anyone who tried to interact with her beyond brief hellos and how are yous. The two had formed a friendship that had surprised many, professors and students alike. The only person who seemed completely unaffected was Luna, who reacted to Lavender suddenly always with Hermione with the same carefree way she dealt with many things.
Hermione was sitting in her last class of the day, feeling time tick by in time with her heart pumping blood passed her ears. She shared this class with Draco and Luna. They were her bookend, clearly sensing her desire to be left alone.
The class was about half way through when a loud bang rang throughout the room. Someone had thrown opened the door and smashed into the floor as a disheveled Headmistress charged in after them. Her face was red and her wand was up. Letting out a slow breath and standing up straight, she replaced her wand back up her sleeve.
"Miss Granger, if you could please come with me." The person who had fallen to the floor, likely due to Minerva placing a body bind on them, rose several feet off the ground and floated after her. Hermione's eyes were wide in surprise and shock.
"Oh, that was dramatic." Luna's voice cut the silence in the room and was quickly followed by everyone speaking at once. Draco shook his head, sinking into his chair. When Hermione remained frozen Luna added, "Don't worry Hermione, I'll bring your things later." Hermione shook herself and stood, intending to find out exactly what happened.
Minerva was standing outside the classroom, the floating man was now standing, arms crossed, clearly annoyed.
"Minnie! I was just going to ask her some questions!"
"Mister Black, you cannot run around Hogwarts without an escort! You are not a student nor are you a professor." Sirius was turning reder with each word Minerva snarled out through clenched teeth.
"Psh. I'm hardly a threat."
"That is not the POINT!" Hermione cleared her throat in an attempt to understand what was happening.
"Hermione! Right?" The man was tall with black hair and porcelain white skin. She felt a blush warmer her cheeks at such an attractive man speaking to her. She let herself bask in the attention before looking at him with a critical eye.
"Sirius Black." She barely got the words out, spoken like an accusation.
"I'm happy to see my name still proceeds me." He smiled, but the expression didn't reach his eyes. She crossed her arms and scoffed at him in annoyance.
"Is there a particular reason you are interrupting my education?" His smile vanished at her angry and annoyed tone.
"Oh, yes, right to it then." He attempted to move closer to her, but Minerva cleared her throat, indicating that he would not be approaching her student. "Right, of course Minnie." He stood still, arms hanging loosely at his sides, while his molten grey eyes locked on hers, causing her heart to pick up its job.
"What is it?"
"Why aren't you with Harry?" She jolted at the question. She wasn't with Harry because she was in love with Ron. What kind of questions was that to ask a stranger? The audacity! "He wants you and Ron with him. Shit happens to him, every year tomorrow." He rambled more, but she couldn't hear him over the blood rushing to her face.
"He doesn't need me. He has you and Lily and James... and Ron..." Her voice faltered on Ron. She didn't realize that he was going to Potter Palace as well. It made sense. Ron was as much Harry's friend as she was.
"He wants you too." Sirius's words cut hers off. "You being there is important to him." Hermione brought her thumb to her mouth and bit down, uncertainty coloring her mind. She wanted to be there too. They were stronger together.
"I... okay... I... didn't think... it mattered so much to him." She voiced her insecurities, not expecting Sirius to let out a sound a pure disbelief.
"Nothing has mattered to him more these last couple weeks." She nodded and turned to head back to class. "Where are you going?"
"Back to class?"
"Why?" She growled at his question and whipped around ready to knock him down for disregarding her education.
"Miss Granger, you have been excused from classes until Monday." Hermione bit her tongue at Minerva's words. "I have been informed by your professors that you are ahead by at least three weeks in relation to the readings and assignments." Minerva smiled conspiratorially. "Leaving a class early is well within reason." She brushed invisible dirt from her robes. "Mister Black will see you safely to Potter Palace." She glared at Sirius for a moment before adding, "Take care." There was a warning to her tone; he would regret it, if anything happened to her.
"Of course." He bowed, as Minerva walked away with a shake of her head.
"Ready?"
"I need my belongings."
"Nah, OREO!" A little house elf appeared looking between Hermione and Sirius. "Would you get Hermione's trunk and place it in her room?"
"YES! Miss Hermies will be most welcome!" Oreo popped away again.
"YOU CAN'T JUST!..." Her snarled words were cut off as he grabbed her hand and began pulling her toward a secret passage. Hermione had many of them memorized, but Harry had the map. She made a note to retrieve it from him when she arrived at Potter Palace.
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A/n I had a dream about this story. I had intended to stay as true to the original story as possible until the Epilogue (EWE). However, this dream was quite compelling. So Lavender Brown is not dead, but rather a partial Werewolf, similar to Bill. Bam! Fanfiction writing power activate! Tags have been updated! XD